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

VIRUS Full Form, Know Everything About It

The world is advancing digitally with Artificial Intelligence and Cloud Computing transforming daily tasks and increasing reliance on digital data. However, protecting this data from potential threats like malware is essential, giving rise to the field of cybersecurity. This article will break down the concept of viruses, their impact, and how to protect against them.

Full Form of VIRUS

The term “VIRUS” stands for Vital Information Resources Under Seize. In simple words, a computer virus is a harmful program designed to damage or disrupt data. Similar to biological viruses, computer viruses infect their hosts, usually software, and cause harm by spreading to other files or systems. The first computer virus, known as the Creeper Program, appeared in 1971.

Common Signs of a Computer Virus

Viruses often reveal their presence through some noticeable signs. Here are common indicators of a computer virus:

Pop-up Ads: If your computer shows unwanted ads from unknown sources, it may be infected.
System Freezes or Crashes: Viruses often damage files, causing the computer to freeze or crash.
Slow Performance: A virus infection can slow down your computer unexpectedly.
File Deletion or Modification: Viruses can alter or delete important files.
Reduced Disk Space: Some viruses fill up the available disk space, impacting storage.

Types of Computer VIRUS

Viruses come in different types, each with its unique way of infecting systems:

Boot Sector Virus: Infects the boot sector of the computer, causing the virus to load whenever the computer starts up.
Encrypted Virus: This virus encrypts itself, making it hard to detect until it decrypts for execution.
Email Virus: Spreads through email attachments or links; once clicked, it infects the system.
File Infector Virus: Targets executable files and can modify or delete them.
Polymorphic Virus: Constantly changes its form, making it very hard to detect.

Advantages of Studying Computer Viruses

While viruses cause harm, studying them offers several benefits:

Finding Security Vulnerabilities: Studying viruses helps identify and fix weaknesses in systems.
Advancing Cybersecurity Innovation: Threats from viruses drive advancements in antivirus and security software.
Raising Awareness: People become more cautious about safe internet practices and secure passwords.
Improving System Resilience: Companies and developers work on creating more secure and resilient systems.
Testing Network Defenses: Simulated viruses can test an organization’s ability to handle a real attack.

Disadvantages of Computer Viruses

Computer viruses have various negative effects, including:

Data Loss: They can delete or corrupt important data, leading to significant losses.
System Slowdown: Viruses consume resources, slowing down computers.
Financial Costs: Virus infections can cost organizations money due to downtime and recovery.
Privacy Risks: Some viruses steal personal data, leading to fraud or identity theft.
Rapid Spread in Networks: Once inside a network, viruses can infect multiple devices quickly.
Damage to Reputation: Businesses lose customer trust when viruses compromise sensitive data.

UPI Transactions Reach Record High in October with Rs 23.5 Trillion in Value

In October 2024, India witnessed a record-breaking surge in digital transactions, propelled by the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), FASTag, and the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS). The increased adoption of these platforms highlights India’s ongoing shift towards digital payment solutions, driven in part by the festive season and growing acceptance among merchants and consumers alike.

UPI Transactions: Record Volume and Value

India’s digital payments ecosystem reached new heights with 16.58 billion UPI transactions, totaling Rs 23.5 trillion in October. These figures mark UPI’s highest monthly volume and value since its introduction in April 2016. Notably, October’s achievements surpassed the previous record of 15.04 billion transactions in September 2024 and a transaction value peak of Rs 20.64 trillion in July.

Festival Season Boost

The growth in UPI transactions was largely fueled by person-to-merchant (P2M) transactions as consumers increased spending on goods and services during the festival season. This surge led to the first instance of UPI surpassing 16 billion transactions and a transaction value exceeding Rs 23 trillion.

Month-on-Month and Year-on-Year Growth

Compared to September, October saw:

A 10% increase in transaction volume
A 14% rise in transaction value

In year-over-year (Y-o-Y) terms, UPI transactions grew significantly:

45% in volume
37% in value

October also recorded daily UPI transactions averaging 535 million in volume and Rs 75,801 crore in value, a notable rise from September’s average of 501 million transactions valued at Rs 68,800 crore.

IMPS Transactions: Consistent Growth in October

The Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), a key platform for instant fund transfers, also saw substantial growth in October. The total volume reached 467 million transactions, marking a 9% increase from September’s 430 million transactions. In terms of transaction value:

IMPS rose by 11% to Rs 6.29 trillion from Rs 5.65 trillion in September.

Year-over-year comparison showed:

A 5% decline in transaction volume
A 17% increase in transaction value

IMPS continues to play an essential role in high-value payments, underlining its importance in the digital payment landscape.

FASTag: Boost in Volume and Value

FASTag, India’s digital toll collection system, also demonstrated notable growth in October. FASTag transactions surged by 8% to 345 million, up from 318 million in September. In terms of transaction value:

October saw a 9% increase to Rs 6,115 crore, compared to Rs 5,620 crore in September.

Compared to October 2023, FASTag recorded:

An 8% growth in volume
A 10% rise in transaction value

The increased FASTag usage reflects both the continued expansion of the toll network and the preference for digital solutions in transport payments.

Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS): Impressive Gains in October

The Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) experienced one of the most substantial gains in digital payments, underlining its importance in promoting financial inclusion. October saw:

126 million transactions, marking a 26% rise from 100 million in September.
A significant 35% increase in transaction value to Rs 32,493 crore, up from Rs 24,143 crore in September.

Year-over-year, AePS recorded:

A 26% growth in transaction volume
A 25% increase in transaction value

The rise in AePS transactions indicates expanding reliance on this system for direct cash transfers and government benefits, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

October GST Collections Surge by 8.9% Year-on-Year to Reach Rs 1.87 Lakh Crore

Gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections in October reached Rs 1.87 lakh crore, marking an 8.9% increase year-on-year. This robust collection, based on September sales, represents the second-highest level of monthly GST collections since the indirect tax regime’s inception in July 2017. The rise is primarily attributed to stronger domestic transactions, with revenue from imports experiencing slower growth, as detailed by the Ministry of Finance in data released on Friday.

Background: Recovering from a Slow Growth Phase

After a three-year low growth rate in September, October saw an encouraging rebound in gross GST collections. Despite this improvement, the growth rate has not yet returned to the double-digit levels recorded in previous years. The highest GST collection on record was achieved in April 2024, when GST collections peaked at Rs 2.10 lakh crore.

Growth in Domestic GST Collections Outpaces Imports

The primary driver behind October’s GST growth was the surge in domestic transactions rather than imports. October saw domestic GST revenue grow by 10.6% year-on-year, a notable improvement from the 5.9% growth rate in September. In contrast, GST revenue from imports rose by a more modest 3.9% in October, down from an 8% rise in September. On a net basis, the increase in domestic GST revenue was 8.7%, significantly higher than the 4.5% growth seen in the previous month, while import-related GST revenue grew by 5.4%.

Detailed Breakdown of GST Components

Central GST (CGST): The CGST collections — the tax levied on intra-state supplies by the Centre — amounted to Rs 33,821 crore in October.
State GST (SGST): The SGST collections, levied on intra-state supplies by states, totaled Rs 41,864 crore for the month.
Integrated GST (IGST): IGST, applicable on all inter-state supplies of goods and services, accounted for Rs 99,111 crore.
Cess Collections: The cess — levied on certain goods for compensation to states — contributed Rs 12,550 crore to the October GST collections.

State-Wise Performance in GST Collections

Out of 38 states and union territories (including the Centre’s jurisdiction), 14 states/UTs exceeded the national average growth rate of 10.6% in GST collections. Maharashtra led the states in absolute GST collection, reporting Rs 31,030 crore at a 14% growth rate, followed by Karnataka (Rs 13,081 crore, 9% growth), Gujarat (Rs 11,407 crore, 17% growth), Tamil Nadu (Rs 11,188 crore, 4% growth), and Haryana (Rs 10,045 crore, 15% growth).

However, not all states recorded growth in GST collections. A few northeastern states, along with Himachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, saw contractions in GST collections:

Arunachal Pradesh: -33%
Nagaland: -8%
Manipur: -5%
Himachal Pradesh: -2%
Chhattisgarh: -1%

GST Refund Rate and Growth Outlook

One notable element of the October GST data is the domestic refund rate, which stood at 42.8%. This high refund rate has implications for the net revenue collected, as refunds effectively reduce the gross collections that are available for public expenditure. Despite the increased refund rate, the GST collection growth rate was robust, underscoring the resilience of domestic economic activity.

While the gross GST growth rate showed signs of recovery, it remained lower than the double-digit growth rates seen in the past two fiscal years. The slower rate of GST growth from imports signals a broader trend in shifting consumption patterns, with domestic sales outpacing those from imports.

Top-10 Most Expensive Schools in India as of 2024

Education in India is highly valued, and some schools provide top-quality education along with world-class facilities. Here is a list of the ten most expensive schools in India for 2024. These schools not only offer excellent education but also provide state-of-the-art amenities, skilled faculty, and unique programs to help students grow holistically.

India’s Most Expensive School as of 2024

Woodstock School in Mussoorie stands out as one of the India’s most expensive schools in 2024, with annual fees ranging from ₹15-17 lakhs. Known for its scenic mountain location, this prestigious international school offers a top-tier IB curriculum and exceptional facilities. Woodstock provides a global environment, attracting students within the country and delivering high academic standards, cultural activities, and sports opportunities.

Top-10 Most Expensive Schools in India 2024

Woodstock School, located in Mussoorie, stands as the most expensive school in India with annual fees of Rs.15-17 lakhs, followed by The Doon School and Scindia School.

Here is the list of top-10 most expensive schools in India 2024:

Top-10 Most Expensive Schools India 2024
Rank	School Name	School	Annual Fees (INR)
1.	Woodstock School	Mussoorie	Rs.15-17 lakhs
2.	The Doon School	Dehradun	Rs.12.5-14 lakhs
3.	Scindia School	Gwalior	Rs.12 lakhs
4.	Good Shepherd International	Ooty	Rs.6-15 lakhs
5.	Mayo College	Ajmer	Rs.6.5-13 lakhs
6.	Ecole Mondiale World School	Mumbai	Rs.10 lakhs
7.	Stonehill International School	Bangalore	Rs.9 lakhs
8.	Welham Girls’ School	Dehradun	Rs.8.5 lakhs
9.	Bishop Cotton School	Shimla	Rs.4.1-4.8 lakhs
10.	Vidya Niketan Birla Public	Pilani	Rs.3 lakhs

Praveena Rai Takes the Appointed as CEO and MD of MCX

Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX), Praveena Rai has officially taken office as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD) on October 31, 2024, embarking on a five-year term. The appointment, announced in a statement by MCX, marks the beginning of a fresh chapter for the organization as Rai brings her extensive experience in banking, payments, and transaction management to lead India’s largest commodity derivatives exchange.

A Seasoned Banking Professional with 20 Years of Experience

Rai’s appointment follows the end of tenure of P S Reddy, who served as the CEO of MCX for five years until May 2024. With over 20 years of industry experience, Rai is celebrated for her expertise across multiple facets of banking, including payments, cards, retail banking, and transaction banking. Her deep-rooted experience in the financial sector, specifically in digital payments and transaction management, makes her an ideal candidate to lead MCX through its next phase of growth and transformation.

Career Highlights: From NPCI to MCX

Prior to joining MCX, Praveena Rai served as Chief Operating Officer at the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), where she led marketing, business development, product management, and operations strategy. At NPCI, Rai played a pivotal role in steering India’s digital payment landscape, helping scale innovative payment solutions that transformed transactions across sectors. She also worked extensively to enhance product offerings, drive business growth, and implement operational efficiencies.

Earlier in her career, Rai held the position of Regional Head of Payments for Asia Pacific at HSBC, a role that positioned her at the center of regional payment operations, with a focus on strengthening cross-border payment solutions and expanding digital payment infrastructure across the Asia-Pacific region.

Connections to MCX: A Strategic Return with a Shareholder Perspective

Interestingly, Rai has also held significant roles in Kotak Mahindra Bank, where she managed cash management portfolios—a critical aspect of banking operations that aligns with the transaction-heavy activities at MCX. Kotak Mahindra Bank is currently the largest shareholder in MCX, and Rai’s experience with Kotak brings a unique shareholder perspective, which may further aid her in understanding the expectations and strategic directions that the bank may envision for MCX.

Leadership Vision for MCX: Pioneering Growth and Market Expansion

With her new role, Praveena Rai is expected to focus on expanding MCX’s market presence and fortifying its leadership in the commodity derivatives segment. Her background in payment solutions and transaction management will be instrumental as she aligns MCX with India’s rapidly digitalizing economy. By leveraging her knowledge in technology-driven solutions and innovative product offerings, Rai will work towards enhancing operational efficiencies and introducing customer-centric initiatives within MCX’s structure.

Key Areas of Focus Under Rai’s Leadership

Digital Transformation and Operational Efficiency: Given Rai’s expertise, it is anticipated that MCX will increasingly integrate digital solutions for smoother, more secure trading processes. She may also explore digital innovation in data management and real-time trading updates.
Product Diversification and Market Expansion: Under her guidance, MCX is likely to focus on expanding its product portfolio, introducing new commodity derivatives products, and widening its reach among retail and institutional investors.
Enhanced Customer Experience: Rai’s background in managing payments and digital transactions could lead to innovations within MCX’s customer services, enhancing ease of use, transaction speed, and security for traders.
Stakeholder Alignment and Corporate Governance: With Kotak Mahindra Bank as the major stakeholder, Rai’s experience with the bank may help her align MCX’s goals with shareholder expectations, especially in areas of corporate governance and long-term strategic planning.

About MCX: India’s Leading Commodity Derivatives Exchange

The Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX), headquartered in Mumbai, is the country’s largest commodity derivatives exchange. Established in 2003, MCX offers an extensive range of commodity derivative contracts and plays a pivotal role in India’s financial market. By enabling risk management in the commodities sector, MCX supports India’s economy and commodity-dependent industries. The exchange’s offerings include derivative contracts on various commodities, including metals, energy, and agricultural products.

In recent years, MCX has been at the forefront of digitalization and regulatory alignment, making significant advancements in operational standards and investor outreach. The exchange has continuously focused on ensuring transparency, reliability, and efficiency in its trading environment, establishing itself as a critical platform for commodity-based transactions in India.

The Road Ahead: Strengthening India’s Commodity Market

Praveena Rai’s leadership as CEO and MD marks a new era for MCX. With her vast experience in digital payments, strategic management, and transaction processing, she is well-equipped to steer MCX towards greater market stability and digital transformation. Her leadership is anticipated to bolster MCX’s position as India’s leading commodity exchange, facilitating sustainable growth and enhancing market resilience in an ever-evolving financial landscape.

Top-10 Fittest Countries in the World 2024, Check the List

Physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle are key to living longer and feeling good. Many countries around the world work hard to promote fitness among their people through good food, exercise habits, and public health programs. Here are the top 10 fittest countries that stand out for their commitment to health.

World’s Fittest Country 2024

As of 2024, Singapore is ranked the fittest country globally, thanks to its strong health policies and active culture. Programs like the Great Singapore Workout and numerous community sports events promote regular exercise among citizens. With an extensive network of parks and recreational facilities, about 84% of Singaporeans exercise at least once a week. Singapore’s world-class healthcare system also supports preventive care, allowing citizens to maintain their fitness without financial stress.

Top-10 Fittest Countries in the World 2024

According to the World Population Review, Singapore stands as the fittest country in the world with a score of 95.3, followed by Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.

Here is the list of top-10 fittest countries in the world 2024:

World’s Fittest Country as of 2024
Rank	Country	Score
1.	Singapore	95.3
2.	Japan	95.1
3.	South Korea	94.3
4.	Taiwan	94.2
5.	Israel	94.2
6.	Norway	93.6
7.	Iceland	93.5
8.	Sweden	93.4
9.	Switzerland	93.1
10.	Netherlands	92.8

Position of India on the List of Fittest Countries

India ranks 112th on the list of the world’s fittest countries, with a fitness score of 61.3. While India has a rich culture of traditional practices like yoga, factors like changing lifestyles, increasing screen time, and limited access to fitness facilities in some areas impact overall physical activity levels. To improve fitness, promoting healthy eating and exercise habits remains essential for a healthier, more active population.

Dr. Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes Appointed as Secretary General of the World Agriculture Forum

In a significant leadership development for global agricultural advocacy, Dr. Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes, the outgoing Director General of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), is set to take up the role of Secretary General of the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) in mid-November 2024. Known for her dedication to sustainable agriculture and food security, Dr. Hughes brings a wealth of expertise and experience to WAF, a platform instrumental in shaping the future of agriculture worldwide.

An Exemplary Career in Agricultural Research and Development

With an impressive career spanning over 30 years, Dr. Hughes has built a strong reputation in agricultural research for development, particularly in the fields of sustainable agriculture, food security, and rural development. Her contributions have positively impacted some of the world’s most vulnerable regions, including Africa and Asia. Dr. Hughes’ leadership at ICRISAT reflects her commitment to tackling global challenges, making her an ideal fit for WAF’s mission to promote sustainable agricultural transformation.

Academic Background and Career Beginnings in Ghana

Dr. Hughes’ career began in the United Kingdom, where she completed her PhD at Reading University and later engaged in postdoctoral research. Early in her career, she worked with national partners in Ghana, gaining firsthand experience with agricultural challenges in developing regions. Her background in plant virology and her strong interest in remote sensing, digitalization, and gender equity have equipped her with the necessary skills and insights to address agricultural issues at a global scale.

Leadership Roles Across Africa and Asia

Dr. Hughes has held numerous leadership roles in prominent agricultural research institutes across Africa and Asia, including the last four years as Director General at ICRISAT. Her work with international institutions has given her a deep understanding of regional agricultural challenges, from crop resilience in semi-arid climates to rural community development. Dr. Hughes’ career is marked by her ability to navigate complex environments and promote impactful agricultural solutions, leveraging innovative technologies and sustainable practices.

Achievements as Director General of ICRISAT

During her tenure at ICRISAT in Hyderabad, India, Dr. Hughes led the institute through transformative milestones, even amid the global pandemic. Under her leadership:

ICRISAT won the Africa Food Prize in 2021, recognizing its substantial contributions to agricultural advancement in Africa.
Dr. Hughes hosted India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, at ICRISAT’s 50th Anniversary in 2022, underscoring ICRISAT’s impact on dryland agriculture.
In 2023, she positioned ICRISAT as a significant contributor to global agricultural dialogues by participating in the G20 Summit’s agricultural meetings in New Delhi.
Dr. Hughes also co-chaired the International Steering Committee for the United Nations International Year of Millets, promoting millet cultivation for enhanced food security and climate resilience.

Through these achievements, Dr. Hughes solidified ICRISAT’s role as a leader in dryland agriculture and demonstrated her commitment to advancing agricultural innovations.

Innovative Focus Areas: Remote Sensing, Digitalization, and Gender Equity

A distinguished plant virologist, Dr. Hughes is deeply invested in advancing agricultural research through modern technologies. She has advocated for the integration of remote sensing and digital tools to improve crop resilience, as well as the adoption of best practices in plant quarantine to enhance food security. Additionally, her emphasis on gender equity in agricultural practices highlights her holistic approach to sustainable development, recognizing the vital role of women in the agricultural sector.

Goals as Secretary General of the World Agriculture Forum

In her new role at WAF, Dr. Hughes will drive collaboration and alliances to develop innovative agricultural solutions and promote sustainable practices globally. Her leadership will focus on fortifying partnerships across public and private sectors, connecting WAF’s diverse stakeholders with the shared goal of advancing food security. She envisions WAF as a platform where local and global impact intersect, driving forward policies and initiatives that cater to the needs of smallholder farmers, agro-businesses, and rural communities.

World Agriculture Forum: A Global Platform for Agricultural Transformation

The World Agriculture Forum (WAF) is an influential organization that unites a wide range of stakeholders—from governments and agribusinesses to experts and development institutions—to foster agricultural development. Headquartered as a global platform, WAF is dedicated to transforming agriculture through policy advocacy, trade facilitation, and technology-driven solutions. The organization is committed to creating a resilient, food-secure future by bridging implementation gaps, advancing agricultural innovations, and promoting public-private partnerships.

Key Objectives and Strategic Pillars of WAF

Sustainable Agricultural Development: WAF focuses on driving sustainable practices that ensure long-term productivity and food security.
Public-Private Partnerships: By fostering collaborations between the public and private sectors, WAF aims to implement large-scale projects that benefit smallholder farmers and agro-industries.
Policy Advocacy and Trade Facilitation: WAF’s policy initiatives are geared towards facilitating international trade and removing barriers that hinder agricultural progress.
Support for Smallholder Farmers and Agro-Ventures: Recognizing the importance of small-scale farming, WAF actively supports smallholder farmers through capacity-building programs, resources, and access to markets.
Technology-Driven Solutions: Emphasizing innovation and digitalization, WAF promotes technology adoption to address critical issues such as climate resilience and efficient resource management.

Dr. Hughes’ Vision: Strengthening Global Alliances in Agriculture

In line with WAF’s mission, Dr. Hughes aims to strengthen alliances across global and local agricultural sectors, ensuring WAF remains responsive to the evolving needs of the agricultural landscape. With a commitment to inclusive growth and climate resilience, she envisions a forum where innovative solutions are fostered through collaborative action, benefiting farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities alike.

Indian Army Departs for 9th Edition of India-Indonesia Joint Special Forces Exercise GARUD SHAKTI 24

The Indian Army contingent, consisting of 25 skilled personnel from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), recently embarked on a journey to Cijantung, Jakarta, Indonesia to participate in the 9th edition of the India-Indonesia Joint Special Forces Exercise, GARUD SHAKTI 24. Scheduled to take place from November 1 to November 12, 2024, this exercise is a testament to the strong military cooperation and shared strategic interests between India and Indonesia.

The event, which brings together some of the best military minds from both nations, aims to enhance interoperability, cooperation, and mutual understanding between the two armies. With a focus on developing tactical military skills and strengthening bilateral relations, Exercise GARUD SHAKTI serves as a crucial platform for India and Indonesia to achieve common security goals in the Indo-Pacific region.

Participants and Contingent Details

In the 9th edition of Exercise GARUD SHAKTI, the Indian contingent is represented by elite troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), known for their capability in unconventional warfare, agility, and resilience. On the other side, Indonesia’s Special Forces unit, Kopassus, comprising 40 personnel, will represent the Indonesian Army. Kopassus, with its rich history of counter-terrorism operations and strategic skills, shares common operational practices with India’s Special Forces, setting the foundation for a meaningful and productive exchange.

Key Objectives of GARUD SHAKTI 24: Enhancing Interoperability and Tactical Readiness

The primary objective of Exercise GARUD SHAKTI 24 is to enhance bilateral military cooperation by acquainting each side with the other’s operating procedures, techniques, and tactical approaches. The exercise aims to develop mutual understanding, operational coordination, and interoperability between the Special Forces of both armies. As a collaborative effort, GARUD SHAKTI 24 will promote the exchange of knowledge, experience, and strategic insights, enabling both countries to be better prepared for future joint missions.

Focus on Joint Planning and Execution of Special Operations

During the two-week exercise, both contingents will engage in an intensive schedule designed to strengthen their tactical and operational skills. Key aspects of GARUD SHAKTI 24 include:

Joint Planning and Execution of Special Operations: Both sides will collaborate on mission planning, ensuring a streamlined approach to executing coordinated special operations in high-risk environments.
Enhancement of Advanced Special Forces Skills: The exercise will include training sessions focused on honing advanced skills such as precision targeting, combat in jungle terrain, and rapid infiltration. These skills will help the forces operate more effectively in diverse and challenging scenarios.
Exchange of Knowledge on Weapons and Equipment: The two armies will share insights on the latest weapons, equipment, and tactical innovations. This exchange provides both forces with exposure to each other’s tools and technologies, enhancing their overall preparedness and adaptability.
Orientation to Tactical Techniques and Procedures: Special attention will be given to tactics, techniques, and procedures unique to each force, with the goal of harmonizing these practices for future joint missions. The emphasis will be on achieving greater efficiency in the field.
Conduct of a Validation Exercise: As part of the training, the contingents will participate in a Validation Exercise, testing their ability to integrate basic and advanced skills acquired during GARUD SHAKTI 24. This final exercise will validate the effectiveness of their training, ensuring they are ready for complex missions.

Special Operations in Jungle Terrain and Counter-Terrorism Drills

One of the core elements of GARUD SHAKTI 24 is the focus on conducting Special Forces operations in jungle terrain. Both forces will practice strategies for navigating dense forests, which are typical of many operational areas in Indonesia and parts of India. These exercises will prepare the personnel for rapid-response operations in such challenging environments. Additionally, the troops will rehearse strikes on simulated terrorist camps to refine their counter-terrorism tactics and test their response to real-world threats, adding a vital counter-terrorism dimension to the joint training.

Fostering Cross-Cultural Understanding and Military Cooperation

Exercise GARUD SHAKTI 24 is designed not only for operational training but also as a platform to deepen the bond between the two armies through a shared cultural experience. The contingent members will gain valuable insights into each other’s lifestyles, traditions, and values, which is crucial for fostering long-lasting cooperation. Such exchanges encourage an understanding that goes beyond military collaboration, nurturing camaraderie and respect between the two nations.

Strengthening India-Indonesia Relations through Shared Security Goals

As two influential nations in the Indo-Pacific region, India and Indonesia share a mutual interest in securing their borders, ensuring regional stability, and protecting their sovereignty. Exercise GARUD SHAKTI 24 serves as a critical step in fulfilling these shared security objectives. By collaborating in special operations and counter-terrorism efforts, both countries aim to improve their response capabilities to potential security threats in the region.

Indian Army Departs for 15th Edition of Joint Special Forces Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR with US Army

Indian Army contingent embarked on a journey to participate in the 15th edition of the India-US joint Special Forces Exercise, VAJRA PRAHAR, set to be conducted from November 2 to November 22, 2024. This prestigious exercise will take place at the Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, USA, marking a significant step toward bolstering military cooperation and tactical interoperability between the two nations. The previous edition was held at Umroi, Meghalaya in December 2023, showcasing the commitment to ongoing collaboration and shared military expertise.

A Year of Joint Military Engagements: Strengthening the India-US Defence Partnership

The 15th VAJRA PRAHAR exercise represents the second major joint military engagement of 2024 between the Indian and US armies. Earlier, both nations participated in Exercise YUDH ABHYAS 2024, a large-scale military exercise held in the desert terrain of Rajasthan in September 2024. Such frequent, high-caliber collaborations reflect the growing strength and alignment between the two countries in defence and strategic interests, as they work together to promote peace and stability in regions of mutual concern.

Participants in VAJRA PRAHAR: The Best of Both Armies

In the upcoming VAJRA PRAHAR exercise, each country will contribute a contingent of 45 highly trained personnel. The Indian Army will be represented by its elite Special Forces units, renowned for their versatility, resilience, and capability in diverse operational environments. On the other hand, the US Army will be represented by its esteemed Green Berets, highly skilled members of the United States Special Forces known for their expertise in unconventional warfare and high-stakes combat scenarios.

Objective of VAJRA PRAHAR: Enhancing Interoperability and Joint Tactical Proficiency

The primary objective of Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR is to strengthen military cooperation between India and the United States by enhancing their interoperability and joint tactical capabilities. This exercise allows both armies to familiarize themselves with each other’s operational practices and develop a shared understanding of special operations strategies, which is critical for joint missions. The exercise also aims to prepare both armies for effective collaboration in desert and semi-desert environments, requiring a high degree of physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical expertise.

Key Drills and Training Areas in Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR

Throughout the exercise, both contingents will engage in an intensive training regimen, focusing on various aspects of special operations. Some of the prominent drills and tactical elements to be covered include:

Joint Team Mission Planning: Developing and coordinating mission strategies to achieve a unified operational approach.
Reconnaissance Missions: Practicing covert and tactical reconnaissance operations to gain crucial intelligence and assess ground conditions.
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Deployment: Using advanced unmanned aerial systems for strategic reconnaissance, communication, and aerial support.
Execution of Special Operations: Performing precision-based special operations exercises to refine skills in high-stakes combat.
Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) Actions: Training to coordinate air-ground support for enhanced combat efficiency and accuracy.
Psychological Warfare Tactics: Exploring psychological warfare strategies used in special operations to manage the psychological impact on adversaries and local populations.

These drills are carefully designed to prepare participants for real-world scenarios, enhancing their combat-readiness and ability to collaborate seamlessly in demanding environments.

Which Indian State is Known as All Season State?

India has many beautiful states, each with its unique charm and climate. But one state stands out for its year-round pleasant weather, lush landscapes, and scenic beauty. This state is often called the “All Season State” because visitors can enjoy its natural beauty throughout the year. This special title belongs to Himachal Pradesh, a state located in the northern part of India. Let’s explore why Himachal Pradesh is known as the “All Season State.”

Indian States and Union Territories

India is divided into 28 states and 8 Union Territories. Each state has its own government and cultural identity, while Union Territories are governed directly by the Central Government. Together, they showcase India’s diversity in language, tradition, and geography, making it a unique and colorful nation.

Which Indian State is Known as All Season State?

Himachal Pradesh is famously called the “All Season State” of India because of its diverse climate, stunning landscapes, and natural beauty. From warm southern regions to snow-covered northern peaks, this state offers a unique experience in every season.

Why is Himachal Pradesh Known as All Season State?

Himachal Pradesh is called the “All Season State” because it has a wide variety of climates throughout the year. The state’s regions range from warm, green valleys to snowy, high-altitude mountains. With distinct seasons like winter, monsoon, and post-monsoon, each part of Himachal offers unique experiences for tourists year-round, from lush landscapes to snow-covered peaks.

Climate in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh experiences four main seasons: winter, pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon. Each season brings a different climate, making the state feel fresh and exciting throughout the year. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings almost half of the state’s annual rainfall, making the valleys lush and green. In the higher areas, the alpine zone is blanketed in snow for five to six months, adding to the state’s charm.

Rainfall Differences Across the State

Rainfall in Himachal Pradesh differs greatly from one zone to another. The outer Himalayas receive more rainfall, with 150–175 mm of rain. On the other hand, the inner Himalayas see a lighter rainfall of 75–100 mm. Some regions, like Dharamsala, receive very heavy rainfall, while the dry Lahaul-Spiti area receives much less rain.

Himachal Pradesh, A Perfect Tourist Destination

Thanks to its diverse climate, Himachal Pradesh has become a popular spot for tourists all year round. Visitors flock to see its beautiful hill stations, ancient temples, and snow-capped mountains. The different seasons make it ideal for all kinds of activities, from trekking in summer to skiing in winter, ensuring there’s something for everyone in this “All Season State.”