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

China Unveils Megaport in Peru, but Locals Feel Left Behind

China’s $1.3 billion megaport in Chancay, Peru, majority-owned by Chinese shipping giant Cosco, promises to connect South America to Asia and boost regional trade. However, locals in this coastal desert village, where many live without basic services, express dissatisfaction, claiming the port harms their livelihoods and brings no tangible benefits. While the government envisions significant economic growth, the residents of Chancay, particularly the fishermen, see the project as a threat to their resources and environment.

Port Project and Local Concerns

The Chancay megaport, which will feature 15 quays and attract over $3.5 billion in investment, aims to become a key transshipment hub for South American exports, such as Peru’s blueberries and Chile’s copper. Despite this, locals complain about the destruction of fishing grounds due to dredging, which deepened the shipping channel. Fishermen now face reduced catches and increased expenses, forcing them to travel farther to find fish. The community fears pollution and oil spills, recalling the 2022 spill at a nearby refinery.

Economic Promise vs. Social Realities

While President Xi Jinping highlighted the potential for job creation and economic benefits, many Chancay residents are skeptical. The dredging has affected fish breeding areas, and the port’s breakwater has altered currents, damaging surfing conditions and local tourism. Despite officials’ reassurances, the lack of local infrastructure, including clean water, sewage systems, and healthcare facilities, contrasts sharply with the modern port being developed.

Government and Corporate Response

Cosco and the Peruvian government recognize the stark contrast between the new port and the underdeveloped village. Cosco’s manager in Chancay, Mario de las Casas, acknowledged the inequality and mentioned studies aimed at integrating the port with local development. Yet, for many in Chancay, the port’s promise of prosperity remains distant, overshadowed by its immediate environmental and economic impacts.

Summery of the News

Why in News	Key Points
China unveils Chancay megaport in Peru	Chancay megaport project, $1.3 billion investment, majority-owned by Chinese shipping giant Cosco.
Location	Chancay, Peru, on the coast of Peru’s desert region.
Key Figures	China’s President Xi Jinping, Peruvian President Dina Boluarte.
Port Details	15 quays, 17-meter deep shipping channel, large industrial park.
Economic Impact	Expected to generate millions of dollars, turn coastal cities into special economic zones.
Local Impact	Fishermen report loss of fishing grounds, destruction of breeding areas, and reduced fish catches.
Environmental Concerns	Dredging affecting fish breeding grounds, possible pollution risks, and oil spills.
Local Demographics	Chancay population: 60,000, with 33% lacking running water.
Government’s View	Peruvian government promotes port as a strategic transshipment hub for regional exports.
Cosco’s Contribution	Cosco plans to reduce inequality and spur local growth by connecting port development with local infrastructure.
Important Exports from South America	Peru’s blueberries, Brazil’s soybeans, Chile’s copper.

Tropical Storm Sara Hits Honduras, Threatens Floods in Central America and Mexico

Tropical Storm Sara made landfall in northern Honduras late Thursday, bringing heavy rain and the threat of life-threatening flooding to parts of Central America and southern Mexico. The storm hit near Brus Laguna, Honduras, and is expected to continue its path west, impacting Belize and Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Forecasts predict up to 30 inches of rain in some areas, with winds of 45 mph (75 km/h) and slow movement at 10 mph (17 km/h).

Impact on Honduras

Landfall Location: The storm made landfall 105 miles (165 km) west-northwest of the Cabo Gracias a Dios on the Honduras-Nicaragua border, near the small village of Brus Laguna.

Rainfall Forecast: Sara is expected to drop 10 to 20 inches of rain (25-50 cm), with some regions possibly receiving up to 30 inches (75 cm). This could lead to severe flooding and landslides.

Threat to Mexico and Belize

Movement and Wind Speed: With winds of 45 mph (75 kph), Sara is moving westward at 10 mph (17 kph). It is forecast to pass near Roatan, a popular tourist destination, before heading towards Belize and the Yucatan Peninsula.

Flooding Risk: Mexican authorities have warned of intense rains, which could cause significant flooding in the Yucatan resort areas.

Summery of the News

Category	Key Points
Why in News	Tropical Storm Sara made landfall in Honduras, bringing heavy rain and flooding risks to Central America and Mexico.
Storm’s Landfall	Made landfall near Brus Laguna, Honduras, about 105 miles (165 km) west-northwest of Cabo Gracias a Dios.
Rainfall Forecast	Expected rainfall: 10 to 20 inches (25-50 cm), with isolated areas receiving up to 30 inches (75 cm).
Wind Speed	Winds at 45 mph (75 km/h) at landfall.
Storm Path	Moving westward at 10 mph (17 km/h), headed toward Belize and the Yucatan Peninsula.
Impacted Areas	Honduras (Brus Laguna, Roatan), Belize, Mexico (Yucatan Peninsula).
Potential Hazards	Life-threatening flooding and landslides expected due to heavy rainfall.
Tourist Destination	Roatan, a popular tourist destination in Honduras, forecasted to be affected by the storm.

SBI Seeks $1.25 Billion in 2024’s Largest Dollar-Denominated Loan

State Bank of India (SBI) is aiming to secure a $1.25 billion five-year loan, which would be the largest dollar-denominated loan from India’s financial sector in 2024. The loan, arranged by CTBC Bank, HSBC, and Taipei Fubon Bank, will be used for general corporate purposes. SBI’s move follows a trend of increasing foreign currency borrowing by Indian financial institutions, particularly non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), due to stricter domestic regulations. Despite the rising demand, India’s total dollar-denominated loan volume has decreased by 27% this year.

Key Loan Details

Loan Amount: Up to $1.25 billion

Duration: Five years

Interest Margin: 92.5 basis points over the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR)

Purpose: General corporate needs

Arrangement: By CTBC Bank, HSBC, and Taipei Fubon Bank

Location: Gujarat International Finance Tec-City

Industry Context

SBI’s move to raise foreign currency debt is part of a broader trend seen among Indian financial institutions. Non-banking finance companies (NBFCs), especially, have increasingly tapped into dollar-denominated loans due to tighter domestic regulations. For example, Cholamandalam Investment & Finance Co. has recently sought a $300 million syndicated term facility.

Comparisons with Past Borrowings

This loan follows SBI’s $750 million borrowing raised earlier in July 2024, showcasing the bank’s continued reliance on international markets to raise funds. Despite such high-profile transactions, India’s dollar loan volume has shrunk by 27% in 2024, largely due to the absence of large corporate borrowings, with a total of $14.2 billion raised this year.

Summery of the News

Why in News	Key Points
State Bank of India (SBI) seeks $1.25 billion loan	Largest dollar-denominated loan from India’s financial sector in 2024.
Loan Arrangement	Arranged by CTBC Bank, HSBC, and Taipei Fubon Bank.
Loan Terms	$1.25 billion, 5-year loan, 92.5 basis points over SOFR.
Loan Purpose	For general corporate purposes.
SBI Branch Location	Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City).
SBI’s Previous Loan (2024)	Raised $750 million in July 2024.
India’s Dollar Loan Volume in 2024	Decreased by 27% to $14.2 billion.
Other Financial Institutions’ Borrowings	Cholamandalam Investment & Finance Co. raised $300 million.
Financial Hub	Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) – India’s new financial hub.

Tim Southee to Bid Farewell to Cricket After World Test Championship

Tim Southee, New Zealand’s all-time leading wicket-taker, has announced his decision to retire from international cricket after the completion of the current ICC World Test Championship campaign. The 35-year-old former Test captain will retire following the Black Caps’ upcoming home series against England, marking the end of an illustrious Test career that has spanned almost two decades.

Retirement Announcement

Tim Southee will retire from Test cricket after New Zealand’s home series against England.
The series is expected to conclude at Seddon Park in Hamilton, his home ground, just before Christmas.
He will also consider making himself available for the World Test Championship Final at Lord’s if New Zealand qualifies.

Career Highlights

Southee has represented New Zealand in almost 400 international appearances.
He is New Zealand’s greatest-ever wicket-taker with 770 international wickets.
The bowler has featured in four ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups, seven ICC Men’s T20 World Cups, and two Champions Trophy events.
He played in the inaugural World Test Championship Final in 2021.

Retirement Reason

Southee feels it is the right time to retire from Test cricket to allow the next generation of New Zealand bowlers to emerge.
He expressed his pride in representing New Zealand for 18 years and called it the greatest honor of his career.

Test Cricket Significance

Test cricket holds a special place in his heart, and he sees the series against England as the perfect way to end his Test career, especially given that his career began against England.

Gratitude

Tim Southee expressed deep gratitude towards his family, friends, coaches, fans, and everyone who supported his career throughout the years.

Legacy

Southee leaves behind a legacy as one of the finest bowlers in international cricket, known for his commitment and stellar performances across various formats.

Stats of Tim Southee

Test – 385 Wickets in 104 Matches
ODI – 221 Wickets in 161 Matches
T20 – 164 Wickets in 126 Matches
Winner of ICC World Test Championship in 2021.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Tim Southee will retire from Test cricket after the series against England
Career Highlights	– Almost 400 international appearances – 770 international wickets (New Zealand’s all-time leader) – Played in 4 ICC World Cups, 7 ICC T20 World Cups, and 2 Champions Trophy events – Played in the 2021 World Test Championship Final
Retirement Reason	To allow the next generation of bowlers to shine; feels honored by 18 years of representing New Zealand.
Career Stats	– Test: 385 wickets in 104 matches – ODI: 221 wickets in 161 matches – T20: 164 wickets in 126 matches
Achievements	Winner of ICC World Test Championship in 2021.

Which Indian State is Known as the Queen of Sahyadri Hills?

The title “Queen of Sahyadri Hills” is often used to describe a beautiful and unique state in India. This state is known for its rich nature, breathtaking landscapes, and significant cultural history. But which state carries this proud title? It is none other than Maharashtra.

Indian States and Union Territories

India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories. Each state has its own government, culture, and traditions. Popular states include Maharashtra, Kerala, and Rajasthan, known for their unique attractions. Union Territories like Delhi and Andaman & Nicobar Islands are governed directly by the central government. These regions together create the rich diversity of India.

Which Indian State is Known as the Queen of Sahyadri Hills?

Mahabaleshwar, a beautiful hill station in Maharashtra, is often called the “Queen of Sahyadri Hills” for its stunning natural beauty and historical importance. This article will cover its location, why it is well-known, activities to enjoy, and its rich history.

Location of Mahabaleshwar, Queen of Sahyadri Hills

Mahabaleshwar is located in the Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri Hills, at an altitude of about 1350 meters above sea level. It is around 123 kilometers from Pune and 250 kilometers from Mumbai, making it an accessible getaway for travelers from these major cities.

What is Mahabaleshwar Known for?

Mahabaleshwar is famous for its scenic beauty, featuring lush green valleys and sparkling waterfalls. Visitors can find strawberry farms that are popular for fresh and juicy strawberries. The hill station also boasts numerous viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It is known for historic forts, ancient temples, and serene lakes that add to its charm.

Rich History of Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar gets its name from the Hindu God “Mahabali,” and there is a temple dedicated to him in the area. The great Maratha ruler, Shivaji Maharaja, built the Pratapgarh Fort in the 17th century, which stands as a symbol of the region’s history. During British rule in India, Mahabaleshwar was used as the summer capital of the Mumbai Province.

Know About Sahyadri Hills

The Western Ghats are called the Sahyadri Hills in Maharashtra. This mountain range is known by different names in various states:

Nilgiri Hills in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Anaimalai Hills and Cardamom Hills in Kerala.

Delhi’s New Mayor AAP’s Mahesh Kumar Khichi

Mahesh Kumar Khichi, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate, emerged victorious in the Delhi mayoral polls. Khichi secured 133 votes, defeating BJP’s Kishan Lal, the councilor from Shakurpur ward, by a narrow margin of three votes. This marks the conclusion of the long-delayed election for the Delhi mayor’s office.

Election Overview

Date: 14th November, after a delay of nearly eight months.
Winner: Mahesh Kumar Khichi (AAP), first-time councilor from Dev Nagar.
Defeated Candidate: BJP’s Kishan Lal (Shakurpur ward).
Vote Margin: Khichi received 133 votes, defeating Kishan Lal by 3 votes (130 votes).
Invalid Votes: 2 votes declared invalid (1 each from AAP and BJP).
Total Votes: 256 votes cast for the Mayor’s post.

Deputy Mayor Election

BJP Withdrawal: After losing the mayoral race, BJP withdrew its candidate Neeta Bisht from the deputy mayor race.
Unopposed Winner: AAP’s Ravinder Bhardwaj (Aman Vihar councilor) secured the deputy mayor post unopposed.

Khichi’s Background

Khichi is a 1999 BCom graduate from Motilal Nehru College, working as a financial advisor by profession.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	AAP’s Mahesh Kumar Khichi Elected Delhi Mayor
Winner	Mahesh Kumar Khichi (AAP)
Defeated Candidate	Kishan Lal (BJP, Shakurpur ward)
Vote Margin	Khichi: 133 votes, Lal: 130 votes
Deputy Mayor Election	AAP’s Ravinder Bhardwaj (unopposed after BJP withdrawal)

India’s Outward FDI Hits $3.7 Billion in October 2024

India’s outward foreign direct investment (FDI) saw a notable rise in October 2024, with total commitments reaching $3.7 billion, up from $2.55 billion in October 2023, according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). However, there was a sequential decline from $3.77 billion in September 2024. The outbound FDI includes equity, loans, and guarantees, which showed varied trends in their respective components.

Equity Commitments

Equity commitments in October 2024 dropped to $655.84 million, down from $993.35 million in the same month last year and $817.64 million in September 2024, showing a weakening of direct investment in foreign equity.

Debt Commitments

Debt commitments surged significantly to $1.24 billion in October 2024, a sharp increase from $248.4 million in October 2023 and $1.16 billion in September 2024. This indicates a growing preference for debt-based investments over equity by Indian businesses.

Guarantees for Overseas Units

Guarantees remained nearly flat at $1.33 billion in October 2024, showing a slight increase from $1.31 billion in October 2023, but a noticeable drop from $1.79 billion in September 2024.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Key Trends and Growth in India

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) refers to investments made by a company in the business operations of another country, typically involving a controlling ownership stake. It brings not only financial capital but also technology, skills, and knowledge, helping in the growth of the host country’s economy. India, a major recipient of FDI, has experienced significant growth in FDI since economic liberalization in 1991, making it a global leader in sectors like greenfield FDI.

Types of FDI Routes in India

FDI in India flows through two primary routes:

Automatic Route: No prior approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) or the government is required for investments in certain sectors. Examples include agriculture, biotechnology, e-commerce, healthcare, and renewable energy.

Government Route: FDI in some sectors requires approval from the government. Applications are processed via the Foreign Investment Facilitation Portal (FIFP) and reviewed by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). Sectors such as banking, broadcasting, and multi-brand retail fall under this route.

Sectors Eligible for 100% FDI Under Automatic Route

Several sectors allow 100% foreign investment under the automatic route. These include agriculture, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, textiles, and more. This liberalization has played a significant role in India’s consistent rise as an investment destination.

FDI Prohibited Sectors

Certain industries are strictly prohibited for FDI, including atomic energy generation, gambling, lotteries, and tobacco. These restrictions ensure that sensitive sectors remain under domestic control.

FDI Inflow Trends

India’s FDI inflow has seen significant growth, with the highest-ever FDI inflow recorded at $64.37 billion in the fiscal year 2018-19. This trend reflects the success of India’s economic liberalization policies, which have made the country an attractive investment destination globally.

Summery of the News

Why in News	Key Points
India’s Outward FDI for October 2024	Total outward FDI commitments: $3.7 billion (Oct 2024)
Year-on-Year Growth	Up from $2.55 billion in October 2023
Sequential Decline	Down from $3.77 billion in September 2024
Equity Commitments	$655.84 million (Oct 2024), down from $993.35 million in Oct 2023 and $817.64 million in Sept 2024
Debt Commitments	$1.24 billion (Oct 2024), up from $248.4 million in Oct 2023, and $1.16 billion in Sept 2024
Guarantees for Overseas Units	$1.33 billion (Oct 2024), up from $1.31 billion in Oct 2023, but down from $1.79 billion in Sept 2024
RBI Data Source	Data from Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Components of Outward FDI	Equity, Loans, and Guarantees

PM Modi to Unveil Projects on Birsa Munda’s Birth Anniversary in Bihar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Bihar on Friday to attend a function marking the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a revered freedom fighter known as “bhagwan” by tribal communities of the Chhota Nagpur plateau. Modi will travel to a remote village in Jamui district, approximately 200 km from the state capital, to celebrate “Janjatiya Gaurav Divas”.

Date and Occasion

Visit Date: Friday, to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda.

Occasion: Celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Tribal Pride Day), observed since 2021.

Development Projects and Initiatives

Project Launches

PM Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth over Rs 6,640 crore.

Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museums and Institutes

The PM will inaugurate two Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museums and two Tribal Research Institutes.
These initiatives are aimed at preserving the history and heritage of tribal communities.

PM-JANMAN Housing Initiative

Modi will also take part in the Grih Pravesh (housewarming) of 11,000 houses built under the PM-JANMAN scheme for tribal communities.

Significance of the Visit

Tribute to Birsa Munda

The event will honor Birsa Munda, known as a legendary tribal freedom fighter, and is revered as “bhagwan” by the tribal communities in the Chhota Nagpur plateau.

Empowerment of Tribal Communities

Through the development projects and the establishment of museums and research institutes, the visit underscores the government’s focus on empowering tribal communities and preserving their cultural heritage.

About Janjatiya Gaurav Divas

Objective

To recognize the contribution of tribal communities to India’s cultural preservation and national values.
To honor the valor and sacrifices of tribal communities in the fight against British colonial rule.

Date of Celebration

15th November: The date is significant as it marks the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a revered tribal leader, freedom fighter, and cultural icon.

Honoring Tribal Communities

The day acknowledges the role of various tribal communities who played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle.

Tribes recognized include,

Tamars
Santhals
Khasis
Bhils
Mizos
Kols
And many others who actively participated in tribal movements against British colonialism.

Tributes to Birsa Munda

Birsa Munda’s Legacy

Birsa Munda, often referred to as “God” by tribal communities, was an iconic freedom fighter and leader who led the Munda Rebellion against the British in the late 19th century.
His contributions to India’s independence and the promotion of tribal rights are celebrated on his birth anniversary, 15th November.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	PM Modi to unveil projects on Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary in Bihar
Occasion	Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Tribal Pride Day)
Development Projects	– Inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for projects worth Rs 6,640 crore. – Focus on empowering tribal communities and preserving cultural heritage.
Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museums	– Two Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museums to be inaugurated. – Two Tribal Research Institutes to be set up.
PM-JANMAN Housing Initiative	– Grih Pravesh for 11,000 houses built under the PM-JANMAN scheme for tribal communities.
About Janjatiya Gaurav Divas	– Acknowledges tribal contributions to India’s cultural preservation and fight against British colonialism. – Recognizes the role of tribes like Tamars, Santhals, Khasis, Bhils, Mizos, and Kols.
Birsa Munda’s Legacy	– Birsa Munda was a key freedom fighter who led the Munda Rebellion. – Known as “God” by tribal communities. – Celebrated on 15th November, his birth anniversary.
Objectives of the Day	– Recognize tribal valor and sacrifices. – Honoring the role of tribal communities in India’s freedom struggle.

Jharkhand Foundation Day 2024, When and Why It is Celebrated?

Jharkhand Foundation Day is celebrated on November 15th each year. This day marks the formation of Jharkhand as the 28th state of India in the year 2000. Before becoming a separate state, Jharkhand was part of South Bihar. November 15th is also special as it is the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a respected tribal leader and freedom fighter.

History of Jharkhand Foundation Day

Before 2000, Jharkhand was part of Bihar. Many tribal communities in the region wanted their own state because they felt they were not treated fairly and lacked proper representation. This desire for a separate identity led to a strong movement that lasted for many decades. The demand for a separate state began as early as the early 1900s, with tribal leaders pushing for the recognition of their unique culture and traditions.

In 2000, the Parliament of India passed the Bihar Reorganization Act, which allowed the creation of Jharkhand as a separate state. This was a significant achievement for the tribal communities who had worked hard for their right to self-governance.

Celebration of Jharkhand Foundation Day 2024

Every year, Jharkhand Foundation Day is celebrated with great excitement. Events take place in the capital, Ranchi, and other districts. The celebrations include cultural performances, speeches, and award ceremonies. People enjoy traditional dances such as Chau, a famous tribal dance form, along with music and art exhibitions that showcase Jharkhand’s diverse culture.

Sports events and competitions are held to encourage unity and sportsmanship among young people. Awareness programs highlight Jharkhand’s achievements and the importance of preserving its unique culture.

Rich Culture of Jharkhand

Jharkhand is known for its vibrant tribal culture and traditions. Festivals like Sohrai, the cattle festival; Sarhul, the festival of flowers; and Mage Parab, a post-harvest celebration, are celebrated with joy. The state’s unique dance form, “Chhaunach,” is a captivating mask dance that fascinates audiences.

Jharkhand’s Natural and Mineral Wealth

Jharkhand is rich in natural beauty and resources. It has around 24 districts and covers 79,716 square kilometers, making it the 15th largest state in India. The state is home to many natural attractions, including wildlife sanctuaries and dams like Panchet Dam on the Damodar River. Important holy sites such as Baidyanath Dham, Parasnath, and Rajrappa attract visitors from all over.

Jharkhand is also rich in mineral resources, including coal, iron ore, copper ore, uranium, and more. About 80% of the population depends on agriculture, with rice being the main crop.

$8.5B Disney-Reliance Merger Completed for Indian Assets

Reliance Industries and Walt Disney have finalized an $8.5 billion merger of their Indian media assets, concluded on 14th November. The merged assets have been reorganized into three distinct divisions, each led by its own CEO, marking a new era for the two media giants in India.

Finalization of the Merger

The merger was finalized combining the Indian media assets of Reliance Industries and Walt Disney.
Three main divisions have been created: Entertainment, Digital, and Sports.

Ownership Structure

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL): 16.34% ownership.
Viacom18: 46.82% ownership.
Disney: 36.84% ownership.

Leadership

Chairperson: Nita Ambani (Reliance Industries).
Vice Chairperson: Uday Shankar (Disney).
CEO of Digital Division: Kiran Mani (former Google executive, currently leads JioCinema).
Entertainment Division: Led by Kevin Vaz (currently at Viacom18).
Sports Division: Led by Sanjog Gupta (formerly with Disney India’s sports operations).

Key Divisions Post-Merger

Entertainment Division
Digital Division
Sports Division

Strategic Implications

India’s Biggest Entertainment Entity

The merger creates India’s largest media conglomerate with 120 TV channels and two streaming services (JioCinema and Hotstar).

Competition

The merged entity will compete directly with other media giants like Sony, Netflix, and Amazon in both television broadcasting and streaming content.

Approval from Indian Antitrust Regulator

The merger received approval from India’s competition regulator (CCI) in August, after addressing concerns about the dominance in cricket broadcasting rights.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Reliance Industries and Walt Disney have completed the $8.5 billion merger of Indian media assets.
Ownership Structure	– Reliance Industries Limited (RIL): 16.34% – Viacom18: 46.82% – Disney: 36.84%
Divisions Created	1. Entertainment: Combines Colors TV and Star networks. 2. Digital: Includes JioCinema and Hotstar. 3. Sports: Focuses on sports content management.
Leadership	– Chairperson: Nita Ambani – Vice Chairperson: Uday Shankar – Digital CEO: Kiran Mani – Entertainment CEO: Kevin Vaz
Regulatory Approval	The merger was approved by India’s antitrust regulator in August after addressing concerns about cricket broadcasting dominance.