Where is Mount Everest Located?

Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world. It stands at a towering height of 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet) above sea level. This majestic mountain lies in the Himalayas, which is a mountain range in Asia. In this article, we will know about the location and some key facts about the Mount Everest.

Location of Mount Everest

Mount Everest is located on the border between two countries: Nepal and China (Tibet). The summit of the mountain marks the boundary between these two countries.

Mount Everest in Nepal

In Nepal, the southern side of Mount Everest is known as the main route for climbers. The famous base camp on the south side of Everest is located in Nepal at an altitude of around 5,380 meters (17,600 feet). It is from here that many climbers start their ascent.

Mount Everest in Tibet

The northern side of Mount Everest is in Tibet, which is an autonomous region of China. The base camp on this side is located at a higher altitude, around 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). This side is more difficult to climb, and fewer people attempt it.

Importance of Mount Everest

Mount Everest is not only a popular destination for climbers, but it is also a significant cultural and spiritual symbol for people in Nepal and Tibet. It is known as Sagarmatha in Nepal and Chomolungma in Tibet, both names meaning “Mother Goddess of the World.”

Who is Known as the Father of Indian Cinema?

Indian cinema, also known as Bollywood for its Hindi films, is one of the largest film industries in the world. It produces a wide range of movies in multiple languages, showcasing diverse cultures, stories, and art forms. It has a rich history and continues to influence global entertainment. In this article, we will know about the person who is known as “Father of Indian Cinema.”

Father of Indian Cinema

Dadasaheb Phalke is called the “Father of Indian Cinema.” He was the first person to make a full-length feature film in India, and his work laid the foundation for the Indian film industry. His story is inspiring and shows how passion and dedication can create something that lasts forever.

Early Life of Dadasaheb Phalke

Dadasaheb Phalke was born in 1870 as Dhundiraj Phalke in a Marathi family in Trimbak, which was part of the Bombay Presidency (now Maharashtra). He studied at Sir JJ School of Arts in Bombay, where he took a one-year drawing course in 1885. To support his family, he worked as a draftsman and architect.

Inspiration to Create Cinema

Phalke was deeply inspired to enter the world of films after watching a movie called The Life of Christ in 1906. This film showed the story of Jesus Christ, and Phalke thought about how Hindu gods, like Rama and Krishna, could be shown in a similar way on screen. This idea led him to make the first-ever Indian feature film.

Dadasaheb Phalke’s Work and Achievements

In 1913, Phalke made Raja Harischandra, which is considered India’s first full-length feature film. It was a silent movie that told the story of the legendary king Harischandra from Hindu mythology. This movie became a huge success and opened the doors for Indian cinema.

Phalke was not just a director but also a producer, screenwriter, editor, and distributor. He was involved in every part of filmmaking and worked hard to ensure his vision came true. His creativity and hard work helped him build the foundation of the film industry in India.

Legacy of Dadasaheb Phalke

Dadasaheb Phalke’s contribution to Indian cinema is so important that the Government of India introduced the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1969. This award honors people who have made significant contributions to Indian cinema. The award includes a golden lotus (Swarna Kamal) shawl and ₹1,000,000 (around US$12,000).

Phalke’s legacy lives on through the award, the growth of Indian cinema, and the many filmmakers who were inspired by his work.

India’s Core Sector Growth Picks Up with 3.1% Growth in October

India’s core sector growth improved to 3.1% in October, marking the second consecutive month of recovery. This growth comes after a revised 2.4% growth in September and follows a 22-month low contraction of 0.1% in August. The core sector, which includes coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement, and electricity, accounts for 40% of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). 

Key Highlights

Core Sector Growth

  • The core sector registered a 3.1% growth in October, signaling recovery after a slump in August.

Sectoral Performance

  • Coal, refinery products, and steel led the recovery, while crude oil and natural gas faced challenges.

Growth in Key Sectors

  • Coal production grew by 7.8% YoY, reflecting increased output in key mining regions.
  • Refinery products showed a growth of 5.2%, with steady capacity utilization.
  • Steel production rose by 4.2%, bolstered by demand in construction and manufacturing.
  • Cement output increased by 3.3%, while fertilisers showed marginal growth of 0.4%.
  • Electricity Generation: Rose by 0.6%, but its cumulative increase remains modest at 5.3%.
  • Crude Oil and Natural Gas: Crude oil production declined by 4.8%, and natural gas output dipped by 1.2%.

Cumulative Growth (FY25)

  • For April–October 2024, the cumulative growth of the core sector stood at 4.1%, down from 8.8% during the same period in FY24.

Economic Outlook

  • Economists expect India’s economy to gain momentum in Q3 and Q4 of FY25, driven by festive season demand and policy interventions. 
  • The RBI forecasts GDP growth of 7.4% in the second half of FY25.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India’s Core Sector Growth Picks Up with 3.1% Growth in October
Core Sector Growth in October 3.1%, marking the second consecutive month of recovery.
Growth in Key Sectors – Coal: 7.8% growth, – Refinery Products: 5.2%, – Steel: 4.2%, – Cement: 3.3%, – Fertilisers: 0.4%, – Electricity: 0.6%.
Crude Oil and Natural Gas – Crude Oil: -4.8%, – Natural Gas: -1.2%.
Cumulative Growth (April–October 2024) 4.1%, down from 8.8% in the same period last year.
Economic Outlook Economists expect further momentum in Q3 and Q4, with GDP growth forecasted at 7.4% by RBI.
Challenges for Crude Oil and Natural Gas Ongoing production challenges in upstream activities.
Expectation for Fertilisers Expected growth during rabi crop season with ramped-up production

Govt Issues 1.4 Million Ayushman Cards to Citizens Aged 70+

The government has made significant progress in ensuring the health and welfare of senior citizens through the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). As of November 25, 2024, approximately 14 lakh Ayushmann Vay Vandana cards have been issued to senior citizens aged 70 and above under the scheme. This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage to vulnerable populations.

Key Points

Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards

  • 1.4 million cards have been created for senior citizens aged 70 and above by November 25, 2024, under the AB-PMJAY scheme.

Target Beneficiaries

  • The government estimates that around 4.5 crore families with beneficiaries aged 70 years and above are covered, amounting to about 6 crore individuals.

Total Ayushman Cards

  • As of October 31, 2024, a total of 35.89 crore Ayushman cards were created since the scheme’s launch in 2018.

Grievance Redressal

  • A three-tier grievance redressal system has been set up to address beneficiaries’ issues, with 98% of the 5,565 grievances filed on the Centralised Grievance Redressal Management System (CGRMS) portal being resolved.

Healthcare Coverage

  • The scheme offers cashless healthcare services for over 1,900 procedures across 27 medical specialties, including critical treatments such as dialysis, hip/knee replacements, and pacemaker implants.

Customization

  • States have the flexibility to customize health benefit packages to suit local needs.

Expenditure

  • The total expenditure for the scheme is estimated at Rs 3,437 crore, with Rs 2,165 crore likely to be incurred during the financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26.

Empanelled Hospitals

  • A total of 29,870 hospitals, including 13,173 private facilities, are empanelled under the scheme.

States Not Implementing the Scheme

  • Odisha, West Bengal, and Delhi have not implemented AB-PMJAY, but efforts are underway to involve these states to ensure their eligible citizens benefit from the scheme.

Model Code of Conduct

  • Enrolment of eligible senior citizens had been paused during bypoll periods in certain states but has resumed now that the Model Code of Conduct has been lifted.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? 1.4 million cards for senior citizens aged 70+ (as of Nov 25, 2024)
Target Beneficiaries 4.5 crore families (6 crore individuals)
Total Ayushman Cards Created 35.89 crore cards (as of Oct 31, 2024)
Grievance Redressal 98% of 5,565 grievances resolved
Healthcare Coverage 1,961 procedures across 27 medical specialties
Customization of Health Packages States can customize to local needs
Total Expenditure Rs 3,437 crore (Rs 2,165 crore for FY 2024-26)
Empanelled Hospitals 29,870 hospitals (13,173 private)
States Not Implementing Scheme Odisha, West Bengal, Delhi
Model Code of Conduct Impact Enrolment paused during bypolls, resumed after MCC lifted

France to Feature Prominently at 30th Kolkata International Film Festival

The 30th edition of the Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) is set to showcase a diverse range of films from 41 countries, with a special emphasis on French cinema. Scheduled from December 4 to 11, 2024, the festival will feature 175 films, including contemporary works by French women filmmakers, classic French films, and a variety of international and Indian cinema. This year’s festival promises a rich mix of screenings, interactive sessions, and seminars, including appearances from prominent figures like Vidya Balan and R Balki.

Dates & Scope

  • The festival will take place from December 4 to 11, 2024.
  • 175 films from 41 countries will be showcased, including 127 feature films, 28 short and documentary films, and a selection of Indian and Bengali films.

Focus on French Cinema

  • Special focus on contemporary French women filmmakers, including Caroline Vignal, Celine Rouzet, and Elise Otzenberger.
  • Screening of classic French films as part of the tribute to French cinema.

Key Events and Speakers

  • Vidya Balan will participate in an interaction session with Sangeeta Dutta.
  • R Balki will deliver the Satyajit Ray Memorial Lecture.
  • Focus on interactive sessions with young filmmakers and women directors from France.

Festival Venues and Shows

  • The festival will be held across 20 venues in Kolkata.
  • A total of 290 shows will be conducted.

Logo and Theme

  • The KIFF 2024 logo and theme song were unveiled by State Minister Aroop Biswas, Minister and Co-Chief Advisor Indranil Sen, and the festival Chairman, Goutam Ghosh.

Impact of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Vision

  • Since 2011, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, KIFF has expanded to multiple venues across the city.
  • The CM’s vision has positioned West Bengal as a cultural gateway in India.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? France to Feature Prominently at 30th Kolkata International Film Festival
Festival Dates December 4-11, 2024
Focus Country France (with a spotlight on contemporary French women filmmakers)
Films Screened 175 films from 41 countries, including 127 feature films, 28 shorts & docs
Notable Films Classic French films, Indian language films, Bengali Panorama films
Key Speakers Vidya Balan (interaction with Sangeeta Dutta), R Balki (Satyajit Ray Memorial Lecture)
Interactive Sessions Focus on women filmmakers from France and young filmmakers
Festival Venues 20 venues across Kolkata
Total Shows 290 shows
Theme & Logo Unveiling Unveiled by Aroop Biswas, Indranil Sen, Goutam Ghosh
Impact of Mamata Banerjee’s Vision Expansion to multiple venues, making West Bengal a cultural gateway

Australia Bars Under-16s from Social Media

Australia has enacted a world-first legislation to ban children under 16 from social media platforms, such as TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, as part of its effort to protect minors from online harm. The law imposes hefty fines of up to AUD 50 million for non-compliance, with social media companies given a year to implement the changes. While proponents laud the move as essential for child safety, critics argue the legislation is rushed, may pose privacy risks, and could unintentionally harm vulnerable youth.

Legislation Overview

  • The law bans social media usage for children under 16.
  • Platforms face fines up to AUD 50 million for violations.
  • Includes platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and Instagram.

Legislative Process

  • Passed by the Senate with a 34-19 vote.
  • Approved by the House of Representatives by 102-13 votes.
  • Finalized after opposition amendments were endorsed.

Prime Minister’s Support

  • PM Anthony Albanese endorsed the law, stating it prioritizes child safety and addresses parental concerns.

Implementation Timeline

  • Platforms have one year to devise methods to enforce the ban.
  • Amendments prevent the use of government IDs or digital identification for age verification.

Criticism and Concerns

  • Critics claim the legislation was rushed without adequate consultation.
  • Child welfare advocates warn of potential harm to vulnerable youth, such as social isolation.
  • Privacy concerns arise due to age verification requirements.
  • Some fear children might shift to unregulated platforms or the dark web.

Supporters’ Views

  • Proponents argue it holds companies accountable for child safety.
  • Online safety advocates consider it a necessary step to reduce online exploitation.

Industry Reaction

  • Meta Platforms (owner of Facebook and Instagram) criticized the rushed process.
  • Digital Industry Group Inc. highlighted uncertainties about enforcement.

Emotional Appeals

  • Advocacy by individuals affected by online harms, such as Sonya Ryan and Wayne Holdsworth, influenced public and parliamentary support.

Broader Implications

  • Critics argue the government’s intent is politically motivated ahead of elections.
  • Potential impact on the mental health benefits of social media for young users remains a concern.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Australia has enacted a world-first legislation to ban children under 16 from social media 
Platforms Impacted TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and others.
Penalties Fines of up to AUD 50 million for non-compliance.
Implementation Timeline One year for platforms to implement the ban.
Industry Response Meta and others criticized the rushed process and questioned the practicality of enforcement.
Key Amendments Prohibition on using government-issued IDs or digital identification for verification.
Political Context Alleged as a move to gain voter favor ahead of upcoming general elections.
Unintended Consequences Fear of isolating children, shifting them to unregulated spaces, and limiting their access to the positive aspects of social media.

Which District of Haryana is Known as the Golden City of Mahabharata Period?

Haryana, a state rich in history and mythology, has several districts that hold significance in Indian epics. Among these, Sonipat is famously known as the “Golden City” of the Mahabharata period. This district is considered a sacred land, deeply connected to ancient stories and spiritual importance.

An Overview of Haryana

Haryana is a state in northern India, formed on November 1, 1966, after the reorganization of Punjab. It covers 1.4% of India’s area and shares its capital, Chandigarh, with Punjab. Faridabad is the most populated city, and Gurgaon is a major financial and tech hub in the country.

Administrative Divisions of Haryana

Haryana is divided into 6 administrative divisions, 22 districts, 72 sub-divisions, 93 revenue tehsils, 50 sub-tehsils, 140 community development blocks, 154 cities and towns, 7,356 villages, and 6,222 village panchayats.

The Golden City of Mahabharata Period in Haryana

Sonipat, a district in Haryana, is often referred to as the “Golden City” due to its rich historical connection to the Mahabharata period. The name Sonipat itself hints at this golden history, with its roots in ancient Sanskrit.

Why is Sonipat known as the Golden City of Mahabharata Period?

Sonipat is known as the “Golden Cityof the Mahabharata period because its name comes from the Sanskrit words Svarna (gold) and Prastha (place), meaning “Golden Place.” It is mentioned in the Mahabharata as one of the five villages demanded by the Pandavas from Duryodhana. The city’s historical importance and connections to the epic contribute to this title.

Name of Sonipat

The name “Sonipat” is derived from two Sanskrit words: Svarna (meaning gold) and Prastha (meaning place). This combination leads to the meaning “Golden Place” or “Golden City.” Originally, the city was called “Sonprastha,” which later evolved into “Svarnaprastha.”

Historical Significance of Sonipat

Sonipat holds a special place in Indian history, especially in the Mahabharata. It is mentioned in the epic as one of the five villages that the Pandavas requested from Duryodhana. According to some traditions, the city was founded by Raja Soni, who was believed to be a descendant of Arjuna, one of the five Pandava brothers. He named the city after himself, giving rise to its golden legacy.

‘Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman’ Portal

The Department of Justice launched the ‘Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman’ campaign to celebrate 75 years of India as a Republic and the adoption of its Constitution. Launched on January 24, 2024, by the Vice-President of India, the campaign aims to reaffirm the commitment to the Constitution and raise public awareness on legal rights and duties. A series of regional events are being held to decentralize the outreach of the campaign.

The ‘Hamara Samvidhan Hamara Samman Portal,’ launched on July 16, 2024, during the Prayagraj event, is a key tool in achieving this goal. The portal serves as a knowledge repository and offers resources on constitutional rights, legal literacy, and fundamental duties.

Key Objectives of the Campaign

The main goal of the campaign is to educate citizens on their legal rights and duties enshrined in the Constitution. The portal provides easy access to crucial legal knowledge, promoting constitutional literacy and empowering citizens to exercise their rights effectively.

Interactive Tools for Engagement

The portal offers interactive features like quizzes, crossword puzzles, and tools for participating in the reading of the Preamble and Panch Pran. As of now, 1.29 lakh citizens have participated in the Panch Pran activity, showing high public engagement.

Sub-Campaigns to Strengthen Legal Literacy

The campaign includes three sub-campaigns:

Sabko Nyaya Har Ghar Nyaya: Ensures justice for all through the engagement of Village Level Entrepreneurs and citizen-centric services fairs.

Nav Bharat Nav Sankalp: Focuses on promoting constitutional awareness through online competitions and activities like the Samvidhan Quiz and Panch Pran Rangotsav.

Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyan: Aims to promote legal literacy through grassroots initiatives, including workshops for marginalized groups and gender-based issues.

Regional Events and Public Engagement

To ensure inclusivity and broader participation, regional events have been organized in Bikaner, Prayagraj, and Guwahati, with more planned. These events highlight constitutional awareness and recognize contributions from pro bono advocates. The portal serves as a central hub for these activities, making learning about the Constitution interactive and participatory. The campaign’s outreach continues to grow, with 65.80 lakh citizens engaged in the Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyan alone.

Summery of the news

Why in News Key Points
‘Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman’ Campaign – Launched to commemorate 75 years of India as a Republic.
– Campaign aims to raise awareness of constitutional rights and duties.
– Portal launched on July 16, 2024, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
Hamara Samvidhan Hamara Samman Portal – Portal launched to enhance citizens’ understanding of the Constitution and legal rights.
– Features quizzes, tools, and interactive content.
URL: https://www.hamarasamvidhan.gov.in
Regional Events First event: Bikaner, Rajasthan, March 9, 2024.
Second event: Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, July 16, 2024.
Third event: Guwahati, Assam, November 19, 2024.
Campaign Sub-Campaigns Sabko Nyaya Har Ghar Nyaya: Ensures justice for all via Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs).
Nav Bharat Nav Sankalp: Includes Samvidhan Quiz, Panch Pran Rangotsav, and Panch Pran Anubhav competitions.
Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyan: Promotes legal literacy through grassroots initiatives, including Gram Vidhi Chetna and Vanchit Varg Sammam.
Public Engagement 1.29 lakh citizens participated in Panch Pran activity.
65.80 lakh citizens engaged in Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyan.
Ministry & Key Figures Minister of State for Law & Justice: Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal.
– Campaign organized by Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice.
Pro Bono Services Recognition – Panel of pro bono advocates from the High Court of Judicature at Allahabad recognized at the Prayagraj event.

India Secures $98 Million ADB Loan to Enhance Horticulture Health

India has secured a $98 million loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to enhance horticulture productivity by promoting plant health management. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP) and aims to increase crop yields, improve quality, and build resilience against climate change.

The funding will focus on the establishment of disease-free planting material systems, which will benefit farmers through access to high-quality planting materials. The project will be overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, in partnership with the National Horticulture Board and Indian Council of Agricultural Research.

Key Project Details

Loan Agreement: Signed by Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, and Kai Wei Yeo from ADB’s India Mission.

Objective: To support the establishment of clean plant centres, equipped with advanced diagnostic facilities for disease-free plant materials.

Focus Areas: Improving crop yield and quality, enhancing farmers’ resilience to climate change, and developing regulatory frameworks for plant health management.

Collaboration: The project will work closely with private nurseries, researchers, state governments, and growers’ associations to ensure long-term sustainability.

Alignment with Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme

  • The initiative is part of the broader Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme, which aims to bolster India’s horticulture sector through better plant health management and the establishment of disease-free planting systems.
  • Expected Outcomes: Increased crop productivity, climate resilience, and a strengthened regulatory framework for plant health management.

Summery of the news

Why in News Key Points
India signs $98 million loan with ADB for horticulture – Loan amount: $98 million from Asian Development Bank (ADB) to enhance horticulture productivity in India.
– Focus on establishing disease-free planting material systems to boost crop yield and quality.
– Project aims to improve resilience to climate change.
Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP) aligned with the project.
– Involves clean plant centres with diagnostic laboratories for maintaining high-quality planting materials.
Loan Agreement Signatories Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance (India).
Kai Wei Yeo, Officer-in-Charge, ADB’s India Resident Mission.
Collaboration – Collaborating entities: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, National Horticulture Board, Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
Private nurseries, researchers, state governments, and growers’ associations to ensure success.
Implementation Details – Clean plant centres with state-of-the-art laboratories for disease diagnostics.
Clean plant certification scheme for private nurseries to ensure certified planting materials.
Relevance to Climate Change – Focus on adapting to climate change through disease-free planting materials.
– Rising temperatures affect pest and disease behavior, making plant health management crucial.
Scheme Related Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP): Focus on improving plant health management in horticulture.
Clean plant certification for quality planting materials.

Jaishankar Opens Indian Embassy’s New Chancery in Italy

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated the new Chancery of the Indian Embassy in Rome, emphasizing the deep historical ties between India and Italy. He highlighted the maritime connections and the shared commitments to global issues such as freedom of navigation and maritime security. The inauguration reflects the expanding partnership between the two nations and aims to strengthen services for the Indian diaspora.

Inauguration of the New Chancery

  • The new Chancery in Rome enhances the Embassy’s capacity to serve the Indian community.
  • Marks a milestone in the growing India-Italy partnership.
  • Reflects India’s expanding global presence and diplomatic outreach.

Historical Ties between India and Italy

  • Italy served as a vital hub for India’s historical interaction with Europe.
  • Played a significant role as a producer, customer, financier, and carrier in India’s commerce.
  • Maritime nations with shared perspectives on global affairs.

Strengthening Diplomatic Relations

  • Frequent high-level interactions underline the depth of India-Italy relations.
  • Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s Indo-Mediterranean focus aligns with India’s strategic interests.
  • Shared commitments to maritime security, freedom of navigation, and global cooperation.

India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)

  • A transformative initiative launched during India’s G20 presidency in 2023.
  • Strengthens connectivity between India, the Middle East, and Europe.
  • Seen as a “game-changer” for global economic cooperation.

Participation in Global Events

  • Jaishankar to represent India at the Outreach session of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Fiuggi.
  • Attending the 10th MED Mediterranean Dialogue in Rome, a key platform for discussing geopolitical issues.

Strengthening Diaspora Engagement

  • The new Chancery provides better services and representation for the Indian diaspora in Italy.
  • Enhances people-to-people ties and fosters cultural connections.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Jaishankar inaugurated the new Chancery of the Indian Embassy in Rome.
Significance Enhances Embassy services and strengthens India-Italy ties.
Historical Ties Italy’s role in India’s commerce; shared maritime perspectives.
IMEC Initiative Transformative connectivity corridor linking India, the Middle East, and Europe.
Maritime Cooperation Shared focus on maritime security and freedom of navigation.
Diplomatic Outreach Participation in G7 Outreach session and 10th MED Mediterranean Dialogue.
Diaspora Engagement Improved services for the Indian community in Italy.
Global Impact Aligns with Italy’s Indo-Mediterranean strategy and India’s growing global role.