Manish Jain Appointed Executive Director at YES Bank

YES Bank announced that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had approved the appointment of Manish Jain as the Executive Director (Whole-Time Director) of the bank. Jain’s appointment is for a period of three years, starting from December 11, 2024, to December 10, 2027. This move follows a prior resolution by the bank’s board of directors and will be subject to the approval of YES Bank’s shareholders. Manish Jain, who has been with YES Bank since September 2023, brings a wealth of experience in corporate and wholesale banking.

Key Details of Manish Jain’s Appointment

Approval from the RBI

  • The RBI granted its approval for Manish Jain’s appointment as Executive Director on December 11, 2024, effective from December 11, 2024, to December 10, 2027.
  • The approval is based on Section 35B of The Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

Background and Experience

  • Current Role: Manish Jain has been serving as the Country Head of Wholesale Banking since his arrival at YES Bank in September 2023.
  • Prior Experience: Jain brings over three decades of work experience, including over 23 years with Standard Chartered Bank.
  • Educational Qualifications: He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from IIM Bangalore and a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Delhi.

Responsibilities as Executive Director

Corporate and Wholesale Banking Leadership: Manish Jain will continue to oversee the bank’s corporate and wholesale banking operations, including the following areas,

  • Large Corporates
  • Emerging Local Corporates
  • Multinational Corporates
  • Financial Institutions and Government Banking
  • Project Finance and Loan Syndication
  • Transaction Banking and IFSC Banking Unit
  • Corporate and Government Advisory
  • Food and Agri Strategic Advisory and Research
  • Business Economics and Financial Markets
  • Jain’s leadership is expected to drive strategic growth in these key areas of the bank’s operations.

Board Resolution

  • Prior to receiving RBI’s approval, the YES Bank board of directors had appointed Jain as an additional director and executive director, subject to RBI clearance.
  • The appointment will be fully effective once approved by the shareholders of YES Bank.

Impact on YES Bank

  • The approval signals the bank’s focus on strengthening its corporate and wholesale banking business.
  • Jain’s extensive experience in banking leadership is expected to enhance the bank’s capabilities in managing large corporations, government sectors, and financial institutions.
  • His appointment also represents YES Bank’s commitment to attracting experienced leaders to guide its strategic initiatives in an evolving financial landscape.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Manish Jain Appointed Executive Director at YES Bank
Appointment Period December 11, 2024 – December 10, 2027
RBI Approval Date December 11, 2024
Previous Role Country Head of Wholesale Banking
Experience Over 3 decades, with 23+ years at Standard Chartered Bank
Educational Background Post Graduate Diploma in Management, IIM Bangalore; B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering, IIT Delhi
Responsibilities Overseeing corporate and wholesale banking, including large corporates, government banking, project finance, loan syndication, and more
Board Resolution Appointment as additional and executive director, subject to RBI approval
Shareholder Approval Pending approval from YES Bank’s shareholders

Taste Atlas Reveals 2024-25 Top Food Cities

Food is a significant aspect of cultural exploration, with many travelers seeking out destinations known for their unique culinary experiences. In line with this, Taste Atlas, a renowned food and travel guide, has recently revealed its rankings for the Top 10 Best Food Cities in the World for 2024-25. European cities dominate the list, particularly from Italy, while Mumbai in India makes a notable appearance in the top 5, showcasing the global recognition of India’s diverse food culture.

Key Highlights

  • Italy’s Dominance: Italy stands out with six cities ranked in the Top 10, reflecting the country’s strong culinary influence.
  • Indian Presence: Mumbai secures 5th place, making it the highest-ranked Indian city on the list, with dishes like Vada Pav capturing international attention.
  • Global Influence of Asian Cuisine: Alongside Mumbai, Osaka in Japan rounds out the top 10, known for its food culture, particularly Takoyaki.
  • Culinary Ratings: The rankings are based on over 477,000 ratings for regional and national dishes, highlighting the cities’ culinary excellence.

Rankings and Must-Try Dishes in the Top 10

  • Naples (Italy) – Pizza Margherita: Ranked 1st with a rating of 4.8.
  • Milan (Italy) – Risotto alla Milanese: Ranked 2nd with a rating of 4.7.
  • Bologna (Italy) – Tagliatelle al Ragù: Ranked 3rd with a rating of 4.6.
  • Florence (Italy) – Bistecca alla Fiorentina: Ranked 4th with a rating of 4.6.
  • Mumbai (India) – Vada Pav: Ranked 5th with a rating of 4.5.
  • Rome (Italy) – Spaghetti alla Carbonara: Ranked 6th with a rating of 4.5.
  • Paris (France) – Crème brûlée: Ranked 7th with a rating of 4.4.
  • Vienna (Austria) – Zwiebelrostbraten: Ranked 8th with a rating of 4.4.
  • Turin (Italy) – Agnolotti: Ranked 9th with a rating of 4.3.
  • Osaka (Japan) – Takoyaki: Ranked 10th with a rating of 4.3.

Indian Cities in the Rankings

  • Mumbai: Ranked 5th globally with Vada Pav.
  • Amritsar: Ranked 43rd with Amritsari Kulcha.
  • New Delhi: Ranked 45th with Butter Chicken.
  • Hyderabad: Ranked 50th with Hyderabadi Biryani.
  • Kolkata: Ranked 71st with Rasgulla.
  • Chennai: Ranked 75th with Dosa.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Taste Atlas Reveals 2024-25 Top Food Cities
Top 10 Cities in the List 1. Naples, Italy – Pizza Margherita

2. Milan, Italy – Risotto alla Milanese

3. Bologna, Italy – Tagliatelle al Ragù

4. Florence, Italy – Bistecca alla Fiorentina

5. Mumbai, India – Vada Pav

6. Rome, Italy – Spaghetti alla Carbonara

7. Paris, France – Crème brûlée

8. Vienna, Austria – Zwiebelrostbraten

9. Turin, Italy – Agnolotti

10. Osaka, Japan – Takoyaki

Top Indian Cities Rank 5 – Mumbai, India – Vada Pav

Rank 43 – Amritsar, India – Amritsari Kulcha

Rank 45 – New Delhi, India – Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Rank 50 – Hyderabad, India – Hyderabadi Biryani

Rank 71 – Kolkata, India – Rasgulla

Rank 75 – Chennai, India – Dosa

Smallest Continent in the World, Check the Name and Interesting Facts

In a world with large land areas and vast territories, Australia stands out as the smallest continent, covering about 7.7 million square kilometers and having a population of 43 million people. This article will explore what makes Australia the smallest continent, focusing on its unique features and qualities.

World’s Smallest Continent

Australia is the smallest continent in the world, covering approximately 3 million square miles (8 million square kilometers). Despite its small size, it is both a country and a continent. With a population of over 25 million, it is one of the least populated continents, with only Antarctica having fewer people.

Australia is often referred to as part of a region called Oceania, which includes countries and islands like New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and several Pacific islands. However, when we talk about Australia as a continent, it includes the countries of Australia, Papua New Guinea and the island nation of New Zealand.

Australia’s Geographical Diversity

Australia’s smallest size does not diminish its geographical significance. It proudly boasts a diverse range of natural features, from towering mountains and winding rivers to expansive deserts and lush wetlands. The land is rich in natural minerals and resources, shaping its global trade relations. As a part of the Gondwana landmass, Australia carries the echoes of prehistoric times within its geological formations.

Intersecting facts about the Smallest Continent of the World: Australia

Here are some of the interesting facts about the smallest continent in the world, Australia:

  1. Australia is the only continent entirely surrounded by the ocean.
  2. The majority of countries present within the Australian continent are actually islands, underscoring the diverse array of cultures and ecosystems present.
  3. Australia houses the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef in the Coral Sea.
  4. Its coastal boundaries are striking with the Indian Ocean on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, contributing to its unique maritime influence.
  5. Australia is the largest country that shares no land boundary with any other country.

List of Smallest Continents in the World by Area

Among the seven continents of the world, Australia stands as the smallest continent of the world in terms of area with an area of 7.7 million square kilometers, followed by Europe and Antarctica.

Here is the list of Smallest Continents in the World:

S. No. Continent Area (in million sq. km) Area (in million sq. mi) Population
1. Australia 7.7 3 43 million
2. Europe 9.9 3.8 746 million
3. Antarctica 14.2 5.5 1,000-5,000 (seasonal)
4. South America 17.8 6.9 431 million
5. North America 24.5 9.4 369 million
6. Africa 30 11.6 1.3 billion
7. Asia 44.6 17.2 4.6 billion

 

World’s Richest Families 2024 Waltons Family Leads

The Bloomberg list of the world’s richest families for 2024 reveals significant wealth disparities among the global elite. The Walton family, which owns Walmart, tops the list, surpassing not just other billionaire families but also the wealth of the world’s richest individual, Elon Musk. Notable families from India, including the Ambanis and Mistrys, also made it to the top 25, reflecting the growing influence of Indian billionaires on the global wealth stage.

Key Findings

1. Waltons of Walmart

  • Wealth: $432.4 billion.
  • Stake: 46% in Walmart, which has over 10,600 stores globally.
  • Increase in Wealth: Walmart shares increased by 80% in 2024, adding $172.7 billion to their fortune.
  • Daily Wealth Increase: $473.2 million per day or $328,577 per minute.
  • Generations: Three generations of the Walton family, with strong control over Walmart’s operations.

2. Al Nahyan Family (UAE)

  • Wealth: $323.9 billion.
  • Sources of Wealth: Ruling family of the UAE, wealth primarily from oil and investments in various sectors.
  • Generations: Three generations, with the current ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan serving as the country’s president.
  • Economic Influence: Family-linked companies constitute over 65% of the Abu Dhabi stock index.

3. Al Thani Family (Qatar)

  • Wealth: $172.9 billion.
  • Sources of Wealth: Oil and offshore gas fields.
  • Generations: Eight generations, with significant historical influence through the Ottoman and British empires.
  • Economic Power: Dominant in Qatar’s wealth generation and control over vast energy resources.

4. Hermès Family (France)

  • Wealth: $170.6 billion.
  • Business: Luxury goods (Hermès brand), spanning six generations.
  • Family Members: Includes key figures like executive chairman Axel Dumas and artistic director Pierre-Alexis Dumas.
  • Industry Influence: Continues to lead in the global luxury market.

5. Koch Family (USA)

  • Wealth: $148.5 billion.
  • Sources of Wealth: Diversified interests, particularly in oil and petrochemicals.
  • Generations: Three generations managing Koch Industries.

Indian Families in the List

Ambanis (India)

  • Wealth: $99.6 billion.
  • Business: Reliance Industries, a conglomerate with interests in energy, petrochemicals, retail, and telecommunications.
  • Generations: Three generations, with Mukesh Ambani leading the conglomerate.
  • Global Position: Ranked 8th on the list, reflecting Reliance’s growing influence in the global market.

Mistrys (India)

  • Wealth: $41.4 billion.
  • Business: Shapoorji Pallonji Group, involved in construction, real estate, and other sectors.
  • Generations: Five generations leading the family business.
  • Global Position: Ranked 23rd, showcasing their significant presence in the Indian and global construction sectors.

Other Key Families in the Top 15

  • Al Saud Family (Saudi Arabia): Worth $140 billion.
  • Mars Family (USA): Worth $133.8 billion from Mars Inc., a global candy company.
  • Wertheimer Family (France): Worth $88 billion from the luxury brand Chanel.
  • Thomson Family (Canada): Wealth of $87.1 billion from media company Thomson Reuters.
  • Johnson Family (USA): Worth $72.4 billion, major holdings in Fidelity Investments.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? World’s Richest Families 2024
Family Wealth (Billion USD)
1. Waltons (Walmart) 432.4
2. Al Nahyan (UAE) 323.9
3. Al Thani (Qatar) 172.9
4. Hermès (France) 170.6
5. Koch (USA) 148.5
6. Al Saud (Saudi Arabia) 140.0
7. Mars (USA) 133.8
8. Ambanis (India) 99.6
9. Wertheimer (France) 88.0
10. Thomson (Canada) 87.1
11. Johnson (USA) 72.4
12. Albrecht (Germany) 60.2
13. Pritzker (USA) 59.4
14. Cargill, MacMillan (USA) 56.0
15. Ofer (Israel) 55.6

ISRO Founder, Know About His Life and Career

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is one of the most respected space agencies in the world. It was founded by Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, an inspiring scientist and visionary. His contributions to space research helped India become a global player in space exploration. In this article, we will learn about his early life, career and the legacy he left behind.

Founder of ISRO

Vikram Sarabhai, an Indian physicist and visionary, is regarded as the founder of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). He played a major role in establishing India’s space program and was instrumental in advancing the country’s nuclear energy sector. His vision and leadership laid the foundation of ISRO’s success.

Key Details About Vikram Sarabhai

  • Date of birth: 12th August 1919
  • Place of birth: Ahmedabad, Bombay Presidency, British India
  • Parents: Ambalal Sarabhai
  • Known for: Indian Space Program
  • Awards: Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan
  • Death: 30th December 1971
  • Place of death: Halcyon Castle, Trivandrum, Kerala

Early Life and Education of Vikram Sarabhai

Vikram Sarabhai was born on 12th August 1919 in Ahmedabad, India, into a Gujarati Jain family. His father, Ambalal Sarabhai, was a successful industrial and a supporter of the Indian independence movement. Vikram was passionate about science from an early age. He attended Gujarat College in Ahmedabad and later moved to the University of Cambridge in England, where he completed his degree in natural sciences. In 1947, he earned his Ph.D. from Cambridge, focusing on cosmic rays.

Indian Space Program

Vikram Sarabhai’s pivotal role in initiating the Indian Space Programme can’t be overstated. Witnessing the live transmission of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics through the American Satellite ‘Sycom-3’, he grasped the potential of space technologies for India. Following the launch of Sputnik 1 by Russia, Sarabhai persuaded the Indian government about the significance of a space program for the country’s development.

Establishment of ISRO

In 1962, the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) was established to spearhead space research, eventually leading to the creation of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in August 1969. Sarabhai’s efforts culminated in the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station, a remarkable feet of infrastructure establishment along the coast of the Arabian Sea. He initiated programs to use space applications for development, exemplifier by the Satellite Instructional Television Experiment (SITE), which leveraged satellite communication to provide education to remote villages.

Professional Life and Achievements of Vikram Sarabhai

Vikram Sarabhai is widely known for his contributions to space research and nuclear energy. He founded the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in 1947, which became the cradle of space sciences in India. PRL initially focused on cosmic ray research and later expanded to other areas like radio physics and theoretical physics.

Sarabhai also played a key role in establishing several important institutions in India, including:

  • Indian Institute Management Ahmedabad (IIMA): One of India’s top business schools.
  • Space Applications Centre: A significant part of ISRO.
  • Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL): A leader in electronics and technology.
  • Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL): Focused on uranium mining and nuclear energy.

Legacy and Honors to Vikram Sarabhai

Vikram Sarabhai’s contributions to science and technology earned him several accolades. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1966 and the Padma Vibhushan (posthumously) in 1972. He passed away on 30 December 1971 at the age of 52, but his legacy lives on.

Several institutions and projects have been named in his honor:

  • Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC): A leading space research center in India.
  • Vikram Sarabhai Community Science Centre (VASCSC): A center focused on science education in Ahmedabad.
  • Vikram Sarabhai Journalism Award: An award presented by ISRO to journalists for their contribution to space science and technology.

Basic Details Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)

  • Formed: 15th August, 1969
  • Headquarters: Bangalore, Karnataka
  • Preceding Agency: INCOSPAR
  • Type: Space Agency
  • Founder: Vikram Sarabhai
  • Present Chairman: Sreedhara Somnath

The Indian Space Research Organization, commonly referred as ISRO, is the national space agency of India. It operates as the primary research and development arm of the Department of Space (DoS), which is directly overseen by the Prime Minister of India and the Chairman of ISRO acts as the executive of DoS.

Romania’s Far-Right, Pro-Russian Shift Sparks Alarm for EU and NATO

The unexpected victory of far-right, pro-Russian candidate Călin Georgescu in Romania’s presidential race has raised alarms in Brussels, signaling potential shifts that could destabilize the EU and NATO alliances. As Romania’s political landscape tilts toward ultranationalism, fears of Moscow’s growing influence within Eastern Europe are mounting, particularly after similar shifts in Moldova and Georgia. If Georgescu prevails in the December 8 runoff, Romania, a crucial NATO and EU member, could veer toward anti-Western policies, impacting the EU’s unity and complicating consensus-building among member states.

A Shocking Victory and Rising Pro-Russian Sentiment

Georgescu’s unexpected surge in Romania’s first-round elections on December 3, where he gained 22.9% of the vote, has caught many by surprise. With no political party affiliation and a significant TikTok following, his rise reflects the discontent with the current political establishment, which has led to fears of Russian influence, especially given his critical stance against NATO and the EU. Reformist Elena Lasconi, with 19.2%, warns that Romania must avoid succumbing to Moscow’s influence, especially after historical occupation by Russia.

EU and NATO Implications

Romania’s potential tilt toward pro-Russian policies would undermine the EU’s stability, already challenged by pro-Russian leaders in Hungary and Slovakia. Analysts warn that Russia’s broader strategy aims to weaken Eastern European countries’ ties to the West, particularly targeting Romania, which shares a border with Ukraine. The Mihail Kogălniceanu air base in Romania is strategically vital for Western support for Ukraine, raising concerns about its future if Georgescu wins.

The Bigger Picture of Russian Influence in Eastern Europe

Georgescu’s rise coincides with Russia’s broader efforts to sway elections in Moldova and Georgia, with pro-EU leaders in these countries warning against Russian interference. In Romania, some see Georgescu as a product of a political vacuum and potentially Russian-backed funding, especially in light of his success without party backing or prior recognition in polls. This victory highlights the growing threat of populism and extremism in the EU, further exacerbated by Russia’s hybrid war on European democracies.

Potential Outcomes and Reactions

Despite the fear, not everyone believes Georgescu will win the runoff. Former Romanian President Traian Băsescu expressed confidence that Romanian voters, who remain largely pro-EU and NATO, would reject Georgescu. However, the anger over corruption and political control of Romania’s justice system may lead to a shift in parliamentary power, potentially making Georgescu’s path to victory more plausible.

Summary of the news

Category Details
Why in News Călin Georgescu, a far-right, pro-Russian candidate, won 22.9% in the first round of Romania’s presidential election, raising fears of a shift towards pro-Russian, anti-EU policies.
Election Details Romania’s presidential elections (2024) with a runoff scheduled on December 8, 2024.
Georgescu’s Vote Share Călin Georgescu secured 22.9% of the vote in the first round, surprising observers with his sudden rise.
Opposition Candidate Elena Lasconi, a reformist, secured 19.2% of the vote and warned against Romania falling under Russian influence.
Romania’s Political Position Romania is a NATO and EU member with a strategic border with Ukraine, important for Western support of Ukraine.
Strategic Importance Romania borders Ukraine, and Mihail Kogălniceanu air base is vital for Western operations in support of Kyiv.
Pro-Russian Influence Concerns about Moscow’s influence on Romania, reflecting broader efforts to sway Eastern European countries towards Russia.
EU and NATO Impact A shift towards anti-EU, pro-Russian leadership could destabilize Romania’s role in EU and NATO, affecting regional stability.
Russian Strategy Russia aims to weaken ties between Romania and the West, using hybrid warfare tactics to influence elections in the region.
Georgescu’s Views Georgescu criticized NATO and the EU, and expressed favorable views about Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Previous Election Context Moldova and Georgia have also faced Russian influence in recent elections, mirroring Romania’s situation.
Romania’s Leadership Romania’s current leadership includes President Klaus Iohannis (since 2014).
EU Relations Romania has been a reliable EU and NATO member, but recent shifts in politics could change this.

Who is Known as the Father of Java Programming Language?

Java is a popular programming language known for its simplicity, reliability and versatility. It allows developers to create applications that run on various devices and platforms, making it one of the most widely used languages in the world. In this article, we will know about the father of java programming language in this detail.

Java Programming Language

Java is a versatile, object-oriented programing language that works on multiple platforms. It is fast, secure and reliable, making it ideal for developing mobile apps, business software, big data applications and server technologies. Java can also be used as a platform to build various types of software.

Father of Java Programing Language

James Arthur Gosling, a Canadian computer scientist, is famously known as the “Father of Java.” He invented the Java Programing language in 1994. His groundbreaking work in the development of Java has made a significant impact on the world of programming, making it one of the most widely used languages today.

Early Life and Education of James Arthur Gosling

James Gosling was born on May 19, 1955, in Canada. He attended William Aberhart High School in Calgary, Alberta, and later pursued computer science at the University of Calgary, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree. Gosling furthered his education at Carnegie Mellon University, earning both a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. in computer science.

Career and Contributions to Java

Gosling worked at Sun Microsystems for 26 years, from 1984 to 2010. During his time there, he conceived and designed the Java Programing language. He created the first Java compiler and virtual  machine, which laid the foundation for the platform-independent nature of Java. His vision was to make programs that could run on any device without being rewritten for each one.

Awards and Recognition

James Gosling, the father of the Java programing language, has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards throughout his career for his groundbreaking contributions to computer service.

Year  Awards  Description
2002 The Economist Innovation Award Awarded for his innovation in the field of computer science.
2002 The Flame Award USENIX Lifetime Achievement Award Recognized for his lifetime contributions to the Unix and computing fields.
2007 Officer of the Order of Canada Canada’s second-highest civilian honor, awarded for significant achievements.
2013 Fellow of the Association for Computing Machinery Recognized for exceptional contributions to the computing profession.
2015 IEEE John von Neumann Medal Awarded for his significant contributions to computer science and technology.
2019 Computer History Museum Fellow Honored for the conception, design and implementation of Java.
2004 Elected Foreign Associate Member of the National Academy of Engineering Recognized for his work in the conception and development of Java.

Career After Sun Microsystems

After leaving Sun Microsystems in 2010, Gosling continued to make an impact in the tech world. He joined Google in 2011 and later worked with several startups, including liquid Robotics, which was acquired by Boeing. Gosling also worked at Amazon Web Services before retiring in 2024.

The New Nyaya Sanhita Mechanisms for Quick Justice Delivery

The Nyaya Sanhita, a comprehensive legislative reform, aims to expedite the justice process in India, ensuring quicker and fairer resolution of cases. The law prioritizes the completion of crucial stages of investigation and trial within specific time frames. With a focus on expediting justice for women, children, and other marginalized sections of society, the Nyaya Sanhita introduces mechanisms that tackle delays in the judicial system. These reforms aim to restore public confidence in the legal system, reduce case backlogs, and deliver justice in a timely manner.

Key Mechanisms of the Nyaya Sanhita for Quick Justice Delivery

1. Faster and Fair Resolution of Cases

  • The new Nyaya Sanhita mandates strict time limits for various stages of investigation and trial. 
  • Preliminary Enquiry: Must be completed within 14 days.
  • Further Investigation: To be completed within 90 days.
  • Supply of Documents to Victim and Accused: Within 14 days.
  • Commitment of Case for Trial: Within 90 days.
  • Filing of Discharge Applications: Within 60 days.
  • Framing of Charges: Within 60 days.
  • Pronouncement of Judgment: Within 45 days.
  • Filing of Mercy Petitions: 30 days before the Governor and 60 days before the President.
  • These timeframes aim to ensure that cases progress without unnecessary delays, promoting swift justice.

2. Fast-Track Investigations

  • The law prioritizes investigations, especially for sensitive cases such as those involving women and children.
  • Investigation for Offenses Against Women and Children: Must be completed within two months of recording the information.
  • This ensures that justice for vulnerable sections of society is not delayed, addressing pressing concerns about their safety and rights.

3. Limited Adjournments in Courts

  • To curb delays in the courtroom, the Nyaya Sanhita limits adjournments.
  • A maximum of two adjournments will be allowed per case.
  • This mechanism ensures that cases do not get prolonged unnecessarily and prevents the legal system from becoming a vehicle for delay tactics.

4. Establishment of Time-Bound Procedures

  • Time limits are applied to various stages, including,
  • Preliminary Enquiry: 14 days
  • Further Investigation: 90 days
  • Supply of Documents: 14 days
  • Trial Commitment: 90 days
  • Discharge Applications: 60 days
  • Charge Framing: 60 days
  • Judgment Pronouncement: 45 days
  • Mercy Petitions Filing: 30 days (Governor), 60 days (President)
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Key Features in New Nyaya Sanhita
Preliminary Enquiry To be completed within 14 days
Further Investigation To be completed within 90 days
Supply of Documents To the victim and accused within 14 days
Commitment of Case for Trial Within 90 days
Filing of Discharge Applications Within 60 days
Framing of Charges Within 60 days
Pronouncement of Judgment Within 45 days
Filing of Mercy Petitions 30 days before Governor, 60 days before President
Fast-Track Investigations for Offenses against Women & Children Must be completed within two months after recording information
Adjournments Allowed Maximum of two adjournments per case

BOBCARD Launches TIARA Credit Card

BOBCARD has launched the TIARA Credit Card, a premium, women-centric offering designed to empower modern women. This card is packed with rewards across various categories such as travel, lifestyle, dining, entertainment, and health, providing women with the tools to manage their finances without compromising on lifestyle. The launch event, held at Pinkathon, featured notable personalities like Milind Soman and Ankita Konwar. TIARA is powered by the RuPay network and promises to be a game-changer for women’s financial autonomy.

Key Features of TIARA Credit Card

Joining & Annual Fee: Rs 2,499 + GST. Fee waivers on meeting spending targets.

Rewards: 15 reward points for every Rs 100 spent on travel, dining, and international purchases.

Health & Safety Perks: Free health packages, including Pap Smear and Mammography, plus a personal accident cover up to Rs 10 Lakhs.

Lifestyle Benefits: Complimentary vouchers worth Rs 31,000 from brands like Myntra, Nykaa, and Lakme Salon.

Entertainment & Dining: Free memberships to OTT platforms, discounts on movie tickets, and Swiggy One free deliveries.

Additional Perks: Unlimited domestic lounge access, reduced forex mark-up, and UPI payment access.

A Step Toward Financial Empowerment

The TIARA card not only offers a wealth of benefits but also challenges the societal perception of the “woman card,” making it a symbol of pride, success, and financial empowerment. With the slogan ‘Your Woman Card is Your Power Move’, BOBCARD aims to inspire women to take control of their financial future and live without limits.

Strategic Collaborations and Benefits

Through collaborations with leading brands and services, TIARA promises to cater to women’s aspirations across various aspects of life, from health and wellness to entertainment and fashion. The card’s launch continues BOBCARD’s mission to reimagine credit in India, making it a symbol of luxury, recognition, and empowerment for women everywhere.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Launch of TIARA Credit Card by BOBCARD Women-centric credit card offering exclusive perks and benefits.
Unveiled at Pinkathon Card launched by Milind Soman, Ankita Konwar, and Ravindra Rai.
Annual Fee ₹2,499 + GST; Waivers on spending ₹25,000 within first 60 days and ₹2,50,000 annually.
Health Perks Free health packages including Pap Smear, Mammography, and blood tests.
Vouchers & Memberships Vouchers worth up to ₹31,000 from Myntra, Nykaa, Flipkart, Lakme Salon, Urban Company.
Entertainment Annual memberships for Amazon Prime or Disney Hotstar, Gaana Plus, BookMyShow discounts.
Travel Benefits Unlimited domestic lounge access and reduced forex mark-up.
Rewards 15 reward points per ₹100 on travel, dining, and international purchases.
Health and Safety Personal accident insurance and permanent disability cover up to ₹10 Lakhs.
Additional Benefits UPI payment access, fuel surcharge waiver, and Swiggy One membership.
Static Information BOBCARD Limited is a subsidiary of Bank of Baroda.
Campaign Tagline ‘Your Woman Card is Your Power Move’ – promoted by cricketer Shreyanka Patil.

India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024

The 1st India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024), organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) on December 11-12, marked a significant occasion to honor India’s rich maritime legacy while envisioning its future as a global maritime leader. This landmark event brought together key ministers, maritime experts, and international dignitaries, reaffirming India’s crucial role in global trade and culture. The conclave also highlighted the nation’s growing maritime potential, emphasizing sustainable practices and opportunities for employment and innovation in the sector.

Historic Significance of India’s Maritime Heritage

India’s maritime history is embedded in ancient traditions, dating back to the Rig Veda and the Indus Valley Civilization, where maritime activities and trade played a pivotal role. The conclave explored India’s enduring maritime identity, from ancient shipbuilding techniques to historical trade routes that connected the country with the rest of the world. Modern India, with its extensive coastline and strategic ports, continues to dominate global trade, handling 95% of its trade volume and 70% of its value through maritime channels.

Key Highlights and Contributions

The conclave was inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, with Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi offering messages of support. Discussions centered on making India a global maritime hub, creating employment, and preserving maritime heritage. The two-day event included keynote sessions, panel discussions, and an exhibition showcasing India’s maritime techniques and trade history. Over 20 international exhibitors participated, and the event saw representation from countries like Greece, Italy, and the UK.

National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal

A focal point of the conclave was the upcoming National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, Gujarat, a city with historical significance dating back to 2600 BCE. The NMHC will showcase ancient shipbuilding methods and trade techniques, celebrating India’s historical contributions to global maritime practices.

A Vision for India’s Maritime Future

The conclave also emphasized India’s future trajectory as a maritime powerhouse, with discussions on sustainable blue economy practices, the creation of employment opportunities, and integrating maritime heritage into India’s education system. The government’s development of the NMHC is part of a broader effort to solidify India’s position as a global maritime leader, combining historical legacy with forward-thinking innovation.

Collaboration and Participation

The conclave was a collaborative effort, with contributions from the Ministry of Labor and Employment, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Tourism and Culture, alongside the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. States like Gujarat, Goa, Bihar, and Arunachal Pradesh also played a key role, reflecting the event’s national importance.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 Organized by Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), held on Dec 11-12, 2024, to celebrate India’s maritime legacy and future role as a global maritime leader.
Theme of IMHC 2024 “Towards Understanding India’s Position in Global Maritime History.”
Key Dignitaries Inaugurated by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar and PM Modi also addressed the conclave.
Participants in IMHC 2024 Ministers from Gujarat, Goa, Bihar, Arunachal Pradesh, and dignitaries from 11 countries participated.
National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) Located at Lothal, Gujarat. A historic site dating to 2600 BCE with the oldest manmade dockyard. The complex will showcase India’s ancient maritime techniques.
States Involved Gujarat, Goa, Bihar, Arunachal Pradesh
Ministry Involved Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW)
Relevant Schemes and Plans Development of NMHC at Lothal to preserve and showcase India’s maritime heritage. Focus on employment in maritime sector.
Significant Historical Reference India’s maritime history traces back to the Rig Veda and Indus Valley Civilization with major contributions to global trade and culture.
Maritime Stats India has a 7,500 km coastline, 13 major ports, 200 non-major ports, handling 95% of trade volume, 70% of trade value. Annual cargo capacity: 1,200 million tonnes.
Government Collaborations Ministries involved: Ministry of Labor and Employment, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
Key Focus Areas Sustainable maritime practices, skill development, integration into the education system, tourism promotion, and preservation of maritime heritage.