Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally, India Medal Tally in Olympics

Featured

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

Who is Known as the Father of Political Science?

Political science is the study of politics, governments, and how societies are organized. It is a subject that has been studied for thousands of years. But one man is widely considered the “Father of Political Science” – Aristotle, the great Greek philosopher.

Father of Political Science

Aristotle, a great Greek philosopher, is known as the father of Political Science. He was the first to define political science as a subject and explained how it helps us understand governance and society. His ideas on politics are still studied and respected today.

What is Political Science?

Political Science is a subject that helps us understand government, laws, and society. It includes different areas such as:

Comparative Politics: Comparing governments of different countries.
International Relations: Understanding how countries interact with each other.
Political Economy: Studying how politics and economics are connected.
Political Methodology: Using methods to study politics and government.

Political Science measures the success of governments and policies by looking at factors like justice, public well-being, and economic growth.

Why is Aristotle Known as the Father of Political Science?

Aristotle earned this title because he studied and explained many important political topics. He discussed ideas like:

The Ideal State: How a perfect government should work.
Slavery: Its role in ancient societies.
Revolution: Why and how governments change.
Education and Citizenship: Their importance for a strong society.
Forms of Government: Different types of ruling systems.
The Golden Mean: Balancing extremes to achieve fairness.

Aristotle believed that understanding these topics helps people know their surroundings and become better members of society. He famously said, “Every man is a social and political animal,” highlighting the connection between humans and politics.

Confederation of Indian Industry Launches New Strategy Cell

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has established a strategy cell in Coimbatore, with the goal of helping businesses, especially in the manufacturing sector, develop sustainable growth strategies and become global players. The initiative aims to support select industries by offering expert guidance, mentorship, and strategic advice to drive long-term economic development. This new venture targets small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and provides them with the tools necessary for scaling up and competing globally.

Key Features of the CII Strategy Cell

Objective: Assist industries in becoming global players by offering tailored strategic support.
Location: Coimbatore, with a focus on local industries, particularly in the manufacturing sector.
Structure: The strategy cell is composed of six expert members who will work closely with selected industries.
Duration of Engagement: Each industry will receive support for a period ranging from 6 to 12 months.
Support Offered: Each chosen business is assigned a dedicated strategy mentor to help define short-term and long-term growth objectives.

Focus Areas

Target Industries: Seven industries were selected in the initial phase, chosen for their growth potential.
Expertise: The mentors collectively bring over 200 hours of experience, providing specialized advice and hands-on support.
Manufacturing Focus: The initiative’s primary focus is on the manufacturing sector, which is vital for economic development and job creation.
Support to MSMEs: Many MSMEs lack the resources for strategic mentorship, and this initiative offers them free expert guidance to help them grow sustainably.

Benefits for Local Industries

Tailored Strategy Development: Businesses receive customized growth plans based on their individual goals.
Global Competitiveness: By improving strategic planning, businesses can enhance their competitiveness in the global market.
Economic Impact: The initiative aims to foster growth in Coimbatore’s local industries, thereby contributing to the overall economic development of the region.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has established a strategy cell in Coimbatore
Launch Location	Coimbatore, India
Objective	Support industries in becoming global players and promote sustainable growth
Focus Sector	Manufacturing sector
Duration of Engagement	6 to 12 months
Target Industries	7 industries selected based on growth potential
Support Provided	Mentorship, tailored strategic advice, and goal-setting for growth
Expertise Available	200+ hours of combined experience in strategic development
Free Services	No charge for mentorship and services provided
Target Audience	MSMEs and local industries in Coimbatore
Expected Outcome	Enhanced global competitiveness and long-term industry growth

Delhi Govt Launches Portal for Old-Age Pension Scheme

Delhi government expanded its old-age pension scheme to include an additional 80,000 senior citizens, raising the total number of beneficiaries to 5.3 lakh. AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal, addressing a press conference, highlighted the government’s commitment to social welfare and announced the launch of an online portal to make the application process more accessible. The new initiative aims to streamline the pension distribution process and ensure more senior citizens benefit from the scheme.

The government also introduced new pension amounts, depending on the age of the applicants. Senior citizens between the ages of 60-69 will receive Rs 2,000 monthly, while those aged 70 and above will receive Rs 2,500 per month. Additionally, Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj announced plans to provide a monthly pension of Rs 5,000 for differently-abled individuals.

Key Details of the Old-Age Pension Scheme

Announcement: The scheme will benefit an additional 80,000 senior citizens, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 5.3 lakh.
Launch of Portal: A dedicated online portal was launched on November 24 to facilitate pension applications for senior citizens.

Eligibility Criteria

Age: Must be at least 60 years old.
Residency: Must be a resident of Delhi for at least five years.
Income: Annual family income should be less than Rs 1 lakh.
Bank Account: Applicants must have a valid bank account.
No Other Government Pension: The applicant must not be receiving a pension or financial assistance from any other government scheme.
Aadhar Card: The applicant should have an Aadhar Card with the address of Delhi.

Pension Amounts

Senior citizens aged 60-69 will receive Rs 2,000 per month.
Senior citizens aged 70 and above will receive Rs 2,500 per month.
Differently-abled individuals will soon receive Rs 5,000 monthly, as per plans announced by Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj.

Application Process

Senior citizens must visit the Delhi government’s e-portal to submit their applications.
The portal was launched on November 24, and already 10,000 applications have been received.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Delhi govt to add 80,000 more beneficiaries under old-age pension scheme \| Know eligibility, benefits
Total Beneficiaries	5.3 lakh senior citizens
Additional Beneficiaries	80,000 more senior citizens
Pension Amount (60-69 years)	Rs 2,000 per month
Pension Amount (70+ years)	Rs 2,500 per month
Pension for Differently-abled	Rs 5,000 per month (upcoming)
Eligibility	– Aged 60+ years, Delhi resident for 5 years, income < Rs 1 lakh, bank account – No other government pension, Aadhar card with Delhi address

INTERNATIONAL TOURIST FOOTFALL

The Ministry of Tourism undertakes a variety of promotional activities aimed at showcasing India’s tourism potential to international audiences and encouraging travel to the country. These efforts not only focus on global tourism markets but also include specific initiatives to boost tourism in states like Himachal Pradesh. The Ministry uses multiple platforms and strategies to enhance India’s visibility as a top tourist destination.

Key Promotional Activities

Participation in International Travel Fairs and Exhibitions

Ministry participates in prominent global travel and tourism events such as,

World Travel Market (WTM) in London
Feria Internacional de Turismo (FITUR) in Madrid
MITT Moscow (International Travel & Hospitality Show)
AIME Sydney (Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event)
ITB Berlin (Internationale Tourismusbörse)
Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai
IMEX Frankfurt (International Meeting Exchange)
IFTM Top Resa Paris (International & French Travel Market)
Japan Expo
ITB Asia in Singapore

Chalo India Initiative

The initiative aims to engage the Indian diaspora by encouraging them to promote India to their international friends. The goal is to invite at least five non-Indian friends to visit India every year.
A special Chalo India portal has been developed for the diaspora to register and take part in the initiative.
Gratis e-visa is offered to 100,000 foreign tourists who visit India under this referral program.

Incredible India Content Hub

Launched on 27th September 2024, the Incredible India Content Hub is a digital platform that provides access to high-quality images, films, brochures, and newsletters.
It is designed to support stakeholders like travel media, tour operators, and agents by providing resources to amplify India’s tourism marketing.

Hospitality Program for Media and Tour Operators

The Ministry invites media personalities, tour operators, and influential figures to visit India under its Hospitality Programme to experience and promote India’s tourist offerings.

Collaborations with State Governments and Overseas Indian Missions

The Ministry partners with State Governments and Overseas Indian Missions to amplify tourism promotions, including 20 identified Indian Missions worldwide.

Regulatory Note

The Ministry of Tourism is not responsible for determining the rates charged by tourism stakeholders (e.g., hotels, travel agencies) within the country.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	The Ministry of Tourism undertakes a variety of promotional activities aimed at showcasing India’s tourism potential to international audiences and encouraging travel to the country.
International Travel Fairs and Exhibitions	Participation in global events like WTM London, FITUR Madrid, MITT Moscow, AIME Sydney, ITB Berlin, ATM Dubai, IMEX Frankfurt, IFTM Top Resa Paris, etc.
Chalo India Initiative	Engages Indian diaspora to promote India; encourages them to invite 5 non-Indian friends annually. Offers gratis e-visa to 100,000 tourists under the referral program.
Incredible India Content Hub	Launched on 27th September 2024; digital repository with images, films, brochures for marketing by stakeholders like tour operators and media.
Hospitality Program	Invites media personalities, tour operators, and opinion makers to visit India to promote its tourism offerings.
Collaborations with State Governments & Missions	Partnerships with State Governments and 20 Overseas Indian Missions to strengthen tourism promotions.
Regulatory Note	The Ministry of Tourism does not regulate the rates charged by tourism stakeholders.

Which District of Haryana is Known as the Karna City?

Haryana, located in northern India, is known for its rich agricultural heritage, vibrant culture, and rapid industrial growth. It surrounds Delhi on three sides and plays a key role in India’s economy with its farming, manufacturing, and IT sectors. In this article, we will know about the district of Haryana which is known as the “Karna City.”

An Overview of Haryana

Haryana is a state in northern India, formed on November 1, 1966, after separating from Punjab. It covers 44,212 km², making up less than 1.4% of India’s area. Chandigarh is its shared capital with Punjab, while Faridabad is the largest city. Gurgaon is a major financial and technology hub in India.

Karnal district in Haryana is famously called “Karna City.” This name comes from its strong connection to the mythological hero Raja Karna from the epic Mahabharata. Let’s learn more about this district and its unique features.

Why is Karnal Known as the Karna City?

Karnal is known as “Karna City” because of its connection to Raja Karna, a heroic figure from the Mahabharata. The name comes from Karnalaya, meaning “abode of Karna,” or Karna-Taal, referring to Karna Lake. This historical link gives the district its unique identity and cultural significance in Haryana.

Origin of the Name

The name Karnal is linked to Raja Karna. It is believed that the name comes from Karnalaya, which means “the abode of Karna.” Another popular belief is that the name originates from Karna-Taal, meaning “Karna Lake.”

Location of the Karnal

Karnal is located in the north-central part of Haryana. It is situated on National Highway 1 and is about a three-hour drive from Delhi. Its convenient location makes it accessible for visitors and travelers.

What is Karnal known for?

Karnal is well-known for its agricultural strength. It produces large amounts of rice, wheat, and milk. The district also has important agricultural research institutes. Additionally, Karnal is a hub for manufacturing agricultural tools and spare parts.

Tourist Attractions in Karnal

Karnal is a popular tourist destination in North India. Some of the famous attractions include:

Karan Tal (Karna Lake): A scenic lake linked to Raja Karna.
Kos Minar: A historic pillar from the Mughal era.
Kalander Shah’s Tomb: A significant heritage site.
Babar’s Masjid: An old mosque built by the Mughal Emperor Babar.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launches ‘Nayi Chetna’ Campaign Against Gender Violence

The Union Minister of Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, launched the third edition of the national campaign “Nayi Chetna – Pahal Badlaav Ki” in New Delhi on November 25, 2024. This month-long campaign aims to combat gender-based violence across India, focusing on raising awareness, promoting community engagement, and strengthening support systems for victims.

The campaign is organized by the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) under the Ministry of Rural Development and will run across all States and Union Territories until December 23, 2024.

Key Highlights of the Nayi Chetna 3.0 Campaign

Launch and Key Figures

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the campaign in New Delhi.
Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, and Ministers of State for Rural Development, Shri Kamlesh Paswan and Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, attended the event.

Campaign Objectives

Raise awareness of all forms of gender-based violence.
Encourage communities to speak out and demand action against violence.
Provide access to support systems for timely assistance to victims.
Empower local institutions to act decisively against violence.

Key Components of the Campaign

The campaign’s slogan: “Ek Saath, Ek Awaaz, Hinsa Ke Khilaaf” (Together, One Voice, Against Violence).
Joint advisory released by key ministers.
Inauguration of 227 new Gender Resource Centers across 13 states.

Focus on Women Empowerment

Shri Chouhan emphasized that women empowerment should include social, educational, political, and economic dimensions.
Highlighted the need for zero tolerance for violence against women.
Advocated for the death penalty for those convicted of rape.

Government and Ministry Support

The campaign is a whole-of-government initiative with participation from 9 Ministries and Departments.
Ministries involved include the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Home Affairs, and others.

Challenges and Focus Areas

Gender-based violence, including physical, emotional, and online abuse, continues to be a significant issue, particularly in rural India.
49% of women in rural India have no control over their income.
32% of women feel their opportunities are limited due to gender inequality.

Grassroots Involvement

The campaign is driven by the Self-Help Group (SHG) network under DAY-NRLM, which empowers women at the grassroots level.
Focus on urban and rural areas, with particular attention to issues like discrimination, high levels of violence, and unequal workloads.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s Personal Contributions

Shri Chouhan recalled his tenure as Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, where he initiated various schemes aimed at women’s development.
He noted that 90% of rape cases involved acquaintances, emphasizing the need for widespread public awareness.

Support for Women’s Rights

Ministers like Shri Kamlesh Paswan and Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani stressed the importance of empowering women, with a particular focus on women’s dignity, security, and freedom.
Dr. Pemmasani noted that gender-based violence knows no boundaries and affects women globally, with many cases remaining unreported due to fear and stigma.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Nayi Chetna – Pahal Badlaav Ki (3.0) Campaign
Key Figures	Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Union Minister), Smt. Annpurna Devi (Union Minister of Women and Child Development), Shri Kamlesh Paswan, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani (Ministers of State for Rural Development)
Campaign Duration	One month, until December 23, 2024
Organizing Body	Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)
Slogan	“Ek Saath, Ek Awaaz, Hinsa Ke Khilaaf” (Together, One Voice, Against Violence)
Objective	Raise awareness, encourage action, empower institutions, and provide support systems for victims of gender-based violence
New Initiatives	Inauguration of 227 Gender Resource Centers across 13 states
Government Participation	9 Ministries/Departments involved, including Women and Child Development, Health, Home Affairs, etc.
Focus Areas	Awareness, empowerment, economic independence, legal support, zero tolerance for violence
Rural Focus	Special focus on rural India where 49% of women lack income control and 32% face gender inequality
Empowerment Approach	Grassroots empowerment through Self-Help Groups (SHGs), support from local institutions and communities

PM Modi Kicks Off Historic Cooperative Conference in India

The Global Cooperative Conference 2024 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event also marked the launch of the United Nations’ International Year of Cooperatives 2025. Several dignitaries, including Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the Prime Minister of Bhutan, and the Deputy Prime Minister of Fiji, attended the event. This conference underscores the importance of cooperatives in global development, especially for rural populations, women, and farmers.

Key Highlights

Event Overview

Inaugural ceremony of the Global Cooperative Conference 2024.
Launch of the United Nations’ International Year of Cooperatives 2025 by PM Modi.
Release of a commemorative postal stamp.
Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah delivered a key address.

PM Modi’s Contribution

PM Modi emphasized the theme of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi” (Prosperity through Cooperation) introduced three years ago.
He highlighted India’s commitment to strengthening its cooperative sector.
The launch of the International Year of Cooperatives is expected to improve the lives of millions, particularly in rural areas.

Government Initiatives

Strengthening of the legal framework for cooperatives.
White Revolution 2.0 and Blue Revolution with the role of cooperatives emphasized.
Plans for a cooperative university to provide tech-enabled human resources.
Introduction of a new cooperative policy to extend the reach of cooperatives and improve global cooperation.

Global Impact

Emphasis on how India’s cooperative sector, with successful examples like IFFCO, KRIBHCO, and Amul, can inspire the world.
The cooperative movement will enhance the empowerment of farmers, women, and underprivileged groups worldwide.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurates Global Cooperative Conference 2024 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi
UN International Year of Cooperatives 2025	PM Modi launched the UN’s International Year of Cooperatives 2025.
Commemorative Stamp	PM Modi released a postal stamp to commemorate the occasion.
Dignitaries Present	Amit Shah, PM of Bhutan, Deputy PM of Fiji, ICA President, and other dignitaries.
PM Modi’s Vision	Emphasized “Sahkar Se Samriddhi” (Prosperity through Cooperation). Focused on strengthening India’s cooperative movement.
Cooperative Initiatives	Plans to create 2 lakh PACS, tech-enable cooperatives, and introduce new cooperative bodies.
Legal and Structural Changes	Strengthening legal framework and establishing a cooperative university.

India Appoints Dinesh Bhatia as Brazil Ambassador

Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer Shri Dinesh Bhatia has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Brazil. The Ministry of External Affairs made the announcement on November 25, 2024. A 1992-batch IFS officer, Bhatia brings extensive diplomatic experience, having served in multiple countries and various key roles both in India and abroad.

Key Highlights of Shri Dinesh Bhatia’s Career

Current Appointment

Designated as the next Ambassador of India to Brazil in November 2024.

Current Role

Serving as India’s Ambassador to Argentina since August 21, 2019.
Concurrently accredited to Uruguay and Paraguay until February 2022.

Past Diplomatic Assignments

Consul General of India in Toronto, Canada.
Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Liberia.

Held key positions in Indian missions abroad, including,

Madrid, Spain
Kathmandu, Nepal
Kuwait

Government Assignments in India

Seconded to the Department of Atomic Energy in Mumbai.
Served as Private Secretary to the Tourism Minister of India.

Training and Education

Trained at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), Mussoorie, and Foreign Service Institute, New Delhi.
Alumnus of the National Defence College (NDC).
Participant in the 4th Joint Civil-Military Course on National Security at LBSNAA.

Academic Background

Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication from Delhi College of Engineering.
Fellow of the Institution of Engineers and member of the Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers.

Pre-Civil Service Career

Worked in the private sector prior to joining the IFS.

Publications

Authored “Devi Purana—A Rendition of Srimad Devi Bhagavatam” (Bloomsbury, 2023).
Wrote “Physics for Civil Services Prelims” (1994).

Personal Life

Married to Seema Bhatia, an Ayurvedic practitioner, psychologist, and hypnotherapist.
Father of a daughter and a son.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India Appoints Dinesh Bhatia as Brazil Ambassador
Previous Role	Ambassador of India to Argentina (2019–2024); accredited to Uruguay and Paraguay (until 2022)
Past Diplomatic Roles	Consul General (Toronto), Ambassador (Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia), Madrid, Kathmandu, Kuwait
Government Assignments	Seconded to Department of Atomic Energy, Private Secretary to Tourism Minister

Which Country is Known as the Land of Thousand Hills?

Many countries around the world are known by unique titles that highlight their special features, culture, or natural beauty. These titles often reflect something remarkable about the country, such as its geography, traditions, or achievements, making it easily recognizable and memorable to people across the globe. In this article, we will know about the country which is known as the “Land of Thousand Hills.”

Land of Thousand Hills?

Rwanda, a small country in East Africa, is famously known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” This nickname comes from its beautiful hilly terrain and mountainous landscape, which cover almost the entire country.

Why is Rwanda Known as the Land of the Thousand Hills?

Rwanda is called the “Land of a Thousand Hills” because of its hilly terrain and beautiful landscapes. The country is covered with lush green hills, fertile valleys, and scenic mountains. Its unique geography, combined with natural wonders like Lake Kivu, makes it a truly picturesque destination. This beauty reflects Rwanda’s charm and identity.

Location of Rwanda

Rwanda is located in the heart of East Africa. It shares borders with Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite being small in size, Rwanda stands out for its natural beauty and scenic landscapes.

Lust Hills and Valleys of Rwanda

The hills of Rwanda are covered with lush greenery, making the country appear vibrant and serene. Fertile valleys add to the charm, providing excellent land for agriculture. These features make Rwanda a sight to behold.

India-EFTA Trade Deal: $100 Billion Investment & Boost to Exports

India has signed a historic Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with four European countries—Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein—forming the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). This agreement is expected to provide India access to 99.6% of EFTA’s market, generating $100 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) and creating 1 million direct jobs over the next 15 years. With strong commitments from both sides, the deal aims to enhance India’s global market position and reinforce initiatives like “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

Key Highlights of the TEPA

Trade Access and Investment Commitments

The TEPA grants India extensive market access, with EFTA offering 92.2% of its tariff lines, covering 99.6% of Indian exports. India, in return, will provide tariff concessions on 82.7% of its goods. The agreement sets a $100 billion target for FDI over the next 15 years, with $50 billion expected in the first 10 years and an additional $50 billion in the next five.

Job Creation and Economic Growth

The pact is set to create 1 million direct jobs in India, supporting its young workforce. This aligns with India’s projected economic rise, with expectations to become the third-largest economy in the world in the next 3-4 years. The agreement also focuses on promoting sectors like IT, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, renewable energy, and banking.

Enhanced Services and Technology Collaboration

TEPA will expand India’s service exports, particularly in IT, business, and educational services, by improving access to EFTA countries. Additionally, the deal facilitates technological collaboration, offering India access to advanced technologies in precision engineering, health sciences, and renewable energy.

Sustainability and Intellectual Property Rights

The agreement includes commitments to sustainable development and social growth, with strong intellectual property provisions aligning with international standards. India’s concerns regarding patent issues, such as generic medicines and evergreening, have been addressed.

Future Prospects and Trade Expansion

As India strengthens its trade ties with EFTA countries, this agreement sets the stage for deeper economic integration with Europe. The expected surge in FDI will stimulate domestic manufacturing, contributing to India’s goals of self-reliance and boosting its global competitiveness.

Moving Forward: Expediting Implementation

The visit of Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal to Norway and plans for further discussions with Switzerland aim to expedite the implementation of TEPA. These efforts are crucial to realizing the full potential of the agreement, which could reshape India’s trade and investment landscape in the coming years.

Summery of the news

Why in News	Key Points
India signs TEPA with EFTA	– EFTA: Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein. – TEPA signed in March 2024. – Investment target: $100 billion over 15 years. – Job creation: 1 million direct jobs in India. – Market access: 99.6% of EFTA market for India. – India’s tariff offers: 82.7% of tariff lines. – FDI sectors: Infrastructure, IT, Pharmaceuticals, Renewable Energy.
Key Agreement Details	– TEPA includes 14 chapters: market access, investment promotion, IPR, services, sustainable development, etc. – India’s commitment: Services exports in IT, business, education, and cultural sectors.
Key Personalities	– Sunil Barthwal: Commerce Secretary, led delegation to Norway. – Piyush Goyal: Commerce Minister, to meet Swiss investors.
Commitments from EFTA	– 92.2% tariff lines offered by EFTA. – Concessions on non-agri products and processed agricultural goods.
Additional Context	– India’s economy: Expected to become the third-largest in the next 3-4 years. – Impact on “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat”.
Agreement Impact	– Technology collaboration: Precision engineering, renewable energy, R&D. – Vocational training: Focus on skill development for young workforce.