Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally, India Medal Tally in Olympics

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Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally, India Medal Tally in Olympics

Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally

China’s Liu Yukun won a gold medal, helping China stay at the top of the medal table. France is in second place, and Japan is in third. This is the 33rd Summer Olympics. It started on Friday and will end on August 11. The Paris Olympics has 32 sports. These include 28 main sports, plus some newer ones like breakdancing, skateboarding, surfing, and sports climbing. India won its third medal in the Paris 2024 Olympics. Swapnil Kusale got a bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions event. This happened in Chateauroux on Thursday.

Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally (Full List)

China leads with the most gold medals (11), but the United States has the highest total medal count (31). The top 5 countries by gold medals are China, France, Japan, Australia, and the United States.

Rank	Country	Gold	Silver	Bronze	Total
1	China	11	7	3	21
2	France	8	10	8	26
3	Japan	8	3	4	15
4	Australia	7	6	4	17
5	United States of America	6	13	12	31
6	Great Britain	6	7	7	20
7	South Korea	6	3	3	12
8	Italy	3	6	4	13
9	Canada	2	2	3	7
10	Germany	2	2	2	6
11	Netherlands	2	2	1	5
11	New Zealand	2	2	1	5
13	Romania	2	1	1	4
14	Hong Kong	2	0	2	4
15	Sweden	1	1	2	4
16	Georgia	1	1	0	2
17	Belgium	1	0	2	3
17	Ireland	1	0	2	3
17	Kazakhstan	1	0	2	3
17	South Africa	1	0	2	3
21	Croatia	1	0	1	2
21	Guatemala	1	0	1	2
23	Argentina	1	0	0	1
23	Azerbaijan	1	0	0	1
23	Ecuador	1	0	0	1
23	Serbia	1	0	0	1
23	Slovenia	1	0	0	1
23	Uzbekistan	1	0	0	1
29	Brazil	0	2	3	5
30	Hungary	0	2	1	3
31	North Korea	0	2	0	2
32	Poland	0	1	2	3
32	Spain	0	1	2	3
34	Kosovo	0	1	1	2
34	Mexico	0	1	1	2
34	Switzerland	0	1	1	2
34	Turkey	0	1	1	2
34	Ukraine	0	1	1	2
39	Fiji	0	1	0	1
39	Mongolia	0	1	0	1
39	Tunisia	0	1	0	1
42	India	0	0	3	3
43	Moldova	0	0	2	2
44	Austria	0	0	1	1
44	Egypt	0	0	1	1
44	Greece	0	0	1	1
44	Slovakia	0	0	1	1
44	Tajikistan	0	0	1	1

Updated 01-08-2024

Aviation Safety Awareness Week 2024: November 25 to 29

Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally, India Medal Tally in Olympics_5.1

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) observes Aviation Safety Awareness Week every year during the last week of November (November 25 to 29) to reiterate its dedication to safety in all aspects of aviation. Under the leadership of AAI Chairman Vipin Kumar, this initiative fosters a robust culture of safety across airports and Air Navigation Services (ANS) in India, aligning with global aviation safety standards.

The Significance of Aviation Safety

Aviation safety encompasses a wide range of measures and practices aimed at preventing accidents and incidents in an inherently complex and dynamic industry. Every component, from aircraft manufacturers to ground crew, air traffic controllers (ATC), and flight crews, forms an integral link in the safety chain. The scope of safety extends beyond operations in the skies, encompassing the well-being and efficiency of personnel who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Safety is not just a regulatory requirement but also a critical factor in maintaining public trust in air travel, an industry that connects millions of people across the globe daily.

India’s Strong Safety Record

AAI’s slogan, “Safety is no accident,” captures the essence of the Indian aviation industry’s approach to safety. The sector has established a robust safety framework supported by:

Stringent Quality Control Measures: Regular checks on aircraft and operational processes ensure compliance with international standards.
Technological Advancements: Tools such as Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning Systems (E-GPWS) and predictive wind-shear detection ensure preemptive risk mitigation.
Collaborative Efforts: Coordination among regulatory bodies, airlines, and service providers fosters a unified approach to safety.

Despite the inherent risks, India has consistently demonstrated its commitment to aviation safety, reflected in its global safety rankings and operational standards.

A Glimpse into India’s Aviation History

India’s journey in aviation dates back to 1911, with the first commercial flight between Allahabad and Naini. Milestones in the country’s aviation history include:

1932: Launch of Tata Airlines, marking the beginning of scheduled air services.
1947: India’s inclusion in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Pioneering Women in Aviation: Sarla Thakral became the first Indian woman pilot, breaking stereotypes and setting an example for generations to come.

From these early days, the sector has evolved into a global aviation hub, driven by technological advancements and strategic initiatives.

India: The World’s Third-Largest Domestic Aviation Market

India’s aviation industry has witnessed exponential growth over the past few decades, thanks to key reforms and initiatives:

Post-Liberalisation Era (1990s): Liberalisation policies opened the skies to private players, fostering competition and innovation.
Rise of Low-Cost Carriers (2000s): Affordable air travel became accessible to millions, further expanding the market.
Government Schemes: Programs like UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) have connected remote regions, making air travel inclusive.

Today, India ranks as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally, with continued growth propelled by increasing passenger demand, infrastructure development, and innovative solutions.

Aviation Safety: The Current Scenario in India

India’s safety achievements are reflected in the Directorate General of Civil Aviation’s (DGCA) 2023 safety review, which reported:

A reduction in risk-bearing incidents like airprox (aircraft proximity incidents) and ground proximity alerts.
Fewer recorded accidents: While the last decade saw 100 accidents, including 10 in 2023, the ongoing year (2024) has only two reported incidents so far.

These figures underscore the importance of continuous risk management and adherence to stringent safety protocols.

Strategies for Ensuring Safety in Aviation

1. Planning and Standardisation

Seemingly simple measures, such as ensuring tray tables are stowed during takeoff, are critical in mitigating risks. Adherence to standardised protocols ensures preparedness for unexpected events like turbulence or aborted takeoffs.

2. Effective Communication

Communication is the backbone of aviation safety. Standardised aviation language, clear acknowledgment protocols, and effective communication between pilots, ATC, and ground staff minimise the risk of mid-air or ground collisions.

3. Quality Control and Technological Advancements

Aircraft undergo rigorous quality checks to ensure the integrity of every component, from engines to bolts. Advanced systems such as Fly-by-Wire technology and predictive tools enhance safety by improving situational awareness.

4. Hazard Reporting and Risk Management

Encouraging a culture of proactive hazard reporting ensures that potential risks are identified and mitigated before they escalate. Employees across all levels are trained to report even minor deviations from standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Summary of Aviation Safety Awareness Week News

Aspect	Details
Why in News	The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is observing Aviation Safety Awareness Week from November 25 to 29, reaffirming its commitment to safety in aviation.
Key Leadership	Initiative led by AAI Chairman Vipin Kumar, focusing on fostering a culture of safety across airports and Air Navigation Services (ANS) in India.
Static	Headquarters: New Delhi Founded: 1 April 1995 Divisions: Indian Airports Key people: Vipin Kumar,Chairman
Significance of Aviation Safety	– Aims to prevent accidents and incidents through comprehensive measures. – Ensures public trust and the well-being of aviation personnel. – Critical for a complex, interconnected industry.
India’s Safety Framework	– Stringent Quality Control: Regular checks ensure compliance with standards. – Technological Advancements: Tools like E-GPWS and wind-shear detection enhance safety. – Collaborative Efforts: Unified approach by regulators, airlines, and stakeholders.
Historical Milestones	– 1911: First commercial flight (Allahabad-Naini). – 1932: Launch of Tata Airlines. – 1947: India joined ICAO. – Sarla Thakral: India’s first woman pilot.
Aviation Growth	– Liberalisation (1990s) and low-cost carriers (2000s) revolutionised air travel. – UDAN scheme improved connectivity. – India is now the 3rd-largest domestic aviation market globally.
Safety Achievements	– 2023 DGCA Review: Reduced incidents (airprox, ground alerts). – Accidents in 2024 reduced to 2 (from 10 in 2023).
Strategies for Safety	1. Standardisation: Uniform protocols for preparedness. 2. Communication: Clear coordination between pilots, ATC, and ground staff. 3. Quality Control: Rigorous checks on aircraft systems. 4. Hazard Reporting: Encouraging proactive risk management.
Future Plans	– Increase operational airports to 350 by 2047. – Integrate sustainability and advanced air mobility (AAM).

Today Top 10 Current Affairs 28th November 2024 Questions and Answers

The Daily Current Affairs Quiz which keeps you updated with the current events happening all around the world. Which is also helpful for students who are preparing for the competitive exams. This current affairs quiz helps to tackle the questions from the Current sections which is the demand of most of the SSC, Banking, State, Defense exams. So Attempting this quiz will be beneficial to fetch a good score in the examinations.

Questions

Q1. 11th edition of the National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercises & Workshop (SAREX-24) in _______.

(a) Kozhikode

(b) Kochi

(d) Puri

Q2. What is the full form of NADA?

(a) National Anti Doping Agency

(b) National Anti Data Protection Agency

(d) National Association for the Development of Agriculture

Q3. Which State/UT celebrates its first constitution day after 1950?

(a) Tamil Nadu

(b) Assam

(d) Andaman and Nicobar

Q4. President Droupadi Murmu Unveils Translation of Indian Constitution in which languages?

(a) Gujarati and Sanskrit

(b) Maithli and Sanskrit

(d) Marathi and Maithli

Q5. Government Extends Atal Innovation Mission Till Which Year?

(a) 2030

(b) 2026

(d) 2028

Q6. What is the primary objective of the ESA’s Proba-3 mission?

(a) To study the Earth’s atmosphere

(b) To explore the Moon’s surface

(d) To monitor Mars’ climate

Q7. Which organization adopted the Riyadh Design Law Treaty?

(a) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

(b) World Trade Organization (WTO)

(d) International Monetary Fund (IMF)

Q8. Operation Tamarisk was a covert intelligence operation that took place in which war?

(a) World War 1

(b) Cold War

(d) Sino-Japansese War

Q9. Who has been appointed as the new Chief of BrahMos Aerospace?

(a) Dr. Jaiteerth Raghavendra Joshi

(b) S Somnath

(d) Rajnath Singh

Q10. Yamandu Orsi elected as a President of which country?

(a) Uruguay

(b) Paraguay

(d) Chile

Answers

S1. Ans. (b)
Sol. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is set to conduct the 11th edition of the National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercises & Workshop (SAREX-24) in Kochi from November 27 to 30.

S2. Ans. (a)
Sol. The National Anti Doping Agency is the full form of NADA.

S3. Ans. (c)
Sol. For the first time since the adoption of India’s Constitution in 1950, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) observed Constitution Day (Samvidhan Diwas) with grand celebrations on November 26, 2024.

S4. Ans. (b)
Sol. On 26th November 2024, marking Samvidhan Diwas and the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution, President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the Sanskrit and Maithili translations of the Indian Constitution in New Delhi.

S5. Ans. (d)
Sol. The Indian government has extended the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), the flagship program of NITI Aayog, until 31st March 2028, with an expanded scope and renewed objectives.

S6. Ans. (c)
Sol.The Proba-3 mission aims to study the Sun’s corona, the outermost and hottest layer of the Sun’s atmosphere, by creating an artificial solar eclipse using two satellites in precise formation.

S7. Ans. (c)
Sol.The treaty was adopted by member states of WIPO, which is a specialized UN agency focusing on intellectual property.

S8. Ans. (c)
Sol. Operation Tamarisk was a covert intelligence operation that took place during the Cold War, a period marked by fierce rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union.

S9. Ans. (a)
Sol. Dr. Jaiteerth Raghavendra Joshi has been named the new Chief of BrahMos Aerospace, the organization behind the globally renowned BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system.

S10. Ans. (a)

Sol. Yamandú Orsi, a left-wing politician and former mayor, won Uruguay’s presidential election, marking a return of the centre-left government after five years of conservative leadership.

Who is Known as the Father of Chemistry?

The title “Father of Chemistry” is commonly given to Antoine Lavoisier, a French scientist who made important discoveries that laid the foundation for modern chemistry. His work in the 18th century changed how we understand chemical reactions and how substances interact with each other.

What is Chemistry?

Chemistry is the science that looks at the properties and actions of matter. It is a branch of physical science that focuses on the elements that make up matter and the compounds formed by atoms, molecules, and ions. It studies their makeup, structure, qualities, actions, and how they change when they react with other substances. Chemistry also helps us understand the bonds between atoms in chemical compounds.

Who is Known as the Father of Chemistry?

Laurent Lavoisier, a French scientist, is often called the “Father of Modern Chemistry” because of his major contributions to the development of chemistry. His work changed how people understood chemical reactions and laid the foundation for modern chemical science.

Key Discoveries of Laurent Lavoisier

Lavoisier made many important discoveries in chemistry that helped shape the science as we know it today. Some of his key findings include:

Water as a Hydrogen-Oxygen Combination: Lavoisier showed that water is made of two elements: hydrogen and oxygen. This discovery was essential in understanding chemical reactions and how substances combine.
Sulphur as an Element: He discovered that sulphur is a chemical element and not a compound, helping to define what an element is.
Diamond as a Type of Carbon: Lavoisier proved that diamond is made of carbon. This finding helped people understand the relationship between different forms of the same element.

Contributions in the Field of Chemistry

The Law of Conservation of Mass: One of Lavoisier’s most important contributions was the formulation of the Law of Conservation of Mass. This law states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. This principle is fundamental to understanding chemical reactions and how matter behaves.
Chemical Nomenclature System: Lavoisier co-authored the first modern system of chemical nomenclature. This system gave clear names to chemicals based on their composition, making it easier for scientists to understand and communicate about different substances.
Modern Naming System for Chemical Compounds: He also helped create the system of naming chemical compounds that we still use today. This system was a big step in organizing and classifying the many different chemicals scientists were discovering.

What is the Old Name of Yamunanagar District of Haryana?

Haryana is a state in northern India, known for its rich culture, history, and agricultural significance. Yamunanagar is a district in Haryana, India, but it was once known by a different name. In the past, it was known by different name. Let’s explore the history and significance of its old name.

An Overview of Haryana

Haryana is a state in northern India, formed on November 1, 1966, after Punjab was reorganized based on language. It covers an area of 44,212 square kilometers, which is less than 1.4% of India’s total land area. The state capital is Chandigarh, shared with Punjab. The largest city is Faridabad, part of the National Capital Region, while Gurgaon is a major center for finance and technology in India.

Number of Districts of Haryana

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

Old Name of Yamunanagar District of Haryana

The oldest name of Yamunanagar was Abdullapur. This name was used before it became known as Yamunanagar. The district’s name was changed later to reflect its location near the Yamuna River.

Location of Yamunanagar

Yamunanagar is located in the state of Haryana and is bordered by several places:

Himachal Pradesh to the north
Uttar Pradesh to the east
Karnal, Kurukshetra, and Ambala to the south and west

Historical Background of Yamunanagar

Originally, Yamunanagar was part of the Ambala district, but it became a separate district in 1989. The city of Yamunanagar was founded by King Ajmer Singh Behana. However, his son later moved the kingdom to Faridabad.

In 1783, after the city was destroyed by Nadir Shah in 1739, Sardar Roa Singh rebuilt it. This marks a significant moment in the city’s history as it rose again from its destruction.

Operation Tamarisk The Cold War’s Secret Garbage War

Operation Tamarisk was a covert intelligence operation that took place during the Cold War, a period marked by fierce rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. In a bid to gain any advantage, intelligence agents resorted to unconventional means to gather information. One of the most unusual and gritty operations was the collection and analysis of discarded waste left behind by Soviet troops in East Germany.

Mission Overview

Involved U.S., U.K., and French intelligence agents working together.
Targeted Soviet troops stationed in East Germany, focusing on their discarded waste (food scraps, letters, used toilet paper).
The operation was dubbed “Tamarisk” by some agents.

Unlikely Intelligence Sources

Discarded Soviet military documents often substituted for toilet paper provided sensitive information.
Other waste materials, such as hospital waste, revealed details about injuries sustained by Soviet soldiers, particularly from the war in Afghanistan.
Found military manuals, technical diagrams, and personal letters that provided valuable insight into Soviet operations and soldier life.

Unexpected Discoveries

Garbage, which appeared ordinary, often turned out to contain hidden secrets about Soviet military movements and strategy.
Intelligence agents were able to gather information on military tactics, troop deployments, and technical innovations, thanks to this method.

Risky Operation

Spies had to act quickly, avoiding detection while sifting through the trash.
If caught, they risked serious consequences, making the operation both perilous and critical.
The work was dirty and unpleasant, but the information uncovered made the risks worthwhile.

Legacy and Impact

Operation Tamarisk emphasized the importance of even the smallest details in intelligence work.
It demonstrated that anything, no matter how trivial it seemed, could provide a significant advantage in the espionage world.
This operation left a lasting legacy in Cold War history, showing the extent to which each side would go to outwit the other.

Did You Know?

Spy Pigeons: The CIA used pigeons trained with tiny cameras to gather intelligence in enemy territories.
The Candy Bomber: U.S. pilot Gail Halvorsen dropped candy to children during the Berlin Airlift, boosting morale.
Espionage Gadgets: From pens with hidden cameras to lipstick pistols, spies had access to cutting-edge, albeit eccentric, gadgets.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Cold War tactics Operation Tamarisk Strategy
Time Period	Cold War (1961 – early 1970s)
Main Participants	U.S., U.K., and France intelligence agents
Mission Focus	Sifting through Soviet trash (food scraps, letters, toilet paper, hospital waste) for intelligence
Notable Discoveries	Military manuals, technical diagrams, personal letters, injuries, and troop movements
Risks	High risk of detection and severe consequences if caught
Intelligence Value	Provided critical insights into Soviet military tactics and soldier life
Legacy	Showed the value of overlooked details in espionage, left a mark on Cold War intelligence history
Unique Fact	Spy pigeons and espionage gadgets like lipstick pistols were part of Cold War intelligence operations

Breyten Breytenbach, Renowned South African Writer, Dies at 85

Breyten Breytenbach was a South African-born poet, memoirist, and former political prisoner known for his fierce opposition to apartheid and his literary works that captured the struggles and disillusionment of his time. His life journey, marked by exile, imprisonment, and intense political activism, shaped him into one of the most significant voices of his generation. Breytenbach’s death at the age of 85 in Paris, where he had lived as an expatriate, marks the end of an era for South African literature and anti-apartheid resistance. Below is a detailed study of his life, works, and legacy.

Early Life and Activism

Born on September 16, 1939, in Bonnievale, Western Cape Province, South Africa.
His father was a farmer and storekeeper; his older brother was a South African army officer.
Left South Africa at 20 to study in Europe, where he developed an interest in painting and poetry.

Imprisonment and Political Stance

In 1975, Breytenbach was arrested after visiting South Africa on a false passport to meet a white anti-apartheid group.
Convicted under the Terrorism Act and sentenced to nine years in prison, much of which was spent in solitary confinement.
Wrote his famous memoir, The True Confessions of an Albino Terrorist (1985), detailing his prison experiences.
His incarceration highlighted his opposition to both apartheid and the African National Congress (ANC), which he criticized for failing to support him.

Literary Career

Known as one of the greatest poets in Afrikaans, Breytenbach used his native language to critique the apartheid system, despite his loathing of its associations with white supremacy.
Wrote poetry in Afrikaans and prose in English. His works include memoirs such as A Season in Paradise (1973), Return to Paradise (1991), and Dog Heart: A Memoir (1999).
His works blend lyricism, self-deprecation, and critical views on politics, and are considered deeply subjective and reflective.

Post-Prison Life and Legacy

Gained French citizenship after his release in 1982 and spent much of his life between Paris, Spain, and Senegal.
Helped found the Goree Institute, which promoted African democracy.
Breytenbach’s works reflect his disillusionment with the post-apartheid South Africa and his rejection of the political future that he had once fought for.
His death leaves behind a significant legacy in South African literature, particularly in his critique of both apartheid and post-apartheid regimes.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Breyten Breytenbach, Renowned South African Writer, Dies at 85
Notable Themes	– Anti-apartheid activism – Exile and disillusionment – Political critique – Criticism of both apartheid and post-apartheid South Africa
Major Works	– The True Confessions of an Albino Terrorist (1985) – A Season in Paradise (1973) – Dog Heart: A Memoir (1999)
Key Life Events	– Exiled to Paris after apartheid laws banned his wife’s entry to South Africa – Imprisoned under the Terrorism Act in 1975 – Released in 1982
Legacy	– Renowned poet in Afrikaans – His works remain crucial in understanding the psychological and political impacts of apartheid and post-apartheid South Africa

Alphabet Gets CCI Nod to Invest in Flipkart

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has granted approval to Alphabet Inc.’s subsidiary, Shoreline International Holdings LLC, to acquire a stake in Walmart-owned Flipkart Pvt Ltd. This follows Flipkart’s May 2024 funding round, where Alphabet’s Google invested $350 million out of a total $1 billion raised. Walmart, which holds an 85% stake in Flipkart, contributed $600 million. Separately, CCI has also approved MUFG Bank Ltd.’s acquisition of an additional stake in Delhi-based digital lender DMI Finance, raising MUFG’s shareholding to 20%.

Alphabet’s Investment in Flipkart

Entity Involved: Shoreline International Holdings LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., is a holding company without operational ties to Google products or services.

Transaction Details: The deal includes subscribing to Flipkart shares and an arrangement between Shoreline’s affiliate and Flipkart’s subsidiary for specific services.

Context: Flipkart operates primarily in wholesale trade and e-commerce, facilitating transactions between Indian sellers and customers. The investment aligns with Alphabet’s broader push into the Indian digital economy.

MUFG’s Stake Expansion in DMI Finance

Details of the Deal: MUFG Bank Ltd., owned by Japan’s Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, will raise its stake in DMI Finance to 20% through an investment of ₹2,798.8 crore.

Valuation and Strategy: DMI Finance, a digital-first NBFC offering loans to individuals and small businesses, is valued at $3 billion. MUFG becomes its second-largest shareholder after DMI Ltd, Mauritius.

MUFG in India: The Tokyo-headquartered MUFG Bank provides corporate banking, trade finance, and other financial services in India.

Regulatory Oversight

CCI’s approvals for these transactions highlight its role in ensuring fair competition and monitoring significant deals in the market. These developments mark significant milestones in the Indian e-commerce and digital finance sectors, showcasing global players’ continued interest in expanding their footprint in India.

Summery of the news

Key Points	Details
Why in News	CCI approved Alphabet’s subsidiary, Shoreline International Holdings LLC, to invest in Flipkart.
	Flipkart raised $1 billion in May 2024, including $350 million from Alphabet’s Google.
	MUFG Bank Ltd. received CCI approval to increase its stake in DMI Finance to 20%.
Alphabet’s Subsidiary	Shoreline International Holdings LLC is wholly owned by Alphabet Inc. and acts as a holding company.
Flipkart Ownership	85% owned by Walmart Group.
MUFG Bank	Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan; wholly owned by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group.
DMI Finance Valuation	Valued at $3 billion, MUFG becomes the second-largest shareholder after DMI Ltd, Mauritius.
CCI Role	Regulates mergers and investments to ensure fair competition.

GST Collection on Health and Life Insurance

The Union Government collected ₹16,398 crore as GST from health and life insurance services in FY24, reflecting a significant 680% increase from ₹2,101 crore in FY20. However, this marked a slight drop compared to ₹16,770 crore in FY23. Life insurance contributed ₹8,135 crore, while health insurance added ₹8,263 crore in FY24. Additionally, ₹2,045 crore was raised from reinsurance services, with ₹561 crore from life reinsurance and ₹1,484 crore from health reinsurance. Specific schemes like Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and Jan Arogya Bima Policy remain exempt from GST.

GST on Insurance: Historical Context and Current Rate

GST on health and life insurance is currently levied at 18%, similar to the pre-GST era where standard rates applied under service tax. Exemptions have consistently been provided for targeted schemes supporting economically weaker sections and the differently abled.

Formation of GoM and Pending Recommendations

The GST Council, in its 54th meeting on September 9, 2024, deliberated on the demand to reduce GST on insurance premiums and formed a Group of Ministers (GoM), led by Bihar’s Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary. The GoM held its first meeting on October 19, 2024, and is expected to present its recommendations during the GST Council’s December 21, 2024, meeting in Jaisalmer.

GST Collection on Education Services

The government also reported a 67% increase in GST collected from non-exempted education services, such as commercial training, amounting to ₹4,792.40 crore in FY24 from ₹2,859.49 crore in FY22. However, printed materials like books and newspapers remain exempt.

Summery of the news

Key Point	Details
Why in News	GST collection from health and life insurance services reached ₹16,398 crore in FY24, up 680% from FY20. Slight dip from ₹16,770 crore in FY23. A GoM led by Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary is reviewing GST on insurance.
GST Rate on Insurance	Standard GST rate on health and life insurance services: 18%.
Exempted Schemes	Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY), Universal Health Insurance Scheme, Jan Arogya Bima Policy, Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme.
Formation of GoM	Chaired by Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary; first meeting held on October 19, 2024.
Upcoming GST Council Meeting	Scheduled on December 21, 2024, in Jaisalmer.
GST Collections FY24	Health insurance: ₹8,263 crore; Life insurance: ₹8,135 crore; Reinsurance: ₹2,045 crore.
Static Points (Bihar)	CM: Nitish Kumar; Deputy CM: Samrat Choudhary; Capital: Patna.
GST on Education Services	₹4,792.40 crore collected in FY24 from non-exempted services like commercial training.
GST Exemptions in Education	Printed books, Braille books, newspapers, journals, and children’s picture books: Nil GST.

Coast Guard to Hold ‘SAREX 24’ in Kochi from Nov 27-30

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is set to conduct the 11th edition of the National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercises & Workshop (SAREX-24) in Kochi from November 27 to 30. The event, organized under the aegis of the National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board, aims to enhance India’s capabilities in maritime search and rescue (SAR) operations through a collaborative approach involving various national and international stakeholders.

Key Details

Event: SAREX-24 (National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercises & Workshop)
Dates: November 27 to 30, 2024
Location: Kochi, India
Inaugural Speaker: Rajesh Kumar Singh, IAS (Defence Secretary)
Main Focus: Enhancing SAR capabilities through regional collaboration
Lead Organizer: Indian Coast Guard (ICG)

Objectives and Themes

The workshop will focus on validating India’s National M-SAR construct using a collaborative approach.
The primary theme for the exercise is “Enhancing Search and Rescue capabilities through Regional collaboration.”
It aims to demonstrate ICG’s commitment to providing assistance during large-scale maritime contingencies, irrespective of location, nationality, or circumstances.

Key Activities

Workshop and Seminars

On November 28, the first day of the event, the workshop will feature table-top exercises and seminars involving senior officials from government agencies, ministries, armed forces, and foreign delegates.

Sea Exercise

The second day will focus on a large-scale sea exercise off the Kochi coast.

Two major contingencies will be simulated,

First Scenario: A distress situation involving a passenger vessel with 500 passengers on board.
Second Scenario: A civil aircraft ditching with 200 passengers.

The exercise will showcase modern technologies and operational strategies for SAR operations, including,

Satellite-aided distress beacons
Drones for deploying life buoys
Air-droppable life rafts
Remote-controlled life buoys for evacuation
Participant Agencies
Indian Coast Guard
Indian Navy
Indian Air Force
Cochin Port Authority (Passenger vessel and tug)
Customs Department
Foreign Delegates and stakeholders from littoral regions and friendly foreign countries

Significance

SAREX-24 is crucial for testing coordination and efficiency in large-scale rescue operations at sea.
The exercise will focus on cooperation between national agencies and international stakeholders.
It aims to strengthen maritime safety and disaster response strategies across India’s vast 4.6 million square kilometer Search and Rescue Region (ISRR).

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	SAREX-24 (National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercises & Workshop) to be conducted in KOCHI.
Dates	November 27 to 30, 2024
Location	Kochi, India
Organized by	Indian Coast Guard (ICG), under NMSAR Board
Inaugural Speaker	Rajesh Kumar Singh, IAS (Defence Secretary)
Primary Theme	Enhancing SAR capabilities through Regional collaboration
Main Objectives	Validate National M-SAR construct, enhance coordination, regional collaboration
Key Activities	Workshop, seminars, table-top exercises, sea exercise (2 large contingencies)
Sea Exercise Scenarios	1. Distress on passenger vessel (500 passengers) 2. Ditching of civil aircraft (200 passengers)
Technologies Demonstrated	Satellite-aided distress beacons, drones, remote-controlled life buoys
Participating Agencies	Indian Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, Cochin Port Authority, Customs, Foreign Delegates
Significance	Test efficiency in SAR operations, enhance cooperation, strengthen maritime safety

Amara Raja Infra Sets Up India’s First Green Hydrogen Fuelling Station in Leh

Amara Raja Infra, part of the $2 billion Amara Raja Group, has completed the setup of India’s first green hydrogen fuelling station in Leh, Ladakh, for NTPC Ltd. This innovative project will enable emission-free transport in the region, marking a significant milestone in India’s efforts to embrace green mobility.

The station, designed to produce 80 kg of green hydrogen daily, supports NTPC’s green mobility initiatives under the National Hydrogen Energy Mission. Inaugurated by Union Power Minister Manohar Lal, it will also aid in the operation of five hydrogen fuel cell buses in the region. The project is poised to play a key role in the development of hydrogen infrastructure across India.

Key Features of the Project

Location and Inauguration: Located in Leh, at an altitude of 3,400 meters, the station was inaugurated by Union Power Minister Manohar Lal.

Production Capacity: The station is designed to produce 80 kg of green hydrogen daily.

Technology and Operations: The project includes designing, engineering, supply, construction, erection, testing, commissioning, and three years of operations and maintenance on a turnkey basis.

Challenges and Achievements

Extreme Conditions: The station was built in extreme weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from -25°C to 30°C.

Completion Time: Despite these challenges, the project was completed in two years, showcasing Amara Raja Infra’s expertise in handling complex infrastructure projects.

Impact on Green Mobility and Future Prospects

Emissions-Free Transport: The station will facilitate hydrogen-powered buses, contributing to emission-free transport in Leh.

National Significance: This station serves as a precursor for larger hydrogen mobility and storage projects across India.

Support for Future Projects: It will help in the expansion of similar hydrogen fuelling stations nationwide, strengthening India’s sustainable energy future.

Summery of the news

Key Point	Details
Why in News	Amara Raja Infra commissioned India’s first green hydrogen fuelling station in Leh, Ladakh, for NTPC Ltd., producing 80 kg of green hydrogen daily.
Location	Leh, Ladakh (Altitude: 3,400 meters).
Purpose	Supports NTPC’s green mobility initiatives under the National Hydrogen Energy Mission.
Capacity	Produces 80 kg of green hydrogen daily.
Inauguration	Inaugurated by Union Power Minister Manohar Lal.
Operational Use	Will power five hydrogen fuel cell buses for emission-free transport.
Completion Time	Completed in two years despite extreme weather conditions (-25°C to 30°C).
Executing Entity	Amara Raja Infra, part of the $2 billion Amara Raja Group.
Associated Scheme	National Hydrogen Energy Mission.
Technology Scope	Includes design, engineering, supply, construction, erection, testing, commissioning, and three years of O&M.
Significance	First step in hydrogen mobility infrastructure for large-scale deployment in India.