Which Indian State/ Union Territory is Known as the French Riviera of the East?

India is home to diverse cultures and historical influences, one of which is Puducherry, often referred to as the “French Riviera of the East.” This Union Territory, located on the southeastern coast of India, is famous for its French colonial heritage, charming architecture and serene beaches.

Indian States and Union Territories

India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories. States have their own governments, while Union Territories are governed by the Central Government. Each region has unique cultures, traditions and administrative systems.

French Riviera of the East

Puducherry, a beautiful union territory of India, is often called the “French Riviera of the East.” This title reflects its deep connection to French culture and history. Let’s explore why Puducherry holds this unique name.

Why is Puducherry Known as the French Riviera of the East?

Puducherry is called the “French Riviera of the East” because of its strong French influence. It was a French colony for 138 years, leaving a lasting impact on its culture, architecture and lifestyle. The city features French-style buildings, streets with French names and unique French-Tamil architecture, making it a charming blend of both cultures.

History of Puducherry

The French colonized Puducherry in 1674 and ruled it for 138 years. Although they left in 1954, the official treaty transferring power to India was not approved by the French National Assembly until 1962. This rich history hives Puducherry its unique identity and French influence.

Meaning of the Name Puducherry

The name Puducherry comes from the Tamil words putu meaning “new” and cheri meaning “village.” The French renamed it Pondichery during their rule. However, in 2006, the name was officially changed back to Puducherry, reflecting its Tamil roots.

Where is Puducherry Located?

Puducherry is a coastal city located on the southeastern coast of India. It is about 170 kilometers away from Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu. Its location by the sea adds to its charm and makes it a popular tourist destination.

Attractions in Puducherry

Puducherry is known for its unique French-Indian culture, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic beauty. Visitors love exploring its French-style streets, enjoying its serene beaches and visiting famous landmarks like Auroville and Promenade.

International Civil Aviation Day 2024,History, Significance, Theme of 2024

International Civil Aviation Day (ICAD) is observed every year on December 7 to honor the transformative impact of civil aviation on global development. First celebrated in 1994 to mark the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Chicago Convention, the day emphasizes the importance of international air travel in fostering global connectivity, economic progress, and cultural exchange.

Introduction

  • International Civil Aviation Day (ICAD) is celebrated every year on December 7 to honor the role of civil aviation in global progress.
  • Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1996, ICAD highlights the importance of aviation in fostering economic development, cultural exchange, and global connectivity.
  • The day was first celebrated in 1994 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Chicago Convention, a historic agreement that set international standards for aviation.

Historical Background

Chicago Convention (1944)/UN Recognition

  • Signed by 54 nations to establish international regulations for civil aviation.
  • Laid the foundation for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
  • First Celebration : Marked in 1994 during ICAO’s 50th anniversary.
  • UN Recognition : In 1996, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed December 7 as International Civil Aviation Day.

Purpose and Objectives

  • Promote Aviation’s Role : Recognize the critical importance of aviation in global trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
  • Highlight Sustainability : Emphasize efforts to reduce aviation’s environmental impact, including achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
  • Encourage Innovation : Inspire advancements in aviation technology, safety, and operational efficiency.
  • Foster Global Cooperation : Strengthen international partnerships for unified aviation standards and practices.
  • Acknowledge Contributions : Appreciate the dedication of aviation professionals like pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, and regulatory authorities.

2024 Theme: “Safe Skies. Sustainable Future”

  • Celebrates 80 years of the Chicago Convention and ICAO’s achievements in advancing safe, sustainable air travel.
  • Reaffirms the aviation industry’s commitment to sustainability by focusing on,
  • Reducing aviation’s carbon footprint.
  • Encouraging the adoption of green technologies.
  • Aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

Significance

  • Aviation bridges cultures and economies, fostering international understanding and cooperation.
  • Drives trade, tourism, and economic activities, contributing significantly to GDP worldwide.
  • Plays a vital role in disaster relief and humanitarian operations.
  • Promotes intercultural understanding by connecting people from diverse backgrounds.
  • Encourages innovation in navigation, safety, and sustainable aviation.

Celebrations Around the World

  • ICAO Events : Hosts workshops, seminars, and online forums to discuss the future of aviation.
  • Industry Collaborations : Meetings of aviation stakeholders to address safety, sustainability, and innovation.
  • Educational Initiatives : Programs in schools and universities to inspire youth to pursue careers in aviation.
  • Social Media Campaigns : Awareness initiatives using hashtags like #CivilAviationDay and #GlobalConnectivity.
  • Public Engagement : Exhibitions and open days at airports to educate the public about aviation’s significance.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? International Civil Aviation Day 2024
Date December 7
Establishment Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1996.
First Celebration 1994, marking the 50th anniversary of the Chicago Convention.
Historical Context – Chicago Convention signed in 1944 by 54 nations.

– Established international regulations for civil aviation and the ICAO.

Purpose – Recognize aviation’s role in global development.

– Highlight sustainability and innovation in the aviation sector.

– Promote international cooperation and safe air travel.

2024 Theme “Safe Skies. Sustainable Future: Together for the next 80 years.”
Theme Highlights – Celebrates the 80th anniversary of the Chicago Convention.

– Focus on reducing aviation’s carbon footprint and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Significance – Drives globalization, economic growth, and cultural exchange.

– Supports disaster relief and humanitarian efforts.

– Recognizes contributions of aviation professionals.

Celebration Activities – ICAO events: seminars, workshops, online forums.

– Educational initiatives for youth in aviation.

– Social media campaigns (#CivilAviationDay, #GlobalConnectivity).

– Stakeholder meetings to address safety and innovation.

Key Objectives – Strengthen international regulations.

– Foster collaboration among nations.

– Inspire the next generation in aviation.

Sex Ratio and Girl Child Enrollment Show Positive Trends Under BBBP Scheme

The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, launched on January 22, 2015, under the Ministry of Women & Child Development in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, has achieved notable progress in improving the Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) and Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) for girls.

Provisional data from the Health Management Information System (HMIS) shows SRB improved from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24. GER at the secondary level has risen from 75.51% in 2014-15 to 79.4% in 2021-22, as per UDISE+ data. The scheme focuses on eliminating gender-biased practices, ensuring girl child protection, and promoting education.

Implementation Framework and Funding Mechanism

BBBP is a centrally sponsored scheme with 100% funding from the central government under the Sambal vertical of Mission Shakti. Funds are allocated to districts based on SRB data:

  • Districts with SRB ≤ 918: ₹40 lakh/year
  • Districts with SRB 919–952: ₹30 lakh/year
  • Districts with SRB > 952: ₹20 lakh/year

The scheme uses the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) for fund disbursal through Single Nodal Agencies (SNA). However, West Bengal has not implemented the scheme despite nationwide efforts.

Activity Calendar and Monitoring

To ensure year-round engagement, an Operational Manual with a detailed Activity Calendar has been issued. Themes are assigned monthly, often aligning with significant dates like October 11 (International Day of the Girl Child). Activities focus on holistic development and awareness, including a 10-day campaign from October 2-11 in all States/UTs in 2024. Regular reviews, video conferences, and annual Programme Approval Board meetings monitor the scheme’s progress.

Impact and Challenges

The scheme’s key indicators, SRB and GER, demonstrate improvement. However, challenges persist in States/UTs with lower participation in BBBP activities. Multi-sectoral interventions require robust coordination among various ministries and departments to sustain progress and address disparities effectively.

Summary of the news

Key Points Details
Why in news India’s Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) improved to 930 in 2023-24 from 918 in 2014-15 under BBBP.
Scheme Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP)
SRB Definition Number of female births per 1,000 male births.
Fund Allocation (Low SRB Districts) ₹40 lakh annually for districts with SRB ≤ 918.
Static Fact – Ministry Ministry of Women & Child Development implements BBBP.
Static Fact – Launched January 22, 2015, in Panipat, Haryana.
Objective of BBBP Improve SRB, eliminate gender-biased sex selection, and empower girls.
Static Fact – Haryana CM: Shri Nayab Singh Saini , Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya, Capital: Chandigarh.
Monitoring Mechanism Public Financial Management System (PFMS).

Armed Forces Flag Day 2024: Date, History and Significance

India celebrates Armed Forces Flag Day annually on December 7 to honour the valor, sacrifices, and dedication of the Indian Armed Forces. This day serves as a reminder of the unwavering commitment of the Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel who safeguard the nation’s freedom and security. It is also a day for citizens to express their gratitude and contribute to the welfare of armed forces personnel, veterans, and their families.

History of Armed Forces Flag Day

The observance of Armed Forces Flag Day began on December 7, 1949, under the aegis of the Defence Ministry.

  • The day was established to collect funds through the distribution of symbolic flags, highlighting the sacrifices made by the military and raising awareness about their welfare.
  • Citizens wear these tricolor flags as a gesture of respect and gratitude.
  • In 1993, the Ministry of Defence unified various welfare funds, including those for war victims, ex-servicemen, and the Kendriya Sainik Board, into a single Armed Forces Flag Day Fund.

This historical initiative not only brought attention to the needs of ex-servicemen and their dependents but also created a platform for civilians to actively contribute to their welfare.

Significance of Armed Forces Flag Day

Armed Forces Flag Day holds a special place in the heart of every Indian, as it serves multiple purposes:

  1. Acknowledging Sacrifices: The day is a solemn occasion to remember and honor those who laid down their lives in the line of duty.
  2. Strengthening Patriotism: It fosters a sense of unity and patriotism by bridging the gap between civilians and the armed forces.
  3. Supporting Veterans: Donations made on this day directly contribute to improving the conditions of war widows, dependents, and retired service members.

How Armed Forces Flag Day is Observed

The Armed Forces Flag Day is marked by various events and activities organized across the country:

Traditional and Cultural Activities

  • The Indian military staff conducts traditional and cultural events such as plays, parades, and performances to highlight the importance of the day.
  • These events reflect the valor and heritage of the Indian Armed Forces, encouraging citizens to contribute to their welfare.

Distribution of Tricolor Flags

  • Vehicle flags in shades of red, dark blue, and light blue—symbolizing the Army, Navy, and Air Force, respectively—are distributed nationwide.
  • Citizens are encouraged to purchase and wear these flags to show their solidarity with the armed forces.

Fundraising Efforts

  • Fundraising is a key aspect of Armed Forces Flag Day, with the Defence Ministry and Kendriya Sainik Board overseeing the process.

Donations are used to support:

  • War widows and their dependents.
  • Disabled soldiers who sustained injuries in service.
  • Veterans in need of medical or financial assistance.

Welfare Initiatives: The Armed Forces Flag Day Fund

Establishment of the Fund

The Armed Forces Flag Day Fund was created in 1949 to channel resources towards the welfare of military personnel and their families.

  • The Defence Minister’s Committee oversees the fund, with the Kendriya Sainik Board and other voluntary organizations ensuring its proper utilization.

Key Beneficiaries

Funds collected on Armed Forces Flag Day are allocated for:

  • Education and financial aid for children of soldiers.
  • Healthcare support for veterans and their families.
  • Rehabilitation programs for disabled servicemen.

How You Can Contribute

Every citizen can play a role in supporting the armed forces:

  1. Monetary Contributions: Donations can be made to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund through authorized channels.
  2. Spreading Awareness: Share the significance of Armed Forces Flag Day within your community to encourage more people to participate.
  3. Participation in Events: Attend events and purchase symbolic flags to display your support.

Summary of Armed Forces Flag Day News

Category Details
Why in News Armed Forces Flag Day, observed annually on December 7, honours the sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces.
Purpose – To acknowledge the valor and dedication of the Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel. – To raise funds for the welfare of war widows, veterans, and their families.
History – Initiated on December 7, 1949 by the Ministry of Defence. – Aimed at promoting military welfare and fostering civilian-military unity. – In 1993, all related welfare funds were unified under the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund.
Significance – Recognizes the sacrifices of armed forces personnel. – Strengthens patriotism and civilian-military relations. – Provides financial support for education, healthcare, and rehabilitation programs for veterans and their families.
Observance – Distribution of tricolour flags (red, dark blue, light blue) symbolizing the three armed forces. – Organizing cultural events, plays, and parades to honour military heritage. – Fundraising campaigns across India.
Armed Forces Flag Day Fund – Established by the Defence Minister’s Committee in 1949. – Overseen by the Kendriya Sainik Board and voluntary organizations. – Supports war widows, disabled soldiers, and dependents of servicemen.
How to Contribute – Donate to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. – Spread awareness about the day’s significance. – Attend events and wear symbolic flags to show solidarity.

 

SMTP Full Form, Know Everything About It

SMTP, or Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, is a standard method used to send emails across the internet. it enables communication between email clients (like Gmail or Outlook) and email servers, ensuring messages reach their destination smoothly. In this article, we will know more about SMTP in detail.

Full Form of SMTP

SMTP stands for Simple Mail Transfer Protocol. It is a standard method used to send emails over the internet, ensuring reliable communication between email clients (like Gmail) and servers.

What is SMTP?

SMTP is a part of the application layer in the TCP/IP network, which ensures emails are sent from one device to another over the internet. When you send an email, SMTP works to transfer the message from your email client to the recipient’s email server.

How SMTP Works?

SMTP works in four main steps to deliver an email:

  1. Mail Submission: When you send an email, the email client (like Gmail or Outlook) sends it to the SMTP server using port 25.
  2. Mail Delivery: The SMTP server separates the email address into two parts:
  • Username
  • Domain name

If the sender and recipient share the same domain, the message is delivered locally. If not, the mail is forwarded to another server.

3. Processing the Mail: The recipient’s email server receives the email, processes it, and stores it until the recipient is ready to access it.

4. Accessing the Mail: The recipient uses this email client to retrieve the email from the server. This is often done through protocols like IMAP or POP3.

Key Components of SMTP

SMTP relies on specific tools to move emails between devices:

  • Mail User Agent (MUA): The client of program you use to send and receive emails.
  • Mail Submission Agent (MSA): A server that receives emails from MUA and forwards them for delivery.
  • Mail Transfer Agent (MTA): Transfers the email from one server to another.
  • Mail Delivery Agent (MDA): Delivers the email to the recipient’s inbox.

Benefits of SMTP

  • Ease of Communication: SMTP makes it easy to send emails from one computer to another over a network.
  • Reliability: It ensures that emails reach their destination reliably and securely.
  • Bulk Email Support: SMTP allows users to send bulk emails to many recipients at the same time, which is useful for marketing campaigns.

Why is SMTP Important?

Without SMTP, sending emails over the internet would be impossible. It acts as a guide, making sure every message reaches the right inbox through a clear step-by-step process.

SMTP not only makes communication faster but also more dependable, even in cases of network failures.

Who is Known as the Father of Scientific Management?

Scientific Management is a method that focuses on improving work efficiency by using scientific principles. It involves studying tasks, training workers, and using standardized tools to save time and increase productivity. Developed by Frederick Winslow Taylor, it transformed how industries and factories operate worldwide.

Father of Scientific Management

Frederick Winslow Taylor, also known as F.W. Taylor, is called the Father of Scientific Management. His ideas changed how industries managed their workers, focusing on improving efficiency and eliminating waste.

Taylor’s Focus on Efficiency

Taylor noticed that workers were often inefficient. He believed managers should focus on getting employees to work better together. By studying workflows scientifically, Taylor aimed to create a more productive workplace.

The Five Principles of Scientific Management

Taylor introduced five key principles to make work more efficient:

  • Science, not Rule of Thumb: Decisions should be based on scientific methods, not personal guesses.
  • Harmony, Not Discord: Managers and workers should work together peacefully.
  • Mental Revolution: Both managers and workers should change their thinking to focus on efficiency.
  • Cooperation, Not Individualism: Teamwork is more efficient than working alone.
  • Development of Every Person: Every worker should be trained and developed to perform their best.

Taylor’s Work in the Steel Industry

Taylor worked in the steel industry and saw that inefficiency led to wasted time and resources. He realized that applying scientific methods to management could solve this problem. His ideas were based on observing and analyzing tasks to find the best ways to perform them.

The Term Scientific Management

The term ‘Scientific Management’ was first used in 1910 by Louis Brandeis, who recognized Taylor’s contributions to improving industrial processes. Taylor’s system became a foundation for modern management practices.

ISRO’s PSLV Mission Successfully Deploys European Satellites

On December 5, 2024, ISRO’s PSLV-C59 rocket successfully launched the European Space Agency’s (ESA) advanced Sun-observing mission, Proba-3. The mission aims to explore the Sun’s outer atmosphere by conducting scientific experiments, and it will contribute to the global understanding of space weather, its economic and technological risks, and solar phenomena. Proba-3 is a twin-satellite mission that features the Coronagraph and Occulter spacecraft, which will fly together in a precisely controlled formation to study the Sun’s corona.

Mission Highlights and Key Details

Launch Vehicle

  • The PSLV-C59 rocket, launched from ISRO’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, carried ESA’s Proba-3 satellites.
  • PSLV-C59 is a part of the PSLV series, marking the 61st flight of the PSLV rocket and the 26th launch using the PSLV-XL variant.

Launch Reschedule

  • Initially scheduled for December 4, 2024, the launch was rescheduled due to an anomaly in the satellite’s propulsion system. The launch successfully occurred on December 5 at 4:04 pm (IST).

Orbital Details

  • The satellites were placed in a highly elliptical orbit, with a perigee (closest point to Earth) of 600 km and an apogee (farthest point from Earth) of 60,000 km, at an inclination of 59 degrees.

Proba-3 Mission Overview

Primary Objective

  • The mission is a technology demonstration project designed to showcase “precise formation flying.” It aims to study the Sun’s corona by blocking the solar disk with one satellite to allow the other satellite to observe the solar atmosphere.

Spacecraft

  • Occulter: Weighs 240 kg and is responsible for blocking the Sun’s light to make the corona visible.
  • Coronagraph: Weighs 310 kg and is the primary instrument designed to study the Sun’s corona.
  • Formation Flying: The two satellites will fly in tandem, maintaining a precise 150-meter distance to create a “solar eclipse on demand,” mimicking the effects of a solar eclipse for extended periods.

Solar Study

Scientific Importance

  • The Sun’s corona is much hotter than its surface and is the origin of space weather, which can have significant impacts on technology and Earth’s magnetic field. 
  • By observing the corona, scientists can better understand solar activity and its effects on Earth.

Space Weather Risks

  • The mission contributes to assessing the economic and technological risks of space weather, which includes solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs).

Future Insights for ISRO

  • The Proba-3 mission complements ISRO’s earlier achievements, such as the Aditya-L1 mission, which was launched in September 2023 to study the Sun. 
  • This collaboration with ESA enhances ISRO’s capabilities in solar research and space science.

Technology Demonstration

  • The Proba-3 mission will be the first large-scale demonstration of formation flying, where two satellites fly together as a single system. This technology will have broader applications in future space missions.

Summary/Static

Details

Why in the news? ISRO’s PSLV Mission Successfully Deploys European Satellites
Mission Name Proba-3
Launch Vehicle PSLV-C59 (ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle)
Launch Date December 5, 2024, 4:04 PM IST
Mission Objective To study the Sun’s outer atmosphere (corona) using formation flying satellites
Spacecraft – Coronagraph (310 kg)

– Occulter (240 kg)

Orbital Details – Highly elliptical orbit: Perigee: 600 km, Apogee: 60,000 km

– Inclination: 59 degrees

Formation Flying Satellites will fly 150 meters apart in tandem, blocking the solar disk to study the Sun’s corona
Scientific Importance Study of the Sun’s corona, space weather, and solar activity (CMEs and solar flares)
Duration of Mission Satellites will complete one 19-hour orbit around the Earth. The observation of the Sun’s corona will last up to 6 hours per session.
ISRO’s Role Launch services; scientific data collection will be handled by ESA
ESA’s Contribution Scientific observations and experiments on solar activities and space weather risks
Related Mission Complements ISRO’s earlier Aditya-L1 mission for solar research

Where is Gateway of India Located?

The Gateway of India is a famous historical monument located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It stands near the Arabian Sea and is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. Built in the early 20th century, it holds great cultural and historical significance for India.

Location of the Gateway of India

The Gateway of India is situated at Apollo Bunder, a popular area in South Mumbai. It stands by the Arabian Sea, offering a stunning view of the water. It is located at the end of Chhatrapati Shivaji Marg and is one of the City’s top tourist destinations.

History of the Gateway of India

The idea of the Gateway of India came after King George V and Queen Mary’s visit to India in 1911. The monument was built to honor their arrival in Mumbai. The foundation stone was laid on March 31, 1911, and the construction was completed in 1924.

Design and Structure of Gateway of India

Designed in the Indo-Saracenic style by architect George Wittet, the Gateway of India stands 26 meters (85 feet) tall. It is made from basalt and has an arch-like structure. The final design was approved in 1914, and the monument was completed a decade later.

Symbolic Significance of Gateway of India

The Gateway of India became a ceremonial entrance to India, especially for Viceroys and new Governors of Bombay. It represented the welcoming of important figures into the country.

Tourist Attractions of Gateway of India

Known as the “Taj Mahal of Mumbai,” the Gateway of India is one of the most visited landmarks in the city. Its location near the sea and its historical importance make it a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.

India Wins ISSA Good Practice Award for Asia and Pacific 2024

India has been awarded the prestigious ISSA Good Practice Award for Asia and Pacific 2024, presented by Dr. Mohammed Azman, President of the International Social Security Association (ISSA), at the Regional Social Security Forum held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) also received five Certificates of Merit for its innovative practices in social security delivery. These awards highlight EPFO’s initiatives in enhancing service delivery, communication, and inclusivity, benefiting its large and diverse workforce.

ISSA Good Practice Award for Asia and Pacific

  • India’s EPFO was honored with the prestigious ISSA Good Practice Award for its continuous efforts to reform and enhance social security systems in the country.
  • The award was presented at the Regional Social Security Forum held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a significant platform for discussing social security matters.

Certificates of Merit

EPFO received five Certificates of Merit for outstanding initiatives in various areas of service delivery,

  • Communication Channels
  • E-proceedings
  • Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 (Massive District Outreach Programme)
  • Multilingual Call Centres
  • Prayaas Initiative

Award Categories and Description

Communication Channels

EPFO adopted ISSA Guidelines on communication and implemented them through the Communication Framework Document (CFD).

This multi-channel approach includes:

  • Webinars
  • SMS and emails
  • Social media outreach
  • IEC videos
  • Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 camps for direct engagement.
  • These efforts aim to ensure timely and effective communication with stakeholders.

E-proceedings

  • EPFO revolutionized the judicial inquiry process by transitioning to online e-proceedings, reducing time delays, enhancing transparency, and ensuring fairness in determining dues from defaulting employers.
  • This online system also optimizes compliance processes while increasing the speed of dispute resolution.

Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0

  • With 139 Regional Offices and 117 District Offices, EPFO covers large parts of India but still faces gaps in over 500 districts.
  • The Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0 programme addresses this by bringing EPFO services closer to members’ homes by conducting grievance resolution camps on the 27th of every month across the country.
  • This initiative ensures the last-mile delivery of services, improving member access to essential services such as claim submission and grievance redressal.

Multilingual Call Centres

  • To address the linguistic diversity across India, EPFO set up multilingual call centres to provide information and resolve grievances in 12 major regional languages.
  • This initiative aligns with ISSA’s Service Quality Guidelines and helps increase member satisfaction by resolving doubts and issues in the language most comfortable to the member.

Prayaas Initiative

  • The Prayaas Initiative ensures Pension Payment Orders (PPO) are provided to retiring members of the Employees’ Pension Scheme (1995) on the day of their retirement.
  • This has significantly improved the pension disbursement process and is an important initiative to prioritize pensioners.

Special Mention for Digital Life Certificate (Jeevan Pramaan Patra)

  • EPFO received a Special Mention for the Digital Life Certificate initiative, known as Jeevan Pramaan Patra, which facilitates biometric-based Aadhaar authentication for pensioners.
  • This initiative has streamlined the life certification process for pensioners, ensuring greater ease and accessibility for senior citizens.

EPFO’s Commitment to Service Delivery and Reform

  • The awards and recognitions reflect EPFO’s commitment to embracing technology and good practices that enhance service delivery, especially in the context of India’s rapidly changing economic and social landscape.
  • EPFO’s initiatives align with the Government’s policy of ease of doing business and ease of living, which aim to make social security services more accessible, efficient, and transparent for the Indian workforce.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India was honored with the ISSA Good Practice Award for Asia and Pacific 2024 and Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) also received five Certificates of Merit for its innovative practices in social security delivery.
ISSA Good Practice Award 2024 EPFO recognized for modernizing social security services with innovative and inclusive practices.
Certificates of Merit Communication Channels: Multi-channel strategy (SMS, social media, emails) to enhance stakeholder engagement.

E-proceedings: Online judicial process for faster, transparent, and fair inquiry handling.

Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0: Grievance resolution camps for on-the-spot service delivery.

Multilingual Call Centres: Call centres in 12 languages to assist diverse regional members.

Prayaas Initiative: Pension Payment Orders (PPO) given on retirement day for faster processing.

Special Mention Digital Life Certificate (Jeevan Pramaan Patra): Aadhaar-based biometric authentication for pensioners.

Which District of Uttarakhand is Known as the Lake City?

Uttarakhand is a beautiful state in India, known for its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Among its many picturesque places, one district stands out for its unique feature – the presence of numerous lake. This district is called Nainital.

An Overview of Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, formerly known as Uttaranchal, is a state in northern India. It is bordered by Himachal Pradesh, Tibet, Nepal, Uttar Pradesh and a small part of Haryana. The state covers 53,483 sq. km and has two divisions: Garhwal and Kumaon. Dehradun is the capital, and Nainital is the judicial capital. Uttarakhand has a lot of forests, covering 45.4% of its area. The Ganges and Yamuna rivers, which are major, begin from the Gangotri and Yamunotri glaciers.

Number of Districts of Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand has 13 districts, which are divided into two regions: Garhwal and Kumaon. These regions help organize the state into manageable areas for administration and development.

Lake City of India

Nainital, a beautiful hill station in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is popularly known as the “Lake City” of India. Famous for its picturesque lakes and breathing natural beauty. Nainital attracts many visitors every year. It is situated at a height of around 2,000 meters above sea level, surrounded by lush green forests and hills.

Why is Nainital Known as the Lake City?

Nainital is known as the “Lake City” because it is famous for its many beautiful lakes, especially Naini Lake. The town is surrounded by picturesque lakes and hills, creating a peaceful and scenic environment. The presence of these lakes, along with their natural beauty, makes Nainital a popular destination for tourists and a unique spot in Uttarakhand.

Location and Beauty of Nainital

Nainital is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The town is known for its stunning landscapes, with several lakes, including the famous Naini Lake, surrounded by hills. This combination of water and greenery gives the town a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers and tourists.

The Legend of Naini Lake

The name “Nainital” is derived from two words: “Naina” meaning “eye” and “tal” meaning “lake.” According to local legends, the Naini Lake was created from the left eye of Sati, the consort of Lord Shiva. It is believed that her eye fell to the ground at this location. The Naina Devi Temple, dedicated to Sati, is situated at the northern end of the lake, adding spiritual significance to the area.