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

Top-10 Foggiest Places on the Earth, Check the List

Fog is a natural weather condition that happens when water droplets hang in the air, making it hard to see. Some places on Earth are famous for being very foggy because of their unique weather and geography. Let’s learn about the top 10 foggiest places in the world.

What is Fog?

Fog is a cloud of tiny water droplets close to the ground. It is so thick that it makes it hard to see more than 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) ahead. Fog can also be made up of smoke, ice particles, or a mix of these, making it dense and reducing visibility.

Top-10 Foggiest Places on the Earth

Some places on Earth are known for having thick fog that makes it hard to see. These foggy spots are shaped by unique weather patterns, creating mysterious and beautiful landscapes. Here are the top 10 foggiest places on the planet.

Here are the top-10 foggiest places on the Earth:

Top-10 Foggiest Places on the Earth
Rank	Places	Description
1.	Grand Banks, Newfoundland	Underwater plateaus where the cold Labrador Current meets the warm Gulf Stream, creating near-daily thick fog.
2.	Atacama Coast, Chile	Coastal desert with fog (“camanchaca”) blown inland, essential for its ecosystem.
3.	Po Valley, Italy	Northern Italian valley with frequent mist and fog, though declining due to global warming.
4.	Swiss Plateau, Switzerland	Cold air trapped under higher fog during winter, creating an inversion effect.
5.	Namib Desert, Africa	Coastal desert with a fog-belt formed by colliding warm and cool air masses.
6.	Mistake Island, Maine	Known as the fog capital of the Atlantic coast, due to its proximity to the chilly ocean.
7.	San Francisco, California	Famous for summer fog and winter tule fog caused by cool ocean air meeting warm land.
8.	Cape Disappointment, Washington	Southwestern Washington cape with persistent fog due to atmospheric moisture.
9.	Point Reyes, California	Coastal area with dense fog, leading to the construction of a lighthouse for ships.
10.	Hamilton, New Zealand	Experiences morning fog near the Waikato River during cold and wet winters.

Important Days in December 2024, National and International Days

December, the last month of the year, is a month full of important days that highlight awareness, achievements, and celebrations around the world. These days focus on topics like human rights, environmental protection, and honoring national heroes. From World AIDS Day to Christmas, each date has a special meaning, reminding us of unity, kindness, and responsibility.

Important Days in December 2024

December is a month of joy, celebrations, and meaningful events worldwide. It brings festive cheer, short winter days in the northern hemisphere, and special occasions. Christmas on December 25th, celebrated by over 2.2 billion people, marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Kwanzaa, from December 26th to January 1st, honors African traditions. December ends with New Year’s Eve on the 31st, a global celebration of hope and resolutions. Its name comes from the Latin word “Decem,” meaning ten.

List of Important Days in December 2024, National and International Days

Date	Day
01 Dec	World AIDS Day
02 Dec	International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
03 Dec	International Day of Persons with Disabilities
04 Dec	International Day of Banks
05 Dec	International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development
05 Dec	World Soil Day
07 Dec	International Civil Aviation Day
09 Dec	International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime
09 Dec	International Anti-Corruption Day
10 Dec	Human Rights Day
11 Dec	International Mountain Day
12 Dec	International Day of Neutrality
12 Dec	International Universal Health Coverage Day
18 Dec	Arabic Language Day
18 Dec	International Migrants Day
20 Dec	International Human Solidarity Day
21 Dec	World Basketball Day
27 Dec	International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

Who is Known as the Punjab Kesari?

“Punjab Kesari” means “The Lion of Punjab.” This title is given to Lala Lajpat Rai, a great freedom fighter of India. He is remembered for his strong leadership and fearless efforts in India’s fight for independence. His work inspired many people to join the freedom struggle.

Who is Known as Punjab Kesari?

Lala Lajpat Rai was a prominent Indian freedom fighter, social reformer, and author, revered as “Punjab Kesari” or “The Lion of Punjab.” He was a part of the legendary “Lal-Bal-Pal” trio, alongside Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal, which shaped India’s independence movement. Lajpat Rai’s relentless efforts for freedom, reform, and justice left an indelible mark on Indian history.

Why is Lala Lajpat Rai known as Punjab Kesari?

Lala Lajpat Rai is called “Punjab Kesari” (Lion of Punjab) because of his fearless leadership and strong voice for India’s freedom. He inspired people with his bravery, patriotism, and dedication to fighting British rule. His efforts to uplift Punjab and his powerful role in the independence movement earned him this respected title.

Know About Lala Lajpat Rai

Here are some key details about Lala Lajpat Rai, also called as Punjab Kesari:

Lala Lajpat Rai, known as “Punjab Kesari,” was a revolutionary, politician, and author.
Born on 28 January 1865 in Dhudike, Punjab, he studied law in Lahore.
He was influenced by Swami Dayanand Saraswati and the Arya Samaj movement.
Rai co-founded the Dayananda Anglo-Vedic School and the Hisar Congress.
A key leader of the “Lal Bal Pal” trio, he fought for India’s independence.
He led protests against the Simon Commission and was injured in a police lathi charge.
His injuries led to his death on 17 November 1928.
Rai founded the Servants of the People Society and inspired Bhagat Singh and others.
He established institutions like Gulab Devi Chest Hospital and Lajpat Rai DAV College.
Several places, parks, and institutions in India are named in his honor.

India’s Historic Victory Over Australia: Breaking a 47-Year Record

Paris Olympics 2024 Medal Tally, India Medal Tally in Olympics_8.1

India scripted history, on November 25, 2024, with a massive 295-run victory against Australia in the first Test of the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series at the Optus Stadium, Perth. This stunning win gave India a 1-0 lead in the series and marked a significant milestone in their Test cricket journey.

This triumph shattered a 47-year-old record, making it India’s biggest victory against Australia in Australia in terms of runs. The previous record stood at 222 runs, achieved at Melbourne on December 30, 1977.

India’s Biggest Wins in Australia (By Runs)

India’s victory at Perth has rewritten the record books. Here’s a look at the biggest wins by India in Australia:

Optus, Perth – 295 runs – November 25, 2024 (current match)
Melbourne – 222 runs – December 30, 1977
Melbourne – 137 runs – December 26, 2018
WACA, Perth – 72 runs – January 16, 2008
Melbourne – 59 runs – February 7, 1981

India’s Second Biggest Win Against Australia (Any Venue)

Across all venues, this win ranks as India’s second-biggest win against Australia, following the 320-run victory in Mohali (2008).

Mohali – 320 runs – October 17, 2008
Optus, Perth – 295 runs – November 25, 2024
Melbourne – 222 runs – December 30, 1977
Chennai – 179 runs – March 6, 1998
Nagpur – 172 runs – November 6, 2008

Australia’s Biggest Defeats at Home

This loss places Australia’s defeat against India at Perth among their biggest defeats at home by runs:

675 runs – vs England, Brisbane, November 30, 1928
408 runs – vs West Indies, Adelaide, January 26, 1980
338 runs – vs England, Adelaide, January 13, 1933
322 runs – vs England, Brisbane, December 4, 1936
309 runs – vs South Africa, WACA, November 30, 2012
299 runs – vs England, Sydney, January 9, 1971
295 runs – vs India, Perth, November 25, 2024

India’s Biggest Wins Outside Asia (By Runs)

This win also ranks as one of India’s largest victories outside Asia:

318 runs – vs West Indies, North Sound, 2019
295 runs – vs Australia, Perth, 2024
279 runs – vs England, Headingley, 1986
272 runs – vs New Zealand, Auckland, 1968
257 runs – vs West Indies, Kingston, 2019

FSIB Recommends Binod Kumar as MD & CEO of Indian Bank

The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has recommended Binod Kumar, currently Executive Director of Punjab National Bank (PNB), for the role of Managing Director and CEO of Indian Bank. Kumar is set to replace S L Jain, who will retire next month. The FSIB’s decision follows a rigorous selection process involving 15 candidates.

This comes after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raised concerns over the previously selected candidate, Asheesh Pandey, leading to a fresh interview round. The final approval for Kumar’s appointment will be made by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Rigorous Selection Process

The FSIB, tasked with selecting top leadership for public sector banks, conducted interviews with 15 candidates before recommending Binod Kumar. According to the bureau, Kumar’s experience, performance during the interviews, and alignment with selection parameters stood out.

Replacement and Background

Kumar will succeed S L Jain, who has been serving as MD & CEO of the Chennai-based Indian Bank and is set to retire. Previously, FSIB had selected Asheesh Pandey for the role, but the RBI expressed reservations, prompting a new selection process.

FSIB Leadership and Role

The FSIB is led by Bhanu Pratap Sharma, a former Department of Personnel and Training Secretary. Its other key members include Animesh Chauhan, ex-MD of Oriental Bank of Commerce; Deepak Singhal, former RBI Executive Director; and Shailendra Bhandari, ex-MD of ING Vysya Bank. The bureau plays a crucial role in recommending candidates for leadership positions in state-owned banks and financial institutions.

Final Approval Pending

While FSIB has made its recommendation, the final decision rests with the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, highlighting the multi-tiered approval system in India’s banking leadership appointments.

Summery of the news

Category	Details
Why in News	FSIB recommends Binod Kumar for MD & CEO of Indian Bank, replacing S L Jain who retires next month.
FSIB	Financial Services Institutions Bureau, responsible for selecting directors for state-owned banks and financial institutions.
Binod Kumar	Current Executive Director of Punjab National Bank (PNB).
Indian Bank	Chennai-based public sector bank.
S L Jain	Current MD & CEO of Indian Bank, retiring next month.
RBI Concerns	RBI raised reservations about Asheesh Pandey, the initial candidate selected by FSIB.
Selection Process	FSIB interviewed 15 candidates before recommending Binod Kumar.
Final Approval	The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will give final approval.
FSIB Leadership	Headed by Bhanu Pratap Sharma, former Secretary, Department of Personnel and Training.
Other FSIB Members	Animesh Chauhan (ex-MD, Oriental Bank of Commerce), Deepak Singhal (ex-RBI Executive Director), Shailendra Bhandari (ex-MD, ING Vysya Bank).

PNB Joins PCAF, Strengthens Climate Action Commitments

Punjab National Bank (PNB), India’s second-largest public sector bank, has become a signatory of the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), marking a major step in its climate action journey. This decision aligns with global standards for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions accounting and the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) draft framework on climate-related financial risk disclosures, showcasing PNB’s dedication to sustainability and climate transparency.

Past Milestones and Current Actions

BRSR Implementation: In FY 2023-24, PNB disclosed its financed emissions in its Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) using the globally recognized PCAF Standard.
RBI Alignment: This move aligns with RBI’s draft guidelines requiring banks to disclose climate-related financial risks in governance, strategy, and risk management from FY 2025-26 and metrics and targets from FY 2027-28.

Global Collaboration and Benefits

International Network: By joining PCAF, PNB becomes part of a global network of financial institutions committed to robust GHG accounting practices.
Technical Advantages: The partnership offers access to cutting-edge training, country-specific emissions data, and global insights tailored for India.
Knowledge Sharing: PNB will participate in global working groups, workshops, and webinars to refine GHG standards and foster peer-to-peer learning.

Vision for the Future

PNB’s association with PCAF reflects its commitment to adopting global best practices in sustainability. This initiative strengthens its role as a responsible financial institution, contributing significantly to climate action and aligning with evolving global and domestic environmental standards.

Summery of the news

Key Points	Details
Why in News	PNB joined Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) to enhance GHG emissions accounting practices.
First PCAF Disclosure	FY 2023-24 in the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) using the PCAF Standard.
Alignment with RBI Guidelines	RBI mandates banks to report climate risks in governance, strategy, and risk management by FY 2025-26.
Global Network	PNB is now part of an international network committed to addressing climate change through GHG accounting.
Benefits of PCAF Membership	Access to technical support, country-specific emission data, training, and peer knowledge sharing.
Punjab National Bank (PNB)	Founded: 1894
India-Specific PCAF Insights	PCAF offers tailored data and methodologies for India’s emissions context.
Climate Action Goal	Aligning with global sustainability practices and reinforcing commitment to climate responsibility.

COP29 Climate Talks End with $300 Billion Pledge

The United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku concluded with a controversial agreement to triple climate finance for developing nations to $300 billion annually by 2035. This falls drastically short of the $1.3 trillion annually requested by developing countries until 2030. The deal was met with strong opposition from India and other developing nations, who criticized both the process and the outcome, describing the financial pledge as insufficient and unfairly distributed.

India’s Strong Opposition

India, one of the vocal critics of the deal, rejected the proposed financial goal, labeling the sum “abysmally poor” and inadequate. Chandni Raina, adviser to the Department of Economic Affairs, emphasized the unfairness in distribution, highlighting that developed countries, historically responsible for the majority of greenhouse gas emissions, were not held accountable. India also condemned the process, accusing COP29 of being “stage-managed” and undermining the inclusivity of the decision-making process.

Lack of Inclusivity and Equity

India’s concerns were echoed by other developing countries like Nigeria and Bolivia, who argued that the agreement fails to meet the principles of equity and differentiated responsibilities outlined in the Paris Agreement. These nations argue that relying on private and multilateral finance mechanisms diverts responsibility from developed countries. The financial mobilization via Multilateral Development Banks was seen as a step backward from previous goals, shifting the burden onto developing nations.

Concerns Over Delayed Implementation and Effectiveness

The $300 billion financial target, which is set to begin in 2035, has raised concerns due to its delayed implementation. Many nations argue that they cannot afford to wait more than a decade for the resources they urgently need to combat the growing climate crisis. Experts like Vaibhav Chaturvedi from the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water pointed out that the agreement jeopardizes the 1.5°C global temperature target, as effective mitigation efforts cannot succeed without immediate financial and technological support.

Summery of the news

Topic	Details
Why in News	COP29 in Baku concluded with a controversial pledge of $300 billion annually in climate finance by 2035, far below the $1.3 trillion demanded by developing nations until 2030. India and other nations criticized the process and outcomes.
Conference Name	COP29 (United Nations Climate Change Conference)
Location	Baku, Azerbaijan
Pledge Amount	$300 billion annually by 2035
Demand by Developing Nations	$1.3 trillion annually until 2030
India’s Representative	Chandni Raina, Adviser, Department of Economic Affairs
India’s Criticism	Called the pledge “abysmally poor”; criticized the process as “stage-managed” and lacking inclusivity.
Global Criticism	Nigeria and Bolivia echoed concerns over inequity and delayed implementation.
Target Temperature Limit	1.5°C as per the Paris Agreement
Static Points – Paris Agreement	Adopted in 2015; aims to limit global warming to below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C.

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is the Wetland Hub?

Uttar Pradesh, one of the largest states in India, has various districts with rich natural resources, including wetlands. Wetlands are areas where water covers the land, either permanently or seasonally. They are essential for biodiversity, water purification, and flood control. In Uttar Pradesh, Lakhimpur Kheri is known to have the most wetlands.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh (UP) is a state in northern India with over 241 million people, making it the most populous state in India and the world’s most populous subdivision. It shares borders with Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Nepal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand. The capital is Lucknow, and Prayagraj is the judicial capital. It covers 243,286 km² and has 18 divisions and 75 districts.

Number of Districts of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has 75 districts, which are organized into 18 divisions. The capital and largest city of the state is Lucknow, which also has the largest metropolitan area. These districts are important administrative units for managing the state’s resources and services.

Sonbhadra, located in the southeast of Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich wetlands, diverse wildlife, and natural beauty. It is an important district not only for its natural resources but also for its unique environmental features.

Why is Sonbhadra Known as the Wetland Hub?

Sonbhadra is known as the Wetland Hub of Uttar Pradesh due to its rich wetlands, supported by numerous rivers like the Son, Rihand, and Karmnasa. These wetlands provide habitat for diverse wildlife and help maintain the region’s ecological balance. The district’s forest cover and water resources make it an important area for biodiversity and environmental conservation.

Location of Sonbhadra

Sonbhadra lies between the Vindhya and Kaimur hills in the southeastern part of Uttar Pradesh. It is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and many rivers, making it a vital area for wetlands and biodiversity.

Size and Climate of Sonbhadra

Sonbhadra is the second-largest district in Uttar Pradesh by area, which means it has a large geographical space to support different ecosystems, including wetlands. The district experiences a subtropical climate, with a significant difference in temperatures between summer and winter.

Gyan-Kumbh 2024 Auroville’s Transformative Ideas Unveiled

Gyan-Kumbh 2024, a prominent educational event organized by Siksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas, took place at Pondicherry University from November 21st to 23rd, 2024. The event provided a platform for various educational institutions and organizations to showcase their work, and Auroville Foundation took a significant step by presenting its transformative vision and philosophy.

Key Highlights

Event Overview

Name: Gyan-Kumbh 2024
Dates: November 21st to 23rd, 2024
Venue: Pondicherry University
Organized by: Siksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas
Focus: Transformative educational philosophies, sustainability, and human unity

Auroville Foundation’s Role

A prominent stall showcased Auroville’s philosophy of human unity and sustainable living.
The stall became a hub of attraction for educational leaders such as Vice-Chancellors, Directors, and College Principals.
Representatives Dr. Mollika Ganguly and Ms. Vishnupriya engaged with visitors, offering insights into Auroville’s innovative educational approach.

Special Guests

The Hon’ble Education Minister of Pondicherry, A Navassivayam, attended the event.
Dr. Dhanalakshmi, the State Convener-IT for Siksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas and OSD at Auroville Foundation, was also present.

Educational Impact

The event allowed for direct interactions with educational leaders, highlighting Auroville’s unique educational approach and its philosophy rooted in Sri Aurobindo’s teachings.
The focus on human unity and sustainable development was a major point of discussion.

Networking Opportunities

The presence of university heads, college principals, and other dignitaries facilitated networking and collaboration for future educational initiatives based on Auroville’s model.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Gyan-Kumbh 2024
Dates	November 21-23, 2024
Venue	Pondicherry University
Organizer	Siksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas
Auroville’s Role	Showcased vision of human unity and sustainable living; featured innovative educational models
Key Representatives	Dr. Mollika Ganguly and Ms. Vishnupriya
Visitors	Vice-Chancellors, Directors, and College Principals from across educational institutions
Educational Focus	Auroville’s educational approach, human unity, sustainable living, and Sri Aurobindo’s teachings
Networking Opportunities	Interaction with leaders and dignitaries from the education sector

Hemant Soren to Take Oath as Jharkhand CM on Nov 28

Hemant Soren is set to take oath as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand on November 28, following his meeting with Governor Santosh Kumar Gangawar to stake his claim to form the government. This follows the victory of the INDIA bloc, comprising Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and CPI (ML), in the recent state elections. The oath-taking ceremony will take place at Morabadi ground in Ranchi, marking the beginning of a new political chapter in the state.

Key Points

Oath Ceremony Date

Hemant Soren will take the oath of office as Chief Minister on November 28.

Governor’s Meeting

Soren met Governor Santosh Kumar Gangawar, who accepted his resignation and invited him to form the new government.

Election Results

INDIA bloc (JMM, Congress, RJD, CPI-ML) won 56 seats.
NDA (BJP, AJSU, JD(U), LJP) won 24 seats.
JMM emerged as the largest party with 34 seats.
Congress secured 16 seats.
RJD won 4 seats, and CPI (ML) won 2 seats.

Venue of Oath Ceremony

The oath-taking will be held at Morabadi Ground in Ranchi.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Hemant Soren will take oath as CM on 28th November
Meeting with Governor	Hemant Soren met Governor Santosh Kumar Gangawar to stake claim for government formation.
Election Results	– INDIA bloc (JMM, Congress, RJD, CPI-ML): 56 seats – NDA (BJP, AJSU, JD(U), LJP): 24 seats
Largest Party	Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) with 34 seats
Venue for Oath Ceremony	Morabadi Ground, Ranchi