Gwalior Unveils India's First Self-Sufficient Gaushala with a State-of-the-Art CBG Plant

Gwalior Unveils India’s First Self-Sufficient Gaushala with a State-of-the-Art CBG Plant

In a groundbreaking initiative, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first modern, self-sufficient gaushala in Laltipara, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The gaushala, named Adarsh Gaushala, houses a state-of-the-art Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plant, marking a major milestone in India’s journey toward achieving sustainable development and promoting green energy solutions. This project reflects Modi’s vision of turning “Waste to Wealth”, highlighting how organic waste can be transformed into valuable resources.

A Modern Gaushala with a Vision

The Adarsh Gaushala is operated by the Gwalior Municipal Corporation and is home to over 10,000 cattle. It stands out as a self-reliant model, utilizing cattle dung and organic waste to generate compressed biogas and organic manure.

Key Features of the Gaushala

Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plant:

The CBG plant processes 100 tons of cattle dung daily.
It produces 2-3 tons of compressed Bio-CNG daily.

Organic Manure Production:

The plant generates 10-15 tons of dry bio-manure daily, a critical resource for organic farming.

Sustainable Waste Management:

Vegetable and fruit waste collected from mandis (local markets) and households is processed to produce biogas.
The plant also incorporates windrow composting facilities, further enhancing its waste management capacity.

Technical and Economic Details of the Project

Collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation

The CBG plant is a result of a Rs. 31 crore investment and a partnership between the Gwalior Municipal Corporation and the Indian Oil Corporation. Spread across 5 acres, this state-of-the-art facility exemplifies a public-private collaboration aimed at long-term sustainability.

Daily Production Output

Compressed Biogas (Bio-CNG): 2-3 tons/day.
Dry Bio-Manure: 10-15 tons/day.

Contribution to Climate Goals

The project reduces the emission of potent greenhouse gases, contributing significantly to climate change mitigation. By turning cow dung into energy, the plant offsets the need for fossil fuels, offering an eco-friendly alternative while reducing carbon emissions.

Environmental and Social Benefits

Green Energy Solutions

The compressed Bio-CNG produced by the plant is a cleaner alternative to conventional fuels, helping reduce air pollution and dependency on non-renewable energy sources.

Boost to Organic Farming

The organic manure produced is sold at affordable rates, encouraging local farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. This not only enhances soil fertility but also reduces the use of chemical fertilizers.

Employment and Skill Development

The project creates employment opportunities for locals, offering jobs in waste management, biogas production, and organic farming. It also promotes skill development in green energy technologies.

A Model for the Future

The Laltipara CBG plant sets a world-class benchmark in sustainable development. Its success underscores the potential of public-private partnerships in tackling environmental challenges.

Replicable Model

As India’s first self-sufficient gaushala, it provides a blueprint for other regions to adopt similar practices. Its integrated approach—balancing environmental, economic, and social benefits—offers a holistic solution to waste management and renewable energy generation.

Summary of the News: Gwalior’s First Self-Sufficient Gaushala with CBG Plant

Category	Details
Why in News	PM Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first modern self-sufficient gaushala with a state-of-the-art CBG plant in Gwalior.
Location	Adarsh Gaushala, Laltipara, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.
Key Features	– Houses over 10,000 cattle. – Operates a 100 tons/day Compressed Biogas (CBG) plant. – Produces 2-3 tons of Bio-CNG daily.
Project Overview	– Developed in collaboration with the Indian Oil Corporation. – Investment: Rs. 31 crores. – Spread across 5 acres.
Outputs	– Bio-CNG: 2-3 tons/day. – Dry bio-manure: 10-15 tons/day.
Waste Sources	– Cattle dung and garbage (vegetable and fruit waste from markets and homes).
Environmental Benefits	– Reduces carbon emissions and dependency on fossil fuels. – Promotes climate change mitigation.
Economic Benefits	– Creates employment opportunities for locals. – Boosts green energy skills.
Benefits for Farmers	– Supplies affordable organic manure for nearby districts, promoting organic farming.
Additional Facilities	– Includes windrow composting for further organic waste processing.
Significance	– India’s first self-reliant gaushala with integrated waste-to-wealth technology. – Serves as a replicable model for other regions.

Mali’s Junta Replaces Prime Minister Choguel Maiga with Abdoulaye Maiga

The political landscape of Mali witnessed another significant shift on November 21, 2024, as the ruling military junta announced the dismissal of Prime Minister Choguel Maiga. Replacing him is the junta’s spokesperson, Abdoulaye Maiga, according to an announcement on state television ORTM. This decision comes amid growing criticism of the junta’s handling of the promised transition to democracy and signs of rising tensions within the country’s political circles.

Choguel Maiga’s Removal: A Fallout with the Junta

Choguel Maiga, who had served as Prime Minister since his appointment by the junta in 2021, found himself ousted after making remarks that directly challenged the military rulers. Over the weekend, he publicly criticised the junta for failing to organise elections within the 24-month timeline they had promised as part of a transition back to civilian rule. His statements reportedly infuriated the ruling generals, ultimately leading to his dismissal.

The junta’s decision to fire Choguel Maiga reflects growing internal divisions, even among those who initially supported the military’s rise to power. According to sources close to Choguel Maiga, his open condemnation of the junta’s decision-making process and governance style—particularly regarding the indefinite postponement of elections—had alienated him from the ruling generals.

Abdoulaye Maiga Appointed as the New Prime Minister

The junta swiftly replaced Choguel Maiga with Abdoulaye Maiga, a trusted spokesperson and ally within the military government. The appointment of Abdoulaye Maiga underscores the junta’s attempt to consolidate its power amidst rising dissent. While Abdoulaye Maiga has yet to outline his agenda as Prime Minister, his close alignment with the junta suggests that the military rulers are looking for a more compliant leader to advance their objectives during the prolonged transitional period.

Military Rule and the Delayed Transition to Democracy

Mali’s military junta first seized power in 2020 through a coup and solidified its control with a second coup in 2021. Following these events, the junta pledged to return the country to civilian rule through elections within 24 months. However, as February 2024 approached—the deadline for the promised elections—the junta announced an indefinite postponement, citing technical challenges as the primary reason.

This decision has drawn widespread criticism, both domestically and internationally. Many see the delay as a strategic move by the junta to retain power, further eroding confidence in the transition process. For Choguel Maiga, the lack of transparency and debate surrounding the postponement was a major point of contention. He told reporters that he was not even informed of the junta’s decision beforehand, calling the process “secretive and without the Prime Minister’s knowledge.”

Summary of the News: Mali’s Junta Appoints Abdoulaye Maiga as PM

Heading	Details
Why in News	The military junta in Mali dismissed Prime Minister Choguel Maiga on November 21, 2024, and appointed Abdoulaye Maiga as his replacement.
Reason for Dismissal	– Choguel Maiga criticised the junta for failing to organise elections within the promised 24-month transition period. – He accused the junta of making decisions in secrecy without involving him.
Static	Capital: Bamako Official languages: Bambara, Soninke language, Fula, Hassaniya Currency: West African CFA franc
New Appointment	Abdoulaye Maiga, the junta’s spokesperson, was named as the new Prime Minister.
Background on Junta	– The military seized power in 2020 and 2021 through successive coups. – Promised elections in February 2024 were postponed indefinitely, citing technical challenges.
Choguel Maiga’s Role	– Appointed as Prime Minister in 2021, he initially defended the junta’s policies, including its partnership with Russian mercenaries. – His recent criticisms, including delays in elections, led to his dismissal.
International Reaction	– ECOWAS and international allies have condemned the junta’s failure to transition to democracy and criticised its ties with Russian mercenaries. – Mali faces growing isolation and sanctions.
Domestic Impact	Rising frustration among Malian politicians and citizens as the wait for elections continues, further deepening political divisions.
Key Takeaway	The junta’s actions highlight internal tensions and their struggle to maintain legitimacy while indefinitely delaying Mali’s democratic transition.

Sea Vigil 24 Culminates A Step Towards Coastal Resilience

The fourth edition of the Pan-India Coastal Defence Exercise, Sea Vigil 24, concluded successfully on 21st November 2024, showcasing India’s steadfast commitment to enhancing its maritime security and coastal defense. Conducted over a 36-hour tactical phase, the exercise covered India’s 11,098 km coastline and 2.4 million sq. km Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). It involved over 21 agencies across six ministries, strengthening the country’s readiness to counter evolving maritime threats.

Exercise Scope and Participation

Spanned the entire Indian coastline and EEZ.

Participation from 21 agencies, including,

Indian Navy, Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Coast Guard.
Central agencies: Customs, BSF, CISF, Port Authorities, Fisheries Department, etc.
State-level agencies like State Marine Police.
Deployed over 550 surface assets and conducted 60 air sorties, totaling 200 flight hours.

Coastal Defence and Security Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE)

Conducted for seven days prior to the tactical phase.
Comprehensive audit of 950 critical coastal locations, including:
Fishing Landing Centres, Lighthouses, Ports (Major/Non-Major), Coastal Police Stations, offshore assets, and Coastal Vulnerable Areas/Points (VA/VP).
First-time participation by National Security Council Secretariat in Gujarat and West Bengal.

Focus and Objectives

Enhanced security of vital maritime assets

Oil Rigs, Single Point Moorings (SPMs), Cable Landing Stations, and Nuclear installations.
Indian Air Force deployed Air Defence Systems to secure offshore infrastructure.

Safety and security initiatives for merchant ships

Simulated hijacking, re-routing of Indian merchant vessels, and Naval Cooperation and Guidance to Shipping (NCAGS).
Active involvement of fishing communities in coastal security activities.

Community Outreach Program

Engaged youth and local communities, including,

NCC cadets, Bharat Scouts and Guides, and students in coastal areas.
Aimed to foster awareness of maritime security and build a security-conscious coastal ecosystem.

Inter-Agency Coordination

Evaluated and enhanced inter-agency collaboration.
Identified gaps in coastal security and strengthened coordination between agencies to counter emerging maritime threats.

Legacy and Vision

Sea Vigil, initiated in 2018, serves as a cornerstone of India’s Coastal Defence Architecture.
By simulating real-time scenarios, it provides critical insights into maritime defense capabilities and fosters a resilient coastal security framework.
Lessons learned from each iteration help reinforce India’s coastal security infrastructure against emerging challenges.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	4th Edition of Pan-India Coastal Defence Exercise – Sea Vigil 24 concluded.
Duration	36-hour tactical phase + 7-day Coastal Defence and Security Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE).
Coverage	Entire 11,098 km coastline and 2.4 million sq. km Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Participating Agencies	Over 21 agencies across six ministries: Indian Navy, Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Customs, BSF, CISF, etc.
Deployments	550+ surface assets, 60 air sorties, 200 flying hours.
First-Time Participants	National Security Council Secretariat officials (in Gujarat and West Bengal).
Key Objectives	– Securing vital maritime assets (Oil Rigs, SPMs, Cable Landing Stations, Nuclear Installations). – Enhancing safety of merchant ships (Simulated hijacking, vessel re-routing, Naval Cooperation). – Strengthening inter-agency coordination and identifying gaps.
Community Engagement	Outreach programs for NCC cadets, Bharat Scouts and Guides, students, and local fishing communities.
Legacy	– Initiated in 2018. – Simulates real-time scenarios to strengthen Coastal Defence Architecture.
Focus Areas	– Maritime security readiness. – Inter-agency collaboration and grassroots awareness.
Significance	Fortifies India’s coastal security against evolving maritime threats.

Today Top 10 Current Affairs 23rd 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. In which Stadium, stand will be named after Jhulan Goswami Stand in 2025?

(a) Wankhede Stadium

(b) Rajiv Gandhi Stadium

(d) Aruj Jaitely Stadium

Q2. National Philosophy Day observed annually on which day?

(a) Third Thursday of November

(b) Third Friday of November

(d) Third Saturday of November

Q3. World Television Day 2024 observed annually on _____.

(a) 22nd November

(b) 23rd November

(d) 21st November

Q4. Double Olympic champion Alistair Brownlee retires from which sport?

(a) Athletics

(b) Traithlon

(d) Tennis

Q5. TATA Power signed an MoU with which Bank to finance various clean energy projects?

(a) SBI

(b) ADB

(d) Bank of America

Q6. Which Indian recently conferred with the title of Honorary General of the Nepal Army?

(a) General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS)

(b) Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi

(d) The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Anil Chauhan

Q7. Which country became the 104th Member nation of International Solar Alliance (ISA)?

(a) Armenia

(b) Pakistan

(d) China

Q8. Which country will host the First Global Cooperative Conference in 130 Years?

(a) India

(b) Canada

(d) Korea Republic

Q9. Which State to Host Khelo India Youth Games and Para Games in 2025?

(a) Uttar Pradesh

(b) Uttarakhand

(d) Bihar

Q10. India’s First Constitution Museum Inaugurated at _____ University.

(a) Delhi University

(b) University of Punjab

(d) Jawaharlal Nehru University

Answers

S1. Ans. (c)

Sol. India’s legendary cricketer Jhulan Goswami will be honored with a stand named after her at Eden Gardens in Kolkata in January 2025.

S2. Ans. (a)

Sol. National Philosophy Day, also recognized globally as World Philosophy Day, is celebrated every year on the third Thursday of November.

S3. Ans. (d)

Sol. World Television Day is celebrated every year on November 21 to underscore the role of television as a vital medium of communication.

S4. Ans. (c)

Sol. Double Olympic champion Alistair Brownlee, at 36, announced his retirement from triathlon after an illustrious career.

S5. Ans. (b)

Sol. Tata Power, a leading integrated power company in India, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for $4.25 billion to finance various clean energy projects.

S6. Ans. (a)

Sol. General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, was recently conferred with the title of Honorary General of the Nepal Army by the President of Nepal, Ramchandra Paudel.

S7. Ans. (a)

Sol. Armenia has become the 104th full member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), marking a significant milestone for global solar energy collaboration.

S8. Ans. (a)

Sol. India will host the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) Global Cooperative Conference in New Delhi from November 25 to 30, 2024. This marks the first time in the 130-year history of the ICA that the global cooperative movement’s premier event will be held in India.

S9. Ans. (d)

Sol. Bihar will host the prestigious Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) and the Khelo India Para Games (KIPG) in April 2025.

S10. Ans. (c)

Sol. India’s first Constitution Museum, inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on November 23, 2024, at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) in Sonipat, Haryana, aims to enhance public understanding of the Constitution.

IPL 2025 Schedule: BCCI Announces IPL Schedules for 2025, 2026, and 2027 Seasons

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made a bold and significant move in the world of cricket by unveiling the Indian Premier League (IPL) schedules for the next three seasons—2025, 2026, and 2027. This announcement marks a departure from the traditional approach, where the schedule for the IPL is usually revealed closer to the start of the tournament. By announcing the schedules in advance, the BCCI has set a precedent aimed at improving the overall planning and preparation for both franchises and players, and it further solidifies the IPL’s status as a global sporting event.

A Break from Tradition: Early Announcement of IPL Schedules

In a significant change to its scheduling practices, the BCCI has revealed the dates for the upcoming seasons of the Indian Premier League (IPL) well in advance. Traditionally, the IPL schedule would be announced closer to the start of the tournament, leaving little room for teams and players to plan ahead. This shift to announcing the schedules for the next three seasons ahead of time is seen as a proactive step towards better coordination and preparation.

The 2025 IPL: Kickoff and Conclusion

The 2025 IPL season is set to begin on March 14, 2025, with the final match scheduled to take place on May 25, 2025. This fixed schedule will give the teams, players, broadcasters, and fans ample time to prepare for the tournament. With the start date set for mid-March, the IPL will continue to fit into its established window in the global cricket calendar, allowing for the smooth execution of its regular, high-profile matches.

The 2026 and 2027 IPL Seasons: Future Planning

In addition to announcing the 2025 season schedule, the BCCI has also revealed the dates for the subsequent 2026 and 2027 IPL seasons. These future seasons will adhere to a similar timeline, ensuring consistency and allowing for better long-term planning.

The 2026 IPL is scheduled to run from March 15, 2026, to May 31, 2026.
The 2027 season will take place from March 14, 2027, to May 30, 2027.

By finalizing these dates, the BCCI has effectively secured a predictable and consistent window for the IPL, allowing franchises, players, and fans to organize their schedules in advance.

Growing Prominence of IPL: A Global Cricket Phenomenon

This early announcement of IPL schedules underscores the growing prominence of the Indian Premier League and its established place in the international cricket calendar. Over the years, the IPL has evolved into one of the most successful and widely viewed sporting leagues in the world. It has attracted top players, global franchises, and millions of fans, making it one of the most lucrative and influential cricket tournaments.

The IPL’s shift to an earlier schedule release reflects its increasing stature and the demands of modern-day cricket. This move also highlights the need for better organization and planning as the competition grows in scale and popularity, ensuring smooth operations for both franchises and the governing bodies involved.

Better Planning for Franchises and Players

By providing the IPL schedule several years in advance, the BCCI aims to enhance the planning capabilities of teams and players. Franchises will now have the opportunity to plan their player acquisitions, strategies, and other logistical aspects well ahead of time. Likewise, players will have better clarity about their participation, enabling them to manage their fitness, availability, and commitment to other cricketing events.

Additionally, this early release aligns with the global cricket calendar, ensuring that IPL matches do not conflict with other major international events, and giving the tournament ample space to shine in the cricketing world.

Which District of Madhya Pradesh is Famous for Rang Panchami Festival?

Madhya Pradesh, a state rich in culture and traditions, celebrates many colorful festivals. One of these is Rang Panchami, a joyful occasion filled with vibrant colors and music. The district most famous for this celebration is Indore. Let us learn more about this festival and its connection to Indore.

An Overview of Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is a state located in central India. The capital of the state is Bhopal, and its largest city is Indore. Other important cities include Jabalpur and Gwalior. Madhya Pradesh is the second largest state in India by area and the fifth largest by population, with over 72 million people. It shares borders with Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.

Number of Districts of Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is divided into 55 districts, which are grouped into 10 divisions. As of now, the state has 55 district panchayats, 376 tehsils, 313 blocks, and 23,043 village panchayats. The state also has 18 city corporations, 100 city councils, and 264 town councils.

District of Madhya Pradesh Famous for Rang Panchami Festival

Indore, a lively city in Madhya Pradesh, is famous for its grand celebrations of the Rang Panchami festival. This unique festival is celebrated with vibrant colors, joyous music, and traditional dances that reflect the rich culture of the region.

Celebration of Rang Panchami in Indore

In Indore, Rang Panchami is celebrated with a colorful and exciting procession called the “Ger.” The local municipal corporation plays a significant role by sprinkling colored water on the streets of old Indore using water cannons and water tanks. Thousands of people gather in the streets, dancing and enjoying the festive spirit, making the event a memorable experience.

Significance of Rang Panchami

Rang Panchami is celebrated five days after Holi. Unlike Holi, which focuses on splashing colors, Rang Panchami is more about music, dance, and community fun. The atmosphere in Indore becomes filled with joyous sounds of music and celebrations, creating a festive mood.

Historical Importance of Rang Panchami

Rang Panchami has a long history and was celebrated even during the Holkar reign in Indore. The festival has deep roots in tradition and showcases the city’s historical and cultural heritage.

Traditional Elements of Rang Panchami

In Madhya Pradesh, Rang Panchami is also known as Shimgo. A special highlight of the celebrations is the Palkha dance, a traditional art form performed during the festival. This dance adds a cultural charm to the already colorful celebrations.

Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar For 2022 and 2023

The Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar (UBKUP) is a prestigious award instituted by the Sangeet Natak Akademi in 2006 to honor outstanding young performing artists across India. Named after Bharat Ratna Ustad Bismillah Khan, the award aims to encourage and motivate young practitioners in music, dance, drama, folk and tribal arts, puppetry, and other performing arts.

On 22nd November 2024, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, will confer the awards for the years 2022 and 2023 in a special ceremony at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. The ceremony will be presided over by Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Chairman of Sangeet Natak Akademi, and Smt. Uma Nanduri, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture.

About the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar

Instituted in: 2006
Eligibility: Artists up to the age of 40 years.
Purpose: To recognize and motivate young talent in the performing arts and promote India’s rich cultural heritage.

Award Components:

Cash Prize: ₹25,000/-
Plaque
Angavastram

The award is conferred annually to celebrate the exceptional contribution of young artists in preserving and innovating traditional and modern performing arts.

Awards Ceremony and Post-Event Highlights

Award Ceremony Details

Date and Time: 22nd November 2024, 11 A.M.
Venue: Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, New Delhi

Presided by:

Dr. Sandhya Purecha, Chairman, Sangeet Natak Akademi
Smt. Uma Nanduri, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture

Performing Arts Festival

The award ceremony will be followed by a festival of performing arts featuring the awardees.

Dates: 22nd–26th November 2024
Venues:
1. Meghdoot Theatre Complex, Rabindra Bhawan, Copernicus Marg, New Delhi
2. Abhimanch Theatre, National School of Drama, Bhawalpur House, New Delhi
3. Vivekanand Auditorium, Kathak Kendra, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Significance of the Award

The Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar plays a pivotal role in preserving India’s diverse artistic traditions and promoting innovation within traditional frameworks. The award ensures that young artists are recognized and supported for their efforts in showcasing India’s cultural richness globally.

Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar recipients for 2022 and 2023:

Year	Field of Activity	Name	Specialization
2022	Music	Samit Mallick	Hindustani Vocal
		Samarth Janve	Hindustani Vocal
		Sangeet Mishra	Hindustani Instrumental – Sarangi
		Partho Roy Choudhury	Hindustani Instrumental – Santoor
		K. Gayatri	Carnatic Vocal
		I. Sweta Prasad	Carnatic Vocal
		B. Anantha Krishnan	Carnatic Instrumental – Violin
		Sahana S.V	Carnatic Instrumental – Veena
		Manoj Rai	Creative & Experimental Music
		Nandini Rao Gujar	Other Major Traditions of Music (Sugam Sangeet)
	Dance	Mandakranta Roy	Bharatanatyam
		Kadam Parikh	Kathak
		Urmika Maibam	Manipuri
		T. Reddi Lakshmi	Kuchipudi
		Arupa Gayatri Panda	Odissi
		Dimpee Baishya	Sattriya
		Akshara M Das	Mohiniattam
		Pradyumna Kumar Mohanta	Chhau
		Mingma D. Lepcha	Creative & Experimental Dance
		Aparna Nangiar	Nangiarkoothu
	Theatre	Beluru Raghunandan	Playwriting
		Ifra Mushtaq Kak	Direction
		Harishankar Ravi	Direction
		Harwinder Singh	Acting
		Kumar Ravikant	Acting
		Siddhi Upadhye	Acting
		Mukunda Nath	Mime
		Sangeet Shrivastava	Allied Theatre Arts – Lighting
	Traditional/Folk/Tribal and Puppetry	Lata Tiwari & Sanjay Datt Panday	Folk Music & Dance (Uttarakhand)
		Chow Saratham Namchoom	Folk Music (Arunachal Pradesh)
		Sampriya Pooja	Folk Music & Dance (Chhattisgarh)
		Suryawanshi Pramila Kautikrao	Folk Dance Lavani (Maharashtra)
		Kumar Uday Singh	Folk Dance (Bihar)
		Nasarullah EPI	Folk Dance (Lakshadweep)
		Binita Devi	Puppetry (Assam)
		Mahesh Aba Satarkar	Folk Dance (Goa)
		Vasava Mukeshbhai M.	Folk Dance (Gujarat)
		Gulzar Ahmad Bhat	Folk Dance (Jammu & Kashmir)
		Moirangthem Kendra Singh	Nata Sankirtan (Manipur)
	Overall Contribution	Anuthama Murali	Overall Contribution in Performing Arts
2023	Music	Anuja Zokarkar	Hindustani Vocal
		Monika Soni	Hindustani Vocal
		Rishi Shankar Upadhyay	Hindustani Instrumental – Pakhawaj
		Sarang Rajan Kulkarni	Hindustani Instrumental – Sarod
		S. R. Vinay Sharva	Carnatic Vocal
		Ramakrishnan Murthy	Carnatic Vocal
		Akshay Anantapadmanabhan	Carnatic Instrumental – Mridangam
		Saikhom Pinky Devi	Creative & Experimental Music
		Satyavathi Mudavath	Creative & Experimental Music
		Nagesh Shankarrao Adgaonkar	Other Major Traditions of Music (Abhang)
	Dance	Apoorva Jayaraman	Bharatanatyam
		Meghranjani Medhi	Kathak
		Kalamandalam Vipin Sankar	Kathakali
		Pukhrambam Reepa Devi	Manipuri
		Muramalla Surendra Nadh	Kuchipudi
		Debasis Pattnaik	Odissi
		Mukunda Saikia Barbayan	Sattriya
		Vidya Pradeep	Mohiniattam
		Sunita Mahato	Chhau
		Venkateshwaran Kuppuswamy	Music for Dance
	Theatre	Priyadarshini Mishra	Playwriting
		Bendang Walling	Direction
		Suvojit Bandyopadhyay	Direction
		Rutuja Rajan Bagwe	Acting
		Vipan Kumar	Acting
		Shruti Singh	Acting
		Mallikarjuna Rao Bachala	Allied Theatre Arts – Make-up
		Puneet Dimari & Amit Khanduri	Ramleela (Uttarakhand)
	Traditional/Folk/Tribal and Puppetry	Angadi Bhaskar	Dappalu (Telangana)
		Alok Bishoyi	Folk Dance & Music (Odisha)
		M. Prakash	Folk Dance (Puducherry)
		Padma Dolker	Folk Music & Dance (Ladakh)
		Sukhram Pahan	Folk Music (Jharkhand)
		Yusuf Khan Mewati Jogi	Folk Music (Rajasthan)
		Kalamandalam Ravisankar T S	Folk Instrument (Chenda, Kerala)
		Dixit Kushal Manvantray	Folk Dance (Gujarat)
		Priyanka Shakti Thakur	Traditional Music (Maharashtra)
		Anureet Pal Kaur	Folk Music (Punjab)
		Charu Sharma	Folk Music (Himachal Pradesh)
	Overall Contribution	Laxminarayan Jena	Overall Contribution in Performing Arts

Top 10 Most Sustainable Economies in 2024: India’s Position Explained

The Sustainable Trade Index 2024, jointly published by the Hinrich Foundation and IMD, highlights the global shift toward sustainability in trade. As the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, nations are focusing on resilience to combat potential future crises such as climate change, geopolitical tensions, and economic instability. The Sustainable Trade Index evaluates economies based on three critical pillars:

Economic Growth
Societal Advancement
Environmental Resilience

This index emphasizes the importance of balancing economic, social, and environmental factors in trade practices to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth.

Defining Sustainable Trade

Sustainable trade involves mutually beneficial outcomes for trading partners while maintaining a balance between:

Economic stability
Social progress
Environmental conservation

Global economies are increasingly adopting policies to strengthen domestic industries, build a resilient workforce, and integrate trade with environmental goals. By addressing these dimensions, economies can establish robust systems that withstand shocks and promote green development.

Top 10 Most Sustainable Trade Economies in 2024

Rank	Economy	Overall Score	Economic	Societal	Environmental	Key Highlights
1	New Zealand	100	86	100	100	Tops all three pillars; retained the top position for the third consecutive time.
2	United Kingdom	97.7	87.8	93.7	99.4	Strong in environmental resilience and societal progress; slight dip in economic.
3	Australia	87.4	75.4	99.6	83.2	Excels in societal and environmental dimensions.
4	Singapore	85.7	92.4	87	75.2	Leads in economic growth while maintaining societal and environmental strengths.
5	Japan	81.5	72.2	81.9	91.2	Highly resilient in environmental factors despite societal and economic challenges.
6	South Korea	81.4	92.2	85.4	67.4	Strong in economic and societal pillars; faces environmental challenges.
7	Hong Kong	81.4	100	65.8	79.2	Dominates in the economic pillar but lags in societal progress.
8	Canada	80	81.1	99.8	61	Excels in societal factors; environmental scores indicate room for improvement.
9	Taiwan	72.3	76.7	87.1	61.2	Balances economic and societal dimensions; faces environmental challenges.
10	United States of America	72.2	90	69.4	65.3	Strong economic growth; moderate societal and environmental resilience.

India’s Performance: A Detailed Analysis

India’s Overall Rank: 23rd Globally

Despite being the fifth-largest economy in the world, India’s performance in the Sustainable Trade Index highlights significant economic strengths but also reveals critical challenges in societal and environmental dimensions.

India’s Scores Across Pillars:

Economic Factors: 62.3
Societal Aspects: 13.3
Environmental Considerations: 43.1

Economic Performance: A Strong Foundation

India’s economic score of 62.3 showcases its rapid economic growth and the implementation of pro-growth policies. Key drivers include:

A booming industrial sector.
Expanding global trade partnerships.
Efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing through initiatives like ‘Make in India’.

However, economic inequalities persist, limiting India’s ability to create an equitable workforce and reduce disparities.

Societal Challenges: A Need for Reform

With a score of 13.3, India’s societal performance reflects significant areas of concern, including:

Poverty: Despite progress, millions still live below the poverty line.
Gender Inequality: Women face barriers in accessing education, employment, and financial independence.
Healthcare Access: Unequal access to healthcare facilities continues to be a challenge.

Investments in education, social infrastructure, and gender equality are crucial to improve India’s societal standing.

Environmental Factors: A Mixed Bag

India’s environmental score of 43.1 highlights both progress and persistent issues:

Strengths:

Adoption of renewable energy solutions, including solar and wind power.
Participation in international agreements like the Paris Accord.

Challenges:

Severe air pollution, especially in urban areas.

Deforestation and loss of biodiversity.

Limited progress in waste management and water conservation.

To enhance environmental sustainability, India must adopt stricter policies to curb pollution and promote sustainable practices.

Global Implications of India’s Position

India’s rank highlights its pivotal role in the global economy and its potential to drive sustainable trade practices. However, the low scores in societal and environmental pillars emphasize the need for:

Comprehensive policies addressing social inequalities.
Aggressive measures to tackle climate change and pollution.
Enhanced collaboration with global partners to adopt best practices in sustainability.

Summary of News: Sustainable Trade Index 2024

Category	Details
Why in News	The Sustainable Trade Index 2024, published by Hinrich Foundation and IMD, ranks India 23rd globally, highlighting its strengths and challenges in sustainable trade.
Key Report	The index evaluates economies based on three pillars: Economic Growth, Societal Advancement, and Environmental Resilience.
Top Performers	– 1st: New Zealand (Score: 100, tops all pillars).
	– 2nd: United Kingdom (Score: 97.7, strong societal and environmental performance).
	– 3rd: Australia (Score: 87.4, excels in societal and environmental factors).
India’s Rank	23rd globally in the Sustainable Trade Index 2024.
India’s Scores	– Overall Score: 24
	– Economic Factors: 62.3
	– Societal Aspects: 13.3
	– Environmental Factors: 43.1
Economic Strengths	– Strong economic growth supported by initiatives like ‘Make in India’.
	– Booming industrial sector and expanding global trade partnerships.
Societal Challenges	– Poverty: Millions still live below the poverty line.
	– Gender Inequality: Women face barriers in education, employment, and financial independence.
	– Healthcare Access: Unequal access to healthcare facilities persists.
Environmental Issues	– Strengths: Adoption of renewable energy solutions, active participation in global agreements.
	– Challenges: Severe air pollution, deforestation, poor waste management, and water conservation.
Global Implications	India’s performance highlights its pivotal role in sustainable trade but underscores the need for:
	– Policies addressing societal inequalities.
	– Aggressive environmental measures to combat pollution.
	– Collaboration with global partners to adopt sustainability best practices.

India Hosts First Global Cooperative Conference in 130 Years

India will host the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) Global Cooperative Conference in New Delhi from November 25 to 30, 2024. This marks the first time in the 130-year history of the ICA that the global cooperative movement’s premier event will be held in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025 during this event.

Key Highlights

Event Dates: November 25–30, 2024.
Launch: PM Modi will launch the ‘United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025’.
First Time in India: The ICA General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference will be hosted by India, an initiative led by IFFCO.
Expected Attendance: Around 3,000 delegates, including 1,000 international delegates from over 100 countries.
Special Guests: Bhutan Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay and Fiji Deputy PM Manoa Kamikamica will attend.
Inaugural Session: Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah will chair the inaugural session on November 25.

Event Theme & Focus Areas

Theme: “Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All”

Subthemes

Enabling Policy and Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
Nurturing Purposeful Leadership for Prosperity
Reaffirming the Cooperative Identity
Shaping the Future for Prosperity in the 21st Century

Special Features

Carbon Neutral: The event will be carbon neutral with sustainable practices like the planting of 10,000 Peepal trees.
Catering: Only vegetarian food will be served, with no liquor allowed.

India’s Role

Cooperative Landscape: India houses 25% of the world’s cooperatives, with 8 lakh cooperatives nationwide. The conference will showcase the strength of India’s cooperative sector.

Key Leadership Statements

IFFCO MD U.S. Awasthi: Emphasized the event’s environmental consciousness and the importance of India’s cooperative sector.
Cooperation Secretary Ashish Kumar Bhutani: Highlighted the participation of over 100 countries and the conference’s role in presenting India’s cooperative achievements globally.

International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)

ICA was established in 1895 to promote the cooperative model.

Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
Moved from London in 1982
It is the apex body representing cooperatives.
More than 306 organizations from 105 countries are members of the ICA.
The ICA unites, represents, and serves cooperatives worldwide.
It provides a global voice and forum for knowledge, expertise, and coordinated action for and about cooperatives.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India to host global conference of cooperatives for the first time
Event	ICA Global Cooperative Conference 2024
Dates	November 25–30, 2024
Location	New Delhi, India
Significance	First time India hosts the ICA General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference in ICA’s 130-year history.
Launch	PM Modi to launch ‘United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025’
Expected Delegates	3,000 delegates (1,000 international delegates from over 100 countries)
Special Guests	Bhutan PM Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Fiji Deputy PM Manoa Kamikamica
Inaugural Session	Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah to chair the session on November 25
Theme	“Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All”
Subthemes	– Enabling Policy and Entrepreneurial Ecosystems – Nurturing Purposeful Leadership for Prosperity – Reaffirming the Cooperative Identity – Shaping the Future for Prosperity in the 21st Century
Special Features	– Carbon-neutral event with 10,000 Peepal trees planted – Only vegetarian food served, no liquor
India’s Cooperative Landscape	India has 25% of the world’s cooperatives (8 lakh cooperatives)
ICA Overview	Established in 1895, headquartered in Geneva, representing over 306 organizations from 105 countries
Significance of India’s Role	Showcase India’s cooperative achievements and leadership in the global cooperative movement

Which District of Haryana is Known as the Steel City?

Haryana is a state in northern India known for its industrial and agricultural contributions. Among its districts, Hisar is popularly referred to as the City of Steel. This nickname is due to its significant role in the production of steel and related industries.

An Overview of Haryana

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

Administrative Divisions of Haryana

Haryana is divided into 6 administrative divisions and has 22 districts. It includes 72 sub-divisions, 93 tehsils, 50 sub-tehsils, 140 development blocks, 154 cities and towns, 7,356 villages, and 6,222 village panchayats.

Hisar, a district in Haryana, is famously known as the “Steel City.” It is an industrial hub with a strong reputation in steel production. The district’s contribution to India’s economy and its unique attractions make it a noteworthy place in the state.

Why is Hisar Known as the Steel City?

Hisar earned the title “Steel City” because of its large steel industry. It is known as the “Steel Production Capital of India” and is the country’s largest manufacturer of galvanized iron. The district has several factories that play a big role in producing high-quality steel for various uses.

Other Industries in Hisar

Apart from steel, Hisar has thriving industries in textiles and automobiles. These industries provide jobs to many people and help boost the local economy.

Attractions in Hisar

Hisar is also a popular destination for vacations. It has historic landmarks, beautiful parks, and scenic rivers that attract visitors. The combination of industry and nature makes it a unique place to explore.