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RBI Increases UPI Lite Wallet and Transaction Limits

In a bid to enhance digital payments, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has raised the UPI Lite wallet limit to Rs 5,000, with an increase in the per-transaction limit to Rs 1,000. This adjustment, announced after the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on October 9, 2024, aims to promote wider adoption of UPI Lite and ease offline transactions, providing a more seamless experience for users.

Key Changes in UPI Lite Limits

Per-Transaction Limit: The transaction limit for UPI Lite has been raised from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000, making it easier for users to conduct higher-value offline payments without the need for internet connectivity.

Total Wallet Limit: The total wallet limit for UPI Lite has been increased to Rs 5,000 from Rs 2,000. This change allows users to store more funds in their wallet for convenient small-value transactions.

Replenishment Process: The replenishment of the used limit will be allowed only in online mode, secured by Additional Factor Authentication (AFA), ensuring a higher level of security.

Impact on UPI Lite and Offline Transactions

UPI Lite is designed to facilitate small-value digital payments without requiring a UPI PIN or real-time transaction alerts. Transactions under this system are offline, which means they do not require an active internet connection, although the replenishment process is an online activity. This change is expected to drive the adoption of UPI Lite, especially in regions with limited internet connectivity.

Past and Present of UPI’s Evolution

UPI’s International Expansion: UPI has already crossed borders, with services in countries like Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and Singapore. Currently, discussions are underway with over 20 countries in Africa and South America to introduce similar systems.

Growth in Transactions: Despite a decrease in transaction volume and value in November 2024 compared to October, UPI transactions remain robust, with a 10% increase in volume from September 2024. UPI’s daily averages in October reached 516 million transactions totaling Rs 71,840 crore, reflecting its continued growth and acceptance.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
RBI Increases UPI Lite Limits Date of Announcement: October 2024
Increased Wallet Limit: ₹5,000 (previously ₹2,000)
Per-Transaction Limit: ₹1,000 (previously ₹500)
Replenishment Process: Online mode with Additional Factor Authentication (AFA)
UPI Lite Functionality: Facilitates small-value offline transactions without internet or telecom connectivity.
Transaction Alerts: Not sent in real-time.
UPI Lite Adoption Expected to encourage the use of digital payments in areas with limited internet access.
International Expansion of UPI UPI services extend beyond India to countries like Sri Lanka, Mauritius, UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, and Nepal.
International Discussions: Ongoing with 20 countries in Africa and South America.
UPI Transaction Data November 2024: 15.48 billion transactions totaling ₹21.55 lakh crore (6.6% decrease in volume, 8.3% decrease in value compared to October 2024)
October 2024: 16.58 billion transactions totaling ₹23.50 lakh crore.

 

US Approves $1.17 Billion Deal for Indian Navy Chopper Equipment

In a significant boost to India’s naval capabilities, the outgoing Biden administration has approved a $1.17 billion deal under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program to supply advanced communication systems, sensors, and logistical support for the Indian Navy’s Sikorsky MH-60R multi-role helicopters. The deal, part of a broader strategy to counter challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) from China and Pakistan, underscores the growing defense partnership between India and the United States.

Background

  • Previous Deal: The sale of 24 Sikorsky MH-60R multi-role helicopters from Lockheed Martin was cleared during Donald Trump’s presidency.
  • Current Status: India has already received six helicopters, deployed in Kochi with configurations identical to the US Navy’s.

Key Features of MH-60R Helicopters

Capabilities

  • Advanced maritime multi-mission helicopter for anti-submarine and surface combat.
  • Equipped with Mk 54 torpedoes for anti-submarine warfare and Hellfire missiles for air-to-surface strikes.
  • Features advanced radar and sonar systems for operations in challenging conditions.

Force Multiplier: Considered a major asset in the Indian Navy’s efforts to address strategic challenges in the IOR.

Modernization: Replaces the ageing Sea King helicopter fleet, which served for over three decades.

Deal Details

  • Components: Advanced communication systems, sensors, and logistical support tailored to Indian Navy requirements.
  • Custom Configurations: Remaining 18 helicopters will include India-specific customizations.

Strategic Purpose

  • Enhances operational capabilities amidst China’s increasing activity in the Indian Ocean.
  • Counters regional instability associated with Pakistan.

Strategic Significance

US-India Defense Partnership

  • Reflects deepening defense collaboration between the two nations.
  • Aligns with their shared vision for a free and secure Indo-Pacific region.
  • Regional Security: Strengthens India’s naval edge, crucial for maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean Region.

Advanced Features of MH-60R

  • Fourth-generation technology for unmatched maritime mission performance.
  • Global deployment as one of the most advanced helicopters in operation.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? US clears USD 1.17 billion deal to supply equipment for Indian Navy choppers
Purpose Equip Indian Navy’s MH-60R helicopters with advanced systems and logistical support.
Existing Fleet 6 MH-60R helicopters deployed in Kochi with US Navy configuration.
Upcoming Deliveries 18 helicopters to include India-specific custom configurations.
Capabilities Anti-submarine warfare, surface combat, radar, sonar, Mk 54 torpedoes, and Hellfire missiles.
Replaces Ageing Sea King helicopter fleet (30+ years of service).
Strategic Goals Counter China’s activity in the IOR and address Pakistan’s regional instability.
US-India Partnership Reinforces defense ties; supports a free and secure Indo-Pacific.
Global Deployment Recognized as one of the most advanced maritime helicopters worldwide.

Centre Launches eMaap Portal for Fair Trade and Consumer Protection

The Indian government is introducing the National Legal Metrology Portal (eMaap) to promote fair trade practices and enhance consumer protection. This initiative is aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with legal metrology standards. As part of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs’ effort, the portal will streamline services for businesses and consumers, fostering a balanced marketplace.

Key Features of eMaap Portal

Digital One-Stop Platform: The portal will provide a comprehensive digital interface for businesses and consumers, ensuring easy access to legal metrology services.

Automated Workflow: It will speed up processes through automated systems, offering real-time compliance tracking and updated regulations.

Registration and Certification: Businesses can register, get licensed, and obtain certifications more efficiently, helping them comply with legal requirements.

Consumer Awareness: The platform will educate consumers on their rights and offer grievance redressal mechanisms for issues related to measurement inaccuracies or violations.

Impact on Trade and Consumer Protection

Union Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized that the portal will simplify regulatory processes, reduce business burdens, and strengthen metrology enforcement. The initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of leveraging technology to improve business ease while safeguarding consumer interests. This digital transformation is a key milestone towards creating a transparent and fair trade environment across India, balancing the needs of both businesses and consumers.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Launch of National Legal Metrology Portal (eMaap) Government to launch eMaap to promote fair trade and consumer protection.
Key Features of eMaap Portal – One-stop digital platform for businesses and consumers.
– Automated workflows for faster processing and real-time compliance tracking.
– Services for registration, licensing, and certification.
– Consumer grievance redressal mechanisms for measurement inaccuracies.
Minister Involved Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution: Piyush Goyal.
Objective Aims to foster a balanced marketplace by safeguarding consumer interests while aiding business compliance.
Digital Transformation Supports the government’s digital transformation agenda to simplify regulatory processes.
Government Vision To create a transparent and fair trade environment benefiting both businesses and consumers.

Amazon Boosts AI with Nova Foundation Models

Amazon has unveiled its latest innovation in generative AI with the introduction of Nova Foundation Models (FMs). These cutting-edge models, collectively branded as “Amazon Nova,” represent a significant leap in AI technology, designed to process diverse inputs like text, images, and videos. The Nova series is tailored to improve multimedia content creation, document analysis, and video understanding, catering to the diverse needs of developers and businesses. Amazon’s advancements aim to address challenges such as latency, cost-effectiveness, and customization, positioning the company as a strong contender in the AI space alongside industry leaders like OpenAI, Meta, and Adobe.

Key Features of Amazon Nova Foundation Models

Multimodal Capabilities

  • Process multiple input formats, including text, images, and videos.
  • Enable tasks such as analyzing videos, understanding documents, and creating multimedia content.

Affordability and Efficiency

  • Models are 75% faster and less expensive than existing options on Amazon Bedrock.
  • Designed for seamless integration into customer systems.

Model Variants

  • Nova Micro, Lite, and Pro: Current models tailored for efficiency and flexibility.
  • Nova Premier: Advanced version set to launch in early 2025.

Future Models (Planned for 2025)

Speech-to-Speech Model

  • Enables natural, human-like conversations by interpreting spoken language and tone.

Any-to-Any Multimodal Model

  • Handles inputs and outputs across formats, including text, images, audio, and video.
  • Facilitates tasks like cross-format translations and advanced content editing.

Integration with Amazon Bedrock

  • Customers can access foundation models from Amazon and other leading AI companies through a single API.
  • Simplifies experimentation and customization for businesses.

Competitive Edge

  • Positioned to compete with Adobe, Meta, and OpenAI in the generative AI landscape.
  • Innovations in multimodal and agentic capabilities enhance Nova’s appeal for diverse applications.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Amazon Launches Nova Foundation Models to Boost Generative AI
Launch December 2024
Core Capabilities Multimodal processing (text, images, videos) for content creation, document analysis, and video understanding.
Models Available Nova Micro, Lite, Pro (available now); Nova Premier (early 2025).
Future Models Speech-to-Speech (2025); Any-to-Any Multimodal (2025).
Cost & Efficiency 75% faster and less expensive than existing models on Amazon Bedrock.
Integration Works with Amazon Bedrock; single API access to models from Amazon and other AI companies.
Key Features Latency reduction, cost-effectiveness, customization, information grounding, agentic capabilities.
Competitive Position Competing with OpenAI, Meta, and Adobe.
Leadership Insight Addressing developer challenges with over 1,000 internal generative AI applications.

PMSGMBY: 10 Lakh Solar Installations by 2025, 1 Crore by 2027

The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY), the world’s largest domestic rooftop solar scheme, is rapidly transforming India’s solar energy landscape. Launched in February 2024, the scheme has already achieved impressive milestones, with 6.3 lakh installations in just 9 months—averaging 70,000 per month, a sharp increase from the 7,000 per month prior to its launch. By March 2025, installations are projected to exceed 10 lakh, and the scheme aims for one crore installations by March 2027.

Key Achievements and Progress

Record Installation Growth

10 Lakh Target: The scheme is on track to surpass 10 lakh installations by March 2025, with rapid expansion to 40 lakh by March 2026.

State-Wise Success: States like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Uttar Pradesh are leading in installations, driven by strong infrastructure and collaborations.

Addressing Initial Challenges

Technical Barriers: Auto-load enhancements and waiving of Technical Feasibility Reports (TFR) for systems up to 10kW have expedited progress.

Vendor and Financing Support: Over 9,000 vendors have been activated, and affordable financing options are available through the Jan Samarth Portal.

Efficient Infrastructure and Consumer Process Streamlining

IT System Strengthening

Integration of 90 DISCOMs and banks has been key to scaling operations. Additionally, 40,000 personnel have been trained, with an additional 2 lakh technicians to be trained within the next 8 months.

Simplified Consumer Process

Consumers can now apply for solar installations in just 5 minutes through the PMSuryaghar Portal, which includes features like GIS to plan system capacity and loan application.

Subsidy Disbursement Success

Over ₹3,100 crore has been disbursed to four lakh consumers, with an average of 67,000 households receiving subsidies monthly. The entire process, from application to subsidy release, now takes just 15 days.

Future Outlook: Sustainable Growth and Global Benchmark

The PMSGMBY is not just achieving its ambitious targets but also setting a global benchmark for sustainable energy deployment. With its streamlined processes, large-scale infrastructure, and growing consumer base, the scheme is poised to deliver significant socio-economic and environmental benefits, marking India as a leader in renewable energy integration.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) India’s largest rooftop solar scheme targeting 10 lakh installations by March 2025 and 1 crore by 2027.
Current Installations 6.3 lakh installations achieved in the first 9 months.
Targeted Growth 10 lakh by March 2025, 40 lakh by March 2026, 1 crore by March 2027.
States Leading the Scheme Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh
Key Infrastructure Over 9,000 vendors activated, 40,000 personnel trained.
Subsidy Disbursement Over ₹3,100 crore disbursed to 4 lakh consumers by November 2024.
Key Consumer Process Simplified application process, 5-minute online application.
Portal Features GIS to plan rooftop solar system, loan application at 7% interest rate.
Implementation Support Auto-load enhancement, Technical Feasibility Report (TFR) waiver for systems up to 10kW.
Training and Capacity Building 2 lakh additional technicians to be trained in 8 months, 50,000 DISCOM engineers to inspect solar systems.
Subsidy Processing Time Subsidy processed within 15 days, enhancing consumer satisfaction.
Insurance Coverage Includes accidental death and disability cover for members.
Premium for PMSBY Scheme ₹20 per annum per member for accidental cover.
Eligibility for PMSBY Bank account holders aged 18-70 years, consent for auto-debit.

NSIC Pays Record Dividend of Rs. 37.97 Crore for FY 2023-24

The National Small Industries Corporation Limited (NSIC), a Mini Ratna enterprise under the Ministry of MSME, achieved a milestone by paying its highest-ever dividend of Rs. 37.97 crore to the Government of India for the financial year 2023-24. Chairman-cum-Managing Director, Dr. Subhransu Sekhar Acharya, presented the dividend cheque to Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi, Hon’ble Union Minister, and Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Hon’ble MoS, Ministry of MSME, in the presence of senior ministry officials, marking a significant achievement in the corporation’s history.

NSIC reported a Revenue from Operations of Rs. 3,273 crore, up by 18.16%, and a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 126.56 crore, reflecting a 14.55% increase compared to the previous year.

Financial Achievements and Growth

Revenue Surge: NSIC recorded a revenue of Rs. 3,273 crore in FY 2023-24, showcasing an 18.16% growth compared to the prior year.

Profit Milestone: Profit After Tax (PAT) reached Rs. 126.56 crore, a 14.55% year-on-year rise.

Dividend Record: With a dividend of Rs. 37.97 crore, the company achieved its highest-ever payout to the Government of India.

Leadership Remarks

Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi commended NSIC for its role in empowering MSMEs and urged the organization to expand its initiatives in skill development and enterprise creation. The Hon’ble MoS, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of NSIC’s contribution to MSME growth.

Historical Context and Future Outlook

NSIC has consistently supported MSMEs through integrated services, including financial assistance, skill development, and market promotion. The record dividend for FY 2023-24 highlights the corporation’s operational efficiency and its pivotal role in driving economic growth. Looking ahead, NSIC aims to explore new avenues for enterprise creation and foster innovation, reinforcing its commitment to the MSME sector.

Summary of the news

Key Point Details
Why in News NSIC paid a record dividend of ₹37.97 crore to the Government of India for FY 2023-24, its highest ever.
Revenue FY 2023-24 ₹3,273 crore (18.16% growth from the previous year).
Profit After Tax (PAT) ₹126.56 crore (14.55% growth from the previous year).
CMD of NSIC Dr. Subhransu Sekhar Acharya.
Union Minister (MSME) Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi.
MoS (MSME) Sushri Shobha Karandlaje.
Ministry Secretary Shri S.C.L. Das.
NSIC Status Mini Ratna Enterprise under the Ministry of MSME.

Which Island is Known as the Coral Island?

An island called Coral Island is famous for its beautiful coral reefs, which are underwater structures made by tiny sea animals called corals. These islands are not only stunning but also home to diverse marine life. Let’s explore more about Coral Island and why it is so special.

Coral Island

Lakshadweep, a beautiful group of islands in India, is famously known as the Coral Island. It earned this name because of how it was formed and its unique features related to coral reefs.

How was Lakshadweep Formed?

Lakshadweep was formed by coral reefs. These reefs are underwater structures made by tiny marine animals called corals. The corals release a substance called calcium carbonate, which builds a hard skeleton. Over time, these skeletons pile up, creating large reefs. When these reefs grow near the surface of the water, they can form islands like Lakshadweep.

Location of Lakshadweep Island

Lakshadweep is a group of 36 small islands located in the Arabian Sea, near the coast of Kerala, India. These islands are part of Indian territory and are known for their natural beauty.

What makes Lakshadweep Island Special?

The coral reefs of Lakshadweep are among the most beautiful in the world. They are home to a large variety of marine animals and plants. These reefs make the islands a favorite destination for tourists and scientists who study marine life. People visit Lakshadweep to enjoy activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and seeing colorful fish and coral.

India Intensifies Efforts to Reduce Snakebite Deaths by 2030

India, which accounts for nearly 50% of global snakebite deaths, has declared snakebite a notifiable disease at the national level. This initiative aims to reduce the high mortality and morbidity rates associated with snakebites, particularly in rural and tribal areas, and aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of halving global snakebite deaths and injuries by 2030. By mandating reporting of all snakebite cases and deaths, the move enables better surveillance, treatment, and prevention strategies, offering hope to marginalized communities disproportionately affected by this neglected public health issue.

Declaration and Implementation

  • Notification Announcement: Declared by Union Health Ministry in a letter dated November 27, 2024, signed by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava.
  • Mandatory Reporting: All government and private healthcare facilities, including medical colleges, must report suspected or confirmed snakebite cases and deaths under relevant State Public Health Acts or other applicable legislation.
  • WHO Target Alignment: Supports WHO’s goal of reducing global snakebite deaths and injuries by 50% by 2030.

Current State and Historical Context

  • India’s Burden: The country witnesses over 50,000 snakebite deaths annually and is dubbed the “snakebite capital of the world.” Permanent disabilities among survivors are 3–4 times higher than deaths.
  • Regional Steps: States like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu had already declared snakebites as notifiable diseases.

Benefits of Notification

  • Improved Surveillance: Enables systematic tracking of snakebite cases, enhancing the accuracy of data.
  • Better Resource Management: Facilitates efficient allocation of anti-venom, medical resources, and emergency care.
  • Enhanced Response: Empowers healthcare systems at state and national levels to mitigate snakebite effects.

Public Health Initiatives and Research

ICMR’s Role

  • Dahanu Model Success: Research initiated in 2014 reduced snakebite deaths by 90% in Palghar district, Maharashtra.
  • National Scaling: Dahanu Model was expanded to Maharashtra and Odisha under the ICMR National Snakebite Project (INSP).
  • Capacity Building: Training of medical officers and community engagement with traditional healers to improve envenoming management.
  • IEC Material: Development of multilingual, culturally sensitive materials on snakebite prevention and management.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Snakebite declared notifiable in India, aligning with WHO’s 2030 target.
Significance Addresses India’s contribution to 50% of global snakebite deaths; improves surveillance.
Mandatory Reporting All healthcare facilities must report snakebite cases and deaths.
ICMR Contributions Dahanu Model, IEC materials, training programs, and scaling to Maharashtra and Odisha.
Key States with Prior Action Karnataka, Tamil Nadu.
Experts’ Views Advocates for improved data, resource management, and focus on marginalized communities.
Outcomes Expected Reduction in deaths, better preparedness, and enhanced healthcare response.
Challenges Overcoming underreporting and addressing reliance on traditional treatments.
Next Steps Strengthening national frameworks and integrating state efforts

PMGDISHA Achieves 6.39 Crore Digital Literacy Milestone

The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA), launched to bridge the digital literacy gap in rural India, has successfully trained 6.39 crore individuals, surpassing its target of 6 crore rural households as of March 31, 2024. This initiative, under the Digital India Programme, aimed to empower one member per rural household with essential digital skills. The scheme was implemented nationwide through training centers under the supervision of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with State Implementing Agencies.

Scheme Objectives and Achievements

Background: The 71st NSSO Survey (2014) revealed that only 6% of rural households owned computers, highlighting a massive digital divide. PMGDISHA was initiated to address this gap by targeting 6 crore rural households, ensuring digital inclusion for underserved groups such as SC/ST, women, and differently-abled individuals.

Milestone Achieved: As per the scheme’s outcome:

  • 7.35 crore individuals enrolled, of which 6.39 crore were trained, and 4.78 crore certified.
  • Digital literacy enables beneficiaries to perform cashless transactions, access online government services, and use IT tools to enhance livelihoods.

Implementation Process: The training program spanned 20 hours over 10-30 days, covering basics like device functionality, internet browsing, cashless payments, and online services. Priority was given to non-smartphone users, BPL households, and school dropouts.

State-Wise Highlights

States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra led with the highest trained candidates, achieving 74.12 lakh, 1.45 crore, and 53.23 lakh individuals respectively. Smaller regions like Lakshadweep and Manipur had limited participation due to demographic constraints.

Complementary Initiatives in IT and AI

Under MeitY’s broader vision to establish India as an IT and AI skills hub, initiatives like India BPO Promotion Scheme (IBPS) and North East BPO Promotion Scheme (NEBPS) incentivized IT/ITES growth in smaller towns, while the FutureSkills PRIME program, in collaboration with NASSCOM, focused on re-skilling/up-skilling in emerging technologies like AI, Blockchain, and Cybersecurity.

Impact on Digital Literacy and Nation Building

PMGDISHA’s success underscores India’s commitment to becoming a digitally inclusive society. The program aligns with the Digital India vision, ensuring rural participation in democratic and developmental processes while enhancing employability and livelihood opportunities.

Summary of the news

Key Points Details
Why in News PMGDISHA surpassed its target by training 6.39 crore individuals in digital literacy before March 31, 2024.
Scheme Name Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA)
Launched Under Digital India Programme
Objective To provide digital literacy to one person per rural household in India.
Target 6 crore individuals by March 31, 2024
Achievement Over 7.35 crore enrolled; 6.39 crore trained; 4.78 crore certified
Digital India Programme (Static Info) Launched in 2015; aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.

 

International Volunteer Day 2024: Date, History and Theme

The United Nations (UN) celebrates International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development on December 5 annually. Commonly known as International Volunteer Day (IVD), this special occasion provides a platform for volunteers worldwide to come together and highlight their invaluable contributions to social and economic development. This day serves as a reminder of the transformative power of volunteerism in addressing global challenges and fostering sustainable progress at local, national, and international levels.

Theme: Diverse Volunteers, Stronger Communities

The theme underscores the indispensable role of diverse volunteers in creating inclusive and resilient communities.

  • Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires the involvement of people from all stages, levels, and backgrounds.
  • Volunteerism enables individuals and communities to actively participate in developing solutions, bridging gaps, and fostering intergenerational collaboration.

The spirit of volunteerism is most evident in challenging times, whether combating climate change, addressing conflicts, or tackling social injustices. Volunteers are often the first responders, showing unparalleled courage, dedication, and selflessness.

The Impact of Volunteerism

  • Volunteers enrich communities by fostering a culture of service, strengthening bonds across generations, and enabling progress toward achieving the SDGs.
  • Volunteerism bridges gaps, promotes understanding, and empowers individuals to take charge of their development.
  • It is described as an intergenerational cycle, where every generation learns from and contributes to the collective effort.

History of International Volunteer Day

1985: UN General Assembly Resolution

The UN General Assembly established International Volunteer Day on December 17, 1985 (Resolution 40/212), encouraging governments worldwide to observe it annually on December 5. The goal was to raise awareness of the value of volunteer service and inspire more people to participate.

1997: Proclamation of International Year of Volunteers

In 1997, the General Assembly proclaimed 2001 as the International Year of Volunteers (IYV) through Resolution 52/17. This initiative recognized the efforts of volunteers and aimed to facilitate their work, create communication networks, and promote the benefits of voluntary service.

2001: Recommendations for Volunteer Support

The General Assembly adopted a set of recommendations in 2001 (Resolution 56/38) to encourage governments and the UN system to provide support to volunteers and spread awareness about their contributions.

2002: Strengthening the UNV Programme

In 2002, the Assembly urged the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme to maximize the potential of International Volunteer Day (Resolution 57/106).

2008: Commemorating the 10th Anniversary of IYV

On December 18, 2008, the General Assembly decided to commemorate the 10th anniversary of IYV with two plenary sessions during its 66th session in 2011 (Resolution 63/153).

UN Volunteers Programme in 2024

The UN Volunteers Programme, hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), achieved remarkable milestones in 2024:

  • Over 13,000 on-site volunteers contributed to 70+ UN entities and missions.
  • A record 10,000 online volunteers, aged between 18 and 88, served from 180 countries, bringing unique perspectives and skills.

These efforts enriched collective global initiatives and highlighted the importance of volunteer diversity in driving progress toward the SDGs.

Famous Volunteers and Their Legacies

Ben Franklin

Known as a Founding Father of the United States, Franklin also founded the first volunteer fire department, the Union Fire Company, in 1736. His famous saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” reflects his dedication to public service.

Christopher Reeve

The actor-turned-advocate for people with spinal cord injuries served as:

  • Vice Chairman of the National Organisation on Disability.
  • Chairman of the American Paralysis Association.
    He also established the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, which supports research and resources for individuals with disabilities.

Agatha Christie

The renowned author volunteered as a nurse in the Red Cross Hospital during World War I (1914–1917). Her experience later influenced her writing and provided insights into human resilience.

Ella Fitzgerald

The “First Lady of Song” supported the fight against polio by participating in public service announcements for the March of Dimes in 1958.

Sally Ride

America’s first female astronaut, Ride co-founded Camp CEO, which mentored minority girls in collaboration with the Girl Scouts. She also established Sally Ride Science, promoting STEM education for young girls.

International Volunteer Day 2024: Summary in Tabular Form

Aspect Details
Why in News International Volunteer Day (IVD) is observed annually on December 5, highlighting the role of volunteers in global social and economic development.
Theme Diverse Volunteers, Stronger Communities – emphasizing inclusivity and intergenerational collaboration for sustainable development.
Significance – Volunteerism empowers individuals and communities to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
– Volunteers address challenges like climate change, conflicts, and social injustices with dedication and selflessness.
History – 1985: UN General Assembly established IVD (Resolution 40/212).
– 1997: Proclaimed 2001 as International Year of Volunteers.
– 2001: Recommendations adopted to support global volunteer efforts.
– 2002: Strengthened the role of United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme.
– 2008: Marked the 10th anniversary of the International Year of Volunteers.
2024 Highlights – Over 13,000 on-site volunteers and 10,000 online volunteers (aged 18–88) contributed to 70+ UN entities.
– Volunteers hailed from 180 countries, enriching global SDG efforts.
Famous Volunteers – Ben Franklin: Founded the first volunteer fire department in 1736.
– Christopher Reeve: Advocated for people with spinal cord injuries and co-founded the Reeve Foundation.
– Agatha Christie: Volunteered as a nurse during World War I.
– Ella Fitzgerald: Supported the fight against polio via public service campaigns.
– Sally Ride: Promoted STEM education for girls and co-founded Camp CEO for mentoring minority girls.
Key Message Volunteerism fosters resilience, bridges generations, and accelerates progress on SDGs by enabling communities to take charge of their development.
Call to Action Encouraging people to embrace volunteerism and participate actively in community and global development initiatives.

 

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