1 President Draupadi Murmu held talks with the President of Suriname Chandrika Prasad Santokhi in Paramaribo. Signing of three agreements in the field of agriculture and health between the two countries
President Draupadi Murmu held bilateral and delegation level talks with Suriname President Chandrika Prasad Santoshi . Three MoUs in health and agriculture sectors were also signed between the two countries. These include a Joint Action Plan for cooperation in agriculture and allied sectors during the years 2023-2027 . as well as the Ministry of Health of Suriname Agreement for recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia Standards and MoU for cooperation in the field of regulation of medical products. President Draupadi Murmu, who arrived on a three-day visit to Suriname, was received by Suriname President Chandrika Prasad Santoshi. President Murmu will be the chief guest at a function to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Indians in Suriname on 5 June 1973. The President will also interact with the Indian community.
2 Dennis Francis elected 78th President of UNGA
The 193 member states of the United Nations elected Denis Francis, a veteran diplomat from Trinidad and Tobago, as the President of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly . Francis, whose career spanned nearly 40 years, will take over as the UN’s main policy-making body starting in September. The General Assembly consists of all 193 member states of the United Nations, all of whom have an equal number of votes.
3 AIIMS New Delhi adjudged best medical institute in National Institute Ranking Framework
All India Institute of Medical Sciences-AIIMS New Delhi has been adjudged the best medical institute in the National Institute Ranking Framework-NIRF . In the ranking, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research-PGIMER Chandigarh is second and Christian Medical College-CMC Vellore is third. PGIMER-Chandigarh has been ranked second for the sixth time in a row since 2018. Dr Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, Minister of State for Education and External Affairs released the rankings. NIRF ranking parameters broadly include teaching, learning and resources, research and professional practice, graduation outcomes, outreach and inclusivity.
4 Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched the Kerala Fiber Optic Network Project Kfone
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched the Kerala Fiber Optic Network Project (KFONE) at the Sankaranarayanan Thambi Hall of the Vidhansabha . It aims to ensure internet facilities at affordable rates for all in the state. Under this, free internet will be made available to more than 20 lakh poor families. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vijayan said that the objective of this project is to bridge the digital divide in the society by providing internet facilities at affordable rates in the state. With this, Kerala will move forward according to the changing world. The Chief Minister informed that soon internet connection would be provided in all government offices and homes.
5 India is a major source of FDI in Dubai
India is the major source country for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Dubai , United Arab Emirates ( UAE). has emerged as Britain’s ‘Financial Times Ltd’. India is among the top five countries in terms of announcements of FDI projects and estimated FDI capital, according to the report released by . Sectors that have attracted FDI from India to Dubai last year include software and IT services (32 per cent), business services (19 per cent), consumer products (9 per cent), real estate (6 per cent) and financial services . According to the report, the sectors where FDI came from India to Dubai were consumer products (28 per cent), software and IT services (20 per cent), communications (19 per cent), pharmaceuticals (eight per cent) and business services (eight per cent). Dubai retained the first position in terms of FDI from India. Along with this, in 2022, it was also ranked first in attracting foreign direct investment in new projects. The report states that 2022 is the second year in a row,
6 3rd Maritime Security Dialogue between India and Vietnam held in New Delhi
The 3rd Maritime Security Dialogue between India and Vietnam was held in New Delhi . Senior officials of both countries and representatives of maritime affairs services participated in the talks. Both sides considered measures to safeguard the marine environment conducive for inclusive development. They reviewed the possibilities of enhancing maritime cooperation and the dimensions of strengthening international and regional mechanisms for comprehensive maritime security.
7 NATO started arctic exercise
NATO countries have started military exercises in the Arctic region . The exercise involves approximately 1,000 allied forces from Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States, along with NATO applicant Sweden . Finland, the newest member of NATO since joining the Western alliance in April , Arctic region is hosting its first joint training in The exercise took place at Rovajärvi in northern Finland, near the Russian border, at one of Europe’s largest artillery training grounds. NATO has pledged to protect its newest member, Finland. The decision to join NATO was influenced by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which raised tensions between Moscow and the West. About 6,500 Finnish soldiers and 1,000 vehicles are participating in the exercise. The Arctic Challenge 2023 exercise also includes 150 aircraft from 14 NATO members and partner countries. The objective of the exercise is to enhance military cooperation and preparedness in the Arctic region. Joint training reinforces NATO’s commitment to collective defense and regional security.
8 Maharashtra State Cabinet clears Gender Inclusive Tourism Policy “Aai”
In an effort to empower women in the tourism industry, the Maharashtra State Cabinet has launched the “ Aaiapproved the implementation of a gender-inclusive tourism policy named The policy will be implemented through the Directorate of Tourism (DoT) and the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). To support the policy, a Women Tourism Policy Cell will be set up within the Department of Telecom. In addition, bike-taxi services for women will be started at specific tourist spots. To promote Women’s Day, MTDC will offer 50% discount on online booking for women tourists from 1st to 8th March every year. The corporation will also organize experiential tour packages for different groups of women tourists and provide stalls or space for women self-help groups to sell handicrafts, artefacts and processed food at MTDC resorts.
9 Helmand River dispute between Iran and Afghanistan
Iran and Afghanistan over the distribution of water resources from the Helmand River The dispute has been going on for a long time. Recent incidents, including clashes between Iranian and Taliban troops along the border, have further escalated tensions between the two countries. The Helmand River serves as an important water source for both Afghanistan and Iran, supporting agriculture, livelihoods and ecosystems in the region. Originating near Kabul in the Hindu Kush mountain range, the river flows for about 1,150 kilometers (715 mi) before draining into Lake Hamun. Unfortunately, Lake Hamoun, which was once Iran’s largest fresh water lake, has been heavily damaged over time. Factors such as drought and the effects of dams and water control have dried up the lake, resulting in severe environmental and economic consequences for the region.
10 United Arab Emirates extended the period to cut oil production by more than one lakh 44 thousand barrels per day till the end of the year 2024
The United Arab Emirates has voluntarily announced to continue the reduction of one lakh 44 thousand barrels per day in oil production till the end of 2024. This decision was taken in accordance with the agreement reached at the 35th ministerial meeting of OPEC Plus . In a statement, OPEC member countries and non-OPEC countries agreed to increase the total production of crude oil to 46 million barrels per day from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024. The statement also said that the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee has the right to hold additional meetings or to request the convening of a ministerial meeting of OPEC or non-OPEC countries in view of market developments. The 36th ministerial meeting of OPEC and non-OPEC countries will be held in Vienna on 26 November this year.
11 K.K. Gopalakrishnan released a book titled “Kathakali Dance Theatre: A Visual Narrative of Sacred Indian Mime”
Recently K.K. Gopalakrishnan has released a fascinating book titled ” Kathakali Dance Theatre: A Visual Narrative of Sacred Indian Mime “. The book offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of Kathakali, focusing on the green room, the struggles of the artists and the unique bonds formed during the long hours of make-up.
12 irdai issues draft insurance carrier guidelines
To ensure access to insurance in remote areas of the country , the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India ( IRDAI) has recently Related draft guidelines have been issued. It is noteworthy that Bima Vahak is a dedicated distribution channel for insurance access to rural areas. The insurance carrier program is one of the components of IRDAI’s “Insurance for All by 2047” target which aims to improve access and availability of insurance products across India. It will serve as a vital last-mile connection for insurers by establishing a field force of both corporate and individual representatives. These representatives, known as insurance carriers, would be responsible for distribution and servicing of insurance products. The insurance carrier scheme is closely linked with the concept of principal insurers introduced by IRDAI. Lead insurers coordinate the deployment of resources to ensure maximum coverage of Gram Panchayats,
13 Amit Shah inaugurated the silver jubilee celebrations of Amrita Hospital
During the silver jubilee celebrations of Amrita Hospital in Kochi, Kerala, Union Home Minister inaugurated two state-of-the-art research centers at Amrita Puri and Kochi campuses of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham with an aim to advance medical science and technology. inaugurated. The event highlighted the remarkable progress in medical education infrastructure and the significant impact of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides free treatment to over 60 crore poor. Also, there has been a substantial increase in the number of medical colleges in particular from 387 to 648 and the establishment of 22 new All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has expanded access to quality healthcare across the country. Have done Home Minister lauds Amrita Hospital for its extraordinary achievements in medical excellence and research, including India’s first micro-blood stem cell transplant, largest number of high-precision robotic liver transplants and country’s first 3D printing lab .
14 Punjab-Himachal Pradesh clash over Shanan hydroelectric project
The lease of the 110 MW Shanan hydroelectric project on the Uhal river (a tributary of the Beas) is due to expire in March 2024. It was established during the British period at Jogindernagar in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh and was disputed between Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. has sprung up. The Himachal Pradesh government has made it clear that it will not renew or extend the lease, demanding that the project be handed over to the state upon its termination. Punjab, however, intends to retain control of the project and is ready to resort to legal means. The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh has sought the Centre’s intervention, stressing on the deadline for the lease and his intention to take over the project in his state. Punjab claims its continuous ownership and possession but also keeps open the option of taking legal recourse if necessary. The Punjab-Himachal Pradesh tension between the two states raises concerns about the future of the Shanan power project.
15 Stock limit fixed by Government of India on Arhar and Urad Dal
In order to curb hoarding , prevent unethical speculation and increase the affordability of the consumers, the Government of India has ordered the imposition of stock limits on Arhar and Urad Dal. has been implemented. With immediate effect from June 2, 2023, the Special Food Food Amendment Order 2023, which is applicable to wholesalers, retailers, large chain sellers, millers and importers, regarding removal of licensing requirements, storage limits and restrictions on movement Has been given. Under this order, the storage limit of Arhar and Urad Dal has been fixed for all the States and Union Territories till October 31, 2023. The stock limits prescribed under this order are as follows: Wholesalers can hold up to 200 metric tonnes (MT) of pulses individually, retailers are limited to 5 MT, Large chain retailers can keep 5 MT at each retail outlet and 200 MT at the depot. Millers are permitted to hold the last three months of production or 25% of their annual installed capacity (whichever is higher) and importers are prohibited from holding imported stock beyond 30 days from the date of customs clearance. To ensure compliance, legal entities are required to declare their stock position on the portal of the Department of Consumer Affairs within 30 days of notification.
16 Nyay Vikas Portal created to monitor the implementation of centrally sponsored schemes
Nyay Vikas Portal for information related to funding, documentation, project monitoring and approval But login can be done in four ways. This portal will empower the stakeholders by providing easy access to information. The Department of Justice has been implementing Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) since 1993-94 for the development of infrastructure facilities in the District and Subordinate Judiciary. Under the scheme, assistance is provided from the Center to the State Government/UT Administration for construction of Court Halls and residential units for Judicial Officers/Judges of District and Subordinate Courts. With the extension of the scheme beyond 31.03.2021, some new facilities like hall for lawyers, toilets and digital computer room have been added in addition to the court hall and residential units. This will benefit lawyers and litigants. The fund sharing pattern between the Center and the State is 60:40 for the states except the North Eastern and Himalayan states under the scheme. Fund Sharing 90% for North Eastern and Himalayan States: 10 more union territories have a full 100 percent. This portal has been prepared only to monitor the implementation of this scheme.
17 Sahara India Company acquired by SBI
In a significant move, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has directed SBI Life Insurance Company to take over the life insurance business of Sahara India Life Insurance Company (SILIC) with immediate effect. The decision comes at a time when Sahara Life has failed to comply with the directions of IRDAI and has been negligent in protecting the interests of the policyholders.
18 ISSF Junior World Cup in Germany
India’s Dhanush Srikanth won the gold medal for India on the third day of the ongoing ISSF Junior World Cup Shooting in Suhl , Germany . Dhanush Srikanth won the gold medal in the men’s 10m air rifle event. Thus India got its third gold in this competition so far. Indian shooters Abhinav Shaw and Gautami Bhanot won the final of the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team event to give India their second gold at the ISSF World Cup Junior in Suhl, Germany. On Saturday, young player Sanyam won the gold medal in the women’s 10 meter air pistol individual event. India continues to lead the medal tally with three gold, one silver and two bronze medals.
19 Top Indian sprinter Amlan Borgohain won two gold medals at Flanders Cup 2023 in Belgium
Top Indian sprinter Amlan Borgohain won a gold medal each in the men’s 100 and 200 meters at the Flanders Cup 2023 Athletics Meet . The event is known as the International Antwerp Athletics Gala in Merksheim, Belgium. Borgohain clocked 10.70 seconds to win the title of the fastest man of the meet. He holds the national record for 100 meters in 10.25 seconds. In the 200 metres, the 25-year-old Borgohain clocked 20.96 seconds ahead of Hoffmann’s 21.42 seconds and Jamaica’s Samuel Rowe in 21.88. Meanwhile, Sapna Kumari finished behind Belgium’s Amber Vanden Bosch in the women’s 100m hurdles, clocking 14.10s.
20 International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression 2023: 4 June
The International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression , observed every year on 4 June , draws attention to children who experience various forms of aggression. It is a sobering reminder of the suffering endured by countless children globally, regardless of the specific type of abuse they endure.
