PIB Summary- 23th November, 2023 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR

Context
Recently, the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise “VAJRA PRAHAR 2023” commenced at the Joint Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya.

Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR 2023: Strengthening Indo-US Defence Ties

• Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR is a joint military exercise conducted between the Indian Army and the US Army Special Forces.
• Aim and Focus:  Aims to share best practices and experiences in crucial areas like joint mission planning and operational tactics.

Edition:

• Marks the 14th edition of the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise “VAJRA PRAHAR 2023.”
• Commenced at the Joint Training Node, Umroi.

Participating Forces:

• The US contingent is represented by personnel from the 1st Special Forces Group (SFG) of the US Special Forces.
• The Indian Army contingent is led by Special Forces personnel from the Eastern Command.

Historical Context:

• The inaugural edition took place in 2010 in India.
• The 13th edition was conducted at the Special Forces Training School (SFTS), Bakloh (HP).

Duration and Location:

• The current edition is hosted at Umroi Cantonment, Meghalaya.
• Scheduled from 21st November to 11th December 2023.

Objectives:

• Serve as a platform to enhance inter-operability and strengthen defence cooperation between the armies of India and the United States of America.

Strategic Significance:

• Underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering strategic ties and building mutual trust through collaborative military exercises.

International Film Festival of India (IFFI)

Context
The 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) recently commenced with a grand opening ceremony at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Panaji, Goa.

International Film Festival of India (IFFI): Celebrating Cinematic Excellence

Founding and Evolution:

• Established in 1952 under the patronage of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
• Organized by the Films Division, Government of India.
• The inaugural edition took place in Mumbai, later moving to various cities.

Competitive Format:

• Transformed into a competitive event from its third edition.

Shift to Goa:

• Permanently relocated to Goa in 2004.
• An annual and competitive event conducted jointly by the Government of Goa and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Accreditation:

• The only film festival in South Asia accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers and Associations (FIAPF).

Objectives:

• Provides a common platform for global cinemas to showcase film art excellence.
• Contributes to understanding and appreciating film cultures worldwide.
• Promotes friendship and cooperation among people globally.

Role in Indian Cinema:

• Aims to inspire and encourage Indian cinema, fostering its potential and placing it on par with international standards.

International Federation of Film Producers and Associations (FIAPF):

• An international organization representing film producers globally.
• Comprising 37 producer organizations across 30 countries on five continents.
• Dedicated to defending and promoting the legal, economic, and creative interests of film producers worldwide.
• Advocates for producers and coordinates political action in key industry areas.