PIB Summary- 3rd December, 2023 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

India re-elected to International Maritime Organisation with highest vote tally

Context
India has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council with the highest vote tally for the 2024–25 biennium, showcasing its significant role in global maritime operations.

Details

• India secured its re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council with the highest vote tally during the assembly elections held for the 2024–25 biennium.
• This reaffirms India’s position among the 10 states with the “largest interest in international seaborne trade,” placing it alongside Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
• The achievement underscores India’s strategic importance in the international maritime domain and showcases the government’s determination, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to contribute actively to global maritime operations.
• The International Labour Organization’s study estimating a 3-7% boost in the global GDP through disability inclusion initiatives aligns with India’s commitment, as seen in its sustained presence in global maritime affairs.
• The news comes on the heels of India’s unanimous election to the Executive Committee of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, signaling a dual commitment to maritime and food safety standards on the international stage.

IMO Council’s Executive Role
The IMO Council’s responsibility for overseeing the organization’s work and performing functions, excluding making recommendations to governments on maritime safety and pollution prevention, adds significance to India’s role in global maritime regulation. India’s comprehensive maritime vision, including initiatives like MIV 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, highlights its commitment to strengthening global maritime presence and active participation in international cooperation programs.

Nano-Science along with Bio-Economy will contribute immensely in India’s march toward 5 Trillion Dollar Economy

Context
Recently, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the crucial role of Nano-Science and Bio-Economy in India’s pursuit of a 5 Trillion Dollar Economy in inaugural visit to Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) in Mohali.

Details

• Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) is the first NanoScience Institute in India. It is set to work on research and create products and services in Nano science for social and national benefit.
• INST’s can play a crucial role in nanoscience research, particularly in areas like Agricultural Nanotechnology, Nanomedicine, and Quantum Materials.
• It is  an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology established in 2014 under NANO MISSION.
• It aims to advance knowledge in nanoscience for societal benefit.
• The institute will also create educated  young minds in nanoscience and technology.
• Nono science along with bioeconomy can help address local and global issues in the field of energy, environment, agriculture, health care etc.
• Nano-science and bio-economy are two fields that have the potential to contribute significantly to India’s economy. 
• The motto is “Knowledge of Nanoscience for the Nation.”