UKPSC Monthly Current Affairs: September 2023 | Monthly Current Affairs UKPSC - UKPSC (Uttarakhand) PDF Download

Sonali Ghosh from Uttarakhand Becomes First Woman Director of Kaziranga Park

Sonali Ghosh, an Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer from Dehradun, Uttarakhand, has made history by becoming the first woman to take charge as the Field Director of Kaziranga National Park (KNP) in Assam. This significant appointment marks a milestone for the 118-year-old park, known for its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Details of the Appointment

• Sonali Ghosh officially assumed her role as the Field Director of Kaziranga National Park on September 1, 2023. 
• Her appointment was previously sanctioned by the Assam government, highlighting the trust in her capabilities to lead such an important conservation area. Ghosh succeeded Jatindra Sharma, who retired from the position on August 31, 2023.

Background of Sonali Ghosh

• Before her new role at Kaziranga, Sonali Ghosh served as the Chief Conservator of Forests in the Research Education and Action Planning Division, under the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force in Guwahati. 
• Her extensive experience in forest management and conservation has equipped her with the necessary skills to oversee the vital work at Kaziranga National Park.

Chief Minister Unveils Logo and Website for Global Investors Summit-2023

On September 2, 2023, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami introduced the logo and website for the upcoming Global Investors Summit-2023, set to take place in December.

• During the launch, the Chief Minister emphasized the commitment to addressing the needs of entrepreneurs during the summit, highlighting its significance for the entire state and all departments involved.
• It was noted that preliminary discussions for the summit had occurred in Dehradun, with further talks held with industry groups in Delhi on August 21. There is a growing interest within the industry to invest in Uttarakhand, with industry representatives expressing their role as brand ambassadors for the state.
• The Chief Minister assured that there is readiness for investment and the arrival of new investors in Uttarakhand, with industry groups prepared to expand their operations. He mentioned that there are between 15,000 to 20,000 industries ready for investment in the state.
• The Dhami government has set an ambitious investment target of Rs 2.5 lakh crore for the Global Investors Summit in December. Preparations and meetings for the summit are ongoing, spanning from Dehradun to Delhi.

17 Teachers to be Honored with Shailesh Matiyani Educational Award on Teachers' Day

Seventeen teachers from Uttarakhand are set to receive the prestigious Shailesh Matiyani State Educational Award on Teachers' Day, as announced by the Governor of Uttarakhand, Lt. Gen. Gurmeet Singh (Retd.). The award recognizes outstanding contributions to education, with ten teachers selected from elementary education, six from secondary education, and one from a training institute.

Primary Education Awardees :

• Asha Budakoti - Pauri district
• Sanjay Kumar Kuksal - Uttarkashi
• Usha Gaur - Dehradun
• Sanjay Kumar - Haridwar
• Uttam Singh Rana - Tehri
• Ravish Chandra Panchauli - Champawat
• Suresh Chandra Sati - Bageshwar
• Ganga Arya - Pithoragarh
• Dr. Asha Bisht - Nainital

Secondary Education Awardees :

• Lokendrapal Singh - Uttarkashi
• Sanjay Kumar - Dehradun
• Damayanti Chand - Pithoragarh
• Tribhuvan Chand - Bageshwar
• Dr. Prabhakar Joshi - Almora
• Nirmal Kumar - Udham Singh Nagar

Training Institute Awardee :

• Dr. Shailendra Singh Dhapola - District Education and Training Institute, Bageshwar
• The Shailesh Matiyani State Educational Award 2022 was initially announced in February this year by the Secondary Education Directorate. However, the selected teachers could not be honored at that time. 
• The upcoming ceremony will rectify this and recognize the exemplary efforts of these educators in enhancing the quality of education in the state.

Rajesh Bhandari from Tehri appointed Deputy Chief of Air Staff

Rajesh Bhandari, hailing from Tehri in Uttarakhand, has been appointed as the Deputy Chief of Air Staff at Air Force Headquarters in New Delhi. This follows his promotion after serving as a commissioned officer in the Air Force since December 15, 1990, and rising to the rank of Air Commodore on February 1, 2022.

• Bhandari’s educational background is from Dehradun, and he is known for his service in the Air Force. 
• His appointment comes after the tenure of Air Marshal Vijaypal Singh Rana, who was the first officer from Tehri and the second from Uttarakhand to reach a high-ranking position in the Air Force, serving as an Advisor to the Air Chief Marshal.

Trial of New Air Service between Dehradun, Pithoragarh, and Pantnagar Begins

A trial for a new air service route connecting Dehradun, Pithoragarh, and Pantnagar has commenced, with the service expected to launch soon. The trial is being conducted by Fly Big Company, which aims to start regular flights under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS).

• On September 3, a 19-seater Fly Big aircraft successfully flew from Dehradun to Pantnagar via Pithoragarh, carrying crew members and essential materials for the company’s staff in Pantnagar. Fly Big has set up site offices at the Dehradun, Pithoragarh, and Pantnagar airports and is currently training employees in preparation for the air service.
• The air service is anticipated to begin in October, with costs shared between passengers and the state government, covering 60% and 40% of the fares, respectively.

Shailesh Matiyani State Educational Award 2022

On September 5, 2023, 17 teachers were honored with the Shailesh Matiyani State Educational Award by Governor Lt. Gen. Gurmeet Singh (Retd.) at Dehradun Raj Bhavan, coinciding with Teachers’ Day.

• Award Distribution: The awards recognized 10 teachers from elementary education, six from secondary education, and one from a training institute.
• Prize Money Increase: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced an increase in the award’s prize money from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 21,000.
• Background: The Shailesh Matiyani State Educational Award 2022 was initially announced in February, but the selected teachers were honored later at Raj Bhavan.

Awardees: Elementary Education:

• Asha Budakoti (Pauri)
• Sanjay Kumar Kuksal (Uttarkashi)
• Usha Gaur (Dehradun)
• Sanjay Kumar (Haridwar)
• Uttam Singh Rana (Tehri)
• Ravish Chandra Pancholi (Champawat)
• Suresh Chandra Sati (Bageshwar)
• Ganga Arya (Pithoragarh)
• Dr. Asha Bisht (Nainital)

Secondary Education:

• Lokendrapal Singh (Uttarkashi)
• Sanjay Kumar (Dehradun)
• Damayanti Chand (Pithoragarh)
• Tribhuvan Chand (Bageshwar)
• Dr. Prabhakar Joshi (Almora)
• Nirmal Kumar (Udham Singh Nagar)

Fund Allocation for Education and Infrastructure:

• Overall Education: Rs. 128 crore.
• RIDF Scheme (Lonivi): Rs. 100 crore.
• Haridwar Medical College Construction: Rs. 100 crore.
• Rooftop Solar Plant and Street Lights: Rs. 67 crore.
• Chief Minister's Anganwadi Building: Rs. 50 crore.
• Unity Goods Production: Rs. 50 crore.
• Sports Stadium Development: Fund provision.
• State Cancer Institute (Haldwani): Fund provision.
• Rishikesh Yoga City Development: Fund provision.
• Monsoon Road Repairs: Rs. 300 crore.
• National Health Mission: Rs. 297 crore.
• Food Grain Subsidy: Rs. 284 crore.
• Disaster Management: Rs. 218 crore.

Rejuvenation of 23 Small Towns in Uttarakhand

• Proposal Approval: The Centre has given in-principle consent to rejuvenate 23 small towns in Uttarakhand, each with a population of less than 50,000. A detailed proposal will be sent to the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry.
• Background: Previously, six municipal corporations in Uttarakhand were included in the AMRUT-1 scheme, where works related to sewage and drinking water were undertaken based on a master plan.
• AMRUT 2.0: The central government is set to launch the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT 2.0), and Uttarakhand’s Chief Town Planner advocated for the inclusion of small towns in Category-3 due to the state’s unique geographical conditions.
• Inclusion of Category-3 Towns: The Union Ministry approved the inclusion of Category-3 towns, leading to the proposal for 23 such cities in Uttarakhand. Currently, there are 10 cities in Category-1 and Category-2.
• Development Plans: Under AMRUT 2.0, a master plan will be created for the selected cities, focusing on the development of sewage and drinking water lines, drainage, green spaces, and parks, with funding from the central government.

Fire Service to Use Modern ATV Vehicles for Mountain Rescues

On September 9, 2023, IG Neeru Garg of the Uttarakhand Fire Service announced that fire service personnel will soon have an easier time reaching inaccessible mountain routes thanks to the upcoming purchase of two All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) vehicles.

Key Points

• ATV Capabilities: These vehicles will be capable of navigating through ditches, rivers, and drains, making them ideal for rugged terrain.
• Initial Deployment: The ATVs will initially be deployed in the Kedarnath Dham and Gangotri Dham areas, where larger vehicles cannot access.
• Need for ATVs: The narrow roads and challenging terrain in these areas make ATVs the only suitable option for rescue operations. If successful, more ATVs may be purchased for other hilly regions.
• Fire Service Role: The fire service is often the first to respond not only to fires but also to accidents, which is why they are called first responders.
• Modern Fleet: Currently, the fire service lacks a modern fleet of vehicles capable of reaching inaccessible places with reduced risk.
• Government Proposal: A proposal to purchase two ATV vehicles was sent to the government, and while no decision has been made yet, there is hope for approval from the World Bank budget.
• ATV Cost: Each vehicle is expected to cost around Rs 75 lakh.
• National Recommendation: The National Disaster Management Authority has recommended ATVs for hilly areas, and the Government of India has urged all hilly states to acquire such vehicles for quicker and easier access to narrow roads.
• Fire Extinguishing Capability: The ATVs will also be equipped to carry water for extinguishing fires, making them multifunctional for rescue and firefighting.

Use of Robots for Firefighting

• Introduction of Robots: To enhance safety in firefighting, the fire service plans to use robots. Approval for this initiative was granted last year.
• Tender Process: The fire service has issued tenders for the purchase of two robots, inviting bids from vendors until September 20.
• Modern Fleet Expansion: Once the tender process is complete, the new robots will join the fire service fleet, modernizing their capabilities.

Introduction of NCERT Curriculum in Uttarakhand's Madrasas

Implementation of NCERT Curriculum

• On September 11, 2023, Uttarakhand Waqf Board Chairman Shadab Shams announced the implementation of the NCERT curriculum in 117 madrasas across Uttarakhand.
• This curriculum includes the teaching of Sanskrit along with other subjects.

Modernization of Madrasas

• The Waqf Board Chairman emphasized Uttarakhand's identity as "Devbhoomi" and noted the community's desire for change and modernization in madrasas.
• Initial steps towards modern education have begun in four madrasas located in different districts of Uttarakhand.
• The Hifzul Quran Kunjagrant Madrasa, registered with the Waqf Board, proposed its inclusion in the Modern Madrasa initiative, which has been approved.
• All madrasas registered with the Waqf Board will be gradually linked to modern education in a phased manner.

Contribution of Individuals

• Razia Sultana, a Muslim scholar with a PhD in Sanskrit, is translating the Quran into Sanskrit.
• She will be included in the state-level education committee of the Waqf Board.

Modernization Efforts

• Registered madrasas are being equipped with smart classes, modern education facilities, tablets, and computers for students.

Promotion of Vocational Education in Uttarakhand

Launch of 'Hub and Spoke' Model

• On September 10, 2023, Uttarakhand Deputy State Project Director Pradyuman Rawat announced the implementation of the 'Hub and Spoke' model in 47 schools to promote vocational education in the state.
• This model aims to facilitate the study of vocational subjects for students in these schools.

Central Government Approval

• The 'Hub and Spoke' model has received approval from the Central Government and is set to begin in Uttarakhand from September 2023.

Financial Support for Schools

• Under this scheme, schools lacking laboratories will receive Rs 3,000 annually for each student.
• Vocational trainers in these schools will receive an additional Rs 6,000 per month on top of their regular honorarium.

Current Status of Vocational Education

• Vocational education is currently being offered in 200 schools across Uttarakhand.
• Students from schools located within five to seven kilometers of these hub schools will also benefit from vocational education.

Courses Offered

• Eight different vocational courses, including Tourism, Agriculture, and Plumbing, are being conducted in the participating schools.

Definitions

• Hub Schools: Schools that have a vocational education laboratory and vocational trainers.
• Spoke Schools: Schools located within a five to seven-kilometer radius of a hub school that do not have vocational trainers or a vocational education laboratory.

Inauguration of Vidya Samiksha Kendra and Foundation Stone Laying of Schools in Uttarakhand

On September 12, 2023, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the Vidya Samiksha Kendra in Dehradun. They also laid the foundation stone for 141 PM Shri Schools and the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Residential School.

The Vidya Samiksha Kendra, based on a technology-driven model, aims to improve learning outcomes for 23.50 lakh school students in Uttarakhand. This initiative, originally started by Narendra Modi in Gujarat, was expanded nationwide after the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The Kendra will provide comprehensive data on school performance, attendance, and educational content, supporting the state’s school education system. The NEP-2020 is seen as a crucial document for building a knowledge-based economy in the 21st century.

The 141 PM Shri Schools are expected to set excellence standards for existing schools, while the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Residential School will focus on the education of underprivileged children. The NEP-2020, presented by Prime Minister Modi as a global model, aims to benefit 30 crore Indian students and set a benchmark for students worldwide.

Approval of Uttarakhand's First Service Sector Policy

During a cabinet meeting on September 12, 2023, the Uttarakhand government approved its first service sector policy aimed at attracting domestic and international investors in the health and education sectors.

The policy encompasses various sectors, including health, hospitality, wellness, education, film and media, sports, and information technology (IT). It offers concessions such as a 25% capital subsidy to encourage investments.

Key highlights of the policy include:

• Minimum capital investment requirements:
  • ₹200 crore in health sectors
  • ₹25 crore in hilly areas
• Benefits for yoga centres, schools, and universities with varying capital investment thresholds depending on the region.
• Data centres requiring different capital investments in plains and mountainous areas.

Additionally, the cabinet approved the establishment of the Auli Tourism Development Authority to develop Auli into a world-class skiing destination.

Implementation of New Industrial Policy in Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand government has implemented a new industrial policy that changes the way subsidies are granted to entrepreneurs. Under this policy, subsidies will no longer be given as a one-time payment upon project completion. Instead, they will be distributed in installments.

• This shift aims to provide ongoing support to entrepreneurs throughout the project lifecycle, encouraging more sustainable and long-term industrial development in the state.
• The details of the new policy were shared by S.K. Pant, the District Industries General Manager for Nainital, on September 13, 2023.

Key Points of the New Industrial Policy

• The new policy has restructured the subsidy slabs into four categories, focusing on hilly districts (A and B categories) and plain areas (C and D categories).
• To support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the scheme now offers increased capital and interest subsidies.
• A significant change in the policy allows investment subsidies of up to Rs 1 crore to be disbursed in two installments within two years for micro category industries. For investments ranging from Rs 1 crore to Rs 50 crore, the subsidy will be provided in five installments over five years.
• The new rules also provide additional capital support to investors in specific manufacturing sectors, including natural fibre products, GI tagged products, and food processing enterprises.
• Scheduled Caste, Tribe, and women entrepreneurs have been prioritized in the subsidy scheme, with additional incentives for their investments.
• The previous policy offered lower subsidy limits across different categories, with a maximum of Rs 40 lakh in category A. The new policy has significantly increased subsidy limits and percentages across various categories.
• Category A now offers up to 50 percent subsidy for investments up to Rs 1 crore, with varying profit margins and maximum subsidy limits for higher investments.
• Categories B, C, and D have also seen increases in subsidy percentages and limits for investments.

Pumped Storage Policy for Affordable Electricity Generation

On September 12, 2023, Uttarakhand’s Energy Secretary R Meenakshi Sundaram announced the state government’s new pumped storage policy aimed at providing affordable electricity. The policy, recently approved by the Cabinet, offers several incentives for setting up projects on the state’s rivers.

• Under this policy, project developers will be exempt from paying a 12.5 percent royalty to the state government. Additionally, they will be relieved from local area development charges and transmission charges.
• The policy aims to facilitate electricity generation during peak demand times by using stored water. During the day, surplus electricity, primarily from solar energy, will be used to pump water uphill. This stored water will then be used to generate electricity at night when demand and market prices are higher.
• The proposed policy includes various measures such as inter-state transmission charges, local area development fund exemptions, and free royalty power for a period of 45 years to encourage quick project development.
• Existing projects on rivers will be given priority, with contracts lasting 45 years before the projects are handed over to the state government.
• Private investors will be selected through a tendering process to develop projects in identified river areas, with the option to propose new sites to the government.
• Along with on-stream projects, off-stream projects can also be implemented. The project will have to be constructed within three years of receiving all approvals.
• On the lines of liquefied gas coming from abroad, now VAT will be zero on CNG coming for two gas-based power plants located in Kashipur in Udham Singh Nagar district of the state.
• With this, gas-based plants will be able to operate, and the shortage of power supply in the state can be overcome. The electricity generated from these will also be cheap.

Young Women will Take Responsibility of Cow Protection in Uttarakhand

In the joint meeting held on September 14, 2023, by the Uttarakhand Public Works, Panchayati Raj, Urban Development, and Animal Husbandry Department regarding the construction and operation of Gaushala, Kanji House for destitute cattle, instructions have been given that the responsibility for the safety of cattle in the hilly areas will be taken by the youth-Women.

• It was decided in this meeting that only after the verification of the new NGOs, they will be allowed to establish and operate Gosadans in the hilly areas, in which participation of women and youth self-help groups will be ensured.
• If there is space in the already running Gausadans, Animal Husbandry, Urban Development, and Panchayati Raj departments will run a campaign in mutual coordination and take all the destitute cows here within a month.
• This action will be taken first in the Gosadan operated in Khatima Nagar located in Udham Singh Nagar district.
• Cow shelters will be built near the forests for the destitute cattle, and enclosures will be built after contacting the forest department. Roster-wise duty of veterinary officers will be imposed on Gausadans. The budget for the establishment of new Gausadans will be given by the District Magistrate at the district level.
• Daily progress report of establishment and operation of Gosadans will have to be updated in the WhatsApp group. For monitoring, remote sensing cameras will have to be installed in all Gosadans. Whichever cow will be brought to these Gausadans, their picture will have to be shared in the WhatsApp group.
• The Head of the Department of Animal Husbandry, Urban Development, and Panchayati Raj Department will be nominated as the nodal officer for their operation.

Forest Minister Inaugurates Four-Day Event Water Sports Cup in Tehri Lake

On September 14, 2023, Uttarakhand Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal inaugurated the four-day Water Sports Cup in Tehri Lake of the state.

• In this competition, players from many provinces of the country have participated in the sports of kayaking and canoeing to showcase their talent.
• These games will not only create Tehri’s identity on the national stage but will also infuse energy among the youth of the state through players representing the nation at the international level.
• Organizing this national-level game is a matter of pride for the state of Uttarakhand and THDC (formerly Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Limited).
• In the competition organized courtesy THDC India, outstanding senior male and female players will be selected for the 37th Open National Games to be held in Goa.
• It is noteworthy that such games are being organized in Tehri Lake for the second time.

8th Doon International Film Festival

Dates and Locations: The 8th Dehradun International Film Festival is scheduled to take place from September 22 to September 24, 2023, at Silver City on Rajpur Road and the Tulas Institute.

Additional Events: Alongside the film festival, there will be an Uttarakhand Talent Hunt and an Aangan Bazaar Exhibition.

Uttarakhand Talent Hunt: This event will feature two age groups:

• Group 1: Participants aged 8 to 15 years
• Group 2: Participants aged 16 years and above

Participants will showcase their talents in various forms such as dance, acting, poetry, mimicry, and singing.

• Awards and Opportunities: Winners will receive awards and certificates, along with opportunities in vocal music and upcoming projects of the Dehradun International Film Festival.
• Festival History: The Dehradun International Film Festival has been held for the past eight years, providing a platform for new directors and producers. Many filmmakers from Uttarakhand have gained national recognition through this festival.
• Youth Opportunities: The festival aims to continue offering opportunities for young talent to showcase their skills in various fields through the Uttarakhand Talent Hunt.

Chief Minister Initiates Cleanliness Campaign

On September 18, 2023, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami of Uttarakhand inaugurated the Swachh Seva Pakhwada campaign at Main Seva Sadan in Dehradun. This initiative aims to promote cleanliness and will continue until October 2.

• During the event, the Chief Minister recognized the village heads from 15 gram panchayats in Nainital, Champawat, Dehradun, and Udham Singh Nagar districts for their exemplary efforts in maintaining cleanliness in their villages.
• The Chief Minister also acknowledged five individuals for their outstanding contributions to cleanliness and released the song 'Swachhta Hi Seva'.
• Honorees:Village Heads:Population Category Less than 2000: Khashti Raghav (Pastola Panchayat, Nainital), Basant Lal Shah (Ramgarh Bohrakot), Balveer Singh (Jamradi), Mohan Chand Pandey (Chowki Panchayat, Champawat), Shiv Shankar Pathak (Thanta). Population Category 2000-5000: Vipin Chand Joshi (Kishanpur Sakulia, Nainital), Sunita Ghughatiyal (Kania), Hemant Joshi (Halduchaudiggi), Deepak Joshi (Dehradun Bhagwanpur Julho). Population Category More than 5000: Manju (Dakpathar Panchayat, Dehradun), Sangeeta Thapliyal (Khadri Kharak Mafi), Awadh Kumari (Kheda Jat, Haridwar), Narendra Kumar (Bhageri Mehatpur), Madhavi Devi (Vigrabag, Udham Singh Nagar).
• Environmental Friends: Pappu, Vinod, Shivkumar, Meena, and Savita were honored for their commendable work in cleanliness.

Chief Minister Releases 'Aatma Ke Swar' Book

• On September 19, 2023, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami of Uttarakhand launched the book 'Aatma Ke Swar' at Dehradun Raj Bhavan. This book compiles the addresses of Governor Lieutenant General Gurmeet Singh during his two years of service in Uttarakhand.
• The book features 108 significant speeches by the Governor at various events, highlighting his experiences and outlining five missions for the state's progress. These missions aim to position Uttarakhand among the leading states in India.
• The Governor's addresses reflect themes of Indian military pride, national consciousness, social unity, Indian culture, and spiritual thinking. The book also showcases Uttarakhand's rich culture, military bravery, women's contributions, and achievements of its daughters.

Uttarakhand Tourism Minister Launches Mountaineering Expedition

On September 19, 2023, Uttarakhand Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj initiated a mountaineering expedition by flagging off two teams of 12 members each, aiming to scale the Bandarpoonch at 6,316 meters and Bhagirathi II at 6,512 meters. This expedition is a collaborative effort between the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Council and the Indian Mountaineering Association.

• During the flag-off event, Minister Maharaj emphasized the expedition's goal of creating self-employment opportunities for local residents by promoting adventure sports in Uttarakhand. He also highlighted the ongoing development of Ganse (Gauri) and Auli as potential major adventure tourism destinations, aiming to attract visitors from across Asia. The state offers numerous opportunities for adventure tourism, and efforts are being made to enhance these prospects.
• Additionally, Minister Maharaj mentioned the government’s initiative to open the Nalang-Jadung area for tourism, stressing the importance of regulating access to ensure environmental sustainability.

Uttarakhand Athletes Chosen for Para Asian Games 2022

As per recent media reports on September 20, 2023, two athletes from Uttarakhand have been selected to represent India in the Para Asian Games 2022, scheduled to commence on October 16 in China.

• The selected athletes are Neelima Rai from Kalinagar in Udham Singh Nagar and Nirmala Mehta from Haldwani.
• Neelima Rai, an all-rounder, has been chosen for her participation in lawn ball, throw ball, swimming, and other para sports. She has an impressive record of 22 medals in various competitions and is the current captain of the Indian women’s para throw ball team. Neelima has been honored with the prestigious ‘Tilu Rauteli Award’ for her achievements.
• Nirmala Mehta has been selected to compete in lawn ball.

Uttarakhand Science Education Promotion Award Given to Vineeta Jagdish Chaudhary

• Vineeta Jagdish Choudhary, a Biology lecturer at the Government Girls Inter College in Fazilpur Mehraula, Rudrapur, has been recognized with the Third Uttarakhand Vigyan Shiksha Prasar Samman 2023. This award was presented during the Teachers Conclave held at the IRTD Auditorium in Dehradun on September 17, 2023.
• During the event, Cooperative and Higher Education Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat and USRC Director Dr. Anil Rawat honored Vineeta by awarding her a citation, a cash prize of Rs 11,000, and a shawl.
• It is important to note that this award is given to 15 teachers in the state for their outstanding work in various fields. Vineeta received this recognition for her significant contributions to science education in Uttarakhand. Currently, she serves as the Block Science Coordinator and is also in charge of the Eco Club.

Champawat and Pithoragarh Districts Added to 'Swadesh Darshan Yojana 2.0'

Recent reports indicate that the Champawat and Pithoragarh districts of Uttarakhand have been included in the 'Swadesh Darshan Yojana 2.0'. This initiative by the Central Government aims to promote tourism and develop these border areas with necessary facilities.

In the initial phase of this plan, several tourist spots in Champawat district will be developed, including Abbott Mount, Kolidhek Lake, Tea Garden, Chuka, and Rajbunga Fort.

The authorized Delight company, under the Government of India, has been tasked with providing essential facilities at five tourist destinations. These facilities include pathways, cafes, libraries, parking, museums, and buildings constructed in local architectural styles. Additionally, there will be outlets for local products, yoga and meditation centers, small gyms, and children’s entertainment resources. The development plan will also feature toilets, light and sound systems, benches, solid waste management systems, and an adventure park.

Sarmoli of Pithoragarh Selected Among the Best Tourist Villages in the Country

The Union Ministry of Tourism has chosen Sarmoli village in Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand, as one of the Best Tourism Villages in the country. This selection was made public on September 21, 2023.

Recognition and Upcoming Announcement

• Sarmoli village is set to be officially recognized as the best tourist village in the country at an event in Delhi on September 27, 2023.
• The selection was communicated to the state by Kamakshi Maheshwari, the nodal officer of Rural Tourism India in the Ministry of Tourism.

Competition Details

• The Best Tourism Village Competition was initiated by the Union Ministry of Tourism to promote rural tourism.
• Sarmoli village was chosen from among 795 applicants from various states and union territories for its exceptional efforts in promoting tourism at the village level.

About Sarmoli Village

• Sarmoli village, located near Munsiyari in Pithoragarh district, is known for its rich culture and stunning natural beauty.
• The village has successfully combined environmental protection with rural tourism, creating self-employment opportunities for its residents.

Tourist Attractions

• Sarmoli attracts tourists for eco-tourism and adventure tourism.
• Visitors are drawn to the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including peaks such as Nanda Devi, Rajarambha, Panchachuli, and Nanda Kot.
• The village's homestays are particularly popular among tourists.

Honorarium Increase for Contract Sports Trainers in Uttarakhand

On September 23, 2023, Uttarakhand's Sports Minister, Rekha Arya, announced a significant increase in the honorarium for contractual sports trainers working in the state's sports department. The increase ranges from 78 to 140 percent. Special Principal Secretary Abhinav Kumar issued the order, which will take effect from October 1, 2023.

Background of the Honorarium Increase

• Contractual sports trainers had been requesting an honorarium increase since 2014.
• The issue was raised during a review meeting on June 15, 2023, led by Sports Minister Rekha Arya, prompting the preparation of a proposal for the increase.

Details of the Honorarium Increase

• Arjuna and Dronacharya Awardees, Olympians, and Medalists: Honorarium increased from Rs 20,000 to Rs 45,000.
• Asian, Commonwealth, and SAFF Games Medalists: Honorarium increased from Rs 17,000 to Rs 35,000.
• Coaches of Afro-Asian and SAFF Games Participants: Honorarium increased from Rs 14,000 to Rs 25,000.
• Senior National Medal Winners: Honorarium increased from Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000.
• Coaches of Players in All India Inter-University Competitions: Honorarium increased from Rs 7,000 to Rs 15,000.
• Coaches Participating in Senior North Zone Competitions: Honorarium increased from Rs 5,000 to Rs 12,000.

Impact of the Order

• The order will benefit 210 contract sports trainers in the state.

Four New Sainik Schools and Five Kendriya Vidyalayas to Open in Uttarakhand

On September 23, 2023, State Education Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat announced the establishment of four new Sainik Schools and five Kendriya Vidyalayas in Uttarakhand. The proposal, approved by Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami, has been sent to the Central Government for approval.

Locations for the New Sainik Schools

• Patisain
• Pauri Garhwal
• Udham Singh Nagar
• Dehradun
• Champawat (birthplace of Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali)

Current Situation

• There is currently only one Sainik School in Uttarakhand, located in Ghorakhal and operated by the Defense Ministry.
• The Central Government plans to open 100 new Sainik Schools across the country, with 23 approved in the first phase. Uttarakhand has submitted a proposal for four new Sainik Schools in the second phase.

Land Availability for New Schools

• Champawat: 10 acres in Dungarasethi village
• Udham Singh Nagar: 250 acres in A.N. Jha Inter College, Rudrapur
• Dehradun: 9.5 acres in Rajiv Gandhi Navodaya Vidyalaya, Nanurkheda

Proposed Kendriya Vidyalayas

• Almora: Panduvakhal Tehsil, Dwarahat District
• Pauri Garhwal: Kotdwara
• Tehri Garhwal: Narendranagar, Madannegi District (Pratapnagar Assembly Constituency)

189 Atal Utkrisht Schools in Uttarakhand to Change Board to State Board

On September 24, 2023, State Education Secretary Ravinath Raman announced that 189 Atal Utkrisht Schools in Uttarakhand, currently affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), will continue to operate in English medium but will switch their affiliation to the Uttarakhand Board.

Background

• The change comes after the Government Teachers Association requested the shift back to the Uttarakhand Board.
• The Education Department is preparing a proposal to implement this change.

Proposals Under Consideration

• First Proposal: Change the board affiliation to the Uttarakhand Board.
• Second Proposal: Implement the CBSE pattern from class 6 instead of class 10 and 12.
• Third Proposal: Hire teachers in these schools at competitive salaries from the private sector or other sources.

Next Steps

• The State Council of Educational Research and Training has been tasked with preparing a proposal, which will be presented to the cabinet for approval.

Uttarakhand Launches First Polythene Garbage Banks

On September 25, 2023, the Dehradun Cantt Board in Uttarakhand inaugurated the country’s first three polythene garbage banks aimed at tackling polythene waste. These banks are designed to collect and recycle various types of polythene waste, such as bags, wrappers, and packing materials.

Inauguration and Locations

• The polythene garbage bank in Garhi was inaugurated by Urban Development Minister Premchand Aggarwal.
• Two banks have been set up in Garhi, Dehradun, and one in Premnagar.

Purpose and Functionality

• These banks aim to clean up homes and roads while providing a source of income.
• Collected polythene will be sent for recycling into decorative items like tiles, boards, and pots.

Collection and Pricing

• Polythene waste will be purchased at the rate of three rupees per kilogram.
• Types of waste accepted include polythene bags, chips wrappers, and packing bags.

Operational Goals

• The banks aim to collect between 70 to 100 tonnes of polythene waste each month.

Addressing Waste Issues

• Abhinav Singh, CEO of the Cantt Board, highlighted the problem of low-value plastics like polythene, which currently have no market.
• The garbage bank aims to fill this gap by providing a collection point for these materials.

Community Engagement

• The Cantt Board organized a polythene and e-waste collection competition among Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in the military area, with winners being honored by the Urban Development Minister.

Child Care and Adoption Leave for Contract Employees in Uttarakhand

The Government of Uttarakhand has introduced new leave policies for contract female and single male employees, offering child care, child adoption, and paternity leave.

Key Points:

• Child Care and Adoption Leave: Contract female and single male employees are entitled to 15 days of child care and child adoption leave within a 120-day limit.
• Paternity Leave: Single male employees with less than two surviving children can take 15 days of paternity leave.
• Eligibility: These benefits are extended to contractual, ad-hoc, and fixed salary employees deployed through various means.
• Benefits: The decision is expected to benefit 40,000 to 45,000 employees, providing temporary workers with leave options previously available only to regular staff.

Details of Leave Types:

• Paternity Leave: Available to single male employees with less than two surviving children, this leave can be taken before or up to six months after the birth of the child.
• Child Care Leave: Up to 15 days per calendar year for specific circumstances such as a child's illness or examinations, with a minimum of five days per instance and a maximum of three instances per year.
• Child Adoption Leave: Granted to female and single male employees who have been with the department for at least three years and are adopting a child under one year old, with a maximum of 120 days leave at the time of adoption.

Uttarakhand CM Signs Rs 2000 Crore MoU with French Company for Ropeway Construction

• Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) worth Rs 2000 crore with Poma, a leading French company in ropeway construction, for the development of a cable car project in Uttarakhand.
• The MoU was signed ahead of the Global Investors Conference scheduled for September 25, 2023, aimed at boosting investment in the state.
• The state government plans to promote sectors like tourism, food processing, and education through international roadshows, starting with London and continuing to Singapore, Taiwan, and Dubai.
• The government aims to attract Rs 2.50 lakh crore in investments during the upcoming conference, focusing on projects that balance development and environmental sustainability.
• The ropeway project is expected to enhance tourist convenience while providing livelihood opportunities for local residents and benefiting the environment.

Sarmoli Village in Uttarakhand Recognized as Best Tourist Village in India

• Sarmoli village in Uttarakhand was awarded the title of best tourism village in the country during a program in Delhi on National Tourism Day, September 27, 2023.
• The award was presented to village Sarpanch Mallika Virdi by Kamakshi Maheshwari, Nodal Officer of Rural Tourism India, Ministry of Tourism.
• As part of the initiative, the Ministry of Tourism has launched a large-scale cleanliness drive at 108 identified tourist sites across the country, aiming to promote cleanliness, ban single-use plastics, and encourage eco-friendly practices.
• The Best Rural Tourism Village Awards recognized 35 villages for their efforts in promoting cultural heritage and sustainable tourism, with Sarmoli receiving the gold medal for its community-based tourism initiatives and environmental conservation efforts.
• Under the leadership of Mallika Virdi, Sarmoli village has implemented various nature tourism and conservation projects, including the revival of local forests and water bodies, and the organization of cultural and nature festivals such as Van Kautik and Himal Kalasutra.

SSB Team Led by Subodh Chandola from Bhawali Successfully Reaches Rudragaira Mountain Peak

A seven-member team from the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), led by Field Officer Subodh Chandola, has successfully conquered the Rudragaira mountain peak, standing at an altitude of 5,819 meters in the Central Himalayas, south of Gangotri in the Garhwal region. Subodh Chandola, a resident of Bhawali in Nainital district, Uttarakhand, is an Indian Police Medal and Home Minister’s Medal awardee, known for hoisting the tricolor on several prominent mountains including Everest and Trishul.

During the expedition, over 20 trainees from a 29-member team stayed at the base camp at Rudragaira, from where eight mountaineers advanced further to hoist the flag at the peak. The team included chief constables Kailash Chandra Joshi, Arakshi Narendra Singh, Dildar Singh, Pradeep Singh, Prabal Pratap Singh, Arvind Kumar Ghaghre, and Indra Singh, alongside Subodh Chandola.

Cashless Treatment Facility for Retired Roadways Employees in Uttarakhand

On September 27, 2023, Dr. Anand Srivastava, the Managing Director of the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation, announced the provision of unlimited cashless treatment under a health scheme for retired employees and their dependents.

Contribution Details :

• Salary Level 1-5: Rs 250 per month
• Salary Level 6: Rs 450 per month
• Salary Level 7-11: Rs 650 per month
• Salary Level 12: Rs 1000 per month

Golden Card Eligibility :

• Retired personnel can obtain the Golden Card by paying an annual contribution upon retirement after a minimum of 10 years of service.
• A one-time contribution covering 10 years allows for lifetime access to the Golden Card facility.

All divisional managers have been instructed to ensure the proper deposit of contributions from retired personnel and dependents who apply for the Golden Card into the Corporation Fund.

Uttarakhand Secures Rs 9,000 Crore Investment During International Roadshow

Overview Date: September 26-27, 2023 Location: London and Birmingham Event: International roadshow for the upcoming Global Investors Summit in December 2023 Investments Secured: Rs 9,000 crore through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with various industry houses Day 1: MoU worth Rs 2,000 crore Day 2: MoU worth Rs 7,000 crore under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami

• Industry Participation: 80 industry houses from sectors including education, tourism, IT, and health participated in the meeting.
• Key Agreements:
  • Cayenne Jet: MoUs for Rs 4,500 crore (Jet) and Rs 1,000 crore (Usha Breco).
  • Kayan: Investment in the jet cable car project and development of ski resorts in Auli, Dayara Bugyal, and Munsiyari.
  • Usha Breco Limited: Investment in ropeways in Haridwar and other districts.
• Chief Minister's Vision:Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the government’s commitment to making Uttarakhand a global tourism destination, highlighting the potential in wellness and rural tourism.
• Rishikesh: Promoted as the global capital of yoga and spirituality, attracting tourists from Europe and other countries. The government is in discussions with investors to establish a world-class convention centre in the region.