UPPSC Monthly Current Affairs: August 2023 | Monthly Current Affairs UPPSC - UPPSC (UP) PDF Download

Inauguration of the Chief Minister Command Centre and CM Dashboard

On July 30, 2023, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of Uttar Pradesh launched the ‘Mukhyamantri Command Centre and CM Dashboard’ at Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Bhawan (Annexe) in Lucknow.

Key Points:

• The Chief Minister’s Command Centre and CM Dashboard aim to capture data and accelerate efforts to boost Uttar Pradesh’s economy while ensuring public satisfaction. The focus is on using technology to address people’s problems and monitoring activities in each district.
• The Command Centre and Dashboard will oversee the work of officials at various levels in different departments, evaluating their performance in services, schemes, and projects.
• The CM Dashboard serves as an integrated portal for assessing officers involved in government projects, enabling a data-driven quality monitoring system.
• Initially, 588 projects across 53 departments have been integrated into the Dashboard, with plans to connect all 93 state departments gradually.
• The Chief Secretary will review the projects every two weeks, while the Chief Minister’s Office will conduct monthly reviews. This system will also determine the grading of district and field officers, highlighting areas needing improvement.
• Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that the initiative was necessary due to previous shortcomings in data collection regarding departmental progress. Accurate data is now being gathered to reflect the true state of development in Uttar Pradesh.

Chief Minister Transfers Funds for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban)

On July 31, 2023, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath transferred Rs 51.52 crore online to 5,100 beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) in Gorakhpur.

• Beneficiary Details: The transfer included funds for:
• 250 beneficiaries of the first installment.
• 2,602 beneficiaries of the second installment.
• 2,248 beneficiaries of the third installment.
• Symbolic Key Handovers: During the event, CM Adityanath also presented symbolic keys of houses to 12 beneficiaries of the scheme.
• Housing Progress in Gorakhpur: The Uttar Pradesh government has provided houses to 42,600 beneficiaries in Gorakhpur district under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban).
• Completion Status: Out of the total, 35,500 houses have been completed, and the beneficiaries are currently residing in them.
• Rural Housing: In the past 6 years, houses have been provided to 61,184 beneficiaries in rural areas.
• Total Beneficiaries: Overall, around 1,04,000 beneficiaries in urban and rural areas have received houses under the Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme.

Review of Civil Aviation Department by CM

On August 1, 2023, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conducted a review meeting of the Civil Aviation Department at his official residence. During the meeting, he provided necessary directions for the department's work in the larger public interest.

• Prayagraj Airport Capacity Expansion: The Chief Minister directed to increase the capacity of Prayagraj Airport from 300 to 500 passengers and to enhance its facilities and civic amenities before the Prayagraj Kumbh.
• Connectivity for Jewar Airport: He emphasized the need for improved connectivity to Jewar Airport, suggesting the implementation of RRTS (Regional Rapid Transit System) or Light Metro services.
• Current Infrastructure: Uttar Pradesh currently has three international airports and 17 airstrips, of which eight are under the Indian Air Force.
• Growth in Freight and Air Traffic: Freight traffic in the state has significantly increased from 5,895 MT in 2016-2017 to 20,813 MT in 2022-2023. Air traffic has also risen, with 46,585 passengers in 2016-2017 and 82,615 in 2022-2023.
• Increase in Air Travel: The number of air passengers has grown, with 59.97 lakh passengers in 2016-2017 and 96.02 lakh in 2022-2023.

Priya Singh from Kashi Sets World Record with Stunning Painting of Shri Ram Temple

Priya Singh, a final-year BFA student from Kashi, has achieved a remarkable world record by creating an intricate painting of the Shri Ram Temple. This record-setting artwork was completed in just 26 hours using 2,726 nails on a plyboard.

• The painting was inaugurated by Additional District Judge Rakesh Pandey at the BR Foundation in Pandeypur. Judge Pandey highlighted that the painting encapsulates inspiring stories from the life of Lord Shri Ram.
• Priya Singh, hailing from Purandarpur village, learned this unique art form from painter Poonam Rai. Inspired by Rai, she undertook the challenge of creating a massive painting of the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
• The World’s Greatest Record is among the largest record organizations globally, and Priya's achievement marks a significant milestone.

Ekana Stadium Pitch Approved for ICC Cricket World Cup Match

The pitch at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow has received approval from the ICC and BCCI for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup.

• On August 4, 2023, a team from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) inspected the stadium, evaluating all nine pitches, the outfield, and other facilities.
• The ICC World Cup 2023, starting on October 5, will feature five matches at Ekana Stadium, marking the first time Lucknow hosts the Cricket World Cup.
• The tournament opener will be between Australia and South Africa on October 13 at Ekana Stadium.
• Following the World Cup matches, Lucknow will also host 37 matches of the Senior Women’s Inter Zonal 20-20 and Women’s Under-23 ODI Cricket Trophy at the Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium.

Report of Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Procedure and Conduct of Business Rules-2023 Presented in Vidhansabha

On August 7, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Procedure and Conduct of Business Rules-2023 were presented in the Vidhan Sabha. Legislators have the opportunity to propose amendments until August 8, with plans to discuss and approve the rules on August 9.

Key Provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Procedure and Conduct of Business Rules-2023

• Online Proceedings: The new rules aim to facilitate online proceedings of the House as part of the e-Vidhan initiative.
• Conduct and Behaviour: Strict guidelines have been established for the conduct and behaviour of legislators in the House.
• Prohibited Actions: Legislators are prohibited from tearing documents, pointing out strangers, or admiring individuals during speeches. They must also refrain from standing or sitting with their backs to the Speaker, bringing or displaying weapons, and distributing unrelated literature. Smoking is also prohibited.
• Notice Period for Sessions: The notice period for calling a Vidhan Sabha session has been reduced from 15 days to 7 days.
• Change of Business Order: The Speaker, Leader of the House, or with the House's permission, can change the order of business.
• Prohibition on Naming Officials: Legislators are prohibited from naming government officials in discussions unless based on a substantive motion.
• Reprimand and Fine Authority: The Speaker has the authority to reprimand or impose fines on officers, employees, or others for not answering Assembly questions or disobeying orders.
• Supplementary Questions: A maximum of two supplementary questions can be asked on a starred question, with priority given to the MLA who asked the original question.
• Advance Notice for Questions: MLAs must submit their questions in writing or online to the Principal Secretary three days before the session, with the Speaker's permission obtained within 24 hours.
• Attention to Public Interest Subjects: Members must inform the Principal Secretary of subjects related to public interest one hour before the House proceedings start, either online or offline.
• The government will have to present information related to attracting attention to the concerned member or the assembly secretariat within a maximum of 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks).

Sonam from Amroha Wins Gold Medal in Triple Jump in Canada

On August 6, 2023, Sonam, an athlete from Amroha district, achieved a remarkable feat by winning the gold medal in the triple jump at the World Police Games held in Vinitak city, Canada. She recorded an impressive jump of 13 meters 32 centimeters.

• The World Police Games took place from July 28 to August 6 in Vinitak, Canada. Sonam secured the gold medal in the triple jump, surpassing competitors from Hong Kong and South Korea.
• Just five days prior, Sonam had also excelled in the long jump, earning a silver medal with a jump of 5 meters 85 centimeters, falling short of the gold by only 18 centimeters.
• This was Sonam’s second participation in the World Police Games, where she aimed to bring home a gold medal for her country. She is a head constable in the CISF in Delhi and a talented athlete. In 2019, she won gold and silver medals in the Games held in China and recently, in March 2023, she clinched the gold medal at the 71st All India Police Athletics Competition.
• Earlier this year, Sonam was also recognized as the best player in the police department of the country. Despite her impressive skills, she narrowly missed selection for the Asian Games, falling short by three centimeters in the trials.

Uttar Pradesh Government Increases Allowance for Prisoners and Convicts

On August 8, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh Prisons Department, led by Joint Secretary Shivgopal Singh, announced a significant increase in the daily allowance for labor by prisoners and convicted individuals in state jails.

• Currently, skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled prisoners receive daily allowances of Rs 40, Rs 30, and Rs 25, respectively. The government has now raised these amounts to Rs 81, Rs 60, and Rs 50, respectively, marking the first increase since 2011 and taking inflation into account.
• It is important to note that a 15% reduction in remuneration will continue in the event of a conviction, as per previous practices. These new rates have been implemented immediately, following the Allahabad High Court’s decision on September 27, 2022.

The 1st Riverfront of Banaras will be built at Garhwa Ghat

Project Overview

• The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, led by Deputy Director R.K. Rawat, has announced plans to develop a riverfront at Garhwa Ghat in Banaras, inspired by similar projects in major metropolitan areas.
• This initiative aims to enhance tourism in Banaras, building on the success of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, which has already attracted more visitors to the city.

Project Details

• Location: Garhwa Ghat, situated along the Ganga River adjacent to the highway in Banaras.
• Budget: Approximately Rs 9 crore allocated for the development.
• Features: The riverfront will include a range of amenities such as:
• Food courts
• Kids' zones
• Parking facilities
• Decorative seating areas with attractive tables and chairs
• Green gardens and shaded areas
• Selfie points for visitors

Accessibility and Attraction

• Central Hub: Garhwa Ghat, located at one end of the city, is expected to become a central attraction due to its accessibility.
• Transportation: Visitors will have easy access to the site through various routes, including the inner city pathways and the Ganges River, as well as its proximity to the highway.

Tourism Enhancement

• The development of Garhwa Ghat as a riverfront is part of a broader strategy to enhance tourism in Varanasi, leveraging the city's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
• The initiative aims to provide visitors with a range of recreational and leisure activities along the river, further promoting Varanasi as a prime tourist destination.

Conclusion

• The Garhwa Ghat riverfront project represents a significant step towards boosting tourism in Banaras, offering improved facilities and attractions for visitors while preserving the cultural and natural essence of the Ganga River.

U.P. Govt. introduced 4 bills in the Assembly

• Introduction: On August 10, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh government introduced and passed four bills in the Assembly, including the Criminal Law (Prevention of Offences and Abolition of Trials) Amendment Bill, 2023.
• Criminal Law Amendment Bill: This bill aims to abolish cases under Sections 107 and 109 of the CrPC by December 31, 2021, either by paying a mitigation fee or automatically. This move is expected to reduce the backlog of pending cases in the courts.
• Uttar Pradesh Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill: This bill facilitates small businesses to operate through E-Commerce operators, easing the registration process for traders with low turnover under GST.
• Establishment of Law University: Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay announced the establishment of a law university in Uttar Pradesh named after Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the country’s first President. The university will start with 60 students, and the appointment process is underway.
• Impact on Education: The establishment of the law university is expected to enhance the level of education in the state and increase competition among government and private universities.
• Other Bills Passed: The Assembly also passed the Uttar Pradesh National Law University Prayagraj (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the UP Private Universities (Third Amendment) Bill, 2023.

Uttar Pradesh to Receive National Award for E-Governance in Health Services

On August 13, 2023, it was reported that the Uttar Pradesh government is set to be honored by the Central Government for its efforts in E-Governance within Health Services.

• The National Health Mission-Uttar Pradesh (NHM-UP) has been selected for the Silver Award by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, Government of India, for its Maa Newborn Tracking Application (MANTRA). This initiative focuses on Delivery Point Health Facilities.
• The awards will be presented during the 26th National Conference on E-Governance (NCEG) scheduled for August 24-25, 2023, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
• NHM-UP is receiving this award under Category-1 for E-Governance Plan 2023, specifically for Government Process Re-Engineering for Digital Transformation.
• The recognition of the MANTRA App as a significant tool for E-Governance is a major accomplishment for Uttar Pradesh, as it is the first state to implement an online Management Information System (MIS) for labor rooms.
• As part of the Silver Award, NHM-UP will receive a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh, along with a certificate and trophy. Each team member involved in the project will also be awarded a certificate and trophy.
• The MANTRA app facilitates the easy availability of information regarding deliveries at various centers, including details about births, vaccinations, and the health status of pregnant women. This digital system has improved the tracking of mothers and babies, enhanced the quality of institutional deliveries, and contributed to better maternal and newborn health statistics.

New IT Hub to be Established in Lucknow

On August 13, 2023, officials from the Uttar Pradesh state government announced the initiation of plans to construct a new IT hub in the state capital, Lucknow. The Uttar Pradesh Rajkiya Nirman Nigam (UPRNN) has prepared a blueprint for setting up the IT hub on 40 acres of land in the Nadarganj industrial area of Amausi, located on Kanpur Road.

• The proposed IT hub will be divided into three main components: IT Park, Business Park, and International Incubation Facility Centre. Once established, it is expected to become one of the largest IT hubs in the country.
• According to the blueprint, the IT park will cover 11.47 acres, the business park will span 7.4 acres, and the International Incubation Facility Centre will be built on 6.9 acres. Additionally, 8.7 acres will be designated as green space for environmental protection, and a network of roads will be constructed over 5.8 acres to ensure connectivity within the IT hub.
• The IT park, business park, and international incubation facility centre will be housed in a six-storey building, including basement and ground levels, each equipped with its own parking facility utilizing a hydraulic parking system in the basement.
• The IT hub aims to serve as a major incubator in the country, featuring six key wings: women entrepreneur hub, skill and knowledge academy, prototyping centre, research and innovation circle, emerging tech wing, and U hub innovation hub. These wings will be developed on 5 acres of land and are designed to attract a diverse range of individuals and businesses.

World-Class Convention Centre to be Established in Agra

On August 16, 2023, Charchit Gaur, the Vice President of the Agra Development Authority (ADA), announced plans for a world-class convention centre in Agra, aimed at boosting tourism. The project, estimated to cost Rs 140 crore, will be located at Etmadpur Madra, along the Inner Ring Road.

Details of the Project

• Gaur mentioned that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the convention centre has received in-principle approval.
• The site for the centre spans 7.4418 hectares, and the ADA has already acquired this land.
• The project was presented to Additional Chief Secretary Urban Housing Nitin Ramesh Gokarn in Lucknow, leading to its approval.

Features of the Convention Centre

• The convention centre will include a grand auditorium, meeting and conference halls, a stage, and a hotel.
• It aims to provide world-class facilities for tourists and event organizers.

National Police Medal Awarded to 89 Policemen in Uttar Pradesh

On August 15, 2023, during the Independence Day celebrations, 89 policemen from Uttar Pradesh were recognized for their exceptional service.

Key Awards and Recipients

Gallantry Medals: 12 policemen received Gallantry Medals for their brave actions. Distinguished Service Medals: 6 policemen were awarded medals for their distinguished service. Meritorious Service Medals: 71 policemen received medals for their meritorious service.

Gallantry Medal Recipients

• Deputy SP Dharmendra Kumar Shahi (STF)
• Inspector Satya Prakash Singh (PMG for the second time)
• Chief Constable Yashwant Singh (PMG for the second time)
• ADG Mohit Aggarwal
• SP Vipin Tanda
• SP Anil Kumar Mishra
• Additional Superintendent of Police Tribhuvan Singh
• Inspector Rakesh Singh
• Sub-Inspector Dinesh Kumar Gautam
• Constable Mohammad Imran
• Praveen Kumar
• Naveen Kumar Yadav

President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Services (PPM) Recipients

• ADG Zone Prayagraj Bhanu Bhaskar
• DIG EOW Akhilesh Kumar Nigam
• Inspector Mohammad Hashim
• Rajveer Singh
• Pramod Kumar Mishra
• Sub Inspector Dinesh Pratap Singh

Note : The state police did not receive the President’s Gallantry Medal this time.

Uttar Pradesh Police Anthem Song Launched

On August 16, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh Police released their anthem song across major social media platforms. The song, featuring powerful lyrics like “Chattanon ki zid pighla di, Bazu ko aag banaya hai, kaandhe par Sitare nhin humne U.P. ka Maan sajaya hai...” was penned by lyricist Ritesh Rajwada and sung by Kunwar Anshit. The editing was done by Vaibhav Nayak in collaboration with the police headquarters' social media team.

• The anthem is a part of the Amrit Mahotsav of Independence, which aimed to celebrate 75 years of independent India and its rich history, culture, and achievements. The Uttar Pradesh Police worked hard for a year to create this anthem, reflecting the spirit of sacrifice and dedication associated with their uniform.
• Since its release, the anthem has gained significant attention, being viewed by nearly 66 thousand people on Twitter within 24 hours and shared by police and central forces from different states through their social media accounts.

Four-Day Y-20 (Youth Conference) Kicks Off in Varanasi

A four-day Y-20 (Youth Conference) commenced in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, on August 17, 2023. The formal inauguration is set to take place on August 18, 2023, by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, with Union Minister Anurag Thakur in attendance.

• The conference is organized by the Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, as part of India’s G20 Presidency. It aims to bring together around 150 delegates from G-20 member countries, guest countries, and international organizations to discuss five key themes: 
• Future of Work: Industry 4.0, Innovation, and 21st Century Skills 
• Peacebuilding and Reconciliation: Beginning of a Warless Era 
• Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction: Making Sustainability a Lifestyle 
• Shared Future: Youth in Democracy and Governance 
• Health, Wellness, and Sports: Brainstorming on the Youth Agenda
• The Y-20 Summit is the result of various preparatory meetings and events, including the inaugural meeting in Guwahati, pre-summit in Leh, Ladakh, and public participation programs across the country. The summit aims to foster collaboration and networking among stakeholders and contribute to the development of youth agendas on the global stage.

Introduction of Didi Cafe in 17 Municipal Corporations of U.P.

• Didi Cafes will be established in 17 municipal corporations across Uttar Pradesh as part of the Urban Livelihood Mission.
• District Urban Development Agency (DUDA) officer Kaushal Kumar announced this initiative, aiming to provide low-priced food items similar to those in Varanasi.
• These cafes, run by women from self-help groups under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana, will offer clean food at reasonable prices and create employment opportunities for urban poor support groups.
• In the initial phase, Didi Cafes will open in cities such as Lucknow, Kanpur, Ghaziabad, Agra, Aligarh, Bareilly, Meerut, Moradabad, Saharanpur, Prayagraj, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Jhansi, Firozabad, Shahjahanpur, and Mathura-Vrindavan.
• The proposal for these cafes will be based on the successful canteen model in Varanasi, ensuring affordable and clean food for the public.

U.P. Government to Provide Free Books to Students of Class 9th to 12th

• In a recent high-level meeting, the Uttar Pradesh government has decided to provide free books to students of class 9th to 12th in 2428 government secondary schools across the state.
• This initiative will require an additional expenditure of Rs 19.70 crore by the government to make these books available.
• Similar facilities are already provided in several other states such as Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Now, Uttar Pradesh will join this list by offering free books to students in government schools.

Schools to Open in the Evening for Chandrayaan-3 Live Telecast in Uttar Pradesh

On August 21, 2023, the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh announced that schools would open in the evening for the first time on August 23. This decision follows instructions from the Department of School Education and Literacy, Union Ministry of Education.

Special Evening Session

• School principals and Basic Education Officers have been directed to hold a special meeting with students and teachers from 5:15 PM to 6:15 PM.
• During this time, students will watch the live telecast of the Chandrayaan-3 moon landing, an important event for Indian science and technology.

Live Broadcast Details

• The live broadcast of the Chandrayaan-3 moon landing is scheduled for August 23 at 5:27 PM.
• It will be available on the ISRO website, ISRO’s official YouTube channel, and DD National.

Inspiring the Youth

• The Chandrayaan-3 moon landing is a significant event that aims to inspire curiosity and a passion for exploration among the youth.
• The University Grants Commission (UGC) has also encouraged higher educational institutions to inform students about the moon landing and its significance.

CM’s Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme

On August 22, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh cabinet, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, approved the expansion of the ‘Chief Minister’s Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme’ (Higher Education) to include all graduate pass youth.

• The scheme aims to reimburse Rs 1000 in the stipend given by private establishments to trainees by the state government.
• The stipend amount has been increased to Rs 9 thousand per month, with Rs 1000 reimbursed by the state government.
• The remaining amount is covered by the central government and entrepreneurs, with 50 percent provided by the Government of India and 50 percent by the respective institutes.
• The state government will give an additional Rs 1000 to the amount provided by the institute.
• A provision of Rs 100 crore has been made for this scheme in 2023-24, with the education department as the nodal department.
• The scheme aims to encourage private sector institutions to employ non-technical diploma holder and degree holder youth as trainees.
• Non-technical diploma holders and graduate youth of the state will get employment for one year, while private and government institutions will benefit from skilled personnel.

Winners Honored at the Closing Ceremony of Wrestling Competition in Gorakhpur

On August 21, 2023, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath honored the winning players with Uttar Pradesh ‘Kesari’, Uttar Pradesh ‘Kumar’ and Uttar Pradesh ‘Veer Abhimanyu’ awards at the closing ceremony of the two-day wrestling competition organized in district Gorakhpur.

• The state government along with the sports lovers of Gorakhpur organized this wrestling competition and made it interesting with mass participation.
• Uttar Pradesh ‘Kesari’ award winnerJonty was given Rs 01 lakh 01 thousand and mace and runner-up Viresh Kundu was given Rs 51 thousand.
• Uttar Pradesh ‘Kumar’ award winnerSaurabh Yadav was given Rs 51,000 and mace and runner-up Baghel Yadav was given Rs 25,000.
• Aditya Yadav, who won the Uttar Pradesh ‘Veer Abhimanyu’ award, was given Rs 51,000 and mace and runner-up Vineet was given Rs 25,000.
• Apart from these, volleyball player Yuvraj Pratap Singh, wrestler Saurabh Yadav and tennis ball player Aman Raj were also honored.
• The central and state governments have provided a platform for sports and sportspersons to showcase their talent through sporting events like ‘Khelo India’ and ‘Sansad Khel Mahakumbh’.

Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show- 2023

According to information received from the media on August 24, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh government is organizing the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show-2023 for the first time, which will be held from September 21 to 25, 2023 at the India Expo Center and Mart located in Greater Noida.

• Under the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show-2023, exhibitions will be held from September 21 to 25, as well as seminars and cultural activities.
• Producers doing good business at the trade show will be rewarded. More than 2000 manufacturers and exporters from different sectors will participate in the exhibition.
• The exhibition, spread over 50,000 square metres in 15 halls of the India Expo Mart, will also showcase a district, a product such as Pink Meenakari and Silk from Banaras, Shazar Stone from Banda, perfumes from Kannauj, Chikankari from Lucknow, Brass Ware from Moradabad and Black Pottery from Azamgarh.
• The entry of people in the trade show will be free, so that maximum participation of the general public can be done.
• The government has given the responsibility to the Greater Noida Authority and administration at the district level to make the event a success.
• Schools, colleges, RWAs, AOAs and entrepreneurs will be roped in to promote the first international trade show on a large scale.

G20 Culture Ministers’ Meeting in Varanasi Concludes under India’s Chairmanship

Overview

• The G20 Culture Ministers’ meeting, chaired by India, took place on August 26, 2023, in Varanasi.
• The meeting was attended by G20 members, culture ministers, dignitaries from invited countries, and representatives from international organizations.

Objectives and Priorities

• The G20 Culture Working Group, under India’s chairmanship, is focused on creating actionable outcomes in four priority areas.
• These priorities aim to leverage culture to tackle challenges like climate change, rising inequalities, and digital transformation.

Kashi Sanskriti Marg

• The outcome document from the meeting, named ‘Kashi Sanskriti Marg’, reflects the commitments and consensus of the Culture Ministers.

Report Launch

• The report ‘G20 Culture: Shaping the Global Narrative for Inclusive Growth’ was launched during the meeting.
• This report includes insights and recommendations from global thematic webinars held under India’s G20 Presidency.

Special Postage Stamp

• A special edition postage stamp was released to commemorate the Hallmark campaign ‘Culture Unites All’, highlighting India’s commitment to multilateralism for inclusive growth.

G20 Orchestra - ‘Sur Vasudha’

• The delegates witnessed the G20 Orchestra ‘Sur Vasudha’, organized by the Culture Working Group.
• This concert celebrated the musical heritage of G20 member and guest countries, promoting inclusion, diversity, and international collaboration through music.

Future Implications

• The outcomes from the Culture Ministers’ meeting will be discussed by G20 leaders during the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi in September 2023.

Uttar Pradesh's Geetika Shrivastava Appointed as Chargé d'Affaires in Pakistan

• Geetika Shrivastava, a diplomat from Uttar Pradesh, India, has been appointed as the Chargé d'Affaires in Pakistan by the Indian Government.
• She is the first woman to hold this position in the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.

Background

• Geetika Shrivastava replaces Dr. Suresh Kumar as the head of the Indian Embassy in Pakistan.
• Her appointment comes at a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

Significance of the Appointment

• The appointment of a woman diplomat to such a significant role highlights the growing recognition of the importance of women in diplomatic efforts and negotiations.
• Historically, women have played a crucial role in diplomacy in both India and Pakistan, and their involvement is increasingly seen as vital in addressing complex issues between the two countries.

Geetika's Career

• Geetika Shrivastava has been a diplomat for around 20 years, starting her career in 2005.
• She has served in various capacities, including as First Secretary in China, where she handled media, culture, and visa issues and has a good command of Mandarin Chinese.
• Geetika has also worked as Joint Secretary in charge of the Indo-Pacific Division at the Ministry of External Affairs, focusing on India's multilateral diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific region.

Previous Roles

• Before her current appointment, Geetika served as a Regional Passport Officer in Kolkata and as Director in the Indian Ocean Region Division at the Ministry of External Affairs.

Context of India-Pakistan Relations

• Relations between India and Pakistan have been strained since 2019, particularly after India revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Following this, Pakistan downgraded diplomatic relations, and there has been no full-time High Commissioner from India in Pakistan since then.
• Geetika's appointment comes as Pakistan has also appointed a new In-charge for India, indicating a potential shift in diplomatic engagement.

Chief Minister Inaugurates Dhyan Chand Museum in Jhansi

• On August 29, 2023, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the Major Dhyan Chand Museum in Jhansi to commemorate Sports Day.
• The museum is dedicated to the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand and is the first of its kind in the country focused on hockey.

Museum Details

• The Major Dhyan Chand Museum is located at Rani Laxmibai Park and was built at a cost of Rs 19 crore.
• It showcases the life and achievements of Major Dhyan Chand and various aspects of Indian hockey through digital displays.
• The museum is divided into over 20 unique zones, each offering different and engaging content related to hockey and Major Dhyan Chand's legacy.
• It will be open to the public starting September 1, 2023.

Inauguration and Events

• During the inauguration, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also honored Olympic hockey players and inaugurated a hockey match as part of the Sports Day celebrations.
• The Chief Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated various other projects in Jhansi during his visit.

U.P. State Teacher Award for Varsha Chahar

• Varsha Chahar from Agra is set to receive the Uttar Pradesh State Teacher Award for 2022.
• She is recognized for her exceptional efforts in transforming the Daudpur secondary school in Fatehpur Sikri block.
• When Varsha took over the school in 2019, the educational standards were low, but her dedication has significantly improved both the school and its students.
• Under her leadership, the school achieved first place in the ‘Mera Vidyalaya Meri Pehchaan’ competition and gained recognition at various levels.
• Varsha herself has received multiple awards, including the State Level Earthian Environment Award and district-level accolades in art, craft, and storytelling.

Heritage Sites in U.P. to be Transformed into Heritage Hotels

• The Uttar Pradesh government is planning to convert nine heritage sites into heritage hotels to promote heritage tourism in collaboration with the private sector.
• The sites include:
• In Lucknow: Chhatar Manzil, Kothi Gulistan-E-Iram, Kothi Darshan Vilas, Kothi Roshanuddaula
• In Mirzapur: Chunar Fort
• In Jhansi: Barua Sagar Fort
• In Mathura: Barsana Jal Mahal
• In Kanpur: Shukla Talab
• In Bithoor: Tikaitrai Baradari
• Notable hotel groups such as Leela Hotels, Taj Hotels, Oberoi Hotels, and Hyatt Regency have expressed interest in investing in these projects.
• The selection of the successful bidder will be based on quality and cost, with strict norms for the conservation of heritage buildings.
• Developers must maintain the original configuration of the buildings, preserve their historical significance, and promote local culture and employment.