UPPSC Monthly Current Affairs: January 2024 | Monthly Current Affairs UPPSC - UPPSC (UP) PDF Download

Ayodhya Dham Junction

Ayodhya Dham Junction railway station, located in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, has been renamed ahead of the upcoming inauguration of the Ram temple on January 22, 2024. 

Key Points

•   The station will feature modern amenities such as lifts, a tourist information center, and medical facilities, while also incorporating elements of mythological significance.  
•   It will be equipped with refurbished platforms, new signboards, escalators, and murals of Lord Ram, designed to resemble a grand temple externally.  
•   The building’s facade will include a colonnade with a concrete core clad in sandstone, complemented by tall round pillars for a traditional aesthetic.  

Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya Birth Anniversary

On 25th December 2023, the Prime Minister is set to release the first series of the ‘Collected Works of Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya’ in honor of his 162nd birth anniversary. 

• This bilingual (English and Hindi) collection includes writings, speeches, unpublished letters, and other works by Madan Mohan Malaviya. Malaviya, who lived from 25th December 1861 to 2nd November 1946, was an Indian scholar, politician, and educational reformer. 
• He played a significant role in the Indian independence movement, serving as the president of the Indian National Congress four times. Additionally, he founded the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha and was instrumental in establishing the Banaras Hindu University.

First All-Girls Sainik School

On January 1, 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 'Samvid Gurukulam Girls Sainik School' in Vrindavan, Mathura. This school holds the distinction of being the first all-girls Sainik School, with an initial enrollment of approximately 870 students.

• The establishment of this school is part of a broader initiative to set up 100 new Sainik Schools in partnership with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private entities, and state government schools across all states and union territories. So far, 42 of these schools have been successfully established.
• The introduction of the Samvid Gurukulam Girls Sainik School is seen as a significant opportunity for girls aspiring to join the Armed Forces. In 2019, Rajnath Singh approved the phased admission of girl children to Sainik schools, following the success of a pilot project in Sainik School Chhingchhip, Mizoram.
• This initiative aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020, aiming to provide quality education and better career opportunities for students, including pathways to join the Armed Forces.

Trial Necessary to Determine 'Religious Character of Place of Worship': Allahabad HC

The Allahabad High Court has recently indicated that the Places of Worship Act, 1991 does not specify the "religious character of any place of worship." Instead, this character can only be established through a trial, relying on documentary and oral evidence, and should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

• The Places of Worship Act, 1991 prohibits the conversion of religious sites into places of worship for a different religion or sect. It also requires the preservation of the religious identity of any place of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947.
• The Gyanvapi case revolves around the ownership and religious identity of the Gyanvapi complex in Varanasi, which contains both a mosque and a temple. Hindu plaintiffs contend that the entire area, including the mosque site, was originally a temple dedicated to Swayambhu Lord Adi Vishweshwar. They allege that this temple was demolished by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1669.
• To date, neither the government nor the Supreme Court has provided a clear position on this matter.

Economic Growth in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has made significant progress in the Ease of Doing Business rankings, moving from 14th place in 2017 to 2nd place in 2018.

• This improvement reflects the state government's commitment to making Uttar Pradesh an attractive destination for investment.
• The government aims to transform the state into a trillion-dollar economy, with serious efforts evident during the UP Global Investors Summit in February 2023, which received investment proposals exceeding Rs 38 lakh crores.
• Hosting the MotoGP event in Greater Noida was an effective strategy to boost tourism and subsequently increase investments in the state.
• The first international trade show in Greater Noida showcased opportunities for entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and exporters from various sectors, including Information Technology, agriculture, and health.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

• Uttar Pradesh has implemented 25 sectoral policies to enhance the Ease of Doing Business and has introduced an attractive FDI policy offering incentives such as land subsidies, capital subsidies, and State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) reimbursements.
• The FDI policy has already seen successful cases, such as Fuji Silvertech Concrete Pvt Ltd, which received a subsidy in a record time of three days.
• The Nivesh Mitra system provides a single-window clearance for necessary permits and certifications, boasting over 8.8 lakh registered users and a high success rate in processing applications.
• The system has processed over 13 lakh applications for noc/licenses with a success rate of 97% and a grievance redressal rate of 93%.
• Nivesh Sarathi is an investor relationship management system that facilitates online responses to incentives for investors and entrepreneurs in the state.

Rahat Vani Center for Early Disaster Warning

The state chief secretary, Durga Shankar Mishra, recently inaugurated the ‘Rahat Vani Center’ (RVC) in Lucknow's Lalbagh area. This center is part of a broader initiative to address multi-hazard scenarios in Uttar Pradesh.
Functions of the RVC:

• Prepare and Predict Warnings: The RVC will focus on preparing and predicting disaster warnings.
• Timely Delivery of Relief: Ensuring timely delivery of relief to streamline compensation for affected individuals.
• Coordination and Collaboration:The RVC will collaborate with various organizations, including:
  • India Meteorological Department (IMD), Lucknow
  • National Disaster Management Authority
  • Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune
  • ISRO’s National Remote Sensing Centre
  • Indian Institute of Information Technology, Lucknow
  • National Institute of Disaster Management
• Unified Disaster Risk Management: The goal is to develop a unified disaster risk management system and an efficient technological environment.
• Early Warning System: The RVC aims to alert the public about potential natural disasters 30 minutes to one hour in advance. This information will be disseminated at the community level through SMS alerts, mobile notifications, and other means.
• Existing Infrastructure: Currently, the IMD operates 68 Automatic Weather Stations (AWSs) and 132 Automatic Rain Gauge (ARG) stations in Uttar Pradesh to provide weather-related alerts.
• Strengthening the System:To enhance the early warning system, the state government and IMD are installing:
  • Five Doppler radars for long-range weather forecasting and surveillance
  • 450 additional AWSs
  • 2000 ARG stations

Development of Tulsidas’s Birthplace

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced plans to develop Rajapur village in the Chitrakoot district. This village is renowned as the birthplace of Goswami Tulsidas, a revered saint and poet who composed the Ramcharitmanas in the 16th century.

• Significance of Tulsidas and Ramcharitmanas: The Ramcharitmanas, also known as the Tulsi Ramayana, is a retelling of the epic Ramayana in the Awadhi language by Tulsidas. 
• The Uttar Pradesh tourism and culture minister, Jaiveer Singh, highlighted the importance of the Ramcharitmanas and its author. Tulsidas’s birthplace attracts numerous visitors who come to pay their respects.
• Development Plans: The government plans to enhance tourism facilities in Rajapur village, which includes:
• Accommodation and Amenities: Improving lodging and other facilities for tourists.
• Digital Availability: Making the Ramcharitmanas digitally accessible.
• Beautification Project: With an investment of ₹21 crore, an area of approximately two-and-a-half acres near the Tulsi Memorial in Rajapur village will be beautified.
• New Infrastructure: Construction of a park with medicinal plants, a dormitory, a digital library, and an interpretation center.
• Uttar Pradesh’s Tourism Leadership: Uttar Pradesh currently leads the country in domestic tourism. The state is continuously developing tourist facilities to attract more visitors.

Ganga Expressway in Uttar Pradesh

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has urged the Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) to speed up the construction of the Ganga Expressway, aiming for completion by the end of 2024. This expressway is a crucial part of Uttar Pradesh's infrastructure development and is strategically important ahead of the Mahakumbh in 2025.

• Current Status: Uttar Pradesh currently has four expressways among the top 10 in India by length. With the Ganga Expressway, it will have five in the top 10.
• Length and Ranking: The Ganga Expressway, once completed, will be the second-longest expressway in India, following the Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway, with a projected length of 594 kilometers.
• Economic Impact: This expressway is expected to enhance travel efficiency and stimulate economic growth across its extensive corridor.

Features of the Ganga Expressway

• Connectivity: The expressway will connect the state from east to west, passing through 518 villages across 12 districts, significantly reducing travel time between Meerut and Prayagraj.
• Lane Configuration: It will initially accommodate six lanes, with the possibility of expanding to eight lanes, allowing for a maximum speed of 120 kilometers per hour.
• Bridges and Airstrip: The project includes two long bridges over the Ganga and Ramganga rivers, as well as a 3.50-kilometer airstrip near Jalalabad tehsil in Shahjahanpur.
• Public Amenities: Nine public amenities complexes are planned along the expressway, with main toll plazas at Meerut and Prayagraj, and ramp toll plazas at 15 locations.
• The Ganga Expressway symbolizes Uttar Pradesh's dedication to modernizing its connectivity infrastructure, making it more than just a transportation link.

Growth of Spiritual Tourism in Ayodhya

Following the completion of the Ram temple in Ayodhya in 2024, a significant surge in tourism is anticipated, potentially increasing tenfold in the city. 

• Initial Inauguration: The Ram temple's inauguration is projected to attract around 7,000 visitors.
• Post-Opening Surge: The Ayodhya Development Authority expects a daily influx of 300,000 to 500,000 visitors in the month following the temple's opening, especially in February.

Preparations for the Pran Pratishtha

• Date: The much-anticipated 'pran pratishtha' (consecration ceremony) of the Lord Ram idol is scheduled for January 22, 2024.
• City Improvements: Ayodhya has undergone significant improvements in anticipation of the temple's inauguration, enhancing its infrastructure and amenities.

Boost in Spiritual Tourism

• Hotel Industry: Hotel rates in Ayodhya have reportedly increased, with many establishments already fully booked in advance of the temple's opening.
• Transportation Enhancements: New Amrit Bharat trains, utilizing push-pull technology for improved speed and comfort, are being introduced to facilitate travel to Ayodhya.
• Vande Bharat Express: This service will connect two significant temples in Uttar Pradesh - Ram Janmabhoomi and Gorakhnath, further enhancing accessibility to the region.
• New Ayodhya Airport: Airlines are planning to offer services to and from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Ahmedabad, anticipating the large number of visitors expected daily following the sacred event.

Economic Impact of the Ram Temple

• Job Creation: The construction of the Ram Temple has already positively impacted Ayodhya's economy, creating new job opportunities for locals due to the increasing number of tourists.
• New Businesses: A variety of new businesses have emerged near the temple, offering tourists a range of native handicrafts and local products.

Solar Energy Initiatives in Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA) has announced 125 clean energy projects in the pipeline, with an estimated investment of Rs 1 lakh crore. These projects aim to fulfill Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s goal of meeting 40% of the state’s energy needs through solar and alternative sources.

• Initial Phases: Four major solar projects worth Rs 35,000 crore are planned for various districts in Bundelkhand and Eastern Uttar Pradesh.
• Global Investors Summit: At the 2023 GIS, the state government received investment proposals totaling Rs 40 lakh crore, with solar power and clean energy projects under the ‘Akshay Urja’ Scheme representing a significant portion.
• Current Capacity: Uttar Pradesh currently generates approximately 2,152 MW of solar energy, with 372 MW from open access. The Bundelkhand region accounts for nearly 60% of the state’s solar plants.
• Growth Trajectory: Solar energy generation has increased significantly from 279 MW in 2017, thanks to incentives and promotions under the state’s new Solar Policy.
• Upcoming Projects: Under the current investment pipeline, Sonbhadra will see the establishment of a 3,660 MW off-stream closed-loop pump storage project by Greenko Group, with an estimated investment of Rs 17,000 crore.
• Floating Solar Plant: The Uttar Pradesh government plans to set up a 50 MW floating solar plant in Eastern UP.
• Solar City Program: NTPC is developing a 40 MW solar power plant on 165 acres in Ayodhya, part of the Solar City program. The project is expected to be fully operational by March 2024.

Stricter Penalties for Underage Driving in Uttar Pradesh

To address the issue of accidents caused by underage driving, the Uttar Pradesh government is implementing strict measures under the Motor Vehicles Amendment Act, 2019.

Key Points of the Initiative:

• Parents or vehicle owners who permit minors to drive will face severe penalties, including three years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 25,000.
• An awareness campaign is being launched in government secondary schools, in collaboration with the Transport Department, to promote road safety and the dangers of underage driving.
• Experts from King George’s Medical University and the Lohia Institute in Lucknow have highlighted that 40% of road accident deaths involve minors, underscoring the need for strict enforcement of driving age regulations.
• The Motor Vehicles Amendment Act, 2019, increases penalties for various traffic violations and introduces measures such as a Motor Vehicle Accident Fund for compulsory insurance cover for road users in India.
• The Act also calls for the establishment of a National Road Safety Board by the Central Government.

Uttar Pradesh's Semiconductor Policy

Semiconductor Policy

• Recently, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of Uttar Pradesh directed officials to formulate the state's Semiconductor Policy.
• This decision reflects the growing importance of semiconductors in the modern, technology-driven global economy.
• The global semiconductor ecosystem is anticipated to have generated over USD 950 billion in revenue in the fiscal year 2022, with the semiconductor chip sector announcing more than USD 500 billion in investments over the past two years.
• The central government is offering incentives for semiconductor manufacturing services, including semiconductor fabs, display fabs, and compound semiconductors.

Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme

• In 2021, India introduced a USD 10 billion PLI scheme to promote semiconductor and display manufacturing within the country.
• This initiative aims to create a robust ecosystem for the semiconductor and display sectors, encompassing fabrication units, mixed semiconductors, outsourced semiconductors, assembly and testing units, and packaging units.
• Uttar Pradesh's policy should include provisions for financial and non-financial incentives to attract global semiconductor investors.

Understanding Semiconductors

• Semiconductors are crystalline solids with electrical conductivity levels between those of conductors and insulators.
• They are essential in manufacturing various electronic devices such as diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits.
• These devices are widely used due to their compact size, reliability, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Moradabad's Brassware Industry

• The brassware industry in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, is experiencing a revival due to the increased demand for religious idols, especially those of Lord Ram, prompted by the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
• Moradabad, founded in 1600 by Murad, the son of Mughal Emperor Shahjahan, has earned the nickname "Brass City" or "Peetal Nagri" due to its renowned brass work and handicraft industry.
• The city exports brassware to various countries, including the US, Britain, Canada, Germany, the Middle East, and Asia.
• Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is valued for its hardness and workability, making it a historically significant material.
• In the 1980s, Moradabad's industry diversified to include various metal wares such as brass, iron, and aluminum, introducing new technologies like electroplating, lacquering, and powder coating.
• The Moradabad Metal Craft (Word Mark) has been granted a geographical indication (GI) tag to recognize the quality and uniqueness of the metal craft from this region.
• The 'One District One Product Programme' (ODOP) by the Uttar Pradesh government promotes indigenous and specialized products and crafts, aiming to preserve and develop local skills, increase incomes and local employment, improve product quality, and connect production with tourism.

Uttar Pradesh Among Top Three States for MSMEs

According to a report by realty consulting firm CBRE South Asia and real estate developers association CREDAI, Uttar Pradesh has emerged among the top three states as a significant contributor to the , with a 9% share in total registered MSMEs in the country.

• Sector-wise, the report highlighted that the construction sector, contributing approximately 8% to the GDP, is a strategic opportunity for Indian MSMEs.

Udyam Assist Portal

• According to the official data from the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, 2.21 crore MSMEs are registered (excluding registrations via the Udyam Assist Portal ) under the ministry.
• Several cities in Uttar Pradesh have emerged as MSME clusters, with Agra, Kanpur, Varanasi, Lucknow, Meerut and Ghaziabad leading in enrolling for the Udyam scheme.

Udyam Portal

• It is an online system for registering MSMEs, launched by the Union MSME ministry on 1st July, 2020.

Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN)

• It is linked to the databases of the and . GSTN is a unique and intricate IT enterprise that establishes a channel of communication and interaction between taxpayers, the central and various state governments, and other stakeholders. 
• It is fully online, does not require any documentation, and is a step towards for MSMEs.

Swachh Survekshan 2023

Prayagraj and Varanasi have been awarded the prestigious President's Award for their outstanding performance in the Swachh Survekshan 2023 cleanliness survey in New Delhi.

In Uttar Pradesh, eight cities, including Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Kanpur, Ghaziabad, Aligarh, Jhansi, and Firozabad, received a 3-star rating for their cleanliness efforts, while Noida achieved an impressive 5-star rating.

Open Defecation Free (ODF) Status

• Approximately 648 cities in Uttar Pradesh have attained ODF status, indicating their commitment to open defecation-free standards.
• 65 cities in the state have also secured the 'Garbage Free City' status, showcasing effective waste management practices.

ODF++ Status

• The Swachh Survekshan 2023 results highlight that 129 cities in Uttar Pradesh have achieved ODF++ status, reflecting their adherence to open defecation-free standards and sustainable practices.
• Additionally, 435 cities in the state have attained ODF+ status, demonstrating the government's commitment to cleanliness and sanitation.

Progress Towards Higher Ratings

• Many cities in Uttar Pradesh are striving towards a 7-star rating, with continuous efforts being made by the government to elevate more cities to achieve 5-star and 3-star ratings.

About Swachh Survekshan

• Swachh Survekshan was introduced by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in 2016 as a competitive framework to encourage cities to improve urban sanitation with significant citizen participation.
• Over the years, it has grown to become the largest urban sanitation survey in the world.

Pharma Park in Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh government is in the process of establishing a pharma park in Lalitpur, Bundelkhand, as announced by the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA). This park will span 1,472 acres across five villages and is part of a broader strategy to promote industrial growth and economic development in the region.

• The development of the pharma park and associated projects will occur in two phases, with the initial phase focusing on the immediate development of 300 acres of land. The villages earmarked for this initiative include Saidpur, Gadolikala, Largan, Karounda, and Rampur. 
• Modern surveying techniques such as oil testing, contour mapping, and topographical investigation will be employed to ensure precision and efficiency in the planning and execution of these projects. UPSIDA is also expediting development projects at site-1 and site-2 in Orai, along with the Plastic City project in Dibiyapur. 
• The plastic park, covering 274.4 acres, will comprise industrial units, residential areas, and essential infrastructure, further contributing to the region's industrial landscape.

Uttar Pradesh's Journey to a $1 Trillion Economy

Uttar Pradesh, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is on track to become a $1 trillion economy, having already established itself as the second largest in India. The state's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) has seen significant growth, rising from ₹16.45 lakh crore in 2021-22 to over ₹22.58 lakh crore in 2022-23, contributing 9.2% to the national income.

Economic Growth and Digital Advancements

• UP's growth rates have outpaced the national averages in both current and constant prices for 2021-22 and 2022-23.
• The state has embraced digital technology in agriculture, leading to improvements in crop surveys and increased production in sectors like sugarcane and horticulture.

Agricultural and Dairy Achievements

• UP leads the country in milk production and ranks third in egg production, with a notable annual growth rate in the latter.
• State initiatives aimed at self-sufficiency in pulses and oilseeds are showing positive results, although there is room for improvement in crop diversification and supply chain management.

Growth in the Tertiary Sector

• The tertiary sector in UP, particularly tourism, has experienced rapid growth, with significant advancements in hotels, restaurants, transport, communication, real estate, and various services.
• In 2022, UP recorded the highest number of tourist arrivals in India, with over 31.8 crore visitors, and is focusing on attracting foreign tourists by identifying potential countries and formulating appropriate policies.

Path to $1 Trillion

• To achieve the ambitious target of a $1 trillion economy by 2027, all departments in UP need to intensify their efforts, with improved planning and coordination being crucial.
• A detailed presentation by the planning department and financial consultants highlighted the current economic landscape and future prospects, emphasizing the need for sector-wise enhancements.

Uneven Progress in Clean Air Targets

A recent study by Climate Trends and Respirer Living Sciences has shown that most cities in India are not on track to meet the clean air targets set by the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).

• Out of 49 cities with consistent PM2.5 data over five years, only 27 cities showed a decrease in PM2.5 levels.
• Only four cities met or exceeded the targeted decline set by the NCAP.
• PM2.5 levels are a crucial indicator of air quality, with "PM" standing for particulate matter and "2.5" referring to the size of the particles.

Significant Reductions and Challenges

• Cities like Varanasi, Agra, and Jodhpur experienced significant reductions in PM2.5 levels.
• In contrast, cities like Delhi saw only marginal declines (5.9%) or increases in pollution.
• Varanasi reported the most substantial reduction, with a 72% average decrease in PM2.5 levels and a 69% reduction in PM10 levels from 2019 to 2023.

National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)

• Launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in January 2019.
• First national framework for air quality management in India with a time-bound reduction target.
• Aims to reduce average Particulate Matter (PM) concentrations by 40% by 2026 in 131 cities.
• Initially targeted a 20-40% reduction by 2024, later extended to 2026.

Five New Airports in Uttar Pradesh

Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has announced the upcoming inauguration of five new airports in Uttar Pradesh, which will increase the total number of airports in the state to 19.

Details of the New Airports

• Azamgarh
• Aligarh
• Moradabad
• Chitrakoot
• Shravasti

Expansion of Ayodhya Airport

• The Ayodhya airport will undergo expansion, including an extension of the runway to accommodate larger aircraft and facilitate international flights.
• The second phase of its expansion will commence soon, with plans for more flight connections to the city.

Maharishi Valmiki International Airport

• The Maharishi Valmiki International Airport in Ayodhya was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 30, 2023.

PMI Delivers 50 e-buses to Uttar Pradesh

PMI Electro Mobility, a prominent manufacturer of electric buses, has recently delivered 50 e-buses to Uttar Pradesh. These buses are set to operate in Ayodhya.

• The official flag-off was conducted by Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, as part of a zero-carbon public mobility initiative. The event took place at the Ayodhya Dham bus stand.
• These e-buses will provide sustainable and comfortable public transport options for visiting dignitaries, pilgrims, and local residents in Ayodhya. This initiative aims to complement efforts in reducing air pollution and contributing to the broader Net-Zero Target.

Net-Zero Target

• During the 26th session of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 26) in November 2021, India announced its target to achieve net zero emissions by 2070. This long-term low-carbon development strategy is grounded in the principles of equity, climate justice, and the Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capacities principle.
• The Indian government has implemented various measures to tackle the escalating environmental challenges, including initiatives like the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) in January 2019. This programme aims to improve air quality in 131 cities across 24 States and Union Territories by involving all stakeholders. Additionally, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas has introduced policies to combat air pollution, including a standardized list of approved fuels for industrial and other uses in the NCR.

Uttar Pradesh’s Priority Sector Jump

• The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has projected that credit flow into Uttar Pradesh's priority sectors will reach Rs 5.73 trillion in 2024-25. The government has identified agriculture, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), and services sector as priority areas.
• To achieve the USD 1-trillion economy target, the state needs significant growth rates of 250% in agriculture, 300% in MSME, and 450% in services. The UP government is encouraging bankers to enhance the state’s credit deposit (CD) ratio, emphasizing the role of credit in driving growth.
• A delegation from UP is participating in the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, to promote the state as a prime investment destination. Additionally, the state is fostering startup initiatives to generate employment. The Chief General Manager of NABARD in UP has highlighted the state as India’s “growth engine,” with an estimated growth rate of 19.2%.
• In terms of ease of doing business, UP has significantly improved its ranking, moving from 14th position in 2017 to 2nd position. The State Focus Paper compiled by NABARD outlines the credit potential for all 75 districts in UP. Based on this paper, the annual credit plan for 2024-25 will be determined by the state level bankers’ committee (SLBC) in UP. The state is also working on enhancing farm exports by improving the quality of harvested produce. Despite accounting for 20% of India’s total millet production, UP’s millet exports currently stand at only 1%.
• The World Economic Forum (WEF) is a Swiss nonprofit organization founded in 1971 and based in Geneva, Switzerland. It is recognized by Swiss authorities as an international institution for public-private cooperation.

Introduction of the ‘Divya Ayodhya’ App

Recently, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath introduced the ‘Divya Ayodhya’ app, a mobile application aimed at improving the experience of devotees and tourists visiting the sacred city of Ayodhya. This app combines technology with cultural experiences, focusing on enhancing navigation and providing various services to visitors.

Features and Benefits of the ‘Divya Ayodhya’ App

• Itinerary Planning and Exploration: The app helps users plan their itineraries and discover hidden gems in Ayodhya, offering a deeper immersion into the city’s cultural richness.
• Detailed Information: Users can explore key landmarks, temples, monasteries, and historical sites with detailed descriptions and timetables.
• Transportation Services: The app facilitates the booking of e-cars and e-buses, providing real-time tracking of their routes along with convenient boarding and deboarding options.
• Accommodation Booking: Users can reserve homestays, hotels, or tent cities through the app, which connects them with locally trained tourist guides for a more personalized experience.
• Accessibility Services: The app offers the option to book wheelchairs and golf carts, ensuring seamless sightseeing for all visitors.

 Rural Homestay Initiatives 

• The Uttar Pradesh government is actively working on identifying locations on the outskirts of Ayodhya to introduce rural homestay options, aiming to enhance tourism while supporting the local economy. One such initiative allows visitors to rent a portion of a house in Daulatpur village for a unique farm stay experience.

 Sustainable Tourism Practices 

• These initiatives not only focus on boosting tourism but also emphasize sustainable tourism practices. The state government is committed to enhancing facilities for tourists and pilgrims visiting key destinations such as Ram Janmabhoomi and various temples in Ayodhya.

Electric Buses and Essential Services 

• As part of the efforts to improve tourism infrastructure, the introduction of electric buses on the ‘Dharma Path’ and ‘Ram Path’ is planned. This initiative aims to provide essential services to visitors while promoting eco-friendly transportation options.

Uttar Pradesh Leads in Reducing Multidimensional Poverty

According to a report by NITI Aayog, Uttar Pradesh (UP) has been at the forefront of reducing multidimensional poverty (MDP) over the past nine years. 

• The report indicates that 5.94 crore people in UP have lifted out of MDP, with the percentage of multidimensional poor decreasing from 37.68% in 2015-16 to 22.95% in 2019-21. In the latest figures for 2022-23, this rate has further improved to 17.40%. Multidimensional poverty is measured using 12 indicators aligned with sustainable development goals, as outlined by NITI Aayog in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI). 
• The report highlights a national decline in multidimensional poverty from 29.17% in 2013-14 to 11.28% in 2022-23, with 24.82 crore people escaping poverty during this period. NITI Aayog, established on January 1, 2015, replaced the Planning Commission and focuses on a 'Bottom-Up' approach to governance, emphasizing 'Cooperative Federalism'. 
• The organization aims for maximum governance with minimum government intervention. NITI Aayog consists of two main hubs: Team India Hub, which facilitates cooperation between states and the central government, and Knowledge and Innovation Hub, which enhances the think-tank capabilities of NITI Aayog. 
• OPHI, an economic research and policy center within the University of Oxford, was established in 2007 to develop a systematic framework for reducing multidimensional poverty based on people's experiences and values. The collaboration between NITI Aayog, UNDP, and OPHI reflects a concerted effort to address poverty in India through comprehensive and multidimensional strategies.