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

Separate Review for Development and Law & Order in Uttar Pradesh Districts

On August 31, 2023, Chief Secretary Durga Shanker Mishra announced new guidelines for reviewing law & order and development works in Uttar Pradesh districts. The evaluation of these two aspects will now be conducted separately at different levels.

Key Changes in Review Process

• CM Dashboard Basis: Reviews will be based on information from the Chief Minister's (CM) dashboard. Poor-performing officers will be identified for improvement.
• District-Level Reviews: District Magistrates in 68 districts and police commissioners in cities with the police commissioner system will conduct separate reviews of law & order.
• Divisional-Level Reviews: Meetings at the divisional level will be held within a week of district-level reviews. Development reviews will be chaired by the Divisional Commissioner. In divisions without a police commissioner system, law & order meetings will also be chaired by the Divisional Commissioner.
• Nodal Officers: The Additional Commissioner will be the nodal officer for revenue and development work in divisions, while the Deputy Inspector General of Police will be the nodal officer for law and order.
• District-Level Differentiation: Development and law & order reviews will be distinct at the district level. Development meetings will be chaired by the District Magistrate and held within a week of the CM dashboard rankings.
• Nodal Officers at District Level: The Chief Development Officer will oversee development reviews at the district level. In districts without a police commissioner system, law and order reviews will be held in police lines under the District Magistrate's chairmanship.

Monitoring Law and Order and Monthly Rankings in Districts

• In districts with the Police Commissioner system, such as Lucknow, Varanasi, and Kanpur, the law and order situation will be reviewed monthly by the Principal Secretary Home and the Director General of Police.
• In districts where the Police Commissioner system is in place, the Police Commissioner will conduct monthly reviews of the law and order situation. The meeting will include the Additional Police Commissioner, Joint Police Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Assistant Police Commissioner, Senior Prosecution Officer, and all police station in-charges.
• Monthly Rankings: The ranking will be published on the 15th of each month, evaluating the implementation of services and schemes by various departments on the Chief Minister's (CM) dashboard. The ranking will consider the performance index, data quality index, and progress on flagship projects.
• Future Merit-Based Transfers: In the future, the coefficients obtained by departments based on the ranking of district-level officers on the CM dashboard will be used for merit-based online transfers.

‘Guruvarta Sangam’ Program of Atal Residential Schools

On September 1, 2023, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the Atal Residential Schools initiative during the ‘Guruvarta Sangam’ program held at Lok Bhawan Auditorium.

Key Announcements: Atal Residential Schools: The Chief Minister announced the establishment of Atal Residential Schools, with 18 schools set to open in the current session. In the future, the Basic Education Council will establish similar schools in the remaining 57 districts.

• CBSE Pattern: These schools will follow the CBSE Board pattern and will provide comprehensive facilities including lodging and food.
• Responsibility: The state government and the Uttar Pradesh Building & Other Construction Workers Welfare Board will be responsible for educating students from class 6 to 12.
• Objectives: The schools aim to provide education to underprivileged children while promoting Indian values and Gurukul traditions. The goal is to nurture a generation that carries forward India’s cultural heritage globally.
• Skill Development: These institutions will focus on skill development and integrated growth for the children of workers and underprivileged families who contribute to the state’s progress.
• Additional Initiatives: During the event, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also distributed school kits to selected students for Atal Residential Schools and launched the Bal Seva Yojana (Child Welfare Scheme) for children who lost their parents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Uttar Pradesh Surpasses 22 States in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

Uttar Pradesh has made significant strides in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), surpassing 22 other states in India between 2019 and 2023. This includes states like Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Kerala, Chandigarh, and Madhya Pradesh.

FDI Growth Comparison

• From 2001 to 2017, Uttar Pradesh received only a fraction of the foreign investment it garnered in just five years from 2019 to 2023.
• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade and the Reserve Bank of India reported that Uttar Pradesh received Rs 3,000 crore in foreign investment between 2000 and 2017. In contrast, from 2019 to June 2023, the state attracted approximately Rs 11,000 crore in FDI.

National Ranking

• Between October 2019 and June 2023, Uttar Pradesh ranked 11th in the country for foreign direct investment.
• The top states for FDI during this period included Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Telangana, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and West Bengal.

Future Prospects

• Uttar Pradesh is on track to break into the top 10 states for FDI in the near future, reflecting its economic growth and improving investment climate.
• Factors contributing to this positive change include a lower crime rate, political stability, and policies that promote industrial growth. These aspects are crucial for attracting foreign companies.

Historical 

• The increase in FDI is a marked improvement from past years. For instance, in 2014-15, Uttar Pradesh received Rs 679 crore in FDI, which decreased to Rs 524 crore in 2015-16 and Rs 50 crore in 2016-17.
• Between 2000 and 2014, the state attracted only about Rs 1,800 crore in FDI.

The remarkable growth in FDI in Uttar Pradesh is attributed to the enhanced image of the state and its improved business environment, making it a more attractive destination for foreign investors.

Three Teachers from Uttar Pradesh Receive National Teacher’s Award

On September 5, 2023, President Draupadi Murmu honored three teachers from Uttar Pradesh with the National Teacher’s Award 2023 during a ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, in celebration of Teachers’ Day.

President Murmu presented the National Teacher’s Award for 2023 to a total of 75 teachers from across the country at this event. Each awardee received Rs 50,000 in cash, a citation, a shawl, and quince.

Honorees from Uttar Pradesh

• This year, the following three teachers from Uttar Pradesh were recognized with the National Teacher’s Award:
• Sudhanshu Shekhar Panda, Principal of K.N. International School, Meerut.
• Chandra Prakash Agarwal, Bulandshahr.
• Ashiya Farooqi, Fatehpur.

Contributions of the Honorees

• Chandra Prakash Agarwal : He has brought national recognition to Bulandshahr district for its educational initiatives. He is associated with Shiv Kumar Janta Inter College, Bulandshahr’s first hi-tech school, which offers free education to girls. The school is known for its exceptional contributions to education in the region and features the Aryabhatta Astronomical School, where students learn about astronomy.
• Ashiya Farooqi : As a teacher at Primary School Asti in the Fatehpur Nagar area, she revitalized the school through innovative methods. By conducting five classes alone and using joyful learning techniques, she sparked interest in education among children, leading to an increase in student enrollment from zero to 250 in three years.

National Teacher’s Day

• National Teacher’s Day is celebrated on September 5 every year since 1962 to honor the contributions of teachers, including school teachers, researchers, and professors in India.
• The day was suggested by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the former President of India, who proposed celebrating his birthday as Teacher’s Day in response to students’ requests.

National Teacher’s Award

• The National Teacher’s Award aims to recognize and celebrate the unique contributions of exceptional teachers in India.
• These awards honor teachers who, through their dedication, have not only improved the quality of education but also enriched the lives of their students.
• The awards are presented by the President of India on September 5 every year.
• The award includes a silver medal, a certificate, and a cash prize of Rs 50,000.
• This year, the scope of the award has expanded to include teachers selected by the Higher Education Department and the Skill Development Ministry, in addition to those chosen by the School Education and Literacy Department.

Agreement Signed for Sewage Treatment Infrastructure in Meerut

On September 6, 2023, a tripartite agreement was signed in New Delhi between the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam, and M/s Meerut STP Pvt Ltd for the development of a sewage treatment plant (STP) and related infrastructure in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. The agreement was witnessed by the Director General of NMCG.

• The project, with a total cost of Rs 369.74 crore, is being implemented under the Hybrid Annuity Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode and is expected to be completed by December 2025.
• NMCG has sanctioned the construction of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with a capacity of 220 million liters per day (MLD). The project includes the development of Interception and Diversion (I&D) structures, laying of I&D network, and operation and maintenance for 15 years, along with other works such as sewage pumping stations.
• The primary objective of the project is to tackle the existing sewage issues in Meerut and mitigate the sewage pollution affecting the Kali River. Once completed, the project will ensure that no untreated sewage is discharged from Meerut city into the Kali River (East), significantly reducing pollution levels.
• The Kali (East) River joins the Ganga River near Kannauj, and this project will contribute to lowering the pollution levels in the Ganga River as well.
• The agreement was signed by S.K. Burman, Superintending Engineer of Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam (Rural), Mayank Agarwal, Authorized Signatory of M/s Meerut STP Private Limited, and Vinod Kumar, Director (Project) of NMCG, in the presence of G. Ashok Kumar, Director General of NMCG.

Eight Districts in Uttar Pradesh to Achieve 100% Digital Payment

As per reports from the media on September 5, 2023, eight districts in Uttar Pradesh are set to establish a 100 percent digital payment ecosystem. By the end of this year, these districts aim to become fully proficient in digital payments.

• The eight districts, each adopted by different banks, include Fatehpur, Kannauj, Amroha, Varanasi, Shamli, Maharajganj, Deoria, and Bahraich. The central headquarters of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is closely monitoring the progress in these districts.
• The responsibilities for achieving 100% digital payment in these districts are as follows: Bank of Baroda for Fatehpur, Bank of India for Kannauj, Canara Bank for Amroha, Union Bank for Varanasi, Punjab National Bank (PNB) for Shamli, State Bank of India (SBI) for Maharajganj, Central Bank for Deoria, and Indian Bank for Bahraich.
• Uttar Pradesh is also a leader in social security schemes, with around 23 percent of its population covered by the PM Suraksha Bima Yojana. The PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana covers 1.75 crore people in the state, the second-highest in the country.
• Between April and June, 10.83 lakh people were covered under the PM Suraksha Bima Yojana, and 28.43 lakh people under the PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana. Approximately five crore people in the state are now covered under the PM Suraksha Bima Yojana, making Uttar Pradesh the first state in the country with the maximum insurance coverage.

E-Bus Service to Launch in 19 Cities Across Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh government is set to introduce e-bus services in 19 cities, including 17 municipal corporations, to enhance public transportation. This initiative will be implemented under the PM e-bus service scheme.

The Urban Development Department is currently drafting a proposal for this plan, which will be submitted to the Central Government after receiving necessary approvals.

Proposed Distribution of E-Buses:

• Large Cities: 150 buses each
• Medium Cities: 100 buses each
• Small Cities: 50 buses each

Current Situation:

• Presently, 740 small AC e-buses are operational in 14 cities under the Central Government’s Fame India scheme.
• An additional 300 buses were planned for Phase-II, but the focus has shifted to the PM e-bus service.

Future Plans:

• The Urban Development Department will now request new buses under the PM e-bus service instead of Fame India Phase-II.
• Proposals are being prepared for:
• 150 new buses in large cities (e.g., Lucknow, Kanpur, Ghaziabad)
• 100 buses each in cities like Agra, Jhansi, Varanasi, Meerut, Prayagraj, Bareilly, Aligarh, Moradabad, Gorakhpur, Firozabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar
• 50 buses each in Ayodhya, Shahjahanpur, Mathura, Rampur, and Saharanpur

Implementation of E-Office in All Districts of Uttar Pradesh

The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to implement the e-office system across all districts to streamline and digitize government work. This initiative was previously ordered by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in 2018 and is now being expedited by Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra.

• Current Status: - E-office has been fully implemented in Kannauj district, marking a significant step towards paperless governance. - 93 departments in the Secretariat have adopted the e-office system, with 8,654 files issued electronically. - E-office is operational in 46 out of 150 Head of Department offices and in 35 out of 90 police-related offices, with 8,181 files issued so far.
• Next Steps: - The government will start generating email IDs for all district employees and provide training for the e-office system. - Plans are in place to implement e-office in government departments at the divisional level, furthering the paperless initiative.
• Benefits of E-Office: - E-office aims to enhance the speed, efficiency, and transparency of government operations. - It facilitates quick and informed decision-making, saving time and improving accountability in government work.
• Future Prospects: - The e-office system is expected to be implemented in all district and divisional government offices, digitizing file management and monitoring government personnel's work. - The District Magistrate will have the ability to monitor files, expediting the process of sending files from districts to the government.

Uttar Pradesh Leads in Providing Drinking Water to Every Household

According to media reports on September 12, 2023, Uttar Pradesh is outpacing other states in delivering drinking water to every household under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Bulandshahr ranks first and Bareilly third in the country for this initiative.

The Central Government's Jal Shakti Ministry releases rankings based on the progress of the Jal Jeevan Mission, focusing on the construction of overhead tanks for water supply to homes.

Achievements in Uttar Pradesh

• Bulandshahr has secured the top position in the country for supplying water through pipelines to every home, achieving nearly 98% of its target. The district is also leading in the rapid construction of overhead tanks and providing water connections to households.
• Bareilly ranks third nationally. The district is making significant progress with overhead tank projects in 877 gram panchayats. Currently, 433 gram panchayats have access to drinking water, while 1,867 still need water supply.
• Muzaffarnagar is ranked fourth, and Badaun (part of Bareilly division) is fifth, achieving about 87% of their targets.
• Lakhimpur Kheri is ranked 42nd in the country and 25th in the state, meeting about 68% of its target.

National Rankings

• Uttar Pradesh has 26 districts among the top 50 in the country for the Jal Jeevan Mission.
• Seven districts from Uttar Pradesh are in the top 10 nationally.
• Top ten districts in the country:Bulandshahr (Uttar Pradesh), South Salmara Mankachar (Assam), Bareilly (Uttar Pradesh), Muzaffarnagar (Uttar Pradesh), Badaun (Uttar Pradesh), Mungeli (Chhattisgarh), Tirupattur (Tamil Nadu), Chandoli (Uttar Pradesh), Kannauj (Uttar Pradesh), and Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh).

New Industrial City in Bundelkhand, Inspired by Noida

In a recent cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on September 12, 2023, the proposal to develop a new industrial city in Bundelkhand, modeled after Noida, was approved.

• The planned industrial township will cover 35,000 acres of land from 33 revenue villages along the Jhansi-Gwalior road, with an estimated cost of Rs 6,312 crore for land acquisition.
• The concept of establishing Noida was first proposed in 1976, and now, after 47 years, a similar initiative is set for Bundelkhand.
• Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna explained that the Chief Minister Industrial Area Expansion and New Industrial Area Promotion Scheme has paved the way for this development.
• The Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority (BIDA) will spearhead the project, aiming to develop an industrial city over 14,000 hectares of land.
• This new industrial hub will be strategically located on the Jhansi-Gwalior route, ensuring strong connectivity to major cities via national highways.
• Additionally, it will be linked to other parts of the state through the Bundelkhand Expressway, enhancing its accessibility and potential for growth.

Unity Malls Coming to Lucknow, Agra, and Varanasi

The Central Government has announced the construction of three Unity Malls in Uttar Pradesh, with work already underway. Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra has instructed the identification of land for the proposed Unity Mall in Varanasi, while suitable land in Agra has already been identified.

• These Unity Malls aim to showcase and sell One District One Product (ODOP) items, Geographical Indication (GI) products, handicrafts, and ODOP products from other states. The initiative is part of the Union Budget 2023-24, promoting national integration, Make in India, and local employment generation.
• In Lucknow, the Unity Mall will be established in Awadh Shilp Gram, starting with 35 existing air-conditioned showrooms. The Housing Development Department will soon send the design and Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the mall to the Central Government.
• The malls will also feature food courts to provide visitors with dining options. A joint committee comprising the Housing Development and MSME departments will oversee the operation of the Unity Malls.

Changes in School Study Hours in Uttar Pradesh Under the New Education Policy

On September 13, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh government decided to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) more effectively. The Education Department has been instructed to create new rules for schools based on the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) outlined in the NEP.

Key Changes:

• Weekly Study Hours: Schools will now have a total of 29 hours of teaching per week.
• Daily Schedule: From Monday to Friday, classes will be held for 5 to 5.5 hours. On two Saturdays each month, classes will be held for only 2 to 2.5 hours.
• Class Duration: The maximum duration for general subject classes will be reduced from 45 to 35 minutes. Major subject classes will be 50 minutes long.
• Core Subjects: Classes for core subjects like Mathematics, Hindi, English, and Science will be 40 to 50 minutes long.
• School Bag Relief: To lighten the study burden on children, there will be 10 days in a year when students can come to school without their bags. On these days, lessons will be taught verbally and through experiments.

Ayushman Bhava: Campaign Launch

On September 13, 2023, President Draupadi Murmu inaugurated the Ayushman Bhava campaign virtually from Rashtrapati Bhavan. In Uttar Pradesh, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak launched the campaign at the state level.

The primary focus of this campaign, running from September 17 to October 2, is to promote health and wellness in villages.

• Comprehensive Health Screening: The campaign aims to initiate treatment for identified patients, including screenings for various conditions such as tuberculosis (TB), cancer, diabetes, and hypertension.
• Vaccination: Ensuring 100% regular vaccination for children in villages.
• Ayushman Card: Villagers will receive an Ayushman card, providing free treatment facilities up to Rs 5 lakh annually.
• Abha ID: The creation of Abha ID will eliminate the need for individuals to keep old records of their treatments and tests.
• Cancer and TB Screening: Screening for oral, breast, and cervical cancer will be conducted, along with TB testing for 30 out of every 1,000 people.

Sixteen Litterateurs Honoured on Hindi Day

On September 14, 2023, sixteen litterateurs were honoured during the ‘Apni Hindi Apna Bharat’ felicitation ceremony, Kavi Sammelan, held in Lucknow to celebrate Hindi Diwas. The event was organized by the Uttar Pradesh Sahitya Sabha and the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce.

Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh presented awards to senior litterateurs, writers, lyricists, and journalists in recognition of their contributions.

• Padma Shri Vidya Bindu Singh, Dr. Ram Bahadur Mishra, Vinod Mishra, Mahendra Bhishma, Vinod Shankar Shukla, Dr. Om Prakash Singh, Keshav Prasad Vajpayee, Dr. Sonrupa Vishal, Vinita Mishra, Gajendra Priyanshu, Alankar Rastogi, Neeraj Arora, Dayanand Pandey, Rajkumar Singh, Jagdamba Prasad, and Dr. Archana Satish were among the recipients.
• During the event, Minister Jaiveer Singh emphasized the government’s efforts to promote the state’s culture internationally, starting with initiatives in Korea.

Monthly Ranking of Top and Bottom 10 Districts of IGRS and CM Helpline released

On September 17, 2023, the Chief Minister was presented with the ranking of the top and bottom 10 districts for August in the Jansunwai Samadhan System, IGRS, and CM Helpline.

Performance Overview

• Best Districts: Amethi and Kannauj were recognized for their excellent performance in public hearing under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's working style.
• Worst Districts: Baghpat and Gorakhpur were highlighted for poor performance.

Top and Bottom 10 District Magistrates

• Top Performers: Amethi, Kannauj, Shravasti, Shahjahanpur, Sonbhadra, Ghaziabad, Mahoba, Mirzapur, Hapur, and Bhadohi.
• Bottom Performers: Baghpat, Gorakhpur, Bareilly, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Agra, Siddharthnagar, Saharanpur, Rampur, and Moradabad.

Top and Bottom 10 Police Officers

• Best Performing Police Officers: Aligarh, Shravasti, Sonbhadra, Hamirpur, Kushinagar, Farrukhabad, Kasganj, Chitrakoot, Bhadohi, and Hathras.
• Worst Performing Police Officers: Bareilly, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Fatehpur, Jhansi, Ayodhya, Etah, Hapur, Azamgarh, and Sant Kabir Nagar.

Top and Bottom 10 Tehsils

• Top Tehsils: Kol (Aligarh), Kerakat and Badlapur (Jaunpur), Ikauna (Shravasti), Sadar (Prayagraj), Baraut (Baghpat), Atrauli (Aligarh), Sayana (Bulandshahr), Orai (Jalaun), and Hasanpur (Amroha).
• Bottom Tehsils: Bilaspur (Rampur), Tirwa and Chhibramau (Kannauj), Milak (Rampur), Dhaulana (Hapur), Hathras (Hathras), Khalilabad (Sant Kabir Nagar), Dhaurahara (Kheri), Kannauj (Kannauj), and Unchahar (Rae Bareli).

Uttar Pradesh Triumphs in Junior National Football Championship

On September 16, 2023, Uttar Pradesh emerged victorious in the Dr. BC Roy Trophy Junior National Football Championship held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. In a closely contested final, Uttar Pradesh defeated West Bengal with a score of 2-1.

Match Highlights:

• Uttar Pradesh Goals:
  • Niranjan Jangshahi (31st minute)
  • Kuldeep Singh (80th minute)
• West Bengal Goal: Tanveer Dey (70th minute)

Top Performer:

• Niranjan Jangshahi was the standout player of the tournament, scoring a total of eight goals for the Lucknow division. He plays for the Sahara Club in Lucknow.

Chief Minister Inaugurates Tattva Plastic Pipeline in GIDA

On September 18, 2023, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the Tatva Plastic Pipe Factory in Gorakhpur Industrial Development Authority (GIDA). The factory, established with an investment of Rs 110 crore, marks a significant step in the industrial development of the region.

• During the inauguration, Chief Minister Adityanath highlighted the development of an industrial corridor from GIDA to Dhuriapar, where industrial activities are being set up on 5000 acres of land. This initiative is expected to create employment opportunities for the youth of Eastern Uttar Pradesh.
• Over the past six years, there has been a notable improvement in the investment and employment landscape of GIDA, with a reduction in the migration of youth from Purvanchal to other regions for industrial jobs.
• On the occasion, land allotment letters were distributed to 97 entrepreneurs, marking the commencement of factory operations in GIDA. These factories are expected to attract an investment of Rs 1000 crore and provide employment to over 5000 individuals.
• The Global Investors Summit held in Uttar Pradesh from February 10 to 12, 2023, resulted in investment proposals worth Rs 36 lakh crore. Gorakhpur alone received proposals amounting to approximately two and a quarter lakh crore rupees. If these proposals materialize, they have the potential to create one crore jobs. The distribution of letters of intent for the establishment of 102 new industries in GIDA is a step towards realizing this potential.

Creation of Special Educational Zones in Uttar Pradesh

On September 18, 2023, it was announced that Uttar Pradesh will establish special educational zones similar to Special Economic Zones (SEZs). These zones will be determined based on factors such as youth population, per capita income, infrastructure, and literacy rate.

Initial Phase

• In the initial phase, potential locations for these special education zones include Noida and Lucknow.

Implementation and Infrastructure

• The responsibility for this scheme will be assigned to an infrastructure partner.
• Unused land belonging to educational institutions is being identified for use in these special zones.

Focus Areas

• The education cluster within these zones will focus on multidimensional education, research, and skill development.

Action Plan

• A detailed action plan is currently being prepared, after which the specific locations for the special educational zones will be finalized.

Deloitte's Report and Future Planning

• The Uttar Pradesh government has approved the implementation of a report by the American consulting firm Deloitte, aimed at achieving a one trillion dollar economy.
• Meetings are underway with private universities, investors, and educational organizations to discuss further planning in higher and technical education.

Industry-Education Connection

• Deloitte emphasizes the importance of connecting the educational sector with industry to enhance employment opportunities for graduates.
• This includes encouraging private university investments and increasing student admissions in higher education.

Employment and Enrollment Statistics

• Deloitte's report indicates an increase in student employment in private companies and a rise in enrollment in polytechnic colleges compared to previous years.

Bareilly's Perfume to Feature at UP International Trade Show

The UP International Trade Show, scheduled from September 21-25 at the India Expo Center and Mart in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, will showcase Bareilly's renowned perfumes. Bareilly, traditionally known for Zari and Surma, is gaining recognition for its aromatic oils and perfumes, with local youth exporting these products to Europe and America.

Highlights

• Special Recognition: Bareilly's perfumes will be prominently featured in Hall No. 15 of the trade show, highlighting their acclaim in European and American markets.
• Export House Status: The Central Government has recognized Bareilly’s Aromatic and Allied Chemicals as an export house, underscoring the quality and marketability of its products.
• Gaurav Mittal's Contribution: Gaurav Mittal, an IIT Kanpur graduate and perfumery expert, is exporting Bareilly's natural perfumes and essential oils to international markets. His company, Law Monk, specializes in 100% natural, organic, and Ayurvedic products.
• Government Support: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has honored Gaurav Mittal for his contributions to the perfume industry, including involving local farmers in the cultivation of essential oils like mentha, lemongrass, and rose.

Aastha and Arya Singh from Lucknow Shine at National Powerlifting Championship

Aastha and Arya Singh, hailing from Lucknow, showcased their exceptional strength and skill at the Senior National Powerlifting Championship held in Tatanagar (Jamshedpur), Jharkhand, from September 9 to 12, 2023. 

• Aastha, representing the Uttar Pradesh team, was crowned the Strong Woman, while Arya earned the title of Strong Man in the men’s category.
• During the championship, Nirale Khan from Uttar Pradesh was also recognized as the Strong Man of India in both senior and sub-junior categories. The Uttar Pradesh team excelled in the competition, securing a total of 31 medals, including 15 gold, 10 silver, and 6 bronze. Notably, Mukul Chaurasia and Savita Singh, also from Lucknow, contributed to this success by winning bronze medals.

Poet Arun Kamal to be Honored with ‘Nirala Smriti Samman’

Poet Arun Kamal is set to receive this year’s ‘Nirala Smriti Samman,’ an award given to creators who embody the consciousness, ideology, and creative tradition of the renowned poet Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala.’ This honor will be presented during the Nirala Smriti event on October 15, 2023, marking the death anniversary of the esteemed poet.

• Vivek Nirala, the president of the organizing body and the great-grandson of poet Nirala, announced the award, noting that previous recipients include poet Rajesh Joshi and storyteller Chitra Mudgal.
• Suryakant Tripathi ‘Nirala’ (1896-1961) is regarded as a foundational figure in the Chhayavadi era of Hindi poetry. While he wrote stories, novels, and essays, he is primarily celebrated for his poetry. His writing career began around 1920, with notable works including ‘Juhi Ki Kali’ and several acclaimed poetry collections such as ‘Anamika,’ ‘Parimal,’ ‘Tulsidas,’ ‘Kukurmutta,’ and ‘Geet Kunj.’

20th National Book Fair to Take Place in Lucknow

The 20th National Book Fair is set to be held in Lucknow from September 22 to October 2, 2023, at Balrampur Garden. This year’s theme is ‘Gyan Kumbh,’ and the fair promises a range of activities including book launches, author meet-and-greets, Kavi Sammelan, Mushaira, and special programs for youth and children.

• Entry to the fair is free, and visitors can expect a minimum discount of 10 percent on books. Organizer Manoj Chandel mentioned that this book fair has earned a spot among the top 10 book fairs in the country.
• A diverse group of publishers and distributors from various cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Raipur, Noida, Ghaziabad, Prayagraj, Gujarat, and Rajasthan, will participate, along with government social and religious organizations.

Didis from Self-Help Groups to Operate Canteens in Industrial Areas

On September 20, 2023, Agricultural Production Commissioner Manoj Kumar Singh announced that the Didis, part of self-help groups under the Livelihood Mission, will be running canteens in industrial areas.

Expansion of Responsibilities

• Initially responsible for running canteens at community health centers in Uttar Pradesh, these Didis will now extend their services to industrial institutions.
• An agreement between the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA) and the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission will facilitate this initiative.

Cluster Canteens

• A total of 150 cluster canteens will be established in 25 districts, modeled after branded food chains.
• These canteens will feature special food items prepared by the Didis, with 8 to 10 Didis employed at each location.
• The focus will be on cities with high foot traffic, providing employees and workers in industries with home-style meals at reasonable prices.

Pilot Canteen in Kanpur Industrial Estate

• C. Indumati, Director of the Livelihood Mission, indicated that the first canteen would open soon in the Kanpur Industrial Estate.
• Further studies are underway to establish canteens in industrial estates in cities such as Aligarh, Varanasi, and Mathura.

Inauguration of the First Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show

On September 21, 2023, President Droupadi Murmu officially opened the inaugural 'Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show' in Greater Noida, Gautam Buddha Nagar district, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in attendance.

• The trade show, taking place from September 21 to 25, 2023, at India Expo Mart in Greater Noida, features over 2,000 manufacturers showcasing a wide range of products. These include items from established industrial firms and new entrepreneurs across various sectors.
• The event has attracted more than 400 buyers from 66 countries around the world, highlighting its international reach. Additionally, the trade show includes the exhibition of 54 Geographical Indications (G.I.s) from the state, showcasing unique regional products.
• The Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show aims to present products from diverse sectors, including defence, agriculture, industry, e-commerce, education, infrastructure, banking and financial services, dairy products, handloom, and textiles. It also features handicrafts and products from young entrepreneurs, especially women.
• Over the past 6-7 years, Uttar Pradesh has made significant strides in economic development, with its GDP increasing from around Rs 13 lakh crore in 2016-17 to an estimated Rs 22 lakh crore in 2022-23. The state now boasts the highest number of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country, exceeding 96 lakh units.

Foundation Stone of International Cricket Stadium in Ganjari, Kashi Laid by Prime Minister

On September 23, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the International Cricket Stadium in Ganjari, located in the Varanasi district of Uttar Pradesh. This stadium marks the first initiative of its kind in the state, developed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The establishment of the International Cricket Stadium in Varanasi aligns with the Prime Minister's vision of creating modern, world-class sports infrastructure across the country.

The stadium will be constructed in Ganjari, Rajatalab, Varanasi, with an estimated budget of around Rs 450 crore. Spanning more than 30 acres, the stadium will feature architecture inspired by Lord Shiva. Key design elements include:

• Crescent-shaped roof cover
• Trident-shaped lights
• Seating arrangement reminiscent of ghat stairs
• Belpatra-shaped metal sheets on the façade

The stadium is expected to accommodate 30,000 spectators.

During the event, Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated 16 Atal Residential Schools in Uttar Pradesh at the Rudraksh Convention Center in Banaras. Additionally, he recognized the winners of the 'Kashi Sansad Cultural Mahotsav-2023,' an innovative program celebrating cultural workers with participation from over 40,000 artists. The Prime Minister further launched the portal and QR code for the 'Kashi Sansad Sports Competitions,' scheduled to take place from October 15 to November 05, 2023.

Lucknow’s ABC Centre: A Model for the Nation

On September 22, 2023, the Lucknow Urban Development Department in Uttar Pradesh entered into an agreement with the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to operate the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Centre.

• Uttar Pradesh is among the few states where plans are underway to construct ABC centers in 17 municipal corporations. The ABC center in Lucknow will be equipped with the latest technology, setting a benchmark for the entire country.
• This initiative makes Uttar Pradesh the first state to establish such an advanced training center in collaboration with the Government of India. The agreement was signed at the office of the Special Secretary of the Urban Development Department in Bapu Bhawan Secretariat.

State Open Para Games Scheduled in Lucknow

During a meeting of the Uttar Pradesh Para Sports Association on September 24, 2023, in Ghaziabad, it was announced that the State Open Para Sports Championship will be organized on December 3, coinciding with Divyang Diwas.

Key Highlights from the Meeting:

• Send-off Ceremony: A send-off ceremony for athletes participating in the Para Asian Games will take place in Lucknow.
• Upcoming Events: State Para Sports events are scheduled for February, including para athletics and powerlifting championships.
• Organizing Committee: Dr. Sudha Vajpayee from Lucknow has been appointed chairperson of the organizing committee for the events in Lucknow.
• New Executive Election: The election for the new executive of the UP Para Sports Association was conducted, with Kavinder Chaudhary from Ghaziabad re-elected as president and Dr. Sudha Vajpayee as joint secretary.

Purnima of Lucknow Receives Vidyavati Smriti Samman

On September 24, 2023, Purnima from Lucknow was honored with the Vidyavati Smriti Samman during the Saraswat Samman ceremony organized by the Sarvajana Hitaya Literary Committee at the Press Club in Lucknow.

• Dr. Ramendra Pandey from Raebareli received the Sahitya Nidhi Sammanopadhi, which included a cash prize of Rs. 2,500, clothing, a citation, and a memento.
• Dr. Arun Trivedi, a Hindi scholar from Sitapur, was awarded the Dr. Ambika Prasad Gupta Samman worth Rs. 5,000.
• Dr. Rajendra from Raebareli was also honored with the Sahitya Nidhi Samman.
• Dr. Ashok Sharma from Lucknow received the Krishna Sahay Nigam Smriti Samman, while Bhanudatt Tripathi Madhuresh from Ambedkar Nagar was awarded the Ram Prasad Dwivedi Smriti Samman.
• Adarsh Singh Nikhil, a young poet from Hardoi, was recognized with the Pandit Ramgulam Shukla Smriti Sahitya Bhavishyat Mangalkamna Alankaran Samman.

Moto GP bike race concluded at Buddha International Circuit (BIC), Greater Noida

The Moto GP bike race concluded on September 24, 2023, with the final match at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in Greater Noida.

Race Results

• Marco Bezzecchi from the Mooney VR46 Racing Team secured first place.
• J. Martin finished in second place.
• R. Quartararo took third place.

Event Details

• The Moto GP race was held at BIC from September 22 to September 24.
• This event marked the first time a Moto GP race was organized in Asia and on Indian soil.
• A total of 41 teams and 82 riders participated in the competition.

Awards Ceremony

• Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur presented trophies to the top three riders in the podium area.
• Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath honored the race winner, Bezzecchi, by presenting him a trophy featuring the map of India.

Uttar Pradesh Receives Two Awards for Ayushman Scheme Implementation

At the Arogya Manthan 2023 event held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on September 26, 2023, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Mansukh Mandaviya honored Uttar Pradesh with two awards under the Ayushman Scheme.

Recognition for PMJAY Implementation

• Uttar Pradesh was recognized for its effective implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Jan-Arogya Yojana (PMJAY).
• Partha Sarathi Sen Sharma, Principal Secretary of the Department of Medical Health and Family Welfare, and Sangeeta Singh, CEO of the State Agency for Comprehensive Health and Integrated Services (SACHIS), received the awards on behalf of the state.

Details of the Awards

• First Award: Granted for establishing an inquiry center and initiating the green channel payment system.
• Second Award: Received for generating the highest number of ABHA scans and tokens.

ABHA Scan and Token System

• The ABHA Scan, facilitated through the ABHA application, allows patients to scan a QR code and receive their token number instantly, streamlining the process.

Lok Bandhu Hospital's Achievement

• Lok Bandhu Hospital in Ashiana was awarded as the third institution in the country under the ABHA Link in the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.
• Dr. Ajay Shankar Tripathi, the Medical Superintendent of Lok Bandhu Hospital, received this recognition.

About Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM)

• The event celebrated five years of PMJAY and two years of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).
• ABDM is a transformative initiative by the Government of India aimed at leveraging digital technologies to improve healthcare service delivery and facilitate universal health coverage.
• The mission seeks to enhance the overall healthcare experience for citizens across the country.

Uttar Pradesh Secures Third Place in Smart City Awards

On September 27, 2023, in Indore, President Draupadi Murmu recognized Uttar Pradesh for securing third place in the best state category at the Smart City Awards. This award was part of the India Smart City Awards Contest (ISAC), which was announced by the government on August 25, 2023, involving a competition among one hundred smart cities across the country.

• During the ceremony, the award was received by Principal Secretary of the Urban Development Department, Amrit Abhijat, and Dharmendra Pratap Singh, Director of the Smart City Mission, on behalf of the state government. Uttar Pradesh had ten cities under the Smart City Mission, including Agra, Aligarh, Bareilly, Jhansi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Moradabad, Prayagraj, Saharanpur, and Varanasi.
• The state was recognized among the top three in the country for its smart city initiatives, with Agra also being named the third best smart city in the nation. Uttar Pradesh won a total of 10 awards in various categories at the India Smart City Conclave 2023. Varanasi was highlighted as the best smart city in the North Zone and ranked first among cities with a population exceeding 10 lakh. Kanpur and Lucknow also received accolades for their respective modernization and employment training center initiatives. The Smart City Mission, launched on June 25, 2015, aims to enhance basic infrastructure and ensure a clean and decent quality of life for citizens.

Uttar Pradesh Achieves 100% ODF Plus Coverage under Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin

On September 28, 2023, Uttar Pradesh attained 100% ODF Plus coverage under Phase II of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin).

• All 95,767 villages in the state have achieved ODF Plus status, indicating their commitment to maintaining Open Defecation Free (ODF) standards while implementing solid or liquid waste management systems.
• To date, 4.4 lakh (75%) villages nationwide have declared themselves ODF Plus, advancing the goals of Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) Phase II, targeted for completion by 2024-25.
• In Uttar Pradesh, there were only 15,088 villages declared ODF Plus as of January 1, 2023. However, within just nine months, the state intensified its efforts to achieve ODF Plus status.
• Over 80,000 villages reached ODF Plus status in this short period, showcasing a remarkable acceleration and timely achievement of the goal.
• Key factors for this rapid implementation included capacity building at the panchayat level and on-site support.

Among the 95,767 ODF Plus villages:

• 81,744 are ODF Plus aspirational villages, focusing on either solid or liquid waste management.
• 10,217 are ODF Plus emerging villages, managing both solid and liquid waste.
• 3,806 villages are simply ODF.

An ODF Plus Model Village upholds its ODF status while effectively managing both solid and liquid waste. These villages prioritize visual hygiene by minimizing waste, stagnant water, and plastic waste dumping in public areas. Additionally, they display information, education, and communication (IEC) messages related to ODF Plus initiatives.