Weekly Current Affairs (9th October to 15th October 2023) | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

Basohli Pashmina and Kalari Cuisine Receive Geographical Indication (GI) Tags

1. Basohli Pashmina, a traditional craft from Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
2. This craft, with a history of over a century, is known for its exceptional softness, fineness, and lightweight nature.
3. The GI tag ensures the protection of the unique craftsmanship of Basohli Pashmina artisans and preserves its distinctiveness.

Kalari Cuisine GI Tag:

1. Kalari, a traditional Dogra cuisine, has also received a GI tag.
2. Originating in Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir, Kalari is a dense cheese dish made from milk.
3. It is prepared by cooking it in its own fat, salting it, and serving it hot with bun slices.

UMMEED Guidelines: Preventing Student Suicides in Schools

1. The Union Ministry of Education has introduced draft guidelines, titled UMMEED (Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathise, Empower, Develop), to address and prevent student suicides in schools.
2. These guidelines provide a framework for schools to enhance their sensitivity, understanding, and support systems when it comes to reported incidents of self-harm among students.
3. UMMEED underscores the fundamental belief that "Every Child Matters" and aims to proactively prevent student suicides.
4. Recognizing that students facing personal and social challenges may experience various emotional struggles, the guidelines offer strategies to deal with issues such as sadness, frustration, mood swings, hopelessness, and the more severe concerns of self-harm or suicide.

Key Guidelines for Preventing Student Suicides:

1. Formation of School Wellness Teams (SwT): The guidelines recommend the establishment of School Wellness Teams led by school principals. These teams should be trained to effectively handle crisis situations and respond promptly when a student displays signs of self-harm.
2. Orientation Programs: Schools are advised to conduct annual orientation programs for teachers and family members to increase awareness regarding student suicides. These orientations aim to build the capacity of various stakeholders.
3. Action Plans for Identifying Warning Signs: UMMEED outlines specific actions that individuals within the school, especially members of the School Wellness Team, should take when they encounter students displaying warning signs or attempting self-harm.
4. Destigmatizing Mental Health Concerns: The guidelines stress the importance of destigmatizing mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, suicide, and substance abuse. This is to be achieved through activities like storytelling, rallies, posters, exhibitions, and other initiatives that promote awareness and empathy.
5. School Infrastructure: To create a safer school environment, the guidelines suggest practical changes, including locking all empty classrooms and eliminating dark corridors or areas within schools.

UMMEED Guidelines for Preventing Student Suicides: The UMMEED guidelines serve as a crucial resource for schools to proactively address and prevent student suicides. By understanding, motivating, managing, empathizing, empowering, and developing support systems, educational institutions can create a safer and more compassionate environment for their students.

Nobel Prize for Literature 2023: Jon Olav Fosse Recognized for Unveiling the Unsayable

• The Nobel Prize for Literature for the year 2023 has been bestowed upon the renowned Norwegian author Jon Olav Fosse. Fosse's exceptional literary contributions in the form of innovative plays and prose, which articulate the inexpressible, have earned him this prestigious award.

Key Highlights about Jon Olav Fosse:

1. Birth and Background: Jon Olav Fosse was born in the coastal town of Haugesund, Norway, in 1959. This picturesque location in Norway has been the backdrop to his life and work, influencing his unique storytelling.
2. A Contemporary European Literary Figure: Fosse is celebrated as one of the most significant contemporary European writers. His writing style and themes have resonated with readers across the continent and beyond.
3. Literary Portfolio: Fosse's literary journey commenced in 1983 with his debut novel, "Red, Black." Since then, he has enriched the literary world with an array of works, including novels, stories, poetry books, collections of essays, and even children's literature. His versatility as an author shines through his diverse body of work.
4. International Recognition: One of his notable works, "A New Name: Septology VI-VII," was recognized as a finalist for the International Booker Prize in 2022. This recognition highlights the global appeal of his writing.
5. Noteworthy Works: Fosse's portfolio boasts several influential works that have captivated readers. Some of these include "I Am the Wind," "Melancholy," "Boathouse," and "The Dead Dogs." These works delve into complex themes, exploring the absurdity, futility, and yet the remarkable resilience of the human condition. Fosse's writing delves into the everyday muddles, indecisions, and the challenges of forming genuine human connections.

Jon Olav Fosse: A Voice for the Unsayable: Jon Olav Fosse's literary prowess lies in his ability to give voice to the unspoken, to convey the intricate nuances of human experiences and emotions that often remain concealed. His imaginative storytelling, reflecting both the mundane and the profound, has left an indelible mark on contemporary literature. This Nobel Prize for Literature 2023 is a testament to Fosse's contribution to the world of letters and his profound understanding of the human psyche and existence.

Decriminalization of Cable Television Networks: 2023 Amendments to the Act

Overview: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting recently issued amendments to the Cable Television Network Rules of 1994. These amendments bring into effect the decriminalized provisions of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act of 1995. This significant change has important implications for the regulation of cable television networks in India.

Key Highlights of the Amendments:

1. Background and Purpose: The Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, was enacted to govern the operations of cable television networks across India. It addresses various matters related to the cable television industry in the country.

2. Section 16: Punishment for Contraventions: The 1995 Act included Section 16, which outlined penalties for violations under its provisions. In the earlier version, this section included provisions for imprisonment, with a maximum term of 2 years for first offenses and 5 years for subsequent offenses.

3. Decriminalization through Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provision) Act, 2023: The recent amendments have led to the decriminalization of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. This was accomplished through the enactment of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provision) Act, 2023.

4. Replaced Imprisonment with Monetary Penalty and Non-Monetary Measures: One of the key changes brought about by the amendments is the replacement of imprisonment penalties with monetary fines. This shift moves away from punitive measures and introduces a more flexible approach to compliance. In addition to monetary penalties, the amended law introduces other non-monetary measures such as advisory notices, warnings, and censure as ways to address violations.

5. Enforcement through Designated Officers: The amendments establish the role of "designated officers" responsible for enforcing the law and the new penalty system. These officers will have the authority to impose monetary fines and non-monetary measures as necessary.

6. Introduction of an Appeal Mechanism: Notably, Section 16 of the Act now includes an appeal mechanism against orders issued by designated officers. This ensures that parties subject to enforcement actions have a means to contest decisions through an established legal process.

The amendments represent a significant shift in the approach to regulating cable television networks in India. By moving away from imprisonment as a punishment for violations and introducing a range of penalties and enforcement measures, the government seeks to provide a more balanced and adaptable framework for addressing issues in the cable television industry. These changes reflect the evolving landscape of the media and broadcasting sector in the country.

Project Veer Gatha 3.0: Inspiring Patriotism and Civic Values among School Students

Overview: Project Veer Gatha 3.0, initiated under the Gallantry Awards Portal (GAP) in 2021, is a remarkable nationwide effort that has engaged over 1.36 crore school students from across India. This project's primary objective is to share the stories of gallantry awardees and their acts of bravery, inspiring patriotism and fostering civic consciousness among the younger generation.

Key Highlights of Project Veer Gatha:

1. Origins of the Project: Project Veer Gatha was launched in 2021 as part of the Gallantry Awards Portal (GAP). The initiative aims to disseminate detailed accounts of the courageous actions of Gallantry Awardees and share their life stories with students.
2. Inspiring Patriotism: At its core, the project seeks to boost the spirit of patriotism among students. By acquainting them with the heroic deeds of Gallantry Awardees, it aims to instill a deep love for the nation.
3. Promoting Civic Values: In addition to patriotism, Project Veer Gatha strives to impart civic consciousness and values among students. Through the tales of bravery, it encourages students to embrace civic responsibilities and contribute positively to society.
4. Creative Projects and Activities: Project Veer Gatha provides a unique platform for school students to engage in creative projects and activities centered around Gallantry Award winners. These projects take various forms, including art, poetry, essays, and multimedia presentations.
5. National-Level Recognition: Exceptional projects created by students are recognized and celebrated at the national level. The Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Education play pivotal roles in acknowledging and awarding the best projects.
6. Past Editions: The success and impact of Project Veer Gatha are evident through its previous editions. Edition-I and Edition-II were conducted in 2021 and 2022, respectively. These editions provided students with opportunities to express their creativity and understanding of gallantry through diverse projects.
7. Collaboration Between Ministries: The third edition of Project Veer Gatha, Veer Gatha Project 3.0, is being organized by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MoE). This inter-ministerial collaboration underscores the importance of education and defense in nurturing a generation of responsible, patriotic citizens.

Project Veer Gatha serves as a vital platform for young students to connect with the heroic stories of Gallantry Awardees and, in the process, develop a deep sense of patriotism and civic values. By encouraging creativity and celebrating outstanding projects, it inspires the next generation of Indians to contribute positively to their country.

Nobel Peace Prize 2023 Honors Iranian Activist Narges Mohammadi's Fight for Human Rights and Women's Freedom

Overview: The Norwegian Nobel Committee has awarded the prestigious 2023 Nobel Peace Prize to Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi. Her remarkable recognition stems from her unwavering commitment to combat the oppression of women in Iran and her relentless efforts to promote human rights and freedom for all. Here are the key highlights of Narges Mohammadi's Nobel Prize win:

Narges Mohammadi's Remarkable Achievements:

1. Human Rights Activist and Scientist: Narges Mohammadi is a prominent Iranian human rights activist and a scientist by profession. Her dedication to improving human rights in Iran is her life's mission.
2. Vice President of the Defenders of Human Rights Center (DHRC): Narges Mohammadi serves as the vice president of the Defenders of Human Rights Center (DHRC), an organization led by fellow Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi. DHRC is instrumental in advocating for human rights in Iran.
3. Champion for Incarcerated Activists: Narges Mohammadi's journey as an activist began with assisting incarcerated activists and their families. Her devotion to this cause led to her arrest in 2011, resulting in a lengthy prison sentence.
4. Campaign Against the Death Penalty: After securing her release on bail in 2013, Narges Mohammadi passionately campaigned against the use of the death penalty in Iran. Her advocacy against this form of punishment earned her further imprisonment in 2015.
5. Prolific Author: Narges Mohammadi is also a prolific writer. She has penned numerous articles advocating for social reforms in Iran. Her essay collection, 'The Reforms, the Strategy, and the Tactics,' delves into the need for change.
6. Award-Winning Book: Her book, 'White Torture: Interviews with Iranian Women Prisoners,' received acclaim and recognition, winning an award for reportage at the International Film Festival and Human Rights' Forum. This book sheds light on the experiences of Iranian women prisoners.
7. Recipient of Numerous Awards: Over the years, Narges Mohammadi has received various awards for her unyielding activism, including the Alexander Langer Award in 2009 and the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize.
8. BBC's List of Influential Women: In 2022, Narges Mohammadi was featured in the BBC's list of 100 inspiring and influential women from around the world, further highlighting her impact.
9. Historic Recognition: Narges Mohammadi's Nobel Peace Prize win is historically significant. She is the 19th woman ever to receive this esteemed award and the second Iranian woman to do so, following in the footsteps of human rights activist Shirin Ebadi, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2003.
10. Award from Incarceration: Notably, this marks the fifth instance in the Nobel Peace Prize's 122-year history when the award was presented to an individual in prison or under house arrest.

Narges Mohammadi's dedication to promoting human rights, fighting for women's freedom, and challenging oppressive regimes is a testament to the enduring spirit of activism and the pursuit of justice. Her Nobel Peace Prize win highlights the global recognition of her unwavering efforts.

India Re-elected as President of Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD)

Overview: In a remarkable achievement, India has been re-elected as the President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) for an unprecedented third consecutive term. AIBD, established under the umbrella of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), plays a crucial role in promoting electronic media development in the Asia-Pacific region. Here are the key highlights of India's re-election and the role of AIBD:

Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD):

1. Establishment and Objectives: AIBD was founded in 1977 with the backing of UNESCO. It stands as a unique regional intergovernmental organization dedicated to serving the countries within the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) in the realm of electronic media development.

2. Promoting a Vibrant Electronic Media Environment: AIBD's core mission is to foster a vibrant and cohesive electronic media environment across the Asia-Pacific region. It achieves this by developing policies and allocating resources that contribute to the growth and development of electronic media.

3. Extensive Membership: AIBD boasts an extensive and diverse membership base. Currently, it comprises 92 member organizations spanning 44 countries. This includes 26 Government Members, representing countries through 48 broadcasting authorities and broadcasters, and 44 Affiliates, representing organizations across 28 countries.

4. Operational Headquarters: The organization's operational headquarters are located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from where it manages its regional activities.

5. India's Founding Membership: India holds a special place within AIBD as one of its founding members. Prasar Bharati, India's public service broadcaster, represents the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting at AIBD.

India's Re-election as AIBD President: India's re-election as the President of AIBD for a third successive term underscores the nation's significant influence and commitment to fostering electronic media development in the Asia-Pacific region. It reflects India's dedication to furthering the objectives of AIBD and promoting collaboration among member countries in the field of broadcasting and media.

India's continued leadership within AIBD reaffirms its pivotal role in shaping the future of electronic media in the region. This re-election is a testament to India's unwavering support for AIBD's mission and its commitment to enhancing the electronic media landscape across the Asia-Pacific.

Tamil Nadu's Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti' Earns Coveted Geographical Indication (GI) Tag

Overview: Tamil Nadu's Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti,' more commonly known as palm jaggery, has been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. This recognition signifies the unique qualities and traditional preparation methods associated with this delectable palm jaggery. Here are the key highlights of Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti' and the significance of its GI Tag:

Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti' (Palm Jaggery):

1. Natural Palm Jaggery: Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti' is a form of palm jaggery that is meticulously crafted using the sap extracted from the inflorescence of palmyra trees. These trees are typically found in and around the picturesque Tiruchendur region in Tamil Nadu.

2. Unaltered Traditional Preparation: One of the unique features of Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti' is its steadfast adherence to traditional preparation techniques. Unlike other regions where chemical additives such as triple superphosphate and phosphoric acid are employed in palm jaggery production, Udangudi maintains its traditional methods without incorporating modern strategies or additives.

3. Red Sand Dune Soil: A remarkable element contributing to the distinctiveness of this jaggery is the presence of red sand dune soil in the region. This soil, characterized by its lower groundwater retention and drier climate, is instrumental in endowing the jaggery with exceptional properties.

4. Moisture and Sucrose Content: The red sand dune soil's low moisture retention, coupled with the arid climatic conditions in the area, results in higher sucrose content in the palm sap. This distinctive combination imparts a unique and exquisite taste to Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti.'

Significance of the GI Tag: The awarding of the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag to Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti' underscores the exceptional characteristics and quality of this traditional palm jaggery. It acknowledges the unaltered heritage of palm jaggery preparation in this region and distinguishes it from other varieties influenced by modern additives. The GI Tag serves as a testament to the unique environmental factors and traditional methods contributing to the excellence of Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti.' It also plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the cultural and culinary heritage of the region. This recognition ensures that consumers can identify and savor the genuine Udangudi 'Panangkarupatti,' strengthening the region's identity and supporting the local economy.

Key Highlights of the 52nd GST Council Meeting

Overview: The 52nd meeting of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council, held under the leadership of the Union Minister for Finance, addressed several significant matters related to GST. Here are the key highlights from this council meeting:

1. Exclusion of Extra Neutral Alcohol (ENA):

• The council recommended that Extra Neutral Alcohol (ENA), primarily used in the production of alcoholic liquor for consumption, should be kept outside the purview of the GST. This decision pertains to the tax treatment of a crucial ingredient in the production of alcoholic beverages.

2. GST Rate for Corporate Guarantees:

• A significant clarification was provided concerning the GST rate for corporate guarantees issued by a parent company to its subsidiary companies. It was decided that such transactions will be subject to an 18% GST rate.

3. Millet Flour Taxation:

• The council addressed the tax structure for millet flour in powder form. If millet flour contains at least 70% millet by weight and is sold loose, it will not attract any GST. However, if the same millet flour is sold in pre-packaged and labeled form, it will be subject to a 5% GST levy. This decision aims to promote millet consumption, especially in loose form.

4. Continuation of Cess under GST:

• The issue of how the cess (a surcharge) would continue under the GST framework once it concludes in March 2026 was raised by various states. Currently, the cess is being utilized to repay the borrowed amount that was intended to compensate states during the initial five-year period of GST, which ended in June 2022. The council deliberated on the future implications and mechanisms for the continuation of cess post-March 2026.

About the GST Council: The GST Council is a pivotal joint forum comprising representatives from both the Central and state governments. It was established following the enactment of the Constitutional (122nd Amendment) Bill in 2016. Here are some key aspects of the GST Council:

• Formation and Purpose: The GST Council was constituted in line with Article 279A (1) of the amended Constitution to make recommendations to the Union and state governments on vital GST-related issues. These include the classification of goods and services under GST, recommendations on tax rates, and the development of model GST laws.
• Composition: The council is chaired by the Union Finance Minister and includes a Union Minister of State for Finance from the Centre. Each state has the authority to nominate a representative minister responsible for finance or taxation as a council member.
• Voting Mechanism: The structure of the council ensures that the Union Government holds one-third of the voting power, while the states collectively possess two-thirds. Decisions within the council are made by a three-fourths majority, contributing to a balanced and equitable decision-making process.

The GST Council serves as a crucial body for the effective and harmonious implementation of the GST system in India, addressing various fiscal and administrative matters.

Expanding Travel for LiFE Initiative: PATA Collaboration

Overview: The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is joining forces with India to extend the Travel for LiFE initiative across the Asia Pacific region. This collaborative effort is set to redefine sustainable and responsible tourism. Here are the key highlights of this significant partnership:

1. Strengthening Engagement with PATA:

• India's Ministry of Tourism is taking a proactive step by establishing a dedicated PATA desk. This desk will enhance its collaboration with PATA, with a focus on the Travel for LiFE initiative and other areas of cooperation within the tourism sector. This marks the first major international partnership for the Travel for LiFE program.

2. The Travel for LiFE Initiative:

• 'Travel for LiFE' is a sectoral program that falls under the broader Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for the Environment) initiative. It is specifically tailored for the tourism sector, aimed at fostering sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

3. Launch and Key Collaborators:

• The Travel for LiFE initiative was officially launched on September 27, 2023, coinciding with World Tourism Day.
• This endeavor is a result of collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

4. Core Principles and Ethos:

• The initiative is grounded in the ethos of "Pro Planet People" and operates on the foundational principles of living "Lifestyle of the planet, for the planet, and by the planet."

5. Targeting Behavioral Change:

• The primary goal of Travel for LiFE is to drive substantial behavioral changes among both tourists and tourism businesses. The emphasis is placed on environmental protection and socio-cultural sustainability.

6. Eight Core Themes:

• The program encompasses eight core themes, addressing critical aspects of sustainable tourism. These include energy conservation, water preservation, reduction of single-use plastics, waste management, support for local businesses and communities, respect for local culture and heritage, consumption of local foods, and nature preservation.

7. Business Certification and Awareness:

• Beyond raising awareness, Travel for LiFE encourages tourism businesses to adopt sustainable practices. It offers a certification framework with bronze, silver, and gold levels. This approach actively promotes and recognizes sustainable efforts within the program.

8. India's Leadership in Sustainable Tourism:

• The Travel for LiFE Program is positioned to position India as a global leader in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism. It aligns with the broader goal of using tourism as a vehicle to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

The collaboration between India and PATA within the Travel for LiFE initiative reflects a significant step toward a more sustainable and responsible future for tourism across the Asia Pacific region.

Empowering Agriculture and Rural Development: National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)

Overview: The 89th General Council meeting of the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) was addressed by the Union Minister of Cooperation. This institution plays a pivotal role in promoting agricultural and rural development in India. Here are the key highlights:

1. Establishment and Mandate:

• NCDC was established in 1963 as a statutory corporation, under an Act of the Indian Parliament.
• Its primary mission is to plan, promote, and finance programs that encompass the entire spectrum of agricultural produce, foodstuffs, and other specified commodities. This includes activities related to production, processing, marketing, storage, export, and import.

2. Supporting Various Cooperatives:

• NCDC serves as a vital financial and developmental institution, providing support to a wide range of cooperatives. It plays a key role in expanding their financial base.

3. Rural Industrial Cooperative Sectors:

• The corporation finances projects in the rural industrial cooperative sector. These projects cover essential services in rural areas, such as water conservation, irrigation, micro-irrigation, agri-insurance, agro-credit, rural sanitation, and animal health.

4. Collaboration with State Governments:

• NCDC extends loans and grants to State Governments. These funds are allocated for financing primary and secondary level cooperative societies, as well as directly to national-level and multi-state cooperative societies with objectives that transcend state boundaries.

5. Direct Funding for Projects:

• NCDC also engages in direct funding of projects through its various assistance schemes. This funding is provided based on the fulfillment of specific conditions, and it aims to stimulate rural and cooperative development across the nation.

The National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) is an instrumental entity in India's agricultural and rural development landscape. Its multifaceted approach, spanning financial support, cooperative empowerment, and direct project funding, has a profound impact on enhancing the quality of life in rural areas and bolstering the agricultural sector.

Unveiling the Gender Gap in the Labor Market: Nobel Prize in Economics 2023

Overview: The Nobel Prize in Economics for 2023 has been awarded to Claudia Goldin, a distinguished professor at Harvard University. Her groundbreaking research has profoundly enhanced our understanding of the gender gap in the labor market, spanning more than two centuries. Here are the key highlights:

1. Claudia Goldin's Academic Profile:

• Claudia Goldin, born in 1946, currently holds the esteemed position of Henry Lee Professor of Economics at Harvard University. Her academic contributions have been instrumental in reshaping our comprehension of gender disparities in the labor market.

2. Uncovering the U-Shaped Curve:

• Goldin's extensive research unveiled an intriguing phenomenon in female labor market participation. Instead of a consistent upward trend, she identified a U-shaped curve.
• Initially, female labor participation declined during the shift from agrarian to industrial society in the early 19th century.
• A subsequent increase in female participation occurred with the growth of the service sector in the early 20th century.
• This pattern is intricately linked to shifts in economic structure and evolving societal norms regarding women's roles in the workforce.

3. Education and Contraception's Role:

• Goldin's research emphasized the steady rise in women's educational attainment during the 20th century. In many high-income countries, women's education levels have even surpassed those of men.
• She highlighted the pivotal role of contraception, especially the contraceptive pill, in enabling women to plan their careers more effectively.

4. The Persistent Earnings Gap:

• Despite modernization, economic growth, and the increased employment of women, the earnings gap between men and women remained largely stagnant for an extended period.
• Goldin's research indicates that the substantial portion of the gender earnings gap is observed between men and women in the same occupation. This gap predominantly emerges after the birth of the first child.
• Parenthood emerges as a critical factor influencing the gender pay gap in contemporary times. Young women's career expectations are often influenced by the experiences of previous generations, particularly their mothers who delayed their return to work until their children were older.

Claudia Goldin's research provides invaluable insights into the intricate dynamics of gender disparities in the labor market. By uncovering the historical context and underlying factors, her work sheds light on the challenges and opportunities in achieving gender equity in the workforce.

Enhancing Transaction Security: RBI's Card-on-File Tokenization (CoFT) Facility

Overview: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unveiled a novel concept aimed at bolstering payment security and convenience - the Card-on-File Tokenization (CoFT) facility. This innovative system, introduced in 2021 with implementation commencing in 2022, is set to revolutionize how cardholders interact with e-commerce applications and websites. Here are the key highlights:

1. Streamlining Token Creation:

• Historically, cardholders were required to generate unique tokens for each merchant's application or website. This process necessitated substantial time and effort from users.

2. Issuer Bank-Level Tokenization:

• The pivotal change brought by CoFT is that tokens will now be produced at the issuer bank level. These tokens will be linked to cardholders' existing accounts across various e-commerce applications.

3. Advantages of This Transformation:

• By eliminating the redundancy of tokenization processes across multiple apps and websites, the proposed system significantly enhances transaction security. This, in turn, mitigates card-data-related frauds.
• Tokenization substitutes a debit or credit card's standard 16-digit number with a unique token that is specific to the card and unique for each merchant. This token functions as an extra layer of security, concealing the actual card details.
• In the event of a data breach on a merchant's website, the stolen token remains useless to hackers as it lacks any personal information and continually updates.

4. Versatility of Tokens:

• Tokens are suitable for a wide range of transactions, including online, mobile point-of-sale, and in-app payments.
• Cardholders have the option to choose whether to tokenize their cards, thereby retaining control over their card usage.

The Card-on-File Tokenization (CoFT) facility introduced by RBI not only simplifies payment processes but also elevates security measures, thus safeguarding users against potential data breaches. This system aligns with the broader objectives of enhancing digital payment safety and fostering trust in online transactions.

Strengthening National Cyber Resilience: Bharat NCX 2023 Cybersecurity Exercise

Overview: The second iteration of the National Cyber Security Exercise, "Bharat NCX 2023," is currently underway, spanning a 12-day period. This exercise is organized by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) in collaboration with Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) and serves as a pivotal training platform for enhancing India's preparedness against contemporary cyber threats. Here are the key highlights:

1. Objective:

• Bharat NCX 2023 is designed to provide comprehensive training to senior management and technical personnel from various government, critical sector organizations, public agencies, and private companies. The primary focus is on imparting knowledge and skills related to managing and responding to cyber incidents, which have become increasingly sophisticated and prevalent.

2. Key Training Areas:

• Participants will receive instruction in a diverse range of cybersecurity domains, including but not limited to:
  • Intrusion Detection Techniques
  • Malware Information Sharing Platform (MISP)
  • Vulnerability Handling & Penetration Testing
  • Network Protocols & Data Flows
  • Digital Forensics

3. Enhancing Cyber Resilience:

• Bharat NCX 2023 aims to bolster the cyber resilience of strategic leaders and organizations. It equips them with a deeper understanding of emerging cyber threats, helps assess their readiness to tackle these threats, and develops critical skills for cyber crisis management and effective collaboration.

4. Skill Development and Testing:

• The exercise goes beyond theoretical knowledge, providing practical, hands-on experience. It tests and enhances participants' cybersecurity skills, teamwork, planning, communication, critical thinking, and decision-making capabilities.

Bharat NCX 2023 represents a significant effort by the Indian government to elevate the nation's preparedness in the face of evolving cyber threats. By training key personnel from a spectrum of sectors, the exercise contributes to building a more resilient and cyber-secure India, fostering confidence in the face of digital challenges.

Empowering Youth Through Technology: Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)

Overview: The Union Cabinet's recent approval of "Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)," an autonomous body, is a significant step towards fostering youth development and youth-led initiatives with the aid of technology. This initiative aims to create a comprehensive platform that consolidates government efforts in the domain of youth development, empowering young individuals aged 15 to 29 years in line with the National Youth Policy's definition. Additionally, for specific program components targeting adolescents, the age range will encompass 10 to 19 years.

1. Autonomous Body: MY Bharat will operate as an independent entity dedicated to youth development.

2. Technology-Driven Support: One of its primary objectives is to leverage technology for the benefit of youth, providing them with resources, connections, and opportunities.

3. Youth Empowerment: MY Bharat's goal is to enable young individuals to become community change agents and nation builders. They will serve as bridges ("Yuva Setu") between the government and citizens.

4. Key Outcomes: The establishment of MY Bharat is expected to result in several crucial outcomes:

   • Enhancement of youth leadership skills.
   • Cultivation of social innovation and community leadership.
   • Empowerment of young people to actively drive development.
   • Alignment of their aspirations with community needs.
   • Creation of a unified platform for youth and ministries.
   • Facilitation of two-way communication to connect youth with government initiatives.

Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) is poised to become a pivotal tool for youth engagement and development in India. By harnessing technology and fostering a sense of empowerment and responsibility among young individuals, this initiative aims to build a stronger bridge between the government and the nation's youth, aligning their aspirations with the broader goals of community development.