Weekly Current Affairs (15th June to 21st June 2023) | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

Indian Navy's 'Julley Ladakh' Outreach Programme

The Indian Navy has launched the 'Julley Ladakh' outreach programme in Ladakh to increase awareness about the service and foster engagement with the local youth and civil society. The initiative includes a 5000 km Motorcycle Expedition and aims to promote the Navy's opportunities and contributions while instilling a sense of pride and patriotism among the people of Ladakh.

Key Highlights

Motorcycle Expedition Flagged Off:

• The outreach programme features a Motorcycle Expedition covering a distance of 5000 km.
• The expedition was ceremoniously flagged off from the National War Memorial.

Raising Awareness and Opportunities:

• The primary objective of the Indian Navy's outreach programme in Ladakh is to raise awareness among the local population about the opportunities and contributions of the Navy.
• Through this initiative, the Navy aims to inform and educate the people of Ladakh about the various aspects of naval service.

Celebrating "Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav":

• The outreach programme aligns with the celebration of "Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav," commemorating 75 years of India's independence.
• The Indian Navy intends to evoke a sense of pride and patriotism among the people of Ladakh through its activities during the programme.

Engaging Youth and Civil Society:

• The Indian Navy's outreach activities in Ladakh aim to engage with the local youth and civil society.
• Through interactive sessions, workshops, and events, the Navy seeks to create a platform for dialogue and interaction, fostering a better understanding of naval operations and opportunities.

The 'Julley Ladakh' outreach programme initiated by the Indian Navy in Ladakh encompasses a 5000 km Motorcycle Expedition and various other activities to raise awareness, instill pride, and engage with the local youth and civil society. It is part of the Navy's efforts to promote its opportunities and contributions while celebrating India's independence.

India to Host Miss World Pageant 2023

The Miss World Organization has chosen India as the host country for the upcoming Miss World pageant, set to take place later this year. India previously hosted the pageant in 1996, marking a significant milestone for the country. This year, contestants from over 130 countries will gather in India to showcase their talents, intelligence, and compassion through various competitions and events.

Key Highlights

Prestigious Beauty Competition:

• The Miss World pageant is globally renowned as one of the most prestigious beauty competitions.
• Since its inception, the pageant has been held in different countries, attracting a massive international following.

India as Host Nation:

• In 1996, India served as the host nation for the Miss World pageant for the first time.
• The event took place in Bengaluru, marking a significant milestone for India's association with the competition.

India's Second Hosting Opportunity:

• India has been selected once again to host the Miss World pageant in the upcoming edition.
• The country's rich cultural heritage and vibrant diversity make it an ideal host for the event.

Convergence of Contestants:

• Contestants from over 130 countries will gather in India for the Miss World pageant.
• The event will provide a platform for participants to showcase their unique talents, intelligence, and compassion.

Range of Competitions:

• The Miss World pageant includes various competitions such as talent showcases, sports challenges, and charitable initiatives.
• These competitions aim to highlight the participants' multifaceted abilities and commitment to social causes.

Grand Finale:

• The grand finale of the Miss World pageant is scheduled for November or December 2023.
• The finale will culminate in the crowning of the winner, who will become the global ambassador for Miss World.

About Miss World Pageant:

• The Miss World pageant was first launched in Britain in 1951 during the Festival of Britain.
• Eric Morley, the publicity director of Mecca Limited, conceived the idea of an international beauty contest to enhance festival attendance.
• The pageant has since grown in popularity, becoming a significant event in the international beauty pageant calendar.

India's selection as the host country for the Miss World pageant in 2023 marks another exciting chapter in the country's association with this prestigious competition. With contestants from around the world showcasing their talents and compassion, the event promises to be a celebration of beauty, diversity, and philanthropy. The grand finale will determine the next Miss World, who will serve as a global ambassador for the pageant.

VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme

The Government of India has introduced the VAIBHAV (Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik) fellowship programme, aimed at promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing between Indian diaspora scientists and academic institutions in India. Under the Ministry of Science and Technology, this initiative seeks to harness the expertise of scientists and technologists of Indian origin residing abroad and foster collaborative research in cutting-edge areas of Science and Technology.

Key Highlights

Objective and Scope:

• The VAIBHAV fellowship programme, operating under the Ministry of Science and Technology, aims to leverage the knowledge and skills of scientists and technologists of Indian origin living abroad.
• It focuses on promoting collaborative research in frontier areas of Science and Technology, bridging the gap between the Indian diaspora and Indian academic and research institutions.

Targeted Participants:

• The programme is designed for scientists and technologists of Indian origin, including NRI (Non-Resident Indians), OCI (Overseas Citizen of India), and PIO (Person of Indian Origin) who are actively engaged in research activities in their respective countries.
• The fellowship encourages participation from individuals with diverse scientific backgrounds.

Duration and Benefits:

• VAIBHAV fellows are eligible to spend up to two months in India each year, with a maximum duration of three years.
• The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support, including a grant of Rs 4,00,000 per month to cover living expenses.
• Support for international and domestic travel, accommodation, and contingencies is also included in the fellowship grant.

Collaborative Research and Networking:

• The programme emphasizes collaborative research, enabling fellows to work with Indian academic and R&D institutions on joint projects.
• It provides a platform for knowledge-sharing, networking, and exchange of ideas among the diaspora scientists and their Indian counterparts.

The VAIBHAV fellowship programme initiated by the Government of India under the Ministry of Science and Technology aims to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing between Indian diaspora scientists and academic institutions in India. By leveraging the expertise of scientists and technologists of Indian origin residing abroad, the programme promotes collaborative research in frontier areas of Science and Technology. With comprehensive financial support and a focus on networking, the fellowship aims to bridge the gap between the Indian diaspora and Indian academic and research institutions, facilitating mutual growth and development.

Nusrat Choudhury: First Female Muslim Federal Judge in the United States

Nusrat Choudhury has made history by becoming the first female Muslim federal judge in the United States. Her appointment signifies a significant stride towards inclusivity and diversity within the judiciary, highlighting the importance of representation in the legal system.

Key Facts

Judicial Appointment:

• Nusrat Choudhury has been appointed as a federal judge at the esteemed US District Court for the Eastern District of New York.
• The court holds jurisdiction over a wide range of federal law matters and plays a crucial role in upholding justice in the region.

About Nusrat Choudhury
Background: Nusrat Choudhury comes from a Bangladeshi-American heritage, adding to the diversity of perspectives she brings to her role as a federal judge.
Legal Director at ACLU:

• Prior to her appointment as a federal judge, Nusrat Choudhury served as the legal director at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
• During her tenure at the ACLU, she focused on significant areas such as racial justice, criminal justice reform, policing, and government surveillance of Muslim communities, as well as national security issues.
• Her work demonstrated a commitment to protecting civil liberties and advocating for justice and equality.

Nusrat Choudhury's appointment as the first female Muslim federal judge in the United States is a landmark achievement for diversity and inclusion within the judiciary. Her background and previous work at the ACLU reflect a dedication to upholding civil liberties and fighting for justice. As she assumes her role at the US District Court for the Eastern District of New York, her appointment serves as an inspiration and a significant step towards a more representative and equitable legal system.

FAO Food Outlook Report: Trends and Concerns on Food Imports

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has released its latest Food Outlook Report, highlighting significant trends and concerns related to food imports. The report emphasizes the projected decline in food imports by vulnerable countries and the potential impact on purchasing capacity and the global food import bill.

Key Highlights

Decline in Food Imports for Vulnerable Countries:

• The FAO report emphasizes the projected decline in food imports by vulnerable countries in the current year.
• Vulnerable countries are expected to experience a decrease in their food import volumes, raising concerns about potential food security challenges.

Impact on Purchasing Capacity and Global Food Import Bill:

• The decline in food imports for vulnerable countries may affect their purchasing capacity, potentially exacerbating food security concerns.
• Despite the decline, the global food import bill is projected to reach a record high in 2023, indicating continued reliance on international food trade.

Decline in Food Import Bill for Least Developed Countries:

• The FAO report estimates a 1.5% decline in the food import bill for the least developed countries.
• This decline raises concerns about the ability of these countries to afford necessary food imports and maintain food security.

Significant Decline in Food Import Volumes for Developing Countries:

• Net food-importing developing countries may experience a more substantial decline of 4.9% in food import volumes.
• This decline raises concerns about the purchasing capacity of these countries, potentially leading to food security challenges.

Record High Global Food Import Bill:

• Despite the decline in food imports for some countries, the global food import bill is forecasted to reach $1.98 trillion in 2023.
• This represents a 1.5% increase compared to 2022, indicating the continued reliance on international food trade.
• Rice and Wheat Production:
• The report provides insights into anticipated changes in rice and wheat production.

Rice production is projected to increase by 1.3% in the upcoming year, reaching 523.5 million tonnes.

The FAO's Food Outlook Report highlights significant trends and concerns regarding food imports, particularly for vulnerable countries. The projected decline in food imports raises concerns about the purchasing capacity and food security of these nations. Despite this decline, the global food import bill is expected to reach a record high, emphasizing the continued reliance on international food trade. Anticipated changes in rice and wheat production also provide insights into future food availability.

Gita Press, Gorakhpur Awarded the Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021

The Ministry of Culture has announced that the prestigious Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021 will be conferred upon Gita Press, Gorakhpur. This recognition acknowledges Gita Press' outstanding contribution to social, economic, and political transformation through non-violent and Gandhian methods. The Gandhi Peace Prize, instituted in 1995 to honor Mahatma Gandhi's ideals, is awarded to individuals and organizations for their exceptional efforts in promoting his cherished principles.

Key Highlights

Recognition of Gita Press:

• Gita Press, Gorakhpur has been selected as the recipient of the Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021.
• The award acknowledges the organization's remarkable contribution to societal development through non-violent means and Gandhian principles.

Significance of the Gandhi Peace Prize:

• The Gandhi Peace Prize was established by the Indian government as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi's ideals.
• It has been awarded to various individuals and organizations in recognition of their outstanding efforts in furthering the principles cherished by Mahatma Gandhi.

Award Components:

• The Gandhi Peace Prize carries a cash prize of ₹1 crore.
• Recipients are also presented with a citation, a plaque, and an exquisite traditional handicraft or handloom item.

About Gita Press
Establishment and Scope:

• Gita Press was established in 1923 and has since become one of the world's largest publishers promoting knowledge through literature.
• The organization's publications have made a significant impact on individuals' lives, reaching a wide audience with their literature in multiple languages.

Publication Record:

• Gita Press has an impressive publication record, with 417 million books published in 14 languages.
• Notably, they have printed 162 million copies of the sacred Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, making a profound spiritual and cultural impact.

The Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021 has been awarded to Gita Press, Gorakhpur, recognizing their exceptional contribution to social, economic, and political transformation through non-violent and Gandhian methods. As a world-renowned publisher, Gita Press has disseminated knowledge and touched the lives of countless individuals. The Gandhi Peace Prize serves as a tribute to their efforts and reinforces the enduring relevance of Mahatma Gandhi's ideals in promoting peace, harmony, and societal progress.

Dakshta for Young Professionals

The Union Government has introduced "Dakshta," a curated collection of courses on the iGOT Karmayogi Platform. This platform serves as a comprehensive portal for capacity-building among government officials, aiming to equip them with essential skills and knowledge necessary for effectively discharging their duties. Dakshta focuses on various crucial areas for government officials, enabling them to enhance their expertise and improve overall performance.

Key Highlights

iGOT Karmayogi Platform:

• The iGOT Karmayogi Platform is a comprehensive portal designed for capacity-building among government officials.
• It aims to equip learners with essential skills and knowledge required for effective performance in their roles.

Dakshta Collection:

• The newly introduced Dakshta collection of courses focuses on various areas crucial to government officials.
• It covers subjects such as data-driven decision making, code of conduct, office procedures, effective communication, public policy research, stress management, and more.
• Dakshta aims to enhance the expertise of government officials and improve their overall performance through targeted courses.

Mission Karmayogi:

• Mission Karmayogi is a government program focused on capacity-building in the civil services.
• The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has established Karmayogi Bharat, a government-owned, not-for-profit special purpose vehicle, to manage, maintain, and improve the iGOT Karmayogi platform.
• The iGOT Karmayogi platform aligns with the core objectives of Mission Karmayogi by nurturing a smart, citizen-friendly, and future-ready public workforce.

Dakshta for Young Professionals is a curated collection of courses introduced on the iGOT Karmayogi Platform, aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of government officials. By addressing crucial areas such as data-driven decision making, effective communication, and stress management, Dakshta equips learners with the necessary tools to excel in their roles. As a part of the broader Mission Karmayogi program, the iGOT Karmayogi platform plays a vital role in capacity-building within the civil services, fostering a competent and future-ready public workforce.

Salman Rushdie Awarded the German Peace Prize

Renowned British-American author Salman Rushdie has been honored with the prestigious German Peace Prize for his exceptional contributions. The Peace Prize of the German Book Trade jury recognized Rushdie as a passionate defender of freedom of thought and expression. This award, instituted after World War II, aims to honor individuals who oppose threats to peace, understanding, and equality among nations.

Key Facts

Recognition of Salman Rushdie:

• Salman Rushdie has been awarded the German Peace Prize for his outstanding contributions as a defender of freedom of thought and expression.
• The jury acknowledged his unwavering commitment to championing these values.

Purpose of the German Peace Prize:

• The German Peace Prize was established five years after World War II to recognize individuals who oppose anything that endangers peace, understanding, and equality among nations.
• It serves as a symbol of Germany's commitment to promoting peace and fostering dialogue.

Award Ceremony Venue:

• The German Peace Prize is traditionally awarded at Frankfurt's St. Pauls Church, a historically significant location in Germany.
• St. Pauls Church hosted the Frankfurt National Assembly in 1848, which was the first freely elected parliament for all German states.

Note:

• In 2019, the German Peace Prize was conferred upon Amartya Sen, an economist and philosopher.
• Amartya Sen was recognized for his groundbreaking work on combating social inequality and promoting global justice.

Salman Rushdie's recognition with the German Peace Prize highlights his dedication to defending freedom of thought and expression. This prestigious award, instituted after World War II, honors individuals who oppose threats to peace, understanding, and equality among nations. The German Peace Prize serves as a testament to Germany's commitment to peace and its appreciation for individuals who strive to promote these values.

Ravi Sinha Appointed as Chief of Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW)

Ravi Sinha, an IPS officer, has been appointed as the chief of India's premier intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW). His appointment brings a fresh perspective to the organization, aiming to bridge the gap between technological advancements and human intelligence capabilities. Ravi Sinha's tenure comes at a critical time, considering the prevailing political and economic instability in neighboring Pakistan, the rise of Sikh extremism, and attempts to incite violence in the northeast region of India.

Key Facts

Appointment as R&AW Chief:

• Ravi Sinha has been appointed as the chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), succeeding Samant Goel.
• His appointment brings new perspectives and aims to enhance the organization's capabilities in the face of evolving threats.

Bridging Technological Advancements and Human Intelligence:

• As the R&AW chief, Ravi Sinha aims to bridge the gap between technological advancements and human intelligence capabilities.
• By integrating these dimensions, he intends to address the challenges posed by dynamic and evolving threats.

Current Geopolitical Challenges:

• Ravi Sinha's appointment comes at a critical time, considering the prevailing political and economic instability in neighboring Pakistan.
• The rise of Sikh extremism from abroad and attempts to incite violence in India's northeast region also pose significant challenges.

Duration of Tenure:

• Ravi Sinha's tenure as Secretary of the Research and Analysis Wing has been approved for a duration of two years.
• This provides him with an opportunity to implement strategic initiatives and drive impactful changes within the organization.

Ravi Sinha's appointment as the chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) marks a significant development in India's intelligence landscape. With a focus on bridging technological advancements and human intelligence capabilities, he aims to enhance the organization's capabilities in addressing dynamic and evolving threats. His tenure comes at a critical time, considering geopolitical challenges such as political instability in Pakistan, Sikh extremism, and attempts to incite violence in the northeast region of India. With a two-year duration, Ravi Sinha has the opportunity to implement strategic initiatives and drive impactful changes within the R&AW.

Bhavani Devi: Making History in Asian Fencing Championships

Indian fencer C.A. Bhavani Devi has created history by securing India's first-ever medal at the Asian fencing championships. Her exceptional performance in the women's sabre event earned her a well-deserved bronze medal. Bhavani's talent, determination, and remarkable display throughout the tournament have positioned her as a promising fencer on the global stage.

Key Highlights

Historic Bronze Medal:

• Competing in the women's sabre event, Bhavani Devi's exceptional performance earned her a historic bronze medal at the Asian fencing championships.
• Her achievement marks the first-ever medal for India in the tournament, showcasing her prowess as a fencer.

Remarkable Talent and Determination:

• Bhavani Devi's performance throughout the championship highlighted her remarkable talent and unwavering determination.
• Her skills, technique, and perseverance on the fencing strip were instrumental in securing the bronze medal.

Fueling Determination for Future Championships:

• Bhavani's success at the Asian championships has further fueled her determination for the upcoming World championships in Milan.
• Scheduled from July 22 to 30, the World championships provide Bhavani with another opportunity to showcase her skills and compete against the best fencers on a global stage.

Bhavani Devi's historic bronze medal at the Asian fencing championships has brought immense pride to India and established her as a trailblazer in the sport. Her exceptional talent, determination, and remarkable performance on the fencing strip have earned her a place among the best fencers in Asia. As she sets her sights on the upcoming World championships in Milan, Bhavani has the opportunity to further showcase her skills and make a mark on the global fencing stage. Her achievements inspire aspiring fencers and represent a significant milestone in the development of fencing in India.