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

Uttar Pradesh Aims to Boost Maize Production

The Uttar Pradesh government has set an ambitious goal to increase maize production to over 3.2 million tonnes (mt) by the year 2027-28.

Current Situation

• Presently, maize production in Uttar Pradesh across all cropping seasons (kharif, rabi, and zaid) is estimated at 2.12 mt, covering 830,000 hectares.
• The average yield stands at 25.49 quintals (100 kg) per hectare, which is below the national average.

Plans for Expansion

• The state plans to expand maize acreage by 200,000 hectares and increase production by an additional 1.1 mt.
• This will bring the total maize area to approximately 1.03 million hectares and production to 3.2 mt.

Investment and Incentives

• The Uttar Pradesh government intends to invest nearly Rs 150 crore in various maize promotion programs and offer incentives to food processing units.
• Maize has diverse applications, including food, poultry feed, and biofuel production (grain-based ethanol). It is also used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, textile, paper, and alcohol industries.
• Maize is the third most important cereal crop in India, following paddy and wheat, and accounts for nearly 10% of total food grain production.
• Globally, maize is known as the "queen of cereals" due to its high genetic yield potential among cereal crops.

Growing Demand

• Industry experts estimate that India needs to increase maize production by 10 mt over the next four to five years to meet the growing demand from the ethanol and poultry sectors.
• The demand for maize is rising due to increasing health awareness, as people prefer maize for its high nutritional value and macronutrients such as starch, fiber, protein, fat, vitamin B complex, carotene, and essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, and copper.

Maize Cultivation Requirements

• Temperature: Ideally between 21-27°C.
• Rainfall: Requires high levels of rainfall.
• Soil Type: Best suited to old alluvial soil.

Leading Maize Producing States in India

• Karnataka
• Madhya Pradesh
• Bihar
• Tamil Nadu
• Telangana
• Maharashtra
• Andhra Pradesh

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), India was the fifth largest producer of maize in the world in 2020.

Maize is a versatile crop used for both food and fodder. The production of maize has increased due to the use of modern inputs such as High-Yielding Variety (HYV) seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation. The government has also initiated the Technology Mission on Maize to further support maize development.

ISARC: Development of Rice with Low Methane Emission

Recently, senior agriculture officials from India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal convened at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC), in Varanasi for the 7th ISARC Coordination Committee (ICC) meeting. During the meeting, the interim director general of IRRI highlighted ISARC's role as an evidence-based research hub for transforming the rice-based agri-food system in South Asia. 

• In 2024, ISARC plans to focus on developing rice varieties with low methane emissions and improving the productivity of premium quality nutritious rice. To achieve these goals, ISARC is promoting best agronomic and management practices such as Dry Seeded Rice (DSR) and Alternate Wet and Drying (AWD). 
• DSR, a flagship research program of IRRI, offers benefits like faster planting and maturing, conservation of resources such as water and labor, and improved mechanization. This method also reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to the traditional puddled transplanted rice technique. 
• ISARC has demonstrated its capabilities in research, extension, capacity development, and technology dissemination, providing practical solutions to urgent challenges in agriculture. During the meeting, several achievements were highlighted, including the release of ultra-low rice varieties, the Speed Breeding protocol, Direct Seeded Rice, and Seeds Without Borders. National partners were encouraged to replicate these innovations in their regions with technical support from ISARC.

International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)

• IRRI is a non-profit research and educational institute established in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller Foundations with support from the Philippine government.
• Headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, IRRI has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa.
• The IRRI South Asia Regional Centre in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, focuses on improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers while protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations.

Direct Seeded Rice (DSR)

• DSR is a method of establishing a rice crop by sowing seeds directly in the field, rather than transplanting seedlings from a nursery.
• This approach helps reduce unproductive water flows and conserves resources like water and labor.
• Conventional rice establishment requires a significant amount of water, making DSR a more sustainable option.

Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD)

• AWD is a water-saving technology for rice cultivation that involves alternately flooding and non-flooding the field to reduce irrigation water consumption without compromising yield.
• In AWD, irrigation water is applied a few days after the ponded water has disappeared, creating a cycle of flooded and non-flooded conditions in the field.

Criminal Charges Against Sitting MPs: Key Findings by ADR

The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), a poll rights body, has analyzed self-sworn affidavits of sitting Lok Sabha MPs and found that 44% of them have criminal cases against them.

• Out of 514 MPs studied, 225 MPs (44%) have declared criminal charges. Among these, 29% face serious criminal cases including allegations of murder, attempt to murder, promoting communal disharmony, kidnapping, and crimes against women.

States with High Incidence of Criminal Cases

• Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh have more than 50% of their MPs facing criminal charges.
• For instance, 64% of MPs from Uttar Pradesh and 78% from Bihar have criminal cases against them.

Criteria for Serious Criminal Cases

• Offences with a maximum punishment of 5 years or more that are non-bailable.
• Electoral offences such as bribery.
• Offences related to loss to the exchequer, assault, murder, kidnapping, rape, and crimes against women.
• Offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and those mentioned in the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (Section 8).

Privileges of MPs

• MPs enjoy certain privileges under Article 105 of the Constitution, which allows them to perform their parliamentary duties without hindrance.
• One such privilege is protection from arrest in civil cases 40 days before and after a session or House committee meeting.

Non-Bailable Offences

• Non-bailable offences are those not specified as bailable under the First Schedule of the CrPC or any other law.
• Accused persons cannot claim bail as a right in such cases.
• Bail may be granted under certain conditions outlined in Section 437 of the CrPC, such as the nature of the offence and the criminal history of the accused.

Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)

• ADR is an apolitical, non-partisan, and non-profit organization in India working on electoral and political reforms for over 25 years.
• Established in 1999 by professors from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad, ADR aims to promote transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

Appeal Against CAT Order in Contempt Proceedings

The Allahabad High Court has recently ruled that an appeal against an order of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) while exercising its contempt jurisdiction under Section 17 of the Administrative Tribunals Act, 1985, lies before the Supreme Court, not the High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution of India.

• The CAT, established under Article 323-A of the Constitution, adjudicates disputes and complaints regarding the recruitment and service conditions of public service personnel appointed by the Government of India.
• There are 19 CAT benches across India, and the tribunal is composed of Administrative and Judicial Members with specialized knowledge, ensuring speedy and effective justice.
• A Chairman, who is a sitting or retired Judge of a High Court, heads the CAT.
• Article 226 of the Constitution empowers High Courts to issue writs for the enforcement of fundamental rights and ordinary legal rights, making their writ jurisdiction wider than that of the Supreme Court.
• High Courts can issue writs to any person, authority, or government, regardless of territorial jurisdiction, as long as the cause of action arises within their territorial limits.

Additional Advocate General

Recently, Uttar Pradesh Additional Advocate General (AAG) Ardhendumauli Kumar Prasad resigned from his position.

• Prior to his appointment as AAG, he served as the standing counsel for Uttar Pradesh in the Supreme Court.
• The Additional Advocate General is a legal officer in India who assists the Advocate General of a state or union territory.
• The AAG is appointed by the Governor of the state on the recommendation of the Advocate General.
• The AAG carries out duties assigned by the Advocate General, which may include representing the state government in court, providing legal opinions, and drafting legal documents.

Guidelines for Managing Heat-Related Illnesses

The Uttar Pradesh Health Department has issued guidelines for managing heat-related illnesses, emphasizing the need for preparation and awareness during the summer months.

• The Indian Meteorological Department predicts higher-than-usual temperatures for most of the country this summer, particularly in central and northwestern Uttar Pradesh.
• Seasonal outbreaks of diseases are anticipated between March and May 2024, with a higher likelihood of heatwaves in central and northwestern regions.

Key Initiatives by the Health Department

• Inter-Departmental Coordination: The Health Department will coordinate with various departments to organize awareness events about heat-related diseases, their prevention, and management.
• Provision of Cool Drinking Water and Shelters: Arrangements will be made for cool and clean drinking water in crowded places and shelters for heat protection.
• Display of Weather Forecasts: Weather forecasts and temperatures will be displayed on screens installed at crowded locations.
• Awareness Sessions in Schools: Awareness sessions on heat wave protection will be held in schools.
• Training for Medical Personnel: The department will prioritize training and raising awareness among medical officers, paramedical staff, and frontline workers to ensure they can promptly identify and treat heat-related illnesses.
• Ensuring Availability of Essential Supplies: There will be a sufficient supply of essential medications, intravenous fluids, ice packs, oral rehydration salts, and other necessary supplies.
• Distribution of Educational Materials: Educational materials will be distributed to raise public awareness about heat-related illnesses and their prevention and management.

Heat-Related Illnesses:

• Heat Stroke: A severe condition where the body overheats, leading to symptoms like confusion, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness.
• Heat Exhaustion: A milder form of heat illness with symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, and dizziness.
• Heat Cramps: Painful muscle spasms usually occurring in the abdomen, arms, or legs due to loss of salt and fluids.
• Heat Rash: A skin rash caused by excessive sweating, often appearing as small red spots or blisters.

NIA Conducts Raids in Naxal Conspiracy Case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) recently carried out raids at 12 locations in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar as part of an investigation into an anti-India conspiracy linked to a banned outfit.

• Uttar Pradesh and Bihar Raids: Of the 12 locations, 11 were in Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh, and one in Kaimur district, Bihar. These raids were connected to a case originally registered by Uttar Pradesh’s Anti Terror Squad (ATS).
• Seizures During Raids: During the operation, the NIA seized various digital devices such as mobile phones, SIM cards, and memory cards, along with incriminating documents including pamphlets related to the proscribed outfit.
• NIA’s Ongoing Investigation: The NIA’s investigation indicates that the banned outfit is actively trying to re-establish its presence in the Northern Regional Bureau, which includes Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.

National Investigation Agency (NIA)

• The NIA is India’s central agency for counter-terrorism law enforcement, responsible for investigating offenses that affect the country’s sovereignty, security, and integrity.
• Its mandate includes cases related to friendly relations with foreign states, threats to atomic and nuclear facilities, smuggling of arms, drugs, fake currency, and infiltration from across borders.
• The NIA was established under the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008, and is empowered to investigate terror-related crimes across states without needing special permission, under a written proclamation from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Headquarters: New Delhi

Naxalism in India

• Naxalism gets its name from the village Naxalbari in West Bengal, where it began as a rebellion against local landlords in 1967.
• The movement aimed at the rightful redistribution of land to working peasants and was led by Kanu Sanyal and Jagan Santhal.
• Although it started in West Bengal, Naxalism has spread to Eastern India, particularly in less developed areas of states like Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Naxals are believed to support Maoist political sentiments and ideology.

UP Government Revokes Licenses for Madrasas

The Uttar Pradesh government has revoked the licenses of all 16,000 Madrasas in the state. As a result, students enrolled in these Madrasas will now need to seek admission in government-run schools.

• Allahabad High Court Ruling: On March 22, 2024, the Allahabad High Court declared the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act 2004 as unconstitutional. The Court argued that Madarsa education violates the principle of secularism and emphasized that students receiving religious education should be integrated into the formal education system.
• Supreme Court Intervention: The Supreme Court intervened by staying the order of the Allahabad High Court, allowing Madrasas to continue their operations for the time being.
• Shift in Approach: The cancellation of Madrasa licenses signifies a significant shift in the state’s approach towards religious education institutions. The move aims to streamline the education system in Uttar Pradesh and ensure uniformity in curriculum and standards across all educational institutions.
• Background on Madrasas: Uttar Pradesh is home to over 25,000 madrasas, with approximately 16,500 officially recognized by the UP Board of Madarsa Education. The Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004 was established to regulate and govern the functioning of madrasas in the state, providing a framework for their establishment, recognition, curriculum, and administration.

Government Allocates Funds for Education of Underprivileged Children

Recently, the state government has released over Rs 250 crore for the educational expenses of more than 3.25 lakh underprivileged children enrolled in private schools under the Right of Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009.

• Each child from disadvantaged and weaker sections will receive a monthly budget allocation of Rs 450 to support their educational needs.
• This initiative aims to ensure access to quality education for these children.
• As per the RTE Act, the aspirations of 35,666 students, with the highest number from Lucknow district, have been fulfilled, allowing them to pursue their studies in private schools.
• In addition to covering fees, the government provides Rs 5,000 annually per child for educational materials such as books, notebooks, and uniforms.

Educational Initiatives by UP Government

• Atal Awasiya Vidyalaya Yojana: This scheme offers free education to children of construction workers employed in the informal sector. Under this initiative, two children of registered workers aged between 6 and 16 receive free residential education in dedicated schools.
• Mahadevi Verma Shramik Pustak Kraya Dhan Yojana (MVSPKDPY): Launched in 2022, this initiative aims to empower daughters of construction workers by providing them with necessary educational resources.
• SC/ST Pre Matric Scholarship: This scholarship program supports students from marginalized communities by bridging the financial gap that may hinder their academic progress, emphasizing the importance of education in empowering these students.

Allahabad High Court to Hear Plea for Mathura Mosque Removal

The Allahabad High Court has scheduled a hearing for a plea concerning the removal of the Shahi Idgah mosque, situated adjacent to the Krishna Janmasthan temple in Mathura.

• The suits, filed by Bhagwan Shrikrishna Virajman at Katra Keshav Dev Khewat and 17 others, argue that the mosque was constructed on land belonging to the Katra Keshav Deo temple.
• Historical Background of the Disputed Land: Raja Veer Singh Bundela of Orchha built a temple on the same premises in 1618, and Aurangzeb later constructed the mosque in 1670 on the site of an earlier temple.
• The Krishna Janmasthan temple is believed to have been established around 2,000 years ago, during the 1st century CE.
• A survey has been ordered in response to demands from Hindu representatives for complete ownership of the premises where the Keshava Deva temple was demolished on Aurangzeb's orders in 1670.
• The area was considered nazul land—non-agricultural state land owned by the Marathas and later the British.
• The original temple, built in 1618 during Jahangir's reign, was patronized by Dara Shukoh, Aurangzeb's brother and rival.
• In 1815, the Raja of Benaras purchased the 13.77-acre land from the East India Company, leading to the establishment of the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Trust.
• The trust gained ownership rights over the temple, and in 1951, the land was placed under the trust with the condition of never being sold or pledged.
• The Shri Krishna Janmasthan Sewa Sangh was formed in 1956 to manage the temple's affairs, and in 1968, an agreement was reached between the Sri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sangh and the Shahi Idgah Masjid Trust, allowing the Idgah a portion of the land as part of the settlement.
• The current dispute revolves around the temple petitioners seeking possession of the entire land.

Mangal Pandey: A Pioneer of the Indian Rebellion of 1857

Mangal Pandey, a legendary freedom fighter, is remembered on his death anniversary for his pivotal role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Born on July 19, 1827, in a town near Faizabad in present-day eastern Uttar Pradesh, Pandey joined the 34th Bengal Native Infantry of the British East India Company.

• He is considered the pioneer of the rebellion against the British rule in India. His revolt was sparked by the introduction of cartridges greased with animal fat, which offended the religious sentiments of the soldiers. This act of defiance set off a chain reaction, leading to a widespread uprising against the East India Company.
• The movement, which began as a protest by Pandey and his fellow sepoys, escalated into what is now known as the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 or the First War of Independence. On March 29, 1857, Pandey and his comrades staged a rebellion against their British officers, attempting to shoot them. This act of bravery led to his execution on April 8, 1857, in Barrackpore.
• In recognition of his contributions to the freedom struggle, the Government of India honored Mangal Pandey’s legacy by issuing a postage stamp featuring his image in October 1984.
• Mangal Pandey was a soldier in the 34th Bengal Native Infantry, part of the British East India Company. He is remembered for his role in the rebellion against the Company, which began in 1857.
• Background : Mangal Pandey was born in 1827 in what is now eastern Uttar Pradesh. He joined the British East India Company’s army, which was a common path for many Indians at the time.
• The Incident : The rebellion was triggered by the introduction of new cartridges believed to be greased with animal fat, offending the religious beliefs of Hindu and Muslim soldiers. This sparked outrage among the troops.
• The Rebellion : On March 29, 1857, Pandey and his fellow soldiers revolted against their British officers at Barrackpore. This act of defiance was one of the first incidents of the uprising.
• Consequences : Following the rebellion, Pandey was arrested and executed on April 8, 1857. His actions, however, inspired other soldiers and marked the beginning of a larger revolt against British rule.
• Legacy : The uprising spread across India, leading to widespread protests and violence against the British. It is now considered a significant event in the history of India’s struggle for independence.
• Recognition : In 1984, the Indian government honored Pandey’s contribution to the freedom struggle by issuing a postage stamp featuring his image. This recognition reflects his importance in India’s history.
• The Tons River is a major river in northern India, known for its significance in the Indian Himalayan region. Here are some key details about the Tons River:
• Origin and Location : The Tons River originates at a height of 6,315 meters from the Bandarpunch Mountain in Uttarakhand. It is one of the major perennial rivers in the Indian Himalayan region.
• Tributary of the Yamuna : The Tons River is the largest tributary of the Yamuna River. It carries more water than the Yamuna itself. The two rivers meet below Kalsi, near Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
• Tributaries : The main tributaries of the Tons River are the Pabbar and Asan rivers. The Asan River is formed by the confluence of two small river systems - one flowing south from the Himalayan range towards Tehri, and the other flowing northwest from the lower Shiwalik hills.
• Importance : The Tons River is an essential water source in the region. It is also significant for its ecological and hydrological contributions. The river is part of the larger network of perennial Indian Himalayan rivers, which are crucial for maintaining the water balance in the region.
• The Yamuna River is one of the major rivers in northern India and holds great significance both geographically and culturally. Here are some important points about the Yamuna River:
• Geographic Location : The Yamuna River is a key tributary of the Ganges River, which is one of the most important rivers in India. The Yamuna River flows through several states, including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh.
• Source and Course : The river originates from the Yamunotri Glacier, located at an elevation of 6,387 meters in the lower Himalayan ranges. It flows through the Yamuna-Ganga Plain, one of the largest alluvial plains in the world, before meeting the Ganges at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
• Major Tributaries : The Yamuna River has several important tributaries, including the Chambal, Sindh, Betwa, and Ken rivers. These tributaries contribute to the water volume and drainage basin of the Yamuna.
• Dams and Barrages : There are several significant dams and barrages on the Yamuna River, such as the Lakhwar-Vyasi Dam in Uttarakhand and the Tajewala Barrage Dam in Haryana. These structures are essential for water management, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation.
• Government Initiatives : Various government initiatives have been launched to improve and manage the water quality of the Yamuna River. The Yamuna Action Plan is one such initiative aimed at cleaning and preserving the river. The Delhi Government has also introduced a Six-Point Action Plan to clean the Yamuna by February 2025, highlighting the commitment to restoring the river’s health.

New Transformers in Prayagraj

The Purvanchal Vidyut Vitaran Nigam Limited (PVVNL) is committed to providing 24-hour electricity supply in Prayagraj, including both urban and rural areas.

• To avoid power outages due to faulty transformers, 294 new transformers have been installed in Prayagraj’s urban areas.
• To improve electricity supply further, two new sub-stations are being set up in the city, with one in Malawa expected to start operations by April 2024.
• Efforts are also being made to reduce electrical issues caused by old and deteriorating electrical cables.

Dharohar Kashi Ki: Handicrafts and Handloom Showcase

The Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF) is organizing a two-day event called ‘Dharohar Kashi Ki’ on April 13 and 14, 2024, to promote and showcase the products of Varanasi.

• Boat Expedition and Aarti: Ambassadors from over 20 countries will explore the Kashi Vishwanath Dham and Ganga riverfront through a boat expedition, followed by witnessing the Aarti ceremony.
• Fashion Show: A fashion show titled ‘Banarasi Saree - a fusion of Indian heritage and skilled artisans’ will be held at NaMo Ghat, organized by renowned fashion designer Manish Malhotra. Bollywood actors Kriti Sanon and Ranveer Singh will showcase Varanasi’s crafts on the runway, accompanied by a cultural and musical performance by Bhojpuri singer and actor Ravi Kishan.
• Tribute to Weavers: During the event, the IMF will honor distinguished weavers who have significantly contributed to the preservation and advancement of Kashi’s exquisite crafts.

Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF)

• The Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF) is a non-governmental organization founded by Satnam Singh Sandhu, the Chancellor of Chandigarh University.
• Its primary objective is to foster a sense of national pride among minority groups by highlighting their shared history, culture, and contributions to the nation, and encouraging their active participation in civic life.

World Homeopathy Day

World Homeopathy Day (10th April) Recently, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Brajesh Pathak, inaugurated the Homeo Shakti 2024 event in Gomtinagar, marking the celebration of World Homeopathy Day. This day commemorates the 269th birth anniversary of Samuel Hahnemann, who is widely regarded as the father of homeopathy.

• Focus on Mental Health Shyam Das Pabhu, a priest from the ISKCON temple in Lucknow, emphasized the importance of mental health alongside physical well-being. He urged the need for a balance between spiritual and physical care to effectively combat stress and anxiety.
• Theme for 2024 The theme for World Homeopathy Day 2024 is "Homeoparivar: One Health, One Family."
• Understanding Homeopathy The term 'Homeopathy' comes from two Greek words: "Homois" meaning similar, and "pathos" meaning suffering. It refers to the practice of treating diseases with remedies in minute doses that can produce symptoms similar to the disease when taken by healthy individuals. This practice is based on the principle of "Similia Similibus Curantur," which means "likes are cured by likes." Dr. Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) gave scientific grounding to homeopathy in the early 19th century.

National Fire Service Day

• National Fire Service Day was observed on 14th April 2024, with the theme "Ensure Fire Safety to Contribute Towards Nation Building." This day also pays tribute to the brave firefighters who lost their lives during a ship explosion at the Mumbai dockyard in 1944.

Awareness Campaign

• The fire department has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign in various areas such as residential neighborhoods, industrial units, markets, malls, and shopping complexes. The aim is to educate shop owners and residents about preventive measures to avoid incidents like short circuits, gas leaks, or fires.

Current Provisions Regarding Fire Safety in India

• Fire service is a crucial emergency response service in India, falling under the 12th schedule of the Indian Constitution, which deals with municipal functions.
• Fire prevention and firefighting services are currently organized by States, Union Territories, and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
• National Building Code (NBC) of India, 2016: Published by the Bureau of Indian Standards, the NBC is a recommendatory document. State governments are expected to incorporate its recommendations into local building bylaws, making them mandatory. The code includes administrative regulations, general building requirements, fire safety provisions, and structural design and construction safety guidelines.
• Model Building Bye Laws, 2003: Under these bylaws, fire clearance is the responsibility of the Chief Fire Officer. The Development Authority must provide building plans to the Chief Fire Officer for clearance.
• Guidelines by the National Disaster Management Authority: These guidelines stipulate fire safety requirements for public buildings, including hospitals. They also provide design guidelines for maintaining minimum open space, exit mechanisms, stairs, and evacuation drills.

Uttar Pradesh Government's Investment in Hospitality Sector

The Uttar Pradesh government is planning to invest ₹ 32,000 crore in the hospitality and tourism sector. Officials estimate that the state’s annual tourist footfall could reach 850 million by 2028.

• Creation of Accommodation Units: The investment is expected to create an additional 80,000 accommodation units, including hotels and resorts, to address the current deficit in room availability.
• Focus on Tourism Hotspots: The state is prioritizing the development of hospitality units in popular tourism destinations such as Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Agra.
• Development of Heritage Properties: Heritage properties, including forts and palaces, are being offered to the private sector for development. This initiative aims to preserve and enhance these historical sites while boosting tourism.
• Subsidies for Unique Countryside Farm Stays: Under the Tourism Policy 2022, the state is providing subsidies to encourage the establishment of unique countryside farm stays. This initiative promotes rural tourism and offers visitors a distinctive experience.
• Homestays and Heritage Hotels: Homeowners are being encouraged to list their properties for homestays, while owners of heritage properties are invited to convert their premises into heritage hotels catering to discerning tourists. This initiative aims to diversify accommodation options and enhance the tourism experience.
• Development of Multi-Experience Circuits: The state is focusing on developing multi-experience circuits, including wellness centers and improving the connectivity of Buddhist destinations such as Sarnath and Kaushambi.
• Diversification of Tourism Experiences: The government is also diversifying tourism experiences by promoting adventure tourism, MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), wellness, and ecotourism. This initiative aims to attract a broader range of tourists and enhance the overall tourism experience in the state.

Special Cover on Ram Navami

• A special cover was released on the eve of Ram Navami by the postmaster general of the Prayagraj region. This event was organized by the postal department in collaboration with the Prayag Philatelic Society.
• The special cover features a unique Ram Navami-themed stamp, which will be available for sale at the Philatelic bureau located in the head post office of Prayagraj. The stamp will be priced at ₹ 25.
• The Prayag Philatelic Society, which was established on July 21, 2017, aims to promote philately among people of all age groups. The society invites membership from across India and works to raise awareness about the significance of stamp collecting.
• Ram Navami is a Hindu festival celebrated in spring, marking the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This festival usually falls on the ninth and last day of Chaitra Navaratri, occurring in March or April each year according to the Gregorian calendar.

Uttar Pradesh Tops India in GI Tags

GI-tagged products

Uttar Pradesh has strengthened its position as the leading state in India for Geographical Indication (GI) tagged products, with six new additions bringing its total to 75.

Notable Additions

• Tirangi Barfi : A tri-coloured sweet from Kashi, historically traded during the Quit India Movement.
• Banaras Metal Casting Craft
• Lakhimpur Kheri Tharu Embroidery
• Bareilly Cane and Bamboo Craft
• Bareilly Zardozi Craft
• Pilkhuwa Hand Block Print Textile

GI Tag Overview

• A GI tag is a name or sign used on certain products that correspond to a specific geographical location or origin.
• The GI tag ensures that only the authorized users or those residing in the geographical territory are allowed to use the popular product name.
• It also protects the product from being copied or imitated by others.
• A registered GI is valid for 10 years.
• GI registration is overseen by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Legal Framework and Obligations

• The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.
• It is governed and directed by the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
• Furthermore, the significance of protecting industrial property and geographical indications as integral components of intellectual property is acknowledged and emphasized in Articles 1(2) and 10 of the Paris Convention.