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

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) and Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (UPRVUNL)

On 1 June 2023, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) and Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (UPRVUNL) in Lucknow, as reported by the Press Information Bureau of the Government of India.

Key Points

• Objectives of the MoU: The collaboration aims to develop renewable energy parks and projects, with a focus on transforming the energy sector in Uttar Pradesh.
• Key Details:Signatories: The MoU was signed by Mohit Bhargava, CEO of NGEL, and Nidhi Kumar Narang (Director Finance) and P. Guruprasad (Managing Director) of UPRVUNL.
• Planned Projects: The organizations intend to undertake several projects, including:
• Solar PV Project: Development of a solar photovoltaic (PV) project dedicated to the Rihand reservoir, other water areas, and available vacant land.
• Ayodhya City Solar Electrification: Solar PV project for the solar electrification of Ayodhya City.
• Joint Venture Company: NGEL and UPRVUNL plan to form a Joint Venture Company (JVC) to:
• Renewable Energy Generation: Oversee renewable energy generation.
• Flexibility in Production: Manage flexibility in the production and scheduling of thermal and hydro power stations by integrating renewable energy and energy storage.
• NTPC and NGEL Background:NTPC: India’s largest power generation company with a total installed capacity of around 72 GW.
• NGEL: A wholly-owned subsidiary of NTPC, focusing on expanding the renewable energy business, including projects on renewable energy parks, green hydrogen, energy storage technology, and round-the-clock development in the renewable energy power sector.
• UPRVUNL Background: UPRVUNL was established to set up and operate power generation stations in Uttar Pradesh. Currently, it has four thermal power stations with a total installed capacity of 5,820 MW, and is involved in a joint venture with NTPC for a thermal power station with an installed capacity of 1,320 MW.

UP Power Corporation Limited (UPRVUNL)

• Current Projects: UPRVUNL is currently working on raising an additional 3,300 MW capacity using supercritical technology.
• Renewable Energy Focus: UPRVUNL is also shifting its focus towards renewable energy and energy storage sectors.
• Central Government Initiatives: The central government is in the process of increasing capacity by 1,980 MW through joint ventures with public sector undertakings.

Financial Support for Youth Tourism Activities in Government Schools

On May 30, 2023, Uttar Pradesh's Tourism and Culture Minister, Jaiveer Singh, announced a new initiative to promote tourism-related activities in various government educational institutions across the state. Under this initiative, financial assistance of Rs 10,000 will be provided to support tourism activities in Government Intermediate Schools, Government Degree Colleges, Navodaya Vidyalayas, Kendriya Schools, Shramik Schools (Atal), and Kasturba Gandhi Vidyalayas.

Key Points of the Initiative

• New Tourism Policy 2022: The initiative is part of the new tourism policy aimed at connecting youth with tourism activities. Educational institutions will receive financial assistance once a year, with a maximum of 10 clubs in a district eligible for support based on the District Magistrate's recommendation.
• Promotion of Youth Tourism: Various organizations such as Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan, National Service Scheme, NCC, Bharat Scouts and Guides, Yuvak Mangal Dal, and Mahila Mangal Dal will organize youth tourism activities to promote responsible tourism among children and youth.
• Cultural Awareness: The initiative aims to instill an understanding of Indian culture, heritage, and the state's cultural diversity in youth from an early age through tourism activities. Youth clubs will also emphasize the importance of travel and tourism in educational institutions.

Safe Cities Initiative in Uttar Pradesh

On June 1, 2023, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a Safe Cities Initiative in Uttar Pradesh during a workshop with mayors and municipal heads in Lucknow. The aim is to enhance safety and security for women in urban areas.

Initial Phase: The first phase will include 17 municipal corporations and 18 cities, such as Ghaziabad, Gautam Budh Nagar, Saharanpur, Moradabad, Agra, Jhansi, Firozabad, Mathura-Vrindavan, Prayagraj, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Meerut, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Aligarh, Kanpur, and Ayodhya.

Facilities in Safe Cities: Safe Cities will be equipped with various facilities, including:

• City Buses: Equipped with cameras and panic buttons for immediate assistance.
• Pink Toilets: Installation in major intersections and markets for women’s convenience.
• Women Police Patrols: Increased patrols by women police personnel on pink scooters.
• Enhanced Vigilance: Increased security measures in schools and colleges.

Expansion Plan: Within a year, all 75 districts in Uttar Pradesh will be developed as Safe Cities.

Incentive Scheme: The Chief Minister also introduced an incentive scheme for municipal bodies to improve facilities in cities based on parameters like cleanliness, pure drinking water, good roads, safe city measures, and self-reliance. Nagar Panchayats, municipalities, and municipal corporations will receive additional funds ranging from Rs 1 crore to Rs 10 crore based on their performance.

Anti-Mine Infantry Boots: A Breakthrough in Soldier Safety

On June 1, 2023, Dr. Mayank Dwivedi, the director of the Defence Material Stores and Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE), announced the development of special anti-mine infantry boots designed to protect soldiers from the impact of landmine explosions.

• Protecting Soldiers from Landmines Landmines pose a significant threat to infantry battalions, often causing severe injuries to soldiers' legs when they explode. To address this challenge, the Indian Army sought assistance from the scientists at DMSRDE. After two to three years of research, the scientists successfully created these specialized boots.
• How the Boots Work The anti-mine infantry boots are engineered to reduce the impact of pressure caused by landmines. When a mine detonates under these boots, the explosion occurs, but the damage is significantly minimized. The boots are made from a lightweight hybrid blend of ceramic, porous materials, and aramid, ensuring that they do not exert pressure on the soldier's foot, despite weighing around three kilograms.
• Testing and Effectiveness The anti-mine boots have undergone rigorous testing, including trials with M-14 mines. During these tests, it was observed that the boots reduced the pressure exerted by the mine by over 160 times. This remarkable reduction in pressure allowed the mine to explode without causing harm to the soldier.

‘Uttar Pradesh Mathrubhumi Scheme’

The 'Uttar Pradesh Mathrubhumi Scheme' has been initiated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to facilitate the development of community infrastructure in native villages by residents settled abroad.

• Objectives To enable Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and other residents of Uttar Pradesh living in different cities and states, as well as abroad, to contribute to the development of their native villages. To honor the memory of relatives and forefathers by constructing community centers, Baraat Ghars, and other infrastructure in their native villages.
• Implementation Residents settled abroad can donate a minimum of 60% of the cost for development works in a Gram Panchayat. The state government will cover the remaining 40% of the cost. Development works can include infrastructure facilities and other works permitted under Section 15 of the Panchayati Raj Act. A plaque will be installed on the completed building or infrastructure facility, acknowledging the contribution.
• Benefits The scheme facilitates the participation of NRIs and other residents in the development of their native villages. It helps in creating community infrastructure such as community centers and Baraat Ghars, which are essential for social gatherings and events. It fosters a sense of connection and contribution among residents living away from their native villages.

Khelo India University Games 2022 Wraps Up in Varanasi

The 3rd Khelo India University Games (KIUG) - 2022 came to a close on June 3, 2023, at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) - Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. This edition of the games was held from May 25 to June 3, 2023, across various cities in Uttar Pradesh, including Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Lucknow, and Gautam Buddha Nagar.

Overall Champion

• Panjab University, Chandigarh (PUC) emerged as the overall champion, securing a total of 26 gold, 17 silver, and 26 bronze medals.

Other Top Performers

• Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar (GNDU) finished in second place with 24 gold, 27 silver, and 17 bronze medals.
• Jain University, Karnataka, secured third place with 16 gold, 10 silver, and 6 bronze medals.

Participation and Events

• The KIUG 2022 saw participation from over 4,000 athletes representing more than 200 universities, competing in 21 different sports over 12 days.

Mascot

• The mascot for this edition was "Jeetu," inspired by the Swamp Deer, the state animal of Uttar Pradesh.

History of the Khelo India University Games

• The first Khelo India University Games was held in Odisha in 2020, followed by the second edition in Bangalore, Karnataka, in 2022, which was postponed from 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

India Rankings 2023: BHU Secures 5th Place in Top University Rank

On June 5, 2023, Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, the Minister of State for Education & External Affairs, announced the India Rankings - 2023. In this ranking, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) achieved the fifth position in the Top University Rank, while Aligarh Muslim University secured the ninth position.

Top University Rankings

• The Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, was ranked first in the top university category.
• Jawaharlal Nehru University and Jamia Millia Islamia University in Delhi were ranked second and third, respectively.

Overall Rankings

• In the overall ranking, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras was ranked first, followed by the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, and IIT Delhi in second and third places, respectively.
• IIT Kanpur was ranked fifth, and BHU was ranked eleventh.

Implementation of NIRF

• The India Rankings - 2023 are based on the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), which was developed by the Ministry of Education in 2015. The NIRF uses various parameters to assess and rank the quality and excellence of higher education institutions in India.

Purpose of the Rankings

• The India Rankings help students identify universities based on their performance in different categories and subjects.
• They also assist universities in pinpointing areas that require improvement in teaching, research, resources, and infrastructure.

This is the eighth consecutive edition of the India Rankings for higher education institutions (HEIs) in the country. The 2023 edition of the India Rankings introduced three specific aspects:

• New Theme: A new theme called Agriculture & Allied Sector was included.
• Innovation Integration: The ‘Innovation’ rankings, previously executed by the Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA), were integrated into the India Rankings. This integration aimed to reduce the burden on institutions by eliminating the need to provide the same data to two different agencies.
• Expanded Scope: The scope of ‘Architecture’ was expanded to ‘Architecture & Planning’ to include institutions offering courses in Urban and Town Planning.

Key Features of India Rankings 2023

• The overall portfolio of India Rankings has now grown to include 13 categories and subjects.
• In the first year of India Rankings (2016), rankings were announced for universities and three sector-specific categories: Engineering, Management, and Pharmacy Institutions.
• Over the past eight years, four new categories and five new subjects have been added, classifying the list into five categories (Overall, Universities, Colleges, Research Institutes & Innovations) and eight subjects (Engineering, Management, Pharmacy, Architecture & Planning, Medicine, Law, Dentistry, and Agriculture & Allied Sectors).
• The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), launched by the Ministry of Education in November 2015, was used for this edition as well as the previous seven editions of the India Rankings from 2016 to 2023.
• NIRF identifies five broad categories of parameters for ranking.

Highlights of India Rankings 2023

• IIT Madras: Retained first position in the overall category for the fifth consecutive year (2019-2023) and in the engineering category for the eighth consecutive year (2016-2023).
• Top 100 Overall: Includes 44 CFTIs/CFU INIs, 24 state universities, 13 honorary universities, 18 private universities, 4 agriculture & allied sector institutions, and 3 management institutes.
• IISc Bangalore: Topped the universities category for the eighth consecutive year (2016-2023) and ranked first in the research institutes category for the third consecutive year (2021-2023).
• IIM Ahmedabad: Retained first position in management for the fourth consecutive year (2020-2023) and ranked in the top two from 2016 to 2019.
• AIIMS Delhi: Maintained top position in medicine for the sixth consecutive year (2018-2023).
• NIPER Hyderabad: Topped pharmacy rankings for the first time, pushing Jamia Hamdard to second position after four consecutive years of being first (2019-2022).
• Miranda House: Retained first position in colleges for the seventh consecutive year (2017-2023).
• IIT Roorkee: Ranked first in architecture for the third consecutive year (2021-2023).
• NLSIU Bengaluru: Retained first position in law for the sixth consecutive year (2018-2023).
• Savita Institute: Secured top spot in the Savita Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences category for the second consecutive year.
• Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi: Topped the Agriculture & Allied Sector category.
• IIT Kanpur: Secured top position in the innovation category.

Opening of Sainik Schools in Uttar Pradesh

The Ministry of Defense has approved the establishment of Sainik Schools in all the commissionerates of Uttar Pradesh on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) basis. This decision comes after a request from the state government made four years ago to open a Sainik School in each division.

• Currently, there are 25 Sainik Schools across the country, with three already operating in Uttar Pradesh (Amethi, Jhansi, and Mainpuri). The state government has also allocated Rs 90 crore for the construction of a new Sainik School in Gorakhpur.
• The Additional Chief Secretary of Basic & Secondary Education has instructed District Magistrates in 16 districts to identify suitable government, aided, or private schools that can be converted into Sainik Schools.
• The new schools will be established in districts such as Agra, Aligarh, Prayagraj, Azamgarh, Basti, Bareilly, Moradabad, Banda, Jhansi, Devipatan, Ayodhya, Kanpur Nagar, Meerut, Saharanpur, Mirzapur, and Varanasi.

Mission Nand Baba to Boost Milk Producers' Income

The Uttar Pradesh government has launched 'Mission Nand Baba' to enhance the income of milk-producing farmers and ensure fair milk prices in villages through dairy cooperatives. The initiative aims to invest Rs 1000 crore over the next five years to support milk producers in rural areas.

• As part of the mission, the government plans to establish Dairy Farmer Producer Organizations in five districts, focusing on empowering women in these initiatives. Farmers will receive incentives for purchasing advanced indigenous cow breeds and grants for producing fodder and animal feed.
• The mission will also create a comprehensive database of cow breeders in the state and is expected to stimulate significant investment in new dairy industries, aligning with the Uttar Pradesh Dairy Development & Milk Products Promotion Policy-2022.

Decision on Power of Attorney by Yogi Cabinet

During a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on June 6, 2023, it was decided to restrict the validation of power of attorney to blood relatives only, aiming to prevent stamp theft in Uttar Pradesh.

Previously, granting a power of attorney cost only 50 rupees, but now it will require stamp duty similar to that of a property registry, meaning the fees will be based on the property value.

Finance Minister Suresh Khanna explained that power of attorney allows an individual to authorize someone to act on their behalf.

Registration of Affidavits

• Under the Registration Act of 1908, it is not mandatory to register an affidavit. However, there is a growing tendency among the public to register them, with the number of registrations increasing each year.

• In the past five years, there have been 102,486 registrations based on registered affidavits in the state's registry offices.

Validation of Blood-Related Seals

• To combat stamp theft, the government has decided to validate seals from blood relatives.

• Those registering on a Mukhtarnama will be required to pay the full stamp duty.

Blood Relatives Defined
Blood relatives can be registered on a stamp of Rs 5000. Acceptable blood relatives include:

• Father
• Mother
• Husband
• Son
• Daughter-in-law
• Daughter
• Son-in-law
• Brother
• Sister
• Grandson
• Granddaughter

Development of Concrete Ghat in Chandravati, Varanasi

Recent media reports on June 7, 2023, indicate that Chandravati, the birthplace of Jain Tirthankar Chandra Mahaprabhu, is set to undergo tourism development under a project approved by the Ministry of Tourism in Uttar Pradesh.

A concrete ghat will be constructed along the banks of the Ganges in Chandravati, with an approved project budget of Rs 20 crore. The government has also released an initial installment of Rs 1.50 crore for the project.

Importance of Chandravati

• Chandravati holds significance for Jain followers as the birthplace of Jain Tirthankar Chandra Mahaprabhu.
• Its location on the banks of the Ganges makes it an important tourism site.
• There has been a long-standing demand for the construction of a concrete ghat in this pilgrimage area.

Impact of Concrete Ghat Construction

• The construction of the concrete ghat is expected to boost the tourism industry along the banks of the Ganges.
• It will also create new employment opportunities in the region.

10% Discount for Passengers in City Buses of Uttar Pradesh

On June 8, 2023, during a meeting of the Uttar Pradesh Dedicated Urban Transport Fund Management Committee, chaired by Chief Secretary Amrit Abhijat, it was announced that a 10% discount on bus fares would be offered for payments made through the National Common Mobility Card.

Digital Payment Promotion

• The committee discussed schemes to promote digital payments in the state, which will be implemented by the ETM supplier and HDFC.
• Passengers using the National Common Mobility Card for bus fare payments will receive a 10% discount.

Uniform Surcharge Proposal

• To standardize fares across different vehicles, a proposal was approved to impose a uniform surcharge of Re 1 per passenger on city bus tickets.
• This initiative aims to round off existing fares for passengers traveling in city buses.

Approval for Air-Conditioned Electric Buses

• The meeting approved the proposal to operate 1,525 air-conditioned electric buses through Convergence Energy Services Limited at GCC Mod.
• These buses will be equipped with GPS, panic buttons, CCTV cameras, and reserved seats for women.

Strict Regulations for Buses

• Unfit, illegal, overloaded, and dilapidated buses without permits will be prohibited from operating in any area of the state.
• Strict action will be taken against violations related to speeding and overloading of vehicles.

Financial Approvals and Future Plans

• A total of Rs 25,890.81 lakh was approved for the financial years 2022-23 and 2023-24, including various expenses.
• An expenditure burden of Rs 65.00 crore was approved for the potential annual operation of 300 electric buses at GCC turn, along with Rs 21.20 crore for a new maintenance depot.
• For the financial year 2023-24, Rs 447.48 crore will be required, and the necessary amount will be requested from the Finance Department.

Foundation Stone of 10 NH Projects worth over Rs 8000 crore laid in Pratapgarh & Deoria

On June 12, 2023, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari laid the foundation stone of 5 NH projects worth Rs 2,200 crore in Pratapgarh region and 5 NH projects worth Rs 6,215 crore in Deoria in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Pratapgarh Region Projects

• Widening of National Highway-330: 43 km stretch from Pratapgarh to Sultanpur, costing Rs 1290 crore.
• Pratapgarh Bypass: 14 km bypass at Pratapgarh, estimated at Rs 309 crore.
• Road Safety Work: Improvements on NH-31, including streetlights and bus shelters, costing Rs 27 crore.
• Pratapgarh-Musafirkhana Section: Expected to boost local industries such as cement, gas, bottling, and dairy.

Deoria Projects

• 4-lane Bypass: 22 km bypass at Deoria, costing Rs 1750 crore, set to be inaugurated in August 2023.
• Connectivity Improvement: Enhanced links for backward areas of Deoria & Gorakhpur and better access to Bihar.

Construction of Super State Highway in Uttar Pradesh

On June 13, 2023, Jitin Prasada, the Minister for Public Works Department (PWD) in Uttar Pradesh, announced plans to construct Super State Highways (SSH) due to the rising traffic in the state. An agreement is expected to be signed between the UP PWD and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) soon.

• Currently, there is a restriction on granting National Highway status to new roads. To address this, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has proposed the development of SSH, with the approval of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
• The SSH projects will be built with the assistance of NHAI, featuring a width of 4-6 lanes based on traffic conditions. Tolls will be implemented on these highways, with a portion of the revenue allocated for rural road development.
• Initially, 1000-1500 km of state highways will be included in this scheme. The PWD has been tasked with identifying state highways suitable for SSH status, categorizing them based on traffic volume. The state government will handle land acquisition, utility relocation, and ensuring the roads are free from encroachments. NHAI will oversee the construction using either the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) or Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode.
• Under HAM, NHAI covers 40% of the total cost, while in EPC, NHAI bears the entire cost. After completion, the roads will be under NHAI’s management for 25 years, during which tolls will be collected by NHAI. Following this period, the roads will be handed over to the Uttar Pradesh government.
• The remaining funds, after deducting necessary service and financial charges, will be deposited in the UP PWD account and used exclusively for rural road development. The PWD currently manages a road network of 276,042 km in the state, including state highways, major district roads, other district roads, and rural roads. The SSH system will enable PWD to allocate a significant portion of the budget for over 200,000 km of rural roads from its own resources.

Green Field Highway from Aligarh to Palwal

On June 14, 2023, Project Director PK Kaushik from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) announced plans for a green field highway to enhance connectivity and alleviate traffic on the Aligarh-Palwal highway.

• This highway will link Aligarh, a city in Uttar Pradesh known for its tala-training, to Haryana and the National Capital Region (NCR).
• The preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the new highway is currently underway at NHAI. The existing Aligarh-Palwal highway, constructed by the PWD provincial section at a cost of Rs 552 crore, spans 67 km and took approximately five years to complete. In March 2022, the PWD transferred the responsibility of this highway to NHAI, which is now in charge of its maintenance and repair.
• The Aligarh-Palwal highway serves as a crucial link between Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR, and Haryana. NHAI proposed the new highway in response to the increasing vehicle traffic on the existing route and the potential challenges of widening it to six lanes in the future.
• One of the main issues on the current route is the lack of bypasses in the towns of Khair and Jattari, leading to severe traffic jams. To address this, NHAI plans to construct approximately 10 km of bypasses in both towns. Additionally, the proposal includes building a six-lane green field highway from Aligarh to Palwal, parallel to the existing PTA route.

Introduction of Rail Heritage Park and Coach Restaurant in Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is set to welcome its first Rail Heritage Park and Coach Restaurant in Agra, aimed at showcasing railway heritage and offering delicious food. The project, located on Agra Cantt Station Road, is expected to open in July 2023 and is currently progressing rapidly.

Project Details

• The Rail Heritage Park and Coach Restaurant are being developed on vacant railway land at the intersection leading to Agra Cantt Railway Station.
• The project was initiated last year when the Railways decided to set up a rail coach restaurant on 2,000 square meters of land. Later, the idea of a heritage park was added.
• A train coach is being installed on a rail track for the restaurant, designed to resemble heritage and Maharaja trains with antique lights and heritage tiles.
• The coach restaurant will have a seating capacity of 72 people, with 36 seats inside the coach and 36 on the platform outside.
• The heritage park will feature around 10 shops offering food and drinks, with the coach restaurant being the first attraction.
• The park will also include a tourist guide kiosk, information about trains and online booking facilities, and a children’s park.

Revenue and Maintenance

• The railway land has been leased to the Hilton Group for five years, generating a revenue of 80 lakhs for the Railways.
• The Hilton Group will build and operate the heritage park and coach restaurant, with an agreement to maintain the park and restaurant for five years.

Rail Museum

• A rail museum will be established within the Rail Heritage Park, showcasing old railway signals, box tickets, and other historical items to educate visitors about railway history.

Open Jail to Be Established in Uttar Pradesh

On June 15, 2023, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the need to transform prisons into 'Penitentiaries' during a review of the Prisons Department. He also called for a formal proposal to set up an open jail in the state.

Current Status

• A semi-open jail is currently operational in Lucknow.

Chief Minister's Directives

• Strict punishment rules for the use of mobile phones in jails.
• Establishment of high-security barracks for close monitoring of notorious terrorists and criminals.
• Preparation and implementation of a new Prison Act, replacing the outdated Prisons Act of 1894 and the Prisoners Act of 1900.

Model Prison Act, 2023

• The Chief Minister highlighted the Government of India's Model Prison Act, 2023, which focuses on the reformation and rehabilitation of prisoners.
• He suggested that the state's new Prison Act should align with this model.

Recent Developments

• The cabinet has approved a new jail manual, which includes:
• Security assessment of prisoners
• Grievance redressal mechanisms
• Establishment of a Prison Development Board
• Improved behaviour towards prisoners
• Separate accommodation for women prisoners and transgender individuals

Encouraging Good Conduct

• Provisions for legal aid, parole, and premature release to encourage good behaviour in jail.

Technological Integration

• Implementation of various systems for better management and monitoring of prisons, including:
• Prisoners’ Information Management System
• Visitor Management System
• E-custody Certificate
• Police Intelligence System
• Installation of over 4,200 CCTV cameras in jails, with monitoring through video walls at headquarters.
• Integration of drone cameras for enhanced monitoring.

Gita Press, Gorakhpur to Receive Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021

Award Announcement

• The Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021 will be awarded to Gita Press, Gorakhpur, as announced by the Press Information Bureau, Government of India, on June 18, 2023.
• The jury, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, unanimously selected Gita Press for its significant contribution to social, economic, and political change through non-violence and Gandhian principles.

Gita Press: A Brief Overview

• Established in 1923, Gita Press is one of the largest publishers globally, having published 41.7 crore books in 14 languages, including 16.21 crore copies of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita.
• The institution does not rely on advertisements for revenue and focuses on the progressive development and welfare of the public.

Recognition of Community Service

• Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the award, coinciding with Gita Press's 100th anniversary, recognizes the institution's community service efforts.

About the Gandhi Peace Prize

• The Gandhi Peace Prize is an annual award instituted by the Government of India in 1995 to honor Mahatma Gandhi's ideals on his 125th birth anniversary.
• The award is open to individuals regardless of nationality, race, language, caste, creed, or gender, and carries a cash prize of Rs. 1 crore, a citation, a plaque, and a traditional handicraft or handloom work.

Testing Labs to be Established in Agricultural Universities

On June 19, 2023, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, during a meeting of the Board of Directors of the State Agricultural Produce Market Council in Lucknow, announced plans to set up testing labs in the state’s agricultural universities. These labs will focus on verifying organic and natural products.

• The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of establishing a Tissue Culture laboratory at Acharya Narendra Dev University of Agriculture & Technology in Kumarganj (Ayodhya). This laboratory will require a large campus of at least 3 hectares, and funding will be arranged by the Mandi Council.
• Additionally, he mentioned that several other universities and colleges, including Banda Agricultural University, Aligarh Muslim University, Rani Laxmibai Central Agricultural University in Jhansi, and Bundelkhand University in Jhansi, will be included in the ‘Chief Minister Farmer Scholarship Scheme.’
• Currently, outlets for organic and natural products are located at divisional headquarters, but there are plans to extend these outlets to district headquarters. Organic and natural markets will also be established in mandi committees.
• Lab testing is crucial for verifying and branding organic and natural products from state farmers. While the Food Safety and Drug Administration operates laboratories in Lucknow, Meerut, Banaras, and Jhansi, there are no such labs in the agricultural universities of the state. To address this, testing labs will be set up in all 44 agricultural universities by the Mandi Council.
• The Chief Minister also discussed the need for new haat penetration and farmer mandis, which should be constructed according to regional needs. The construction of hostels in agricultural universities, with the support of the Mandi Council, will be monitored by the Agriculture Minister.

U.P. Pollution Control Board’s Report revealed: Ganga most polluted in Kanpur

On June 21, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board released a report on the pollution levels of rivers in the state, including the Ganga and Yamuna. The report highlighted that the Ganga is the most polluted river, particularly in the industrial city of Kanpur.

Key Findings from the Report

• Ganga River:
  • Kanpur (Downstream Jana Village): BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand) was measured at 4.60 mg per litre, indicating high pollution levels.
  • Coliform levels were alarming, with 20,000 coliforms and 17,000 fecal coliforms detected per 100 ml.
• Prayagraj (Sangam Area): BOD levels were relatively better at 2.90 mg per litre, considered satisfactory.
• Varuna River:
  • BOD levels before it joins the Ganga in Varanasi were found to be 12.40 mg per litre, which is alarming.
  • Dissolved Oxygen (DO) levels were critically low at 3.30 mg per litre, making the water dangerous for aquatic life.
• Yamuna River:
  • From Agra to Hamirpur, the Yamuna is highly polluted.
  • In Etawah, BOD levels were recorded at 16.80 mg per litre, with DO at 5.80 mg per litre.
• Kali River:
  • Flowing through several districts in western Uttar Pradesh, the Kali river was found to be extremely polluted.
• Hindon River:
  • In Bulandshahr, BOD levels were shockingly high at 54 mg per litre.
  • Dissolved Oxygen levels were found to be zero in Muzaffarnagar, indicating a complete lack of oxygen necessary for aquatic life.
• Gomati River:
  • From Sitapur to Barabanki, the Gomati river is in a similar state of pollution as the Kali and Hindon rivers.
• Sai River:
  • In Unnao and Jaunpur, pollution levels in the Sai river were found to be higher than normal.

Pollution Standards for River Water

• BOD: Maximum allowable limit is 3 milligrams per litre.
• DO: Minimum required level is 5 milligrams per litre.

Methodology of the Report

• The report was prepared after a month-long investigation of the rivers by the Pollution Control Board.
• R.K. Singh, the Regional Officer of the Pollution Control Board, stated that the headquarters issues such reports based on thorough assessments.

Conclusion

• The report underscores the severe pollution levels in various rivers of Uttar Pradesh, particularly the Ganga in Kanpur.
• Immediate action and remediation efforts are necessary to address the alarming levels of pollution and protect aquatic life.

U.P. Govt. implemented LADCS system

On June 22, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh government introduced the ‘Legal Aid Defense Counseling System (LADCS)’ for a duration of two years. This initiative, under the Uttar Pradesh State Legal Services Authority, aims to offer free legal aid to the residents of the state and resolve minor disputes through mutual agreement.

Key Features of the LADCS System

• Legal aid will be accessible to the general public through Chief, Deputy, and Assistant Counsel.
• The system is designed to strengthen court-based legal services, ensuring effective and efficient legal assistance to the backward and weaker sections of society.
• Qualitative and competent legal services in criminal cases will be provided to eligible individuals.
• Vulnerable groups, such as Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, will benefit from this initiative.

Eligibility Criteria for LADCS

• Women, daughters, and children of victims.
• Individuals with disabilities, such as blindness, leprosy, deafness, or mental challenges, and nomadic persons.
• Victims of mass disasters, ethnic violence, class atrocities, floods, famines, earthquakes, or industrial disasters.
• Industrial workers and juvenile delinquents (children up to 18 years).
• Persons detained in custody and mentally ill individuals residing in protection homes, mental hospitals, or nursing homes.
• Individuals with an annual income of less than Rs. 3,00,000.

‘Shakti Didi’ Campaign

On June 22, 2023, the ‘Shakti Didi’ campaign was launched under Mission Shakti by Gautam Budh Nagar Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh. The campaign aims to enhance women’s safety and reduce crimes against women.

• Women living in high-rise societies often miss out on government schemes. The ‘Shakti Didi’ campaign will ensure these women receive the benefits of government schemes.
• The initiative under Mission Shakti aims to connect women from all classes in cities, villages, and societies.

C3i Collaboration with IIT Kanpur

According to reports on June 25, 2023, the C3i Hub, a cyber security lab at IIT Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, has partnered with the Telangana Police. This collaboration aims to assist the police in apprehending and prosecuting cyber criminals.

• IIT Kanpur has developed AI-based tools to aid in catching and convicting cyber criminals, with Telangana being the first to benefit from this technology.
• The C3i Hub, led by Prof. Manindra Agarwal, has created special AI-based systems for the Telangana Police. These systems categorize cyber crimes based on a database of crime patterns.
• The system provides historical data on similar crimes and criminals, aiding police investigations and offering necessary suggestions.
• By analyzing current crimes and past records, the system helps in preventing cyber crimes. This technology will soon be extended to other states as well.

Examples of Cyber Crime:

• Hacking social media accounts to send inappropriate messages.
• Unauthorized access to bank accounts for money theft.
• Compromising email accounts to request money or send objectionable content.
• Scamming through hacked WhatsApp or Facebook accounts.
• Stealing databases by hacking accounts.
• Misusing Aadhaar cards for financial fraud.

Gopal Das Neeraj Smriti Samman for Young Poets in UP

On June 26, 2023, the Uttar Pradesh Bhasha Sansthan announced the Gopal Das Neeraj Smriti Samman for five young poets in the state. Each awardee will receive a prize of one lakh rupees for their literary contributions.

• Awardees:Pankaj Prasoon: Recognized for his work "Tab Giton ne Sath Nibhaya." Nisha Singh Nawal: Honored for her poem "Mein Nisha hu." Dr. Prabhanshu Kumar: Awarded for his poetry collection "Dr. Prabhanshu Ki Kalam se Kavya Sangrah." Krishna Kumar Kanak: Noted for his poem "Uljhata Chhavijal Tumhara." Ved Mitra Shukla: Recognized for "Ek Samandar Gehra Bhitar."
• About Gopal Das Neeraj: Gopal Das ‘Neeraj’, born on January 4, 1925, in Etawah, Uttar Pradesh, was a renowned poet and lyricist. He was known for his easily understandable and high-quality poetry. Neeraj wrote many timeless songs composed by SD Burman and sung by iconic actors like Raj Kapoor, Dharmendra, and Rajesh Khanna. He was celebrated for his poignant poetry and simple language, which resonated with the public.
• Background of the Award: In 2018, following Gopal Das ‘Neeraj’s’ death, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced this award to honor five emerging poets each year in his memory.

Solar-Powered Boats to Promote Water Transport and Tourism in Uttar Pradesh

On June 27, 2023, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the UP New & Renewable Energy Development Agency and the UP State Tourism Development Limited to operate solar-powered boats in rivers and lakes across the state. The initiative aims to encourage water transport and boost tourism in Uttar Pradesh.

Solar Boats Operation Plan

• Solar boats will be launched in 17 locations within different municipal corporations.
• The first phase will include five religious sites: Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura, Prayagraj, and Garhmukteshwar, starting with Ayodhya.

Details of Solar Boats

• A total of 30 advanced solar boats will begin operations in the Saryu River of Ayodhya.
• Each boat, costing around Rs 1 crore, can accommodate 12 to 15 passengers.
• The solar boats are designed to facilitate visits to the Saryu River by devotees and promote water tourism.

Future Expansion

• After Ayodhya, solar boats will be introduced in Kashi, Mathura, Prayagraj, and Garhmukteshwar.
• In subsequent phases, the service will expand to Chitrakoot, Agra, Gorakhpur, Jaunpur, and other riverside cities.

Initial Operation and Future Plans

• The solar boats will be operated on a trial basis by UP NEDA for six months through a supplier firm.
• After the trial period, regular operations will be handed over to tourism development corporations, with private entrepreneurs selected for management.

Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Meeting Approves 23 Proposals

On June 28, 2023, a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow approved 23 proposals, including a new township establishment policy and the setting up of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ramayana University in Ayodhya.

Key Proposals Approved:

• Establishment of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ramayana University in Ayodhya under the Uttar Pradesh Private University Act-2019.
• Setting up small colonies in small cities with private sector assistance.
• Traders’ Welfare Day to be celebrated on June 29.
• Proposal for Mahatma Buddha University of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology in Kushinagar.
• Jagat Guru Ram Bhadracharya Handicapped University in Chitrakoot to be converted into Uttar Pradesh Jagat Guru Ram Bhadracharya Handicapped State University.
• Health facilities based on Viability Cap Fund proposed in six districts.
• Land transfer for establishing Intro Israel Excellence of Food in Kaushambi district.
• Micro-entrepreneur accident insurance scheme proposed, offering financial services up to Rs 5 lakh for entrepreneurs aged 18 to 60.
• Proposal for helicopter services in Agra and Mathura.
• Restart of Mathura sugar mill proposed.
• Proposal to plant 35 crore trees in the state during the 2023 plantation campaign.

India's First Canine Research Centre to be Established in Bareilly

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has given the green light for the country's first Canine Centre at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. This centre aims to study dog behaviour and diseases.

Reasons for Establishment

• Dog Bites: There have been increasing reports of dog bites across the country, including Bareilly.
• Aggression: Instances of pet dogs becoming aggressive towards their owners have raised concerns.
• Research Need: There is a pressing need for research on dog behaviour and the diseases that affect them.

Research Focus

The Canine Centre will conduct detailed research on:

• Internal and External Structure: The physical structure of dogs.
• Diseases: Specific focus on diseases like cancer in dogs.

Facilities

• Advanced Imaging: Facilities for CT scans and MRIs.
• Cancer Treatment: Tumour treatment and radiotherapy.
• Pathology: Hi-tech pathology services.

Centre Structure

• Main Centre: IVRI Bareilly will be the main centre.
• Sub-Centres: Three additional sub-centres will be established.

Future Plans

• Research Areas: The centre will focus on dog breeds, diseases, and vaccine development.
• Construction Timeline: Construction and other preparatory work are expected to start within the next two months.

Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Dialogue 2022: Winners from Uttar Pradesh

On June 27, 2023, two start-ups from Uttar Pradesh were recognized for their innovative solutions in the fields of Ed-Tech and Biodiversity at the Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Dialogue 2022. This event highlighted the efforts of young entrepreneurs in addressing pressing issues through technology and innovation.

Start-Ups and Their Solutions:

•  Natti Village  : Founded by Aman Kumar, this start-up focuses on creating an organic value chain in peanut farming. It aims to manage farms effectively to ensure organic practices from farm to table. Natti Village was awarded for its fintech solution aimed at biodiversity conservation, particularly in the context of peanut farming.
• Digi Swasthya : Led by Sandeep Kumar, this start-up offers telemedicine services specifically designed for rural India. It addresses the healthcare accessibility issues faced by rural populations by providing medical consultations and services through digital platforms. Digi Swasthya won in the theme of "Practical Suggestions for Life," recognizing its potential impact on improving healthcare in rural areas.
• Prizes and Support: Winners in each thematic area received a seed grant of $5,000 to help them develop their ideas into tangible products or services. Runners-up received $3,000. This funding is crucial for start-ups to scale their solutions and make a significant impact in their respective fields.

Themes of Youth Co: Lab 2022-23: The initiative focused on six thematic areas:

• Digital and financial literacy for youth.
• Gender equality and economic empowerment of women.
• Developing fintech solutions for biodiversity conservation.
• Promoting biodiversity-friendly lifestyles through financial technologies.
• Accelerating the circular economy through upcycling innovations.
• Fostering life-friendly lifestyles.
• About Youth Co:Lab: Youth Co:Lab was launched in India in 2019 in partnership with NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). It aims to support young entrepreneurs and innovators in developing solutions for sustainable development goals (SDGs). The 2022-23 edition received 378 applications from 28 states, showcasing the diverse and innovative ideas emerging from across the country.
• About Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): AIM is a flagship initiative of NITI Aayog to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in India. It supports various programs and initiatives to foster innovation, start-ups, and research in various sectors.

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)

• AIM is an initiative by the Government of India to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, including self-employment and talent utilization (SETU).
• The mission aims to create a platform for promoting world-class innovation hubs, addressing big challenges, supporting start-up businesses, and encouraging self-employment activities, particularly in technology-driven sectors.

About UNDP India

• The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been active in various areas of human development in India since 1951. Their work includes strengthening systems and institutions, promoting inclusive growth, sustainable livelihoods, and sustainable energy, as well as environmental resilience.
• UNDP’s programmes align with both global goals of catalytic transformation and India’s national priorities. With over 30 projects across almost every state, UNDP India aims to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by adapting traditional models to suit local needs.

About Citi Foundation

• The Citi Foundation focuses on promoting economic progress and improving the lives of people in low-income communities worldwide. Their efforts aim to enhance financial inclusion, create employment opportunities for youth, and develop new approaches for building economically vibrant communities.
• Citi Foundation’s ‘More than Philanthropy’ approach utilizes the expertise of The City and its residents to further their mission and advance thought leadership and innovation.

About Youth Co:Lab

• Youth Co:Lab was co-created in 2017 by the UNDP and the Citi Foundation with the goal of establishing a common agenda for countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
• The initiative aims to empower and invest in youth to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through leadership, social innovation, and entrepreneurship.