UKPSC Monthly Current Affairs: July 2023 | Monthly Current Affairs UKPSC - UKPSC (Uttarakhand) PDF Download

Scholarship Initiative for Students in Uttarakhand

On 31 May 2023, the Uttarakhand Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, approved a proposal to provide scholarships to hardworking students in degree colleges and universities across the state.

Details of the Scholarship Scheme

• Eligible Institutions: The scholarship is aimed at students studying in government universities and government degree colleges within Uttarakhand.
• Scholarship Amounts:Under the Chief Minister’s Higher Education Scholarship Scheme, the following awards will be given to top-performing students in graduation:
  • Rs 3000 for the first position in each faculty of every college.
  • Rs 2000 for the second position.
  • Rs 1000 for the third position.
• Monthly Prizes for Outstanding Students:In addition to the graduation scholarships, there will be monthly prizes for outstanding students as follows:
  • Rs 5000 for the first prize winner.
  • Rs 3000 for the second runner-up.
  • Rs 2000 for the third prize winner.

CM Released Books on River Conservation and Cleanliness

Why In News? On May 31, 2023, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched two books titled ‘ Ganga Ke Prahari ’ and ‘ Swachhata Hi Seva ’ written by young author Lalit Shaurya from Uttarakhand.

Key Highlights :

• The Chief Minister emphasized that these books would raise public awareness about river conservation and cleanliness.
• ‘Ganga Ke Prahari’ : This book provides information about river cleanliness through stories, highlighting the importance of keeping rivers clean.
• ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ : The stories in this book are intended to promote the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, focusing on the significance of cleanliness.

Child Care Leave for Single Parents in Uttarakhand

Recent Announcement : On June 1, 2023, Uttarakhand’s Finance Secretary Dilip Jawalkar issued an order granting childcare leave to single female and male government employees responsible for child care. Eligibility Criteria :

• Single Male Guardians : Includes unmarried, widower, or divorced employees with sole responsibility for a child.
• Leave Duration : Up to two years (730 days) during the entire service period to care for children during illness or examinations.
• Age Limit : Leave applicable for the two eldest surviving children until they turn 18 years old. No age limit for children with 40% or more disability.

Leave Conditions :

• Leave Type : Sanctioned as earned leave, with public holidays during the leave period considered included.
• Leave Duration : Minimum of five days and a maximum of 120 days at a time.
• Leave Entitlement : Single female employees can take up to six holidays in a calendar year, while other eligible employees can take leave three times a year.
• Salary During Leave : Full salary for the first 365 days of leave; 80% salary for the next 365 days.
• Eligibility for Teachers and Non-Teaching Staff : Eligible male and female government teachers (excluding UGC, CSIR, and ICAR posts) and non-teaching staff of aided educational and technical institutions in various departments are also entitled to this leave. 
• Probation Period : Employees on probation are not entitled to childcare leave, except in departments where service rules allow it during probation, limited to three months.
• In exceptional cases, the appointing authority may consider granting child care leave for a shorter duration based on the specific merits of the situation.

Uttarakhand’s First Tunnel Parking at Kempty Fall, Mussoorie

As per media reports on June 4, 2023, Uttarakhand is set to construct its first tunnel parking facility at Kempty Fall, located along the Tehri-Kempty Fall Mussoorie road. A Detailed Project Report (DPR) amounting to ₹120 crores has already been prepared for this initiative.

To address the parking challenges in the state, tunnel parking solutions are planned in the mountains across 12 cities. The specific locations include:

• Pauri: Two tunnel parking sites will be established.
• Tehri: Six tunnel parking facilities are planned.
• Uttarkashi: Two tunnel parking sites will be constructed.
• Nainital: Two tunnel parking facilities are proposed.

The Kempty Fall tunnel parking facility aims to accommodate 400 vehicles. The design of these tunnel parking facilities in hilly districts focuses on utilizing limited ground space by constructing tunnels within the mountains. Vehicles will enter the parking area from one side and exit onto a different road, optimizing space and improving traffic flow.

The specific locations for tunnel parking include:

• Pauri: Laxman Jhula and Saud near Devprayag Railway Station.
• Tehri: Opposite Old Tehri Road Junkyard (Chamba), Nainbagh Dhanaulti, Chhilledi Village, Tegad Bazaar, and Thatud Bazaar.
• Uttarkashi: Gangotri and Gangnani.
• Nainital: On Nainital-Bhawali road, Cantt Board land, and the first turn near the National Observatory.

This innovative approach aims to alleviate parking issues in hilly areas where large ground spaces are not available, ensuring a more efficient use of space and enhancing the overall parking infrastructure in Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand’s Pratibha Thapliyal Selected for Asia & World Bodybuilding Championship

• National Selection: Pratibha Thapliyal from Uttarakhand has been chosen to represent India in the Asia & World Bodybuilding Championships after excelling in trials conducted by the Indian Body Builders Federation in Goa.
• Competitive Trials: Out of 23 women bodybuilders who participated in the trials, Pratibha was the only one selected for the prestigious championships.
• Upcoming Championships: The Asia Bodybuilding Championship is scheduled to take place in Kathmandu, Nepal from September 6 to 12, while the World Bodybuilding Competition will be held in Seoul, South Korea from October 30 to November 6.
• Pratibha’s Background: Hailing from the Yamkeshwar block of Pauri in Uttarakhand, Pratibha is the state’s first female bodybuilder. She has previously achieved recognition by winning various bodybuilding competitions at national and international levels.
• Athletic Achievements: Before her bodybuilding career, Pratibha represented Uttarakhand in volleyball, captaining the team and playing five times from the North Zone. She has also competed in cricket at the All-India level on four occasions.
• Pratibha Thapliyal’s selection and achievements highlight her dedication and talent in bodybuilding, making her a prominent figure in promoting the sport in Uttarakhand and India.

Drone Corridors to be Established in Uttarakhand

On June 5, 2023, it was reported that Uttarakhand will be developing corridors to facilitate and promote drone operations. The Information Technology Development Agency (ITDA) has invited proposals from companies involved in drone operation and construction for this initiative.

Background and Purpose

• The initiative aims to create dedicated routes for drones that do not interfere with air services, ensuring safety, especially in border areas.
• Currently, there are no dedicated drone corridors in the state, leading to longer travel times and increased risks for drone batteries.
• The establishment of these corridors is expected to reduce flight times and enhance battery life for drones.

Process of Implementation

• ITDA Director, Nitika Khandelwal, mentioned that a meeting with stakeholders was held during the formulation of the drone policy, and proposals are being sought from drone manufacturers and operators.
• Once proposals are received, they will be analyzed using the state's aerial map and submitted to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) through the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA).
• After obtaining DGCA's approval, the drone corridors will be established and interconnected across all districts in the state.

Future of Drone Operations in Uttarakhand

• The Uttarakhand government is also working on a comprehensive drone policy to regulate drone operations and purchases in the state.
• The ITDA has already submitted a draft of this policy to the government.

Conclusion

• The development of drone corridors and a robust drone policy is expected to significantly enhance drone operations in Uttarakhand, making them more efficient and safer.

Tiger Deaths in Uttarakhand: A Growing Concern

Recent reports indicate a troubling trend in Uttarakhand, where 12 tigers and tigresses have died in just five months, raising concerns amidst national efforts for tiger conservation.

Overview of Tiger Deaths

• The Chief Wildlife Warden of the Uttarakhand Forest Department, Dr. Samir Sinha, confirmed the deaths, primarily occurring in the Central Terai region.
• Most fatalities are attributed to mutual conflicts or accidents, prompting a request for a detailed inquiry report from the Chief Conservator of Forests in Kumaon.
• Despite a national increase of 6.7% in tiger population as per the 2022 census, with a total of 3,167 tigers in India, Uttarakhand's situation appears grim.
• The state had 442 tigers according to the 2018 census, and officials anticipated an increase based on national trends, though the current death rate poses a significant concern.

National Context

• Nationwide, 76 tigers have died in the first five months of the year, with Uttarakhand accounting for 12 of these deaths.
• The first reported tiger death in Uttarakhand this year occurred in January at Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, followed by several other incidents in different regions such as Nainital, Ramnagar, and Chakrata.

Comparison with Previous Years

• In 2022, there were nine recorded tiger deaths over the entire year, highlighting the unusual and concerning spike in 2023.
• The rapid increase in tiger deaths this year raises alarms about the factors contributing to these fatalities and the overall health of the tiger population in Uttarakhand.

Cycle Tracks of 50 km Each to be Built in 4 Districts with Plain Regions of the State

On June 5, 2023, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the construction of 50-kilometer cycle tracks in four plain districts of the state to alleviate vehicular pressure and pollution in urban areas. The districts selected for this initiative are Dehradun, Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, and Nainital. Additionally, the Chief Minister directed the exploration of cycle track construction in nine hilly districts of the state.

Formation of ‘Spring and River Rejuvenation Board’

• On the same occasion, the Chief Minister proposed the establishment of a ‘Spring and River Rejuvenation Board’ aimed at revitalizing traditional water sources and rivers in the state to prevent them from drying up. This initiative is part of the broader efforts to enhance environmental sustainability.

Awards for Cleanliness Initiatives

• As part of the environmental day celebrations, the Chief Minister also announced that one gram panchayat in each of the 13 districts would be awarded for exemplary work in cleanliness.

The Center has Approved the Setting Up of 2 New Cities in Uttarakhand

According to media reports on June 7, 2023, the central government has given preliminary approval for the establishment of two new cities in Uttarakhand, located near Kashipur and Doiwala.

Proposal for New Cities

• The Uttarakhand Housing Department presented a proposal for an all-facilitated city to the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. In response, a central team is expected to visit Uttarakhand for inspections of the proposed townships.
• The Housing Department is working on a plan to set up eight new cities in the state, with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami recently requesting ₹1,100 crores from the Center for this initiative.

Details of the Proposed Cities

Industrial City in Kashipur

• Location: Parag Farm land in Kashipur
• Area: 378.50 hectares

Aero City near Doiwala

• Location: Doon-Haridwar Highway
• Area: 3,080.8 hectares
• Land Distribution: 746.98 hectares of government land and 2,333.81 hectares of private land

Facilities and Planning

• The Housing Department will ensure the provision of essential facilities in these cities, including roads and sewers. 
• Master plans for the cities will be prepared with assistance from the Town Planning Department, and the development will involve private participation, with the government contributing some of its land.

Dress Code Implemented in Two Temples of Uttarakhand

• Location: Haridwar district, Uttarakhand.
• Dress Code: Visitors are prohibited from wearing indecent clothing such as half-pants, torn jeans, mini skirts, and night suits. Only those dressed in decent attire will be allowed entry.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rishikesh

• Location: Rishikesh district, Uttarakhand.
• Dress Code: Similar to the Daksheshwar Mahadev Temple, visitors must adhere to the dress code prohibiting indecent clothing.

Announcement and Rationale

• The dress code was announced by Shrimahant Ravindrapuri Maharaj, the Secretary of Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani, to maintain the dignity of the temples.
• Banners and sign boards have been installed in both temples to enforce the dress code and promote decency and culture.

Implementation and Background

• The decision to implement a dress code in these temples comes in response to similar practices in many South Indian temples.
• It aims to uphold the cultural and religious standards expected in pilgrimage sites like Uttarakhand, which is known for its numerous temples and spiritual significance.

Contract for Electronic Manufacturing Cluster in Uttarakhand

A contract between the Central Government and SIDCUL (State Industrial Development Corporation of Uttarakhand) to establish Uttarakhand's first Electronic Manufacturing Cluster is expected to be signed soon.

• The cluster will be set up on a 133-acre site in Kashipur, located in the Udham Singh Nagar district.
• The project is estimated to cost around ₹115 crore, with the Central Government contributing ₹56 crore, covering 50% of the expenses.
• The cluster aims to provide all necessary facilities for electronic manufacturing industries, including land for about 60 companies involved in producing electronic goods, electric vehicles, defense equipment, telecommunications, and power equipment.
• Additional facilities within the cluster will include a hostel, warehouse, testing lab, fire station, and medical services for industry employees.
• Samruddhi Automation Pvt Ltd is set to invest approximately ₹200 crore as an anchor unit within the cluster, having been allocated eight acres of land. The establishment of this cluster is anticipated to attract an overall investment of around ₹700 crore in the electronics sector.

Joint Military Exercise ‘Ex Ekuverin’ Between India and Maldives

• The 12th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Ex Ekuverin’, involving the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force, commenced on June 11, 2023, in Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, and will continue until June 24, 2023.
• The term 'Ekuverin', meaning 'friend', signifies the bilateral nature of this annual exercise, which alternates between India and the Maldives.
• Participating in the 14-day exercise are platoon-strength contingents from both the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force. The primary objectives of the exercise include:
• Enhancing interoperability in Counter Insurgency and Counter Terrorism Operations under the United Nations mandate.
• Conducting joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations.
• Sharing best practices and improving coordination and cooperation between the forces at a tactical level.
• The previous edition of the exercise took place in the Maldives in December 2021. Defense cooperation between India and the Maldives encompasses various aspects, including joint exercises, defense training, and equipment support. The two nations enjoy close and friendly relations in economic, cultural, and military spheres. The ‘Ex Ekuverin’ exercise is expected to further strengthen the ties between India and the Maldives.

Prof. JMS Rana Appointed as New Chairman of Uttarakhand Public Service Commission

On June 12, 2023, Prof. Jagmohan Singh Rana was appointed as the chairman of the Uttarakhand State Public Service Commission by the state government. He was previously a member of the commission. The Personnel Department issued the official orders for his appointment.

BackgroundDr. Rakesh Kumar's Resignation

• Dr. Rakesh Kumar, the former chairman of the Uttarakhand State Public Service Commission, resigned from his position on June 10, 2023.
• His resignation left the chair of the commission vacant.
• Following Dr. Kumar's resignation, the government was tasked with the responsibility of appointing a new chairman for the commission, which was actively conducting a special recruitment drive.
• The state government promptly decided on Prof. Rana's appointment and the Personnel Secretary, Shailesh Bagoli, officially handed over the responsibilities to him late at night.

Prof. JMS Rana's Appointment

• Prof. Jagmohan Singh Rana, a member of the Uttarakhand Public Service Commission, was appointed as the new chairman on June 12, 2023.
• His appointment came after the resignation of Dr. Rakesh Kumar, who had held the position until June 10, 2023.

Naini Saini Airport Receives Aerodrome License

• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has granted an aerodrome license to Naini Saini Airport in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.
• This license was issued under the Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA).
• With this license, civilian aircraft will be able to operate flights from Naini Saini Airport, which is located in a border district of the state.
• The operation of Naini Saini Airport has been entrusted to the Air Force by the state government.
• This arrangement allows both Air Force and commercial aircraft to operate flights from this airport, enhancing convenience for citizens.

Chief Minister's Major Announcement for Dairy Development

On June 14, 2023, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami made a significant announcement during a review meeting at the Dehradun Secretariat. He directed the establishment of 600 multi-purpose milk cooperatives aimed at boosting dairy development in the state.

• During the meeting, the Chief Minister also discussed the enhancement of merino sheep, known for their high-quality wool. He mentioned that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) would soon be signed with an Australian breeder to facilitate this.
• To address the ongoing fodder shortage in Uttarakhand, the Chief Minister proposed the formation of 20 Fodder Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). He also called for the establishment of 50 milk producer service centers within clusters of milk societies and the creation of 16 Badri Cow Growth Centers.
• Additionally, he emphasized the need for automation in the operations of milk committees and unions. This initiative aims to tackle the fodder shortage by planting 10 lakh fodder plants on community land in hilly areas, benefiting all milk societies and unions across Uttarakhand.
• The Chief Minister also reviewed the progress of various initiatives, including the modernization of Bajpur and Kichha sugar mills, the improvement of sugarcane seed, and the promotion of organic sugarcane production in the state. He highlighted the importance of expanding water areas for fisheries, constructing new trout raceways, and meeting fish production targets.
• Overall, these measures reflect the government's commitment to enhancing dairy, sugarcane, and fisheries sectors in Uttarakhand.

Preparation to Increase the Honorarium of State Sports Coaches from 15 Thousand to 48 Thousand

On June 17, 2023, Uttarakhand Sports Minister Rekha Arya chaired a review meeting of the Department of Sports in Dehradun. During the meeting, she directed the preparation of a proposal to significantly increase the honorarium of contract sports coaches from Rs 15,000 to a minimum of Rs 48,000, aligning it with the standards set by the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

• Minister Arya highlighted the disparity in honorariums, noting that some sports coaches in Uttarakhand were receiving less than what Personnel and Administrative Department (PRD) jawans earn. To attract and retain qualified sports coaches, especially in hilly districts where there is a shortage, the government aims to raise their honorarium. Currently, around 200 sports coaches are contracted in the state, and the low honorarium has been a contributing factor to the scarcity.
• Under SAI, sports coaches receive a minimum honorarium of Rs 48,000, with variations based on different categories. The Uttarakhand Sports Department plans to implement a similar increase in honorariums, ensuring that the qualifications for receiving these honorariums match those of SAI.

Medical Students in Uttarakhand will Get Degrees from DigiLocker

On June 17, 2023, Uttarakhand Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat announced that MBBS students in state medical colleges will receive their degrees and educational certificates through DigiLocker, similar to the system used in higher education. Instructions have been given to Uttarakhand Medical Education University to set up DigiLocker for this purpose promptly.

Uniformity in Hospitals and Health Centres

• All hospitals and health centres in Uttarakhand will have a uniform colour scheme.
• Departmental officers have been tasked with deciding on a colour code to ensure consistency across all medical units.

Benefits of DigiLocker for Medical Students

• Medical students will be able to download their degrees and educational certificates anytime from DigiLocker.
• This system aims to facilitate easy access to important documents for students.

Digitization of Medical Education

• Government medical colleges and nursing colleges will be linked to the e-Granthalaya portal to digitize medical education.
• This initiative aims to prevent book shortages for medical students by providing access to course books and research papers online.
• Students will also have the opportunity to connect with libraries of medical colleges and universities in India and abroad.

Uniform Patient Registration Fees

• The rate of patient registration fees will be standardized across hospitals and medical colleges in Uttarakhand.
• A proposal for this standardization will be prepared and sent to the government soon.

World Congress on Disaster Management

Announcement of the Conference

• On June 17, 2023, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that Dehradun will host the 6th World Congress on Disaster Management from November 28 to December 1, 2023.
• The Chief Minister also released the brochure for the event.

Theme and Focus Areas

• The theme for this year’s congress is “Strengthening Climate Action & Disaster Resilience.”
• Key topics for discussion will include innovation, cooperation, and communication in disaster management, with a special emphasis on mountain ecology.

Importance for Himalayan States

• The Chief Minister highlighted the need for disaster mitigation strategies in Himalayan states, including methods to minimize loss of life and property during disasters.
• Experts will discuss the challenges and strategies related to changing river courses and their impact on local communities.

Expected Outcomes

• The congress aims to provide Uttarakhand with a new global identity in disaster management and strengthen its reputation as a proactive state in addressing climate and disaster-related challenges.

Defense Minister Honors 8 Personalities from Uttarakhand

On June 19, 2023, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh honored eight individuals from Uttarakhand during the Amar Ujala Uttarakhand Conservation Program. These personalities were recognized for their significant contributions and achievements, bringing fame to the state on national and international platforms through their thinking, talent, dedication, and hard work.

Honored Personalities

Category - Emerging Talent

• Rahul Rawat (Founder of Digantara Company, Kotdwar): Recognized for his remarkable role in innovation, environment, art, and culture.
• Hemlata Kabadwal (Painter from Mukteshwar): Honored for his contribution to art and culture, particularly for his Aipan art featured in the new Parliament House.
• Divya Negi (Youth Speaker from Tehri): Acknowledged for her impressive presentation on India’s role in the G-20 at the National Youth Parliament, contributing to art and culture.
• Babita Rawat (Farmer from Rudraprayag): Recognized for her innovative work in producing vegetables and mushrooms on 37,000 square feet of land, contributing to environment and culture.
• Shikayana Mukhiya (Young Singer from Dehradun): Honored for his contributions to innovation, environment, art, and culture through his singing in Bollywood.
• Rajat Jain and Arpit Jain (Innovators from Dehradun): Recognized for creating the world’s smallest ECG machine, contributing to innovation and environmental efforts.

Category - Culture Worker

• Bobby Cash (Singer-Composer from Dehradun): Honored for his contributions to music and art, gaining recognition both nationally and internationally.

Category - Social Gratitude

• Prabha Devi Semwal (Environment Protector from Rudraprayag): Recognized for growing a forest on barren land, contributing to social and environmental causes.

CM Inaugurates New Sardar Patel Bhawan for Police Department

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the new Sardar Patel Bhawan for the state police department on June 20, 2023. The Chief Minister also launched the police e-beat app and released the new syllabus for police training during the event.

• Chief Minister Dhami highlighted the need to improve police residence and office facilities, noting that the current occupancy percentage of Uttarakhand Police is only 18%. 
• He emphasized the importance of planning for the next 25 years and preparing the police force accordingly, as Uttarakhand is excelling in the flagship schemes of the Government of India.

Coal Power Plant to be Established in Odisha for Uttarakhand

Due to a significant gap between electricity production and demand in Uttarakhand, a decision has been made to generate electricity from coal in Odisha.

• Joint Venture: A joint venture between THDC and UJVNL is being formed to facilitate this project.
• Power Shortage Relief: The project aims to address the power shortage in Uttarakhand within the next four to five years.
• Hydropower Limitations: Hydropower production is seasonal, increasing during the monsoon but decreasing due to factors like river siltation and seasonal water level changes.
• Solar Power Limitations: Solar power generation is limited to daytime, as current battery technology does not allow for nighttime storage.
• Increasing Demand: The demand for electricity in Uttarakhand is continuously rising, necessitating the development of a thermal power plant.
• THDC’s Coal Mine: THDC owns a coal mine in Odisha, and the plant will be located nearby to minimize transportation costs.
• Joint Development: The plant, initially planned by THDC alone, will now be developed jointly with Uttarakhand.
• Gas-Based Power Plants: There are three gas-based power plants in Uttarakhand, with two under construction and decisions pending for the third.

Helipads and Breakfast Tourism in Vibrant Villages

Helipads will be constructed in every Vibrant Village located in the border districts of Uttarakhand. Additionally, breakfast tourism will be promoted in these villages to enhance tourism and local economies.

• Planning and Implementation: Chief Secretary Dr. SS Sandhu has directed the District Magistrates of Uttarkashi and Chamoli to develop plans for these initiatives through video conferencing.
• Atal Schools and Tourism Activities: District Magistrates are encouraged to identify necessary services and start Atal Schools in Vibrant Villages. They are also tasked with exploring additional tourism activities that can be developed in these areas.
• Priority Schemes: Schemes for Vibrant Villages should be prioritized, ensuring the availability of essential services such as electricity, water, roads, and hospitals.
• Employment Generation: Schemes should be designed to provide employment opportunities for local residents, including the development of bugyal (high-altitude grasslands) and trekking routes.
• Skill Development: The Skill Development Department is directed to offer free training in various trades to the youth in these areas to enhance their employability.

National Florence Nightingale Award to Major General Smita Deorani and Brigadier Amita Deorani of the Military Nursing Service

On June 22, 2023, President Droupadi Murmu honored Major General Smita Devrani and Brigadier Amita Devrani of the Military Nursing Service with the National Florence Nightingale Awards for 2022 and 2023. The ceremony took place in New Delhi, where a total of 30 nurses were recognized for their outstanding contributions.

• The Devrani sisters, originally from Kotdwar district in Uttarakhand, were celebrated for their nearly four decades of remarkable service. Major General Smita Devrani, commissioned in 1983, has held various key positions in the Military Nursing Service, including Principal Matron and Director of MNS Administration. Brigadier Amita Deorani, commissioned in 1986, has also held significant roles, including Principal of the College of Nursing at the Armed Forces Medical College in Pune.
• The National Florence Nightingale Award, established in 1973, recognizes nurses and nursing professionals for their exemplary service to society.

CM Dhami inaugurated Karpatri Maharaj Veda Shastra Research Centre

On June 22, 2023, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami virtually inaugurated the Ved Shastra Research Center in memory of Swami Karpatri Maharaj. The center, located at the Shri Raghunath Kirti campus of Central Sanskrit University in Devprayag, is expected to play a significant role in promoting Devvani Sanskrit.

• Swami Karpatri Maharaj, born in 1907 in Pratapgarh district, Uttar Pradesh, was a prominent saint, freedom fighter, and politician. Known for his scholarship in theology, he was titled 'Dharma Samrat' and founded the All India Ram Rajya Parishad. 
• He was involved in various social and religious movements, including the reconversion of forcibly converted individuals and the promotion of cows. Swami Karpatri Maharaj passed away on February 7, 1982, and his mortal remains were immersed in the Ganges at Kedar Ghat as per his instructions.

Sal Seed Collection Pilot Project in Uttarakhand

On June 25, 2023, Manoj Chandran, the Chief Conservator of Forests in the Uttarakhand Forest Department, announced a pioneering initiative in the state: the collection and sale of Sal seeds from forests. This marks the beginning of a new chapter in forest produce for Uttarakhand, which is predominantly forested.

• Sal forests, covering approximately 5,000 square kilometers in Uttarakhand, are set to become a new source of income for local villagers and the forest department. The government, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, is focused on increasing income from forest resources, including eco-tourism and various forest produce.
• The Forest Department is spearheading this scheme to generate income from Sal seeds, which are produced in large quantities in the state. While not all seeds will be collected, efforts will focus on gathering seeds fallen along fire lines and roadways, potentially leading to the collection of large quantities.
• Sal seeds have a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine for treating various ailments such as gallstones, skin diseases, stomach disorders, and weakness. Additionally, these seeds are used in chocolate production and are valuable for their oil content, which constitutes about 19.20% of the seed. Sal oil is used as a substitute for butter and in confectionery, while the remaining oilseed, containing 10.12% protein, is used as poultry feed.
• In states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand, Sal seeds are collected on a large scale by small forest produce cooperative societies, and the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Sal seeds is announced annually in these regions.

Uttarakhand Multi-Hazard Early Warning System

Overview of the Early Warning System

• On June 24, 2023, it was reported that Uttarakhand will implement a Multi-Hazard Early Warning System to enhance disaster prevention measures in the state.
• The project aims to install a siren system at 250 locations in the first phase, with an approved budget of Rs 118 crore.

Project Approval and Funding

• The project received approval during a High Powered Committee (HPC) meeting chaired by Chief Secretary SS Sandhu.
• The World Bank is funding the initiative, and global tenders will be invited for its implementation.

System Functionality

• The Early Warning Siren System will be installed on mobile towers in sensitive areas, with new towers set up where no existing infrastructure is available.
• Alerts from organizations like the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Central Water Commission will be disseminated through the sirens to warn residents of impending disasters such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, heavy rains, and avalanches.

Siren Activation and Control

• The siren system can be activated from three levels: local mini control rooms where the system is installed, district-level control rooms, and the state-level control room.
• A similar siren system, installed by the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC) in Rishikesh, currently functions only during water releases from the dam. In contrast, the Multi-Hazard Early Warning System will provide alerts for various types of disasters.

Regulation of De-addiction Centers in Uttarakhand

• Implementation of the Mental Health Care Act: The Uttarakhand government, led by Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar, is preparing to regulate drug de-addiction centers under the Mental Health Care Act. The central government has given permission for this initiative.
• Registration requirement: Mental health centers and institutions will be required to register with the State Mental Health Care Authority under the Act. Violators will face fines ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2 lakh.
• Concerns about de-addiction centers: There have been concerns regarding the operation of drug de-addiction centers in Uttarakhand, including issues related to inadequate facilities, lack of qualified medical staff, and reports of patient mistreatment.
• Government response: In response to these concerns, the state government sought permission from the central government to implement its own Mental Health Care Act, which has been approved. The Act aims to ensure better regulation and oversight of mental health centers in the state.

Promotion of Horticulture with Israeli Agricultural Technology

• Indo-Israel Agriculture Project: A meeting chaired by Governor Lt. General Gurmit Singh (Retd) discussed promoting horticulture in Uttarakhand using Israeli agricultural techniques. A Center of Excellence will be established in the state under this project.
• Dry Land Farming Technology: Israel's technology for dry land farming, which produces more crops using less water, will be utilized in Uttarakhand. The governor emphasized the need for a roadmap to implement Israeli technology in the state’s agriculture.
• Benefits of the Project: The Indo-Israel agriculture project aims to increase productivity with less water and promote crop diversification. The Center of Excellence is expected to enhance the production of horticulture crops, benefiting farmers in the state.
• Future Plans: A team from Uttarakhand will visit Israel to learn more about agricultural techniques. The state government, along with Pant Nagar Agricultural University, will play a crucial role in establishing the Center of Excellence and promoting Israeli agricultural technology.

3rd Meeting of G-20 Infrastructure Working Group Concluded in Tehri Garhwal

• The third meeting of the G-20 Infrastructure Working Group (IWG) took place from June 26 to June 28, 2023, at the Westin Resort in Narendra Nagar, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. Approximately 63 representatives from G-20 member countries, invited nations, and international organizations participated in the event.
• The meeting focused on various aspects of future urban infrastructure, including the development of livable cities, private investment in urban areas, and coordination to address natural challenges.
• The discussions included sessions on enabling inclusive cities, applying Quality Infrastructure Investment Indicators, and enhancing urban administration capabilities.
• The representatives found the discussions productive and outlined clear outcomes for the G-20 Infrastructure Agenda.
• The next and final meeting of the Infrastructure Working Group is scheduled for September 19-20, 2023, in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Weather Stations to be Established in High Himalayan Regions

• In response to the increasing incidents of avalanches in Uttarakhand due to climate change, the Disaster Management Department of Uttarakhand announced the establishment of 74 weather stations in the higher Himalayan regions.
• The decision was made after the tragic avalanche incident in Uttarkashi in October 2022, where 27 trainee mountaineers lost their lives.
• The weather stations, funded by the Central Government through the Geo-informatics Research Establishment (DGRE), aim to provide accurate meteorological data to issue timely alerts for potential avalanche threats.
• This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen the disaster management system in Uttarakhand and enhance the accuracy of avalanche predictions.
• The specific locations for the weather stations have not been disclosed for security reasons.

Avalanche Incidents in Uttarakhand Since 2000

• 2022: A tragic avalanche in the Dokriani Bamak Glacier, Uttarkashi, claimed the lives of 27 trainee mountaineers.
• 2021: Six individuals, including five Navy climbers, were killed while attempting to summit Trishul Peak. Nine tourists lost their lives in an avalanche at Lamkhaga Pass.
• 2019: An avalanche during the climb of Nanda Devi Peak resulted in the deaths of eight people, including four foreign climbers.
• 2016: Two foreign climbers perished on Shivling Peak due to an avalanche.
• 2012: An Australian climber died after falling into a crevasse on the Satopanth Glacier. Five tourists from Bengal were killed in an avalanche near Vasukital.
• 2008: An avalanche in Kalindi Pass led to the deaths of three climbers and five porters from Bengal.
• 2005: An army mountaineer lost his life due to an avalanche while climbing Satopanth Peak. Five climbers died in an avalanche in Chaukhamba.
• 2004: Four climbers died in an avalanche at Kalindi Pass. Four climbers from Bengal were killed in an avalanche at Gangotri-2 peak.