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

Foundation Stone of Health Projects in Uttarakhand Laid by Union Health Minister

On March 31, 2023, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, inaugurated a 500-bed hospital in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for three critical care blocks, each with 50 beds, in Rudraprayag, Nainital, and Srinagar. This event was conducted virtually from Joshimath during a function organized in Dehradun.

Key Points:

• During the event, Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the ongoing efforts to upgrade and strengthen medical infrastructure under the 'Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission' (PMABHIM). He emphasized the importance of this work in response to the global COVID pandemic and the initiatives being undertaken under ECRP-II (Emergency COVID Response Package-II).
• A total of 14 critical care blocks are being constructed in Uttarakhand, with 7 under the PM-ABHIM scheme and 7 under ECRP-II.
• These initiatives aim to provide improved health facilities for emergency care to individuals living in remote mountain areas.
• The critical care blocks in Rudraprayag and Nainital will be built under the ECRP-II package, while the block in Srinagar will be constructed under the PM-ABHIM scheme.
• A total of Rs 71.25 crore has been allocated for the three critical care blocks in Pauri (Srinagar), Rudraprayag, and Haldwani (Nainital) in collaboration with the Government of India and the Government of Uttarakhand.
• Each critical care block will receive Rs 23.75 crore for construction and will be equipped with facilities such as ICU beds, HDU beds, isolation ward beds, isolation rooms, emergency beds, and operation theaters.
• In Uttarakhand, there are plans to establish 25,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) over the next five years to boost industrial development and create new job opportunities.

Roadmap for Industrial Development

• The American company Mackenzie Global has prepared a roadmap for industrial development in Uttarakhand, aiming to invest ₹7,500 crore and create 1,00,000 jobs.
• The government will focus on improving the ease of doing business, developing investment infrastructure at the district level, and supporting marketing and branding efforts to attract investors.

Incentives for Investment

• Mackenzie Global has recommended subsidies to promote investment in hilly areas, including:
• Up to 75% subsidies (maximum ₹75 lakh) for industries in hilly areas.
• 40% subsidies (maximum ₹4 crore) for small-scale industries.
• 20% subsidies (maximum ₹10 crore) for medium industries.

Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor

• An industrial area is planned to be developed on 1,000 acres of land near Prayag Farm in the Udham Singh Nagar district, close to Pantnagar and Rudrapur.
• This area will provide land for setting up large industries, further enhancing industrial development in the state.

Expansion of Vibrant Villages in Uttarakhand

On April 1, 2023, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that the Union Home Ministry would soon include more frontier villages from Uttarakhand in the Central Government's Vibrant Village Program.

Current Inclusions

• The Central Government has already included the Frontier Village Policy, Mana, Malari, and Gunji in the Vibrant Village Program, aimed at developing these villages with central government support.

Mukhyamantri Seemant Gaon Vikas Yojana

• This initiative will enhance tourism and economic activities in border villages.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recognized Mana as the first village under this initiative.

Promotion of Border Villages

• The State Government aims to encourage tourists visiting the Chardham Yatra to spend five percent of their travel expenses on local products from border villages.
• Each frontier village will be developed based on its unique specialties and promoted to attract more tourists.
• This approach is expected to improve the economic conditions of local residents and reduce migration issues.

Uttarakhand Drone Promotion & Usage Policy-2023

Introduction of the Policy

• On April 3, 2023, Nitika Khandelwal, the Director of Uttarakhand’s Information Technology Development Agency (ITDA), announced the presentation of the Uttarakhand Drone Promotion and Usage Policy-2023 blueprint by the American organization Mackenzie Global.
• The policy aims to promote drone usage and production in the state.

Employment and Investment Goals

• The policy is expected to create 5,000 jobs in drone production and services by 2030.
• An investment target of ₹1,000 crore has been set for the drone sector, with ₹500 crore allocated for drone manufacturing and ₹500 crore for services.

Establishment of Coordination Cell and Training Centers

• The State Drone Coordination Cell (SDCC) will be established under ITDA to oversee drone promotion activities.
• ITI Kalsi and ITI Kashipur have been designated as centers of excellence for drone training through private participation, with approvals from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to set up Remote Pilot Training Organizations (RPTOs).

Encouragement of Private Institutions

• Private institutions will be encouraged to offer drone-related courses and training programs. Drone schools will be established in government colleges and private universities certified by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

Public Consultation and Finalization

• The draft drone policy has been published on the ITDA website, inviting suggestions from the public and stakeholders.
• After considering public feedback, the policy will be finalized by ITDA.

Transforming Badrinath into a Smart Spiritual Hill Town

On April 4, 2023, Uttarakhand's Tourism Minister, Satpal Maharaj, announced plans to develop Badrinath Dham into a Smart Spiritual Hill Town. This initiative aims to enhance the area's spiritual and tourist appeal.

Badrinath Master Plan

• The first phase of the Badrinath Master Plan, with an investment of Rs 425 crore, is already underway.
• This plan is inspired by the successful reconstruction of Kedarnath, which has seen significant improvements under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Tourist Registration for Chardham Yatra

• Since February 21, there have been substantial registrations for the Chardham Yatra, with 3,49,944 for Kedarnath, 2,91,537 for Badrinath, 1,61,149 for Yamunotri, and 1,66,310 for Gangotri.

Expansion of Air Services and Infrastructure Projects

• The Uttarakhand government is also working on expanding air services in the state.
• Infrastructure projects like the Char Dham All Weather Road and the Rishikesh-Karanprayag Rail Project are progressing rapidly.

Ropeway Projects

• There are plans to complete the ropeways from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib and Sonprayag to Kedarnath within three years.
• Additionally, a ropeway project from Kharsali to Yamunotri, costing over Rs 166 crore, has been approved.

Promotion of Religious Tourism

• To boost religious tourism, the government has established various circuits, including Shakta, Shaiva, Vaishnava, and others.
• These circuits offer devotees additional sites to explore during their visit to the Chardham Yatra.

Annual 'Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman' for Folk Language Writers

On April 5, 2023, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the annual 'Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman' to honor writers of folk languages and dialects, including Kumaoni, Garhwali, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.

Focus on Folk Literature

• The award will recognize contributions to folk literature, including epics, block poetry, and prose in various genres.
• This initiative aims to celebrate the identity and pride of Uttarakhand's folk languages and dialects.

Support for Publishers

• The Uttarakhand Bhasha Sansthan will provide partial financial assistance to state creators struggling to publish their books due to financial constraints.

Multi-Faceted Plan and Conferences

• The plan includes organizing research paper readings, idea exchanges related to language, and literary processions.
• National and international language conferences will be held in every district, and digital e-libraries will be established in primary schools across districts.

Literary Seminars and Journals

• Literary seminars will be organized in book fairs in collaboration with the National Book Trust.
• The Uttarakhand Bhasha Sansthan will publish literary and research journals and organize workshops for standardizing folk languages.

Linguistic Competitions

• District and state-level linguistic competitions will be organized to address differences in Garhwali and Kumaoni dialects and standardize spellings.

Conclusion

This initiative reflects the government's commitment to preserving and promoting Uttarakhand's rich linguistic heritage and supporting its writers.

Dimmer Village Chosen as Model Sanskrit Village

On April 5, 2023, in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Dr. Chandi Prasad Ghildiyal, Assistant Director of the Sanskrit Education Department, announced that the state aims to create 13 model Sanskrit villages across different districts. Dimmer village in Chamoli district has been selected for this initiative.

• The plan involves teaching the Sanskrit language to women, children, and elders in Dimmer village. A qualified individual proficient in Sanskrit will be appointed to teach the villagers how to speak the language. This instructor will receive a monthly honorarium of ₹12,000 for their services.
• Dimmer village, located about 7 kilometers from Karnaprayag on the Karnaprayag-Simli motorway, is home to approximately 500 families, including around 250 Brahmin families, 150 Rajput families, and 100 Scheduled Caste families. The Dimri Brahmins of this village are responsible for conducting worship at Badrinath Dham and several other temples in the region.
• The selection of Dimmer village for this initiative is due to the prevalent use of Sanskrit in religious ceremonies and rituals. The initiative aims to promote the language among all sections of the village population. Additionally, a Sanskrit Gram Shiksha Samiti will be established in the village to discuss and promote the language monthly, under the supervision of the Sanskrit Education Department.
• It is worth noting that a Sanskrit College has been operating in Dimmer Village since 1918, initially managed by the Dimri Brahmins and currently run by the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee. The college offers classes from the sixth grade up to the Acharya level and includes a hostel for students.
• Sanskrit holds the status of the second official language in the country, and there is a collective responsibility to promote and preserve it.

Re-development Plan for Haridwar-Rishikesh and Capital City in Doon

As of April 5, 2023, the state government is working on a re-development plan for Dharmanagar Haridwar and Yoga City Rishikesh, aiming to preserve their historical heritage. Simultaneously, the construction of Aerocity in the Capital City and Jolly Grant in Raipur is also progressing. McKenzie Global has recently presented this plan, which includes the acquisition of agricultural land for developing a greenfield township.

In Haridwar, four areas are being targeted for development:

• From Devpura to Bhupatwala (Dudha Dhari Chowk), Har Ki Pauri and the surrounding area (1.5 km), Daksh Mandir and Sanyas Road in Kankhal, and the Heritage Master Plan from Bhupatwala to Bharat Mata Mandir in Saptarishi Ashram.
• Notable sites included in this plan are the Bharat Mata Temple, Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi, Maya Temple, Narayani Shila Temple, Sati Kund, Daksh Temple, Hanuman Temple, and Chandi Devi Temple.
• In Rishikesh, three areas have been identified for similar development. The state government plans to establish a capital city on 85 hectares of land in Raipur, with the Forest Department allocating an additional 60 hectares. 
• This development will free up government buildings on about 200 acres of land, with the McKenzie Global estimating the property value between ₹5000 to ₹6000 crores. This will pave the way for large-scale development in cities, requiring external development charges for construction in these areas.

Uttarakhand Government Plans New Capital City in Dehradun District

The Uttarakhand government has announced plans to develop a new capital city in the Dehradun district, covering an area of 1,000 acres. This city will stretch from Raipur to Thano Road in the north, Haridwar Road in the south, and will include various government and private facilities.

• Government Facilities: The new capital will house essential government buildings such as the Secretariat, Assembly, and Directorate on 60 hectares of land.
• Residential and Commercial Projects: These will be developed on 25 hectares near Maharana Pratap Sports College, with 30 years of exemption for private investors.
• IT and Medical Facilities: The government plans to establish IT, medical, hospitality, and commercial complexes near Jolly Grant Airport, creating 5,000 to 6,000 jobs and generating substantial annual business.
• Health ATM and True Net Machines: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami recently inaugurated health ATMs and True Net machines to improve health services. Health ATMs can conduct 72 different tests in 30 seconds with a single drop of blood and will be set up along Chardham Yatra routes for tourists.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Companies like Indian Oil Corporation, Yash Bank, and JK Tire have provided health ATMs and True Net machines under CSR initiatives.
• Free Health Tests: Tests conducted at health ATMs will be free of charge and include various health indicators such as blood sugar, cholesterol, and infection tests.

Three Proposals for Alternative Route from Haridwar to Srinagar

On April 6, 2023, Ashish Chauhan, the District Magistrate of Pauri, Uttarakhand, announced that three proposals for an alternative route across the Ganges on the Badrinath Highway had been prepared on government instructions.

The Pauri district administration suggested these alternative route options after conducting a survey and submitting a report to the government. The proposals aim to create a parallel route to improve connectivity and alleviate traffic issues.

Option 1: New Route of 87 km

• Starting from Mala, 26 km ahead of Rishikesh on the Badrinath Highway (NH-58).
• A 150-meter span bridge will be constructed at Mala.
• The route will pass through Singtali, Vyasghat, Devprayag, and Janasu, leading to Srinagar.

Option 2: Route of 95 km

• Starting from Phoolchatti, requiring a 150-meter span bridge over the Havel River.
• The route will go through Mala, Singtali, Vyasghat, Devprayag, and Janasu, similar to Option 1.

Option 3: Route of 137 km

• From Haridwar’s Chandighat bridge to Srinagar.
• Approximately 50 km of the road is already built, with 56 km of new road construction required.
• Three bridges will be necessary, along with 55 km of elevated road.
• The route will pass through Sirasu, Mala, Singtali, Vyasghat, Devprayag, and Janasu.

All proposed routes aim to benefit various villages in the Pauri district, including Singtali, Mala, Sirasu, Vyasghat, and others. The new routes will also connect important railway stations and provide an alternative in case of disasters affecting the main road (NH-58).

Chamoli Herbs to be Sold Nationwide, AYUSH Ministry Registers 48 Cultivators

Why This is Newsworthy

The Union Ministry of AYUSH has officially registered 48 farmers from the Chamoli district who are involved in cultivating herbs. This registration allows these farmers to sell their herbs anywhere in the country.

• Farmers in the high Himalayan regions of Chamoli are making significant profits by cultivating herbs like Kutki and other medicinal plants on a large scale.
• Last year, farmers in Chamoli sold approximately two crore rupees worth of Kutki.
• Kutki is grown on about 10 hectares of land in the Ghes and Van villages of the Deval block, with a cultivation cost of Rs 1200 per kg every three years.
• The Human Healers’ Company in Srinagar Garhwal purchases Kutki from these farmers, and Garhwal University provides assistance in Kutki cultivation.
• The Ministry of AYUSH plans to create a documentary showcasing herbal farming in the Himalayan villages to promote this practice among more farmers and address their challenges.

Subsidies and Benefits

• The Ministry of AYUSH offers a 70% subsidy for Kutki cultivation to encourage more farmers to engage in herbal farming.
• The documentary aims to highlight the benefits of herbal farming and attract more farmers to this lucrative venture.

Health Benefits of Kutki

• Kutki, grown at altitudes between 2700 to 4500 meters in the higher Himalayan regions, is known for its medicinal properties.
• It is used as a blood purifier and for treating conditions such as jaundice, hepatitis, allergies, asthma, skin diseases, arthritis, blood disorders, hiccups, and vomiting.

Forest Fires in Uttarakhand

• Area Affected: 183.35 hectares of forest have been damaged in Uttarakhand due to 120 incidents of forest fire this season.
• Garhwal Region: 91.53 hectares affected in 62 incidents.
• Kumaon Region: 55.30 hectares affected in 44 incidents.
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: 36.52 hectares affected in 14 incidents.
• Increasing Risk: The Chief Conservator of Forests has indicated that as temperatures rise, the risk of forest fires is also increasing.
• Changing Weather Patterns: Irregular rainfall patterns have led to an increase in forest fire incidents during winter in recent years, although summer (March to June) remains the most vulnerable period for forest fires.

Upgradation of Bridges in Uttarakhand

• Bridge Upgrades: 288 single-lane bridges on state highways in Uttarakhand will be upgraded to one and a half lanes.
• Safety Audit: A safety audit of 2518 out of 3262 bridges was conducted, identifying 36 bridges as unsafe for traffic.
• Load Capacity Increase: Upgrading these bridges will increase their load capacity from B to A category.
• Budget Allocation: A total budget of Rs 19.23 crore has been allocated, with Rs 12.73 crore released for the first phase.
• District-wise Fund Distribution: Funds have been released for bridges in various districts, including Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Dehradun, Pauri, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Almora, Champawat, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar.

District Wise Per Capita Income Figures 2021-22 Released

The Uttarakhand Directorate of Economics and Statistics has unveiled the district-wise per capita income figures for the year 2021-22. This follows the earlier presentation of the economic survey report during the budget session of the assembly in Gairsain.

Key Highlights:

• Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, and Dehradun districts, known for their industrial growth, lead in per capita income.
• Haridwar tops the state with the highest per capita income, while Rudraprayag has the lowest among the 13 districts.
• The estimated per capita income for the year 2022-23 is Rs 2,33,000, up from Rs 2,05,840 in 2021-22.
• National per capita income stands at Rs 1,70,620.
• Over the past decade, plain districts have seen faster prosperity compared to hill districts.
• Haridwar's per capita income is pegged at Rs 3,62,688, followed by Udham Singh Nagar at Rs 2,69,070 and Dehradun at Rs 2,35,707.
• Among hill districts, Chamoli leads with a per capita income of Rs 1,27,330, while Rudraprayag has the lowest at Rs 93,160.

District-wise Per Capita Income

Plan for Driverless Pod Taxis in Dehradun, Inspired by Singapore

On April 12, 2023, Uttarakhand Chief Secretary S.S. Sandhu announced plans to introduce driverless pod taxis in Dehradun, following the successful model in Singapore. This initiative, known as Personal Rapid Transit (PRT), aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance public transport in the city.

Key Details:

• Pilot Project: The first phase will involve a pilot project operating pod taxis on a 6 km route from Panditwari to the railway station. Initially, a ropeway was considered for this route.
• Purpose: PRT aims to address traffic jams and improve public transport in areas where traditional metro systems cannot operate.
• System Overview: PRT is a type of Automated Guideway Transit (AGT) suitable for individual or small group travel. It is more cost-effective than metro or rapid train systems.
• Pod Taxi Features: Pod taxis are fully automated vehicles, similar in size to cars, and operate on a steel track. They do not require a driver and can accommodate 3 to 6 passengers.
• Operational Mechanism: The driverless pod taxis will run on a elevated track, reaching passengers at the push of a button. This modern transport system is designed to reduce the number of vehicles on the road, alleviate congestion, decrease pollution, and provide an affordable transport service.
• Global Context: The concept of PRT is not new; the first pod taxi was introduced in 1970 at the University of Virginia.

Benefits:

• Reduction in vehicle numbers in the city
• Smart transport service
• Relief from traffic congestion
• Decrease in pollution levels
• Easy availability of affordable transport services

Launch of 'A-HELP' Program in Uttarakhand

On April 13, 2023, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the 'A-HELP' (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of Livestock Production) program in Uttarakhand at the Survey of India Auditorium in Dehradun.

• The A-HELP scheme, as envisioned by the Government of India, aims to empower women to strengthen livestock-related activities in remote rural areas.
• Trained A-HELP workers will play a crucial role in preventing infectious diseases in animals, facilitating artificial insemination under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, and contributing to animal tagging and insurance.
• This initiative is seen as a significant step towards ensuring the inclusion and participation of women in socio-economic upliftment, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision.
• Saurabh Bahuguna, the Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Fisheries Minister of Uttarakhand, highlighted that the livestock sector presents important opportunities for women, which have been lacking institutional support until now.
• The A-HELP program aims to bridge this gap by creating a new cadre of community-based activists who will serve as a link between local veterinary institutions and livestock owners, providing essential primary services.
• A-HELP workers will be involved in livestock breed improvement programs under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission and will also play a key role in implementing the Pashudhan Bima Yojana and other interventions, receiving remuneration as per the scheme provisions.
• This initiative was launched by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) in collaboration with the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) under the Department of Rural Development, Government of India.
• A-HELP workers will primarily focus on meeting the healthcare needs of the livestock population in their villages. The program has been successfully implemented in Madhya Pradesh and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, with over 500 participants including progressive farmers and animal enthusiasts taking part in the initiative.

Chief Minister Launches Ganga Samagra 'Aviral Ganga Nirmal Ganga' Program

On April 16, 2023, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the Ganga Samagra Aviral Ganga Nirmal Ganga program at Parmarth Niketan, aimed at keeping the Ganga clean and preserving its original form.

The initiative includes conservation and promotion of water sources along with cleaning the Ganga and its tributaries.

In the first phase, water from 132 dirty drains flowing into the Ganga has been cleaned through sewage treatment plants (STPs), and a proposal for the second phase is underway.

Satellite Centres for Aromatic Crops to be Established in 5 Districts

On April 17, 2023, Nripendra Singh Chauhan, the Director of the Aromatic Plant Center in Selakui, announced the plan to set up satellite centres in five districts to promote the cultivation of aromatic crops in Uttarakhand. These centres will provide farmers with technical information, seeds, and plants, making it easier for them to engage in aromatic cultivation.

Objective: The aim is to support farmers in hilly areas by offering all necessary resources and information at their doorstep, eliminating the need for long trips to Dehradun for guidance on aromatic crop cultivation.

Locations of Satellite Centres: The proposed satellite centres will be located in:

• Champawat: Tejpat at Khateda
• Pithoragarh: Timur at Bisad
• Uttarkashi: Surai at Raithal
• Chamoli: Parasari
• Almora: Damask Gulab at Takula

Current Situation: Presently, around 21,000 farmers are cultivating aromatic crops over an area of approximately 8,000 hectares in the state. However, they face challenges such as wild animals, monkeys, and inadequate irrigation facilities.

Government Support: The government is encouraging aromatic crop cultivation due to the growing market demand for oils and perfumes derived from these plants. This initiative aims to boost farmers’ livelihoods and meet market needs.

Background: The establishment of satellite centres follows the inauguration of the first centre of excellence for aromatic crops by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on February 22, 2023, at the Aromatic Plant Center in Selakui.

Uttarakhand Cabinet Approves Cluster Excellence Schools

In a recent cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on April 18, 2023, the Uttarakhand government approved a proposal to transform 603 primary and 76 upper primary schools into cluster excellence schools.

Key Features of Cluster Excellence Schools:

• Facilities: Schools within a 5-kilometer radius will be equipped with facilities such as smart classrooms and computers.
• Staffing: An adequate number of teachers will be appointed to these schools, and additional classrooms will be constructed to accommodate the growing number of students.
• Sports: Playgrounds will be developed to promote sports activities in these schools.
• Transport: Transport facilities will be provided for students from nearby schools, with a fixed amount allocated for this purpose.

Implementation:

• District-Level Committee: A committee will be formed at the district level, chaired by the District Magistrate, to oversee the arrangements for students coming to the cluster schools.
• Block Education Officer: The Block Education Officer will prepare an action plan for local transport arrangements for students.

This initiative aims to enhance the quality of education and facilities in primary and upper primary schools across Uttarakhand.

6 Engineering Colleges from Garhwal and Kumaon to Become Part of Technical University

On April 19, 2023, it was reported that the cabinet, under the Department of Technical Education, approved a proposal to integrate six engineering colleges and institutes from the Garhwal and Kumaon regions into the Veer Madho Singh Bhandari Uttarakhand Technical University, Dehradun.

The institutions set to become campus colleges under the technical university include:

• Technical Institute Gopeshwar
• Women’s Technical Institute Dehradun
• Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Technical Institute Tanakpur
• Nanhi Pari Frontier Technical Institute Pithoragarh
• THDC IHET New Tehri
• Bonn Engineering College, Uttarkashi

However, the cabinet meeting clarified that financial assistance from the state government would not be extended to all self-financed institutions once the campus is established. The Board of Governors (BOG) will continue to operate as before in all self-financed institutions. Established on January 27, 2005, by the Government of Uttarakhand through the Uttarakhand Technical University Act 2005, Veer Madho Singh Bhandari Uttarakhand Technical University, Dehradun, is the only affiliated university in the state for technical institutions.

Uttarakhand Food Lab Earns New Accreditation

On April 20, 2023, R.S. Kathait, the Commissioner of the State Food and Drug Analysis Laboratory, announced that the Government of India has awarded the NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) certificate to the Rudrapur-based Food and Drug Analysis Laboratory for testing oil, fat, spices, and pulses, in addition to milk products.

• This accreditation means that test reports for these food items from the State Food and Drug Analysis Laboratory in Rudrapur will now be valid internationally. It also strengthens the lab's authority, as adulterators can no longer challenge the food lab's reports in court.
• The Rudrapur State Food and Drug Analysis Laboratory, established in 2010, initially received NABL certification in 2018 only for milk product testing. This limited scope allowed adulteration in other food items to persist, particularly in oil, spices, fats, and pulses, which are prevalent issues in the state.
• According to Nishant Tyagi, the head of the state food and drug analysis laboratory, the lab has now received NABL certification for oil, fat, spices, and pulses, in addition to its previous accreditation for milk testing. This development is expected to enhance the lab's credibility and effectiveness in combating food adulteration.
• With the new accreditation, the food lab in Rudrapur, which tests samples from all 13 districts of the state, can now test up to 3,000 food items annually. This expanded capability is crucial in addressing the high levels of adulteration in various food products across the state.

River Rafting Fee Waived in Uttarakhand, Excluding the Ganges

• On April 23, 2023, Uttarakhand Tourism Secretary Sachin Kurve announced the waiver of the river rafting fee for three years to promote river rafting and kayaking activities in the state. This fee exemption applies to all rivers except the Ganges.
• Kurve highlighted the significant potential for adventure tourism through river rafting in Uttarakhand, stating that this initiative would also create employment opportunities for local residents. Presently, river rafting operators charge a fee on behalf of the tourism department, and there are over 526 registered river rafting guides in the state.
• Tourists from across India and around the world flock to Rishikesh for river rafting on the Ganges, with popular routes from Kaudiyala to Rishikesh. The government aims to encourage water sports activities in regions such as Bageshwar, Tanakpur, and Ramnagar, as well as on rivers like the Kali, Saryu, Ramganga, Kosi, Tons, Yamuna, and Alaknanda.

Uttarakhand's Mana Village: From Last to First

Recent reports indicate that the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has installed a signboard at the entrance of Mana village, located on the Indo-China border in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. This sign designates Mana as the "first village" of the country, in line with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's vision.

• Chief Minister Dhami shared this development on social media, recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's words during a visit to Mana in October 2022, where he referred to the village as the first in the country. The Prime Minister's intention was to promote the idea that all border villages would be recognized as the first villages of India.
• Under the Vibrant Village Program initiated by Prime Minister Modi, efforts are underway to enhance the vibrancy of border areas. The district administration, in collaboration with gram panchayats, has prepared action plans to boost local products, including herbs, apples, and rajma, as well as overall development prospects. This initiative aims to prevent migration from border areas and involve residents in the country's security efforts.
• Mana village, situated at an altitude of 3,200 meters and alongside the Saraswati River, is approximately 5 kilometers from the renowned Hindu pilgrimage site of Badrinath. The village is also known for its beneficial herbs, which are reputed to aid in various health conditions.

Free Treatment in Army and Paramilitary Hospitals with Ayushman Card

On April 25, 2023, D.K. Kotia, Chairman of the Uttarakhand Health Authority, announced that the central government has included 21 military and paramilitary hospitals in Uttarakhand under the Ayushman scheme. This means that individuals with Ayushman cards will now be eligible for free treatment in these hospitals.

Previously, these hospitals provided treatment only to active soldiers, their families, and ex-servicemen. Now, with the inclusion in the Ayushman scheme, ordinary citizens can also access free treatment facilities using their Ayushman cards.

The listed hospitals include:

• 7th Corps ITBP Marathi in Pithoragarh
• Unit Hospital 14th Battalion ITBP
• Unit Hospital 1st Battalion ITBP in Chamoli
• Unit Hospital CTC SSB Sapri
• MIC Auli
• SSB Hospital Gwaldam
• 8th Battalion ITBP Hospital Gauchar
• 34th Battalion ITBP Halduchod in Nainital
• Group Center CRPF Kathgodam
• 34th Battalion ITBP Unit Hospital
• ESIC Hospital Rudrapur in Udham Singh Nagar district
• Unit Hospital in Pauri
• SSB Srinagar
• ITBP Hospital in Dehradun
• 5th Battalion SSB in Champawat
• 36th Battalion ITBP Champawat
• ITBP Hospital 35 Corps in Uttarkashi
• 12th Battalion ITBP Unit Hospital
• BHEL Hospital in Haridwar
• 57th Battalion SSB Sitarganj in Udham Singh Nagar
• ITBP Academic Hospital Mussoorie in Dehradun
• Unit Hospital in Pithoragarh

In Uttarakhand, 50.40 lakh Ayushman cards have been issued, providing free treatment coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh. So far, 7.36 lakh patients have received treatment under this scheme, with the government spending Rs 1352 crores.

Inauguration of SDRF Headquarters and Training Center in Jolly Grant

On April 24, 2023, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the SDRF Headquarters and Training Center in Jolly Grant, Dehradun. During the inauguration, he made several important announcements.

• The establishment of the SDRF headquarters will enhance the speed and efficiency of relief and rescue operations during natural disasters and accidents in the state. Additionally, SDRFs from other states will receive training at this facility.
• Since its formation, the SDRF has secured the Char Dham Yatra and tourism activities, conducting over 3,000 rescues, assisting 12,000 injured individuals, and recovering 2,000 bodies. Furthermore, by training 35,000 individuals from various institutions, 2.5 lakh people have been made aware of disaster relief practices.

State DGP Ashok Kumar reported that the first phase of the SDRF headquarters, which is being constructed in three phases, has been completed. The second phase, which includes the training center, is currently under construction at a cost of Rs 36 crore. The headquarters and training center, funded by the World Bank, have been built near the airport in Jolly Grant at a total cost of Rs 144 crore.

The first phase of the headquarters includes various facilities such as:

• Reception and office areas
• Training block and library
• Three-storey training block with demo room, computer lab, lecture room, and library
• Electronic charging station and garage with parking for over a dozen vehicles
• Canteen, fire fighting system, solar system, fencing, and watch tower
• Residential colony for police personnel and their families
• Petrol pump accessible to the public

Chief Minister Dhami also announced:

• Risk Allowance for SDRF Officers: Gazetted officers conducting rescue operations at altitudes of 11,000 feet or more will receive a risk allowance of Rs 1,500, while non-gazetted officers and jawans will receive Rs 1,000. This allowance will be granted similarly to paramilitary forces. Currently, 12 SDRF officers and jawans are stationed in Kedarnath Dham, and others are periodically deployed to higher Himalayan regions for rescue missions.

Changes in SDRF and PCS Exam Pattern in Uttarakhand

The Uttarakhand government plans to establish a sixth company in the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). This new company will have one-third of its positions filled by women employees.

Deputation Period in SDRF

• The duration of deputation for personnel in the SDRF will be extended from seven years to ten years.

PCS Exam Pattern

• The Uttarakhand government has decided to retain the old pattern for the upcoming PCS exam, rejecting the proposal to adopt the UPSC pattern.
• There were mixed reactions to the proposed change, with concerns that the UPSC pattern would make the PCS exam more challenging for local candidates.
• The old pattern for the PCS exam includes:
• Pre Exam: General Studies (150 marks) and General Intelligence Test (150 marks).
• Main Exam: Seven papers covering Language (300 marks), History of India, National Movement, Society and Culture (200 marks), Indian Polity, Social Justice and International Relations (200 marks), India and World Geography (200 marks), Economic and Social Development (200 marks), General Science and Technology (200 marks), and General Aptitude and Ethics (200 marks).
• A minimum of 35 marks is required in the Language paper.
• Interview: 200 marks.

New Judges Appointed to Uttarakhand High Court

On April 27, 2023, the President approved the appointment of three new judges to the Uttarakhand High Court: Senior Advocate Rakesh Thapliyal, Advocate Pankaj Purohit, and High Court Registrar General Vivek Bharti Sharma. Chief Justice Vipin Sanghi will administer their oaths.

Current Situation in the Uttarakhand High Court

• Before this appointment, there were five judges, including the Chief Justice, in the Uttarakhand High Court.
• With the new appointees, the total number of judges will increase to eight.

Profiles of the New Judges

Rakesh Thapliyal

• Background: Rakesh Thapliyal hails from Khatasayun Shrikot in Pauri Garhwal and has a long history of service in the Uttarakhand High Court.
• Previous Roles: He was the Assistant Solicitor General for the Central Government in the Uttarakhand High Court multiple times since 2014. Thapliyal became the Standing Counsel for the Central Government in 2002 but resigned after 11 months.
• Early Career: Rakesh Thapliyal joined the Nainital High Court in 2000 after the formation of the Uttarakhand High Court.

Vivek Bharti Sharma

• Judicial Career: Vivek Bharti Sharma is a 2005 batch officer of the Uttarakhand Higher Judiciary Service. He began his legal career in the Delhi High Court in 1990 and served as Standing Counsel for both the Government of Delhi and the Government of India.
• Judicial Appointments: After his selection in the Higher Judicial Service, he held positions as Additional District Judge in Haridwar, Haldwani, and Nainital, and later as Principal District Judge in Pithoragarh and Pauri.
• Other Roles: He has served as the Law Advisor to the Governor, Chairman of the Commercial Taxes Tribunal, Director of Ujala Bhowali, and District Judge in Haridwar. He was appointed Registrar General of the High Court in April 2022.

Pankaj Purohit

• Legal Career: Pankaj Purohit, originally from Deval Gwad in Chamoli district, was registered with the Allahabad Bar Council in 1992. He started practicing in the Allahabad High Court in 1997 and later in the Uttarakhand High Court after the state was formed.
• Areas of Practice: He has represented various clients, including insurance companies, district panchayats, municipalities, the State Subordinate Services Selection Commission, and Sitapur Eye Hospital.
• Deputy Advocate General: He briefly served as the Deputy Advocate General in the Uttarakhand High Court in May 2017.