Why is it in the News?

The ONDC Startup Mahotsav was held in New Delhi recently in collaboration between the Startup India initiative and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

About the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC):

• The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is a network based on open protocol and will enable local commerce across segments, such as mobility, grocery, food order and delivery, hotel booking and travel, among others, to be discovered and engaged by any network-enabled application.
• The platform aims to create new opportunities, curb digital monopolies support micro, small and medium enterprises and small traders and help them get on online platforms.
• It is an initiative of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Features of ONDC:

• ONDC, a UPI of e-commerce, seeks to democratise digital or electronic commerce, moving it from a platform-centric model to an open network.
  • Through ONDC, merchants will be able to save their data to build credit history and reach consumers.
• The proposed government-backed platform aims to create a level playing field for e-commerce behemoths such as Amazon, Flipkart, and offline traders who have been crying foul at the unfair trade practices of these e-tailers.
  • The platform will also be compliant with the Information Technology Act, 2000 and designed for compliance with the emerging Personal Data Protection Bill.
• In this system, ONDC plans to enable sellers and buyers to be digitally visible and transact through an open network, regardless of what platform or application they use.
  • It will also empower merchants and consumers by breaking silos to form a single network to drive innovation and scale, transforming all businesses from retail goods, food to mobility.
• The new framework aims at promoting open networks developed on open-sourced methodology, using open specifications and open network protocols independent of any specific platform.
• It is expected to digitise the entire value chain, standardise operations, promote inclusion of suppliers, derive efficiencies in logistics and enhance value for consumers.
• According to the government's official statement, ONDC shall take all measures to ensure confidentiality and privacy of data in the network.
  • ONDC shall not mandate the sharing of any transaction-level data by participants with ONDC.
  • It will work with its participants to publish anonymised aggregate metrics on network performance without compromising on confidentiality and privacy.
• Presently, ONDC is in its pilot stage and the government has set up a nine-member advisory council, including Nandan Nilekani from Infosys and National Health Authority CEO R S Sharma, on measures needed to design and accelerate the adoption of ONDC.

Why is it in the News?

Recently, a significant majority in Nepal's Lower House backed the proposal to endorse the BIMSTEC Charter.

About the BIMSTEC Charter:

• The BIMSTEC Charter, officially signed and adopted during the Fifth BIMSTEC Summit in Colombo, Sri Lanka in 2022, serves as a cornerstone legal and institutional framework for the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
• This charter aims to establish a structured environment conducive to rapid economic development by delineating specific cooperation projects within the agreed areas of collaboration, along with potential expansions into additional areas as mutually agreed upon by Member States.
• Furthermore, the charter reaffirms the enduring commitment to the foundational principles and objectives of BIMSTEC, as articulated in the Bangkok Declaration of 1997.

The Importance of the BIMSTEC Charter:

• By officially adopting the BIMSTEC Charter, the organization transforms into a structured institution comprising member states situated along the Bay of Bengal, thereby formalizing their cooperation and dependence on this vital maritime region.
• The Charter grants BIMSTEC the authority to establish external relations with non-member states, developmental partners, as well as regional, UN, and international organizations, facilitating broader collaboration and engagement.
• Moreover, it underscores the imperative for a fair, just, equitable, and transparent global order while reiterating the commitment to multilateralism, with the United Nations at its core, and advocating for a rule-based international trading system.

About the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC):

• The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization comprising seven Member States lying in the littoral and adjacent areas of the Bay of Bengal constituting a contiguous regional unity.
• This sub-regional organization came into being on 6 June 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration.
• It constitutes seven Member States:
  • Five derive from South Asia, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, and
  • Two from Southeast Asia, including Myanmar and Thailand.
• Initially, the economic bloc was formed with four Member States with the acronym ‘BIST-EC’ (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand Economic Cooperation).
• Following the inclusion of Myanmar on 22 December 1997 during a special Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok, the Group was renamed ‘BIMST-EC’ (Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand Economic Cooperation).
• With the admission of Nepal and Bhutan at the 6th Ministerial Meeting (February 2004, Thailand), the name of the grouping was changed to ‘Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation’ (BIMSTEC).

Why is it in the News?

Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) today released a report on 'Engendering Land Ports in India' in New Delhi. The main objective of the report is to develop a framework for gender-inclusive cross-border trade and tourism through land Ports in the country.

About the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI):

• LPAI was established In 2012 as a statutory body under the LPAI Act of 2010.
• It comes under the purview of the Department of Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Mandate: LPAI is entrusted with the development of cutting-edge infrastructure for its land ports.
  • This infrastructure includes the construction of a Cargo Terminal Building, Passenger Terminal Building, deployment of mechanized equipment for cargo handling, implementation of security and surveillance measures at land ports, and the provision of forex counters.
• Growth: From its inception with just two land ports in 2012, LPAI has played a significant role in expanding India's operational land ports to 11, facilitating connections across the country's land borders with Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan.

Land Ports in India:

• Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) are the official designations for land ports in India.
• The country currently boasts 11 operational land ports, namely Attari, Agartala, Dawki, Petrapole, Raxaul, Rupaidiha, Jogbani, Moreh, Sutarkandi, Srimantapur, and the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) at Dera Baba Nanak.
• In the year 2023, significant trade activities were conducted through seven primary land ports: Attari, Agartala, Petrapole, Raxaul, Jogbani, Sutarkandi, and Srimantapur.
  • These land ports played a crucial role in facilitating trade valued at Rs 76,000 crore and accommodating the movement of approximately 24 lakh passengers in the year 2023.

Why there is a Need for Land Ports in India?

• Given its strategic central location, India shares an extensive international land border spanning over 15,000 kilometres with seven South Asian countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
• Numerous specified entry and exit points facilitate cross-border movements involving individuals, goods, and vehicles.
  • However, the persistent challenge of inadequate infrastructure at these designated border checkpoints has posed a significant hurdle to regional trade, adversely affecting the smooth transit of both commodities and passengers.
• Recognizing this obstacle, the Committee of Secretaries recommended the establishment of Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) in 2003.
  • These ICPs were envisioned to offer state-of-the-art infrastructure facilities, addressing the deficiencies in the existing border infrastructure and promoting more efficient cross-border interactions.

Why is it in the News?

YUVAi Student Finalists to showcase their AI-enabled social impact projects at the GPAI summit.

About Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI (YUVAi) Initiative:

• YUVAi is aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of AI, to equip school students from classes 8th to 12th across the nation with AI skills, and to empower them to become human-centric designers and users of AI.
• In addition, the program offers an applied learning experience for students to understand and identify how AI technology can tackle critical problems and lead to the inclusive development of the nation. 
• It is a collaborative initiative of the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India and  Intel India.
• The objectives of YUVAi are to :
• Foster a deeper understanding of AI-tech and social skills
• Enable youth to develop AI-enabled solutions as a sign of achievement
• Empower youth to become human-centric designers and users of AI
• The program will be conducted in three phases.
• In the initial phase, teachers will be selected to identify students from their respective schools and share their details with the organizing team.
• Next, online orientation sessions will be conducted for registered students around core AI concepts by experts to facilitate understanding of the ideation process.
• Finally, students will be encouraged to submit ideas (individually or in teams of 2) through a 120-second video explaining a proposed AI-enabled solution for any one of the eight core themes- agriculture, healthcare, education, environment and clean energy, transportation, rural development, smart cities and law and justice. 
• Shortlisted students will attend online deep dive AI training in the second phase.
• A 3-day face-to-face boot camp will be organized to provide adequate mentorship and guidance by YUVAi coaches.
• After the mentorship camps, students will use this newly gained knowledge to develop AI-enabled innovations/projects on any of the eight core themes and submit final entries.
• Finally, the most innovative AI-based solutions will be announced and invited to a national showcase and felicitation ceremony.
• Rewards: Upon a successful idea submission, students will be awarded a Certificate of Appreciation.

Why is it in the News?

On the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas in New Delhi, PM Narendra Modi calls upon religious leaders and social organizations to launch a mass movement against drug menace.

Drug Menace in India:

• Alcohol, cannabis, opium, and heroin constitute the primary drugs abused in India.
• Approximately 13% of substance abusers in the country are under 20 years old.
• Adolescence is identified as a critical-risk period for the initiation of substance use.
• Children impacted by substance abuse fall under the category of children in need of care and protection as per the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015.
• In various regions, including Punjab, Assam, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Bihar, Delhi, etc., drug abuse prevalence is notably high.
• Key causes of drug abuse include factors such as poverty, peer pressure, illiteracy, low self-esteem, and genetic predisposition.

Challenges in Combating the Drug Menace:

• India, strategically located between the Death Triangle (Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos) and Death Crescent (Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran), is a prominent hub for drug trafficking, particularly in major opium production regions globally.
• Porous borders exacerbate the problem, and technological advancements, such as the utilization of the dark net and cryptocurrency for drug trafficking, further complicate law enforcement efforts.
• Criminalizing drug abuse contributes to social stigma for addicts, deterring them from seeking essential medical assistance.
• There is a notable absence of comprehensive studies assessing the societal impact of drug abuse, hindering the formulation of informed strategies.

Efforts to Combat the Drug Menace:

• The Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985 outlines measures for identification, treatment, and rehabilitation.
• The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan targets 272 highly vulnerable districts with a focus on community outreach.
• The Seizure Information Management System (SIMS) portal facilitates the management of cases involving substantial drug seizures.
• The National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) spanning 2018-2025 adopts a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy.
• Furthermore, adherence to international conventions, including the Convention on Narcotic Drugs (1961) and the Convention on Psychotropic Substances (1971), reinforces India's commitment to addressing the global issue of drug abuse.

Why is it in the News?

Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya has launched MedTech Mitra - a strategic initiative to empower MedTech innovators and advance healthcare solutions.

What is the MedTech Mitra Portal?

• The MedTech Mitra portal is an online platform designed to support medtech innovators by assisting in clinical evaluation, regulatory facilitation, and the adoption of new products in the medical technology sector.
• This collaborative initiative is overseen by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), operating under the direction/guidance of NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission.

Significance:

• In conjunction with recent policies and incentive schemes, such as the medical devices policy and the production-linked incentive scheme, the MedTech Mitra platform aims to catalyze growth in the medical devices sector and promote domestic manufacturing.
• These initiatives seek to foster the indigenous development of affordable and high-quality MedTech devices and diagnostics, thereby significantly reducing the sector's reliance on imports.
• The platform is envisioned to streamline the innovation process and facilitate research and development for emerging start-ups, ensuring a smoother journey from concept to product.
• By offering comprehensive guidance, including support for animal and clinical trials, the platform aims to bridge gaps for startups and promote ease of innovation.
• The MedTech Mitra portal is poised to foster collaborations between engineers, scientists, and clinicians, addressing a previously existing gap in partnerships within the sector.

About the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR):

• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) serves as the apex institution in India responsible for formulating, coordinating, and advancing biomedical research.
• With a primary mandate to conduct, coordinate, and implement medical research for societal benefit, ICMR is dedicated to translating medical innovations into tangible products and processes, subsequently integrating them into the public health system.
• Financial support for ICMR is provided by the Government of India through the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.

Why is it in the News?

Prime Minister Modi will be on a two-day visit to Dubai, UAE from 30th November to attend the World Climate Action Summit.

About World Climate Action Summit:

• The World Climate Action Summit is the High-Level Segment of the 28th Conference of Parties (COP-28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
• COP-28 is being held from 28 November to 12 December 2023 under the Presidency of the UAE.
• The Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC provides a unique opportunity to impart momentum for collective action towards combating the shared challenge of climate change.
• The World Climate Action Summit will bring together heads of state and governments, leaders from civil society, business, youth, indigenous peoples' organisations, frontline communities, science, and other sectors.
• The summit aims to facilitate discussions on actions and plans to scale climate action.
• The COP 28 will focus on four paradigm shifts:
• Fast-tracking the energy transition and slashing emissions before 2030;
• Transforming climate finance, by delivering on old promises and setting the framework for a new deal on finance;
• Putting nature, people, lives, and livelihoods at the heart of climate action; and
• Mobilizing for the most inclusive COP ever.
• The summit may witness intense negotiations on unfulfilled promises of financial aid, particularly the yet-to-materialize $100 billion pledged by rich countries by 2020.
• Additionally, some countries, notably the European Union, are expected to advocate for a global deal to phase out unabated fossil fuels during COP28.
• During COP-26 in Glasgow, the Prime Minister announced five specific targets, titled "Panchamrit”, as India’s unprecedented contribution to climate action.
• The Prime Minister also announced Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) on that occasion.
• Climate change has been an important priority area of India’s G20 Presidency, and significant new steps have been captured in the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration and other outcomes during our Presidency.
• COP-28 will provide an opportunity to take forward these successes.

Why is it in the News?

The Indian Armed Forces contingent comprising 81 personnel departed for Australia on Wednesday to take part in the second edition of Joint Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND-23.

About Exercise AUSTRAHIND-23:

• Exercise AUSTRAHIND-23 was established in 2022, with its first edition held in Mahajan, Rajasthan.
• It is planned as an annual training event, alternating between India and Australia.
• The primary goal of the exercise is to cultivate collaborative partnerships and share best practices between the two sides.
• This year, the exercise is scheduled to take place in Perth, Australia, spanning from November 22nd to December 6th, 2023.
• The Indian Army contingent, consisting of 60 personnel from a Gorkha Rifles battalion, will actively participate in this exercise.
• A key focus is on promoting interoperability during multi-domain operations in urban and semi-urban terrain, aligned with Chapter VII of the United Nations on peacekeeping operations.
• The joint exercise serves as a platform for exchanging ideas and collectively rehearsing tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting tactical operations.
• Additionally, the exercise contributes to fostering understanding between the two militaries, further strengthening defense cooperation between the two friendly nations.

Other Exercises between India and the Aus:

• AUSINDEX - Naval exercise between India and Australia
• Exercise Pitch Black - It is a biennial warfare exercise hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

Why is it in the News?

The second edition of the Inter-Command Ocean Sailing Race to Goa was flagged off from the Naval Base in Kochi on Wednesday.

About the Inter Command Ocean Sailing Race 2023:

• The Inter Command Ocean Sailing Race 2023 features four 40-footer sailboats for an exciting journey in the Arabian Sea which was:
• INSV Bulbul
• INSV Neelkanth
• INS Kadalpur, and
• INSV Hariyal
• Each boat has a team of eight people from three naval commands and a combined team from Andaman and Nicobar Command, including the Delhi area.

Details of the Race:

• Distance and Route: The race covers around 667km from Naval Base, Kochi, to Goa in about five days.
• Engine-Free Journey: Boats will use the wind to reach Goa without engines.
• Inclusive Crew: This edition includes both men and women officers and sailors, promoting equal opportunities.
• Competition: With 32 participants, each competing for the title, the boats will navigate through the Arabian Sea's currents and winds.

Organizational Framework:

• Event Host: The Southern Naval Command organizes the race with the Indian Naval Sailing Association in New Delhi.
• Coordination: The Indian Navy’s Offshore Sailing Club in Kochi and the Ocean Sailing Node in INS Mandovi, Goa, coordinate the event.
• Purpose: The race helps the Navy improve risk management and technical skills while fostering a spirit of adventure among the crew.

Why in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the second Voice of Global South Summit on November 17. This will be the second Voice of Global South Summit in less than a year hosted by India.

About ‘Voice of Global South Summit’ 2023:

• India is hosting the ‘Voice of Global South Summit’ 2023 in virtual format.
• The theme of the inaugural Leaders’ Session is "Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with Everyone’s Trust” and that of the Concluding Leaders’ Session is "Global South: Together for One Future”.
• The Summit will focus on sharing with the countries of the Global South, the key outcomes achieved in various G20 meetings over the course of India’s Presidency.
• The Summit will serve as a platform to discuss ways to sustain the momentum generated toward the common aspiration of a more inclusive, representative, and progressive world order.

What is the Voice of Global South Summit?

• Voice of Global South Summit has been India's endeavor to provide a common platform to deliberate on the concerns, interests, and priorities that affect the developing countries and also to exchange ideas and solutions, and most importantly, to unite in voice and purpose in addressing the concerns and priorities.
• The initiative is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayaas, and is underpinned by India’s philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.
• India will work to ensure that the valuable inputs generated from partner countries in the Voice of Global South Summit deliberations receive due cognizance globally.

What is Global South?

• he term ‘Global South’ began by loosely referring to those countries that were left out of the industrialization era.
• These countries had a conflict of ideology with the capitalist and communist countries, accentuated by the Cold War.
• It includes countries that are in Asia, Africa, and South America.
• ‘Global South’ is just the opposite of ‘Global North’, defined essentially by an economic division between the rich and poorer countries.

Why in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is going to launch the PM PVTG (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups) Development Mission in a huge step to empower tribal people.

About PM PVTG Development Mission:

• The PM PVTG Development Mission plans to saturate PVTG families and habitations with basic facilities such as road and telecom connectivity, electricity, safe housing, clean drinking water, and sanitation, improved access to education, health and nutrition, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
• The Mission will be implemented through the convergence of 11 interventions of nine Ministries.
• In addition, saturation will be ensured for schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna, Sickle Cell Disease Elimination, TB Elimination, 100 percent immunisation, PM Surakshit Matritva Yojana, PM Matru Vandana Yojana, PM Poshan, and PM Jan Dhan Yojana.

Who are Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)?

• PVTGs, or Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups, represent the most vulnerable subsets within India's diverse tribal communities, requiring heightened support and development efforts.
• There are 75 PVTGs in 18 States and Union Territories living in 22 thousand 544 villages having a population of around 28 lakhs.
• These tribes stay in scattered, remote, and inaccessible habitations, often in forest areas.
• The Government of India employs specific criteria for their identification, encompassing pre-agricultural technological levels, low literacy rates, economic disadvantages, and either a declining or stagnant population.
• The origin of the PVTG category dates back to 1975 when the government identified 52 vulnerable tribal groups, later augmented by an additional 23 in 1993.
• Notable examples of PVTGs include:
• the Cholanaikayan in Kerala
• Kathodi in Gujarat
• Jarawas in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and
• Koraga in Karnataka
• The distinctive classification of PVTGs underscores a commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by these marginalized tribal communities, aiming to uplift them through targeted support and development initiatives.

Why in the News?

Recently, Exercise CORPAT and BONGOSAGAR between the Indian Navy and Bangladesh Navy were conducted in the Northern Bay of Bengal from 07 - 09 Nov 2023.

About Exercise CORPAT and Bongosagar:

• The 4th edition of the Bilateral Exercise between the Indian Navy and Bangladesh Navy, BONGOSAGAR-23, and the 5th edition of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) by the two navies were held at Visakhapatnam.
• Ships and aircraft from both navies undertook joint patrolling along the International Maritime Boundary Line and maritime exercises to enhance interoperability.
• Indian Navy Ships Kuthar, Kiltan, and Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) Dornier participated in the exercise.
• The ships undertook communication drills, surface gun-shoots, tactical maneuvers, and other exercises.
• INS Kuthar is an indigenously built guided-missile Corvette, whereas INS Kiltan is an indigenously built anti-submarine Corvette.
• Both ships are part of the Indian Navy's Eastern Fleet based at Visakhapatnam, which functions under the operational command of the FOCINC ENC.
• CORPAT-23 also included the maiden Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief drills held between the two navies.
• The bilateral exercises and coordinated patrols have strengthened mutual understanding and cooperation between the two navies.

Why in the News?

Recently, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has developed in-house software named ‘ENCORE’ designed for efficient candidate and election management.

About ‘ENCORE’:

• The Election Commission of India has designed in-house software for complete Candidate and election management through ‘ENCORE’ which stands for Enabling Communications on Real-time Environment.
• This provides a seamless facility for Returning Officers to process candidate nomination, affidavit, Voter turnout, counting, results and data management.
• The ENCORE counting application is an end-to-end application for returning officers to digitize the votes polled, tabulate the round-wise data and then take out various statutory reports of counting.
• An additional application, the ENCORE Scrutiny Application, allows Returning Officers to scrutinize online nominations submitted by candidates.
• This process involves verifying and marking the status of nominations as Accepted, Rejected, or Withdrawn, facilitating the creation of the final list of contesting candidates and symbol assignment.
• The ECI offers an online portal for candidate nomination and affidavit submission.
• Candidates can create accounts, complete nomination forms, submit security deposits, and plan their visits to the Returning Officer through this portal.
• The Candidate Affidavit portal is designed to display information about a candidate's financial assets and liabilities, offering transparency in candidates' financial disclosures.
• The ENCORE Nodal App serves as a platform for various government departments, including fire, education, police, environment, and CPWD, to issue 'no objection' certificates.
• These certificates are required before granting permission for political parties or candidates to hold rallies, road shows, and meetings, ensuring that all necessary clearances are obtained before public events.

Why in the News?

Recently India-born author Nandini Das is the winner of 2023 British Academy Book Prize for Global Cultural Understanding.

About the British Academy Book Prize:

• The British Academy Book Prize, formerly known as the Nayef Al Rodhan Prize for Global Cultural Understanding, is a prestigious annual award given to the best non-fiction book that, in the opinion of the judges, contributes to global cultural understanding for a wider public audience.
• The prize was established in 2013 in partnership with Professor Nayef Al-Rodhan and is worth £25,000.
• The British Academy is the UK's national academy for the humanities and social sciences, and the prize is one of its most prestigious awards.
• It is a testament to the importance of these disciplines in helping us to understand ourselves and the world around us.
• Eligible books must be non-fiction, and come from the subjects that fall within the humanities and social sciences, from archaeology, history and psychology to philosophy, languages and cultural studies.
• Nandini Das who is a Professor in the English faculty at the University of Oxford, won the award for her book ‘Courting India: England, Mughal India and the Origins of Empire’

Why in the News?

The National Health Authority (NHA) has recently declared the extension of its Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS) until the 31st of December 2023.

About Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS):

• Launched in December 2022, the DHIS became effective from 1st January 2023.
• The scheme is implemented by the National Health Authority (NHA) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• Its primary objectives include giving a further impetus to digital health transactions across the country through the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).

Salient Features of DHIS:

• The scheme offers incentives of up to four crore rupees, determined by the number of digital health records created and linked to patients' Ayushman Bharat Health Account numbers.
• Incentives are extended to hospitals, diagnostic labs, and providers of digital health solutions, including Hospital/Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) and Laboratory Management Information Systems (LMIS).
• Health facilities (hospitals and diagnostic labs) registered with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission's Health Facility Registry (HFR) and meeting the specified eligibility criteria can avail of the incentives.

Benefits of DHIS:

• Incentives for Digitization: Healthcare facilities and Digital Solution Companies participating in the scheme can earn incentives to cover expenses related to digitization.
• Enhanced Efficiency in Healthcare Delivery: DHIS streamlines the healthcare process, eliminating hassles in registration, appointment scheduling, consultations, IPD admission, discharge, and more.
• Robust Digital Health Ecosystem: The scheme contributes to the development of a strong digital health ecosystem, encompassing various levels of healthcare facilities.
• Improved Quality of Care: DHIS facilitates evidence-based, accessible, and high-quality healthcare services, leading to better patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Why in the News?

Manas National Park & Tiger Reserve recently shared some good news: The number of swamp deer in the park has increased.

About Swamp deer:

• Swamp deer, also known as barasingha (scientifically called Rucervus duvaucelii), is a type of deer found in the Indian subcontinent.
• They belong to the Cervidae family and are typically spotted in open forests and grasslands across India and Nepal.
• These deer primarily feed on wetland plants and the herbs commonly found in their natural habitat.
• Unfortunately, their population is now limited to isolated areas in Nepal, Assam, and the northern regions of India.
• Swamp deer used to exist in Bangladesh and Pakistan, but they are now extinct in both of these countries.

In the Indian Subcontinent, there are three subspecies of swamp deer:

• Western swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii) found in Nepal.
• Southern swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii branderi) found in central and north India.
• Eastern swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii ranjitsinhi) found in the Kaziranga and Dudhwa National Parks.

In terms of conservation, swamp deer are classified as follows:

• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
• CITES: Appendix I
• The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I

Why in the News?

Recently, the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) announced its commitment to obtain both public and private investments to support the conservation and restoration of coral ecosystems.

About the International Coral Reef Initiative:

• It was established in 1994 with founding members including Australia, France, Japan, Jamaica, the Philippines, Sweden, Britain, and the United States.
• It now boasts a membership of 45 countries, collectively representing three-quarters of the world's coral reefs.
• India is one of these member countries.
• This initiative serves as a global partnership between nations and organizations dedicated to preserving coral reefs and their related ecosystems worldwide.
• It's important to note that the decisions made by ICRI are not legally binding on its members.
• ICRI's work is frequently recognized in United Nations documents, emphasizing its significant role in cooperation, collaboration, and advocacy on the international stage.

Objectives of ICRI include:

• Promoting the adoption of best practices for sustainable management of coral reefs and associated ecosystems.
• Building capacity to effectively manage and protect these ecosystems.
• Raising awareness at all levels about the challenges faced by coral reefs worldwide.

What is the News ?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the meeting of the 43rd edition of PRAGATI involving Centre and State governments recently.

Facts About:

• PRAGATI, which stands for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation, is a multi-purpose and multi-modal platform.
• Its primary purpose is to address public grievances and concurrently oversee significant government programs and projects at both the national and state levels.
• It was officially launched on March 25, 2015.
• Developed in-house by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) team in collaboration with the National Informatics Center (NIC), it is a robust system.
• This platform promotes e-transparency and e-accountability by facilitating real-time communication among key stakeholders.
• It integrates three cutting-edge technologies, video conferencing, digital data management, and geo-spatial technology.
• It fosters cooperative federalism by uniting Chief Secretaries of states and Government of India Secretaries on a common platform.
• The Prime Minister can engage in ground-level discussions with this platform, enabling communication with state and central officials while having access to up-to-date visuals on the screen.
• The three objectives of PRAGATI are:

                   Grievance Redressal

                   Programme Implementation

                   Project Monitoring

What is the News ?

The Prime Minister will launch a special week-long program called 'Sankalp Saptaah' at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

Facts About:

• This initiative is closely tied to the successful execution of the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP).
• In order to implement the ABP effectively and devise a robust strategy for block development, 'chintan shivirs' or brainstorming sessions were conducted at the village and block levels across the nation. The Sankalp Saptah marks the culmination of these brainstorming sessions.
• Sankalp Saptah will be observed in all 500 aspirational blocks.
• Each day during Sankalp Saptah will be dedicated to a specific development theme that all aspirational blocks will focus on.
• The themes for the initial six days include 'Comprehensive Health', 'Nourished Families', 'Cleanliness', 'Agriculture', 'Education', and 'Prosperity Day'.
• The final day of the week will be a celebration of the collective efforts undertaken throughout the week, known as 'Sankalp Saptah – Inclusive Conclave.'
• The inaugural event will see the participation of approximately 3,000 representatives from panchayats and block-level officials from across the country at Bharat Mandapam.

What is the News ?

India and the United Nations have introduced a collaborative capacity-building effort known as the 'India-UN Capacity Building Initiative.' Its goal is to promote progress and prosperity in the Global South.

Facts About:

What is the Global South?

• The Global South encompasses countries in regions such as Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia (excluding Israel, Japan, and South Korea), and Oceania (excluding Australia and New Zealand).
• These regions are generally characterized by lower levels of economic and industrial development.

About the India-UN Capacity Building Initiative:

• This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of countries in the Global South.
• Its objective is to facilitate the sharing of India's development experiences, best practices, and expertise through capacity-building programs and training.
• The initiative extends the achievements of India's G20 Presidency, which emphasized the inclusion of perspectives from the Global South in the G20 agenda.
• It builds upon India's existing bilateral cooperation in development and capacity-building with partner countries.
• As part of this endeavor, the UN India team will collaborate with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to leverage India's Technical and Economic Cooperation platform. This partnership will enable the dissemination of India's development experiences and best practices worldwide.
• Furthermore, it will translate the development objectives outlined during India's G20 Presidency into action.
• This includes the implementation of the G20 Action Plan for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhancing technology and digital infrastructure.

What is the News ?

The Finance Minister and Agriculture Minister are going to start the 'Kisan Rin Portal' on September 19.

Facts About:

• This portal assists farmers in obtaining reduced-rate loans through the Kisan Credit Card (KCC).
• Several government departments worked together to create it.
• It provides a clear picture of farmer information, loan distribution details, interest subsidy requests, and progress in scheme usage.
• It seamlessly connects with banks to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of agricultural credit.

Brief Overview About Kisan Credit Card (KCC):

• Introduced in 1998, the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme provides farmers with a convenient way to access loans for buying agricultural supplies like seeds and fertilizers and for cash withdrawals.
• Developed by NABARD (the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), the scheme was later expanded in 2004 to cover investment needs in farming and related activities.
• In 2012, the scheme was simplified to facilitate Electronic Kisan Credit Cards.
• Applicable to Commercial Banks, RRBs, Small Finance Banks, and Cooperatives.

What is the News ?

The 14th World Spice Congress (WSC) recently kicked off in Vashi, Navi Mumbai.

Facts About:

• The World Spice Congress (WSC) was originally conceived in 1990 as a platform for discussions and interactions between spice importers and exporters.

  Over its three decades of existence, it has evolved into a vital gathering for the global spice industry.

• Since its inception, the Spices Board under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, has organized the WSC.

 The theme for WSC 2023 is "VISION 2030: S-P-I-C-E-S," which stands for sustainability, productivity, innovation, collaboration, excellence, and safety.

About the Spices Board of India:

• The Spices Board of India was established on February 26, 1987, through the Spices Board Act of 1986. It was formed by merging the former Cardamom Board (1968) and the Spices Export Promotion Council (1960).
• It operates under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
• The board has the responsibility of promoting the export of 52 scheduled spices and facilitating the development of both small and large cardamom.
• It serves as a crucial link connecting Indian exporters with foreign importers.

Main Functions:

• Conducting research, development, and regulation related to the domestic marketing of small and large cardamom.
• Enhancing post-harvest practices for all spices.
• Promoting the production, processing, and certification of organic spices.
• Supporting the development of spices in the North East region.
• Providing quality evaluation services.

What is the News ?

President Droupadi Murmu recently launched the First Global Symposium on Farmers' Rights in New Delhi.

Facts About:

• Location: ICAR Convention Centre, National Agricultural Science Centre, New Delhi. from September 12 to 15, 2023.
• Historical Background: The concept of hosting the inaugural GFSR was proposed by the Government of India during the Ninth Session of the Governing Body (GB9) of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (International Treaty) in September 2022.

                 This proposal received approval from the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization).

• Organized by: The Secretariat of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (International Treaty) under the umbrella of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) based in Rome.
• Hosted by: The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, in collaboration with the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPVFR) Authority, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), and ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR).
• Objective: The primary aim is to address crucial issues concerning farmers' rights and their pivotal role in global food security and agriculture.
• Distinguished scientists and experts from 59 countries around the world will participate.
• They will engage in discussions on how to acknowledge and compensate the significant contributions made by local and indigenous communities, as well as farmers from all corners of the world, in preserving and advancing plant genetic resources (PGR).

What is the News ?

Recently, a division of the Abu Dhabi-based AI company G42 has unveiled 'Jais,' the most cutting-edge Arabic large language model globally.

Facts About:

• Jais is a bilingual Arabic-English model meticulously trained on an extensive dataset of text and code.
• Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of tasks, including machine translation, text summarization, and question-answering.
• Trained on the world's largest AI supercomputer, the Condor Galaxy, Jais has been exposed to a vast dataset, encompassing 116 billion Arabic tokens and 279 billion English tokens.
• Being open-source means that Jais is accessible for anyone to use and contribute to its development, and it is available for download on the Hugging Face machine learning platform.
• The introduction of Jais represents a significant milestone in advancing AI within the Arabic-speaking community.

Applications:

• Jais finds potential applications in machine translation, bridging the language gap between Arabic and English, thereby enhancing information accessibility and cross-lingual communication.
• This versatile model excels at condensing extensive text content, from news articles to research papers, into concise and comprehensible summaries, facilitating improved accessibility and comprehension.
• Furthermore, Jais is adept at responding to text-based queries, making it a valuable tool for educational purposes, such as interactive chatbots for students, and enhancing customer service applications for effective client inquiries.