Highlights from 1 October 2024
International Day of Older Persons, 2024
The International Day of Older Persons is observed on October 1st each year, celebrating the contributions of senior citizens and raising awareness about the challenges they face. In 2024, the theme is “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide.” This theme underscores the need for enhanced care systems and the protection of older persons’ rights. As societies worldwide grapple with ageing populations, this day highlights the importance of integrating older individuals into community life and ensuring their well-being through supportive policies and practices1014.
Annular Solar Eclipse
On October 2, 2024, an annular solar eclipse will occur, captivating astronomers and skywatchers globally. Known as the “ring of fire” eclipse, it will be visible across parts of the Pacific Ocean, South America, and North America. Unfortunately, this celestial event will not be visible in India as it occurs during nighttime hours there. The eclipse will provide a spectacular view where the moon covers the sun’s center, leaving a bright ring visible78.
Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
The Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card provides certain privileges to individuals of Indian origin residing abroad. Recent guidelines require OCI cardholders to update their documents online whenever they acquire a new passport until the age of 20 and once after turning 50. This process ensures that OCI records remain current and facilitates smoother interactions with Indian authorities9.
Bail Provisions under PMLA
The Supreme Court has recently addressed stringent bail provisions under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), emphasizing that liberty should be the norm while jail is an exception. The court’s rulings highlight the importance of balancing justice with individual rights, especially in cases where trials are delayed. These decisions reflect a move towards ensuring that bail conditions under PMLA align with constitutional principles46.
Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) 2024
The Indian government is set to unveil the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) 2024 to enhance the ease of doing business in India. Spearheaded by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), BRAP 2024 aims to streamline regulatory processes across various sectors such as labor, environment, and taxation. By reducing compliance burdens and promoting digital services, this plan seeks to position India as a preferred global investment destination23.
BharatGen: World’s First Government-funded Multimodal Large Language Model
BharatGen has been launched as the world’s first government-funded multimodal large language model. This initiative aims to advance AI technology in India by developing models that support multiple languages and modalities such as text and speech. BharatGen is expected to enhance public service delivery and foster innovation across industries by providing an open-source platform for AI development5.
News In Short
Permafrost Research: Glaciologist S.N. Remya’s research on permafrost in the Himalayas aims to predict potential climate-induced disasters by studying similar conditions in the Arctic15.
Poumai Naga Tribe: The Poumai Naga tribe in Manipur has taken steps towards wildlife conservation by banning hunting within their territory13.
Jal Hi AMRIT Program: This initiative focuses on water conservation efforts across India, promoting sustainable water management practices.
NAMASTE Scheme: Aimed at improving sanitation workers’ welfare, this scheme includes measures for health insurance and skill development.
Anna Darpan: The Food Corporation of India’s digital transformation project aims to modernize supply chain management systems11.
RoDTEP Scheme: Extended until September 2025, this scheme refunds un-reimbursed taxes for exporters to boost competitiveness11.
Bidkin Industrial Area (BIA): Recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi, BIA is part of India’s National Industrial Corridor Development Programme aimed at fostering industrial growth11.
Stem Cell Research: Advances in stem cell research continue to offer promising developments in medical treatments.
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX): This initiative fosters innovation in defense technology through collaborations with startups and research institutions1.
Exercise KAZIND: The eighth edition of this joint military exercise between India and Kazakhstan focuses on enhancing defense cooperation
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