Stay informed with the latest Updates on 17th May 2023. Explore the significant events shaping the world in this concise summary.
Welcome to our daily briefing on the top morning current affairs. In this article, we will highlight the key stories and events taking place on 17th May 2023.
Top Morning Current Affairs: 17th May 2023
1. Mission LiFE: Promoting Clean Seas and Sustainable Lifestyles for World Environment Day
LiFE event emphasizes clean sea initiatives like “fishing for litter” to bring discarded fishing gear ashore. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change plans to celebrate World Environment Day with a focus on Mission LiFE, promoting sustainable lifestyles. The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management conducted beach cleaning and educated the fishing community on responsible fishing. The National Institute of Himalayan Environment organized a plantation drive to adopt healthy lifestyles. The Zoological Survey of India conducted mass mobilization events in various locations to raise awareness on different themes of LiFE. The National Museum of Natural History and RMNH Bhopal also organized awareness programs.
2. Prime Minister to Inaugurate International Museum Expo 2023, Celebrating Museums and Cultural Diplomacy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the International Museum Expo 2023 on May 18th. The expo, held as part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, aims to promote museums as cultural centers and celebrate International Museum Day. The Prime Minister will virtually tour the upcoming National Museum and unveil various exhibits, including the mascot, a graphic novel, a directory of Indian museums, a pocket map, and museum cards. International delegations will also participate in the event.
3. Government Implements RPwD Act 2016: Accessibility Guidelines for Persons with Disabilities
The government has implemented the RPwD Act 2016 to establish accessibility standards for persons with disabilities. Under this act, 20 ministries are involved in creating guidelines for different sectors. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment monitors the formulation of these guidelines. Various guidelines have been notified, while others are still awaiting notification. The details of these guidelines can be found on the DEPwD department website.
4. National Workshop Empowering Persons with Disabilities in Education: Implementing NEP 2020 and Inclusive Skill Development
Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar inaugurated a national workshop on empowering individuals with disabilities in education. The workshop aimed to implement the goals of the National Education Policy 2020 and promote inclusive education and skill development. Various delegates emphasized the importance of self-respect, employment-oriented special education programs, skill training, experiential learning, and the use of technology for inclusive education. The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) organized the workshop to facilitate the implementation of NEP 2020 and HRD programs.
5. Jal Jeevan Mission Achieves Milestone: 12 Crore Tap Water Connections in India
India’s Jal Jeevan Mission has provided tap water connections to over 12 crore rural households, bringing the country closer to achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Har Ghar Jal’ (Water in Every Home). Several states and union territories have achieved 100% coverage, and efforts have been made to provide tap water in schools and anganwadi centers. The mission has also addressed the issue of arsenic and fluoride contamination in drinking water sources, ensuring safe water in affected areas. The initiative aims to bring socio-economic benefits by reducing the burden of water collection and promoting income generation and education. Community participation and sustainability are emphasized through the establishment of committees and action plans. The mission aligns with the goal of providing safe and affordable water to all rural areas.
6. Prime Minister’s Rozgar Melas: Appointment Letters Handed Over, Focus on Employment Generation
Prime Minister organized Rozgar Melas at 45 locations nationwide, offering appointment letters to new recruits via video conferencing. Union Minister Anurag Thakur handed over appointment letters to 28 youths in Shimla. Thakur urged recruits to work with integrity and combat corruption, emphasizing the importance of serving the nation. He also encouraged them to upgrade their technical skills and contribute to India’s economic development. The Rozgar Melas aim to provide 1 million jobs and empower youth for national development. The recruits will undergo an online orientation course called Karmayogi Prarambh.
7. Delhi’s overall Air quality expected to improve in coming days
Delhi’s air quality worsened due to strong winds carrying dust particles, but it is expected to improve in the next few days. The Sub-Committee for GRAP reviewed the situation and considered it an exceptional event. They will continue monitoring the air quality and expect rain on May 18th, which should help improve the conditions.
8. Union Minister Launches Sanchar Saathi Portal to Enhance User Safety and Prevent Telecom Fraud
Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the Sanchar Saathi portal, which aims to enhance user safety and prevent fraudulent activities in the telecom sector. The portal includes three key reforms: CEIR for blocking stolen/lost mobiles, Know Your Mobile for checking registered connections, and ASTR for identifying fraudulent subscribers. Over 40 lakh fraudulent connections have been identified and more than 36 lakh disconnected so far. The portal allows citizens to report and block stolen/lost mobile phones, check IMEI genuineness, and report fraudulent connections. The system has successfully detected and disconnected millions of suspected connections, leading to the blacklisting of selling points and lodging of FIRs. Disconnected numbers have been shared with relevant institutions for further action.
9. Boosting India’s Fisheries Sector: PMMSY Field Studies & Projects Worth Rs. 14,659.12 Crores Approved
The government has approved projects worth Rs. 14659.12 Crores for the Pradhan Mantri MatsyaSampada Yojana (PMMSY), aimed at boosting the fisheries sector in India. To further enhance the scheme, the National Productivity Council (NPC) is conducting seven major field studies. These studies will cover areas such as fish marketing, fishing practices, storage containers, fish marketing infrastructure, technology evaluation, monitoring mechanisms, and post-harvest losses. The PMMSY offers various benefits for fishers, fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and others involved in the sector. It has received positive responses from states and union territories. The scheme aims to promote sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector with an estimated investment of Rs. 20,050 crores. The NPC, an autonomous organization, has been entrusted with these field studies to enhance the value of the scheme.
10. IAF’s Logistics Seminar, LOGISEM – 23: Leveraging Global Supply Chains for Enhanced Logistics Capabilities and Disruption Management
The IAF’s Logistics Seminar, LOGISEM – 23, focused on leveraging global supply chains to enhance logistics capabilities while dealing with disruptions. The Chief of the Air Staff emphasized the importance of adapting to complex supply chains and utilizing digitization and data analytics to mitigate disruptions. The seminar included discussions on the future of the aviation industry, supply chain management, and public procurement initiatives. It aimed to facilitate knowledge exchange and help the IAF align its supply-chain needs with modern technologies and global trends.
11. New Air and Water Stable Cathode Materials for High-Performance Sodium-ion Batteries
Scientists have developed new cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries that are stable in air and water, and exhibit high performance. These materials can be cost-effective and environmentally friendly, making them suitable for various applications such as consumer electronics, grid energy storage, and electric vehicles. The researchers achieved this by modifying the structure of the cathode materials and tuning the covalency of the transition metal-oxygen bond, which improves stability and enhances the power density of the batteries. These advancements are expected to contribute to the development of high-performance and cost-effective sodium-ion battery systems.
12. Sagar Parikrama Phase V: Union Minister Parshottam Rupala to Lead Journey Addressing Challenges in Fisheries Sector
Phase V of the Sagar Parikrama initiative will take place from May 17th to May 19th, starting from Raigad, Maharashtra, and ending in Canacona, Goa. The journey aims to address the challenges faced by fishers and stakeholders and uplift their economic prospects through various fisheries schemes and programs. Union Minister Parshottam Rupala will participate in the event, which symbolizes solidarity with fisherfolk and honors freedom fighters, sailors, and fishers. The journey will cover six locations in Maharashtra and Goa, promoting schemes and providing support to fishermen and fish farmers. The initiative aims for an inclusive and prosperous future for the fisheries sector while ensuring responsible and sustainable development.
13. India-EU Affirm Commitment to Collaborate on WTO and Free Trade Agreement Negotiations
India and the European Union (EU) have affirmed their commitment to collaborate on Free Trade Agreement negotiations and work together on World Trade Organization (WTO) issues. Both sides stressed the importance of reaching a consensus and finding solutions for public stock holding and supporting livelihoods and food security. The leaders also highlighted the need for a deeper partnership based on democracy and rule-based international systems. A bilateral meeting between Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and European Commission Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis took place, followed by a meeting of the Working Group 3 Stakeholders.
14. Government Launches Sanchar Saathi Portal for Mobile Phone Tracking and Blocking
The Indian government has launched the Sanchar Saathi Portal, a Citizen Centric Portal that enables mobile users to track and block their lost mobile phones. The portal, initiated by the Department of Telecommunications, allows citizens to identify mobile connections issued in their names, disconnect unwanted connections, and trace lost phones. The portal includes modules such as the Central Equipment Identity Register to block stolen or lost mobiles, Know your mobile connections, and an AI and Facial Recognition solution for subscriber verification. Over 40 lakh fraudulent connections have been identified and more than 36 lakh disconnected through the portal.
15. Sikkim State Day Celebrations: Chief Minister Highlights Achievements in Healthcare and Education
Sikkim celebrates its 48th State Day today. Chief Minister PS Tamang highlighted the government’s initiatives in various sectors, including healthcare and education. The state achieved a 57% growth in revenue generation and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for support. The celebration included the presentation of awards, the launch of a multimedia database, and the release of a book on skill assessment. Ambulances and mobile diagnostic laboratories were also flagged off.
16. India to Showcase Rich Culture at Cannes Film Festival: Minister L Murugan Leads Delegation
India will participate in the Cannes Film Festival, highlighting its rich culture and embracing the concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. Minister L Murugan will lead the Indian delegation, while Minister Anurag Singh Thakur will showcase India’s content creation prowess through a video message. India has approved its first incentive grant for an international film and has more projects in the pipeline.
17. Upcoming Trade Talks: India-UK, India-EU, and G20 Updates
India and the UK will have their next round of trade talks in June, aiming to conclude negotiations as soon as possible. The 10th round of talks will take place from June 5th to 9th in New Delhi. Additionally, India and the European Union will hold the 5th round of talks for a trade pact from June 19th to 23rd in India. Negotiations with Canada are also at an advanced stage. The G20 Trade and Investment Working Group meeting is scheduled for May 23rd to 25th in Bengaluru, where discussions on World Trade Organisation reform and global trade issues will take place.
18. Khelo India: Revolutionizing Sports Ecosystem in 5 Years with Grassroots Development and Infrastructure Improvements
The Khelo India initiative, a government scheme for sports development, has made significant strides in revolutionizing the sports ecosystem in India. It focuses on grassroots sports, improves sports infrastructure, promotes indigenous games, and supports athletes financially. The upcoming Khelo India University Games in Uttar Pradesh will feature more than 4000 athletes from 200 universities competing in 21 disciplines, including Rowing, Mallakhamb, and Yogasana.
19. India Slams UN Special Rapporteur for Baseless Claims on J&K during G20 Meeting
India criticizes the UN Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues for making baseless claims about Jammu and Kashmir during the G20 meeting. India asserts its right as G20 President to host meetings anywhere in the country. The Indian mission in Geneva condemns the UN diplomat for politicizing the issue and violating the Code of Conduct for Special Rapporteurs. The G20’s decision to hold a meeting in Srinagar draws attention as an important international event since the region’s reorganization in 2019. Pakistan objects to India hosting the G20 meeting in Srinagar, but India dismisses Pakistan’s concerns and emphasizes the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
20. Punjab’s Gatka Included as Demonstration Sport in 2023 National Games: Celebrating India’s Cultural Heritage
Punjab’s traditional martial art form, Gatka, has been included as a demonstration sport in the 2023 National Games in Goa. This decision highlights India’s efforts to promote and preserve indigenous sports, recognizing their cultural and historical significance. Gatka involves the use of weapons and unarmed combat techniques. Sports have become a key priority in India, with various government schemes and initiatives aimed at promoting sports at different levels, including the Khelo India program and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) for Olympic hopefuls.
21. One Station One Product: Indian Railways Promoting Indigenous Goods & Employment
Indian Railways has launched the ‘One Station One Product’ (OSOP) scheme to promote indigenous products and support marginalized communities. The initiative aims to provide a market for local sellers at railway stations, showcasing unique regional items. It has already covered 728 stations across India, benefiting over 25,000 individuals. OSOP stalls offer a variety of products, including handicrafts, textiles, traditional garments, and local agricultural produce. The scheme not only generates income but also boosts tourism, GDP, and exposure to Indian craftsmanship. It is seen as a positive step in preserving cultural heritage and empowering artisans.
22. Qatar and Bahrain Resume Flights: Diplomatic Relations Restored and Air Travel Resumes
Qatar and Bahrain will resume flights starting May 25 as part of the re-established diplomatic relations between the two countries. This follows the end of the Arab blockade on Qatar in 2021. The decision was made during a meeting of the Bahraini-Qatari Follow-up Committee. The resumption of flights aims to strengthen the brotherly relations and achieve common aspirations between the two nations.
23. iDEX-DIO Signs 250th Contract: Major Milestones in Mission DefSpace and SPRINT (Navy)
iDEX-DIO signed its 250th contract, the first under Mission DefSpace and the 100th SPRINT (Navy) contract. Mission DefSpace aims to develop the Indian private space industry, addressing challenges in different domains. The contract was exchanged with InspeCity for the development of a micropropulsion system for cubesats. Additionally, Siliconia Technologies Pvt Ltd won a contract for a lightweight communication system. These achievements signify the progress of iDEX’s initiatives.
24. Indian Army Chief’s Visit to Egypt: Strengthening Defense Ties and Bilateral Relations
Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande is visiting Egypt to strengthen defense ties between the two countries. The visit aims to enhance defense cooperation and explore avenues for mutual interest. The relationship between India and Egypt has been growing, with recent agreements to deepen cooperation in defense industries and military engagements. The visit is expected to deepen bilateral relationships and promote closer coordination on strategic issues.
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