Uttar Pradesh State PCS

• 05 Mar 2024

UP Government Allocated Funds for Schools and Anganwadi

Why in News?

Recently, In a bid to accelerate development in the 100 underdeveloped cities of the state, the Uttar Pradesh Government has launched the Aspirational Cities Scheme.

Key Points:

• As part of this endeavor, the initial focus will be on comprehensively transforming schools and Anganwadi centers in these cities.
  • A separate plan has been prepared for Anganwadi centers in line with the directives of the Chief Minister.
• As per the directives from the Chief Minister, a total of 913 schools in the 100 aspirational urban areas of the state will undergo upgrades, with an additional 25 new schools to be established.
  • In the 100 underdeveloped urban areas of the state, the state government plans to construct new buildings for 348 Anganwadi centers currently housed in rented or alternative government structures.
• Furthermore, new buildings will be constructed for 348 Anganwadi centers currently operating in rented or alternative government facilities within these aspirational urban areas.
• The state government has allocated over Rs 143 crores for the implementation of these projects.
• 25 new Mukhyamantri Abhyudaya Composite Schools will also be established at a total cost of Rs 35.5 crores with each school to cost Rs 1.42 crores. Thus, the state government will spend Rs 101.83 crores for the upgradation and the opening of new schools.

Note

The Uttar Pradesh Government has kept 100 urban bodies in the 38 districts of UP in the aspirational urban body category

Okhla Bird Sanctuary Celebrates World Wildlife Day

Why in News?

Recently, the World Wildlife Day (WWD) was celebrated at Okhla Bird Sanctuary, highlighting its rich biodiversity and focusing on Mission LiFE.

• WWD is celebrated every year on 3 March to celebrate wild animals and plants.

Key Points

• Theme for WWD 2024: The theme for WWD 2024 was "Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation." This theme emphasized the role of digital innovations in wildlife conservation efforts.
• Inter-generational Exchange: The event served as a platform for inter-generational exchange and youth empowerment through various activities like art, presentations, and conversations on sustainable digital wildlife conservation.
• Role of Technological Innovation: Technological advancements such as research tools, communication methods, tracking systems, and DNA analysis have facilitated more efficient and accurate wildlife conservation efforts.
• Digital Revolution: The ongoing global digital revolution is breaking down barriers to people-centered digital governance and providing equal opportunities for all to engage in digital transformation for wildlife conservation.
• Activities Organised: Various activities were organised at the event, including eco trails, poster making, and on-the-spot hand and face painting, all centered around the theme of WWD 2024.

Educational Empowerment Initiative for Children

Why in News?

Recently, REC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power, has partnered with the Unit of Science and Educational Development (UNISED) to support the education of approximately 75,500 children in Siddharthnagar district, Uttar Pradesh.

Key Points

• Financial Commitment: REC Foundation, the CSR arm of REC Limited, has committed a financial assistance of Rs. 9.91 crores towards this initiative, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility.
• Memorandum of Agreement (MoA): A formal agreement between REC Foundation and UNISED has been signed in New Delhi, solidifying their commitment to improving educational opportunities for underprivileged children in Siddharthnagar district.
• Objectives: The collaboration aims to enhance educational infrastructure and resources in government schools through the implementation of solar energy-operated smart classes and joyful learning resource labs.
  • This initiative is designed to empower students with modern educational tools and foster academic and creative excellence.
• REC Foundation's Previous Initiatives: REC Foundation has previously shown support for the education of 12,500 children of ex-servicemen by contributing Rs. 15 crores to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund, further emphasizing its commitment to education and social welfare.

REC Limited

• About:
  • REC Limited is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise registered with RBI as a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) and Infrastructure Financing Company (IFC). It plays a crucial role in financing the power infrastructure sector and has diversified into non-power infrastructure sectors as well.
• Strategic Role:
  • REC Limited plays a key strategic role in various flagship schemes of the government for the power sector, including Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGAYA), Deen Dayal Upadhaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY), and National Electricity Fund (NEF) Scheme, contributing to strengthening the country's electricity distribution system and achieving 100% village electrification.