• 22 Aug 2023

Schools will Open in the Evening for the First Time on August 23 in Uttar Pradesh

Why in News?

On August 21, 2023, the Yogi Adityanath government gave instructions to make arrangements to open the schools for the first time in the evening on August 23, following instructions received from the Department of School Education and Literacy, Union Ministry of Education.

Key Points:

• Principles and Basic Education Officers have been instructed to conduct a special meeting with students and teachers from schools & educational institutions from 5.15 pm to 6.15 pm.
• During this, the school children of the state will watch the landing of Chandrayaan-3 through a live telecast on TV or YouTube channel. This is an important step for Indian science, engineering, technology and industry.
• It is known that on August 23, at 5:27 pm, the process of landing on the moon of Chandrayaan-3 will be broadcast live on the ISRO website (https://www.isro.gov.in/) and ISRO's official YouTube channel & DD National.
• The moon landing of India's Chandrayaan-3 is a momentous occasion, which will not only kindle curiosity but also kindle a passion for exploration in the minds of the youth.
• UGC has also appealed to higher educational institutions that everyone's eyes will be on the safe landing of Chandrayaan. In this sequence, the UGC has appealed to give information about the journey to the moon to students through higher educational institutions across the country.

9th CPA India Region Conference begins in Udaipur

Why in News?

On August 21, 2023, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh and other guests inaugurated the 9th India Region Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) by lighting the lamp in the city of lakes, Udaipur.

Key Points:

• In the conference, brainstorming started on important points like strengthening of democratic institutions, making people's representatives more accountable and good governance through digital empowerment.
• Presiding over the conference, the Lok Sabha Speaker said that the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association was established in the year 1911, when there were 57 countries in it. After this it continued to expand. This Sangh has made unprecedented contributions in strengthening the democratic institutions.
• In the conference, the Chief Minister said that CPA India is playing an important role in the direction of public welfare through ideas and innovations by organizing various activities for the strengthening of the democratic system.
• Through the conference, the knowledge of public representatives will be enhanced with the views of experts, due to which democracy and good governance will be stronger.
• The main objective of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) is to strengthen democracy. Through this, the Speaker of the Parliament and the heads of the legislatures of various states, people's representatives, etc. together brainstorm for the strengthening of democracy. Make a common policy and implement it, it helps in strengthening democracy.
• There will be brainstorming through CPA as to how to run the House smoothly, so that policies and rules can be determined according to the interests of the common man.
• The guests also released a coffee table book based on the various programs and workshops organized by the Rajasthan branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly.
• Similarly, a documentary based on the programs of the Rajasthan branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association was also screened in the programme.

One District One Project (ODOP) Display Window

Why in News?

On August 21, 2023, Rajeev Arora, Chairman of Rajasthan Small Industries Corporation and Rajasthan Export Promotion Council, inaugurated the ODOP display window at Rajasthali Emporium in New Delhi under the 'One District One Project' (ODOP) of the Government of India.

Key Points:

• Speaking on the occasion, RAJSICO Chairman said that ODOP through its display window has the potential to promote social and economic development of artisans, craftsmen & farmers of Rajasthan.
• It is known that this initiative conceptualized by Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has already started giving results as industrial units are flourishing under the MSME policy of the state. In addition, the ODOP mission will give a big boost to export opportunities through the Become an Exporter scheme.
• The Chairman described the specialty of Blue Pottery Gems and Jewellery of Jaipur while describing the famous products of different districts of Rajasthan.
• The occasion showcased Jodhpur's Wood & Iron Handicrafts, exquisite creations of Jodhpur artisans painstakingly made from wood & wrought iron, showcasing their skill and creativity.
• The RAJSICO Chairman said that the Kota Doria of Kota, the delicate and distinctive Kota Doria textiles known for their light & intricate weaves, reflect the true essence of the artistic heritage of Rajasthan.
• Nagaur's marble products, skilled hands and craftsmen shape lasting beauty by transforming pristine marble into breathtaking art. Theva Art of Pratapgarh: The mesmerizing Theva technique, a fusion of gold and glass, unfolds captivating stories through its intricate motifs.
• Similarly, this display of excellence extends to innumerable other products, including cumin & leather products from Jalore, honey & edible oil from Bharatpur, jute carpets from Dausa, terracotta from Rajsamand, textile embroidery from Barmer and diverse offerings from various districts. Each product captures the essence of Rajasthan's heritage.
• The state government aims to ensure that Rajasthan's products are exported directly, eliminating the need for intermediary procurement from other states or cities. This will not only empower the local artisans and farmers of the state but will also increase the global presence of Rajasthan.
• At the inauguration ceremony, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Rajasthan, Veenu Gupta said that the inauguration of ODOP Display Window in Delhi will prove to be a milestone, increasing the income of artisans, craftsmen & farmers.
• RAJSICO Managing Director Dr. Manisha Arora said that with the growing demand for Rajasthan's exquisite handicrafts, timeless gems & Jewellery, exclusive textiles, abundant agricultural produce, state-of-the-art machinery, delectable marble creations & aromatic spices in the G-20 countries and across the globe, RAJSICO has taken this step-in response.
• A state-of-the-art ODOP display window has been carefully crafted at Rajasthali Emporium, New Delhi, harmoniously blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional charm.

The Chief Minister gave Approval for the Construction and Renovation of 150 Anicuts & 100 Canals in the State.

Why in News?

On August 21, 2023, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot approved the construction & restoration of 150 anicuts & 100 canal systems related to canals, water & irrigation projects to continuously work for the development and strengthening of irrigation systems in different areas of the state.

Key Points:

• It is known that the Chief Minister had announced construction & renovation works of 100 anicuts and 100 canal systems in the state at Rs 800 crore.
• Given the importance of suggestions and works received from the people of the state about anicuts, instead of 100 these works have been increased and approval has been given for the construction/strengthening works of 150 anicuts. Availability of water will be ensured in more areas than this.
• It is worth mentioning that in the budget year 2023-24, the Chief Minister announced the renovation of various anicuts and canals in the state.

Chief Minister and Union Minister laid the Foundation Stone of New Airport in Datia

Why in News?

On August 21, 2023, Union Civil Aviation & Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan laid the foundation stone of the new airport in Datia at a cost of Rs 29 crore 30 lakhs.

Key Points:

• On this occasion, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced a proposal to the Central Government to open a college in Basai of Datia, to form a Nagar Panchayat, as well as to rename village Khiriya Faizullah as Khiriya Sarkar.
• The Chief Minister said that an amount of Rs 1,000 per month is reaching the accounts of sisters in the state, which will be gradually increased to Rs 3,000 per month. The Chief Minister said that the 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao' campaign was started from Mother Pitambara's Dhara Datia only.
• The Chief Minister said that the government will now pay the fees of the sons & daughters studying in the Medical College and Engineering College of the state. From August 22, 'Chief Minister's Seekho-Kamao Yojana' is being started to provide employment to the youth along with stipend, in which ITI and 12th class passed youth will be given a stipend of Rs. 8 to 10 thousand.
• Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said that after the construction of the new airport in Datia, the facility of landing 19-seater aircraft will be available. Air services will also be started from the airport to Khajuraho and Bhopal. The new airport of Gwalior will also be ready in 15 months.
• Scindia said that with the inspiration of the Prime Minister, flight services have been started in urban areas as well as in religious areas. New airport facility will also be available in Srinagar-Jammu.

Many Important Projects have been Approved to Speed up the Development of Gurugram.

Why in News?

On August 19, 2023, under the chairmanship of Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal, the 12th meeting of Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) was held at PWD Rest House, in which several important schemes were approved to speed up the development of Gurugram City through (GMDA).

Key Points:

• After extensive discussion with the members of the Authority, the Chief Minister approved the annual budget of Rs 2574.40 crore for the year 2023-24.
• In the annual budget, Rs 570.06 crore for infrastructure (roads, water supply, sewerage, storm water etc.), Rs 1151.77 crore for capital work, which health services, especially Rs 300 crore for Sheetla Mata Temple, Rs 36 crore for urban environment and a provision of Rs 538 crore has been made for operation & maintenance.
• For the annual budget, the authority will get revenue of Rs 2043.17 crore from various heads. Also, the balance requirement of Rs 531.23 crore will be met from the already available corpus fund.
• In the meeting of the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority, a new master water supply line was also proposed regarding the demand for water supply to different areas and new sectors of the city, on which the Chief Minister approved the 20.50-kilometer-long master water supply line. A budget of Rs 125 crore was also approved for this line.
• The new line of 200 MLD capacity from Basai Water Treatment Plant Part II will supply water to sectors 101, 104, 108, 110, 110A, New Palam Vihar, Palam Vihar, Sector 23, crossing NH-48, cyber hub etc. Through this line, the demand for water supply in the new and old cities will be met.
• In the 12th meeting of the GMDA, the Chief Minister approved the transfer of land for the proposed new Sewerage Treatment Plants (STPs) in Sector 107 near Daulatabad and Sector 78 near Naurangpur.
• Similarly, in the meeting, under the work of the upgradation of the road connecting Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) from Faridabad Road to NH 48, administrative approval was given for an amount of Rs 109.14 crore for the underpass being constructed at Vatika Chowk.
• The underpass is being constructed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and GMDM on a 50:50 share basis.
• In the meeting, the Chief Minister also discussed with the officers of GMDA to increase the revenue through advertisement and other means.

509 Schools of the State will be known as Martyrs

Why in News?

On August 20, 2023, District Education Officer of Sonipat district of Haryana, Naveen Gulia said that students studying in government schools in Sonipat district will now be able to know about freedom fighters and brave martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country. For this, the state government is going to name 509 schools of the state after the martyrs, taking a big step to pay homage to the martyrs. This includes eight schools of Sonipat.

Key Points:

• All the records and website of the education department are being updated to change the name of these government schools to the names of the martyrs. With this step of the government, the families of the martyrs are feeling proud.
• These include 358 high, senior, secondary schools and 151 secondary and primary schools in the state. These schools are being named after the freedom fighters of that village and the brave martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country.
• With this, where the young generation will get an opportunity to know about the martyrdom of the martyrs, the feeling of patriotism will also be awakened in their hearts.
• Two schools each from Sonipat, Gohana, Kathura and Kharkhoda blocks have been included in the schools which will be renamed after the freedom fighters or brave martyrs of that region. In these schools, the names of some schools have also been changed and written on the main gate.
• These schools will be known as Martyrs in Sonipat:

Blocks	Martyr	School
Sonipat	Freedom Fighter Mahavir Prasad Jain	Government Senior Secondary School, Shahzadpur
Sonipat	Freedom Fighter Chaudhary Chandan Singh	Government Senior Secondary School, Bainyapur Lahrada
Gohana	Shaheed Sukhbir Singh	Government Senior Secondary School, Rukhi
Gohana	Freedom Fighter Babu Moolchand Jain	Government High School, Sikandarpur Majra
Kathura	Martyr Sepoy Captain Singh	Government Senior Secondary School, Dhanana
Kathura	Shaheed Mahavir Singh	Government High School, Bhanderi
Kharkhoda	Shaheed Ravindra Singh Dahiya	Government Girls Senior Secondary School, Rohna
Kharkhoda	Shaheed Rai Singh	Government Primary School, Jharonthi

Where will the names of how many schools be changed?

Rewari - 94, Bhiwani - 85, Jind - 61, Palwal - 38, Rohtak - 36, Charkhi Dadri - 28, Jhajjar - 28, Gurugram - 25, Kaithal - 21, Mahendragarh - 16, Hisar - 13, Fatehabad - 10, Ambala - 8, Faridabad - 8, Kurukshetra - 8, Sonipat - 8, Yamunanagar - 5, Panchkula - 5, Panipat - 5, Sirsa - 4, Karnal - 2, Nuh -1.

Total - 509

State's Second Military School will soon Open in Dumka's Jarmundi

Why in News?

According to information received from the media on August 21, 2023, the state's second Sainik School will soon open at Jarmundi in Dumka. For this, the government has already marked the land.

Key Points:

• Dumka district's Additional Collector Rajeev Kumar said that 50 acres of land has been selected in Vishunpur of Jarmundi block for Sainik School. Soon the central team can visit Vishunpur Mauza of Jarmundi block regarding this.
• It is known that this Sainik School to be opened in Dumka's Jarmundi will be the second Sainik School in the state. There is already a Sainik School at Tilaiya in Jharkhand.
• Sainik School is run by the Ministry of Defense and is fully residential. CBSE curriculum is taught here. There are Sainik Schools in most of the states of the country.
• A total of 33 Sainik Schools are currently operating across the country. Bihar, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan are the states which have two Sainik Schools each, while Uttar Pradesh has three Sainik Schools.
• Sainik Schools are basically established with the aim of producing capable officers in the defense services of the country. These schools prepare students for officer positions at the National Defense Academy and the Indian Naval Academy.
• There is a great need for discipline and efficiency in the army. For this, such children have to be prepared, who are disciplined and quick-tempered since childhood. For this, children have to be prepared physically and mentally from an early age. This is not possible in the normal schools of the country because there is no good infrastructure and qualified instructors, who can prepare young children to become qualified military officers according to the requirements of the army.

Jharkhand State's First Central Instrument Center and Research will be Built in DSPMU

Why in News?

According to information received from Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee, Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Tapan Kumar Shandilya on August 21, 2023, DSPMU Management Central Instrument Center and Research will be established soon for the students, faculty & research scholars of DSPMU.

Key Points:

• This will be the first research center in Jharkhand, in which a lab with world class facilities will be established.
• Vice-Chancellor Prof. Tapan Kumar Shandilya said that a research center is being set up with the help of the government.
• Here the students and faculty will be given world class facilities. A state-of-the-art building will be constructed for natural science and live science. The size of the building will be G+4.
• The total area of G+4 building will be 1.30 square feet. Research Center will be set up in DSPMU on the lines of Research Center built in Mysore University, each floor of Central Instrument Center and Research will be of 26 thousand square feet.
• Before making the proposal for the construction of the building, information was taken about the research centers of various universities of the country, so that the students and faculty could be given facilities according to the global demand.
• Twenty labs will be set up in the building of the Central Instrument Center and Research. 10 labs will be for students and research scholars of subjects related to natural science. On the other hand, 10 labs will be for students and research scholars of subjects related to live science.
• There will be a room with special facilities for each faculty and department head. One room for each HOD will be faculty room for the teachers of the concerned subject. Apart from this, there will be separate toilets for girls and boys in each department.
• A state-of-the-art auditorium will be constructed in the Central Instrument Center and Research Building. 10,000 students and faculty will be able to sit together in this auditorium. Apart from this, there will also be facility of lift, state-of-the-art corridor and records.

The Secret of the Inscriptions of Jageshwar and Badrinath will soon be Revealed

Why in News?

On August 20, 2023, K.B. Sharma, Assistant Superintending Archaeologist of Dehradun Circle, Uttarakhand, said that the secret of ancient inscriptions of world famous Jageshwar Dham in Almora and Badrinath in Chamoli will soon be revealed. For this, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has sent a letter to the Epigraphy Branch, Lucknow.

Key Points:

• Ancient script is engraved in the walls of some other temples including Mahamrityunjaya located in Jageshwar Dham. Two colossal inscriptions from the Mahamrityunjaya temple are now preserved in the Archaeological Museum. The script engraved in these inscriptions has not been translated yet. Even in Badrinath Dham, the ancient script engraved in the inscription remains a mystery to the people.
• In view of this, recently, ASI officer K.B. Sharma has sent a letter to the Epigraphy Branch, urging them to send a team of experts to translate the script engraved in the ancient inscriptions at Jageshwar and Badrinath Dham.
• After the completion of the research process, ASI will display the Hindi and English translation of the ancient script for the public.
• According to ASI officials, some of the inscriptions engraved on the walls of the temples of Jageshwar Dham have been translated by Dr. D.C. Sarkar. This translation has been published earlier in the Indica book of Dr. D.C. Sarkar, but the main inscriptions have not been translated yet.
• It is known that the ASI had sent a letter to the Epigraphy Branch about two years ago, demanding the translation of the inscriptions of Jageshwar and Badrinath. Due to busyness, the team of experts could not reach here, but now it is expected to reach here soon.