Rajasthan

• 22 Aug 2023

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.