State PCS

• 26 Jun 2023

C3i ties up with IIT Kanpur

• Why in News?
• According to media information received on June 25, 2023, C3i Hub, the Hi-tech Cyber security lab of IIT Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, has entered into an agreement with the Telangana Police. Under this, C3i Hub will help the police from arresting to punishing criminals who commit cyber crimes.
• Key Points:
• Kanpur-based IIT has developed artificial intelligence-based tools that will not only be a tool to catch criminals but will also guide the police in convicting them. Telangana will first get the benefit of this technology.
• Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) scientists are constantly developing systems or tools based on new technology to protect the country from cyber-attacks.
• Special AI-based systems (tools) have been developed for Telangana Police under the supervision of Prof. Manindra Agarwal, Project Manager, C3I Hub.
• This system has a database of all the patterns of cyber crimes, on the basis of which it will automatically divide the crime into different categories.
• Also, if such a crime has happened in the past, then its complete information and full details of the criminal who committed the crime will be told. This will make it easier for the police to interrogate or investigate. This will also provide necessary suggestions to the police.
• This system will give a complete analysis based on current crime and old records. With the help of tools, cyber-crime can be prevented to a great extent. Soon this technology will also be shared with other states.
• This is how cyber crime happens -
  • Hacking social media and sending objectionable messages.
  • Hack the bank account and withdraw the money.
  • Hacking the email ID asking for money or sending objectionable messages.
  • WhatsApp or Facebook hackers asking for money.
  • Hacking accounts to steal databases.
  • Hack Aadhaar card and withdraw money.

Residential Schools like Toppers Factory Simultala to be opened in 11 districts of Bihar

Why in News?

Recently, in the general meeting of Simultala Education Society chaired by Bihar Education Minister Prof. Chandrashekhar, it was decided to establish new schools on the lines of Simultala Residential School in 11 districts of the state and also to appoint regular teachers in Simultala Residential School through Bihar Public Service Commission.

Key Points:

• Residential schools on the lines of Simultala residential schools will be conducted in 11 districts of the state from the upcoming academic session- 2024.
• According to official information, a preliminary objective test will be conducted in the teacher selection process. After this, the main examination will be based on non-objective questions. After this, selections will be done from the demo class with group discussion and interviews.
• The service of these new teachers will be under the Simultala Education Society. Teachers will be able to transfer to all schools run under this society.
• Apart from this, a five-member committee has been formed for deputation and selection in Simultala School in this meeting.
• According to the information, the Patna camp of Simultala Education Society will be established. Also, academic special duty officers of Simultala have been nominated.
• During this time, it was decided to reconstitute the General Body Executive Committee and School Management Committee of the Society. Apart from this, a seven-member executive committee and school management committee were also formed.

G20 Labour 20 (L-20) Summit

Why in News?

The Labour 20 (L-20) Summit was held in Patna, the capital of Bihar from June 21-23, 2023. Topics such as 'Universal Social Security' and 'Women and Future of Work' were discussed extensively.

Key Points:

• The Labour-20 Summit held in Patna resolved to create a multilateral mechanism between G20 member countries and other allied countries on the ability to easily access social security benefits.
• Speaking on the occasion, All India President of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh Hiranmay Pandya said that the report of the Task Force on 'International Migration of Workers - Easy Access to Social Security Funds Internationally' was discussed in detail at the summit.
• It is known that in the establishment meeting of Labour-20 Summit held on 18, 19 and 20 March 2023 in Amritsar, 5 task forces related to major issues in the world of work were formed - Universal Social Security, Women and the Future of Work, International Migration of Workers - The Right to Access Social Security Funds to the International Level, The changing world of work: new job opportunities in the G20 countries and Challenges and Skill Development: Roles and Responsibilities of the Stakeholders
• The widespread use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) was discussed in detail, highlighting its positive effects such as increased labour productivity, income growth and better living standards.
• Harmonising technological innovation with sustainable and equitable changes is a key aspect of Draft No. 1 of L20, Patna, which needs to be thoroughly studied and aligned with the policy framework.
• The establishment of a tripartite board, comprising representatives of the government, aggregator companies & trade unions, can take effective decisions and facilitate policy-making, the conference said. This collaborative approach ensures that the perspectives and interests of all stakeholders are considered, thereby promoting a more balanced & inclusive work environment.
• The report of the Task Force on 'Women and the Future of Work' was discussed in detail at the Summit. The Task Force proposed to provide incentives and create a supportive environment to increase women's participation in the private sector and promote their leadership roles.
• At the conference, the task force recommended that the global workforce faces significant challenges in accessing social security, with 61% of informal sector workers lacking such coverage. To address this issue, it is important to imagine a third model of social security, which combines the principles of both contributory and non-contributory systems.
• The task force recommended that the skill training programme should include green skills to bridge the global skill gap. To ensure that the skills acquired in one country are recognised in another country, a common qualification framework is required.
• The deliberations at the summit were attended by trade union leaders and representatives of Indian trade unions as well as labour experts from 28 countries. The summit also discussed labour-related issues that emerged at the meetings of Civil 20, Women 20, Youth 20 and Science 20.
• The summit discussed the feasibility of a joint statement between Labour-20 and Business-20 in the presence of Business-20 representatives.

'Green Lungs' to be developed in 13 Cities

Why in News?

On June 25, 2023, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved a financial proposal of Rs 19 crore to develop 'green lungs' in 13 cities of the state.

Key Points:

• Forest areas around 13 cities will be developed with the said amount.
• According to the approval, forest areas will be developed and opened for the common people at a cost of Rs. 2 crores each in Moongaska of Alwar, Rajgarh in Churu, Mangalwar in Chittorgarh, Nathdwara & Ganesh Tekdi in Rajsamand, Risala in Udaipur. Forest areas will be developed and opened to the public at a cost of Rs 1 crore each in Khairkhedi of Baran, Shyampura of Banswara, Qila Block of Chittorgarh, Neelkanth Mahadev of Dausa, Kanota Dam of Jaipur, Bandaria Magara of Rajsamand and Kacha Dam area of Tonk.
• With this decision of the Chief Minister, the common people in these cities will get a pure environment & greenery and the environment will also be protected.
• It is worth mentioning that an announcement in this regard was made by the Chief Minister in the budget for the year 2023-24.

'Chief Minister Folk Artist Promotion Scheme - 2023'

Why in News?

On June 24, 2023, Rajasthan's Minister of Art, Literature, Culture & Archaeology, Dr. B.D. Kalla said in the first meeting of the State Appellate Policy Making & Supervision Committee organized by the Department at the Government Secretariat in Jaipur that under the 'Mukhyamantri Lok Kalakar Protsahan Yojana-2023', folk artists of the state will be given the opportunity to perform 100 days of art in their local areas by honouring their art.

Key Points:

• Minister Dr. B.D. Kalla said that as per the intention of the Chief Minister, folk artists would be given employment for 100 days per family every year through the performance of folk arts.
• He said that if the art of the folk artist is protected and he gets 100 days of assured employment, then he can easily raise his family.
• At the same time, the art of the artist will also go to the general public and they will get more work and these artists will be given opportunities to perform in government programs, festivals, fairs, festivals, ceremonies, schools and colleges etc.
• A web portal for online registration of folk artists will also be launched soon. All the folk artists of the state will be able to register themselves on the web portal through their Jan Aadhaar card.
• Under the scheme, folk artists will be given folk artist incentive cards. This card will be the primary document of artists to get an art performance opportunity, which will identify an artist.
• Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Akademi, Jodhpur has been made the nodal agency for the operation of 'Mukhyamantri Lok Kalakar Protsahan Yojana-2023'.

Jungle Safari started in Tiger Reserve Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary

Why in News?

On June 23, 2023, Ashok Chandna, Rajasthan’s Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Sports and Information & Public Relations, flagged off the first Jungle Safari at Tiger Reserve Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary in Dalelpura, Bundi, to take forward Bundi district in the tourism sector in the State.

Key Points:

• On this occasion, the Minister of State said that the launch of Safari in Tiger Century is a lifeline for the entire district. In the coming times, employment opportunities will open for the youth.
• Along with this, new dimensions of development will be established. Tourists coming from every corner of the country will be happy and the people of the area will get employment.
• 4 foreign and 14 native tourists were taken on a jungle safari in Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve.
• Tiger Reserve Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary has many features. It is about 1500 sq km with a core area of 500 sq km.
• Various species of animals live in it. With all these features, this sanctuary will emerge as a major centre of attraction for tourists in the coming days.
• Tiger, panther, chitli, deer, bear, wild cat, chital, sambhar, fox, nilgai, chital, swamp deer, monkey, langur, mongoose, squirrel, porcupine etc. will be seen on the route of jungle safari.
• Apart from this, around one hundred birds including peacock, quail, pigeon, heron, eagle, vulture, owl, sparrow, parrot will be seen.
• To enjoy the jungle safari, domestic tourists will have to spend Rs.780 per tourist, foreign tourists will have to spend Rs.1150 per tourist and students will have to spend Rs.700 per student.

CRISP, Madhya Pradesh and Haryana BSEH signed an MoU

Why in News?

According to the information given by the Public Relations Department of Madhya Pradesh on June 25, 2023, CRISP will provide digital certificate printing and online verification service to the Haryana School Education Board (BSEH) with the blockchain technology developed by Madhya Pradesh. For this, an agreement was signed between CRISP Madhya Pradesh and BSEH on June 22.

Key Points:

• This agreement has been signed between both the institutions for 3 years, in which certificates will be prepared for the candidates who have passed more than 5 lakh regular and supplementary examinations every year. The certificate processing will be done after the blockchain digital certificate is generated using public blockchain technology.
• Encrypted digital certificates will also be given to the students for online verification through the BSEH website, wherein the Board will also have a provision for printing physical copies of the records using the encrypted records.
• Dr. Shrikant Patil, Managing Director, CRISP, said that this is one of its kind initiative with the Haryana Government, in which the blockchain technology developed by CRISP is being used for the betterment of the students. Will also work with different states of India in future.
• The organization is also certified for Capability Maturity Integration Level 5, which is considered to be the best certification in the IT and e-Governance sector.
• Amol Vaidya, director of CRISP, explained that the blockchain-based authentication system is aimed at preventing fraudulent activities related to identity theft and giving the correct credentials to students.
• Head of IT Sandeep Jain informed that CRISP is providing state-of-the-art IT-enabled services to various departments in Madhya Pradesh and other states as well. It aims to make CRISP synonymous with skill development.
• It is known that CRISP is working with various universities across India to bring such advanced technology into the education system.
• The blockchain-based certification system is the first of its kind to be implemented in any secondary education board, which will provide authenticity of records by BSE Haryana by verifying the individual/specific data of the candidate through a decentralized mechanism.
• Center for Research and Industrial Staff Performance (CRISP) has been working in the field of Training, Research & Skill Development for the last 27 years. This institute also provides solutions in the IT sector.
• CRISP, the futuristic technology lab, has been developing advanced IT solutions using blockchain/AI/ML/robotic automation and other futuristic technologies.

Chitrapat Jharkhand Film Festival

Why in News?

According to information received from the media on June 23, 2023, a three-day film festival was organized by Chitrapat Jharkhand at Sarala Birla University, Ranchi, in which a total of 60 films were screened.

Key Points:

• The producers and directors of the film were awarded certificates at the three-day film festival.
• In this film festival, 10 themes of films were kept for the competition by Chitrapat Jharkhand. In these, there were subjects like Tribal Society, Jharkhand Freedom Struggle, Vocal for Local, History of Jharkhand, Village Development, Women Empowerment, Environment, Social Harmony, Employment Generation, and Future India.
• In this film festival, three types of award categories of films were kept - short film, documentary film, campus film.
• The best three awards were given in these three categories. The best film in all three types of categories was given the first, second, and third prizes. In this, along with Best Male Actor and Best Female Actress, Best Director was also awarded.
• In the category of short film award, Rs 31,000 was given to the first-best film, Rs 21,000 to the second and Rs 11,000 to the third-best film.
• Rs.5100 for best director, Rs.5100 for best story, Rs.5100 for best cinematographer and Rs.5100 for best editor. Rs 5100 was given to the best male actor and Rs 5100 to the best female actress.
• In the documentary film category, Rs 31,000 was awarded for the best film, Rs 21,000 for the second-best film and Rs 11,000 for the third-best film. In the campus film category, Rs 15,000 was awarded for the best film, Rs 11,000 for the second and Rs 7,500 for the third category.
• Rs 3100 was awarded to the best director, Rs 3100 to the best male actor and Rs 31, 000 to the best female actress. A trophy and certificate were also given along with this award.
• At the closing ceremony, former minister and MLA Saryu Rai awarded the winning participants with certificates & trophies as a mark of respect.

Sal seeds will bring prosperity to Uttarakhand, a new chapter in Forest Produce

Why in News?

On June 25, 2023, Manoj Chandran, Chief Conservator of Forests, Uttarakhand Forest Department, said that for the first time in the state, work is being done on a plan to collect and sell Sal seeds in the market as a pilot project. In this way, a new chapter of forest produce has been added in the forest-dominated state of Uttarakhand.

Key Points:

• Sal forests spread over an area of about 5,000 square kilometres in the state will become a new source of income for the villagers and the forest department. The Dhami government's emphasis in the state is on increasing income from forests.
• For this, apart from eco-tourism, instructions have been given to the officers on behalf of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on how prosperity can be brought from different types of produce obtained from forests. In this series, the Forest Department has started work for the first time on this scheme to generate income from the seeds of the year.
• According to an estimate, about 45 lakh quintals of Sal seeds are produced in Uttarakhand. Although all the seeds will not be collected in this scheme, for this the seeds fallen on the fire line and roadside will be collected. Accordingly, lakhs of quintals of seeds will be collected.
• Sal seeds have been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine to treat gallstones, leucorrhoea, gonorrhoea, skin diseases, stomach disorders, ulcers, wounds, diarrhoea and weakness. Apart from this, sal seeds are also used in making chocolate.
• Valuable edible oil is extracted from sal seeds. The seed contains 19.20% oil. The oil is also used as a substitute for butter and in confectionery & foods. The remaining oilseed contains 10.12% protein. It is used as feed for poultry.
• Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand are such states in the country, where sal seeds are collected on a large scale through small forest produce cooperative societies as major forest produce. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Sal seeds is also released every year in these states.

Uttarakhand Multi-Hazard Early Warning System

Why in News?

According to the information received from the media on June 24, 2023, a siren system will be installed at 250 places in the first phase of this pilot project named Uttarakhand Multi-Hazard Early Warning System to prevent disasters in Uttarakhand.

Key Points:

• An approval of Rs 118 crore has been received in the first phase for this project to be set up in Uttarakhand.
• It is known that the project has been approved in the High Powered Committee (HPC) meeting held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary SS Sandhu.
• The World Bank is funding this project. Now global tenders will be invited for this at the international level.
• After the implementation of this project, Uttarakhand will be the second state after Kerala, which is going to adopt this system. Kerala has spent around Rs 80 crore on this project.
• Under the Early Warning Siren System, this system will be installed on mobile towers located at sensitive places in the state. New towers will be installed where there are no mobile towers.
• After this, alerts received from organizations like Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Center Water Commission will be conveyed to the people through sirens. In calamities like floods, landslides, earthquakes, heavy rains, and avalanches, people will be able to reach safe places in time to protect their lives and property.
• In case of any disaster, the siren system can be operated from three levels. Firstly, where the siren system will be installed, there will also be a mini control room.
• Second, it can be triggered (pressing the button) from the control room set up at the district level and thirdly, the siren system can also be activated from the control room set up at the state level.
• A siren system has been installed on the banks of the Ganga in Rishikesh by THDC (Tehri Hydro Development Corporation), but it works only when water is released from the dam. The Multi-Hazard Early Warning System will issue warning sirens in case of any type of disaster.
• The special feature of the Uttarakhand Multi-Hazard Early Warning System is that it will broadcast different types of sounds in different disasters. For this, the general public will be told in advance what kind of sound the siren will broadcast. With this people will be able to know what kind of danger they are in.
• A list of mobile towers has been sought from the districts for the installation of the siren system. The project has already been approved by HPC and World Bank. In the first phase, the number of sirens will be increased to 250 and then to 1000 in the next phase.