State in News
Second Phase of Construction Begins on World’s Largest Ramayan Temple in Bihar
The ambitious project to build the “world’s largest Ramayan temple” has entered its second phase of construction in East Champaran district of Bihar. The Viraat Ramayan Mandir, as it is known, promises to be a monumental structure that will surpass the size of the recently constructed Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, drawing inspiration from various architectural marvels across Asia.
Haryana Cabinet Approves IT Saksham Yuva Scheme to Provide 5,000 Jobs in First Phase
The Haryana Cabinet has approved the launch of the IT Saksham Yuva Scheme, 2024, targeting the provision of jobs to 5,000 youths in the first phase. This initiative aligns with the ‘Mission 60,000’ from the 2024-25 budget, aiming to employ 60,000 young individuals from poor families. Under the scheme, graduates or postgraduates from IT backgrounds will undergo specially designed short-term courses for a minimum of three months. Post-training, they will be placed in various departments, boards, corporations, districts, registered societies, and private entities. Participants will receive ₹20,000 per month for the first six months, followed by ₹25,000. If not deployed, an unemployment allowance of ₹10,000 per month will be provided.
Ranks and Reports News
NITI Aayog Releases SDG India Index 2023-24
The SDG India Index 2023-24 reveals significant national and subnational progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). India’s composite score improved to 71, reflecting advancements across key sectors like poverty eradication, economic growth, climate action, and biodiversity conservation.
Schemes News
Government to Launch ‘Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises’ (AgriSURE)
The Government of India is set to launch the ‘Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises’ (AgriSURE) to support start-ups and agripreneurs through investments in sector-specific, sector-agnostic, and debt Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), as well as direct equity support to start-ups working in agriculture and allied sectors. This initiative aims to foster innovation and sustainability in India’s agricultural sector through the establishment of a Rs 750 crore Category-II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF). The fund will offer both equity and debt support, specifically targeting high-risk, high-impact activities in the agriculture value chain.
Sports News
James Anderson Retires from Test Cricket: End of an Era for England
In a momentous occasion for cricket fans worldwide, James Anderson, the veteran English speedster, has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 41-year-old bowler’s illustrious career, spanning an impressive 21 years, came to a close at the very ground where it all began – the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London.
Awards News
Retired Tamil Nadu Professor K. Chockalingam Honoured with Prestigious Hans von Hentig Award
In a significant recognition of his contributions to the field of victimology, retired professor K. Chockalingam from Tamil Nadu, India, has been selected for the esteemed Hans von Hentig award. This honour highlights the global impact of Indian scholarship in the study of crime victims and their experiences within the criminal justice system.
Important Days
Malala Day 2024: Date, History, and Significance
Malala Day, celebrated annually on July 12, commemorates the birthday of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate. This day honors her courageous fight for girls’ education and serves as a global call to action for children’s right to education worldwide.