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•
Contents
1. National Affairs ...............................................................................................................1
• 2. International Affairs........................................................................................................6
• 3. Economy.............................................................................................................................9
• 4. Science and Technology................................................................................................11
• 5. Sports................................................................................................................................13
• 6. Defence News..................................................................................................................17
• 7. Awards and Honour........................................................................................................19
• 8. Appointments & Resignations.....................................................................................22
• 9. Index and Reports..........................................................................................................26
• 10. Obituaries........................................................................................................................28
• 11. Summit and Conferences..............................................................................................29
• 12. Books and Authors.........................................................................................................32
• 13. Important Days...............................................................................................................33
• 14. Important Government Schemes................................................................................34
• 15. Persons and Places in News.........................................................................................36
Chapter

1 National Affairs

Govt. to Install 1 Lakh EV Charging Stations • Chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, the
Nationwide by 2030 conference focused on the theme “The Role of
Legislative Bodies in the Attainment of Sustainable
• On 24 September 2024, the Indian government
and Inclusive Development”.
announced plans to install 1 lakh electric vehicle
(EV) charging stations nationwide by 2030. • It brought together 46 presiding officers, 25 speakers,
and 14 deputy speakers from various states and
• This initiative, led by Union Power Minister Manohar
union territories.
Lal, aims to support the growing adoption of EVs and
reduce carbon emissions. Currently, 34,000 charging
stations are operational.
Laapataa Ladies is India’s official entry for
• The expansion is part of a broader strategy to enhance
Oscars 2025
the country’s power infrastructure and meet the
anticipated peak power demand of 425 GW by 2030.

Govt. to Install 1 Lakh 4G Mobile Towers by

2025
• On 24 September 2024, Union Minister for
Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia announced
that the Indian government aims to install 1 lakh 4G
mobile towers by mid-2025.
• This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance
nationwide connectivity, with 36,574 towers already
installed.
• On 23 September 2024, the Film Federation of India
• The project supports the government’s vision
announced “Laapataa Ladies” as India’s official entry
of achieving 100% mobile network coverage,
particularly in rural and underserved areas. for the 2025 Oscars.
• Directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan,
National Symposium ‘Exercise AIKYA’ on the film tells the story of two brides who accidentally
Disaster Management swap places during a train journey.
• It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival
• The National Symposium ‘Exercise AIKYA’ on Disaster
Management was held on 22 September 2024. (TIFF) in 2023 and has received critical acclaim. The
film is now streaming on Netflix.
• This event brought together experts, policymakers,
and stakeholders to discuss and strategize on PM Modi addressed the 79th UN General
enhancing disaster preparedness and response
mechanisms in India. Assembly
• The symposium focused on collaborative efforts, • On 23 September 2024, PM Narendra Modi addressed
innovative technologies, and best practices to mitigate the 79th UN General Assembly in New York.
the impact of natural and man-made disasters. • He emphasized the need for global action against
terrorism and emerging threats in cyber, maritime,
10th CPA India Region Conference and space domains.
• The 10th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association • Modi also called for reforms in global governance
(CPA) India Region Conference took place on 23 and institutions to maintain their relevance and
24 September 2024, in New Delhi. effectiveness.
PM Modi reiterates India’s Commitment to India unveils CSIRT-Power to Fortify Power
Protect Rhinos Sector Against Cyber Threats
• On 22 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra • Recently, India has launched CSIRT-Power, a
Modi reiterated India’s commitment to protecting specialized Computer Security Incident Response
rhinos on the occasion of World Rhino Day. Team, to protect its power sector from cyber threats.
• He highlighted the importance of conserving one • Inaugurated by Union Minister Manohar Lal, this
of the planet’s most iconic species and praised the initiative aims to enhance cybersecurity resilience
efforts of those involved in rhino conservation. amid the sector’s digital transformation.
• Equipped with advanced tools and a dedicated team,
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends CSIRT-Power will coordinate incident responses,
Quad Leaders Summit in Delaware, US analyze sector-specific threats, and implement
proactive measures.

PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for PM

Mega Integrated Textile Regions and
Apparel Park in Maharashtra
• On 20 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra
Modi laid the foundation stone for the PM Mega
Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel (PM MITRA)
Park in Amravati, Maharashtra.
• The 1,000-acre park, developed by the Maharashtra
Industrial Development Corporation, aims to boost
the textile industry.
• This initiative is part of the government’s plan to
• On 21 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra establish seven such parks across India to enhance
Modi attended the sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit in textile manufacturing and exports.
Wilmington, Delaware.
• Hosted by US President Joe Biden, the summit also India’s Third Home-built 700 MWe Nuclear
included Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Reactor Achieves Criticality
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. • On 19 September 2024, India’s third indigenous
• The leaders discussed various global issues, including 700 MWe nuclear reactor achieved criticality at
regional conflicts, maritime security, technology, and the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project (RAPP) in
clean energy. Rawatbhata.
• They released the “Wilmington Declaration,” • The reactor is part of a series of 16 Pressurised
reaffirming their commitment to a free and open Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) being developed
Indo-Pacific. across India.
• NPCIL, which operates 24 reactors, aims to enhance
India Pledges 40 million doses of Cancer India’s nuclear power capacity significantly with
Vaccine for Indo-Pacific Nations these new additions.
• On 21 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra
Modi announced India’s pledge of 40 million doses of India’s First Fashion Forecasting Initiative
the HPV vaccine for Indo-Pacific nations. ‘VisioNxt’
• This commitment, made during the Quad Leaders’ • VisioNxt is India’s first fashion forecasting initiative,
Summit in Delaware, supports the Quad’s Cancer launched by the National Institute of Fashion
Moonshot initiative and GAVI’s efforts to combat Technology (NIFT) with support from the Ministry
cervical cancer in the region. of Textiles.
• The initiative aims to enhance cancer prevention, • It combines Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emotional
detection, and treatment across the Indo-Pacific. Intelligence (EI) to provide trend insights and

CURRENT AFFAIRS | September 2024 P

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 forecasts tailored to India’s diverse cultural PM Modi Welcomes Newborn Calf
landscape. ‘Deepjyoti’
• VisioNxt offers geo-specific trend mapping,
consultancy services, and academic courses,
empowering designers, manufacturers, and retailers
to create consumer-focused collections.

President Murmu Graces Safai Mitra

Sammelan in Ujjain
• On 19 September 2024, President Droupadi Murmu
graced the Safai Mitra Sammelan in Ujjain, Madhya
Pradesh.
• This event celebrated the contributions of sanitation
workers, whom President Murmu hailed as frontline • On 14 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra
warriors in the nation’s cleanliness drive. Modi welcomed a newborn calf named ‘Deepjyoti’ at
his residence on Lok Kalyan Marg.
• She emphasized the importance of their role in
achieving the goals of the Swachh Bharat Mission, • The calf, born to a cow already residing there, has
which aims for total cleanliness by 2025. a distinctive light-shaped mark on its forehead,
inspiring its name, which means “light of the lamp”.
Cabinet Accepts ‘One Nation, One Election’
Government Removes Floor Price on
Recommendation
Basmati Rice
• Recently, the Union Cabinet approved
recommendations of the High-Level Committee on • On 13 September 2024, the Indian government
Simultaneous Elections and hence paving the way for removed the $950 per tonne minimum export price
‘One nation, one election’. (MEP) on basmati rice.
• Sources have indicated introduction of a Bill to • The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export
amend the Constitution during the Winter Session of Development Authority (APEDA) will monitor export
Parliament. contracts to prevent unrealistic pricing.
• The MEP was initially set at $1,200 per tonne in
PM Modi Launches Namo Bharat Rapid Rail August 2023 to curb misclassification of non-basmati
and New Vande Bharat Trains rice.

IB Ministry Institutes New Section in IFFI

2024

• On 17 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra

Modi inaugurated the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail and
new Vande Bharat trains.
• The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, previously known
as Vande Metro, connects Bhuj and Ahmedabad,
covering 360 kilometers in 5 hours and 45 minutes.
• Designed for short-distance travel, it offers modern • As part of the International Film Festival of India
amenities and advanced safety features. (IFFI) 2024, the Information and Broadcasting

CURRENT AFFAIRS | September 2024 P

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 Ministry has established a new section for emerging India Launched the National Blockchain
filmmakers dubbed the “Best Debut Indian Film Framework (NBF)
Section 2024.”
• On 4 September 2024, India launched the National
• The 55th IFFI will be held in Goa from November Blockchain Framework (NBF) to enhance security,
20th to 28th, 2024. trust, and transparency in citizen-centric applications.
• In this section, IFFI will also highlight Indian debut • The initiative includes the Vishvasya-Blockchain
films, displaying a varied spectrum of narratives and Technology Stack, NBFLite, Praamaanik, and the
cinematic styles from around the country. National Blockchain Portal.
• The framework offers Blockchain-as-a-Service (BaaS)
Union Minister Piyush Goyal Unveils Jan with a geographically distributed infrastructure,
Sunwai Portal in Mumbai supporting various permissioned blockchain
• Union Minister Piyush Goyal unveils Jan Sunwai applications.
portal in Mumbai on 13 September 2024.
23rd Law Commission for a Three-year
• Jan Sunwai portal is designed to facilitate direct and
Term
transparent interactions between traders and help
exporters resolve their issues online. • On 1 September 2024, the Indian government
constituted the 23rd Law Commission for a three-
• The protal includes several departments such as the year term, ending on 31 August 2027.
Tea Board, Coffee Board, Spices Board, Rubber Board,
• This commission aims to review and recommend
APEDA, and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, reforms for the Indian legal system, focusing on
all functioning under the Ministry. repealing obsolete laws, auditing laws affecting the
poor, and improving judicial administration.
MoEFCC Organizes the Dialogue on • The commission includes a full-time chairperson,
Montreal Protocol four full-time members, and several part-time
• On 14 September 2024, the Ministry of Environment, members.
Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) organized a
dialogue on the Montreal Protocol in New Delhi. PM Modi Hailed India’s Solar Growth at 1st
• The event focused on India’s achievements in phasing International Solar Fest
out ozone-depleting substances and implementing • On 5 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra
the Kigali Amendment to reduce hydrofluorocarbons Modi hailed India’s remarkable solar growth at the
(HFCs). first International Solar Festival.
• Key discussions included strategies for sustainable • He highlighted that India’s solar energy capacity has
increased 32-fold in the last decade, positioning the
cooling and the role of the India Cooling Action Plan
country to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by
(ICAP).
2030.
ANIIDCO Submitted Conclusions from a New Notary Portal Launched to make
High-powered Committee Appointment of Notaries Transparent
• On 6 September 2024, the Andaman and Nicobar • On 3 September 2024, the Ministry of Law and Justice
Islands Integrated Development Corporation launched the New Notary Portal to streamline and
(ANIIDCO) began managing a `72,000 crore enhance the transparency of notary appointments.
infrastructure project on Great Nicobar Island. • This portal allows notaries to submit applications,
• This ambitious project includes constructing a trans- monitor progress, and download digitally signed
shipment port, a greenfield airport, tourism facilities, Certificates of Practice online.
and solar and gas-based power plants. • The portal also supports the renewal of certificates,
• ANIIDCO was incorporated on 28th June 1988 under change of practice area, and submission of annual
the Companies Act 1956. returns.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | September 2024 P

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President Murmu Inaugurated • The ₹750 crore AgriSURE Fund aims to support
Vishwashanti Buddha Vihara in technology-driven agricultural startups and rural
enterprises, with contributions from the Government
Maharashtra of India, NABARD, and private investors.
• On 4 September 2024, President Droupadi Murmu
inaugurated the Vishwashanti Buddha Vihara in Cabinet Approves Proposal of Kaynes
Udgir, Maharashtra’s Latur district. Semicon to Setup a Semiconductor Unit in
• The event featured the unveiling of a 520 kg, 10.5- Gujarat
foot statue of Lord Buddha.
• On 2 September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved
• The Vihara, built on 1.15 hectares, can accommodate
Kaynes Semicon Pvt Ltd’s proposal to establish a
1,200 people and features an entry gate modeled
semiconductor unit in Sanand, Gujarat.
after the Sanchi Stupa.
• With an investment of ₹3,300 crore, this facility will
Centre Allocates `1400 Crore for Research, produce 6.3 million chips daily, catering to sectors
like automotive, consumer electronics, and telecom.
Development and `10,000 Crore for PLI
• On 6 September 2024, the Central Government Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Inaugurates IIT
allocated ₹1400 crore for research and development Delhi-Abu Dhabi Campus
and ₹10,000 crore for Production Linked Incentives
(PLI) in the technical textiles sector.
• The initiative aims to boost innovation and
employment in sectors like aerospace, defense,
hygiene, and agriculture, with over 40 industries
participating in the PLI scheme.

President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurated

Vishwashanti Buddha Vihara
• On 4 September 2024, President Droupadi Murmu
inaugurated the Vishwashanti Buddha Vihara in
Udgir, Maharashtra. • On 4 September 2024, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed
• The event featured the unveiling of a 520 kg, 10.5- bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi,
foot statue of Lord Buddha. inaugurated the first international campus of the
• The Vihara, built on 1.15 hectares, can accommodate Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-Delhi) in
1,200 people and features an entrance modeled after Abu Dhabi.
the Sanchi Stupa. • Strategic partnerships were announced with leading
Abu Dhabi institutions, including Khalifa University
Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial
Launched the AgriSURE Fund Intelligence.
• On 3 September 2024, Agriculture Minister Shivraj • The campus aims to foster innovation and research in
Singh Chouhan launched the AgriSURE Fund and fields like energy engineering and computer science.
Krishi Nivesh Portal in New Delhi.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | September 2024 P

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Chapter

2 International Affairs

California Enacts Law to Restrict Student • This policy change allows cross-strait same-sex
Smartphone Use couples to register their marriages under the same
regulations as heterosexual couples.
• On 23 September 2024, California Governor Gavin
• Couples must first be legally married in one of the
Newsom signed Assembly Bill 3216, known as the
35 countries that recognize same-sex marriage and
Phone-Free School Act.
pass an interview process before registering their
• This law mandates that by 1 July 2026, all school marriage in Taiwan.
districts, charter schools, and county education
offices must develop policies to limit or prohibit Jordan becomes First Leprosy-free Nation
smartphone use during school hours. • On 19 September 2024, the World Health Organization
• The aim is to improve students’ mental health and (WHO) declared Jordan the first country to eliminate
academic focus by reducing digital distractions. leprosy.
• The WHO’s verification process confirmed that
India and Bhutan Enhance Cooperation on Jordan met all criteria for elimination, including a
Food Safety and Regulatory Standards prevalence rate below 1 case per 10,000 populations.
• On 22 September 2024, India and Bhutan held a
bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Global Food Nepal Celebrates 9th Anniversary of
Regulators Summit. Constitution Declaration
• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India • Nepal celebrated the ninth anniversary of its
(FSSAI) and the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority Constitution’s promulgation on September 20, 2024.
(BFDA) discussed the implementation of an • Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli emphasized the need
agreement signed on 21 March 2024. for constitutional amendments to address current
• This agreement aims to enhance food safety, align challenges and ensure it remains relevant.
regulatory frameworks, and simplify food import • The Constitution, enacted in 2015, marked a
procedures. significant milestone in Nepal’s democratic journey,
embodying principles of federalism, inclusivity, and
EU Promises `35 billion Loan for Ukraine’s secularism.
Reconstruction
SIF 2024 Unveils the World’s First AI-
• On 20 September 2024, the European Union pledged
powered Business Licensing Service
a €35 billion (approximately ₹35 billion) loan to
support Ukraine’s recovery.
• This loan, part of a broader €45 billion package
coordinated with G7 nations, aims to rebuild
Ukraine’s economy and war-damaged infrastructure.

Taiwan Recognizes Same-sex Marriages for

Cross-Strait Couples
• On 19 September 2024, Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs
Council announced that same-sex marriages between
Taiwanese and Chinese nationals can now be legally
registered in Taiwan.
• On 19 September 2024, the Sharjah Investment • Jordan’s King Abdullah II has appointed Jafar Hassan
Forum (SIF 2024) unveiled the world’s first as the kingdom’s new prime minister following a
AI-powered trade licence service. parliamentary election.
• This innovative system, developed in collaboration • The palace announced Hassan’s appointment after
with Microsoft and the Sharjah Publishing City his predecessor, Bisher Khasawneh, submitted his
Free Zone, allows entrepreneurs and investors to resignation to the king.
complete the licensing process in under five minutes. • Hassan, 56, previously served as planning minister
• The initiative aims to streamline business operations, and chief of staff to the king.
reduce bureaucracy, and enhance Sharjah’s
attractiveness as a global investment hub. India’s Triumph at WorldSkills 2024
• On 16 September 2024, India celebrated a significant
India and European Union Agree to achievement at the WorldSkills Competition in Lyon,
Deepen Cooperation in Sustainable Water France.
Management • NAMTECH engineers Sathyajith Balakrishnan and
• On 18 September 2024, India and the European Dhrumilkumar Gandhi secured a bronze medal in the
Union agreed to deepen cooperation in sustainable Industry 4.0 category.
water management during the 6th EU-India Water
Forum, held alongside the 8th India Water Week in India & China Agree to Work with Urgency
New Delhi. for Complete Disengagement
• This collaboration focuses on river basin management, • On 12 September 2024, India and China agreed
innovation, and technology transfer. to expedite efforts for complete disengagement in
• The India-EU Water Partnership (IEWP), established eastern Ladakh.
in 2016, aims to enhance technological, scientific, • This decision was made during talks between India’s
and policy frameworks in water management. NSA Ajit Doval and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi
in St. Petersburg.
India and US Explore Enhanced Energy • Both sides emphasized the importance of peace
Cooperation and respect for the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to
• On 21 September 2024, India and the United States normalize bilateral relations.
agreed to enhance cooperation in sustainable energy
during the 6th EU-India Water Forum. North Korea Launches Multiple Short-
• This collaboration focuses on clean energy range Ballistic Missiles
technologies, including solar, wind, and battery • On 12 September 2024, North Korea launched
systems. multiple short-range ballistic missiles toward the
• The partnership aims to boost energy efficiency, East Sea. This marks the first such launch by North
diversify supply chains, and promote sustainable Korea since 1 July.
investments. • The missiles, fired from Pyongyang, traveled
approximately 360 kilometers before landing in the
Jordan’s King Appoints New Prime Minister waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan.
after Parliamentary Elections
Two Years of India UAE CEPA Celebrated in
Dubai
• On 6 September 2024, the Indian Business and
Professional Council (IBPC) Dubai celebrated the
second anniversary of the India-UAE Comprehensive
Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) at Taj Dubai.
• The event highlighted significant growth in bilateral
trade and investment, with a 15% increase in total
trade since May 2022. Notably, Indian exports to the
UAE grew by 27%, and non-oil trade saw a 20% rise.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | September 2024 P

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PM Modi Visits Singapore to Enhance technologies, sustainability, and advanced
Strategic Ties manufacturing.

PM Modi’s Two-day Visit of Brunei

• On 3 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi
arrived in Brunei for a historic two-day visit, the first-
ever bilateral trip by an Indian PM to the nation.
• He was warmly received by Crown Prince Haji
Al-Muhtadee Billah at Bandar Seri Begawan Airport.
• The visit aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation,
focusing on trade, cultural exchange, and the Act East
Policy.

South Africa Announces TTOS Scheme

• On 2 September 2024, South Africa announced the
• On 4 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) to boost
Modi arrived in Singapore for a two-day official visit. tourism from India and China.
• He received a ceremonial welcome at Parliament • Set to launch in January 2025, TTOS offers a 90-day
House and met with President Tharman visa waiver for tourists traveling with pre-approved
Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence tour operators.
Wong. • This initiative aims to streamline the visa process,
• The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties, with enhance job creation, and attract more visitors from
discussions on enhancing cooperation in digital these key markets.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | September 2024 P

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Chapter

3 Economy

SEBI Imposes `1 Crore Fine on Jai Anmol in • The study highlights that only 7.2% of traders made
Reliance Home Finance Case profits, with just 1% earning over ₹1 lakh after
transaction costs. Despite consecutive losses, 75% of
• On 24 September 2024, the Securities and Exchange traders continued trading.
Board of India (SEBI) imposed a `1 crore fine on
• SEBI has noted that the proportion of young traders,
Jai Anmol Ambani, son of Anil Ambani, for alleged
who happen to be below the age of 30 years, has risen
irregularities in Reliance Home Finance.
from 31 per cent in the financial year 2022-23 to 43
• SEBI found that Jai Anmol failed to exercise due per cent in the financial year 2023-24.
diligence in lending practices and approved
unsecured loans. YES BANK and Paisabazaar Launched the
• This penalty follows SEBI’s earlier action in August PaisaSave Cashback Credit Card
2024, where Anil Ambani and 24 others were barred
• On 19 September 2024, YES BANK and Paisabazaar
from the securities market for five years for fund
launched the PaisaSave Cashback Credit Card.
diversion.
• This co-branded card offers 3% cashback on online
Bajaj Capital Insurance Launches purchases from popular platforms like Amazon and
Flipkart, and 1.5% cashback on offline transactions.
Human+AI Campaign “BlessMeGanesha” It also includes a 1% fuel surcharge waiver.
• On 23 September 2024, Bajaj Capital Insurance
launched the “BlessMeGanesha” campaign, featuring Banks and FIs to Invest `32.5 trillion in
a unique Human+AI musical composition called Renewable Energy by 2030
“Ganesha Aarti”.
• On 16 September 2024, leading banks and financial
• This innovative project involved 3,500 employees institutions committed to investing `32.5 trillion
contributing their versions of Ganesha Vandana, with ($386 billion) in renewable energy projects by 2030.
AI enhancing the final piece.
• This announcement was made at the 4th RE-Invest
Summit, organized by the Ministry of New and
Union Minister Piyush Goyal Inaugurates Renewable Energy (MNRE).
Invest India’s New Office in Singapore • The investment aims to add 570 GW of renewable
• On 22 September 2024, Union Minister of Commerce energy capacity, supporting India’s goal of 500 GW
& Industry Piyush Goyal inaugurated Invest India’s by 2030.
first overseas office in Singapore.
• This office aims to facilitate regional investments LIC Appoints Infosys to Build its NextGen
into India, serving as a dedicated point of contact for Digital Platform
companies from the ASEAN region and beyond. • On 16 September 2024, Life Insurance Corporation of
India (LIC) announced its collaboration with Infosys
SEBI Study Reveals Individual Traders Face to develop a NextGen Digital Platform.
Severe Losses in Equity F&O Segment • This initiative, part of LIC’s DIVE (Digital Innovation
• A SEBI study, released on 23 September 2024, reveals and Value Enhancement) program, aims to enhance
that 93% of individual traders in the equity futures customer interactions through omni channel
and options (F&O) segment incurred significant engagement and data-driven hyper-personalization.
losses between FY22 and FY24. • Infosys will leverage its AI capabilities from Infosys
• The combined net loss for these traders exceeded Topaz and cloud services from Infosys Cobalt to
₹1.8 lakh crore. provide turnkey system integration services.
Govt. to issue New AB PMJAY Cards for All • Muthoot Housing Finance, Nido Home Finance, and
Senior Citizens Aged 70+ Ashoka Viniyoga were also penalized for regulatory
non-compliance.
• On 11 September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved
the issuance of new AB PMJAY cards for all senior MMA Reports Decline in Foreign Reserves
citizens aged 70 and above.
in Maldives
• This initiative under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan
Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) aims to • On 6 September 2024, the Maldives Monetary
provide health coverage of Rs 5 lakh per family per Authority (MMA) reported a significant decline in
year. the nation’s foreign reserves, which fell to USD 395.4
million by the end of July 2024, marking a 33% year-
• Approximately 6 crore senior citizens will benefit from
on-year drop.
this scheme, which seeks to ensure comprehensive
healthcare access irrespective of income. • This decline is attributed to rising government debt,
increased recurrent expenditure, and a decrease in
Union Bank of India becomes 1st Major non-tax revenues.
Indian Bank to join PCAF Star Health’s Introducing Braille Insurance
• On 9 September 2024, Union Bank of India became Policies for the Visually Impaired
the first major Indian bank to join the Partnership for
Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF). • On 4 September 2024, Star Health and Allied
Insurance launched “Special Care Gold,” India’s first
• This step aligns with the growing global emphasis
insurance policy in Braille.
on climate risk management and the recent draft
guidelines issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) • This policy is tailored for individuals with 40%
on climate risk disclosures. or more disability, ensuring visually impaired
individuals can access health insurance information
• By joining PCAF, Union Bank commits to measuring
independently.
and managing its financed emissions, which are the
indirect emissions from its lending and investment • The initiative promotes inclusivity and economic
activities. empowerment, aligning with IRDAI’s “Insurance for
All” vision.
RBI Penalizes CSB Bank, Union Bank of
POP Launched India’s First Multi-brand Co-
India, others for Norms Violation
branded Credit Card
• On 12 August 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
imposed penalties on five financial institutions, • On 2 September 2024, fintech startup POP launched
including CSB Bank and Union Bank of India, for India’s first multi-brand co-branded credit card in
various regulatory violations. collaboration with RuPay and Yes Bank.
• CSB Bank was fined ₹1.86 crore for non-compliance • The card partners with brands like Zomato, Blinkit,
with outsourcing and branch authorization and Cleartrip, covering daily expenses. Users earn
guidelines. POPcoins on transactions, redeemable within the
POP app.
• Union Bank of India faced a ₹1.06 crore penalty for
issues related to large common exposures and KYC
norms.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | September 2024 P

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Chapter

4 Science and Technology

Launch of India’s First ANAB-accredited AI • XEC appears to have a growth advantage over other
Security Certification variants, potentially becoming the dominant strain
globally. Current vaccines remain effective against
• On 23 September 2024, the Indian Computer
XEC.
Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) and SISA
launched the Certified Security Professional for Astronomers Discovered Largest Black
Artificial Intelligence (CSPAI) program in Bengaluru.
Hole Jets Named “Porphyrion”
• This program is the world’s first ANAB-accredited AI
security certification. • On 18 September 2024, astronomers discovered
the largest black hole jets ever observed, named
• It aims to equip professionals with the skills needed
“Porphyrion”.
to secure AI systems against evolving cybersecurity
threats. • These jets span an astonishing 23 million light-years,
equivalent to 140 Milky Way galaxies lined up end-
Sunita Williams took Command of ISS for to-end.
the Second Time • Emerging from a supermassive black hole in a galaxy
7.5 billion light-years away, Porphyrion’s jets are
significantly influencing the surrounding cosmic
structures.

IISc Develops Nanomaterial to Clean

Chromium from Groundwater
• On 22 September 2024, researchers at the Indian
Institute of Science (IISc) announced the development
of a nanomaterial called sulphidated carboxymethyl
cellulose-stabilised nanoscale zero-valent iron
• On 22 September 2024, NASA astronaut Sunita (S-CMC-nZVI) to clean chromium-contaminated
Williams took command of the International Space groundwater.
Station (ISS) for the second time. She previously • This innovative material effectively reduces toxic
commanded Expedition 33 in 2012. hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) to a less harmful form
• Williams assumed leadership from Russian (Cr3+).
cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko during an extended • The nanomaterial prevents particle clumping and
mission initially planned for eight days but prolonged maintains reactivity, offering an on-site solution for
due to technical issues with the Boeing Starliner groundwater remediation.
spacecraft.
Cabinet Gave Approval for
A new COVID-19 Variant, XEC, has been CHANDRAYAAN-4 Mission
Discovered in Germany • On 18 September 2024, the Union Cabinet, chaired
• On 19 September 2024, the new COVID-19 variant by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the
XEC was reported in Germany. XEC is a recombinant Chandrayaan-4 Mission.
variant, formed from the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants. • This mission aims to land on the Moon, collect
• It was first detected in Berlin in August 2024 and has samples, and return them to Earth, marking a
since spread to 27 countries, including the UK, US, significant advancement in India’s lunar exploration
and Canada. efforts.
• Chandrayaan-4 will demonstrate critical technologies • These trials include a small molecule for multiple
for docking, undocking, and safe return, paving the myeloma with Aurigene Oncology, a Zika vaccine
way for future manned missions. with Indian Immunologicals, a seasonal influenza
• The mission is part of India’s broader space vision, vaccine with Mynvax, and CAR-T cell therapy for
which includes establishing a space station by 2035 chronic lymphocytic leukemia with ImmunoACT.
and landing astronauts on the Moon by 2040.
New High-End Research Centre
New Re-usable Low-cost Launch Vehicle for Inaugurated at IIT Hyderabad
Bharat • On 9 September 2024, the Centre for in-situ and
• On 18 September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved Correlative Microscopy (CISCoM) was inaugurated at
the development of the Next Generation Launch IIT Hyderabad.
Vehicle (NGLV). • This high-end research facility aims to enhance
• This initiative by ISRO aims to create a reusable, cost- collaboration in scientific research by providing
effective launch vehicle with three times the payload advanced microscopy techniques for real-time
capacity of the current LVM3. analysis across various disciplines.
• The NGLV will support ambitious missions, including • Funded with `60 crore from the Department of
the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and lunar exploration Science and Technology and `20 crore from academic
by 2040. and industrial partners, CISCoM is set to become a
• The project, with a budget of `8240 crore, will involve key resource for researchers and industries alike.
three development flights over eight years.
India Successfully Launched the Agni-4
ICMR Partnered for 1st-in-Human Clinical Ballistic Missile
Trials • On 6 September 2024, India successfully launched
• On 14 September 2024, the Indian Council of Medical the Agni-4 ballistic missile from the Integrated Test
Research (ICMR) announced partnerships with Range in Chandipur, Odisha.
industry leaders to advance first-in-human Phase-1 • This intermediate-range ballistic missile test
clinical trials. validated all operational and technical parameters,
ensuring its readiness for deployment.

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Chapter

5 Sports

Jeevan-Vijay pair Clinches Hangzhou Open

2024 Title

• Tanush Kotian and Prasidh Krishna took three

wickets each, overshadowing Sai Sudharsan’s
resilient century. Chasing a target of 350, India C was
bowled out for 217.
• This victory secured India A’s top position with
• On 24 September 2024, India’s Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan 12 points from three matches. Shashwat Rawat
and Vijay Sundar Prashanth won the men’s doubles was named Player of the Match for his crucial
title at the Hangzhou Open. contributions with the bat.
• They triumphed over Germany’s Constantin Frantzen
and Hendrik Jebens with a score of 4-6, 7-6, [10-7] in India Bag Historic Gold in Chess Olympiad
a thrilling final. 2024
• For Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan, aged 35, this marks his • On 22 September 2024, India made history at the
second ATP Tour title, having previously won the Chess Olympiad in Budapest by winning double gold
Chennai Open in 2017 with Rohan Bopanna. This is in both the Open and Women’s sections.
Vijay Sundar Prashanth’s first-ever ATP Tour title. • The men’s team, featuring D. Gukesh, R.
Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, and
Nazira Bano Won Gold Medal in Harikrishna Pentala, triumphed over Slovenia.
Taekwondo at Khelo India Women’s League • The women’s team, including Harika Dronavalli,
• On 23 September 2024, Nazira Banoo from Lato Vaishali Rameshbabu, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika
village in Kargil, Ladakh, won a gold medal in the Agrawal, and Tania Sachdev, defeated Azerbaijan.
individual Poomsae under-30 category at the 1st
Khelo India Women’s Taekwondo League Phase 1. ICC Introduces Equal Prize Money for Men’s
• The event took place in Vadodara, Gujarat, and was and Women’s Cricket World Cups
organized by the Taekwondo Federation of India in • On 17 September 2024, the International Cricket
collaboration with Khelo India. Council (ICC) announced equal prize money for
• Nazira’s victory qualifies her for the Khelo India men’s and women’s World Cups.
Women’s League Nationals Phase-III, set to be held • This historic decision, made at the ICC Annual
in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Conference in July 2023, aims to achieve prize money
parity seven years ahead of the 2030 target.
India-A Clinches Duleep Trophy in Final • The winners of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
against India-C will receive $2.34 million, matching the prize for the
• On 22 September 2024, India A clinched the Duleep men’s tournament. This move underscores the ICC’s
Trophy by defeating India C by 132 runs in Anantapur. commitment to gender equality in cricket.
Anuya Prasad Wins Gold at World Deaf • Glasgow, which previously hosted the Games in 2014,
Shooting Championship will organize a scaled-down version featuring 10
sports.
• On 2 September 2024, Anuya Prasad won the
women’s air pistol gold at the World Deaf Shooting Indian Men’s Hockey Team Won Asian
Championship in Hannover, Germany.
Champions Trophy 2024
• She secured victory with a thrilling 10.3 last shot,
narrowly beating Sofia Olenych of Ukraine by 0.1
point. Anuya’s final score was 232.2 points.

14th Hockey India Junior Men National

Championship 2024
• The 14th Hockey India Junior Men National
Championship 2024 concluded on 19 September
2024, in Jalandhar, Punjab.
• Hockey Punjab emerged victorious, defeating Uttar
Pradesh Hockey 4-3 in a thrilling penalty shootout.
• The tournament, held at the Olympian Surjit Singh
Hockey Stadium, featured 29 teams from across
• On 17 September 2024, the Indian men’s hockey
India.
team clinched the Asian Champions Trophy 2024
Jasprit Bumrah Joins Elite Club with 400 by defeating China 1-0 in the final held at the Moqi
Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir.
International Wickets
• Harmanpreet was named Player of the Tournament.
Jugraj Singh scored the decisive goal in the 51st
minute.
• This victory is India’s fifth title in the history of
the tournament. Earlier, India has won the Asian
Champions Trophy four times in 2011, 2016, 2018
(joint winner with Pakistan) and 2023.

17-year-old Anmol Kharb Wins First Single

Title in Belgium

• On 20 September 2024, Jasprit Bumrah achieved the

milestone of 400 international wickets during the
first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai.
• He became the 10th Indian bowler and the 6th Indian
pacer to reach this landmark.
• Bumrah, known for his unique bowling action and
lethal yorkers, has been a key player for India across
all formats since his debut in 2016.
• On 14 September 2024, 17-year-old Indian shuttler
Glasgow to Host 2026 Commonwealth
Anmol Kharb clinched her first international
Games badminton singles title at the Belgian International
• On 17 September 2024, Glasgow was announced as in Leuven.
the host city for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. • Ranked 222nd globally, she triumphed over
• This decision came after the Australian state of Denmark’s world No. 80 Amalie Schulz with scores
Victoria withdrew due to rising costs. of 24-22, 12-21, 21-10.

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First Pakistani Woman Nominated as Commonwealth Chess Championships in Kalutara,
International Cricket Umpire Sri Lanka.

• On 15 September 2024, Saleema Imtiaz became the

first Pakistani woman to be nominated to the ICC
International Panel of Development Umpires. • A Women FIDE Master and reigning U-19 national
• This nomination allows her to officiate in women’s champion, Shubhi secured seven wins and two draws
bilateral international matches and ICC women’s in the U-16 category.
events.
• Imtiaz, who began her umpiring career in 2008, has Indian Women Won Overall 2nd Place at
previously officiated in several Asian Cricket Council U20 World Wrestling Championship
tournaments. • On 8 September 2024, the Indian women’s team
secured overall second place at the U20 World
Syria Won Intercontinental Cup with 3-0 Wrestling Championships in Pontevedra, Spain.
Victory Over India • The team won one gold, one silver, and five bronze
medals.
• Jyoti Berwal clinched gold in the women’s 76kg
category, while Neha and Nikita earned bronze in the
57kg and 62kg categories, respectively.

Moeen Ali Retired from International

Cricket

• On 9 September 2024, Syria clinched the

Intercontinental Cup with a 3-0 victory over India at
the GMC Balayogi Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad.
• Goals from Mahmoud Al-Aswad, Daleho Irandust,
and Pablo Sabbag secured Syria’s first title on Indian
soil.
• India had won the title in 2018 and 2023, while it was
the first trophy for Syria who had finished third in
2019. • On 8 September 2024, Moeen Ali announced his
retirement from international cricket.
Shubhi Gupta Wins Gold and Bronze at • Over a decade-long career, he played 298 matches for
Commonwealth Chess Championships England, scoring 6,678 runs and taking 366 wickets.
• On 10 September 2024, Shubhi Gupta won gold in the • Moeen was instrumental in England’s 2019 Cricket
U-16 category and bronze in the U-20 category at the World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup victories.

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2024 US Open Tennis Championships India Secures 29 Medals at Paris
Paralympics 2024

• India achieved their most successful performance in

Paralympic history at the Paris 2024 Games, securing
The 2024 US Open Tennis Championships took place a total of 29 medals - 7 gold, 9 silver, and 13 bronze.
from 26 August to 8 September 2024, at the USTA Billie • A record 84 para-athletes represented India at the
Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. Paris 2024 Paralympics, held in the French capital
from August 28 to September 8.
List of the Winner
Indian Women Secure Overall 2nd Place at
Event Winner
U20 World Wrestling Championships
Men’s Singles Jannik Sinner
• On 7 September 2024, the Indian women’s team
Women’s Singles Aryna Sabalenka secured an impressive overall second place at the U20
Men’s Doubles Purcell/Thompson World Wrestling Championships in Pontevedra, Spain.
Women’s Doubles Kichenok/Ostapenko • The team won a total of five medals: one gold, one
silver, and three bronze.
• Jyoti Berwal clinched the gold in the women’s 76 kg
63rd Subroto Cup International Football
category, while Nikita earned a silver in the 62 kg
Tournament category.

14th Hockey India Congress held in Lucknow

• The 63rd Subroto Cup International Football

Tournament concluded on 11 September 2024. • On 1 September 2024, the 14th Hockey India
Congress was held in Lucknow, with representatives
• Held across New Delhi NCR and Bengaluru, the
from all 31 state member units participating.
tournament featured 111 teams competing in Junior
• The event was attended by Hockey India President
Boys, Junior Girls, and Sub-Junior Boys categories.
Dr. Dilip Tirkey, Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh,
• Manipur’s TG English School won the Junior Boys and Treasurer Sekar J. Manoharan.
title, defeating Meghalaya’s Myngken Christian • Discussions focused on shaping the future of Indian
Higher Secondary School 4-3 in a dramatic sudden- hockey and reinforcing a collective vision for the
death tie-breaker. sport’s growth and development.

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Chapter

6 Defence News

Indian Navy hosts Goa Maritime • Singh, one of the first three women inducted as fighter
Symposium 2024 pilots in the Indian Air Force in 2016, participated in
the recent ‘Tarang Shakti’ exercise in Jodhpur.
• On 23 and 24 September 2024, the Indian Navy hosted
the fifth edition of the Goa Maritime Symposium DRDO Conducts Successful Field Test of
(GMS-24) at the Naval War College in Goa.
‘Zoravar’
• The symposium focused on “Common Maritime
Security Challenges in the Indian Ocean Region,” • The Defence Research and Development Organisation
addressing issues like Illegal, Unreported, and (DRDO) has successfully conducted the initial
Unregulated (IUU) fishing and other maritime automotive trials of the Indian Light Tank, Zoravar.
threats. • It is an extremely versatile platform that can be
• Representatives from 14 countries, including deployed in high altitude regions.
Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka, participated to • Several Indian industries, including micro, small and
enhance regional cooperation and security. medium enterprises (MSMEs), contributed to the
development of various sub-systems, demonstrating
IAF Successfully Completes Exercise the strength of indigenous defence manufacturing
Eastern Bridge-7 with Oman capabilities within the country.
• On 21 September 2024, the Indian Air Force (IAF) DRDO & Indian Navy Successfully Flight
successfully completed Exercise Eastern Bridge VII
with the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) at the RAFO
Tests VL-SRSAM
airbase in Masirah. • On 12 September 2024, India successfully test-fired
• The exercise featured MiG-29 and Jaguar aircraft the Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Surface
from IAF and F-16 and Hawk aircraft from RAFO. Air Missile (VL-SRSAM) from the launchpad of the
Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Balasore
• It aimed to enhance military cooperation, operational
district off the coast of Odisha.
coordination, and tactical skills between the two
forces. • The test was conducted jointly by the Defence
Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Mohana Singh becomes the First Woman and the Indian Navy.
Fighter Pilot in LCA Tejas Fleet • The VL-SRSAM, a ship-borne weapon system, is
designed to neutralise various aerial threats at close
ranges, including sea-skimming targets.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

inaugurated IDAX-24 in Jodhpur
• On 12 September 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath
Singh inaugurated the India Defence Aviation
Exposition (IDAX-24) in Jodhpur. IDAX-24 was held
from 12 to 14 September.
• The exposition showcases advancements in aviation
• On 18 September 2024, Squadron Leader Mohana technology, featuring contributions from Defence
Singh became the first woman fighter pilot to join the Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), the Defence
elite 18 ‘Flying Bullets’ squadron, operating India’s Research and Development Organisation (DRDO),
indigenously made LCA Tejas fighter jets. private industries, and startups.
Defence Ministry Signs `26,000 crore side was represented by FS Provence, Submarine
Contract with HAL Suffren, Aircraft F20, Atlantique 2, fighters MB339,
and helicopters NH90, Dauphin.
• On 9 September 2024, the Defence Ministry signed a
₹26,000 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics • The bilateral exercise VARUNA began in 2001 to
Limited (HAL) for 240 AL-31FP aero engines for strengthen the India-France relationship.
Su-30MKI aircraft.
Indian Navy and the South African Navy
• The engines will be produced by HAL’s Koraput
division, enhancing the operational capability of the
signed an Implementing Agreement
Indian Air Force. • On 4 September 2024, the Indian Navy and the South
African Navy signed an Implementing Agreement to
INS Tabar Participates in 22nd Indo French enhance submarine rescue support cooperation.
VARUNA Naval Exercise in Mediterranean • The agreement, signed by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi
• The Indian Navy’s frontline warship INS Tabar and Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, ensures the safety
participated in the 22nd edition of India-France of the South African Navy’s submarine crew during
Bilateral Exercise VARUNA in the Mediterranean Sea. distress or accidents.
• The Indian Navy was represented by the shipborne • Under this agreement, the Indian Navy will deploy
helicopter LRMR Aircraft P8I, whereas the French its Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) when
required.

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Chapter

7 Awards and Honour

32nd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024 • The collection, published in late 2023, explores the
• On 22 September 2024, swimmer Pratyasa Ray was lives of a Tamil Brahmin family across Singapore,
awarded the 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar. Sydney, New York, and Connecticut.
• This award, instituted by IMPaCT and managed by
Magnus Carlsen, Judit Polgar felicitated at
IMFA, recognizes her outstanding achievements in
swimming. Pratyasa will receive a cash prize of `7 FIDE 100 Awards
lakh, an increase from the previous `5 lakh.
• Additionally, sprinter Dondapati Mrutyum Jayaram
and badminton player Tanvi Patri will be honored
with special citations and cash prizes of `1.5 lakh each.

Vinod Bachchan Receives Global Prestige

Award at UK Parliament
• On 20 September 2024, Bollywood producer Vinod
Bachchan received the prestigious Global Prestige
Award at the House of Lords, UK Parliament.
• The award, presented by Lord Bellamy KC and
Lord Rami Ranger CBE, recognized his significant • On 19 September 2024, Magnus Carlsen and Judit
contributions to Indian cinema. Polgar were honored at the FIDE 100 Awards in
Budapest.
• Bachchan, known for hits like “Tanu Weds Manu” and
“Ginny Weds Sunny,” announced plans for sequels • Carlsen received the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.)
and future projects in the UK, aiming to foster cultural award for his exceptional achievements in chess.
exchange between India and the UK. • Polgar was recognized as the best female player
in history, celebrating her groundbreaking
ICMR Wins 2024 UN Inter-Agency Task contributions to the game.
Force Award
• On 18 September 2024, the Indian Council of Medical
Emmy Awards 2024
Research (ICMR) received the 2024 UN Inter-Agency
Task Force Award.
• This award recognizes ICMR’s significant
achievements in advancing multi-sectoral action on
the prevention and control of non-communicable
diseases (NCDs) and mental health.
• ICMR’s initiatives include establishing national
centers for Assistive Health Technology and
promoting sustainable assistive products.

Prasanthi Ram Wins 2024 Singapore • On 15 September 2024, the 76th Primetime Emmy
Literature Prize for English Fiction Awards were held at the Peacock Theater in Los
• On 10 September 2024, Prasanthi Ram won the Angeles.
Singapore Literature Prize for English Fiction for her • “Shōgun” winning Best Drama Series and earning 18
debut book, “Nine Yard Sarees: A Short Story Cycle”. awards overall.
• “Hacks” won Best Comedy Series, while “Baby • On 12 September 2024, Rashtriya Ispat Nigam
Reindeer” took Best Limited Series. Limited (RINL) received the prestigious National
• Notable acting winners included Hiroyuki Sanada Energy Leader Award from the Confederation of
and Anna Sawai for “Shōgun,” and Jeremy Allen White Indian Industry – Green Business Centre (CII-GBC)
for “The Bear”. for the sixth consecutive year.
• This accolade recognizes RINL’s exceptional
Aishwarya Rai Wins Best Actress at SIIMA commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable
2024 practices.
• RINL has also achieved the “Excellent Energy Efficient
Unit Award for an impressive eighth consecutive
year.”

Indian Origin Lecturer Wins Singapore

Literature Prize for ‘Nine Yard Sarees’

• On 16 September 2024, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

won the Best Actress (Critics) award at the South
Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) in Dubai.
• She was honored for her dual roles as Nandini and
Mandakini Devi in Mani Ratnam’s epic film “Ponniyin
Selvan: II”.

President Droupadi Murmu Conferred the

National Florence Nightingale Awards 2024 • On 11 September 2024, Prasanthi Ram, an Indian-
• On 11 September 2024, President Droupadi Murmu origin lecturer at Nanyang Technological University,
conferred the National Florence Nightingale Awards won the Singapore Literature Prize for English fiction.
2024 to Nurses at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. • Her debut short story collection, “Nine Yard Sarees,”
• This award is given as a mark of recognition for the published in late 2023, explores the lives of a Tamil
meritorious services rendered by the nurses and Brahmin family across Singapore, Sydney, New York,
nursing professionals to society. and Connecticut.
• The National Florence Nightingale Award was • The prize for best English creative non-fiction went
instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family to Indian-origin artist Shubigi Rao, whose ‘Pulp III:
Welfare in the year 1973. An Intimate Inventory Of The Banished Book’ (2022)
was the third instalment of her decade-long project
RINL Wins CII-GBC National Energy Leader on banished books.
Award for the Sixth Consecutive Year
Swachh Vayu Survekshan Awards 2024
• On 7 September 2024, the Swachh Vayu Survekshan
Awards were presented in Jaipur to recognize cities
excelling in air quality improvement under the
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
• The awards were categorized based on population:
Category-1 (over 10 lakhs) winners were Surat,
Jabalpur, and Agra; Category-2 (3-10 lakhs) winners
were Firozabad, Amravati, and Jhansi; and Category-3
(under 3 lakhs) winners were Raebareli, Nalgonda,
and Nalagarh.

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Jamie Lee Curtis Won Creative arts Emmy • This year, 50 school teachers, 16 higher education
Award for Guest Actress teachers, and 16 from the Ministry of Skill Development
and Entrepreneurship were recognized.
• On 8 September 2024, Jamie Lee Curtis won the
Creative Arts Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest • Each awardee received a certificate of merit, a cash
Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Donna prize of ₹50,000, and a silver medal.
Berzatto in “The Bear”.
Wokha SAATHI Gets Gold Award and
• This marks her first Emmy win, where she competed
against notable actresses like Olivia Colman and
National Awards for e-Governance Scheme
Maya Rudolph. 2023-2024

NTPC Talcher Kaniha Wins 2024 Energy

Management Insight Award
• On 7 September 2024, NTPC Talcher Kaniha
was honored with the prestigious 2024 Energy
Management Insight Award by the Clean Energy
Ministerial (CEM).
• This global recognition was awarded for the station’s
high-quality case study on ISO 50001 energy
management, showcasing its sustainable practices
and energy efficiency.
• CEM is a global forum consisting of 29 member govts
and 21 participating countries.
• On 3 September 2024, the Wokha District
President Murmu Conferred the National
Administration’s Wokha SAATHI (Smart AI-based
Teachers’ Award to 82 Educators Assistant for Timely Help & Interface) WhatsApp
• On 5 September 2024, President Droupadi Murmu Chatbot received the prestigious Gold Award at the
conferred the National Teachers’ Award to 82 National Awards for e-Governance Scheme 2023-
educators at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. 2024.
• The awards, presented annually on Teachers’ Day, • The award was presented at the 27th National
honor outstanding contributions in school and Conference on e-Governance in Mumbai.
higher education.

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Chapter

8 Appointments &
Resignations
Justice MSR Rao Sworn in as CJ of Ashutosh Gowariker Appointed Honorary
Jharkhand HC Chairman for Ajanta-Ellora FF
• Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker has been appointed
as the honorary chairman for the 10th Ajanta-Ellora
International Film Festival (AIFF).
• The festival will be held from 15 to 19 January 2025 in
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad).
• Ashutosh Gowariker is well known for his films like
‘Lagaan’, ‘Swades’ and ‘Jodhaa Akbar’. He last directed
‘Panipat’.
• Justice M.S. Ramachandra Rao was sworn in as the • The AIFF aims to showcase global cinema and
Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court on 25 promote the region as a hub for film production and
September 2024. The oath was administered by cultural activities.
Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar.
• He was appointed as Judge of the High Court of Lt. Gen Muhammad Asim Malik appointed
Andhra Pradesh and assumed charge as such on New ISI Chief
4 December 2013. He was transferred as judge of
Punjab and Haryana high courts in October 2021 and
later to Himachal Pradesh High Court.
• Justice Rao comes from a distinguished legal family;
his father Justice M. Jagannadha Rao was a former
Judge of the Supreme Court of India (1997-2000) and
former Chairman of Law Commission of India.

James Cameron joins the Stability AI Board

• Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim Malik has been

appointed as the new Director General of Pakistan’s
Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), succeeding Lt Gen
Nadeem Anjum.
• Malik, previously serving as Adjutant General at the
General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, will assume his
new role on 30 September 2024.
• Known for his administrative expertise and military
• James Cameron, the acclaimed filmmaker behind command experience in Balochistan and South
“Avatar” and “Titanic,” has joined the board of Waziristan, Malik’s appointment comes at a critical
directors at Stability AI, a leading generative AI time for Pakistan’s national security landscape.
company.
• Announced on 24 September 2024, Cameron’s Alok Ranjan appointed NCRB Chief
appointment aims to leverage his expertise in • Senior IPS officer Alok Ranjan has been appointed as
cutting-edge technology and visual storytelling. the Director of the National Crime Records Bureau
 (NCRB) on 21 September 2024. He succeeds Vivek • He succeeds CRPF Director General Anish Dayal
Gogia, who has been repatriated to the AGMUT cadre. Singh, who held the post in an additional capacity
• A 1991-batch officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, after S N Pradhan’s retirement.
Ranjan will serve until his superannuation on 30 June
2026. Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh appointed
Next Chief of the Air Staff
Kumar Tuhin appointed as India’s
Ambassador to Netherlands

• On 21 September 2024, the Indian government

appointed Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh as the next
• On 20 September 2024, Kumar Tuhin, a 1991-batch Chief of the Air Staff.
Indian Foreign Service officer, was appointed as • Currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, he
India’s Ambassador to the Netherlands. will succeed Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari
• He has been serving as the Director General of the on 30 September 2024.
Indian Council for Cultural Relations since December • With nearly 40 years of service, Singh has held
20, 2021. numerous key positions, including Air Officer
• Previously, he was the Ambassador to Hungary from Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command and
November 2018 to November 2021, and the High Project Director for the MiG-29 upgrade.
Commissioner to Namibia from June 2015 to October
2018. Swati Vijay Kulkarni appointed as
Ambassador to Algeria
Anurag Garg appointed as Narcotics • On 13 September 2024, Dr. Swati Vijay Kulkarni was
Control Bureau Director General appointed as India’s Ambassador to Algeria.
• An Indian Foreign Service officer from the 1995
batch, she previously served as Additional Secretary
in the Ministry of External Affairs.

R. Ravindra appointed as India’s

Ambassador to Iceland

• On 17 September 2024, Anurag Garg, a 1993-batch

IPS officer from the Himachal Pradesh cadre, was
appointed as the Director General of the Narcotics
Control Bureau (NCB).
• Previously serving as Additional DG in the Border
Security Force (BSF), Garg’s appointment was
approved by the Appointments Committee of the
Cabinet.

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• R. Ravindra, an Indian Foreign Service officer from • On 7 September 2024, Tuhin Kanta Pandey, a
the 1999 batch, has been appointed as India’s 1987 batch IAS officer from the Odisha cadre, was
Ambassador to Iceland. appointed as India’s new Finance Secretary.
• The Ministry of External Affairs announced his • He succeeds T.V. Somanathan, who was appointed as
appointment on 10 September 2024. Cabinet Secretary.
• Ravindra is currently serving as the Deputy • Previously the Secretary of the Department of
Permanent Representative of India to the United Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM),
Nations in New York. Pandey is known for his role in the sale of Air India
and the listing of Life Insurance Corporation.
RS Sharma appointed as the Non-Executive
Chairperson of ONDC Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat joins
• RS Sharma, former TRAI chief and NHA CEO, was Congress ahead of Haryana Assembly Polls
appointed as the Non-Executive Chairperson of the
Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) on 10
September 2024.
• Sharma, an expert in digital public infrastructure,
played a pivotal role in projects like Aadhaar and
CoWIN.
• His leadership is expected to drive ONDC’s next phase
of innovation and expansion.

Amit Shah Re-elected as Chairperson

of Parliamentary Committee on Official • On 6 September 2024, Olympic wrestlers Bajrang
Language Punia and Vinesh Phogat joined the Congress party
• On 9 September 2024, Union Home Minister Amit ahead of the Haryana Assembly elections.
Shah was unanimously re-elected as the Chairperson • Vinesh Phogat recently retired from wrestling after
of the Parliamentary Committee on Official Language. her disqualification at the Paris Olympics, while
• Shah emphasized the importance of Hindi in national Bajrang Punia led protests against Singh.
integration and its role as a friend to all regional
languages. Air Marshal Tejinder Singh takes over as
• He highlighted efforts to enrich Hindi by incorporating Deputy Chief of the Air Staff
words from various Indian languages and developing
translation software.

IAS Officer Tuhin Kanta Pandey appointed

as Finance Secretary

• On 1 September 2024, Air Marshal Tejinder Singh

assumed the role of Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at
Air Headquarters (Vayu Bhawan), New Delhi.
• Air Marshal Tejinder was commissioned in the fighter
stream of the IAF on 13 June 1987.
• He was also awarded the Vayu Sena Medal in 2007
and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2022.

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Michel Barnier is New French Prime • On 5 September 2024, Michel Barnier was appointed
Minister as the new French Prime Minister by President
Emmanuel Macron. Barnier, 73, is a veteran politician
and former EU Brexit negotiator.
• He succeeds Gabriel Attal and faces the challenge
of forming a government amid a divided National
Assembly.
• He is best known for being the EU’s chief Brexit
negotiator and leading talks with the UK government
between 2016 and 2019.

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Chapter

9 Index and Reports

QS Global MBA Rankings 2025 • Japan’s slower population growth and limited
• Three Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and military expansion contributed to its decline in the
Indian School of Business, Hyderabad have figured in rankings.
world’s top 100 for their MBA courses, according to
QS rankings.
Kaziranga Sees 86% Drop in Rhino
• The three IIMs are IIM Bangalore, IIM Ahmedabad Poaching since 2016
and IIM Calcutta. Also, the three B-schools have been • Kaziranga National Park in Assam has achieved an
ranked among top 50 for employability. 86% reduction in rhino poaching since 2016, as
• Fourteen Indian full-time MBA programmes have announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
secured a spot in QS’ global list for 2025, including on 22 September 2024.
three new entries. • This success is attributed to stringent anti-poaching
• The QS Global MBA and Business Master’s Rankings measures, including the establishment of 233 anti-
2025 spans 58 countries and territories, analysing poaching camps and a special protection force.
the world’s 340 best global MBAs and a series • The park, home to over 2,600 one-horned rhinos, has
of specialised high-demand Business Master’s become a model for global conservation efforts.
Rankings, including Master’s in Management,
Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, and Supply India Achieves Tier 1 Status in Global Cyber​​
Chain Management. Security Index 2024
• On 20 September 2024, India achieved Tier 1 status
Majority of Atrocities against SC from 13 in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024,
States published by the International Telecommunication
• A recent government report, released on 22 Union (ITU), with a score of 98.49.
September 2024, reveals that 97.7% of atrocities • India’s strong performance underscores its
against Scheduled Castes (SCs) in 2022 were reported commitment to enhancing cyber resilience and
from 13 states. establishing itself as a global leader in cybersecurity.
• Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh
recorded the highest numbers, with 12,287, 8,651, FATF Report on India
and 7,732 cases respectively. • The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) released its
• Similarly, the majority of atrocities against Scheduled latest report on India on 19 September 2024.
Tribes (STs) were also concentrated in 13 states, • The report commends India for achieving a high level
which reported 98.91 per cent of all cases in 2022. of technical compliance with FATF recommendations
and significant progress in combating money
India Surpasses Japan to become Third laundering and terrorist financing.
Most Powerful Nation in Asia Power Index • Key highlights include India’s effective use of financial
• India has officially surpassed Japan to become the intelligence, strong domestic and international
third most powerful nation in Asia, according to the cooperation, and substantial steps in financial
2024 Asia Power Index released by the Lowy Institute inclusion.
on 25 September 2024. • However, the report also emphasizes the need for
• The index evaluates countries based on their India to address the backlog of money laundering
resource capabilities and influence in the Asia-Pacific cases and improve the prosecution of terrorist
region. financiers.
Kerala Retains Top Spot in India Food India Ranks 40th in World for Alcoholic
Index Beverage Exports
• In September 2024, Kerala retained the top spot in • As of 5 September 2024, India ranks 40th globally in
the State Food Safety Index (SFSI) for the second alcoholic beverage exports, with a significant export
consecutive year. value of over `2,200 crore in the fiscal year 2023-241.
• Released by the Food Safety and Standards Authority • Major export destinations include the UAE,
of India (FSSAI) during the Global Food Regulators Singapore, the Netherlands, Tanzania, Angola, Kenya,
Summit, the index evaluates states on food safety and Rwanda.
standards. • The Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export
• Tamil Nadu and Jammu & Kashmir secured the Development Authority (APEDA) highlighted India’s
second and third positions, respectively. untapped potential in this sector.

India Becomes 6th Largest Market in MSCI India Achieves 40th Rank in 2023 Edition
ACWI of Global Innovation Index
• On 18 September 2024, India became the sixth-largest
market in the MSCI All Country World Investable
Market Index (ACWI IMI), surpassing China.
• India’s weight in the index stood at 2.35%, just
behind France.
• The MSCI ACWI IMI tracks global capital markets,
including large- and mid-cap stocks.

NITI Aayog Released an Expert Group

Report

• India has achieved 40th rank among 132 economies

globally in the 2023 edition of the Global Innovation
Index (GII) published by the World Intellectual
Property Organization (WIPO).
• As per the report, India has also been making the
most headway in innovation over the last decade.
India has emerged as a Regional GII leader as it
performed above expectations on innovation relative
• On 11 September 2024, NITI Aayog released to the level of economic development.
the Expert Group Report on Future Pandemic
• The Global Innovation Index 2023 captures the
Preparedness and Emergency Response.
innovation ecosystem performance of 132 economies
• This report provides a comprehensive framework for and tracks the most recent global innovation trends.
a 100-day response to any outbreak or pandemic.
• It emphasizes governance, legislation, finance,
data management, surveillance, and international
collaborations.

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Chapter

10 Obituaries

Veteran Malayalam Actor Kaviyoor

Ponnamma Passes Away at 80

• Yechury, a prominent Marxist leader, had a significant

political career, serving as CPI(M) General Secretary
since 2015 and as a Rajya Sabha MP from 2005 to
• On 20 September 2024, veteran Malayalam actor 2017.
Kaviyoor Ponnamma passed away at the age of 80 in
Kochi. Brazilian Music Icon Sergio Mendes Passed
• Known for her iconic motherly roles in over 700 Away at 83
films, she had a career spanning six decades. • On 5 September 2024, Brazilian music icon Sérgio
• Ponnamma began her career as a singer before Mendes passed away at 83 in Los Angeles.
transitioning to acting. • He was best known for hits like “Mas Que Nada” and
“The Look of Love”.
South African Anti-Apartheid Activist • Mendes recorded over 35 albums, many achieving
Pravin Gordhan Dies at 75 gold or platinum status.
• On 13 September 2024, Pravin Gordhan, a prominent
South African anti-apartheid activist and former Tennis Legend Luis Ayala Passes Away at
government minister, passed away at 75. 91
• He served as the Minister of Finance and Public • On 4 September 2024, Chilean tennis legend Luis
Enterprises, playing a crucial role in resisting state Ayala passed away at the age of 91.
capture during Jacob Zuma’s presidency. • Ayala, renowned for reaching the French Open finals
in 1958 and 1960, was a prominent figure in tennis,
CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury winning 46 singles titles throughout his career.
Passes Away
• On 12 September 2024, Sitaram Yechury, the General
Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist)
and former Rajya Sabha MP, passed away at 72.
Chapter

11 Summit and Conferences

2nd Global Food Regulators Summit 2024 Cooperation for Inclusive Water Development and
• From 19 to 21 September 2024, India hosted the 2nd Management”.
Global Food Regulators Summit in New Delhi.
7th National Security Strategies Conference
• Organized by the Food Safety and Standards Authority
of India (FSSAI) under the Union Health Ministry, the 2024
summit brought together delegates from over 70 • On 13 September 2024, Union Home Minister Amit
countries. Shah inaugurated the 7th National Security Strategies
• The event aimed to enhance food safety standards Conference 2024 in New Delhi.
and foster international collaboration. • Mr Shah also launched the DGSP/IGSP Conference
• The summit aligns with India’s vision of “One Earth, Recommendations Dashboard. This dashboard
One Family, One Future”. has been developed by the National Crime Records
Bureau.
International WASH Conference 2024
Akhil Bharatiya Rajbhasha Sammelan held
• The International WASH Conference 2024 was held
from 17 to 19 September 2024, in New Delhi, as part in New Delhi
of the 8th India Water Week. • The 4th Akhil Bharatiya Rajbhasha Sammelan was
• Organized by the Department of Drinking Water held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 14 and 15
and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, the conference September 2024. It was organized by the Department
focused on the theme “Sustaining Rural Water of Official Language under the Ministry of Home
Supply”. Affairs.
• It featured over 40 thematic sessions and 180 expert • Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the
presentations, addressing key challenges in water, event, launching a special edition of the ‘Rajbhasha
sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sectors. Bharti’ magazine, a commemorative postage stamp,
and a coin.
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya • The event also saw the inauguration of the Bharatiya
Inaugurated 2nd Edition of Inclusion Bhasha Anubhag, aimed at promoting Indian
languages alongside Hindi. Awards like Rajbhasha
Conclave
Gaurav and Rajbhasha Kirti were also presented.
• On 18 September 2024, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh
Mandaviya inaugurated the Second Edition of the Global Bio India 2024
Inclusion Conclave in New Delhi.
• Organized by the National Anti-Doping Agency
(NADA), the event focused on promoting inclusivity
in sports and anti-doping efforts.

8th India Water Week 2024 Organized by

Ministry of Jal Shakti
• The 8th India Water Week (IWW) was held from 17
to 20 September 2024 at Bharat Mandapam, New
Delhi.
• Organized by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, this
international event focused on “Partnerships and
• Global Bio-India 2024, the largest biotech event in • The event brought together over 750 participants,
India, took place from 12 to 14 September 2024, at including senior police leadership, Central Armed
Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. Police Forces, and intelligence agencies.
• The event was organized by the Biotechnology Industry • Shah also launched a dashboard developed by
Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) under the the National Crime Records Bureau to implement
Department of Biotechnology, this event showcased decisions from previous conferences.
India’s biotech advancements and opportunities.
• It brought together stakeholders from various PM Modi inaugurates the 2nd International
sectors, including international bodies, regulatory Conference on Green Hydrogen
agencies, and startups, to discuss innovations and • On 11 September 2024, Prime Minister Narendra
collaborations in biotechnology. Modi inaugurated the 2nd International Conference
on Green Hydrogen via video message.
PM Narendra Modi inaugurates SEMICON • He emphasized India’s commitment to becoming a
India 2024 global hub for green hydrogen production, utilization,
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated SEMICON and export.
India 2024 on 11 September 2024, at the India Expo • He also noted India’s achievements in fulfilling its
Mart in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Paris Agreement commitments ahead of schedule
• The event aims to position India as a global and the significant increase in non-fossil fuel and
semiconductor hub, showcasing the country’s solar energy capacities.
semiconductor strategy and policy.
Union Civil Aviation Minister inaugurates
Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference 2nd Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference
on Civil Aviation • On 11 September 2024, Union Civil Aviation Minister
• The Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Shri Rammohan Naidu inaugurated the 2nd Asia-
Civil Aviation was held on 11 and 12 September Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation in
2024, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. New Delhi.
• The Conference was co-hosted by the International • The event, attended by delegates from 29 countries,
Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and India’s focused on enhancing regional cooperation and
Ministry of Civil Aviation, the event focused on sustainability in aviation.
regional aviation growth, sustainability, and • Naidu emphasized strategic investments to
infrastructure development. accommodate 3.5 billion annual passengers by 2035
• Over 250 representatives from 41 countries and highlighted India’s rapid aviation infrastructure
participated, adopting the Delhi Declaration to growth.
enhance cooperation and address challenges in the
aviation sector. India’s Participation in BRICS Literature
Forum 2024
Amit Shah inaugurated Two-day 7th National
Security Strategies Conference 2024

• On 13 September 2024, Union Home Minister Amit

Shah inaugurated the two-day 7th National Security • On 11 September 2024, India participated in the
Strategies Conference in New Delhi. BRICS Literature Forum held in Kazan, Russia.

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• The theme was “World Literature in the New Reality: • Both sides also deliberated on participation in
Dialogue of Traditions, National Values, and Cultures”. upcoming bilateral military exercises, aiming to
• Representing India were Madhav Kaushik, President enhance cooperation and stability in the Indian
of Sahitya Akademi, and Dr. K. Sreenivasarao, Ocean Region.
Secretary of Sahitya Akademi.
Piyush Goyal Addresses 1st Ever India
International Conference on Spectrum of Mediterranean Business Conclave 2024
Literacy • On 6 September 2024, Commerce and Industry
• School Education and Literacy Secretary, Sanjay Minister Piyush Goyal addressed the inaugural India
Kumar chaired an international conference on Mediterranean Business Conclave in New Delhi.
Spectrum of Literacy in New Delhi on 7 September • He emphasized the importance of the India-Middle
2024. East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) in enhancing
• The conference aimed at bringing together global economic connectivity and maritime security.
and national experts, educators, policymakers, and • The conclave was organized by the Confederation of
literacy advocates to explore the diverse and evolving Indian Industry (CII).
dimensions of literacy in today’s world.
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurates
78th meeting of Network Planning Group National Convention of District Youth
under PM GatiShakti Officers
• On 6 September 2024, the 78th meeting of the • On 4 September 2024, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh
Network Planning Group (NPG) under the PM Mandaviya inaugurated a two-day National
GatiShakti initiative was held in New Delhi. Convention of District Youth Officers in New Delhi.
• The meeting evaluated 18 crucial road infrastructure • Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the importance of
projects proposed by the Ministry of Road Transport youth empowerment and the role of the MY Bharat
and Highways. platform in providing skill-building and employment
• These projects span various states, including opportunities.
Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh,
Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, India and Kenya holds 3rd Joint Defence
and Bihar. Cooperation Committee Meeting
• On 3 September 2024, India and Kenya held their
India and Maldives held 5th Defence 3rd Joint Defence Cooperation Committee meeting in
Cooperation Dialogue in New Delhi New Delhi.
• The two countries discussed a wide range of avenues
for defence cooperation in areas like military
cooperation, training, defence industries, R&D etc.

2024 Edition of Chief Science Advisers’

Roundtable
• On 6 September 2024, the Chief Science Advisers’
Roundtable (CSAR) took place at UNESCO
Headquarters in Paris.
• Co-organized by UNESCO and the Government of
India, the event focused on “Fostering open science,
• On 6 September 2024, India and the Maldives held bridging knowledge asymmetry, and building science
their 5th Defence Cooperation Dialogue in New Delhi. advice capacity globally”.
• The Indian delegation was led by Defence Secretary • The roundtable featured discussions on enhancing
Giridhar Aramane, while the Maldivian side was global science advice mechanisms, with participation
headed by Chief of Defence Force General Ibrahim from national Chief Science Advisers and international
Hilmy. organizations.

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Chapter

12 Books and Authors

The Book Titled ‘Sri Rama in Tamilagam – • On 14 September 2024, Tamil Nadu Governor R.N.
An inseparable bond’ released by Governor Ravi released the book “Sri Rama in Tamilagam – An
Inseparable Bond” by Dr. D.K. Hari and Dr. D.K. Hema
of Tamil Nadu Hari.
• The event, held at Raj Bhavan, Chennai, highlighted
the deep cultural and historical connections of Lord
Rama in Tamil Nadu.
• The book emphasizes the widespread presence of
Rama’s legacy across the state.
Chapter

13 Important Days

International Day of Peace 2024 • On 14 September 1949, the Constituent Assembly

• The International Day of Peace is observed annually of India made a landmark decision to adopt Hindi,
on 21 September. written in the Devanagari script, as one of the official
languages of the newly independent nation.
• The day was established by the United Nations in
1981, it promotes global peace and non-violence. • Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister,
recognized the importance of this decision and
• The 2024 theme, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace,”
proposed the observance of September 14th as Hindi
emphasizes understanding and cooperation.
Diwas.
World Cleanup Day National Forest Martyrs Day
• World Cleanup Day is an annual event held on the
• National Forest Martyrs Day is observed annually on
third Saturday of September, mobilizing millions
11 September in India to honor those who sacrificed
of volunteers worldwide to tackle the global waste
their lives protecting the country’s forests and
crisis. The 2024 edition took place on 20 September.
wildlife.
• Organized by Let’s Do It World, this initiative aims
• This day commemorates the 1730 Khejarli Massacre,
to raise awareness about mismanaged waste and
where Amrita Devi Bishnoi and over 350 Bishnoi
inspire sustainable practices.
community members died defending Khejri trees.
• In 2023, the United Nations officially recognized
• It was established in 2013 by the Ministry of
World Cleanup Day as an International Day.
Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
World Patient Safety Day 5th UN International Day to Protect
• World Patient Safety Day is observed annually on Education from Attack
17 September, was established by the World Health
Assembly in 2019 through resolution WHA72.6. • On 9 September 2024, the 5th UN International Day
to Protect Education from Attack was observed.
• This day calls for global solidarity and concerted
action to improve patient safety. • This day highlights the urgent need to safeguard
education in conflict zones, emphasizing the
• The 2024 theme, “Improving Diagnosis for Patient
devastating impact of attacks on students, teachers,
Safety,” emphasizes the importance of accurate and
and educational institutions.
timely diagnosis in healthcare.
• Events included high-level panel discussions and
Hindi Diwas 2024 global forums, focusing on strategies to protect
education and ensure safe learning environments.
• Hindi Diwas 2024 is celebrated every year on 14
September.
Chapter

14 Important Government
Schemes
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Swachh Bharat Mission marked its 10th
Sitharaman Launched the NPS Vatsalya Anniversary
Scheme • On 17 September 2024, the Swachh Bharat Mission
marked its 10th anniversary with the launch of the
• On 19 September 2024, Union Finance Minister
Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 campaign.
Nirmala Sitharaman launched the NPS Vatsalya
• Themed “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskar Swachhata,”
scheme.
this nationwide initiative aims to clean over 6 lakh
• This innovative pension scheme is designed for difficult spots across India.
minors, allowing parents or guardians to open and
contribute to a National Pension System (NPS) DPIIT launched BHASKAR Platform
account on behalf of their children. • On 16 September 2024, the Department for
• Upon reaching 18 years, the account seamlessly Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
transitions to an NPS Tier-I account. The scheme launched the Bharat Startup Knowledge Access
is regulated by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Registry (BHASKAR) platform.
Development Authority (PFRDA). • This initiative, part of the Startup India program, aims
to centralize and streamline collaboration among
Cabinet approves Bio-RIDE Scheme startups, investors, mentors, service providers, and
government entities.
• On 18 September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved
• BHASKAR provides a comprehensive digital registry
the Bio-RIDE scheme (Biotechnology Research
to enhance networking, resource access, and growth
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development). within India’s dynamic startup ecosystem.
• This initiative merges two existing schemes to
support cutting-edge R&D in biotechnology, bio Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh launches
manufacturing, and bio foundry. Web Portal to Monitor Swachhata
• With an outlay of `9197 crore, Bio-RIDE aims to Campaign 4.0
foster innovation, promote bio-entrepreneurship, • On 13 September 2024, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra
and strengthen India’s position as a global leader in Singh launched a web portal to monitor the progress
biotechnology. of Special Swachhata Campaign 4.0.
• This initiative aims to institutionalize cleanliness and
Atal Pension Yojana (APY) Subscribers at reduce pendency across all government offices.
69 million • The campaign will run from 2 October to 31 October
• As of 18 September 2024, the Atal Pension Yojana 2024, with a preparatory phase from 16 September
to 30 September 2024.
(APY) has reached 69 million subscribers, with a
corpus of `35,149 crore. Cabinet approves `3,435 Crore Scheme for
• Launched in 2015, APY is a low-cost pension scheme 38,000 Electric Buses
offering a guaranteed monthly pension of `1,000-
• On 11 September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved
5,000 from age 60, depending on contributions. the PM-eBus Sewa-Payment Security Mechanism
• It aims to provide financial security to unorganized (PSM) scheme with an outlay of `3,435.33 crore.
sector workers, with benefits extending to spouses • This scheme aims to deploy over 38,000 electric
and nominees in case of the subscriber’s death. buses across India from FY 2024-25 to FY 2028-29.
Union Cabinet approves `70,125 crore for • It offers services such as online applications for notary
PMGSY-IV Road Scheme appointments, issuance and renewal of Certificates
of Practice, and submission of annual returns.
• On 11 September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved
the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-IV (PMGSY-IV) Union Cabinet approves Digital Agriculture
with a budget of `70,125 crore.
Mission
• This scheme, running from FY 2024-25 to 2028-29,
aims to construct 62,500 km of roads and upgrade • On 2 September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved
bridges, connecting 25,000 unconnected habitations. the Digital Agriculture Mission with a budget of
`2,817 crore, including `1,940 crore from the central
• The central government will contribute `49,087.50
government.
crore, while the states will provide `21,037.50 crore.
• This mission aims to enhance digital infrastructure
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in agriculture through initiatives like AgriStack,
Krishi Decision Support System, and Soil Profile
launched the Notary Portal
Mapping.
• On 4 September 2024, Union Minister for Law and
• These efforts will provide timely, reliable information
Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, launched the Notary
and services to farmers, supporting India’s goal of a
Portal in New Delhi.
digitally empowered agricultural sector.
• This portal aims to provide a paperless, faceless, and
efficient system for notaries and the public.

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Chapter

15 Persons and Places in News

Dhruvi Patel wins Miss India Worldwide • Zareen, a two-time world champion and
2024 Commonwealth Games gold medalist, submitted
her joining report to the Director General of Police,
Jitender.
• Hailing from Nizamabad, Telangana, she has had
an illustrious boxing career, including representing
India at the Paris Olympics.

Manu Bhaker Appointed Brand

Ambassador for Ministry of Ports, Shipping
and Waterways

• On 20 September 2024, Dhruvi Patel was crowned

Miss India Worldwide 2024 in Edison, New Jersey.
• Dhruvi, a Computer Information Systems student
at Quinnipiac University, is originally from Gujarat,
India.
• Miss India Worldwide is the longest-running Indian
pageant held outside of India, established in 1990 by
the New York-based India Festival Committee. • On 17 September 2024, the Ministry of Ports,
• Dhruvi has also won the title of Miss India New Shipping, and Waterways appointed Manu Bhaker as
England 2023. its brand ambassador.
• The appointment aims to inspire youth and showcase
Nikhat Zareen joins Telangana Police as DSP the opportunities within the marine industry. The
announcement was part of an event celebrating
women achievers in the maritime sector.

Ashwini Vaishnaw named among TIME’s

Most Influential in Tech and AI
• On 10 September 2024, Ashwini Vaishnaw, India’s
Minister of Railways, Communications, and
Electronics & Information Technology, was named
among TIME’s Most Influential in Tech and AI.
• This recognition highlights his pivotal role in
advancing India’s digital infrastructure and AI
initiatives.
• On 18 September 2024, world boxing champion • Vaishnaw’s efforts in promoting innovation, digital
Nikhat Zareen joined the Telangana Police as Deputy inclusion, and technological advancements have
Superintendent of Police (DSP). significantly impacted India’s tech landscape.