National News
Government Employee Unions Rally for Pension Rights in Delhi
Government employee unions organized a massive rally named the "Pension Rights Maharally" in Delhi, demanding the reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme. Joint Forum for Restoration of Old Pension Scheme (JFROPS)/National Joint Council of Action (NJCA) orchestrated the event at Ramlila Maidan on August 10. The rally saw participation from diverse sectors including central and state departments, railways, PSUs, teaching professionals, defense personnel, and ex-paramilitary personnel.
New Bill Proposes Changes in Appointment Process for Election Commissioners in India
The central government introduced a bill in the Rajya Sabha to modify the appointment process of Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners. Notably, the bill removes the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee, aiming to enhance the impartiality and autonomy of the Election Commission.
The Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023: Revamping India’s Criminal Justice System
Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced three bills to reform India's criminal justice system. The Bharatiya Sakshya Bill aims to replace the outdated Indian Evidence Act of 1872. This bill seeks to establish modern rules and principles of evidence for fair trials in criminal cases, addressing the current needs of society.
India Aims to Triple Natural Gas Share to 15% by 2030: Minister
India is determined to increase its natural gas share from 6% to 15% by 2030. Spearheaded by Rameswar Teli, Minister of State in the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, the effort includes expanding the National Gas Grid Pipeline and setting up LNG Terminals. The government aims to provide a steady supply of domestic gas for transportation and domestic usage.
International News
Canada Starts Accepting PTE Scores for Student Direct Stream Applications
Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has approved Pearson's PTE Academic test as an English language proficiency assessment for international students. The move enhances the global recognition of the PTE Academic test, benefitting students applying through the Student Direct Stream.
State News
CM Solar Mission Launched in Power Deficit Meghalaya
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma launched the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission with a government investment of Rs 500 crore over five years. The initiative aims to transform the state's energy landscape through aggressive expansion of solar energy, including net metering and subsidies for various beneficiaries.
Uttar Pradesh Records Maximum Cases Of Cancer
Uttar Pradesh documented the highest count of cancer cases and fatalities in India. The state has implemented initiatives to improve healthcare access for cancer patients, offering either free or subsidized treatment in government hospitals.
Business News
NCLT Approves $10 Billion Mega-Merger Between Zee and Sony
The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has approved the merger between Zee Entertainment Enterprises and Culver Max Entertainment (formerly known as Sony Pictures Networks India). The merger is expected to reshape the entertainment industry landscape in India.
Economy News
Indian Economy to Grow at 6% in FY24, Say NIPFP Researchers
The National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP) forecasts India's economic growth to decelerate to 6% in FY24 due to global economic headwinds and external factors.
Important Days News
World Elephant Day 2023
World Elephant Day on August 12 raises awareness about challenges faced by elephants and promotes their conservation. The event highlights issues such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-elephant conflicts, emphasizing the need for their protection.
International Youth Day 2023
International Youth Day on August 12 recognizes the potential of youth to shape the world's future. The day is dedicated to addressing issues affecting the global youth population and empowering them to contribute positively.
Books and Authors News
Poet Diplomat Abhay K Launches his New Book ‘Monsoon’
Indian poet-diplomat Abhay Kumar launched his book "Monsoon: A Poem of Love and Longing." The book is a poem that follows the monsoon's journey and was published by Sahitya Akademi.
Awards News
Subhash Runwal Receives the Lifetime Achievement Award RICS
Subhash Runwal, Chairman of Runwal, received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the first-ever RICS South Asia Awards, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the real estate sector.
Obituaries News
Renowned Nuclear Physicist Bikash Sinha Passes Away
Renowned nuclear physicist Bikash Sinha passed away at the age of 78. He specialized in nuclear physics, high energy physics, and made significant contributions to the field.