International News

India’s Strategic Move in Maldives:

• India recently announced a strategic decision regarding its military personnel stationed in the Maldives.
• In a move aimed at maintaining operational efficiency while respecting the Maldivian government's wishes, India will be replacing military personnel with skilled technical staff on aviation platforms.
• This decision, confirmed by MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, signifies a shift towards utilizing specialized expertise.
• The transition will commence with the replacement of personnel on the first aircraft by Indian technical experts by March 10, with plans to complete the substitution for the remaining two aircraft by May 10.

State News

Hyderabad's Literary Extravaganza:

• The 36th National Book Fair is currently underway at NTR Stadium in Hyderabad, organized by the Hyderabad Book Fair Society.
• Commencing on February 9 and concluding on February 19, this event serves as a beacon for bibliophiles across the city.
• With the aim of revitalizing the reading culture, the fair pays homage to civil rights activist Gaddar and renowned scholar Ravva Srihari, whose names adorn the venue. Additionally, a monument honoring Telangana martyrs stands proudly within the exhibition premises.

Economy News

India's Economic Trends:

• In January 2024, India witnessed a positive economic outlook with retail inflation hitting a three-month low at 5.1%. Simultaneously, the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) showcased a growth rate of 3.8% in December 2023.
• The Consumer Price Index (CPI) revealed a year-on-year retail inflation rate of 5.1% in January 2024, indicating a notable decline from previous months.
• Factors contributing to this decline include reduced prices of cereals, milk, and fruit, although certain items like vegetables, pulses, and spices continue to sustain double-digit inflation.
• Notably, protein-rich items such as meat and eggs experienced a slight price acceleration.

Important Days News

Celebrating Sarojini Naidu's Legacy:

• February 13, 2024, commemorates the 145th birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, fondly remembered as the "Nightingale of India."
• Recognized for her contributions to India's independence struggle and her exceptional literary works, Naidu's legacy extends beyond her time.
• This day is also observed as National Women's Day, acknowledging her significant role in advocating for women's rights and empowerment.
• Her poetry, renowned for its vivid imagery and lyrical depth, continues to inspire generations, with "In the Bazaars of Hyderabad" standing as a testament to her enduring impact.

National Productivity Day 2024

Fostering Economic Growth through Innovation:

• February 12 marks National Productivity Day in India, initiating the Indian Productivity Week, observed until February 18.
• This year, with a focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the driving force behind productivity, the National Productivity Council (NPC) underscores AI's potential in spurring economic development.
• The theme for 2024, "Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Productivity Engine for Economic Growth," underscores India's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to propel its economic landscape forward.

International Epilepsy Day 2024

Celebrating Progress and Unity:

• International Epilepsy Day, observed annually on the 2nd Monday of February, serves as a significant occasion in the global healthcare arena.
• This year, on February 12, 2024, individuals worldwide joined together to commemorate this day, emphasizing the ongoing journey towards supporting and uniting those affected by epilepsy.
• With the theme "Milestones on My Epilepsy Journey," the day highlighted personal achievements amid the challenges posed by epilepsy, fostering a sense of community and empowerment among patients.

Schemes News

Empowering Homes with Solar Energy:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently unveiled the ambitious 'PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana,' signaling a paradigm shift towards a sustainable energy future for India.
• This groundbreaking initiative, with a substantial investment exceeding Rs 75,000 crore, aims to illuminate one crore households across the nation by providing up to 300 units of free electricity every month, generated through solar power.
• By promoting renewable energy sources, the scheme not only facilitates energy self-sufficiency but also contributes to environmental conservation efforts.

Awards News

Noida's Commitment to Water Conservation:

• Noida was bestowed with the esteemed title of "Water Warrior" city by the Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation, under the Union Water Ministry.
• Recognized for its exemplary sewage treatment plant (STP) and water reuse project, Noida's efforts in water conservation and management garnered accolades.
• Satish Pal and RP Singh, representing the city, received these honors, showcasing Noida's dedication to sustainable urban development.

Books & Authors News

A Political Chronicle Unveiled:

• The launch of "Maha Swaapnikudu" (A Great Visionary) by former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu marks a significant addition to India's political discourse.
• Authored by journalist P. Vikram and published by NRI Koduri Venkat, this book sheds light on Naidu's illustrious career, tracing his strategic contributions to Indian politics.
• From leading the United Front to supporting the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), Naidu's leadership journey has left an indelible mark on the country's governance landscape.

Sports News

Sumit Nagal's Triumph in Tennis:

• Sumit Nagal's remarkable ascent to the top 100 in tennis rankings reflects his unwavering determination and resilience.
• Beginning his journey ranked 506 globally in 2023, Nagal's victory at the ATP Chennai Open Challenger in 2024 propelled him to the 98th position, marking his debut in the top 100.
• This achievement underscores Nagal's remarkable comeback following surgery and solidifies his status as one of India's top tennis talents.

Science & Technology News

IIT Guwahati's Innovations in Nanotechnology:

• In a significant milestone, IIT Guwahati unveiled the pioneering SWASTHA project and state-of-the-art ISO 5 and 6 Clean Room Facilities at its Centre for Nanotechnology on February 9, 2024.
• These cutting-edge facilities, the first of their kind in Northeast India, aim to revolutionize nanoelectronics, nanomaterial fabrication, semiconductor device development, and quantum technologies.
• Sponsored jointly by MeitY and IIT Guwahati, the project focuses on delivering high-quality products and prototypes in micro/nanoelectronics and nanomaterials, fostering advancements in the field of technology.