International News

1. Uganda Airlines' Mumbai Connection

• On the 3rd of October, Uganda Airlines made a significant announcement that will redefine air travel between India and Uganda.
• The airline is set to introduce a thrice-weekly direct flight service connecting Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to Uganda's Entebbe International Airport.
• This historic development marks the revival of non-stop air travel between the two nations after a gap of more than five decades.
• This momentous journey, with the maiden flight UR 430 departing from Entebbe on the 7th of October and its return counterpart UR 431 from Mumbai on the 8th of October, signifies a new chapter in the aviation industry.
• Uganda Airlines will operate this direct route utilizing its state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800 neo aircraft. Passengers can enjoy a three-class configuration, including Business Class with 20 seats, Premium Economy with 28 seats, and Economy Class with 210 seats, ensuring diverse options to cater to travelers' preferences.

2. Statue of Equality: A Tribute to B.R. Ambedkar

• In Maryland, North America, a monumental tribute to B.R. Ambedkar, the visionary behind the Indian Constitution, is set to be unveiled on the 14th of October.
• This awe-inspiring statue, known as the 'Statue of Equality,' stands tall at an impressive 19 feet, symbolizing Ambedkar's enduring commitment to equality and human rights.
• Notably, this statue will become the largest representation of Babasaheb outside of India.Master sculptor Ram Sutar, renowned for his artistic craftsmanship, is the creative mind behind the 'Statue of Equality.'
• His previous masterpiece, the 'Statue of Unity' dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, is a testament to his exceptional talent. This statue not only pays homage to a great leader but also represents a beacon of hope for equality and justice.

State News

3. Basohli Pashmina's Prestigious GI Tag

• The picturesque district of Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir has received well-deserved recognition for its age-old traditional craft, Basohli Pashmina.
• This exquisite fabric, celebrated for its unmatched softness, fineness, and feather-like weight, has recently been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
• Crafted by skilled artisans using traditional hand-spinning techniques, Basohli Pashmina has epitomized luxury and elegance for over a century.
• Its unique characteristic lies in its ability to provide warmth without adding bulk, making it a preferred choice for discerning fashion enthusiasts in cold climates.
• The Department of Industries and Commerce, in collaboration with NABARD Jammu and Human Welfare Association, Varanasi, played a pivotal role in securing the GI tag for Basohli Pashmina, recognizing its cultural significance and economic potential.

Defence News

4. 'Yashasvini' CRPF Women Bike Expedition

• The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has embarked on a remarkable journey towards women empowerment with the launch of the 'Yashasvini' all-female bikers' expedition rally.
• This extraordinary rally was flagged off from the iconic Ghanta Ghar near Lal Chowk in Srinagar, marking a significant step towards gender equality and empowerment.
• Covering a staggering distance of 2134 kilometers, spanning 40 districts across 15 states and Union Territories, this cross-country bike rally is a testament to determination and strength.
• The rally aims to inspire and empower women from various backgrounds and age groups through interactions with school children, college girls, women self-help groups, National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets, and anganwadi workers as part of the "Beti Bachao Beti Padhao"

5. The Retirement of the Iconic MiG-21

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced its plans to retire the iconic MiG-21 fighter jets by the year 2025. These legendary aircraft have been stalwarts of the IAF for over six decades and have played a pivotal role in safeguarding India's airspace.
• In a historic moment, the MiG-21 will participate in what could be its final flypast anywhere in the world. This aircraft has been instrumental in various missions and operations throughout its illustrious service.
• The IAF is set to replace the MiG-21 with the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A as part of its ongoing efforts to modernize and upgrade its fleet.

6. India-Bangladesh Joint Military Exercise 'SAMPRITI'

• India and Bangladesh have commenced the 11th edition of their annual joint military exercise, 'SAMPRITI,' in Umroi, Meghalaya.
• This exercise involves the participation of 170 personnel from the Bangladesh contingent, led by Brigadier General Mohammed Mafizul Islam Rashed, Commander of the 52 Bangladesh Infantry Brigade.
• 'SAMPRITI,' which began in 2009, aims to enhance interoperability, share tactical drills, and promote best practices between the two nations.
• Over the past decade, this initiative has become a symbol of the strong defense ties between India and Bangladesh, reflecting their commitment to regional security and cooperation.

Important Days News

7. World Animal Welfare Day 2023: "Great or Small, Love Them All"

• World Animal Welfare Day, celebrated annually on October 4th, serves as an International Day of Action dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of animals.
• This global initiative unites animal lovers worldwide, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the well-being of animals.
• The theme for World Animal Day 2023, "Great or Small, Love Them All," emphasizes the importance of recognizing animals as sentient beings.
• It underscores the need to elevate global animal care standards and advocates for animal rights universally.

8. Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2023

• Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed throughout October each year, is a campaign aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer prevention, early detection, and support for individuals and families affected by the disease.
• This global movement reminds us of the significance of regular breast examinations and mammograms to detect breast cancer at an early, more treatable stage.
• Established in the early 1980s, Breast Cancer Awareness Month has contributed to increased awareness and improved outcomes for breast cancer patients worldwide.
• It continues to play a crucial role in promoting breast health and supporting ongoing research, prevention, and treatment efforts.

9. World Teachers' Day 2023

• World Teachers' Day, observed annually on October 5th, is a global celebration dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions of teachers to society.
• This day serves as an opportunity to recognize the vital role teachers play in shaping the future and addressing the challenges they face.
• Teachers are catalysts for educational transformation, making a lasting impact on the lives of their students and shaping sustainable futures.
• World Teachers' Day was inaugurated in 1994 and has since become a globally recognized event that honors teachers and their contributions to education.

10. National Wildlife Week 2023: "Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation"

• The National Zoological Park celebrated the 69th Wildlife Week, emphasizing the importance of wildlife conservation in India.
• This year's theme, "Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation," highlights the collaborative efforts required to protect and preserve India's rich biodiversity.
• The celebration of Wildlife Week, from October 2nd to October 8th, coincides with Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary, reinforcing the principles of Ahinsa (non-violence) and compassion for all living beings.
• This event underscores the need for collective action and partnerships to ensure the conservation of diverse wildlife species.

Schemes News

11. PM Modi Inaugurates Tourist Facilities in Nathdwara

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated key projects in Nathdwara, Rajasthan, including tourist facilities funded by the Ministry of Tourism under the Swadesh Darshan scheme's Krishna circu
• With an allocation of Rs. 23.59 Crore, these projects include a tourism interpretation cum cultural center developed at a cost of Rs. 13.43 Crore.
• The interpretation center serves as an informative hub about Shrinathji (Lord Krishna) and Shri Vallabhacharyaji, the revered founder of Pushtimarg.
• It provides insights into various aspects of Shrinathji's life, divine acts, worship rituals, appearances, festivals, and related customs. This initiative aims to enhance tourism while preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Nathdwara.

12. PM SVANidhi Scheme Surpasses 50 Lakh Beneficiaries Mark

• The Prime Minister Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme has achieved a significant milestone by providing assistance to over 50 lakh street vendors across the country.
• Administered under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, this micro-credit initiative offers collateral-free working capital loans of up to 50,000 to urban street vendors.
• Launched on June 1st, 2020, the PM SVANidhi Scheme has played a crucial role in integrating street vendors into the formal economic sector.
• It not only supports the livelihoods of street vendors but also contributes to the formalization of the urban informal economy, aligning with broader economic goals.

Appointments News

13. PayU Elevates Anirban Mukherjee As Global CEO

• Anirban Mukherjee, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PayU India, has been promoted to the role of global CEO of PayU.
• This strategic move comes as Laurent Le Moal steps back from the day-to-day operational management of the business, although he will continue to be involved with Prosus and PayU in an advisory capacity.
• As the Global CEO, Anirban Mukherjee will oversee the overall business operations of PayU on a global scale.
• His leadership will directly report to Ervin Tu, the interim CEO of Prosus and Naspers, the parent company of PayU.
• This transition signifies a crucial phase in PayU's journey, positioning the company to shape the future of the global digital payments industry.

Awards News

14. Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2023: Quantum Dots Revolution

• Moungi G. Bawendi, Louis E. Brus, and Alexei Ekimov have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2023 for their groundbreaking work on the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots.
• These minuscule particles, known for their size-dependent properties, now play a vital role in various applications, from illuminating screens to bioimaging.
• Quantum dots, with properties determined by their size, have revolutionized technology, enhancing the quality of displays and contributing to advancements in biochemistry and medicine.
• The Nobel Prize amount for 2023 is set at Swedish kronor (SEK) 11.0 million per full Nobel Prize, acknowledging the profound impact of their contributions.

Sports News

15. Asian Games 2023: Archery Mixed Team Compound Gold

• Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Pravin Ojas Deotale clinched gold in the Compound Archery Mixed Team event, marking India's success at the Asian Games 2023.
• The duo secured victory with a 159-158 score against the South Korean pair at the Fuyang Yinhu Sports Centre Final Field.
• This achievement represents India's prowess in specific sports, contributing to a total of 71 medals at the Games.
• India's impressive performance includes 16 gold, 26 silver, and 29 bronze medals, showcasing the nation's excellence in various disciplines. The Asian Games 2023 have become a platform for Indian athletes to shine on the international stage.

16. Annu Rani's Historic Gold in Women's Javelin Throw

• Annu Rani scripted history by winning the gold medal in the women's javelin throw at the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou.
• With a remarkable throw of 92 meters, she became the first Indian woman to secure a javelin gold in Asian Games history.
• Starting with a 56.99m throw in her first attempt, Rani consistently demonstrated her prowess, eventually securing the gold with her 62.92m throw in the fourth attempt.
• This achievement adds to India's impressive medal tally, with Rani contributing to the nation's 15th gold at the Games.

17. Parul Chaudhary's Triumph in Women's 5000m

• Parul Chaudhary clinched the gold medal in the women's 5000m, becoming the third Indian track and field athlete to win gold at the 2023 Asian Games.
• Hanging back for much of the race, Parul broke away in the last stretch to overtake her competitors and secure victory.
• Parul's gold adds to India's successes in track and field at the Asian Games, joining the medals won by shotputter Tajinderpal Singh Toor and men's 3000m steeplechase winner Avinash Sable.
• This triumph reflects India's growing prominence in various athletic disciplines.

18. Sachin Tendulkar: Global Ambassador for ODI World Cup 2023

• Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has been named the 'Global Ambassador' for the Cricket World Cup 2023 by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
• This announcement adds a touch of cricketing magic to the highly anticipated tournament scheduled to commence in Ahmedabad, India.
• Sachin Tendulkar, with his extensive experience and passion for the game, holds a special place in the history of the Cricket World Cup.
• His association with the event, spanning from being a ball boy in 1987 to participating in numerous editions, makes him the perfect choice to unveil the World Cup trophy before the inaugural match, marking the beginning of an exciting and thrilling tournament.