[Newsbits] 1-15.12.2024: Sora AI, SAMPARK 4.0 & more
The Indian government is formulating a national policy to boost women’s workforce participation, focusing on the care economy and creating supportive infrastructure like childcare services. A World Bank report highlights a 12-percentage-point drop in women's employment post-marriage. Existing initiatives, such as the Palna Scheme and Anganwadi centres, provide childcare and early education support. The proposed policy includes specialized caregiver training and informal sector childcare services. The Labour Ministry’s data for 2021-2022 shows rural women's participation at 36.6%, compared to urban women at 23.8%, underlining the need for targeted measures.
The African openbill stork has been sighted for the first time in Kerala at the Kanjani Kole fields, confirmed during a survey by birdwatcher Subin K.S. Previously recorded in Goa but not officially recognized in India, its presence was validated by a study published in the Indian Birds journal, raising Kerala’s bird species count to 558. Known for its distinct bill adapted for feeding on mollusks, this stork primarily resides in Africa and rarely migrates long distances. The sighting underscores the biodiversity of Kerala’s wetlands and enhances knowledge of rare avian migrations.
The Assam State Commission for Right to Public Services was launched by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati to ensure accountability in public service delivery. The initiative utilizes technology, such as the Seva Setu platform, which covers 725 citizen services across 64 departments. Assam's Right to Public Service Act, originally adopted in 2012 and updated in 2024, establishes timelines for service delivery, complementing the RTI Act. The Commission, led by retired IPS officer Sujoy Lal Thaosen, aims to improve transparency and governance, making Assam a model for efficient public service.
CINBAX-2024, the first joint military exercise between the Indian Army and Cambodian Army, is being held from December 1 to December 8, 2024, at the Foreign Training Node in Pune. The exercise focuses on planning Counter-Terrorism (CT) operations under UN guidelines and involves 20 personnel from each side. It includes intelligence gathering, hybrid warfare strategies, logistics, and casualty management. Structured into three phases, CINBAX emphasizes collaboration in peacekeeping and disaster relief. Additionally, the exercise showcases indigenous defence equipment, promoting India’s self-reliance and strengthening bilateral military ties.
Italy has announced the Cotton Route initiative to strengthen trade relations with India, paralleling the historic Silk Route. Italy’s Business Minister, Adolfo Urso, emphasized ambitions to become India’s third-largest EU trade partner. Trade between the two nations reached billion in 2023. Italy plans to enhance collaborations in defence, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and marine industries through its Made in Italy 2030 plan. Defence spending will increase to billion by 2026, with India seen as a key partner in achieving space and defence goals. Italy also aims to serve as a European hub for Indian firms.
India’s Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP), launched in June 2024, facilitates expedited immigration for frequent international travellers, including OCI cardholders. Operational at 31 international airports, the program employs e-gates to reduce clearance times by 60-65%. Registration requires biometric submission and verification, valid for five years. The initiative has enrolled over 19,000 participants and is modeled after the US Global Entry Program. It promotes global mobility and improves the travel experience while aligning with India’s growing international connectivity.
The 4th India-Malaysia joint military exercise, HARIMAU SHAKTI-2024, is underway at Bentong Camp in Malaysia's Pahang district from December 1 to December 15, 2024. It involves 78 personnel from the Indian Army’s MAHAR Regiment and 123 personnel from Malaysia’s Royal Malaysian Regiment. Focused on counter-insurgency operations in jungle environments under UN mandates, the exercise is conducted in two phases: cross-training and a simulated operation. It strengthens bilateral defence ties, fosters teamwork, and enhances regional security. Alternating annually between India and Malaysia, the previous edition was held at Umroi Cantonment, Meghalaya.
The Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF) was launched to enhance urban infrastructure in India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Targeting shortfalls in priority sector lending, it focuses on critical services like sewerage, solid waste management, water supply, sanitation, and drainage. Managed by the National Housing Bank, UIDF provides stable financial support to state governments and urban agencies, ensuring sustainable urban development. Announced by Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Tokhan Sahu in the Lok Sabha, the initiative aims to improve living standards and bridge the infrastructure gap in smaller cities.
The RS-28 Sarmat, or "Satan 2," is Russia’s advanced intercontinental ballistic missile designed for nuclear deterrence. Measuring 116 feet and weighing 220 tonnes, it boasts a range of 6,200 to 11,180 miles and can carry up to 15 nuclear warheads, each capable of hitting different targets. With a speed exceeding 12,000 mph and advanced stealth features, it is designed to evade radar systems. Introduced by President Vladimir Putin in 2018, the missile counters the U.S. Prompt Global Strike system. Entering service in 2023, the Sarmat enhances Russia’s strategic capabilities alongside weapons like Kinzhal and Avangard.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has categorized packaged drinking and mineral water as the “Highest Risk Food Category,” ensuring stringent safety measures. The move eliminates the requirement for Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification, simplifying compliance for manufacturers. Annual inspections and third-party audits are now mandatory to maintain product quality and safety. These measures aim to safeguard public health while reducing the regulatory burden on businesses. Consumers can expect enhanced safety and quality in packaged water products through stricter oversight and improved industry practices.
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