Current Affairs is the most important area in all competitive exams. But the difficulty level is very high. That’s why; many aspirants get confused, how to select Current Affairs for Preparation of Competitive Examination? In this Post, Daily Current Affairs 17 & 18 September 2023, we have tried to cover each and every point and also included all important facts from National/ International news that are useful for upcoming competitive examinations such as UPSC, SSC, Railway, State Govt. etc.
World Bamboo Day 2023 observed on 18th September
World Bamboo Day, observed annually on September 18, is a global initiative that sheds light on the incredible significance of bamboo.
World Bamboo Day, observed annually on September 18, is a global initiative that sheds light on the incredible significance of bamboo. This remarkable plant, often referred to as “green gold,” holds immense potential in sustainable development, poverty alleviation, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation. World Bamboo Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the myriad benefits of bamboo and its role in addressing pressing global challenges.
Bamboo, a rapidly growing type of grass, is renowned for its exceptional qualities, including strength, flexibility, and eco-friendliness. This day celebrates the incredible versatility and sustainability of bamboo as a valuable resource.
History of World Bamboo Day
World Bamboo Day owes its existence to the dedicated efforts of the World Bamboo Organization (WBO), a non-profit organization established in 2005 by Susanne Lucas and David Knights. Their vision was to promote bamboo as a versatile and valuable resource with the potential to transform industries and livelihoods.
The Inaugural World Bamboo Congress
In 2009, the WBO organized the first-ever World Bamboo Congress in Bangkok, Thailand. This historic event brought together bamboo enthusiasts, experts, researchers, and industry professionals from around the globe. During this congress, the idea of establishing a dedicated day to celebrate bamboo gained momentum.
September 18: A Special Date
On September 18, 2009, during the 8th World Bamboo Congress, participants officially declared September 18 as World Bamboo Day. This date was chosen to coincide with the birthday of the renowned bamboo researcher, Nobel Laureate, and India’s former President, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Dr. Kalam was a staunch advocate for bamboo’s potential to combat poverty and environmental degradation.
Global Recognition and Support
Following this declaration, World Bamboo Day garnered recognition and support from bamboo organizations, environmental groups, governments, and bamboo enthusiasts worldwide. The day was dedicated to promoting the sustainable and versatile uses of bamboo.
Significance of World Bamboo Day
Environmental Sustainability
World Bamboo Day underscores the eco-friendly nature of bamboo. Bamboo’s rapid growth, minimal water and pesticide requirements, and the ability to harvest it without harming the plant’s root system make it an environmentally responsible choice.
Diverse Utilization
This observance highlights the diverse uses of bamboo, ranging from construction and furniture making to textiles and culinary applications. Bamboo’s adaptability makes it a key ingredient in various industries.
Economic Empowerment
Recognizing the economic potential of bamboo, World Bamboo Day emphasizes its ability to create jobs and income opportunities for communities and businesses worldwide. Bamboo-based industries play a vital role in economic growth.
Cultural Heritage
Bamboo holds cultural significance in societies worldwide, playing a role in traditional crafts, music, and rituals. World Bamboo Day acknowledges the cultural value of this remarkable plant.
Biodiversity Conservation
Bamboo forests often serve as habitats for various wildlife species. Celebrating bamboo underscores the importance of conserving these forests for biodiversity preservation.
Research and Innovation
World Bamboo Day encourages research and innovation in bamboo-related industries. It serves as a catalyst for discovering new applications and technologies.
Collaborative Efforts
Lastly, this day fosters collaboration among governments, organizations, and individuals to promote responsible bamboo cultivation and utilization. By working together, we can harness the full potential of bamboo resources.
In conclusion, World Bamboo Day is a celebration of nature’s gift to humanity. It encourages us to recognize the invaluable contributions of bamboo to our lives, the environment, and our cultures. By embracing bamboo’s sustainability and versatility, we can pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
- World Bamboo Organization Headquarters: Antwerp, Belgium.
- World Bamboo Organization Founded: 2005.
- World Bamboo Organization Executive director: Susanne Lucas.
PM Vishwakarma Scheme: Benefits and Eligibility
The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana (PM Vishwakarma Scheme) is a new Central Sector Scheme launched by the Government of India on September 17, 2023.
The Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana (PM Vishwakarma Scheme) is a new Central Sector Scheme launched by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 17, 2023, on the occasion of Vishwakarma Jayanti. The scheme aims to strengthen and nurture the Guru-Shishya parampara or family-based practice of traditional skills by artisans and craftspeople working with their hands and tools.
Benefits of the Vishwakarma Yojana
- Training and Skill Enhancement: Under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, traditional artisans will receive an invaluable opportunity to enhance their skills through a comprehensive 6-day training program. This training is tailored to the specific needs of carpenters, tailors, basket weavers, barbers, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, potters, confectioners, cobblers, and others, empowering them with advanced techniques and knowledge.
- Financial Support: The PM Vishwakarma scheme goes beyond training by offering substantial financial assistance ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 10 lakh. This monetary aid enables beneficiaries to kickstart their endeavors and expand their businesses, resulting in improved livelihoods.
- Employment Opportunities: The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is a catalyst for creating employment avenues. It aims to generate employment for approximately 15,000 individuals annually, fostering economic growth and stability.
- Online Application Process: Aspiring beneficiaries can easily access the scheme by applying online. This user-friendly approach simplifies the application process and ensures that deserving candidates can readily avail themselves of the scheme’s benefits.
- Full Cost Coverage: The state government takes on the responsibility of covering the entire cost of various training programs under the Vishwakarma Scheme. This ensures that artisans can receive high-quality training without any financial burden.
In addition to the benefits listed above, the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is also expected to have a number of other positive impacts, including
- Boosting the incomes of traditional artisans and craftspeople
- Creating new jobs and opportunities in the traditional arts and crafts sector
- Preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage
- Making traditional Indian arts and crafts more competitive in the global market
Scheme Overview: Nurturing Traditional Artistry
Introducing Vishwakarma Yojana: Empowering Traditional Artisans with Financial Support
The Vishwakarma Yojana is a visionary initiative by the Indian government designed to extend financial assistance to individuals engaged in traditional crafts and skills. This scheme seeks to provide a strong support system to artisans, enabling them to flourish in their crafts while also contributing to the preservation of India’s rich cultural heritage.
Financial Assistance for Artisans
Under the umbrella of the Vishwakarma Yojana, a dedicated allocation of Rs 13,000 crore has been earmarked to empower artisans across the country. The scheme offers subsidized loans of up to Rs 2 lakh to craftsmen, aiming to alleviate financial constraints that might impede their artistic pursuits.
Phased Loan Disbursement with Favorable Interest Rates
In its initial phase, the PM Vishwakarma scheme will extend loans of up to Rs 1 lakh to artisans at an incredibly low interest rate of 5%. This interest rate is significantly lower than prevailing market rates, enabling artisans to access credit without the burden of exorbitant interest charges. In the subsequent phase, the scheme will further provide credit support of up to Rs 2 lakh, continuing to maintain the favorable 5% interest rate.
Comprehensive Skill Enhancement
Recognizing the importance of skill development in today’s rapidly evolving world, the Vishwakarma Yojana goes beyond financial aid. It places a strong emphasis on enhancing artisans’ skills through advanced training programs. This initiative aims to ensure that traditional artistry is not only preserved but also updated to meet contemporary standards.
Incentives for Skill Training and Tool Procurement
The scheme incorporates a thoughtful approach by offering stipends for skill training. Artisans will receive a stipend of Rs 500, enabling them to pursue skill enhancement without financial worries. Additionally, a sum of Rs 1500 will be provided to facilitate the purchase of modern tools, empowering artisans to work with greater efficiency and precision.
Holistic Support System
The Vishwakarma Yojana aspires to create a comprehensive ecosystem of support for traditional artisans. It encompasses various components, including:
- Liberal Loan Terms: Ensuring easy access to loans for artisans.
- Skill Upgradation: Equipping artisans with advanced techniques and knowledge.
- Toolkit Incentive: Providing financial assistance for procuring modern tools.
- Digital Transaction Incentives: Encouraging artisans to embrace digital transactions.
- Marketing Support: Assisting artisans in marketing their crafts effectively.
Envisioned Impact
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw estimates that approximately 30 lakh families stand to benefit from the Vishwakarma Yojana. This far-reaching scheme is poised to uplift traditional artisans, enhancing their socio-economic status and contributing to the preservation of India’s rich cultural tapestry.
Seamless Registration Process
To facilitate easy enrollment, the government has designated common services centers in villages as registration points for the scheme. This user-friendly approach aims to ensure that artisans from diverse corners of the country can seamlessly become a part of this transformative initiative.
Central Government Funding with State Collaboration
The entire financial backing for the Vishwakarma Yojana comes from the central government. While the scheme’s foundation is built on central support, the collaboration of state governments will be crucial in its effective implementation.
International Equal Pay Day 2023: Date, History and Significance
International Equal Pay Day, celebrated on 18 September, is a significant global observance that highlights the ongoing struggle for equal pay for work of equal value.
International Equal Pay Day, celebrated on 18 September, is a significant global observance that highlights the ongoing struggle for equal pay for work of equal value. This day underscores the commitment of the United Nations to uphold human rights and combat all forms of discrimination, particularly discrimination against women and girls. One pressing issue it addresses is the gender pay gap, which continues to persist in various parts of the world.
The Gender Pay Gap
The gender pay gap is a stark representation of inequality. It quantifies the difference between the average earnings of men and women, typically expressed as a percentage of men’s earnings. In 2023, women in the United States, for instance, earn an average of 82 cents for every dollar earned by men. This glaring gap means that women have to work more than 15 months to earn what men do in just 12 months.
Significance of International Equal Pay Day
Shining a Light on Persistent Inequality
International Equal Pay Day carries immense significance in contemporary society because it underscores the continuing prevalence of pay inequality. Despite decades of progress, this day serves as a global platform for women to draw attention to this issue through various campaigns and initiatives. It highlights the fact that the battle for equal pay is far from over.
Mobilizing for Change
Moreover, International Equal Pay Day inspires individuals and organizations to join the cause by identifying strategies for its implementation. It fosters dialogue and collaboration among various stakeholders, including governments, businesses, and civil society, to work together in closing the gender pay gap.
Creating a Fairer Society
Bridging the gender pay gap is not just a moral imperative; it is essential for building a fairer society where everyone has equal opportunities. Paying women less than men for the same work perpetuates systemic injustice. Achieving pay equality contributes to a more equitable and just world.
Business Benefits
Furthermore, implementing an equal pay system is not only ethically sound but also advantageous for businesses. It sends a positive message about an organization’s values and commitment to equality, which can enhance its reputation and brand. Additionally, equal pay can lead to increased productivity and efficiency by attracting and retaining the best employees, irrespective of their gender. It also reduces the risk of staff turnover, which is costly for businesses.
Promoting Women’s Empowerment
International Equal Pay Day represents a crucial step toward promoting women’s empowerment in patriarchal societies. When women receive equal pay for equal work, they gain financial independence and greater decision-making power, challenging traditional gender roles and fostering gender equality.
History of International Equal Pay Day
Inception in 1996
International Equal Pay Day traces its origins back to 1996 when it was first observed by the National Committee on Pay Equity. This committee comprised women’s and civil rights organizations dedicated to eradicating wage discrimination based on gender and race. Their ultimate goal was to achieve pay equity for all.
Official Recognition by the UN
It wasn’t until 2019 that the Equal Pay International Coalition officially recognized International Equal Pay Day as a day for raising awareness and taking action. The United Nations joined this effort in 2020 when they observed the first International Equal Pay Day on September 18, marking a pivotal moment in the global fight for pay equality.
In conclusion, International Equal Pay Day stands as a powerful symbol of the ongoing struggle for pay equity and gender equality. It serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to ensure that all individuals are compensated fairly for their labor, regardless of their gender. By acknowledging the significance of this day and working together to address pay inequality, we move closer to a more just and equitable world.
Odisha Government’s LAccMI Scheme
The Odisha Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has granted approval for the ‘Location Accessible Multi-modal Initiative (LAccMI)’ scheme, aimed at establishing a sustainable, affordable, and safe transportation network for passengers and goods across the state. This initiative seeks to create a seamless public transport network from the Gram Panchayat (GP) level to the state capital, ensuring reliable and cost-effective services. The scheme envisages deploying approximately 1,000 buses over a ten-year tenure, extendable by two years based on performance reviews.
How does the LAccMI scheme prioritize women’s empowerment, and what role will Mission Shakti Self Help Groups (SHGs) play?
A key focus of the LAccMI scheme is women’s empowerment through the provision of safe transport options, encouraging greater participation in the workforce. The Mission Shakti Self Help Groups (SHGs) will be involved in various operational and maintenance activities at the block level.
What is the estimated project cost for the initial three years of bus operations under the LAccMI scheme?
The estimated project cost for the initial three years is around Rs 3,178 crore, with a focus on efficient transportation of agricultural commodities and promoting economic growth.
How will the LAccMI scheme facilitate the transportation of agricultural commodities in Odisha?
The scheme aims to facilitate efficient transportation of agricultural commodities from production sites to marketplaces, Mandis, and commercial hubs. This will ensure timely and cost-effective transport of various agricultural and perishable products.
What hierarchical approach has been taken in planning the bus network under the LAccMI scheme?
The scheme has undertaken bus network planning in a hierarchical manner. It includes the ‘Jagannath Express’ connecting District Headquarters to Bhubaneswar or Puri via Bhubaneswar and ‘LAccMI’ Express providing connectivity between District HQs and major cities. The network will connect Gram Panchayats, Block Headquarters, District Headquarters, major cities, and economic hubs across the state. The implementation will occur in phases.
Himachal Pradesh Agriculture Department Launches ‘Mobile Van Program’ to Promote Natural Farming
The Himachal Pradesh Agriculture Department has introduced a ‘Mobile Van Program’ as part of the ‘Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana’ to advance eco-friendly and natural farming practices. This initiative, launched in Shimla, focuses on delivering fresh, organic produce directly to consumers while promoting organic and chemical-free farming. The scheme’s five-year plan aims at reducing farming costs, increasing income, and protecting human health and the environment. Over 89,000 natural farming farmers have already registered under the scheme, with efforts to expand its reach and create farmer-product enterprises.
What is the objective of the ‘Mobile Van Program’ launched by the Himachal Pradesh Agriculture Department?
The ‘Mobile Van Program’ aims to promote natural farming and eco-friendly practices by delivering fresh, organic produce to consumers and encouraging the adoption of chemical-free farming methods.
What distinguishes natural farming from conventional chemical-based farming, according to C Paulrasu?
Natural farming avoids chemical inputs like pesticides and fertilizers, relying instead on techniques such as crop rotation, green manures, and biological pest control.
What is the target set by the Himachal Government regarding natural farming adoption?
The government aims to connect all 9,61,000 farmers in Himachal Pradesh with the ‘Subhash Palekar Natural Farming’ (SPNF) method to establish the state as a ‘Natural Farming State.’
How does the self-certification system under the plan benefit natural farming farmers?
The self-certification system allows easy identification of natural farming farmers in the market, meeting national and international standards and eliminating the need for annual recertification, making it convenient for farmers.
UNESCO Lists Kyiv and Lviv World Heritage Sites as ‘In Danger’ Due to Russian Conflict
UNESCO, the United Nations cultural organization, has designated the World Heritage Sites in the Ukrainian cities of Kyiv and Lviv as “in danger” due to the ongoing conflict sparked by Russia’s invasion. This decision, made during UNESCO’s annual world heritage committee meeting in Riyadh, is a crucial step towards safeguarding these historic sites. The inclusion of Kyiv’s Saint Sophia Cathedral and the medieval structures of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery on the List of World Heritage in Danger allows for increased financial and technical assistance to implement emergency measures.
UNESCO expressed concern that the Russian offensive poses a significant threat to these sites, compromising their protection. Both Kyiv’s Saint Sophia Cathedral, dating back to the 11th century, and Lviv’s historic center, near the Polish border, have faced constant danger since the invasion began on February 24, 2022.
Why did UNESCO decide to designate Kyiv and Lviv’s World Heritage Sites as “in danger”?
UNESCO made this decision because the ongoing Russian conflict poses a severe threat to the historic sites in Kyiv and Lviv. The organization believes that optimal conditions for protecting these sites can no longer be guaranteed, necessitating their inclusion on the List of World Heritage in Danger.
What are the implications of including these sites on the List of World Heritage in Danger?
Designating these sites as “in danger” opens the door to additional financial and technical aid, allowing for the implementation of new emergency measures to protect and preserve them.
How long have these sites been under threat?
UNESCO noted that these historic sites have been under a constant threat since the Russian invasion began on February 24, 2022, making their inclusion on the list imperative.
Were there any previous actions taken by UNESCO related to Ukrainian heritage sites?
Yes, in January, UNESCO added the center of Ukraine’s Black Sea port of Odesa to the World Heritage List. Unfortunately, in July, Odesa’s city center and an Orthodox cathedral were damaged in a Russian strike, leading to international condemnation.
What does this decision indicate about the impact of the conflict on cultural heritage?
UNESCO’s decision underscores the significant impact of the ongoing conflict on cultural heritage, emphasizing the need for urgent measures to protect and preserve these historical sites amidst the turmoil of war.
Earth’s High-Energy Electrons May Contribute to Moon’s Water Formation
Scientists analyzing data from India’s Chandrayaan-1 lunar mission have made a fascinating discovery: high-energy electrons from Earth’s plasma sheet may play a role in forming water on the Moon’s surface. Researchers from the University of Hawai’i found that these electrons are contributing to weathering processes on the Moon, breaking down rocks and minerals.
Surprisingly, the researchers found that water formation in Earth’s magnetotail is similar to when the Moon is outside it, suggesting additional water formation processes beyond solar wind protons, possibly involving high-energy electrons. This discovery underscores the intricate connection between Earth and its Moon, shedding new light on lunar science.
What is the significance of the discovery that high-energy electrons from Earth’s plasma sheet may be contributing to the formation of water on the Moon?
This discovery is significant because it provides a new perspective on the origin of lunar water. It suggests that Earth’s high-energy electrons, in addition to solar wind protons, play a role in weathering processes on the Moon’s surface, potentially contributing to the formation of water. Understanding the sources of lunar water is crucial for future lunar exploration and colonization efforts, as water is essential for sustaining human life and supporting various activities on the Moon.
How did the researchers investigate the role of high-energy electrons in lunar water formation?
The researchers analyzed data collected by the Moon Mineralogy Mapper instrument on India’s Chandrayaan-1 mission. They specifically examined changes in water formation as the Moon moved through Earth’s magnetotail, an area that shields the lunar surface from solar wind but not high-energy electrons.
Why is it important to understand the concentrations and distributions of water on the Moon?
Understanding lunar water is essential for comprehending the Moon’s formation and evolution. It also holds great importance for future human exploration, as water is a critical resource for sustaining life and conducting various activities on the Moon, such as generating oxygen and producing rocket fuel.
How does the Moon’s passage through Earth’s magnetotail affect water formation on its surface?
When the Moon is outside of Earth’s magnetotail, it is bombarded with solar wind, which is thought to contribute to water formation. However, when inside the magnetotail, where there are almost no solar wind protons, the expectation was that water formation would decrease. Surprisingly, the research showed that water formation remained similar, indicating the involvement of additional processes, potentially linked to high-energy electrons.
What implications does this discovery have for our understanding of the relationship between Earth and the Moon?
The discovery of Earth’s influence on lunar water formation through high-energy electrons suggests a previously unrecognized connection between the two celestial bodies. It highlights the complexity of the Earth-Moon relationship and underscores the importance of further lunar research to uncover more hidden aspects of this relationship.
Ig Nobel Prize 2023
The Ig Nobel Prize is a parody of the Nobel Prize, awarded for unconventional and humorous scientific achievements. It aims to make people laugh and then think about the peculiar aspects of science. Unlike the Nobel Prize, which honors significant intellectual accomplishments, the Ig Nobel Prize celebrates the quirky and offbeat side of research.
The 2023 Ig Nobel Prize winners are an eclectic group of researchers who explored bizarre and offbeat topics in their studies. These awards showcase the quirky side of scientific exploration, demonstrating that even the most unusual questions can lead to fascinating discoveries and a good laugh.
Ig Nobel Prize in Chemistry and Geology
Jan Zalasiewicz’s research focused on why some scientists lick rocks, a peculiar behavior among geologists. Her work humorously explored the motivations behind this odd habit, earning her the Ig Nobel Prize for shedding light on this unconventional aspect of geological research.
Ig Nobel Prize in Literature
Ig Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded to Chris Moulin, Nicole Bell, Merita Turunen, Arina Bahrain, and Akira O’Connor. The study by Chris Moulin and team investigated the sensations people experience when they repetitively say a single word many times. Titled “The The The The Induction of Jamais Vu in the Laboratory: Word Alienation and Semantic Satiation,” it delved into the psychology of word repetition and won the Ig Nobel Prize in Literature for its unconventional approach.
Ig Nobel Prize in Mechanical Engineering
Faye Yap, Zhen Liu, Anoop Rajappan, Trevor Shimokusu, and Daniel Preston received the Ig Nobel Prize in Mechanical Engineering. This group reanimated dead spiders to use them as mechanical gripping tools, showcasing a creative approach to engineering.
Ig Nobel Prize for its invention
Seung-min Park received the Ig Nobel Prize for its invention for his role in contributing towards the Stanford Toilet possess. The Stanford Toilet incorporates advanced technologies like urinalysis dipstick tests, computer vision systems, anal-print sensors, and telecommunications links to analyze human excretions. Seung-min Park’s inventive toilet earned her the Ig Nobel Prize for its groundbreaking contribution to the field of sanitation and health.
Ig Nobel Prize in Medicine
Christine Pham, Bobak Hedayati, Kiana Hashemi, Ella Csuka, Tiana Mamaghani, Margit Juhasz, Jamie Wikenheiser, and Natasha Mesinkovska were conferred the Ig Nobel Prize in Medicine. This group used corpses to investigate whether there is an equal number of hairs in the two nostrils of each person, a rather unconventional medical study.