Today's Current Affairs 9th September 2023

INTERNATIONAL

UK rejoins EU science research scheme Horizon

• After a two-year post-Brexit standoff regarding science funding, the United Kingdom has decided to rejoin the European Union’s Horizon science research programme. This move is seen as a significant development in bilateral relations between the UK and the EU, following the resolution of a trade dispute seven months prior.
• The UK’s decision to rejoin the Horizon science research programme marks a positive step forward in its relationship with the EU. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office announced that they have successfully negotiated “improved financial terms of association” with the Horizon project, which is a flagship EU initiative for funding scientific research.
• In addition to rejoining Horizon, the UK has also chosen to associate with the European earth observation programme, Copernicus. However, the UK will not participate in the EU’s Euratom nuclear research scheme. Instead, the UK has decided to pursue a domestic fusion energy strategy.

 NATIONAL

First-of-its-kind underground transformer inaugurated in Bengaluru’s Malleswaram

• In a groundbreaking moment for the city of Bengaluru, Energy Minister KJ George inaugurated the country’s inaugural underground transformer center, a significant step towards modernizing the city’s power distribution infrastructure. This monumental achievement reflects Bengaluru’s commitment to safety, reliability, and aesthetic enhancement of its urban landscape.
• Located at 15th Avenue, Malleswaram, the underground transformer center is a collaborative effort between the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM) and the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). With a budget of Rs 1.98 crore, this pioneering project boasts a 500 KVA capacity transformer. Historically, underground power transformer stations have primarily been found in Western countries, where governments prioritize public convenience and safety.
• To ensure the safety and convenience of Bengaluru’s residents, the underground center features a specially constructed chamber beneath the earth’s surface. This chamber is reinforced with a 30 mm cement block, providing a stable foundation for the electrical transformers. At a depth of 10 feet below the road’s surface, this innovative center sets new standards in power distribution. While BESCOM handles the electrical aspects, BBMP is responsible for the civil works. The station includes a 500 KVA capacity oil-free transformer, an 8-way solid-state ring main unit, a 5-way LT distribution box, UPS, a water pump, and an air control system. BBMP contributed Rs 64 lakh to fund the civil works, and the entire project was completed in just 365 days.

 GI Tag Status Awarded To Salem Sago

• Salem district in the state of Tamil Nadu has gained acclaim for its sago production, which is widely recognized as Sabudana. Salem Sago, locally known as Javvarisi, is derived from the wet starch powder extracted from tapioca roots. Indian tapioca roots are known to contain approximately 30-35% starch content.
• Sago production has been a cornerstone of Salem’s economic development since 1967. Currently, over 80% of sago in India is produced in the Salem region, with a significant portion marketed through Sagoserve.
• The request for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Salem Sago (Javvarisi) was filed by the Salem Starch and Sago Manufacturers Service Industrial Co-operative Society Limited, commonly known as Sagoserve.
• The GI tag can significantly boost business for farmers in the Salem region and the over-400 sago and starch units in areas like Salem, Erode, Nammakal, and Dharmapuri. These regions have a long-standing tradition of sago production.

 SCIENCE & TEHNOLOGY

INS Sumedha participates in 'Exercise Bright Star-23' in Egypt

• Indian Navy’s INS Sumedha arrived at Port Alexandria, Egypt to participate in ‘Exercise BRIGHT STAR- 23’. This edition of the multinational Tri-Services military exercise will see participation from 34 countries. It is the largest ever joint military exercise in the Middle East and North Africa region. This joint military exercise, hosted in Egypt, marks a historic milestone for the Indian Navy and strengthens India’s diplomatic and strategic ties with partner nations.
• The Harbour Phase involves wide-ranging activities such as cross-deck visits, professional exchanges, sports fixtures and interactions for planning and conduct of the Sea Phase. This Phase of the Exercise BRIGHT STAR-23 is a crucial starting point where participating nations engage in a variety of activities to foster cooperation and understanding. Cross-deck visits and professional exchanges allow naval personnel to learn from one another, sharing expertise and best practices. Additionally, sports fixtures and interactions promote camaraderie among the servicemen and women.
• The Sea Phase will include complex and high-intensity exercises encompassing cross-deck flying, anti-surface and anti-air exercises, including live weapon firing drills. The Sea Phase is the heart of the exercise, where naval forces from multiple countries engage in complex and challenging exercises. Cross-deck flying exercises test the ability to operate aircraft from different carriers, enhancing interoperability among nations. Anti-surface and anti-air exercises ensure that participating navies are well-prepared for diverse maritime threats. Live weapon firing drills demonstrate the proficiency of naval forces in combat scenarios.

 IMPORTANT DAYS

International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2023:9th September

• The International Day to Protect Education from Attack is an international observance established by the United Nations General Assembly on September 9 every year. It was established in response to the growing number of attacks on schools and educational institutions around the world. These attacks can take many forms, including shelling, bombing, and occupation. They can also include the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict.
• The International Day to Protect Education from Attack is an important day to raise awareness of the issue of attacks on education and to call for action to protect the right to education for all children.
• It is a reminder that education is a fundamental human right. The right to education is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international treaties. However, this right is often violated in armed conflict.
• It is a call to action to protect schools and educational institutions from attack. Attacks on education can have a devastating impact on children’s lives. They can disrupt education, leading to learning loss and increased dropout rates. They can also lead to physical and psychological harm and even death.

 SUMMIT'S & MOU's

Airbus signs MoU with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya to develop aeroscape human capital in India

• Indian Railways’ Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) Vadodara and Airbus, a global aviation giant, have recently embarked on a strategic collaboration aimed at fortifying the Indian aviation sector. This partnership, sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at Rail Bhawan, New Delhi, signifies a significant milestone in fostering industry-academia alliances to propel India’s aviation industry to new heights.
• The MoU was signed in the presence of Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Communications, Electronics, and IT, who also serves as the First Chancellor of Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya. Accompanying him were Ms. Jaya Varma Sinha, the Chairperson and CEO of the Railway Board, and other senior officials. This collaboration follows Airbus’ recent partnership with Tata to establish a C295 aircraft manufacturing facility in Vadodara, Gujarat, marking a renewed commitment to bolstering India’s aerospace sector.
• Airbus stands as the world’s largest manufacturer of commercial aircraft and a leading producer of helicopters, defense equipment, and space technology. Over the years, Airbus has developed a symbiotic relationship with India, recognizing it as a pivotal driver of global aviation and a vital source of talent and resources. Airbus is committed to nurturing all the necessary elements for building a fully integrated aerospace ecosystem in India, with “Make in India” at the core of its business strategy.

What is Bharat Mandapam, the venue of G20 summit in New Delhi

• The G20 Summit, scheduled for this weekend in the national capital, is a highly anticipated event featuring top world leaders, including US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The summit will be held at the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) complex, also known as Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi's Pragati Maidan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated this complex on July 26 this year. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a convention centre, exhibition halls, and an amphitheatre.
• During the G20 Summit, Bharat Mandapam, referred to as the “culture corridor” will showcase diverse traditions from 29 countries, including India and the special invitees to the G20. This display will encompass physical and virtual exhibitions, creating an immersive experience for visitors.
• On Tuesday, a 27-ft-tall bronze statue of Nataraja, made of Ashtadhatu and weighing about 18 tons, was installed at Bharat Mandapam. Renowned sculptor Radhakrishnan Sthapaty from Swami Malai in Tamil Nadu and his team completed this sculpture in a record seven months.

 BOOKS & AUTHOR

‘Ajay to Yogi Adityanath’ creates history with 67 launches in eight states

• The recently launched graphic novel, ‘Ajay to Yogi Adityanath,’ has made history by achieving the highest number of book launches, earning it a place in the Asia Book of Records. This remarkable novel, penned by renowned author Shantanu Gupta, delves into the life of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, tracing his journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of political leadership.
• ‘Ajay to Yogi Adityanath’ is not just a graphic novel; it’s a historical record of a remarkable journey. Yogi Adityanath’s life story, as vividly depicted by Shantanu Gupta, serves as an inspiration for countless individuals striving to overcome obstacles and make a significant impact on society. This graphic novel not only breaks records but also sheds light on the incredible journey of a man who rose from the hinterlands of Uttarakhand to lead India’s most populous state, Uttar Pradesh.
• Shantanu Gupta is a famous writer who has penned two bestseller novels. His latest graphic novel based on the life of Yogi Adityanath has so far been launched in eight states, namely, UP, Delhi, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh and Assam.

 BANKING AND ECONOMY

SBI launched 'Nation First Transit Card' for digital fare payments

• State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest lender, has taken a significant step in enhancing the commuting experience and promoting digital payment adoption with the launch of the ‘Nation First Transit Card.’ This innovative card is designed to facilitate seamless and convenient customer commuting experiences, offering easy digital ticketing fare payments across various modes of transportation, such as metro, buses, water ferries, parking, and more, all through a single card.
• Additionally, the card can also be used for making retail and e-commerce payments.
• Dinesh Kumar Khara, Chairman of SBI, emphasized that the Nation First Transit Card, powered by RuPay and National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) technology, has the potential to revolutionize the commuting experience for millions of Indians. The card is not just a financial tool but also a symbol of SBI’s commitment to the growth and development of the nation.
• The NCMC feature allows SBI’s customers to utilize their Debit Cards as travel cards for convenient use on Metro Rail and Buses wherever this service is accessible.
• The concept of NCMC was proposed by the Nandan Nilekani committee, which was commissioned by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).