ODOP Sampark Event, PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, and More!

1. ODOP Sampark Event in Nagaland:
   The ODOP Sampark Event held in Nagaland aimed to create awareness about the One District One Product (ODOP) and PM Gati Shakti (Logistics) initiatives. The event focused on enhancing market access for Indian products, particularly from Nagaland, in foreign markets like the European Union and Switzerland. It emphasized infrastructure development and highlighted measures such as leveraging the Krishi UDAN scheme for better transportation and expanding railway connectivity. The event also showcased various ODOP products from Nagaland, including chili, fish, coffee, and turmeric.
2. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana:
   The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana is a government initiative aimed at promoting sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector in India. With an investment of Rs. 20,050 crores, it is the highest-ever investment in this sector. The scheme is being implemented across all states and union territories for a period of five years. It focuses on providing fishermen with insurance coverage, financial assistance, and access to institutional credit. The scheme also emphasizes the issuance of Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) to facilitate credit access.
   
   
3. UPI Payments: Empowering Users, Challenging Banks:
   The rapid rise in United Payments Interface (UPI) transactions in India has led to the introduction of various daily limits by banks and apps. This has resulted in a complex landscape of limitations in terms of transaction value and volume. The evolving UPI ecosystem is empowering users with convenient and seamless payment options, but it also poses challenges for banks in terms of managing transaction volumes and ensuring robust security measures.
4. Paper-based Supercapacitor for Rapid Device Charging:
   Scientists at the Gujarat Energy Research and Management Institute (GERMI) have made a breakthrough in energy storage technology with the development of a paper-based supercapacitor. This lightweight and biodegradable supercapacitor, derived from seaweed, can fully charge a device within 10 seconds. The cellulose nanofibers derived from seaweed make it the thinnest and most lightweight supercapacitor of its kind. The technology holds immense potential for applications in electronics, memory backup systems, airbags, heavy machinery, and electric vehicles. Furthermore, the cultivation of seaweed can create economic opportunities and promote sustainable development.
5. Face Authentication for PM-Kisan Scheme:
   The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, has introduced the Face Authentication Feature in the PM-Kisan app. This feature utilizes the iris data available with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of welfare schemes. The integration of Bhashini, the government's National Public Digital Platform for languages, with the PM-Kisan scheme enables farmers to access information in their native language, promoting inclusivity and ease of use.
6. Textile Wastewater Treatment Plant:
   NIT Warangal, Prime Textiles, and IMPRINT have collaborated to develop an eco-friendly solution for treating wastewater in the textile and apparel industry. The pilot-scale textile effluent treatment plant offers a sustainable alternative for transforming toxic wastewater into a valuable irrigation source for nearby agricultural areas. This innovation not only addresses environmental concerns but also supports sustainable practices in the textile industry.
7. Manipur Invokes RBI's Riot Provisions:
   The Manipur government has invoked the Riot Provision of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in response to a grave situation marked by riots and violence in the state. This move acknowledges the borrowers' inability to repay loans due to the crisis and seeks relief measures for the affected individuals. It is the first instance of utilizing the Riot Provision in response to a law-and-order situation rather than a natural calamity.
8. Kalasa Banduri Project on Mahadayi River:
   
   Tenders for the controversial Kalasa Banduri Project, initiated by the previous Karnataka government, might face difficulties due to the absence of forest and environmental clearance. The project aims to improve the drinking water supply to districts in Karnataka by diverting water from the Kalasa and Banduri tributaries of the Mahadayi River to the Malaprabha River. However, the project has faced inter-state water disputes, environmental concerns, and opposition from local communities.
9. Assam Flood & Beki River:
   Assam continues to face a critical flood situation with approximately 20 districts affected by continuous rainfall. The Beki River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra River, is currently flowing above the danger mark. The floodwaters have caused significant damage to infrastructure, including embankments, roads, and bridges. The Beki River plays a vital role in the livelihood and transportation of communities in Assam.
10. Biodegradable Utensils:
    BIS: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has published IS 18267: 2023 "Food Serving Utensils Made from Agri By-Products – Specification." This standard aims to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainability by covering various aspects of manufacturing biodegradable utensils, including raw materials, techniques, performance, and hygiene requirements. It also creates economic opportunities for farmers and supports sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to rural development and a circular economy.
11. Canary Islands:
    
    Recently, over 30 migrants died when a small boat heading towards Spain's Canary Islands sank. The Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean, are an archipelago comprising the Spanish provinces of Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Formed by volcanic eruptions, the islands have a rich history and attract tourists from around the world.
12. Joha Rice's Health Benefits:
    The Joha variety of rice, grown in the Northeastern region of India, has been found to effectively lower blood glucose and prevent diabetes. It is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolics, including compounds like oryzanol, ferulic acid, and caffeic acid. These bioactive compounds have antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and cardio-protective effects. Joha rice has received the GI (Geographical Indications) tag from the Union Ministry of Commerce, highlighting its unique qualities and regional significance.
13. Prime Minister Modi's Mention of Samosa Caucus:
    During his recent visit to the US, Prime Minister Modi mentioned the term "Samosa Caucus" while delivering a speech at the US Joint Congress. The term refers to a group of elected officials in the US Congress who have South Asian ancestry, particularly from the Indian subcontinent. Coined in 2018, the term symbolizes the growing representation of individuals of South Asian descent in the US political landscape.
14. India Signs the Artemis Accords:
    India has become the 27th country to sign the Artemis Accords. These accords establish a set of principles for space exploration cooperation among nations participating in NASA's Artemis program. By signing the accords, India reinforces its commitment to international collaboration in space exploration and paves the way for future endeavors in the field.