India is the 2nd Largest Aluminium Producer in the World
Production of key minerals in the country, such as iron ore and limestone, has continued to show robust growth in Q1 of FY 2024-25, after reaching record production levels in FY 2023-24. Iron ore and limestone account for about 80% of the total MCDR mineral production by value. Production of iron ore was 275 million metric tons (MMT) and limestone at 450 MMT in FY 2023-24. As per provisional data, in the non-ferrous metal sector, primary aluminum production in FY 2024-25 (April-June) posted a growth of 1.2% over the corresponding period last year, increasing to 10.43 lakh tons (LT) in FY 2024-25 (April-June) from 10.28 LT in FY 2023-24 (April-June). India is the 2nd largest Aluminium producer, 3rd largest lime producer, and 4th largest iron ore producer globally. Continued growth in iron ore and limestone production in the current financial year reflects the robust demand conditions in the user industries viz. steel and cement. Coupled with Aluminum growth, these trends point towards continued strong economic activity in user sectors such as energy, infrastructure, construction, automotive, and machinery.
Establishment of National Cooperative University
The Ministry of Cooperation is working on a proposal for establishment of a national-level cooperative university for imparting technical and management education and training in the cooperative sector, promoting cooperative research and development and to strengthen the cooperative movement in the country through a network of affiliated institutions. To achieve the above objective, extensive consultations with various stakeholders including Central Ministries/Departments, State Governments, National Cooperatives/ Federations, Cooperative education & training institutions, etc. have been carried out to evolve contours of the proposed university. The university will also aim to become operationally self-sufficient in meeting its expenses. The proposed university is likely to work in close coordination with the cooperative sector and will have a comprehensive, integrated and standardized structure for education and training so as to ensure stable, adequate and quality supply of trained manpower in the cooperative sector for successful implementation of various initiatives taken by the Ministry. The supply of professional manpower and capacity building of existing employees is expected to help the cooperative sector in making larger contribution to various sectors of the economy.
Manu Bhaker becomes first Indian woman to win two medals at a single Olympics edition
India’s star shooter Manu Bhaker made history by becoming the first Indian woman in independent India to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games. She clinched a bronze medal in the 10m pistol mixed team event with Sarabjot Singh, defeating South Korea 16-10 at the Paris Olympics. With this achievement, Manu Bhaker joins P.V. Sindhu as the only Indian woman to have won two Olympic medals.
Union Minister Gadkari attends swearing-in ceremony of Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian
Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, represented the Indian government at the swearing-in ceremony of Iran’s new President, Masoud Pezeshkian, in Tehran. The event marks a significant moment in Iran’s political landscape following recent snap elections. Pezeshkian, a reformist candidate, secured victory in the presidential runoff earlier this month. According to CNN, citing Press TV, he received over 16.3 million votes out of the 30.5 million votes counted, defeating his ultraconservative rival Saeed Jalili, who garnered more than 13.5 million votes.
Govt unveils Rs. 1.97 lakh crore PLI schemes to boost manufacturing and exports
The Indian government has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting domestic manufacturing and exports through its Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes. Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, provided details on the progress of these initiatives in a written reply to the Lok Sabha. The PLI Schemes, designed to support India’s vision of becoming ‘Atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant), cover 14 key sectors with a total outlay of Rs. 1.97 lakh crore (over US$26 billion). These sectors range from mobile manufacturing and pharmaceuticals to advanced technologies like drones and solar PV modules.
Yashasvi Jaiswal becomes first batter to slam 1,000 international runs in 2024
Yashasvi Jaiswal has continued his meteoric rise in international cricket by becoming the first player to surpass 1,000 runs in international cricket this calendar year. He achieved this remarkable feat during India’s second T20I against Sri Lanka at Pallekele. In a rain-affected match where India were chasing a modest target of 78, Jaiswal dazzled with a rapid 30 off just 15 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes, at a blistering strike rate of 200.00.
Manu Bhaker bags bronze to win India's 1st medal
Manu Bhaker won India's first medal at the Paris Olympics, securing a bronze in women's 10m air pistol finals. She finished the event with a total of 221.7 points and was tantalisingly close to notching a silver. South Korea's Jin Ye Ho and Yeji Kim won the gold and silver medals respectively.
DRDO successfully flight-tests Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence System
Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence System on July 24, 2024. The Target Missile was launched from LC-IV Dhamra at 1620 hrs mimicking adversary Ballistic Missile, which was detected by weapon system radars deployed on land and sea and activated the AD Interceptor system. The Phase-II AD Endo-atmospheric missile was launched from LC-III at ITR, Chandipurat 1624 hrs. The flight test fully met all the trial objectives validating a complete network-centric warfare weapon system consisting of Long Range Sensors, a low latency communication system, and MCC and Advance Interceptor missiles. The test has demonstrated the Nation’s indigenous capability to defend against the Ballistic Missiles of the 5000 km class. The performance of the missile was monitored from the flight data captured by Range tracking instruments like Electro-Optical Systems, Radar, and Telemetry Stations deployed by ITR, Chandipur at various locations including onboard ship. The Phase-II AD Endo-atmospheric missile is an indigenously developed Two-stage propelled ground-launched missile system meant for neutralizing many types of enemy ballistic missile threats in the altitude bracket of endo to low exo-atmospheric regions. A number of state-of-the-art indigenous technologies developed by various DRDO laboratories have been incorporated into the missile system.
Abhinav Bindra awarded Olympic Order by IOC for outstanding services to Olympic Movement
Abhinav Bindra, the first Indian to win an individual gold at the Olympics, has been honoured with the Olympic Order for his outstanding contributions to the Olympic movement. The Olympic Order is the highest accolade bestowed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for exceptional service. Bindra, a member of the IOC Athletes Commission, is the first Indian to receive this prestigious award, garnering praise from numerous prominent figures for his achievement.
Yuki Bhambri, Albano Olivetti Win Doubles Title In Swiss Open
Indian tennis player Yuki Bhambri and his French partner Albano Olivetti won the Swiss Open 2024 doubles event after a come-from-behind victory against the French pair of Fabrice Martin and Ugo Humbert in the final. This is the second ATP Tour title of the year for the Indo-French pair. Bhambri and Olivetti also won the Bavarian International Tennis Championships in Munich in April.
PM inaugurates 46th Session of World Heritage Committee at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The World Heritage Committee meets annually and is responsible for managing all matters on World Heritage and deciding on sites to be inscribed on the World Heritage list. India is hosting the World Heritage Committee Meeting for the first time. The Prime Minister also took a walkthrough of various exhibitions showcased on the occasion.
EAM Jaishankar Inaugurates India’s First Overseas Jan Aushadhi Kendra In Mauritius
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated India’s first overseas Jan Aushadi Kendra in Mauritius on Wednesday, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between the two nations. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth was also present at the event. The Jan Aushadi Kendra, a health partnership project, aims to supply cost-effective, Made-in-India medicines to enhance public healthcare and well-being in Mauritius. This initiative fulfills a promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year.
IMF Further Raises India’s Growth Projection To 7% For 2024
The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its latest outlook, has raised India’s growth projections for 2024 from 6.8 percent earlier to 7 percent, with the country maintaining the fastest-growing status in emerging markets and developing economies. The IMF had earlier projected a growth rate of 6.5 percent for 2024, revising it to 6.8 percent and now 7 percent. India continues to be the fastest-growing major economy.
Malta’s Metsola To Head EU Parliament For Second Term
Roberta Metsola secured broad backing for a new term as president of the European Parliament, becoming the first woman to win a second term as head of the EU assembly. Metsola, a Maltese lawmaker who in 2022 became the first woman in 20 years to head the European Union assembly, is only the second president, after Germany’s Martin Schulz, to win another term since the EU Parliament became a directly elected institution in 1979. Metsola was approved by a large majority of EU lawmakers to lead the EU assembly for a further two and a half years, with 562 backing her reappointment, out of the 623 that voted.
Vikram Misri Assumes Charge As Foreign Secretary Of India
Vikram Misri assumed the charge of Foreign Secretary of India. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed warm regards and best wishes to Foreign Secretary Misri for a successful tenure ahead. Misri, succeeds Vinay Mohan Kwatra, whose tenure was marked by notable achievements in foreign policy and national security. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar acknowledged Kwatra’s contributions, particularly highlighting his strategic acumen in shaping and executing key policies over the past decade. The appointment of Misri, approved by the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC), brings a wealth of experience to the role. Notably, Misri has the distinct honor of having served as private secretary to three Prime Ministers – Inder Kumar Gujral, Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi – spanning different political eras and administrations.
Spain Win Fourth Euro Title
Spain clinched a record-breaking fourth European Championship by defeating England 2-1 in a thrilling Euro 2024 final in Berlin. This win marks Spain’s fourth Euro title, adding to their previous wins in 1964, 2008, and 2012. For England, it is another heartbreak in the European Championship, marking consecutive final defeats, with the previous loss coming against Italy in a penalty shootout at Euro 2020.
Argentina Clinch Record 16th Copa America With 1-0 Extra-Time Win Over Colombia
Defending champions Argentina won a record 16th Copa America title by beating Colombia 1-0 thanks to an extra-time goal from substitute Lautaro Martinez at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida. Argentina’s latest title comes on the back of their triumphs at the 2022 World Cup and 2021 Copa America and gives eight-times Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi the perfect sendoff in what is likely his last international tournament.
Carlos Alcaraz Beats Novak Djokovic To Retain Wimbledon 2024 Crown
Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz won his second consecutive Wimbledon title on Sunday, defeating Novak Djokovic 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) at Centre Court in London. With this victory, Alcaraz becomes only the sixth man to win both the French Open and Wimbledon in the same year.
Alcaraz crushes Djokovic to retain Wimbledon title
Carlos Alcaraz overpowered seven-time champion Novak Djokovic in straight sets to retain his Wimbledon title in a brutal statement that the new era of men's tennis has arrived. The Spanish third seed produced a performance combining awesome power with a delicate touch to win 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4), collecting the fourth Grand Slam of his young career. Alcaraz equals the Open Era record for most Grand Slams won at 21 or under, joining Boris Becker, Bjorn Borg, and Mats Wilander. And he is just the sixth man to win the French Open and Wimbledon back to back.
Shotgun Junior World Cup: Sabeera Haris Wins Bronze To Open India’s Account
Sabeera Haris won a bronze in the women’s trap to help India open their account on competition day two of the ongoing International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Junior World Cup in Porpetto, Italy. Sabeera shot 29 out of her first 40 final targets, to finish behind Sofia Gori of Italy who won silver with 39 hits out of the full quota of 50 targets in the final. Carey Garrison of the United States won gold with 40 hits to her name. Qualifying from the 38-strong field with a score of 113, Sabeera further boosted her confidence ahead of the six-woman final as she defeated Sofia in a shoot-off to decide fifth and sixth spots.
Denmark to introduce world's first livestock carbon tax
Denmark will introduce the world's first carbon tax on livestock, a unique measure designed to bring the Scandinavian country closer to its goal of carbon neutrality by 2045. From 2030, methane emissions caused by flatulence from cattle and pigs will be taxed at a rate of 300 kroner ($43) per tonne of CO2 equivalent. This amount will rise to 750 kroner in 2035 under the terms of an agreement reached at the end of June between the government, part of the opposition, and representatives of livestock farmers, industry, and trade unions. The text still has to be approved by parliament which will examine it after the summer.
India-Russia Summit Sets New Strategic Priorities
At the 22nd Annual Bilateral Summit between Russia and India in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the Russia-India Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. The two sides outlined nine key areas for future cooperation, aiming to enhance bilateral trade and economic relations.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Gagan Narang Replaces Mary Kom As India’s Chef-De-Mission
Four-time Olympian and 2012 men’s 10m air rifle bronze medallist Gagan Narang has been chosen to replace Mary Kom as India’s chef-de-mission for the 2024 Olympics, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirmed. Indian Olympic Association(IOA) President P. T. Usha announced that the 41-year-old Narang’s promotion from deputy chef-de-mission to chef-de-mission was a natural decision following Mary Kom’s resignation. P.V. Sindhu has also been confirmed as the female flagbearer for the Olympics.
Gautam Gambhir Appointed As New Head Coach Of India
Former India batter Gautam Gambhir has been appointed as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced. The 2011 World Cup-winning player has signed a three-year contract, succeeding the legendary Rahul Dravid.
Prime Minister receives Russia’s highest State Award
?In a special ceremony in St. Andrew Hall in the Kremlin, President of the Russian Federation, H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin conferred Russia’s highest national award "The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle” on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his contribution to fostering India-Russia ties. The award was announced in 2019. While accepting the award, Prime Minister dedicated it to the people of India and to the traditional bonds of friendship between India and Russia. He further stated that the recognition illuminates the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two countries. This award was instituted over 300 years ago. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is the first Indian leader to be conferred with this award.
Prof. (Dr.) Soumya Swaminathan appointed as the Principle Advisor at the Union Ministry of Health
Prof. (Dr.) Soumya Swaminathan has been appointed as the principal advisor at the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare for the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme on a pro bono basis. As the Principal Advisor for the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme, Prof. (Dr.) Soumya Swaminathan will provide technical advice on the overall strategy to achieve program goals, suggest policy directions and necessary course corrections for optimal outcomes, and advise on research strategy. She will also assist in the formation of expert groups with top talent globally. Additionally, she will support the Union Health Ministry, state officials, and development partners in assessing the impact of the programme. Prof. Swaminathan was the former Chief Scientist of the World Health Organization and has also served as the Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) previously.
Finland is the happiest country in the world for the seventh year in a row
For the seventh year in a row, Finland has landed the top spot on the World Happiness Report’s annual ranking of the happiest countries in the world.
Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Israel, Netherlands, Norway, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Australia
Shri Sheel Nagu appointed as Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court
The President of India, in exercise of the powers conferred by the Constitution of India, appointed Shri Sheel Nagu, Judge of the High Court of Madhya Pradesh as the Chief Justice of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office.
Dr. B. N. Gangadhar appointed as Chairperson of the National Medical Commission
The Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed various individuals to posts of the National Medical Commission and the Autonomous Boards. The appointments are for 4 years, until the appointee attains the age of 70 years, or until further orders, whichever is earliest. The Appointment Committee of the Cabinet has also appointed Dr. Rajendra Achyut Badwe, Professor Emeritus at Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, as a part-time member of the Under-Graduate Medical Education Board for 2 years, until he attains the age of 70 years, or until further orders, whichever is earliest.
Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani has assumed the appointment of the Vice Chief of Army Staff
Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani has assumed the appointment of the Vice Chief of Army Staff. The General Officer was tenanting the appointment of General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Command based at Lucknow.
The General Officer was commissioned into The Garhwal Rifles in Dec 1985. He has graduated from the prestigious National Defence Academy and Indian Military Academy. He is an alumnus of Joint Services Command Staff College, Bracknell (UK), and National Defence College, New Delhi. He holds a Master of Arts Degree from King’s College London and an M Phil in Defence Studies from Madras University. He has in his illustrious career spanning over 37 years served across a wide spectrum of conflict and terrain profiles and has tenanted a host of Command, Staff, and Instructional appointments. The General Officer has insightful knowledge and a deep understanding of operational dynamics on both the Western and Northern Borders. For his distinguished service to the Nation, the General Officer has been awarded Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal.
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