STATE NEWS

Bihar to Host Men’s Asia Cup Hockey for the First Time

• For the first time, Bihar will host the 12th edition of the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey Championship, set to be held at the Rajgir International Stadium from August 29 to September 7.

• Chief Minister Nitish Kumar recently launched the event's official logo, mascot, and trophy in a ceremony held in Patna.

• The CM also kicked off the Trophy Pride Journey, initiating a torch relay that will travel through all 38 districts of Bihar.

• The event's mascot, "Chand", pays tribute to the legendary Major Dhyan Chand, and is designed as a tiger to symbolize the spirit and strength of Bihar's Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

• The tiger mascot also sports a magician’s hat, symbolizing Major Dhyan Chand’s magical skills with the hockey stick.

• The tournament will feature eight participating teams: India, China, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, South Korea, Oman, and Bangladesh.

• The championship also aligns with National Sports Day, making the occasion more special for Indian sports fans.

DEFENCE

India and Sri Lanka Conduct 12th SLINEX Naval Exercise

• The 12th SLINEX (Sri Lanka–India Naval Exercise) is currently being held off the Colombo coast, featuring both sea and harbour phases.

• India is represented by INS Jyoti, a fleet tanker, and INS Rana, a guided missile destroyer.

• The Sri Lankan Navy is participating with SLNS Vijayabahu and SLNS Sayura.

• A three-day harbour phase took place from August 14 to 16 at Colombo Port, including joint activities like helicopter drills with the Sri Lanka Air Force, sports matches, and yoga sessions.

• SLINEX has been an annual event since 2005, aimed at enhancing naval cooperation, operational understanding, and mutual training.

• The last edition was conducted in Visakhapatnam, India, from December 17 to 20, 2024.

RANKING AND REPORTS

Pakistan Faces Widening Gender Pay Disparity: Reports

• Recent reports by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) highlight Pakistan's significant gender wage gap.

• On average, Pakistani women earn 34% less than men, which is significantly higher than the global average gap of 20%.

• The country fares worse than its neighbors — India (25%), Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka — and has made little to no progress in closing the gap.

• Contributing factors include deep-rooted cultural norms, institutional barriers, and the prevalence of informal employment for women in sectors like agriculture, domestic work, and cottage industries.

• These informal jobs often lack contracts, job stability, or social security.

• As per the 2025 WEF Global Gender Gap Report, Pakistan ranks 151 out of 156 countries in gender equality, with particularly low scores in economic participation.

SPORTS

Srinagar Hosts Inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival with Grand Launch

• The maiden edition of the Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) commenced in Srinagar, marked by the launch of its official logo and mascot.

• Representing speed and the spirit of the region, the Himalayan Kingfisher was unveiled as the event’s mascot.

• The logo depicts a Shikara gliding over Dal Lake with snow-capped peaks and pine forests in the background, reflecting the scenic charm of Kashmir.

• Taking place from August 21 to 23, the festival will witness participation from more than 400 athletes across 36 states and union territories.

• Competitions in rowing, kayaking, and canoeing are being held on the iconic waters of Dal Lake.

• The event is jointly organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.