IMPORTANT DAYS

International Day for People of African Descent 2024 observed on August 31

• The International Day for People of African Descent is observed annually on August 31.

• It was established by the UN General Assembly in 2021.

• The day recognizes the contributions of people of African descent to societal development.

• It aims to promote tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect among different ethnic groups.

• The 2024 theme is "People of African descent: recognition, justice, and development."

• This theme aligns with the UN's International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024).

• The observance highlights the need for justice and development for African-descended communities.

• The day also emphasizes the importance of recognition and respect for their rights and contributions.

NATIONAL NEWS

PM Modi addressed the National Conference of District Judiciary

• The conference marked the 75th anniversary of the Supreme Court's establishment.

• Discussions focused on judicial efficiency, human resources, and other justice-related issues.

• A session dedicated to judicial wellness was part of the conference.

• PM mentioned Rs 800 crore was invested in judicial infrastructure over the last decade.

• In the past 10 years, 7,500 new court halls have been constructed in district courts.

• PM Modi inaugurated three Vande Bharat trains on routes: Meerut-Lucknow, Madurai-Bangalore, and Chennai.

• The Supreme Court was established on January 26, 1950, and inaugurated two days later.

• The initial inauguration took place in the Chamber of Princes in the old Parliament building.

• In 1958, the Supreme Court moved to its current building, symbolizing scales of justice.

The Government of India has granted Navratna status to SJVN, NHPC, RailTel, and Solar Energy Corporation of India

• SJVN, NHPC, RailTel, and Solar Energy Corporation of India received 'Navratna' status from the Indian government.

• RailTel Corporation of India became the 22nd 'Navratna', followed by Solar Energy Corporation of India as the 23rd, NHPC as the 24th, and SJVN as the 25th.

• SJVN, based in Shimla, has 55% of its shares held by the Government of India and 26.85% by the Himachal Pradesh government.

• NHPC, headquartered in Faridabad under the Ministry of Power, is India's largest hydropower development organization.

• RailTel is a Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) under the Ministry of Railways.

• Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) is the central government's nodal agency for renewable energy project auctions.

• Navratna status allows PSUs to make large investments up to Rs 1,000 crore without needing central government approval.

• To achieve Navratna status, a company must have Miniratna Category I status and be listed under Schedule A of CPSEs.

BOOKS AND AUTHORS

Indian Air Force Launches First Comic Book Series Celebrating Its Heroes

• Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari launched the first comic book in a series dedicated to IAF heroes.

• This initiative aims to inspire and educate youth about the Indian Air Force's rich history and heroic deeds.

• The comic series is part of the IAF's efforts to connect with younger generations.

• The storytelling approach is designed to foster a sense of pride and duty toward the nation among the youth.

• The comic book series was officially unveiled by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari.

• This innovative project marks a significant step for the IAF in engaging with the younger population.

• The launch highlights the Indian Air Force's commitment to preserving and promoting its legacy.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Pacific Islands Forum’s annual meeting was held in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.

• The Pacific Islands Forum’s annual meeting took place in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.

• The event began on August 26, with over 1,500 delegates from around 40 countries participating.

• Key discussions centered on climate change and the strategic rivalry between China and the US.

• The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) is an intergovernmental organization of 18 Pacific nations.

• Australia and New Zealand are the largest and wealthiest members of the forum.

• Other members include Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook Islands.

• The forum aims to promote economic growth, political governance, and regional security.

• Its vision is for a resilient Pacific region marked by peace, harmony, and prosperity.