Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023: Bengaluru Startup Ecosystem Ranks 20th
The recently released Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023 (GSER 2023) by Startup Genome provides a comprehensive analysis of startup ecosystems worldwide. With data from millions of startups across various ecosystems, the report offers valuable insights into the global startup landscape. Bengaluru, known as India’s Silicon Valley, has secured the 20th position on the list, climbing two spots from the previous year.
Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023: Top Ecosystems
The report highlights that the top three ecosystems—Silicon Valley, New York City, and London—have maintained their positions from 2020, securing the top spots. However, Boston and Beijing have slipped out of the top five, making room for Los Angeles to rise to #4 and Tel Aviv to #5.
Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023: Bengaluru Startup Ecosystem Ranks 20th
Rise of Singapore and Miami:
Singapore has made an impressive entry into the top 10, climbing ten places to secure the 8th position. This significant improvement marks Singapore’s growing prominence in the global startup ecosystem. Additionally, Miami has made notable progress, advancing ten positions to reach #23, firmly establishing itself among the top 30 ecosystems.
Chinese Ecosystems:
The rankings show a decline for major Chinese ecosystems. Shenzhen dropped 12 places, Beijing slipped two spots, and Shanghai fell one position, currently standing at #35, #7, and #9, respectively.
Growth of Indian Ecosystems:
Indian ecosystems continue to rise, with Mumbai leading the way by climbing five places to reach a tie at #31. Bengaluru-Karnataka and Delhi both moved up two places, securing the 20th and 24th positions, respectively. The report attributes this progress to India’s growing digital public infrastructure, which has played a significant role in driving the country’s startup growth.
Emerging Ecosystems:
Pune, an emerging ecosystem in India, has made substantial progress, moving into the 31-40 range from 51-60 in the previous year’s rankings. This upward trajectory indicates Pune’s potential as a thriving startup hub. Other Indian cities have also witnessed notable advancements, reflecting the country’s overall growth in the tech sector.
Impressive Gains:
Melbourne, Australia, has seen remarkable progress, climbing six places to secure the 33rd position. The Australian ecosystem’s Ecosystem Value has grown by 43% since the GSER 2022. Zurich, Switzerland, has also made significant strides, rising ten places to reach #36, marking the most substantial year-on-year improvement in Europe.
Table: Top 10 Startup Ecosystems (Based on GSER 2023 Rankings)
1 Silicon Valley
2 New York City
3 London
4 Los Angeles
5 Tel Aviv
6 Boston
7 Beijing
8 Singapore
9 Shanghai
10 Berlin.
United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture: Date and History
The UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is observed on June 26th to commemorate the day in 1987 when the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment came into force. This convention is a crucial instrument in the global fight against torture. The prohibition of torture is considered a part of customary international law, which means that it is legally binding on all countries, regardless of whether they have ratified specific treaties that explicitly prohibit torture. The official website highlights that the systematic or widespread practice of torture is recognized as a crime against humanity.
History of United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
The Torture Agreement, officially known as the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, came into effect on June 26, 1987. This marked an important milestone in recognizing the universal prohibition of torture. A decade later, on June 26, 1997, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated this date as the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. The purpose of this day is to support survivors of torture and raise awareness about the devastating effects it has on individuals.
The main objective of the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is to work towards the complete eradication of this inhumane practice in all its forms. On June 26, 1998, the United Nations called upon governments, stakeholders, and members of the global community to take decisive action against perpetrators of torture worldwide.
What is Torture?
Torture is a crime under international law. According to all relevant instruments, it is absolutely prohibited and cannot be justified under any circumstances. This prohibition forms part of customary international law, which means that it is binding on every member of the international community, regardless of whether a State has ratified international treaties in which torture is expressly prohibited. The systematic or widespread practice of torture constitutes a crime against humanity.
On 12 December 1997, by resolution 52/149, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 26 June the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, with a view to the total eradication of torture and the effective functioning of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.
26 June is an opportunity to call on all stakeholders including UN Member States, civil society, and individuals everywhere to unite in support of the hundreds of thousands of people around the world who have been victims of torture and those who are still tortured today.
PM Narendra Modi receives Egypt’s highest honour ‘Order of the Nile’
During his official visit to Egypt, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was bestowed with the highest state honor of Egypt, known as the ‘Order of the Nile.’ This recognition marks the 13th international award received by Prime Minister Modi. The prestigious award was presented to him by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, making it a significant moment as Prime Minister Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Egypt since 1997.
What is the ‘Order of the Nile’?
According to the official website of the Egyptian Presidency, the ‘Order of the Nile’ is bestowed upon heads of states, crown princes, vice presidents, as well as individuals, both Egyptian and foreign, who have rendered exceptional services to the country or humanity. It is also worth noting that recipients of this honor are commemorated upon their passing.
The award itself is a collar made entirely of pure gold and consists of three square gold units, each adorned with pharaonic symbols. The first unit represents the protection of the state against malevolence, while the second unit symbolizes the prosperity and happiness brought forth by the Nile. The third unit signifies wealth and resilience, as stated on the website.
Connecting the three units is a circular gold flower ornamented with turquoise and ruby. Suspended from the collar is a hexagonal pendant decorated with pharaonic-style flowers and adorned with turquoise and ruby gems. At the center of the pendant, there is a prominent symbol representing the Nile, which unites the North (depicted by the Papyrus) and the South (represented by the Lotus).
This is the 13th international award conferred upon the prime minister since he took over in 2014. Here is the full list of honours:
Companion of the Order of Logohu: Papua New Guinea conferred the highest civilian award for championing the cause of unity of Pacific Island countries and spearheading the cause of Global South. – May 2023
Companion of the Order of Fiji: Highest honour of Fiji in recognition of PM Modi’s global leadership – May 2023
Ebakl Award by the Republic of Palau: During his visit to Papua New Guinea, PM Modi was conferred with Ebakl Award by the President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. of the Republic of Palau – May 2023
Order of the Druk Gyalpo: Bhutan has honoured PM Modi with the highest civilian decoration, Order of the Druk Gyalpo in December 2021
Legion of Merit by the US Government (award of the United States Armed Forces that is given for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements)–2020
King Hamad Order of the Renaissance (this Bahrain Order – First Class is a top honour by the gulf country) –2019
Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddin (highest honour of the Maldives awarded to foreign dignitaries) –2019
Order of St. Andrew award (highest civilian honor of Russia) –2019
Order of Zayed Award (highest civilian honor of the United Arab Emirates) –2019
Grand Collar of the State of Palestine Award (highest honor of Palestine awarded to foreign dignitaries) –2018
State Order of Ghazi Amir Amanullah Khan (highest civilian honor of Afghanistan) –2016
Order of Abdulaziz Al Saud (highest honor of Saudi Arabia awarded to non-muslim dignitaries) –2016
Awards conferred by organisations/foundations:
Global Energy and Environment Leadership Award by the Cambridge Energy Research Associates CERA (award recognizes the commitment of leadership towards the future of global energy and environment) –2021
Global Goalkeeper’ Award by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for Swachh Bharat Abhiyan –2019
Champions of The Earth Award (UN’s highest environmental honor) –2018
Seoul Peace Prize (awarded biennially to those individuals by Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation who have made their mark through contributions to the harmony of mankind, reconciliation between nations and to world peace) –2018.
Gruha Jyothi Scheme 2023, Benefits and Eligibility
The Karnataka Government recently launched its Gruha Jyothi Scheme, aimed at providing affordable housing to the poor and middle-class families of the state. The scheme is a part of the state’s ambitious “Housing for All” plan and aims to provide housing to nearly 4.5 lakh families in the next five years.
Introduction
Under the Gruha Jyothi Scheme, the Karnataka Government will provide financial assistance of up to Rs. 2.5 lakh to eligible beneficiaries for the construction of their own houses. The government will also provide subsidies on the interest rate for loans taken for the construction of the house.
About Gruha Jyothi Scheme
The scheme is open to all residents of Karnataka who do not own a house in their name or on the name of any of their family members. The financial assistance will be available to both individual households and to groups of families who are interested in building homes in the same locality.
Key Features
● The Gruha Jyothi Scheme has been designed with a focus on the urban poor, who struggle to own homes due to a lack of access to affordable housing.
● The scheme is expected to bring about a significant change in the lives of these families and improve their standard of living.
● The Karnataka Government has set aside Rs. 2,288 crores for the implementation of the Gruha Jyothi Scheme.
● Karnataka Government hopes that the scheme will be able to address the state’s housing shortage, particularly in urban areas.
Gruha Jyothi Scheme: Vision
The scheme has received a positive response from the beneficiaries, and the government is optimistic that it will be able to achieve its objectives within the stipulated time.
Amit Shah lays foundation stone of ‘Balidan Stambh’ in Srinagar
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has inaugurated the construction of the ‘Balidan Stambh’ in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, June 24. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha joined him at the park near Lal Chowk, the commercial center of Srinagar. This memorial is a part of the Srinagar Smart City project and serves as a tribute to the brave martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation. While stringent security arrangements had been put in place for the function, shops in and around the venue were open and traffic remained normal, except when it was briefly stopped at the stretch between Regal Crossing and Lal Chowk till Shah left the venue
Other important Points:
During his visit, Shah also paid a visit to Karan Mahal, the former residence of Karan Singh, the last Yuvraj of Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, he met with a select group of individuals at the Police Golf Course, which offers a scenic view of Dal Lake, before returning to Delhi.
During his visit, Shah also laid the foundation stone for Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) and handed Golden Health cards to beneficiaries. Shah also met the family members of victims of the Rajouri terror attack.
World Drug Day 2023: Date, Theme, Significance and History
Every year on June 26th, the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day, is observed to promote global efforts in eliminating drug abuse. The focus of this year’s campaign is to increase awareness regarding the significance of treating individuals who engage in drug use with empathy and respect. It emphasizes the importance of providing evidence-based and voluntary services to all, while offering alternatives to punishment. Prevention is prioritized, and a compassionate approach is advocated. Additionally, the campaign aims to combat the stigma and discrimination faced by drug users by encouraging the use of respectful and non-judgmental language and attitudes.
World Drug Day 2023 Theme
This year World Drug Day’s theme is “People first: Stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention”. The world drug problem is a complex issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Many people who use drugs face stigma and discrimination, which can further harm their physical and mental health and prevent them from accessing the help they need. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recognizes the importance of taking a people-centered approach to drug policies, with a focus on human rights, compassion, and evidence-based practices.
World Drug Day 2023 Significance
The UNODC recognizes the importance of taking a people-centred approach to drug policies, with a focus on human rights, compassion, and evidence-based practices. The world drug problem and illicit trafficking are complex issues that affects millions of people worldwide. These issues continue to pose a significant threat to individuals, families and societies worldwide.
World Drug Day History
At the International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held in Vienna on June 26, 1987, it was recommended that a day be observed annually to commemorate the struggle against drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The United Nations General Assembly on December 7, 1987, decided to observe June 26 as International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. This was done to support their efforts to make society drug-free. Awareness about drug abuse can prevent someone from turning to dangerous substances.
The date June 26 commemorates the abolition of the opium commerce in Humen, Guangdong by Lin Zexu. This event occurred on June 25, 1839, just a few days prior to the outbreak of the First Opium War in China.
Global Competitiveness Index 2023: Denmark, Ireland, and Switzerland Lead the Way
The 2023 Global Competitiveness Index, published by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), has named Denmark, Ireland, and Switzerland as the top three most competitive economies among 64 nations surveyed. The report highlights the unique approaches taken by these countries to achieve competitiveness and emphasizes the importance of long-term value creation. In this article, we will delve into the rankings, key findings, and notable advancements and challenges faced by various countries.
Global Competitiveness Index 2023: Top Three Economies
Denmark: Retaining its first-place position from last year, Denmark continues to demonstrate exceptional competitiveness. The country’s efficient utilization of markets and trading partners contributes to its success.
Ireland: Making an impressive leap from 11th place in the previous year, Ireland secures the second spot. Its ability to capitalize on market access and trading opportunities enhances its competitiveness.
Switzerland: Despite dropping from second place in 2022 and first place in 2021, Switzerland maintains its position in the top three. The country’s strategic utilization of its market access and trading partners sustains its competitiveness.
Global Competitiveness Index 2023: Denmark, Ireland, and Switzerland Lead the Way
Top 10 Economies in the 2023 Global Competitiveness Index Rank
Denmark
Ireland
Switzerland
Singapore
Netherlands
Taiwan
Hong Kong
Sweden
United States
United Arab Emirates
Global Competitiveness Index 2023: India’s Position: Progress Amidst Challenges
India, despite experiencing a slight drop of three ranks, finishes in 40th place in the 2023 Global Competitiveness Index, indicating an improvement compared to its consistent 43rd position between 2019 and 2021. The IMD report highlights several areas of advancement and challenges faced by India in its pursuit of competitiveness.
Areas of Improvement:
Government Efficiency: India demonstrated improvement in government efficiency, reflecting positive developments in governance and public administration.
Exchange Rate Stability: The stability of India’s exchange rate played a significant role in boosting its competitiveness score, contributing to a favorable business environment.
Compensation Levels and Pollution Control: India’s competitive score benefited from its compensation levels and efforts to improve pollution control, emphasizing a focus on sustainable practices.
Global Competitiveness Index 2023: Noteworthy Advancements:
Ireland’s Remarkable Leap: Ireland’s ascent from 11th to second place demonstrates its commitment to competitiveness. The country’s access to markets and trading partners has played a pivotal role in its remarkable progress.
Singapore’s Consistency: Despite falling one spot to fourth place, Singapore remains a highly competitive economy. The country’s ability to leverage its market access and maintain consistency in competitiveness is commendable.
India’s Progress: India, ranking 40th, experienced an improvement from its previous position of 43rd. Notable strengths for India include exchange rate stability, compensation levels, and advancements in pollution control. However, there are challenges to address, such as maintaining high GDP growth, controlling inflation and fiscal deficit, and accelerating digital transformation.
Challenges and Regional Insights:
Europe’s Prominence: European economies dominated the top 10 rankings in 2023, with five countries featured. Denmark, Switzerland, Ireland, Netherlands, and Sweden showcased their competitive prowess, although Sweden slipped four places from the previous year.
South American Lag: Six South American countries occupied the bottom 10 positions in the index, with Venezuela ranking last at 64th place. Argentina, Mongolia, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, and Colombia also faced competitiveness challenges.
Arab World Advancements: Saudi Arabia climbed seven places to reach the 17th rank globally and ranked third in the Arab world. Qatar improved by six places, securing the 12th position worldwide and second in the Arab world. Bahrain advanced five places to claim the 25th spot globally and fourth in the Arab world. The United Arab Emirates maintained its leadership in the Arab world, securing the tenth position globally. Jordan saw a two-place advancement, ending at 54th place globally but last in the Arab world at the sixth position.