Iran Becomes Full Member of SCO: Key Highlights from the India-Hosted Summit
Iran has officially become a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during an India-hosted virtual summit of the influential grouping. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the people of Iran on this significant occasion.
Prime Minister Modi’s Congratulations:
Iran Becomes Full Member of SCO: Key Highlights from the India-Hosted Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the people of Iran on Iran’s full membership in the SCO. He also welcomed Belarus’ SCO membership, as indicated by the signing of the Memorandum of Obligations.
The Significance of SCO Membership:
PM Modi highlighted the growing interest of other countries in joining the SCO, emphasizing the organization’s importance. The interest shown by nations to become part of the SCO demonstrates the organization’s relevance and influence on regional and global affairs.
India’s Role as the Summit Host:
As the current chair of the SCO, India hosted the summit. Prime Minister Modi chaired the virtual meeting, which included the participation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and other leaders from SCO member states.
President Raisi’s Vision for SCO Membership:
President Raisi expressed his hopes that Iran’s inclusion in the SCO would serve as a platform for achieving collective security, sustainable development, and fostering unity among member countries.
Historical Significance of Iran’s Admission:
A declaration issued at the conclusion of the summit highlighted the historical significance of Iran’s admission as a full member state of the SCO. This acknowledgment underscores Iran’s strategic importance and its contributions to the organization’s goals and objectives.
Belarus’ Membership Advancement:
The declaration also noted the importance of the signing of the Memorandum of Obligations by Belarus to achieve the status of an SCO member state. Belarus is taking steps towards becoming a full member, further expanding the SCO’s influence and reach.
Key Points about the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO):
Establishment: The SCO was founded in 2001 at a summit in Shanghai, China, by the presidents of Russia, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Membership Expansion: India and Pakistan became permanent members of the SCO in 2017, further expanding the organization’s reach and influence.
Iran’s Full Membership: During an India-hosted virtual summit, Iran officially became a full member of the SCO. This move highlights Iran’s strategic importance and its commitment to cooperation within the organization.
Belarus’ Membership Progress: The summit also acknowledged the signing of the Memorandum of Obligations by Belarus, a step towards achieving full membership in the SC
O. Belarus’ potential accession further strengthens the organization.
Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS): RATS is a specialized body within the SCO that coordinates and facilitates intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism operations among member states.
Britian gave environmental award to Indian conservationist
King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom recently presented the prestigious Elephant Family environmental award to Indian conservationists. The award ceremony recognized filmmaker Kartiki Gonsalves, the creative mind behind the Oscar-winning documentary “The Elephant Whisperers,” and the Real Elephant Collective (TREC), a group of 70 Adivasi artists. Both Gonsalves and TREC were acknowledged for their exceptional storytelling, advocacy for coexistence, and dedication to preserving India’s natural world.
Kartiki Gonsalves and the Tara Award
Kartiki Gonsalves, the debut director of the acclaimed documentary ‘The Elephant Whisperers,’ received the Tara Award from King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The Tara Award, inspired by the sacred bond between elephants and humans, acknowledges outstanding accomplishments in storytelling and advocacy for coexistence. The film highlights the profound connection between humans and elephants through the heartwarming story of Raghu, an orphaned elephant from the same herds depicted in TREC’s sculptures.
TREC and the Mark Shand Award
The Real Elephant Collective (TREC) was honored with the Mark Shand Award, named after the late founder of Elephant Family. TREC, an international NGO dedicated to protecting the Asian elephant, has made significant contributions to conservation efforts. Their work has not only garnered recognition but also paved the way for the establishment of the CoExistence Consortium—a collaborative initiative that brings together local experts, ecologists, anthropologists, geographers, and conservationists.
‘The Elephant Whisperers’ at the Academy Awards
‘The Elephant Whisperers’ was awarded the prestigious Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Film earlier this year. The globally acclaimed film chronicles the inspiring journey of an indigenous couple as they nurture and care for Raghu, forming an unbreakable bond with the elephant. The documentary serves as a testament to the beauty of India’s wilderness, the wisdom of tribal communities, and the empathy shared between humans and animals in their shared space.
SBI appoints Kameswar Rao Kodavanti as CFO
State Bank of India, the largest lender in the country, has recently announced the appointment of Kameshwar Rao Kodavanti as its Chief Financial Officer as Charanjit Surinder Singh Attra, the former CFO, resigned from the post. Kodavanti, who has been associated with SBI since 1991, brings a wealth of experience in banking, forex, finance, and accounting to his new role.
Background
Kameshwar Rao Kodavanti’s appointment as CFO of SBI marks a significant milestone in his long and successful career within the banking industry. Having joined SBI in August 1991, he has garnered extensive expertise in various domains of banking and financial operations over the years. His diverse experience positions him well to steer SBI’s financial strategy and contribute to the bank’s continued growth and success.
Responsibilities and Challenges
As the new CFO, Kameshwar Rao Kodavanti will assume responsibility for overseeing the financial operations of State Bank of India. This crucial role involves managing and optimizing the bank’s financial resources, developing and implementing financial strategies, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and providing insights to drive strategic decision-making. Kodavanti’s experience and knowledge in banking, forex, finance, and accounting will be instrumental in addressing the challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving financial landscape.
Startup20 Shikhar Summit Under India’s G20 Presidency Begins in Gurugram
The Startup20 Shikhar Summit, organized by the Startup20 Engagement Group under the India G20 Presidency, commenced in Gurugram, marking a significant achievement for the global startup ecosystem. The two-day event celebrates the successful completion of Startup20’s inaugural year and the release of the final Policy Communiqué.
Key Highlights and Points:
Inauguration and Dignitaries:
The Startup20 Shikhar Summit, organized by the Startup20 Engagement Group, commenced in Gurugram under India’s G20 Presidency.
Dignitaries like Shri Som Parkash, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, and Dr. Chintan Vaishnav, Chair of Startup20, graced the inauguration ceremony.
Shri Som Parkash highlighted the summit’s role in nurturing a thriving startup ecosystem and reinforcing India’s global leadership in innovation and entrepreneurship.
Significance of Startup20 Engagement Group:
Startup20 marks a milestone in the global startup ecosystem.
The Group, comprising delegates from G20 nations and invitee countries, aims to foster collaboration and innovation.
The final Policy Communiqué released during the summit lays the groundwork for a transformative and advanced future for startup ecosystems worldwide.
Achieving the First Major Milestone:
The Startup20 Gurugram Summit celebrates the successful completion of Startup20’s inaugural year.
It represents a significant achievement for the Startup20 Engagement Group.
Over 600 delegates from 22 countries gathered in Gurugram to commemorate this milestone.
Global Participation and Commitment:
Brazil’s decision to continue participating in the Startup20 Engagement Group in 2024 reinforces the global significance of the initiative.
The commitment of Brazil and other countries exemplifies their dedication to fostering innovation and supporting the global startup ecosystem.
Program Highlights: Discussions, Presentations, and Networking:
The summit features dynamic discussions, enlightening presentations, and valuable networking opportunities.
Delegates can connect with industry experts, policymakers, and thought leaders, fostering strategic alliances.
The program aims to shape the trajectory of startups on a global scale.
Startup Conclave: Showcasing Innovation:
The summit includes the Startup Conclave, where startups showcase their innovative products and services.
Startups engage in investor pitches, mentoring sessions, and network with industry professionals.
The event incorporates art and cultural elements, enhancing the overall experience for participants.
Fostering Economic Prosperity and Sustainable Development:
The Startup20 Gurugram Summit highlights the potential of startups in driving economic prosperity and societal impact.
By fostering an environment that nurtures innovation and entrepreneurship, the summit aims to unleash the full potential of startups.
The goal is to propel economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
PM Modi Inaugurates Sai Hira Global Convention Centre in Andhra Pradesh
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Sai Hira Global Convention Centre in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh. The grand event witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries and devotees from around the world. The Convention Centre, constructed by the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, stands as a testament to the vision of promoting cultural exchange, spirituality, and global harmony.
Fostering Spiritual Conferences and Academic Programs
During his address, PM Modi emphasized that the Sai Hira Global Convention Centre would serve as a hub for spiritual conferences and academic programs. Experts from various fields across the world are expected to gather at this prestigious venue. The Prime Minister expressed his hope that this centre would contribute to the empowerment and enlightenment of the youth of the nation.
Shri Hira Global Convention Centre: A Premier Think Tank for India
PM Modi Inaugurates Sai Hira Global Convention Centre in Andhra Pradesh
PM Modi lauded the Shri Hira Global Convention Centre as a premier think tank for India. He highlighted the unique blend of spirituality, modernity, cultural divinity, and ideological grandeur that the centre embodies. With its state-of-the-art facilities and serene surroundings, the centre is poised to become a focal point for spiritual discourse and academic pursuits.
A Symbol of ‘Kartavya Kaal’ and India’s Journey Towards 100 Years of Independence
The Prime Minister emphasized that the next 25 years of India’s Independence would be regarded as the “Kartavya Kaal” (Era of Duties). As the nation strives towards achieving 100 years of independence, PM Modi proclaimed that the ‘Amrit Kaal’ has been rechristened as ‘Kartavya Kaal.’ He reiterated the country’s commitment to fulfilling its duties and responsibilities.
Magnificent Facilities and Serene Environment
The Sai Hira Global Convention Centre features magnificent meditation halls, serene gardens, and comfortable accommodation facilities. It provides an ideal setting for individuals seeking spiritual solace and a space for intellectual exchange. The centre’s design harmoniously blends traditional spiritual aesthetics with contemporary architecture, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and inspiration.
‘Mission Vatsalya’ scheme for rape victims minor girls
The Central Government has started a new relief scheme under the ‘Mission Vatsalya’ scheme in relation to the abandonment of the families of minor girls who are victims of rape when they become pregnant.
Mission Vatsalya
Mission Vatsalya launched in 2021 by the ministry of Women and Child Development.
Mission Vatsalya focused on protection and welfare of children.
The Government establish 415 POSCO fast-track courts in the country to provide assistance access to justice for minor victims of rape.
Mission Vatsalya lays emphasis on child care, advocacy and awareness about the along with providing justice care and protection with the motto of ‘Leave No Child Behind.’
The basis of implementation of Mission Vatsalya is The Juvenile Care (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 provisions and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012 (POSCO Act).
Mission Vatsalya is a centrally sponsored scheme work together with the State Government and UT administration to provide assistance to the victims.
About the New Scheme launched Mission Vatsalya:
The scheme aims to provide shelter, food, daily need, sage transportation to the court hearings and legal aid to minor girls who have been abandoned by their families:
Due to the forced pregnancy
Have no other means to support themselves.
The fund will help in setting up shelters for the victims.
The new scheme aims to provide integrated support and assistance to the victim girls which involves:
Access to education
Police support
Heath care facilities including maternity, neo-natal and infant care.
Psychological and legal aid.
History of Mission Vatsalya:
In 2009, Ministry of Women and Child Development launched three schemes for the welfare of children:
Juvenile Justice Programme,
Integrated Programme and
Child Home Support Scheme
In 2010 these three schemes are merged into ‘Integrated Child Protection Scheme.’
In 2017 it was renamed as ‘Child Protection Service Scheme.’
In 2021 it was renamed as ‘Mission Vatsalya.’
About the Nirbhaya Fund:
In response to the Nirbhaya case in 2013, the government established Nirbhaya Fund.
It aims at projects related to women and child care and development.
It is managed by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
The Empowered Committee which is composed of officers of several ministries and the secretary of MWCD, recommends projects/programmes for funding under Nirbhaya Fund.
Some of the major projects under Nirbhaya Fund are: Central Victim Compensation Fund (CVVF), One Stop Centres (ONCs), Universalization of Women Helpline (WHL) and Mahila Police Volunteer (MPV) etc.
India’s Global Commercial Services Exports Share Doubles to 4.4%: WTO-World Bank Report
According to a recent report by the World Bank and World Trade Organization (WTO), India has witnessed a significant increase in its share of global commercial services exports. The country’s share has doubled from 2% in 2005 to 4.4% in 2022. This growth is attributed to various factors, including the rise of the services sector and the implementation of reforms to facilitate foreign direct investment (FDI) in services.
India’s Impressive Trade Performance:
India’s Global Commercial Services Exports Share Doubles to 4.4%: WTO-World Bank Report
The report highlights that India, along with China, has achieved remarkable progress in global commercial services exports. Both countries doubled their share from 2005 to 2022, with China’s share increasing from 3.0% to 5.4% and India’s from 2.0% to 4.4%. These figures demonstrate the expanding role of these economies in international services trade.
Job Creation and Cross-Border Services:
The report also emphasizes the positive impact of cross-border services exports on job creation. In India, South Africa, and Türkiye, over 10% of total services sector jobs are directly linked to cross-border services exports. This highlights the significance of the services sector in driving employment opportunities and economic growth in these countries.
Upskilling and Reskilling for Future Competitiveness:
To maintain competitiveness and progress up the value chain, India and the Philippines are advised to focus on upskilling and reskilling their workforces. Rapidly changing technology necessitates investment in research and development (R&D) and the development of domestic services sectors. This will enable these countries to adapt to emerging trends and remain competitive in the global market.
Medical Travel and Foreign Patients:
The report acknowledges India as a preferred destination for medical travel, with approximately 3.5 million foreign patients visiting the country between 2009 and 2019. Patients from developed countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as developing countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, seek high-quality treatment at more affordable prices in India. This trend contributes to India’s growth in commercial services exports.
Services Value-added and Foreign Manufacturing Value Chains:
Highlighting India’s experience, the report mentions that services value-added accounted for over 51% of the country’s total exports in 2018. This demonstrates the significant contribution of the services sector to India’s economy. Additionally, reforms facilitating FDI in services have ignited positive growth dynamics by boosting participation in foreign manufacturing value chains.
Digital Transformation and Services Trade:
The period from 2005 to 2022 witnessed a significant transformation in the composition of services trade. Fueled by advances in information and communications technologies (ICT), global commercial services exports nearly tripled during this time. Digitally delivered services experienced an almost four-fold increase, reflecting the growing importance of technology in driving services trade.
Relative Performance of Countries in Global Commercial Services Exports
China:
Doubled its share of global commercial services exports from 3.0% in 2005 to 5.4% in 2022.
Experienced significant growth in services trade, driven by advances in information and communications technologies (ICT).
Plays a leading role as a services exporter and importer, contributing to its expanding share in the global market.
India:
Doubled its share of global commercial services exports from 2.0% in 2005 to 4.4% in 2022.
Showcased impressive trade performance, highlighting the rising importance of the services sector in India’s economy.
Recognized as a popular destination for medical travel, attracting approximately 3.5 million foreign patients between 2009 and 2019.
Reforms facilitating foreign direct investment (FDI) in services have contributed to positive growth dynamics and increased participation in foreign manufacturing value chains.
South Africa and Türkiye:
Jobs directly linked to cross-border services exports account for more than 10% of total services sector jobs in these countries.
Highlights the significance of cross-border services in generating employment opportunities and driving economic growth.
Digitally Delivered Services:
Exports of digitally delivered services increased almost four-fold between 2005 and 2022.
Reflects the impact of technological advancements, particularly in information and communications technologies (ICT), on the composition of services trade.