National Teachers’ Day 2023: Date, History & Significance
National Teachers’ Day in India is celebrated on September 5th every year. It is a day to honor and celebrate the contributions of teachers to society. The day is also observed as a tribute to the memory of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the second President of India from 1962 to 1967. Dr. Radhakrishnan was a scholar, philosopher, and teacher. He was also a strong advocate for education and believed that teachers played a vital role in shaping the future of the nation. In 1962, when his students asked him to celebrate his birthday, he requested that they instead observe September 5th as Teachers’ Day. This year National Teacher’s Day 2023 is celebrated on Monday.
On National Teachers’ Day, schools and educational institutions hold special events to honor teachers. Teachers are given gifts, flowers, and other tokens of appreciation. Students also perform cultural programs and give speeches to express their gratitude to their teachers. National Teachers’ Day is a day to reflect on the importance of teachers in our lives. Teachers are the ones who help us learn and grow, and they deserve our respect and appreciation.
Teachers’ Day History
In 1962, when Dr. S Radhakrishnan assumed office as the President of India his students approached him seeking permission to celebrate September 5 as a special day. Instead, Dr. Radhakrishnan asked his students to observe the date as Teacher’s Day in a bid to acknowledge the contribution of teachers to society. Globally, World Teachers Day is observed on October 5. It is an initiative led by organisations such as UNESCO, UNICEF and ILO.
Dr. Radhakrishnan’s students agreed to his suggestion and since then, September 5th has been celebrated as Teachers’ Day in India. The day is a reminder of the importance of teachers in our lives and the need to appreciate their hard work and dedication.
National Teachers’ Day 2023 Significance
Teacher’s Day is celebrated to show gratitude to teachers and other educators and schools and colleges all across India celebrate the day by paying their tribute to Dr. Radhakrishnan. The day is not restricted to students in schools and colleges to show their gratitude for their teachers but also extends to working professionals to show gratitude to mentors and appreciate them for helping them grow in their careers.
Teachers Day is one such event to which students and teachers equally look forward. The Day is important for the students as it gives them a chance to understand the efforts put in by their teachers to ensure that they get a proper education. Similarly, teachers also look forward to the Teachers’ Day celebration as their efforts get recognised and honoured by students and other agencies as well.
Teachers, like Radhakrishnan, are builders of the nation’s future as they ensure their students are armed with proper knowledge and wisdom to lead their lives responsibly. Teachers’ Day helps highlight their role, their plight and their rights in our society.
Here are some ways to celebrate National Teachers’ Day:
Write a letter to your favorite teacher expressing your gratitude.
Give your teacher a small gift, such as flowers, chocolates, or a book.
Volunteer at your child’s school to help out in the classroom.
Donate to a scholarship fund for aspiring teachers.
Spread the word about the importance of teachers by sharing positive stories about them on social media.
Bajaj Auto’s Subsidiary Receives RBI Approval for NBFC Operations
Bajaj Auto’s subsidiary, Bajaj Auto Consumer Finance, has received regulatory approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to commence its non-banking financial institution (NBFC) operations. This significant development allows the company to expand its financial services without accepting public deposits.
Approval Received on August 31, 2023
The certificate of registration from RBI, permitting Bajaj Auto Consumer Finance to operate as an NBFC, was issued on August 31, 2023, and marked a pivotal moment for the company.
Application to RBI for NBFC License
Bajaj Auto made the formal application to the Reserve Bank of India for an NBFC license on July 9 of the same year, seeking the regulatory green light to diversify its financial operations.
Key Details of the Certificate
Bajaj Auto’s communication on the matter outlined key details of the certificate:
Certificate of Registration issued under section 45-IA of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.
The company is authorized to carry on the business of a non-banking financial institution.
The license is subject to specific conditions stipulated in the certificate.
Disclaimer by RBI
While granting the license, the RBI included a disclaimer that emphasized its non-involvement in endorsing the financial soundness of the company or verifying the accuracy of the company’s statements, representations, or opinions. The RBI also disclaimed any responsibility for the company’s liability.
Background: Setting up Bajaj Auto Consumer Finance
Bajaj Auto had previously announced the establishment of Bajaj Auto Consumer Finance, a wholly-owned subsidiary, in 2021. The subsidiary’s primary mission is to provide financing exclusively for products manufactured by Bajaj Auto.
Strong Financial Performance
In the first quarter of FY24, Bajaj Auto reported a robust profit after tax (PAT) of Rs 1,665 crore, representing a remarkable 42 percent increase compared to the corresponding quarter in the previous year. This financial strength positions the company favorably for its foray into the NBFC sector.
What Is Open And Close During The G20 Summit In Delhi?
The upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi is set to be a significant event, and the city is making preparations to ensure the success and the safety of its attendees. Scheduled for Saturday, September 9, 2023, and Sunday, September 10, 2023, the Delhi G20 Summit is expected to bring together leaders from around the world to discuss pressing global issues.
As part of the preparations, the government of Delhi has announced public holidays in the national capital from September 8 to 10, 2023. The aim of these holidays is to facilitate the smooth functioning of the summit and to minimize disruptions for the general public.
Closure of Offices and Schools
To manage the expected increase in traffic and to ensure the safety of residents and summit attendees, the Delhi government has announced the closure of government and private offices, as well as educational institutions like schools and colleges from September 8 to 10, 2023.
Schools have been advised to conduct online classes to minimize the impact on students’ education, and offices are encouraged to implement work-from-home arrangements for their employees.
Temporary Closure of Commercial and Business Establishments
According to the notification of the General Administration Department (GAD) of the Delhi government, all commercial and business establishments within the jurisdiction of New Delhi Police District will also be closed during this period.
Public Holidays for Commercial Banks and Financial Institutions
The Delhi government’s notification specifies that commercial banks and financial institutions within the New Delhi Police District, falling under the purview of Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act 1881, will observe public holidays from September 8 to 10, 2023. This move aims to streamline banking services and reduce the inconvenience to the public.
Delhi Metro Service During the Summit
While most public services and institutions will be affected by the G20 Summit holidays, the Delhi Metro service will continue to operate. However, commuters should be aware that some metro stations, such as Supreme Court, Khan Market, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat, are likely to remain closed for the duration of the summit due to security considerations.
Delhi G20 Summit Date & Venue
Leading up to the main summit, around 200 meetings are scheduled from December 2022 to August 2023. The Delhi G20 summit itself is slated for September 9 to September 10, 2023, with participation from member countries and guest nations.
The primary summit venue will be the new convention center at Pragati Maidan. Additionally, several other venues, including Rajghat, IARI Pusa, and NGMA (Jaipur House), will host visits from foreign dignitaries.
G20 Summit Delhi Guidelines
To ensure the smooth flow of traffic and safety during the G20 Summit, the Delhi Traffic Police have issued specific guidelines and restrictions under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. These measures include:
No entry on Mathura Road beyond Ashram Chowk, Bhairon Marg, and Purana Qila Road during the summit.
General traffic, excluding goods vehicles and buses, will be permitted to enter Delhi from the Rajokri border.
Passengers can use their private vehicles, auto-rickshaws, and taxis to travel to New Delhi Railway Station and Old Delhi Railway Station.
The use of private vehicles, auto-rickshaws, and taxis for travel to the airport will also be permitted as specified.
City bus services will not be significantly affected in most areas, although diversions on certain road stretches in the New Delhi district may occur based on real-time traffic conditions, as stated in the advisory.
These measures are put in place to ensure the safety and security of all attendees and residents during the G20 Summit, as well as to minimize disruptions to daily life as much as possible. The Delhi government, along with various authorities, is committed to hosting a successful and peaceful summit that addresses critical global issues.
NCERT Gets Deemed University Status: Education Minister
In a significant development in the realm of education, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced on September 1 that The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has been conferred with the status of a deemed university. This momentous announcement was made during an event commemorating the 63rd foundation day of NCERT in the national capital.
A Milestone Achievement
The decision to grant NCERT the esteemed status of a deemed university marks a watershed moment in the evolution of educational institutions in India.
This move recognizes the exceptional contributions of NCERT to the field of education and underscores its commitment to excellence.
Holistic Education Integration
In addition to the prestigious status conferred upon NCERT, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan called for the integration of Bal Bhavans and Bal Vatika with NCERT.
This visionary step aims to provide a holistic and comprehensive educational experience to children, fostering their overall development.
NCERT: Nurturing Educational Excellence
Established in 1961 under the Society Act, NCERT has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of India.
It has consistently provided valuable assistance and guidance to the government in matters related to school education.
The institution’s dedication to maintaining high standards in education has now earned it the coveted status of a deemed university.
Implications of Deemed University Status
With this new status, NCERT is poised to offer graduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees, expanding its educational horizons significantly.
This development is not only a recognition of NCERT’s past achievements but also an investment in its potential to contribute further to the nation’s educational growth.
Inaugurating Innovative Labs
During the event, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated three labs, including one dedicated to virtual reality education and another focused on teacher training.
These labs symbolize NCERT’s commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technologies and innovative pedagogical approaches to enhance the quality of education in India.
A Visionary Comparison: NEP and Chandrayaan-3
Drawing parallels between the National Education Policy (NEP) and the Chandrayaan-3 mission, Pradhan expressed confidence that the NEP would be as successful as the recent ISRO project.
Dharmendra Pradhan acknowledged that NCERT plays a pivotal role in incubating ideas for groundbreaking initiatives, emphasizing the significance of the institution’s role in shaping the future of education in the country.
Curriculum Evolution
Notably, NCERT has also recently formed a committee tasked with shaping the curriculum and textbooks for classes 3 to 12.
The committee’s primary goal is to align the curriculum with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE), a critical component of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
This alignment ensures that education remains relevant, dynamic, and responsive to the evolving needs of students and society.
President to inaugurate 12-foot Mahatma Gandhi statue, ‘Gandhi Vatika’ near Rajghat
In a momentous event that pays homage to the father of the nation, President Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate a 12-foot statue of Mahatma Gandhi and a ‘Gandhi Vatika’ near Rajghat on September 4.
This initiative, organized by the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, carries immense significance as it coincides with India’s celebration of 75 years of independence and its tenure as the G20 presidency. Let’s explore the details of this event and its symbolic importance.
A Tribute to the Father of the Nation
The statue of Mahatma Gandhi, towering at 12 feet, will be unveiled at the entrance of the 45-acre Gandhi Darshan complex.
This complex is located near the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, where the revered leader was cremated.
The statue serves as a poignant tribute to the Father of the Nation, who played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence through non-violent means.
Gandhi Vatika: A Serene Oasis
Adjacent to the statue, the ‘Gandhi Vatika’ promises to be a tranquil haven for visitors.
This serene garden area will offer a peaceful ambiance for reflection and contemplation.
It is a fitting addition to the surroundings of Rajghat, a place that holds deep historical and cultural significance for India.
Celebrating 75 Years of Independence and G20 Presidency
The inauguration of the statue and ‘Gandhi Vatika’ holds special importance as it coincides with the celebration of India’s 75th year of independence.
Additionally, it is a tribute to India’s G20 presidency.
The presence of President Murmu at the event underscores the government’s commitment to honoring Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy and showcasing India’s role on the global stage.
A Symbol of Unity
To symbolize India’s G20 presidency, flags of member nations have been installed at Gandhi Darshan.
This gesture highlights India’s role as a responsible global player, promoting cooperation and unity among nations.
Renovation in the Wake of Recent Floods
The Gandhi Darshan complex, where these significant additions are being made, faced damage due to recent floods.
The library within the complex suffered losses, particularly damage to books.
Vice Chairperson Vijay Goel assured that the renovation efforts are well underway and are expected to be completed within two months.
Future Plans for Gandhi Darshan
Looking ahead, plans include the installation of swings in the garden area, providing a recreational space for visitors.
Additionally, an art gallery is in the pipeline, further enriching the cultural and educational experience at Gandhi Darshan.
PNB Launches App To Enable MSMEs Access Instant Loans Using GST Invoices
Punjab National Bank (PNB) has become the first public sector bank to facilitate effortless credit availability for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) via GST invoices. The bank has unveiled a dedicated mobile application for the GST Sahay scheme. This innovative digital solution facilitates comprehensive lending procedures based on GST invoices, ensuring a seamless end-to-end process.
Streamlining Loan Processes with PNB GST Sahay App
The newly launched PNB GST Sahay App transforms the entire loan application process into a digital format, eliminating the need for manual intervention on the borrower’s part. The app streamlines the process, rendering it more cost-effective, expeditious, and efficient. Notably, the sanctioned loan amount will be directly deposited into the borrower’s current account maintained with the bank.
Noteworthy features of the PNB GST Sahay App
Digitized End-to-End Lending: The app facilitates a fully digital lending process, diminishing the necessity for manual interventions. This not only economizes time but also diminishes errors and inefficiencies in the loan application progression.
Economical and Seamless Process: By eradicating manual steps, the lending procedure becomes more economical and seamless for both the bank and borrowers. This efficacy can lead to swifter loan approvals and disbursements.
Direct Loan Disbursement: Loans sanctioned through the app are directly transferred to the borrower’s active account maintained with PNB, guaranteeing a seamless and rapid fund transfer.
Technology-Driven Evaluation: The app employs technology to assess market reports, appraisals, and other determinants affecting loan eligibility. This mitigates bottlenecks and delays in loan processing.
Loan Spectrum and Repayment Alternatives: The app offers loans ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 2 lakh per invoice, with an upper cap of Rs 10 lakh per borrower. Borrowers can also opt for hassle-free one-time repayment and pre-payment.
Integration with GST Profile: The loans are linked to the borrower’s GST profile, providing the bank with valuable insights into the borrower’s business operations and financial well-being.
MSME Focus: This initiative aligns with the Indian government’s emphasis on supporting and nurturing micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), pivotal to the nation’s economy.
Russia Launches Islamic Banking Pilot Program: Exploring Shariah-based Finance
Russia is set to embark on a historic journey by launching its first Islamic banking pilot program on September 1. With a considerable Muslim population of approximately 25 million, the move aims to tap into the potential of Islamic finance, which has already had a presence through institutions but lacked official recognition. President Vladimir Putin’s recent endorsement of the initiative signifies a significant step towards embracing Islamic banking principles in the country.
Islamic Banking: Core Principles and Distinctive Features
1. Shariah Compliance and Ethical Framework: Islamic banking operates on the principles of Shariah, the Islamic legal system that prohibits usurious transactions and interest charges due to their perceived injustice. This fundamental difference sets it apart from conventional banking practices.
2. Asset-based Model and Partnership Structure: Conventional finance relies on debt-based transactions, where clients bear the entire risk and liability. In contrast, Islamic banking is grounded in an asset-based approach, emphasizing shared profits and risks between financial institutions and clients through partnership arrangements.
3. Socially Responsible Investments: One of the significant distinctions is Islamic banking’s avoidance of sectors deemed harmful to society, such as alcohol, tobacco, and gambling. This ethical stance aligns with the principles of Shariah, promoting responsible financial practices.
4. Prohibition of Speculation and Risky Transactions: Unlike conventional finance, Islamic banking disallows financing speculation, financial derivatives, and deals lacking tangible assets. This prohibition aims to mitigate risks and prevent financial crises akin to the global economic downturn.
Motivations behind Russia’s Introduction of Islamic Banking
1. Economic Growth Potential: Russia’s largest lender, Sberbank, highlights the rapid growth rate of the Islamic banking sector at around 40 percent annually. Experts project that this sector could reach a substantial value of $7.7 trillion by 2025, making it an attractive avenue for economic growth and investment.
2. Regulatory Framework and Client Protection: Acknowledging the expanding Islamic finance market, regulatory oversight becomes essential. The introduction of Islamic banking represents a step towards establishing a regulatory framework and ensuring investor and client protection.
3. Overcoming Limitations of Conventional Banking: While Russia offers state support programs for mortgage financing and small to medium enterprises, these initiatives rely on interest-bearing loans, which conflict with Shariah principles. The new law seeks to address these limitations and provide opportunities for Islamic finance to flourish.
Geopolitical and Economic Influences
1. Preceding Economic Crises and Alternative Funding: The discussions around Islamic banking in Russia trace back to the 2008 financial crisis when banks faced liquidity shortages and sought alternative funding sources. This initiative, long-awaited, emerges as a solution to diversify funding options.
2. Western Sanctions and Eastern Alliances: Following the annexation of Crimea in 2014, Western sanctions intensified pressure on Russian banks. The idea of Islamic banking gained traction as a means to establish ties with economies in Muslim-majority countries, reducing reliance on Western financial systems.
3. Strengthening Economic Ties with the East: While energy revenues have shielded Russia from direct impacts of Western sanctions, the Islamic banking experiment symbolizes an effort to bolster the country’s economic ties with the East. The focus on making Russia appealing to foreign investments from regions with Shariah-based finance frameworks illustrates this shift.
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