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Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) celebrated its 63rd Raising Day on October 24, 2024

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) celebrated its 63rd Raising Day on October 24, 2024. This special occasion commemorates the formation of the ITBP, which plays a crucial role in safeguarding India’s borders along the Himalayas.

The day is marked by various events, including a grand parade showcasing the diverse skills of ITBP personnel, such as women contingents, ski units, mounted columns, paratroopers, mountaineering teams, and dog squads.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders extended their greetings and praised the ITBP for their valour and dedication in protecting the nation under harsh conditions.

United Nations Day, observed annually on October 24

United Nations Day, observed annually on October 24, celebrates the founding of the United Nations in 1945 when the UN Charter came into force. Established post-World War II, the UN was created to foster global peace, security, and cooperation.

The charter drafting began on April 25, 1945, with representatives from 50 countries gathering in San Francisco; it was adopted on June 25 and formally enacted on October 24. United Nations Day highlights the organization’s crucial role in international diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and global development.

2024 BRICS Summit : Key points from the Kazan declaration

The 2024 BRICS Summit, held in Kazan, Russia from October 22 to 24, focused on various global issues. Key points from the Kazan declaration include:

  1. Ukraine: BRICS emphasized the need for adherence to the UN Charter and supported peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
  2. Middle East: The group expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, condemning Israeli military actions in Gaza, West Bank, and Southern Lebanon, and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
  3. Western Sanctions: BRICS criticized unilateral sanctions, highlighting their negative impact on the global economy and sustainable development goals.
  4. International Financial System: They advocated for reforms to make the global financial architecture more inclusive and equitable.
  5. BRICS Grain Exchange: A new initiative was launched for a commodities trading platform, starting with grain, aimed at expanding to other agricultural sectors.
  6. Cross-Border Payment System: BRICS welcomed the use of local currencies and development of a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive cross-border payment system.
  7. BRICS Clear Depository: The group discussed establishing an independent cross-border settlement and depository infrastructure to support financial market resilience.
  8. Financial Innovation: They encouraged interbank cooperation to promote innovative financing solutions, including transactions in local currencies.
  9. IMF and G20: BRICS reaffirmed their support for a well-resourced IMF and emphasized the importance of the G20 for global economic cooperation.
  10. Pandemic Prevention: They supported initiatives for early warning systems and vaccine research to prevent future pandemics.
  11. Big Cats Conservation: BRICS acknowledged India’s initiative to create an International Big Cats Alliance for the preservation of endangered big cats.

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a global coalition launched by India in April 2023 to conserve the world’s seven principal big cat species: tigers, lions, snow leopards, leopards, jaguars, pumas, and cheetahs. The initiative aims to prevent illegal wildlife trade, promote natural habitat conservation, and mobilize resources for protection efforts..

Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, 2026

The organisers of the 2026 Commonwealth Games have decided to reduce the number of sports to just 10, removing prominent sports like hockey, badminton, wrestling, cricket, squash, and shooting to manage financial and operational risks while maintaining a multi-sport feel.

The 23rd edition of the Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, 2026, across four venues. Approximately 3,000 athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories, including India, will participate in the event.

Severe Cyclonic Storm ‘Dana’ in the Bay of Bengal Moving Towards Odisha

A severe cyclonic storm named ‘Dana’ is getting stronger in the Bay of Bengal and is moving towards the Odisha coast at 4 km per hour. It is expected to make landfall on the night of October 24-25, between Bhitarkanika and Bhadrak or Balasore. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the storm will intensify into a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds of 100 to 110 km per hour, gusting up to 120 km per hour.

The government has begun evacuating people from areas that may be severely affected. Six IAS officers are in charge of relief and rescue operations in six districts. Schools, colleges, and universities in 14 districts will be closed for three days, and exams have been canceled. All doctors’ leaves are canceled, and hospitals are preparing with extra medicines. The East Coast Railways has canceled 198 trains for three days, and over 500 cyclone shelters with basic supplies are ready. The state has asked for more NDRF teams, and fishermen are banned from going to sea starting tomorrow.

India-Pakistan agree to extend Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor agreement for another five years

India and Pakistan have agreed to extend the validity of the Agreement on the Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for an additional five years. The original agreement, signed on October 24, 2019, allows Indian pilgrims to visit the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan, through the corridor.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the extension ensures uninterrupted access for pilgrims. India has also requested Pakistan to remove the $20 service fee per pilgrim per visit, responding to continued requests from pilgrims. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar reaffirmed the Modi government’s commitment to facilitating Sikh pilgrims’ access to their holy sites.

Luong Cuong elected as Vietnam’s new President

Luong Cuong, a senior member of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), has been elected as Vietnam’s new President during the 8th session of the 15th National Assembly (NA). Cuong, who is a permanent member of the CPV Central Committee Secretariat, was elected by 440 deputies, representing 91.67% of the total.

He replaces To Lam, who had also held the role of general secretary of the Communist Party. Although the presidency is primarily ceremonial in Vietnam, Cuong pledged to fulfill his responsibilities to the party, state, and people after taking the oath.

16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, from October 22 to 24, 2024

The 16th BRICS Summit was held in Kazan, Russia, from October 22 to 24, 2024, with leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa in attendance. The summit also welcomed new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.

Key discussions centered on economic cooperation, trade in national currencies, sustainable development, and digital inclusion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to these goals and explored enhancing bilateral ties. Leaders also addressed global economic challenges, climate change, and innovation, emphasizing collaboration among emerging economies.

Stage-2 of GRAP invoked in Delhi and NCR region to tackle air pollution

Due to worsening air quality in Delhi and the NCR region, Stage-2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been activated from October 22, 2024. The decision was made by the Commission for Air Quality Management, which advised citizens to avoid dust-generating construction and open burning of waste and biomass during October to January.

An 11-point action plan has been enforced, including daily road cleaning, water sprinkling, and strict dust control at construction sites. The committee also emphasized targeted pollution control at hotspots and ensuring uninterrupted power supply to minimize the use of alternative power generators.

United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) in Colombia from 21 October to 1 November 2024

The United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) has begun in Colombia on 21 October 2024, where nearly 200 countries will assess progress on global biodiversity commitments. The focus is on the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, signed by 196 countries, aimed at halting and reversing nature loss.

Key tasks include reviewing how countries’ National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) align with the framework, advancing the monitoring system, and enhancing resource mobilization. Additionally, COP16 will finalize a mechanism for sharing benefits from digital genetic resource data. Colombia’s Environment Minister Susana Muhamad and Convention Executive Secretary Astrid Schomaker highlighted the importance of accelerating biodiversity action.

Maldivian President decides to introduce India’s UPI in Maldives

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has decided to introduce India’s Unified Payment Interface (UPI) in the Maldives, based on a cabinet recommendation. This initiative is expected to boost the Maldivian economy by promoting financial inclusion, improving transaction efficiency, and strengthening digital infrastructure. Indian tourists will be able to use UPI apps to make payments in Indian rupees without converting currency.

A consortium, including banks, telecoms, state-owned companies, and fintech firms, will be set up to implement UPI in the Maldives. The move follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in August 2024 between India and the Maldives, as part of India’s efforts to share developmental tools with partner nations. UPI is already in use in several countries, including the UAE, Sri Lanka, and Singapore.

Prabowo Subianto became the President of Indonesia

In Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto became the president of the world’s third-largest democracy on October 20, 2024. He will be the eighth president of Indonesia, the country with the largest Muslim population.

The 73-year-old, a former special forces commander, won the election held on February 14, 2024, with almost 60% of the vote. His policies, like providing free meals to school children, helped him secure a strong victory.

Karva Chauth Celebrated Across India on October 20

Karva Chauth was celebrated across the country on 20 October 2024. On this day, married women fast from morning until they see the moon at night. The tradition is believed to strengthen the relationship between husband and wife and is thought to help ensure the husband’s long life.

Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar killed in Rafah, during encounter with Israeli forces

Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has been killed in Rafah, southern Gaza, during a chance encounter with Israeli forces. Sinwar, dressed in combat gear, was found dead in the rubble after a tank shell struck the building. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the military success but emphasized that the war is not yet over. While Hamas has not officially confirmed Sinwar’s death, he was considered a key figure behind the October 7 attacks on Israel.

Sinwar, aged 61 and known as Abu Ibrahim, became the head of Hamas’ political bureau after Ismail Haniyeh was killed in July this year. This follows Israel’s earlier killing of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah through airstrikes in Lebanon.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the U.S. will step up efforts to end the Gaza war in light of Sinwar’s apparent death. Blinken also referenced Sinwar’s previous refusal to resolve the conflict diplomatically. Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli PM Netanyahu discussed working together to secure the release of hostages.

India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, held in New Delhi, from 15 to 18 October 2024

The India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, concluded on 18 October 2024. The four-day event, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 15 October, brought together over 3,000 industry leaders, policymakers, and tech experts from more than 190 countries. On the final day, discussions focused on collaboration to drive digital transformation and innovation.

The 8th edition of IMC highlighted India’s innovation ecosystem, with advancements in 6G, quantum technology, the Internet of Things, semiconductors, cybersecurity, and green tech. The event featured 400 exhibitors, 900 startups, and over 900 technology use cases. It hosted 100 sessions, with more than 600 speakers. On the final day, discussions centered on AI governance and strategies for future regulation and policy.

Virat Kohli becomes 4th Indian Cricketer to reach 9,000 Test Runs

Virat Kohli has achieved another milestone in his illustrious career by becoming the fourth Indian cricketer to reach 9,000 Test runs. This remarkable feat was accomplished during the first Test match against New Zealand at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on October 18, 20242.

Kohli joins the elite club of Indian cricket legends, which includes Sachin Tendulkar (15,921 runs), Rahul Dravid (13,265 runs), and Sunil Gavaskar (10,122 runs). Kohli reached the milestone in 197 Test innings, making him the fourth-fastest Indian and the 13th-fastest overall to achieve this landmark.

Reflecting on his journey, Kohli has consistently demonstrated his exceptional skill, dedication, and passion for the game. His highest Test score is an unbeaten 254, and he has accumulated 29 centuries and 31 half-centuries in his Test career.

Nobel Prize 2024 in Economics awarded to to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson

On October 14, 2024, the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel was awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson for their research on how institutions are formed and their impact on a nation’s prosperity. Their work demonstrates that societal institutions, especially those introduced during European colonization, play a crucial role in determining a country’s long-term economic success or stagnation.

They found that inclusive institutions, which benefit society as a whole, promote growth, while extractive institutions, which exploit the population for the benefit of those in power, hinder development. The laureates’ research also explains why reforms are often difficult to implement in countries with extractive institutions and why, in some cases, democratization occurs as a solution to this problem. Their work sheds light on the challenge of reducing global income disparities by emphasizing the critical role of institutions.

Justice Khanna will be the 51st Chief Justice of India

Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has recommended Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the second-most senior judge of the Supreme Court, as his successor. Upon approval by the government, Justice Khanna will become the 51st Chief Justice of India.

  • Justice Khanna will serve a six-month tenure, ending on May 13, 2025.
  • Supreme Court judges retire at the age of 65, and CJI Chandrachud will retire on November 10, 2024.
  • The outgoing CJI traditionally nominates the second-most senior judge as the next CJI.
  • Justice Khanna was born on May 14, 1960, and enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council of Delhi in 1983.
  • He practiced at district courts, the Delhi High Court, and various tribunals.
  • Justice Khanna was appointed as an additional judge of the Delhi High Court in 2005 and became a permanent judge in 2006.
  • He was elevated to the Supreme Court on January 18, 2019.

Nayab Singh Saini sworn in as the Chief Minister of Haryana

Nayab Singh Saini was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Haryana for a second term on October 17, 2024, marking the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) third consecutive government in the state. The oath was administered by Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya at a ceremony in Panchkula.

The BJP won 48 out of 90 seats in the recent elections, while Congress secured 37. The event was attended by key BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, as well as NDA allies like Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu.

Omar Abdullah sworn in as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir

Omar Abdullah was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir on 16 October 2024. This is the first elected government in the Union Territory since it was reorganized in 2019 after the removal of Article 370. The oath ceremony took place in Srinagar, and Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha gave him the oath of office.

Several ministers were also sworn in, including National Conference MLAs Javed Ahmed Rana, Javid Ahmad Dar, Sakina Itoo, Surinder Kumar Chowdhary, and independent MLA Satish Sharma.

The National Conference won 42 out of 90 seats, and their ally Congress won 6.

Omar Abdullah, who was the Chief Minister from 2009 to 2014, comes from a famous political family. His grandfather, Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, and his father, Farooq Abdullah, both served as Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir.

Cabinet approves the increase of MSP for Rabi crops for marketing season 2025-26

On 16 October 2024, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Modi, approved an increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all mandated Rabi crops for the 2025-26 marketing season.

The highest MSP increase is for rapeseed and mustard at Rs 300 per quintal, followed by lentils (masur) at Rs 275 per quintal. MSP for gram, wheat, safflower, and barley is increase of Rs.210 per quintal, Rs.150 per quintal, Rs.140 per quintal and Rs.130 per quintal respectively. The new MSP of wheat for 2025-26 marketing season is 2425.

This decision ensures farmers get at least 1.5 times the all-India weighted average cost of production, with expected margins ranging from 50% to 105%. It aims to provide fair prices to farmers and encourage crop diversification.

Cabinet approves 3% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for govt employees

On 16 October 2024, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners, effective from 1 July 2024. This raises the DA and DR from 50% to 53% of the basic pay/pension, aiming to offset the effects of inflation.

The increase benefits around 49.18 lakh employees and 64.89 lakh pensioners, with a total financial burden of ₹9,448.35 crore annually. Employees will also receive arrears for July, August, and September with their revised payments. DA/DR adjustments are made biannually based on inflation data.

Maharashtra, Jharkhand assembly elections in November; counting of votes on 23rd Nov

Maharashtra will hold assembly elections in a single phase on November 20, while Jharkhand will conduct its elections in two phases on November 13 and 20. The Election Commission, led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, announced the schedule for the Maharashtra and Jharkhand Assembly elections.

  • Maharashtra, with 9.63 crore voters, will have 288 assembly seats, and the notification for nominations will be issued on October 22.
  • Jharkhand, with 2.6 crore voters, will have polling in over 26,000 stations, with notifications for its phases on October 18 and 22.
  • Vote counting for both states will occur on November 23.

Additionally, bye-elections for 48 assembly seats and two Lok Sabha seats will be held on November 13, including the Wayanad Parliamentary seat, and the bye-polls for one assembly seat in Uttarakhand and Nanded Lok Sabha seat in Maharashtra will be on November 20.

India Purchases 31 MQ-9B Predator Drones from the US to Boost Defense Capabilities

India and the US have signed a contract for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B Predator drones, marking a major step in strengthening India’s defense capabilities. The deal includes tri-service acquisition of the MQ-9B Sky Guardian and Sea Guardian drones.

The Ministry of Defence, along with Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, formalized the agreement in New Delhi. A separate contract with General Atomics Global India ensures maintenance and repair within India.

These next-generation drones, with an operational altitude above 40,000 feet and a speed of 400 km/h, will enhance India’s intelligence, surveillance, and strike capabilities, proving to be a significant asset for the defense forces.

Paramesh Sivamani assumes charge as 26th Director General of Indian Coast Guard

On 15 October 2024, Paramesh Sivamani assumed charge as the 26th Director General of the Indian Coast Guard. A specialist in navigation and direction, he has commanded all major vessels of the Coast Guard.

He is an alumnus of the National Defence College, New Delhi, and the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington. Mr. Sivamani has received several prestigious honors, including the Tatrakshak Medal in 2014, the President’s Tatrakshak Medal in 2019, and the Director General Coast Guard Commendation in 2012, recognizing his distinguished service.

SpaceX Starship Rocket Catches Reusable Booster

On 14 October 2024, SpaceX achieved a major milestone by catching the massive booster stage of its Starship rocket using robotic arms as it returned to the launchpad in southern Texas. After liftoff, the Super Heavy booster successfully returned, while the upper stage was scheduled to splash down in the Indian Ocean.

The Starship rocket, at 71 meters tall, is the largest and most powerful spacecraft ever built and is designed to be fully and rapidly reusable. This breakthrough is part of SpaceX’s goal to develop a reusable rocket system similar to airplanes, capable of landing, refueling, and launching again within hours. The success of this reusable system is crucial for reducing space travel costs and facilitating more frequent missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

India launches Samarthak, the first vessel under its Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) project

On October 14, 2024, the Indian Navy achieved a major milestone with the launch of Samarthak, the first vessel under its Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) project. Built by L&T Shipyard at Kattupalli, the launch reflects India’s progress in indigenous shipbuilding. The ceremony was presided over by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi.

Samarthak, meaning “Supporter,” is a versatile vessel designed for towing, launching and recovering targets, operating unmanned vehicles, and testing indigenous weapons. The 106-meter-long vessel can reach speeds of up to 15 knots. This project, contracted on March 25, 2022, marks the Navy’s ongoing efforts to enhance self-reliance in maritime defense and strengthen indigenous shipbuilding capabilities through collaboration with private Indian shipyards.

NASA launches Europa Clipper to Jupiter’s moon Europa

On October 14, 2024, NASA launched the Europa Clipper, its largest spacecraft for a planetary mission. The mission’s goal is to explore Jupiter’s moon Europa, specifically to determine if its subsurface ocean, hidden beneath a thick layer of ice, could support life.

The solar-powered robotic probe will travel 2.9 billion kilometers over 5 years and 6 months, reaching Jupiter in 2030. Once there, it will operate in the intense radiation environment of Jupiter, the solar system’s largest planet, focusing on studying Europa’s potential habitability.

Vijayadashmi, or Dussehra, was celebrated on October 12, 2024, across the country

Vijayadashmi, or Dussehra, was celebrated on October 12, 2024, marking the triumph of good over evil. The festival commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana in the Ramayana and Goddess Durga’s defeat of Mahishasura, symbolizing the victory of righteousness (Dharma). Across India, it was celebrated with grand processions, Ramlila performances, and the burning of Ravana’s effigies.

In northern India, large crowds gathered for Ramlila enactments and the symbolic destruction of Ravana. In West Bengal, the festival marked the conclusion of Durga Puja with idol immersions and joyous Sindoor Khela. Mysuru hosted its famous royal Dasara procession, and in Maharashtra, people exchanged “Apta” leaves and performed Ayudha Puja. The festival also encouraged new beginnings, with many choosing to start ventures and educational journeys.

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd becomes 14th Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE)

The government has approved the upgradation of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to the status of the 14th Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE). The announcement was made by the Department of Public Enterprises, stating that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman gave the final approval.

The decision followed recommendations from the Inter-Ministerial Committee, chaired by the Finance Secretary, and the Apex Committee, led by the Cabinet Secretary.

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