Bihar Affairs
All the top 20 most polluted cities of east India located in Bihar
Cities in Indias eastern states Bihar,West BengalandOdisha are increasingly falling into the pincer grip of toxic particulate pollution during winter season, and the problem is spreading quickly to the smaller cities and towns of the region, said the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) in its latest assessment.
The CSE noted that even though the long-term trend in winter air quality improved marginally, it worsened last winter (2022-23) with the eastern states experiencing the most polluted season since 2019-20. In absolute concentration terms, Bihar with an Average PM2.5 level of 134 micrograms per cubic meter (g/m3) was the most polluted state in the east, followed by West Bengal with average PM2.5 level of 84 g/m3. Odisha was third with a seasonal average of 63 g/m3.
Patnahad the highest increase in winter pollution during the 2022-23 season among the major cities whereas pollution levels were worst in smaller towns of Bihar. In fact, all the top 20 most polluted cities of east India are located in Bihar.
National and International Affairs
Banarasi Paan, three other Varanasi-based goods receive GI tag
The Benarasi Paan, known for its distinct taste and unique blend of ingredients, has been awarded the GI tag along with three other Varanasi-based products: Banarasi Langda Mango, Ramnagar Bhanta (Brinjal), and Adamchini Rice. The expert Rajinikant, who is a Padma Awardee in GI, has confirmed the designation of these products
GI status helps in promoting and protecting the unique identity and quality of traditional products from a specific region, and can also help in boosting the local economy by increasing the demand for these products. Its good to see that the government and organizations like are working towards promoting and protecting traditional products from different parts of India.
Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of intellectual property protection that is used to recognize products originating from a particular geographical area, and which possess qualities or a reputation that are unique to that area.
New York museum to return 15 antiquities to India
TheMetropolitan Museumof Art inNew Yorkhas announced that it will return 15 antiquities to India, following the revelation that the artefacts were illegally taken from the country.
The works range in date from the 1st century BCE to the 11th century CE and include terracotta, copper, and stone. Among the artefacts are a ceramic pot from Chandraketugarh, a terracotta Yakshi holding a crowned child with visiting parrot from Chandraketugarh, Rattle in form of Crouching Yaksha from Chandraketugarh, and a stone bust of Kamadeva.
National Maritime Day 2023 observed
In India, the National Maritime Week begins on March 30 and culminates in the celebration of National Maritime Day on April 5. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the event, which aims to recognize Indias significant contribution to the maritime and its HISTORY as a seafaring nation.
National Maritime Day plays a crucial role in promoting awareness about Indias maritime heritage and current role in supporting the countrys economy. The day is an opportunity to express gratitude to the sailors who work tirelessly at sea, often spending months away from their families, to ensure the smooth functioning of the industry.
India srilanka annual bilateral maritime exercise (slinex-23)
The 10th edition of IN-SLN bilateral maritime exercise SLINEX-23 is scheduled at Colombo from 03 – 08 April 2023. The exercise is being conducted in two phases: the Harbour Phase from 03-05 April 2023, followed by a Sea Phase from 06-08 April 2023. INDIAN NAVY is being represented by INS Kiltan, an indigenous Kamorta class ASW corvette and INS Savitri, an Offshore Patrol Vessel.
SLINEX aims at enhancing interoperability, improving mutual understanding and exchanging best practices while jointly undertaking multi-faceted maritime operations. Professional, cultural and sporting events, as also social exchanges are planned during the harbour phase to further bolster the of friendship and camaraderie between both the navies.
Israel launches new Ofek-13 spy satellite into orbit
Israel successfully launched a new spy satellite, named Ofek-13, into orbit. The satellite, Ofek-13, launched from the Palmachim Airbase in central Israel, is intended to provide advanced intelligence capabilities to the Israeli military and intelligence agencies
The Ofek-13 satellite is the latest addition to Israels Ofek series of spy satellites, which have been in operation since 1988. The satellite is said to have advanced capabilities, including high-resolution imaging and the ability to transmit real-time intelligence to ground stations