Celebrating Mathematical Genius: National Mathematics Day 2024
On December 22, India proudly celebrates National Mathematics Day to honor the birth anniversary of the extraordinary mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. Established in 2012, this day recognizes Ramanujan’s remarkable contributions to mathematics, despite his limited formal education.
Ramanujan’s pioneering work in number theory, infinite series, and continued fractions has left an indelible mark on the mathematical world. National Mathematics Day not only pays tribute to his legacy but also underscores the vital role mathematics plays in various fields and its importance in driving scientific and technological advancements.
India Inks $350 Million Loan Agreement with ADB to Boost Logistics Sector
The Government of India has signed a $350 million loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to enhance the country’s logistics sector. This funding is part of the Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) programme, which aims to improve India’s manufacturing and supply chain capabilities.
The SMILE programme will focus on creating an efficient policy framework to upgrade logistics infrastructure at national, state, and city levels. It seeks to standardize warehousing practices, attract private sector investment, enhance trade logistics, and adopt smart, low-emission systems.
India and Vietnam Coast Guards Enhance Maritime Cooperation Through Joint Exercise
The Vietnam Coast Guard Ship CSB 8005 recently concluded a successful visit to Kochi, strengthening the cooperative ties between the Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). During this four-day visit, the two maritime forces engaged in a joint exercise named “Sahayog-Hop Tac” off the coast of Kochi. This comprehensive exercise included activities such as pollution response demonstrations, search and rescue drills, and counter-narcotics operations, addressing key maritime security challenges.
UN Proclaims December 21 as World Meditation Day to Promote Wellness
The United Nations General Assembly has officially declared December 21 as World Meditation Day, aiming to elevate global awareness of the numerous benefits that meditation offers for health and well-being. Co-sponsored by nations such as India and Mexico, this initiative underscores the critical role of mental health in achieving overall wellness.
World Meditation Day encourages individuals worldwide to integrate meditation into their daily lives, showcasing its positive effects on reducing stress, enhancing concentration, and boosting emotional resilience. The day will feature a range of activities, including guided meditation sessions, educational workshops, and discussions on the scientific basis of meditation and mindfulness.
Government Introduces BULA Bill to Regulate Lending Activities
The central government has unveiled the Banning of Unregulated Lending Activities (BULA) Bill to tackle the issues surrounding unregulated lending. This legislative effort follows recommendations from the Reserve Bank of India’s Working Group on Digital Lending. The BULA Bill aims to protect borrowers by prohibiting individuals or entities not authorized by the RBI or other regulatory bodies from engaging in lending activities.
Violations under the proposed law would be considered serious offenses, with penalties including imprisonment of up to 10 years and fines ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 1 crore. The bill also suggests that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) handle investigations involving multiple states or significant amounts.
Inaugural Phewa Dialogue 2024 Enhances Nepal-China Regional Cooperation
The Phewa Dialogue series recently commenced in Pokhara, a city celebrated for its picturesque lake, marking a significant collaboration between Nepal and China. Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari inaugurated the dialogue, emphasizing its importance for fostering regional cooperation and prosperity. The Phewa Dialogue aims to develop policies that address crucial issues affecting South Asia, such as industrial changes and emerging needs, thereby promoting regional peace and development.