National Education Day 2024: Honoring Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
November 11 marks National Education Day, celebrating the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first Education Minister. This day emphasizes the crucial role of education in shaping the nation’s future and pays tribute to Azad’s pioneering contributions to the Indian education system.
8th International Ancient Arts Festival and Symposium: A Celebration of Heritage
The 8th International Ancient Arts Festival and Symposium took place from November 8th to 10th, 2024, hosted by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in collaboration with the Rays of Wisdom Society. This event, supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, showcased the rich heritage of ancient Indian art forms through various performances and scholarly discussions.
India and Russia Partner for Advanced Pantsir Air Defence System
On November 12, 2024, India and Russia announced a significant agreement to jointly manufacture the Pantsir air defence missile-gun system. This collaboration marks a major step in supporting India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector.
ADB Approves $200 Million for Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to enhance urban infrastructure and climate resilience in Uttarakhand under the Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project. This initiative aims to improve water supply, sanitation, urban mobility, and other essential services in the state.
India Ranks 6th in Global Patent Filings
India has achieved a major milestone by securing the 6th position globally for patent filings in 2023, as per the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). This is the first time India has reached such a high rank, with a total of 64,480 patent applications filed, reflecting a 15.7% growth from the previous year.
Highlights:
- Patent-to-GDP Ratio: India’s ratio has risen from 144 to 381 over the last decade.
- Trademark Filings: India also ranked 4th globally in trademark filings, with a 6.1% increase in 2023.
- Top Sectors: Major contributors include Health, Agriculture, and Clothing.
- Economic Impact: This progress underscores India’s focus on innovation and intellectual property protection, fostering a dynamic ecosystem for startups, entrepreneurs, and researchers.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal praised this achievement, highlighting India’s growing reputation as a global leader in innovation.
Phillip Noyce Honored with Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award
Veteran Australian filmmaker Phillip Noyce, known for acclaimed works such as Clear and Present Danger, Salt, and Rabbit-Proof Fence, will be honored with the prestigious Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.