India’s Employment Milestone: Unemployment Rate Falls to 3.2% in 7 Years
India has witnessed a significant transformation in its employment landscape, with the unemployment rate plummeting from 6% in 2017 to 3.2% in 2024, as reported by the latest Annual Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). This remarkable improvement reflects the success of various government policies and initiatives aimed at boosting job creation and economic growth. Key sectors that have contributed to this decline include technology, manufacturing, and services, which have seen substantial job growth and opportunities.
International Cheetah Day: Championing Conservation for the Swiftest Land Predator
Observed annually on December 4, International Cheetah Day aims to raise global awareness about the plight of the world’s fastest land animal and to promote conservation efforts. Established by the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF), this day is dedicated to educating the public about the challenges cheetahs face, such as habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and declining prey populations. The day also honors Khayam, a cheetah cub raised by Dr. Laurie Marker, whose story has been instrumental in bringing attention to the urgent need for cheetah conservation.
Government Launches ‘Anna Chakra’ to Revolutionize Food Supply Chain Efficiency
The Government of India unveiled ‘Anna Chakra’, a groundbreaking tool designed to revolutionize the Public Distribution System (PDS). This initiative, developed in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP) and IIT-Delhi’s Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), uses advanced algorithms to optimize logistics for food grain movement across the country. The goal is to streamline supply chains, reduce transportation costs, and ensure timely delivery of essential commodities, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of food distribution in India.
India to Chair Historic 68th Session of UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs
India has achieved a significant milestone by being named to chair the 68th Session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), marking the first time the country will lead this prestigious UN body. Ambassador Shambhu S Kumaran, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Vienna, will officially assume the chairmanship. The CND serves as the principal policy-making entity of the United Nations on drug-related matters, tasked with monitoring global drug trends, supporting member states in developing balanced policies, and overseeing the implementation of major international drug conventions.
Under India’s leadership, the session aims to represent the interests of the Global South and foster dialogue on drug policy issues. Key focus areas will include strengthening international cooperation to combat illicit drug trafficking, addressing substance abuse, and tackling the associated social and health impacts.
16th GRIHA Summit 2024: Advancing Sustainable Development in Urban Infrastructure
The 16th GRIHA Summit kicked off on December 6, 2024, in New Delhi with the theme “Accelerating Climate Action in the Built Environment”. Organized by the GRIHA Council in partnership with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, and other key stakeholders, the event gathered industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to foster discussions on sustainable urban development and climate resilience in construction.
UNGA Proclaims December 21 as Global Meditation Day
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a resolution to designate December 21 as World Meditation Day. This day, which coincides with the Winter Solstice—a time associated with reflection and renewal—aims to foster global well-being and inner peace. The resolution was co-sponsored by India and supported by nations such as Liechtenstein, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Mexico, underscoring a collective commitment to mental and emotional health worldwide.
Nebraska Dedicates December 6 to Remember Mahatma Gandhi’s Legacy
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen declared this date as “A Day of Remembrance for Mahatma Gandhi”. The commemoration was highlighted by the unveiling of a bust of Gandhi at the Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln. This significant event, attended by dignitaries such as Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly, former Senator Ben Nelson, and Consul General Prakash Gupta, celebrated Gandhi’s enduring message of peace, non-violence, and justice.
The bust, gifted by the Indian government, is the first of its kind in any State Capitol within the jurisdiction of the Indian Consulate in Seattle. The ceremony underscored Gandhi’s principles and their relevance in today’s world, aiming to foster cultural understanding and unity within Nebraska’s diverse communities.