Michelle Bachelet Awarded the 2024 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development
On December 7, 2024, Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile, was honored with the prestigious 2024 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. Chaired by former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon, the jury selected Bachelet for her unwavering commitment to human rights, social justice, and gender equality.
Throughout her illustrious career, Bachelet has served in key roles, including as the first Director of UN Women and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. Her pioneering efforts in promoting gender equality, advocating for LGBTQ rights, and championing global human rights have positioned her as a leading voice for justice and equity. Additionally, her role in strengthening diplomatic ties between India and Chile, especially with the signing of a free trade agreement, underscores her contributions to international relations.
Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav 2024: A Grand Celebration of Northeast India’s Diversity
From December 6th to 8th, 2024, the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav illuminated Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, celebrating the rich culture and heritage of Northeast India. Named after the eight forms of prosperity (Ashtalakshmi), the festival showcased the unique cultural, social, and economic contributions of the eight Northeastern states: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura, and Sikkim.
The event featured a plethora of activities, including thematic exhibitions, state-specific pavilions, and interactive sessions that highlighted traditional crafts, textiles, and Geographical Indication (GI) products. Highlights of the Mahotsav included a captivating fashion show that blended contemporary designs with traditional textiles, live demonstrations of artisanal crafts, and vibrant cultural performances that displayed the diverse heritage of the region.
Insurance Amendment Bill 2024: Paving the Way for a Modernized Insurance Sector
On December 7, 2024, a parliamentary committee endorsed transformative reforms in the insurance industry through the Insurance Amendment Bill 2024. This landmark bill aims to enhance the sector’s efficiency, competitiveness, and accessibility. Key proposed changes include allowing insurers to offer both life and non-life insurance products under a single license, thus streamlining operations and broadening product offerings. The bill also aims to attract more foreign capital by raising the foreign direct investment (FDI) limit from 74% to 100%.
Additionally, the bill proposes lowering capital requirements to encourage new entrants into the market and promote innovation among existing insurers. Another significant proposal is the reduction of GST rates for health and microinsurance products, making them more affordable and accessible to the general public. The bill also suggests the establishment of a dedicated authority to oversee cybersecurity in the insurance sector, ensuring robust protections and regulatory oversight.
Central SMILE Sub-Scheme Sets New Milestones in Rehabilitation
The Central SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Empowerment) Sub-Scheme has set new milestones, successfully rehabilitating 970 individuals and 169 families. Implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, this initiative focuses on uplifting marginalized groups, including beggars, transgender persons, and other vulnerable populations, by providing comprehensive support for sustainable livelihoods.
The scheme offers an array of services such as medical care, counseling, education, skill development, and economic rehabilitation. By addressing both social and economic needs, the SMILE Sub-Scheme aims to integrate these individuals and families into the mainstream community, helping them overcome the cycle of poverty and exclusion.
4th Mekong-Ganga Dhammayatra: Strengthening Cultural and Spiritual Bonds
On December 7, 2024, a delegation of over 20 Buddhist scholars and citizens from Thailand arrived in Delhi to participate in the 4th Mekong-Ganga Dhammayatra pilgrimage. Led by Dr. Supachai Viraphuchong, Secretary-General of the Bodhgaya Institute 980, this journey is dedicated to enhancing the cultural and spiritual connections between the Mekong and Ganga civilizations. The pilgrimage aims to promote peace, environmental consciousness, and conflict resolution through the timeless teachings of the Buddha.
India Receives ISSA Good Practice Award 2024 for Social Security Innovations
On December 7, 2024, India was honored with the prestigious ISSA Good Practice Award for Asia and Pacific 2024 at the Regional Social Security Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The award recognized the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) for its innovative initiatives and significant contributions to social security.
EPFO was commended for five major initiatives, including a comprehensive communication framework, the digitization of judicial processes (E-Proceedings), the district outreach program (Nidhi Aapke Nikat 2.0), multilingual call centers, and the Prayaas initiative for timely pension payment orders. Additionally, the Digital Life Certificate (Jeevan Pramaan Patra) received a Special Mention for utilizing biometric Aadhaar authentication, simplifying life certificate submissions for pensioners.