Shaji N Karun Receives the Esteemed JC Daniel Award 2023
Veteran filmmaker Shaji N Karun was honored with the prestigious JC Daniel Award 2023 for his lifelong contributions to Malayalam cinema. The award, which includes a cash prize of ₹5 lakh, a citation, and a statuette, is the highest accolade bestowed by the Kerala government.
The selection committee, chaired by renowned filmmaker T V Chandran and including distinguished playback singer K S Chithra and actor Vijayaraghavan, recognized Shaji’s profound impact on Malayalam cinema. His acclaimed films, such as Piravi, Swam, and Vanaprastham, have garnered international recognition, showcasing the richness and diversity of Malayalam cinema on the global stage.
Kush Maini’s Landmark Victory in F2 Constructors’ Championship
Indian driver Kush Maini made history as the first Indian to win the FIA F2 Constructors’ World Championship. Competing for Invicta Racing, Maini’s exceptional performance throughout the season was instrumental in securing the championship. His achievements included five podium finishes and a race victory in Hungary, highlighting his skill and determination.
Despite facing numerous challenges during the season, Maini’s consistent excellence, including securing his maiden F2 pole position in Jeddah, set the stage for Invicta Racing’s triumphant campaign. The team ultimately clinched the championship with a 34.5-point lead over their closest competitors, Campos Racing.
Payal Kapadia Achieves Historic Golden Globe Nomination
Filmmaker Payal Kapadia achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian director to receive a Golden Globe nomination for Best Director (Motion Picture) for her critically acclaimed film “All We Imagine As Light”. This film has also been nominated for Best Motion Picture – Non-English Language, further cementing its global recognition.
“All We Imagine As Light” tells the compelling story of Prabha, a troubled nurse, and Anu, her young roommate, as they explore their desires and emotions during a journey to a beach town. The film has already received international acclaim, including winning the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.
Bihar Government Tackles Declining Sex Ratio: Female Foeticide Measures Intensified
Bihar’s alarming decline in its sex ratio at birth, now at 882 females per 1,000 males, has prompted urgent government action. The state government has pledged to enforce the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act more strictly to curb female foeticide and address gender imbalance.
Health officials are intensifying surveillance on medical facilities and diagnostic centers to ensure compliance with the law. Additionally, the government plans to launch awareness campaigns to educate communities about the importance of gender equality and the legal consequences of sex-selective practices.
Human Rights Day 2024: Embracing “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now”
The world celebrates Human Rights Day, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. This year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” emphasizes the urgent and practical importance of human rights in shaping a just and equitable future for all.
The theme focuses on the necessity of upholding human rights to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future. Various global events and activities, including educational programs, conferences, and cultural events, are organized to raise awareness and encourage action towards promoting and protecting human rights.
Manama Dialogue 2024: Addressing Escalating Middle East Challenges
The Manama Dialogue 2024 convenes in Bahrain, bringing together policymakers and global leaders to tackle pressing security challenges in the Middle East. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is among the key speakers, addressing critical issues such as the ongoing turmoil in Syria following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad, as well as the escalating situations in Gaza and Lebanon.
This year’s theme, “Middle East Leadership in Shaping Regional Prosperity and Security,” underscores the dialogue’s focus on collaborative efforts to enhance stability and prosperity in the region. Participants are discussing strategic initiatives to address conflicts and promote sustainable peace.
Andhra Pradesh Launches AP Urjaveer Energy Scheme for a Sustainable Future
The Andhra Pradesh government, in partnership with Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), unveiled the AP Urjaveer Energy Scheme. This ambitious initiative aims to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability across the state. A key aspect of the scheme is the training of 1,12,000 private electricians, transforming them into “Urjaveers” who will promote and sell energy-efficient appliances.
These Urjaveers will be instrumental in raising awareness about the benefits of energy-efficient products, including 6W LED bulbs, 20W LED tube lights, 30W BLDC ceiling fans, 5-star air conditioners, induction cooking stoves, and 10W LED inverter lamps. The scheme aligns with national initiatives like the National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP) and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), furthering Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to energy conservation and sustainable development.