Goa Launches Bima Sakhi Yojana to Empower Women
Goa has launched the Bima Sakhi Yojana, an initiative aimed at providing insurance access to all citizens, with a special focus on empowering women. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader vision, this scheme targets women aged 18 to 70 who have completed at least Class X education. Participants will receive specialized training and a stipend for the first three years, eventually becoming LIC agents. This program aims to promote financial literacy and insurance awareness at the grassroots level, encouraging women to become active agents in their communities and enhance economic security.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: EmpowHER Biz Launched
NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) has introduced EmpowHER Biz – Sapno Ki Udaan in partnership with New Shop, a 24/7 retail chain. This initiative aims to uplift women entrepreneurs by offering comprehensive training in retail management, digital tools, financial literacy, and business development. Participants will also receive mentorship from industry experts. Notably, the top 20 participants will get a 100% waiver on New Shop franchise fees, making it easier for women to start their own businesses. The program is designed to create a nurturing environment for women entrepreneurs to flourish.
India’s Major Investment in Inland Water Transport
The Indian government has announced a significant investment of ₹50,000 crore over the next five years to enhance the country’s inland water transport infrastructure. The initiative includes developing national waterways, green shipping projects, and water metro systems. A new Riverine Community Development Scheme aims to improve the socio-economic well-being of coastal communities through trade, tourism, and skill development. Additionally, 1,000 green vessels will be introduced, and ship repair facilities will be established across national waterways, making it a comprehensive plan for boosting India’s maritime sector.
Earth Breaches 1.5°C Global Warming Limit in 2024
In an alarming climate milestone, 2024 saw the global mean temperature exceed the crucial 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels for the first time in recorded history. This unprecedented event, reported by leading climate organizations, underscores the urgency of tackling climate change. The breach of this threshold, established by the Paris Agreement to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of global warming, highlights the critical need for immediate, decisive actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate environmental damage. This development signals the urgent demand for sustainable solutions and global cooperation to combat climate change.
GEAPP and ISA Join Forces for $100 Million Solar Fund
The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) has signed a Multi-Donor Trust Fund with the International Solar Alliance (ISA), aiming to mobilize $100 million for impactful solar energy projects in India. This fund will support high-impact projects, bridge financing gaps, and enhance institutional capacity to accelerate the clean energy transition. Additionally, GEAPP and ISA have launched initiatives like the Digitalization of Utilities for Energy Transition (DUET) and the Energy Transitions Innovation Challenge (ENTICE 2.0) to modernize grid systems and drive innovation in the solar energy sector.
PM to Inaugurate Z-Morh Tunnel, Enhancing Kashmir-Ladakh Connectivity
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Z-Morh tunnel on January 13, 2025, creating a year-round strategic corridor between Kashmir and Ladakh. Located in the Ganderbal district, this 6.5-kilometer tunnel bypasses avalanche-prone areas, ensuring safer, more reliable travel. It will enhance connectivity to Sonamarg and facilitate travel to Ladakh, boosting tourism and economic activities. This infrastructure project is crucial for improving military logistics and fostering regional development, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the connectivity and growth prospects of these regions.