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The Indian government has successfully deactivated more than 4 crore duplicate or inactive LPG connections under the PAHAL direct benefit transfer (DBT) scheme, as reported by the Petroleum Minister in a recent Parliament session. About PAHAL Scheme The PAHAL (Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh) scheme, launched by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, is India's Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system for LPG subsidies. Under this scheme, subsidies for LPG are transferred directly into

Ayurveda Aahara

Recently, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), in collaboration with the Ministry of Ayush, has introduced a definitive list of Ayurvedic food preparations under the category “Ayurveda Aahara.” About Ayurveda Aahara Ayurveda Aahara refers to food products that are developed in alignment with the holistic dietary principles of Ayurveda, one of the oldest systems of health and wellness in the world. These food preparations emphasize: Balance: Mai

India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI)

Recently, NITI Aayog launched the India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI), a pioneering tool designed to track, evaluate, and benchmark the progress of Indian states and Union Territories (UTs) in achieving their electric mobility goals. About India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI) The IEMI is a first-of-its-kind tool that comprehensively measures the progress of states and UTs in adopting electric mobility. It assesses various aspects of electric mobility development across 16 key indicato

UN World Food Programme (WFP)

India has launched a new collaborative initiative with the UN World Food Programme (WFP) to strengthen rice fortification and supply chain management in Nepal. This initiative aims to enhance nutritional quality and food security for communities in Nepal through the fortified rice program, addressing malnutrition challenges. About UN World Food Programme (WFP) The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is the world's largest humanitarian agency dedicated to the eradication of hu

Seabuckthorn

The seeds of seabuckthorn and buckwheat grown in the cold desert region of Ladakh are being part of experimental studies aboard the International Space Station (ISS), launched on NASA's Crew-11 mission. About Seabuckthorn Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), often referred to as the ‘Wonder Plant’, ‘Ladakh Gold’, or ‘Golden Bush’, is a hardy shrub known for its remarkable adaptability and nutrient-rich berries. This plant thrives in cold desert

Indri Lemur

For the first time, joint research has successfully determined the composition of the intestinal microbiome of the Indri Lemur, a species critically endangered and found only in northeastern Madagascar. About the Indri Lemur The Indri Lemur (scientific name: Indri indri) is one of the most iconic lemur species, known for its distinctive characteristics and critically endangered status. Key Features: Size: The Indri is one of the largest lemurs, measuring 60–70 cm (24

India Cine Hub Portal

The central government has recently encouraged Indian states to actively use the India Cine Hub Portal to promote and facilitate global film production locally. About India Cine Hub Portal Launch Date: The India Cine Hub Portal was launched on June 28, 2024. Purpose: It serves as a single-window system to streamline various processes involved in filmmaking, such as: Permissions Incentives Resource mapping Establishment: Th

BIMSTEC First-Ever Traditional Music Festival

Recently, the first-ever BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival was held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the BIMSTEC member countries. About BIMSTEC Formation and Purpose: Full Name: Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Inception: BIMSTEC came into existence on June 6, 1997, following the Bangkok Declaration. BIMSTEC serves as a platform for regional cooperation, connecti