“IMPORTANT DAYS”
World Organ Donation Day 2024
World Organ Donation Day is observed every year on August 13 to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation and encourage people to register as organ donors. Organ Donation Day serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of this life-saving act. In India, the government has taken significant steps to promote organ donation through nationwide campaigns and educational programs. These initiatives aim to dispel myths, raise awareness about the critical need for organs, and educate the public on the donation process.
World Elephant Day 2024: Celebrating Earth’s Gentle Giants
Every year on August 12th, people around the globe observe World Elephant Day. This annual event aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by the world’s largest land mammals. Elephants, often referred to as pachyderms, play a crucial role in our ecosystems and hold significant cultural importance in many societies.
The term “pachyderm” was first coined by French naturalist Georges Cuvier in the 1700s. It describes hoofed animals with exceptionally thick skin. While elephants are the most well-known pachyderms, this group also includes:
- Hippopotamuses
- Rhinoceroses
- Horses
- Pigs
The theme for World Elephant Day 2024:
“Personifying prehistoric beauty, theological relevance, and environmental importance”
“DEFENCE”
Mitra Shakti 2024: Strengthening Indo-Sri Lankan Military Ties
The Mitra Shakti military exercise, an annual bilateral engagement between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army, commenced on August 12, 2024. This year’s exercise, held at the Sri Lankan Army Training School in Maduru Oya, marks a significant milestone in the military cooperation between these two South Asian nations. Set to run until August 25, this combined training exercise exemplifies the commitment of both countries to enhance their military capabilities and foster stronger bilateral relations.
“SPORTS”
Haryana To Commence First-Ever Global Women’s Kabaddi League
The first-ever Global Women’s Kabaddi League will commence next month (September) in Haryana. Officially named the Global Pravasi Women’s Kabaddi League (GPKL), this groundbreaking tournament will feature female athletes from over 15 countries. The event represents a significant advancement in promoting Kabaddi internationally, supporting efforts to include the sport in the Olympic Games, and bolstering India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics.
“APPOINTMENTS”
Raj Kumar Chaudhary Takes Helm as Chairman & Managing Director of NHPC Ltd.
In a significant development for India’s hydroelectric power sector, NHPC Limited has announced the appointment of Shri Raj Kumar Chaudhary as its new Chairman & Managing Director. This appointment marks a crucial milestone for the company, bringing on board a leader with extensive experience and a proven track record in hydroelectric power development.
“AWARDS”
President Murmu receives the Highest Civilian Award of Timor Leste
President Droupadi Murmu was honoured with the highest civilian award of Timor Leste – Grand Collar of Order of Timor Leste, by Timor Leste President Jose Ramos Horta. The award was conferred to President Murmu at a function in the Timor-Leste capital, Dili. India and Timor Leste at present have no diplomatic missions in each other countries.
Abhinav Bindra receives the Olympic Order Award by International Olympic Committee in Paris
India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, Abhinav Bindra was awarded the prestigious Olympic Order by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) at the 142nd IOC Session in Paris. The Olympic Order is the highest honour bestowed by the IOC, recognizing exceptional contributions to the Olympic Movement.
Indian Medal Winner at the Paris Olympics
S.No | Players | Event | Medal |
1 | Manu Bhaker | Women’s 10m air pistol | Bronze |
2 | Manu Bhaker & Sarabjot Singh | 10m air pistol Mixed Team Shooting | Bronze |
3 | Swapnil Kusale | Men’s 50m rifle 3 Positions | Bronze |
4 | Men’s Hockey Team | Men’s Hockey | Bronze |
5 | Neeraj Chopra | Javelin | Silver |
6 | Aman Sehrawat | Wrestling 57 kg freestyle | Bronze |
Total | 6 medals |
Mascot and Motto of the 2024 Paris Olympics
The 2024 Paris Olympics Mascot is Olympic Phryge. It is designed on the traditional French Phyrigian hat that represents the symbols of freedom and the French Republic. It is coloured in blue, white and red, representing the flag of France with the golden Paris 2024 logo emblazoned across its chest. Alone we go faster, but together we go further,” is the motto of the Paris Olympics and the Paralympic Games.
“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”
Mann dedicates Punjab Help Centre for NRIs at IGI Airport
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann unveiled a pioneering initiative for the Punjabi diaspora with the inauguration of the ‘Punjab Help Centre’ at Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. This makes Punjab the first state in India to establish such a dedicated NRI Facilitation Centre, showcasing a robust commitment to supporting its overseas community. ‘Punjab Help Centre will operate 24X7, offering a range of services to assist NRIs and other passengers.
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