“IMPORTANT DAYS”

Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare 2024

The Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare is observed annually on November 30. Established during the 20th Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention, this memorial day honors the memory of victims and strengthens the commitment of the international community to the complete eradication of chemical weapons. This observance not only pays tribute to the victims but also reinforces the principles of peace, security, and multilateral cooperation.

International Jaguar Day 2024

Every year on November 29, the world observes International Jaguar Day to raise awareness about the significance of jaguars and the urgent need for their conservation. As apex predators in the Americas, jaguars (scientifically known as Panthera onca) are vital to maintaining ecological balance. However, their survival is increasingly threatened, making this day an important occasion for action and advocacy.

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People 2024, 29 November

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed every year on 29 November. The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1977 to highlight the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and promote support for achieving peace in the region. This occasion reminds the international community of its responsibility to uphold justice, human rights, and international law for the Palestinian people, who continue to face occupation and displacement.

“FESTIVAL”

Ashtalakshmi Festival Starts December 6

The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav 2024, a grand three-day cultural festival, will be held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from December 6th to 8th, 2024. Organized by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) and managed by its CPSE, the North Eastern Handicrafts & Handlooms Development Corporation Limited (NEHHDC), the Mahotsav aims to showcase the vibrant cultural and economic potential of Northeast India. The mascot, Purvi, a young girl symbolizing all eight northeastern states, was introduced during the curtain-raiser event.

“APPOINTMENTS”

Hemant Soren sworn in as the Jharkhand Chief Minister for 4th time

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Hemant Soren was sworn in as the chief minister of Jharkhand for the fourth time. Governor Santosh Kumar Ganagwar administered the oath of office and secrecy as the 14th chief minister of Jharkhand in a ceremony at Ranchi’s Morabadi Ground.

Masato Kanda elected as new President of ADB

Masato Kanda, former top currency diplomat for Japan, was elected as 11th president of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Kanda, 59, currently serves as special advisor to Japan’s prime minister and minister of finance. He will assume office on Feb 24, 2025, succeeding Masatsugu Asakawa, who will leave office on Feb 23 next year. Kanda will complete the unexpired term of Asakawa, which ends on Nov 23, 2026.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Australia Bars Under-16s from Social Media

Australia has enacted a world-first legislation to ban children under 16 from social media platforms, such as TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, as part of its effort to protect minors from online harm. The law imposes hefty fines of up to AUD 50 million for non-compliance, with social media companies given a year to implement the changes. While proponents laud the move as essential for child safety, critics argue the legislation is rushed, may pose privacy risks, and could unintentionally harm vulnerable youth.

SC Collegium Recommends Justice Manmohan for Apex Court

The Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, has proposed the elevation of Delhi High Court Chief Justice Manmohan to the apex court. Justice Manmohan’s recommendation comes at a time when the Supreme Court operates with 32 judges, two short of its sanctioned strength of 34, following the retirements of Justices DY Chandrachud and Hima Kohli. The five-member Collegium, which includes Justices BR Gavai, Surya Kant, Hrishikesh Roy, and AS Oka, recently convened to finalize the decision.

IIT Guwahati to host 2024 India International Science Festival

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati will celebrate India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024 from November 30 to December 3 in Guwahati. The theme of this 10th edition of IISF is “Transforming India into an S&T-driven Global Manufacturing Hub”. It reflects the government’s aim to merge science and technology with industrial growth, making India a global leader in manufacturing.