Tallest statue in the world 2023, Top List

 

Statues have been produced in many cultures from prehistory to the present, the oldest-known statue dating to about 30,000 years ago. Statues represent many different people and animals, real and mythical, many statues are placed in public places as public art.

Tallest Statue in the world

The tallest statue in the world is “Statue of Unity” which is about 182 m tall and is located near the Narmada dam in Gujarat, India.

List of Top 10 Tallest Statues in the world

S. NO.	Statue	Height	Country
1.	Statue of Unity	182 m (597 ft.)	India
2.	Spring Temple Buddha	128 m (420 ft.)	China
3.	Laykyun Sekkya	115.8 m (380 ft.)	Myanmar
4.	Vishwas Swaroopam	106 m (348 ft.)	India
5.	Ushiku Daibutsu	100 m (330 ft.)	Japan
6.	Sendai Daikannon	100 m (330 ft.)	Japan
7.	Guishan Guanyin	99 m (325 ft.)	China
8.	Great Buddha of Thailand	93 m (305 ft.)	Thailand
9.	Kita no Miyako park’s Dai Kannon	88 m (289 ft.)	Japan
10.	Mother of All Asia- Tower of Peace	88 m (289 ft.)	Philippines

 

1.     Statue of Unity

Height: 182m (597 ft.)

Location: Sardar Sarovar Dam, Kevadiya, Narmada district, Gujarat, India.

Country: India

Depiction: Vallabhbhai Patel

Year of completion: 2018

Key Point: It is the world’s tallest statue standing on a base of 58 m, total monument height is 240 m (790 ft.). This statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was unveiled by PM Narendra Modi at the 143^rd birth anniversary of Vallabhbhai Patel on October 31^st, 2018.

2.     Spring Temple Buddha

Height: 128 m (420 ft.)

Location: Lushan, Henan

Country: China

Depiction: Buddha (Vairocana)

Year of completion: 2008

Key points: It is the world’s second tallest statue and formed in the centre of a lotus-shaped seat. The monument stands atop a slope that has been altered to make two more pedestals.

3.     Laykyun Sekkya

Height: 115.8 m (380 ft.)

Location: Khatakan Taun, near Monywa, Sagaing Division, Mynmar

Country: Myanmar

Depiction: Buddha (Gautama)

Year of completion: 2008

Key points: This statue stands on a 13.41 m (44 ft.) lotus throne and the total height of the sculpture is 129.2 m (424 ft.). The construction of this statue began in 1996 and lasted 12 years. In February 2008, the monument became formally open to the public.

4.     Statue of Belief (Vishwas Swaroopam)

Height: 106 m (348 ft.)

Location: Nathdwara, Rajasthan

Country: India

Depiction: Lord Shiva

Year of completion: 2020

Key points: This status is the world’s tallest Shiva statue with a base of 33 m (108 ft.), thus the total height of the sculpture is 112 m (367 ft.).

5.     Ushiku Daibutsu

Height: 100 m (330 ft.)

Location: Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture

Country: Japan

Depiction: Buddha (Amitabha)

Year of completion: 1993

Key points: It was the highest statue in the world from 1993-2008. The    statue is made of bronze and depicts Amitabha Buddha. It was created to commemorate the birth of Shinran, the founder of Buddhism’s “True Pure Land School.”

6.     Sendai Daikannon

Height: 100 m (330 ft.)

Location: Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture

Country: Japan

Depiction: Kannon (Avalokitesvara)

Year of completion: 1991

Key points: It was the world’s highest statue from 1991-1993. This is Japan’s highest goddess statue and one of the sic tallest statues in the world.

7.     Guishan Guanyin

 

Height: 99m (325 ft.)

Location: Weishan Changsha, Hunan

Country: China

Depiction: Guanyin- Eleven-headed Thousand-armed Guanyin

Year of completion: 2009

Key points: The gilt bronze statue shows Guanyin with eleven heads and thousands of arms. This shows a bodhisattva who empodies all Buddhas’ compassion.

8.     Thailand’s Great Buddha

Reader of The Month July 2023.

 Congratulations Saumyashree Maharana...

BA III 

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Time Spen on Library : 10.1 Hours

Total Check out : 4

PM Modi launches Urea Gold for farmers

 

PM Modi during his visit in Rajasthan launched a new type of Urea called “Urea Gold” which is coated with sulphur that can help improve the soil quality and reduce the expenses of the farmers.

What’s in News?

PM Modi during his visit in Sikar , Rajasthan states that the government will not allow the farmers to suffer due to the prices of Urea, farmers in India will get a sack of urea of Rs.226, it is available for about Rs.800 in Pakistan, for Rs.720 in Bangladesh and Rs.2100 in China.

Urea Gold

Urea Gold is a new variety of Urea that is coated with sulphur, which is expected to address sulphur deficiencies in the soil. Urea Gold which is considered as “innovative fertilizer” is more economical and efficient than neem-coated urea. Urea Gold will ensure improved nitrogen use efficiency, reduced consumption and enhanced crop quality.

Benefits of Urea Gold

• The use of Urea Gold in place of other fertilizers will address sulphur deficiencies in the soil.
• Urea Gold fertilizers is more economical and efficient than neem-coated urea.
• It improves efficiency of nitrogen use in plants.
• It reduces the consumption of fertilizers and enhances crop quality.
• It will save input costs for the farmers and also raise income for the farmers with enhanced production and productivity.

How Urea Gold is better than other fertilizers?

• Sulphur coated urea facilitates a gradual release of nitrogen, thereby enhancing its availability and uptake by crops.
• The inclusion of humid acid in Urea Gold further increases its lifespan as a fertilizer.
• This product not only substitutes traditional urea consumption but also reduces overall fertilizer usage.
• According to the report, 15kg of Urea Gold provides comparable benefits to 20kg of conventional urea, making it a more efficient and effective choice for farmers.

Other Pro-Farmer projects launched in Rajasthan

PM Modi also released the 14^th instalment of PM-KISAN Scheme and inaugurated a slew of projects in the poll-bound state. He also launched the onboarded 1,500 FPOs on Open Network for Digital Communication (ONDC). PM Modi also dedicated 1.25 lakh PM Kisan Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSKs). PMKSKs are being developed to provide a one-stop solution for all farmers’ needs from information on agri-inputs to testing facilities for soil, seeds and fertilizers and to information regarding various government schemes.

ONLINE RENEWAL & OPAC

 

Byculla railway station gets UNESCO’s Asia Pacific Cultural Heritage award

 

Mumbai’s Byculla Railway Station received UNESCO’s Asia Pacific Cultural Heritage Award on Monday i.e. 24^th July, which was declared in November 2022.

UNESCO Award Recognition

The prestigious UNESCO Asia Pacific Cultural Heritage award was received by Byculla Railway Station located in Mumbai, this award was declared in November 2022, highlighting the station’s significant contribution to cultural heritage conservation. The recognition came after the station underwent extensive restoration work, bringing it back to its original glory.

Initiators of Restoration Work

An NGO of BJP politician, namely ‘I Love Mumbai’ and spoke person Shaina NC took up the restoration work of the Byculla railway station, with the help of heritage conservation architect Abha Lamba and Minal Bajaj Trust, which partnered in the conservation work.

About Byculla Railway Station

Byculla Railway Station is railway station on the Central line of the Mumbai Suburban Railway.

It is considered to be one of the oldest railway station that is still in operation. With a history dating back 169 years, the station stands as a testament to the rich heritage of India’s railway system.

Grade-I Heritage Structure:

Byculla Railway Station holds an immense architectural and historical value as it is designated as a Grade-I heritage structure which emphasizes its importance of preserving the station’s original design and features for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

Historical Significance:

• Byculla Railway Station was one of the original station inaugurated when the Bombay-Thane railway commenced operations in 1953.
• Originally constructed as a wooden structure, it was later rebuilt as stone structure in 1857.
• The station continued to evolve over the years, ultimately adopting its present form in June 1891.
• The historical significance of the station is intertwined with the arrival of the first locomotive in Mumbai in 1852.

UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation

Since 2000, UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation have been recognising the achievement of the private and public sector initiatives in successfully conserving or restoring structures, places and properties of heritage value in the region.

 Objectives:

• Identification and promotion of exemplary practices in the heritage conversation with increased participation from under-represented areas.
• Improved exchange of research and professional practice related to heritage.
• Capacity building in heritage conservation using the exemplars and standards of the UNESCO Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation.
• Improved engagement of youth in protecting and promoting cultural heritage.
• Improved knowledge management of Asian Heritage, including regional best practices from the UNESCO Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation, through video, online and print formats.

New Printed Journals on Computer Science..

 

1. Indian Journal of Computer Science (ISSN 2456 - 4133) is a bi-monthly journal that provides a platform to professionals, graduates, engineers, academics, and researchers in all areas of Computer Science to share research achievements, their perspectives, practical experiences, as well as disseminate information on state-of-the-art techniques in the field of Computer Science and related topics such as e-governance, online consumer behaviour, and technology-enabled business. The journal aims to fill the gaping hole that exists in the field of research related to computer science in India and other developing countries.

2. Quarterly published in print and online "Inventi Impact: Computer Networks & Communications" publishes high quality unpublished as well as high impact pre-published research and reviews catering to the needs of researchers and professional engineers. The journal deals with multiple aspects of computer networks & communications such as: Network Protocols & Wireless Networks, Network Architectures, Next Generation Internet, Ubiquitous Networks, Heterogeneous Wireless Networks, Self-Organizing Networks and Networked Systems, and Optical Networking etc.

 

• Title : Indian Journal of Data Mining & Warehouse
• Frequency : Half Yearly
• Language : English
• Category : Journals on Various Topics
• Subcategory : Computer Science

Italy Honours Indian Army contribution in Second World War

 

“The “V.C Yeshwant Ghadge Sundial Memorial” was jointly unveiled by the Commune of Monotone in Italy and Italian military historians at Montone, Perugia, Italy. This memorial stands as a tribute to the valor and sacrifices of the Indian troops who fought in the Italian Campaign during the Second World War.

The memorial is dedicated in honor of Naik Yeshwant Ghadge, a recipient of the Victoria Cross, who bravely fought and laid down his life during the intense battles in the heights of Upper Tiber Valley.

Memorial’s motto

The memorial’s motto is “Omines Sub Eodem Sole” which means “We all live under the same sun” in English.

Indian Soldiers’ Heroic Contributions and Sacrifices in the Italian Campaign of World War II

During the Second World War, the Italian Campaign witnessed a significant contribution from Indian Soldiers, with over 50,000 serving in the 4th, 8th, and 10th Divisions. Their remarkable efforts led to the awarding of 20 Victoria Crosses, with six of these prestigious honors earned by Indian soldiers.

However, this bravery came at a cost, as 23,722 Indian soldiers were casualties, including 5,782 who made the ultimate sacrifice. Their memory is honored and preserved in the 40 Commonwealth War Graves scattered throughout Italy.”

Strengthening the Historical Bond between India and Italy

The unveiling of the Yeshwant Ghadge sundial memorial will strengthen the special historical bond between India and Italy. As part of the ceremony, a commemorative postcard was also launched, and the event was honored by the presence of distinguished guests from the Italian government, military, military historians, and citizens.

Key takeaways for competitive examinations

• Chief of the Defence Staff of Italy: Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone
• Chief of Defence Staff of the Indian Armed Forces: General Anil Chauhan

Russia bans sex change and transgender marriages

 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new legislation that deals a significant blow to the LGBTQ+ community in the country. The act, passed unanimously by both houses of parliament, strictly prohibits individuals from officially or medically changing their gender, further marginalizing Russia’s embattled LGBTQ+ population.

Comprehensive Ban on Gender Changes and More

• The new legislation imposes a comprehensive ban on various aspects related to gender changes.
• It prohibits any medical interventions aimed at altering a person’s sex and also bars individuals from changing their gender in official documents or public records.
• Only medical intervention to treat congenital anomalies will be allowed under the new law.
• Furthermore, the legislation goes beyond restricting gender changes and extends its impact to marriages and family planning.
• It annuls marriages in which one of the partners has undergone a gender change, and it outright prevents transgender individuals from becoming foster or adoptive parents.

Preserving “Traditional Values” and Combating “Western Ideology”

• The ban on gender changes and the wider crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights in Russia are rooted in the Kremlin’s pursuit of preserving what it deems as the nation’s “traditional values.”
• Lawmakers argue that the legislation is essential to protect Russia against what they view as “western anti-family ideology.”
• Some legislators have even labeled gender transitioning as “pure satanism,” highlighting the extent of the conservative stance taken by the government.

A Decade of LGBTQ+ Crackdown in Russia

• Russia’s stringent measures against LGBTQ+ individuals have been on the rise over the past decade.
• It began with President Putin’s emphasis on promoting “traditional family values,” a stance that found support from the Russian Orthodox Church.
• In 2013, the Kremlin passed legislation that forbade any public endorsement of “nontraditional sexual relations” among minors.
• Subsequently, in 2020, Putin introduced constitutional reforms that banned same-sex marriages.
• Last year, another law was enacted to suppress the “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations” among adults, further tightening the grip on LGBTQ+ rights in the country.

Twitter replaces iconic bird logo with ‘X’

 

Elon Musk, owner of Twitter launched the new logo of Twitter ‘X’ by replacing the iconic bird logo. The “X” logo has been in the pipeline for a while with Musk’s strong want of an “everything app”. Before he bought Twitter for $44 billion, Musk described the platform as “an accelerant to creating X, the everything app” – something he plans to launch eventually.

What’s in News?

Elon Musk announced on 23^rd July that he has a plan to change the logo of twitter and by following his announcement on Monday morning he replaced the iconic bird logo with a white ‘X’ with black background. The domain X.com is now being redirected to Twitter.

Key Points:

• Twitter official account-@Twitter has also been changed in the rebrand and is now named ‘X’, showing just the new logo as a profile picture and a bio reading “What’s happening?!”
• Mobile apps still appear to feature the blue bird though it is likely this will change once they are updated.
• Other Twitter accounts appear to be in the process of being changed, with accounts for creators- @TwitterCreator and verification- @verified having been changed while others, notably the main support account- @TwitterSupport still showing the blue bird at the time of writing.

What does logo ‘X’ means?

This rebranding of Twitter is not just an aesthetic exercise. ‘X’ logo is a part of a larger effort to convert Twitter into an “everything app”, based on China’s WeChat, that allows users to do everything from making payments to hotel bookings.

Background of logo ‘X’:

As soon as Musk took over as Twitter CEO, the site’s legal name was changed to X Corp. Elon Musk has frequently shown an affinity towards the alphabet X. His spacecraft engineering company is named SpaceX and Tesla’s first SUV model, launched in 2015, was named Model X.

World Drowning Prevention Day 2023: Date, Significance and History

 

World Drowning Prevention Day is marked each year on July 25 with the objective of increasing awareness about the devastating and enduring consequences of drowning on families and communities, as well as educating people about crucial methods to prevent such incidents. Approximately 236,000 individuals lose their lives to drowning annually, with children between the ages of five and 14 being more susceptible to this tragedy. Research indicates that youngsters and teenagers living in rural areas are at a higher risk of drowning compared to their urban counterparts.

Significance of World Drowning Prevention Day 2023

World Drowning Prevention Day holds immense significance as it serves as a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about the critical issue of drowning and its devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities worldwide. By focusing attention on this preventable cause of death and injury, the day aims to mobilize efforts to prevent drowning incidents and save lives.

Some of the key reasons why World Drowning Prevention Day is significant are:

• Saving Lives: Drowning is a major cause of death, particularly among children and youth. By highlighting the importance of water safety and drowning prevention measures, the day plays a crucial role in saving lives and preventing needless tragedies.
• Raising Awareness: Many people are unaware of the magnitude of the drowning problem and the risk factors involved. World Drowning Prevention Day helps to spread awareness about the global impact of drowning and the importance of taking preventive actions.
• Targeting Vulnerable Populations: The day sheds light on the fact that certain populations, such as children, rural communities, and low- and middle-income countries, are more susceptible to drowning incidents. It emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to protect these vulnerable groups.
• Advocacy for Prevention Measures: Through this observance, various organizations, governments, and communities come together to advocate for effective drowning prevention strategies, such as teaching swimming skills, water safety education, proper supervision, and better flood risk management.
• Policy and Program Initiatives: World Drowning Prevention Day prompts governments and organizations to evaluate existing policies and programs related to water safety and drowning prevention. It encourages the implementation of evidence-based measures to reduce drowning incidents.
• International Cooperation: The day fosters international cooperation and collaboration to address drowning prevention on a global scale. It encourages countries to share best practices and resources to tackle this common challenge.
• Empowering Communities: By promoting water safety education and rescue skills, the day empowers individuals and communities to take proactive measures in preventing drowning incidents and responding effectively in emergencies.

In conclusion, World Drowning Prevention Day serves as a critical platform to unite people, organizations, and governments worldwide in the fight against drowning. By recognizing the significance of this day and implementing preventive measures, we can work towards reducing the number of drowning incidents and ensuring safer water environments for all.

History of World Drowning Prevention Day

World Drowning Prevention Day was established through the U.N. General Assembly Resolution A/RES/75/273 in April 2021, aiming to address global drowning prevention. Drowning, a form of suffocation resulting from the mouth and nose being submerged in water, often occurs in isolation or situations where others are unaware or unable to assist the victim.

To combat this issue, the World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces away from water for children, teaching them how to swim, and enhancing flood risk management to reduce drowning deaths.

According to the WHO, drowning claims the lives of at least 236,000 people each year, ranking among the top 10 leading causes of death for individuals aged one to 24. The majority of drowning fatalities in low- and middle-income countries occur in wells, domestic water storage containers, rivers, and lakes, with rural children and adolescents being disproportionately affected.

The United Nations has proposed several preventative measures, such as establishing secure locations away from water sources for preschool children with capable childcare, including creches. Other prevention strategies encompass teaching swimming and water safety, training bystanders in safe rescue techniques, installing barriers to control water access, providing instruction on safe rescue and resuscitation techniques, and implementing and enforcing regulations for safe boating, shipping, and ferry movement.

Lone Naga woman MP Phangnon nominated as a vice chairperson of Rajya Sabha

 

In a historic move, S Phangnon Konyak, the lone Nagaland MP in the Upper House, has been nominated as one of the vice chairpersons of the Rajya Sabha. This appointment comes as a recognition of BJP’s commitment to women empowerment.

Prestigious Nomination:

Under the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Rajya Sabha, Chairman Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar nominated Phangnon on the Panel of Vice Chairpersons, effective from July 17. Expressing her gratitude, Phangnon tweeted that she would serve the nation with great humility and strive to do her best.

A Trailblazing Decision:

The nomination of Phangnon as the second Naga woman parliamentarian is a groundbreaking decision, considering the dominance of patriarchy and male chauvinism in Nagaland’s politics. The BJP’s move is seen as a positive step towards promoting gender diversity in the region’s political landscape.

A Troubled Past:

• Phangnon hails from Oting village in the remote and underdeveloped Mon district.
• In 2021, the Modi government and security forces faced criticism for the killing of ‘innocent Konyak mine workers,’ mistaken as Naga insurgents, in Oting village.
• The incident sparked demands for an ‘autonomous territory’ for the Eastern Nagaland region.

Long Road to Female Representation:

• Nagaland had never elected a woman to its state legislature before the 2023 assembly elections.
• However, in this year’s elections, two women candidates from NDPP made it to the assembly, signifying a shift towards more inclusive politics in the state.

Resistance to Women’s Reservation:

• Despite Nagaland’s high literacy rate and English being its official language, the state has opposed the women’s reservation bill, seeking to reserve 33% of legislative and parliamentary seats for women.
• In 1997, the Nagaland Assembly unanimously passed a resolution against the bill, citing it as against Naga tradition.

Current Contempt Proceedings:

• The incumbent state government under Neiphiu Rio leading the NDPP-BJP dispensation is facing ‘contempt’ proceedings in the Supreme Court for defying the apex court’s order related to women’s reservation in urban local bodies.
• Phangnon Konyak’s nomination as Vice Chairperson marks a significant moment for gender representation in Nagaland’s political arena, and it reflects BJP’s commitment to promoting Matri Shakti – women power – in the region.

India Extends UPI Payments to France, Empowering Indian Tourists

 

On July 13, 2023, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to France, India and France signed a groundbreaking agreement that allows Indian tourists to use India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for transactions in rupees.

This partnership marks a significant milestone as it brings UPI, a popular mobile-based payment system, to Europe for the first time after its successful implementation in Singapore. The move is set to revolutionize the payment experience for Indian tourists in France, eliminating the need to carry foreign currency and offering convenience and flexibility.

UPI’s Global Expansion: A Journey Across the Globe

India Extends UPI Payments to France, Empowering Indian Tourists

Since its inception, UPI has steadily expanded its reach globally through strategic partnerships. France is the latest addition to the list of countries that have embraced the UPI system for cross-border transactions. Prior to this agreement, UPI had already established itself in countries like Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, and the UAE.

Countries that have adopted different forms of Indian payment systems include France, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Singapore, Maldives, Bhutan, and Oman. This means that Indian users can now use UPI, RuPay, and other digital payment channels in these countries, making transactions easier and more convenient.

NIPL: Forging Global Partnerships

The NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), established as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in April 2020, is actively forging partnerships with different countries to create a widespread acceptance network for RuPay and UPI. This network enables Indian travelers to make payments using these digital payment channels in their destination countries.

Empowering Indian Tourists with Effortless Transactions

With the implementation of UPI in France, Indian tourists can now transact in rupees with ease. They can use local QR codes or UPI IDs to make payments, eliminating the hassles of carrying and exchanging foreign currency. This newfound convenience allows tourists to spend according to their needs rather than being restricted to fixed amounts of foreign exchange.

Savings on Foreign Exchange Markup Charges

Traditionally, international payments made with credit or debit cards incur foreign exchange markup charges, which can be as high as 3.5% of the transaction amount, depending on the card’s features. While some financial institutions offer forex cards with lower markup fees, UPI payments in rupees provide even greater savings. Since transactions occur in rupees, there is no need for foreign currency conversion, saving travelers from additional fees.

UPI and the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS)

Under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), travel-related expenses fall within the purview of the Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS). As a result, Tax Credited at Source (TCS) provisions apply as per the norm. While international debit cards, prepaid forex cards, and direct foreign exchange purchases are subject to TCS, credit card spending is exempt. However, not all establishments accept credit cards, making it necessary to carry cash. With UPI payments now available in France, this necessity is eliminated, making transactions smoother for Indian tourists.

 

Who is the Father of Computer?

 

Introduction

Charles Babbage, a brilliant mathematician, engineer, and inventor, is often hailed as the “Father of Computers.” His groundbreaking work in the 19th century laid the foundation for modern computing, revolutionizing the world and shaping the technology we rely on today.

Early Life and Education

In this section, we will explore Charles Babbage’s early life, upbringing, and the educational journey that sparked his interest in mathematics and engineering. We’ll discover the formative experiences that set him on the path to becoming a visionary in the world of computers.

The Difference Engine

Babbage’s first major contribution to the world of computing was the invention of the Difference Engine. Learn about the concept behind this remarkable machine, its purpose, and the impact it had on the field of mathematics and engineering during his time.

The Analytical Engine

Delve into Babbage’s most significant innovation, the Analytical Engine. We’ll explain the principles behind this mechanical general-purpose computer, its components, and how it paved the way for the computers we use today.

Collaboration with Ada Lovelace

Discover the extraordinary collaboration between Charles Babbage and Ada Lovelace, a remarkable mathematician and writer. Explore their partnership in developing the Analytical Engine and Ada’s role in creating the first-ever computer algorithm.

Challenges and Legacy

Despite facing numerous challenges and financial constraints, Babbage’s legacy endures. In this section, we’ll discuss the obstacles he encountered during his quest to build his machines and the lasting impact his work has had on the evolution of computers.

Honoring the Father of Computers

Explore how Charles Babbage’s contributions are recognized and celebrated today. From memorials to various awards and tributes, we’ll highlight the ways the world pays homage to the visionary mind behind modern computing.

Father of Computer: Important Facts

Full Name	Charles Babbage
Nickname	Father of Computing
Born	December 26, 1791 in Surrey, England
Parent’s Names	Benjamin and Elizabeth Pumleigh Teape Babbage
Died	October 18, 1871 in London, England
Education	Cambridge University
Key Accomplishments	Produced working prototypes of machines that computed and printed mathematical tables.
Spouse	Georgiana Whitmore
Children	8, 3 of whom survived to adulthood (Dugald, Benjamin, and Henry)

China launched world’s first methane-fuelled space rocket

 

Context:

A private Chinese company launched the World’s first methane-fuelled space rocket into orbit named “Zhuque-2”.

Highlights of the News

The Zhuque-2 carrier rocket blasted off at 9:00A.M. (01:00 GMT) on 12^th July from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous region and completed the flight mission according to the procedure.

• China’s Zhuque-2 has become the World’s first methane propelled rocket to successfully fly into orbit.
• This was Landscape’s second attempt after a launch failed in December.
• This landmark achievement signifies a paradigm shift in the race towards cleaner, safe and reusable space travel technology.
• Zhuque-2 achieved the expected trajectory and completed its flight according to plan.
• The launch indicated significant progress in the development of the reusable rockets, as methane engines offers excellent performance with lower operational costs.
• Landscape also became the second private Chinese company to launch a liquid-propellant rocket.

About the Zhueque-2:

• The Zhuque-2 is a Chinese orbital class launching vehicle developed by Landscape.
• It is liquid-fuelled rocket powered by liquid oxygen and liquid methane (methalox).
• It is first methane-fuelled rocket to reach orbit.
• Zhuque-2 has a liftoff weight of 216 metric tons and uses 4 TQ-12 methalox engines in the first stage with a thrust of 67 metric tonnes.
• The second stage utilizes one optimized TQ-12 with a thrust of 80 metric tonnes in combination with an 8 metric tonnes thrust TQ-11 engine which acts as a vernier thruster.
• Zhuque-2 has a capability of lifting 6,000 kg of payload into a 200 km low Earth orbit and 4,000 kg of payload into a 500 km Sun-synchronous orbit.
• Zhuque-2 has also been launched on 14 December 2022 but it was a failure.

Process of launching of Zhueque-2:

One of the two planned rockets that will carry spacecraft will land on the moon’s surface and the other will transport the astronauts.

The twin-rocket plan would overcome China’s longstanding technological hurdle of developing a heavy-duty powerful enough to send both astronauts and a moon lander probe into space.

After Chinese astronauts have completed their scientific tasks and collected samples from the moon, the lander will transport the astronauts back to the orbiting spacecraft, on which they will return to Earth.

Chandrayaan-3: India’s Mission to Soft-Land on the Moon’s South Pole

 

Chandrayaan-3: India’s Mission to Soft-Land on the Moon’s South Pole

Chandrayaan-3 is India’s third lunar mission, following the Chandrayaan-2 mission, with the goal of achieving a soft landing on the lunar surface and deploying a rover.

Chandrayaan-3 aims to showcase India’s capabilities in landing and exploring the Moon’s South Pole, a region known for the presence of water molecules.

Launch and Landing:

Chandrayaan-3: India’s Mission to Soft-Land on the Moon’s South Pole

• Chandrayaan-3 was successfully launched on July 14, 2023, from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, using the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3).
• The spacecraft consists of a lander, a rover, and a propulsion module, collectively weighing 3,900 kg.
• The GSLV Mark 3 heavy-lift launch vehicle, also known as the Bahubali rocket, supports the moon lander Vikram.
• The craft is scheduled to touch down on the Moon’s South Pole on August 23, following a journey lasting over 40 days.

Chandrayaan-3: India’s Mission to Soft-Land on the Moon’s South Pole

Objective:

The Chandrayaan-3 mission has three main objectives:

Chandrayaan-3: India’s Mission to Soft-Land on the Moon’s South Pole

1. Safe and Soft Landing: The primary objective of Chandrayaan-3 is to achieve a safe and soft landing of the lander on the surface of the Moon. Learning from the previous mission’s setback, this mission aims to successfully land the lander module on the lunar surface without any issues.

2. Demonstration of Rover’s Capabilities: Chandrayaan-3 aims to demonstrate the capabilities of the rover by showcasing its roaming and exploration abilities on the lunar surface. The rover will be deployed after the successful landing of the lander and will perform various scientific experiments and observations.
3. In-Site Scientific Observations: The mission seeks to conduct in-site scientific observations and experiments to better understand the composition of the Moon. This includes analyzing the chemical and natural elements, soil, water, and other resources available on the lunar surface. These observations will contribute to expanding our knowledge of the Moon’s composition and provide insights into the Moon’s history and evolution.

Design:

Chandrayaan-3 consists of three main components:

Chandrayaan-3: India’s Mission to Soft-Land on the Moon’s South Pole

1. Propulsion Module: The propulsion module is responsible for carrying the lander and rover configuration to the lunar orbit of 100 kilometers. It is a box-like structure with a large solar panel and an intermodular adapter cone that acts as a mounting structure for the lander. Additionally, it carries the SHAPE payload, which studies spectral and polarimetric measurements of Earth from the lunar orbit.

2. Lander: The lander module is designed for a soft landing on the lunar surface. It has a box-shaped structure with four landing legs and four landing thrusters. The lander carries the rover and various scientific instruments for in-site analysis. It has undergone improvements in terms of structural rigidity, impact legs strength, and instrumentation redundancy compared to its predecessor.

The lander carries three payloads:

Chandrayaan-3: India’s Mission to Soft-Land on the Moon’s South Pole

• Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE): Measures thermal conductivity and temperature of the lunar surface.
• Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA): Measures seismic activity around the landing site.
• Langmuir Probe (LP): Estimates plasma density and its variations.

3. Rover: The Chandrayaan-3 rover is a six-wheeled vehicle weighing 26 kilograms. It is equipped with scientific instruments, including cameras, spectrometers, and a drill. The rover has a range of 500 meters and is designed to communicate with the lander and the ground control team in India. Its expected lifespan is one lunar day, equivalent to 14 Earth days.

The rover aims to make significant scientific discoveries, including studying the lunar surface composition, detecting the presence of water ice in the lunar soil, investigating lunar impacts’ history, and studying the Moon’s atmosphere evolution.

Modifications and Precautions:

• Chandrayaan-3 has undergone modifications by ISRO to enhance reliability compared to its predecessor, Chandrayaan-2.
• The lander Vikram has been upgraded and carries additional fuel to ensure a successful landing and stay on the intended path to the lunar surface.
• The craft has undergone rigorous testing and incorporates numerous safety measures to increase the mission’s chances of success.

Mission Components:

• The 3,900-kilogram Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft consists of three major modules: the Propulsion module, Lander module, and Rover.
• The lander, named Vikram, and the rover, named Pragyaan, are similar to their counterparts in Chandrayaan-2 but have undergone upgrades for improved reliability.
• The mission’s budget is Rs. 615 crore.

What is Maputo Protocol?

 

According to a new report titled 20 years of the Maputo Protocol, some progress has been made in gender equality. Where are we now?

What’s in News?

To mark the 20^th anniversary of Maputo Protocol to promote the continued adaptation and implementation of its progressive provisions, a landmark report has been prepared by the Solidarity for African Women’s Rights Coalition (SOAWR), Equality Now and Make Every Women Count (MEWC), titled 20 years of the Maputo Protocol.

The report ’20 Years of the Maputo Protocol’:

The report summarizes the progress that has been made in Africa to date towards the ratification, domestication and implementation of the Maputo Protocol with a series of detailed case studies illustrating some key achievements and challenges along the way.

The evidence is presented alongside recommendations from SOAWR Member Organizations to support states in their continued efforts towards advancing gender equality on the continent.

About the Maputo Protocol:

The protocol to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights of Women in Africa, known as Maputo Protocol is an international human rights instrument established by the African Union.

Adoption:

It was adopted by the African Union in Maputo, Mozambique in 2003 in the form of a protocol to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights.

It went into effect in 2005.

Ratification:

• Of the 55 member states, 44 have ratified or acceded to the protocol on gender equality, becoming one of the most ratified instruments in the AU.
• Full domestication of the protocol in many of the states has been slow or ineffective.
• Some states of the Africa are yet to ratify or accede to the protocol.

Mandate:

It guarantees comprehensive rights to women including the right to take part in the political process, to social and political equality with men, improved autonomy in their reproductive health decisions and end-to-end female genital mutilation.

African Women’s Rights under Maputo Protocol:

The Protocol provides extensive rights to African Women and Girls and includes progressive provisions on:

• Harmful traditional practices e.g. child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM).
• Reproductive health and rights.
• Roles in political processes.
• Economic empowerment.
• Ending violence against women.

Nelson Mandela International Day 2023: Date, Theme, Significance and History

 

Nelson Mandela day is observed on July 18 every year. The United Nations (UN) had in 2009 declared July 18 as Nelson Mandela Day to honour Nelson Mandela, a South African anti-apartheid activist who served as the first President from 1994 to 1999. Mandela was the first black head of state and was the first elected President in a fully democratic election in South Africa. The Day will also enlighten his transitional steps to defeat multiracial democracy in South Africa. This article entitles the history and significance of this day authentically.

The day was first celebrated on July 18, 2010, the 92nd birthday of Mandela, to honour the achievements of the anti-apartheid leader. To mark the first celebration of Mandela Day, fundraising programs, art exhibitions and music concerts were organised.

Chandrayaan-3 Launch Date, Mission, Live Updates

 

India’s lunar mission Chandrayaan 3 is going to be launched on July 14, at 2:35 P.M. from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota announced by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).The date was later confirmed by Secretary of Space department and ISRO Chairman S. Somnath at a press briefing on the sidelines of the G-20 Fourth Economy Leaders Meeting in Bengluru.

Chandrayaan-3 Launch Countdown Live Updates

• India is striving to become the fourth country to accomplish a gentle touchdown on the Moon, following the United States, the Soviet Union, China, and Israel. Out of these nations, all except Israel were able to successfully achieve a soft landing on the lunar surface. If Chandrayaan-3 accomplishes a successful soft landing on the Moon, India will join this exclusive group as the fourth nation to reach this significant milestone.
• On Tuesday, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) announced via a tweet that the ‘Launch Rehearsal’ for Chandrayaan 3 had been successfully completed. The rehearsal involved a comprehensive simulation of the entire launch preparation and process, spanning 24 hours.
• The rover of Chandrayaan is outfitted with two scientific instruments known as payloads: the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) and the Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS). The APXS will play a crucial role in analyzing the composition of the lunar soil and rocks near the landing site, focusing on elements such as magnesium, aluminium, silicon, potassium, calcium, titanium, and iron. Its findings will provide valuable insights into the elemental makeup of the lunar surface.

 About the Chandrayaan 3

The Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft will be launched by the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3). Chandrayaan-3 is a follow-up to Chandrayaan-2, to demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface.

• Chandrayaan-3 is a follow-on mission to Chandrayaan-2 to demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface.
• Chandrayaan-3 is consists of Lander and Rover configuration.
• Chandrayaan-3 will be launched by Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM-3) from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
• Chandrayaan-3 is consists of Lander Module (LM), Propulsion Module (PM) and a Rover with an objective of developing and demonstrating new technologies required for Interplanetary Missions.
• The Lander and the Rover have scientific payloads to carryout experiments on the lunar surface.
• The launcher identifies for Chandrayaan-3 is GSLV-MK3.

Process of launching of Chandrayaan 3

Process of launching of Chandrayaan 3

Chandrayaan-3 is expected to soft land between August 23 and 24 at moon’s South Pole, the area which will have sunlight. The sunlight has to fall on the solar panels of the spacecraft. If these two dates were missed then the landing will be postponed to September around the time when there is sunlight on the moon. There is sunlight on the moon for 14-15 days.

Objectives of Chandrayaan-3

• To demonstrate safe and soft landing on the lunar surface.
• To demonstrate Rover roving on the moon.
• To conduct in-situ scientific experiments.

Technologies used in Chandrayaan-3

To achieve the objectives of the mission, several technologies are used in Lander and that are:

1. Altimeters: Laser and RF based Altimeters.
2. Velocimeters: Laser Doppler Velocimeter and Lander Horizontal Velocity Camera.
3. Inertial Measurement: Laser Gyro based Inertial referencing and Accelerometer package.
4. Propulsion System: 800N Throttleable Liquid Engines, 58N altitude thrusters and Throttleable Engine Control Electronics.
5. Navigation, Guidance and Control: Powered descent trajectory design and associate software elements.
6. Hazard Detection and Avoidance: Lander hazard detection & avoidance camera and processing algorithm.
7. Landing Leg Mechanism.

Test carried out for soft landing of Chandrayaan 3

• Integrated Cold Test: For the demonstration of integrated sensors and navigation performing test using helicopter as test platform.
• Integrated Hot Test: For the demonstration of closed loop performance test with sensors, actuators and NGC using tower crane as test platform.
• Lander Leg Mechanism performance test on a lunar stimulant test bed simulating different touch down conditions.   

Importance of the Chandrayaan 3 Mission

Missions like Chandrayaan hold great significance as they involve the participation of multiple countries. These collaborative endeavors contribute to scientific exchange and foster camaraderie among nations.

There is a potential for future international cooperation in exploring the south-polar region of the Moon. This region contains craters that are perpetually shadowed and devoid of sunlight. These cold, shadowed sites are believed to contain hydrogen, water, ice, and possibly even primordial material that can provide insights into the origins of our Solar System. Additionally, the largest lunar crater is located in the south polar region, and its formation around 4 billion years ago remains a mystery. Exploring and understanding our celestial neighbor will greatly contribute to our understanding of the cosmos.

The question may arise as to why India should invest in such high-tech endeavors instead of focusing on readily available technologies for the public good. The answer lies in the fact that these high-tech areas can indeed be used for the public good as well. Developing countries require knowledge in these areas to enhance the quality of life for their citizens. Space technologies have become indispensable for weather prediction, marine resource assessment, forest cover estimation, communication, defense, and various other domains. It is essential for every country to have a balance between futuristic technologies and those immediately relevant, allocating resources accordingly.

R. Chidambaram, a former Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, once emphasized that active participation in emerging technologies positions a nation as a leader in that field, granting it leverage in international negotiations. This, in turn, enables a country to enhance its science and technology base, ultimately improving the lives of its citizens and elevating its prestige.

World Youth Skills Day 2023: Date, Theme, Significance and History

 

World Youth Skills Day, observed annually on July 15th since 2014 as declared by the United Nations, serves the purpose of recognizing the significance of imparting young individuals with the necessary skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. With the continuous progress of technology and changes in the labor market, it is essential to equip young people with adaptable and flexible skill sets.

Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) play a crucial role in addressing these needs by reducing barriers to accessing employment, ensuring the relevance and certification of acquired skills, promoting environmentally-friendly skills and practices, and providing skill development opportunities for youth who are not engaged in education, employment, or training.

Theme of World Youth Skills Day 2023

The theme for World Youth Skills Day 2023 is Skilling teachers, trainers and youth for a transformative future. It highlights the essential role that teachers, trainers and other educators play in providing skills for youth to transition to the labour market and to actively engage in their communities and societies.

Why is World Youth Skills Day important?

In 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared 15 July as World Youth Skills Day, to celebrate the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship. Since then, World Youth Skills Day events have provided a unique opportunity for dialogue between young people, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions, firms, employers’ and workers’ organizations, policy makers and development partners. Participants have highlighted the ever-increasing significance of skills as the world is embarking on a transition towards a sustainable model of development.

History of World Youth Skills Day

During the aftermath of the Second World War, the United Nations was founded on October 24, 1945, after its Charter was ratified by China, France, the U.S.S.R., the U.K., and the United States, along with other signatories. The aim of the organization has always been to maintain global peace and security, give humanitarian support, defend human rights, and uphold international law. It was created as a successor to the League of Nations that disintegrated prior to the Second World War.

Over its years of functioning, the United Nations has been an active part of the global polity. It has modified its functioning with changes in international relations: in the face of decolonization of the Global South, the end of the Cold War, the rise of the U.S. as a hegemon, climate change, refugee crises, etc. Today, the U.N. works to attain its 17 sustainable development goals.

In 2014, the U.N. announced World Youth Skills Day. The objective of this day was to shed some light on the necessary skills for the employment and entrepreneurship of young people and their strategic importance for the future. This day is a unique opportunity for policy partners, employers, development partners, and vocational and training educational programs to dialogue with young people about the skills needed as the world transitions into a sustainable development model.

Chandrayaan-3 Launch Date, Mission, Live Updates

 

India’s lunar mission Chandrayaan 3 is going to be launched on July 14, at 2:35 P.M. from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota announced by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).The date was later confirmed by Secretary of Space department and ISRO Chairman S. Somnath at a press briefing on the sidelines of the G-20 Fourth Economy Leaders Meeting in Bengluru.

Chandrayaan-3 Launch Countdown Live Updates

On Tuesday, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) announced via a tweet that the ‘Launch Rehearsal’ for Chandrayaan 3 had been successfully completed. The rehearsal involved a comprehensive simulation of the entire launch preparation and process, spanning 24 hours.

 About the Chandrayaan 3

The Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft will be launched by the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3). Chandrayaan-3 is a follow-up to Chandrayaan-2, to demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface.

• Chandrayaan-3 is a follow-on mission to Chandrayaan-2 to demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface.
• Chandrayaan-3 is consists of Lander and Rover configuration.
• Chandrayaan-3 will be launched by Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM-3) from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
• Chandrayaan-3 is consists of Lander Module (LM), Propulsion Module (PM) and a Rover with an objective of developing and demonstrating new technologies required for Interplanetary Missions.
• The Lander and the Rover have scientific payloads to carryout experiments on the lunar surface.
• The launcher identifies for Chandrayaan-3 is GSLV-MK3.

Process of launching of Chandrayaan 3

Chandrayaan-3 is expected to soft land between August 23 and 24 at moon’s South Pole, the area which will have sunlight. The sunlight has to fall on the solar panels of the spacecraft. If these two dates were missed then the landing will be postponed to September around the time when there is sunlight on the moon. There is sunlight on the moon for 14-15 days.

Objectives of Chandrayaan-3

• To demonstrate safe and soft landing on the lunar surface.
• To demonstrate Rover roving on the moon.
• To conduct in-situ scientific experiments.

Technologies used in Chandrayaan-3

To achieve the objectives of the mission, several technologies are used in Lander and that are:

1. Altimeters: Laser and RF based Altimeters.
2. Velocimeters: Laser Doppler Velocimeter and Lander Horizontal Velocity Camera.
3. Inertial Measurement: Laser Gyro based Inertial referencing and Accelerometer package.
4. Propulsion System: 800N Throttleable Liquid Engines, 58N altitude thrusters and Throttleable Engine Control Electronics.
5. Navigation, Guidance and Control: Powered descent trajectory design and associate software elements.
6. Hazard Detection and Avoidance: Lander hazard detection & avoidance camera and processing algorithm.
7. Landing Leg Mechanism.

Test carried out for soft landing of Chandrayaan 3

• Integrated Cold Test: For the demonstration of integrated sensors and navigation performing test using helicopter as test platform.
• Integrated Hot Test: For the demonstration of closed loop performance test with sensors, actuators and NGC using tower crane as test platform.
• Lander Leg Mechanism performance test on a lunar stimulant test bed simulating different touch down conditions.   

Importance of the Chandrayaan 3 Mission

Missions like Chandrayaan hold great significance as they involve the participation of multiple countries. These collaborative endeavors contribute to scientific exchange and foster camaraderie among nations.

There is a potential for future international cooperation in exploring the south-polar region of the Moon. This region contains craters that are perpetually shadowed and devoid of sunlight. These cold, shadowed sites are believed to contain hydrogen, water, ice, and possibly even primordial material that can provide insights into the origins of our Solar System. Additionally, the largest lunar crater is located in the south polar region, and its formation around 4 billion years ago remains a mystery. Exploring and understanding our celestial neighbor will greatly contribute to our understanding of the cosmos.

The question may arise as to why India should invest in such high-tech endeavors instead of focusing on readily available technologies for the public good. The answer lies in the fact that these high-tech areas can indeed be used for the public good as well. Developing countries require knowledge in these areas to enhance the quality of life for their citizens. Space technologies have become indispensable for weather prediction, marine resource assessment, forest cover estimation, communication, defense, and various other domains. It is essential for every country to have a balance between futuristic technologies and those immediately relevant, allocating resources accordingly.

R. Chidambaram, a former Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, once emphasized that active participation in emerging technologies positions a nation as a leader in that field, granting it leverage in international negotiations. This, in turn, enables a country to enhance its science and technology base, ultimately improving the lives of its citizens and elevating its prestige.

What is Article 370 of the Constitution of India?

 

The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to review a series of petitions that question the government’s move to abolish the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). It will consider petitions that question the Union government’s move to cancel the special status of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and divide the state in 2019, almost four years after Article 370 of the Constitution was repealed. A Constitution Bench consisting of Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud and Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sanjiv Khanna, B.R. Gavai, and Surya Kant, will deliberate on the procedural aspects of the case.

Article 370

Article 370 recognizes the unique position of Jammu and Kashmir by granting it special status, which includes autonomy and the power to enact laws specifically for its permanent residents. It allows the state to have its own constitution and provided a unique set of powers. Moreover, the central government can extend central laws pertaining to defense, external affairs, and communications in the state only after consulting with the state government.

The Emergence of Article 35A

Article 35A was inserted into the Constitution through a Presidential order in 1954 rather than an amendment passed by Parliament. Article 35A, which stemmed from Article 370, granted powers to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly to define ‘permanent residents‘ of the state and confer special rights and privileges upon them.
The Jammu and Kashmir Constitution defined a ‘permanent resident’ as someone who was a state subject as of May 14, 1954, or had been a resident in the state for ten years by that date, with legally acquired property. Non-permanent residents were restricted from acquiring immovable property, government employment, scholarships, and other aid provided by the state government.

Abrogation of Article 370

On August 5, 2019, President Ram Nath Kovind issued a notification declaring the abrogation of Article 370. The notification modified the proviso of clause (3) of Article 370, replacing the “Constituent Assembly of the State” with the “Legislative Assembly of the State.” This change paved the way for the central government to abrogate the article without the existence of a Constituent Assembly in the state.

Contending Issues

The petitions that contest the nullification of Article 370 present various significant contentions. Among the primary arguments put forward are

Violation of Constitutional Procedure

Article 370 could only be amended with the recommendation of the J&K Constituent Assembly. However, the Presidential Order (CO 272) enabled the Union government to amend Article 370 without such a recommendation by altering the interpretation of Article 367, which defines the interpretation of terms in the Constitution. The petitioners argue that this procedural amendment violated the constitutional process.

Superseding Legislative Assembly

At the time of the abrogation, J&K was under President’s Rule, and the powers of the Legislative Assembly were vested in the Union Parliament. The petitioners contend that the abrogation was improper as it took place without the consent of the Legislative Assembly, which was essential for any amendment to Article 370.

Constitutional Validity

The petitions challenge the constitutional validity of the abrogation itself, arguing that it violated the basic structure of the Constitution. They argue that the abrogation significantly altered the federal structure and power-sharing arrangement between the Union and the State, which was an integral part of the original constitutional framework.

Impact on Kashmiri Residents

The petitions also highlight the impact of the abrogation on the rights and aspirations of the people of J&K. They contend that the revocation of the special status has led to a breach of trust, curtailment of fundamental rights, and a deterioration in the overall socio-political situation in the region.

Way Forward

The Supreme Court’s Constitution Bench is set to review a total of around 23 petitions submitted by lawyers, activists, politicians, and retired civil servants. Their examination related to the abrogation of Article 370 related issues will lead to the provision of procedural guidelines for the future progression of the case.

States and Capitals in India, List of 28 States and 8 UTs 2023

 

State and Capital

States and capitals of India: India is a country located in South Asia and is the seventh-largest country by land area. India is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories, each with its own capital city. The states and union territories are further divided into districts and subdivisions. The capital city of India is New Delhi, which is located in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. It is the administrative, political, and cultural center of the country.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act of 2019 designated October 31 as the designated day for the two Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh. It has never happened before for a state to be split into two Union Territories. With effect from January 26, 2020, India will have 8 union territories in addition to its 28 current states.

Countries Capital and Currencies

Since January 26th, the merger of Daman and Diu with Dadra and Nagar Haveli has formed a single union territory. This consolidation was carried out through a Bill passed in the winter session of Parliament, reducing the number of Union Territories to eight. Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttarakhand hold their legislative assemblies in different capital cities for their summer and winter sessions. Similarly, Ladakh has two administrative capitals, namely Leh and Kargil.

As students, you should know the complete list of Indian States and capitals List so that you can answer general Knowledge questions. Here, we are providing the latest list of Indian States and Capitals in 2023.

India is a federal union with 36 distinct entities made up of 28 states and 8 union territories. Within the states and union territories, districts and other administrative divisions are further divided. India’s states each have their own administrative, judicial, and legislative centres. According to some sources, all three duties are performed in the same capital. A Chief Minister is in charge of each state.

Union Territories Of India

According to The States Reorganization Act 1956, the states of India were organized based on linguistic lines. There are 28 states and 8 Union Territories in India now. India consists of 400 cities altogether. India has eight metropolitan cities and they are Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad and Pune. The Prime Minister of India planned to develop 100 smart cities in India in the future. Indore bagged continuously 4 times the award of Smart city.

States and Capitals of India

States and Capitals of India

Capital of India

Country	Capital
India	New Delhi

Here is the complete list of 28 States and Capitals of India

S.NO	State	Capital	CM	Governor
1	Andhra Pradesh	Amaravati	YS Jagan Mohan Reddy	Biswa Bhusan Harichandan
2	Arunachal Pradesh	Itanagar	Pema Khandu	B. D. Mishra
3	Assam	Dispur	Himanta Biswa Sarma	Jagdish Mukhi
4	Bihar	Patna	Nitish Kumar	Phagu Chauhan
5	Chhattisgarh	Raipur	Bhupesh Baghel	Sushri Anusuiya Uikey
6	Goa	Panaji	Pramod Sawant	P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
7	Gujarat	Gandhinagar	Bhupendra Patel	Acharya Dev Vrat
8	Haryana	Chandigarh	Manohar Lal	Bandaru Dattatraya
9	Himachal Pradesh	Shimla	Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu	Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
10	Jharkhand	Ranchi	Hemant Soren	Ramesh Bais
11	Karnataka	Bengaluru	Siddaramaiah	Thaawarchand Gehlot
12	Kerala	Thiruvananthapuram	Pinarayi Vijayan	Arif Mohammed Khan
13	Madhya Pradesh	Bhopal	Shivraj Singh Chouhan	Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
14	Maharashtra	Mumbai	Eknath Shinde	Ramesh Bais
15	Manipur	Imphal	N. Biren Singh	La. Ganesan
16	Meghalaya	Shillong	Conrad Kongkal Sangma	Brig. (Dr.) B. D. Mishra
17	Mizoram	Aizawl	Pu Zoramthanga	Kambhampati Haribabu
18	Nagaland	Kohima	Neiphiu Rio	Jagdish Mukhi
19	Odisha	Bhubaneswar	Naveen Patnaik	Ganeshi Lal
20	Punjab	Chandigarh	Bhagwant Singh Mann	Banwarilal Purohit
21	Rajasthan	Jaipur	Ashok Gehlot	Kalraj Mishra
22	Sikkim	Gangtok	PS Golay	Ganga Prasad
23	Tamil Nadu	Chennai	M. K. Stalin	R. N. Ravi
24	Telangana	Hyderabad	K Chandrasekhar Rao	Tamilisai Soundararajan
25	Tripura	Agartala	Dr. Manik Saha	Satyadeo Narain Arya
26	Uttar Pradesh	Lucknow	Yogi Aditya Nath	Anandiben Patel
27	Uttarakhand	Dehradun	Pushkar Singh Dhami	Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh
28	West Bengal	Kolkata	Mamata Banerjee	Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose

Complete list of 8 Union Territories

S.NO	Union Territories	Capital	CM	Lt. Governor
1	Andaman and Nicobar Island	Port Blair	NA	D K Joshi
2	Chandigarh	Chandigarh	NA	Banwarilal Purohit
3	Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu	Daman	NA	Praful Patel
4	Delhi	Delhi	Arvind Kejriwal	Vinai Kumar Saxena
5	Ladakh	NA	NA	Radha Krishna Mathur
6	Lakshadweep	Kavaratti	NA	Praful Patel
7	Jammu and Kashmir	NA	NA	Manoj Sinha
8	Puducherry	Pondicherry	N. Rangaswamy	Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan