The Indian government on September 16, 2024 removed the minimum export price (MEP) of ₹950 per tonne for basmati rice, aiming to boost exports and enhance farmers' income.
This decision follows a previous reduction from ₹1200 per tonne due to concerns that high prices were hindering exports, with the government responding to requests from trade bodies amid declining paddy prices.
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) will monitor export contracts to prevent unrealistic pricing and ensure transparency in basmati rice exports.
First Namo Bharat Rapid Rail Flagged off
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 16, 2024 flagged off India's first Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, enhancing connectivity between Bhuj and Ahmedabad.
The train covers a distance of 359 km in approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, making stops at nine stations, with regular service commencing on September 17.
The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail boasts 12 coaches with seating for 1150 passengers, offering ergonomic seats, air-conditioned cabins, and innovative modular designs, significantly improving intercity travel efficiency and comfort.
International Affairs
Membership in BRICS Seeked by Turkey
Turkey officially applied to join BRICS, a group of emerging economies, on September 16, 2024, awaiting approval of its membership.
Turkish officials have confirmed the application is under review, and Russia's President Vladimir Putin has expressed support for Turkey's interest.
BRICS focuses on economic cooperation and growth among member nations, which now include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE.
Unlike the European Union (EU), BRICS does not have unified security or foreign policies.
Turkey's progress toward joining the EU, which began in 2005, has slowed since 2018 due to concerns about its human rights record and governance.
The EU requires adherence to democratic values and governance standards, and Turkey’s failure to meet these has complicated its EU membership application.
Science and Technology
‘Ocean-24’Naval Exercise of Russia and China (Defence)
Russia and China conducted a naval exercise named "Ocean-24" in the Sea of Japan, from September 10 to 16, 2024.
They highlighting their strengthening military collaboration and potential shifts in global power dynamics.
The exercise involved over 400 warships, including submarines and support vessels, and more than 120 aircraft, such as planes and helicopters, demonstrating their ability to execute complex military operations.
Approximately 90000 military personnel participated in the drills, which extended beyond the Sea of Japan to include the Pacific, Arctic, Mediterranean, Caspian, and Baltic Seas.
Several key objectives for the exercise included:-
defending against large-scale maritime attacks,
addressing threats from unmanned vessels and aerial systems,
protecting naval bases,
conducting amphibious landings,
ensuring the safe passage of transport ships across various seas.
Sports Panorama
World Skills 2024
India won a total of 16 medals and Medallions of Excellence at the World Skills 2024 competition held in Lyon, France on September 16, 2024.
The Indian delegation secured 4 Bronze medals in fields such as Patisserie and Confectionery, Industry 4.0, Hotel Reception, and Renewable Energy, along with 12 Medallions of Excellence, highlighting their consistent performance.
The event featured over 1,400 participants from more than 70 countries, with Indian competitors excelling in diverse skills, reinforcing India's growing prominence in the global skills ecosystem and commitment to skill development.
Miscellaneous
World Ozone Day 2024
World Ozone Day was observed on September 16, 2024.
The theme of the year 2024 is "Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Action," highlighting 35 years of global cooperation for ozone protection.
Aims to raise awareness about the ozone layer's role in blocking harmful UV radiation and the dangers of its depletion.
Montreal Protocol: Adopted on September 16, 1987, to phase out ozone-depleting substances like CFCs, leading to significant recovery of the ozone layer.
