The New and Renewable Energy Ministry released Guidelines for PM-Surya Ghar

• The PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is designed to boost rooftop solar advancements, with ₹500 crore earmarked for innovative projects.
• Aimed at supporting new technologies and concepts, the scheme focuses on solar integration with EVs and battery storage, targeting startups and institutions.
• Financial assistance covers up to 60% of the project cost or ₹30 crore, whichever is lower, to encourage practical innovation in solar energy.
• The National Institute of Solar Energy will play a lead role in the program, guiding and managing projects that are selected under the scheme.
• This initiative, aims to empower households by encouraging them to generate their own solar energy, advancing India's renewable energy goals.

India becomes 3rd largest supplier of health & nutrition support to UNICEF (India and World)

• On October 11, 2024, India has become the third-largest supplier of health and nutrition support to UNICEF, highlighting its vital contribution to global child welfare.
• Indian businesses have provided nearly $6 billion in goods and services to UNICEF, emphasizing their commitment to children's health.
• UNICEF’s Supply Division Director, Leila Pakkala, recognized Indian suppliers as essential partners in delivering life-saving products for children.
• UNICEF values India's contributions for their impact on the most vulnerable children, enhancing support beyond India.
• Leila Pakkala’s visit reflects the growing partnership between Indian suppliers and UNICEF to improve child health and nutrition worldwide.

Global Biodiversity Declines 73% Since 1970 (Environment & Ecology)

• The WWF's (World Wildlife Fund) 2024 Living Planet Report released on October 11, 2024, revealed a 73% decline in global wildlife populations since 1970, driven by human activities.
• The key causes are habitat degradation, overuse of resources, invasive species, climate change, and pollution.
• Freshwater ecosystems have declined by 85%, with Latin America and the Caribbean seeing a 95% drop in wildlife populations.
• The report warns of tipping points, like coral reef loss and melting polar ice, where recovery may become impossible.
• WWF calls for urgent action, including expanding renewable energy, supporting Indigenous land management, and stronger biodiversity protection efforts.

Living Planet Report 2024

• Living Planet Report 2024, released on October 11, 2024, India has seen a worrying decline in its bird population over recent decades.
• The White-rumped Vulture population fell by 98%.
• The Indian Vulture and Slender-billed Vulture populations decreased by 93%. Especially between 1992 and 2002, when some species, like vultures, faced severe reductions.
• Living Planet Report 2024 draws attention to this issue, making India the only
  country to have a specific section on its bird crisis in the report.

Second Army Commander’s Conference Begins in Gangtok (Defence)

• The Second Army Commanders’ Conference of 2024 was held on October 10-11, in Gangtok, Sikkim.
• Army Chief launches 'Agniastra' multi-target detonation device during Gangtok conference.
• The senior leaders of the Indian Army to discuss the country’s security situation, address key challenges, and plan strategies.
• The first phase of the second Army Commanders conference 2024 organised on 10- 11 October 2024.
• The second phase scheduled to be organized on 28- 29 October 2024.

38th National Games to be Held in Uttarakhand

• The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on October 11, 2024, selected Uttarakhand to host the 38th Summer National Games from 28th January to 14th February 2025.
• Uttarakhand  to host this prestigious event for the first time, with the upcoming Winter Games being held outside Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh for the first time too.
• The 37th National Games, held in Goa from 25th September to 9th November 2023.
• Originally known as the All-India Olympic Games, the first edition was held in 1924 in Lahore (now in Pakistan).
• The name was officially changed to the National Games during the 9th edition in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1940.

Noel Tata (Appointment)

• Noel Tata has been unanimously appointed Chairperson of Tata Trust, the philanthropic arm of the Tata Group on October 11, 2024.
• This decision was made during a board meeting following the passing of Ratan Tata at the age of 86.
• Noel Tata, Ratan Tata’s half-brother, serves on the boards of several listed companies, including Tata Steel and Voltas.
• The decision to appoint Noel Tata as chairperson was made with Ratan Tata’s philosophy of ‘moving on’ in mind.

Ayudha Puja celebrated in Tamil Nadu

• Ayudha Puja was celebrated in Tamil Nadu on October 11, 2024 by worshipping tools, equipment, books, and vehicles, symbolizing respect for objects that aid in daily work.
• People clean and decorate their equipment, place garlands, and put Tilak as a mark of reverence, with pujas conducted at homes, offices, and factories.
• This festival falls on the ninth day of Navratri, adding a unique cultural aspect to the Navratri celebrations in Tamil Nadu.
• In some regions of Tamil Nadu, Durga Puja is celebrated alongside Ayudha Puja, adding to the festive spirit with traditional enthusiasm.