[Newsbits] 30.08-4.09.2024: AgriSURE Fund, EShram Portal & More

Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan have emerged as India’s fastest-growing large states, surpassing the national GDP growth rate of 8.2%. Telangana grew by 9.2%, reaching a GSDP of ₹7.9 lakh crore, while Tamil Nadu grew by 8.2%, with a GSDP of ₹15.7 lakh crore. The services sector played a major role in driving growth, particularly in Telangana and Tamil Nadu. However, agriculture faced challenges due to the El Niño phenomenon. Despite this, these states show strong economic performance, while Maharashtra remains India’s largest economy.

The Indian Navy’s P8i Poseidon aircraft made its first landing at France’s Air Base 125 as part of the Varuna exercise from September 2 to 4, 2024. Varuna is a bilateral naval exercise between India and France that enhances tactical coordination through advanced maritime drills. The participation of the P8i, a crucial maritime patrol aircraft, and the warship INS Tabar demonstrates India’s strong naval engagement with France. This event marks the first Indian Navy aircraft operation in France in 63 years, symbolizing the enduring India-France naval relationship.

The AgriSURE Fund, launched by the Indian government with ₹750 crore, supports agricultural startups and rural businesses to enhance farming through innovation and technology. By involving NABARD, banks, and private investors, the fund aims to lower farming costs, ensure fair prices, and promote crop diversity. The AgriSURE Greenathon Awards highlight startups like Greensapio, Krushikanti, and Ambronics for their impactful solutions. With a focus on sustainability and food security, the initiative boosts rural economies while encouraging eco-friendly practices in agriculture.

The Jaipur Walled City Heritage Conservation Project aims to preserve the architectural and cultural heritage of Jaipur’s historic city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. With a ₹100 crore budget, the project focuses on improving infrastructure while maintaining the city’s traditional charm, including restoring landmarks like the Hawa Mahal and City Palace. Efforts also include clearing unsightly elements, like cables, to enhance tourism and economic growth. The project is led by Diya Kumari and aims to balance modernization with preserving Jaipur’s unique identity.

The Indian government and Tripura have signed a peace agreement with the insurgent groups NLFT and ATTF to bring stability to the region. The agreement, backed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Manik Saha, aims to end years of violence and unrest by these groups, which seek more autonomy for Tripura’s indigenous people. The peace efforts are part of broader initiatives under Prime Minister Modi to reduce extremism in the Northeast, with 12 prior agreements and 10,000 insurgents having already surrendered their weapons.

The 23rd Law Commission of India, approved by President Droupadi Murmu, will operate from September 2024 to August 2027. The Commission will focus on reviewing outdated laws, addressing poverty-related legal issues, promoting gender equality, and improving judicial efficiency. It also aims to simplify key Central Acts and handle government-referred legal matters. The Commission’s work is crucial for modernizing India’s legal system and addressing pressing social and legal issues. It follows the 22nd Law Commission, which faced delays due to leadership changes.