Current Affairs - National

The first Conference for Women Peacekeepers, themed "Women in Peacekeeping: A Global South Perspective," took place in New Delhi. This significant event was organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping. It gathered women peacekeepers from 35 troop-contributing countries from the Global South, highlighting the importance of female involvement in peacekeeping efforts globally.

The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) was launched by India in 2019, with the aim of enhancing disaster preparedness and resilience in various infrastructure sectors, including telecommunications. This initiative focuses on improving the readiness of telecom networks during disasters, emphasizing the need for infrastructure improvements, operational measures, and financial interventions.

The IWT Terminal was inaugurated at Jogighopa in Assam. This terminal is strategically located on the Brahmaputra River, part of National Waterway-2 (NW-2). It is significant for boosting economic growth through enhanced inland waterways transport, reducing transit time and transportation costs, and improving multi-modal connectivity, particularly for trade with neighbouring countries like Bhutan and Bangladesh. The initiative aligns with PM Gati Shakti and strengthens India’s Act East Policy, further promoting regional trade and logistics.

Childhood cancers, defined as cancers affecting children aged 0-14 years, account for 4% of all cancer cases in India. This represents a significant public health concern, as cancer in children not only impacts young patients but also has a broader socio-economic impact on their families. The indirect costs, including loss of education and income, are substantial, with children often facing educational disruptions and emotional strain, while parents may experience job loss or reduced working hours due to caregiving responsibilities.

The 27th Western Zonal Council meeting, chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, is being held in Pune, Maharashtra, on February 22. This council includes representatives from Gujarat, Goa, Maharashtra, and the UTs of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu. The meeting is attended by Chief Ministers, administrators, and senior officials from the region. Zonal Councils, established in 1957, facilitate inter-state cooperation, and each council has a Standing Committee headed by Chief Secretaries to ensure effective governance and collaboration between states.