Current Affairs - National

The "Sanjeevani" heli ambulance service, launched by the Prime Minister and operated by AIIMS Rishikesh, is India’s first aerial ambulance aimed at enhancing emergency medical response. Inaugurated on Dhanvantari Jayanti, it enables rapid access to medical care for people in Uttarakhand's remote areas, significantly improving survival rates in critical situations like heart attacks and accidents. This initiative represents a vital step in extending lifesaving support to regions with limited ground-based healthcare facilities, reflecting the government’s focus on accessible healthcare innovations.

Aandhi village in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is pioneering a zero-waste model by leveraging green technology to convert various types of waste into valuable resources. The initiative utilizes cutting-edge technologies such as Organic Waste Bio-Methanation Plants, Vermifiltration, Constructed Wetlands, and a Resource Recovery Centre. Notably, a 100 Kg Bio-Methanation Plant at the local government school generates biogas and electricity, supplemented by solar power. This innovative approach sets a benchmark for sustainable waste management and environmental conservation in rural India, promoting eco-friendly practices and community-led development.

India secured the 79th position out of 142 countries in the 2024 World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index. This ranking reflects India's standing in both global and regional assessments of the rule of law. Regionally, India ranked third among South Asian countries, after Nepal (69th) and Sri Lanka (75th). The Index highlights a decline in the rule of law globally, with 59% of countries surveyed showing a decline since 2016. India's score showed a slight increase from the previous year, placing it eighth among lower-middle-income countries.

The 21st Livestock Census, launched by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh on October 25, 2024, will be conducted until February 2025. This initiative, costing ₹200 crore, aims to collect precise data to aid the government in formulating effective policies for animal health security and the growth of the livestock sector. Accurate data collection is essential for developing strategies that enhance animal health and promote sustainable growth in this important sector of the economy.

The 17th Urban Mobility India Conference & Expo 2024 was inaugurated by Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This significant event, running from October 25 to 27, 2024, brought together over 2,000 professionals and academics to discuss and innovate urban transport solutions in India. The theme of the conference, “Standardisation and Optimisation of Urban Transport Solutions,” aims to enhance urban mobility through integrated strategies. The participation of key government officials and the focus on sustainable transport principles highlight the commitment to improving urban infrastructure and mobility in India's growing economy.