Current Affairs - National

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with IIT Madras to enhance audit skills and promote sustainable auditing practices. The key focus areas include data governance, AI-driven capacity building, environmental audits, and the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework. IIT Madras Director, V. Kamakoti, highlighted the importance of digital collaboration during the Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar lecture series at the CAG's office, underlining the significance of technological integration in auditing processes.

NITI Aayog, the Indian government's premier think tank, has established a committee to develop a strategic plan for transforming AIIMS, New Delhi, into a globally recognized centre for medical research and healthcare excellence. The committee, led by NITI Aayog member VK Paul, aims to assess the current systems at AIIMS and propose reforms with specific timelines for implementation. This initiative is part of NITI Aayog's broader efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure, governance, and self-sufficiency within the institution.

India will host the 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum at the Rajasthan International Centre in Jaipur from 3-5 March 2025. This event will focus on "Realizing Circular Societies Towards Achieving SDGs and Carbon Neutrality in Asia-Pacific." The Jaipur Declaration, which will be discussed during the forum, builds upon the earlier Hanoi Declaration, making it a significant event in promoting sustainable development and circular economy practices in the region.

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.