Current Affairs - National

India's first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers was inaugurated by Dr Jitendra Singh in Pune, marking a significant milestone in the country's biotechnology sector. Developed by Praj Industries, the facility specializes in producing Polylactic Acid (PLA) bioplastic. This initiative is part of India's rapidly growing bio-economy, valued at over $150 billion in 2023 and projected to reach $300 billion by 2030, driven by over 8,500 biotech startups. The facility underscores India's commitment to biotechnology research and innovation, positioning itself as a key player in the global biotech industry.

Dr S Jaishankar launched the eMigrate V2.0 portal and app to promote orderly and responsible migration for Indian workers, providing them with social security and streamlined passport issuance processes. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 10 and features 2.81 lakh registered foreign employers, facilitating a secure and legal migration experience for Indian workers. The portal aims to safeguard the interests of Indian workers abroad and ensure their well-being.

India ranks 105th out of 127 countries in the 2024 Global Hunger Index, falling under the "serious" hunger category with a GHI score of 27.3. This ranking indicates that 13.7% of India's population is undernourished, with alarming rates of child malnutrition, including 35.5% stunted, 18.7% wasted, and 2.9% child mortality. In comparison, neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka have lower hunger levels, categorized as "moderate". The Global Hunger Index is published annually by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe to track hunger levels worldwide.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has achieved Maharatna status, granting it enhanced operational autonomy and financial powers. This upgrade enables HAL to invest up to 15% of its net worth in projects and ₹5,000 crore in foreign ventures. To qualify, HAL demonstrated an average annual turnover exceeding ₹25,000 crore, a net worth of over ₹15,000 crore, and a net profit exceeding ₹5,000 crore over three years ¹. As a Maharatna company, HAL joins the ranks of prominent PSUs like NTPC, ONGC, and BHEL, showcasing its substantial operational success.

The Assam Accord was signed in 1985 between the Central Government, the Assam State Government, and leaders of the Assam Movement to address the issue of illegal migration from Bangladesh. It sought to protect the cultural, social, and linguistic identity of the Assamese people through various safeguards. Clause 6 of the accord specifically called for the protection and promotion of the indigenous identity of Assam, with legislative and constitutional provisions.