Current Affairs - National

The partnership between PMBI and Coal India aims to establish Jan Aushadhi Kendras, providing high-quality generic medicines at affordable prices to Coal India's workforce and surrounding communities. This initiative seeks to reduce out-of-pocket expenditure on healthcare, making quality medicines accessible and affordable for those in need. By offering affordable medicines, Jan Aushadhi Kendras promote healthcare equity and supports the well-being of coal workers, residents, and their families.

India's ambitious space program has set its sights on launching the first module of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2028, marking a significant milestone in the country's space research and exploration journey. This endeavour is part of the revised Gaganyaan program, approved by the Union Cabinet, with a total funding of ₹20,193 crore. The program aims to enhance India's capabilities in microgravity research and foster innovation, paving the way for a crewed moon mission by 2040. The Bharatiya Antariksh Station is expected to be fully operational by 2035, further solidifying India's presence in space research.

The PM-AASHA scheme, or Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan, aims to ensure remunerative prices for farmers' produce. Introduced in September 2018, it comprises three key components: Price Support Scheme (PSS), Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS), and Pilot of Private Procurement & Stockist Scheme (PPPS). The scheme has been allocated ₹35,000 crore until 2025-26 to support farmers. By providing fair prices, PM-AASHA seeks to safeguard farmers' incomes and promote agricultural growth. This initiative demonstrates the government's commitment to farmers' welfare and agricultural development.

The Indian government's initiative aims to provide gig workers with access to social security benefits by creating a comprehensive database. The e-Shram portal serves as a nationwide database designed to facilitate social security and welfare scheme access for unorganised workers. By registering on this portal, workers will receive a Universal Account Number (UAN), enabling access to key benefits. This step ensures workers' access to social welfare benefits and maintains an accurate registry of beneficiaries. The Ministry of Labour and Employment has issued guidelines outlining aggregator responsibilities, including registration and data updating of workers.

The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will take place in Goa from November 20th to 28th, 2024. This prestigious event will introduce a new section called the 'Best Debut Indian Film Section' aimed at promoting young filmmakers. Up to five debut feature films will be selected and showcased in this category, offering a unique platform for emerging talent in Indian cinema. Goa has been the traditional host of IFFI, drawing filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world.