Current Affairs - National

On March 14, 2024, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting banned 18 OTT platforms for hosting obscene, vulgar, and pornographic content. This action emphasized compliance with the IT Rules, 2021, requiring adherence to the Press Council’s 'Norms of Journalistic Conduct' and the Cable Television Programme Code. Among the banned platforms were Bolta Hindustan and National Dastak, which highlighted the government's focus on regulating digital content to ensure ethical standards and public decency.

The 10th International Forest Fair is taking place in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, from December 17 to December 23, 2024. The fair focuses on promoting sustainable forest practices, empowering local communities, and fostering collaboration within the forestry sector. It features around 300 stalls showcasing forest-related products and services and highlights the theme "Women Empowerment through Minor Forest Produce." The event provides a platform for government officials, scientists, and international representatives to exchange knowledge and collaborate on best practices in forest management and conservation.

'Kisan Kavach,' developed by DBT scientists, is an anti-pesticide suit designed with oxime fabric that neutralizes common pesticides. Comprising trousers, pullovers, and face covers, it protects farmers from neurotoxic pesticide exposure during spraying activities. Inspired by PPE kits, this innovation prioritizes the health and safety of agricultural workers, reducing risks associated with prolonged pesticide contact.

Uber introduced the ‘Moto Women bike taxi service in Bengaluru as a pilot program to enhance safety and inclusivity in urban mobility. This initiative caters exclusively to female riders and drivers, providing a secure and empowering transportation option. With Bengaluru being a hub for urban mobility innovations, this program addresses safety concerns and offers flexible earning opportunities for women, contributing to the growing demand for bike taxis as a vital supplement to public transport systems.

The ‘Jalvahak’ scheme was launched to promote long-haul cargo transportation on major rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Barak. The scheme specifically targets cargo owners who transport goods over 300 km using inland waterways, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative. As part of the launch, Minister Sonowal flagged off three cargo ships and two barges from Kolkata's GR Jetty, signalling the commencement of regular cargo services on National Waterways 1 and 2. This initiative is expected to reduce road congestion and promote the efficient use of inland water transport in India.