Current Affairs - National

The 'Sagar Aankalan' guidelines are designed to boost Port Efficiency across Indian ports. This initiative, led by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, underscores the government's commitment to enhancing maritime infrastructure and competitiveness. By implementing these guidelines, the government aims to streamline port operations and drive economic growth through improved efficiency in port management.

The Northern Railway Firozpur division is set to introduce MEMU and DMU train services between Baramulla and Sangaldan stations, Jammu and Kashmir, to enhance regional connectivity and improve transportation infrastructure in the region.

As per the Henley Passport Index 2024, Indian citizens enjoy visa-free access to 62 countries. Despite this increase, India slipped one rank to 85th place. This suggests that while India's diplomatic relations may have improved marginally, other nations might have enhanced their visa policies or diplomatic ties at a faster pace, impacting India's relative position on the index. Additionally, France secures the top spot on the index, offering its citizens visa-free access to 194 countries, highlighting its strong global influence and diplomatic relations.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department of Fisheries and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) aims to improve fishermen's direct market access in India's fisheries industry through digital commerce. This initiative seeks to unlock the digital commerce potential, benefiting fishermen by facilitating better market reach and opportunities.

Uttarakhand is poised to introduce India's inaugural Helicopter Emergency Service (HEMS), aimed at swiftly transporting accident victims and patients from remote and hilly regions to AIIMS in Rishikesh. This initiative, operating under project 'Sanjeevani', marks a significant advancement in emergency medical services infrastructure.