Current Affairs - National

India has been ranked 23rd globally in the Sustainable Trade Index 2024, as reported by the Hinrich Foundation and IMD. The index evaluates countries based on three pillars: economic growth, societal advancement, and environmental resilience. New Zealand topped the index with a perfect score of 100, followed by the United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, and Japan. India's position highlights its ongoing efforts to balance trade sustainability, though challenges remain in achieving higher rankings.

Bima Sugam is a unified digital insurance platform designed as an e-commerce-like marketplace for life and non-life insurance products. It onboards all insurance companies and provides a seamless digital experience for policy purchase, claim settlement, renewals, and grievance redressal. Eliminating paperwork through electronic policies and integrating it with government databases offers a one-stop solution for customers, agents, and insurers, enhancing efficiency and accessibility in the insurance sector.

India has secured the 10th position in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025, published jointly by Germanwatch, New Climate Institute, and Climate Action Network International. This ranking reflects India's efforts to address climate change. Denmark tops the list, followed closely by the Netherlands and the UK. In contrast, major emitters like China and the USA rank 55th and 57th, respectively. The CCPI evaluates countries' climate policies, renewable energy deployment, and greenhouse gas emissions, providing valuable insights into global climate change mitigation strategies.

Dhudmaras, a village in Bastar, Chhattisgarh, was selected for the prestigious UNWTO Best Tourism Village Upgrade Programme from over 260 global applications. This initiative focuses on leveraging the village’s rich cultural and natural heritage to promote sustainable tourism. The program aims to enhance tourism infrastructure, preserve heritage, and improve the quality of life for its residents, positioning Dhudmaras as a model for rural tourism development globally.

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is set to become home to India's first night safari, the Kukrail Night Safari Park and Wildlife Centre. Spanning 900 acres, the project will offer both night and day safaris, promoting eco-tourism and conservation. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath aims for completion by June 2026, emphasizing sustainability, greenery, and solar energy. This initiative will boost tourism in Uttar Pradesh and provide a unique wildlife experience, making Lucknow a significant destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists worldwide. It will be the fifth night safari globally.