Current Affairs - Places

Union Minister of State Jayant Chaudhary inaugurated the National Skill Training Institute (NSTI) extension centre at the Andhra Medical Tech Zone (AMTZ) campus in Visakhapatnam. This centre is focused on providing specialized training in Computer Software Applications (CSA) under the Crafts Instructor Training Scheme (CITS). Starting from the 2024-25 academic session, it aims to equip instructors with the necessary skills to enhance technical education and vocational training in India, positioning Visakhapatnam as a key hub for skill development initiatives.

The India Digital Agri Conference 2024 was held in New Delhi, bringing together stakeholders to harness the power of digital technology in agriculture. Led by Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Secretary, Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, the conference facilitated knowledge sharing, showcased innovative solutions, and encouraged collaboration across sectors. By hosting this conference in the nation's capital, the event aimed to drive policy discussions and strategic partnerships, ultimately modernizing India's agricultural landscape. New Delhi's hosting of the conference underscores its role as a hub for policy-making and innovation.

The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is being developed at Lothal, Gujarat, a historically significant site known for its ancient maritime trade links dating back 4,500 years. The project aims to highlight India's rich maritime history through museums, galleries, and parks. It is expected to create 22,000 jobs and will be developed in phases. The construction of a Light House Museum under Phase 1B will be funded by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL).

The National Workshop on Forest Rights Act and PESA (Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas) issues began in Jabalpur and were organized by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The event focuses on building capacity for tribal communities, along with District and Sub Division Committees, and Panchayat representatives. It aims to empower tribal communities through effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act and PESA, enhancing local governance and ensuring better administration in tribal regions. The workshop plays a key role in addressing issues related to tribal rights and governance.

The 77th session of the WHO Southeast Asia Region took place in New Delhi, where Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda addressed several significant points. He emphasized the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides healthcare benefits to over 120 million families, and India's support for the WHO's Global Traditional Medicine Centre initiative. Additionally, he mentioned the establishment of clinics and centres under the National Programme for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) for early preventive care. Nadda was also elected as the Chairperson of the WHO Southeast Asia session, reflecting India's leadership role in health initiatives.