Notes:
The draft rules for the Press and Registration of Periodicals (PRP) Act state that periodicals with a daily average circulation of over 25,000 in the preceding two financial years can be subjected to a faceless desk audit to verify their circulation figures. This is part of the legislation aimed at simplifying and digitising the registration of newspapers and other periodicals, including provisions for physical verification of circulation figures and the establishment of an appellate board for registration issues.

Notes:
Shirshendhu Mukyopadhyaya, a Bengali writer, was awarded the 2023 Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar. He is recognized for his contribution to Indian literature through his works in the Bengali language. Mukyopadhyaya has authored over 90 books, including travelogues and children’s fiction. The Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar is a prestigious national literary award, named after the late Kannada poet Kuvempu, and honors writers who have significantly contributed to Indian languages.

Notes:
Professor B.R. Kamboj, Vice Chancellor of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, was awarded the M.S Swaminathan Award for his significant contributions in the field of agronomy. Recognized as a scientist/extension specialist, Prof. Kamboj’s work has been influential in agricultural science. He has published around 300 research papers and articles in various national and international journals, books, and technical magazines. His award was presented at the International Conference on ‘One Health One World’ in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, highlighting his impact on agricultural research and development.

Notes:
Punjab has become the first state in India to map all 784 accident black spots on the Mappls App, a navigation system developed by MapMyIndia. This initiative, announced by Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, is part of the preparations for the launch of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s ‘Sadak Suraksha Force’. The Mappls App provides real-time traffic updates and voice alerts in Punjabi about black and blind spots, aiming to enhance road safety by alerting motorists about potential hazards. This pioneering effort marks a significant step in using technology for improving road safety in the state.

Notes:
Sri Lanka declared a one-year moratorium on foreign research ships entering its waters, with the official reason being for capacity building. This decision is seen as a response to concerns raised by India regarding Chinese research vessels docking in the region. Foreign Ministry spokesman Niluka Kadurugamuwa stated that the moratorium applies to all countries and aims to allow local researchers to build capacity for joint research. The context involves growing geopolitical dynamics in the region, particularly with China’s attempts to expand its influence in Sri Lanka, located on one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. The moratorium comes amid a backdrop of strategic concerns and diplomatic maneuvers in the Indian Ocean region.