Notes:
Kerala has been ranked first in Asia in Affordable Talent in Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER).The State has also been ranked fourth in global ranking in the GSER, from its previous rank of 20.
It is released by Startup Genome and Global Entrepreneurship Network. Kerala founded ‘Kerala Startup Mission’ in 2006 to become a start-up powerhouse. As per the report, Kerala is suitable for investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics.

Notes:
The Uttar Pradesh cabinet approved a proposal to set up Pilibhit Tiger Protection Foundation under the provisions of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The cabinet decided to give incentives to set up units in the state’s first proposed medical device park. It was also decided to implement the Pt Deendayal Upadhyay Kisan Samridhi Yojana in the state till 2026-27.

Notes:
The annual World Competitiveness Index compiled by the Institute for Management Development was recently released.
India has registered the sharpest rise among the Asian economies, with a six-place jump from 43rd to 37th rank on the index due to gains in economic performance. Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and China were the top-performing Asian economies. Denmark was placed on top, while Switzerland slipped from the top to the second position.

Notes:
The Ministry of Education (MoE) announced the launch of a special three-year skill based bachelor degree programme for ‘Agniveers’.
The degree programme offered by the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) will be recognised both in India and abroad for employment and education. Agniveers are the defence personnel to be recruited under the newly launched ‘Agnipath’ scheme.

Notes:
India successfully test-fired its indigenously developed, nuclear-capable Prithvi-II missile from a test range off the Odisha coast.
The missile was developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation of India. It has a range of around 250 km and can carry a one tonne payload. The test comes around 10 days after India tested its Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile Agni-IV, which can travel as far as 4,000 km.