Current affairs 12 June 2023

Microsoft and AirJaldi Partner to Expand Internet Connectivity in Rural India.

• Microsoft and AirJaldi Networks, a leading provider of internet connectivity solutions for rural areas, have joined forces through a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) titled ‘Contentful Connectivity.
• This strategic partnership aims to improve internet access and meaningful connectivity in rural regions of India by collaborating with private, public, and non-profit sectors.
• The initiative, part of the Microsoft Airband program, focuses on expanding AirJaldi Networks, fostering broadband adoption, digital transformation, and uplifting underserved communities.

Mumbai Tops the List as India’s Costliest City for Expatriates.

• According to Mercer’s Cost of Living survey, Mumbai has been identified as the most expensive city for expatriates in India. The survey analyzed 227 cities across five continents to determine the cost of living for expats.
• Following Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru ranked second and third respectively on the list.

WHO, Global Fund announce commitment for enhanced collaboration.

• The WHO and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria signed a new Strategic Framework.
• Reason: For Collaboration to build stronger and more resilient health systems and maximize collaboration and impact in support of country, regional and global responses to major communicable diseases.
• The new five-year framework builds on the previous agreement signed in 2018.
• It aligns with the 2023-2028 Global Fund Strategy and the WHO General Programme of Work.

Madhya Pradesh govt launched "Ladli Bahna" scheme.

• MP government has launched Ladli Bahna scheme to make women financially independent.
• In this scheme, each woman will be given 1000 rupees per month.
• MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan has deposited the first month's amount of this scheme in the bank accounts of about 1.25 crore women at a State-level function in Jabalpur.
• The State government has also issued a phone number 181 for the help of women.
• Ladli Bahna Army also formed for women empowerment and security.

ICAR signs a MOU with Amazon Kisan to empower farmers.

• ICAR has signed a MoU with Amazon Kisan to combine strengths and create synergy between the two organizations.
• Aim: To guide the farmers on scientific cultivation of different crops for optimum yield and income.
• ICAR will provide technological backstopping to the farmers through Amazon’s network.
• It will improve farmers’ livelihood and boost crop yield.
• This MoU will help ensuring access to high quality fresh produce for consumers across India.