Current affairs 21 September 2023

India Ranked 52nd in Digital Quality of Life Index.

• India has been ranked 52nd out of 121 countries in the Digital Quality of Life Index Survey 2023.
• The annual survey by the Netherlands-based firm has ranked 121 countries on five factors: internet quality, internet affordability, e-infrastructure, e-government, and e-security.
• In Asia, India takes 13th place, with Singapore the leader in the region.
• The top 3 Countries in the Digital Quality of Life Index survey are Denmark, South Korea, and Finland.

Centre launches three game-changing initiatives for farmers.

• Centre launched a series of transformative initiatives, aimed at revolutionizing agriculture in the country.
• It include Kisan Rin Portal, Door to Door KCC Campaign, and Weather Information Network Data Systems (WINDS) Manual.
• Aim: To amplify financial inclusion, streamline data utilization, harness technology, and enhance the livelihoods of the farmer.
• Objective: To help in furthering the goal of agricultural transformation and sustainable economic growth for farmer.

Indonesia Kicks Off ASEAN Joint Military Drills.

• ASEAN began their first-ever joint military drills in Indonesia amid rising geopolitical tensions between major powers and protests against China’s activities in the South China Sea.
• Aim: To develop military skills, including maritime security and patrols, and the distribution of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
• All 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will join the exercise, including prospective member East Timor.

Defence ministry clears proposal to buy "Pralay" ballistic missiles.

• The Indian Army is set to acquire a regiment of Pralay tactical ballistic missiles for the first time, as part of a broader strategy to develop a strategic rocket force.
• The Pralay missiles, propelled by a solid-propellant rocket motor and other novel technologies, are expected to provide a substantial boost to the Indian Army's offensive capabilities.
• It can hit targets between 150-500 Km and missiles developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

CM Pramod Sawant Launches Griha Adhar Scheme To Empower Goan Homemakers.

• Goa CM Pramod Sawant distributed Griha Adhar sanction orders to numerous beneficiaries to support homemakers financially, fostering their independence and improving their quality of life.
• Aim : To empower Goan entrepreneurs and self-help groups, a digital initiative under the Swayampura Goa Programme.
• He also flagged off the Chavath-e-Bazaar vehicle, symbolizing a new era of empowerment for rural artisans and entrepreneurs in Goa.