Current affairs 23 December 2023

UNESCO honours Punjab's Rambagh Gate project with award of excellence.

• UNESCO rewards the Rambagh Gate and Ramparts project in Punjab with the Award of Excellence for its inclusivity and community access.
• Bikaner House in Delhi and Church of Epiphany in Haryana receive an Award of Merit.
• UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards applaud efforts in restoring and conserving heritage structures across the region.

Smriti Irani launched National Anganwadi-cum-Crèches program.

• Smriti Irani, kicks off the National Programme on Anganwadi-cum-Crèches in New Delhi.
• The government plans to set up 17,000 crèches nationwide, primarily targeting women construction workers and women farm labourers.
• The initiative offers economic opportunities for women-run self-help groups and cooperatives in providing childcare services, like child safety, nutrition, and health standards.

Jute Corporation of India introduced "Paat-Mitro" app for farmers..

• The Jute Corporation of India has unveiled the Paat-Mitro app aimed at aiding jute cultivation and income generation.
• Launched by Rachna Shah, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, the application offers vital knowledge on jute farming.
• In addition to jute gradation parameters, the app provides information on farmer-centric schemes like Jute-ICARE, weather forecasts, and procurement policies.

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Over a million Afghan children facing severe malnutrition: WHO.

• The WHO stated more than 1 million Afghan children face severe malnutrition, with an urgent need for $185 million to battle this.
• Reports indicate the number of malnourished mothers and children has slightly increased compared to previous years.
• Doctors from Indira Gandhi Hospital in Kabul report an upsurge in malnutrition cases, with 20 to 25 children seeking treatment every day.

Bengaluru's T2 acknowledged as a Top Globally Beautiful Airport.

• Terminal 2 at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport recognized globally by Prix Versailles as one of the most beautiful airport terminals.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the terminal, showcasing its national importance.
• The first phase, costing around ₹13,000 crores, built over 2.5 lakh square meters, can annually accommodate 25 million passengers.