Current affairs 13 September 2024

India launched Trade Connect ePlatform for exporters.

• The Indian government launched the Trade Connect ePlatform to streamline access to export and import information.
• It is developed in collaboration with the of MSME Ministry, EXIM Bank, TCS, Dept. of Financial Services, and External Affairs Ministry.
• The portal will facilitate interaction between over 6 lakh IEC holders, 180 Indian Mission officials and 600 Export Promotion Council officials.

Cabinet Approves ₹5 Lakh Health Insurance for Senior Citizens.

• The Cabinet has approved health insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh per year for senior citizens aged 70 and above under Ayushman.
• This initiative will cover around 6 crore senior citizens across 4.5 crore families irrespective of their income status.
• A new distinct card will be issued to eligible citizens, and those already covered by AB PM-JAY will receive an additional top-up.

Madhya Pradesh Becomes First State to Offer AYUSH in Urban PHCs.

• Madhya Pradesh provides AYUSH services in all 328 urban primary health centers and is expanding these facilities in rural areas.
• Ranked third in AYUSH doctors in tribal areas, behind Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
• The state has significantly improved its health infrastructure, increasing sub-health centers and community health centers since 2005.

Australia to Enforce Minimum Age for Social Media Use.

• Australia plans to legislate a minimum age for social media use to protect children, supporting parents' concerns.
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the legislation will be introduced in this term of parliament.
• A national poll revealed two-thirds of parents are worried about kids' screen time, with social media as a top concern.

BPRL Secures First Production Concession in Abu Dhabi.

• Bharat PetroResources Limited (BPRL), a subsidiary of BPCL, has been granted its 1st production concession in Abu Dhabi.
• The concession was awarded to Urja Bharat Pte Limited, a joint venture between BPRL and Indian Oil, following a successful exploration started in 2019.
• UBPL invested $164 million in exploration over 6,162 sq. km, with significant findings in the Ruwais area (38 sq. km).