International Day of Light 2023 celebrates on 16th May
International Day of Light 2023
The International Day of Light is observed on May 16 every year to commemorate Theodore Maiman’s successful operation of the laser in 1960. This day serves as a reminder to enhance scientific collaboration and leverage its capacity to promote peace and sustainable progress. The International Day of Light is an annual event that recognizes the crucial significance of light in science, culture, art, education, and sustainable development.
International Day of Light: Significance
The International Day of Light holds great significance as it recognizes and highlights the essential role that light plays in various aspects of our lives. It raises awareness about the importance of light-based technologies in fields such as science, culture, art, education, and sustainable development. The day serves as a platform to promote scientific knowledge, innovation, and cooperation among different sectors of society. It also underscores the potential of light-based technologies in addressing global challenges and building a more sustainable and inclusive future. Additionally, the International Day of Light pays tribute to groundbreaking scientific achievements and honors the contributions of scientists, engineers, and researchers in advancing our understanding and utilization of light.
International Day of Light: History
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially established the International Day of Light on December 20, 2017. This significant day was created to mark the anniversary of a groundbreaking scientific achievement—the successful operation of the laser by physicist and engineer Theodore Maiman on May 16, 1960. Since its inception, the International Day of Light has grown into an annual global event that emphasizes the significance of light-based technologies and their influence on society.
Laos to Host ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 with “Quality and Responsible Tourism -Sustaining ASEAN Future” Theme
Laos is gearing up to host the annual ASEAN Tourism Forum in January 2024, which will take place in the country’s capital city, Vientiane. The theme for the forum is “Quality and Responsible Tourism — Sustaining ASEAN Future,” which reflects the focus on sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
The forum will include a tourism exhibition and is expected to boost tourism in Laos while encouraging service improvement in associated businesses. The Lao News Agency quoted Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism Suanesavanh Vignaket, who stated that the event will promote Laos as a nature-based tourism destination.
Laos’ Previous Hosting of the ASEAN Tourism Forum:
This is not the first time Laos will host the ASEAN Tourism Forum. The country previously hosted the event in 2004 and 2013, highlighting Laos’ potential as a tourism destination in Southeast Asia.
Promoting Laos as a Nature-Based Tourism Destination:
The Lao government is keen to promote the country’s potential as a nature-based tourism destination. Many foreign tourists have already visited Laos to explore the country’s scenic attractions, as well as the local lifestyles and traditions.
Tourism Industry’s Resilience amid the COVID-19 Pandemic:
The tourism industry has been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Laos has seen a surge in tourist arrivals in the first three months of 2023, with over 831,000 foreign tourists visiting the country. This is a considerable increase from just 211,898 overseas visitors in the first six months of 2022, which was the peak of the pandemic.
About Laos, key points:
Capital: Vientiane
Currency: Lao kip (LAK)
President: Thongloun Sisoulith (as of 2021)
Official language: Lao
Population: Approximately 7.2 million people
Geography: Located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, and Myanmar
Pune: Asia’s first subsea research lab at MIT-World Peace University
Pune, India – In a groundbreaking development, MIT-World Peace University (WPU) has unveiled Asia’s first-ever subsea research lab, the Centre for Subsea Engineering Research (CSER). The state-of-the-art facility, created in collaboration with Aker Solutions, aims to revolutionize training and education for the global oil and gas industry by providing real-world experience and fostering multi-disciplinary talent
Addressing the Skill Gap in the Energy Sector:
The CSER, an initiative of MIT-WPU’s Department of Petroleum Engineering, marks a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to equipping students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills. Dr. Samarth Patwardhan, the head of the subsea lab and Professor in Petroleum Engineering, emphasized the lab’s potential impact on producing highly skilled professionals who are prepared to address future challenges in the industry.
A Comprehensive Platform for Training and Collaboration:
The subsea research lab offers a wide range of applications and resources to various stakeholders in the energy sector. It serves as a hands-on academic platform for undergraduate and postgraduate students, facilitating curriculum experiments and promoting practical learning in petroleum engineering. The lab also facilitates joint professional training programs with industry experts in subsea engineering and Industrial Safety and Health Engineering (ISHE).
Furthermore, the facility aims to raise awareness about subsea engineering by organizing tours and educational programs for college and school students, as well as industry professionals. It acts as an invaluable resource for individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in subsea engineering, offering real-time drilling and well-controlled systems for simulation experiments.
A Collaborative Approach to Research and Development:
MIT-WPU’s subsea laboratory is keen to collaborate with both industry and government entities, both nationally and internationally, to initiate joint research projects. By fostering partnerships, the lab aims to generate knowledge and contribute to enhancing the country’s energy security. The establishment of the CSER represents a significant step towards addressing the skill gap in the oil and gas industry and nurturing diverse skill sets across multiple disciplines.
Acknowledging Aker Solutions’ Role:
Aker Solutions, a leading global provider of engineering services and solutions for the energy industry, has played a pivotal role in supporting MIT-WPU throughout the subsea research lab project. From concept to completion, Aker Solutions has contributed to the design, procurement, fabrication, installation, assembly, and equipment testing of the facility. Their partnership with MIT-WPU exemplifies a collaborative effort to bridge the skill gap and meet the evolving needs of the oil and gas industry.
Geeta Rao Gupta appointed as US Ambassador at Large for Global Women’s Issues
Geeta Rao Gupta appointed as US Ambassador at Large for Global Women’s Issues
The US Senate has approved Geeta Rao Gupta, an Indian American, as the Ambassador at Large for Global Women’s Issues in the State Department. In a tweet, the department expressed its eagerness for Gupta to use her efforts to advance women and girls’ rights through US foreign policy. With a vote of 51 to 47, the US Senate confirmed Gupta earlier this week.
Geeta Rao Gupta on her Appointment
Gupta believes that women worldwide face numerous inequalities and indignities that prevent them from participating fully in the economy.
Women are frequently at risk of violence and experience daily fear for their safety, which restricts their mobility.
She further noted that women are particularly vulnerable in situations of conflict, emergencies, and humanitarian crises, both in terms of their safety and their ability to care for and provide for their families.
Gupta stated these views during her confirmation hearing last year.
About Geeta Rao Gupta
Geeta Rao Gupta, who was born in Mumbai, India in 1956, is a prominent figure in matters of gender, women’s concerns, and HIV/AIDS.
She has held the position of executive director at the 3D Program for Girls and Women, as well as being a senior fellow at the United Nations Foundation since 2017.
Geeta Rao Gupta is widely recognized for her expertise on issues related to AIDS prevention and the vulnerability of women to HIV.
She is a strong proponent of empowering women economically and socially as a means of fighting disease, poverty, and hunger.
Recently, she was nominated by US President Joe Biden to serve as the United States Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues.
International Day of Living Together in Peace 2023 observed on 16th May
The International Day of Living Together in Peace
The International Day of Living Together in Peace is celebrated annually on May 16 to encourage peace, tolerance, inclusivity, understanding, and solidarity among individuals and communities globally. Its goal is to emphasize the significance of cultivating peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and harmony among people of different backgrounds. The International Day of Living Together in Peace is an opportunity for people from all over the world to come together and celebrate peace. It is also a time to reflect on the challenges that we face in building a more peaceful world.
International Day of Living Together in Peace 2023: Significance
The day holds great importance in promoting diversity, dialogue, and cultural bridges. It encourages the rejection of violence, discrimination, and exclusion, while fostering a culture of peace and understanding. It reminds us of the vital role peaceful coexistence plays in creating a just, inclusive, and sustainable world.
Governments, organizations, and individuals can take part in various activities to promote living together in peace. These include interfaith dialogues, cultural exchanges, peace education programs, community-building initiatives, and campaigns against prejudice and discrimination. The day serves as a moment of reflection on the significance of unity, empathy, and compassion in building peaceful and resilient societies.
International Day of Living Together in Peace: History
In the aftermath of World War II, the United Nations recognized the importance of preventing future wars and addressing global inequality. To promote peace and equality, the UN initiated efforts like the International Year for the Culture of Peace in 2000 and the International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for Children of the World from 2001 to 2010. The adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace in 1999 further highlighted the need for long-lasting peace and non-violence.
In 2017, the UN General Assembly reaffirmed its commitment by designating May 16 as the International Day of Living Together in Peace. This day aims to foster inclusion, tolerance, solidarity, and peace among diverse communities worldwide.
Amit Shah Inaugurates Training Program on Legislative Drafting in New Delhi
Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated a training program on legislative drafting in New Delhi. The program aims to create a better understanding of the principles and practices of legislative drafting among officers of Parliament, State Legislatures, various ministries, statutory bodies, and other government departments.
Repealing of Irrelevant Laws:
During his address, Mr. Shah highlighted the government’s efforts to repeal around two thousand irrelevant laws since 2015. He mentioned that legislative drafting is not only a science or an art but also a skill that must be implemented with a spirit of clarity and transparency.
Importance of Clear and Simple Law:
Mr. Shah emphasized the importance of drafting clear and simple laws without any grey areas to avoid conflicts. He urged the officers to draft laws in simple and understandable words so that everyone can understand them without any difficulty.
Impact on Society and State:
Legislative drafting has a significant impact on the interpretation of policies and regulations implemented for the welfare of society and the state. Therefore, it is necessary to impart training to legislative draftsmen from time to time to sharpen their skills.
Capacity Building:
The training program organized by the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies (ICPS) in collaboration with the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) will help in the capacity building of officers. They will learn about the principles and practices of legislative drafting and apply them to promote democratic governance and give effect to the rule of law.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami Inaugurates National Homoeopathic Convention ‘Homeocon 2023’ in Uttarakhand
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami recently inaugurated the National Homoeopathic Convention ‘Homeocon 2023’ at Doon University, Dehradun. The convention aimed to showcase the significance of homeopathy as the second most practiced system of medicine worldwide, particularly highlighting its role during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the commitment of the state government to establish Uttarakhand as a prominent AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) region, the event underscored the economic and effective nature of homeopathic treatments.
The Importance of Homeopathy:
Homeopathy has gained recognition globally as a widely practiced system of medicine. Its relevance has been evident, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. The convention aimed to highlight the effectiveness and holistic approach of homeopathy in providing healthcare solutions to individuals. The event emphasized the significance of integrating homeopathy with conventional medical practices to enhance the overall well-being of patients.
About Ministry of AYUSH:
The Ministry of AYUSH is a government ministry in India responsible for the development, promotion, and regulation of traditional systems of medicine, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The ministry is dedicated to advancing education and research in these areas, offering various training and educational programs. Established in 2014, the ministry plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting India’s rich heritage of traditional medicine systems.
Uttarakhand: A Hub for Traditional Medicine:
Uttarakhand, a state located in North India, has emerged as a prominent hub for traditional medicine systems. The region is renowned for its focus on Ayurveda, Yoga, and other holistic practices. Rishikesh, in particular, has gained international recognition as a major center for yoga studies, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. The state is also home to the renowned Jim Corbett National Park, which preserves the habitat of the majestic Bengal tiger and numerous other wildlife species.
Government Initiatives and Leadership:
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttarakhand has shown a strong commitment to promoting AYUSH practices, including homeopathy. The state government aims to establish Uttarakhand as a key destination for traditional medicine, offering economic opportunities and effective healthcare solutions to its residents. By supporting initiatives like the National Homoeopathic Convention ‘Homeocon 2023,’ the government aims to create awareness and showcase the potential of homeopathy in improving public health.
About Uttarakhand: Key Points.
Uttarakhand is a state located in North India.
Rishikesh, a city in Uttarakhand, is renowned as a major center for yoga studies. It gained significant prominence in 1968 after the visit of the Beatles, which put Rishikesh on the global map as a hub for spiritual practices and yoga.
The Jim Corbett National Park, situated in Uttarakhand, is famous for its rich biodiversity. It is home to the majestic Bengal tiger, along with a wide variety of other wildlife species.
The capital city of Uttarakhand is Dehradun, which serves as the administrative center for the state, particularly during the winter season.
The current Chief Minister of Uttarakhand is Pushkar Singh Dhami, who holds the responsibility of governing the state.
The Governor of Uttarakhand is Gurmeet Singh, who represents the central government in the state.
The official animal of Uttarakhand is the Alpine Musk Deer, which holds a special significance in the region’s wildlife conservation efforts and natural heritage.