Importand days World Soil Day ▪ World Soil Day is celebrated annually on December 5 and commemorates its 10th anniversary. ▪ This year’s theme is “Caring for Soils – Measure, Monitor, Manage”, which focuses on the importance of accurate soil data and the data is crucial for promoting sustainable practices. ▪ These practices support food security and environmental protection and will be hosted in Thailand, also people can participate online via Zoom. Awards & Honours ▪ Michelle Bachelet, former Chilean President and human rights advocate. ▪ Receives Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development ▪ From Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust Contributions ✓ Founding Director of UN Women. ✓ UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) ▪ India got selected the International Social Security Association’s Good Practice Award for Asia and Pacific for this year for five services provided by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). Why ? ✓ Efficient communication channels ✓ Outreach programme "Nidhi Aapke Nikat” ✓ initiative "Prayaas" for pension order delivery
HISTORY
Importand days World Soil Day ▪ World Soil Day, observed annually on 5th December, highlights the importance of healthy soil and advocates for the sustainable management of soil resources Background of World Soil Day ▪ The idea of celebrating an international day dedicated to soil was first proposed by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) in 2002. ▪ The proposal gained traction under the leadership of the Thailand and the Global Soil Partnership (FAO), which played a crucial role in formalizing the initiative. Defence, National Security and Terrorism Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024 ▪ A new bill, the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024, was introduced by Union Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu. ▪ This bill replaces the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934, which was passed in the Lok Sabha in August 2024. ▪ The bill responds to recommendations from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Key Features of the New Bill ▪ The bill clarifies the responsibilities of aviation bodies, which enhances the role of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). ▪ The new legislation includes definitions for aircraft maintenance, design, and manufacturing. Eminent Persons ▪ Nandalal Bose was born in Munger, Bihar on December 3, 1882. ▪ Received numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan in 1953. Over 6,800 of his works are housed in the National Gallery of Modern Art. ▪ In 1976, the Archaeological Survey of India recognized his works as “art treasures” under the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act of 1972.
