Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue

Context: India is set to host its first-ever global maritime conference, Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue, on November 18-19, 2024, in New Delhi.

More on the news

• The event is co-hosted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).
• Participation and Scope
• • Representatives from 60-65 countries are expected to attend the conference.

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Objectives of the Conference

• Strengthening Maritime Presence:
  • Despite being the world’s most populous country and one of the largest economies, India’s maritime clout has been relatively limited.
  • The conference seeks to highlight India’s ambition to expand its role in global maritime trade and merchant shipping.
• Focus on Maritime Trade and Governance:
  • Discussions will emphasize India’s growing importance in international collaborations related to trade, connectivity, and maritime governance.
  • The dialogue aims to deepen engagement with global stakeholders and inform them about India’s ambitions and interests in the maritime sector.
• Key Benefits
• • Enhanced collaboration with international policymakers and stakeholders in the maritime sector.
  • Increased global attention on India’s role and potential in maritime trade and governance.
  • A platform to steer discussions on pressing global issues related to maritime affairs.

Significance of India’s Growth and Maritime Role

• India contributed 16% of global economic growth in 2023.
• The country is projected to become the third-largest global economy within the next three years.
• With this growth, India’s maritime domain has become critical for commerce, trade, and international cooperation.

Know Your Medicine App

Context: The Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports has launched a nationwide appeal to embrace the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) India’s ‘Know Your Medicine (KYM)’ app.

About KYM

• The KYM app is part of NADA India’s broader mission to raise anti-doping awareness and education, equipping athletes with essential information to stay clean. 

Key Features of the KYM App

• Anti-Doping Verification Tool: Allows athletes and sports professionals to check if a medicine or its ingredients contain substances prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
• User-Friendly Search Options: Provides image and audio search capabilities for quick and convenient access to information.
• Sport-Specific Information: Enables users to select their sport category to access tailored information relevant to their specific sporting needs.
• Promoting Clean Sports: Empowers athletes to avoid inadvertent doping, supporting integrity and fair play in sports.
• Accessible and Informative: Designed to be easy to use, offering seamless verification and making anti-doping education accessible to all stakeholders in the sporting community.

About National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA)

• Set Up as a  registered society under the Societies Registration Act of 1860 in 2005.
• Mandate: To create dope-free sports in India by promoting fair play and ethical practices in sports.
• Functions: Planning, implementing, and coordinating anti-doping activities in India.
  • Ensures compliance with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code and regulations.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India.

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National Anti-Doping Act, 2022

• Provides legal backing to NADA for regulating anti-doping activities in sports.
• Implements the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sports, reinforcing India’s commitment to international standards.

Student Direct Stream (SDS) program

Context: Recently. Canada has announced the discontinuation of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program, effective November 2024. 

More on the news

• This decision affects numerous Indian students who rely on the SDS pathway for streamlined visa processing and affordable access to Canadian educational institutions, prompting concerns about longer processing times and increased costs.

Introduction to the SDS Visa Program

• The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a visa processing program launched by Canada in 2018.
• It aims to provide faster processing of study permits for students from specific countries, including India.
• Key Features of SDS
  • Fast-Track Processing: SDS offers expedited visa processing with an average processing time of around 20 days.
  • Simplified Application:
    • Applicants need to provide proof of financial stability, such as a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).
    • Submission of essential educational documents is mandatory to streamline the process.
  • Eligibility Criteria: The program is available to students from 14 countries, including India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Trinidad and Tobago.
• Popularity Among Indian Students
  • SDS has been highly preferred by Indian students due to its faster approval times and straightforward application process.

Reasons Behind the Discontinuation

• System Misuse: Some applicants used the SDS pathway for low-value diploma courses to seek permanent residency, undermining the program’s purpose.
• Integrity and Protection: Canada aims to protect genuine students and ensure fair access to the program.
• Strain on Resources: Overcrowding in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver led to pressure on housing and public services.
• Reduction in International Student Numbers: In 2024, Canada reduced student permits by 8%, with plans for a further 10% reduction to manage the inflow of students.

Implications for Indian Students

• Extended Processing Times: Visa approvals may take longer, delaying academic plans for Indian students.
• Increased Costs: Standard visa applications have higher fees, posing financial challenges.
• Complex Application Process: More detailed documentation, including proof of funds and study plans, increases the chances of errors and delays.
• Disruption to Academic Goals: Delayed approvals may force students to defer admissions or consider other countries.
• Uncertainty in Immigration Pathways: The SDS visa was often a pathway to permanent residency, now making immigration plans more difficult.

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Inauguration of First Trilateral Power Transaction

Context: India, Nepal, Bangladesh launch first trilateral power flow transaction from Nepal to Bangladesh via India.

Key Highlights of the Transaction

• Transmission Capacity : Power export of up to 40 MW from Nepal to Bangladesh through India.
• Facilitated by: the Tripartite Power Sales Agreement signed on October 3, 2024, in Kathmandu.
• Parties Involved: Agreement among NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (India), Nepal Electricity Authority, and Bangladesh Power Development Board.
• Impact: It strengthens sub-regional energy cooperation and economic inter-linkages.
  • Enhances power connectivity and supports mutual economic benefits for Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.
• India’s Role: To facilitate cross-border supply using an Indian transmission line.

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