1.   Promoting Local Currency Trade: RBI and Bank Indonesia Sign MoU.. 2

2.   Strengthening India-Belarus Relations: A Bilateral Overview.. 3

3.   The Glitz and Grandeur of the 96th Academy Awards (Oscars) 2024. 4

4.   ASI Survey of Bhojshala Complex Ordered by Madhya Pradesh HC.. 6

5.   Surge in Mumps Cases in Kerala. 7

6.   World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA-24) 9

1. Promoting Local Currency Trade: RBI and Bank Indonesia Sign MoU

Why in the News? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Bank Indonesia (BI) have recently inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at facilitating local currency trade between India and Indonesia. This move underscores the growing importance of strengthening economic ties between the two nations.

MoU Highlights:

• The primary objective of the MoU is to establish a framework for promoting the use of local currencies, the Indian Rupee (INR) and the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), for cross-border transactions.
• It covers various transactions including current account transactions, permissible capital account transactions, and other economic and financial transactions as mutually agreed upon.
• This framework enables exporters and importers to invoice and pay in their respective domestic currencies, streamlining transactions and optimizing costs.
• The initiative is expected to bolster trade between India and Indonesia while deepening financial integration and enhancing historical, cultural, and economic ties between the two nations.

India-Indonesia Relations:

• Commercial Relations: Indonesia stands as India's second-largest trading partner in the ASEAN region, with bilateral trade witnessing significant growth over the years.
• Political Relations: Both countries share a history of supporting independence movements in Asia and Africa, leading to the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement. Bilateral relations have seen rapid development since India's adoption of the 'Look East Policy.'
• Cultural Relations: Cultural ties between India and Indonesia date back centuries, with influences from Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim faiths shaping Indonesian culture. Approximately 100,000 people of Indian origin reside in Indonesia, contributing to cultural exchanges.

Efforts for the Internationalisation of the Rupee:

• Liberalisation of Capital Markets: India has expanded the availability of rupee-denominated financial instruments, promoting the appeal of the rupee in international markets.
• Promotion of Digital Payment Systems: Initiatives like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) have facilitated digital transactions in rupees.
• Special Vostro Rupee Accounts (SVRAs): India has allowed authorized banks from various countries to open SVRAs for settling payments in rupees, aiming to reduce transaction costs and promote international trade.
• Currency Swap Agreements: RBI has signed currency swap agreements with several countries to exchange rupee and foreign currency, strengthening the international usage of the rupee.
• Bilateral Trade Agreements: Bilateral trade agreements with other countries have facilitated cross-border trade and investment, further promoting the use of the rupee in international transactions.

General Studies Paper III (Economy) of the UPSC syllabus, focusing on issues related to the Indian economy, international trade, and bilateral relations. 

1. Strengthening India-Belarus Relations: A Bilateral Overview

Context: During a recent 3-day visit to India, Belarusian Foreign Minister Sergei Aleinik engaged in discussions with India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, underscoring the importance of bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

About Belarus:

• Independence: Belarus gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
• Geographical Location: Situated in eastern Europe, Belarus is landlocked and shares borders with Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia.
• Capital: Minsk serves as the capital and largest city of the nation.
• Languages: The official languages include Belarusian (24%) and Russian (70%).
• River Basin: The majority of the country lies within the Dnieper River basin and is traversed by the Mukhavyets, a tributary of the Bug River.

India-Belarus Relations:

• Early Recognition: India was among the first countries to recognize Belarus as an independent nation in 1991.
• Multilateral Cooperation: Both nations collaborate in multilateral forums such as the UN Security Council (UNSC) and the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). Belarus played a significant role in supporting India's candidacy for a non-permanent seat at the UNSC in July 2020.
• Partnerships: A comprehensive partnership is fostered through mechanisms like Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), the Intergovernmental Commission (IGC), and the Joint Commission on Military Technical Cooperation.
• Bilateral Agreements and Trade: Bilateral trade between India and Belarus amounted to US$ 223.77 million in 2022. Belarus serves as an important source of Potash fertilizers for India.
• Indian Diaspora: While the Indian community in Belarus is relatively small, consisting of around 85 nationals and 476 students, it contributes to cultural exchange and educational cooperation.

General Studies Paper II (International Relations), focusing on India's relations with neighboring countries, bilateral agreements, and multilateral cooperation. 

1. The Glitz and Grandeur of the 96th Academy Awards (Oscars) 2024

Context: The 96th Academy Awards unfolded in the heart of Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, bringing together the brightest stars and most talented minds in the film industry for a night of celebration and recognition.

About the 96th Academy Awards or Oscars 2024:

Organizer: The Academy Awards, fondly known as the Oscars, are meticulously organized by the esteemed Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). Established in 1927, AMPAS was founded by visionary individuals passionate about the art of filmmaking.

Key Points:

1. Historical Legacy: AMPAS, initially comprising 36 eminent members encompassing writers, directors, and producers, has evolved into a global authority on cinematic excellence. Its founding principles aimed to honor and uphold the highest standards of artistic and technical achievement in the film industry.
2. Symbol of Excellence: Winning an Oscar is the ultimate recognition for filmmakers and actors, signifying unparalleled excellence in their craft. The iconic golden statuette represents not only individual achievements but also the collective efforts of countless creative minds behind the scenes.
3. Global Impact: The Oscars transcend borders and cultures, captivating audiences worldwide with their blend of glamour, talent, and emotion. The event serves as a testament to the universal appeal of storytelling and the power of cinema to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought.
4. Celebration of Diversity: In recent years, the Oscars have embraced diversity and inclusion, striving to amplify voices from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. The recognition of films spanning various genres, languages, and cultural contexts reflects a growing commitment to representational storytelling.

General Studies Paper 1 (GS Paper 1) under the section on Indian Heritage and Culture. 

1. ASI Survey of Bhojshala Complex Ordered by Madhya Pradesh HC

Context: The Madhya Pradesh High Court has issued directives to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a comprehensive scientific survey of the Bhojshala Temple-Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Dhar district, aiming to resolve lingering uncertainties surrounding its historical significance.

Objective: The primary objective of the ASI survey is to elucidate the nature and character of the Bhojshala complex, dispelling confusion and providing clarity on its historical evolution and cultural significance.

Constitution of an Expert Committee: Under the directives of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, an expert committee comprising specialists in archaeology and heritage conservation will oversee the scientific investigation. The committee will utilize advanced methodologies, including carbon dating, to ascertain the age and historical context of the structures within the complex. The comprehensive report is expected to be submitted within six weeks.

Petitioners and Present Status: The initiative stems from a petition filed by the Hindu Front for Justice, advocating for the restoration of the original status of the complex and the transfer of property rights to Hindus. The complex, historically contested, currently sees Hindus conducting puja on Tuesdays and Muslims offering namaz on Fridays. While Hindus revere it as a temple dedicated to Goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati), Muslims consider it the resting place of the Sufi saint Kamal Maula.

Bhojshala Temple-Kamal Maula Mosque Complex: Protected Site: Designated as an ASI-protected monument, the Bhojshala complex holds symbolic significance for both Hindus and Muslims, symbolizing a shared cultural heritage. 

Historical Roots: Believed to have originated as a temple of Goddess Sarasvati commissioned by King Bhoja in the 11th century, the site underwent transformations during the Delhi Sultanate era, with the construction of a hypostyle mosque and the addition of a tomb for Sufi saint Kamal-al-Din in the 14th century. 

Architectural Features: The complex showcases a blend of architectural styles, with sandstone pillars dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. The incorporation of Sanskrit and Prakrit inscriptions, along with intricate domes and mihrab, reflects the cultural syncretism prevalent during its construction.

(General Studies Paper 1): The ASI survey of the Bhojshala complex intersects with the UPSC syllabus, particularly in the segment on Indian Heritage and Culture. 

1. Surge in Mumps Cases in Kerala

Context: Kerala is grappling with a significant increase in mumps cases, raising concerns about public health and the effectiveness of preventive measures, particularly in the densely populated Malappuram district and other regions of north Kerala.

Key Points:

• Magnitude of the Issue: The surge in mumps cases has become alarming, with approximately 11,467 reported cases this year alone, underscoring the urgent need for intervention and containment efforts.
• Risk Factors: The high population density in Kerala's Malappuram district poses a heightened risk of disease transmission, exacerbating the challenges in controlling the outbreak.
• Role of Traditional Beliefs: Local attitudes towards vaccination, influenced by traditional beliefs and cultural perceptions, have contributed significantly to vaccine hesitancy, impeding efforts to curb the spread of mumps.

Understanding Mumps Disease:

• Causal Agent: Mumps, also known as parotitis, is caused by the paramyxovirus, primarily transmitted through close contact or airborne droplets from infected individuals.
• Complications: While mumps typically resolves on its own, it can lead to severe complications such as brain swelling, hearing loss, and painful inflammation of the testes in adult males.
• Symptoms: Manifesting two to four weeks after exposure, the hallmark symptom of mumps is the swelling of the salivary glands.

Affected Age Groups:

• Although mumps predominantly affects young children, adolescents and adults are also susceptible to infection, highlighting the importance of vaccination across all age groups.

Challenges in Controlling the Outbreak:

• Vaccine Hesitancy: Widespread vaccine hesitancy, particularly prevalent in Malappuram, stems from misinformation, fear, and entrenched cultural beliefs, hindering vaccination efforts.
• High Contagion: Mumps spreads rapidly through respiratory droplets, posing a significant risk of transmission in crowded environments such as schools and households, necessitating stringent preventive measures.
• Silent Carriers: Asymptomatic individuals infected with mumps serve as silent carriers, complicating efforts to identify and isolate cases promptly.
• Resource Constraints: Kerala's healthcare infrastructure faces challenges in coping with the sudden surge in mumps cases, necessitating adequate provision of hospital beds, medical supplies, and skilled healthcare personnel.

(General Studies Paper 2): The outbreak of mumps in Kerala touches upon various aspects of public health governance and challenges in healthcare delivery.Top of Form

1. World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA-24)

Context: Minister of Communications, Ashwini Vaishnaw, inaugurated the Curtain Raiser of the World Telecom Standardization Assembly Delhi 2024 (WTSA 2024), highlighting India's pivotal role in hosting this prestigious event.

International Telecommunications Union (ITU):

• Establishment: ITU, a specialized agency of the United Nations for telecom/ICT, was founded in 1865, making it the oldest agency in the UN family, coinciding with the advent of the telegraph.
• Functions: ITU facilitates international connectivity in communication networks, allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develops technical standards, and promotes access to digital technologies.
• Membership: With 193 Member States and over 1000 companies, universities, and international organizations, ITU operates from its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.

WTSA 2024:

• Host Country: India will host the prestigious WTSA 2024 in New Delhi from October 15th to 24th, providing a platform for global discussions on telecom standardization.
• Significance: WTSA 2024 will define the next phase of study for ITU-T, playing a critical role in shaping the global agenda for standardization of telecom and ICTs.
• Preceding Events:
  • Global Standards Symposium (GSS 2024): Scheduled for October 14th, GSS 2024 will set the stage for discussions on key issues preceding the WTSA.
  • ITU Kaleidoscope Conference: To be held from October 21st to 23rd, this conference will explore emerging trends and innovations in ICT.
• Key Activities and Events:
  • ITU Exhibitions: Spanning from October 14th to 24th, these exhibitions will showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovations in the telecom sector.
  • Network of Women: Scheduled for October 17th, this event aims to promote gender diversity and inclusion in the telecommunications industry.
  • AI for Good: Taking place on October 18th, this event will explore the potential of artificial intelligence in addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development.

India's Initiatives:

• India Mobile Congress (IMC 2024): Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also launched IMC 2024, emphasizing India's commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the mobile and telecom sector.
• Spectrum Regulatory Sandbox Policy: The unveiling of this policy demonstrates India's efforts to enhance its telecommunications sector and foster international cooperation.
• Elimination of Wireless Operating License (WOL): Minister Vaishnaw declared the full elimination of WOL, streamlining telecom licensing procedures and promoting ease of doing business in the sector.

(General Studies Paper 2): The WTSA-24 and related initiatives underscore the importance of international cooperation and standardization in the telecommunications sector.Top of Form