Current Affairs

National Girl Child Day 2024, observed annually on January 24th in India, plays a pivotal role in highlighting the importance of empowering girls and addressing the challenges they face in society. Initiated in 2008 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, this day marks a commitment to promote gender equality, empower girls, and protect their rights.
The inception of National Girl Child Day (NGCD) in 2008 was a crucial step in India’s journey towards gender equality. This day emerged from the recognition that girls in India confront numerous challenges, including gender-based violence, child marriage, and restricted access to education and healthcare. These issues not only impede girls’ personal development but also negatively affect the nation’s progress.
The first NGCD was celebrated with the theme “Saving our Girls: Educating our Girls.” Since then, it has been observed annually with various themes, each underscoring the need to empower and address specific challenges faced by girls.

In a significant development, the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) has announced the commencement of the construction of a grand mosque in Ayodhya, starting this May.
The mosque, named “Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah” after Prophet Muhammad, aims to foster unity and goodwill among people, transcending religious differences. The initiative comes on the same day as Prime Minister Narendra Modi presides over the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple.
The senior official of the IICF, Haji Arfat Shaikh, revealed that the construction is expected to span three to four years. The ambitious project is set to redefine the cityscape of Ayodhya and serve as a symbol of communal harmony.
To finance the construction, the IICF is considering the establishment of a crowdfunding website. This approach reflects a broader outreach strategy, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds to contribute to the creation of a shared cultural space.

In a historic first, the 2024 Republic Day Parade in India will witness the participation of two all- women contingents from the defence forces, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards gender equality and empowerment in the military. These contingents will include members from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing the seamless integration and valour of Indian armed forces.
At the forefront of this monumental event is Captain Sandhya, who will lead the all-women tri-services contingent, consisting of 148 members. This team, which includes Agniveers and regular recruits, has undergone extensive preparation in Delhi since early December, following two months of individual practice at their respective bases. Captain Sandhya, a 26- year-old officer who previously participated in the 2017 Republic Day parade as an NCC cadet, expressed her pride and fortune at being allowed to lead this historic contingent.
In addition to the tri-services contingent, the parade will also feature a second all-women contingent from the Directorate General of the Armed Forces Medical Services. This group will consist of nurses from the military nursing services and will be led by female doctors. This inclusion further emphasizes the Government of India’s commitment, under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, to promoting Nari Shakti (women empowerment) within the defence forces.

21 & 22 January 2024 Current Affairs