Today in History (August 19th, 1887)
On this day, in 1887, Sundara Sastri Satyamurti, a prominent Indian independence activist and Congress leader who played a significant role in various political and protest movements during the pre-independence era, was born.
Summary of Today’s News
Census of India
A census involves collecting, analyzing, and publishing comprehensive statistical data about a population’s demographic, social, and economic attributes. It traces back to ancient times and gained momentum in modern India, with the first synchronized census in 1881. Conducted every ten years under India’s Registrar General and Census Commissioner, the census offers crucial insights for policy-making, resource allocation, and development planning. The latest, conducted in 2011, marked the 15th national census, providing invaluable information for informed decision-making and understanding the nation’s evolving characteristics and needs.
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is an Indian legislation enacted on August 25, 2005, providing a legal guarantee of 100 days of employment per financial year to adult members of rural households willing to engage in unskilled manual work at minimum wage. The Ministry of Rural Development and state governments oversee its implementation. MGNREGA aims to improve rural purchasing power, especially for those below the poverty line, and bridge economic disparities. About one-third of workers must be women. The process involves:
- Registration.
- Issuance of job cards.
- Application for work.
- Employment within a 5 km radius.
Tsushima Strait
The Tsushima Strait links the Sea of Japan, the Yellow Sea, and the East China Sea between Japan’s Tsushima Island and the Korean Peninsula. It is a significant shipping passage for trade, fishing, and tourism activities.
Privilege Motion
A privilege motion can be raised in a parliamentary house by any member if it pertains to a recent, specific matter requiring the house’s intervention. The Speaker/Chairperson initially reviews it, deciding whether to address it or refer it to the privileges committee. The motion needs the consent of the Speaker/Chairperson. The Lok Sabha’s Privileges Committee has 15 members nominated by the Speaker, while the Rajya Sabha has ten members appointed by the Chairperson. When a privilege issue is raised, the Privileges Committee investigates and determines if there’s a breach. If found, the committee suggests appropriate action to the house.
