Today in History (February 2nd, 1943)
In 1943, the German Sixth Army surrendered to the Soviet Red Army after the Battle of Stalingrad, marking a huge turning point in World War II.
Summary of Today’s News
The Republic Day Parade
The Republic Day Parade, a grand and patriotic event held annually in India on January 26, showcases the country’s cultural diversity and military strength.
On January 30, 2024, Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt honoured the best marching contingents and tableaux in a ceremony, celebrating their outstanding performances in the 2024 parade.
This year’s awards were unique as they included results from both a panel of judges and an online public vote conducted by MyGov.
Awards by the Panel of Judges
Best Marching Contingents
Among the Three Services: The Sikh Regiment Contingent was declared the best marching contingent, showcasing their discipline and precision.
- Among CAPF/Other Auxiliary Forces:The Delhi Police Women Marching Contingent received the award, highlighting the increasing role of women in security forces.
Best Tableaux
States/UTs Category:
- First:Odisha’s tableau, themed “Woman Empowerment in Viksit Bharat,” showcased the state’s commitment to women’s progress.
- Second:Gujarat’s “Dhordo: A Global Icon of Gujarat’s Border Tourism” tableau highlighted the state’s border tourism.
- Third:Tamil Nadu’s “Kudavolai System in Ancient Tamil Nadu – Mother of Democracy” tableau depicted the region’s ancient democratic system.
- Ministries/Departments Category:The Ministry of Culture won with their tableau “Bharat: Mother of Democracy,” celebrating India’s democratic heritage.
A special prize was awarded to the Central Public Works Department for their tableau “Central Vista – Viksit Bharat Ka Pratibimb,” and a special memento was given to the ‘Vande Bharatam’ dance group.
Awards by Public Choice
An online poll on the MyGov platform allowed citizens to vote for their favorite tableaux and marching contingents. The results were:
Best Marching Contingents
- Among the Three Services:The Rajputana Rifles Regimental Marching Contingent was chosen as the best by public vote.
- Among CAPF/Other Auxiliary Forces:The CRPF Woman Marching Contingent won the public’s choice award.
On Israel’s obligation to prevent genocide
- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to take measures to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza, but stopped short of calling for an immediate ceasefire as requested by South Africa. A final verdict can only be pronounced after hearings on jurisdictional challenges and the merits of the claim are concluded, which will likely take several years.
- The Court also ordered Israel to permit the entry of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance into the Palestinian enclave. South Africa had alleged that Israel’s blockade of food, water, medicine, and other essential supplies had pushed Palestinians to the “brink of famine.”
- The UN Security Council (UNSC) is set to meet next week to deliberate upon the decision.
