Today in History (September 15th, 1968)
On this day, in 1968, the Government of India declared September 15 as Engineer’s Day to mark the birth anniversary of the engineering pioneer of India, Sir Mokshagundam Vishweshvaraya.
Summary of Today’s News
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is an initiative launched in September 2020 as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat scheme. Its primary objective is to double the income of fish farmers and fishers in India. The scheme focuses on sustainable development in the fisheries sector, with an emphasis on activities like seaweed and ornamental fish cultivation. It also promotes quality breeding techniques, seed and feed, and species diversification. PMMSY comprises two components: the Central Sector Scheme and the Centrally Sponsored Scheme. It includes key activities such as fishing vessel insurance, infrastructure development, and support for fisheries start-ups. The scheme is implemented nationwide for five years, from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25.
National Judicial Data Grid
The Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, has announced public access to real-time data on Supreme Court case filings and dispositions through the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG). The NJDG serves as a national repository for case data from Indian courts, aligning with an ‘open data policy’ and receiving daily updates. Users can easily retrieve information on case institution, disposal, and pendency based on various criteria. This initiative aims to enhance coordination, enable informed decision-making, and allocate resources efficiently within the judiciary.
Essential Commodities Act of 1955
The Essential Commodities Act of 1955 allows the Central Government to regulate or prohibit the production, supply, distribution, and sale of essential commodities if it deems necessary to maintain or increase their availability at fair prices. The government can modify the list of essential commodities based on public interest. The EC (Amendment) Bill 2020 removed excessive regulatory interference and promoted freedom in various aspects of commodity handling.
