Today in History (July 20th, 1969)
International Moon Day is observed annually on July 20 to commemorate the historic landing of the Apollo 11 lunar mission boarding Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the lunar surface in 1969.
Summary of Today’s News
Food Inflation
The prices of tomatoes in India fluctuate between ₹100 and ₹200, and the Reserve Bank of India’s monthly bulletin highlights that the volatility of tomato prices historically contributes to overall inflation levels in the country. Tomato production in India is concentrated in states like Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, and Gujarat, with two major crops annually – kharif (September) and rabi (March to August). Extreme weather conditions, low commercial realization for farmers, pest attacks, and supply issues fuel the price rise. Incessant rains in tomato-growing regions have further affected the new crop. Tomatoes’ high seasonal price volatility has raised concerns among policymakers due to its impact on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill
The Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill 2023, introduced by the Rajasthan Government, provides legislative backing for 125 days of urban employment guarantee schemes, makes pensions a legal right with a 15% annual increment, and aims to ensure minimum legal income guarantees for vulnerable families.
Aspirational Districts Programme
The program, launched in 2018, aims to transform districts with slower progress in social areas. The 3C strategy includes the Convergence of Central & State Schemes, Collaboration among officials, and Competition among districts. The Ranking is determined by incremental progress in 49 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) under five themes: Health & Nutrition (30%), Education (30%), Agriculture & Water Resources (20%), Financial Inclusion & Skill Development (10%), and Infrastructure (10%).
Henley Passport Index
India has climbed seven places to the 80th rank on the Henley Passport Index for 2023, released by Henley and Partners from last year’s Ranking. The index ranks passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. Singapore now holds the top position, with citizens able to visit 192 destinations visa-free. Germany, Italy, and Spain occupied the second place. While Japan, along with Austria, Finland, France, Luxembourg, South Korea, and Sweden, occupies the third position. The U.K. climbed two places to occupy the fourth place, while the U.S. continued its dropped two places to the eighth spot compared to last year’s Ranking.
