International Day of Neutrality 2023

• The International Day of Neutrality is observed annually on December 12.
• The day promotes awareness about the significance of neutrality in intergovernmental relations, fostering global peace and security.
• Acknowledged by the United Nations, this day emphasizes the need for countries to adopt a neutral position in international affairs, ensuring impartiality and contributing to worldwide stability.

Mohan Yadav as the Chief Minister-Elect for Madhya Pradesh

• Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has officially disclosed the identity of the chief minister-elect for the state.
• Mohan Yadav, currently serving as an MLA from Ujjain South has been named as the chief minister-elect of Madhya Pradesh.
• He was a minister in the Shivraj Singh Chouhan cabinet.

Universal Health Coverage Day 2023

• Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day is observed on December 12 every year.
• This day highlights the imperative of advancing towards universal health coverage as a crucial priority in international development.
• It was initiated by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2012.

Kabir Bedi has been Awarded the “Order of Merit of the Italian Republic”

• In a private ceremony held in Mumbai, Kabir Bedi received the "Order of Merit of the Italian Republic" (Merito della Repubblica Italiana), the highest civilian honour bestowed by Italy.
• This prestigious award, the most esteemed Italian accolade, acknowledges his unwavering affinity and fervent commitment to Italy.
• The "Order of Merit of the Italian Republic" serves as a recognition of Italy's gratitude for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society, exemplifying the nation's principles of merit and excellence.

Bank Of India Launches Nari Shakti Savings Account

• Bank of India has introduced the Nari Shakti Savings Account, specifically designed for women aged 18 and above who have an independent source of income.
• With the opening of each new Nari Shakti Account, the bank will make a Rs. 10/- contribution towards the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund.
• This fund is dedicated to supporting the socio-economic development of underprivileged women and girls.
• The Nari Shakti Savings Account includes a Personal Accident Insurance cover of up to Rs. 100 lakhs.
• Account holders can also take advantage of discounted Health Insurance & Wellness products and receive discounts on locker facilities for Gold & Diamond savings accounts.

Hindi Writer Pushpa Bharati to Receive 33^rd Vyas Samman

• The 33^rd Vyas Samman will be awarded to the distinguished Hindi writer Pushpa Bharati for her 2016 memoir titled "Yaadein, Yaadein aur Yaadein."
• The award was instituted by the KK Birla Foundation in 1991.
• It is presented to an exceptional work of Hindi literature created by an Indian citizen and published within the preceding 10 years.

‘NAMO Drone Didi’ Scheme

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi's program, ‘NAMO Drone Didi,’ seeks to empower 15,000 women Self Help Groups (SHGs) by offering drones for agricultural activities.
• This initiative utilizes technology to elevate rural women, placing them at the forefront of the agricultural revolution.

Military Exercise VINBAX-23

• On December 11, the Indian and Vietnamese Armies commenced an 11-day military exercise in Vietnam titled "VINBAX-23."
• This joint effort underscores the strengthening strategic partnership between the two nations and is a joint response to shared concerns regarding China's assertive activities in the South China Sea.