Daily Current Affairs Notes for 10 March 2023

 

 

Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Raising Day

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) observes its founding day on March 10 each year, commemorating its establishment in 1969. As a premier central armed police force under the Ministry of Home Affairs, the CISF is responsible for safeguarding numerous public sector organizations, airports, seaports, power plants, and other critical infrastructure projects throughout the country. This year marks the 54th CISF Raising Day, dedicated to recognizing the valuable contributions and diligent efforts of the Central Industrial Security Force.

The CISF Raising Day celebrations pay tribute to the dedicated service of CISF personnel through various activities, including a parade, demonstrations of specialized tactics, and exhibitions of martial arts. This event also serves as an opportunity to recognize the exceptional contributions of esteemed CISF members, who are presented with medals in honour of their outstanding service.

CISF Raising Day: Significance

The CISF is entrusted with safeguarding some of the most crucial and sensitive installations in the country. The protection of these assets and infrastructure is vital for ensuring national security. The CISF Raising Day serves as a celebration of the bravery and unwavering dedication demonstrated by the force in fulfilling their duties, often in challenging circumstances.

CISF Raising Day: History

In 1969, the CISF was established with just a few battalions under an Act of Parliament. Since then, the force has undergone significant expansion, both in size and capability, evolving into a versatile security force with specialized training and expertise. Initially, the CISF was mandated to maintain a minimum staff of 3,000 individuals and was not considered a paramilitary force until later. In 1983, a separate Act of Parliament was passed, granting the CISF the status of a paramilitary force. In recognition of its growing role in safeguarding national security, the government increased the CISF's authorized personnel strength from 145,000 to 180,000 in 2017.

The CISF has gained a reputation for its exceptional ability to handle challenging situations such as hostage crises, terrorist attacks, hijackings, and bomb threats. The force has access to modern security equipment, specialized vehicles, and state-of-the-art weapons. Additionally, the CISF comprises a canine unit that is specifically trained to detect explosives and other illicit substances.

 

 

International Day of Women Judges 2023

Every year on March 10, the International Day of Women Judges commemorates the contributions of female judges who have taken a leading role in combatting social injustice. This day holds great significance as it symbolizes the ongoing fight for gender equality, equitable access to opportunities, and the elimination of gender-based discrimination in all areas of society. While female judges serving in international legal institutions are recognized on this day, it is important to acknowledge the efforts of women judges worldwide who have made substantial contributions towards these goals.

The theme for this year's International Day of Women Judges is "Women in Justice, Women for Justice." The campaign aims to promote the complete and equal participation of women in all areas of the judicial system, acknowledge the successes achieved to date, and raise awareness of the challenges that remain. The goal is to highlight the importance of empowering women in the legal profession and ensuring that they have equal opportunities and representation at all levels of the justice system.

 

International Day of Women Judges: History

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a resolution to establish an international day for female judges to acknowledge the significant contributions made by women judges worldwide towards promoting justice, equality, and fairness in society. The impetus for this decision was provided by the international conference hosted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Doha, Qatar from February 24–27, 2020.

The Institute for African Women in Law (IAWL) stressed the importance of establishing and promoting a culture of respect for women's rights within judiciaries. The issue of sexual harassment and bullying that female judges and other women in the legal profession often face was also highlighted.

Resolution 75/274 was passed by the UNGA on April 28, 2021, designating March 10 as the International Day of Women Judges. The first-ever celebration of this day was held on March 10, 2022.

 

 

After receiving a unanimous vote from the 2,977-member National People's Congress (NPC), Xi Jinping began an unprecedented third term as the President of China. He will lead a selected team of party and government officials who will be responsible for navigating challenges faced by the world's second-largest economy at home and abroad for the next five years.

Oath of the President and head of military:

Following the vote, Xi Jinping, who holds the positions of both the President of China and the head of its military, took a constitutional oath. This act was symbolic, intended to highlight the importance of the constitution, which had been revised five years ago. The revisions eliminated the presidential term limit, included Xi's political theory, and emphasized the party's leadership in China.

In addition, the NPC appointed Han Zheng, a former executive vice premier who now returns to Xi Jinping's side as vice-president. Han's appointment is notable as he is the second Communist Party member without a rank to hold the position since 1998, following Wang Qishan. Han received 2,952 votes in favor of his appointment.

A critical moment for China and Xi Jinping:

According to analysts, the upcoming period will be crucial for both Xi and China as he faces the challenge of reviving the country's economy to demonstrate to the world that China's unique development model and governance system are effective. At the same time, he must pursue his ambitious political agenda amidst heightened tensions with the US, potential conflicts over Taiwan, and concerns over the economic implications of China's ageing population.

In the last two days of the annual parliamentary session, important government positions will be filled with individuals that are trusted allies of Xi.

Chinese political elite’s unequivocal loyalty:

Similar to the approval of Xi's previous term five years ago, the vote from the largely symbolic legislature was more of a political symbol, demonstrating the unwavering allegiance and respect of the Chinese political elite.

Xi's unanimous endorsement by the National People's Congress provides him with a powerful mandate for the next five years as the most dominant leader China has had in decades.