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Current Affairs

SIDBI Secures Green Climate Fund Project
SIDBI achieved a significant milestone by securing approval from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) for its Avaana Sustainability Fund (ASF) worth USD 120 million, wi... SIDBI achieved a significant milestone by securing approval from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) for its Avaana Sustainability Fund (ASF) worth USD 120 million, with GCF committing USD 24.5 million. ASF aims to invest in technology-led climate solutions in India, contributing to climate change mitigation and resilience. This marks SIDBI's first anchored project with GCF, aligning with India's NDCs and highlighting its role in climate action. The GCF, as the world's largest climate fund, supports transformative climate action, targeting key transitions through flexible financing solutions. SIDBI's accreditation as an AE and DAE under GCF enhances its capacity to implement climate-resilient projects in collaboration with key stakeholders and ministries in India.
India Signs Free Trade Agreement with EFTA Bloc
India recently signed a significant free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), comprising Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, a... India recently signed a significant free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), comprising Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland. The Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) aims to enhance economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and attract foreign investment, with EFTA committing to invest $100 billion in India over the next 15 years. The agreement includes tariff reductions, improved market access, and a focus on human rights and sustainable development, benefiting both EFTA countries and India by leveraging their economic potential. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal hailed the agreement as a milestone for India's trade relations with developed nations, marking the culmination of negotiations that began in 2008 and resumed in 2023.
Disney and Reliance to merge media businesses in India
On February 29th, 2024, Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), Viacom18 Media Pvt Ltd, and The Walt Disney Company signed agreements to create one of India's largest TV... On February 29th, 2024, Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), Viacom18 Media Pvt Ltd, and The Walt Disney Company signed agreements to create one of India's largest TV and streaming firms. The joint venture involves merging Viacom18 with Disney's Star India to target rapid growth in India's digital entertainment space. Following the integration, RIL will invest INR 11,500 crore, holding a 51% stake, while Disney will own 36.3%, and the remaining will be held by Paramount Global. The combined entity aims to offer premium viewing options to over 900 million Indian TV and digital consumers, focusing on local productions, licensing global content, and expanding digital connectivity via Reliance Jio and 5G rollout. Regulatory approvals are pending, but industry analysts anticipate the deal will positively impact India's entertainment industry, fostering increased investment and content creation.