11-March-2024: India Signs USD 100 Bn Free Trade Agreement, Google Doodle, Karnataka Health Dept Bans Rhodamine-B, Drone Didis

11 March 2024

• India Signs USD 100 Bn Free Trade Agreement with EFTA, Paving the Way for Economic Boom

  In a historic move aimed at boosting trade and investments, India has inked a significant free trade agreement worth USD 100 billion with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). This deal, which comes after years of negotiations spanning over a decade, promises to lead in a new era of economic collaboration between India and the four-member EFTA bloc comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. The agreement, officially termed the India-EFTA Trade & Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), is poised to bring substantial benefits to both regions, including increased exports, investment promotion, job creation, and sectoral collaboration.

• Google Celebrates Flat White Coffee's Rich History with Animated Doodle

  Google Doodle has revealed an animated illustration to celebrate the flat white, an esteemed espresso-based beverage with roots tracing back to Australia and New Zealand. This animated tribute is set to grace screens worldwide, including in India, highlighting the global reach and appreciation for this beloved coffee creation.

• Karnataka Health Dept Bans Rhodamine-B in Food Products Amid Growing Health Concerns

  The Karnataka Health Department has taken a decisive step in the interest of public health by imposing a ban on the use of Rhodamine-B, a food coloring agent commonly used in cotton candy and 'Gobi Manchurian'. This measure follows mounting apprehensions regarding the additives present in these food items, particularly amidst criticisms regarding the preparation of 'Gobi Manchurian' under unsanitary conditions.

• Tumbleweed Menace: All About the Invasion Species Taking Over US

  Remember those whimsical cartoon scenes where spiny bushy huge plants seem to come to life, rolling and bouncing across the screen? The mysterious entity behind these animated tumbleweeds has over the years emerged as a real-life menace in the fields of the United States.

• Drone Didis and Lakhpati Didis are scripting new chapters of success, Says PM Modi

  Prime Minister Modi marked a historic occasion today on March 11, 2024, as he participated in the Sashakt Nari - Viksit Bharat program at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Pusa, New Delhi. The highlight of the event was witnessing agricultural drone demonstrations conducted by the remarkable Namo Drone Didis from 10 different locations nationwide.