New Year Resolution Ideas (2024) for Students

 

New Year Resolution Ideas (2024) for  Students

New Year's resolutions help us set life targets and bring us closer to living the life we all desire.

(To my Children with Love and Concern)

1.             Create a Daily/Morning Routine

2.            Try Something New This Year

3.            Learn But Not Just for Grades

4.           Discover and Hone a New Skill

5.            Attend personal growth workshops.

6.            Learn about investing

7.            Look for an Internship/Part time job/part time business (Helps to enhance all your Soft skills and the level of confidence)

8.            Participate in as many as possible Intra and Inter Collegiate Management meets/Commerce Fests/Cultural Fests/Expos/Shows

9.            Sign Up for a New Certification in your field (Example : Business Analytics , Supply Chain , CPA , Full Stack , AI , Cyber Security )

10.        Seak Help when Needed

11.          Celebrate Achievements

12.         Take breaks when needed

13.        Do not be Afraid to Fail

14.        Adopt Healthier Eating Habits

15.        Take Care of Your Mental Health

16.        Increase Physical Activity

17.        Express daily gratitude

18.        Volunteer

19.        Do a digital detox

20.       Plan and embark on a new adventure.

21.         Master a new language or instrument.

22.       Network and connect professionally.

23.       Focus on a positive mindset.

24.       Learn the art of forgiveness.

25.       Read a book every month.

                                                           

 Wishing you the best and hoping all your dreams come true. Cheers to the New Year 2024.

                                           With warm Regards

                                (R. MOHAN KUMAR)

                              Professor P.G. Commerce, KJC

                                    Bangalore.

Note: Share with your friends and fellow human, if you feel it is useful.

 

The Madrid Protocol

 The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty that facilitates the international registration of trademarks. It was adopted in Madrid, Spain, in 1989 and came into force in 1996. The protocol is administered by the International Bureau of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

The main purpose of the Madrid Protocol is to simplify the process of protecting trademarks across multiple countries. It allows trademark owners to file a single application, known as an "international application," with their national trademark office and then extend protection to multiple member countries.

Key features of the Madrid Protocol include:

1. Centralized Filing: Instead of filing separate trademark applications in each country of interest, a trademark owner can submit a single application to their national or regional trademark office.

2. International Registration: Once the international application is accepted by the national or regional office, it is transmitted to the International Bureau of WIPO, which then publishes the mark in the International Register.

3. Designation of Member Countries: The trademark owner can designate one or more member countries where they seek protection. These countries must also be parties to the Madrid Protocol.

4. Examination by Designated Countries: Each designated country has the authority to examine the trademark according to its own laws and regulations. If accepted, the mark is protected in that country as if it had been filed directly with the national office.

5. Centralized Maintenance: Changes, renewals, or other maintenance activities can be handled centrally through the International Bureau, making it more convenient for the trademark owner.

It's important to note that the Madrid Protocol is not a harmonization of trademark laws. Each designated country retains the right to apply its own substantive trademark laws to determine whether to grant protection. If a mark is refused protection in one designated country, it does not affect the status of protection in other designated countries.

As of my knowledge cutoff in January 2022, many countries around the world are parties to the Madrid Protocol, making it an essential tool for international trademark protection. However, the specific list of member countries may change, so it's advisable to check the latest information from WIPO or relevant national trademark offices.

"EXIM Bank" (Export-Import Bank)

 The term

"EXIM Bank" typically refers to an Export-Import Bank, which is a type of financial institution that operates at the national level and is designed to promote international trade. Different countries may have their own EXIM Banks with specific names, structures, and functions. These banks play a crucial role in supporting a country's exports and imports and fostering economic growth. Here's a general overview of the functions and roles of EXIM Banks:

1. Export Financing: EXIM Banks provide financial assistance to domestic companies involved in export activities. This assistance may come in the form of loans, credit, or guarantees to help businesses overcome financial barriers associated with exporting.

2. Import Financing: While the primary focus is on promoting exports, some EXIM Banks also provide financial support for imports. This can include financing arrangements to ensure the availability of essential goods and services in the domestic market.

3. Export Credit Insurance: EXIM Banks often offer export credit insurance to protect exporters against the risk of non-payment by foreign buyers. This insurance helps exporters mitigate the financial risks associated with international trade.

4. Working Capital Support: EXIM Banks may provide working capital loans to exporters to cover operational costs during the production and export process. This ensures that exporters have the necessary funds to fulfill orders.

5. Guarantees and Letters of Credit: EXIM Banks issue guarantees and letters of credit to facilitate international trade transactions. These instruments provide assurance to both exporters and importers, reducing the risks associated with cross-border trade.

6. Trade Promotion: In addition to financial services, many EXIM Banks are involved in trade promotion activities. This includes providing information, advisory services, and market intelligence to help businesses identify and explore export opportunities.

7. Project Financing: Some EXIM Banks participate in the financing of large-scale projects, especially those with a significant impact on a country's economic development. This can include infrastructure projects, energy projects, and more.

8. Policy Advocacy: EXIM Banks may also engage in policy advocacy, working with governments to develop and implement policies that support and facilitate international trade.

It's important to note that the specific functions and activities of an EXIM Bank can vary from one country to another. Examples of EXIM Banks include the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank) and the Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM India). Each of these institutions is tailored to the economic needs and priorities of its respective country.

Competition Commission of India

 As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) is the regulatory body in India responsible for enforcing competition laws and ensuring fair competition in the market. It was established under the Competition Act of 2002 and became fully functional in 2009. The CCI's primary objective is to prevent anti-competitive practices and promote fair competition in the Indian market.

Key functions and responsibilities of the Competition Commission of India include:

1. Prevention of Anti-Competitive Agreements: The CCI prohibits agreements that restrict competition, such as cartels, price-fixing, bid-rigging, and market-sharing agreements.

2. Abuse of Dominant Position: The CCI investigates and takes action against entities that abuse their dominant position in the market, leading to adverse effects on competition.

3. Regulation of Combinations: The CCI assesses mergers and acquisitions to ensure that they do not have an adverse impact on competition in the relevant market.

4. Competition Advocacy: The CCI engages in advocacy and awareness programs to promote competition and educate businesses, policymakers, and the public about the benefits of a competitive market.

5. Competition Law Enforcement: The CCI investigates complaints of anti-competitive practices, conducts inquiries, and takes appropriate enforcement actions.

6. Market Studies and Research: The CCI conducts studies and research to understand market dynamics and identify areas where competition may be lacking or distorted.

7. Capacity Building: The CCI focuses on building capacity within the organization and enhancing the understanding of competition issues among stakeholders.

The CCI plays a crucial role in ensuring a competitive and fair business environment in India. It has the authority to impose penalties on entities found to be violating competition laws and can issue orders to cease anti-competitive practices.

Please note that developments may have occurred since my last update in January 2022. It's advisable to check the latest sources or the official website of the Competition Commission of India for the most current information.

WORLD TRADE ORGANISATION : FUNCTIONS ANA OBJECTIVES

 The World Trade Organization (WTO) is an international organization that deals with the global rules of trade between nations. It was established on January 1, 1995, and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The WTO is the only global international organization that deals with the rules of trade between nations.

Key functions and objectives of the WTO include:

1. Trade Agreements: The WTO facilitates negotiations and implements trade agreements among its member countries. These agreements cover a wide range of areas, including goods, services, and intellectual property.

2. Dispute Resolution: The WTO provides a forum for member countries to resolve trade disputes through a formal dispute settlement process. This helps in preventing trade conflicts from escalating into trade wars.

3. Trade Policy Review: The WTO conducts regular reviews of the trade policies of its member countries to promote transparency and ensure that countries are adhering to their commitments under WTO agreements.

4. Trade Facilitation: The WTO works to reduce barriers to trade by promoting the simplification and harmonization of customs procedures, making it easier for goods and services to move across borders.

5. Technical Assistance and Capacity Building: The WTO provides technical assistance and capacity-building programs to help developing countries, especially the least developed ones, participate effectively in the global trading system.

6. Special and Differential Treatment: Recognizing the differences in development levels among its members, the WTO allows for special and differential treatment for developing countries to give them flexibility in implementing certain trade-related policies.

7. Multilateralism: The WTO operates on the principle of multilateralism, meaning that decisions are made collectively by its member countries. This is in contrast to bilateral or regional trade agreements.

While the WTO plays a crucial role in facilitating global trade, it has faced challenges, including difficulties in reaching new multilateral agreements and criticism regarding its ability to address issues such as environmental and labor standards. The organization continues to evolve, and discussions among member countries are ongoing to address these challenges and strengthen the global trading system.

What Is the Kyoto Protocol?

The Kyoto Protocol was an international agreement that aimed to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and the presence of green house gases in the atmosphere. The essential tenet of the Kyoto Protocol was that industrialized nations needed to lessen the amount of their CO2 emissions. The protocol was adopted in Kyoto, Japan in 1997, when greenhouse gases rapidly threatened the climate, life on the earth, and the planet.

It was effectively replaced by the Paris Agreement, which went into effect in 2016.

Kyoto Protocol Mechanisms

The Kyoto Protocol established three different mechanisms to enable countries additional ways to meet their emission-limitation target. The three mechanisms are:

• The International Emissions Trading Mechanism: Countries that have excess emission units permitted to them but not used can engage in carbon trading and sell these units to countries over their target.
  
• The Clean Development Mechanism: Countries with emission-reducing or limiting commitments may implement emission-reducing projects in developing countries to earn certified emission-reduction credits.
• The Joint Implementation Mechanism: Countries with emission-reducing or limiting commitments to earn emission-reducing units from a project in another party.

What Was the Primary Purpose of the Kyoto Protocol?

The Kyoto Protocol was an agreement among developed nations to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and greenhouse gases in an effort to minimize the impacts of climate change.

It is an international treaty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Kyoto Protocol applies to 6 greenhouse gases; carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride. It is an extension of the 1992 UNFCCC.

Kyoto Protocol Timeline

Below are some relevant dates relating to the development, implementation, and revisions to the Kyoto Protocol:

• Dec. 11, 1997: The Kyoto Protocol was adopted at the Conference of the Parties in Kyoto, Japan.
• Nov. 14, 1998: As a result of a two-week meeting that concluded on the 14th, 170 governments adopted a two-year plan titled the Buenos Aires Plan of Action to reduce the risk of global climate change.
  
• March 16, 1998: The Kyoto Protocol becomes open for signatures.
• March 15, 1999: One year after being open for signatures, the Kyoto Protocol had received 84 signatures
• Feb. 16, 2005: The Kyoto Protocol goes into force.
  
• Dec. 8, 2012: The Doha Amendment was adopted for a second commitment period.
• March 25, 2013: Afghanistan becomes the 192nd signatory of the Kyoto Protocol. As of August 2023, there remained 192 signatories.
  
• Dec. 12, 2015: The Paris Agreement was adopted by 196 parties at COP21 in Paris, largely superseding the Kyoto Protocol.
• Nov. 4, 2016: The Paris Agreement went into effect.
  
• Dec. 31, 2020: After obtaining acceptance by 147 parties and meeting the minimum threshold of acceptance requirement, the Doha Amendment was officially adopted.
• When did the Kyoto Protocol start and end

The Protocol's first commitment period started in 2008 and ended in 2012. The second commitment period began on 1 January 2013 and will end in 2020. There are now 197 Parties to the Convention and 192 Parties to the Kyoto Protocol.

Which treaty replaced Kyoto Protocol?

The Paris Climate Agreement of 2015 replaced the Kyoto Protocol and includes commitments from all major GHG-emitting countries to reduce their climate-altering pollution.