Daily GK Updates - 31st Aug, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India’s 1st International Women’s Trade Centre to be set up in Kerala: Kerala will establish the first international women’s trade centre (IWTC) of India at Angamaly. The IWTC would be set by Kerala in consonance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The IWTC seeks to accelerate the women entrepreneurship and secure gender parity. It will also offer a safe place away from home to women to start new businesses, set up or expand, and get their products marketed globally. IWTC will also enable women entrepreneurs to participate in international trade, and enhance their competitiveness to tap market opportunities. Hence, it will enable women to enjoy greater economic benefits.

Note: Chief Minister of Kerala: Pinarayi Vijayan; Governor: Arif Mohammad Khan.

 

2. UP Government launches “Major Dhyan Chand Vijaypath Yojana”: “Major Dhyan Chand Vijaypath Yojana” has been launched by the Uttar Pradesh government. Under this scheme, 19 international players from the state of Uttar Pradesh will get road connectivity to their houses. The 19 international players who will be benefited from the scheme includes Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, former pacer Praveen Kumar, Piyush Chawla and Mohammad Kaif. The initial list of the beneficiaries includes 19 players, and more players will be added to the scheme in the coming future.

Note: Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Aditya Nath; Governor: Anandiben Patel.

 

3. Gujarat to commence Seaplane service from 31 October 2020: The first-ever “seaplane services in Gujarat” will be commenced from 31 October 2020. The seaplane service will offer seamless and affordable air connectivity from Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad to Statue of Unity in Kevadia in Gujarat. Spicejet Airline will operate the seaplane service to be commenced on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. To start Seaplane services in the state, the Gujarat government has signed a tripartite agreement with the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), and Airports Authority of India.

Note: Chief Minister of Gujarat: Vijaybhai R. Rupani; Governor: Acharya Dev Vrat.

Minister of State (I/C) for Civil Aviation: Hardeep Singh Puri.

 

4. Assam Government to set up Skill University worth Rs 900 Crore at Darrang district: The Assam Cabinet has approved the Assam Skill Development University Bill which allows for setting up a state-of-the-art skill University at Mangaldoi in Darrang district of Assam. The University at Mangaldoi will be the Centre of Excellence and first ever Skill University in north eastern states of the country. The total cost of setting up the University is estimated at Rs 900 crore with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank. It will be spread over 100-bigha plot. Assam government has also inked a memorandum of understanding recently with the ITE Education Service, Singapore, for training resource persons of the university.

 

5. CISF launches mobile app ‘Pension Corner’ for its retired personnels’: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched a mobile application ‘Pension Corner’ to cater to the needs of all its retired personnels. The in-house built app has been developed as part of an e-office initiative introduced in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some important features of the app are: The app is available on both web and Android platforms. It includes an SMS invitation system to keep pensioners connected to the CISF for any important events happening at their nearest CISF unit across the country. It has inbuilt grievance redressal mechanism. All important circulars like job opportunities and benefits relating to pensioners will be available on the app.

 

6. IIT Hyderabad launches ‘world’s most affordable’ respirator mask: In a bid to help people protect themselves against COVID-19, the Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, has launched a novel respirator mask in the country. The protective gear is said to be far better than standard N95 respirators in terms of protection and, the best part is, it will cost you just Rs. 13 per day. Officially dubbed US9, the new silicon-based respirator mask has been developed and commercialized by USafe Healthcare, the latest entrepreneurial entity from the Center for Healthcare Entrepreneurship at IIT-H.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Piyush Goyal Attends 8th East Asia Summit (Economic Ministers’ Meeting): The 8th East Asia Summit (Economic Ministers’ Meeting) was held virtually on 28 August 2020, to strengthen the regional supply chains, become resilient during this challenging time of Covid-19 pandemic, and to spur economic growth. The meeting was attended by the Economic ministers from the 10 ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) members and eight other nations, including India, the US, China, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Australia and New Zealand. The East Asia Summit 2020 was chaired by Vietnam’s Industry and Trade Minister Tran Tuan Anh. The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal represented India in the Summit. The meeting concluded with a joint statement in which the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to promote trade and investment, minimise disruptions to trade and global supply chains and facilitate supply chain connectivity, including for essential goods such as medical supplies, medicines, including vaccines, food, commodities and other essential supplies and services in the region.

 

2. Maldives launches India backed infrastructure projects: A ground-breaking ceremony for development of the Hulhumalé Central Park and renovation of the Arrival Jetty in Maldives financed by India was held marking yet another milestone in Delhi’s growing partnership with Male. The project is being executed by the HDC through an approximate 10 million Maldivian Rupee grant assistance from India. It is included under the 18 grant projects being funded by India in the Maldives under a total grant assistance of USD 6.9 million (MVR 106 million) extended in 2019.

Note: Maldives Capital: Malé; Currency: Maldivian rufiyaa

 

3. Amul becomes 1st Indian Dairy Company to Enter Rabobank’s Global Top 20, 2020 List: Amul, Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) became the first Indian Dairy Company to enter Rabobank’s Annual listing of Global Dairy Top 20, 2020 Companies. Amul was ranked 16th with an annual turnover of USD 5.5 billion (approximately Rs 40,240 Crores). Switzerland’s Nestle topped the list with a turnover of USD 22.1 Billion, followed by France’s Lactalis with USD 21 Billion turnovers and US’ Dairy Farmers of America.

Note: AMUL: Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) is India’s largest food product marketing organization. It is an apex organization of Dairy Cooperatives of Gujarat, it aims to provide remunerative returns to the farmers and also serve the interest of consumers by providing quality products. It is based out of Anand, Gujarat, India. Its tagline is “The Taste of India”.

AMUL Managing Director: RS Sodhi.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Japan’s Olympic badminton gold medalist Ayaka Takahashi announces retirement: Japanese badminton player, Ayaka Takahashi, who is a doubles specialist has announced her retirement with effect from 31 August 2020. The 30-year-old player is known as the partner of Misaki Matsutomo. The pair, commonly known as “Taka-Matsu,” claimed Japan’s first ever Olympic badminton gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics in the women’s doubles event. Takahashi also captained Japan to its first women’s World Team Championships, (Uber Cup), in 2018.

 

2. Arsenal beat Liverpool on penalties to win 2020 FA Community Shield: Arsenal beat Premier League champions Liverpool by 5–4 on penalties to claim the 2020 FA Community Shield after a 1–1 draw. The annual football match was played between the winners of the previous season’s Premier League, Liverpool, and the previous season’s FA Cup, Arsenal, on 29 August at the Wembley Stadium in London. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored the goal for Arsenal while Takumi Minamino scored for Liverpool. This is the 16th time that Arsenal is winning the Community Shield title.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Dinesh Kumar Khara recommended as Chairman of SBI: A state-run banks appointment panel recommended Dinesh Kumar Khara, one of State Bank of India's (SBI) four managing directors, as the next chairman of the country's top lender. Unlike his predecessor, SBI's current chairman Rajnish Kumar did not get an extension to his term, which ends on October 7 after three years. The central government will need to approve the Banks Board Bureau's recommendation before Mr Khara can take the job. Mr Khara took up his current role, in which he oversees global markets and subsidiaries of SBI, in August 2016 for a three-year period, which was extended for another two years last year. The Banks Board Bureau also named another SBI managing director, Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, as the candidate on the Reserve List for the chairman's job, to take the post if Mr Khara does not.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Mahindra inks pacts with Israeli firm to develop electric commercial vehicles: Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has inked a pact with Tel Aviv-based REE Automotive to explore production of electric commercial vehicles for global markets. The strategic collaboration will leverage REE’s revolutionary electric vehicle corner module and platform technology of integrating powertrain, suspension and steering components in the arch of a vehicle wheel.

 

2. RIL appoints former Indian Oil chairman Sanjiv Singh as group president: Sanjiv Singh, former chairman of Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), has joined Reliance Industries as group president and member of the oil-to-chemicals (O2C) business leadership team. Singh, who superannuated from India’s largest oil firm on June 30, will be a member of the oil-to-chemicals (O2C) business leadership team.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Juliette Binoche to be honoured with Golden Icon Award: French star Juliette Binoche will be honoured with the Golden Icon Award at the 2020 Zurich Film Festival. The 16th edition of annual film gala will be held from September 24 to October 4 this year. The 56-year-old Academy Award winner will be the first French artiste to receive the award. She will be presented the honour on September 30 at a presentation ahead of a screening of her most recent film, the French-language comedy "How to Be a Good Wife". In her 35 years of career, she has been featured in movies like ‘Hail Mary’, ‘Family Life’, ‘The Unbearable Lightness of Being’, ‘Three Colors: Blue’, ‘The English Patient’, ‘Chocolat’ and ‘Certified Copy’.

 

DEFENSE

 

1. India withdraws from multilateral military exercise, Kavkaz 2020, in Russia: India has withdrawn its participation from the multilateral Military Exercise Kavkaz 2020 to be held in Russia between 15th to 26th September 2020. The reason for this has been cited as the COVID-19 Pandemic and consequent difficulties in exercise, including arrangements of logistics. Kavkaz 2020 would be held in Astrakhan province of Southern Russia where member countries of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and Central Asian countries would be participating.

Other countries that would participate in this exercise are- China, Pakistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, Syria, Iran, Egypt, Belarus, Turkey, Armenia, Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Congress MP Harikrishnan Vasanthakumar passes away: Congress MP Harikrishnan Vasantha Kumar from Tamil Nadu has passed away due to COVID-19. He was 70. He was elected as the Member of Parliament to the 17th Lok Sabha from Kanyakumari constituency in the 2019. Vasantha Kumar was the founder and chairman of Vasanth & Co, one of the largest retail home appliance chains in Tamil Nadu. He was also the founder and MD of the Tamil satellite TV channel Vasanth TV.

 

2. ‘Scooby Doo’ Co-Creator Joe Ruby Passes Away: Joe Ruby, the co-creator of the cartoon series Scooby-Doo, has passed away due to natural cause. He was 87. Ruby, an American animator, television editor, writer, and producer, created the much-loved characters of beloved kids show Scooby-Doo, along with his creative partner Ken Spears. Together, the pair started their own production company Hanna-Barbera Productions and created other memorable cartoons as well. 

Daily GK Updates - 30th Aug, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ministry of Home Affairs issues Guidelines for “Unlock 4”: The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued “Unlock 4” guidelines for the phased re-opening of activities in areas outside the Containment Zones. The “Unlock 4” guidelines will be effective from September 1, 2020. These guidelines have been framed on the basis of feedback obtained from States and Union Territories, and extensive consultations held with related Central Ministries and Departments. Key features of the “Unlock 4” guidelines are as follows:

(1) According to the new guidelines, Metro rail will be permitted to operate with effect from 7th September 2020 in a graded manner.

(2) New guidelines permits the Social/ academic/ sports/ entertainment/ cultural/ religious/ political functions and other congregations with a ceiling of 100 persons, with effect from 21st September 2020. All the above gatherings will have to follow mandatory wearing of face masks, social distancing, provision for thermal scanning and hand wash or sanitizer.

(3) It also allows the opening of Open air theatres with effect from 21st September 2020.

(4) No restrictions will be there on Inter-State and intra-State movement.

(5) The Schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions will continue to remain closed for students and regular class activity up to 30th September 2020. Although, Students of classes 9 to 12 may be permitted to visit their schools, in areas outside the Containment Zones only, on voluntary basis, with effect from 21st September 2020.

(6) Cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres (excluding open air theatre) and similar places will continue to remain closed.

(7) Lockdown shall is stated to be implemented strictly in the Containment Zones till 30th September, 2020.

Note: Union Minister of Home Affairs: Amit Shah.

 

2. Centre Forms 5-member Panel under IIT Delhi Director V. Ramagopal Rao to redefine DRDO Charter: Dr G. Satheesh Reddy, the Chairman of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has constituted the five-member expert committee to redefine the role of the DRDO for the current and futuristic defence and battlefield scenarios. The main motive of constituting this elite panel is to:

(1) Study and review the charter of duties of all 52 laboratories of DRDO and to redefine the same for both current and futuristic defence and battlefield scenarios.

(2) Reduce Indian military’s dependence on imports, in line with Prime minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” in the defence sector.

(3) Minimise the overlap of technologies amongst the laboratories.

The committee will be headed by professor V. Ramagopal Rao, Director of IIT, Delhi. Other members of the panel are: S. Somnath, Director, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre; Air Marshal Sandeep Singh, Deputy Chief of Air Staff; Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Director General-Naval Systems & Materials (NS & M) and Benjamin Lionel, Director, Instruments Research & Development Establishment of DRDO.

 

3. NITI Aayog Launches Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC)–Transport Initiative for Asia (TIA) India Component: NITI Aayog virtually launched the India Component of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC)–Transport Initiative for Asia (TIA) on 27 August 2020. The NDC–TIA is a joint programme supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the German Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) to promote a comprehensive approach to decarbonize transport in India, Vietnam, and China. The programme has a duration of 4 years and is implemented by a consortium of seven organisations. The India Component will be implemented by the six of the seven consortium organisations of NDC–TIA programme and NITI Aayog will be the implementing partner on behalf of the GoI.

 

4. 51st IFFI to be held in Goa from Nov 20: 51st International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will be held in Goa, from November 20th to 28th. This film festival is a hybrid film festival due to COVID 19, would screen films on the official digital platform along with the theatrical screenings.

Note: Goa Capital: Panaji; Governor of Goa: Bhagat Singh Koshyari; Chief Minister of Goa: Pramod Sawant.

 

5. Delhi Govt launched ‘Healthy Body, Healthy Mind’ fitness campaign: Delhi Government has launched the Fitness Campaign “Healthy Body, Healthy Mind” fitness campaign, for the students who are confined in their homes because of the lockdown imposed on Schools and colleges due to COVID-19 pandemic. As a part of the “Healthy Body, Healthy Mind” campaign, a YouTube channel has been started which uploads a video on every Wednesday, by which the students can practice for a week to maintain fitness and make up for the loss of physical activities amid pandemic.

Note: Chief Minister of Delhi: Arvind Kejriwal; Governor of Delhi: Anil Baijal.

 

6. Health Minister Harsh Vardhan virtually inaugurates two new Medical Colleges & three Super-Speciality Blocks in Rajasthan: Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan inaugurated two medical colleges and three super specialty blocks in Rajasthan through video conference. Along with this, 5 projects and health facilities of Health Education Department with a cost of Rupees 828 crores have been inaugurated. These include Medical College buildings in Bharatpur and Bhilwara and super-specialty centers in Bikaner, Udaipur, and Kota. The Health Minister praised Rajasthan's efforts to deal with COVID-19. He also said that more attention is needed in Jaipur, Jodhpur, Alwar, Kota and Bikaner.

Note: Rajasthan Capital: Jaipur; Governor: Kalraj Mishra; Chief minister: Ashok Gehlot

 

7. BPR&D celebrates its Golden Jubilee Anniversary on 28th August, 2020: The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) celebrated its Golden Jubilee Anniversary on 28th August, 2020. BPR&D was raised on 28th August, 1970, through a resolution of Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The Bureau was mandated to encourage excellence in policing, promote speedy and systematic study of police problems, apply science and technology in the method and techniques by the Police. The bureau has played a vital role in shaping the Indian Police.

Note: Director General of Bureau of Police Research and Development: V.S.K. Kaumudi.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Bank pauses “Doing Business” report over data irregularity issue: The World Bank has stopped the publication of its “Doing Business” report to probe data collection irregularities in the annual ranking of countries’ business and investment climates. The World Bank said that there were “a number of irregularities” reported regarding data changes to the reports published in 2017 and 2019. World Bank would conduct a systematic review of data changes in the last five Doing Business reports, and independent auditors will probe data collection and review processes. The last Doing Business report was published in October 2019 in which India was ranked 63rd while New Zealand was on top.

 

2. UAE’s DMCC launches “Agriota E-Marketplace”: Government of Dubai Authority on commodities trade and enterprise, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has rolled out a technology-driven agri-commodity trading and sourcing platform “Agriota E-Marketplace”. The platform which uses blockchain will help in bridging the gap between millions of rural farmers in India and the UAE’s food industry. The Agriota platform will connect Indian farmers directly with the entire food industry in the UAE, including food processing companies, traders as well as wholesalers. The E-Marketplace will enable them to bypass intermediaries and optimise the supply chain. It will also ensure end-to-end traceability and transparency in order to create value for all stakeholders.

Note: Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Multi Commodities Centre: Ahmed Bin Sulayem.

President of UAE: Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Capital of UAE: Abu Dhabi; Currency: United Arab Emirates dirham.

 

3. International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances: 30 August: United Nations observes International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances globally on 30th of August every year. The day is being observed to express deep concern about the rise in enforced or involuntary disappearances in different regions of the world including the incidents of arrest, detention and abduction. All of the above incidents results in increasing number of reports pertaining to harassment, ill-treatment and intimidation of witnesses of disappearances or relatives of persons who have disappeared. UN General Assembly declared 30th of August as International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances and the day was observed for the first time in year 2011.

Note: Secretary-General of United Nations: António Guterres.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

 

1. India & Russia jointly wins FIDE Online Chess Olympiad: India and Russia have become the joint winners of FIDE online Chess Olympiad. World chess governing body FIDE declared both the finalists as joint winners after at least two games in the second match were affected by internet connectivity issues. The FIDE Online Chess Olympiad was held for the first time due to the coronavirus pandemic. This is the biggest team championship in chess as around 163 countries took part in the online tournament. The Indian team comprised of the following players: Vidit Gujrathi (captain), Viswanathan Anand, Pendyala Harikrishna, Koneru Humpy, Dronavalli Harika, R. Vaishali, Bhakti Kulkarni, Nihal Sarin, R. Praggnanandhaa, Aravindh Chithambaram, R. Vaishali, Bhakti Kulkarni, Divya Deshmukh and Vantika Agrawal.

Note: FIDE President: Arkady Dvorkovich

 

2. Sri Lankan cricketer Tharanga Paranavitana retires: Sri Lankan Opening batsman, Nishad Tharanga Paranavitana has announced retirement from all forms of International Cricket. He has represented Sri Lanka in 32 Test Matches scoring 1792 runs including two hundreds and 11 fifties. Paranavitana made his debut against Pakistan in February 2009 and played his final game for the national team in November 2012. He is Sri Lanka’s highest ever run-getter in first-class cricket with 12,522 runs.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance launches ‘Smart Assist’, a real-time assistance service: Private life insurer Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance has launched a new technology service called ‘Smart Assist’ that provides real-time assistance to customers. Using a screen sharing feature, the agent will be able to assist customers live to fill up the proposal form and also help them in the policy purchase journey. Even if there is an error in the form that has to be corrected in the proposal form, this can be done through the screen-sharing process.

 

2. Innoviti partners with Visa to develop installments platform for face-to-face transactions: Innoviti announced that it had entered a partnership with Visa, the leader in payments technology to develop a platform that will enable issuers to extend credit to their cardholders at face-to-face point-of-sale (In India). It provides shoppers the ability to choose how they pay during the purchase with the introduction of a suite of platform capabilities leveraging Innoviti’s uniPAYNEXT platform and Visa’s APIs. Innoviti and Visa plan to collaborate and pilot a variety of installment use cases as part of this partnership going forward.

           

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Punjab University wins prestigious Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy for second consecutive year: The Panjab University has been conferred with the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad(MAKA) Trophy for the year 2019. This is the second consecutive year in a row that Panjab University has won this coveted trophy, which is given to overall top performing University in Inter-University Tournaments. The award was presented virtually by the President Ram Nath Kovind along with Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju on the occasion of National Sports Day on 29 August 2020.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Rajnath Singh Launches Life Insurance Scheme titled Chhavni COVID: Yodha Sanrakshan Yojana For Over 10,000 Cantonment Employees: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has launched a life insurance scheme named “Chhavni COVID: Yodha Sanrakshan Yojana”, for the employees working in cantonment areas across India. The Chhavni COVID: Yodha Sanrakshan Yojana is a group life insurance scheme that will provide a cover of Rs five lakhs each to more than 10,000 employees in all 62 cantonment boards, in the event of any unfortunate fatal calamity. The scheme will be implemented by the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India. The scheme will include both permanent and contractual employees, including doctors, paramedics and sanitation staff. The launch took place on 01 September 2020, during a webinar attended by presidents, vice-presidents and chief executive officers of all 62 cantonment boards

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Veteran Athletic coach Purushotham Rai passes away: India’s former athletic coach Purushotham Rai passed away. The former coach passed away a few hours before receiving the Dronacharya Award, the highest sporting award for a coach in India. He became the third person from the state of Karnataka to win Dronacharya award in Athletics. He coached number of top athletes namely Olympian quarter-miler Vandana Rao, heptathlete Pramila Aiyappa, Ashwini Nachappa, Murali Kuttan, MK Asha, EB Shyla, Rosa Kutty and GG Pramila. Purushotham Rai’s name was announced for the Dronacharya award for year 2020 among the other winners of National Sports Awards 2020. He trained the Indian team for the 1987 World Athletics Championship, 1988 Asian Track and Field Championships, and 1999 SAF Games. 

Daily GK Updates - 29th Aug, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Piyush Goyal e-launches “National GIS-enabled Land Bank system”: Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal has virtually launched the “National GIS-enabled Land Bank system“. The system was launched during virtual meeting with the industry, ministers of states, UT administrators and senior officers of the central and State Governments. This initiative is being supported by National e-Governance Division, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Bhaskaracharya Institute for Space Applications and Geo-Informatics, Invest India, and National Center of Geo-Informatics. National GIS-enabled Land Bank system has been developed by integration of Industrial Information System (IIS) with State GIS Systems. Initially, the system has been launched in the six states. The system will be improved further to make it an effective, transparent mechanism of land identification as well as procurement. Industrial Information System (IIS) portal is a GIS-enabled database of industrial areas/clusters across the states and about 3,300 industrial parks across 31 States/UTs have been mapped on the System. It contains information about forest, drainage, raw material heat maps; multiple layers of connectivity.

 

2. ISRO signs MoU with VSSUT to set up Incubation Centre: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to set up the first of its kind innovation cum incubation centre, VSSUT Space Innovation Centre (VSSSIC) to promote space research. ISRO and VSSUT will collaborate to develop high-end simulation tools, miniature test facilities like Static test facility and solid propulsion research lab and establishment of testing facilities for the scaled-down model. Important features of MoU:

(1) ISRO will offer technical consultancy support and financial assistance of Rs 50 lakhs for the development of infrastructure of VSSUT.

(2) ISRO and VSSUT will collaborate to develop high-end simulation tools, miniature test facilities like Static test facility and solid propulsion research lab and establishment of testing facilities for the scaled-down model.

(3) VSSSIC will explore the latest global trends in space technology and will take up related projects that benefit India.

(4) ISRO will ease the limited utilisation of rocket launching facilities like Thumba, Sriharikota or Balasore (under Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

(5) These facilities have all kinds of safety systems that are required for the launch of future sounding rockets of VSSSIC.

Note: ISRO Chairman: K Sivan; ISRO Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka.

VSSUT Vice-Chancellor: Atal Chaudhuri; VSSUT Headquarters: Sambalpur, Odisha.

 

3. NITI Aayog releases report on Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2020: NITI Aayog has released the report on Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2020 in partnership with the Institute of Competitiveness. The report evaluates the export preparedness and performance of Indian states. It aims to identify the challenges and opportunities; improve the effectiveness of government policies; and promote a facilitative regulatory framework. Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu occupied the top three ranks in the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2020. Some important highlights of the report:

(1) Most Indian states performed well on average in the sub-pillars of Exports Diversification, Transport Connectivity, and Infrastructure.

(2) Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu occupied the top three ranks in the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2020.

(3) Delhi has performed the best, followed by Goa and Chandigarh among the Union Territories.

(4) According to the report, India faces the following three fundamental challenges in the export promotion: (i) intra- and inter-regional disparities in export infrastructure; (ii) poor trade support and growth orientation among states; (iii) poor R&D infrastructure to promote complex and unique exports.

Note: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog: Amitabh Kant.

 

4. Uttar Pradesh government launches NRI unified portal: Uttar Pradesh government has launched the NRI unified portal. Overseas Indians and NRIs will be able to get their issues resolved with the help of this portal in cooperation with local administration or the State Government, as there are many instances when they could not find a platform to help their families resolve the problems related to their house as well as issues with local administration. The state government will also create a database of the state’s migrant workers employed in different countries of the world and will help offer assistance during any emergency.The portal will also offer an opportunity to those who want to go abroad.

Note: Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Aditya Nath; Governor: Anandiben Patel.

 

5. Ministry of Social Justice launches Mental Health Rehabilitation helpline ‘KIRAN’: The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has launched a 24×7 Mental Health Rehabilitation helpline number under the name ‘Kiran’ to assist people to cope with mental health issues, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The toll-free HELPLINE number 1800-599-0019 will operate through 25 Institutions in 13 languages. The helpline will provide callers support for early screening, first-aid, psychological support, distress management, mental well-being, preventing deviant behaviours, psychological crisis management among other things.

 

6. A book title ‘Cricket Drona’ on renowned coach Vasoo Paranjape: A book title ‘Cricket Drona’ on renowned coach Vasudev Jagannath Paranjpe or Vasoo Paranjape will be released on September 2, 2020. The book is written by Vasudev Jagannath Paranjpe’s son and current national selector Jatin Paranjpe along with Cricket Journalist Anand Vasu and published by Penguin. The essence of the Book:

(1) The book talks about the impact of Paranjpe on shaping the careers of India’s greatest cricketers like Gavaskar, Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma.

(2) The book will be a first-hand chronicle of stories, life lessons and game-changing experiences written by people who have crossed paths with Vasudev Paranjpe at some point in their career.

(3) The book also consists of essays written by Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Sunil Gavaskar.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Donald Trump formally re-nominated as Republican presidential candidate: US President Donald Trump was formally re-nominated as the Republican Party's presidential candidate for the November 3 elections. Trump secured sufficient votes to be re-nominated as the presidential candidate during the Republican National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. Trump, 74, who faces formidable challenge from former Democratic vice president Joe Biden, 77, delivered his acceptance speech from the South Lawns of the White House on August 27. Mike Pence was also re-nominated as the Vice-Presidential candidate.

 

2. IIT Alumni Council signs MOU with Russia for building Quantum Computers: Indian Institute of Technology’s (IIT) Alumni Council has signed an agreement with Russia’s Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) and Russoft to build the world’s largest and fastest hybrid quantum computer in India. The most promising areas for Indo-Russian joint projects are Information and Communications Technology, space exploration, climate change, quantum technology and data security. The objective of the agreement is to use technology in the areas of healthcare, agriculture, transport and logistics, pollution and weather forecast to achieve the mission of Atma Nirbhar Bharat. As a part of the agreement, the Russian state-owned companies, which are key Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) owners, will transfer critical modules in cryogenics, cryptography and modularised cloud management technology to IIT Alumni Council.

Note: IIT Alumni Council President: Ravi Sharma; IIT Alumni Council Headquarter: New Delhi.

 

3. 5th virtual BRICS Industry Minister’s Meeting held: The Industry Ministers of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries held a meeting through video mode to discuss ways to boost cooperation in areas including 5G and Artificial Intelligence. From India, the Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Shri Som Parkash, participated in the meeting. The meeting adopted a joint statement on cooperation in new industries, such as 5G, AI and the industrial Internet, among BRICS countries. It is also likely that BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting will be organised in early September 2020, which will be arranged by Russia, the current Chair of BRICS.

Note: BRICS President: Marcos Prado Troyjo; BRICS Headquarters: Shanghai, China.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. India plans to host BRICS Games in 2021: India is planning to host BRICS Games 2021, which will be aligned with the Khelo India Games scheduled for next year. This announcement came after Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju attended a meeting of Sports Ministers of the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa). India will get the chairmanship of the five-nation independent international group in 2021. BRICS Games 2021 will be held during the same time and at the same venues as of Khelo India Games 2021 so that our players from various parts of the country who will gather for Khelo India Games will have the benefit of witnessing BRICS Games from close quarters. BRICS Games were formed at 8th BRICS Summit held in Goa, India in 2016. First edition of the BRICS Games were held in Guangzhou, China in 2017

Note: Sports Minister: Kiren Rijiju

BRICS Headquarters: Shanghai, China; BRICS President: Marcos Prado Troyjo

 

2. Bryan brothers announce retirement from the sport: The most successful men’s doubles pair in tennis history, Mike Bryan and Bob Bryan have announced their retirement from the sport. The brother’s pair captured an Open Era record with 119 trophies in 26 seasons which comprises all four Grand Slams, all nine ATP Masters 1000s as well as the Olympic gold medal. The Bryan brothers’ first major success came at the 2003 French Open and reached to No. 1 spot in the ATP Doubles Rankings on 8 September 2003 and spent a total time of 438 weeks at the top.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. HDFC Bank & Adobe partners to enhance digital customer experiences: HDFC Bank has announced a strategic partnership with Adobe to enhance the Digital Experiences of its Customers. The partnership is powered by Adobe Experience Cloud Solutions and will help HDFC Bank to deliver personalised digital experiences to existing as well as new customers, at anytime and anywhere. The Bank will use platforms like Data Management Platform in Adobe Audience Manager to develop a deep understanding of the customers. The collected data will enable HDFC to deliver focussed campaigns and communication to customers through email, mobile and off-line channels. HDFC Bank’s customers can now look forward to: Usage of any device to do different types of end-to-end transactions; Opening of accounts digitally, without visiting an HDFC branch; A platform to apply for loans digitally from home 24×7; Managing investments without any physical interface.

Note: HDFC Bank Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; HDFC Chairman: Deepak Parekh

 

2. Vinay Tonse becomes new MD and CEO of SBI Mutual Fund: Vinay Tonse has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SBI Mutual Fund (MF). He will replace Ashwani Bhatia, who has been now appointed as the managing director (MD) of State Bank of India. Tonse joined SBI as a Probationary Officer in 1988 and has worked across different locations in India and abroad. Over his tenure of 32 years with the State Bank of India, he has traversed through various functions and assignments possessing rich experience in several facets of commercial banking such as corporate credit, treasury, retail and international banking.

Note: SBI Mutual Fund Founded: June 1987; SBI Mutual Fund Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Dutch author Marieke Lucas Rijneveld wins International Booker Prize 2020: Dutch Author, Marieke Lucas Rijneveld won the International Booker Prize 2020 for her debut novel ‘The Discomfort of Evening’. Rijneveld became the youngest author to win the prize at the age of 29. The book tells the fictional story of Jas, a girl in a devout Christian farming family, whose brother dies in an accident after she wishes he would die instead of her rabbit. The book was first published in Dutch in 2018 and eventually translated into English by Michele Hutchison. The £50,000 prize ($66,000) will be split equally between the author and translator to give equal recognition to both.

About International Booker Prize: The International Booker Prize is an international literary award given annually to a book translated to English and published in the UK or Ireland. The Prize aims to encourage publishing and reading of quality fiction from all over the world and also to promote the work of translators. Both novels and short-story collections are eligible for the prize. The Booker prizes are sponsored by Crankstart, a charitable foundation.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Computer Pioneer Arnold Spielberg passes away: Arnold Meyer Spielberg, a pioneered computer designer & an innovative engineer passed away at the age of 103. Spielberg and Charles Propster designed the GE-225 mainframe computer in the late 1950s while working for General Electric. The machine allowed computer scientists at Dartmouth College to develop the programming language BASIC, which would be essential to the rise of personal computers in the 1970s and ‘80s. Spielberg was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on February 6, 1917. He is the father of filmmaker Steven Spielberg and helped them to produce his first full-fledged movie, ‘Firelight’, made in 1963. Achievements of Arnold Spielberg:

Spielberg helped to develop the 1st point-of-sale computerised cash register, it is regarded as his greatest contribution. Also, he designed and patented the 1st electronic library system, which was implemented as an interrogation system for data stored on an array of magnetic tapes.

 

Daily GK Updates - 28th Aug, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Piyush Goyal e-launches “National GIS-enabled Land Bank system”: Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal has virtually launched the “National GIS-enabled Land Bank system“. The system was launched during virtual meeting with the industry, ministers of states, UT administrators and senior officers of the central and State Governments. This initiative is being supported by National e-Governance Division, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Bhaskaracharya Institute for Space Applications and Geo-Informatics, Invest India, and National Center of Geo-Informatics. National GIS-enabled Land Bank system has been developed by integration of Industrial Information System (IIS) with State GIS Systems. Initially, the system has been launched in the six states. The system will be improved further to make it an effective, transparent mechanism of land identification as well as procurement. Industrial Information System (IIS) portal is a GIS-enabled database of industrial areas/clusters across the states and about 3,300 industrial parks across 31 States/UTs have been mapped on the System. It contains information about forest, drainage, raw material heat maps; multiple layers of connectivity.

 

2. ISRO signs MoU with VSSUT to set up Incubation Centre: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to set up the first of its kind innovation cum incubation centre, VSSUT Space Innovation Centre (VSSSIC) to promote space research. ISRO and VSSUT will collaborate to develop high-end simulation tools, miniature test facilities like Static test facility and solid propulsion research lab and establishment of testing facilities for the scaled-down model. Important features of MoU:

(1) ISRO will offer technical consultancy support and financial assistance of Rs 50 lakhs for the development of infrastructure of VSSUT.

(2) ISRO and VSSUT will collaborate to develop high-end simulation tools, miniature test facilities like Static test facility and solid propulsion research lab and establishment of testing facilities for the scaled-down model.

(3) VSSSIC will explore the latest global trends in space technology and will take up related projects that benefit India.

(4) ISRO will ease the limited utilisation of rocket launching facilities like Thumba, Sriharikota or Balasore (under Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

(5) These facilities have all kinds of safety systems that are required for the launch of future sounding rockets of VSSSIC.

Note: ISRO Chairman: K Sivan; ISRO Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka.

VSSUT Vice-Chancellor: Atal Chaudhuri; VSSUT Headquarters: Sambalpur, Odisha.

 

3. NITI Aayog releases report on Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2020: NITI Aayog has released the report on Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2020 in partnership with the Institute of Competitiveness. The report evaluates the export preparedness and performance of Indian states. It aims to identify the challenges and opportunities; improve the effectiveness of government policies; and promote a facilitative regulatory framework. Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu occupied the top three ranks in the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2020. Some important highlights of the report:

(1) Most Indian states performed well on average in the sub-pillars of Exports Diversification, Transport Connectivity, and Infrastructure.

(2) Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu occupied the top three ranks in the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2020.

(3) Delhi has performed the best, followed by Goa and Chandigarh among the Union Territories.

(4) According to the report, India faces the following three fundamental challenges in the export promotion: (i) intra- and inter-regional disparities in export infrastructure; (ii) poor trade support and growth orientation among states; (iii) poor R&D infrastructure to promote complex and unique exports.

Note: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog: Amitabh Kant.

 

4. Uttar Pradesh government launches NRI unified portal: Uttar Pradesh government has launched the NRI unified portal. Overseas Indians and NRIs will be able to get their issues resolved with the help of this portal in cooperation with local administration or the State Government, as there are many instances when they could not find a platform to help their families resolve the problems related to their house as well as issues with local administration. The state government will also create a database of the state’s migrant workers employed in different countries of the world and will help offer assistance during any emergency.The portal will also offer an opportunity to those who want to go abroad.

Note: Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Aditya Nath; Governor: Anandiben Patel.

 

5. Ministry of Social Justice launches Mental Health Rehabilitation helpline ‘KIRAN’: The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has launched a 24×7 Mental Health Rehabilitation helpline number under the name ‘Kiran’ to assist people to cope with mental health issues, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The toll-free HELPLINE number 1800-599-0019 will operate through 25 Institutions in 13 languages. The helpline will provide callers support for early screening, first-aid, psychological support, distress management, mental well-being, preventing deviant behaviours, psychological crisis management among other things.

 

6. A book title ‘Cricket Drona’ on renowned coach Vasoo Paranjape: A book title ‘Cricket Drona’ on renowned coach Vasudev Jagannath Paranjpe or Vasoo Paranjape will be released on September 2, 2020. The book is written by Vasudev Jagannath Paranjpe’s son and current national selector Jatin Paranjpe along with Cricket Journalist Anand Vasu and published by Penguin. The essence of the Book:

(1) The book talks about the impact of Paranjpe on shaping the careers of India’s greatest cricketers like Gavaskar, Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma.

(2) The book will be a first-hand chronicle of stories, life lessons and game-changing experiences written by people who have crossed paths with Vasudev Paranjpe at some point in their career.

(3) The book also consists of essays written by Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Sunil Gavaskar.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Donald Trump formally re-nominated as Republican presidential candidate: US President Donald Trump was formally re-nominated as the Republican Party's presidential candidate for the November 3 elections. Trump secured sufficient votes to be re-nominated as the presidential candidate during the Republican National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. Trump, 74, who faces formidable challenge from former Democratic vice president Joe Biden, 77, delivered his acceptance speech from the South Lawns of the White House on August 27. Mike Pence was also re-nominated as the Vice-Presidential candidate.

 

2. IIT Alumni Council signs MOU with Russia for building Quantum Computers: Indian Institute of Technology’s (IIT) Alumni Council has signed an agreement with Russia’s Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) and Russoft to build the world’s largest and fastest hybrid quantum computer in India. The most promising areas for Indo-Russian joint projects are Information and Communications Technology, space exploration, climate change, quantum technology and data security. The objective of the agreement is to use technology in the areas of healthcare, agriculture, transport and logistics, pollution and weather forecast to achieve the mission of Atma Nirbhar Bharat. As a part of the agreement, the Russian state-owned companies, which are key Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) owners, will transfer critical modules in cryogenics, cryptography and modularised cloud management technology to IIT Alumni Council.

Note: IIT Alumni Council President: Ravi Sharma; IIT Alumni Council Headquarter: New Delhi.

 

3. 5th virtual BRICS Industry Minister’s Meeting held: The Industry Ministers of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries held a meeting through video mode to discuss ways to boost cooperation in areas including 5G and Artificial Intelligence. From India, the Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Shri Som Parkash, participated in the meeting. The meeting adopted a joint statement on cooperation in new industries, such as 5G, AI and the industrial Internet, among BRICS countries. It is also likely that BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting will be organised in early September 2020, which will be arranged by Russia, the current Chair of BRICS.

Note: BRICS President: Marcos Prado Troyjo; BRICS Headquarters: Shanghai, China.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. India plans to host BRICS Games in 2021: India is planning to host BRICS Games 2021, which will be aligned with the Khelo India Games scheduled for next year. This announcement came after Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju attended a meeting of Sports Ministers of the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa). India will get the chairmanship of the five-nation independent international group in 2021. BRICS Games 2021 will be held during the same time and at the same venues as of Khelo India Games 2021 so that our players from various parts of the country who will gather for Khelo India Games will have the benefit of witnessing BRICS Games from close quarters. BRICS Games were formed at 8th BRICS Summit held in Goa, India in 2016. First edition of the BRICS Games were held in Guangzhou, China in 2017

Note: Sports Minister: Kiren Rijiju

BRICS Headquarters: Shanghai, China; BRICS President: Marcos Prado Troyjo

 

2. Bryan brothers announce retirement from the sport: The most successful men’s doubles pair in tennis history, Mike Bryan and Bob Bryan have announced their retirement from the sport. The brother’s pair captured an Open Era record with 119 trophies in 26 seasons which comprises all four Grand Slams, all nine ATP Masters 1000s as well as the Olympic gold medal. The Bryan brothers’ first major success came at the 2003 French Open and reached to No. 1 spot in the ATP Doubles Rankings on 8 September 2003 and spent a total time of 438 weeks at the top.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. HDFC Bank & Adobe partners to enhance digital customer experiences: HDFC Bank has announced a strategic partnership with Adobe to enhance the Digital Experiences of its Customers. The partnership is powered by Adobe Experience Cloud Solutions and will help HDFC Bank to deliver personalised digital experiences to existing as well as new customers, at anytime and anywhere. The Bank will use platforms like Data Management Platform in Adobe Audience Manager to develop a deep understanding of the customers. The collected data will enable HDFC to deliver focussed campaigns and communication to customers through email, mobile and off-line channels. HDFC Bank’s customers can now look forward to: Usage of any device to do different types of end-to-end transactions; Opening of accounts digitally, without visiting an HDFC branch; A platform to apply for loans digitally from home 24×7; Managing investments without any physical interface.

Note: HDFC Bank Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; HDFC Chairman: Deepak Parekh

 

2. Vinay Tonse becomes new MD and CEO of SBI Mutual Fund: Vinay Tonse has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SBI Mutual Fund (MF). He will replace Ashwani Bhatia, who has been now appointed as the managing director (MD) of State Bank of India. Tonse joined SBI as a Probationary Officer in 1988 and has worked across different locations in India and abroad. Over his tenure of 32 years with the State Bank of India, he has traversed through various functions and assignments possessing rich experience in several facets of commercial banking such as corporate credit, treasury, retail and international banking.

Note: SBI Mutual Fund Founded: June 1987; SBI Mutual Fund Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Dutch author Marieke Lucas Rijneveld wins International Booker Prize 2020: Dutch Author, Marieke Lucas Rijneveld won the International Booker Prize 2020 for her debut novel ‘The Discomfort of Evening’. Rijneveld became the youngest author to win the prize at the age of 29. The book tells the fictional story of Jas, a girl in a devout Christian farming family, whose brother dies in an accident after she wishes he would die instead of her rabbit. The book was first published in Dutch in 2018 and eventually translated into English by Michele Hutchison. The £50,000 prize ($66,000) will be split equally between the author and translator to give equal recognition to both.

About International Booker Prize: The International Booker Prize is an international literary award given annually to a book translated to English and published in the UK or Ireland. The Prize aims to encourage publishing and reading of quality fiction from all over the world and also to promote the work of translators. Both novels and short-story collections are eligible for the prize. The Booker prizes are sponsored by Crankstart, a charitable foundation.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Computer Pioneer Arnold Spielberg passes away: Arnold Meyer Spielberg, a pioneered computer designer & an innovative engineer passed away at the age of 103. Spielberg and Charles Propster designed the GE-225 mainframe computer in the late 1950s while working for General Electric. The machine allowed computer scientists at Dartmouth College to develop the programming language BASIC, which would be essential to the rise of personal computers in the 1970s and ‘80s. Spielberg was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on February 6, 1917. He is the father of filmmaker Steven Spielberg and helped them to produce his first full-fledged movie, ‘Firelight’, made in 1963. Achievements of Arnold Spielberg:

Spielberg helped to develop the 1st point-of-sale computerised cash register, it is regarded as his greatest contribution. Also, he designed and patented the 1st electronic library system, which was implemented as an interrogation system for data stored on an array of magnetic tapes.