Daily GK Updates – 28th Feb, 2021

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. National Urban Digital Mission Launched by Centre: Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri and Minister of Electronics and IT Ravi Shankar Prasad launched the National Urban Digital Mission’ (NUDM) at a virtual event, to create a digital infrastructure for cities in India. The NUDM has been launched jointly by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs along with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. About the Mission:

(1) The mission aims to put in place a “citizen-centric” and “ecosystem-driven” approach to ‘urban governance and service delivery in cities by 2022, and across all cities and towns by 2024. The mission has three pillars – people, process, and platform.

(2) The NUDM will create a shared digital infrastructure for Urban India that can consolidate and cross-leverage the various digital initiatives of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, to enable cities and towns across India to benefit from holistic and diverse forms of support, in keeping with their needs and local challenges.

(3) Apart from this, several other digital initiatives of MoHUA was also launched which includes: India Urban Data Exchange (IUDX), SmartCode platform, Smart Cities 2.0 website, and Geospatial Management Information System (GMIS).

 

2. PM Modi inaugurates and lays foundation stone of various development projects in Coimbatore: Prime Minister visited Tamil Nadu on 25 February 2021 to dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation stone of multiple infrastructure projects in Coimbatore. Projects dedicated to the nation:

(1) 1000 MW Neyveli New Thermal Power Project – Rs 8000 crore

(2) 709 MW Solar Power Project of NLCIL – Rs 3000 crore

(3) 8-laning of Korampallam Bridge

(4) Rail Over Bridge (ROB) at V.O.Chidambaranar Port

(4) The tenements constructed under the Pradhan MantriAwasYojana (Urban) scheme.

Projects whose foundation stone were laid:

(1) Design, supply, installation and commissioning of a 5MW grid connected ground based solar power plant at V.O.Chidambaranar Port – Rs 20 crore

(2) Extension, renovation and modernisation of Lower Bhavani Project System

(3) Development of Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCC) in nine Smart Cities including Coimbatore, Madurai, Salem, Thanjavur, Vellore, Tiruchirappalli, Tiruppur, Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi.

 

3. Karnataka to set up a Flower Processing Centre: The Karnataka State Horticulture Department is setting up a “Flower Processing Centre”, in collaboration with the International Flower Auction Bangalore (IFAB), to convert unsold flowers into various useful products. The facility will provide support to the flower farmers who suffer huge losses whenever there is a glut or market disruption. Growers can learn the art of flower processing from the centre. The incubation centre will process flowers and convert them to value-added products such as natural dyes, floral papers, incense sticks, flower petal powder for cosmetic usage, floral embedded works, floral arts, and silica-stored flowers.

Note: Chief Minister of Karnataka: B.S. Yediyurappa; Governor: VajubhaiVala.

 

4. Kerala Governor Inaugurates India’s First Digital University: Governor of Kerala, Arif Mohammed Khan has inaugurated India’s first Digital University named Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology. A Digital University has been set up in Kerala’s Technocity, Mangalapuram. Kerala University is established by upgrading the two-decade-old state government’s Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management Kerala.

About Digital University In Kerala: India’s first Digital University will focus on postgraduate programmes and research along with building strong industry-academic and academic-academic linkages with leading institutions in India and abroad. Developed on a 10-acre campus in Technocity, the university will provide education to 12,000 residential scholars on the campus and many technology-linked learners outside. The university seeks to lead the Digital Transformation Initiatives announced by the Kerala Government in the Budget 2021.

Note: Kerala CM: PinarayiVijayan; Kerala Governor: Arif Mohammad Khan.

 

5. KabirBedi’s autobiography to release in April: Veteran actor KabirBedi will tell his life story in his memoir, which will be released in April. Entitled “Stories I Must Tell: An Actor’s Emotional Journey,” the actor will provide an honest glimpse into his life. The book will take readers through the ups and downs of KabirBedi’s life, both professional and personal. He will also talk about his relationships, including marriage and divorce, why his beliefs have changed, and his days in movies, television and theatres in India, Europe and Hollywood.

 

6. Protein Day: 27th February: In India, February 27th is celebrated as the National Protein Day, to create awareness about protein deficiency and encourage people to include this macronutrient in their diet. The day was launched by the ‘Right to Protein’, a national-level public health initiative on February 27, 2020. This year theme of National Protein Day is “Powering with Plant Protein”. 2021 marks the second year for this nutritional awareness milestone in India by ‘Right to Protein’.

 

7. National Science Day: 28th February: National Science Day is celebrated all over India on 28th February. On this day, Sir CV Raman had announced the discovery of the Raman Effect for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1930. The government of India designated 28 February as National Science Day (NSD) in 1986. The theme for this year’s National Science Day is ‘Future of STI: Impact on Education Skills and Work’. The National Science Day 2021 aims to motivate the students to gain hands-on experience in the field of science.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

 

1. China Surpasses US to become India’s top trade partner in 2020: China has regained its position as the top trading partner of India in 2020, which was held by the United States, since 2018-19. The two-way trade between India and China stood at $77.7 billion in 2020 despite the conflict along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the rising anti-China sentiment. The India-US bilateral trade stood at $75.9 billion, according to provisional data from the commerce ministry. Meanwhile, the UAE continues to remain India’s third-biggest trading partner.

Note: China Capital: Beijing; China Currency: Renminbi; China President: Xi Jinping.

 

2. World NGO Day: 27th February: World NGO Day is celebrated every year on 27th February globally. World NGO Day aims to inspire people to become more actively involved within NGOs (Charities, NPOs, CSOs) and encourage a greater symbiosis between NGOs and both the public and private sector. The universal concept of World NGO Day is Celebrate, Commemorate and Collaborate the various NGOs around the world, and the people behind them. World NGO Day is a day for NGOs around the globe to share knowledge and experiences with one another. The Day was officially recognised and declared by the 12 member countries (Belarus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Norway and Sweden). It was marked for the first time by the UN, EU leaders and international organisations in 2014.

 

3. Rare Disease Day: 28th February: Rare Disease Day is observed every year on the last day of February. This year in 2021 it falls on February 28, 2021. The day is observed to raise awareness for rare diseases and improve access to treatment and medical representation for individuals with rare diseases and their families. Rare Disease Day was first launched by EuropeanOrganisation for Rare Diseases (EURORDIS) and its Council of National Alliances in 2008.

Note: EURORDIS Founded: 1997; EURORDIS Headquarters location: Paris, France.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. DushyantChautala re-elected as President of TTFI: DushyantChautala has been re-elected as the President of Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) for a period of four years. He was elected unanimously during the 84th annual meeting of the TTFI, on February 24, 2021. He is also the current Deputy Chief Minister of Haryana. The 32-year-old was first elected as President of the TTFI in January 2017, becoming the youngest President in the history of TTFI.

Note: Headquarters Table Tennis Federation of India: New Delhi; Table Tennis Federation of India Founded: 1926.

 

2. PM Modi virtually addresses 2nd Khelo India National Winter Games: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delivered the inaugural address at the 2nd Khelo India National Winter Games through a video conference. The second edition of the Khelo India-Winter Games has been organised at the world-famous ski-resort Gulmarg in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. The event has been organised by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council and the Winter Games Association of J&K. The sports activities at the games will include alpine skiing, nordic ski, snowboarding, ski mountaineering, ice hockey, ice skating, ice stock etc.

Note: Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports: KirenRijiju.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI joins JPMorgan’s blockchain payments network: State Bank of India has tied up with JPMorgan to use the US bank’s blockchain technology to speed up overseas transactions. The tie-up is expected to reduce SBI customers’ transaction costs and time taken for payments. SBI has joined Liink, a new blockchain-based interbank data network developed by JPMorgan. By integrating the technology, the bank expects to reduce transaction costs and improve cross-border payments for its customers.

About the Liink: Liink is a peer-to-peer network and ecosystem operating under the umbrella of JPMorgan’s blockchain- and digital-currency-focused business, dubbed Onyx. Piloted in 2017, the product was originally referred to as Interbank Information Network and rebranded as Liink in October 2020. The Liink solution has enlisted more than 400 financial institutions and corporations in 78 countries, including 27 of the world’s top 50 banks. The network has around 100 live banks on the network, including both state-owned and private institutions.

Note: JPMorgan CEO: Jamie Dimon; JPMorgan Headquarters: New York, United States; JPMorgan Founder: J. P. Morgan.

SBI Chairperson: Dinesh Kumar Khara; SBI Headquarters: Mumbai; SBI Founded: 1 July 1955.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. ICRA expects Indian economy to contract 7% in FY21: India’s rating agency, ICRA has projected the Indian economy to contract 7 percent in the current fiscal (FY21). For the next fiscal, i.e. FY22 (2021-22), ICRA expects a considerable rebound in India’s economic growth to 10.5 per cent due to higher central government spending, and a pick-up in consumption.

Note: ICRA Headquarters: Gurgaon, Haryana; ICRA Non-Executive Chairman and Director: Arun Duggal.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Biden admn names Anjali Bharadwaj for anti-corruption award: Anjali Bharadwaj, an Indian social activist working on issues of transparency and accountability, is one of the 12 “courageous” individuals named by the Biden administration for the newly-instituted International Anti-Corruption Champions Award. The 48-year-old Bhardwaj has served as an active member of the Right to Information Movement in India for over two decades. She is the founder of the SatarkNagrikSangathan (SNS), a citizens’ group which promotes transparency and accountability in government and encourage the active participation of citizens.

About the International Anti-Corruption Champions: The Biden administration has announced this International Anti-Corruption Champions Award, to recognise individuals who have worked tirelessly, often in the face of adversity, to defend transparency, combat corruption, and ensure accountability in their own countries, so as to combat such issues.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Papua New Guinea’s first Prime Minister, Michael Somare, passes away: Michael Somare, the first prime minister of Papua New Guinea has passed away. He was 84. Michael Somare was known as the “father of the nation” because he led the Pacific archipelago to independence from Australia in 1975. Somare had served as the prime minister of the country four times, between 1975 to 2011, and has been the longest-serving prime minister (17 years).

Daily GK Updates – 27th Feb, 2021

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Cabinet approves President’s Rule in Puducherry: The Union Cabinet has approved to dissolve the Puducherry Assembly and impose President’s rule in the Union Territory, following the resignation of the Chief Minister, V Narayanasamy, whose government lost majority power in the assembly. The decision was taken as no party claimed to form a government, following which, Lieutenant Governor TamilisaiSoundararajan had recommended President’s Rule.The approval will now be sent to the President, RamnathKovind. The legislative assembly of the UT will be dissolved once the President accords his permission. Prior to this, the President’s rule was imposed in Puducherry between March and July in 1991 when the JD-DMK coalition government fell.

 

2. India, World Bank ink project for enhancing school education in Nagaland: The Government of India, the Government of Nagaland and the World Bank signed a $68 million agreement for “Nagaland: Enhancing Classroom Teaching and Resources Project”, to enhance the governance of schools across Nagaland. The $68 million loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), has a final maturity of 14.5 years including a grace period of 5 (five) years.

About the project:The “Nagaland: Enhancing Classroom Teaching and Resources Project” will improve classroom instruction; create opportunities for the professional development of teachers, and build technology systems to provide students and teachers with more access to blended and online learning as well as allow better monitoring of policies and programmes.

As many as 1,50,000 students and 20,000 teachers in the government education system in Nagaland will benefit from the statewide reforms in schools.

Note: Chief Minister of Nagaland: Neiphiu Rio; Governor of Nagaland: R. N. Ravi.

World Bank Headquarters: Washington DC, United States; World Bank President: David Malpass; World Bank Founded: July 1944.

 

3. PM Narendra Modi to Inaugurate 2nd Edition of ‘Maritime India Summit’: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the virtual Maritime India Summit (MIS) 2021, from March 2 to 4, 2021. The ‘Maritime India Summit 2021’ is the flagship initiative of the Union Ministry of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Government of India. FICCI is the industry partner for the summit.The theme of the event is “Exploring the potential business opportunities in the Indian Maritime sector and making Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.The objective of the Summit is to promote both domestic and international investment in the Indian Ports and Maritime sector. The summit will provide a powerful platform for international collaboration with partner countries for mutual exchange of knowledge and opportunities. Around one lakh delegates and 40 partner countries are expected to participate in the event.

Note: Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Shipping: Mansukh L. Mandaviya.

 

4. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates and lays foundation stone of various development projects in Puducherry: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was on an official visit to Puducherry on 25 February 2021, to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of various development initiatives in in the Union Territory.Projects whose foundation stone were laid included:

(1) 4 laning of NH45-A – 56 kmsSattanathapuram – Nagapattinam package of Villupuram to Nagapattinam project covering Karaikal District – Rs. 2426 crore.

(2) Medical College Building at Karaikal New Campus– Phase I, Karaikal District (JIPMER) –  Rs. 491 crore.

(3) Minor Port at Puducherry under Sagarmala Scheme – Rs 44 crore

(4) Synthetic Athletic Track, Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, Puducherry – Rs. 7 crore.

Projects inaugurated were:

(1) Blood Centre at Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (JIPMER), Puducherry –  Rs. 28 crore.

(2) 100 bed girls’ hostel at Lawspet, Puducherry – Rs 12 crore

(3) Reconstructed Heritage Marie Building – Rs. 15 crore.

 

5. Kushinagar Airport Gets International Airport Licence from DGCA:The under-construction Kushinagar Airport in Uttar Pradesh has received the necessary clearances from aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to operate international flights. Once operational, Kushinagar airport will become the third functional international facility in the state. Currently, the two international airports functional in Uttar Pradesh are Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport at Lucknow and Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport at Varanasi.

About Kushinagar airport:Kushinagar airport will serve as the closest international airport to several Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Lumbini, Shravasti, and Kapilvastu.The new airport will boost tourism in the region & facilitate travel on the Buddhist circuit by providing direct aviation connectivity to the city.

Note: HQ of DGCA: New Delhi; Established in Jan 1978.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

 

1. India signs trade deal, $100 million defence agreement with Mauritius: The Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar was on an official visit to two key Indian Ocean region countries- Maldives and Mauritius. The External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar visited the Island nation Mauritius to review the comprehensive and important bilateral relationship between the two nations. India signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or (Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Partnership Agreement-(CECPA)) with Mauritius.About the agreement:

(1) The FTA or CECPA is the first such pact with any African country, and will help Mauritius to emerge as a “hub of Africa”.

(2) India has also offered a USD 100 million Line of Credit (LoC) to Mauritius to facilitate the procurement of defence assets.

(3) Apart from this, an agreement has also been signed between the two countries to provide a Dornier aircraft and an Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv on lease to Mauritius on a gratis basis for 2 years, so that the country can carry out patrolling activities and monitor its vast maritime domain more effectively.

(4) India delivered 100,000 doses of Made in India COVID-19 vaccines to the country. It had supplied 100,000 doses earlier. Both the countries also signed MoU on Consumer Protection and a Contract for an 8 MW solar plant.

Note: Prime Minister of Mauritius: PravindJugnauth; President: PrithvirajsingRoopun; Mauritius Currency: Mauritian rupee; Mauritius Capital: Port Louis.

 

2. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurates ICOLD Symposium: Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has inaugurated the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD) Symposium in New Delhi. The theme of the symposium is “Sustainable Development of Dams & River Basins”. More than 300 delegates from across the country and abroad will participate in the Symposium.The symposium has been organised by the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD), at New Delhi in Hybrid format from 24 to 27 February 2021, in collaboration with Central Water Commission (CWC), Dam Rehabilitation Improvement Project (DRIP) and National Hydrology Project (NHP).

The objective of this symposium:Provide an excellent opportunity to Indian Dam Engineering Professionals and Agencies to share their experiences, ideas and latest developments in new materials and construction technologies, advancement in investigation techniques, best engineering practices, dam safety issues etc.Offer the opportunity to network with the world-renowned dam experts from different countries and global organizations involved in Dam Construction, management and operation and maintenance for mutual benefits.

Note: International Commission on Large Dams President: Michael Rogers; International Commission on Large Dams Founded: 1928; International Commission on Large Dams Headquarters location: Paris, France.

 

3. Spacecraft Named in Honor of Black Woman ‘hidden Figures’ Mathematician: A space supply ship, Cygnus NG-15 cargo dubbed as ‘S.S. Katherine Johnson has been named in honour of Katherine Johnson, a Black NASA mathematician, who played a critical role in the success of the first U.S. crewed spaceflight, Mercury-Atlas 6 Mission. The S.S. Katherine Johnson arrived on February 22, 2021, and will be at the International Space Station until May 2021.

Cygnus NG-15 cargo:A Northrop Grumman-built Cygnus cargo ship, a space supply ship, was launched by NASA on February 20, 2021, from Virginia to carry vital supplies for astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS).The launch coincided with the 59th anniversary of America’s first orbit around the Earth. On 20 February 1962, astronaut John Glenn, became the first American to orbit Earth.The space supply ship carried more than 8,200 lbs. (3,719 kilograms) of cargo including scientific equipment, fresh food and supplies, new hardware and spacewalk equipment for the seven astronauts onboard the International Space Station.

About Katherine Johnson:Mrs Johnson was a pioneering mathematician known for her hand-written calculations. She helped astronaut John Glenn, to become the first American to orbit Earth, after personally verifying his Mercury missions’ orbital trajectory calculations. Her contributions were also featured in the Oscar-nominated film Hidden Figures.

Note: Acting Administrator of NASA: Steve Jurczyk; Headquarters of NASA: Washington D.C., United States; NASA Founded: 1 October 1958.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. ICICI Bank launches ‘Namma Chennai Smart Card’: ICICI Bank has announced the launch of a Common Payment Card System (CPCS) in partnership with the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and Chennai Smart City Limited (CSCL) to provide citizens with a one-stop solution for making various kind of payments. The prepaid card also facilitates retail payments within Chennai as well as in retail stores and e-commerce websites across the country. This will offer a common payment card platform to residents for making payments for various services within the city.

About the Namma Chennai Smart Card:The Namma Chennai Smart Card has various features, which residents can manage seamlessly online on a dedicated customer portal*. These include features like card block/unblock, activation, pin-reset, etc.Additionally, in the coming days, residents will also be able to reload the card digitally through UPI on the customer portal or the iSmart City app. Customers will also get exciting discount offers on the card around the year, which will be promoted in the coming days on the Bank’s website.

Users also have the option to manage the card online through a dedicated customer portal or the iSmart City app.

Note: ICICI Bank Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; ICICI Bank MD & CEO: Sandeep Bakhshi; ICICI Bank Tagline: Hum Hai Na, KhayalApka.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. DadasahebPhalke International Film Festival Awards 2021 announced: The prestigious DadasahebPhalke International Film Festival awards 2021 were announced, to honour the best in Indian cinema, television, music, and OTT. Late actor Sushant Singh Rajput was posthumously awarded ‘Critics Best Actor’ for his performance in DilBechara.The winner of the Award for 2021 are as follows:

Best Actor (Female): DeepikaPadukone, Chhapaak

Best Actor (Male): Akshay Kumar, Laxmii

Critic’s Best Actress: Kiara Advani, Guilty

Critic’s Best Actor: Late Sushant Singh Rajput, DilBechara

Best Film: Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior

Best International Feature Film: Parasite Most Versatile Actor – Kay Kay Menon

Best Director: Anurag Basu, Ludo

Best Actor in a Supporting Role: Vikrant Massey, Chhapaak

Best Actress in Supporting Role: Radhika Madan, Angrezi Medium

Best Actor in Comic Role: KunalKemmu, Lootcase

Best Actor (Web Series): Bobby Deol, Aashram

Best Actress (Web Series): Sushmita Sen, Aarya

Best Web Series: Scam (1992)

Album of the Year: Titliyaan

Best Television Series: KundaliBhagya

Photographer of the Year: DabooRatnani

Style Diva of the Year: Divya Khosla Kumar

Best Actress in Television Series: SurbhiChandna

Best Actor in Television Series: DheerajDhoopar

Performer of the Year: Nora Fatehi

Outstanding Contribution to Film Industry: Dharmendra

Outstanding Contribution to Literature in Indian Cinema: Chetan Bhagat

Daily GK Updates – 26th Feb, 2021

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Rajnath Singh inaugurates 26th edition of ‘HunarHaat’:Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has inaugurated the 26th edition of ‘HunarHaat’ in New Delhi. The “HunarHaat” will be held from February 21 to March 01, 2021, with the theme of “Vocal for Local”. More than 600 artisans and craftsmen from more than 31 states and UTs are participating. Through HunarHaat, the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs aims to provide employment and employment opportunities to 7,50,000 artisans by organising 75 HunarHaats by 2022, when India will celebrate its 75 years of Independence.

About the HunarHaat: The HunarHaat is also available online at hunarhaat.org and on the Government e-Marketplace portal. Indians living abroad can buy products online as well. HunarHaat is a beautiful exhibition of India’s traditional art and craft and brings together indigenous artisans and craftsmen from across the country for the display and sale of their exquisite indigenous handmade products.

Note: Minister of Minority Affairs: Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi.

 

2. CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan Renames Hoshangabad as Narmadapuram: Hoshangabad city in the state of Madhya Pradesh will be renamed Narmadapuram. This was announced by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan during the Narmada Jayanti programme held in Hoshangabad. Hoshangabad was earlier named after an attacker Hoshang Shah, the first ruler of Malwa. However, the city will now be called Narmadapuram, after the river Narmada, the lifeline of the state. The state government will now send a proposal to the Centre to change the name of Hoshangabad to Narmadapuram. The city is famous for its beautiful ghats along the banks of the Narmada River.

Note: Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh: Shivraj Singh Chouhan; Governor: Anandiben Patel.

 

3. Prime Minister Modi inaugurates several railway projects in West Bengal: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated several railway projects in Hooghly, West Bengal, on February 22, 2021, that will ensure better operational fluidity, less journey time and enhanced safety of train operations, as well as boost the overall economic growth of the region. The several projects inaugurated are as follows:

(1) Metro Railway Extension: PM inaugurated the 4.1 km extension of Metro Railway from Noapara to Dakshineswar, and flagged off the first service on this stretch. The Rs. 464 crore project is fully funded by the Central Government.

(2) Inauguration of Railway Lines:  (a) Third line between Kalaikunda and Jhargram over a stretch of 30 km of the 132 km long Kharagpur-Adityapur Third Line Project of South Eastern Railway – Rs. 1312 crores.

(b) Fourth line between Dankuni and Baruipara (11.28 kms) of Howrah – Bardhaman Chord Line – Rs. 195 crores.

© Third line between Rasulpur and Magra (42.42 kms) of Howrah – Bardhaman Main Line – Rs. 759 crores.

(3) Doubling of Azimganj – Khargraghat Road: Prime Minister dedicated to the nation the doubling of Azimganj to Khargraghat Road section, which is a part of Howrah – Bandel – Azimganj section of Eastern Railway– Rs 240 crore.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

 

1. Israel launches “green pass” for people with vaccination certificate: Israel has launched a coronavirus “green pass” system, which allows people who have been vaccinated to access public facilities that would otherwise be off-limits. As of Sunday COVID-19 inoculation is a sort of status symbol in Israel. Israelis who have gotten both Pfizer vaccine shots and those who have recovered from the virus get a “Green Pass” certificate in the form of a QR code or printout for people without smart phones. The pass allows entry to gyms, swimming pools, hotels, entertainment venues and sporting events. Green Pass privileges and restrictions are raising legal and moral questions.

Note: Prime Minister of Israel: Benjamin Netanyahu; Israel Capital: Jerusalem; Israel Currency: Israeli Shekel.

 

2. Jasmine Harrison from UK becomes youngest woman to row Atlantic Ocean: A British woman, Jasmine Harrison of England has become the youngest woman to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean. The 21-year-old from Thirsk, North Yorkshire in the UK, achieved the feat by finishing top in the 2020 Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, organized by Atlantic Campaigns. Harrison, who is a swim instructor and bartender by profession, travelled 3,000 miles (4,828km) across the Atlantic Ocean in 70 days, 3 hours and 48 minutes. Harrison began her journey in Spain’s Canary Islands on December 12, 2020, and arrived in Antigua on February 20, 2021.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Karnataka to Host 2nd Khelo India University Games 2021: The second edition of the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2021, is scheduled to be held in Karnataka. This announcement was made by the Karnataka Chief Minister, Shri BS Yediyurappa and Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, KirenRijiju. The KIUG-2021 will be hosted by JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), Bengaluru, in partnership with the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). In 2021, Yogasana and Mallakhamb have been added to the University Games, in an effort to preserve and promote the century-old sporting disciplines of the country.

About the Khelo India University Games: The games will be conducted in the U-25 age category in accordance with the World University Games norms. KIUG is the largest University Games in India and is aimed at tapping sporting talent who can represent India in international events, including the Olympics. The first edition of KIUG was held in Bhubaneswar in February 2020, and saw a total participation of 3182 athletes in the U-25 age group, across 158 universities and colleges from all states.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI ropes in Punjabi rapper for awareness campaign on cyber fraud: The RBI has roped in Punjabi singer-rapper Viruss in its public awareness campaign. The campaign also includes Viruss’ popular 2017 Indie hit ‘Bam Bhole’ that was recreated for Akshay Kumar-Kiara Advani starrer Laxmii. As cyber frauds continue to increase, the Reserve Bank of India has undertaken an unusual measure to spread awareness.

About the awareness campaign: The apex bank that has been very active on social media since the lockdown urges tech-savvy netizens to stay alert or ‘satark’ against common fraudsters and cybersecurity threats, including in UPI. The RBI has been running the campaign ‘RBI Kehta Hai’ on social media accounts since 2016 but has never been accompanied by peppy music. Since 2016 when it created the tagline RBI Kehta Hai, the central bank’s communication has been centred on financial literacy and public awareness towards frauds, etc. The bank uses social media to talk about the facilities it offers for senior citizens, cybersecurity, digital banking, and setting limits on card transactions.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. HSBC Raises India’s GDP Forecast for FY22 to 11.2%: HSBC has raised its growth forecasts for India in the coming fiscal year 2021-22 (FY22), from 9 per cent to 11.2 per cent, following a pick up in business activity and a steady fall in COVID cases. The 2020-21 GDP forecast of India by HSBC remains -6.3 per cent, as projected earlier.

Note: HSBC CEO: Noel Quinn; HSBC Headquarters: London, United Kingdom; HSBC Founder: Thomas Sutherland; HSBC Founded: 3 March 1865, Hong Kong.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Union Bank of India wins World HRD Congress Awards: Union Bank of India was awarded “Best Service Provider” in Human Resources and also the best institution for “Excellence in Learning & Development” at the 29th Global HRD Congress awards. Kalyan Kumar, Chief General Manager, HR was named as “Chief Human Resources Officer of the Year”.

About the Global HRD Congress Awards: Global HRD Congress Awards are given to institutions annually for the best HR practices under different categories. The eminent jury which consists of the best in the industry will select the organizations taking into account their remarkable achievements in HR.

Note: Union Bank of India Headquarters: Mumbai; Union Bank of India CEO: Rajkiran Rai G; Union Bank of India Founded: 11 November 1919.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. ICGS C-453 Interceptor boat commissioned into services in Chennai: The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICG) named C-453 was commissioned into services in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This was the 17th interceptor boats out of the 18 which are being indigenously built by Larsen & Toubro Ltd.

About the C-453: It is a 27.80-m-long interceptor boat. The boat has a displacement of 105 tonnes. It can attain a maximum speed of 45 knots (85 kmph). It is capable to undertake multifarious tasks such as surveillance, close-coast patrol, interdiction, and search & rescue. It will also provide assistance to the boats and craft in case of distress at sea.

Functions of the interceptor boat: The ship will be deployed to do surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zone and other duties in accordance with the Coast Guard Charter. This will help in safeguarding the maritime interests of India.

Note: Larsen & Toubro Ltd CEO: S. N. Subrahmanyan; Larsen & Toubro Ltd Founded: 7 February 1938, Mumbai; Larsen & Toubro Ltd Headquarters: Mumbai.

 

2. DRDO Conducts Two Successful Launches of VL-SRSAM Missile System: Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted two successful launches of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM). DRDO carried out the launch from a static vertical launcher from Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha. The launches were monitored by senior scientists from various DRDO labs involved in the design and development of the system. During the test launches, flight path and vehicle performance parameters were monitored using flight data, captured by various Range instruments.

About the VL-SRSAM: The VL-SRSAM is indigenously designed and developed by DRDO for the Indian Navy, VL-SRSAM aims to neutralize various aerial threats at close ranges including sea-skimming targets. The missiles intercepted the simulated targets with pinpoint accuracy. The missiles were tested for minimum and maximum range. VL-SRSAM with Weapon Control System was deployed during the trials.

 

3. Rajnath Singh inaugurates DRDO skill centre for fire safety training: Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh has inaugurated Skill Development Centre (SDC) for Fire Safety Training of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) through virtual mode at Pilkhuwa in Uttar Pradesh. The first of its kind in India facility has been created by Delhi based DRDO laboratory ‘Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES)’.

About SDC DRDO facility: The SDC DRDO facility will help in developing trained human resources, fire safety technology and products to save precious human lives and valued assets. The facility would be utilised for imparting fire prevention and fire-fighting training to the Fire Service personnel of Indian Armed Forces, DRDO, Ordnance Factories, Coast Guard and defence undertakings.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Former TRAI Chairman Rahul Khullar passes away: Rahul Khullar, the former chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has passed away. He was a 1975-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, who was appointed as TRAI chief in May 2012. He served at TRAI for three years. Prior to being appointed as TRAI chief, he was a secretary of the Ministry of Commerce and Trade.

Daily GK Updates – 25th Feb, 2021

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Dr Harsh Vardhan launches Mission Indradhanush 3.0: Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan has launched the Intensified Mission Indradhanush 3.0, (IMI 3.0), to expand immunization coverage across the country. The focus of IMI 3.0 will be on children and pregnant women who missed their vaccine doses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

About Intensified Mission Indradhanush 3.0: The IMI 3.0 will have two rounds, of 15 days each.

The first round will begin on February 22, 2021, and the second round will begin on March 22, 2021. The vaccination drive will be conducted in pre-identified 250 districts and urban areas across 29 States and UTs in the country to reach out to every dropped out and left out the child and pregnant woman.

What is Mission Indradhanush: The scheme was launched in 2014 to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to all citizens of the country. It aims to immunise all children under the age of 2 years, as well as all pregnant women, against eight vaccine-preventable diseases. These diseases are diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, poliomyelitis, tuberculosis, measles, meningitis and Hepatitis B.

 

2. PM Modi inaugurates Oil & Gas projects in Assam: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dedicated to the nation INDMAX Unit at Indian Oil’s Bongaigaon Refinery, Oil India Limited’s Secondary Tank Farm at Madhuban, Dibrugarh, and a Gas Compressor Station at Hebeda Village, Makum, Tinsukia remotely from Dhemaji in Assam. He also inaugurated the Dhemaji Engineering College and laid the foundation stone for Sualkuchi Engineering College in Assam. During the visit, PM dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone of the following projects:

(1) INDMAX Unit at Indian Oil’s Bongaigaon Refinery

(2) Oil India Limited’s Secondary Tank Farm at Madhuban, Dibrugarh – Rs 490 crore

(3) Gas Compressor Station at Hebeda Village, Makum, Tinsukia – Rs 132 Crore

(4) Dhemaji Engineering College – Rs 45 Crore

(5) Laid the foundation stone for Sualkuchi Engineering College – Rs 55 crore.

Note: Assam CM: SarbanandaSonowal.; Assam Governor: JagdishMukhi.

 

3. 47th Khajuraho Dance Festival 2021 begins: The 47th Khajuraho Dance Festival began in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh which is based on the Indian classical dance tradition. Khajuraho Temples come alive with splendour, beams, and the hustle-bustle of art lovers at the Festival. The first-day event is dedicated to Bharatanatyam performance by GeetaChandran and her troupe and Kathak performance by Deepak Maharaj.

About the festival: The festival is being organized by the Culture Department through UstadAlauddin Khan Music and Arts Academy Bhopal.  This year festival will give the audience a chance to watch the performance of the dancers amid the aura of the temple as the event is being held once again in the temple complex of the Western Temple Group of Khajuraho after a gap of 44 years. The festival was hosted each year at the magnificent city of Khajuraho located in the district of Chhatarpur, the artists perform in the backdrop of historical monuments.

Note: Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh: Shivraj Singh Chouhan; Governor: Anandiben Patel.

 

4. Home Minister released a book ‘RashtraPratham – 82 varshonkiSwarnim Gatha’: Home Minister Amit Shah has released a book ‘RashtraPratham – 82 varshonkiSwarnim Gatha’ in New Delhi. The book chronicles the glorious history of CRPF since its raising in 1939 and it has detailed and thoroughly researched accounts of CRPF’s journey, challenges, successes, and sacrifices and said it will become a source of inspiration for personnel joining the force. CRPF jawans have always remained at the forefront be it in Left Wing Extremism affected areas, borders or providing security ring to the Indian Parliament.

 

5. Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy Resigns: The Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Puducherry, V Narayanasamy has submitted the letter of his resignation and his council of ministers on February 22, 2021, to Lieutenant Governor TamilisaiSoundararajan. The decision was taken as the Congress-led Government in the UT lost its majority in the House, which is 14. Following a series of resignations, the ruling government was reduced to a strength of 12. Two MLA resigned in January 2021 while 2 resigned in February 2021.

 

6. CEAT signs Rana Daggubati as brand ambassador: Tyre maker CEAT has roped in actor Rana Daggubati as its brand ambassador for promoting the ‘Puncture Safe’ range of bike tyres. As part of an integrated marketing campaign across all five southern states, Daggubati will feature in the new commercial for these tyres to be aired across TV and digital platforms.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

 

1. India & Ethiopia Sign Agreements on Visa Facilitation and Leather Technology: India and Ethiopia signed two agreements related to visa facilitation and leather technology. The Ethiopia Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, DemekeMekonnenHassen is on a 4-day visit to India to hold useful and productive discussions on a range of bilateral and regional issues.During the course of meetings, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Ethiopian minister Hassen agreed to expand India and Ethiopia bilateral agenda especially defence, economic, S&T, digital and cultural cooperation.

Note: Ethiopia Capital: Addis Ababa; Ethiopia Currency: Ethiopian Birr; Ethiopia President: Sahle-Work Zewde; Ethiopia Prime minister: Abiy Ahmed.

 

2. India & Maldives sign 5 deals to boost infrastructure: External Affairs Minister (EAM), S. Jaishankar was on a two-day official visit to the archipelago nation the Maldives to review bilateral ties and development cooperation. During this visit, Mr S Jaishankar handed over 1 lakh additional doses of the made-in-India COVID-19 vaccine to the Maldives. With this, the total Covid vaccine doses gifted by India for the Maldives reaches two lakh. Jaishankar also offered a $40-million line of credit (LoC) to support the development of sports infrastructure in the Maldives. Apart from this, five pacts were signed between India and Maldives to boost infrastructure in the island nation. They included:

(1) Amendatory Agreement to repurpose an older EXIM Bank of India Line of Credit of USD 25 million for Road Devt.

(2) Letter of Intent between EXIM Bank and local authorities for financing a housing project of 2000 units in Hulhumale.

(3) MoU on grant funding USD 0.5 million for a fish processing plant in Kendhikulhudhoo in the northern Maldives.

(4) MoU on capacity building and exchange of content and expertise between PrasarBharati and Public State Media, Maldives.

(5) MoU on sustainable urban development between MoHUA and Ministry of national planning, housing and infrastructure, Maldives.

Note: President of the Maldives: Ibrahim Mohamed Solih; Capital of Maldives: Male; Currency of the Maldives: Maldivian Rufiyaa.

 

3. Indian Oil signs pact with Greenstat Norway for hydrogen fuel: Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has signed a Statement of Intent with Greenstat Hydrogen India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Greenstat Norway, to set up a Centre of Excellence on Hydrogen. Under this association, a Center of Excellence on Hydrogen (CoE-H) including CCUS and Fuel Cells, would be developed for clean energy by IndianOil and M/s Greenstat in cooperation with Indo-Norwegian Hydrogen Cluster companies/organizations.

Benefits: Facilitate transfer and sharing of technology, know-how and experience through the green Hydrogen value chain and other relevant technologies including hydrogen storage and fuel cells. CoE-H will be a vehicle for promoting R&D projects in Green and Blue Hydrogen between Norwegian and Indian R&D institutions/universities.

Note: Indian Oil Corporation Limited Headquarters: New Delhi, India; Indian Oil Corporation Limited Chairman: ShrikantMadhav Vaidya.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. World’s biggest cricket stadium set for first match: President Ram NathKovind has inaugurated the newly revamped Motera cricket stadium in Ahmedabad, which has been renamed the Narendra Modi Stadium. The biggest cricket stadium in the world will hold its first international match, with the newly renovated Sardar Patel Stadium to host the third Test between India and England. Both India and England had a forgettable outing in their last pink-ball outings.

About the stadium: The stadium was first opened in the early 1980s but has recently been rebuilt and now has a seating capacity of 110,000. Motera currently is the biggest cricket stadium in the world in terms of capacity. The last time when India played a cricket match at Motera was way back in 2014.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI brings State Bank of Sikkim under its regulatory purview: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has brought the State Bank of Sikkim under its regulation. Till now, RBI had the right and obligation to function as a banker to all the state government except for the state government of Sikkim. Now the bank will be regulated by the RBI on a par with other banks, however, the bank’s ownership structure will not change. About State Bank of Sikkim:

(1) The State Bank of Sikkim was established as an autonomous body wholly owned by the Government of Sikkim, in the year 1968, five years before Sikkim became part of India in 1973.

(2) It was established under the State Bank of Sikkim Proclamation, 1968.

(3) The bank provides treasury operations for the state government and operates only within the jurisdiction of Sikkim.

(4) The bank currently has 42 branch offices and operates three revenue counters for government works.

Note: RBI 25th Governor: Shaktikant Das; Headquarters: Mumbai; Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. S&P Global Ratings: India to be among fastest growing emerging economies in FY22: The S&P Global Ratings has projected that India will be one of the fastest-growing emerging market economies in the fiscal year 2021-22, with a GDP growth rate of 10 per cent. The continuous good performance by the agriculture sector, flattening of COVID-19 infection curve, pickup in government spending and the recently released budget are some of the factors for the positive growth prospect of the country.

Note: S&P Global Ratings Headquarters: New York, United States; President of S&P Global Ratings: John Berisford.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. L&T delivers 100th K9 Vajra howitzer to Indian Army: Army Chief Gen ManojNaravane has flagged off the 100th K9 Vajra tracked self-propelled howitzer built by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) at its armoured system complex at Hazira in Gujarat. L&T had completed the delivery of all the howitzers under the contract awarded in May 2017 ahead of schedule.

About the K9 Vajra programme: The K9 Vajra programme involved the delivery of 100 howitzers with associated engineering support package covering spares, system documentation and training. It also involves the maintenance transfer of technology to an army base workshop to support the howitzers throughout their operational life cycle.

Note: L&T CEO: S. N. Subrahmanyan; L&T Founded: 7 February 1938; L&T Headquarters: Mumbai; L&T Chairman: Anil ManibhaiNaik.

 

2. Indian and Indonesian Navies Conduct PASSEX Exercise: The Indian Navy and the Indonesian Navy conducted the Passage Exercise (PASSEX) on February 18, 2021, in the Arabian Sea. The military exercise between the navies of both countries aims to enhance operational interoperability and overall cooperation among them. Indian naval ship INS Talwar and the Indonesian Navy’s multirole corvette KRI Bung Tomo participated in the exercise.