Daily GK Update- 28th Feb, 2022

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Giriraj Singh launches Ombudsperson App for Mahatma Gandhi NREGA: Union Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Giriraj Singh has launched Ombudsperson App for Mahatma Gandhi NREGA. Ministry of Rural Development has developed an Ombudsperson App for smooth reporting and categorization of grievances by Ombudsperson based on complaints he received from various sources viz. physical, digital and mass media, related to the implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi NREG Scheme in the States/UTs.

About the app:

a)      The app will enable easy tracking and timely passing of awards by Ombudsperson on each case as per the guidelines. Ombudsperson can also easily upload the quarterly and annual reports on the website through the app.

b)      The app will help the ombudsperson to a greater extent in discharging her/his duty towards transparency and accountability. Also, smooth disposal of the grievances in a time-bound manner with minimal support of further human resources will be possible through the app.

 

2. Vande Bharatam’s signature tune released by Minister of State for Culture: Minister of State for Culture & External Affairs, Meenakashi Lekhi has released a signature tune for ‘Vande Bharatam’. The tune is composed by Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej and Oscar contender Bickram Ghosh. It was produced for Vande Bharatam, Nritya Utsav of Ministry of Culture presented at Rajpath, New Delhi for Republic Day event 2022. It was followed by the fascinating live performance by composers of Vande Bharatam song Ricky Kej and Bikram Ghosh.

The two musicians, Ricky kej and Bickram Ghosh shared that it is an honour for them to have given the score for Vande Bharatam which is a very rich piece of music and is based on Indian traditions but also has modern features and fusion. The Ministry of Defence handed over the special trophy to the Ministry of Culture in recognition of its exemplary efforts during the Republic day Event 2022.

 

3. India’s NIUA and WEF to collaborate on sustainable cities development programme: World Economic Forum (WEF) and the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on a jointly designed ‘Sustainable Cities India program’. The program aims to create an enabling environment for cities to generate decarbonization solutions across the energy, transport, and built environment sectors. This initiative is particularly noteworthy as it comes after the Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated India’s commitment to turn net-zero by 2070 as a climate mitigation response at COP26. Key points:

a)      The ‘Sustainable Cities India program’ intends to enable cities to decarbonize in a systematic and sustainable way that will reduce emissions and deliver resilient and equitable urban ecosystems.

b)      The Forum and NIUA will adapt the Forum’s City Sprint process and Toolbox of Solutions for decarbonization in the context of five to seven Indian cities across two years.

c)       The City Sprint process is a series of multi-sectoral, multi-stakeholder workshops involving business, government, and civil society leaders to enable decarbonization, especially through clean electrification and circularity.

d)      The outcome of the workshop series will be a shortlist of relevant policies and business models, which not only reduce emissions but also maximize System Value, such as improved air quality or job creation.

 

4. IBM unveiled new Cybersecurity Hub in Bengaluru to address cyberattack: International Business Machines Corp. (IBM) has launched a cybersecurity hub in Bengaluru to address the concerns of its clients across the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. The multi-million dollar IBM Security Command Center will be located at the IBM office in Bengaluru in Karnataka. It is the first of its kind facility in the region. The IBM global analysis report for 2022 states that Asia emerged as the top-most targeted region for cyberattacks, representing 26% of attacks analyzed in 2021.

About the cybersecurity hub: This cybersecurity hub will deliver training in cybersecurity response techniques, to organisations of all types, through highly realistic, simulated cyberattacks, to prepare everyone, ranging from C-Suite to technical staff. The new cyber security hub is one of the only two such centres of IBM globally. The other one is located in the US.

Note: IBM CEO: Arvind Krishna; IBM Headquarters: New York, United States; IBM Founder: Charles Ranlett Flint; IBM Founded: 16 June 1911.

 

5. National Science Day: 28th February: The National Science Day is celebrated on 28 February each year in India to spread the message about the importance of science in the daily life of the people. 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 National Science Day theme for 2022: ‘Integrated Approach in S&T for Sustainable Future’. The day also commemorates the discovery of the Raman Effect.

Significance of the day: National Science Day is celebrated to raise awareness on the importance of science. Educational institutions celebrate National Science Day by organising public speeches, radio, TV, science movies, science exhibitions on themes and concepts, debates, quiz competitions, lectures and science model exhibitions.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. New Development Bank 1st multilateral agency to open office in Gift City: New Development Bank (NDB) will become the first multilateral agency to open an office in the Gujarat International Finance Tech City (Gift). New Development Bank (NDB) has received the approval for the same and will open the office in May 2022 in GIFT City. The Indian office will help identify suitable projects and try to create a pipeline of potential financing for the bank. NDB also expects to partner with the newly launched National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NBFID) to support crucial infrastructure projects in India.

About the New Development Bank: NDB was set up by the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) with the objective of mobilizing resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in the BRICS as well as other emerging markets in 2014. It became operational in 2015 and is headquartered in Shanghai, China. All the founding members equally own the bank.

Note: New Development Bank Headquarters Location: Shanghai, China; New Development Bank President: Marcos Prado Troyjo; New Development Bank Founder: BRICS; New Development Bank Founded: 15 July 2014.

 

2. Rare Disease Day: 28th February: The Rare Disease Day (RDD) is observed every year on the last day of February. This year in 2022 it falls on February 28, 2022. 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 European Organisation for Rare Diseases (EURORDIS) and its Council of National Alliances in 2008. The Rare Disease Day theme 2022: “Share Your Colors.”

History of the day: The first Rare Disease Day was coordinated by the European Organisation for Rare Diseases (EURORDIS) and held on February 29, 2008 in numerous European nations and in Canada through the Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders. The date was chosen because February 29 is a “rare day.

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

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Mirabai Chanu wins gold at Singapore Weightlifting International: Indian weightlifter and 2020 Tokyo Olympics silver-medallist, Mirabai Chanu has won the gold medal in the 55kg weight category at the Singapore Weightlifting International 2022 on February 25, 2022. Chanu lifted 191kg (86kg+105kg) to stand on top of the podium.

With this win, the 27-year-old Chanu has qualified for the 2022 Commonwealth Games (CWG) in Birmingham in the 55kg weight category. She has also qualified for the CWG in the 49kg weight category on the basis of her Commonwealth rankings.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Union Bank launches ‘Union MSMERuPay Credit Card’: The Union Bank of India has launched the ‘Union MSME RuPay Credit Card’ in association with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It is a first of its kind initiative in the industry, to provide simplified and digital delivery of Finance to Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), to meet their business-related operational expenses.

The dedicated card for MSMEs will be available to eligible borrowers of the Union Bank of India. The Union MSME RuPay Credit Card was launched by Union Minister for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Shri Narayan Rane on February 25, 2022, at the two days MSME Conclave being held in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra.

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

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Moody’s revised India’s growth estimates to 9.5% in CY2022: Moody’s has revised India’s economic growth estimates in the Current Year 2022 upwards to 9.5 per cent from 7 per cent on stronger than expected recovery after a lockdown in 2020 and Covid-19’s Delta wave in 2021. It maintained a forecast for 5.5 per cent growth in CY2023. In its update on Global Macro Outlook 2022-23 today, Moody’s said sales tax collection, retail activity and Purchasing Managers Index suggest solid momentum. However, high oil prices and supply distortions remain a drag on growth for India.

 

2. HUL named Nitin Paranjpe as non-executive Chairman: Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) has announced the separation of the position of Chairman of the Board and the CEO & Managing Director of the company. Nitin Paranjpe has been appointed as the Non-Executive Chairman of the company with effect from March 31, 2022. He is currently serving as Chief Operating Officer of Unilever, the parent company of HUL. Sanjiv Mehta will continue to be the Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director (CEO & MD) of the company. The Board accepted the recommendation made by the NRC and has appointed Paranjpe as a Non-Executive Chairman. The appointment is subject to approval of the shareholders which the Company will seek as per applicable regulations.

Note: Hindustan Unilever Ltd Headquarters: Mumbai; Hindustan Unilever Ltd Founded: 17 October 1933.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Third India-Japan joint exercise ‘EX DHARMA GUARDIAN-2022’: The third edition of the joint military exercise “EX DHARMA GUARDIAN-2022” between India and Japan will be conducted from 27 February to 10 March 2022, at Belagavi (Belgaum), Karnataka. The 15th Battalion the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment of the Indian Army and 30th Infantry Regiment of Japanese Ground Self Defence Forces (JGSDF) are participating in this 12 days long joint exercise. About the exercise:

a)      The military exercise will focus on operations in Jungle & Semi-Urban/Urban terrains.

b)      The exercise aims at enhancing the inter-operability and foster mutual understanding between the two Armies.

c)       Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN is an annual military training event, being conducted in India since 2018.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Odisha’s first tribal CM Hemananda Biswal passes away: Odisha’s first tribal chief minister as well as last Congress chief minister of the state, Hemananda Biswal passed away. He was 82. Biswal, a Bhuyan tribal from Jharsuguda district, served as the chief minister twice from 1989 to 1990 and 1999 to 2000. In December 1999, he was again made chief minister after erstwhile chief minister Giridhari Gamang was replaced over his failure in relief and rehabilitation measures in the aftermath of the 1999 super cyclone that ripped through the Odisha coast.

Biswal began his political journey as a chairman of Kirimira panchayat Samiti in the Jharsuguda district. He was elected to the Odisha assembly for the first time in 1974 from Laikera constituency. He was elected to the assembly as MLA six times from the same seat. In 2009 he was elected as an MP from Sundargarh.

Daily GK Update- 27th Feb, 2022

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. GoI launches the “Janbhagidari Empowerment” portal in J&K: The Central Government launched the “Janbhagidari Empowerment” portal in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, in line with the government’s digital mission. The portal was hosted on a different server with higher bandwidth, in order to provide easy and ready accessibility to the general public. This intervention comes amid concerns related to the slow speed or bandwidth issues related to the portal. This has led to disenchantment among users despite its great value as an information platform. After the movement of this portal on a different server, it has started to open quickly enough, and thus the whole experience of visiting the portal has improved. About 70 thousand people have accessed the portal until now. With the increase in bandwidth, the portal is likely to receive more hits in near future.

Importance of the portal:

a)      It is a one-stop interactive and user-friendly digital platform. It provides detailed insights to people into nature, status as well as the number of developmental works that are being executed in their areas.

b)      Works could be searched with respect to their location in each block or municipality, village and district. The portal has also been linked with schemes like MGNREGA, Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural), Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), PM Awas Yojana, and PM Gram Sadak Yojana, under execution in Government.

c)       Users will have to click on these links to gain instant access to works that are being carried out under these schemes.

Note: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor: Manoj Sinha.

 

2. G Kishan Reddy inaugurate a conference on Indian temple architecture ‘Devayatanam’: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) of Ministry of Culture, Government of India is organizing a two-day international conference ‘Devayatanam – An odyssey of Indian temple architecture on 25th – 26th February 2022 at Hampi, Karnataka. The Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and DoNER, G Kishan Reddy inaugurates the conference.

Aim of the conference: The conference aims to deliberate upon the philosophical, religious, social, economic, technical, scientific, art and architectural aspects of the temple. It also intends to initiate a dialogue on the evolution and development of the various styles of temple architecture such as the Nagara, Vesara, Dravida, Kalinga and others.

Significance of the conference: The conference has eminent scholars discussing on the various facets of the great temples of India. Various sessions of discussions include Temple- From the Formless to Form, Temple- Evolution of Temple Architecture, Temple-Regional Development Forms and Styles, Temple-Epicenter of art, culture, education, administration and economy, Temple-Protector of environment, Temple- Culture diffusion in Southeast Asia.

 

3. SPMCIL Delhi headquarters declared a prohibited place: Home Ministry has declared Delhi headquarters of Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd. (SPMCIL) as a ‘prohibited place’ under Section 2 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923. This prevents the entry of unauthorized persons into it. It is the only currency and banknotes manufacturer of India, that printed new series of notes of denomination Rs 2,000 and Rs 500 in 2016.

The nine production units of SPMCIL, where banknotes and other government papers are manufactured, are already prohibited places. Only the Delhi headquarters where crucial decisions are taken and important files are generated was not under the purview. Through the recent order, even the Delhi office has been declared a prohibited place. The nine production units are four India Government Mints, two Currency Note Presses.

 

4. Dish TV’s ropes Rishabh Pant as its brand ambassador: Dish TV India, has announced the appointment of Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant as brand ambassador. Pant will feature in the brand’s 360-degree communication for the next two years. This investment in the D2H brand is going to make it even stronger. The close affinity between D2H brand and Rishabh Pant as brand ambassadors will enable deeper engagement of D2H with its TG.

Rishabh has quickly developed into a distinctive entertainer on the cricket field, with his boundless energy behind the stumps and innovation in shot-making. He brings a spark each time he enters the field and appeals to the huge 18-35 age group across the country, our core audience.

 

5. 3rd India 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 of this macronutrient in their diet. The day urges people to include this crucial macronutrient in their diet. The day also helps people to learn more about different sources of plant and animal protein. Protein Day is celebrating its third year in 2022. This year’s theme of India Protein Day is ‘Food Futurism‘.

History of the day: The day was launched on February 27, 2020, by the ‘Right to Protein’, a national-level public health awareness initiative to educate people about the importance of adequate protein consumption for better nutrition, health, and wellbeing.

 

6. Polio National Immunization Day 2022: 27th February: In 2022, the Government of India has organised the Polio National Immunization Day 2022 (NID) (also known as ‘’Polio Ravivar”) on February 27, 2022, to give two drops of oral polio vaccine (OPV) to every child in the country under the age of five. Over 15 crore children will be covered under the drive across all 36 States and UTs in 735 districts. The National Polio Immunization Drive for 2022 was launched by Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr Mansukh Mandavia on February 26, 2022.

Polio history in India:

a)      In India, one nationwide NID and two Sub-National Immunization Day (SNIDs) for polio is held every year to maintain population immunity against wild poliovirus and to sustain its polio-free status.

b)      India was removed from the list of polio-endemic countries in 2012 and in 2013 the entire Southeast Asia Region was declared Polio free.

c)       The last case of wild poliovirus reported in India was on 13th January 2011.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World NGO Day: 27th January: World NGO Day is celebrated every year on 27th February in several countries across the world. Non-Governmental Organizations or NGOs work in the upliftment of society. It is an international day to recognise, celebrate and honour non-government and non-profit organisations and also those who contribute their time and efforts in making society a better place to live in. World NGO Day aims to create awareness about the sector and encourage people across the world who work in the sector for a good cause. One interesting fact about World NGO Day is that the Government of each country, appreciate these people working selflessly in their official state languages.

World NGO Day History: The Baltic Sea NGO Forum of the Council of the Baltic Sea State officially recognised this day on April 27, 2010. It was adopted in the forum’s Final Statement Resolution two years later. In 2014, February 27 was declared as World NGO Day and it became a historic day for the NGO community across the globe. An international calendar day, which is now known as ‘World NGO Day,’ was inaugurated for the first time on this day.

The Baltic Sea NGO Forum have member countries like Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Norway and Sweden. Overall, World NGO Day is observed in around 89 countries and 6 continents.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI cautions public against using car pooling app sRide: Reserve bank of India (RBI) has cautioned the public against carpooling app sRide. The caution against sRide App, stating that this firm was operating a semi-closed pre-paid instrument, without receiving authorization from the central bank, under Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.

RBI caution against sRide App: sRide Tech Private Limited is a registered company, with a registered office in Gurgaon, Haryana. This company is operating a semi-closed (non-closed) pre-paid instrument (wallet) through its ‘sRide’ carpooling app. Thus, RBI cautioned that persons dealing with the app will be doing at their own risk.

About the “sRide” App: sRide app is a carpooling mobile application that connects people within the community to share rides. The app help users in sharing the cost of travel, increasing mobility, reducing travel time, and building communities. The app also helps in using existing infrastructure, reducing parking needs, traffic and emissions for cities and organisations.

Payment and settlement systems in India: In India, payment and settlement systems are used for financial transactions. They are covered under Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 (PSS Act), Reserve Bank of India and Board for Regulation & Supervision of Payment & Settlement Systems regulate it. India has multiple payments and settlement systems, including gross and net settlement systems.

 

2. Rakesh Sharma again appointed as MD & CEO of IDBI Bank: Industrial Development Bank of India (IDBI Bank) has informed the stock exchanges that its board has approved the reappointment of Rakesh Sharma as the managing director and chief executive officer of the bank for a period of three years, effective March 19, 2022. Sharma’s reappointment as the MD&CEO of the bank has received the banking regulator, Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) nod.

Note: IDBI Bank Owner: Life Insurance Corporation; IDBI Bank Headquarters: Mumbai.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Reliance Jio’s New Subsea Cable ‘India-Asia-Xpress’ To Connect Maldives: India’s largest 4G mobile broadband and digital service provider, Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd. will land the next generation multi-terabit India-Asia-Xpress (IAX) undersea cable system in Hulhumale, Maldives. The high capacity and high-speed IAX system will connect Hulhumale directly with World’s major internet hubs in India and Singapore. On the other hand, the India-Europe-Xpress (IEX) system connects Mumbai to Milan, landing in Savona, Italy, and includes additional landings in the Middle East, North Africa, and the Mediterranean. While IAX is expected to be ready for service by the end-2023, IEX will be ready for service in mid-2024.

Key points of Undersea cable systems:

a)      Undersea cable systems along with data centres support 5G and the digital economy that builds large integrated capacities to enable India’s digital ecosystem.

b)      This high capacity and the high-speed system will provide more than 200Tb/s of capacity at speeds of 100Gb/s, over 16,000 kilometres.

c)       Employing open system technology and the latest wavelength switched RoADM/branching units ensures rapid upgrade deployment and the ultimate flexibility to add/drop waves across multiple locations.

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

 

DEFENCE

 

1. US Boeing delivers 12th P-8I maritime patrol aircraft to India: The Indian Navy has received the 12th anti-submarine warfare aircraft P-8I from the US-based aerospace company Boeing. This is the fourth of four additional aircraft, for which the contract was signed in 2016. The Ministry of Defence had signed a contract for eight P-8I aircraft in 2009. However, later in 2016, it signed a contract for four additional P-8I aircraft.

In May 2021, the US State Department approved the proposed sale of six P-8I patrol aircraft and related equipment, a deal estimated to cost 2.42 billion dollars.

About P-8I maritime patrol aircraft: P-8I is a long-range maritime reconnaissance and Anti-Submarine Warfare Aircraft, and a variant of the P-8A Poseidon used by the US Navy. India was the first international customer of Boeing for this aircraft. The Indian Navy inducted the first P-8I aircraft in 2013. The P-8I aircraft is a variant of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft that Boeing developed as a replacement for the US Navy’s ageing P-3 fleet.

P-8I aircraft is equipped for long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance in support of the broad area, maritime and littoral operations. Its communication and sensor suite includes indigenous equipment developed by defence PSUs and private manufacturers. With its high speed and high endurance of about 10 hours, the aircraft is capable of thrusting a punitive response and maintaining a watch over India’s immediate and extended.

Note: Chief of Naval Staff: Admiral R Hari Kumar; Indian Navy Founded: 26 January 1950.

 

2. Army Chief MM Naravane presents President’s Colours to four parachute battalions: Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane has presented Presidential Colours to four parachute battalions at Parachute Regiment Training Centre in Bengaluru. The four battalions are the 11 Para (Special Forces), 21 Para (Special Forces), 23 Para, and 29 Para battalions. The award of President’s Colours or the ‘Nishan’ is one of the highest honours bestowed upon a military unit in recognition of its exceptional service to the nation, both during the war and in peace.

Notably: The Parachute Regiment is an elite force of the Indian Army and holds an impeccable record in battle, both before and after Independence. It has been conferred with 51 Battle Honours, one Victoria Cross, 28 Military Medals (MM), 11 Distinguished Service Orders (DSO), 40 Indian Distinguished Service Medals (IDSM) and 40 Military Cross (MC) up to independence.

Daily GK Update- 26th Feb, 2022

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Minister Giriraj Singh releases Rural Connectivity GIS Data in Public Domain: Giriraj Singh, who is the Union Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, has released the Rural Connectivity GIS Data in Public Domain. This data includes the GIS data for more than 8 lakh rural facilities which have been collected and digitised using the GIS platform developed for the PM-GSY scheme. Other than Giriraj Singh, other Union Ministers like Faggan Singh Kulaste and Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, were also present at the release event.

On this event, Giriraj Singh recalled that since the inauguration of this scheme:

a)      An estimate is that more than 6.90 lakh km of roads have been constructed, which connects 1,61,508 habitations with an expenditure of about 2.69 lakh crores of Indian rupees.

b)      Speed of the construction of rural roads under the PMGSY has seen massive growth during the last few years and the use of new technology has been emphasized which has resulted in a saving of about 5000 crores of Indian rupees.

c)       The data which has been made available in the public domain can be beneficial to the startups, entrepreneurs, businesses, civil society, academics and other government departments to build products, conduct research, and plan investments for a quicker disaster response.

PM-GSY: Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) is a scheme that was launched in the year 2000, with an objective to provide all-weather road connectivity to all the unconnected habitations throughout the nation which lie under the eligibility criteria. The plan was upgraded later. Since then, 7.83 lakh Km roads have been sanctioned and 6.90 lakh Km have been constructed with an expenditure of about 2.69 lakh crores of Indian rupees.

Gati Shakti: Gati Shakti is a national master plan and digital platform which aims at the planning and execution of infrastructure projects in India to reduce logistics costs and enhance infrastructure.

 

2. PM-Kisan 3rd Anniversary, transferred Rs 1.80 lakh to farmers accounts directly: About 11.78 crore farmers as of February 22, 2022, have been benefitted under the PM Kisan scheme. The amount worth Rs1.82 lakh crore have been disbursed to eligible beneficiaries across India in various intervals. During the current Covid 19 epidemic period, Rs. 1.29 lakh crore has been released.

About the PM Kisan scheme: PM-KISAN is a centre sectored scheme which was launched on 24th February 2019 to substitute monetary needs of landholding farmers. The monetary benefit of Rs 6000/- per year in three equal instalments, every four-month, 3 times a year, it is transferred into the bank accounts of the families of the farmers across the country through Direct Benefit Transfer or DBT mode. The scheme was in the starting meant for small and marginal farmers having landholding upto 2 hectares but then the scope of the scheme was extended to cover all landholding farmers with effect from 01.06.2019.

 

3. PM CARE for Children scheme extended by the Centre till 28th Feb 2022: The PM Cares for Children Scheme has been extended by the Ministry of Women and Child Development of the Government of India till February 28, 2022. Previously, the scheme was applicable till December 31, 2021. A letter has been written in this respect to all Principal Secretaries/ Secretaries, Women and Child Development, Social Justice & Empowerment Departments of all States and UTs, with a copy to all District Magistrates/District Collectors. To be eligible for the scheme, the child must be under the age of 18 at the time of their parents’ death, to be considered eligible for payments under this plan. All children who have suffered the following losses are covered under the scheme:

a)      Lost both parent due to COVID-19 Pandemic,

b)      Legal guardian/adoptive parents/single adoptive parent, from 11.03.2020, the day on which WHO proclaimed and defined COVID-19 as pandemic.

Those who are eligible can now be registered in the PM CARES for Children Scheme until February 28, 2022 via the website https://pmcaresforchildren.in.

What is PM CARES?

The PM CARES for Children Scheme on May 29, 2021 was announced by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi for the children who have lost the parents or legal guardians, adoptive parents, or surviving parents as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic onset on March 11, 2020. The scheme intends to assist these children by providing them the long-term comprehensive care and protection, through a convergent strategy, gap financing for education and health, a monthly stipend begins at the age of 18, and prepare them for self-sufficiency with financial assistance of lump sum payment of Rs. 10 lakhs once they reach the age of 23.

 

4. IIT Roorkee launched ‘KISAN’ mobile app in Uttarakhand: The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee has organized a regional farmers’ awareness programme as part of the ‘Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa’ (GKMS) project and launched KISAN mobile application for the farmers. The app will provide agro-meteorological services to the farmers. Farmers from Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal districts participated in the program.

About the app:

a)      KISAN app provides farmers with easy access to weather forecasts and weather-based Agrometeorological Advisory Bulletins for all six blocks of Haridwar district through phones.

b)      The app was developed by Dr Khushboo Mirza, Senior Scientist, Regional Remote Sensing Centre (RRSC), National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), New Delhi under the guidance of Dr C S Jha, an Outstanding Scientist and Chief General Manager at RRSC, NRSC, ISRO, Hyderabad.

c)       The Agrometeorological Advisory Services are offered jointly by the AMFU (Agromet Field Unit Roorkee) IIT Roorkee and the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

 

5. A book title ‘The Great Tech Game’ penned by Anirudh Suri: Indian author, Anirudh Suri has come out with his new book titled “The Great Tech Game: Shaping Geopolitics and the Destinies of Nations.’ It has been published by HarperCollins India. In this book, the author lays out a roadmap for how any country must develop its own strategic plan to succeed in this technology-dominant era.

The essence of the book: In this book, the author provides a coherent framework outlining the key drivers that will determine the ability of a nation to succeed in this technology-dominant era. He lays out a roadmap for how any country must develop its own strategic plan for success. Leaders must develop a new set of capabilities to understand and take advantage of these trends and create enabling environments for their nations to not be left behind. A particularly challenging aspect will be the ability of countries to define and manage the roles of state and non-state actors in a global race for technological leadership and success.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. International IP Index 2022: India ranks 43rd: India has improved its overall IP score from 38.4 per cent to 38.6 per cent, and the country is ranked 43 out of 55 countries on the International Intellectual Property Index 2022. This index was released by the Global Innovation Policy Center of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. In July 2021, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce released a Review of the Intellectual Property Rights Regime in India. This review is a welcome development and offers a comprehensive and detailed study of the strengths and weaknesses of India’s national IP environment.

The top five countries in the ranking are:

Rank 1- United States

Rank 2- United Kingdom

Rank 3- Germany

Rank 4- Sweden

Rank 5- France

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. SAAF & National Cross Country Athletics Championship to be held in Nagaland: Nagaland is all set to host the South Asian Athletic Federation (SAAF) cross country championship and 56th National Cross-Country athletics championships from 26th of next month in Kohima. Meanwhile, the official mascot of the South Asian Cross Country Championships and 56th National Cross Country is a joyous happy running ‘Hornbill’. The name of the Mascot is Akimji – a connotation of the word AMBITION derived from Sumi dialect of Naga tribe which exemplifies the ambition of the new generation of Naga youth.

This event is going to be perhaps Nagaland’s biggest sporting event in our 50 plus years of statehood and expressed optimism that the event will propel the image of Nagaland and the state’s sporting dream towards national and international platforms. On this occasion, the official team Nagaland kit was also launched.

Note: Chief Minister of Nagaland: Neiphiu Rio; Governor of Nagaland: Jagdish Mukhi.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI announces dollar/rupee two-year sell buy swap auction: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a US Dollar/Rupee two-year sell-buy swap auction with a view to elongating the maturity profile of its forward book and smoothening the receivables relating to forwarding assets. The Central bank will undertake a sell/buy swap auction of $5 billion, which will enable access to a wider set of market participants.

RBI will conduct a spot sale to sell USD 5 billion to banks in exchange of rupees, through this auction on March 10, 2022. On March 11, 2024, it will make a forward purchase from banks in two years. The forward purchase will help in reducing RBI’s current foreign exchange reserves and increase its two-year forward USD purchases.

Swap auction:

a)      Under the swap auction, a bank sells US dollars to the RBI. It is also agreed to buy the same amount of US dollars at the end of the swap period. It is different from Open Market Operations (OMOs), materially.

b)      Under OMOs, the central bank buys and sells government securities in the open market. While in swap transactions only authorised dealers are allowed to deposit US dollars in exchange for rupees.

c)       Swap Auction is done with the objective of meeting the durable liquidity needs of the system. It injects rupee liquidity for a longer duration by means of long-term foreign exchange Buy/Sell swap. Swap Auction helps in bridging the liquidity deficit.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Paytm Payments Bank is now official acquiring partner for e-RUPI vouchers: Paytm Payments Bank Limited has announced that it is an official acquiring partner for ‘e-RUPI vouchers’. e-RUPI, which is a government initiative, is a cashless prepaid voucher that beneficiaries can present via SMS or QR Code. Paytm’s merchant partners can then scan, enter the amount to be paid and receive the payment directly in their bank account. This will benefit beneficiaries (users), even those who do not have access to formal banking services or smartphones to avail the convenience of digital payments.

Benefits:

a)      With this, merchants will be empowered with another digital payment collection method that will help them further increase their digital footprint and onboard more customers.

b)      PPBL is empowering merchants to accept e-RUPI vouchers, which gives it an opportunity to tap into a larger user base that is a beneficiary of this initiative. This will further encourage more merchants to embrace cashless transactions, leading to an increase of digital payments.

Note: Paytm Payments Bank Founded: 2015; Paytm Payments Bank Headquarters: Noida, UP; Paytm Payments Bank Founder & CEO:  Vijay Shekhar Sharma.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. India receives three more Rafale Fighter Jets from France: Three more Rafale fighter aircraft landed in India from France, with Indian specific enhancements. With this new arrival of the three jets, the total Rafale fleet with Indian Air Force (IAF) has reached 35. The 36th and final aircraft will arrive in India from France by March- April 2022, and will be a trainer aircraft.

India-France Rafale Deal: In September 2016, India exchanged a Rs 59,000 crore deal with France for 36 Rafale fighter jets. The first batch of five Rafale jets had arrived in India on July 29 last year. India and France had signed the inter-government agreement in 2016, under which Paris agreed to provide 36 Rafale fighter jets to New Delhi.

About the Rafale: The twin-engine Rafale jets are capable of carrying out a variety of missions: ground and sea attack, air defence and air superiority, reconnaissance, and nuclear strike deterrence. The planes equipped with the Hammer missiles have enhanced India’s capability to carry out air-to-ground strikes like the one in Balakot.

Daily GK Update- 25th Feb, 2022

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh becomes 100th ‘Har Ghar Jal’ District: Jal Jeevan Mission has achieved the significant milestone of providing tap water to every home of 100 districts across the country. Chamba, in Himachal Pradesh, has become the 100th ‘Har Ghar Jal’ district, the fifth aspirational district to be covered under the initiative. The other four Har Ghar Jal Aspirational districts are Bhadradri Kothgudem, Jayashankar Bhupalpalli, Komram Bheem Asifabad (all in Telangana) and Mewat in Haryana.

To translate Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of providing clean tap water to every home in the country by 2024, in a short span of two and half years and despite COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown disruptions, Jal Jeevan Mission, has provided tap water supply to more than 5.78 Crore rural households. As a result, today 100 districts in the country are enjoying the benefits of clean tap water supply and Jal Jeevan Mission is on track to fulfil the Government’s resolve to provide tap water supply to every rural household by 2024.

 

2. Kerala’s startup Mission partnered with Google for Startups to foster global links: During the ‘Huddle Global 2022’, the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) has entered into a collaboration with technology major Google that will enable start-ups in the State to join a wider global network that provides mentorship and training. This wider network enables local startups to leverage Google’s programme comprising mentorship and training of startup teams to help scale up their solutions.

The partnership was announced by Mr Paul Ravindranath, Head of Google for Startups Accelerator, India, at the Huddle Global’ conclave of KSUM that kicked off. The collaboration will enable Kerala’s startups to join a wider network to leverage Google’s programme comprising mentorship and training of startup teams for scaled-up solutions.

Note: Google Founded: 4 September 1998; Google Headquarters: California, United States; Google CEO: Sundar Pichai; Google Founders: Larry Page, Sergey Brin.

 

3. Lavender designated as brand product of J&K’s Doda district: The Union Minister of Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, chaired the District Development Coordination & Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meetings of several districts in Jammu & Kashmir recently. A key decision taken during the meeting was to designate Lavender as a Doda brand product, to promote lavender under the ‘One District, One Product’ initiative of the Modi Government. Doda district in J&K is the birthplace of India’s Purple Revolution or the cultivation of Lavender. Though, Lavender cultivation is practised in almost all the 20 districts of Jammu & Kashmir.

Purple Revolution:

a)      Purple Revolution (Lavender cultivation) was launched under the Aroma Mission of the Union Ministry of Science & Technology. The AROMA mission is implemented by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) through its Jammu-based laboratory, the Indian Institute of Integrative Medicines (IIIM).

b)      The Mission’s objective is the cultivation of important medicinal and aromatic plants domestically to empower domestic farmers and support India’s aromatic crop-based agro-economy by reducing imports of aromatic oils and increasing homegrown varieties. The Lavender crop is however a native to Europe.

 

4. Sanjeev Sanyal named full-time member of Economic Advisory Council to PM: Finance Ministry’s Principal Economic Advisor, Sanjeev Sanyal has been inducted as a full-time member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), the panel’s chairman Bibek Debroy announced. The appointment is for a tenure of two years. He had advised the finance ministry to devise economic policies during the pandemic. The EAC-PM is an independent body constituted by the Union government to advise the prime minister on economic matters.

 

5. Gurugram sisters chosen as ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ brand ambassadors: International Chess Player woman FIDE Masters, Tanishka Kotia and her sister Riddhika Kotia are appointed as Brand Ambassadors of ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme for the Gurugram District of Haryana. Tanishka Kotia won the Limca Book of Records for being the youngest chess player in 2008. They belong to the Haryana state.

Tanishka Kotia ranks 2nd in the country in the under-16 category, World Chess Federation rankings released in 2019. She won a gold medal at the ASEAN Chess Championship in 2013 and silver at the Commonwealth Chess Championship In 2014 in Scotland. Riddhika Kotia represented India at several prestigious international events, including the World Junior Chess Championship 2020.

Note: Chief Minister of Haryana: Manohar Lal Khattar; Haryana Capital: Chandigarh; Haryana Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India to set up its first IIT outside the country in UAE: The Indian Institute of Technology will establish its first branch outside India in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of the India-UAE trade deal signed. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between the UAE and India will usher in a new phase of joint strategic cooperation in all sectors. The two nations will also set up an India-UAE cultural council to facilitate and promote cultural projects, cross-cultural exchanges and exhibitions. The two countries and realising the need to establish world-class institutions that encourage and support innovation and technological progress, the leaders agreed to establish an Indian Institute of Technology in the United Arab Emirates.

About the agreement: The agreement was signed after a virtual summit held with an agenda to boost trade and investments between both countries and usher in a new era of economic progress. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have participated in the summit.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. India’s R Praggnanandhaa becomes youngest player to beat World No 1 Magnus Carlsen: India’s teen chess Grandmaster, Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa has created history as he defeated world number one chess champion, Magnus Carlsen, of Norway in an online chess tournament. The Airthings Masters is the first of the nine events of the 2022 Meltwater Champions Chess Tour, being held from February to November 2022.

The 16-year-old Pragg achieved the feat in the eighth round of the Airthings Masters, an online rapid chess tournament, in 39 moves with black pieces. Pragg is also only the third Indian grandmaster to win against Magnus Carlsen apart from Viswanathan Anand and Pentala Harikrishna.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Mastercard tieup with SBI Payments to boost digital payments infrastructure: Mastercard, as an extension of its flagship campaign ‘Team Cashless India’ along with State Bank of India Payments partnered with the in Lucknow, Guwahati and Varanasi to boost the digital payments infrastructure. During these engagements, Mastercard Team Cashless India volunteers and SBI Payments spoke to micro-merchants about the convenience, safety, and other benefits of accepting digital payments.

The outreach was very well received across cities, generating incredible results:

a)      In Guwahati, Mastercard collaborates with All Assam’s Restaurant Association (AARA) in line with the Government’s ‘Digital Northeast Vision 2022’ which equips restaurant and hotel owners with a safe, seamless, secure mode of payment to consumers.

b)      In Lucknow, Mastercard partnered with local transport bodies, including the Auto Rickshaw Association, to enable more than 700 auto-rickshaw drivers to accept digital payments.

c)       In Varanasi, Mastercard partnered with the Boat Union to encourage over 1,000 members to accept digital payments from tourists and also local shopkeepers committed to digital payments which have increased tourism.

Note: Mastercard Founded: 16 December 1966, United States; Mastercard Headquarters: New York, United States; Mastercard CEO: Michael Miebach; Mastercard Executive Chairman: Ajay Banga.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. India Ratings decrease GDP growth at 8.6% for FY22: India Ratings has revised downwards its GDP growth forecast for 2021-22 to 8.6 per cent from the consensus 9.2 per cent projected earlier. According to an India rating analysis, National Statistical Organisation (NSO) is likely to peg the FY22 real gross domestic product growth at Rs 147.2 lakh crore. This translates into a GDP growth rate of 8.6 per cent, down from the 9.2 per cent forecast in the first advance estimate released on January 7, 2022.

The major reason for the likely downward revision is the upward revision of FY21 GDP to Rs 135.6 lakh crore in the first revised estimate of national income for FY21, which was released on January 31, 2022.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy’s multilateral exercise Milan 2022 kick-off: The latest edition of the Indian Navy’s multilateral exercise MILAN 2022 is commencing from 25 Feb 22 in the ‘City of Destiny’, Visakhapatnam. MILAN 22 is being conducted over a duration of 9 days in two phases with the harbour phase scheduled from 25 to 28 February and Sea Phase from 01 to 04 March. India is celebrating the 75th year of its independence in 2022, and MILAN 22 provides an opportunity to commemorate this milestone with our friends and partners.

Theme of the MILAN 2022 exercise: The theme of the MILAN 2022 exercise is ‘Camaraderie – Cohesion – Collaboration’ which aims to project India as a responsible maritime power to the world at large. The aim of the exercise is to hone operational skills, imbibe best practices and procedures, and enable doctrinal learning in the maritime domain, through professional interaction between friendly navies.

History of MILAN exercise: MILAN is a biennial multilateral naval exercise incepted by the Indian Navy in 1995 at Andaman and Nicobar Command. Since its inception, the event has been held biennially except for 2001, 2005, 2016 and 2020. While the 2001 and 2016 editions were not held due to International Fleet Reviews, the 2005 editions was rescheduled to 2006 due to the 2004 Tsunami. 2020 edition of MILAN was postponed to 2022 due to COVID-19.

 

2. Exercise Cobra Warrior 22: India to participate in multi-nation Exercise in March: Indian Air Force will participate in a multi-nation air exercise named ‘Exercise Cobra Warrior 22’ at Waddington, in the United Kingdom from March 06 to 27, 2022. IAF Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas will participate in the exercise along with fighter aircraft of the UK and other leading Air Forces. Five Tejas aircraft will fly to the United Kingdom. IAF C-17 aircraft will provide the necessary transport support for induction and de-induction.

The exercise is aimed at providing operational exposure and sharing best practices amongst the participating Air Forces, thereby enhancing combat capability and forging bonds of friendship. This will be a platform for LCA Tejas to demonstrate its manoeuvrability and operational capability.

Key points of the exercise:

a)      Exercise Cobra Warrior is one of the largest annual exercises by the Royal Air Force (RAF).

b)      India will be participating in the exercise for the first time. Other countries participating are the United Kingdom, Sweden, Saudi Arabia and Bulgaria.

c)       The exercise will provide operational exposure and share best practices amongst the participating Air Forces, to further enhance their combat capability and forging bonds of friendship.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Renowned Malayalam actress KPAC Lalitha passes away: Veteran Malayalam film and stage actress, KPAC Lalitha has passed away at 74. In a career spanning five decades, she starred in over 550 films in Malayalam and Tamil. Born as Maheswari Amma in Kayamkulam of Alappuzha, the actress had joined K.P.A.C (Kerala People’s Arts Club), a prominent drama troop in Kerala. Lalitha won two National Film Awards for Best Supporting Actress along with four Kerala State Film Awards. She got the national award for the character in ‘Amaram’ in 1999 and for ‘Shantham’ in 2000. She also held the position of the Chairperson of Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy for five years.