Daily GK Update- 30th Apr, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. A K Mohanty appointed as a chairman of new Atomic Energy Commission: Bhabha Atomic Research Centre director, Ajit Kumar Mohanty has been appointed as the chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and the secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy for a tenure up to the age of 66 years (till 10.10.2025). He has replaced K N Vyas. He was appointed as the BARC director in March 2019. In 1983, he joined the Nuclear Physics Division of the BARC after graduating from the 26th batch of the BARC Training School.

 

2. Ayushman Bharat Diwas 2023: 30 April: India observed Ayushman Bharat Diwas every year on April 30 to promote the Ayushman Bharat Yojana values. In 2018, PM Modi announced the Ayushman Bharat Yojna to give healthcare coverage to all Indians who cannot afford basic medical services. This initiative was established along the lines of universal health care to satisfy one of the United Nations' SDGs - "leave no one behind." This scheme covers all expenses of patients.

 

3. The book ‘Collective Spirit, Concrete Action’ launched: At the 100th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, a book called ‘Collective Spirit, Concrete Action’ was launched. This book was written by the former CEO of Prasar Bharati Shashi Shekhar Vempati. According to the author, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ is a combination of the power of radio and the vision of a nation’s leader. Over the course of 15 chapters, the book special also offers insights and perspectives from grassroots change-makers and iconic personalities.

 

4. Kondh Tribals celebrates Bihan Mela: The Kondh tribe of Nayagarh district in Odisha celebrates Bihan Mela, which refers to a seed festival. The event is participated by farmers from as many as 40 villages in Dasapalla block, surrounded by hills and forests. The preparations begin as soon as farmers have harvested Kharif crops, which include both hybrid and indigenous varieties of paddy, millets, maize, and sorghum. Kondh tribes are a tribal group found in the hills and jungles of Orissa in eastern India.

 

5. Army and civil agencies conduct fire exercise: The Army Southern Command and some civil agencies conducted a day-long firefighting exercise called ‘Agni Daman - 23’. The excise was conducted with 56 teams at the 29 Field Ammunition Depot (FAD), Dehu Road. Aim: To enhance synergy among firefighters to work together in the event of major fire incidents The exercise was a landmark endeavor in synergizing all the firefighting resources available with the military and civil establishment in Pune.

 

6. PM Modi inaugurates NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute in Silvassa: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute in Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Notably, the foundation stone of NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute was also laid by the Prime Minister himself in January 2019. Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone and inaugurated 96 projects worth more than Rs 4,850 crores to the nation at Sayli ground, Silvassa. People lit mobile flashlights to welcome PM Modi in Silvassa. Thereafter, Prime Minister inaugurated Devka Seafront in Daman. The 5.45 km Seafront built at a cost of around Rs 165 crore is one of its kind coastal promenade in the country. The Seafront has been transformed into a world-class tourist destination. It includes smart lighting, parking facilities, gardens, food stalls, recreational areas and provision for luxury tent cities in future.

 

7. Nirmala Sitharaman launches a book titled ‘Reflections’: Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman has launched ‘Reflections’, a book authored by eminent banker Narayanan Vaghul, in Mumbai. The book carries a vivid account of Vaghul’s experiences spanning decades in India’s financial landscape. The finance minister commended Narayanan Vaghul for his extensive experience in banking and his leadership qualities. She also recognized his contributions to mentoring leaders, which have left a lasting impact. She highlighted Vaghul’s ideas and vision on women’s empowerment, which will continue to be relevant and valuable for India as more women take on leadership roles in financial services.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Devendra Fadnavis unveiled Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Mauritius: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has unveiled a statue of Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Mauritius. The sculpture was created in India by a Delhi-based artist and sent to Mauritius in a container ship. During his visit, an MoU was signed between the Economic Development Board of Mauritius and the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation to establish a platform for investment between the Western State and the island nation.

 

2. India becomes Europe's largest supplier of refined fuels: Kpler: According to the Kpler report, India has become Europe's largest supplier of refined fuels, surpassing Saudi Arabia. Europe’s reliance on Indian crude oil products has grown since the ban on Russian oil. It also showed that Europe's refined fuel imports from India are set to surge above 360,000 barrels a day. Russia was the largest exporter of crude oil to India by value in February in spite of the Western price cap of USD 60 per barrel.

 

3. Russia’s Sberbank launches AI to compete with ChatGPT: The Russian-based company Sberbank launched its own AI chatbot GigaChat to compete with OpenAI’s ChatGPT It was initially designed to support multimodal interaction and communicate in Russian more intelligently. The GigaChat architecture is based on the neural network ensemble model called NeONKA (Neural Omnimodal Network with Knowledge-Awareness). It includes several neural network models along with supervised fine-tuning and reinforcement learning with human feedback.

4. 29 April – World Dance Day: International Dance Day is celebrated every year on April 29. Objective – To promote the art of dance and raise awareness of its importance in the world The International Dance Day was established by the International Dance Council (CID) in 1982 to celebrate the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, the creator of modern ballet. Dance has been known to alleviate stress, enhance cardiovascular health, increase flexibility, and promote general well-being. The event serves to increase public awareness of dance’s importance, encouraging people to participate in this art form while emphasizing its cultural significance and evolution in various regions of the world. Ultimately, World Dance Day reminds us of the unifying power of dance in bringing people together and celebrating the pleasure of movement.

 

5. 29 April – World Veterinary Day: World Veterinary Day is observed every year on the last Saturday of April. Objective – To raise awareness about the importance of veterinarians and their contributions to animal health, welfare, and public health. Theme 2023 – Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusiveness in the Veterinary Profession It is celebrated around the world through various activities such as seminars, workshops, public lectures, and social media campaigns. World Veterinary Day was first celebrated on April 29, 2000, as an initiative by the World Veterinary Association (WVA). Since then, it has been observed every year on the last Saturday of April, with a different theme chosen each year to highlight a specific aspect of veterinary medicine. This day provides a valuable opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the significant contributions of veterinarians to society and to increase awareness about the importance of veterinary medicine.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Abhilash Tomy becomes the first Indian to complete Golden Globe Race 2022: A retired naval officer, Commander Abhilash Tomy has become the first Indian to complete the prestigious Golden Globe Race 2022. He finished second in the race, a solo around-the-world sailing race. This race was started at Les Sables-d'Olonne in France on Sep 4, 2022. South African sailor, Kirsten Neuschafer also become the first woman to win the Golden Globe Race (GGR), a solo, non-stop circumnavigation of the globe without using any modern technological aids.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

2. HDFC Bank launches digital distribution platform for agents and partners: HDFC Bank has introduced a Digital Distribution Platform, 'Smart Saathi' for its agents and business correspondents to sell services, especially in rural areas. HDFC Bank Smart Saathi provides a secure and user-friendly experience to its users. The newly launched feature will use advanced technology solutions to connect Business Correspondents/Business Facilitators to the bank. Aim: To boost financial inclusion by taking banking products and services to the last mile

 

3. NPCI International partners with PPRO to facilitate global e-commerce payments through UPI: NPCI International Payments, a wholly-owned subsidiary of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), entered into partnership with digital payments infrastructure provider PPRO to facilitate global e-commerce payments through UPI. The agreement is aimed at expanding RuPay card and UPI acceptance across global clients such as payment service providers (PSPs) and global merchant acquirers. It will drive NPCI International’s expansion into foreign markets and will add India to PPRO’s Local Payment Method (LPM) coverage map. It will also allow global PSPs, banks, payment gateways and enterprises with payment platforms to expand globally giving international e-commerce merchants access to Indian consumers. International payment service providers and their merchants can now easily tap into an e-commerce market that is expected to reach an estimated $111 billion next year and almost double to $200 billion by 2026. The UPI network processes 60 percent of all domestic payments and 40 percent of instant payments processed globally. It has over 32.5 crore active users, with 390 banks and 100 third-party apps interoperable on the network.

 

4. Debadatta Chand appointed as new chief of BoB: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Debadatta Chand and Rajneesh Karnatak as MD & CEO of Bank of Baroda (BoB) and Bank of India (BoI), respectively, for three years. Chand’s appointment as chief of BoB is with effect from the date of assumption of office on or after July 1, 2023, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Sanjiv Chadha, MD & CEO, BoB, will retire on June 30, 2023. He has been at the helm of the Bank since January 2020. Karnatak’s appointment as chief of BoI is with effect from the date of assumption of office until further orders, whichever is earlier. The three-year tenure of AK Das as MD & CEO of BoI ended in January 2023.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. 68th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2023: The 68th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2023 was held at the Jio Convention Centre, BKC. The award show was hosted by Salman Khan, Maniesh Paul, and Ayushmann Khurrana. Filmfare Awards 2023 Winners List

Daily GK Update- 29th Apr, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Agriculture Minister launches ‘Millets Experience Centre’ at Dilli Haat : Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar has launched the first of its kind ‘Millets Experience Centre (MEC)’ at Dilli Haat in New Delhi. National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED) has established the Millets Experience Centre in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry. It aims to raise awareness of Millets and encourage its adoption among the general public. India has an important role to play in the celebration of the International Year of Millets 2023. India is poised to become a ‘Global Hub’ for Millets and setting up of MEC is a major step in that direction. The United Nations General Assembly has declared the year 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM 2023).

 

2. Recent Inauguration by Narendra Singh Tomar :  Narendra Singh Tomar launched the first of its kind ‘Millets Experience Centre (MEC)’ at Dilli Haat in New Delhi. Narendra Singh Tomar introduced a new platform called ‘DigiClaim’ on the national crop insurance portal. Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurated a 5-day cultural program”AgriUnifest” in Bengaluru. Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurated the National Workshop on Bamboo Sector Development in New Delhi. Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurated National Horticulture Fair in Bengaluru

 

3. PM Modi inaugurates NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute in Silvassa : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute in Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Notably, the foundation stone of NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute was also laid by the Prime Minister himself in January 2019. Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone and inaugurated 96 projects worth more than Rs 4,850 crores to the nation at Sayli ground, Silvassa. People lit mobile flashlights to welcome PM Modi in Silvassa. Thereafter, Prime Minister inaugurated Devka Seafront in Daman. The 5.45 km Seafront built at a cost of around Rs 165 crore is one of its kind coastal promenade in the country. The Seafront has been transformed into a world-class tourist destination. It includes smart lighting, parking facilities, gardens, food stalls, recreational areas and provision for luxury tent cities in future.

 

4. Amitav Ghosh’s non-fiction book ‘Smoke and Ashes’ to be released in July 2023 : Amitav Ghosh’s new non-fiction book, “Smoke and Ashes: A Writer’s Journey Through Opium’s Hidden Histories”, will be published by HarperCollins Fourth Estate on July 2023.

The book is a combination of memoir, travelogue, and cultural and economic history, which explores the often-overlooked effects of opium on society and history.

Based on Ghosh’s extensive research conducted while writing his trilogy of novels between 2005 and 2015, “Smoke and Ashes” takes a personal look at the author’s engagement with the hidden history of opium.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

1. Dubai’s airline Emirates unveils world’s first robotic check-in assistant : Dubai-based airline Emirates has unveiled the world’s first robotic check-in assistant named ‘Sara’. The system is part of a new City Check-in and Travel Store that is set to launch in Dubai’s financial district. Sara will match customers’ faces with scanned passports, check passengers in, and guide them to the luggage drop area. The facility allows customers to drop their luggage as early as 24 hours and up to 4 hours before their flight, arriving at the airport at their leisure. Passengers can check in via self-check-in kiosks, at dedicated desks with Emirates agents, or with the help of Sara.

About United Arab Emirates (UAE)

 

Ø  Capital – Abu Dhabi

Ø  Currency – Dirham

Ø  President – Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

 

2. 29 April – World Dance Day :  International Dance Day is celebrated every year on April 29. Objective – To promote the art of dance and raise awareness of its importance in the world The International Dance Day was established by the International Dance Council (CID) in 1982 to celebrate the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, the creator of modern ballet. Dance has been known to alleviate stress, enhance cardiovascular health, increase flexibility, and promote general well-being. The event serves to increase public awareness of dance’s importance, encouraging people to participate in this art form while emphasizing its cultural significance and evolution in various regions of the world.

 

3. 29 April – World Veterinary Day : World Veterinary Day is observed every year on the last Saturday of April. Objective – To raise awareness about the importance of veterinarians and their contributions to animal health, welfare, and public health. Theme 2023 – Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusiveness in the Veterinary Profession It is celebrated around the world through various activities such as seminars, workshops, public lectures, and social media campaigns.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. State Bank of India Raises $750 Million Via Bonds : State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s biggest lender, has raised USD 750 million through bonds to fund offshore business growth. SBI has concluded the issue of USD 750 million senior unsecured fixed rate notes having a maturity of 5 years and coupon of 4.875 percent payable semiannually under Regulation-S.

About State Bank of India (SBI) 

Founded – 1 July 1955

Headquarters – Mumbai, Maharashtra

Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara

 

2. Siddhartha Mohanty appointed as Chairman of LIC : The government has appointed Siddhartha Mohanty as chairman of Life Insurance Corporation of India till June 2024. Chairman Siddhartha Mohanty will be the managing director and chief executive officer of the insurance behemoth from June 2024 till June 2025. Siddhartha Mohanty had been serving as interim chairman of the corporation replacing M R Kumar.

 

3. Debadatta Chand appointed as new chief of BoB : The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Debadatta Chand and Rajneesh Karnatak as MD & CEO of Bank of Baroda (BoB) and Bank of India (BoI), respectively, for three years. Chand’s appointment as chief of BoB is with effect from the date of assumption of office on or after July 1, 2023, or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Sanjiv Chadha, MD & CEO, BoB, will retire on June 30, 2023. He has been at the helm of the Bank since January 2020.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Dr. Raghu Ram Pillarisetti awarded TAL Presents Lifetime Achievement Award :  Breast surgeon Raghu Ram Pillarisetti was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Telugu Association of London.

Raghu Ram is the founder and director of AKIMS-Ushalakshmi Center for Breast Disease, located in Hyderabad. During the celebration of Ugadi 2023, organized by the Telugu Association of London (TAL), Dr Raghu Ram Pillarisetti was awarded the lifetime achievement award. TAL is the biggest Telugu Charity Organisation in the UK and represents the Telugu-speaking community of around 10,000 people in and around London.

Recent Awards

 

Ramon Magsaysay Award 1959 – Dalai Lama

Immigrant Achievement Award 2023 – Indian American Neeli Bendapudi

Goldman Environment Prize 2023 – Alessandra Korap

 

2. 68th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2023 : The 68th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2023 was held at the Jio Convention Centre, BKC. The award show was hosted by Salman Khan, Maniesh Paul, and Ayushmann Khurrana.

Filmfare Awards 2023 Winners List –

Best Film — Gangubai Kathiawadi

Best Film (Critics’) — Badhaai Do

Best Actor in a Leading Role (Male) — Rajkummar Rao for Badhaai Do

Best Actor in a Leading Role (Female) — Alia Bhatt for Gangubai Kathiawadi

Best Actor (Critics’) — Sanjay Mishra for Vadh

Best Actress (Critics’) — Tabu for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Bhumi Pednekar for Badhaai Do

Best Director — Sanjay Leela Bhansali for Gangubai Kathiawadi

Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male) — Anil Kapoor for JugJugg Jeeyo

Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female) — Sheeba Chaddha for Badhaai Do

Best Debut (Male) — Ankush Gedam for Jhund

Best Debut (Female) — Andrea Kevichüsa for Anek

Best Debut Director — Jaspal Singh Sandhu and Rajeev Barnwal for Vadh

Best Story — Akshat Ghildial and Suman Adhikary for Badhaai Do

Lifetime Achievement Award — Prem Chopra

Best Music Album — Pritam for Brahmastra — Part One — Shiva

Best Dialogue — Utkarshini Vashishtha and Prakash Kapadia for Gangubai Kathiawadi

Best Screenplay — Suman Adhikary, Akshat Ghildial and Harshavardhan Kulkarni for Badhaai Do

Best Lyrics — Amitabh Bhattacharya for Kesariya from Brahmastra — Part One — Shiva

 

OBITUARY

1. Renowned scientist Dr. N. Gopalakrishnan passed away :  Renowned scientist and director of the Central Building Research Institute Dr N Gopalakrishnan passed away at the age of 68. He worked for 25 years from 1982 as a Senior Scientist in CSIR, Government of India. N Gopalakrishnan was the founder of the Indian Institute of Scientific Heritage. His lectures on Indian philosophies and spirituality attracted audiences from within and outside the country. He was often criticized for propagating “pseudoscience”

Daily GK Update- 28th Apr, 2023

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Minister Narayan Rane launches the revamped CGTMSE Scheme: Union Minister for MSME, Narayan Rane has launched the revamped Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) Scheme. Modifications: Reduction in guarantee fees for loans upto ₹1 crore by 50% bringing the minimum guarantee fee to the level of 0.37% pa only. Raising of ceiling for guarantee from ₹2 crore to ₹ 5 crore Enhanced the threshold limit for claim settlement without initiation of legal action to ₹10 lakh.

 

2. India’s first cable-stayed bridge Anji Khad will be ready in May 2023: India’s first cable-stayed bridge, the Anji Khad bridge will be completed by May 2023. It connects Katra and Reasi via tunnels T2 and T3 on the Katra-Banihal section. Aim: To connect J&K to the rest of the country with all-weather rail connectivity The cables weigh 848.7 MT and the total length of cable strands involved is 653km. The asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge crosses the deep gorges of Anji river, a tributary of river Chenab. Total length of the bridge: 725m

 

3. Dima Hasao insurgent group signs peace pact with Assam, Centre: A tribal insurgent group, Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA) signed the tripartite agreement with the Centre and the state government of Assam to avoid the violence and join the mainstream. According to the MoU, the DNLA will lay down its arms and abide by the Constitution. It was decided to set up a Dimasa Welfare Council and grant a special financial package of Rs. 1,000 crores (Rs. 500 crores each by the Centre and Assam government).

 

4. Summit on Farm Machinery Technology inaugurated: Union Minister of Agriculture, Narendra Singh Tomar has inaugurated the Summit on Farm Machinery Technology in New Delhi. Organized by: Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Tractor and Mechanisation Association in New Delhi During the event, the minister informed that, about 85% of small farmers in the country, who should get the benefit of technology and machinery. It was attended by stakeholders including Original Equipment Manufacturers and design firms.

 

5. Amitav Ghosh's new book 'Smoke and Ashes' to release in July 2023: A new book 'Smoke and Ashes: A Writer’s Journey Through Opium’s Hidden Histories' is all set to be released in India in July 2023. It was authored by Amitav Ghosh. This book explores the opium trade's effect on world history and how it continues to hugely impact our lives today. The book will be published by HarperCollins India's Fourth Estate imprint. Other Notable works: The Shadow Lines, The Glass Palace, The Hungry Tide, Gun Island, and The Great Derangement

 

6. Hari Hara Mishra takes charge as CEO of AARC: Hari Hara Mishra has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Association of Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs).

He has started his career with the State Bank of India in 1982 and worked there until 2004. He is an experienced professional in the field of asset reconstruction. The ARCs are the voice of all Asset Reconstruction Companies in India. Currently, there are 28 ARCs registered with the Reserve Bank of India.

 

7. Finance ministry approves Navratna status to Rail Vikas Nigam: Union Finance Ministry has given its approval to upgrade Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) to Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) from Category-I Miniratna. RVNL, a PSU under the Ministry of Railways, will be the 13th Navratna amongst CPSEs. The company will have more autonomy in terms of investment, setting up JV and other financial decisions. As per the Navratna Company criteria, the company must have Miniratna status, with 4 independent board directors.

 

8. Rashki launches India’s First-ever range of Handbags made from Banana: An Indian fashion brand, Rashki has launched the country’s first-ever range of handbags made from banana leather, in an effort to promote sustainable and eco-friendly fashion. Banana leather is an innovative and sustainable alternative to traditional leather, which is environmentally damaging and often sourced through unethical practices. It is a sustainable alternative to animal leather, made from banana crop waste. Arun Kashyap appointed as COO of SpiceJet: Arun Kashyap has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer of SpiceJet. The appointment of Arun Kashyap will be effective from June 12 and he will report to the airline’s Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh. This is his second stint at SpiceJet, having previously served as chief program and transformation officer at the airline. He has previously also worked with flydubai, Jet Airways and Oman Air.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, UK joint military exercise ‘Ajeya Warrior 2023’ commenced in the UK: The seventh edition of a joint military exercise between India and the UK, 'Ajeya Warrior 2023' has been started in the Salisbury Plains, UK. The biennial training event started on 27 April and continues till May 11. The Indian Army has participated with indigenous weapons and equipment. Scope of exercise: It involves a Command Post Exercise (CPX) at the battalion level and company level field training exercise (FTX) Last edition (October 2021): Chaubatia, Uttarakhand

 

2. India, UK to jointly create India-UK 'NET Zero' Innovation Virtual Centre: India and the United Kingdom have agreed to create India-UK NET zero innovation virtual centre. Aim: To provide a platform for stakeholders of both countries to work together in areas like the decarbonization of manufacturing processes, transport systems, and green hydrogen as a renewable source Both countries will also join to launch the first-ever UK-India scientific 'deep sea voyage' and 'space parks' partnership.

 

3. World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2023: 28th April: World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed every year on April 28 to promote safe and decent work environments across the globe 2023 theme: A safe and healthy working environment as a fundamental principle and right at work It coincides with the anniversary of the 1971 adoption of the Occupational Safety and Health Convention by the International Labour Organization (ILO) It was first observed in 2003 after the ILO declared it an annual international campaign.

 

4. Australia to host third in-person Quad Summit on May 24 in Sydney: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that they will host the third in-person Quad Summit on May 24 in Sydney. It will be attended by US President Joe Biden, Japanese PM Fumio Kishida, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Quad is committed to supporting an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific that is respectful of sovereignty and ensures security and growth for all. The Quad leaders will discuss how the grouping can work alongside partners and regional groupings including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Pacific Islands Forum, to strengthen cooperation and shape the region.

 

5. India Pavilion at Global Education & Training Exhibition Inaugurated at Dubai: The ‘Study in India Pavilion’ at the Global Education & Training Exhibition (GETEX) in Dubai has been inaugurated by the Consul General of India in Dubai, Dr. Aman Puri. It was organized by the Services Export Promotion Council with the support of the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The pavilion, spanning over 200 sqm, features more than 30 universities and edtech stakeholders of Indian higher education. The GETEX is a leading education fair in the region for over 30 years.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. N Kamakodi appoints as MD and CEO of City Union Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the reappointment of N Kamakodi as Managing Director and CEO of City Union Bank. The tenure of his re-appointment would be for a period of three years with effect from May 1, 2023. Kamakodi joined the bank as deputy general manager in 2003 and was later elevated to general manager in 2005. In 2006, he was appointed as executive director. From May 2011, he was serving the bank as its managing director and chief executive officer.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Russian poet Maria Stepanova wins Leipzig Book Prize 2023: A Russian poet, Maria Stepanova has been awarded the prestigious Leipzig Book Prize for European Understanding in 2023. She was honored in Leipzig for her volume of poetry "Mädchen ohne Kleider" (Girls Without Clothes). It is described as a sensitive and highly poetic study of often hidden violence against the female body and the power imbalance that drives this oppression. About Leipzig Book Award:

·       Literary prizes in Germany

·       Prize money: 20,000 euros

 

2. Neeli Bendapudi receives Immigrant Achievement Award 2023: Neeli Bendapudi, the Indian American president of Penn State University, will receive this year’s prestigious Immigrant Achievement Award 2023 for her contributions to higher education in the US. The award is presented each year to an individual or organization that exhibits a commitment and dedication to America’s heritage as a nation of immigrants and advocacy for humane immigration policy. The award recognizes individuals that exhibit commitment and dedication to our heritage as a nation of immigrants. Bendapudi is the first woman and the first person of colour who has served as Penn State University’s president.

 

3. Dalai Lama receives Ramon Magsaysay Award: Dalai Lama personally received the 1959 Ramon Magsaysay Award from members of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation at his residence. The award was given in August 1959 by the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation in the Philippines. The Dalai Lama’s elder brother Gyalo Thonden accepted the Magsaysay Award on his behalf in August 1959 in Manila, Philippines. Since his exile from Tibet in 1959, the Dalai Lama has been living in India.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Scientist and orator Dr N Gopalakrishnan passes away: A noted orator and retired scientist, Dr. N Gopalakrishnan passed away at the age of 68. He was a scientist at Advanced Seismic Testing and Research Laboratory (ASTaR) of CSIR-SERC. He had served as a design engineer at TATA Consulting Engineers, Bengaluru and later joined as scientist in the Structural Dynamics and Machine Foundation division of CSIR-SERC. He was the co-author of 61 national and international journal articles and filed for five Indian patents.

 

2. Malayalam actor Mamukkoya passes away: Popular Malayalam actor Mamukkoya passed away at the age of 76. Mamukkoya made his acting debut in the theatre in 1979. Before that, he worked in a timber mill in Kozhikode. In his four-decade-long career, Mamkukkoya acted in over 450 Malayalam films. He also appeared in a French film titled Flammens of Paradise. The veteran actor was known for the use of the Mappila dialect and his impeccable comedy timing. He won two Kerala State Film Awards for his performances in Perumazhakkalam and Innathe Chintha Vishayam.

Daily GK Update- 27th Apr, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Cooperation Minister Amit Shah launched IFFCO's nano DAP: Cooperation Minister, Amit Shah has launched IFFCO's nano liquid Di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilizer for commercial sale at Rs 600 per 500 ml bottle. Aim: Farmers to use nano urea and DAP extensively to make the country self-reliant and reduce import dependence One bottle (500 ml) of nano-liquid DAP is equivalent to one bag (50kg) of conventional granular DAP, which is currently being sold at Rs 1,350. In 2021, IFFCO launched the world's first nano urea fertilizer.

 

2. Cabinet approves National Medical Devices Policy, 2023: The Union government has approved the National Medical Devices Policy, 2023 to reduce India’s heavy import dependence on the medical sector. It will help the Medical Devices Sector, grow from the present 11 billion USD to 50 billion USD in the next five years. It also aims to facilitate orderly growth of the medical device sector to meet the public health objectives of access, affordability, and innovation. The Cabinet has also approved establishing 157 nursing colleges

 

3. NITI Aayog released report titled Promoting Millets in Diets: NITI Aayog has released a report titled Promoting Millets in Diets: Best Practices across States and Union Territories of India. The report was released by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman K. Bery. Report's theme: State Missions and initiatives to promote millets; Inclusion of millets in ICDS; Research and development and use of technology for innovative practices It will serve as a guiding repository to revive and mainstream millets in our diets.

 

4. Centre inks MoU with Art of Living as part of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan: The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has signed an MoU with Art of Living as part of its Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. The signing ceremony was held at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. This campaign will get a boost towards achieving a drug-sensitized India. The Ministry of   Social  Justice and     Empowerment (MoSJE) has been implementing the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) to curb the menace of drug demand. Manamadurai pottery receives GI tag: Manamadurai pottery, a traditional form of pottery from Tamil Nadu, has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Manamadurai in Sivagangai district in Tamil Nadu is known for pottery making. The pottery is known for its distinctive style, which features intricate designs and vibrant colors.

 

5. Bengaluru experiences Zero Shadow Day as shadows disappear: People in Bengaluru experienced a unique astronomical phenomenon as their shadows disappeared from the surface. The city experienced Zero Shadow Day at 12:17 pm as the Sun was overhead on 25 April. The Zero Shadow was the result of Earth’s unique tilt on its axis and occurs twice a year in some parts of the world. The unique phenomenon is observed in places between +23.5- and -23.5-degrees latitude on the planet. According to the Astronomical Society of India, the Sun is almost never exactly overhead at noon, but usually transits a bit lower in altitude, a bit to the north or a bit to the south, and Earth’s rotation axis is inclined at 23.5 degrees to the plane of its revolution around the Sun. The sun’s rays hit Earth at a 90-degree angle along the equator during the spring and fall equinoxes, resulting in no shadows, and as the Earth’s axial tilt changes, the sun’s position in the sky changes, resulting in different shadow lengths throughout the year.

 

6. IIT Guwahati Researchers Develop Time-Bomb Liquid Marbles: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati have developed liquid marbles using nano clay that can be pre-programmed for drug delivery and cascade chemical reactions. Liquid marbles are small droplets of liquid that are coated with hydrophobic particles. Conventionally, for treating any disease we take medicines in the form of tablets, capsules, syrups, ointments, etc. A controlled drug delivery system is a more efficient technique to deliver the required dose at the specific site gradually over the desired period of time. This method of drug delivery can be used in treatment of diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

 

7. Xypex Announces Launch of First Production Plant in India: Canadian concrete waterproofing solutions provider, Xypex has announced the launch of its first production plant in India. The plant will be opened at Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The 40,000 sq-ft facility will house chemical manufacturing, and distribution capabilities to serve upstream, midstream, downstream, and adjacent industries in the region. The production facility has 30,000 sq-ft additional space for storage. The new production facility will further strengthen Xypex’s presence in the Indian market. The Xypex Noida plant is forecast to have more than 100 full-time employees by 2024. This hiring process will continue until the factory reaches full production capacity. The manufacturing plant will also create 500 indirect jobs. The plant will be manufacture Xypex’s range of waterproofing and protection products for the Indian market and neighboring countries.

 

8. Cabinet approved 6003 crore for Quantum Technology Mission: The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) at a total cost of Rs.6003.65 crore from 2023-24 to 2030-31. This will accelerate QT-led economic growth, nurture the ecosystem in the country and make India one of the leading nations in the development of Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA). The new mission targets developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years in various platforms like superconducting and photonic technology. The mission will also focus on developing magnetometers with high sensitivity in atomic systems and Atomic Clocks for precision timing, communications, and navigation. It will support the design and synthesis of quantum materials, including superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and topological materials, for the fabrication of quantum devices.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. International Girls in ICT Day 2023: 27 April: International Girls in ICT Day is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of April to encourage and empower girls and young women to explore and pursue careers in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). In 2023, it is being observed on April 27. 2023 theme: Digital Skills for Life It raised awareness about the gender gap in the tech industry and inspires women to consider careers in ICT. This day was declared by ITU on April 8, 2011.

 

2. US President, South Korean President secured a landmark deal: US President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol have secured a landmark deal. It includes plans to periodically deploy US nuclear-armed submarines in South Korea. This deal will be known as the Washington Declaration and strengthen the allies' cooperation in deterring a North Korean attack. The declaration comes amid rising concerns about nuclear threats from North Korea as the country carries out a record number of ballistic missile tests.

 

3. World Intellectual Property Day 2023: 26th April: The world commemorates World Intellectual Property Day on April 26 for promoting awareness of intellectual property and its safeguarding.

The theme for the 2023 celebration of World Intellectual Property Day is "Women and IP: Accelerating Innovation and Creativity". This day was initially proposed during the 33rd Assembly Session of the WIPO Member States in September 1988, and it was officially established on August 9th, 1999.

 

4. India Ranks 4th in World’s Largest Military Spending in 2022: Report: India was the world’s fourth largest military spender in 2022, with its defence spending increasing by around six percent as compared to 2021, a report by Swedish think tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The military expenditure report said around 23 percent of the total spending by India was towards funding equipment and infrastructure, including that along the China border where tension continues. However, a major part of the spending was on expenditures like salaries and pensions. With military expenditure of USD 81.4 billion (one billion=100 crore), India’s spending was up by six percent from 2021 and by 47 percent as compared 2013. The United States, accounting for 39 percent of the world military spending in 2022, was the top spender, followed by China (13 percent), Russia (3.9 percent), India (3.6 percent) and Saudi Arabia (3.3 percent). Together, these five countries accounted for 63 percent of total global military spending in 2022. The 15 largest spenders in 2022 together accounted for 82 percent of the world military expenditure of USD 1,842 billion. Total global military expenditure increased by 3.7 percent in real terms in 2022, to reach a new high of USD 2,240 billion. Military expenditure in Europe saw its steepest year-on-year increase in at least 30 years. The largest spenders in 2022 -the United States, China and Russia – accounted for 56 percent of the world total.

5. Shahabuddin Chuppu takes oath as president of Bangladesh: Veteran politician and former judge Mohammed Shahabuddin Chuppu was sworn in as the 22nd President of Bangladesh. Shahabuddin Chuppu succeeds Abdul Hamid, whose tenure ended on April 23, 2023. He was elected unopposed in February this year as the candidate of the ruling party, and after the ceremony, he signed the documents for the office of the president. Shahabuddin was born in 1949, hails from the northwestern Pabna District, and served as one of the commissioners of the independent Anti-Corruption Commission.

 

6. 27 April – International Girls in ICT Day: International Girls in ICT Day is an annual event celebrated on the fourth Thursday of April every year. Objective – To encourage and empower girls and young women to explore and pursue careers in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This year, it is being observed on April 27 with the theme “Digital Skills for Life”. Despite the significant role of ICT in our lives, a relatively small percentage of women globally opt for higher education in ICT-related fields, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). International Girls in ICT Day was declared by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on April 8, 2011, to encourage women to pursue careers in information and communication technologies. The Day has been celebrated globally since its inception, with over 11,400 events held in 171 countries and more than 3,77,000 girls and young women participating.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Shaheen Afridi becomes the youngest bowler to take 200 T20 wickets: Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi (23 years and 18 days) achieved a special milestone in T20 cricket as he completed 200 wickets in the format during the fifth T20I between Pakistan and New Zealand. He is also the quickest pacer to reach the landmark, in 143 matches. He surpassed the previous record held by Kagiso Rabada, who achieved this feat at the age of 25 years and 157 days. He is the 8th Pakistani bowler and the 53rd overall to reach the 200-wicket milestone in T20 cricket.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI approves reappointment of N Kamakodi as MD and CEO of City Union Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the reappointment of N Kamakodi as Managing Director and CEO of City Union Bank. The tenure of his re-appointment would be for a period of three years with effect from May 1, 2023. He joined the bank as deputy general manager in 2003 and was elevated to general manager in 2005. In 2006, he was appointed as executive director. From May 2011, he was serving the bank as its managing director and chief executive officer.

 

2. Reliance General to accept CBDC e-Rupee through Yes Bank: Reliance General Insurance has become India's first general insurance company to accept the RBI's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) e-Rupee for premium payments. Aim: To provide customers with an easy, safe, instant, and green payment solution The company has partnered with Yes Bank to enable premium collection. Customers with an active e-wallet with any bank can scan Reliance General Insurance's e-Rupee QR code to make immediate payments.

 

3. RBI Governor Addresses Global Conference on Financial Resilience: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor, Shaktikanta Das, addressed the Global Conference on Financial Resilience in Mumbai. The conference with the theme — Financial Stability: Framework, Monitoring and Implementation — is being organized by the College of Supervisors in collaboration with the Centre for Central Banking Studies (CCBS), Bank of England, London. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) also set up an academic advisory council called the ‘College of Supervisors (CoS)’ to further strengthen supervision over regulated entities. The CoS is headed by former deputy governor N S Viswanathan, and it has five other members. The council’s objective is to identify areas where skill building or upskilling is required, plan and develop curricula of all programmes, benchmark the programmes with international standards or best practices, and develop appropriate teaching methods.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. IIT Bombay secures second place in ‘Solar Decathlon’ Build Challenge: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay’s SHUNYA team has secured second place in Solar Decathlon Build Challenge in the United States. Reason: For their innovative zero-energy house designed to address air quality challenges in Mumbai's hot and humid climate. SHUNYA refers to Sustainable Housing for Urbanizing Nation by its Young Aspirants. It is a student-driven technical team of IIT Bombay working to build a sustainable future.

 

2. Dalai Lama received 1959 Ramon Magsaysay Award in person after 64 years: The Tibetan spiritual leader, Dalai Lama has received the 1959 Ramon Magsaysay Award by members of the award foundation personally after 64 years. It was the first international award given for his Community Leadership in recognition of his leadership of the Tibetan community's gallant struggle in defense of the sacred religion that is the inspiration of their life and culture. The Ramon Magsaysay Award is often called the Nobel Prize of Asia.

 

3. RINL wins Ispat Rajbhasha Samman for 2021-22: Rashtriya Ispat Nigam (RINL) has bagged Steel Ministry’s "Ispat Rajbhasha Samman" for the year 2021-22. The award was presented by the MoS for Steel and Rural Development Faggan Singh Kulaste to CMD, RINL Atul Bhatt, in the meeting of Hindi Salahkar Samiti held at Srinagar. The minister also released RINL's March issue of Hindi In-house Magazine "Rashtriya Ispat Sugandh". The members of Hindi Salahkar Samiti appreciated various activities being undertaken by RINL.

 

4. Shakira to Receive Billboard’s First Latin Woman of the Year Award: Colombian singer Shakira will be honoured with Billboard’s ‘Latin women of the year’ award at the first-ever Mujeres Latinas en la Musica, or Latin Women in Music, gala. Shakira has sold over 70 million records worldwide and has won three Grammy Awards and 12 Latin Grammy Awards. Shakira has earned the title of ‘Queen of Latin Music’ for her outstanding tracks over the course of three decades in her career. She is known for some blockbuster hit tracks like ‘Hips don’t lie’, ‘Can’t remember to forget you’, ‘Loca’, ‘Whenever Wherever’, ‘Waka Waka’, ‘Beautiful Liar’, ‘She Wolf’, ‘La Tortura’ and many more.

 

5. PIndigenous woman from Amazon wins Goldman Environment Prize: Alessandra Korap, a Munduruku Indigenous woman from the Brazilian Amazon, has been awarded a 2023 Goldman Environmental Prize. The respected award honors six activists from six continents who work on grassroots efforts to help the environment. The prize was established in 1989. The Goldman Prize defines grassroots leaders as those involved in local efforts, where positive change is created through community or citizen involvement. Korap is a member of the Munduruku people of the Amazon rain forest. She saw roads, farms and cities coming closer to her village throughout the 1980s. The settlers, loggers and miners posed a threat to the 14,000 Munduruku people, who lived along the Tapajos River. Munduruku leader Alessandra Korap has been awarded the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize for her work fighting against illegal mining and large-scale projects aimed at facilitating soybean exports in the Tapajos River Basin.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Veteran Malayalam actor Mamukkoya passes away: Veteran Malayalam actor-comedian Mamukkoya passed away at 77 due to cardiac arrest. He started his acting career by doing theatre in 1979, then he went on to become an actor by doing comic roles and was popular for playing characters that spoke Malabar accent. He acted in around 500 films, including comedies like Sandesam, Nadodikkattu, Innathe Chintha Vishayam, and Varavelpu. He won several awards and honours for his various roles during his extensive career.