Daily GK Update- 21st Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi released commemorative postage stamps, book on Ram Temple: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released a series of commemorative postage stamps dedicated to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and a book featuring stamps from around the world honouring the revered deity. The intricate design of the stamps captures the essence of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, with six distinct components. These include the Ram Mandir itself, the timeless Choupai ‘Mangal Bhavan Amangal Hari’, a radiant depiction of the sun, the sacred Saryu River, and sculptures found in and around the temple. The six stamps within the collection represent key figures and elements from the Ramayana. These include the Ram Temple, Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman, Jatayu, Kevatraj, and Ma Shabri.

 

2. Cabinet approves Coal India power projects through JVs: The Union Cabinet has approved setting up of two pithead thermal power plants through joint ventures by subsidiaries South Eastern Coalfields (SECL) and Mahanadi Coalfields (MCL) aimed at providing cheaper power. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Narendra Modi approved proposals to set up a 1×660 MW thermal power plant at Amarkantak Thermal Power Station in Chachai, Madhya Pradesh. The CCEA also approved a 2×800 MW Thermal Power Plant in Sundergarh, Odisha.

The plant at Amarkantak thermal power station will be set through a joint venture between SECL and MPPGCL. The proposal for equity investment at a capital of Rs 823 crore by SECL and 49 percent equity investment in JV company with an estimated project capex of Rs 5,600 crore has been approved.

 

3. Ministry of Tourism to organize “Bharat Parv” from 23-31 January: The nine-day extravaganza, part of the Republic Day celebrations, is set to unfold from January 23rd to January 31, at the Lawns and Gyan Path in front of the historic Red Fort in Delhi. Since its inception in 2016, Bharat Parv has evolved into a grand celebration, bringing together the rich tapestry of India’s cultural heritage, citizen-centric initiatives, and vibrant traditions. The event promises a captivating blend of Republic Day Parade tableaux, dynamic cultural performances, engaging presentations, and a feast of delectable delicacies from every corner of the country.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Cabinet approves creation of posts for 16th Finance Commission: The Cabinet has approved the creation of three officer-level posts for assisting the 16th Finance Commission, chaired by Arvind Panagariya. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the creation of three posts at the level of Joint Secretary i.e. two posts of Joint Secretary and one post of Economic Adviser, for the 16th Finance Commission. The newly created posts are required to assist the Commission in carrying out its functions. All other posts in the commission have already been created as per the delegated powers. In December 2023, the government appointed the former vice chairman of Niti Aayog Panagariya as the chairman of the 16th Finance Commission. While, Ritvik Ranjanam Pandey was named as the Secretary to the Commission.

 

2. Praveen Achuthan Kutty appointed as MD & CEO of DCB Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Praveen Achuthan Kutty as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DCB Bank. The appointment is for a period of three years with effect from April 29, 2024, the bank said in a regulatory filing. The term of the bank’s MD & CEO Murali Natrajan ends on April 28, 2024. Praveen Achuthan Kutty has over 32 years of experience in all aspects of Retail & SME banking.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. EIL conferred with SCOPE Eminence Award: Engineers India Limited (EIL) has been conferred with the prestigious SCOPE Eminence Award in the category of Women Empowerment for the period 2019-20. The award recognizes EIL’s exemplary commitment to fostering an inclusive & diverse work environment and celebrates the outstanding achievement of its women workforce.

The award was presented to EIL by the Vice-President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar and received by EIL’s Director (Finance) Sanjay Jindal and Director (Commercial) Atul Gupta, during an award ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

 

2. President Murmu presented Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar: President Droupadi Murmu has presented the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar to 19 children for their exceptional achievements. The children, comprising 9 boys and 10 girls, hail from 18 States and Union Territories, including two aspirational districts. The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, 2024 will be given in six categories — art and culture (7), bravery (1), innovation (1), science and technology (1), social service (4), and sports (5). The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, a government initiative, aims to recognize and celebrate the exceptional achievements of children aged 5 to 18 years. Each awardee will receive a medal and a certificate.