Daily GK Update- 30th Nov, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Gujarat’s ‘Gharchola’ Receives Geographical Indication Tag: Gujarat’s Gharchola has recently been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which was conferred by the Union government, and took place during the event “GI and Beyond, Virasat Se Vikas Tak” in New Delhi. With this recognition, Gujarat now boasts 27 GI-certified items, 23 of which belong to the handicraft sector. The GI tag protects products that have a specific geographical origin and confirms the unique craftsmanship and quality of Gharchola. This tag enhances its market value and global reputation. It also helps prevent misuse of the name by non-authentic producers.The GI recognition supports local artisans, which raises awareness about their skills and crafts.

 

2. Karnataka’s Health Minister Orders Study on Handigodu Disease: Karnataka’s Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has initiated a comprehensive approach to address Handigodu disease. This rare genetic disorder impacts the nervous system, leading to health challenges. The minister’s directives aim to enhance healthcare in affected regions. Handigodu disease is a genetic condition first identified in 1978, which causes muscle weakness, joint deformities, and skeletal issues. The disease has resulted in approximately 205 reported cases and nearly 100 fatalities between 1978 and 1985.

 

3. Cabinet Approves Tato-I Hydro Electric Project: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned Rs 1,750 crore for the Tato-I Hydro Electric Project in Arunachal Pradesh, which aims to enhance power supply in the region. The Tato-I Hydro Electric Project will feature a total capacity of 186 MW, which will consist of three units, each with a capacity of 62 MW. The project is expected to generate approximately 802 million units of electricity each year.The expected completion time for the Tato-I HEP is 50 months, which includes all phases of construction and operational setup.

 

4. BIPEX-2024: The national postal exhibition BIPEX-2024 commenced in Patna at the Gyan Bhawan Auditorium and will run for three days. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar inaugurated the exhibition, marking Bihar’s rich postal history. One key attraction is the world’s first postal stamp. This stamp, known as Azimabad Ekanni and Doanni, was released 250 years ago, which is originated in Patna and was crafted from a copper coin. This historical piece showcases the evolution of postal services.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CBIC Host Global India Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme: The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) recently hosted a global India Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, which took place on November 28-29, 2024, in New Delhi, and involved collaboration with the World Bank. Key figures included CBIC Chairman Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal and Secretary of the Department of Revenue, Shri Sanjay Malhotra. Representatives from 18 trade partner countries attended. India launched the AEO programme in 2011 and was strengthened in 2016 to better support trade facilitation. The Directorate of International Customs manages the programme under CBIC.On October 31, 2024, India has 5,947 AEO-certified entities. The certification operates under a three-tier system. An additional tier exists for logistics operators, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

 

2. AUKUS Pact’s Impact on New Zealand-China Relations: China’s ambassador Wang Xiaolong cautioned that New Zealand’s involvement in the AUKUS security pact could jeopardize its relationship with China, which comes as New Zealand evaluates its options regarding AUKUS. AUKUS is a trilateral security partnership formed in 2021, which includes Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The pact aims to counter China’s influence in the Asia-Pacific region, which initially focused on providing Australia with nuclear-powered submarines. The agreement has since expanded to include advanced technology sharing.

 

3. Masato Kanda Elected as ADB President: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Masato Kanda as its 11th President. His term begins on February 24, 2025, and succeeds Masatsugu Asakawa, who will leave office the day before. Kanda will complete Asakawa’s term, which ends on November 23, 2026. Masato Kanda is 59 years old and currently serves as a Special Advisor to Japan’s Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Kanda has nearly 40 years of experience in finance. He held roles at Japan’s Ministry of Finance. His positions included Vice-Minister of Finance for International Affairs.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Army Launches ‘Eklavya’ Online Learning Platform: The Indian Army has introduced an online learning platform named Eklavya, which coincides with the “Decade of Transformation” and the Year of Technology Absorption in 2024. General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff, inaugurated the platform. Eklavya was developed by the Headquarters Army Training Command. The Army War College provided essential support. The Bhaskaracharya National Institute of Space Applications and Geoinformatics (BISAG-N) in Gandhinagar created the platform at no cost. It is hosted on the Army Data Network. The platform is designed to be scalable, which allows the Army to add various training establishments easily. Officers can register for multiple courses simultaneously. Currently, 96 courses are available from 17 key training establishments.

 

2. India Tests K-4 Missile from INS Arighaat: The Indian Navy conducted a successful test of the K-4 ballistic missile, which took place in the Bay of Bengal and involved the new nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighaat. The missile has a range of 3,500 km, which enhances India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh brought into light the significance of INS Arighaat. He described it as a testament to India’s technological prowess. The submarine’s construction reflects the government’s “Aatmanirbharta” initiative, promoting self-reliance. Indian scientists, industries, and naval personnel collaborated on its development.

 

3. 59th All India Conference of Directors General/Inspector Generals of Police: Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the 59th All India Conference of Directors General/Inspector Generals of Police in Bhubaneswar, which took place on November 30 and December 1, 2024. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for a modernized and strategic police force. Modi urged police to adopt SMART principles – Strategic, Meticulous, Reliable, Transparent, and Flexible. He brought into light the importance of adapting to changing circumstances and challenges in law enforcement.The Prime Minister stressed using technology to ease officers’ workloads. He pointed out the necessity of addressing digital fraud, cyber crimes, and AI-related threats. He encouraged leveraging Artificial Intelligence to transform challenges into opportunities.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024: The India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024 will take place from November 30 to December 3, 2024, at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati. This year, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) leads the event, which is supported by the National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST). IISF 2024 will feature numerous events and activities for the public and scientific communities. One major attraction is “Chandrayaan: The Museum of the Moon,” showcasing an artistic model of the moon. The Mega Science and Technology Exhibition will highlight India’s achievements in STEM.

 

2. ISRO’s PSLV Launches Proba-3 Mission: ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) will take off from Sriharikota on December 4, 2024, at 4:08 pm. The launch involves collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) and New Space India Limited (NSIL). The PSLV is ISRO’s trusted launch vehicle, which has a proven track record for reliability and versatility. The rocket is capable of launching satellites into various orbits. It has successfully completed numerous missions since its first flight in 1993. The Proba-3 mission is a groundbreaking initiative, which is the first precision formation flying mission in the world. The mission aims to deploy two satellites into a special elliptical orbit. These satellites will weigh a combined total of 550 kg.

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 29th Nov, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Piyush Goyal launches CII’s Ease of Doing Business and Regulatory Affairs Portal: Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, has launched the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) and Regulatory Affairs Portal in a bid to enhance transparency and facilitate feedback on India’s business environment.The portal, unveiled during the 2nd DPIIT-CII National Conference on Ease of Doing Business, aims to provide real-time updates on key initiatives led by the government and CII, empowering users to track progress and resolve concerns effectively.The government’s approach to Ease of Doing Business is rooted in cooperative federalism and aims to make business processes smoother for both entrepreneurs and citizens.

 

2. SBI Funds Management appoints Nand Kishore as MD & CEO: SBI Funds Management has appointed Nand Kishore as Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer. He will take over from Shamsher Singh.Kishore was Deputy Managing Director (Global Markets) at SBI’s Corporate Centre in Mumbai, where he oversaw the bank’s treasury operations.Kishore has over 34 years of experience working with SBI across major banking verticals such as Branch Banking, International Operations, Treasury Operations and Investment Banking, Corporate Banking and Retail Operations.He began his career at the SBI as a Probationary Officer in 1990 and moved up the ranks to become Deputy Managing Director.

 

3. Hemant Soren sworn in as the Jharkhand Chief Minister for 4th time: Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Hemant Soren was sworn in as the chief minister of Jharkhand for the fourth time.

Governor Santosh Kumar Ganagwar administered the oath of office and secrecy as the 14th chief minister of Jharkhand in a ceremony at Ranchi’s Morabadi Ground.This is the fourth time Hemant Soren has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand. He was first sworn in on 13 July 2013 and remained in office until 28 December 2014. His second term was from 2019- 31 January 2024, and his third term was from 4 July—28 November 2024.He broke the record of his father, Shibu Soren, who was also the Chief Minister of Jharkhand three times.During the recently held Jharkhand Legislative Assembly election, Hemant Soren led the INDIA alliance to a thumping majority. The INDIA alliance won 56 seats in the 81-member Jharkhand Assembly.

 

4. Masato Kanda elected as new President of ADB: Masato Kanda, former top currency diplomat for Japan, was elected as 11th president of the Asian Development Bank (ADB).Kanda, 59, currently serves as special advisor to Japan’s prime minister and minister of finance.He will assume office on Feb 24, 2025, succeeding Masatsugu Asakawa, who will leave office on Feb 23 next year.Kanda will complete the unexpired term of Asakawa, which ends on Nov 23, 2026.

 

5. DRA signs up Rashmika Mandanna as brand ambassador: Chennai-based real estate developer, DRA has signed on actress Rashmika Mandanna, as its brand ambassador.The company, which has so far developed 10 million sq ft of (mostly) residential space in Chennai, expects to add 2.7 m sq ft from its nine ongoing and six upcoming projects.Rashmika, who co-starred with Amitabh Bacchan, Goodbye, will help in this effort.The actor has endorsed many brands and products, such as McDonald’s, Kalyan Jewellers, Bisk Farm, Cashify and Dabur Honey and in 2023 was the first Indian ambassador to the Japanese fashion brand Onitsuka Tiger.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IIT Guwahati to host 2024 India International Science Festival: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati will celebrate India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024 from November 30 to December 3 in Guwahati.The theme of this 10th edition of IISF is “Transforming India into an S&T-driven Global Manufacturing Hub”. It reflects the government’s aim to merge science and technology with industrial growth, making India a global leader in manufacturing.The India International Science Festival is organised by the Union Ministry of Science and Technology and the Union Ministry of Earth Science in association with Vijnana Bharati.The various departments of the Ministry of Science and Technology—the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), and Department of Biotechnology (DBT)—are involved in the India International Science Festival.

 

2. Kaziranga National Park hosted the 12th International Tourism Mart 2024: The 12th International Tourism Mart was held in the UNESCO World Heritage site Kaziranga National Park, Assam.Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated the 12th International Tourism Mart.The International Tourism Mart will highlight the vast potential of tourism in the North-Eastern Region to domestic and international audiences and bring together the Tourism and hospitality industry stakeholders to promote tourism in the region.Kaziranga National Park is celebrating its 50th anniversary of being declared a national park.The International Tourism Mart has been organised by the Union Ministry of Tourism every year since 2013.

 

3. 29 November – International Jaguar Day: International Jaguar Day is celebrated every year on November 29, aims to highlight the growing dangers to jaguars and the urgent need for their protection.These big cats, known as the largest in the Americas and key to preserving biodiversity and cultural heritage in Central and South America, are also crucial to the Amazon Rainforest and the third largest cat predator globally.In 2020, the World Wildlife Federation (WWF) started a plan to help jaguars grow in number and protect their homes by 2030. At the United Nations in New York in March 2018, leaders from 14 countries with jaguar habitats came together for the Jaguar 2030 Forum.This meeting led to the Jaguar 2030 Statement, which detailed many joint efforts to save jaguars, including the idea for an International Jaguar Day.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Army launches ‘Eklavya’ online digital platform for officers’ training: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi has launched an online learning platform for the Indian Army nicknamed as “Eklavya”.This initiative aligns with the Indian Army propelling itself into the “Decade of Transformation” as envisioned by the COAS and also with Indian Army’s theme for 2024 as the “Year of Technology Absorption,”.The Eklavya software platform has been developed under the aegis of Headquarters Army Training Command with Army War College as the sponsor agency. The platform has been developed at zero cost through “Bhaskaracharya National Institute of Space Applications and Geoinformatics” (BISAG-N), Gandhinagar, along with support from Directorate General of Information Systems.Student officers are permitted to register for multiple courses simultaneously. A total of 96 courses by 17 Category ‘A’ Training Establishments of the Indian Army have already been hosted on the platform.

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Indian Navy successfully Test fires K-4 Missile from INS Arighaat: Indian Navy has successfully tested a nuclear-capable K-4 missile from its nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat. The INS Arighaat submarine can carry four K-4 missiles.The Indian Navy commissioned its second nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighat, on 29 August 2024. The first nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arihant, was inducted in November 2017.INS Arihant can carry only one K-4 missile.K-4 is a nuclear-capable submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) developed by theDefence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).The missile is in the user trial phase before its final induction on INS Arihant/INS Arighaat. It is the second SLBM to be developed by the DRDO.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI raises ₹50,000 crore via bonds in FY25: State Bank of India (SBI) has raised ₹50,000 crore through domestic bonds so far during FY25.The bond issuances include ₹30,000 crore in long-term, tier 2 bonds worth ₹15,000 crore and AT1 bonds amounting to ₹5000 crore.The bank garnered Rs 5,000 crore AT1 Bonds, Rs 15,000 crore Tier 2 Bonds and Rs 30,000 crore Long Term Bonds till date during FY25 at a very competitive rate.The country’s biggest lender State Bank of India earlier this month had raised Rs 10,000 crore through its seventh infrastructure bond issuance.All these issues have attracted overwhelming responses from investors and were oversubscribed by more than 2 times against the respective base issue size.These bonds are of 15-year tenor except for the AT1 Bonds which is perpetual.

 

2. SEBI pushes for interoperability between NSE and BSE during outages from April 1: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has announced the interoperability of stock exchanges to ensure business continuity in the face of a technical glitch or an outag The interoperability for cash, derivatives, currency derivatives, and interest rate derivatives will be effective from April 1, 2025.Upon discussion with exchanges, it has been decided that, to begin with, the NSE would act as an alternative trading venue for the BSE and vice-versa.Stock exchanges have been directed to issue a standard operating procedure (SOP) regarding it in the next two months.Traders would be able to hedge their open positions by taking offsetting positions in identical or correlated indices on other exchanges.

 

3. Ideal Insurance Brokers Join Hands with Riskcovry to Launch Digital Insurance Platform: Ideal Insurance Brokers, one of India’s leading insurance broking firms, has partnered with insurtech platform Riskcovry to introduce a state-of-the-art digital insurance distribution platform. This collaboration significantly shifts from traditional offline processes to a fully digital and customer-centric approach.The partnership equips Ideal Insurance with a comprehensive digital suite, providing its team with instant access to a wide range of insurers and products through an intuitive dashboard. Key features include real-time business tracking via robust MIS and reporting tools and streamlined workflows that minimize manual tasks and operational errors.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 28th Nov, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Launches ‘Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat’ Campaign Against Child Marriage: The Government of India launched the ‘Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat’ campaign to eradicate the social evil of child marriage.The Campaign will be supervised by the Union Ministry of Child and Women Development. According to the government, it will continue until the social evil of child marriage is eradicated from the country.The ‘Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat’ campaign was launched by the Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi in New Delhi. The minister also unveiled the ‘Child Marriage Free Bharat’ portal. The portal will support the campaign’s mission by raising public awareness against child marriage, preventing child marriage, and reporting incidents of child marriage.The campaign will focus on 130 districts of the country where the incidence of child marriage is very high. It will involve the concerned central and state government departments, district Child Marriage Prohibition Officers, civil society members and organisations and the media.

 

2. Mines Ministry launched India’s first-ever auction of minerals in offshore areas: The Ministry of Mines has launched the first-ever tranche of mineral block auctions in India’s offshore areas.

This landmark initiative signals India’s entry into the exploration and development of undersea mineral resources within its offshore territories. These areas include the country’s territorial waters, continental shelf, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and other maritime zones.India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), spanning over 2 million square kilometres, is believed to hold significant mineral reserves.In August 2023, the Parliament amended the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, making auctions the mandatory mode for allocating mineral blocks in offshore areas. This amendment enables the government to streamline the granting of production leases and composite licences for resource exploration and extraction.

 

3. Govt collects Rs 16,398 crore GST on health, life insurance in FY24: FinMin: The revenue collected by the union government through Goods and Services Tax (GST) on healthcare and life insurance services surged by 680 per cent to Rs 16,398 crore in 2023-24 from Rs 2,101 crore in 2019-20, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said in a written reply in Lok Sabha.However, GST collections in this category dropped marginally in FY24 compared to Rs 16,770 crore collected in FY23.This comes amid demands from stakeholders, including states, to reduce GST rates on health and life insurance premiums.At present, GST on health insurance services is levied at a standard rate of 18 per cent. Specific health insurance schemes catering to the needs of differently abled and economically weaker sections of society, such as Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY), Universal Health Insurance Scheme, Jan Arogya Bima Policy, and Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme, are exempt from GST.

 

4. Amara Raja Infra sets up Green Hydrogen fuelling station for NTPC in Leh: EPC company Amara Raja Infra has completed setting up India’s first green hydrogen fuelling station in Leh, Ladakh for NTPC.The project will enable emission-free transport in and around Leh – making India among the few countries to take the lead in the green mobility space. With the completion, NTPC will operationalise five hydrogen fuel cell buses in the region.Union Power Minister and Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal inaugurated the green hydrogen fuelling station. The scope of the project consisted of designing, engineering, supplying, construction, erection, testing and commissioning of the hydrogen station. Additionally, it also includes three years of operation and maintenance works of all systems on a turnkey basis.The fuelling station project with a capacity of producing GH2 of 80kg per day was completed in two years, at a height of 3,400 meters above sea level with temperatures varying between minus 25°Celsius to 30° Celsius.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Who is Yamandú Orsi, Uruguay’s New President?: Yamandú Orsi has been elected as Uruguay’s next president, follows a closely contested runoff election, which marks a shift back to centre-left governance after five years of conservative rule. After the dictatorship, Orsi joined the Popular Participation Movement. This movement was led by José Mujica, a former president and guerrilla leader. Mujica has been a key supporter throughout Orsi’s campaign. Orsi served as mayor twice before his presidential run.Orsi embodies a simple lifestyle, reminiscent of Mujica. He enjoys rural life and often drinks mate in public. He has been seen walking his dog and wearing casual attire. Orsi has pledged not to reside in the presidential palace when he takes office in March 2025.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Coast Guard’s SAREX-24 maritime exercise begins: The 11th edition of Indian Coast Guard’s National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise and Workshop (SAREX-24) begins in Kochi, Kerala.Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has inaugurated the event. The exercise is being held alongside the 22nd National Maritime Search and Rescue Board meeting.The event will feature the largest ever real time simulations aimed at honing the skills for effective Search and Rescue Operations and colloborative efforts among the regional and international maritime stakeholders.Response operations to large-scale contigencies at sea will be the essence of the current edition of SAREX, based on the theme “Enhancing Search and Rescue Capabilities through Regional Collaboration.”

 

2. INSV Tarini Begins Historic Journey to New Zealand: On November 24, 2024, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini departed Fremantle, Australia, which marks the start of the second leg of its global expedition. The crew, led by Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A, received a warm send-off from supporters. The Navika Sagar Parikrama-II expedition commenced on October 2, 2024, which is a historic mission featuring two women officers sailing around the world. The vessel, INSV Tarini, measures 56 feet. This journey is a dual-handed circumnavigation, with both officers navigating together.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. NADA suspends Bajrang Punia for four years over anti-doping code violation: The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) handed a four-year suspension to Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia after he refused to provide a sample for a dope test during the national selection trials on March 10.Initially suspended by NADA on April 23, the Tokyo Games bronze medallist was also suspended by the World Wrestling Federation (UWW) in light of the incident.The Panel holds that the Athlete is liable for sanctions under Article 10.3.1 and liable for ineligibility for a period of 4 years,” the ADDP said in its order.

 

2. Divith Reddy won Under-8 World Cadets Chess Champion 2024: Eight-year-old Divith Reddy of Hyderabad, Telangana, has won the Under-8 World Cadets Chess Championship in Montesilvano, Italy.Divith secured 9 out of the possible 11 points in the Under-8 World Cadets Chess Championship and was tied with fellow Indian Sattwik Swain and the Chinese Ziming Guo. However, due to a better tie-break score, Divith Reddy was awarded the gold medal, Sattwik Swain the silver medal, and the Chinese Ziming Guo got the bronze medal.Divith, with a FIDE rating of 1784, started the Championships brilliantly by winning the first four of his matches. However, he lost his next two matches but bounced back to win his last five matches and the title.About FIDE World Cadet Championships 2024The world chess governing body FIDE organised the FIDE World Cadet Championships 2024 at Montesilvano, Italy.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. PNB MetLife introduces Smart Communications App to transform Agent-Customer Interactions: PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited has unveiled the Smart Communications App, a cutting-edge digital platform aimed at enhancing interactions between customers, agents, valued partners, and its Proprietary Sales Force (PSF).The app is designed to simplify sales processes and foster meaningful, personalised connections.PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Limited is a leading life insurance provider in India, combining the global expertise of MetLife, Inc. with the legacy of Punjab National Bank (PNB). Tagline “Milkar Life Aage Badhaein,”.

 

2. Paytm launches UPI Lite Auto Top-Up for Hassle-Free Recurring Daily Payments: One97 Communications (OCL), the parent company of Paytm, has rolled out a new automatic top-up feature for Paytm UPI Lite, streamlining small-value transactions for users.This feature ensures automatic recharging of the UPI Lite balance when it drops below a preset limit, eliminating the need for a PIN and enabling seamless daily payments.Users can now make payments of up to Rs. 500 per transaction, with a daily cap of Rs. 2,000, making the feature ideal for recurring expenses such as groceries, transportation, subscriptions, and small utility bills. According to Paytm, the UPI Lite system keeps bank statements clutter-free, as transactions are processed via an on-device wallet without direct access, to the main bank account.Additionally, Paytm has introduced a UPI statement download feature, allowing users to view and download detailed transaction records, including those made via UPI Lite. This enhancement promotes effective expense tracking and spending management.

 

3. Star Health Insurance launches ‘Star Arogya Digi Seva’ with CCDC: Star Health Insurance, a prominent standalone health insurance provider, has unveiled its latest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, ‘Star Arogya Digi Seva’.Developed in partnership with the Center for Chronic Disease and Control (CCDC), the program seeks to bridge healthcare gaps in underserved rural communities by combining cutting-edge telemedicine technology with Mobile Health Units (MHUs).Focusing initially on five aspirational districts in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, the initiative will span across 74 villages in 10 districts, delivering essential healthcare services directly to these areas.The program emphasizes the prevention and management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and hypertension, while also conducting awareness campaigns on preventive health and iron nutrition.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Indian Chemical Council conferred with 2024 OPCW The Hague Award: The Indian Chemical Council, an apex body representing the Indian chemical Industry, was conferred with the 2024 OPCW The Hague Award in a ceremony in the Hague, Netherlands.The Director General of the Indian Chemical Council, D. Sothi Selvam, received the award.The award was conferred on the Indian Chemical Council during the 29th Session of the Conference of the States Parties (CSP) of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).The 29th session of the CSP will be held from 25 to 29 November 2024 in the Hague, Netherlands.The Conference of the States Parties (CSP) meets annually at the Hague to oversee the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, promote the Convention’s objectives, and review compliance with the treaty.

 

2. Angel One gets SEBI nod to enter mutual fund business: Angel One Asset Management Company has received SEBI’s approval to act as the asset management company for Angel One Mutual Fund which will focus exclusively on passive investment solutions.Angel One Mutual Fund’s passive investment products such as index funds and exchange traded funds will be designed to offer clients a low-cost, transparent and accessible pathway to wealth creation.The fund house aims to offer user-friendly, easy to understand wealth creating products to a growing base of retail investors across the country.Chairman and Managing Director of Angel One – Dinesh Thakkar

Daily GK Update- 27th Nov, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India signs the Final Act of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty: India has signed the final act of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty (DLT), reaffirming its commitment to fostering inclusive growth and ensuring equitable access to intellectual property protection.The DLT seeks to harmonise the procedural frameworks for industrial design protection, improving the efficiency and accessibility of registration processes across multiple jurisdictions.After nearly two decades of negotiations, the member states of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) adopted the landmark Design Law Treaty during a diplomatic conference in Riyadh.According to the WIPO, the current draft text with the working title Design Law Treaty would make it significantly easier for designers, especially smaller-scale designers and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to register their work.

 

2. Centre approves ₹1,115 crore to states for disaster mitigation, capacity-building projects: A high-level committee, headed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, has approved ₹1,000 crore for various disaster mitigation and capacity-building projects in 15 states.The committee also approved another project for training and capacity building of civil defence volunteers in all States and Union territories at a total outlay of ₹115.67 crore.A sum of ₹139 crore each was approved for Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, ₹100 crore for Maharashtra, ₹72 crore each for Karnataka and Kerala, ₹50 crore each for Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, and ₹378 crore for the eight Northeastern states — Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.The committee, comprising Union ministers for finance and agriculture and the vice chairman of the NITI Aayog as members, considered the proposal to mitigate landslide risk in 15 states for funding from the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF).

 

3. Cabinet approves continuation of the Atal Innovation Mission: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of its flagship initiative, the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), under the aegis of NITI Aayog, with an enhanced scope of work and an allocated budget of Rs.2,750 crore for the period till March 31, 2028.AIM 2.0 is a step towards Viksit Bharat that aims to expand, strengthen, and deepen India’s already vibrant innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.The approval underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a robust innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in India. With India at rank 39 on the Global Innovation Index and home to the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem, the next phase of Atal Innovation Mission (AIM 2.0) is expected to further enhance India’s global competitiveness.

 

4. Cabinet approves One Nation One Subscription (ONOS): The Union Cabinet has approved the ‘One Nation One Subscription’ (ONOS) initiative for centralised access to research articles and journal publications for government higher education institutions and research and development (R&D) laboratories of the central government.The central government has allocated ₹6,000 crore for ONOS until 2027. All higher education institutions under central or State governments and R&D institutions of central government can avail the benefits of the initiative through a national subscription.

 

5. NABL under QCI signs MoU with CREDAI to enhance quality assurance for temporary site testing laboratories: The National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), a constituent board of the Quality Council of India (QCI), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI) during CREDAI’s Silver Jubilee celebration on November 25, 2024, in New Delhi.The aim of this MoU is to enhance the quality and reliability of temporary site testing laboratories in civil engineering projects.By implementing NABL’s recognition scheme, this collaboration seeks to ensure that materials used in construction are tested accurately on-site, fostering trust in their quality. This initiative will contribute to the overall improvement of construction standards, ensuring safer and more durable structures across Indiaz

 

6. Indian Constitution in Sanskrit and Maithili language launched: President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the Indian constitution’s translation in Sanskrit and Maithili language in New Delhi on 26 November 2024 on the occasion of the Samvidhan Diwas.Maithili is mainly spoken in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Nepal.The government of India has undertaken a project to translate the Indian constitution into all 22 scheduled languages mentioned in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution.

This year marks 75 years of the enactment of the Indian constitution. The Constituent Assembly of India adopted the Indian constitution on 26 November 1949, which was promulgated on 26 January 1950.

 

7. 26 November – Samvidhan Diwas: Constitution Day, also known as Samvidhan Divas, is celebrated every year on November 26. This day marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1949 by the Constituent Assembly of India.The Constitution finally took effect on January 26, 1950, when India became a republic.The Government of India’s Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment declared November 26 Constitution Day in 2015, the year that marked the 125th birth anniversary of Dr BR Ambedkar, the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution. Previously, the day was celebrated as Law Day.The Constitution established India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic, guaranteeing its citizens justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Thus, the day underscores the importance of national unity, fostering unity in justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 3rd India-Tanzania Joint Defence Cooperation Committee meeting held in Goa: The third edition of the Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting between India and Tanzania took place in Goa.During the meeting, the two sides discussed a wide range of areas of cooperation, including growing training partnerships and service-to-service, maritime & defence industry collaboration.The Indian delegation, led by Joint Secretary Shri Amitabh Prasad, included senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces. The High Commissioner of India to Tanzania Shri Bishwadip Dey also attended the meeting. The Tanzanian delegation was led by Land Forces Commander Maj Gen Fadhil Omary Nondo.The Tanzanian delegation will visit Goa Shipyard Ltd to get first-hand experience of India’s capabilities in port development and shipbuilding. The delegation is also scheduled to visit INS Hansa and the National Institute of Hydrography in Goa.

 

2. DPIIT signs MoU for two years with WinZO to support over 2,000 interactive entertainment startups: The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) signed an MoU with WinZO, India’s largest social gaming and interactive entertainment platform.This first-of-its-kind collaboration will focus on building a robust ecosystem of over 2,000 startups, innovators, and students, providing them with mentorship, industry insights, and access to global opportunities.The MoU spanning over two years also aims to accelerate the growth of India’s interactive entertainment sector by fostering innovation, creating skilled talent, and scaling startups to compete on a global stage.The MoU will expand WinZO’s flagship Tech Triumph Program (Bharat Edition), a platform for identifying and mentoring India’s top game developers. This program has already showcased India’s gaming talent at global forums such as the Game Developers Conference (GDC) and Gamescom LATAM, and will now scale its impact through DPIIT’s support.

 

3. Yamandu Orsi elected the new President of Uruguay: A teacher of history, folk dancer and former mayor, the 57-year-old Yamandu Orsi has been elected as the new President ofYamandu Orsi secured 49.8 per cent of the votes, compared to Alvaro Delgado of the centre-right National Party, who secured 45.9 per cent votes.Yamandu Orsi will succeed the current President, Luis Lacalle Pou, in March 2025.The Uruguayan President is elected for a term of five years and is not eligible for immediate reelection. It was due to this reason the incumbent, President Luis Lacalle Pou, did not contest the election.

 

4. 26 November – World Sustainable Transport Day: World Sustainable Transport Day is observed annually on November 26th, recognises the important role of safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all in supporting sustainable economic growth, improving the social welfare of people and enhancing international cooperation and trade among countries, the General Assembly decided, in its resolution A/RES/77/286 of May 2023 to declare 26 November as World Sustainable Transport Day.Sustainable transport — with its objectives of universal access, enhanced safety, reduced environmental and climate impact, improved resilience, and greater efficiency — is central to sustainable development.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Bihar’s Suryavanshi becomes youngest IPL player at just 13: Bihar youngster Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a left-hand top-order batter, has become the youngest player to earn an IPL deal, worth INR 1.10 crore (US$0.13 million approx.), from Rajasthan Royals (RR).Suryavanshi, all of 13 years and 243 days on the day he got his maiden IPL contract, has already played for India Under-19 and scored a century opening the batting against Australia Under-19 in a four-day game in Chennai less than two months ago.Bids for Suryavanshi started at his base price of INR 30 lakh and RR and Delhi Capitals (DC) were soon involved in the bidding battle, which eventually went RR’s way.Suryavanshi also has a triple-century to his name – an unbeaten 332 – in an U-19 tournament in Bihar, the Randhir Verma Tournament. He idolises Brian Lara and consults former India opener Wasim Jaffer about his game from time to time – they had first met during an U-19 white-ball tournament in Bangladesh in November 2023.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Liberty General Insurance Join Hands with Profectus Capital to Empower MSMEs: Liberty General Insurance, a prominent player in India’s insurance sector, has joined hands with Profectus Capital to provide tailored insurance solutions to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).This collaboration aims to provide financial security to MSMEs, enabling them to focus on growth and sustainability without the looming threat of unforeseen risks.The collaboration aims to embed insurance awareness within the financial ecosystem, enabling businesses to protect their operations, employees, and families. By catering to risk management requirements, Liberty General Insurance and Profectus Capital strive to build resilience and ensure continuity for MSMEs, empowering them to face challenges with confidence.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 26th Nov, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Shivraj S Chouhan launched Nayi Chetna 3.0 – Pahal Badlaav Ki Campaign against Gender-Based Violence: Union Minister of Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan has launched the third edition of Nayi Chetna – Pahal Badlaav Ki, a national campaign against gender-based violence in Rang Bhawan Auditorium,New Delhi.The month-long campaign, organized by the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) under the aegis of the Ministry of Rural Development, will run across all Indian States and Union Territories until 23rd December 2024.The campaign is a collaborative effort in the spirit of “whole of government” approach and will witness participation of 9 Ministries/Departments namely Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Department of Justice.

 

2. India’s first Constitution Museum inaugurated at OP Jindal University: India’s first Constitution Museum was inaugurated at the O P Jindal Global University by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.This museum will acquaint present and coming generations with our constitution, how it was framed and what discussions and debates took place then.Notably, the museum is designed to provide a deep and engaging exploration of the Constitution’s essential elements and key provisions for the citizens to know demonstrating how its values and ideals have shaped the nation.The visitor can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of pre-independence India, through 360-degree visual spectacle. Through cutting-edge technology and multimedia storytelling, the exhibit unfolds the chronological tapestry of events leading to the drafting of the Indian Constitution.

 

3. Cyclone ‘Fengal’: Low-pressure area developed on Bay of Bengal: A potential cyclone named ‘Fengal,’ suggested by Saudi Arabia, is forming in the Bay of Bengal, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).It will move towards Tamil Nadu and further towards Sri Lanka. However, in most likeliness, it will weaken before crossing the land.This probable cyclone ‘Fengal’ will have no impact on Odisha as were weather forecasts.This comes on the heels of Cyclone Dana, which severely impacted Odisha in October 2024.

 

4. FSIB recommends Binod Kumar for the post of MD and CEO of Indian Bank: The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) recommended Binod Kumar for the post of Managing Director of Chennai-based Indian Bank.Kumar, who is serving as Executive Director of Punjab National Bank, will replace S L Jain on his superannuation next month.Earlier in April, the bureau had selected Asheesh Pandey for the position but the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had raised some reservation over his name. Therefore, the bureau held a fresh interview to choose a new person in place of Pandey.The final decision on the FSIB recommendation would be taken by the appointments committee of the Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

5. 23 November – Fibonacci Day: Fibonacci Day is observed every year on 23 November. November 23rd is a date that is brilliant yet curiously underappreciated. Because 11/23 neatly matches the first four numbers of the famous Fibonacci sequence: 1, 1, 2, 3.On November 23rd, we celebrate Fibonacci Day (a quirky nod to the genius of Leonardo of Pisa, better known as Fibonacci and his famous number sequence). This series, where each number is the sum of the two before it (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, and so on) has over centuries shaped the world of art, architecture and design.

 

6. 23 November- National Cashew Day: National Cashew Day is observed on November 23 annually. The term “cashew” is derived from the Portuguese word “caju” which is derived from the Tupian word “acajú,” referring to the fruit of the cashew tree. When cashews were first discovered in Brazil in 1558, Europeans reportedly thought they were inedible because they contained anacardic acid, which irritates skin. However, after studying the Tupi-Indians, the Portuguese learned how to roast the seeds to get rid of the irritants and became aware of how great cashews tasted. They made wine out of the fruit’s flesh as well.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi inaugurated Global Cooperative Conference in New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the ICA Global Cooperative Conference at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

For the first time, in 130 years long history of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), the Global Cooperative Conference and General Assembly was organized in India.On the occasion, Mr. Modi launched a commemorative stamp on the International Year of Cooperatives 2025.The Global Conference was hosted by Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited, in collaboration with ICA and the Government of India, and Indian Cooperatives AMUL and KRIBHCO.The International Cooperative Alliance was founded in 1895. It represents thirty lakh cooperative enterprises worldwide and has more than one billion cooperative members.

 

2. World agrees on USD 300 billion climate aid for developing nations: Countries at the COP29 summit in Baku adopted a $300 billion a year global finance target to help poorer nations cope with impacts of climate change.The agreement, clinched in overtime at the two-week conference in Azerbaijan’s capital, was meant to provide momentum for international efforts to curb global warming in a year destined to be the hottest on record.The agreement would provide $300 billion annually by 2035, boosting rich countries’ previous commitment to provide $100 billion per year in climate finance by 2020. That earlier goal was met two years late, in 2022, and expires in 2025.

The deal also lays the groundwork for next year’s climate summit, to be held in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil, where countries are meant to map out the next decade of climate action.The summit cut to the heart of the debate over financial responsibility of industrialised countries – whose historic use of fossil fuels has caused the bulk of greenhouse gas emissions – to compensate others for worsening damage from climate change.

 

3. PM Modi honoured with Global Peace Award For Indian-American Minority Welfare: The Association of Indian American Minorities (AIAM), a newly formed non-governmental organisation, was launched at Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church, Maryland.The initiative aims to unite and promote the welfare of minority communities within the Indian American community in the United States.During the event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured with the Dr Martin Luther King Jr Global Peace Award for Minority Upliftment. The award was jointly presented by Washington Adventist University and AIAM, recognising his efforts towards inclusive development and minority welfare.Renowned Sikh philanthropist Jasdip Singh was appointed as the Founder and Chairman of AIAM, supported by a seven-member Board of Directors representing diverse Indian minority communities.These members include Baljinder Singh and Dr Sukhpal Dhanoa (Sikhs), Pawan Bezwada and Elisha Pulivarti (Christians), Dipak Thakker (Hindu), Juned Qazi (Muslim), and Nissim Reuben (Indian Jewish).

 

4. 24 November – World Conjoined Twins Day: Recognizing that the case of conjoined twins is a rare condition where the estimated incidence can be 1 in 50,000 births, the General Assembly decided to proclaim 24 November as World Conjoined Twins Day.The Assembly emphasized the need to address the condition of conjoined twins, by raising awareness of their cases at all levels and through a life-course approach, in cooperation with relevant United Nations agencies and other stakeholders, as well as by advocating for their well-being and social inclusion, while taking into account relevant agreed international standards.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Rishabh Pant becomes most expensive player in IPL auction history, joins LSG for Rs. 27 crore: Rishabh Pant made history as the most expensive player in IPL auction history during the 2025 mega auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.The Indian wicketkeeper-batter was signed by the Lucknow Super Giants for an astonishing ₹27 crore.Earlier, the Delhi Capitals exercised its RTM (Right to Match) card at ₹20.75 crore to retain Pant, but Lucknow responded by raising the bid to Rs 27 crore, forcing DC to withdraw.With this record-breaking signing, Pant surpassed the mark set moments earlier by Shreyas Iyer, who was picked up by the Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Samsung R&D Institute, Noida partners with IIT Bombay to Advance AI and Digital Health Research: In a significant step towards industry-academia collaboration, Samsung R&D Institute, Noida (SRI-Noida) has signed an MoU with the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay).The partnership aims to pioneer groundbreaking research in artificial intelligence (AI), digital health, and other emerging technologies over the next five years.This collaboration seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and industry practices, providing IIT Bombay students with practical experience and insights into cutting-edge technologies. It also enables Samsung engineers to receive specialized training and certifications in emerging fields, delivered by IIT Bombay faculty.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. PNB becomes a PCAF signatory, strengthening its commitment to climate responsibility: Punjab National Bank (PNB), the country’s second largest public sector bank, has become a signatory to the globally recognised Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF).This move reinforces PNB’s commitment to transparency and proactive climate action, by adopting internationally benchmarked standards for measuring and disclosing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with its lending and investment activities.In the financial year 2023-24, PNB disclosed its financed emissions in the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) using the PCAF Standard, a globally accepted methodology.PNB’s decision to join PCAF aligns with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) draft framework on climate-related financial risk disclosures, which requires banks to begin reporting on governance, strategy, and risk management for climate-related financial risks and opportunities from FY 2025-26 onwards, and on metrics and targets related to these risks and opportunities from FY 2027-28 onwards.

 

2. FSIB recommends Binod Kumar for the post of MD and CEO of Indian Bank: The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) recommended Binod Kumar for the post of Managing Director of Chennai-based Indian Bank.Kumar, who is serving as Executive Director of Punjab National Bank, will replace S L Jain on his superannuation next month.Earlier in April, the bureau had selected Asheesh Pandey for the position but the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had raised some reservation over his name. Therefore, the bureau held a fresh interview to choose a new person in place of Pandey.The final decision on the FSIB recommendation would be taken by the appointments committee of the Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan Honored with FABA Lifetime Achievement Award: The Federation of Asian Biotech Associations (FABA) has announced Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist at the World Health Organization (WHO) and Principal Adviser to the National TB Elimination Programme, as the recipient of its esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award for 2024.The honour will be presented at the University of Hyderabad’s School of Life Sciences.Swaminathan’s distinguished career is marked by her exceptional contributions to global health, particularly in tuberculosis (TB) research and her pivotal role in the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Swaminathan’s recognition by FABA is a testament to her unwavering dedication to addressing critical health challenges through research, innovation, and compassionate leadersh

 

2. Upamanyu wins JCB Prize 2024 for ‘Lorenzo Searches for the Meaning of Life’ : Writer Upamanyu Chatterjee has won the JCB Prize for Literature for his book “Lorenzo Searches for the Meaning of Life“.Chatterjee’s book, published by Speaking Tiger, follows the story of a young Italian man who starts leading a life of spirituality after an accident only to discover the banalities of the path.Chatterjee received a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh along with a trophy sculpted by Delhi artist duo, Thukral and Tagra, titled Mirror Melting’.The prize, established in 2018, is presented to a distinguished work of fiction by an Indian author.In 2023, “Firebird” by Perumal Murugan, translated from the Malayalam by Janani Kannan won the prestigious award.