Daily GK Updates - 3rd May, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. BSNL Launches 'Bharat Fibre' Broadband Service In Kashmir Valley: State-owned telecom firm BSNL has become the first operator to start optical fibre-based high-speed broadband service in Pulwama with the launch of 'Bharat Fibre'. This is the first such FTTH (fibre-to-the-home) service deployment in the (Kashmir) Valley. The service has been launched in a business partnership model with the local channel partner of Pulwama area, on a revenue sharing basis.

2. Mangaluru Police Gets An All-women Patrol Unit “Rani Abbakka Force”: Mangaluru City Police has launched an all-women police patrol unit ‘Rani Abbakka Force’. The force will cover the malls, beaches, educational institutions, places of religious importance, and the public transport system and handle issues related to eve-teasing and chain-snatching, among others. All-women police patrol force has been named after the 16th-century warrior of coastal Karnataka, Queen Abbakka of Ullal near Mangaluru, who fought the Portuguese in the 16th century.

3. Government and IIT-Delhi To Set up a CoE For Waste to Wealth Technologies: The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India and Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) signed an MoU in New Delhi for setting up a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Waste to Wealth Technologies for implementation of sustainable, scientific and technological solutions for waste management. The waste to wealth mission project has been approved under the recently constituted Prime Minister’s Science Technology and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC). 

4. National Space Day: 3^rd May 2019: Every Year National Space Day is celebrated on the first Friday of May to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields among young people. This year in 2019 National Space Day is observed on 3rd May to encourage youth and also to educate young people about the wonders of the Universe.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. 16th Ministerial Meeting of Asia Cooperation Dialogue Held in Qatar: The 16th Ministerial Meeting of Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) was held in Doha, Qatar. Gen. (Dr) V.K. Singh (Retd), Minister of State for External Affairs led the Indian delegation. The theme of the meeting was "Partners in Progress”.

2. Vladimir Putin Signs Law to Create Independent Russian Internet: Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law a new measure that aims to expand government control over the Internet. It would enable the creation of a national network, able to operate separately from the rest of the world. The new law aims to protect Russia from foreign online restrictions by creating a "sustainable, secure and fully functioning" local internet.

3. World Press Freedom Day: 3rd May: World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) is celebrated all over the world on the 3rd of May. The theme for WPFD 2019 is “Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation”.  One of the aims of World Press Freedom Day is to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the field. Another is to assess the state of press freedom throughout the world. Norway is ranked first in the 2019 World Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). India Ranked 140th in 2019 World Press Freedom Index.

4. World Bank gives 545 million dollars for cyclone-hit southern Africa: The World Bank will extend more than half-a-billion dollars in grants for cyclone-ravaged southern African countries. A total of up to 545 million US dollar will be disbursed to Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi - the three countries hit by Cyclone Idai in March. Cyclone Idai devastated the port city of Beira and its surrounding areas when it hit on March 14, killing more than 600 people. Weeks later a fresh massive storm, Cyclone Kenneth, lashed the northern coastal regions of Mozambique which killed 41 people. Mozambique, which received 350 million US dollar, Malawi will get 120 million US dollar while Zimbabwe will receive 75 million US dollar.

5. International Energy Day: 3^rd May:  International Energy Day is celebrated by The International Energy Agency (IEA) all over the world on 3 of May. IEA is a Paris-based autonomous intergovernmental organization established in the framework of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in 1974 in wake of the 1973 oil crisis for better conservation of energy and promotion of sustainable development worldwide.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Bajrang Punia Wins Gold In Ali Aliyev Wrestling Tournament: World number one Bajrang Punia has become the first Indian to win gold at the Ali Aliev wrestling tournament after defeating Viktor Rassadin of Russia in the 65 kg freestyle in Kapiisk. Bajrang, who is part of the JSW Sports Excellence Program, will fight at the historic Madison Square Garden arena. 

2. Jaipur to Host Asian Youth Women Handball Championship: Jaipur will host the 8th Asian Youth Women Handball Championship in which 10 teams will be participating. It will be played in August 2019. The previous edition in 2017 was held at Jakarta in Indonesia where South Korea was the champion while Japan and China were placed second and third respectively.

3. India to bid for 2024 World Table Tennis Championships: Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) has decided to bid for the 2024 edition (take part-32 teams) of the biennial World Team Championships. The last time India hosted a World Championships was way back in 1987 and the last big ITTF event that was staged in India was in 2012 when Hyderabad hosted the World Junior Championships.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Dr. Krishnamurthy Subramanian is new Member of Finance Commission’s Advisory Council: The Chief Economic Advisor, Government of India, Dr. Krishnamurthy Subramanian had been included as Member of the Advisory Council of the Fifteenth Finance Commission. Dr. Krishnamurthy Subramanian will be the twelfth Member of the Council.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Huawei Overtakes Apple To Become 2nd Biggest Smartphone Maker: Huawei Technologies Co overtook Apple Inc to claim the No. 2 spot in smartphones making in the first quarter, moving a step closer to its avowed ambition of displacing Samsungat the top of the market. Huawei’s been steadily gaining on Apple and Samsung Electronics Co. with an increasingly high-end line-up of devices.

2. Vodafone Idea announces multi-million dollar IT outsourcing deal with IBM: India’s largest telecom operator Vodafone Idea Ltd Friday announced a five-year multi-million-dollar IT outsourcing deal with tech giant IBM. The collaboration will provide Vodafone Idea with a hybrid cloud based digital platform to enable more intimate engagement with its over 387 million subscribers (as of December 31, 2018), enhancing business efficiency, agility and scale plus simplification of its business processes.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Former ISRO Chairman Awarded France's Highest Civilian Honour: Mr. A S Kiran Kumar (Former ISRO chairman) was conferred with France’s highest civilian honour, Chevalier de l’Ordre national de la Legion d’Honneur. He was awarded for his contribution to India-France space cooperation. Kumar was the chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) from 2015 to 2018. Currently, He holds the Chair of the ISRO Committee on Earth Observation Satellites. Kumar was conferred with the prestigious honour by France’s Ambassador to India Alexandre Ziegler on behalf of the French President. 

About Award: The Ordre national de la Lgion d'Honneur (National Order of the Legion of Honour) is the highest civilian award given by the French for outstanding service to France.

Daily GK Updates - 2nd May, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Meghalaya: GSI North Eastern Region installed geological display boards at Mawmluh cave, Therriaghat: In Meghalaya, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) North Eastern Region (NER) installed two geological display boards at two important geological sites in the State with geo-scientific information which will help in creating awareness among visiting tourists, students and the general public. The boards are unveiled at Mawmluh cave and Therriaghat, Sobhar in East Khasi Hill District. Mawmluh cave made headlines earlier as high resolution stable isotopic studies of the stalagmites from the cave have shown that there was a major climatic event about 4200 years ago. The Um-Sohryngkew (Wahrew) river section at Therriaghat is known for having the most complete records of the Cretaceous-Palaeogene (K-Pg) boundary transition in India.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. UN Designates JeM Chief Masood Azhar As Global Terrorist: In a huge diplomatic win for India, the United Nations Security Council designated Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist him under the Security Council’s Sanctions Committee.  The announcement was made by India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UN, Syed Akbaruddin. 

2. World Tuna Day: 2nd May:  The United Nations (UN) established World Tuna Day on May 2 to raise awareness about the importance of tuna and to promote more sustainable fishing practices. It was observed for the first time in 2017.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Apurvi Chandela Ranks World Number 1 in Women's 10 m Air Rifle Event: Indian shooting ace Apurvi Chandela (fro Jaipur) has been ranked the world number one in the women's 10 metres air rifle event while compatriot Anjum Moudgil rose to number two after consistent performances.

2. Kumar Sangakkara Named as 1st Non-British President of MCC: Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara has been named as the next President of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), becoming the first non-British President of the club.  Sangakkara will take up the post on October 1 and will serve for a period of one year. In 2012, Sangakkara was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the Club.

3. Isac Doru appointed as AIFF technical director: Romania's Isac Doru (56-year) has been appointed as the new technical director for the Indian football team. Isac will take over the role from interim technical director Savio Madeira. Mr. Doru comes with a rich experience of almost 29 years in international football across several countries including France, Japan, USA, Romania, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar amongst others

4. Shreyas Gopal claims a hat-trick in the five-over-a-side game in IPL-2019: Rajasthan Royals leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal (25-years) had claimed the hat-trick in the Indian Premier League (IPL)- 2019 against Royal Challengers Bangalore at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. He dismissed Bangalore's Virat Kohli (25), AB de Villiers (10) and Marcus Stoinis (0) to achieve the feat. Gopal's hat-trick is the 19th instance of a bowler registering a hat-trick in the IPL history. Kings XI Punjab's Sam Curran claimed the first hat-trick of the Indian Premier League (IPL)-2019 season.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. State Bank of India Links Interest Rates to RBI's Repo Rate: India's largest bank State Bank of India has moved to a new interest rate regime on large savings account deposits as well as short-term loans. Earlier, SBI had announced that it will link its interest rate on savings account with a balance above Rs1 lakh and short-term loans like overdraft and cash credit facility to Reserve Bank of India's repo rate, effective 1 May 2019. 

2. LIC HFL launches Udyam Centre in Bengaluru: LIC Housing Finance (LIC HFL) has launched ‘Udyam’, a skilling center in Bengaluru. It was launched in association with Lok Bharti Education Society, the implementing partner. The Centres of Excellence will provide training to marginalised youth in the BFSI, retail, and IT/ ITES sectors. LIC HFL MD and CEO: Vinay Sah.

3. SEBI Fines NSE Over Rs 625 crore in Co-location Scam: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) declared the National Stock Exchange (NSE), India’s largest equity bourse, guilty of not exercising due diligence in the co-location scam. The exchange has been asked to pay a fine of ₹625 crore plus 12 per cent (for five years) interest. SEBI has been probing alleged lapses in high-frequency trading offered through NSE’s co-location facility. Two former chief executive officers, Ravi Narain and Chitra Ramkrishna have been asked to disgorge 25% of respective salaries drawn during a certain period. According to the order, the exchange has also been prohibited from accessing the securities market directly or indirectly for six months.

4. CBDT and GSTN sign pact to nab evaders, reduce black money generation: The income tax department and Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) signed an agreement to facilitate the exchange of data to nab tax evaders and reduce black money generation. The move will allow the I-T department to verify the information filed by businesses in income tax returns, compared to the annual GST returns. Both sides will decide on the modalities for “automatic”, “spontaneous” and “request based” exchange of data. The I-T department will share key financial information, including the status of I-T return filings, turnover of the business, gross total income, and turnover ratio among others with GSTN.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Netherlands Becomes the Third Largest Foreign Direct Investor in India: The Netherlands has emerged as the third largest foreign direct investor in India during 2017-18, with investments pegged at about $2.67 billion across sectors. The Netherlands was also the second largest destination for foreign investment by Indian companies, after Singapore, with investments worth $12.8 billion in 2017.

2. BSE Appoints First Independent Woman Director Jayshree Vyas To board: BSE, formerly known as the Bombay Stock Exchange, has appointed its first independent woman director Jayshree Vyas. Vyas is a professionally-qualified chartered accountant, working as the managing director of Shree Mahila Sewa Sahakari Bank, Ahmedabad, since 1986. Already has two non-executive women directors namely Usha Sangwan and Rajeshree Sabnavis on its Board. BSE MD & CEO: Ashish kumar Chauhan.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Goldman Environmental Prize Conferred On 6 Environmental Activists: Six grassroots environmental activists received the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize. Known as the Green Nobel Prize, the Goldman Prize honors environmental activists from each of the six continental regions. The winners of the award are- Alfred Brownell, Liberia; Bayarjargal Agvaantseren, Mongolia; Ana Colovic Lesoska, North Macedonia; Jacqueline Evans, Cook Islands

Alberto Curamil, Chile; Linda Garcia, United States.

2. Drake Sets Record with Most Wins at Billboard Awards: Rapper Drake set a record with the most wins ever, taking home 12honours at the Billboard Music Awards. Drake surpassed singer Taylor Swift to become the top award recipient in the Billboard Music Awards history. He won 12 awards, bringing his career total to 27. Swift has won 23 Billboard Music Awards. Drake won the top artist and top Billboard 200 album, among others.

DEFENCE

1. Air Marshal Rakesh K S Bhadauria appointed as new Vice Chief of Air Staff: On May 1, Air Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria take over as Vice Chief of Indian Air Force, after superannuation of incumbent Air Marshal Anil Khosla. Post induction he will be looking after all air operations being carried out by force. 

OBITUARIES

1. Kannada Theatre Personality Master Hirannaiah Passes Away: Noted Kannada theatre personality, satirist and TV actor Master Hirannaiah has passed away. He was 85 years old. Narasimha Murthy hailing from Mysuru was the son of another theatre thespian K. Hirannaiah. Making his debut on the stage as a child, he went by the stage name Master Hirannaiah, a name that stuck with him forever.

Daily GK Updates - 1st May, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Dilip Kumar Appointed as Officer on Special Duty in Office of Lokpal: Senior IAS officer Dilip Kumar was appointed as the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the office of Lokpal. Kumar, a 1995-batch IAS officer of Punjab cadre, is at present joint secretary, National Human Rights Commission. He has been appointed for a period of six months on additional charge basis or till a new incumbent joins the post.

2. Environment Ministry Constitutes Committee to Implement National Clean Air Programme: The Union Environment Ministry has constituted a committee to implement the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), which aims to reduce particulate matter (PM) pollution by 20%-30% in at least 102 cities by 2024.  The committee will be chaired by the Secretary, Union Environment Ministry. It would be headquartered in New Delhi.

3. Gujarat & Maharashtra celebrates its 60th foundation day: 1^st May: Today, the two states Gujarat and Maharashtra are celebrating 60th foundation day. In 1960, two western states Gujarat and Maharashtra were formed from erstwhile Bombay state on this day.

4. All electric cars to have green number plates: The Union Government has asked state transport departments to ensure that all battery-operated vehicles (both existing and new) have green number plates immediately. In August 2018, the road transport ministry had introduced the new number plate for all battery-operated or electric vehicles (EVs). The transport ministry’s missive to states is aimed at indicating that the government is serious about pushing green mobility across the country.

5. Cyclone Fani: Centre releases advance SDRF funds to 4 states: Ministry of Home Affairs ordered an advance release of Rs 1086 crore to four states from the State Disaster Response Fund to deal with the preventive measures for cyclonic storm 'Fani'. Under this, the state of Andhra Pradesh will get Rs 200.25 crore while Rs 340.87 crore has been given to Odisha. A total of Rs 309.37 crore and Rs 235.50 crore have been allotted to Tamil Nadu and West Bengal respectively. The financial assistance has been released to their State Disaster Response Fund to assist them in undertaking preventive and relief measures in response to the cyclonic storm.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Akihito 1st Japanese Emperor to Step Down From Throne in 200 Years: Akihito became the first Japanese Emperor to step down from the throne in more than 200 years. His son, Crown Prince Naruhito, will ascend the Chrysanthemum throne today and will become the 126th Emperor of Japan. A new imperial era called Reiwa, which means order and harmony, has now begun. 30 April was the last day of the Heisei imperial era.

2. International Labour Day: 1st May: International Labour Day (also known as May Day or International Workers' Day) is celebrated across the world on 1st of May every year. It is a celebration of labourers and the working classes, promoted by the international labour movement, anarchists, socialists, and communists. The day marks the victory of the workers' movement for eight hours of work. It also aims to pay tribute to workers sacrifices in achieving economic and social rights all over the world. The theme of International Labour Day 2019 is “Sustainable Pension for all: The Role of Social Partners”.

3. European Union extends a ban on selling arms to Myanmar: The European Union (EU) has extended a ban on selling arms to Myanmar and prolonged sanctions against high-ranking officials till 30th April 2020 (due to Rohingya crisis). The sanctions include an embargo on arms and equipment that can be used for internal repression, an export ban on dual-use goods for use by the military and border guard police, and export restrictions on equipment for monitoring communications that might be used for internal repression.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. G Sathiyan Becomes First Indian to Break Into Top-25 of ITTF Rankings: India's G Sathiyan has become the first Indian to break into the top-25 of world rankings in Table Tennis. Sathiyan rose four spots to be 24th in the latest ITTF rankings, following his impressive sixth place finish in the Asia Cup in Yokohama.

2. Ajinkya Rahane becomes 1st Indian cricketer to join Hampshire: India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (30-year) has become the first overseas player from India to join Hampshire. Rahane will replace South Africa batsman Aiden Markram. He will play in the County Championship throughout the months of May, June, and July (subject to visa clearance).

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Bharti AXA Ties Up With Wishfin To Offer Policies Via WhatsApp:  Bharti AXA General Insurance, a private non-life insurer, has tied up with financial marketplace Wishfin’s insurance arm Wishpolicy, to offer two-wheeler insurance to customers via WhatsApp.  This service option is an instant and additional customer service option for policyholders, apart from Bharti AXA General Insurance’s multiple channels, including its network of branches, customer care and contact centre, dynamic portal, and intelligent chatbot.

2. Paytm Launches Recurring Payments Service For Merchants: Paytm has launched a recurring payment service for merchants that are working on a digital subscription model. The move will allow the subscription-based businesses to collect payments from their subscribers effortlessly. Recurring payments are an automatic payment system wherein the merchants automatically charge their customers for a specified service on a pre-arranged schedule.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Iraq Becomes India’s Top Oil Supplier in 2018-19: Iraq has become India’s top crude oil supplier for the second consecutive year, meeting more than one-fifth of the country’s oil needs in the 2018-19 fiscal year. According to data collected by the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics, Iraq sold 46.61 million tonnes of crude oil to India during April 2018 and March 2019.

2. UDS Acquires Majority Stake In Matrix Business Services: Facilities management provider UDS has acquired a majority stake in Matrix Business Services, which operates in the business assurance and background verification segment. This acquisition includes buying out the entire 19.77% stake of Kotak Mahindra Investments and 2.67% of Mahindra & Mahindra Contech and the balance 52.56% from other shareholders, mainly from all non-executive shareholders.

3. India Ratings & Research Lowers Growth Forecast For 2019-20 To 7.3%:  India Ratings & Research (A Fitch Group Company) has lowered the country’s growth forecast for the current fiscal to 7.3%, from the earlier projection of 7.5 %. The agency has listed three key reasons for lowering its projection. 1. Prediction of lower-than-normal monsoon for 2019 and the continued agrarian distress. 2. The loss of momentum in the industrial output growth, especially manufacturing and electricity, is likely to hurt growth. 3. The slow progress in cases referred to the National Company Law Tribunal under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, for resolution of the non-performing assets of the banking sector becoming a long-drawn-out process.

4. SEBI Fines NSE Over Rs625 crore In Co-Location Scam: Markets regulator SEBI directed National Stock Exchange to pay more than Rs625 crore in the case of misuse of its co-location facility. SEBI has been probing alleged lapses in high-frequency trading offered through NSE's co-location facility. The amount, if considered with simple interest, would come to little less than Rs1,000 crore. If it involves a compound interest, the fine could amount to around Rs 1,300 crore.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Raheem Sterling named 2019 FWA footballer of the year: Raheem Sterling has been named the 2019 footballer of the year by the Football Writers' Association (FWA). The Manchester City and England forward topped the poll of the 400-strong FWA membership as a clear winner, with 62 percent of the votes. 

2. Gaganjeet Bhullar wins 'Outstanding Achievement as a player' award: Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar has won the 'Outstanding Achievement as a player' award at the fourth edition of the annual India Golf Industry Association (GIA) awards at the Delhi Golf Club. Bhullar won the 2018 Fiji International, a European Tour event, and became the youngest golfer on the Asian Tour to achieve nine career victories on tour. The GIA awards were held along with the 8th India Golf & Turf Expo (IGTE), South Asia’s largest golf trade show.

DEFENCE

1. Indian And French Navies Conduct Varuna 19.1 Bilateral Exercise Off Goa Coast: The first part of the Indo-French joint naval exercise, Varuna 19.1 was kicked off the Goa coast. The 17th edition includes the participation of the French Navy’s aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle, two destroyers, FNS Forbin and FNS Provence, the frigate FNS Latouche-Treville, the tanker FNS Marne and a nuclear submarine.  The exercise will be conducted in two phases. The second part, Varuna 19.2, is scheduled to be held at the end of May in Djibouti. The bilateral naval exercise initiated in 1983 and christened as ‘Varuna’ in 2001, form a vital part of the Indo-French strategic partnership.

Daily GK Updates - 30th April, 2019

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. US Withdraws from UN Arms Trade Treaty: US President Donald Trump stated that his administration is withdrawing the U.S. signature from the U.N. Arms Trade Treaty, in response to concerns from gun rights activists that it could impinge on Americans’ right to bear arms. The treaty seeks to regulate international trade in conventional arms, including everything from tanks to small arms, specifically looking to “prevent and eradicate the illicit trade in conventional arms and prevent their diversion.”

2. Nirmala Sitharaman attends SCO Defence Ministers' conclave at Bishkek: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman attended the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' conclave (16th) at Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan. During the conclave, ways to further boost defence and security cooperation among the member countries in the wake of evolving security challenges in the region were discussed. India is keen on deepening its security-related cooperation with the SCO and its Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure, which specifically deals with issues relating to security and defence.

3. South Korea set to hold ASEAN maritime drills: A two-part maritime exercise by the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its partnering countries is slated to start in South Korea's port city of Busan. The exercise aims to counter maritime crime, including illicit transactions of weapons and other banned items. The drills are scheduled to take place from 29 April to 2 May in South Korea, following which they will be held in Singapore from May 9 to May 13. The maritime exercise involves 18 countries of the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting plus six other countries are slated to send military personnel. Naval forces from India, Brunei, China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and the United States are scheduled to practice rescuing ships hijacked by armed groups, amongst other maritime security operations.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Bajrang Punia To Become 1st Indian Wrestler to Fight at Madison Square Garden: Bajrang Punia is set to become the first wrestler from India to fight at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York. The 25-year-old has recently won the gold medal in the 65-kg category at the ongoing Asian Wrestling Championships. He is the first Indian wrestler to be invited by the American governing body. Punia will take part in the "Grapple at the Garden - Beat the Streets" fight night. 

2. WFI recommends Bajrang, Vinesh for Khel Ratna: The Wrestling Federation of India recommended Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat for the country's highest sporting honour the Rajeev Gandhi Khel Ratna award.  Bajrang (World no. 1) stamped his authority at the Asian Championship in Xi'an, China by clinching a gold medal in the men's 65kg freestyle event. Vinesh (24-year-old) won a bronze at the recent Asian Championship but considering that she fought in a new weight category of 53kg, it was seen as a good achievement. In 2018, Vinesh became the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the Asian Games. WFI has also recommended names of Rahul Aware, Harpreet Singh, Divya Kakran and Pooja Dhanda for the Arjuna award.

3. Asian Wrestling Championship 2019 Concludes: India Finishes with 16 Medals, Iran Tops: India wrapped up their campaign at the Asian Wrestling Championships on a resounding note with 16 medals (1 Gold, 3 Silver & 4 Bronze) after Harpreet Singh settled for a silver in 82kg on the final day of competitions. Only Bajrang Punia won the gold medal after defeating Kazakhstan’s Sayatbek Okassov by 12-7 in 65kg men’s freestyle. Asian Wrestling Championship 2019 was held at Xi’an, China.

4. Liverpool’s Van Dijk wins England’s PFA Player of the Year award: Liverpool’s centre back 'Van Dijk' (27-years) was named Player of the Year by England’s Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA). Van Dijk has helped the title-chasing Merseysiders keep 19 clean sheets in the Premier League and they have conceded the fewest goals in the top flight so far this season. Van Dijk is the first defender to win the award since Chelsea centre-back John Terry in 2005. Arsenal’s Dutch forward Vivianne Miedema (22-years) claimed the women’s Player of the Year award. She helped the London club secure their third Women’s Super League title with her 22nd goal of the season.

5. Indian para-athletes clinch medals at Asian Road Para-cycling championships: Indian para-athletes came up with a brilliant performance to secure a silver and two bronze medals at the Asian Road Para-cycling championships at Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Divij Shah clinched silver while Asian Para Games bronze medallist Gurlal Singh and Hand cyclist Sudhakar Marathe claimed bronze.

6. China's Ma Long captures the third world title: China’s Ma Long (30-year) captured a third ITTF-World table tennis championships completing a dream comeback after six months on the sidelines with a knee injury. He defeated Sweden's Mattias Falck 4-1 in the final. Ma Long now joins the elite club of male paddlers, who have won the Worlds singles for three consecutive times: Victor Barna and China’s Zhuang Zedong being the others. Ma Long won the Worlds crown in 2015 (Suzhou), 2017 (Dusseldorf) and 2019 at Budapest.

7. New Zealand Open Badminton tournament 2019 begins in Auckland: The 2019 New Zealand Open Badminton tournament has begun in Auckland (30 April to 5 May 2019). Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal will be aiming to win her second title this year. She will take on China's Wang Zhiyi in the Women's Singles first round tomorrow. Parupalli Kashyap, B Sai Praneeth, HS Prannoy, Subhankar Dey and Laskshya Sen will be seen in action in the Men's section.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Wipro Acquires Philippines' Largest Personal Care Company 'Splash': Wipro Consumer Care announced that it is acquiring personal care company 'Splash', which is based in the Philippines. Splash, the largest personal care player in the Philippines, recorded revenues worth $80 million in 2018. 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. PFA Awards 2018/19 Announced: Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk and Arsenal Women Football Club's Vivianne Miedema were named Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Players' Player of the Year for the 2018-19 season.

PFA Player's Player of the Year: Virgil van Dyjk, Liverpool and Vivianne Miedema, Arsenal. PFA Young Player of the Year: Raheem Sterling, Manchester City and Georgia Stanway, Manchester City. PFA Special Achievement Award: Steph Houhgton: Former England and WBA

2. Golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar Wins Outstanding Achievement As a Player Award: Arjuna awardee and star Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar won the outstanding achievement as a player award at the fourth edition of the annual India Golf Industry Association (GIA) awards at the Delhi Golf Club. The GIA awards were held along with the 8th India Golf & Turf Expo (IGTE), South Asia's largest golf trade show. 

DEFENCE

1. India 4th Biggest Military Spender in 2018: SIPRI Report: India was the world’s fourth biggest military spender in 2018 behind the United States, China, and Saudi Arabia, according to new data think tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). India was the fifth largest military spender in 2017. According to the SIPRI data, China was the second-largest military spender in 2018. India accounts for 3.7% of the global defence spending. 

2. GRSE To Build 8 Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercraft For Indian Navy: The Defence Ministry has awarded a contract of worth Rs 6,311 croreto Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) to build eight anti-submarine warfare shallow watercraft (ASWSWC) for the Indian Navy. As per the agreement, the first ship is to be delivered within 42 months from the date of signing of the contract and subsequently, two ships are required to be delivered per year. 

OBITUARIES

1. Youngest Best Director Oscar Nominee John Singleton Passes Away: John Singleton, an Academy Award-nominated filmmaker has passed away following complications from a stroke. He was best known for directing "Boyz N the Hood". Singleton became the first black filmmaker nominated for a Best Director Oscarfor his debut feature from 1991, "Boys N The Hood." He was only 24 at the time.

Daily GK Updates - 29th April, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Cultural Festival held in Guwahati City: South Central Zone Cultural Centre (SCZCC) of Ministry of Culture, Government of India has organized a Madhya Dakshini Festival 2019 (from 25 to 28 April 2019) in four venues of Guwahati. The festival is being celebrated in collaboration with North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) in four venues of Guwahati. Around 100 folk artists from Central India, states from Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Andra Pradesh have performed vibrant and colourful folk dances showing the rich cultural heritage of India.

2. "Orange Alert" issued in Gujarat due to heat wave conditions: The Gujarat health department has issued an 'Orange Alert' for two-days as the temperatures are likely to touch 44 degrees. All state’s bus stands and the municipal corporation has made arrangement for water at multiple points. Meteorological Centre (MC) Ahmedabad released warning for a heat wave in multiple regions of Gujarat for the next 48 hours.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Sri Lankan govt bans two terror outfits NTJ, JMI following serial blasts: Sri Lankan President Maithripala ‘Sirisena’ has decided to ban the two fundamentalist terror networks National Thawheed Jamath (NJT) and Jamathei Milathu Ibrahim (JMI) linked with last attacks. The organizations have been banned under emergency provisions, which were imposed on 23rd after the attacks. All activities of those organizations as well as their property will be seized by the government. Earlier, NJT was named behind suicide attacks last Sunday which killed over 250 people including 42 foreigners. Over 100 suspects linked to the organizations have been taken into custody as a countrywide crackdown on the organizations continues.

2. China removes BRI map that showed J&K, Arunachal Pradesh as part of India: A map hosted on Chinese government’s MOFCOM (Ministry of Commerce’s website) displaying routes under China’s flagship Belt and Road Initiative at odds with China’s own stand on these areas. Though India is boycotting the second Belt and Road Forum taking place in Beijing, the map also incorrectly showed India to be part of the BRI. The map did not clearly distinguish Pakistan Occupied Kashmir which is a core part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The display of the map on a prominent Chinese government site at a time when the Second Belt and Road Forum is ongoing is at odds with China’s stance.

3. UN and EU sign agreement to strengthen partnership in Counter-Terrorism Efforts: The United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU) have signed a joint framework aimed at strengthening partnership in counter-terrorism efforts. The UN-EU initiative will focus on terrorism and violent extremism prevention in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, as well as support victims and promote the reintegration of terrorism offenders.

4. International Dance Day is being observed today: International Dance Day is being observed globally on 29th April, created by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI). The day strives to encourage participation and education in dance through events and festivals held on the date all over the world. The event takes place every year on 29th April on the anniversary of the birth of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810), the creator of modern ballet. Every year (since its creation in 1982) an outstanding dance personality is selected to write a message for International Dance Day.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Japan's Kento Momota retains his Badminton Asia Championship: Japanese player Kento Momota (World number one) retained his Badminton Asia Championships title in Shanghai. He defeated Shi Yuqi (China) 21-12, 11-11, 21-18. Yamaguchi won the women's crown with an emphatic victory over home player He Bingjiao 21-19, 21-9.

2. Claire Polosak To Become First Female Umpire In Men's ODI: Australia's Claire Polosak (31-year) has become the first female umpire to stand in a men's one-day international (ODI) at the ICC World Cricket League Division Two match. Polosak has already stood in 15 women's ODIs, the first one in November 2016 between Australia and South Africa. She has also umpired the semi-final of the Women's T20 World Cup in 2018 between England and India and four matches at the 2017 Women's World Cup. Polosak has already blazed a trail -- she was the first woman to stand in a men's domestic fixture in Australia in her first List A match in Australia in 2017.

3. ISSF Rifle/Pistol World Cup 2019 Concludes: India Finishes Top: India ended their campaign at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup with a total of four medals, three golds and a silver. China was on the second position with 5 medals including 2 gold. The event was held in Beijing, China. Divyansh Panwar and Anjum Moudgil had won the first medal for India at the Beijing ISSF World Cup after clinching gold in 10m Air Rifle Mixed event. Manu Bhaker and Saurabh Choudhary won the gold medal in 10m Air Pistol Mixed event.

4. Petra Kvitova Wins Maiden Stuttgart's Porsche Grand Prix 2019: World number three tennis player Petra Kvitova (Czech Republic) beat Anett Kontaveit (Estonia) to win Stuttgart's Porsche Grand Prix for her second title of the year. Kvitova is a two-time Wimbledon champion. The championship was held at Stuttgart, Germany. 

5. F1 Racer Valtteri Bottas Wins Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2019: Mercedes' Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas beat his English teammate Lewis Hamilton by 1.5 seconds to win Azerbaijan Grand Prix. With this, Mercedes became the first team to win the opening four races of an F1 season with one-two finishes. 

6. 23rd Asian Athletics Championships Concludes: Bahrain Tops, India Finishes 4th: The 2019 Asian Athletics Championships was the 23rd edition of the Asian Athletics Championships. The 4-day event was held from at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, Qatar. Bahrain topped the medal tally with 11 Golds followed by China (9 Gold) and Japan (5 Gold). India clinched the 4th spot with 17 total medals including 3 Gold. PU Chitra won gold in Women’s 1,500 metres race.

7. Dominic Thiem Wins Barcelona Open 2019: Dominic Thiem (Austria) won the Barcelona Open 2019 after defeating Daniil Medvedev (Russia). The Austrian became just the fourth player in the past 15 years to lift the title in Barcelona, joining Rafael Nadal, Kei Nishikori and Fernando Verdasco. Dominic Thiem is also the first Austrian winner at this event since Thomas Muster in 1996. Thiem now has 13 ATP Tour titles, nine of which have come on clay.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. SBI launches Green Car Loan: State Bank of India announced the country’s first ‘Green Car Loan’ (Electric Vehicle) to encourage customers to buy electric vehicles. The new scheme will offer loan at 20 basis points lesser than the interest rate on the existing car loan schemes. The EMI per ₹1 lakh will be lower at ₹1,468 for 96 months against ₹1,622 for 84 months, based on the maximum tenor, in line with the existing scheme.

2. SEBI reduces minimum net worth requirements for clearing corp in IFSC: SEBI has reduced the minimum required level for clearing corporations operating in international financial services centre (IFSC). They should have at least Rs 100 crore net worth from three years of commencing operations. This net worth requirement in the form of liquid assets has been brought down from the earlier Rs 300 crore. However, the minimum net worth required to be held in liquid assets for clearing corporations on the commencement of operations remains the same as Rs 50 crore.

3. IRDAI Forms Panel to Review Microinsurance Framework: Insurance Regulatory & Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has set up a 13 member committee under IRDAI Executive Director Suresh Mathur to review the regulatory framework on microinsurance & recommend measures to increase the demand for such products. The committee has been formed in the backdrop of a less-than-desired offtake of microinsurance products despite their inherent benefits.

OBITUARIES

1. Former Indian Footballer Pungam Kannan Passed Away: Former India footballer Pungam Kannan passes away at age 80 years. Kannan played 14 matches for India & was the former Mohun Bagan & East Bengal forward. He won Santosh Trophy for Bengal twice in a row (1971-73) and was the top-scorer. He was known as the ‘Pele of Asia’. 

Daily GK Updates - 28th April, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Red Alert for Tamil Nadu as Cyclone Fani may land on 30th April: Meteorological department in Chennai issues a warning that a low-pressure system south of the ‘Bay of Bengal’ would turn into a cyclonic storm which has been named ‘Fani’. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘red alert’ in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry for 30th April and 1st May 2019. A 'yellow alert' has been issued for Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur and Malappuram on 29th April 2019.

2. ICMR Launches Malaria Elimination Research Alliance: The Indian Council of Medical Research has launched the ‘Malaria Elimination Research Alliance (MERA) India which is a conglomeration of partners working on malaria control in order to eliminate the disease from India by 2030. The National Vector Borne Diseases Control Program (NVBDCP) of India has also developed a comprehensive framework to achieve the target of “Malaria free India by 2030”.

3. Indian Army Inks MoU with NHPC to Build Tunnels on China, Pakistan Borders: Indian Army signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) Limited, to build four underground tunnels along China and Pakistan borders for storage of ammunition and other war-related equipment. Three tunnels will be built along the Chinese border and one tunnel will be built along the Pakistan border. The tunnel can store 175-200 metric tonnes of ammunition and the cost of this pilot project is around Rs 15 crore.

4. CPWD Constitutes 8-member Committee To Chart Out Design Policy: The Central Works Public Department (CPWD) has constituted an expert committee to formulate a design policy for building construction and infrastructure development.  The committee has been set up under the chairmanship of CPWD's Additional Director General M K Sharma. The move is aimed at reviving building construction and infrastructure development at all levels in the CPWD which comes under the Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry.The committee has been asked to submit its report to Director General Prabhakar Singh within 30 days.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Sri Lanka suspends visa on arrival programme after serial blasts: According to Sri Lankan tourism ministry, Sri Lankan Govt. suspended plans to grant visa on arrival to citizens of 39 countries after the recent bombings in which 359 people were killed. Sri Lankan government did not want the facility to be misused as investigations found foreign links to the attacks on Easter. Last month, Sri Lanka had announced the plan to allow visa-free entry to tourists from 39 countries, including European Union members, Australia and the United States, during the low season from 1st May (not include China and India).

2. UAE based Etihad Airways becomes the first major airline to operate the plastic-free flight: UAE based flag carrier ’Etihad Airways’ has become the first major airline in the Gulf region to operate a flight without any single-use plastics on board. The objective is to raise awareness about pollution on Earth. The first flight named ‘EY484’ (without use of plastics) landed in Brisbane, Australia. Etihad Airways has pledged to reduce single-use plastic usage by 80% across the entire organization by the end of 2022.

3. NASA's InSight detects first likely 'quake' on Mars:  US space agency NASA's robotic Mars InSight lander has recorded a likely marsquake for the first time ever.  This is the first recorded trembling that appears to have come from inside the planet, as opposed to being caused by forces above the surface, such as wind. Scientists still are examining the data to determine the exact cause of the signal.

4. World Veterinary Day: 27 April: The World Veterinary Day 2019 is observed on 27th April. It is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of veterinarians to the health of animals and society. The theme for the day is the “Value of Vaccination”. The day is initiated by the World Veterinary Association.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Jhulan Goswami wins CSJS award for best sportsperson of 2018: Former captain of India national women’s cricket team ‘Jhulan Goswami’ awarded the “Sportsperson of the Year” at the Calcutta Sports Journalists’ club (CSJC) in Kolkata, West Bengal. Sukumar Samajpati (former India winger) and Sambaran Banerjee (Bengal’s Ranji Trophy winning captain) honoured ‘Lifetime Achievement’ awards.

 2. India bags one gold, two silver medals at Asian Boxing Championship: India bagged one gold and two silver medals at the Asian Boxing Championships in Bangkok. Boxer Amit Panghal picked up his second successive gold medal of the year in the 52-kilogram category. Panghal defeated Korea's Kim Inkyu Korea. National champion Deepak Singh and Kavinder Singh Bisht in 56 kg category signed off with silver medals after close losses.  Deepak lost to Mirzahmedov of Uzbekistan while Bisht was also defeated by an Uzbek.

3. Pankaj Advani wins inaugural Asian Snooker Tour title: India's Pankaj Advani defeated Ehsan Heydari Nezhad of Iran 6-4 to claim the inaugural Asian Snooker Tour title. The Indian had earlier defeated Aung Phyo of Myanmar in the semifinal. Advani had earlier won the second leg of the Tour in China.

4. ISSF World Cup: Abhishek Verma Wins Gold In 10m Air Pistol: Abhishek Verma won the 10m air pistol gold medal at the ISSF World Cup at Beijing, China. He clinched the top spot with a total score of 242.7.  Russia's Artem Chernousov took silver. His brilliant performance in the Shooting World Cup Final also secured a fifth Olympic quota for India.

5.  Asian Boxing Championships: India Wins 13 Medals: India won 13 medals, including 2 gold, 4 silver, and 7 bronze at the Asian Boxing Championships in Bangkok. Boxers Pooja Rani and Amit Panghal gave India 2 gold medals.  While the men won 1 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze, the women bagged 1 gold, 1 silver, and 4 bronze medals.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Siddhartha Mohanty takes over as COO of LIC Housing Finance: LIC Housing Finance appointed Siddhartha Mohanty as its chief operating officer. Prior to taking over as the position, he was executive director with LIC of India. Mohanty started his career as a direct recruit officer with LIC of India in 1985 and has risen through the ranks to this senior position.

2. Aegon Life Insurance has collaborated with MobiKwik to launch a smart digital insurance product: Digital financial services company ‘Mobikwik’ collaborated with Aegon Life Insurance (pioneer of digital insurance in India) to launch a Rs 20 smart digital insurance product. The main objective for this initiative is to improve the insurance penetration in India (currently at 3.7%) that is to drive financial inclusion for the masses. The company has created 3 variants of the amount assured between Rs. 1 lakh, Rs.1.5 lakh and Rs. 2 lakhs at no extra cost. The insurance product launched is termed as the Aegon Life Group Term Plus Plan.

3. Bimal Jalan panel on RBI's capital size to submit the report by June: A high-level panel led by former RBI governor Bimal Jalan, set up to decide the appropriate capital reserves that the central bank should maintain, is likely to submit its report by June. The six-member Jalan panel was appointed on December 26, 2018, to review the Economic Capital Framework for the RBI. The committee was to submit its report in 90 days from the first day of its meeting, which was held on January 8. The panel has got an extension beyond its three-month term.

4. RBI Introduces ₹ 20 Banknote In Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series: The Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue ₹ 20 denomination banknotes in the Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series, bearing the signature of Shri Shaktikanta Das, Governor, Reserve Bank of India. The new denomination has the motif of Ellora Caves on the reverse, depicting the country's cultural heritage. The base colour of the note is Greenish Yellow. The dimension of the banknote will be 63 mm x 129 mm.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Microsoft Becomes World’s Third Company To Be Worth $1 Trillion: Microsoft has reached a valuation of one trillion dollars for the first time after posting an increase in profits. It makes the software giant only the third publicly-traded company in history to reach the threshold after Apple and Amazon passed it in 2018. Microsoft’s current valuation also means that it has again taken over Apple as the world’s most valuable company.

HONOURS AND AWARDS

1. Pakistan’s ‘Dawn’ journalist Cyril Almeida named IPI’s World Press Freedom Hero: The International Press Institute has declared Cyril Almeida (Dawn editor and columnist in Pakistan) the recipient of its 71^st  World Press Freedom Hero award. The institute lauded Almeida for his ‘tenacious coverage of the Pakistani state’s patronage of militant groups’. The awards will be presented in a ceremony in Geneva, Switzerland on 5^th June 2019. Almeida is a Rhodes scholar with a law degree from Oxford University.

2. Salim, Helen and Bhandarkar get Deenanath Mangeshkar Award 2019: The prestigious Master Deenanath Mangeshkar Award 2019 was awarded to Madhur Bhandarkar (National Award-winning filmmaker), Salim Khan (scriptwriter) and Helen (dancing diva). This year, the Master Deenanath Mangeshkar Award for music and art has been given to classical dancer Sucheta Bhide-Chapekar. Anandmayee Puraskar was given to Pandit Suresh Talwalkar of Taalyogi Ashram. The event was organized by Master Deenanath Mangeshkar Smruti Pratishthan charitable trust, Pune.

3. Rana Dasgupta Wins 2019 Tagore Literary Prize: The second edition of Rabindranath Tagore Literary Prize was awarded to author Rana Dasgupta for his 2010 novel “Solo“, a tale of estrangement and the ultimate failure of material existence. The Rabindranath Tagore Literary Prize for social achievement was awarded to Yohei Sasakawa, for “his incredible efforts to uproot leprosy and great contribution to world peace”.

OBITUARIES

1. Mark Medoff, the writer of 'Children of a Lesser God' passes away: Mark Medoff (79-years) passed away in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Medoff wrote 30 plays and is best known for the groundbreaking Children of a Lesser God, the story of a young deaf woman and her love affair with her speech teacher.

2. Terry Rawlings, British Film Editor Passes Away:  Terry Rawlings, a British film and sound editor has passed away. He was an Oscar nominee for his work on Best Picture winner “Chariots of Fire”. He was born in 1933.  The 5-time BAFTA nominee also received a career achievement award from the American Cinema Editors society in 2006.