Daily GK Updates - 14th August, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Centre launches Swachh Nagar app: Swachh Nagar app was launched by the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry. An app that will allow users to have waste- solid, wet or construction and demolition (C&D) - collected by their urban local bodies along with a new protocol on wastewater treatment that would become a part of cleanliness rankings of cities.

Note: Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs: Hardeep Singh Puri.

2. “Operation Number Plate” Launched by RPF: Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Indian Railways launched a Special Drive with a Code Name "Operation Number Plate” to identify and verify all vehicles parked in Railway premises, circulating area, parking and even in the ‘No Parking’ areas for a longer duration. The unidentified vehicles are considered a serious threat to the security and safety of passengers and other stakeholders of railways.

Note: Minister of Railways: Piyush Goyal.

3. J&K will host Global Investors Summit 2019: Jammu and Kashmir administration will host a 3 days global investors’ summit from October 12 in Srinagar. The summit will provide J&K with an opportunity to showcase its strengths, strategies and potential. It will also provide an opportunity to allay fears and apprehensions in the minds of outside trade and the business community.

Note: Governor of Jammu & Kashmir: Satya Pal Malik.

4. ‘Panchamirtham’ of Palani temple gets GI tag: The Panchamirtham is an ‘abhishega prasadam’ of the Murugan temple has been bestowed with the Geographical Indication tag. The Murugan temple is situated in Tamil Nadu.  The panchamirtham is a combination of five natural substances — banana, jaggery, cow ghee, honey and cardamom. Dates and diamond sugar candies are added for flavour. It is served in a semi-solid state.

5. Karnataka launches “E-Step” initiative to empower student start-ups: Karnataka Government has launched “E-Step” initiative to empower student start-ups. The “E-Step” initiative has been launched by The Department of IT, BT and S&T in Karnataka, through Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS). Under the E-step initiative boot camps, mentoring and training programmes will be organised which will cover various aspects of entrepreneurship. The programme is specially crafted for students/start-ups/entrepreneurs to understand the basics of entrepreneurship from experienced trainers.

6. Mamata Banerjee inaugurates world's 1st museum on Sri Chaitanya: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has inaugurated the world’s first museum on Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu at Baghbazare in Kolkata. The museum has been constructed by Baghbazar Gaudiya Mission. The Chaitanya museum has paintings on one of the aspects of Lord Krishna's life known as ‘Vrindavan Leela’. The museum will also showcase the lineage of six Goswamis who were great Vaishnava scholars.

Note: Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was the 16th-century Bengali Hindu mystic and saint and the chief proponent of the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition within Hinduism.

International Affairs

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. India, Russia to boost ties to achieve USD 30 billion bilateral trade by 2025: Piyush Goyal (Commerce and Industry Minister) led a high-power delegation of Chief Ministers of Haryana, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Goa and about 140 Indian companies to Vladivostok, Russia (11-13 August 2019). Goyal underlined the need to diversify and deepen trade links in priority sectors, in order to meet the trade target of USD 30 billion by 2025. The 5th Eastern Economic Forum will be held in September in Vladivostok, Russia.

2. India contributes 1 million to UN Special Purpose Trust Fund: India has contributed one million US Dollars to the United Nations Special Purpose Trust Fund for the Resident Coordinator System. According to the UN information, Special Purpose Trust Fund (SPTF) is a specific fund housed within the UN Secretariat, established to receive, consolidate, manage all contributions and financial transactions of the new Resident Coordinator system in a transparent and effective way. SPTF web portal, displays in real-time all commitments, contributions and expenditures recorded for the fund.

3. Organ Donation Day: 13 August: Organ donation day is observed on August 13 every year to create awareness about organ donation. This day tries to remove the myths about organ donation from people's mind. Read here to know more about organ donation.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Dutch Hero Wesley Sneijder announces retirement from Football: The Netherlands' most-capped player Wesley Sneijder announced his retirement from football. He played 134 times for his country and his career included a World Cup runners-up medal as well as Champions League, La Liga and Serie A titles.

2. Women’s T20 cricket included in 2022 Commonwealth Game: Women’s Twenty20 cricket, beach volleyball and Para-table tennis have been included in the 2022 Commonwealth Game. Commonwealth Game 2022 scheduled to be held in Birmingham, England. This time shooting and archery events will not take place in the 2022 Commonwealth Game. This is the first time cricket has been included in the Commonwealth Games since 1998 in Kuala Lumpur when South Africa won the Gold in the men's 50-over competition.

3. Simone Biles makes history with a “triple-double” twist: Simone Biles makes history with a never-before-seen “triple-double” floor exercise landing. She performed the landing featuring "two flips and three twists" in U.S. Gymnastics Championships held in Kansas City. 

4. P.T. Usha appointed as a member of AAA's Athletes Commission: Legendary Indian sprinter P.T. Usha, one of India’s greatest athletes, has been appointed as a member of the Asian Athletics Association’s (AAA) Athletes Commission. This is the 2nd time P.T. Usha has been appointed a member of the Asian Athletics Association’s Athletes Commission. P.T. Usha will be one of the six members of the AAA Athletes Commission, to be headed by 1992 Olympics gold medallist hammer thrower Andrey Abduvaliyev of Uzbekistan.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Government rolls out scheme for liquidity support to NBFCs: The Central government has rolled out scheme for liquidity support to NBFCs. The partial guarantee scheme will allow state-run banks (PSBs) to purchase assets of non-banking and housing finance companies (NBFCs and HFCs). The partial guarantee scheme aims at providing liquidity support to avoid distress sale of assets in a sector facing a shortage of cash due to asset-liability mismatch. NBFCs will be able to sell 20% of standard assets, worth up to Rs 5,000 crore, as on March 31.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Ola ‘acqui­hires’ AI start-­up Pikup.ai: Cab aggregator Ola announced acquihiring of Pikup.ai, an Artificial Intelligence start­up based in Bengaluru.  Acquihiring typically refers to a transaction in which the staff of the target company join the acquiring firm. Pikup.ai uses autonomous technologies like AI, computer vision and sensor fusion to provide seamless AI-powered solutions for businesses.

Note: CEO of Ola: Bhavish Aggarwal; Headquarter: Bengaluru.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman to be honoured with Vir Chakra: Indian Air Force's (IAF) Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman (36-years) to be conferred with Vir Chakra on Independence Day. The Vir Chakra is the third highest wartime gallantry award after the Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra. Wg Cdr Abhinandan had sustained injuries while ejecting from his MiG-21 Bison during the aerial combat between Indian and Pakistani air forces on February 27. IAF Squadron Leader Minty Agarwal will also be honoured with Yudh Seva Medal for her role as a fighter controller during the 27th February aerial conflict between India and Pakistan. Indian Army’s Sapper Prakash Jadhav of 1 Rashtriya Rifles (Mahar) will also be conferred Kirti Chakra (posthumously), for the role he played in an operation in Jammu and Kashmir. Besides, eight Army personnel will also be conferred Shaurya Chakra, five of them posthumously.

2. Priyam Chatterjee becomes 1st Indian chef to win French honour: Priyam Chatterjee became the 1st Indian chef to be awarded the 'Chevalier de l’Ordre du Mérite Agricoleto' by the government of France to recognise his contribution towards reinventing the gastronomic scene in India. Chatterjee is best known for revisiting the traditional dishes from his native state of West Bengal and giving it a French twist. 'Ordre du Mérite Agricole' (Order of Agricultural Merit) is a distinction bestowed by the French Republic for outstanding contributions, to agriculture, agro-food industry and gastronomy.

Note: President of France: Emmanuel Macron; Capital: Paris; Currency: Euro, CFP Franc.

3. Rajasthan bags award at World Education Summit 2019: Rajasthan wins the “best innovation and initiative leadership award” for its achievements in higher education in the World Education Summit-2019 held in New Delhi.

Note: Chief Minister of Rajasthan: Ashok Gehlot; Governor of Rajasthan: Kalyan Singh. Capital: Jaipur.

DEFENCE

1. Japanese Maritime Self Defence Ship visits Kochi: Japanese ship "JS Sazanami", visited Kochi on a 2 day goodwill visit. JS Sazanami, a Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force Ship is a missile destroyer. The visiting team was given a conducted tour of the Anti-Submarine Warfare School and the Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel, INS Sunayna. A visit of Indian Navy personnel was also conducted onboard JS Sazanami.

2. Naval Air Enclave & CIAL inks MoU for air operations: The Naval Air Enclave in Kochi and Cochin International Airport Limited have signed a MoU for commencement of naval air operations from the NAE, a naval aviation facility at CIAL in Nedumbassery. According to MoU, military aircraft will use the CIAL runway for takeoff and landing and the NAE taxy track for accessing the dispersal and aircraft hangar.

Note: Chief of the Naval Staff: Admiral Karambir Singh.

OBITUARIES

1. Former Argentina defender Brown passes away: Argentina's 1986 World Cup-winning defender Jose Luis Brown (62-years) passed away following a long battle with Alzheimer. Brown made 36 appearances for his country, the most famous of which came in the 1986 World Cup final in Mexico. Jose Luis Brown knew by his nickname "Tata", dislocated his shoulder in the match but refused to be substituted.

Daily GK Updates - 13th August, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Air India first flight over North Pole from Delhi to San Francisco: On the nation's Independence Day, Air India will become the 1st Indian airline to fly over the North Pole while connecting New Delhi and North America. The inaugural flight over the Polar region will take flight on August 15, 2019, and will fly from New Delhi to San Francisco. Currently, the route taken by New Delhi to San Francisco flight goes over Bangladesh, Myanmar, China and Japan before crossing the Pacific Ocean to enter the United States of America.

2. Doordarshan produced a patriotic song “Watan”: Union Information and Broadcasting Minister have released a patriotic song “Watan” to mark the occasion of Independence Day, 2019. The song is sung by singer Javed Ali, penned by lyricist Alok Shrivastav and musically composed by Dushyant. The patriotic song is produced by Doordarshan. The song highlights several path-breaking initiatives of the government including the determination and vision behind the recent successful launch of "Chandrayaan 2".  The song also pays tribute to the bravery and valour of our armed forces and the martyrs of the country.

Note: Union Information and Broadcasting Minister: Prakash Javadekar.

3. Punjab govt to provide 28000 agro-machines to farmers to prevent stubble burning: With a view to making Punjab a ‘zero stubble burning state’, the Punjab Agriculture Department has initiated a massive drive to provide more than 28000 agro-machines/farm equipment to farmers. Subsidy component of 278 crore rupees will be provided for the scheme during the current fiscal year under the first phase for in-situ management of paddy residue. Subsidy ranging from 50 per cent to 80 per cent is being provided to the farmers under the scheme with 80 per cent subsidy to cooperative societies and farmers groups while 50 per cent for individuals.

4. Headgear becomes mandatory for children above 4 years: Central government has made "Headgear" mandatory for children above 4 years while travelling on a motorcycle. The safety measures for the children travelling on motorcycles have been included in the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019. Only Sikhs wearing turban have been exempted from the provision of Section 129 that makes helmets mandatory for all riders of motorcycles above 4 years of age.

5. IIT Kharagpur researchers develop low-cost blood test device: Researchers from IIT Kharagpur have developed a low-cost diagnostic device which can perform various pathological tests by using blood taken from a finger prick. The device requires only a paper strip based kit integrated with a smartphone to enable analytics and readout functions and an LED light for imaging.

6. Two new UTs, J&K and Ladakh will come into existence on Oct 31: President Ram Nath Kovind gave assent to legislation for bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir, and two Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh will come into existence on October 31.

7. ‘Sridevi: Girl Woman Superstar’ a book on the life of Sridevi: The book, titled ‘Sridevi: Girl Woman Superstar’ will be launched on cinema legend Sridevi’s 56th birth anniversary (13th August). The book is written by author-screenwriter Satyarth Nayak and approved by the actor's producer husband Boney Kapoor. The book recounts the life and times of the iconic actor who changed how women stars were perceived in the male-dominated film industry. The book will be published under the Ebury Press imprint of Penguin Random House in October 2019. Sridevi passed away at the age of 54 in February 2018 in Dubai.

8. Chandrima Shaha elected INSA’s first woman president: Former director of the National Institute of Immunology Chandrima Shaha has been elected as the first woman president of the reputed Indian National Science Academy (INSA).

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Alejandro Giammattei elected as Guatemala’s new president: Right-wing candidate Alejandro Giammattei (63-years) has been elected as the new President of Guatemala. He defeated former First Lady Sandra Torres from the centrist National Unity of Hope party. Giammattei will succeed corruption-tainted outgoing President Jimmy Morales. Alejandro Giammattei will assume office on 14th January 2020.

Note: Guatemala Capital: Guatemala City, Currency: Quetzal (GTQ)

2. Ghotu Ram Meena named India’s next Ambassador to Republic of Congo: Ghotu Ram Meena has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Congo. Currently, Meena is serving as a counsellor, Embassy of India in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Note: Congo Capital: Brazzaville; Currency: Congolese franc.

3. PM Modi to visit Bhutan on 17th August: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Bhutan on 17th of this month. During the two-day visit, Prime Minister Mr Modi will hold talks with his Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering. According to Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, MoUs (Memorandum of understanding) in various fields will be signed between the two countries. Besides, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate a hydropower project and will roll out RuPay Cards.

Note: Bhutan Capital: Thimphu, Currency: Ngultrum (BTN)

4. India cancels Samjhauta Express train after Pakistan suspends operations on its side: Indian Railways has cancelled ‘Samjhauta Express’ train after Pakistan suspended operations on its side. According to Northern Railway, Pakistan has cancelled the Samjhauta Express running between Lahore and Attari. The railways run the train on Sundays from Delhi to Attari and back, while Pakistan used to run the train between Lahore and Attari.

Note: The train (Samjhauta Express) was started on 22 July 1976 following the Shimla Agreement and ran between Amritsar and Lahore, a distance of about 52 km. Following disturbances in Punjab in the late eighties, due to security reasons, Indian Railways decided to terminate the service at Attari, where customs and immigration clearances take place. On 14 April 2000, in an agreement between Indian Railways and Pakistan Railways (PR), the distance was revised to cover just less than three km.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Aishwarya Pissay becomes first Indian to claim a world title in motorsports: Aishwarya Pissay became the first Indian to claim a world title in motorsports, annexing the FIM World Cup in the women's category after the final round of the championship at Varpalota in Hungary. Earlier, Aishwarya has won the first round in Dubai. Aishwarya, who won the first round in Dubai and was placed third (Portugal), fifth (Spain) and fourth (Hungary) in the subsequent outings, finished with a tally of 65 points, just four ahead of Portugal’s Rita Vieira in the final overall standings for women.

2. Virat Kohli becomes second-highest run-getter for India in ODIs: India’s Skipper Virat Kohli (30-years) has become the second-highest run-getter for India in ODIs as he played a knock of 120 runs against Windies in the second ODI at the Queen's Park Oval. Kohli surpassed Ganguly's record in his 238th game while Ganguly took 311 ODIs to score 11,363 runs. Tendulkar has 18,426 runs, most in the ODI cricket by any batsman in the world. Kohli also became the highest run-scorer against West Indies in the ODIs.

3. Rafael Nadal, Bianca Andreescu wins Rogers Open: Spanish professional tennis player Rafael Nadal has won the Men’s single Rogers Open. Canadian Bianca Andreescu (19-years) has won the Women’s Singles title at the Canadian Open (Tennis) 2019. The 2019 Rogers Cup (Canadian Open) presented by National Bank is a tennis tournament played on outdoor hard courts. It is the 139th edition (for the men) and the 128th (for the women) of the Canadian Open. The women's event is taking place at the Aviva Centre in Toronto and the men's event is being held at the IGA Stadium in Montreal.

Complete winners list:

Events	Winners
Men’s Single	Rafael Nadal
Women’s Single	Bianca Andreescu
Men’s doubles	Marcel Granollers & Horacio Zeballos
Women’s doubles	Barbora Krejcikova & Kateřina Siniakova

    

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. AePS crosses 200 million transactions in July: NPCI: National Payments Corporation of India has announced that Aadhaar enabled Payment System has crossed the milestone of over 200 million transactions during July 2019. The transaction count of AePS stood at 220 million in july 2019. AePS is a bank led model which allows basic banking transactions at point of sale. AePS empowers a bank customer to use Aadhaar as identity to access respective Aadhaar enabled bank account and perform basic banking transactions like cash withdrawal, intrabank or interbank fund transfer and balance enquiry.

Note: MD & CEO of NPCI: Dilip Asbe.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Huawei launches its own operating system HarmonyOS: Chinese telecom giant Huawei unveiled its own operating system will be called the HongmengOS, known in English as the HarmonyOS. The operating system will be released as an open-source platform worldwide to encourage adoption. HarmonyOS is future-oriented and designed to be more smooth and secure, and is completely different from Android and iOS.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. National Youth Awards conferred for development and social service work: The Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports (I/C) conferred the National Youth Awards. The awards were conferred to 20 individuals (aged between 15-29 years) and 3 organizations for excellent work and contribution in different fields of development and social service. The individual award comprises of a medal, a certificate and a cash prize of Rs. 50,000. The award to a youth organisation includes a medal, a certificate and a cash prize of Rs. 2,00,000.

Note: Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports (I/C): Kiren Rijiju.

DEFENCE

1. Army launches 'Mission Reach Out' in Jammu: The Army has launched "Mission Reach Out" was chaired by White Knight Corps Commander Lt Gen Paramjit Singh in Jammu.  This Mission aims to ensure basic necessities and essential services are available in the region post the abrogation of the provisions of Article 370 and reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir. It was attended by Jammu Divisional Commissioner Sanjeev Verma, members of the civil administration, representatives of the J&K Police, CRPF, BSF and intelligence agencies.

Note: Governor of Jammu & Kashmir: Satya Pal Malik.

OBITUARIES

1. Music star DJ Arafat passes away: Ivorian musician Houon Ange Didier (popularly known DJ Arafat) passed away after getting involved in an ugly road accident. DJ Arafat(33-year) issued 11 albums, mainly of “coupe-decale”, a dance music form combining rapid percussion, choppy rhythms with hip hop-style vocals. He was also named “Best Artist of the Year” at the Ivorian “Coupe-decale” Awards in 2016 and 2017.

2. Freedom fighter Dayanidhi Nayak passes away: Noted freedom fighter ‘Dayanidhi Nayak’ (95-years), who struggled against the British Government during the Quit India movement passed away. One of the 32 freedom fighters from Panimora, he joined the Quit India movement against the British government and was a devout follower of Mahatma Gandhi. During the Quit India movement, he was jailed for nine months. He was a pure Gandhian and he even used to weave his own clothes like him.

3. Former ASG Amarendra Sharan passes away: Senior advocate and former Additional Solicitor General Amarendra Sharan passed away. Sharan was the Additional Solicitor General in the Supreme Court from 2004 to 2009. He was also appointed as an amicus curiae by the apex court which was hearing a petition seeking fresh investigation in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

Daily GK Updates - 12th August, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Chhattisgarh: 15-km long national flag unfurled in Raipur: Thousands of students and members of several social organisations unfurled a 15-km long national flag by forming a human chain in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The event, organised by Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam Foundation, entered the Champions Book of World Records (for the longest tricolour). Thousands of people and students from various schools created a human chain while holding the 15-km long tricolour from Amapara Chowk to Pt Ravishankar Shukla University.

Note: CM of Chhattisgarh: Bhupesh Baghel; Governor of Chhattisgarh: Anusuiya Uikey.

2. CBSE hikes exam fees for SC/ST by 24 times, general to pay double: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has increased the fees of Class 10 and 12 board examinations for SC and ST students from Rs 50 to Rs 1,200. According to the revised norms, the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe students will have to pay Rs 1,200 for five subjects, while earlier they were supposed to pay Rs 50 for the same, a hike of 24 times. The general category students, who were paying Rs 750 earlier, will now pay Rs 1,500 for five subjects. The students enrolled in CBSE schools abroad will have to pay Rs 10,000 for five subjects for both Class 10 and 12. Earlier it was Rs 5000.

Note: The students appearing for the Class 10 board exams are registered for it when in Class 9, and those appearing for Class 12 are registered when in Class 11.

3. Eid-ul-Azha being celebrated with religious fervour & gaiety: The festival of sacrifice ‘Eid-ul-Azha’ is being celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety across the country. The faithful will offer Eid prayers in Eidgahs and mosques. The festival is an ode to the virtues of devotion, faith and sacrifice and inspires feelings of brotherhood, compassion and unity. In the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah and lasts for three days. In the international (Gregorian) calendar, the dates vary from year to year shifting approximately 11 days earlier each year.

Note: Eid al-Adha also called the "Festival of the Sacrifice", is the second of two Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide each year (the other being Eid al-Fitr) and considered the holier of the two. It honours the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command. But, before Abraham could sacrifice his son, God provided a lamb to sacrifice instead. In commemoration of this intervention, an animal is sacrificed ritually and divided into three parts. One share is given to the poor and needy, another is kept for home, and the third is given to relatives.

4. Dr Vikram Sarabhai's 100th Birth Anniversary”: The country is celebrating the 100th birth anniversary of scientist and innovator Dr Vikram A Sarabhai. He is considered as the father of India's space program. The lander of Chandrayaan-2, India's second mission to the moon, is named 'Vikram' to honour the late Dr Vikram Sarabhai.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. South Korea will remove Japan from preferred trade list: South Korea has decided to remove Japan from its preferred trade list. South Korea has taken this decision because Japan has failed to uphold international principles while managing its export controls on sensitive materials. Preferred trade list is a list of nations receiving preferential treatment in trade.

Note: Japan Capital: Tokyo; Currency: Japanese yen; PM: Shinzo Abe. South Korea Capital: Seoul; Currency: South Korean won.

2. International Youth Day: 12 August: The International Youth Day (IYD) is observed every year on 12th August (first in 2000) to draw attention to a given set of cultural and legal issues surrounding youth. The theme for International Youth Day 2019 is “Transforming education”. International Youth Day 2019 will examine how Governments, young people and youth-led and youth-focused organizations, as well as other stakeholders, are transforming education and how these efforts are contributing to the achievement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Note: On 17 December 1999, the International Youth Day (IYD) was instituted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by passing resolution 54/120.

3. World Elephant Day: 12 August: The World Elephant Day (WED) is celebrated on 12th August every year to raise awareness about the Elephant. The goal of International Elephant Day is to create awareness of the urgent plight of African and Asian elephants and to share knowledge and management of captive & wild elephants. On 12 August 2012, the first international Elephant Day was celebrated.

Note: As per the census conducted in 2017, the Elephant population in India is estimated at 29,964.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Rafael Nadal wins Montreal Masters title: Rafael Nadal wins in Montreal to win 35th Masters crown. He defeated Russian Daniil Medvedev by 6-3, 6-0. With the win, he also extended his record haul of Masters 1000 titles. Nadal has successfully defended a hard court title for the first time in his career.

2. Chennai Lions beat Dabang Delhi to win UTT:  Chennai Lions wins the Ultimate Table Tennis league. They defeated Dabang Delhi in the finals by 8-1. Chennai Lions collected the winner’s share of Rs. 75 lakh while Delhi settled for Rs. 50 lakh. Petrissa Solja, Tiago Apolonia, Sharath Kamal and Petrissa starred for the Chennai Lions.

3. Indian junior shuttlers win 6 medals at Bulgarian Open: Indian junior shuttlers have won six medals (gold-3, silver-1 and bronze-2) at the Bulgarian Junior International Championships which concluded in Pazardzhik, Bulgaria. The gold medals were won by Samiya Imad Faruqui in women's singles, the duo of Edvin Joy and Shruti Mishra in Mixed Doubles and pair of Tanisha Crasto and Aditi Bhatt in women's doubles. Men's doubles combination of Ishan Bhatnagar and Vishnuvardhan settled for the silver medal. Malvika Bansod and Meiraba Luwang won a bronze each in other singles events.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBL Bank launches India's first health-focused credit card: Private sector bank, RBL Bank and digital healthcare platform Practo have partnered to launch an industry-first co-branded health credit card. This credit card is powered by Mastercard. RBL Bank's new credit card offers benefits like online consultations with doctors and a free health check-up.

Note: Managing Director & CEO of RBL Bank: Vishwavir Ahuja; Headquarter: Mumbai.

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

1. Reliance Jio & Microsoft partners to offer cloud infrastructure for businesses: Reliance Jio and Microsoft announced a partnership to accelerate the digital transformation in India. Under this deal, Microsoft will bring in the Azure Cloud on Jio Network and target the enterprise and business users seeking a technological shift.

Note: Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft: Satya Nadella. Chairman of Reliance Industries Limited: Mukesh Ambani.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Lionel Messi Wins UEFA Goal of the Season Award 2018-19: Barcelona's Lionel Messi has been awarded UEFA's Goal of the Season award 2018-19for his free-kick against Liverpool. Cristiano Ronaldo was runners-up in the UEFA award for the goal he scored for Juventus against his former team Manchester United.

OBITUARIES

1. Singer-songwriter David Berman passes away: Singer-songwriter David Berman (52-years) who formed the indie group 'Silver Jews' in the 1990s passed away. Berman had suffered from drug addiction for years and had survived several overdoses and one suicide attempt. The 'Silver Jews' that recorded six studio albums between 1994 and 2008 rarely performed live. Berman also authored two books of poetry, 'Actual Air,' and 'The Portable February.

Daily GK Updates - 11th August, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Home Minister Amit Shah releases book on VP M Venkaiah Naidu’s two years in office: Home Minister Amit Shah today released a book titled “Listening, Learning & Leading” chronicling the two years in office by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu. The book was released in Chennai at a function organised by Information and Broadcasting Ministry. The Vice-President and the Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar were present on the occasion.

2. Jharkhand Govt launched Mukhyamantri Krishi Ashirwad Yojana: Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu launched the Jharkhand government’s ‘Mukhya Mantri Krishi Ashirwad Yojana’ under which money would be directly transferred into the bank accounts of farmers in the state. Benefit- Under the scheme, the government will give Rs 5,000 to those farmers having one acre or less agricultural land, Rs 10,000 to those having two acres, Rs 15,000 for having three acres, Rs 20,000 for having four acres and Rs 25,000 for having five acres of agricultural land.

Note: Jharkhand Capital: Ranchi; Governor- Draupadi Murmu; Chief Minister: Raghubar Das

3. Every child to get Rotavirus vaccine: The Health Ministry has drawn an ambitious plan under the 100 days agenda of the newly elected government, wherein it has been decided to provide Rotavirus vaccine to every child across all States and Union Territories by September, 2019. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan  said that diarrhoea was one of the biggest killers in children and Rotavirus was one of the most common causes of severe diarrhoea in children less than 2 years of age.

4. Green Signal for Shaheed Dweep in Andaman & Nicobar: The environment ministry’s expert committee on Coastal projects has given the go ahead for construction of a ₹172 crore premium category island resort at ‘Shaheed Dweep’ in Andaman & Nicobar. The move comes within months of the green ministry easing up coastal zone rules and the Centre announcing ambitious island development projects in Anadman & Nicibar and Lakshadweep.

Note:  Anadman & Nicibar Capital: Port Blair

5. 9 year old, Elangbam Valentina Devi made Manipur green ambassador: 9-year-old girl from Manipur, Elangbam Valentina Devi, has been made the brand ambassador of the Chief Minister’s Green Manipur Mission and all official tree-plantation activities taken up in the State. Recently a video surfaced over the internet in which Elangbam could be seen crying after few trees were cut due to the expansion of the road. Here love towards trees was recognized by the government and hence she has been chosen as the green ambassador of the state Manipur.

6. Cochin Shipyard launched two ro pax vessels: The Cochin Shipyard has launched two ro-pax (roll-on roll-off passenger) vessels. The ro-pax was designed and built by the Cochin Shipyard for the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The vessels were the third and fourth in a series of 10 vessels, eight ro-pax and two ro-ro vessels, ordered by the IWAI. The vessels would be operated in National Waterways 1 and 2. The vessels are capable of accommodating 200 passengers each and will have eight crew members and can carry two trucks and four cars. Equipped with all life-saving gear, they are built to IRS standards.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Papua New Guinea has highest number of living indigenous languages: United Nations report said that the Papua New Guinea has the highest number of living indigenous languages in the world with 840. India stands fourth with 453. UN observes the year 2019 as its International Year of Indigenous Languages. UN's Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues reported that nearly 40% of the estimated 6,700 languages spoken around the world were in danger of disappearing and endangered. Totally 7,111 living languages worldwide has been listed so far. The most widely spoken languages worldwide are Chinese, Spanish, English, Hindi and Arabic. These 5 languages covers around 40% of the total worldwide languages.
Note: Papua New Guinea Capital: Port Moresby; Currency: Papua New Guinean kina (PGK); Governor: General: Bob Dadae; Prime Minister: James Marape

2. US approve 12 multi mission Seahawk helicopters to South Korea: The US government has approved the sale of 12 multi-mission Seahawk helicopters to South Korea worth $800 million. The announcement was made after the US President Donald Trump announced that South Korea had agreed to pay more for US military presence in their country. The proposal will improve the Republic of Korea Navy’s capability to perform anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare missions. The sale will assist the Republic of Korea in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.

3. Trump Identifies India among 20 Drug Transit, Narcotic-Producing Countries: US President Donald Trump has designated India among the over 20 major drug transit or illicit drug-producing countries. In a memorandum to secretary of state Mike Pompeo, Trump said that a country’s presence on the list is not necessarily a reflection of its government’s counter-narcotic efforts or level of cooperation with the US. The countries identified in the list are Afghanistan, The Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Burma, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Laos, Mexico, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Peru and Venezuela.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Bajrang wins gold at Tbilisi, Vinesh makes Medved final: India’s top two wrestlers continued their impressive run this season with Bajrang Punia defending his title at Tbilisi Grand Prix and Vinesh Phogat reaching her fourth final at Medved event. Bajrang prevailed 2-0 over Iran’s Peiman Bibyani in the 65kg final of the men’s free style competition in the capital city of Georgia. It is the fourth gold of the season for the Asian Games champion Bajrang after standing atop the podium at Dan Kolov, Asian Championship and Ali Aliev tournament. At the Medved event in Minsk, Belarus, Vinesh outclassed local wrestler Yafremenka 11-0 in the 53kg semifinals to be in line for her fourth consecutive gold.

2. Hyderabad Open badminton: Indian Badminton champion Sourabh Verma has defeated Singapore’s Loh Kean Yew 21-13 14-21 21-16 to win the Hyderabad Open. The final event was held at Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, Hyderabad. Sourabh also won the Slovenian International in May 2019 recently. 

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. India’s first Corporate Credit Card for Startups and SMEs launched by EnKash: Business-to-business payments startup EnKash has launched India’s first corporate credit card for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The card is named ‘Freedom Card’. The Freedom Card by EnKash would give SMEs and startups the facility to avail credit for immediate needs and to manag Business-to-business payments startup EnKash has launched India’s first corporate credit card for sm e their liquidity.

2. Anurag Adlakha appointed Chief Financial Officer at Yes Bank: Anurag Adlakha has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of Yes Bank. Anurag Adlakha will take over from Raj Ahuja, who will now take over as group chief strategy officer, responsible for leading the strategy, planning and projects function of the bank.

3. Max Life Insurance launches 'Speed Dial - your partner for life' initiative’: Max Life Insurance Co Ltd announced the launch of the one-of-its-kind initiative, 'Speed Dial Max Life Insurance - Your Partner for Life' further reinforcing its customer obsession. Max Life Insurance Company will endeavour to assign every customer a dedicated relationship manager, known as the 'Partner for Life' for all their policy-related service needs. Through this unique initiative, the 'Partners for Life' will act as enablers to provide a one stop solution on call, shortening the average wait time a customer has to go through, to get their queries answered. They will also educate customers on the company's digital service solutions and new products offerings, if inquired.

Daily GK Updates - 10th August, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. President approves Motor Vehicles Amendment Act, 2019: President has approved the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. The bill amends the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The act aims to make Indian roads safer, reduce corruption and use technology to overhaul the country's transportation system. Some main features of the act are: The Bill proposes a scheme to allow cashless treatment of victims in a road accident during the golden hour. The golden hour is defined as the time period of up to one hour following a traumatic injury, during which the likelihood of preventing death through prompt medical care is the highest. The Bill proposes to increase the minimum compensation for hit and run cases. In case of the death, the compensation has been raised from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 2,00,000, and in case of grievous injury it will be from Rs. 12500 to Rs. 50,000. The law has proposed stiffer penalties for traffic rule violations such as over-speeding, dangerous driving, driving under the influence of alcohol and other offences such as not wearing a helmet or driving without licence.

2. 'One Nation, One Ration Card' to be rolled out in India by June 1, 2020: "One Nation One Ration Card" scheme to be rolled out in India from June 1, 2020. To implement the scheme successfully, the centre has kick started inter state portability of ration card pairing two states each. The pairs are made between Telangana-Andhra Pradesh as well as Maharashtra-Gujarat. This means that beneficiaries living in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh can buy their quota of ration from the Public Distribution System (PDS), also called ration shops, in either of the states.
Note: Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution: Ram Vilas Paswan.

3. KVIC launches "Leather Mission" on World Tribal Day: The Khadi and Village Industry Commission has launched "Leather Mission" on World Tribal Day. Under this mission, the commission will give leather kits to the leather artisans across the nation. KVIC also distributed 50 leather kits and 350 bee-boxes in Rajasthan's Sirohi district on the World Tribal Day.
Note: Chairman of KVIC: Vinai Kumar Saxena.

4. President hosts 'At Home' reception for Freedom Fighters: The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, hosted an ‘At Home’ reception for freedom fighters. The reception was hosted on the occasion of the 77th anniversary of Quit India Day (August 9) at Rashtrapati Bhavan. On the occasion, the President honoured and felicitated 78 freedom fighters from across the country.

5. UP's "Vriksharopan Mahakumbh" drive creates world record: Uttar Pradesh's "Vriksharopan Mahakumbh" drive has created world record after planting more than 22 crore saplings. The drive was launched on the occasion of 77th anniversary of Quit India Movement. More than 22 crore saplings were planted at 12.2 lakh locations under the drive in state. Another record of "largest distribution of saplings in the world" was created when 76823 saplings were distributed free in just 6 hours in Prayagraj.

Note: Chief Minister of UP: Yogi Adityanath; Governor of UP: Anandiben Patel.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. 3rd International Electric Vehicle (EV) Conclave held in Manesar: The 3rd International Electric Vehicle Conclave was inaugurated at the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) in Manesar, Haryana. The Conclave was held to create a knowledge sharing platform to ensure flow of information at all levels in the automotive sector. The conclave was organized by ICAT in association with India Energy Storage Alliance with a focus on new trends and challenges in the field of electric mobility.

2. India signs UNISA; experts call for local laws supporting treaty: India has signed a key UN convention on International Settlement Agreements, even as experts called for local laws to support the treaty’s implementation in business contracts. The United Nations Convention on International Settlement Agreements (UNISA) was signed by India’s High Commissioner to Singapore Jawed Ashraf. 46 countries signed the treaty named Singapore Convention on Mediation.

3. World's thinnest '2D' gold measures just two atoms: Scientists at the University of Leeds have created the world's thinnest gold measuring just two atoms thick or million times thinner than a fingernail. In its 2D form, gold becomes flexible that adds to its potential of being used more efficiently such as in bendable screens, electronic inks, medical diagnostic tests, and water purification systems.

4. Mountaineering team to hoist Indian flag atop Mount Elbrus on Independence Day: An expedition team of mountaineers were flagged off by Union Minister of State for Defence Shripad Yesso Naik to Mount Elbrus in Russia. The team is aiming to hoist the Indian national flag atop the mountain on Aug 15, on the occasion of the 73rd Independence Day of India. The expedition team of eight professionals from Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) in Darjeeling, led by its principal GP Captain Jaikishan.

The team will also perform 'asanas' atop the mountain in an attempt to showcase the importance of Yoga to the international community.

5. World Biofuel Day: 10 August: World Biofuel Day is observed on August 10 annually to create awareness about the importance of non-fossil fuels as an alternative to conventional fossil fuels and highlight the various efforts made by Government in the biofuel sector. 2019 Theme – “Production of Biodiesel from Used Cooking Oil (UCO)”.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. BCCI has agreed to come under NADA ambit: The Board Of Control For Cricket In India has agreed to come under the ambit of the National Anti-Doping Agency. This decision makes Indian Cricket's governing body a sports federation as per government norms. As a result, all cricketers will now be tested by NADA.

Note: Director General of NADA: Navin Agarwal; CEO of BCCI: Rahul Johri.

2. Bangladesh to host Zimbabwe despite ICC ban: Bangladesh will host Zimbabwe for a tri-nation Twenty20 tournament in September despite the African nation being suspended by the International Cricket Council. The ICC suspended Zimbabwe last month over the country's failure to keep the sport free from government interference, putting its participation in multi-nation events in doubt. Afghanistan is the third team in the tournament scheduled to be held from September 13 to 24. Bangladesh was originally scheduled to play a bilateral series against Afghanistan in September, but officials said Zimbabwe had been included in the series following a request from the strife-torn country.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Indian Bank signs up Corporate Agency pact with Chola MS: Indian Bank has entered into a corporate agency agreement with Cholamandalam MS General Insurance Company Ltd. Under the agreement, Indian Bank will distribute the latter's insurance products ranging from motor, home, health PA, and travel insurance, and SME and commercial line of business etc. All these products will be distributed through traditional and digital platform to Indian Bank customers.

Note: Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Indian Bank: Padmaja Chunduru.

DEFENCE

1. INS Tarkash arrives in Norway for a 3-day visit: INS Tarkash has arrived in Norway for a 3 day visit as part of Western Fleet Overseas Deployment. The ship is part of the Indian Navy's Western Fleet and is under the operational command of Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command. INS Tarkash is one of the most powerful frontline frigates of the Indian Navy equipped with a versatile range of weapons and sensors.

Note: Chief of the Naval Staff: Admiral Karambir Singh.