Daily GK Updates - 22nd November, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Jitendra Singh to inaugurate ‘Destination North East’ Festival: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Dr Jitendra Singh will inaugurate the ‘Destination North East’ Festival in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on 23rd November 2019. All 8 North East states will be present at the event along with their handicrafts, handloom, organic products and cultural troupes. During the festival, the visitors will have live experiences of the artisans and artists from the NE states working on their looms and crafts, performing their songs and dances in the open stage during the day.

2. Assam government releases the new Land Policy 2019 after 30 years: Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal released the new Land Policy 2019 prepared by Revenue and Disaster Management Department in Guwahati. The Land Policy was approved by Cabinet on 21st October and it has been prepared by the Revenue and Disaster Management Department after 30 years. It was last prepared in 1989. The state government has been putting a lot of emphasis in preparing the Land Policy to safeguard the interest of the indigenous people and the Policy would remove complications regarding land allotments and settlements.

Note: Assam Governor:  Jagdish Mukhi. Capital: Dispur.

3. Global Bio-India Summit begins in Delhi: Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan and Shri Dharmendra Pradhan jointly inaugurated the three-day Global Bio-India Summit 2019 begins in at Aerocity New Delhi. It will be one of the largest biotechnology stakeholder conglomerates held in India for the first time. It will bring academia, innovators, researchers, start-ups, medium and large companies together on the same platform. Over three thousand delegates from around 25 countries and over 15 states of India will participate in the mega event.

Note: The biotechnology sector is recognized as the key driver for contributing to India's USD 5 Trillion economy target by 2024.

4. Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurates Agro-Vision in Nagpur: Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar has inaugurated an Agro-based Exhibition ‘Agro-Vision’ in Nagpur. Agro-Vision (11th edition) aims to cater to the requirements of farmers of Vidarbha region in terms of showcasing new technology in farming. It has been suggested for allied business so that farmers earn more and prosper in their initiatives. Agro-Vision exhibition comprises of National Agri-Exhibition Workshop for farmers and seminars. The concluding function will be graced Minister of State for Agriculture Kailash Chaudhari on 25th of November. Small entrepreneurs who are engaged in the production of Agricultural machinery and components will be displaying their products at the stalls.

5. I&B Minister Prakash Javadekar inaugurates Film Bazaar on IFFI 2019: The Film Bazaar, which is being organised by the National Film Development Corporation, was inaugurated by the Information and Broadcasting Minister on the sidelines of the golden jubilee edition of the International Film Festival of India. The Film Bazaar encourages creative and financial collaboration between the South Asian and International film communities. Over the years, films such as Lunch Box, Margarita With A Straw, Chauthi Koot, Qissa, Miss Lovely, Dum Lagake Haisha and Thithi have been through one or more programmes of the Bazaar.

6. Two lakh Gram Panchayats to be connected with internet, broadband by March 2020: The union Govt. has set a target to provide internet and broadband connectivity to two lakh Gram Panchayats by March 2020. According to Ravi Shankar Prasad (Electronics and Information Technology Minister), a total of over 1,28,000 Gram Panchayats has been made Service Ready till 7th November of this month. BharatNet project is being implemented in a phased manner to provide broadband and internet connectivity to all 2,50,000 Gram Panchayats in the country. As of now, Wi-Fi hotspots have been installed in around 45,000 Gram Panchayats and services are being provided in over 16,000 Gram Panchayats.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Mahinda Rajapaksa sworn in as new PM of Sri Lanka: Mahinda Rajapaksa has been sworn in as the new Prime minister of Sri Lanka. He was sworn in by President Gotabaya Rajapksa (his younger brother) after Ranil Wickremesinghe resigned from his post. Mr Mahinda Rajapaksa served as two-term President from 2005 to 2015 and was barred from contesting Presidential elections because of the two-term limit. As per the constitution, parliament cannot be dissolved till February unless two-thirds of members pass a resolution to this effect.

2. World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day: 21 November: The WHO (World Health Organization) and Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) organize World COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Day on the third Wednesday of November every year. It was first launched in 1997 by WHO, GOLD and other institutes in the US. This year the day is marked to create awareness in the Theme: All Together to End COPD. COPD is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It causes severe breathlessness and predisposes to exacerbations.

3. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella tops Fortune’s Businessperson of the Year 2019 list: Microsoft’s India-born Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella has occupied the top spot in Fortune’s Businessperson of the Year 2019 list. The list also includes Mastercard CEO Ajay Banga and Arista head Jayshree Ullal. Banga is ranked 8th, while Ullal comes in at the 18th spot in the list for which Fortune looked at 10 financial factors ranging from a total return to shareholders to return on capital. Both Banga and Ullal are of Indian-origin. Fortune’s annual Businessperson of the Year list features 20 business leaders “who tackled audacious goals, overcame impossible odds, found creative solutions”.

Fortune’s Businessperson of the Year 2019 List

Rank	Name
1	Satya Nadella (CEO, Microsoft)
2	Elizabeth Gaines (CEO, Fortescue Metals Group)
3	Brian Niccol (CEO, Chipotle Mexican Grill)
4	Margaret Keane (CEO, Synchrony Financial)
5	Bjorn Gulden (CEO, Puma)

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Elavenil Valarivan, Divyansh Panwar win gold medals at ISSF World Cup: Elavenil Valarivan and Divyansh Panwar clinching gold medals in their events to give the country its best ever single-day show in the ISSF World Cup Finals in Putian, China. The 20-year-old Elavenil claimed the top honours in the women’s 10 metres air rifle competition. Later, another teen sensation Divyansh finished on top in the men’s 10 metres air rifle competition. India is currently top of the table with 3 gold medals, followed by China 2 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI supersedes DHFL board to initiate insolvency proceedings: The Reserve Bank of India superseded the board of debt-laden Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Limited (DHFL) as it intends to shortly initiate the process of resolution of the company under the insolvency and bankruptcy rules. The company is all set to become India’s first financier to land up in bankruptcy courts. The central bank superseded the board “owing to governance concerns and defaults by DHFL in meeting various payment obligations. R Subramaniakumar, ex-MD and CEO of Indian Overseas Bank has been appointed as the administrator.

In January, a web portal accused the DHFL promoters of committing financial frauds by creating shell companies. A total of 32 Indian and foreign banks lent Rs 97,000 crore to DHFL Group companies with many borrower companies having the same addresses, directors, and auditors.

Note: DHFL is the fourth-largest Indian housing finance company based on loans outstanding as of March. Headquarters of DHFL: Haryana; CEO of DHFL: Kapil Wadhawan.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Swachh Survekshan Grameen Awards 2019: The Union Minister of the Ministry of Chemical and Fertilizers, conferred the Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2019 awards to top-ranked states, union territories, and districts in the various categories on the occasion of World Toilet Day at Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra, New Delhi. The top-ranked state: Tamil Nadu, and the top-ranked district: Peddapalli (Telangana), along with the state with the maximum citizen participation: Uttar Pradesh.

Note: Union Minister of the Ministry of Chemical and Fertilizers: D.V. Sadananda Gowda.

Overall Ranking

Sr. No.	Top 3 States		Sr. No.	Top 3 Districts
1	Tamil Nadu		1	Peddapalli, Telangana
2	Haryana		2	Faridabad, Haryana
3	Gujarat		3	Rewari, Haryana

2. Greta Thunberg & Divina Maloum awarded International Children’s Peace Prize 2019: Swedish teen activist Greta Thunberg has been awarded the International Children’s Peace Prize 2019 for her work in the struggle against climate change which has resonated with schoolchildren across the world. Cameroonian peace activist Divina Maloum (15-years) also received the International Children's Peace Prize, awarded for her “peaceful struggle” against the Boko Haram jihadist group. It is given to a child who has made a significant contribution to advocating children’s rights and improving the situation of vulnerable children such as orphans, child labourers and children with HIV/AIDS.

Note: The International Children’s Peace Prize is given annually by the International children’s rights organization Kids Rights based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

DEFENCE

1. The NIA will host the first-ever counter-terrorism (CT) exercise: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will host the first-ever counter-terrorism (CT) exercise for the Quad countries in New Delhi. The Quad countries include the United States (US), India, Australia, and Japan. According to the NIA, the exercise is to assess and validate CT response mechanisms in the light of emerging terrorist threats. It also aims to provide opportunities to share the best practices and to explore areas for enhanced cooperation amongst participating countries.

Note: DG of NIA: Yogesh Chander Modi; Headquarters: New Delhi.

Daily GK Updates - 21st November, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Cabinet approves establishment of the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa (NISR): The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the establishment of the National Institute for Sowa-Rigpa in Leh, Ladakh at an estimated cost of Rs. 47.25 crore. The Institute will be an autonomous National Institute under Ministry of AYUSH with the mandate to undertake interdisciplinary education and research programmes in Sowa-Rigpa in collaboration with premier national and international Institutes and facilitate the integration of different systems of medicine. The objective is to establish the National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR) as an apex Institute for Sowa-Rigpa with aim of bringing a valid and useful synergy between Traditional Wisdom of Sowa-Rigpa and modern science, tools and technology.

Note: Minister of AYUSH: Shripad Yesso Naik.

2. Census 2021 to be conducted in 16 languages: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai informed that Census 2021 will be conducted in 16 languages. During Census 2021, a mix mode approach is being adopted for data collection. Census will be conducted in two phases – House-listing and Housing Census from April to September 2020 and Population Enumeration during February 09-28, 2021. The Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) has recommended an amount of Rs. 8754.23 crore for conducting Census 2021 in 16 languages.

Note: Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India: Vivek Joshi.

3. Kolkata becomes first city to install ‘Third Umpire’ RT-PCR Machines: The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has installed first of its kind high-end reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) machines in India for quick detection of diseases like dengue, tuberculosis and swine flu. These machines are to serve as a ‘third umpire’ in situations when medical reports and blood tests reveal contradictory results. The purpose is to give an accurate DNA report on blood tests in order to ascertain the exact cause of illness.

Note: West Bengal governor: Jagdeep Dhankhar; CM: Mamta Banerjee.

4. IRCTC & KSTDC signs MoU to operate Golden chariot train: The Karnataka State Tourism Development Corp (KSTDC) signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) to market and operate the Golden Chariot train. The luxurious Golden Chariot train will start plying from March 2020. The Golden Chariot is South India’s only luxury train. The Golden Chariot, which started plying in 2008, began as a joint initiative of the Karnataka government and the Indian Railways. It is an 18-coach-long train with 44 guest rooms. At least, 84 passengers can enjoy the train ride at one time.

Note: IRCTC Parent organization: Indian Railways; Headquarters: New Delhi.

5. Smriti Irani addresses South Asia Safety Summit: The Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani was addressing the 2nd edition of South Asia Safety Summit in New Delhi. She has stressed the need to ensure the safety of women and children within their homes, and create safe neighbourhoods to protect them against violence and abuse. The summit was joined by over 100 organisations from Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and India. The South Asia Safety Summit is Facebook’s annual event to host critical conversations on digital safety and security.

6. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat inaugurates IPEC at Nagpur: RSS Chief Dr. Mohan Bhagwat has inaugurated the International Principal’s Education Conference (IPEC) at Nagpur. Noted mathematician Anand Kumar (Super 30 founder) was honoured with Nachiketa Sarvottama Award on the occasion. Mr. Kumar dedicated this award to all the teachers who are working for the upliftment of underprivileged children. Principals and educationalists from all over the country are attending the 3-day conference based on the theme-Scripting the Legends of Human Excellence through Schools.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. World Television Day: 21 November: World Television Day is observed on 21 November every year. The day is observed to acknowledge the role of broadcast media. The day recognizes that television plays a major role in presenting the different issue that affects people. On this day, the journalists, writers, bloggers, and others who are associated with the medium promote the role of television in communication and globalization.

Note: In December 1996, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21st November as the World Television Day, on which the first World Television Forum was held

2. World Philosophy Day: 21 November: The World Philosophy Day is observed globally on the third Thursday of November every year. This year it was observed on 21st November. On this day, UNESCO highlighted the value of philosophy for the development of human thought, for each culture and individual. The 2019 edition aims to highlight the importance of philosophy in different regional contexts. The goal is to obtain regional contributions to global debates on contemporary challenges that support social transformations. World Philosophy Day was introduced in 2002 by UNESCO.

3. World Fisheries day: 21 November: The World Fisheries day is celebrated every year on 21st November throughout the world by fisherfolk communities. The Day helps in highlighting the critical importance to human lives, of water and the lives it sustains, both in and out of the water. This year’s theme is 2022 Ka Hai Sapna Kisan Ki Aay Ho Dugna – Sankalp Se Siddhi”.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Manu Bhaker bags gold medal in ISSF World Cup Finals: Manu Bhaker (17-years) became only the second Indian shooter after Heena Sidhu to win a gold medal Women's 10m Air Pistol at the ISS World Cup 2019. Serbia's Zorana Arunovic won the silver with 241.9, while Quian Wang of China bagged the bronze with 221.8. Manu Bhaker shot 244.7 to win the gold medal at World Cup Finals.

Note: The 2019 ISSF World Cup is the annual edition of the ISSF World Cup in the Olympic shooting events, governed by the International Shooting Sport Federation.

2. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won F1 Brazilian Grand Prix: Red Bull’s Max Verstappen (Netherlands) won F1 Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos in São Paulo, Brazil. Verstappen was followed by Pierre Gasly (France) and Carlos Sainz Vázquez de Castro (Spain) in the second and third place respectively.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. SEBI approves stricter disclosure norms for listed companies: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has approved stricter disclosure norms for listed companies. Accordingly, in case of default in repayment of loans beyond 30 days, listed companies will have to disclose the fact of such default within 24 hours. SEBI has amended Portfolio Managers (PM) Regulations, 2019 following which net worth requirement of portfolio managers has been enhanced from two crores to five crore rupees. The regulator has informed that existing portfolio managers will have to meet the enhanced requirement within 36 months. SEBI announced that it has approved a proposal to reduce the overall time taken for a rights issue from Securities and Exchange Board of India to 31 days.

AWARDS AND HONOUR

1. Sir David Attenborough to get Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for 2019: Renowned naturalist & broadcaster Sir David Attenborough (93-years) will receive the 2019 Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for his tireless work to preserve and protect biodiversity. This prestigious award (named after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi) has been accorded annually by Indira Gandhi Trust since 1986. Sir Attenborough was unanimously chosen for the award by an international jury chaired by the ex-president of India, Pranab Mukherjee. The 2017 Prize had gone to former Prime Minister of India (14th), Manmohan Singh.

Note: In 1986, the award was instituted by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. It is awarded to individuals or organizations in recognition of their creative efforts towards promoting international peace, development. The award consists of a monetary award of 25 lakhs and a citation.

2. Virat Kohli named PETA India’s Person of the Year: India captain Virat Kohli was named People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India’s ‘Person of the Year for 2019’ for his animal advocacy efforts. Kohli’s efforts to improve conditions for animals include sending a letter on PETA India’s behalf to officials calling for the release of Malti, an elephant used for rides at Amer Fort, who was reportedly violently beaten by eight men.

Note: PETA established: March 22, 1980; Headquarters: Norfolk, Virginia, United States.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is an American animal rights organization based in Norfolk, Virginia. Its slogan is ‘Animals are not ours to eat, wear, experiment on, use for entertainment, or abuse in any other way’. The PETA awards are given to people or organisations that take initiative in the welfare of animals and violence against animals.

DEFENCE

1. GRSE delivers ICGS ‘Amrit Kaur to Indian Coast Guard: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) delivered to the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) ‘Amrit Kaur’, the third in a series of five ‘Fast Patrol Vessels’ (FPV). ICGS ‘Amrit Kaur’ is a 50-metre-long and 7.5-metre- wide medium-range surface vessel, with a displacement of around 308 tonnes. It is capable of performing a rescue, patrolling, anti-smuggling and anti-poaching operations in the maritime zones of the country. The vessel can attain a maximum speed of 34 knots with an endurance of over 1,500 nautical miles. The ship is equipped with three main engines and has advanced control systems, water jet units and an ‘Integrated Bridge System’ constituting all communication and navigation systems.

Note: Chairman cum managing director:  Admiral Vipin Kumar Saxena; GRSE Founded: 1934.

Daily GK Updates - 20th November, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Amit Shah launches special winter-grade diesel for Ladakh: Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the supply of special winter-grade diesel for high altitude Ladakh, which faces sub-zero temperatures during the winter months. Motorists in high-altitude areas like Ladakh, Kargil, Kaza and Keylong face the problem of freezing of diesel in their vehicles when winter temperatures drop to as low as minus 30-degree celsius.

Note: Lt. Governors & Administrators of Ladakh(UT): Radha Krishna Mathur.

2. Home Ministry launches campaign to End Violence against Women: The Home Ministry in collaboration with the UN Women flagged off an awareness campaign To End Violence Against Women from Sultanpur metro station in Delhi. The initiative is part of the #OrangeTheWorld global campaign. As part of the campaign, people would be made aware about India’s single emergency helpline 112, an internationally recognised emergency number used in several countries. Under the campaign, people would be made aware of India’s single emergency Response Support System helpline 112, which is launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs earlier in 2019. The 112 helpline services, available in 27 States/UTs (Union Territories), can be reached through voice call, 112 India App, SMS (Short message service), email, respective state’s 112 websites, and the panic button on mobile phones.

Note: Formation of United Nations Women: 2 July 2010; Headquarters: New York City, United States.

3. Meghalaya-based insurgent group HNLC banned by government: Meghalaya-based insurgent group, Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has been banned by the central government for its increased activities of violence and other subversive acts. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said the HNLC along with all its factions, wings and frontal organisations has been openly declaring as its objective the secession of the state’s areas, which are largely inhabited by Khasi and Jaintia tribals, from the Indian Union. The group continues to intimidate and bully civilians to extort funds, maintains links with other insurgent groups of the Northeast to carry out acts of extortion and intimidation, and maintains camps in Bangladesh to give sanctuary and training to its cadre.

4. Assam Govt approves 1 Tola Gold to Brides free of cost under Arundhati scheme: Assam Govt approves Arundhati scheme to provide 1 Tola Gold to Brides free of cost. In a cabinet meeting held in Guwahati, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal approved this scheme to give 1 tola Gold (11.66 grams) to brides parents belonging to the economically weaker sections of the society. With the aim to reduce child marriage under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act that a girl in India can’t get married before the age of 18, and a boy can’t get married before 21 years of age, this scheme can be availed by formal registration of the marriage under the Special Marriage (Assam) Rules, 1954 at the time of marriage. This is only limited to the weaker section of the society whose annual income is below Rs 5 lakh irrespective of caste, creed, religion etc.

Note: Assam Governor: Jagdish Mukhi; Capital: Dispur.

5. DSEJ launches special enrollment drive under ‘Aao School Chalein’: In Jammu, the Directorate of School Education (DSEJ) has launched a special enrollment drive under the banner ‘Aao School Chalein’ for increasing the enrollment in government schools. As per the Directorate of School Education, the special enrollment drive would be conducted across all the villages and catchment areas of the government schools, under the supervision of chief education officers of all the districts of Jammu Division. Apart from increasing the enrollment in the Government schools, the prime focus of the drive is on the strengthening of pre-schooling of children in the age group of 3 to 5 years.

6. Uttarakhand CM launches virtual classes project: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat launched a project that will connect 500 secondary schools to virtual classrooms and schools in the state facing a shortage of teachers will benefit from the new technology. Virtual classes are attended through video conferences where students can meet the teacher on a real-time basis and ask questions. An estimated 1.90 lakh students of 500 government-run secondary schools in the state will benefit from the project.

Note: Capital of Uttarakhand: Dehradun; Governor: Baby Rani Maurya.

7. Prez Kovind presents prestigious President's Colour to Naval Academy at Kannur: President Ram Nath Kovind presented the prestigious President's Colour to the Indian Naval Academy at Kannur in Kerala. President's Colour is a visible symbol of excellence and is earned through worthy contribution both during war and peace.

8. Golden Jubilee celebrations of IFFI begin in Goa: India's biggest cinematic event, the 50th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has begun at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium in Panaji, Goa. (20th to 28th November). The opening ceremony witnessed the versatile Shankar Mahadevan performing with his troupe! A seven-minute film on late Manohar Parrikar (former defence minister and Goa chief minister) has been also screened at the inauguration ceremony. The ceremony's Theme of ‘Fusion Music’ will be a blend of various forms of national and international music this evening. This 50 year’s edition will feature 26 feature films and 15 non-feature films including mainstream films like Uri: The Surgical Strike, Gully Boy, F2 (a Telugu film), Super 30 and others. Russia is the partner country of the IFFI 2019.

Note: IFFI is jointly organised by the Directorate of Film Festivals, a Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting agency and the Goa government’s Entertainment Society of Goa. The first-ever IFFI (in 1952) was organized by the Films Division, Government of India, with the patronage of the Prime Minister of India Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. India and Singapore agree to strengthen defence cooperation: India and Singapore have agreed to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and taking it to greater heights. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed satisfaction at the increasing engagement of the Armed Forces of both the countries in conducting joint exercises. Mr. Singh stressed that the Indo-Pacific for India means an open, inclusive and stable region, connected through secure seas, integrated by trade and anchored by the unity and centrality of ASEAN.

2. India ranks 59th on IMD World Talent Ranking Report: The International Institute of Management Development’s (IMD) World Talent Ranking (WTR) report for the year 2019 was released. In the released report, India was ranked at 59th position, a slip by 6 places on a global annual list of 63 countries. The list was topped by Switzerland. The top 10 countries that followed Switzerland were Denmark (2nd), Sweden (3rd), Austria (4th), Luxembourg (5th), Norway (6th), Iceland (7th), Finland (8th), Netherlands (9th) and Singapore (10th).

Note: President of IMD: Jean Francois Manzoni; Established: 1990; Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland.

3. UNICEF releases a booklet named ‘From Uttapam to Sprouted Dal Parantha’: UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) has released a 28-page booklet called “From uttapam to sprouted dal parantha”. It explains that nutritious food prepared at less than 20 rupees will help in dealing with problems like underweight, obesity and anaemia in children. The book is based on the findings of the overall National Nutrition Survey 2016-18, according to which 35 % of children under the age of five are stunted (low height for age), 17 % are wasted (low weight for height)and 33 % are underweight.

Note: UNICEF Formation: 1946; Headquarters: New York City, U.S.

4. Universal Children's Day: 20 November: Universal Children’s Day is celebrated annually on 20th November. The goal of Universal Children’s day is to improve child welfare worldwide, promote and celebrate children’s rights and promote togetherness and awareness amongst all children. The intergovernmental organisation is asking individuals, schools and corporates worldwide to 'Go Blue' this Universal Children’s Day to help build a world where every child goes to school and is safe from harm.

5. Africa Industrialization Day: 20 November: Africa Industrialization Day is celebrated on November 20 each year. It is a time when governments and other organizations in many African countries examine ways to stimulate Africa’s industrialization process. It is also an occasion to draw worldwide media attention to the problems and challenges of industrialization in Africa. The theme of 2019 is ‘Positioning African Industry to Supply the AfCFTA Market’. On 22 March 2018, 44 member States of the African Union signed the Agreement Establishing an African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), thus creating a single African market for goods and services.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Brazil beats Mexico to lift U-17 World Cup title: The Brazilian football team defeated the football team of Mexico in the finals for 2-1, to win the 18th edition of the FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) under 17 World Cup trophy held in Brasilia, Brazil. The victory added to Brazil’s successes in 1997, 1999 and 2003 as it moved within one of Nigeria’s record of five championships.

2. India-Pakistan Davis Cup tie shifted to Kazakhstan capital Nur-Sultan from Islamabad: India will travel to Nur-Sultan to take on Pakistan in the upcoming Davis Cup tie. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has nominated the Nur-Sultan (capital of Kazakhstan) to host upcoming India-Pakistan Davis Cup tie. The Devis Cup tie was scheduled to be held in September but was pushed to 29-30 November after India expressed concerns about the safety of their players. The side will be led by top singles players Sumit Nagal and Ramkumar Ramanathan while veteran Leander Paes and Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan are likely to pair up for the doubles.

3. Max Verstappen wins Brazilian Grand Prix 2019: Belgian-Dutch racing driver Max Verstappen (with Red Bull) has won the Formula One Brazilian Grand Prix 2019. The Ferraris of Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc clashed in the race due to which Verstappen was able to take the lead and ultimately win the race. Pierre Gasly (France) was on the second position and was the first podium position for him while Lewis Hamilton remained on the third.

4. Sudhir Mital elected president of Gymnastics Federation of India: Former Competition Commission of India chairman Sudhir Mital and Shantikumar Singh were elected as president and general secretary respectively, of the Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI). Sudhir Mital is a retired IAS officer of Punjab cadre, was also a former president and worked as GFI chief from 2003 to 2007. He served as chairman of Competition Commission of India (CCI) in 2018 after joining the organization in 2014 as a member. Shantikumar was a former national level gymnast from Manipur, had served as GFI treasurer from 2011 to 2015 and then got elected as secretary in the 2015 elections.

Note: Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI) Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; Founded: 1952.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. ICICI Lombard partners with Fino to offer sachet based insurance products: ICICI Lombard has been partnering with ‘Fino Payments Bank’ to offer non-life insurance solutions to its customers. As part of this association, ICICI Lombard has introduced several innovative insurance solutions that complement Fina’s technology-enabled platforms and harness its customer reach. Some of these offerings include Hospicash that provide customers with the means to cover their loss of income, especially in the case of migrant workers, if they are hospitalized. ICICI Lombard and Fino also launched Dengue and Malaria policy which covers treatment to Dengue and Malarial diseases up to Rs. 10,000 at a premium as low as Rs. 49.

Note: Chairman of Fino Payment Bank: Mahendra Kumar Chouhan.

MD & CEO of Fino Payment Bank: Rishi Gupta.

AWARDS AND HONOUR

1. Bajrang Punia, Mahant Gaurav Sharma honoured in Dubai: Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia has been conferred the Indian Personality of the Year Award (Sports) at the Indo Arab Leaders Summit & Awards 2019 in Dubai. World powerlifting champion Mahant Gaurav Sharma was also honoured with Visionary Leaders of the Year (Sports) award.

Note: President of UAE: Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Capital: Abu Dhabi; Currency: United Arab Emirates dirham.

2. Delhi Metro wins 2 awards at Urban Mobility India Conference: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has been conferred with two awards for its commendable initiatives in promoting the metro as a green and sustainable mode of transport among the masses.

DMRC was awarded for the ‘Last Mile Connectivity’ project in the category of best non-motorised transport and the ‘Green Metro project – An Initiative for Sustainable and Viable Urban Transport’ in the category of best green initiative in urban transport, at the 12th Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2019 held from November 15 to 17 in Lucknow.

Note: The Delhi metro’s first service began in December 2002 on Shahdara-Tis Hazari corridor of Red Line, Delhi. It currently spans over 350kilometers having over 250 metro stations.

Founded: 3 May 1995; Headquarters: New Delhi.

DEFENCE

1. Lt Col Jyoti Sharma appointed as Army’s first female JAG officer: Lieutenant Colonel Jyoti Sharma has been appointed as Indian Army’s first female Judge Advocate General officer to be deployed on a foreign mission. She will serve the government of the East African country of Seychelles as a legal expert & would give her opinion about defence and military act.

Daily GK Updates - 19th November, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Union Minister for Rural Development inaugurates SARAS IITF 2019: The Union Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Agriculture inaugurated the SARAS India International Trade Fair(IITF) Mela 2019 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. SARAS IITF Mela empowering rural women through Self-Help Groups is one of the top priorities of the government. More than seven crore women have joined Self-Help Groups so far and the Ministry is making all efforts to take this number to 10 crores. Women self-help groups play a very crucial role in the fulfilment of two important goals, namely poverty alleviation and women empowerment.

Note: Union Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Agriculture: Narendra Singh Tomar.

2. Yediyurappa inaugurates three-day Bengaluru Tech Summit: Karnataka Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa has inaugurated the three-day Bengaluru Tech Summit at Bengaluru Place. More than 3500 delegates, 12,000 visitors and 200 speakers are participating in this Summit. 250 Exhibitors will showcase their services, products, and technologies to visitors. The summit is expected to be attended by global tech leaders, investors, industry captains, research heads, policymakers and startups from India and 20 foreign countries. This IT event will focus on artificial intelligence, Cyber Security, Space and Drone Revolutions, Electric vehicles, 5G, Genomics, Trends in Agriculture etc.

3. Smriti Irani Inaugurates Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK) to Tackle Malnutrition: The Ministry of Women and Child Development in partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation launched India’s first Poshan Atlas to create a repository of diverse crops. The Poshan Atlas was inaugurated by Smriti Zubin Irani along with Bill Gates in New Delhi. The Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh is a repository of diverse crops across 128 agro-climatic zones to help enable better nutritional outcomes. The Kosh aims to reduce malnutrition among women and children across the country, through a multi-sectoral results-based framework, including agriculture.

4. NHM Jammu & Kashmir launched BMEWMP programme in J&K, Ladakh: National Health Mission Jammu & Kashmir, has launched the Bio-Medical Equipment Waste Management Programme (BMEWMP) in the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The biomedical equipment management was the need of the hour to improve the patient care facilities in the health care institutions. The objectives of the program are designed in a way that the equipment in the district level health care facility will have an uptime of 95%, in sub-district hospital 90% and in PHC 80%.

5. International cherry blossom festival 2019 celebrated in Shillong, Meghalaya: Meghalaya Chief Minister has Inaugurated the 4th International Cherry Blossom Festival 2019 held in Shillong, Meghalaya. For the 1st time, India & South Korea jointly celebrated this festival that witnessed the celebration of unique autumn flowering of Himalayan Cherry Blossoms (scientifically known as the Prunus serrulata). South Korea Ambassador to India Shin Bong-Kil joined the celebration.

Note: Chief Minister of Meghalaya: Conrad K Sangma; Governor: Tathagata Roy.

6. ADB to provide USD 91 million loan for Comprehensive Water Management in Karnataka: The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed USD 91 million loans under Karnataka Integrated and Sustainable Water Resources Management Investment Program (IWRM). The project will help to modernize the Vijayanagara Channel irrigation systems, prepare river basin management plans in the Krishna river basin that will help improve irrigation water use efficiency and contribute to improving sustainable water security in Karnataka. The investment program will help the Government of Karnataka in strengthening its institutions involved in integrated water resource management and modernizing the irrigation system infrastructure for improving water use efficiency in the State

Note: Capital of Karnataka: Bengaluru; CM: BS Yediyurappa; Governor: Vajubhai Vala.

7. Justice SA Bobde sworn in as 47th Chief Justice of India: Supreme Court Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde (63 years) was sworn in as the 47th Chief Justice of India (till April 23, 2021) by President Ram Nath Kovind. Justice Bobde succeeds Justice Ranjan Gogoi, who retired on 17 November. Justice Bobde was elevated as a Judge of the Supreme Court on April 12, 2013. He was part of the five-judge constitution bench which delivered the landmark Ayodhya verdict.

Note: Supreme Court established: 28th January 1950.

8. ECI to establish a visiting chair in memory of TN Seshan: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has decided to establish and fund a visiting chair on an interdisciplinary approach to Electoral Studies in memory of TN Seshan (former CEC). It will be established in the Centre for Curriculum Development at India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM), New Delhi (from 2020-2025). The Chair will be mentored by Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) N Gopalaswami. The Visiting Chair programme will be targeted at young academics with a proven track record in fields relatable to electoral studies. The Chair will also be expected to curate one national level seminar on specific aspects of Electoral Studies.

Note: Election Commission formed: 25 January 1950; Headquarters of Election Commission: New Delhi; Chief Election Commissioner: Sunil Arora.

Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) TN Seshan who passed away recently on November 10, 2019.

9. ISRO to launch Cartosat-3, 13 commercial nanosatellites on 25th November: India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C47) will launch Cartosat-3 and 13 commercial nanosatellites into Sun Synchronous orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota. Cartosat-3 satellite is a third-generation agile advanced satellite having high-resolution imaging capability. PSLV-C47 is the 21st flight of PSLV in 'XL' configuration, which is with 6 solid strap-on motors. PSLV-C47 will also carry 13 commercial nanosatellites from the United States of America as part of a commercial arrangement with New Space India Limited (NSIL), Department of Space. This will be the 74th launch vehicle mission from SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota. The launch is tentatively scheduled at 09:28 Hrs (IST) on 25th November 2019.

Note: ISRO Director: K.Sivan; Headquarters: Bengaluru; Established: 1969.

10. Quami Ekta Week to be observed across the country from 19-25th November: The Quami Ekta Week (National Integration Week) is being observed across the country from the 19th to 25th November 2019. The week is observed to highlight the strength and resilience of the nation to withstand any potential threats to the secular fabric. These occasions will also provide an opportunity to reaffirm age-old traditions and faith in the values of tolerance, co-existence, and brotherhood in a multi-cultural and multi-religious society.

The programmes to be observed during Qaumi Ekta Week:

19th Nov	National Integration Day
20th Nov	The Welfare of Minorities Day
21st Nov	Linguistic Harmony Day
22nd Nov	Weaker Sections Day
23rd Nov	Cultural Unity Day
24th Nov	Women’s Day
25th Nov	Conservation Day

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. GoI to extend Visa-on-Arrival facility to UAE nationals: Government of India (GoI) has decided to extend the Visa-on-Arrival facility to nationals of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a period of up to 60 days with double entry for business, tourism, conference and medical purposes. This facility is aimed at further strengthening people to people and trade links as well as strategic ties between the two countries. This facility is available at six designated International Airports namely, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai.

Note: Visa-on-Arrival is available only to those UAE nationals who have earlier obtained an e-Visa or a normal paper Visa for India. Pakistan Origin UAE nationals will not be eligible for Visa-on-Arrival Scheme.

2. 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus begins in Bangkok: The 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) has begun in Bangkok, Thailand. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh along with 17 other Defence Ministers of ADMM-Plus countries are attending the meeting. Earlier, Mr Singh reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral defence relations with the respective leaders and discussed ways to further improve the ties.

3. World Toilet Day: 19 November: World Toilet Day is observed across the world on 19th November with an aim to motivate millions across the world on issues of sanitation. The theme for 2019 is ‘Leaving No One Behind’. It’s all about inspiring action to tackle the global sanitation crisis and help achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which promises sanitation for all by 2030.

Note: In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated 19th November as World Toilet Day. World Toilet Day is coordinated by UN-Water in collaboration with governments and partners.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Shooter Shreyasi Singh crowned National Champion in Women’s Trap: Reigning Commonwealth Games champion Shreyasi Singh won the women’s Trap Gold at the ongoing 63rd National Shooting Championship for shotgun events in New Delhi. Shreyasi representing Bihar shot 42 out of 50 birds to claim the crown, while Rajeshwari from Punjab managed 38 hits to settle for silver. Pragati Dubey of Madhya Pradesh won bronze with a finals score of 31. This was Shreyasi’s fourth individual career National title but her first in Women’s Trap.

2. Stefanos Tsitsipas beats Dominic Thiem to win ATP Finals title: Greek tennis player Stefanos Tsitsipas has won the ATP Finals beating Austria's Dominic Thiem 6-7, 6-2, 7-6 in London. It is Tsitsipas's third title of the season and comes a year after he was crowned champion at the Next Gen ATP Finals in Milan. Tsitsipas had qualified for the finals after defeating six-time champion Roger Federer in the semi-finals.

3. Indian women clinch five gold medals in Asian Youth Boxing C'ship: Indian women have clinched five gold, while men bagged two silver at Asian Youth Boxing Championship in Mongolia. All five women finalists, Naorem Chanu (51kg), Vinka (64kg) Sanamacha Chanu (75kg), Poonam (54kg) and Sushma (81kg) won Gold for the country in a phenomenal sweep. Among the men, Selay Soy (49kg) and Ankit Narwal (60kg) settled for the second place after going down in their respective summit clashes. India signed off with 12 medals in the event with bronze coming from Arundhati Choudhury (69kg), Komalpreet Kaur (81kg), Jasmine (57kg), Satender Singh (91kg) and Aman (91kg).

4. England qualifies for UEFA Euro 2020 football tournament: England has qualified for the 4UEFA Euro 2020 football tournament. Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 99th international goal as Portugal secured its place at the Euro 2020 finals. Portugal are the defending champions, having won the 2016 edition.

Note: The 2020 UEFA European Football Championship (UEFA Euro 2020) is scheduled to be held in 12 cities in 12 European countries from 12 June to 12 July 2020.

DEFENCE

1. Indian Army conducts ‘Sindhu Sudarshan’ exercise in Rajasthan: The Sudarshan Chakra Corps of the Indian Army conducted ‘Sindhu Sudarshan’ exercise in Barmer, Rajasthan. Around 40,000 jawans of the Indian Army are participating in the exercise.’ Sindhu Sudarshan’ exercise will continue till December 05. The aim of the exercise was to evaluate the capability and battle readiness of the defence forces in an integrated air-land battle in a semi-developed terrain of the desert. Newly inducted armed helicopter Rudra, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) equipped with electro-optical pods, helmet-mounted sights and night vision goggles was used in the exercise. Apart from Rudra, newly inducted K9 Vajra (South Korean self-propelled 155 mm howitzer) was also used in the exercise.

Note: Motto of Indian Army: “Service Before Self”; Founded: 1 April 1895; Headquarters: New Delhi.

2. 1st Indo-Qatari joint Naval Exercise Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea) begins in Doha: The Bilateral Maritime Exercise Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea) between the Indian Navy and Qatari Emiri Naval Forces has been started in Doha to enhance interoperability between the two navies. The exercise (five days) will include a three-day ‘harbour phase’ and two-day ‘sea phase’. From the Indian side, Indian Navy Guided Missile Stealth Frigate INS Trikand and Patrol Aircraft P8-I are participating in the exercise. The versatile Anti-Ship Missile equipped Barzan Class Fast Attack Craft along with Rafale multi-task fighter aircraft will participate from Qatar Navy. The sea phase will include a tactical maritime exercise involving the domains of surface action, air defence, maritime surveillance and interdiction operation and anti-terrorism.