Daily GK Updates - 14th January, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Statue of Unity included in ‘8 Wonders of SCO’: The Statue of Unity at Kevadia, Gujarat has been included in 8 wonders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). The Statue of Unity is the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Home Minister of independent India. The 182-meter tall statue is the world’s tallest statue that was inaugurated by PM Modi on the 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in October 2018. The statue was inaugurated on the 143rd birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in 2018.

2. Income Tax Department launched 24×7 control room: Income-Tax Department was launched 24×7 control room to monitor black money and illegal inducements in poll-bound Delhi. This facility will also host a toll-free number (1800117574). People can inform the department about any activity of use of money power, illegal distribution of cash etc.

3. Vice President Venkaiah Naidu to inaugurate “Classical Telugu Centre” in Nellore: Vice President of India, M Venkaiah Naidu will inaugurate a new Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Telugu on January 21 in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. The center will facilitate to focus its activities for the development of this rich classical Telugu through Research, seminars, debates and various activities. The Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Telugu (CESCT) came under the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL). Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhrial 'Nishank' is also set to attend the event.

Note: Andhra Pradesh governor Biswabhusan Harichandan; Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy

4. PM Modi attended the inaugural session of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi: India's flagship global conference on geopolitics and geo-economics Raisina Dialogue has begun in New Delhi on January 14, 2020. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the inaugural session at which seven former heads of state or government will share their views on important challenges facing the world. This is the 5th edition of the prestigious Raisina Dialogue, jointly organized by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Observer Research Foundation. 700 international participants from over 100 countries are expected to participate in the dialogue. 12 foreign ministers, including from Russia, Iran, Australia, Maldives, South Africa, Estonia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Latvia, Uzbekistan, and the EU will participate in it.

5. Dharmendra Pradhan launches Mission Purvodaya to develop Eastern India into Integrated Steel Hub: The Union Steel Minister Dharmendra Pradhan ‘Mission Purvodaya’ during an event in Kolkata to strengthen steel sector in the Eastern region. Mission Purvodaya is aimed at accelerated development of eastern India through establishment of Integrated Steel Hub. The proposed Integrated Steel Hub, encompassing Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal and Northern Andhra Pradesh, would help towards socio-economic growth of Eastern India. The Minister informed that the eastern belt has the potential to add over 75 percent of the country’s incremental steel capacity envisioned by the National Steel Policy. The Integrated Steel Hub would thus enable swift capacity addition, improve the overall competitiveness of steel producers both in terms of cost and quality, growth of steel industry along with employment opportunities across the entire value chain.

6. Michael Patra appointed as fourth deputy governor of RBI: The central government has appointed Michael Patra as the deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a three-year term. At present, he is serving as an executive director at the Reserve Bank of India. He replaces Viral Acharya, who left office on July 23, 2019. He will take over as the fourth deputy governor at the Reserve Bank. He was in charge of the central bank’s monetary policy division until now.

7. Indian Space Research Organisation to launch GSAT-30 satellite: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch GSAT-30 satellite onboard Ariane-5 launch vehicle (VA 251) from French Guiana, overseas department of France. This satellite will launch on 17 January 2020. The GSAT-30 is a communication satellite of India and configured on ISRO’s enhanced I-3K Bus structure to provide communication services from Geostationary orbit in C and Ku bands.

8. Armed Forces Veterans Day: 14 January: 14 January celebrated as Armed Forces Veterans Day every year. Armed Forces Veterans Day is being celebrated since 2017. This day is observed to mark the respect and recognition of the services rendered by Field Marshal KM Cariappa. He was the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, retired on 14th January 1953.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Treasury Department of USA removes China from “currency manipulator” list: The Treasury Department of United States of America has been removed China from the designation as “currency manipulator“.

2. Robert Abela Sworn in as New Prime Minister of Malta: Lawyer Robert Abela (42 years) was sworn in as the 14th Prime Minister of Malta. He replaced ruling PM Joseph Muscat, who resigned amid accountability over the murder of an investigative journalist. Abela is the son of former President of Malta George Abela. Robert Abela secured a surprising victory in Malta’s governing party’s internal leadership contest to be elected as the new leader.

Note: Capital of Malta: Valletta; Currency: Euro

3. Nearly 8,000 Philipinos evacuated as Taal volcano erupts near Manila: Around 8,000 residents were evacuated after a small active Taal volcano near Manila spewed a massive cloud of ash. Experts warned of another possibility of "hazardous explosive eruption." Taal (one of the world's smallest active volcanoes) sits in the middle of a lake about 70km (45 miles) south of the center of Manila. There was a risk an eruption could cause a tsunami in the lake. The Philippines lies on the Ring of Fire, a belt of volcanoes circling the Pacific Ocean that is also prone to earthquakes. Taal has erupted more than 30 times in the past five centuries, most recently in 1977.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Japan's Kento Momota wins Malaysia Masters: Japanese badminton player Kento Momota (World number-1) has won the Malaysia Masters 2020. He defeated Denmark's Viktor Axelsen 24-22, 21-11. Momota, currently the best player on the planet, won a record 11 titles last year.

Note: The 2020 Malaysia Masters was the first tournament of the 2020 BWF World Tour. It is also part of the Malaysia Masters championships, which had been held since 2009. This tournament was organized by the Badminton Association of Malaysia and sanctioned by the BWF.

2. Novak Djokovic Leads Serbia to win inaugural ATP Cup with 2-1 victory over Spain: Serbia has won the inaugural 2020 ATP Cup tennis tournament, defeating Spain 2–1 in the final in Sydney. Novak Djokovic (from Serbia) was the key performer in the tournament. Djokovic (World No. 2) claimed a straight-sets victory over Rafael Nadal (World No. 1) 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) in singles. In doubles, Djokovic and Viktor Troicki claimed 6-3, 6-4 straight sets victory over Feliciano Lopez and Pablo Carreno Busta.

Note: ATP Cup was the opener for the 2020 ATP Tour, as well as the first ATP team tournament since the last edition of the World Team Cup in 2012.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. SEBI defer deadline to April 2022 for split “Chairman and Managing Director” post: Market Regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the deadline given to companies to separate the roles of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) post by two years to April 2022. Under Sebi’s norms, the top 500 listed entities by market capitalisation need to comply with the requirement of separation of the roles of chairperson and MD or chief executive officer (CEO) with effect from April 1, 2020. This deadline has now been extended till April 1 2022. The norms were part of the series of recommendations given by the Sebi-appointed Uday Kotak-led committee on corporate governance.

2. RBI restricts cash withdrawals up to Rs 35,000 in Sri Guru Raghavendra Sahakara Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has put restrictions on cash withdrawals for the account holders of Sri Gururaghavendra Sahakara Bank. As per the RBI directions, the bank will not be able to grant or renew any loans and advances, make any investment, incur any liability, including borrowing of funds and acceptance of fresh deposits. This has been done after finding alleged irregularities in transactions. The bank’s savings and current account customers and depositors can, however, withdraw cash up to ₹35,000 only till further notice. The directive will remain in force for 6 months from January 10 and is subject to review,” added the official.

Note: Sri Guru Raghavendra Sahakara Bank Niyamitha is an urban cooperative bank and the RBI has issued directions in the exercise of powers vested in it under subsection (1) of Section 35 A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

3. Former Flipkart CEO Sachin Bansal acquires DHFL General Insurance: Sachin Bansal (Flipkart co-founder and former CEO) has acquired DHFL General Insurance from Kapil Wadhawan-led Wadhawan Group Capital (WGC) for around Rs 100 crore. WGC is the parent company of debt-laden Dewan Housing Finance Limited (DHFL) and this deal is seen as a distress sale. Now, Bansal has entered the insurance business, and the investment is also seen as part of his strategy to enter into the financial services industry. Earlier, Bansal had done multiple investments in the insurance business to increase his portfolio of firms in the sector.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Infosys signs five-year deal with a European firm to digitize global operations: The Global software major Infosys signed a 5-year deal with leading European automotive logistics firm GEFCO to digitize its worldwide operations. Infosys is partnering with the Paris-based GEFCO to digitize its multi-modal supply chain solutions and support its digital transformation over the next five years. The 70-year-old GEFCO has a presence in 47 countries and serves about 300 destinations worldwide with 15,000 workforces. As a technology partner, Infosys will help transform GEFCO's business application management services, leverage its live enterprise suite to evolve into a digital native organization.

Note: The 4.6-billion-euro GEFCO designs smart, flexible solutions to meet supply-chain challenges in every industry sector.

DEFENCE

1. IOC launches special NATO class diesel for Indian Navy: State-owned Indian Oil Corp (IOC) has developed a special class diesel conforming to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO grade for use in ships and vessels of the Indian Navy. Vice Admiral G S Pabby launched the Upgraded High Flash High-Speed Diesel (HFHSD- IN 512) in New Delhi. The fuel possesses the best rheological and detergent characteristics validated against most stringent military specifications. It also has a lesser environmental impact due to low Sulphur content and would result in better performance of engines. This fuel will facilitate the Indian Navy to enhance its global footprint and will allow India to fuel the vessels of friendly foreign countries at places where fuel conforming to NATO grade is supplied. The changeover to the upgraded HFHSD- IN 512 has been done without any additional cost to the Indian Navy.

2. India to acquire 200 fighter jets for Air Force: According to Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar, the Union government is in the process of acquiring around 200 aircraft to cope with the depleting aerial inventories of the Indian Air Force. The contract for HAL-manufactured 83 LCA Tejas Mark 1 A advanced fighter jets are in the final stages. Apart from these, Expression of Interest has been floated for another 110 aircraft, based on which Request for Proposal will be floated. The Air Force has Sukhoi 30 MKIs, Mirage 2000s, Mig 29s, and the aging Jaguars and Mig 21 Bisons in its inventory of fighter jets at present. The last fleet of seven swing-wing MiG-27 fighters, which played an important role during the 1999 Kargil war, was decommissioned on 27th December 2019.

OBITUARIES

1. Raj Kapoor’s daughter Ritu Nanda passes away: Ritu Nanda, entrepreneur, and daughter of late Bollywood actor-filmmaker Raj Kapoor passed away on January 13, 2020, in New Delhi. Ritu Nanda is the sister of Rishi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor and Rajiv Kapoor. She was suffering from cancer.

Daily GK Updates - 13th January, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. PM Modi Launches Projects worth Rs 600 crore in Kolkata; Renames Kolkata Port as Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Port: The Kolkata Port has been renamed as Syama Prasad Mukherjee Port on 12 January 2020, on the occasion of 150 years of operation of Kolkata Port. This announcement was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an event at the Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata to celebrate 150th year of celebrations of the port. PM Modi also launched several Port led development projects worth Rs 600 crore as a part of the celebrations. Some of the projects launched include:

(1) Released a commemorative stamp on 150th years of the Kolkata Port Trust

(2) Upgraded Ship repair facility at Netaji Subhash Dry Dock

(3) Upgraded railway infrastructure of Kolkata dock system of the Kolkata Port for smooth cargo movement and river front development scheme

(4) Mechanization of Berth No. 3 at Haldia Dock

(5) Launched the Port Anthem

(6) Inaugurated the Kaushal Vikas Kendra and Pritilata Chhatri Avas for 200 tribal girl students from Sundarbans.

(7) Honored two oldest pensioners of the Port Smt. Nagina Bhagat (105 years) and Mr. Naresh Chandra Chakraborty (100 years)

2. Lt Col Yuvraj Malik appointed director of NBT: Lt Col Yuvraj Malik has been appointed the Director of the National Book Trust (NBT) on deputation from the Indian Army. He replaced Sahitya Akademi-awardee writer Rita Chowdhury. Malik has also served with the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Home Affairs, Raj Bhawan in Jammu & Kashmir, United Nation Missions in Africa and several operational areas in administrative and operational assignments including Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, Punjab and Rajasthan.

Note: Headquarters of NBT: New Delhi; Chairman: Govind Prasad Sharma

3. ‘Wings India 2020’ to be held at Begumpet Airport Hyderabad in March 2020: Biennial International Exhibition and Conference on Civil Aviation Sector, ‘Wings India 2020’ will be held at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad, Telangana from March 12-15, 2020. The theme of the exhibition is “Flying for all”. The exhibition will be jointly organized by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MCA), Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce And Industry (FICCI), Airports Authority of India (AAI). It will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in presence of Minister for Civil Aviation. During the event first-ever “Wings India Awards’ for Excellence in the Civil Aviation Sector will be announced that will be conferred upon the Aviation-related Companies.

Note:  Ministry of Civil Aviation: Hardeep Singh Puri; Ministry of State for Civil Aviation: Suresh Prabhu; Director-General of Directorate General of Civil Aviation: Arun Kumar

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Haitham Bin Tariq Al -Said becomes new Sultan of Oman: Haitham bin Tariq al-Said took over as Sultan of Oman after the death of a long-time ruler Qaboos bin Said Al Said. Late Sultan Qaboos bin Saeed had ruled Oman since 1970 as the 8th Sultan of the House of Al Said. The late sultan had himself chose Haitham Bin Tareq Al Saeed (cousin of late Sultan Qaboos) as his successor, as the Sultan had no children. He was the longest-serving monarch among the recent Arab rulers.

Note: The Sultan of Oman is the highest decision-maker and holds the parallel position of the Prime Minister, Defence Minister, Finance Minister, Foreign Affairs Minister and the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

2. Indian Scientist Bipul Behari Saha elected as IUPAC Bureau member: Bipul Behari Saha, a noted chemist has been elected as a bureau member (2020-23) of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) for the period 2020-23. Bipul Behari Saha is the second Indian after CNR Rao (former Director of the Indian Institute of Science and Bharat Ratna) to be elected for this position in a century. Founded 100 years ago, IUPAC is the largest global organization of Chemistry professionals.

Note: IUPAC has the responsibility of naming all new elements and compounds, declare atomic weights and physical constants, update Periodic table and carry out research projects.

3. 18th Dhaka International Film Festival begins in Dhaka: The 18th Dhaka International Film Festival was inaugurated in Dhaka, Bangladesh by the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen. The festival kicked off with the screening of the Spanish-Greek film Window to the Sea, directed by Miguel Angel Jimenez, at Bangladesh National Museum (BNM). During the festival, 220 films from 74 countries will be screened across various venues in Dhaka between 11-19 January. More than 100 filmmakers and other personalities from the movie world are participating in the event over the next eight days. The theme of the festival is ‘Better Film, Better Audience, and Better Society’.

4. World Trade Organization set up a dispute panel over India’s duty hike on 28 American goods: The World Trade Organization (WTO) has set up a panel to examine complaints filed by United States (US) against India for hiking customs duties of 28 American goods in July 2019. The US had dragged India to the WTO by filing a complaint against New Delhi's move to increase customs duties, alleging the decision as inconsistent with the global trade norms. The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) is a WTO pact, signed by all member countries of the multi-lateral body, aims to promote trade by reducing or eliminating trade barriers like customs duties. The US had also alleged that the duties imposed by India appear to be inconsistent with the two norms of GATT. The US rolled back export incentives from India under its GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) programme and New Delhi has imposed higher customs duties on 28 American products such as almond, pulses, walnut, chickpeas, boric acid, etc. India’s exports to the US in 2017-18 stood at $47.9 billion, while its imports were at $26.7 billion. The trade balance is also in favour of India.

Note: Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland; Founded: 1 January 1995; Director General (DG): Roberto Carvalho de Azevedo.

5. World Future Energy Summit begins in Abu Dhabi, UAE: The World Future Energy Summit 2020 begun in the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abu Dhabi. The four-day annual Summit is dedicated to advancing future energy, clean technologies, and energy efficiency. Held annually at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, the 2020 edition includes exhibition and forum programs across five main pillars: energy, solar, water, waste and smart cities, hosting an unrivaled gathering of top-level government and business leaders. The theme for this year's summit is "Rethinking Global Consumption, Production, and Investment." World Future Energy Summit is the Middle East’s largest future energy and sustainability event. 33,500 participants from 170 countries participated in the summit. The Summit will conclude on 17th January, 2020.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. BCCI Annual Awards 2018-19: Jasprit Bumrah Receives Polly Umrigar Award: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Annual Awards for 2018-19 were presented on 12 January 2020 in Mumbai. Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah (world’s No. 1 ODI bowler) will receive the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s Polly Umrigar Award for his super performance in international cricket in the 2018-19 season.  Some list of winners:

Award	Name
CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award	Krishnamachari Srikkanth
BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award For Women	Anjum Chopra
BCCI Special Award	Dilip Joshi
Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer (Men)	Jasprit Bumrah
Best International Cricketer (Women)	Poonam Yadav
Best International debut (Men)	Mayank Agarwal
Best International debut (Women)	Shafali Verma
Highest run getter in women’s internationals	Smriti Mandhana
Highest wicket taker in women’s internationals	Jhulan Goswami
Best Umpire	Virender Sharma
Best Performance in Domestic Tournaments	Vidarbha

2. Two-day ITTF Executive Committee Meeting Begins in New Delhi: The two-day Executive Committee meeting of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) began in New Delhi. This is the second time that India is hosting such a meeting. Previously such meeting of the ITTF was held in New Delhi in 1987. The EC meeting is being chaired by ITTF President Thomas Weikert to discuss the development of table tennis in India, among other issues. The other members in the Executive Committee of the ITTF comprises deputy president Khalil Al-Mohannad, Secretary General Raul Calin, seven executive vice-presidents and CEO Steve Dainton.

Note: International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) headquarter- Lausanne, Switzerland.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI allows e-mandate on UPI for recurring transactions: Reserve Bank of India has allowed the Processing of e-mandate for recurring transactions for UPI transactions. This functionality will allow UPI users to bypass additional factor authentication (AFA) every time a payment is made to a regular merchant by giving a one-time instruction to the UPI service provider. The maximum permissible limit for a transaction under this arrangement shall be ₹ 2,000/-. No charges shall be levied or recovered from the UPI User for availing the e-mandate facility on UPI for recurring transactions.

2. Central govt raised India Overseas Bank’s authorized capital to Rs 25,000 crore: The Union government in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced an increase in the authorized capital of Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) to Rs. 25,000 crores from the previously authorized capital of Rs. 15,000 crores. The authorized capital of a company/bank/institution is the maximum amount of share capital a company is authorized to issue its shareholders.

Note: MD and CEO of Indian Overseas Bank: Shri Karnam Sekar; Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. PayU to acquire PaySense for $185 mn: Payment and Fintech Company PayU has decided to acquire a controlling stake in digital credit platform PaySense in a deal valued at $185 million. After that PayU has also decided to merge its consumer lending businesses, LazyPay with PaySense. , will merge their business operations to build a full-stack digital lending platform in India. Also, the founder and CEO of PaySense Prashanth Ranganathan will lead the PayU’s credit business in India as the CEO of the new venture

Daily GK Updates - 12th January, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Amit Shah Inaugurates first-of-its-kind ‘CYBER AASHVAST’ and VISWAS projects: The Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated various people centric projects at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Some of the major projects inaugurated includes:

Video Integration and State Wide Advanced Security (VISWAS): It is a first of its kind project in the country launched for major e-governance initiative. It aims at improving Law and Order Management, Proactive traffic management and control, Crime detection through video analytics and Post incident Investigation and video forensics.

Cyber Crime Prevention Unit-AASHVAST Project is a first of its kind unit launched by Gujarat Police to make cyber-space safe for common man through a dedicated helpline service for victims of cyber crimes to provide cyber-security solution.

2. Government to Set up 1023 Fast Track Special Courts under National Mission: The Central Government has started a scheme to set up 1023 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) across the country as a part of National Mission for Safety of Women (NMSW) amid the growing offences of rape and gang rape of minor girls below age of twelve years and similar heinous crimes against women. FTSCs will be set up in different states based on pendency of subject cases obtained from various High Courts for fast and time bound trial and disposal of pending cases related to rape and POCSO Act. Out of 1023 FTSCs, 389 Courts have been proposed to be set up exclusively for POCSO Act related cases in Districts where pendency of such cases is more than 100. 24 have joined this scheme so far and 216 numbers of POCSO courts have already been operationalized in 12 States under the scheme.

3. Union Minister Smriti Irani launched 3 schemes in Goa: The Union minister for women and child development Smriti Irani launched 3 welfare schemes for women in Goa. The schemes are Yashaswini Scheme for Women Entrepreneurship, Swasthya Sahayak Project and breast cancer screening initiative handheld device facilitating detection of cancer.

Under the Yashaswini Scheme for Women Entrepreneurship, the state government provides interest-free loan up to Rs 5 lakh with tenure of 5 years to self-help groups with repayment starting from the second year and the loan to be paid in four instalments.

Under the Swasthya Sahayak scheme, a diagnostic kit will be supplied to primary healthcare workers and Anganwadi workers in the state to help them conduct basic diagnostic tests at people’s doorstep so as to bring an affordable and convenient solution to the common man, who had to stand in queues and wait for days for getting basic diagnostic tests done. The diagnostic kit has been developed by the Public Health Foundation of India, which has partnered with Procter and Gamble to manufacture and supply the kits using corporate social responsibility (CSR) fund.

Under breast cancer screening initiative the handheld devices the Anganwadi and healthcare workers will screen women for breast cancer, reaching out to the women in rural parts of the state. With the help of such a device, the delivery of health services will become more accessible and affordable, he said and added that 20,000 women would be screened for breast cancer.

4. ISRO Planned to Launch IDRSS Satellites for Seamless Communication with Space Crew: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has planned to launch its own satellite communication system called Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS) for tracking and communication of its space assets. The IDRSS will have a constellation of two geo satellites, which will be deployed in phases. The first satellites will be launched into low-Earth orbit by the end of 2020, ahead of the unmanned Gaganyaan test flight, while the second satellite will be launched in 2021, before the manned mission is embarked in 2022. IDRSS will help ISRO’s ground control room to uniformly monitor India’s spaceflights and communicate with them at any given point of time, and can be used in both low orbit missions and farther missions such as those to the moon, Mars and beyond.

5. National Youth Day: 12th January: National Youth Day (Yuva Diwas) is celebrated every year on 12 January. On this day Swami Vivekananda was born. He was one of the greatest social reformer, thinker, and philosopher of India.

On the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, 23rd National Youth Festival 2020 started with a grand inauguration ceremony in Lucknow. The National Youth Festival 2020 is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and State Government of Uttar Pradesh. The theme of the 23rd National Youth Festival 2020 is “FIT YOUTH FIT INDIA”.

Note: Swami Vivekananda was born on 12th January 1863 in the Pausha Krishna Saptami tithi and died on 4 July 1902. He was the chief disciple of the 19th-century saint Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and the founder of the Ramakrishna Math and the Ramakrishna Mission. He was one of the most prominent figures of India who introduced Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the 'Western' World. The day was declared in 1984 by the Government of India and held annually since 1985. January 12, 2020 marks 157th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekanand.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Tsai Ing-wen wins Taiwan presidential election: Tsai Ing-wen has secured a second term in office in Taiwan after winning the presidential election with 57.1 per cent of the votes. Tsai won 8.17 million votes, while her main rival Han Kuo-yu bagged 5.52 million votes (38.6 percent). Her Democratic Progressive party retained control of the legislature, according to final results. 63-year old Tsai was the first female leader of the country, when she assumed charge for first term in May 2016.

Note: Capital of Taiwan: Taipei; Currency of Taiwan: New Taiwan dollar

2. India invited as guest of honour at Paris Book Fair 2020: India will be attending the Paris Book Fair 2020 as the guest of honour country. The annual fair will be held in March 2020. This will be the third time that India would be the guest country at the fair after 2002 and 2007. To continue the cultural exchange, France is expected to be the guest of honour at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2022.

3. Om Birla attends CSPOC Standing Committee Meeting in Ottawa: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla attended the Standing Committee Meeting of the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in the Canadian capital Ottawa. Birla is leading an Indian Parliamentary delegation- comprising of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh and Lok Sabha Secretary-General Snehlata Shrivastava- to the 25th CSPOC being held in Ottawa from January 5 to January 11.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Kento Momota of Japan Wins 2020 Malaysia Masters Badminton Tournament: World number one Kento Momota of Japan won the 2020 Malaysia Masters defeating Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen 24-22, 21-11 on 12 January 2020. The 2020 Malaysia Masters was the first tournament of the 2020 BWF World Tour.

2. Karolina Pliskova Claims 2020 Brisbane International Tennis Tournament: Czech Republic’s Karolina Pliskova defeat Madison Keys of United States 6-4, 4-6, 7-5 to win 2020 Brisbane International Tennis Tournament held at Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. This was Pliskova’s third Brisbane title in four years and her 16th on the WTA tour. In doubles category, Hsieh Su-wei and Barbora Strýcova defeated Ashleigh Barty and Kiki Bertens. Brisbane International is a WTA Premier tournament of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. HDFC Bank Acquires majority stake in Apollo Munich Health Insurance for Rs 1,495.81 crore: The mortgage lender Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC) has announced the completion of the acquisition of majority stake (51.16%) in Apollo Munich Health Insurance Company for Rs. 1,495.81 crore. The acquisition was approved by the Competition Commission of India (CCI), the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRADI) by 01 January 2020. Subsequently, the Apollo Munich has been renamed as HDFC ERGO Health Insurance and will operate as a subsidiary of HDFC. MD and CEO: Anuj Tyagi, Executive Director and Chief Business Officer at HDFC ERGO Health Insurance has been appointed as the new MD and CEO of the new entity HDFC ERGO Health Insurance. However, the appointment is subject to approval of IRDAI. Future plans: HDFC will merge HDFC ERGO General with ERGO Health and will soon apply to seek approval for the same to the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Post merger, the merged entity will be the second largest private insurer in accident and health segment in the country.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Andhra Pradesh Government signs Rs 711 cr MoU with German development bank: The German state-owned development bank, KfW has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Andhra Pradesh government for Zero-Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) Under the MoU, KfW will provide Rs 711 crore loan to Andhra Pradesh for expanding the climate-resilient Zero-Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) in the state over the next five years. Additionally, the state government will spend another Rs 304 crore on the project. Around 2.39 lakh farmers in 591 village panchayats of the state will be encouraged to take up ZBNF under the project.

2. IBM announces appointment of company veteran Sandip Patel as new India MD: Global tech major IBM announced the appointment of Sandip Patel as the new managing director for India and South Asia. Patel, who has been with the US-headquartered company since 2002, succeeds Karan Bajwa who has decided to pursue opportunities outside of IBM.

DEFENCE

1. India deploys INS Vikramaditya in Arabian Sea amid China-Pak naval drill ‘Sea Guardians’: China and Pakistan are conducting their nine-day mega naval exercise ‘Sea Guardians’ in the North Arabian Sea from 06 January 2020 to increase inter-operability and strategic cooperation between their two navies. On the other hand, India Navy too deployed its aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya in the Arabian Sea, to send a clear strategic signal to them about its operational readiness and combat capability in the maritime domain. Top officials of the Naval headquarters are personally keeping close watch on the ‘Sea Guardians’ from the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya deploying MiG29K fighters on board.

Daily GK Updates - 11th January, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. “Paperless Licensing Process” launched for Petroleum Road Tankers: The “Paperless Licensing Process” has been launched by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), for Petroleum Road Tankers. DPIIT has launched the process through Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). The process has been launched under the Petroleum Rules, 2002. The “Paperless Licensing Process” will led to online filing of the applications including the fee payment and thus heading towards digitisation. The applicants will be intimated through email and SMS. Under the above process, the license would be authorised by the concerned officer and would be electronically dispatched to the applicant.

Note: Union Minister of Commerce and Industry: Piyush Goyal.

2. Union Home Minister inaugurates I4C & National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: Union Home Minister has inaugurated the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) located in New Delhi.

The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal is a citizen centric vision which enables people to report cyber crimes online. The NCCRP will also provide access of cyber crime related complaints to the law enforcement agencies of the states and union territories to take action according to the law.  It will also increase the coordination among the law enforcement agencies of the states and union territories in investigation of cases and resolving them. Presently, 3900 police stations and 700 police districts have been linked with the portal “www.cybercrime.gov.in”.

Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) will manage all kinds of cyber crimes comprehensively in coordinated manner. At the Home Ministry’s initiative, 15 States and UTs have cleared the setting-up of Regional Cyber Crime Coordination Centres.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

3. Union Budget to be presented on 1st Feb & Economic Survey on 31st Jan: Union Budget will be presented on the 1st of February and the Economic Survey on 31st January 2020. The Budget Session of Parliament will begin on the 31st of this month.

Note: Economic Survey of India: The Economic Survey of India is the flagship annual document of the Ministry of Finance, Government of India. The Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance presents the Survey in the Parliament every year, just before the Union Budget. It is prepared under the guidance of the Chief Economic Adviser attached to the Ministry of Finance.

Union Budget: The Union Budget of India is the Annual Financial Statement in Article 112 of the Constitution of Republic of India. The Government presents it on the first day of February so that it could be materialised before the beginning of the new financial year in April. The first Union budget of independent India was presented by R. K. Shanmukham Chetty on 26th November 1947. Until 2016, the budget of the Indian Railways was presented separately to Parliament and dealt with separately.

4. Union Government unveils State Energy Efficiency Index 2019: The Union Government has released the “State Energy Efficiency Index 2019”. The index was released during the ‘Review, Planning and Monitoring (RPM)’ meeting held in New Delhi. The index is developed by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) along with Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE). The SEE Index 2019 traces the expansion and achievements of Energy Efficiency (EE) drives running in 36 states and union territories. The SEE Index 2019 constitutes quantitative, qualitative and outcome based 97 indicators to check energy efficiency initiatives, programs and outcomes in five distinct areas: transport, industry, agriculture, buildings, municipalities, and DISCOMs.

State Energy Efficiency Index 2019 has divided States/UTs into 4 groups on the basis of Total Primary Energy Supply (TPES) desired to meet the State’s/UT’s actual energy demand through electricity, coal, oil, gas, etc. across all the sectors. The 4 groups are: ‘Front Runner’, ‘Achiever’, ‘Contender’ and ‘Aspirant’.

Key results of SEE Index 2019: The State Energy Efficiency Index 2019 was topped by Haryana, Karnataka and Kerala while Manipur, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand and Rajasthan performed worst in their respective groups. The states of Haryana, Karnataka and Kerala were in “Achiever” group and there was not a single state in the “Front Runner” group.

5. Pulses Conclave to be held in Lonavala: India Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA) has announced the fifth edition of the Pulses Conclave, will be held in Lonavala, Maharashtra from 12-14 February 2020. IPGA expects close to 1500 trade stakeholders from India and key pulses exporting countries like USA, Australia, Canada, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, Mozambique, and Malawi. The conference aims at increasing exports, processing efficiencies, protein extraction, value addition and post-harvest management.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Second largest Muslim Congregation in the world Bishwa Ijtema begins in Bangladesh: The first phase of the world’s second-largest Muslim congregation after Haj began on the outskirts of Dhaka. Thousands of devotees from Bangladesh and abroad are thronging the bank of river Turag at Tongi near Dhaka to participate in the congregation called Bishwa Ijtema. Noted scholars give a religious sermon to the devotees on this occasion. The Ijtema began with the ‘aam bayan’ and will end on January 12 with the final prayers ‘Akheri Munajat’. The second phase of Bishwa Ijtem will take place between January 17-19. Bishwa Ijtema has been taking place on the Turag riverbank in Tongi near Dhaka since 1967. In 2011, the congregation was split into two phases to ensure better management. Bishwa Ijtema draws in Muslim devotees from about 150 countries.

2. Israel unveils revolutionary laser-based air defence system: According to the Israeli Ministry of Defense, Israel has successfully developed a laser-based air defence system. The system is meant to intercept aerial threats ranging from as mortar fire, drones, medium-range Grad rockets, anti-tank missiles as well as long-range missiles. The technological development will enable the long-range targeting and stabilization of laser beams, allowing them to intercept targets at great distances. The system is set to be tested in six months' time at an undisclosed location in northern Israel. If the interception test is successful, the laser-based system will be dispatched for field use along Israel's border with the Gaza Strip.

3. Pedro Sanchez Takes Oath as the Prime Minister of Spain: The leader of the Socialist party in Spain, Pedro Sanchez, took the oath as the prime minister of the country, after winning confidence vote by an extremely tight margin in 350-seat chamber, with 167 votes in favour and 165 against. With this win, he has become head of Spain’s first-ever coalition government since the dictatorship ended in 1975.

OTHER UPDATES:

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI releases “National Strategy for Financial Inclusion” report: The Reserve Bank of India has released a report “National Strategy for Financial Inclusion (NSFI): 2019-2024“. The National Strategy for Financial Inclusion for the period 2019-2024 has been formulated by RBI under the aegis of Financial Inclusion Advisory Committee (FIAC). The report has been ratified by the Financial Stability Development Council (FSDC). As per the official statement, “the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion 2019-2024 sets forth the vision and key objectives of the financial inclusion policies in India to help expand and sustain the financial inclusion process at the national level through a broad convergence of action involving all the stakeholders in the financial sector. The strategy aims to provide access to formal financial services in an affordable manner, broadening & deepening financial inclusion and promoting financial literacy & consumer protection.”

Note: RBI 25th Governor: Shaktikant Das; Headquarters: Mumbai; Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Prof. MS Swaminathan & Dr. G Muniratnam Selected for First Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu National Awards: Eminent Agricultural Scientist Dr M S Swaminathan and veteran social worker, Dr. Gutta Muniratnam have been chosen as the first recipients of ‘Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu National Award for Excellence’ and ‘Muppavarapu National Award for Social Service’’ respectively. The announcement for the awards was made during the 10th Anniversary Celebrations of Muppavarapu Foundation and Sankranthi Sambaralu (festivities) organized in Hyderabad.

Note: The Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu National Award for Excellence is instituted by the Muppavarapu Foundation. Muppavarapu National Award for Social Service has been launched by the Swarna Bharat Trust. Each award carries a cash prize of Rupees Five Lakh and citation.

OBITUARIES

1. Ruler of Oman Sultan Qaboos bin Said passes away: The longest serving ruler of Oman Sultan Qaboos bin Said passed away due to years-long struggle with an illness. He was a charismatic and visionary leader who transformed Oman into a modern and prosperous nation. He was ruling Oman since 1970. The Sultan is the prime decision-maker in Oman and also holds the portfolio of Prime Minister, supreme commander of the armed forces, minister of foreign affairs, minister of finance and minister of defence. The written constitution Qaboos introduced requires the ruling family to choose a successor within three days of the throne falling vacant.

Note: Capital of Oman: Muscat; Currency: Omani rial.

Daily GK Updates - 10th January, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Indian Railways installs IP based Video Surveillance System at stations: Indian Railways is in the process of installing Internet Protocol (IP) based Video Surveillance System (VSS) at stations to enhance security. Railway Board of India has approved works for provision of Video Surveillance System covering 983 stations over Indian Railways under Nirbhaya funds. This year a budget of Rs. 250 crore was allotted to Indian Railways from Nirbhaya fund for installation of the video surveillance system. In the first phase of installation, VSS is being installed at 200 stations and as on date work has been completed at 81 stations across India.

Note: Union Railway Minister: Piyush Goyal.

2. India-2021 census exercise to begin on 1st April: Census exercise India-2021 to begin on 1st April 2020 and will end on 30th of September 2020. Census India-2021 will be conducted through a mobile phone application. The enumerators of the census will seek the information of the mobile number of the head of the family, information related to TV, Internet, vehicles owned, toilets, source of drinking water besides asking other questions during the house listing phase of the exercise.

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

3. Works on laying of submarine cables between Chennai-A&N Islands inaugurates: Union Minister for Communications, Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad inaugurated the submarine cable works on laying between Chennai – Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The submarine cables will be initially laid from Chennai to Port Blair covering a distance of 1,450 kilometres. He also flagged off the ship to lay the cable at Chennai Port. At the initial stage of commissioning of the project itself, the islands can get a data speed of 400-gigabytes per second.

Note: Andaman and Nicobar Island Lieutenant Governor: D K Joshi.

4. Famous chariot festival of Tamil Nadu Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple begins: The famous chariot festival of the Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple in Tamilnadu begins. This 17th-century temple is famous for its architectural grandeur. The temple is especially significant because it is sacred to both the Shaivite as well as Vashnavite sects. There is an Anjaneya statue, which is 22 feet tall is carved of a single granite block. It is one of the tallest statues of its type in India.

Note: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister: Edappadi K. Palaniswami; Governor: Banwarilal Purohit; Tamil Nadu Capital: Chennai.

5. South Asian Trade and Travel Exchange Expo 2020 held in New Delhi: The 27th edition of South Asian Trade and Travel Exchange Expo (SATTE) 2020 was held in New Delhi. The SATTE expo was supported by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and sponsored by Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department. The objective of the expo was to build new business partnerships and hence was an important place for the promotion of tourism. The SATTE witnessed the participation of over 50 countries and 28 Indian states. During the expo, the Tourism Department of Jammu & Kashmir launched publicity campaign to showcase diverse tourism attractions.

6. M Nagaraj appointed as Chairman and MD of Hudco: M Nagaraj has been appointed the company’s Chairman and Managing Director of State-owned Housing and Urban Development Corporation (Hudco). The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has approved his appointment. He has experience in a multitude of sectors such as housing, infrastructure finance, skill development and microfinance in the social sector, and international trading. Hudco provides loans for housing and urban infrastructure projects.

Note: Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs:  Hardeep Singh Puri; Headquarters of Hudco: New Delhi; Founded: 25 April 1970.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. World Hindi Day: 10th January: World Hindi Day is celebrated globally on 10th January every year. The day is celebrated every year to promote the use of Hindi language worldwide. The World Hindi Day was observed first time in 2006. The day marked the anniversary of first World Hindi Conference held in 1975 in Nagpur.

2. Henley Passport Index 2020: India ranks 84^th: Indian passport, ranked 84th in the world’s most powerful passport index 2020, can get you visa-free entry to 58 destinations worldwide, according to a new report. Based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Henley & Partners has come out with a passport index where countries are ranked according to the number of destinations their passport holder can access without a prior visa.

World’s top most powerful passports:

(1) Japan: 191 countries

(2) Singapore: 190 countries

(3) Germany, South Korea: 189 countries

Note: Headquarters of Henley & Partners: London, United Kingdom; Founded: 1997;Chairman of Henley & Partners: Christian Kälin; Chief Executive Officer(CEO): Juerg Steffen.

3. Travel and Tourism Competitiveness index: India ranked 34^th: India has moved up six places to rank 34th on world travel and tourism competitiveness index, driven by rich natural and cultural resources and strong price competitiveness. India’s ranking improved from 40th to 34th, the greatest improvement over 2017 among the top 25 per cent of all countries ranked in the report.

Rank    Country

1          Spain

2          France

3          Germany

4          Japan

5          United State

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Ladakh wins 7th National Ice Hockey Championship women trophy: Ladakh women team has won the 7th National Ice Hockey Championship women trophy. In the final match, Ladakh scoring 2 goals against Delhi and won the tournament. The tournament was organised by the Ice Hockey Association of India (IHAI) in association with the Ladakh winter sports club. 4 women teams representing Chandigarh, Delhi, Maharashtra, and Ladakh participated in the tournament.

Note: President of Ice Hockey Association of India: K. L. Kumar.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI allows “Video based Customer Identification Process”: The Reserve Bank of India has revised the Know Your Customer (KYC) norms for banks and other lending institutions. New amendments in KYC norms by RBI allows banks and other lending institutions to use “Video based Customer Identification Process (V-CIP)”. The V-CIP is a consent based alternate method of establishing the customer’s identity and for customer onboarding from remote areas while leveraging the digital technology. V-CIP will also provide comfortability to banks and other regulated entities while holding to the RBI’s Know Your Customer (KYC) norms. The video files recorded as V-CIP are required to be stored bearing the date and time stamp while ensuring the safety and security of the video files. RBI has also advised banks to capture clear image of PAN card produced by the customer during the Customer Identification Process (CIP).

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. World Bank projects India’s growth rate at 5% for FY2020: World Bank has released Global Economic Prospects report. In its report, the World Bank has projected India’s growth rate at 5% for fiscal year 2020. It has also projected India’s growth rate at 5.8% for fiscal year 2021. The report stated the weakness in credit from Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) as the root cause for lowering the growth rate from 6% to 5%. While the global economic growth is likely to increase to 2.5% in fiscal year 2020.

Note: President of World Bank: David R. Malpass; Headquarter: Washington DC.

2. SBI’s report ‘Ecowrap’ lowers India’s growth rate to 4.6% for FY 2020: The State Bank of India has released its research report ‘Ecowrap’. In the report ‘Ecowrap’, the economic research department of SBI has lowered India’s growth rate to 4.6% in the fiscal year 2020. The report also stated that agriculture and allied activities are expected to grow at 2.8%, while growth in industry projected to grow at 2.5% in fiscal year 2020. The service sector is also expected to increase to 6.9% in fiscal year 2020.

Note: Chairperson of SBI: Rajnish Kumar; Headquarters: Mumbai; Founded: 1 July 1955.

DEFENCE

1. Visakhapatnam to host MILAN 2020 naval exercise in March: Visakhapatnam is ready to host another International Naval event ‘MILAN‘in March 2020. The theme of the exercise for the year 2020 is ‘Synergy Across the Seas’. MILAN 2020 is a multilateral naval exercise aimed to enhance professional interaction between foreign-friendly navies and learn from each other’s strengths and best practices in the maritime domain.

Note: Andhra Pradesh Capital: Amaravati; Governor: Biswabhusan Harichandan.

2. India’s 1st indigenous aircraft carrier Vikrant to be commissioned by 2021: India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier Vikrant is currently under phase-3 which involves setting to work of machinery and other equipment and to be commissioned by early 2021 in Indian Navy. It will be fully operated by 2022. Vikrant is being built at the Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) Kochi, Kerala.

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

OBITUARIES

1. Veteran Odissi Danseuse Minati Mishra passes away: Veteran Odissi Danseuse Minati Mishra passed away. In 2012 she was honoured with the Padma Shri. She was an A-Grade artist at All India Radio (AIR) and a recipient of the Sangeet Prabhakar title for Hindustani vocal music.