Daily GK Updates - 3rd May, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. The Famous Kashmiri Saffron Gets GI Tag: Kashmiri saffron, the pride of Jammu & Kashmir, has finally been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tag, thus symbolizing its exclusivity in the international market. These saffrons are cultivated and harvested in the Karewas (high lands) of Jammu & Kashmir, by the local farmers, and are known for its unique qualities, which can only be found in saffrons grown and produced in J&K. It is grown in some regions of Kashmir, including Srinagar, Pulwama, Budgam and Kishtwar. The unique characteristics of Kashmir saffron – longer and thicker stigmas, natural deep-red colour of stigmas, high aroma, bitter flavour, chemical-free processing and high quantity of crocin (colouring strength), safranal (flavour) and picrocrocin (bitterness). The application for the tag was filed by the Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, and facilitated by the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture Sciences and Technology, Kashmir, and Saffron Research Station, Dussu (Pampore).

Note: Lt. Governors of Jammu and Kashmir: Girish Chandra Murmu.

2. Maharashtra govt will provide free health insurance scheme to all citizens: Amid coronavirus outbreak, the Maharashtra government has announced the inclusion of state’s whole population (100%) under Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Aarogya Yojana’s free health treatment. Maharashtra has become the first state in the country to provide free and cashless insurance premium to the people of the state. Under the scheme, people in the state with ration card and domicile certificate can avail the benefits of free and cashless health insurance. At present, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana is covering 85% of the state’s population. With the latest announcement, the benefits of the scheme have been extended towards the remaining 15% people of state

Note: Chief Minister of Maharashtra: Uddhav Thackeray; Governor: Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

3. CAIT to launch e-commerce platform ‘bharatmarket’: Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) will soon launch a national e-commerce marketplace named ‘bharatmarket’ for all retail traders. This will integrate capabilities of various technology companies to provide end-to-end services in the logistics and supply chains, including deliveries at home. It will also include nationwide participation by retailers and aims to bring 95% of retail traders onboard the platform, who will be the shareholders. The portal will be run exclusively by the traders. CAIT is expecting to enrol around one crore retailers on the national platform in year 2020, hence making it the world’s largest and most-unique e-marketplace ever. The pilot of this project has been started in six cities- Prayagraj, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Lucknow, Kanpur and Bengaluru.

4. Giridhar Aramane assumes charge as Secretary, MoRTH: Giridhar Aramane has assumed charge as Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. He has replaced Sanjeev Ranjan who has been appointed as secretary in the Ministry of Shipping. Before assuming charge as Secretary to MoRTH, Aramane was serving as Additional Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat. He has also been a Jt Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas from 2012-14. He is a 1988 batch IAS officer of AP cadre.

Note: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways: Nitin Jairam Gadkari.

5. SCTIMST develops nasal and oral swabs for COVID-19 testing: Sree Chitra Triunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) has developed two types of nasal and oral swabs and viral transport medium for COVID-19 testing. They are named as Chitra EmBed flocked nylon swabs and Chitra EnMesh, with flexible plastic handles. The swabs will be available as sterile, ready-to-use devices. These two swabs developed with locally available material can reduce import dependency and can meet the huge demand at much lower costs.

6. Ministry of Shipping launches new website ‘shipmin.gov.in’: Ministry of Shipping has launched its website shipmin.gov.in on 30th April, 2020. The new website is based on open source technology and is deployed on NIC cloud Meghraj. The website is designed as per Guidelines for Indian Government Websites (GIGW) issued by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, Government of India. The new website has a well-designed and dynamic Homepage with Social Media Integration of better video uploading facility.

7. Andhra Pradesh to extend free power to farm sector during Kharif season: Andhra Pradesh government will supply free power for nine hours to 81 percent of feeders of the farm sector during the Kharif season. It will be increased to 100 percent for the next Rabi season. Due to issues relating to the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on the State power sector, the issue of supply of free electricity to farmers for nine hours has been restricted to 81 percent.

8. WIHG reveals 35 thousand-year history of river erosion in Ladakh Himalayas: Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) studied rivers in Ladakh Himalaya, bringing out 35,000 year history of river erosion and identified hotspots of erosion and valleys that act aS buffer zone. The study showed the phenomena of rivers in drier Ladakh Himalaya operated in longer time scales and their response to varying climate. The study will help to understand river-borne erosion and sedimentation that eventually become the cradle to evolving civilizations.

9. Sikkim launched web portal to gather public feedback and suggestions: Sikkim Government has launched a portal ‘www.sikkimgovtfeedback.org’ portal to gather public feedback and suggestions on government schemes and general administration at Gangtok. It is developed by the state Information and Public relations (IPR) Department. The portal would ensure transparency in functioning of the government by providing an interface with the people. Inputs received from the public will be documented and screened by official for necessary action.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Indian-Origin Girl Vaneeza Rupani Credied to Name NASA’s First Mars Helicopter as ‘Ingenuity’: A 17-year-old Indian-origin girl Vaneeza Rupani has been earned the honour of naming the NASA’s first Mars helicopter, after she submitted her essay into NASA’s “Name the Rover” contest. Rupani, a high school junior from Northport, Alabama, has suggested the name ‘INGENUITY’ for the helicopter, which has been liked and accepted by NASA. Rupani’s entry was among 28,000 essays submitted by K-12 students from every US state and territory. In March 2020, NASA announced that its next rover to Mars, would be named Perseverance. Perseverance and Ingenuity are scheduled to launch in July 2020 and land in February 2021 at the Mars. Ingenuity will be the first aircraft to attempt powered flight on another planet.

Note: The administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): Jim Bridenstine; Headquarters of NASA: Washington D.C., United States.

2. World Press Freedom Day: 3rd May: The World Press Freedom Day is observed on May 3 annually to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press and remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression. The day pays tribute to journalists who have lost their lives as they risk their lives at times and face tough situations to bring the news in front of the public. The theme of World Press Freedom Day 2020 is “Journalism without Fear or Favour”. UN General Assembly established World Freedom Day in 1993 following the recommendation of UNESCO's General Conference.

3. International Dawn Chorus Day 2020: 3rd May: The annual International Dawn Chorus Day is held on the first Sunday in May. The day is dedicated to listen to the sounds of birds, when birds sing at the start of a new day, at around 4:30. It is a magical reminder that the natural world lives its life all around us, every day, whether we listen or not. In 2020, this day is being celebrated on 03 May 2020. The day encourages people to rise early to listen bird songs. The first ever International Dawn Chorus Day was held in Birmingham, England in 1984, by the Urban Wildlife Trust (now The Wildlife Trust for Birmingham and the Black Country).

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Former World Snooker champion Peter Ebdon announces retirement: Former World Snooker Champion Peter Ebdon has announced his retirement from professional snooker after suffering from various neck and back injuries. Peter Ebdon won 2002 World Snooker championship by defeating Stephen Hendry in an 18-17 final thriller. He also ended as a runner up in the championship for the record two times in his professional career of 29 years. He also won the UK Championship in 2006.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Neeraj Dhawan appointed as Chief Risk Officer at Yes Bank: Neeraj Dhawan has been appointed as the chief risk officer of Yes Bank with immediate effect and serve at the position for 3 years. He will replace Ashish Agarwal, the current chief risk officer, who will be transitioning to a new role in the bank. Prior to this, Dhawan was holding the position of chief risk officer for retail and business banking at Yes Bank. He has 29 years of experience in financial service and banking industry.

OBITUARIES

1. Padma Shri awardee & Renowned poet K S Nisar Ahmed passes away: Padma Shri awardee & Renowned Kannada poet KS Nisar Ahmed passed away. He was also known as “Nityotsava Kavi”. He was awarded the Pampa Award (the highest literary award in Karnataka) in 2017. He also a recipient of the Rajyotsava award in 1981 and Padma Shri in 2008.

2. Delhi Historian RV Smith Passes Away: Eminent historian, author and columnist Ronald Vivian Smith, who is best known for his writings on Delhi, passed away due to age-related ailments. He was 81. Born in Agra in 1938, Smith made Delhi his second home and was recognised as the city’s greatest chronicler, for writing extensively in many leading publications on Delhi’s intricate histories such as ‘Delhi: Unknown Tales of a City’ and ‘The Delhi that No-one Knows’. The ‘True Chronicler of Delhi’ was the recipient of the Canon Holland Prize and the Rotary Award for general knowledge and journalism award (1997-98) from the Michael Madhusudan Academy.

Daily GK Updates - 2nd May, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. DIAT develops Microwave Steriliser ‘ATULYA‘ to disintegrate Coronavirus: The Defence Institute of Advanced Technology – Pune, a deemed university supported by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a path-breaking piece of technology named ATULYA, a microwave steriliser. Atulya can disintegrate Covid-19 virus within 30 seconds. With this product, the virus gets disintegrated by differential heating in the range of 56 degree to 60 degree celsius temperatures. The sterilisation time can range from 30 to 60 seconds depending on the size and shape of objects. The total weight of Atulya is 3 kilos and it can be used for sterilising non-metallic objects only. The product is cost effective solution, which can be operated in portable or fixed installations.

2. GoI raises MSP for Minor Forest Produce ranging from 16% to 66%: Government of India has revised the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Minor Forest Produce (MFP) of 49 items. MSP for MFPs is revised once in every 3 years by the Pricing Cell constituted under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The increase across various items of minor forest produce ranges from 16% to 66%. The increase is expected to provide an immediate and much needed momentum to procurement of Minor Tribal Produce in at least 20 States amid COVID-19.

Note: Union Minister for Tribal Affairs: Arjun Munda; Minister of State for Tribal Affairs: Renuka Singh Saruta.

3. CSIR-CRRI Launches Kisan Sabha App to Connect Farmers to Supply Chain and Freight Transportation Management System: The CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI), New Delhi has developed a mobile app Kisan Sabha to connect farmers with supply chain and freight transportation management system, in the present situation of COVID 19. The app will enable the farmers in seed/ fertilizer procurement as well as their harvest reaching the market, among other things and thus facilitate the timely delivery of the produce at the best possible prices. The Kisan Sabha App will also help in providing best market rates of crops by comparing nearest mandis, booking of freight vehicle at cheapest cost thereby giving maximum benefit to the farmers.

Note: Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare: Narendra Singh Tomar; Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare: Parshottam Rupala.

4. A K Sharma assumes charge as Secretary to MSME Ministry: Arvind Kumar Sharma assumed charge as Secretary in the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Ministry. Prior to this appointment, Sharma was serving as Additional Secretary, Prime Minister's Office (PMO). He is a 1988 batch IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre. Sharma's appointment as MSME Secretary comes at a time when the sector is facing a huge crisis owing to the coronavirus infection. As MSME Secretary, he is expected to play a key role in revival of the sector.

Note: Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises: Nitin Jairam Gadkari.

5. Ramesh Babu assumes charge as director operations at NTPC: Ramesh Babu V has assumed charge as director operations at State-owned power giant NTPC, effective May 1. He joined NTPC as an executive in 1987 and has more than 32 years of experience in managing large power stations in the areas of operations and maintenance units as well as in the domains of efficiency & systems improvement of thermal plants. Before his appointment as director, he was the executive director to the CMD while also working for NTPC power plants.

6. Union Culture Minister Launches e-book “Prof. B. B. Lal -India Rediscovered”: The Union Culture Minister Shri Prahlad Singh Patel released an e-book titled “Prof. B. B. Lal -India Rediscovered” on 2 May 2020 in New Delhi, on the occasion of centenary year of great archaeologist Professor B. B. Lal. The book has been prepared by Ministry of Culture in collaboration with Prof B B Lal Centenary Celebration Committee, as a tribute for his immense contribution to the field of archaeology. Prof. B. B. Lal was conferred with the Padma Bhushan in the year of 2000. He had also served as the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from 1968 to 1972.

7. CSIR-CSIO creates Electrostatic Disinfection Machine for disinfection: The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, CSIR’s Scientific Instruments Organisation, Chandigarh has developed an Electrostatic Disinfection Machine that is effective in the disinfection and sanitization process by reducing the spread of coronavirus and pathogens. The machine works on the electrostatic principle and makes uniform and fine spray droplets of disinfectants to kill microorganisms and viruses.

8. Ministry of Home Affairs reconstitutes empowered groups: The 11 empowered groups of officers created by the govt. to implement Covid-19 containment measures in the country have been reconstituted. The reconstitution of the groups, first created on March 29 under the Disaster Management Act, was necessitated as some members either retired, appointed, or were transferred from posting. Empowered groups under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, reconstituted for planning and ensuring the implementation of Covid-19 activities.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. US Navy to host world's largest maritime exercises in Hawaii: The United States Navy will host the world's largest maritime exercises in Hawaii again this year, but the drills will only be held at sea because of the Coronavirus. The Navy has held the Rim of the Pacific exercises in Hawaii every two years since the early 1970s. The drills will also be held over two weeks, from 17th to 31st August, instead of the usual five weeks of events from late June to early August.

2. International Spring Astronomy Day 2020: 2nd May: The International Astronomy Day is celebrated twice a year. One in autumn season and another in spring season. The Spring Astronomy Day 2020 is being celebrated on May 2, 2020. It occurs on Saturday between mid-April and mid-May, such that the day falls at or close to the first quarter Moon. The Autumn Astronomy Day 2020 will be held on September 26, 2020. It is scheduled to occur on a Saturday between mid-September and mid-October so as to be on or close to the first quarter Moon. The idea to observe the day was started in 1973 by Doug Berger, the president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California, whose intent was to set up various telescopes in busy urban locations so that passersby could enjoy views of the heavens. Since then the event is being observed to create awareness and educate people about the beautiful universe.

3. World Tuna Day: 2nd May: World Tuna Day is observed on May 2 every year to raise awareness about the Tuna fish and its importance to humans and earth and also to promote more sustainable fishing practices. It was observed for the first time in 2017. Tuna is a saltwater fish comprising of some 15 different species across five genera. More than 96 countries have tuna fisheries, and their capacity is constantly growing. The World Tuna Day was officially proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by adopting resolution 71/124 in December 2016.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Commonwealth Youth Games 2021 rescheduled to 2023: The Commonwealth Youth Games 2021 is postponed to 2023 because of clash of dates with Tokyo Olympics, which has been pushed by a year due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Tokyo Olympics were originally scheduled to be held from July 23 to August 8 2020 and have been rescheduled to the summer of 2021. The seventh Commonwealth Youth Games were scheduled to take place from August 1 to 7 2021 in Trinidad and Tobago.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI permits Visa, Mastercard and NPCI for contact-free payments for any amount: The Reserve Bank of India has permitted the country’s payment networks- Visa, Mastercard and NPCI to allow tap-and-go functionality on card payments for all purchases at retail stores and shopping centers. Earlier this facility was available for card payment up to amount Rs 2000. Now tap-and-go functionality will be available even for purchases made above Rs 2000. However, the transactions with are about Rs 2,000 shall be authenticated by PIN.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. American Academy of Arts and Sciences honours Professor Shobhana Narasimhan: Prof. Shobhana Narasimhan from the Theoretical Sciences Unit (TSU) at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), has been elected as an International Honorary Member to the American Academy of Arts and Science (AAAS). She has been honoured for her distinguished work in the field of sciences. She has done remarkable work on the rational design of nanomaterials, determining the affect of lowering of dimensionality and reduction of size on the properties of material.

Note: AAAS honors such scholars and leaders who have distinguished themselves in the sciences, arts, humanities, and public life. Albert Einstein, Nelson Mandela and Charles Darwin are some of the previous International Honorary Members being honoured by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

2. Sania Mirza Becomes First Indian To Get Nominated For Fed Cup Heart Award: Sania Mirza became the first Indian to be nominated for the Fed Cup Heart Award from the Asia/Oceania zone along with Indonesia's Priska Medelyn Nugroho. Sania had recently made a comeback to Fed Cup after four years. With her 18-month son Izhaan present in the stands, Sania had helped India qualify for the Play-offs for the first time. The winners of the Heart Awards will be determined by online voting by fans which will go live on May 1 and will go on until May 8.

OBITUARIES

1. South African anti-apartheid activist Denis Goldberg passes away: Veteran South African anti-apartheid activist Denis Goldberg (87 years), who was tried alongside Nelson Mandela passes away. He played a key role in South African liberation struggle. He was the only white member of the African National Congress’s military wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK). Denis Goldberg was sentenced with imprisonment of 22 years for his involvement with the ANC’s fight against apartheid and was released in 1985.

Note: Apartheid was the racist system of oppression forced by the white minority government.

Daily GK Updates - 1st May, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. USAID announces USD 3 million Grant for India to fight COVID-19: On April 30, 2020, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced an additional grant of $3 million to India to combat the coronavirus pandemic. The US agency has earlier announced a grant of $2.9 million to India on 6 April 2020 to mitigate the spread of the deadly virus. With this, the total amount granted by USAID has reached $5.9 million to assist India in responding to the COVID-19 outbreak. The USAID is providing these funds under the Partnerships for Affordable Healthcare Access and Longevity (PAHAL) project.

2. Nitin Gadkari launches “MSME Bank of Schemes, Ideas, Innovation and Research” portal: Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways and MSME Shri Nitin Gadkari has launched a portal on “MSME Bank of Schemes, Ideas, Innovation and Research”. The Portal gives access to all Schemes of Union, State and UT Governments related to MSME. The portal also provides for uploading Ideas, Innovations & Researches in the MSME sector. The URL of the portal is http://ideas.msme.gov.in/. It can also facilitate inflow of venture capital, and foreign collaboration. The portal has been launched by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises.

3. NCSTS-DST Launches YASH Programme on Health & Risk Communication with focus on COVID-19: The National Council for Science & Technology Communication (NCSTC) under the Department of Science & Technology (DST) has launched a programme called YASH for health and risk communication, with main focus on COVID-19. YASH stands for “Year of Awareness on Science & Health (YASH)”. The YASH initiative aims to involve academic, research, media, and voluntary organizations to facilitate necessary actions and emergency preparedness of society to address the COVID-19 challenge. It is also targeted at encouraging public engagement and participation, perceptions, in risk-related communication processes to open wide routes for building capacities. Involvement of stakeholders and communities will develop a greater sense of awareness, to take informed decisions regarding healthcare and associated risks.

Note: Union Minister of Science and Technology: Harsh Vardhan.

4. Black Rice Chak-Hao from Manipur, Gorakhpur terracotta and Kovilpatti kadalai mittai of TN Gets GI Tag: Chak-Hao, the scented glutinous rice popularly known as Black Rice cultivated in Manipur, has got GI (Geographical Indications). The application for Chak-Hao was filed by the Consortium of Producers of Chak-Hao (Black Rice), Manipur and was facilitated by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Manipur and the North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Limited (NERAMAC). Besides this, the terracotta work of Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh has also received the GI Tag, whose application was filed by Laxmi Terracotta Murtikala Kendra in Uttar Pradesh.. Also, Kovilpatti kadalai mittai, a peanut candy, from Tamil Nadu has also bagged GI tag. This data was given by the Geographical Indications Registry of Ministry of Commerce and Industries on its website.

GI Tag	Category	State
Chak-Hao (Black Rice)	Agricultural	Manipur
Gorakhpur terracotta	Handicraft	Uttar Pradesh
Kovilpatti kadalai mittai	Food Stuff	Tamil Nadu

5. Chhattisgarh top state in providing employment to workers under MGNREGS: Chhattisgarh has topped the list of states in providing employment to unskilled labourers under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) amid the nationwide lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic. The data was released by the Union Rural Development Ministry. Chhattisgarh has provided employment to 18.51 lakh workers under MGNREGS. Rajasthan is on second while Uttar Pradesh is on the third.

Note: Union Minister for Rural Development: Narendra Singh Tomar.

Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh: Bhupesh Baghel; Governor: Anusuiya Uikey.

6. MoC launches PMU for timely operationalisation of coal mines: A Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) has been launched by the Ministry of Coal (MoC). The Project Monitoring Unit aims to facilitate early operationalisation of coal mines which have been allocated by the Central Government. It will help the Coal mines allocatees in attaining various clearances required from the Central/State government authorities in order to operationalise the mines and hence, will promote Ease of Doing Business in the coal industry.

Note: Union Minister for Coal: Pralhad Joshi.

7. Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan Scripts New World Record of becoming the most-watched TV show: The epic mythological show Ramayan, by Ramanand Sagar, has scripted new world wide record of becoming the most watched entertainment programme in the world in 2020 as of April 16. This announcement was made by Doordharshan (DD) on its Twitter handle on 30 April 2020, based on the data released by Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India. As per DD, Ramayan has also clocked the highest viewership record on a single day and has reported a viewership of 7.7 crore as of 16 April 2020. Besides this, the record has also contributed to make DD as one of the most viewed channels. The show Ramayan, based on the life of mythical character Lord Ram, was first aired on the DD channel, two decades ago, in January 1987 and ended in July 1988. It began re-telecasting from March 28 after the nationwide lockdown was announced.

8. All India Institute of Ayurveda Launches AYURAKSHA for Delhi Police Officials: The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), under Ministry of AYUSH, has launched an initiative in collaboration with the Delhi Police to boost immunity of Delhi Police personal. The joint programme titled AYURAKSHA “Corona Se Jung- Delhi Police Ke Sang” aims to fight against corona through simple and time tested Ayurveda immunity boosting measures. Under the initiative, recommended formulations like Chyawanaprasha (Amla as main content), Anu Taila and SanshamaniVati (prepared from Guduchi) will be distributed to the Delhi police personal in phased manner. It will be distributed to 80000 frontline workers across 15 districts.

Note: Minister of State (I/C) for Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy: Shripad Yesso Naik.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Extraordinary Virtual G20 Digital Economy Ministers Summit:  An Extraordinary Virtual G20 Digital Economy Ministers summit was held under the presidency of Saudi Arabia. Union Minister for Law & Justice, Communications and Electronics & IT, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad represented India in the virtual summit. The virtual summit also featured the participation of Digital Ministers of 19 other G20 Members, invited countries and International Organisations.

2. International Labour Day: 1 May: International Labour Day 2020 observed globally on 1st May every year.  It is also known as International Worker’s Day and May Day. This day is observed to pay tribute to the contribution of workers across the world. It was only in the year 1891 when 1st May was announced formally to be observed as International Labour Day each year. In India, Labour Day was first celebrated in Madras on May 1, 1923 under the leadership of the socialist and leftist parties at the time.

Note: Headquarters of International Labour Organization: Geneva, Switzerland; President of International Labour Organization: Guy Ryder; International Labour Organization Founded: 1919.

3. India ranked 53rd in budget transparency, accountability in IBP survey: India has been ranked at 53rd position out of 117 nations in terms of budget transparency and accountability as per a Open Budget Survey conducted by International Budget Partnership (IBP). New Zealand has topped the chart. It has a score of 87 out of 100. India’s Union Budget process has a transparency score of 49 out of 100. This is higher than the global average of 45.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. FIFA launches #WeWillWin campaign to pay tribute to health workers: Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has launched a campaign called “#WeWillWin”. Through this campaign FIFA tribute a special video to health workers and other professionals who ensure the society continues to function among COVID-19 pandemic. Former India football captain Bhaichung Bhutia who is also featured among 50 past and present football stars.

Note: President of FIFA: Gianni Infantino; Founded: 21 May 1904; Headquarters: Zurich, Switzerland.

2. Karnataka to host online chess tournament titled ‘Checkmate COVID-19’: The Karnataka Youth Empowerment and Sports department and United Karnataka Chess Association will host an online chess tournament to raise funds for CM Covid-19 relief fund. The event is titled as "Checkmate COVID-19." The Chess players across the country can register on Mobile Premier League gaming platform by donating fifty rupees. The tournament will be held on May 2nd and 3rd. The total prize pool is 10 lakh rupees and the first prize is one lakh rupees.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI Extends Regulatory Benefits under SLF-MF Scheme to all Banks: Reserve Bank of India extended regulatory benefits announced under the SLF-MF (Special Liquidity Facility for Mutual Funds) scheme to all banks including those deploying their own resources. Earlier in the week, the Reserve Bank had announced Rs 50,000-crore SLF-MF scheme to bailout the mutual funds facing redemption pressure. The scheme is extended due to multiple request received by RBI from Banks. The benefits can be availed without consecutive funding from RBI.

2. KVGB Launches Collateral free MSME Loan Scheme ‘Vikas Abhaya’: The Karnataka Vikas Grameen Bank (KVGB), launched a loan scheme for existing micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) borrowers, whose business activities are disrupted on account of the Covid-19 pandemic. The ‘Vikas Abhaya’ loan scheme is an additional credit facility to the eligible existing MSME borrowers who have been regular as on February 29. Under the scheme, a maximum loan of up to Rs 1 lakh will be provided, with no requirement of collateral security. The loan is repayable within 36 months.

Note: Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank Headquarters: Dharwad, Karnataka; Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank chairman: P Gopi Krishna.

3. Shikha Sharma appointed as advisor of Google Pay India: Former Axis Bank CEO, Shikha Sharma has been appointed as an advisor to digital payments app Google Pay India. Google Pay has been leading UPI Payments adoption in India. During the ongoing lockdown, Google launched its “Nearby Spot” to help users in Bengaluru find local stores selling essentials like groceries that are open amid the lockdown. The Nearby Spot will be launched in Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, and Delhi soon, Google has said at the time. Google Pay is one of the leading apps on Unified Payments Payments Interface (UPI), battling with the likes of Amazon Pay, Paytm, etc.

Note: Sundar Pichai is the Present CEO of Google; Alphabet Inc. is the Parent company of Google.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. IIT-Madras professor T Pradeep Chosen for Nikkei Asia prizes 2020: The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) Professor T Pradeep, has been selected for the Nikkei Asia Prizes 2020 in the “Science and Technology” category. The Padma Shri awardee T. Pradeep has been recognized for his pioneering work in nanotechnology-based water purification system that works without expensive filtration membranes or electricity. The nanotechnology-enabled water filters have helped deliver clean water at a cost of just 2 paise per litre in India. Complete list of winners of the prize is as follows:

Science and Technology: Professor Thalappil Pradeep (India)

Culture and Community: Ram Prasad Kadel (Nepal)

Economic and Business Innovation: Anthony Tan (Malaysia) & Tan Hooi Ling (Malaysia)

Note: The Nikkei Asia Prizes are annual awards conferred on individuals who have contributed to bring sustainable development in the region and for the creation of a better future in Asia.

2. Thangjam Dhabali Singh conferred ‘Order of Rising Sun’ by Japan: Manipuri doctor, Thangjam Dhabali Singh conferred ‘Order of Rising Sun’ by Japan government. This award is given for him to promoting a better understanding of Japan in India and deepening ties between the two countries.

Note: Capital of Japan: Tokyo; Currency of Japan: yen; Prime Minister of Japan: Shinzo Abe.

OBITUARIES

1. Freedom fighter & Padma Shri awardee Hema Bharali passes away: Assam born renowned freedom fighter and Padma Shri awardee Hema Bharali passed away in Guwahati suffering from prolonged illness. She was 101. Hema Bharali, who was born on 19 February 1919 was an Indian freedom activist, social worker, Sarvodaya leader and Gandhian known for her contributions for the empowerment of women and efforts towards the upliftment of the socially and financially challenged sections of the society. She had received the Padma Shri in 2005.

2. Legendary footballer Chuni Goswami passed away: Former India footballer Chuni Goswami passed away at the age of 82 years. Apart from playing football, he had also played first-class cricket for Bengal. He was the captain of Indian Football Team that won the 1962 Asian Games gold medal. Under his captaincy, India finished as runner-up at the Asian Cup in 1964. He played 50 matches for India as a footballer from 1956 to 1964. He was honoured with Arjun award, Padmasree and Mohonbagan Ratna awards for his outstanding contributions in the field of Sports. The West Bengal Government conferred him the highest civilian award Banga Bibhusan in 2013.

Daily GK Updates - 30th April, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Madhya Pradesh Government Launches ‘Jeevan Amrit Yojana’ scheme to boost immunity system of citizens: The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has launched a unique scheme named ‘Jeevan Amrit Yojana’, to help in boosting immunity system of citizens of the state in order to fight the deadly coronavirus. Under this scheme, the State Government will distribute packet of special Trikut Churna-kadha free of cost to the citizens, which is very effective in increasing immunity and has to be taken three to four times daily. Trikut, an ayurvedic product made of three spices, has been prepared by Madhya Pradesh Laghu Vanopaj Sangh in collaboration with the Department of AYUSH. 50 gms packet each of the kadha has been prepared which consists of peepal, ginger and black pepper. The state will distribute the packets free of cost to one crore people in rural and urban areas of the state.

Note: Madhya Pradesh (CM): Shivraj Singh Chouhan; Capital of Madhya Pradesh: Bhopal; Governor of Madhya Pradesh: Lalji Tandon.

2. ADB to support Maharashtra with $346 mn loan for power sector: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 346 million (around Rs 2,616 crore) loan to Maharashtra state government to provide reliable power connections in rural areas of Maharashtra. The loan will support the state government’s high voltage distribution system (HVDS) program for new grid-connected rural agricultural customers in Maharashtra.

 Note: President of Asian Development Bank: Masatsugu Asakawa; ADB was established in 1966.

3. Ayushman Bharat Diwas: 30th April: Nation celebrates Ayushman Bharat Diwas on 30th April. The day aims to promote affordable medical facilities in remote areas of the country based on the Socio-Economic Caste Census database. It will also promote health and wellness and provide insurance benefits to the poor. This day is of national importance to mark the launch of Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which is also known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY).

Note: Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH): Shripad Yesso Naik.

4. Suresh N Patel takes oath as vigilance commissioner of India: Suresh N Patel took oath as the Vigilance Commissioner in the anti-corruption watchdog CVC. He took the oath of office by Central Vigilance Commissioner Sanjay Kothari through video conference. He will have a tenure of over two years, till late December 2022, in the CVC. Sharad Kumar is working as the other vigilance commissioner. The tenure of a vigilance commissioner is of four years or till the incumbent attains the age of 65 years. Suresh N. Patel was the MD & CEO of Andhra Bank and was an Executive Director in OBC. He is a Permanent Invitee to the Board for Regulation and Supervision of Payment and Settlement Systems (BPSS) of RBI and a member of the Advisory Board for Banking and Financial Frauds (ABBFF) prior to his appointment as Vigilance Commissioner.

Note: Central Vigilance Commission formed: February 1964; Central Vigilance Commission Headquarters: New Delhi.

5. Rajiv Kumar Takes Charge as Chairperson of PESB: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the appointment of former finance secretary Rajiv Kumar as the chairperson of the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB), with effect from 29 April 2020. He has been appointed to the post for a period of three years. Kumar is a 1984-batch IAS officer of Jharkhand cadre who retired as the finance secretary in February 2020. He succeeds Kapil Dev Tripathi who has recently taken over as the Secretary to President Ram Nath Kovind.

Note: PESB is a high powered body constituted by Government of India for the selection and placement of personnel in the public sector undertakings.

Director of Public Enterprises Selection Board: Kailash Dan Ratnoo; Secretary of Public Enterprises Selection Board: Kimbuong Kipgen.

6. Book titled ‘Sayajirao Gaekwad III: The Maharaja of Baroda’ released: Uma Balasubramaniam's latest historical epic biography titled, 'Sayajirao Gaekwad III: The Maharaja of Baroda' has been released. It focuses on his ascendancy to the throne, his liaison with the British government in India, his extraordinary administration, and his noteworthy reforms. This book has been written with an intention to enlighten people about one of India's forgotten kings, who worked towards building a modernized India and India's fight for freedom.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. USCIRF releases 2020 annual report on international religious freedom: On April 28, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released its 2020 annual report, which serves to provide an overview of what is happening in regard to religious freedom around the world, and make policy recommendations to Congress, the administration, and the State Department.

In the 2020 Annual Report, USCIRF recommends 14 countries to the State Department for designation as “countries of particular concern” (CPCs) because their governments engage in or tolerate “systematic, ongoing, egregious violations.” These include nine that the State Department designated as CPCs in December 2019—Burma, China, Eritrea, Iran, North Korea, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan—as well as five others—India (first time since 2004), Nigeria, Russia, Syria, and Vietnam.

Instead of using its own “Tier 2” category, as in past reports, the 2020 Annual Report also recommends 15 countries for placement on the State Department’s Special Watch List (SWL) for severe violations. These include four that the State Department placed on that list in December 2019—Cuba, Nicaragua, Sudan, and Uzbekistan—as well as 11 others—Afghanistan, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Central African Republic (CAR), Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, and Turkey.

Note: USCIRF is an independent, bipartisan federal government entity established by Congress to monitor, analyze, and report on threats to religious freedom; headquarter: Washington D.C.

2. TS Tirumurti appointed as Permanent Representative of India to UN: The Government of India has appointed T.S. Tirumurti as India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations. He is currently serving as Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs and was a 1985 batch Indian Foreign Service officer. He replaces Syed Akbaruddin. Govt also appointed Jaideep Mazumdar as India's ambassador to Austria who is presently serving as Indian envoy to Philippines. Joint Secretary Deepak Mittal was also appointed as India's Ambassador to Qatar, while Piyush Srivastava goes to Bahrain in the same capacity. Both of them are 1998 batch Indian Foreign Service officers.

Note: Qatar Capital: Doha; Currency: Qatari riyal; Prime Minister of Qatar: Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdelaziz Al Thani.

King of Bahrain: Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa; Capital of Bahrain: Manama; Currency of Bahrain: Bahraini Dinar.

Austria Capital: Vienna; Currency: Euro; President: Alexander Van der Bellen

3. International Jazz Day: 30 April: The International Jazz Day is celebrated on 30 April every year to highlight the importance of jazz and its diplomatic role of uniting people in all corners of the globe. The day aims to create awareness around the world of the virtues of jazz as a force of peace, unity, dialogue, and enhanced cooperation among people, and an educational tool. This Day was declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2011. This year is the 9th edition of International Jazz Day. Cape Town, South Africa has been designated the Global Host City for International Jazz Day 2020. The day was introduced by jazz pianist and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock.

Note: Director-General of UNESCO: Audrey Azoulay; UNESCO formation: 4 November 1946; UNESCO Headquarters: Paris, France.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Former Karnataka cricketer J Arunkumar named USA head coach: Former Karnataka cricketer, J. Arunkumar has been appointed the head coach of the USA national team. He was the successor of interim coach James Pamment. He has worked with the Karnataka team for several years and as batting coach for Kings XI Punjab in the Indian Premier League. He scored over 7,200 runs in first-class cricket and over 3,000 runs in List ‘A’ games.

Note: Headquarters of USA cricket: Colorado, United States (US); Chairman of USA cricket: ParaagMarathe; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of USA cricket: Iain Higgins.

2. Deepak Agarwal banned by ICC from all cricket for 2 years:  Deepak Agarwal has been banned by the International Cricket Council (ICC) from all cricket for a period of 2 years. He has been banned by the ICC after he accepted one charge of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Deepak will be free to continue his involvement in cricket from 27 October 2021.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Government sets up IFSCA to regulate financial services: The government has established International Financial Services Centres Authority to regulate all financial services in International Financial Services Centres (IFSCs). The unified authority will be headquartered in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Currently, banking, capital markets and insurance sectors in IFSC are regulated by multiple regulators like RBI, SEBI, and IRDAI. It will comprise a chairperson, members nominated by regulators, 2 members from the central government.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Moody’s cuts India’s GDP growth estimate for CY2020 to 0.2%: Moody’s Investors Service has cut India’s GDP growth forecast for the calendar year 2020 to 0.2% from its earlier estimate of 2.5%. For 2021, Moody’s has predicted India’s GDP growth rate to be 6.2%. As per Moody’s only three countries are projected to witness economic growth in 2020 these are China, India, and Indonesia. Moody’s has cut its growth projection for India amid the nationwide lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Note: Headquarters of Moody’s: New York, United States (US); President and CEO of Moody’s: Raymond Whitehead McDaniel, Jr.

2. Neeraj Vyas Appointed as Interim MD and CEO of PNB Housing Finance: PNB Housing Finance has appointed Neeraj Vyas as the interim Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company with effect from 28 April 2020, for a period of eight months. The incumbent MD & CEO, Sanjaya Gupta, has stepped down from his active duties of the post on 28 April, 2020. His tenure was to end on May 4, 2020. Till now Vyas was serving as an independent director on the company’s board. He has resigned as the independent director to take charge as the Executive Director and interim MD and CEO. Previously, Vyas has worked as Deputy MD and COO of State Bank of India and has 36 years of banking experience.

Note: PNB Housing Finance Limited is headquartered in New Delhi.

OBITUARIES

1. Veteran Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor passes away: Veteran Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor passed away in Mumbai with wife Neetu Kapoor by his side on 30 April 2020. He was 67. The actor was undergoing treatment for cancer in the US for almost a year. He made his screen debut in 1970 with film “Mera Naam Joker” as a child artist and also received National Film Award for the role. His first lead role as an adult came in 1973 with the film Bobby for which he was awarded with Filmfare Best Actor Award. He played leading roles in many films between 1973 and 2000. He won the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor in 2011 for Do Dooni Chaar, and for Kapoor & Sons, he won the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2017. He was honoured with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008.

Daily GK Updates - 29th April, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. ADB approves $1.5 billion loan to India to help fund its fight against Covid-19: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved USD 1.5 billion (about Rs 11,400 crore) loan to India on April 28, 2020, to help fund its fight against coronavirus pandemic. The loan amount will be used in fulfilling India’s immediate priorities. These priorities comprises of disease containment and prevention, social protection for the poor as well as economically vulnerable sections of the society, especially women and disadvantaged groups.

Note: President of Asian Development Bank: Masatsugu Asakawa; ADB was established in 1966.

2. Automobile giant Maruti Suzuki develops low cost ventilators: Automobile giant Maruti Suzuki has developed low-cost ventilators for helping the government in the fight against COVID-19. The production is going on in Gautam Buddha Nagar of Uttar Pradesh, where the company is supporting a start-up Agva Healthcare to scale-up ventilator production.

Note: Chairman of Maruti Suzuki: R. C. Bhargava; Managing Director & CEO of Maruti Suzuki: Kenichi Ayukawa; Headquarters of Maruti Suzuki: New Delhi.

3. Andhra Pradesh CM launches ‘Jagananna Vidya Deevena’ Scheme : The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, Y. S.Jaganmohan Reddy has unveiled the ‘Jagananna Vidya Deevena’ Scheme on 28 April 2020. The scheme has been launched to give 100% free reimbursement to those students pursuing courses post-matric like ITI to Ph.D and who hails from below poverty line family. To be eligible to avail the service under the scheme, the income of the family must be less than the Rs 2.5 lakh per annum. The Chief Minister has released over Rs. 4,000 Crores of funds for the scheme, along with Rs. 1880 crore towards pending amount left by the earlier government. Under Jagananna Vidya Deevena, fee reimbursement will be credited directly to mothers’ accounts instead of college accounts in the academic year 2020-21. This amount will be credited in four installments every year. Amount to be disbursed under the scheme will as under:

ITI Students: Rs.10, 000

Polytechnic students: Rs.15, 000

Degree students: Rs.20, 000

Note: Governor of Andhra Pradesh: Biswa Bhusan Harichandan.

4. CSIR-CMERI Develops Low-cost Robotic Device ‘HCARD’ to assist frontline COVID-19 healthcare warriors: The Durgapur-based CSIR lab, Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI) has developed a low-cost robotic device named HCARD, which can be used for a host of activities like collecting samples of people having symptoms of coronavirus, as well as treating COVID-19 patients. HCARD stands for Hospital Care Assistive Robotic Device. The device is equipped with various state-of-the-art technologies and works both in automatic as well as manual modes of navigation. It will be able to transport food items, medicines, testing equipment, files, personal protective equipment in a comprehensive sterilised environment. HCARD will help frontline healthcare workers in dealing with COVID-19 patients in delivering services while maintaining mandatory physical distancing. The cost of the device is less than Rs 5 lakh and the weight is not more than 80 kg, making it easy to use and affordable for healthcare facilities.

5. JNCASR scientists develops “Berberine” based Alzheimer inhibitor:  Scientists from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre For Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) has developed “Berberine” based Alzheimer inhibitor. To make a natural product based Alzheimer’s inhibitor, scientists from JNCASR selected isoquinoline natural product Berberine which is found in India and China. The research work of scientists from JNCASR has been published in the scientific journal iSceince.

6. AP launches ‘Covid Pharma’ mobile application: Medical and Health Department of Andhra Pradesh launched 'Covid Pharma' to keep a track of people purchasing medicines over the counter (OTC) for cough, cold and fever from medical stores across the state. Using the App, the respective pharmacies will have to take down details of persons, including their mobile number, making OTC purchase of medicines for such common ailments and report to the government.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. G20 launches ‘Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator’: G20 has launched 'Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator', an international initiative to accelerate access to health tools needed to fight COVID-19. The new initiative “Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator” will act as global platform for action to improve connections as well as to leverage interdependencies for collective partnership, mobilizing, problem-solving, and guiding investments for new COVID-19 diagnostics, therapeutics as well as vaccines. It also aims to provide equitable access of all the tools to all the members.

Note: The G20 is the premier forum for international economic cooperation of 19 countries and EU; G20 Presidency 2020: Saudi Arabia; G20 Headquarter: Cancún, Mexico.

2. 11th Session of Petersberg Climate Dialogue held: The 11th session of Petersberg Climate Dialogue was held through video conferencing witnessing India along with 30 countries deliberating over ways and means to tackle COVID-19. Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate change, Prakash Javadekar representing India in the first virtual Petersberg Climate Dialogue. The session focused on enhancing collective resilience and catalyzing climate action while supporting vulnerable. It has been hosted by Germany since 2010 to provide a forum for informal high-level political discussions, focusing on international climate negotiations and climate action. It was co-chaired by the United Kingdom.

Note: Minister of State in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change: Babul Supriyo.

3. North Pole's largest-ever ozone hole finally closes: Scientists who have been observing the ozone hole at Copernicus’ Atmospheric Monitoring Service (CAMS) announced that the largest Ozone Hole recorded over North Pole has now ‘Healed Itself’ and Closed due to polar vertex which is a low pressure area and a wide expanse of swirling cold air of polar regions. Due to unusual climatic conditions, ozone hole in the Arctic region increased spanning an area of 620,000 square miles. The hole in Ozone was first identified by scientists in March 2020. Ozone layer is a portion of Earth's upper atmosphere that shields the planet from UV rays.

4. International Dance Day: 29 April: The International Dance Day is organised globally on 29 April to celebrate the value and importance of the art form dance. The day was created in 1982, by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), the main partner for the performing arts of UNESCO. The day 29 April has been chosen as it marks the birth anniversary of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810), the creator of modern ballet.

Note: International Theatre Institute Founded: 1948; Headquarters of International Theatre Institute: Paris, France.

5. Merger of two unequal mass black holes detected at LIGO observatory: The gravitational wave observatories at LIGO scientific collaboration have detected a merger of two unequal-mass black holes. The event has been named as GW190412. This is the first such observation involving two black holes of unequal masses coalescing. LIGO is a large-scale physics experiment and observatory to detect cosmic gravitational waves and develop astronomical tools with headquarter in US. This once again confirms Einstein’s theory of general relativity.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. India loses hosting rights of 2021 men’s World Boxing Championships to Serbia: On 28 April 2020, the world boxing body, International Boxing Association (AIBA) has cancelled India’s hosting rights for the 2021 men’s World Boxing Championship, after the national federation failed to pay the host fee. Serbia’s capital Belgrade has now been given the hosting rights. The agreement to host the championship was signed in 2017 between AIBA and Boxing Federation of India. Due to the cancellation of the agreement, India would have to pay a cancellation penalty of USD 500,000. It was for the first time that the elite competition was going to be held in India.

Note: AIBA Founded: 1946; AIBA Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland; AIBA President: Dr Mohamed Moustahsane.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Axis Bank to buy 29% in Max Life Insurance, total stake to rise to 30%: Axis Bank has announced that it will acquire an additional 29% stake (for ₹1,600 crore) in Max Life Insurance. With this, the total stake of Axis Bank in Max Life Insurance will become 30%. The remaining 70% stake will be with Max Financial Services. After the completion of these transactions, Max Life would become a 70: 30 joint venture between Max Financial Services and Axis Bank.

Note: Headquarters of Axis Bank: Mumbai, Maharashtra; MD and CEO of Axis Bank: Amitabh Chaudhry.

Max Life Insurance Company Headquarters: New Delhi; MD & CEO of Max Life Insurance Company: Prashant Tripathy.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. CRISIL cuts India’s GDP growth forecast for FY21 to 1.8%: Rating agency CRISIL has cut the GDP growth rate forecast for India for 2020-21 (FY21) to 1.8% from the previous prediction of 3.5%. CRISIL has projected a total losses of Rs 10 lakh crore or Rs 7,000 per person due to the impact of lockdowns to control COVID-19 pandemic.

2. Shiv Das Meena Takes Charge as new CMD of HUDCO: Shiv Das Meena, additional secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, has been appointed as the new chairman and managing director (CMD) of Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) for a period of six months with effect from 21 April 2020. Meena is a 1989 batch IAS officer of Tamil Nadu cadre with over 30 years of experience in public service.

Note: Headquarters of HUDCO: New Delhi; HUDCO Established: 1970.

OBITUARIES

1. Veteran Bollywood actor Irrfan Khan passes away: One of the finest actors of Bollywood, Irrfan Khan passed away at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai after suffering from colon infection on 29 April 2020. He was 54. The actor was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer (neuroendocrine) in 2018, for which he was undergoing treatment. During his over 30 years film career, Irrfan had worked across Indian, Hollywood and British films. He was last seen in comedy drama Angrezi Medium that hit screens before the nationwide lockdown in mid-March. In 2011, Khan was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian honour for his contribution to the field of arts.

2. Grammy-nominated Singer Troy Sneed passes away: Grammy-nominated gospel singer, Troy Sneed (52 years) passed away due to complications from the coronavirus. Sneed started his music career in 1999 when he released his maiden album 'Call Jesus' in collaboration with Malaco Records. He has several hit songs within the gospel realm to his credit including Work It Out and My Heart Says Yes. For his work on the Youth For Christ’s 1999 album ‘Higher’, singer Troy Sneed was nominated for Grammy award.

3. Former Liverpool footballer Michael Robinson Passes Away: Former Liverpool striker Michael Robinson, from Republic of Ireland has passed away at the age of 61. He was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2018. Playing for the football club Liverpool, Robinson won a league, League Cup and European Cup treble in the 1983-84 season. Robinson settled in Spain after his retirement in 1989 and became a respected television commentator, pundit and presenter.