Daily GK Updates - 9th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. CBIC launches flagship programme “Turant Customs”: Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has launched flagship programme titled “Turant Customs” at Bengaluru and Chennai. It is a mega reform for ease of doing business by facilitating faster Customs clearance of imported goods. Under this, Importers will get clearance from Customs after faceless assessment by officers located outside the port of import. It will be initiated all over the country till 31st December 2020.

Note: Chairman of Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs: M. Ajit Kumar.

2. Tech Mahindra signs UN Global Compact Initiative to curtail emissions: Tech Mahindra has signed a joint declaration with UN Global Compact and hence joined 155 global companies in calling for policies to build resilience against future shocks by supporting the activities targeted to hold global temperature rise to within 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, in order to reach net-zero emissions before 2050. Tech Mahindra seeks to reduce carbon footprint and emissions by moving towards a zero-carbon resilient economy. It will achieve its objective with the use of new-age technologies such as internet of things, artificial intelligence and blockchain.

Note: Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Tech Mahindra: CP Gurnani.

Executive Director of the United Nations Global Compact: Lise Kingo.

3. Andhra Pradesh launches online waste management platform for safe disposal of industrial waste: The Andhra Pradesh government has launched an online Waste Exchange Platform to ensure 100 percent safe disposal of industrial toxic wastes. The platform was launched by Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on the occasion of World Environment Day. The state government has termed the initiative as first-of-its kind in India. The Andhra Pradesh Environment Management Corporation (APEMC) will handle the platform, with the concept of ”6Rs” which are Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refurbish, Redesign and Remanufacture. APEMC online waste exchange platform will enable collection and disposal of liquid waste, air pollutants, and hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste in a comprehensive manner.

How will it work?? Any company having certain amount of industrial waste can put the details on the website. On the other hand, another company, which has the facility to dispose of industrial waste or which has an industrial waste management system, can furnish its charges to dispose of the waste. It is like a stock exchange website, but here only industrial waste will be exchanged.”

Note: Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh: YS Jagan Mohan Reddy; Governor: Biswa Bhusan Harichandan.

4. Rajasthan Goverment launches “Raj Kaushal Portal”: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot has launched ‘Raj Kaushal Portal’ and ‘Online Shramik Employment Exchange’ The portal has been developed by the department of Information and Technology (IT) and Rajasthan Skill & Livelihoods Development Corporation (RSLDC) to improve availability of opportunities for migrant workers. ‘Online Shramik Employment Exchange’ includes data of over 12 lakh migrant workers including registered workers of planning offices, building and other construction boards.

Note: Chief Minister of Rajasthan: Ashok Gehlot; Governor: Kalraj Mishra

5. Gairsain Officially Named as Uttarakhand’s Summer Capital: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat formally declared Gairsain in Chamoli district as the summer capital of the state on 8 June 2020. The announcement regarding same was made by Mr Rawat during the budget session of the state assembly on March 4, 2020. The winter capital of Uttarakhand will be Dehradun. The move will develop these hilly areas along with providing tribute to those who fought for statehood of this region. It is the only state after Jammu & Kashmir to have two different capitals for summer and winter.

Note: Chief Minister of Uttarakhand: Trivendra Singh Rawat; Governor: Baby Rani Maurya.

6. World’s first ‘Internet-controlled’ robot ‘Coro-bot’ Developed by Maharashtra’s Engineer: A 23-year old engineer, Pratik Tirodkar, from Maharashtra’s Thane has developed a first-of-its kind ‘Internet-controlled’ robot specifically to address the needs of hospitals treating COVID-19 patients. Pratik Tirodkar is the founder of a start-up PNT Solutions, Dombivali. The robot, called ‘Coro-bot’ can independently dispenses food, water, beverages, medicines and even give some good advice to Corona patients without the needs for nurses, ward staff or other care-givers. Coro-bot can be operated from any location in the world using Internet of Things (IoT) technology. For this a special app has also been created by the company, through which the robot will be controlled. This unique Coro-bot is currently deployed successfully at the Holy Cross Hospital in Kalyan.

7. Manipur CM inaugurates ‘Plant Health Clinic’ in Imphal: Chief Minister of Manipur N. Biren Singh has inaugurated “Plant Health Clinic” at the Directorate of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Imphal. The aim to open the clinic is to boost the economic growth of Manipur through agriculture and horticulture. Along with the clinic, the Chief Minister also launched a mobile soil testing laboratory van.

Note: Governor of Manipur: Najma Heptulla.

8. Odisha cabinet gives state anthem status to “Bande Utkala Janani”: The state cabinet of Odisha chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has adopted “Bande Utklala Janani” or Glory to mother Utkala as the anthem of Odisha through video-conferencing. The anthem has been written by Kantakabi Laxmikanta Mohapatra in 1912. The anthem will be played or sung in schools, colleges, meetings, cultural events. Whenever the anthem is sung or played, everyone will have to stand in attention except senior citizens, patients, infants, disabled and pregnant women

Note: Chief Minister of Odisha: Naveen Patnaik; Governor: Ganeshi Lal.

9. Gujarat Tops FSSAI’s State Food Safety Index 2019-20: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) released the second edition of the State Food Safety Index, for evaluating food safety across all States/UTs in 2019-20. The index ranks states on five parameters of food safety: human resources and institutional data, compliance, food testing facility, training and capacity building besides consumer empowerment. In the list of larger states, Gujarat has topped the index, followed by Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. Among the smaller states, Goa came first followed by Manipur and Meghalaya. Among Union Territories, Chandigarh, Delhi and Andaman Islands secured top three spots.

10. NIPER Guwahati and Hindustan Antibiotics Ltd signs MoU: National Institute of Pharmaceuticals Education and Research (NIPER), Guwahati signs MoU with Hindustan Antibiotic Limited, Pune for mass production of 3D printed antimicrobial faceshields. NIPER has developed 3D-printed antimicrobial face shield, multi-layered masks. These objects are highly protective, transparent, easy to wear and antimicrobial. They are very handy, user-friendly, non-fragile and easy to clean. NIPER has also filed patent at Indian Patent Office.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. India signs MoU with Denmark for cooperation in power sector: India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding on “Energy Cooperation” with Denmark to develop a strong, deep and long-term co-operation between two nations in the power sector. The MoU was signed between the Ministry of Power, Government of the Republic of India and the Ministry for Energy, Utilities and Climate, Government of the Kingdom of Denmark. The focus area under MoU are offshore wind, long term energy planning, forecasting, flexibility in the grid, incentivize flexibility, variability in renewable energy production etc. As per the MoU, India & Denmark will also establish a Joint Working Group (JWG) for implementation of the identified areas.

Note: Prime Minister of Denmark: Mette Frederiksen; Capital of Denmark: Copenhagen; Currency: Danish krone.

2. New Zealand declares itself free from “Coronavirus”: The Health Ministry of South-Pacific nation, New Zealand has declared that the nation has become free from “Coronavirus”. The announcement was made when the last person who was being monitored for coronavirus was released from isolation and regarded as recovered. Hence, New Zealand has announced to lift all the coronavirus measures that were implemented in the country and move to national alert level 1 from midnight on 9 June 2020. Border controls will remain in place in an effort to prevent infected people from bringing the virus into New Zealand.

Note: Prime Minister of New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern; Capital of New Zealand: Wellington.

3. World Accreditation Day (WAD): 9th June: The World Accreditation Day (WAD) is celebrated globally on 9th June every year to highlight and promote the role of accreditation in trade & economy. The theme for WAD 2020 is “Accreditation: Improving Food Safety”. WAD is a global initiative, jointly established by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC), to raise awareness of the importance of accreditation.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Chelsea awarded Women’s Super League title, Aston Villa win Women’s Championship: Chelsea FC Women were named the Womens Super League champions overtaking Manchester City on a points-per-game record, following the termination of the 2019/20 season last month. The Blues were in second place but with one game in hand over Manchester City who were a point ahead when it was decided the league is to finish prematurely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On the basic points-per-game system, Aston Villa Women were announced as champions of the Women”s Championship.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Govt launches NIL GST return filing facility through SMS: Government has rolled out filing of NIL GST monthly return in FORM GSTR-3B through SMS. This will improve ease of GST compliance for over 22 lakh registered taxpayers who log into their account on the common portal for filing their returns every month. Taxpayers must file GST return every month even when no invoices are issued through GST Portal NIL return. GSTR status can be tracked on the GST Portal by logging into GSTIN account-Services-Returns-Track Return Status.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. World Bank Projects Indian Economy to Contract by 3.2% in FY21: The World Bank has projected India’s economy to contract 3.2% in the fiscal FY21, in its latest Global Economic Prospects report, released on 8 June 2020. However, the Washington-based multilateral lender expects the Indian economy to recover to grow at 3.1% in the financial year 2021-22. The World Bank has also projected that the global economy will shrink by 5.2 percent in 2020 due to the massive shock of the coronavirus pandemic and the shutdown measures to contain it, depicting deepest recession since World War II with largest declining per capita output since 1870 of 3.6%. Economic activity in advanced economies will shrink 7%. Emerging market and developing economies will also shrink by 2.5%.

2. Prabhakar Raghavan announced New Head of Google Search: Google has announced that it has appointed Prabhakar Raghavan as the head of Search and Assistant. Raghavan will be taking over the position from Ben Gomes who is shifting to a new role in the organisation and will report to Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Veteran writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar becomes first Indian to receive Richard Dawkins Award 2020: India’s renowned Poet, lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar has been bestowed with the prestigious Richard Dawkins Award for 2020 for critical thinking, holding religious dogma upto scrutiny, advancing human progress and humanist values. Akhtar has become the first ever Indian to receive this honour.

Note: The Richard Dawkins award is given to a distinguished individual from the worlds of science, scholarship, education or entertainment, who publicly proclaims the values of secularism and rationalism, upholding scientific truth wherever it may lead. The award is named after world-renowned English evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins and is presented by the Centre for Inquiry USA in which The Richard Dawkins Foundation is housed.

DEFENSE

1. IAF inducts indigenously developed pod ARPIT to evacuate critical patients from remote areas: The Indian Air Force has designed, developed and inducted a unique pod called ARPIT. ARPIT stands for Airborne Rescue Pod for Isolated Transportation. It will be utilised for the evacuation of critical patients with infectious diseases including COVID-19 from high altitude areas, isolated and remote places. This indigenously designed system has been developed at a cost of Rs 60,000. The system has been developed as a lightweight isolation system made from aviation certified material, and that too, only indigenous materials. It has life support, monitoring and essential instruments. It will prevent crew from infection. The IAF is inducting a total of 7 ARPITs as of now.

Note: Air Chief Marshal: Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria; Indian Air force founded: 8 October 1932; Indian Air force Headquarters: New Delhi.

OBITUARIES

1. Burundi’s Incumbent President Pierre Nkurunziza Passes Away: The President of the Republic of Burundi, Pierre Nkurunziza has passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest after the former rebel chief spent 15 often turbulent years in power. He was 55. Nkurunziza's death comes just weeks before he was due to officially step down following Evariste Ndayishimiye's electoral victory last month. A former army general, Ndayishimiye became the president-elect after winning the candidacy for Nkurunziza's ruling party, the Hutu nationalist CNDD-FDD. 

Daily GK Updates - 8th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. WCD Ministry sets up task force under Jaya Jaitly to examine maternal mortality rate, women’s health among others: The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has constituted a task force to examine matters related to the age of motherhood, imperatives of lowering Maternal Mortality Rate and improvement of nutritional levels. It will also check correlation of marriage age and motherhood with health, medical wellbeing and nutritional status of mother and child, during pregnancy & birth. It will suggest measure for women’s higher education. The 10 member task force will be headed by Jaya Jaitly and is tasked to submit the report by 31st July 2020. The task force will be provided secretarial assistance by the Niti Aayog.

Note: Union Minister for Women and Child Development: Smriti Zubin Irani.

2. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Launches “COVID BEEP” App For Coronavirus Patients: The Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Dr. Jitendra Singh launched COVID BEEP, India’s first indigenous, cost effective, wireless physiological parameters monitoring system for the COVID-19 affected patients. COVID BEEP stands for Continuous Oxygenation & Vital Information Detection Biomed ECIL ESIC Pod. It has been developed by Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Medical College Hyderabad in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad and Department Of Atomic Energy. The COVID BEEP has incorporated NIBP (non-invasive blood pressure) monitoring, ECG (electrocardiogram) monitoring and the respiratory rate. COVID BEEP will greatly reduce the transmission risk as well as help save resources like personal protective equipment (PPEs).

3. ISRO & ARIES signs MoU for cooperation in SSA & Astrophysics: Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has signed an agreement with Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) for cooperation in the field of Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Astrophysics. The main objective of the MoU is to shield the Indian Space assets from the space debris’s conjunction threats and R&D of Astrophysics, solar sciences and space environment are the base for future space exploration projects and the key to progress in the Indian Space sector. It will help in tracking, analysis, and space weather studies. The MoU will pave way for future establishment of optical telescope observational facilities.

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

The ARIES was established on 20th April 1954; ARIES located: Nainital, Uttarakhand.

4. ARCI develops Magnetocaloric material for cancer treatment: The scientists at the International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI) has developed Magnetocaloric material, a rare-earth-based material that can be effectively used for cancer treatment. In this material, the application and removal of a magnetic field causes the materials to become warmer or cooler and hence, it provides controlled heating. It will also reduce the treatment time of cancer tumours.

5. UVC-based disinfection cabinet developed by ARCI & Mekins: A UVC-based Cabinet has been co-developed by the International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI) and the MEKINS Industries. The device will disinfect non-critical hospital items, laboratory wear, and PPEs in order to prevent surface contamination of COVID 19. It will also have the capability to disinfect items that have been exhibited to customers in commercial establishments and several domestic items.

6. CSIR NCL develop indigenous nasopharyngeal swabs: CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune has developed an indigenous NP swab for collecting samples from the throat cavity of COVID-19. It is a medical device with stringent specifications of quality, polymer grade, dimensions and sterilization. It has cylindrical plastic stick with a brush-like tip of synthetic bristles/flocks that will help in easy and accurate testing. NCL has transferred the research to Mumbai-based chemical company for mass production.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. G20 group pledges over $21 billion to fight Covid-19 pandemic: Member countries of the Group of 20 (G20) has pledged more than $21 billion to fight COVID-19 pandemic. The group has coordinated the global efforts by pledging more than $21 billion to improve the global health and hence supporting the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. G20 leaders also appealed to the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund to facilitate their support to countries in need using all instruments to the fullest extent.

Note: The members of the G20 group are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Republic of Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union (EU).

2. Monika Kapil Mohta appointed as Indian Ambassador to Switzerland: Monika Kapil Mohta (IFS officer 1985 batch) has been appointed as the Ambassador of India to Switzerland. She is currently serving as the Ambassador of India to Sweden. She will replace Sibi George, the new Ambassador of India to Kuwait. She had worked as an Ambassador to Poland and Lithuania and as a director to Nehru Centre (Culture) at the high commission of U.K.

Switzerland’s Adm capital: Bern; Currency: Swiss franc; President: Simonetta Sommaruga

3. Rahul Shrivastava appointed India’s next Ambassador to Romania: Rahul Shrivastava has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Romania. He is presently serving as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs. He is an IFS officer of 1999 batch. He will replace Thanglura Darlong as the next Ambassador of India to Romania.

Note: Capital of Romania: Bucharest; President of Romania: Klaus Iohannis; Prime Minister of Romania: Ludovic Orban; Currency: Romanian leu

4. Salon owner’s daughter in Tamil Nadu, M Nethra, appointed UNADAP Goodwill Ambassador to Poor: M. Nethra, a 13-year-old girl and daughter of salon owner in Tamil Nadu’s Madurai has been appointed as a ”Goodwill Ambassador to the Poor” for United Nations Association for Development And Peace (UNADAP). Nethra convinced her father C. Mohan to spend his savings of Rs 5 lakh on the hapless migrant labourers and donate essential items to the poor who are hit hard by the Coronavirus-induced lockdown. The money had been saved for Nethra’s education and to pursue her goal of entering the civil service. Nethra will now be given the opportunity to speak at the United Nations (UN) conferences in New York and in Geneva addressing Civil Society forums and conferences, encouraging them to reach out to the poorest of the poor. Apart from this, Nethra has also been awarded the agency’s ‘DIXON Scholarship’ worth Rs 1 lakh.

5. World Oceans Day: 8th June: World Oceans Day is marked annually on the 8 June to celebrate the role of the oceans in our everyday life and inspiring action to protect the ocean and sustainably use marine resources. The theme of UN World Oceans Day 2020 is “Innovation for a Sustainable Ocean.” World Oceans Day was officially recognised by the United Nations in 2008. The concept was originally proposed in 1992 by Canada’s International Centre for Ocean Development (ICOD) and the Ocean Institute of Canada (OIC) at the Earth Summit – UN Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

6. World Brain Tumor Day: 8th June: World Tumor Day is observed on June 8 every year to spread awareness about this deadly disease, ensure its early diagnosis, as well as as pay tribute to brain tumor patients and their families. The day was first initiated by the German Brain Tumor Association (GBTA) in 2000.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Fit India to launch special films promoting indigenous sports of India: Fit India along with Dept of School Education and Literacy is launching series of special films promoting 10 indigenous Indian sports. The 10 episodes series will be launched under the Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat initiative for school-going children. It is aimed at spreading awareness of indigenous game, culture and heritage of native states. It will include Kho-kho, Gatka, Kalaripayttu, Mallakhamb, Thang-Ta, Sqay, Kabaddi, Roll Ball, Tug of War and Shooting Ball.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. NABARD Extends Rs 270 crore to Assam Gramin Vikash Bank: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has extended a Special Liquidity Facility (SLF) of Rs 270 crore to Assam Gramin Vikash Bank for supporting the agricultural activities of the farmers in the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic. This line of credit would enable the farmers in enhancing their crop production and hence this amount would prove to be a boon to the agriculture credit of the state at this difficult hour. This amount has been disbursed by NABARD from the Rs 25,000 crore fund announced by the institution for providing liquidity support to Cooperative Banks, Regional Rural Banks and Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs) during 2020-21 with a view to ensuring continued flow of credit to farmers to carry out their agricultural operations smoothly even during COVID-19 pandemic period.

Note: Chairman of National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development: G R Chintala.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Kushal Pal Singh retires as DLF’s Chairman: Kushal Pal Singh retired as the Chairman of property firm Delhi Land & Finance Limited (DLF). Rajiv Singh, who was serving as the vice chairman of DLF has been appointed as the new chairman of DLF. Kushal Pal Singh will serve as non-executive role of Chairman Emeritus. He joined DLF in 1961 and took over charges as the chairman of DLF in 1995. DLF expanded beyond Gurugram, building apartments, shopping malls, and hotels under his leadership.

2. Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala to buy 1.85% stake in Reliance Jio platforms for Rs 9093.6 cr: Abu Dhabi-based sovereign investor Mubadala Investment Company will buy 1.85 per cent stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 9,093.6 crore. With this investment, Jio Platforms has raised Rs 87,655.35 crore from leading global technology and growth investors, including Facebook, Silver Lake, Vista Equity Partners, General Atlantic, KKR and Mubadala.

3. Silver Lake to buy additional $600 million stake in India’s Reliance Jio Platforms: The investment by Silver Lake was announced later in the day, and came exactly a month after it had bought a 1.15% stake early May for Rs 5,655.75 crore. The latest round takes the investment by Silver Lake and its coinvestors to Rs 10,202.55 crore for a 2.08% stake.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. The Hindu group bags INMA Global Media Awards 2020: International News Media Association (INMA) has awarded The Hindu Group at the Global Media Awards 2020. There were 16 categories with Group 1(regional/local brands) and Group 2 (global/national brands). The Hindu secured first place for ‘Cadbury Sweet Kondattam’ for Client Mondelez India for ‘Best Idea to Acquire or Retain Advertising Clients’ in Group 2. It also secured 2nd place for ‘Stay home Stay vigilant’ campaign for ‘Best Initiative in Response to COVID-19’.

OBITUARIES

1. Former Footballer Hamza Koya passes away: Former National Football Champion Hamza Koya (61 years) passes away due to COVID-19 at a hospital in Malappuram, Kerala. He started his football his career with Western Railway and went on to play Mumbai clubs like Union Bank, RCF, Tata Sports and Orkay Mills. He had represented Maharashtra in the 1980 Santosh Trophy and had been called up for the National Team camps on 2 occasions. Native: Parappanangadi, Kerala.

2. Kannada actor Chiranjeevi Sarja passes away:  Kannada actor Chirranjeevi Sarja passed away in Bengaluru following a heart attack. He was 39. Chirranjeevi Sarja is the brother of actor Dhruva Sarja and nephew of actor Arjun Sarja. Chirranjeevi was launched by Arjun who bankrolled the former’s debut movie Vayuputra, the remake of Tamil film Sandakozhi, in 2009. And in a career spanning about ten years, he acted in more than 20 movies. He has featured in films such as Samhaara, Aadyaa, Khaki, Sinnga, Amma I Love You, Prema Baraha, Dandam Dashagunam and Varadhanayaka among others. 

Daily GK Updates - 7th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Government Approves Historic Amendment to Essential Commodities Act to give boost to Rural India: The Union cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken three historic decisions in the field of agriculture to benefit farmers and transform the agriculture sector.

Amendment to the Essential Commodities Act (ECA) 1955: Cabinet has approved amending the over six-decade old Essential Commodities Act (ECA). Under the historic amendment, commodities like cereals, pulses, oilseeds, edible oils, onion and potatoes will be removed from list of essential commodities.

 ‘The Farming Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Ordinance, 2020’: The Ordinance will create an ecosystem where the farmers and traders will enjoy freedom of choice of sale and purchase of agri-produce. It will also promote barrier-free inter-state and intra-state trade and commerce outside the physical premises of markets notified under State Agricultural Produce Marketing legislations.

‘The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Ordinance, 2020’: The ordinance will empower farmers for engaging with processors, wholesalers, aggregators, wholesalers, large retailers, exporters etc. It will transfer the risk of market unpredictability from the farmer to the sponsor. Farmer will get access to modern technology and better inputs.

2. DRDO develops device SUMERU-PACS to keep PPE wearers comfortable, without sweating: The Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a device dubbed as SUMERU-PACS, which will helps wearers of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to feel comfortable without sweating. On the basis of the feedback received from doctors and medical staff, the PPE wearers feel uncomfortable after wearing PPE for more than 30 to 45 minutes and start sweating which makes the situation worse. SUMERU-PACS is a personal air circulation system which can be used inside the PPE cover as a small backpack of approximately 500 grams weight. It works well at an ambient temperature of 39 degrees Celsius and keeps wearer comfortable and cool without sweating, as the system draws the outside air with the help of a filter and the moist air goes out from the front face opening thereby, cooling neck and head area. The device is suitable for doctors and other medical staff who wear PPE cover all six hours in the hospitals.

3. EESL Partners with USAID for “Healthy and Energy Efficient Buildings” Initiative: The Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of PSUs under Ministry of Power, has partnered with the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) MAITREE program to launch the “Healthy and Energy Efficient Buildings” initiative that will pioneer ways to make workplaces healthier and greener. The Market Integration and Transformation Program for Energy Efficiency (MAITREE) is a part of the US-India bilateral Partnership between the Ministry of Power and USAID to accelerate the adoption of cost-effective energy efficiency as a standard practice within buildings, and specifically focuses on cooling. As part of this pilot, “Healthy and Energy Efficient Buildings” Initiative, EESL has taken the leadership by being the first to implement this framework in its own offices.

4. Nitin Gadkari launches UNDP national awareness campaign on ‘Prevention of Human and Animal Mortality on Highways’: Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) and MSME Shri Nitin Gadkari launched an national awareness campaign on ‘Prevention of Human and Animal Mortality on Highways’ via video conference on the occasion of World Environment Day. It is an awareness campaign with focus on imparting education to masses at large towards reducing or eliminating mortality on the roads of both human beings and animals. The campaign is a joint effort of the MoRTH and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). As per the data, India witnesses nearly five lakh road accidents every year, in which about 1.5 lakh lives are lost. Through this campaign, government aims to bring down these figures by 20-25 percent by 31st March 2021.

5. India Loses 750 Tigers in Last Eight Years; Madhya Pradesh Reports Maximum Casualties: NTCA Survey: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has shared the data related to details of tiger deaths during the eight year period between 2012 and 2019. According to the official data of NTCA, as many as 750 tigers died in the country in the last eight years due to poaching and other causes. Of these total tiger mortalities, 369 were due to natural causes, 168 due to poaching, 70 deaths are under scrutiny and 42 due to unnatural reasons, including accident or conflicts events and 101 seizures. The data showed that Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of 526 tigers in the country. However, Madhya Pradesh reported the highest tiger deaths during this eight year period at 173, of which, 38 were due to poaching, 94 natural deaths, 19 under scrutiny, six due to the unnatural causes and 16 seizures. Maharashtra has reported second highest casualties at 125 during this period followed by 111 in Karnataka. It is reported that the present tiger population in the country is estimated at 2967 (lower and upper limits being 2603 and 3346 respectively).

6. Unmanned Aircraft System Rules 2020 notified: Ministry of Civil Aviation has notified Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Rules 2020. It will regulate production, import, trade, ownership, and operation of drones. Under the new rules, only authorised entities can sell drones. Flight permit must be taken online with log sharing. Nano-drones (250 grams) can be operated without a drone pilot license. Drone Insurance policy is made mandatory. Businesses operating drones should be owned and controlled by Indian nationals.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. United Kingdom hosts virtual Global Vaccine Summit 2020: PM Narendra Modi addresses virtual Global Vaccine Summit elaborating the vaccination need in the world. The Summit was hosted by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and attended by business leaders, UN Agencies, and others of 50 countries. India has pledged $15 Million to Gavi, an international vaccine alliance. It witnessed new era of global health cooperation with commitment to equitable immunisation and health security due to COVID-19.

Note: Gavi HQ-Geneva‎, Switzerland; Chief Executive Officer of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance: Dr Seth Berkley.

2. 8 Indian Institutes Make It To Top 100 in THE Asia University Ranking 2020: Time Higher Education (THE) released its annual THE Asia University Rankings 2020, which lists 489 institutions from 30 countries and regions. 56 Indian institutes participated in the 2020 ranking, out of which 8 have made it to the top 100. Among the Indian institutes, Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore is the best institute. Globally it has been placed at 36th rank. 6 IITs have also made place in top 100. List of eight Indian institutes in the list: Rank 36 – IISc Bangalore; Rank 47 – IIT-Ropar; Rank 55 – IIT-Indore; Rank 59 – IIT-Kharagpur; Rank 67 – IIT-Delhi; Rank 69 – IIT-Bombay; Rank 83 – IIT-Roorkee; Rank 92 – Institute of Chemical Technology

The universities are ranked by performance in five areas: teaching (learning environment); research (volume, income and reputation); citations (research influence); international outlook (staff, students and research); and industry income (knowledge transfer). Top 10 Global Universities in the list:

(1) Tsinghua University, China

(2) Peking University, China

(3) National University of Singapore, Singapore

(4) University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

(5) The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

3. Akshay Kumar lone Indian to feature on Forbes 2020 World’s 100 Highest-Paid Celebrities: Bollywood Actor Akshay Kumar is the only Indian to feature on Forbes 2020 list of World’s 100 Highest-Paid Celebrities. The 52-year-old superstar has been placed on 52nd spot with estimated $48.5 million earnings (approximately Rs 366 crore); he was on the 33rd spot in 2019 with earnings of $65 million. The 2020 Forbes 100 list is topped by model-entrepreneur Kylie Jenner with $590 million.

4. World Food Safety Day: 7th June: The World Food Safety day is celebrated every year on June 7 to remind people of the need to have safer and healthy food for disease-free life. Theme 2020: ‘Food Safety, Everyone’s Business’. The day was declared by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2018 and the first World Food Safety Day (WFSD) was held on 7 June 2019 with the theme ‘The Future of Food Safety’. WFSD aims to draw attention and inspire action to help prevent, detect and manage foodborne risks, contributing to food security, human health, economic prosperity, agriculture, market access, tourism and sustainable development.

Note: FAO HQ: Rome, Italy; WHO HQ: Geneva, Switzerland.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Adidas India ropes in former Miss World Manushi Chillar as brand ambassador: The Indian arm of German sports brand Adidas has appointed former Miss World Manushi Chillar as its new brand ambassador. Chillar will support #HOMETEAMHERO Challenge and lead Adidas’s mission to inspire more women to embrace fitness, while creating a positive social impact through the power of sport. Chillar joins the roster of Adidas ambassadors including Ranveer Singh, Rohit Sharma, Hima Das, and over 20 other top athletes.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. HDFC Bank launches ‘Summer Treats’ to meet post lockdown needs of customers: India’s largest private sector lender HDFC Bank has launched ‘Summer Treats’, to offers a range of products to help meet the changing needs of merchants as well as salaried and self-employed customers, due to COVID-19. As COVID-19 have changed consumer lifestyles and demands such as work from home and school from home, there have been an increased demand for phones, tablets, computers and related accessories. Similarly, demand for safe digital payments and private transport is also rising as well as the need for business finance has also increased. Summer Treats fulfills all such needs by providing a host of exciting offers. The key offers include:

(1) Exclusive discount for iPhone SE launch, no cost EMI and no down payment for large appliances,

(2) Discounts and cash back on select brands,

(3) 50% extra reward points on online spends using Credit Cards,

(4) Exclusive offers on the bank’s lending products and

(5) Extra rewards on online spends via Debit Card Credit Card or Payzapp

Summer Treats offers can be availed both digitally and through the bank’s extensive branch network.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. CCI approves merger of Peugeot S.A & Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.: The merger of Peugeot S.A (PSA) and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) has been approved by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). Peugeot S.A (PSA) is a publicly listed limited liability company incorporated in France. Headquartered in London, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) is a public company with limited liability with HQ at London and incorporated under Netherlands laws and is a global automotive group. PSA is an original equipment manufacturer and dealer of motor vehicles, passenger cars as well as light commercial vehicles.

Note: CCI Chairman: Ashok Kumar Gupta.

2. IIFL Finance Ropes in Rohit Sharma as its First-ever Brand Ambassador: India’s Non-Banking Finance Companies, India Infoline Finance Limited (IIFL) has signed up India’s leading batsman, Rohit Sharma as its first-ever brand ambassador. The company has launched 30-second message titled “Rohit Sharma Ki Seedhi Baat”, under its first-ever campaign #SeedhiBaat with Rohit Sharma, which is a public service message advising people on safety guidelines and rules to follow during lockdown to fight Covid19 outbreak.

Note: Chairman & Independent Director of IIFL: S. Sridhar; Headquarters of IIFL: Mumbai, Maharashtra

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Hyderabad airport wins ACI Asia-Pacific Green Airports Platinum Recognition 2020: The Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific announced the results of the ACI Asia-Pacific Green Airports Recognition 2020. The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), Hyderabad has received the Platinum award in the 15-35 Million Passengers Per Annum (MPPA) category for its water management practices. The award was presented in 3 categories. The winners of each category are as follows:

Over 35 million passengers per annum: Platinum – Taoyuan International Airport

Gold – Indira Gandhi International Airport

Silver – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport

15 to 35 million passengers per annum: Platinum – Rajiv Gandhi International Airport

Gold – Muscat International Airport

Silver – Kempegowda International Airport

Less than 15 million passengers per annum: Platinum – Kaohsiung International Airport

Gold – Adelaide Airport

Silver – Sharjah Airport

OBITUARIES

1. Former US Gymnast Thomas passes away: Veteran American Olympic gymnast, Kurt Thomas, has passed away at the age of 64, from the complications of a stroke. Kurt was the first American male gymnast to win a gold medal at the 1978 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in France. He competed in the 1976 Montreal Olympics, but lost a chance to go for a medal in a second Olympics when the Americans boycotted the 1980 Moscow Games. He was a five-time NCAA champion at Indiana State University. 

Daily GK Updates - 6th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Centre launches ‘#iCommit’ initiative to promote clean energy and smart energy use: The Minister of State (IC) for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shri R. K. Singh, launched the ‘#iCommit’ campaign, on the occasion of World Environment Day on 5 June 2020, with the aim of building an energy resilient future. The initiative call upon all stakeholders and individuals to continue moving towards energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability to create a robust and resilient energy system for India in the future. The ‘#iCommit’ initiative will be implemented by the Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), under the administration of Ministry of Power, Government of India. It will unite Governments, Corporates, Multilateral and Bilateral Organisations, Think Tanks and Individuals for energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability to create a robust and resilient energy system in future. It will ensure 24X7 energy access and security for all citizen.

2. Kerala set to become First Indian State to Provide Free Broadband for the Poor: The Kerala government has announced that its ambitious broadband project ‘Kerala Fibre Optic Network (K-FON)’ project, envisaged to provide free internet access to the poor, would be rolled out by December 2020. K-FON project aims to provide free high-speed Internet to all the citizens below poverty live in Kerala and those who cannot afford will be provided high speed Internet at a subsidized rate. The Rs 1,500 crore K-FON project is being implemented by Kerala State IT Infrastructure Limited and Kerala State Electricity Board. Kerala is the first state to declare the internet as a fundamental right of the citizen, by providing free high speed broadband to the poor people.

Note: Chief Minister of Kerala: Pinarayi Vijayan; Governor of Kerala: Arif Mohammad Khan; Capital of Kerala: Thiruvananthapuram.

3. Information booklet “Safe online learning in the times of COVID-19” launched: Union Minister for Human Resource Development (HRD) Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank virtually launched an information booklet titled “Safe online learning in the times of COVID-19” to raise awareness among students and teachers on staying safe online. The book has been jointly developed by National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and UNESCO New Delhi Office. The booklet aims at keeping children and young people safe online through basic do’s, and don’ts. It will help parents and educators to teach their children how to use the internet safely. It highlights the negative consequences of internet and ways to eliminate the same.

Note: UNESCO HQ: Paris, France.

4. J&K L-G launches salary tracking app ”MeraVetan” for government employees: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu launched a salary tracker mobile app ”MeraVetan” for providing salary-related information to government employees. The MeraVetan App (Version-1), will enable the employees to easily access their salary and other details anytime and anywhere. This app would especially be useful for those posted in remote and rural areas with no access to the drawing and disbursing officers (DDOs). MeraVetan mobile app has been developed by National Informatics Centre (NIC) J&K on the Android

Note: NIC Deputy Director-General: Abhay Kumar (State Informatics Officer); NIC Established: 1988; NIC Headquarters: Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir.

5. Government of India launches “Nagar Van” programme: Government of India has launched the “Nagar Van (Urban Forests)” programme with an objective of increasing the forest cover in urban areas. The programme has been launched with 200 corporations and cities across India and aims to develop 200 Urban Forests across India in next five years with the help of people’s participation and collaboration between Forest Department, Municipal bodies, NGOs, Corporates and local citizens. MoFECC Prakash Javadekar urged people to actively participate and increase the tree cover as they are the oxygen tanks. Government has set a target of planting 145 crore trees in 2020 under this.

6. India’s unemployment rate dipped to 5.8% in 2019 from 6.1% in 2018: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has released Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS). As per the survey India’s unemployment rate dipped to 5.8% in 2019 from 6.1% in 2018 as per PLFS. It is India’s first computer-based survey that gives estimates of key employment and unemployment indicators.

Labour force participation rate: 37.5% in 2019 from 36.9% in 2018.

Urban unemployment rate: 7.7% in 2018-19 from 7.8%

Female participation rate: 18.6% in 2018-19 from 17.5%

7. CSIR comes together with AIM to Foster Innovation: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) along with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) is all set to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in various sectors. CSIR has also signed Letter of Intent Niti Aayog for mutual interest implemented. They will together support world class start-ups through CSIR Incubators under AIM initiative along with setting up of CSIR Innovation Parks. Innovation and research in MSMEs by CSIR in collaboration with ARISE initiative.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. PM Modi Holds India’s first virtual bilateral summit with Australian PM Scott Morrison; Signs 9 Agreements: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held the India-Australia virtual summit on 4 June 2020 with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in a bid to strengthen bilateral ties. This is the first ever virtual bilateral summit that India is holding with any country, and also the first for Mr Modi with any foreign leader. One such Summit was held between Australia and Singapore in March 2020. The India-Australia bilateral virtual summit concluded with signing of nine agreements including one to raise their relationship to a ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’ for wider and deeper cooperation in diverse areas ranging from trade to defence. PM Modi also pledged USD 15-million as India’s contribution to the international vaccines alliance GAVI during the summit. The virtual summit concluded with ”Samosa-Khichdi” diplomacy.

2. World Economic Forum to host 2021 Unique Twin Summit: The World Economic Forum has announced to hold its 51st Summit in Davos in 2021, in a new twin-summit format, keeping in mind the COVID-19 pandemic. “A unique twin summit” of WEF will be held in January 2021, with the theme “The Great Reset”. “The Great Reset” is a joint initiative of the World Economic Forum and HRH The Prince of Wales. As a part of “The Great Reset” dailogue, the World Economic Forum’s digital platform “UpLink” will contribute by crowdsourcing innovations for the Sustainable Development Goals. The twin summit will bring together leaders from across the globe for both in-person as well as virtual dialogues.  It would connect key global governmental and business leaders in Davos with a global multistakeholder network in 400 cities around the world for a forward-oriented dialogue driven by the younger generation.

Note: WEF HQ: Geneva, Switzerland; Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum: Klaus Schwab.

3. Russian Language Day: 6th June: The UN Russian Language Day is observed annually on 06 June. It is one of the six official languages used by the United Nations throughout the Organization. The day was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2010. 6 June is chosen as UN Russian Language Day as it coincides with the birthday of Aleksandr Pushkin, a Russian poet who is considered the father of modern Russian language. Each of the six official language has been assigned a day of celebration by UN’s Department of Public Information in 2010 to celebrate multilingualism and cultural diversity as well as to promote equal use of all six official languages throughout the Organization.

4. World Pest Day: 6th June: Every year, the World Pest Day (also sometimes called World Pest Awareness Day) is observed on 06 June. World Pest Day was initiated by the Chinese Pest Control Association, and co-sponsored by the Federation of Asian and Oceania Pest Managers’ Association (FAOPMA), the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), and the Confederation of European Pest Management Associations (CEPA). The main purpose of the day is to increase public, government, and media awareness of the important role pest management organization plays in protecting public health, project the professional image of the pest management industry, promote the use of professional pest management in a scientific and socially responsible way and call attention to the big threats caused by small pests. The first World Pest Day was marked in 2017.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. India to host the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup: In Football, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has awarded the hosting rights of the Women’s Asian Cup 2022 tournament to India. The decision was taken after the AFC Women’s Football Committee meeting held on 5 June 2020. This is the first time that India will be hosting the event since 1979, in which India had finished as the runner-ups. The tournament will feature 12 teams, an increase from the previous slot of eight teams. As hosts, India will get an automatic qualification to the tournament. The event will also serve as the final qualification tournament for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Note: President of All India Football Federation: Praful Patel.

President of Asian Football Confederation: Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa; AFC Headquarters: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI creates Payments Infrastructure Development Fund: The Reserve Bank of India has announced the creation of a Payments Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF). The aim of this fund is to promote the usage of Points of Sale (PoS) infrastructure. The fund will encourage acquirers to deploy Points of Sale (PoS) infrastructure (both physical and digital modes) in tier-3 to tier-6 centres and north eastern states. The Reserve Bank will make an initial contribution of Rs 250 crores to the PIDF covering half the fund. The remaining Rs 250 crores will be from card-issuing banks and card networks operating in the country. The PIDF will also receive recurring contributions to cover operational expenses from card issuing banks and card networks. The PIDF will be governed through an Advisory Council and managed and administered by Reserve Bank.

2. SBI creates separate business vertical for financial inclusion, agri biz: State Bank of India has created a new and separate business vertical to focus on financial inclusion and micro-markets (FI&MM). Under FI&MM, State Bank will offer loans predominantly for agriculture & allied activities, and micro/small enterprises and vastly improve the customer experience for the citizens.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Facebook Signs Global Licensing Deal with Indian Music Label Saregama: Facebook has entered into a global deal with Saregama, one of India’s oldest and largest music labels, to license its music for video and other social experiences across Facebook and Instagram. That means users can now add Saregama-owned music to their posts and stories on both Facebook and Instagram. Users can choose from over 1,00,000 songs across different genres including film songs, devotional music, ghazals and indipop in more than 25 languages, to add to their social experiences such as videos, stories via music stickers and other creative content. People will also be able to add songs to their Facebook Profile.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. India’s Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw named EY World Entrepreneur of the Year 2020: Indian billionaire entrepreneur Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has been named as the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year 2020 (WEOY). She has been emerged as the winner from among a distinguished list of 46 Entrepreneur of the Year (EOY) country award winners from 41 countries and territories. Mazumdar-Shaw is the first woman entrepreneur from India and the third Indian to win the title in the award’s 20-year history. The other two are Uday Kotak (2014-MD of Kotak Bank) and Narayana Murthy (2005-Infosys). She is also only the second woman worldwide to hold this title, after Olivia Lum of Hyflux Limited, Singapore, who won the award in 2011. Uday Kotak of Kotak Mahindra Bank (2014) and N R Narayana Murthy, co-founder of Infosys Ltd, (2005) are the other winners from India.

OBITUARIES

1. Bollywood producer Anil Suri passes away: Bollywood producer Anil Suri passed away due to COVID-19. He was renowned for producing bollywood films such as Raaj Kumar-Rekha starrer Karmayogi and Raaj Tilak. In 1991, he also directed a movie titled “Begunaah starring Rajesh Khanna, Farah Naaz and Jeetendra.

2. Producer and songwriter Rupert Hine passes away: British Producer and songwriter Rupert Hine passed away. He began his career as a musician in folk band Rupert & David and also worked with other bands such as Quantum Jump and Spin 1ne 2wo. He was a dominant producer in the 1980s and 1990s. His renowned works that appeared on soundtracks for the films Better Off Dead, Golden Eye, The Fifth Element, etc.