Daily GK Updates - 27th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Maharashtra Govt introduced “Maha Parwana” plan to boost investment: In a bid to attract fresh industrial investments in Maharashtra, the state government announced a new plan called ‘Maha Parwana’, which will offer several incentives and offer a single-window clearance system for project execution. In a cabinet decision, the government has decided that henceforth companies investing in a project costing Rs 50 crore or more would not be burdened with getting clearances from several departments. Such companies would be given an assurance letter (Maha Parwana).

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

2. Bengaluru International Airport becomes first in India to get AWMS technology on runway: The Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), which operates Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has recently installed an indigenously-developed Aviation Weather Monitoring System (AWMS) at its new runway (south runway) on both ends. This makes BLR as the first airport in India to have this technology installed at both ends of the runway. The Aviation Weather Monitoring System has been developed by Bengaluru-based CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL). Apart from this, four Drishti Transmissometers has also been installed to help in measuring the Runway Visibility Range (RVR). It has been made by NAL in association with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). With this, the number of RVRs installed at the both runways has reached six.

Note: National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) Headquarters: Bangalore, India; National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) Director: Jitendra J Jadhav.

3. Union Minister launches Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan web portal: Union Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Narendra Singh Tomar has launched Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan web portal through video conferencing. It will provide district and work-wise information about Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan. It will help in monitoring the completion of the works. Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan is a massive employment generation-cum-rural infrastructure creation programme. The launch was followed by Central Nodal Officers workshop.

4. AP govt. launches YSR Kapu Nestham, to provide Rs 15,000 for eligible women: Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launched ‘YSR Kapu Nestham’ at his camp office for the welfare of the women from Kapu community. Under the scheme, the government will provide Rs 15,000 per year for all the eligible women aged between 45 and 60 years for a period of five years. Around 2.36 lakh women will benefit through the scheme in the first year and the amount will be credited in the bank accounts. The government allocated Rs 354 crore for the scheme in the first year.

5. Centre allocates Rs 4125 cr to rejuvenate Small, Medium & Tiny Industries sector in Tamil Nadu: The Central government has allocated 4125 crore rupeesfor rejuvenating the Small, Medium and Tiny Industries sector in Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edapadi Palanisamy told that this forms 10 per cent of the total allocation of the scheme. He said that the scheme is being effectively implemented in the state.

6. Vini Mahajan became the 1st woman Chief Secretary of Punjab: Vini Mahajan (1987-batch IAS Officer) took over as the first woman Chief Secretary of Punjab. She succeeded Karan Avtar Singh (1984-batch IAS Officer), who is posted as Special Chief Secretary, Governance Reforms and Public Grievances. She has superseded 5 senior IAS officers and a batch-mate, Viswajeet Khanna.

Note: Chief Minister of Punjab: Amarinder Singh; Governor of Punjab: Vijayender Pal Singh Badnore.

7. Haryana govt, Reliance Jio TV enter agreement to educate 52 lakh students: Haryana has entered into an agreement with Reliance Jio TV under the Chief Minister’s Distance Education Programme that will benefit 52 lakh school students largely residing in villages amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Under the agreement, all four channels of Eduset will now be available on the Jio platform free of cost.  In order to ensure that knowledge reaches all children, the broadcast content on television will also be available for a week so that the students can watch it according to their convenience and time.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. NASA Names its Washington, D.C. headquarters after Mary W. Jackson: NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine has announced that the agency’s headquarters building in Washington, D.C., will be named after Mary W. Jackson, the first African American female engineer at NASA. It would be called as Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters. Jackson started her NASA career in 1951 as a human computer, a mathematician who performed hand calculations for NASA missions.

Note: Headquarters of NASA: Washington D.C., United States.

2. 36th ASEAN Summit held virtually, hosted by Vietnam: The 36th ASEAN Summit held via teleconference in light of the COVID-19 outbreak. Vietnam, as the ASEAN Chair, is to emphasize unity in the region to respond to current challenges, and it is expected that ASEAN leaders will discuss cooperation on public health, and draft a plan for post COVID-19 rehabilitation. With the theme “Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN”, the summit discuss the regional comprehensive post-pandemic recovery plans, implement initiatives including establishing the ASEAN COVID-19 response fund, setting up a reserve for medical supplies to meet urgent needs during epidemics, building the ASEAN standard procedures of epidemic response in case of health emergency.

3. India ranks 77th in terms of money parked with Swiss banks, UK tops: India has moved down three places to 77th rank in terms of money parked by its citizens and enterprises with Swiss banks at the end of 2019, as per the latest annual banking statistics released by the Swiss National Bank (SNB). India was ranked 74th in 2018. As per the latest data, India accounted for just about 0.06 percent of the aggregate funds parked by all foreign clients of Switzerland-based banks. However, many neighbouring countries are below India in the list. Among them, Pakistan is ranked 99th, Bangladesh 85th, Nepal 118th, Sri Lanka 148th, Myanmar 186th and Bhutan 196th. UK has retained its top position, accounting for close to 27 percent of the total foreign funds parked with Swiss banks at the end of 2019. UK is followed by the US, West Indies, France and Hong Kong in the top five. These top-five countries alone account for more than 50 percent of the aggregate foreign funds parked with the Swiss banks.

Note: Swiss National Bank (SNB) Headquarters: Zurich, Switzerland; Swiss National Bank (SNB) Chairman: Thomas Jordan.

4. Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day: 27th June: The United Nations Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day is held on June 27 since 2017 to celebrate the work of MSME in local and global economies and their contribution to sustainable development. 2020 Theme is “COVID-19: The Great Lockdown and its impact on Small Business“.These enterprises, which generally employ fewer than 250 persons, are the backbone of most economies worldwide.

Note: International Society for Small and Medium Enterprises Headquarters: New Delhi.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Australia and New Zealand Named as co-hosts for 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup: The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ will be hosted by Australia and New Zealand. The joint offer put together by Football Federation Australia and New Zealand Football got 22 of the 35 substantial votes cast by the FIFA Council individuals in the first voting form, with the Colombian Football Association having acquired 13 votes. It will be the first edition to feature 32 teams, up from 24 teams earlier. This will also be the first the time that the tournament will take place in two different countries from two separate confederations. The prize money for 2023 is expected to be $100 million. FIFA, world soccer’s governing body, has also approved $1 billion in investment in women’s soccer over the next four years.

Note: Headquarters of FIFA: Zürich, Switzerland; President of FIFA Gianni Infantino.

2. Rahul Dravid beats Sachin Tendulkar to emerge as India’s greatest Test batsman in Wisden poll: Former Indian skipper Rahul Dravid has emerged as the greatest Indian Test batsman of all time, after beating legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar in a poll conducted by Wisden India on social media recently. The poll was recently conducted on the website’s official Facebook account. Dravid got 52 percent of the votes, with as many as 11,400 fans taking part in the final round of voting. Dravid saw off Tendulkar within the final round of the voting by a narrow margin despite trailing at 42 per cent. The poll initially had 16 Indian batting greats.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Yes Bank launches mobile payment app ‘Yuva Pay’ in collaboration with UDMA Technologies: Yes Bank has partnered with UDMA Technologies to launch its digital wallet solution ‘Yuva Pay’ to enable contactless payments for its customers. Yuva Pay app will offer bill payments via Bharat Bill Pay and provide Unified Payments Interface (UPI) facility to customers. The app will enable the customers to pay their utility bills, make insurance renewals, FASTag recharges, EMI payments, and use the app to make payments at retail outlets. For feature set users, Yuva Pay will leverage Interactive Voice Response Services (IVRS) wherein all transactions are processed securely via OTP and T-PIN (telephone pin) authentication.

Note: Yes Bank Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; Yes Bank MD & CEO: Prashant Kumar.

2. President proclaims Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020: President Ram Nath Kovind has promulgated the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance 2020 to ensure depositors safety across banks. This ordinance amends Banking Regulation Act, 1949 as applicable to Cooperative Banks. It will not only protect depositors’ interest but will strengthen cooperative banks with improved governance. It will facilitate reconstruction or amalgamation scheme protecting the interest of public and banking system without making moratorium order.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Sachin Bansal’s startup ‘Navi’ launches instant lending app to disburse personal loans: Bengaluru-headquartered Navi Technologies, a financial services startup founded by Flipkart co-founder Sachin Bansal, has launched a mobile app to provide instant personal loans, and targeted at consumers in the middle-income segment. The ‘Navi Lending’ app will provide instant loans of up to Rs 5 lakh with repayment tenures of up to 36 months. The loan process will be done completely using digital and contactless process for customers. The loan amount will be sent directly into the bank accounts of consumers who will need to enter their permanent account number (PAN) and Aadhaar numbers to link their accounts.

DEFENCE

1. Navy Inducts Indigenously Developed Advanced Torpedo Decoy System: Navy has inducted an advanced Torpedo Decoy System giving a major boost to anti-submarine warfare. It is indigenously designed and developed by DRDO labs (NSTL and NPOL). It is capable of being fired from all frontline warships. User evaluation trials have been successfully completed along with demonstration of its feature. Its induction was jointly done by Indian Navy and DRDO. It has given major boost to Government's 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar' initiative.

OBITUARIES

1. Vir Chakra awardee Sqn. Ldr. Parvez Jamasji passes away: Vir Chakra awardee, Sqn Ldr (retd) Parvez Jamasji passed away. He was commissioned in 1965 and retired in 1985. He was awarded the Vir Chakra for gallantry during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war. During the operations against Pakistan in December 1971, Flight Lieutenant Parvez Rustom Jamasji was serving with a helicopter unit. His Helicopter flown by him was attacked twice by machine gun and twice by mortars.

Daily GK Updates - 26th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. NITI Aayog launches behaviour change campaign ‘Navigating the New Normal’: NITI Aayog has launched a behaviour change campaign titled ‘Navigating the New Normal’ and its website to guide people to follow norms during the ‘Unlock’ phase of the Covid-19 pandemic, in order to contain the spread of the deadly virus. The campaign has been developed under the guidance of Empowered Group 6, constituted by the GoI, under the Chairmanship of NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant. The campaign and website have been launched in partnership with Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), Centre for Social and Behavioural Change (CSBC), Ashoka University, and the Ministries of Health and WCD. The campaign consists of two parts. The first is a web portal http://www.covidthenewnormal.com, containing resources related to COVID-safe behavioural norms. The second is a media campaign focused on the wearing of masks.

Note: CEO of NITI Aayog: Amitabh Kant.

2. Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates Indian Oil’s PADC at Paradip, Odisha: Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Steel, Dharmendra Pradhan has inaugurated a Product Application and Development Centre (PADC) set up by Indian Oil at Paradip, Odisha. It has been setup by Indian Oil with Rs 43 crores value and 4 labs: Polymer Processing, Analytical Testing, Chemical Analysis and Characterisation Lab It will act as incubation centre for new entrepreneur development in the field of Plastics and will also generate employment with Government's aid.

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

           

3. Union Minister Harsh Vardhan Launches mobile app ‘eBloodServices’ for easy access to blood: Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan has launched the ‘eBloodServices’ mobile App, in partnership with the New Delhi based Indian Red Cross Society, on 25 June 2020 for easy access to blood, to fight with the critical coronavirus pandemic. The application has been developed under the Digital India scheme of GoI by the E-Raktkosh team of Centre for Development of Advanced Computing. The app will enable the user to view the availability of blood with the blood bank using their phone and also enable them to place order. Then the blood bank will get to know about the same through their ‘ERatkosh dashboard’, after which, they will keep the request active for 12 hours. The app has the facility of placing an order for up to four units of blood in one go.

Note: Chairman of Indian Red Cross Society: Harsh Vardhan.

4. Tripura govt launches Mukhyamantri Matru Pushti Uphaar scheme: The state government of Tripura has launched a scheme called Mukhyamantri Matru Pushti Uphaar, under which it would provide nutrition kits to pregnant and lactating women in an effort to fight malnutrition and maternal mortality.  The state government is expected to incur an expenditure of Rs 8 crore every year for the initiative. Under the new scheme, each nutrition kit would cost Rs 500 and contain food items, such as peanuts, soya beans, mixed pulses, jaggery and ghee. It is expected to benefit atleast 40,000 women.

Note: Chief Minister of Tripura: Biplab Kumar Deb; Governor: Ramesh Bais; Capital: Agartala

5. IIM Ahmedabad rolls out IIM Ahmedabad Endowment Fund: Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad has rolled out ‘IIM Ahmedabad Endowment Fund’ to ensure financial health of institute with initial commitment of Rs. 100 Crore. It is aimed at raising Rs.1000 crore in 5 years. The fund is raised from 10 founding alumni of IIM-A as a part of long term goal of retaining autonomy. IIMA is the 1st management school in India to come up with this initiative.

Note: IIMA Governors Board Chairperson: Kumar Mangalam Birla; Founded: 1961

6. “Atma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Abhiyan” launched in UP:  Prime Minister Narendra Modi has virtually launched a path-breaking scheme “Atma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Abhiyan” in Uttar Pradesh. The scheme aims to generate employment for the migrant workers of the state who recently returned from other states. The scheme has been launched in 31 districts of Uttar Pradesh constituting more than 25,000 returnee migrant workers. It is an unique initiative of the Uttar Pradesh government to generate employment, promote local entrepreneurship and create partnership with Industrial associations and other organizations to facilitate employment opportunities to the returnee migrant workers.

Note: Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Aditya Nath; Governor: Anandiben Patel.

7. J&K launches two J&K Bank Loan Scheme 2019-20: J&K has launched 2 schemes to provide financial support to business communities. (1) J&K Bank Business Support Loan Scheme: There will be 10% increase in existing working capital limit with upper limit Rs 5 cr (SMA2) and Rs 20 cr (SMA1). (2) ‘J&K Bank Business Support Loan Scheme for Hotels and Guest Houses’: It has upper limit of Rs 2 cr with 1 yr moratorium and 36 months repayment. It has no processing and foreclosure charges. Interest rate: 8.80%, 3 year MCLR.

8. Shripad Naik inaugurates “Defence Conclave 2020 Gujarat”: Defence Conclave 2020 Gujarat has been inaugurated by the Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Naik. It is a two-day digital conference on the defence & aerospace manufacturing sector, organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Gujarat along with Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM). The conclave aims to bring together the high-level government representatives to deliberate and exchange ideas, viewpoints and knowledge regarding the critical defence offset policies, sector analyses and review choices of technology presently available globally for the manufacturing and production of indigenous defence systems.

9. Priyanka Chopra & Anurag Kashyap among 50 ambassadors for TIFF 2020: Actor Priyanka Chopra and filmmaker Anurag Kashyap have been among the 50 celebrated global filmmakers and actors invited as ambassadors of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2020 (45th edition). For the first time, the festival, is being organised virtually, due to the coronavirus pandemic. The 45th edition of the festival is scheduled to take place from September 10 to September 19, 2020. It is expected that around 50 films will be screened in physical theaters through socially-distanced screenings, during its first five days.

Note: Toronto International Film Festival starts: 1976; Toronto International Film Festival Headquarters: Toronto, Canada.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Pakistan to remain in Financial Action Task Force Grey list: Pakistan is likely to remain on the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) as it has failed to comply with the tasks given by the global terrorist financing watchdog to stop terror financing in the country. Islamabad is yet to complete 13 out of 27 items of its FATF Action Plan. This decision was taken at the third and final plenary meeting of FATF, under the Chinese Presidency of Xiangmin Liu. Pak’s progress on its Action Plan would now be evaluated in the next plenary meeting to be held in October 2020, under the Presidency of Germany.

Note: The headquarters of FATF is in Paris, France; FATF was founded in July 1989.

2. World Vitiligo Day 2020: 25th June: The World Vitiligo Day is observed on June 25 to build global awareness about vitiligo. Vitiligo is a skin disorder leading to loss of color in the skin creating a variety of patterns on the skin from loss of pigment. Vitiligo is often called a disease instead of a disorder and that can have a significantly negative social or psychological impact on patients. The first World Vitiligo Day was observed on June 25, 2011.

3. International Day in Support of Victims of Torture: 26th June: The International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is a United Nations recognized day observed every year on 26 June to speak out against the crime of torture and to honour and support victims and survivors throughout the world. It was on this day on 26 June 1987 when the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment came into effect. 2020 Theme is Torture: a crime against humanity.

4. International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking: 26th June: The United Nations recognized International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed annually on 26 June, since 1989 to fight against drug abuse and the illegal drug trade. The theme of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2020 is “Better Knowledge for Better Care”. The main purpose of the theme is to improve the understanding of the world drug problem and at fostering greater international cooperation for countering its impact on health, governance and security.

Note: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Headquarters: Vienna, Austria; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Founded: 1997.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Liverpool Wins 2019–20 Premier League title: Liverpool has won the 2019–20 Premier League title on 25 June 2020, putting an end to 30 years wait for the title. This is the nineteenth English league title for Liverpool and their first in the Premier League era, having last won in 1990. Liverpool was declared winner after Manchester City lost 1-2 to Chelsea. The 2019–20 Premier League is the 28th season of the top English professional football league, since its establishment in 1992.

2. Former England Women Cricket Captain Clare Connor Set to become first female President of Marylebone Cricket Club in 233 years: Former England’s women captain Clare Connor has been named as the first female president of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in its 233-year history. Connor will replace incumbent President Kumar Sangakkara. She will take charge of her new post on 1 October 2021. Connor is currently the managing director of women’s cricket of England and Wales Cricket Board. Former Sri Lankan skipper Kumar Sangakkara, who is the first non-British MCC president, appointed in 2019 for one-year tenure, has been invited to hold the position for another 12-month period due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Connor made her England debut in 1995 at the age of 19, and took over the captaincy in 2000, leading England at Lord's against Australia a year later.

Note: Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Founded: 1787; Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Headquarters: London, United Kingdom.

3. New Zealand’s Women wicketkeeper Rachel Priest announces retirement from international cricket: Rachel Priest, New Zealand’s wicketkeeper-batswoman, has announced her retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a 13-year-old career with the White Ferns (nickname of New Zealand’s women national team). The 35-year-old played 87 ODIs and 75 T20Is for New Zealand. After her retirement, she has now signed up a contract with Cricket Tasmania to play in Australia Women’s National Cricket League and will represent Tasmanian Tigers for the 2020/21 season.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI instructs Banks, NBFCs digital platforms to disclose full information: RBI has instructed banks, NBFCs and digital lending platforms to disclose full information on their websites to customers. The move is taken to make digital lending transparent as several complaints relating to exorbitant interest rates and harsh recovery measures has been reported. Banks and NBFCs also have to issue letter after loan sanction along with agreement and enclosures immediately. They must also follow regulatory instructions on financial and IT services.

2. Govt to launch new Floating Rate Savings Bonds 2020 (Taxable) scheme: Govt will launch Floating Rate Savings Bonds 2020 (Taxable) scheme with effect from July 01, 2020. Issuing Authority: RBI only in electronic form. Eligibility: Person resident in India and person from Hindu Undivided Family. Subscription: Cash (₹20,000 only)/drafts/cheques or any electronic mode acceptable to the Receiving Office. It will not be transferable except transfer to nominee or legal heir. Interest on the bonds will be payable at half yearly interval. Rate: 7.15%

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. India Ratings projects India’s GDP to contract by 5.3% in FY21: India Ratings and Research has projected the GDP growth of India to contract by 5.3% in 2020-21 (FY21). India Ratings and Research expects the GDP of India to grow in the range of 5-6% in FY22. This will be the lowest GDP growth in Indian history and the sixth instance of economic contraction, others being in FY58, FY66, FY67, FY73 and FY80.

2. Govt extends deadline to file ITR for FY19 till July 31; PAN-Aadhaar till March 2021: The Central Government has extended the deadline for the following: (1) for filing income tax returns (ITR) for FY 2018-19 by one month to July 31, 2020; (original as well as revised income tax returns); (2) for linking biometric Aadhaar with PAN till March 31, 2021. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) through a notification also extended the time limit for making various investments for claiming deductions under the I-T Act for the 2019-20 fiscal by a month till July 31, 2020. The due date for filing ITR for FY2019-20 has already been extended till November 30, 2020.

Daily GK Updates - 25th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Govt to set up Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund: Establishment of Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) has been approved by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund will be worth Rs 15000 crore and provide incentivisation of investments in the formation of such infrastructure for dairy as well as meat processing, and value addition infrastructure and establishment of animal feed plant in the private sector. Beneficiaries: FPOs, MSMEs, Section 8 Companies, Private Companies and individual entrepreneur with 10% margin money contribution and 90% will be the loan component. 3% interest subvention will also be provided. Moratorium period: 2 years

Note: Union Minister of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries: Giriraj Singh.

2. MSDE and IBM launches ‘Skills Build Reignite’ learning platform: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) along with IBM has unveil Digital Learning Platform ‘Skills Build Reignite’. The platform is free and will provide job seekers and entrepreneurs, with access to free online coursework and mentoring support for their career and businesses. It will provide personalized coaching on AI, data analytics, machine learning, etc. Along with “Skills Build Reignite”, IBM has also launched the 10-week long Skills Build Innovation Camp. The two initiatives have been created to bridge the current skills gap in the country.

Note: Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: Mahendra Nath Pandey.

3. Union Cabinet approves formation of “IN-SPACe”: Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the establishment of Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe). It will boost private sector participation in Indian space infrastructure. It is a part of Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. IN-SPACe will also promote and guide private players in space activities through various policies and regulatory environment. It will also enable Indian Industry in becoming an important player in global space economy. New Space India Limited will reorient space activities from “supply driven” model to demand driven.

Note: Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation: K.Sivan; Headquarters: Bengaluru.

Union Minister of Science and Technology: Harsh Vardhan.

4. Cabinet gives International airport status to Kushinagar Airport: Union Cabinet has approved status of Kushinagar Airport (Uttar Pradesh) as an International Airport. Kushinagar is a Buddhist site and other sites like Sravasti, Kapilvastu, Lumbini lies in its vicinity. Declaring it as International Airport will improve connectivity, wider choice of competitive costs to air-travellers boosting domestic/international tourism and economic development of the regions. Kushinagar is the place where Gautama Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. It will be a crucial strategic location with the international border accessible.

Note: Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Aditya Nath; Governor: Anandiben Patel.

5. Strategic Devika Bridge and Puneja Bridge inaugurated in J&K: Union Minister Jitendra Singh has virtually inaugurated Devika Bridge (10 meter) in Udhampur and 'Puneja Bridge' (50-meter) in Dodo region in Jammu and Kashmir. Both the bridges have been constructed by Border Roads Organisation and have strategic relevance. The Bridge on River Devika in Udhampur has been completed within fifteen months time and Puneja Bridge in 36 months. Puneja bridge is inaugurated on 185 km Bhaderwah-Basholi-Pathankot highway which is under construction. It will ease traffic congestion, develop infrastructure, help passage of Army convoys, people and vehicles.

Note: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir: Girish Chandra Murmu.

6. Tripura Govt announces ‘Ektu Khelo Ektu Padho’ scheme:  Tripura government has announced a special initiative for activity-based learning named ‘Ektu Khelo, Ektu Padho’. The new scheme was floated aiming at engaging students by disseminating audio and video contents focused on hands-on learning activities and messages of simple projects, fun activities and games among them through WhatsApp or SMS services. “The new scheme can be accessed via smartphones of guardians. In case no smartphone is available, SMS services would be used to teach students”.

Note: Chief Minister of Tripura: Biplab Kumar Deb; Governor of Tripura: Ramesh Bais.

7. MPMKVVCL starts Nishtha Vidyut Mitra Scheme for women empowerment: In Madhya Pradesh, Madhya Kshetra Vidyut Vitaran Company has launched the Nishtha Vidyut Mitra Scheme for women empowerment. Under the scheme, women Self-Help Groups at Gram Panchayat level will work as Nishtha Vidyut Mitra. This scheme will the company to increase the revenue collection as well as women will also earn extra. This scheme has been implemented in all the Gram Panchayats of all 16 districts of Bhopal, Narmadapuram, Gwalior and Chambal divisions of the company’s jurisdiction.

Note: Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh: Shivraj Singh Chouhan; Governor: Lal Ji Tandon.

8. HRD Ministry releases roadmap for NCERT for 2020-21: HRD Ministry has released roadmap for NCERT 2020-21. Under this, NCERT will prepare infographics, posters and presentations explaining learning outcomes for each subject and grade. It will also prepare online teacher training courses. A supplementary and alternative academic learning material for learners in COVID-19 times is being prepared. National Curriculum Framework (NCF) has also been initiated which will makes changes in the textbooks by subject matter expert.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. NTPC awarded project management contract for 500-MW solar park in Mali: The government of the Republic of Mali has awarded the project management consultancy contract to India’s largest power generation company, NTPC, for the development of 500 megawatt (MW) solar park in the West African nation, making it the second country after Togo to do so. This announcement was made in an event hosted by the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in New Delhi recently, and chaired by renewable energy minister R K Singh. The initiative is a part of the plan of the government to land overseas business under the aegis of International Solar Alliance (ISA). In 2019, ISA had endorsed NTPC as a Project Management Consultant through a competitive process for the member countries to avail the services of NTPC. Earlier, the Republic of Togo had engaged NTPC for similar support for development of 285-MW solar park.

Note: NTPC Chairman: Gurdeep Singh

Republic of Mali Capital: Bamako; Currency: West African CFA franc; President of Republic of Mali: Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta.

International Solar Alliance Headquarters: Gurugram; International Solar Alliance Founded: 30 November 2015; International Solar Alliance Director-general: Upendra Tripathy.

2. Day of the Seafarer: 25th June: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) celebrates the annual Day of the Seafarer (DoS) on June 25 each year to pay respect to Seafarers and sailors who help the entire world function by conducting sea transport. This year, the annual Day of the Seafarer (DotS) will be celebrating its 10th anniversary on 25 June. The 2020 campaign for the day: Seafarers are Key Workers. This special day has been celebrated since 2011.

Note: International Maritime Organization Secretary-General: Kitack Lim; International Maritime Organization Headquarters: London, United Kingdom; International Maritime Organization Founded: 17 March 1948.

3. World’s 1st Yoga University outside India named after Vivekanand: World's first yoga university outside India has been established in Los Angeles marking the celebration of 6th International Yoga Day. The name of the University is Vivekananda Yoga University. It is launched by External affairs MoS V Muraleedharan and standing committe chairperson P P Chaudhary virtually. It will offer online graduate programmes based on scientific principles and modern research approaches to yoga.

OTHER UPDATES:

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. GoI brings all cooperative banks under supervision of RBI:  Government of India will bring an ordinance to bring all cooperative banks under the Reserve Bank of India supervision. The move will bring 1,482 urban cooperative banks and 58 multi-state cooperative banks under the control of RBI. The step is taken to provide safety assurance to more than 86 million depositors and their money of around Rs 4.84 trillion in these banks. They will be regulated by RBI just like the scheduled banks.

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

2. Standard Chartered appoints Gaurav Maheshwari as CFO – India: Standard Chartered Bank (India) announced the appointment of Gaurav Maheshwari as its new Chief Financial Officer effective 22 June 2020. He has taken over from Subhradeep Mohanty, who was elevated as CFO, Africa & Middle East (AME) region. In this role, Maheshwari will report to Jean Fernandes, Regional CFO, Asean and South Asia and Zarin Daruwala, India, CEO.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. IMF predicts India’s GDP rate for FY21 to contract by 4.5%: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that India’s GDP will contract by 4.5% in FY21. The reason for this is extended Covid-19 lockdown. IMF has projected India’s GDP growth for FY22 at 6.0%.

2. Facebook’s subsidiary Jaadhu to acquires stakes in Jio Platform: Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved acquisition of 9.99% stake in Reliance Industries’ Jio Platforms by Jaadhu Holdings LLC. Jaadhu is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Facebook which is established in March 2020. Facebook’s Jaadu will buy stake worth around Rs 43,574 crore in Jio Platforms. Jio has raised Rs 1.15 lakh crore since April by selling small stakes to about 11 private equity and sovereign funds across the world.

Note: Facebook HQs: California, US

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Himachal Pradesh wins e-Panchayat Puraskar 2020: The Himachal Pradesh state Panchayati Raj department has won first prize under the e-Panchayat Puraskars-2020 of the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj. The e-panchayat puraskar is conferred to those states which have ensured maximum use of information technology for monitoring the works of the panchayats. Jimachal Pradesh has won the award for effective implementation of the e-application developed by the central government and other applications developed by the state government. All the 3,226 panchayats in the state have been provided with internet facility, with the help of which people can access various services online.

Note: Chief Minister of HP: Jairam Thakur; Governor of HP: Bandaru Dattatraya.

Union Minister of Panchayati Raj: Narendra Singh Tomar.

2. Folk artist Gulabbai Sangamnerkar to get lifetime honour: The Maharashtra government has declared the Vithabai Narayangaokar lifetime achievement award to folk artist Gulabbai Sangamnerkar. The Vithabai Narayangaokar lifetime achievement award is given to a senior tamasha (folk art) artiste. The honour for 2018-19 is being presented upon Gulabbai Sangamnerkar. The honour conveys the money prize of Rs 5 lakh, a citation and a memento.

OBITUARIES

1. Batman’ director Joel Schumacher passes away : Director Joel Schumacher, who is known for the film St Elmo’s Fire, two Batman movies, and Falling Down, passed away in New York. He was 80. Schumacher started off as a costume designer for 1970s films. Schumacher then turned writer in the late ‘70s on Sparkle, Car Wash and film adaptation of Broadway musical The Wiz, and made his directorial debut in 1981 with sci-fi comedy The Incredible Shrinking Woman. He is also credited for nurturing rising talent at the time like Matthew McConaughey (A Time To Kill), Colin Farrell (Phone Booth), Demi Moore and Rob Lowe (St Elmo’s Fire), Gerard Butler (Phantom of the Opera), among others.

2. Trinamool MLA Tamonash Ghosh passes away: Trinamool Congress MLA Tamonash Ghosh, who had tested positive for Covid-19 last month, died at a hospital in Kolkata on Wednesday. He was 60. He represented Falta Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district in West Bengal. He was three-time MLA from Falta & party treasurer since 1998. Ghosh is the first elected public representative in the State to succumb to the contagious viral infection.

Daily GK Updates - 24th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Centre Allocates Rs. 2000 Crore from PM CARES Fund for supplying Made In India Ventilators to govt run COVID hospitals: Amid surging cases of coronavirus in India, the Government of India has allocated Rs 2,000 crore, from the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM CARES) Fund for supply of 50,000 ventilators to government-run COVID-19 hospitals in all states and Union Territories. All these 50 thousand ventilators will be ‘Made in India’. Out of these 30 thousand ventilators are being manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited. Apart from this, Rs 1,000 crore has been allocated for the welfare of migrant labourers. The amount has already been released to States and Union Territories, which in turn will use the same for arranging accommodation, food, medical treatment and transportation of the migrants.

2. Union HRD Minister virtually launches ‘YUKTI 2.0’ platform for Higher Education Institutes: Union Minister of Human Resource Development, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ has launched an initiative ‘YUKTI 2.0’ to help systematically adopt technologies that have commercial potential and information related to incubated startups in our higher education institutions. The launch was done via video conferencing. Earlier, the Minister had launched the YUKTI (Young India combating COVID with Knowledge, Technology and Innovation) web portal on 11 April, 2020. YUKTI 2.0 is logical extension of earlier version of ‘YUKTI’, an initiative of MHRD, to identify ideas relevant in COVID pandemic.

3. Ministry of MSME launches Credit Guarantee Scheme for Sub-ordinate Debt (CGSSD): The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Sub-ordinate Debt (CGSSD) has been launched by Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises. The Scheme will provide Rs. 20,000 crore of guarantee cover to two lakh MSMEs. The scheme is also called “Distressed Assets Fund–Sub-ordinate Debt for MSMEs”.  Guarantee cover worth Rs. 20,000 crores will be provided to the promoters who can take debt from the banks to further invest in their stressed MSMEs as equity. Promoter(s) of the MSMEs will be given credit equal to 15% of their stake (equity plus debt) or Rs. 75 lakh whichever is lower. 90% guarantee coverage for this sub-debt will be given under the Scheme and 10% would come from the concerned promoters. Moratorium and Repayment Period: There will be a moratorium of 7 years on payment of principal whereas maximum tenor for repayment will be 10 years. The scheme will be operationalised through Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for MSEs (CGTMSE).

4. Union FPI Minister launches Food Processing Edition of Investment Forum: The Food Processing Edition of the “Exclusive Investment Forum” has been launched by the Union Food Processing Industries Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal. It has been designed by the Invest India, the National Investment Promotion & Facilitation Agency of the Government of India. The “Exclusive Investment Forum” is a sectoral series to conduct comprehensive conversations among global industry leaders and key decision makers from the highest levels of the Central and State Governments. Total 180 companies from 18 countries participated in the forum. Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) and Project Development Cell will be formed to attract investors making India Global Investment hub It focused on ‘Go vocal for local’

5. GeM mandates ‘Information about Country of Origin’ for sellers: ‘Information about Country of Origin’ has been mandated for the sellers by the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The sellers have been advised to mention “Information about Country of Origin” while registering all new products on GeM. While those sellers, who had already registered their products before the launch of this new feature on GeM, would be reminded regularly to update the information about Country of Origin. If they fail to update the same, their products shall be removed from GeM.

6. Tamil Nadu CM K. Palaniswami inaugurates compressed biogas plant: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, K. Palaniswami has inaugurated compressed biogas (CBG) Plant in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, through video conference in the presence of Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan. The cost of compressed biogas plant (CBG) is Rs 25 crore. The new plant can make 15 tonnes of CBG per day and 20 tonnes of bio manure per day.

Note: Governor of Tamil Nadu: Banwarilal Purohit.

7. IIT-Bombay develops Indian receiver chip “Dhruva”: IIT-Bombay has created Indian beneficiary chip “Dhruva” which can be utilized in cell phones and gadgets to discover locations and routes inside the nation. Dhruva will get signals from India’s NAVIC group of navigation satellites as well as the US Global Positioning System-based satellites to determine these accurately under all weather conditions. It can receive in multiple frequency bands and handle weak signals. Besides, it can be converted into digital bits and processed by any standard digital signal processor (DSP) to determine one’s location precisely. The radiofrequency collector chip was structured in the year and a half by understudies and specialists at IIT Bombay.

Note: IIT-Bombay Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; Director of IIT-Bombay: Subhasis Chaudhuri.

8. OBC panel gets six-month extension: Union Cabinet has approved six-month extension to Other Backward Classes commission to examine sub-categorisation of OBC in Central list. With this, the panel can submit its report till January 2021. The commission is headed by retired Delhi High Court Chief Justice G. Rohini. OBC commission was appointed in October 2017 under article 340 and have received several extensions. It was working on the issues of communities that were not getting the benefits of reservation.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. India pledges USD 10 million to UN for Palestine refugees: India has pledged to contribute USD 10 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The amount would be contributed over the coming two years. The contribution of USD 10 million would be an additional amount over and above USD 5 million contribution announced for year 2020. India has also pledged to donate life savings drugs to Palestine as a support to in combatting the COVID-19 pandemic. India provides 250 annual scholarships to Palestinian youth and officials, apart from regular customised training programmes, and current project grant is around 72 million dollar. India had stepped up its annual pledge from 1.25 million US dollar to 5 million US dollar in 2018.

2. China launches final Beidou satellite to complete GPS-like navigation system: China successfully launched the final member in its Beidou satellite constellation completing a new global navigation system decades in the making. A Long March 3B rocket launched the final Beidou Navigation Satellite (BDS) into orbit from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China. This was the last satellite in the third version of the BDS and the 55th in the BeiDou satellite constellation.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Wasim Jaffer appointed head coach of Uttarakhand cricket team: Former India opener and domestic stalwart Wasim Jaffer has been appointed head coach of the Uttarakhand cricket team for the upcoming domestic season. This will be his first stint as a head coach with a team.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Karnataka Bank launches KBL Micro Mitra for Micro enterprises: The Karnataka Bank has rolled out a new product titled “KBL Micro Mitra” for the Micro entrepreneurs. Under the newly launched product, the Micro manufacturing and service enterprises will be offered a financial assistance of up to Rs 10 lakhs. This financial assistance would be provided either for working capital or for investment purposes. It will simplify the procedure and rate of interest for entrepreneurs. KBL Micro Mitra would be available for the Micro entrepreneurs across India through all the branches of Karnataka Bank.

Note: MD & CEO of Karnataka Bank: Mahabaleshwara M.S.; Karnataka Bank HQs: Mangaluru

2. Shri. T. Rabi Sankar appointed as Chairman of IFTAS, Dr. N Rajendran as Chief Executive Officer: Indian Financial Technology & Allied Services (IFTAS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reserve Bank of India, (RBI) has appointed Shri. T Rabi Sankar as the Chairman of the organisation and Dr N Rajendran as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Sankar’s appointement is effective from May 15, 2020 while Dr N Rajendran’s appointment is effective from May 27, 2020. T Rabi Sankar is also serving as Executive Director, Reserve Bank of India for Payment systems, Information Technology, Risk Management and Fintech. IFTAS is established under Section 8 of Indian Companies Act, 2013 to provide essential IT-related services, required by the Reserve Bank of India, banks, and financial institutions, effectively and efficiently.

Note: IFTAS Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Moody’s Projects India’s GDP at -3.1% for Calendar Year 2020 and 6.9% in 2021: Moody’s Investors Service has sharply revised its forecast for India’s annual GDP growth and has projected the Indian economy to shrink 3.1 percent in the Calendar year 2020, caused by the disruptions due to the coronavirus pandemic. Moody’s released its June update to Global Macro Outlook (2020-21) on 22 June 2020. In April 2020, it pegged India’s annual growth at 0.2 percent for 2020. However, Moody’s expects the economy to register 6.9 percent growth in 2021.

Note: CEO and President of Moody's: Raymond Whitehead McDaniel

2. India retains its position as 3rd Largest Economy on PPP basis for 2017: World Bank Report: The World Bank has released the new purchasing power parity (PPP) for the reference year 2017, under the International Comparison Program (ICP), that adjust for differences in the cost of living across economies of the world. Globally, 176 economies participated in 2017 cycle of ICP. India has retained its position as the third-largest economy in the world in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP) for 2017, as per the World Bank data. India was 3rd largest in 2011 round of World Bank’s International Comparison Program (ICP) also. In 2017, the United States and China were the two largest economies in the world and together accounted for one-third of the global economy. Key Points of the report

(1) India accounts for 6.7 percent, (amounting to $8,051 billion, out of the world’s total of $119,547 billion) of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in terms of PPP, a measure of relative consumer prices across countries.

(2) China’s GDP stood at $19,617 billion (16.4%) in PPP terms in 2017, while the United States’ GDP was $19,519 billion (16.3%).

(3) The Price Level Index (PLI)- the ratio of a PPP to its corresponding market exchange rate, which is used to compare the price levels of economies- improved to 47.55 in 2017 from 42.99 in 2011.

Note: International Comparison Program (ICP): The ICP is one of the largest statistical initiatives in the world, managed by the World Bank under the guidance of the United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC).

OBITUARIES

1. Former MP Vishwa Bandhu Gupta passes away: Former Member of Parliament and journalist Vishwa Bandhu Gupta (93 years) passed away in New Delhi. He was the member of Congress party during the 1980s and served as the MP from Delhi from April 1984 to 1990 in the Rajya Sabha. He served as the Chairman and Editor-in-chief of the Tej group of publications and was also the President of All India Newspaper Editors Conference. He was also one of the founding members of the Press Club of India.

2. Former Indian Shooter Pournima Zanane passes away: Former India shooter and and coach Pournima Zanane (42 years) passes away due to cancer. She was a national record holder in 10m air rifle event. She had represented India at ISSF World Cups, Asian Championships, Commonwealth Championships. She was an International Shooting Sport Federation-licenced coach and had served as a coach for Sri Lanka. She was honoured with Shiv Chhatrapati Sports award by the Maharashtra government.

3. Former Karnataka Basketball Player K Raghunath passes away: Former Karnataka basketball player K Raghunath (74 years) passes away due to age-related complications. He was known by his nickname ‘Pappachi’. He was one of the founding members of the Beagles Basketball Club. He played as the point guard for Bangalore University team for five years and won around 3 championship Raghunath represented Indian All-Star team which toured Sri Lanka in 1962, and played for the State in the 1960s. 

Daily GK Updates - 23rd June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates First-ever Virtual Healthcare and Hygiene Expo 2020: The Minister of State for Shipping (Independent charge) and Chemicals & Fertilisers Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the country’s largest and first Virtual Healthcare & Hygiene EXPO 2020 on 22nd June 2020. The Expo has been organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), and supported by Ministry of AYUSH, GoI. This is the first of its kind event and largest virtual exhibition in India. The event was inaugurated virtually and will be live daily from 22nd to 26th June, 2020. The expo will witness participation of over 1,000 international buyers from 120 countries with 147 exhibitors.

Note: Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers: D. V. Sadananda Gowda.

2. Patanjali launches ayurvedic medicine ‘Coronil And Swasari’ for 100 percent treatment of Coronavirus: Yoga guru Baba Ramdev owned Patanjali Ayurved Limited, has launched Corona Kit, an ayurvedic medicine, that it claims can cure Covid-19 infection. The medicine titled ‘Coronil and Swasari’ is slated to treat coronavirus within seven days and has shown 100 percent favourable results during clinical trials on patients. Baba Ramdev claims it as the first ayurvedic medicine for curing COVID-19 in the world. The medicine has been prepared under the guidance of Ramdev and Balkrishna, managing director of Patanjali Ayurved Limited. The Corona kit will be made available at Rs 545 can be used for 30 days.

3. Jharkhand govt launches Jharkhand Mukhyamantri SHRAMIK Yojana Job Card for Urban Poor: The Jharkhand government has launched an employment guarantee scheme for the urban unskilled workers. The scheme will be on similar lines of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The scheme called Mukhyamantri Shramik Yojna will guarantee 100 days of work in a financial year for urban unskilled labourers. The new scheme would have a provision to pay an unemployment allowance if the state fails to provide 100 days of work

4. ISRO receives patent for “Liquid Cooling and Heating Garment”: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has received a patent for its Liquid Cooling and Heating Garment (LCHG). Liquid Cooling and Heating Garment (LCHG) is a protective garment for human spaceflight, also can be used for military, firefighting, and personal cooling-heating purposes shielding. It is a close fitting long garment that covers the torso as well as the limbs from neck to toe as a single piece lightweight comfort inner wear. The flight suit has to be worn by the astronauts over the LCHG. The garment permits the long term use without any impact on the wearer in terms of skin irritation or infection. It has a system for circulating temperature controlling fluid through tubes inside the garment.

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

5. Amish Tripathi launches his new fiction book- ‘Legend of Suheldev: The King Who Saved India’: Bestselling author, Amish Tripathi has released his new fiction book titled ‘Legend of Suheldev: The King Who Saved India’ on 20 June 2020. The latest fiction is set in 11th-century and is a story of a king who united men and women of the nation, irrespective of their religion, caste, region, or status in society. The book begins with Mahmud of Ghazni’s invasion and the massacre of the holy Somnath Temple. It then proceeds to document the adventure of the warrior-king Suheldev and the way he brings together people from various faiths. The book has been published by Westland Publications.

6. Mumbai Civic Body launches Mission Zero for corona containment: Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai has launched ‘Mission Zero’ to contain the spread coronavirus. Under this, 50 mobile dispensary vans are inaugurated to conduct preliminary examination of patients in the hotspot areas. It is a PPP initiative of Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana, Desh Apnayen, CREDAI-MCHI and Bill Gates Foundation. The move is taken for early detection and timely treatment. The initiative will also spread awareness about the disease and cure.

7. CBIC launches Secure QR coded Shipping Bill: CBIC has launched Secure QR coded Shipping Bill that would be electronically sent to exporters after the Customs allows export. It will eliminate process of approaching custom officer for proof of export. The move will make Customs export process fully electronic reducing time and cost improving India’s ranking in World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Report It is a part of Faceless, Paperless and Contactless Customs under ‘Turant Customs’ programme.

Note: CBIC Chairman: Ajit Kumar

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. United Nations Public Service Day: 23rd June: The United Nations Public Service Day is celebrated on June 23 every year, as a tribute to the people who are associated with public service in all the counties of the world. The Day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 to celebrate the value and virtue of public service to the community. Theme of 2020 is ‘On the frontlines: honouring public servants in the COVID-19 pandemic response.’ The United Nations Economic and Social Council also presents the prestigious United Nations Public Service Awards on this day for contributions made to the cause of enhancing the role, prestige, and visibility of public service. Public institution of Bangladesh, Botswana, Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, Korea and Spain will receive prestigious UNPSA 2020. The day also marks the anniversary of the date when the International Labour Organization adopted the Convention on Labour Relations (Public Service), 1978 (No. 151) for determining working conditions of all civil servants across the world.

2. International Widows Day: 23rd June: The International Widows Day is a UN recognised day which takes place annually on 23 June to raise awareness of the issue of widowhood and also to address the “poverty and injustice faced by millions of widows and their dependents in many countries”. The theme of IWD 2020 is ‘Invisible Women, Invisible Problems’. The first International Widows Day took place in 2005. The day was formally recognised by the United Nations General Assembly on 21 December 2010.

3. International Olympic Day: 23rd June: The International Olympic Day is held on June 23 each year to celebrate sports and health. The Olympic Day 2020 theme is “Move, learn and discover”. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) approved to observe Olympic Day in January 1948 to commemorate the creation of the International Olympic Committee on 23 June 1894. Olympic Day 2020 will be celebrated by creating world’s largest 24 hour digital-first Olympic workout. Athletes including PV Sindhu, Vinesh Phogat, etc around the globe will perform live workout.

Note: President of International Olympic Committee: Thomas Bach.

4. I&B Minister inaugurates Virtual India Pavilion at Cannes Film Market 2020: Information & Broadcasting Minister, Prakash Javadekar launches Virtual India Pavilion at Cannes Film Market 2020 depicting India’s participation at Cannes Film Festival. The Festival is taking place from 22 - 26 June 2020. This year, India has sent two films for screening during the festival, namely: MaiGhat: Crime No 103/200 (Marathi) and Hellaro (Gujarati). The Indian Pavilion at Cannes will enable the Indian film makers and delegates to interact with the international community, and make them experience the colour, flavor and aroma of Indian cinema.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. WWE legend The Undertaker announces retirement: Wrestling legend and WWE superstar “The Undertaker” has announced his retirement from World Wrestling Entertainment. The Undertaker’s last match was against AJ Styles at WrestleMania 36. His real name is Mark Calaway. Earlier, the wrestler had announced in the last episode of the WWE docuseries The Last Ride about his decision to leave the ring for good.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Yes Bank partners with Affordplan to launch “Swasth Card”: Yes Bank has partnered with fintech startup “Affordplan” to launch ‘Swasth Card’, a co-branded healthcare card, under Swasth program. YES BANK’s wallet has also been integrated on Affordplan Swasth to enable wallet QR scan for making payments to merchant partners empanelled on the Affordplan Swasth app. Equipped with a chip-enabled card, digital wallet, goal-based savings, loans, and insurance, Swasth program extends access to a family seeking curative as well as preventive care.

Note: Yes Bank Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; Yes Bank MD & CEO: Prashant Kumar.

2. UCO bank partners with 4 insurance companies: UCO Bank has tied up with four insurers to offer various insurance products to its customers through its network of branches across the country. The lender teamed up with SBI Life Insurance Company, the Oriental insurance company and Religare insurance Company, Star Health and Allied insurance company for selling their products. Through the new tie-up, it will offer wide range of insurance products for financial wellbeing of the customer. The bank will digitise and automate the customer interface for availing these facilities.

Note: Headquarters of UCO Bank: Kolkata, West Bengal; Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of UCO Bank: Atul Kumar Goel.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Nirakar Pradhan appointed as the CEO of PRMIA: Dr Nirakar Pradhan has appointed as new as the Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Risk Managers’ International Association (PRMIA) of its new India office. Pradhan has led teams at State Bank of India and Generali Group in India and Europe. David Coleman, Lakshmi Shyam-Sunder, Tom Wilson have been appointed as the board members. PRMIA is a non-profit recognized global association that aims to boost best practices in risk management.

Note: Professional Risk Managers’ International Association (PRMIA) Founded: 2002; Professional Risk Managers’ International Association (PRMIA) Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware, United States.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Annual Golden Globe awards shifted to February 2021: Annual Golden Globe Awards ceremony for film and television has been postponed to February 2021. This will be the 78th edition of the awards. The ceremony begins Hollywood’s awards season will take place on 28th of February instead of its usual slot on the first Sunday in January. Oscar awards have also been postponed to 25th April due to the ongoing pandemic. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are the host for 2021. Hollywood Foreign Press Association will deal with nominations.

2. Amartya Sen wins 2020 Peace Prize of the German Book Trade: Nobel-laureate Indian economist and philosopher Amartya Sen has been selected for the 2020 Peace Prize of the German Book Trade for his decades-long work around issues of global justice. The 86-year-old Harvard professor and past Nobel prize winner will be awarded during a ceremony on 18 October 2020 in Frankfurt. He won 1998 Nobel Prize in Economics for his contributions to welfare economics and Bharat Ratna in 1999. The Peace Prize of the German Book Trade comes with a cash prize of €25,000 euros ($28,000). The German Publishers and Booksellers Association, Borsenverein, presents the prize annually since 1950 to honor individuals “who have made an outstanding contribution to the realization of the idea of peace, primarily through their activities in the fields of literature, science and art.”

OBITUARIES

1. Major General Lachhman Singh Lehl passes away: Major General Lachhman Singh Lehl (97 years) passed away in New Delhi. He was one of the finest military brains of India and one of the last surviving officers who took part in the 1948 (J&K) and 1971 (Bangladesh liberation) wars. He was awarded with Vir Chakra (3rd highest gallantary award) for his role as a forward observation officer with the 50 Para Brigade. He authored a comprehensive book on the 1965 India-Pakistan war titled ‘Missed Opportunities’.