Daily GK Updates - 18th July, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Uttarakhand govt to generate electricity from waste: The Uttarakhand government has decided to convert waste generated in the state to electricity under an initiative titled ‘Waste to Energy’. According to Uttarakhand Environment Protection and Pollution Control Board (UEPPCB), this waste can generate up to 5 megawatts of electricity and curb pollution. The scheme also aims to solve the problem of unavailability of landfills to dispose of the solid waste across the hill state with has 10 out if 13 districts as hill areas.

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

 

2. CBSE ties-up with IBM to integrate AI curriculum in schools: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has integrated a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) course for class XI and XII in the current academic year (2020-2021). The curriculum was developed in collaboration with IBM (International Business Machines Corporation). The IBM AI curriculum is a part of CBSE’s Social Empowerment through Work Education and Action (SEWA) program. The IBM AI curriculum is structured around a course framework for students consisting of base strands of knowledge (basics, history, applications), skills (design thinking, computational thinking, data fluency, critical thinking) and values (ethical decision making, bias) in AI. It will be introduced in 200 schools across 13 states.

Note: CBSE Chairman: Manoj Ahuja; CBSE Head Office: Delhi.

IBM Executive Chairman: Virginia M. Rometty; IBM Chief Executive Officer: Arvind Krishna; IBM Headquarters: New York, United States of America.

 

3. Cabinet approves 2% Interest Subvention on prompt repayment of Shishu Loans : Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved a scheme for interest subvention of 2% for a period of 12 months, to all Shishu loan accounts under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) to eligible borrowers.  The scheme will be extended to loans which meet the following criteria – outstanding as on 31st March, 2020; and not in Non-Performing Asset (NPA) category, as per Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, on 31st March 2020 and during the period of operation of the Scheme. The interest subvention would be payable for the months in which the accounts are not in NPA category including for the months that the account becomes a performing asset again, after turning NPA. The estimated cost of the Scheme would be approximately Rs. 1,542 crore which would be provided by the Government of India.

 

4. Andhra Pradesh to reorganise its 13 districts into 25 for optimal use of resources: The Andhra Pradesh cabinet decided to reorganise its 13 districts into 25 districts by March 31 in such a way that each of the 25 parliamentary constituencies will represent a new district. Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy’s cabinet approved the decision to form a committee to look into reorganisation of existing 13 districts into 25. The committee headed by the chief secretary comprises chief commissioner of land administration (CCLA), secretary (services) of general administration department, secretary of planning department and an official from the chief minister’s office as members. Principal Secretary (finance) will be its convener.

 

5. SportsAdda ropes in former Australian pacer and legend Brett Lee as brand ambassador: SportsAdda, the Indian news and information website for cricket, football, and kabaddi, has signed former Australian fast bowler and cricket legend Brett Lee, as its brand ambassador. Lee will be conducting a host of fun activities including contests, quizzes, Q&As, bowling masterclasses, and giveaways that will feature exclusively on the SportsAdda app, website, and social handles.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ossouka Raponda appointed as first woman Prime Minister of Gabon: Rose Christiane Ossouka Raponda has been appointed as the first woman prime minister of Gabon on 16 July 2020. The 56-year-old is the 12th PM of the country and succeeds Julien Nkoghe Bekale. Prior to holding this position, Ossouka Raponda served as defence minister since February 2019. Her appointment is the fourth cabinet reshuffle by the President of Gabon, Ali Bongo Ondimba since January 2019. Gabon is a country along Atlantic coast of Central Africa

Note: Gabon Capital: Libreville; Currency of Gabon: Central African CFA franc.

 

2. India ranks tenth globally in intellectual property filings in 2018, China tops: WIPO Report: India has emerged as the top tenth nation in the ranking of the total (resident and abroad) Intellectual Property (IP) filing activity, as per World Intellectual Property Indicators-2019 Report. The overall ranking has been topped by China, which was the main source of growth in worldwide IP filings in 2018. China was followed by United States, Germany, Japan, and Republic of Korea as the top five nations in the list. The report released by Geneva-based World Intellectual Property Organization analyzes IP activity around the globe. The 2019 report presents data for 49 countries based on their 2018 filing, registration and renewals statistics, collected from national and regional IP offices and WIPO. The Intellectual Property (IP) considered for ranking countries covers patents, utility models, trademarks, industrial designs, microorganisms, plant variety protection and geographical indications.

 

3. PM Modi Virtually addresses UN ECOSOC on UN’s 75th anniversary: Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi delivers a keynote address virtually at the valedictory session of High-Level Segment of UN ECOSOC (United Nations Economic and Social Council) on July 17 in New York, on the eve of 75th anniversary of the United Nations. The year 2020 marks the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, in 1945. The theme of the High-level Segment was “Multilateralism after COVID19: What kind of UN do we need at the 75th anniversary”. This was Prime Minister Modi’s first speech at the UN after India’s election to the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member on 17th June 2020 for the term 2021-22. PM was joined by his Norwegian counterpart Erna Solberg as well as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The High-Level Segment is held annually by ECOSOC for discussing international economic and social issues and formulating policy recommendations addressed to member states and United Nations system.

 

4. Pakistan and China sign agreement to construct 700MW Azad Pattan Hydel Power Project: Pakistan and China have signed an agreement for construction of Azad Pattan Hydel Power Project in Sudhoti district of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The project is being developed under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), at an estimated cost of $1.5 billion. The 700.7 MW Azad Pattan Hydel Power Project is located at River Jhelum and is expected to be completed in 2026. Once completed, Pakistan would no longer need to import fuel, enabling the country to move towards cheaper and greener power while generating local job opportunities. The first agreement, for the 1,100 MW Kohala project, was signed on June 23. That project, worth $2.3 billion, too will come upon the Jhelum near Muzaffarabad.

Note: China Capital: Beijing; Currency of China: Renminbi; President of China: Xi Jinping.

Prime Minister of Pakistan: Imran Khan; President of Pakistan: Arif Alvi; Capital of Pakistan: Islamabad.

 

5. Nelson Mandela International Day: 18th July: Nelson Mandela International Day (also Mandela Day) is held every year on July 18 globally to honour the legacy of the late President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela. The day acknowledges Nelson Mandela’s contribution to the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world. The day 18 July marks the birth anniversary of the great South African leader, who was born in 1918. United Nations officially declared July 18 as UN Mandela Day in November 2009. The first UN Mandela Day was held on 18 July 2010.

Note: Headquarters of United Nations: New York, USA; Founded: 24 October 1945; Secretary-General of the United Nations: Mr Antonio Guterres

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Real Madrid clinch record 34th La Liga title defeating Villarreal: Real Madrid have been crowned La Liga Champions for the 34th time after defeating Villarreal 2–1, with one match remaining. Also, the La Liga 2019-20 season title for Spanish football club Real Madrid is first in three years. Last time the team won the title in 2017. Under the leadership of the coach Zinedine Zidane, Real Madrid won all 10 games out 10 since the restart, and still a game remaining. Karim Benzema was the leading scorer for a 2-1 victory against Villarreal.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. NABARD Credit Support of Rs 1,607 Crore to Bengal in Coronavirus Crisis: National Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has provided credit support of Rs 1,607 crore to West Bengal during the COVID-19 pandemic so far. Besides the bank’s normal refinance schemes, this is a special liquidity support measure as the pandemic and the lockdown have severely affected the rural economy. The help was provided through state cooperative banks, regional rural banks and micro-finance institutions.

 

2. HSBC to set up IFSC Banking Unit at GIFT city in Gandhinagar: HSBC- the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited is to set up the IFSC Banking Unit at Gujarat International Finance Tec City, GIFT city in Gandhinagar Gujarat. The world’s largest financial services organization HSBC has got in-principle approval from the GIFT SEZ Authority to set up an IFSC Banking Unit -IBU at GIFT City, subject to other Regulatory approvals. This development marks a major milestone for HSBC in India, which has been present in the country for more than 160 years.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Shiv Nadar Retires, Daughter Roshni Nadar takes over as new Chairman of HCL Technologies: Roshni Nadar Malhotra has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the IT services company HCL Technologies, after her father Shiv Nadar, expressed his desire to step down from the position of the Chairman. Roshni Nadar took over the role of the Chairperson of the Board of Directors and the Company w.e.f. July 17, 2020. Before this, the 38-year-old Malhotra was the chief executive officer and non-executive director of the company. Shiv Nadar would continue as managing director and hold the designation of Chief Strategy Officer.

Note: HQs: Noida, Uttar Pradesh; HCL Tech CEO: C Vijayakumar

 

2. Snapdeal’s Kunal Bahl to lead CII’s e-commerce committee: Confederation of Indian Industry said Snapdeal’s Co-founder & CEO Kunal Bahl has taken over as the Chairman of its e-commerce committee for the year 2020-21. The upcoming e-commerce policy, the consumer protection rules and a consistent interpretation of the intermediary status of e-commerce platforms figure high on the immediate agenda of the committee. The committee will focus on resolving policy issues that will help accelerate the growth of exports through e-commerce platforms.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Four Journalists Honored with CPJ’s 2020 International Press Freedom Awards: Four Journalists have been named as the recipients of the 2020 International Press Freedom Awards by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), a New York-based non-profit organisation to promote press freedom and defend the rights of journalists. All these four journalists have faced arrests or criminal prosecution for their reporting. The 30th edition of the annual International Press Freedom Award will be presented to the winners on November 19, 2020. CPJ International Press Freedom Awards honor journalists or their publications around the world who show courage in defending press freedom despite facing attacks, threats, or imprisonment. 2020 International Press Freedom Awards Winners:

(1) Shahidul Alam from Bangladesh,

(2) Mohammad Mosaed from Iran,

(3) Dapo Olorunyomi from Nigeria

(4) Svetlana Prokopyeva from Russia.

Apart from this, Human rights lawyer Amal Clooney has been honoured with the Gwen Ifill Press Freedom Award. CPJ’s Gwen Ifill Press Freedom Award is presented annually to an individual who has shown extraordinary and sustained achievement in the cause of press freedom.

Note: CPJ Headquarters: New York, US; CPJ Executive Director: Joel Simon.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Para-badminton player Ramesh Tikaram passes away: Para-badminton player Ramesh Tikaram (51 years) passes away in Bangalore due to coronavirus. He was honoured with Arjuna Award in 2002. His journey in sport started in school. He switched to sport for the differently abled in 1988. He competed in athletics in the Barcelona Paralympics Games. He was part of the Indian powerlifting team for the World Cup in France in 1994. He won many medals in shotput and Javelin throw including an international meet in Nottingham in 1995. He was awarded the Arjuna Award for his excellence in para-athletics and badminton in 2002. He became the founder secretary of the Badminton Sports Association of India for the Challenged, now known as the Para-Badminton Association of India in 2000.

 

2. Purushottam Priyadasji Swamishree Maharaj passes away: Head Priest of Maninagar Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan, Purushottam Priyadasji Swamishree Maharaj (78 years) passes away in Ahmedabad due to Covid-19. He was the fifth spiritual leader in Supreme Lord Shree Swaminarayan’s divine lineage and was the successor of Gurudev Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa, and current Acharya of Shree Swaminarayan Gadi. He is succeeded by his spiritual successor Shree Jitendriyapriyadasji Swami. 

Daily GK Updates – 17th July, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. DCGI approves India’s 1st homemade Pneumonia vaccine:  Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved India’s first fully indigenously developed Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Conjugate Vaccine (Pneumonia vaccine). The vaccine will be utilized for active immunization against invasive disease and pneumonia caused by “Streptococcus pneumonia” among infants.  The vaccine has been developed by Serum Institute of India Pvt Ltd, Pune. It is India’s first indigenously developed vaccine in the field of pneumonia. With the DCGI’s approval, Serum Institute of India has been granted permission to manufacture the vaccine domestically.

2. Digital Indo-Italian Business Mission on Food Processing: Opening session of the Digital Indo-Italian Business Mission on Food Processing has commenced virtually. The two-day event will include digital conferences, trade fair and B2B meetings. Opening session of the mission was addressed by the Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, Smt. Harsimrat Kaur Badal. The Digital Indo-Italian Business Mission is a 2-day event that will witness the participation of 23 Italian companies and will conduct virtual exhibition of their products & services and also participate in the Business (B2B) Meetings with the end users and other industry players in India. Meetings and the webinars across the key areas such as Fruits & Vegetables, Cereals, Milk & Dairy processing, and Packaging & Bottling will also held during the virtual session.

3. First on-line NISHTHA programme launched in Andhra Pradesh:  First on-line NISHTHA programme has been launched by the Union HRD Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ and Minister of State for HRD Shri Sanjay Dhotre in Andhra Pradesh. Online NISHTHA programme has been launched for 1200 Key Resources Persons of Andhra Pradesh, hence making it the first ever state in the country. NISHTHA has been customized for online mode because of COVID-19 pandemic situation which has affected the conduct of this programme in face-to-face mode. Online NISHTHA programme would be conducted through DIKSHA and NISHTHA portals by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement (NISHTHA) is a capacity building programme that was launched by the government of India on 21st August, 2019 to improve the quality of school education through Integrated Teacher Training.

3. NABARD launches development projects in Andaman & Nicobar Islands:  National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has launched development projects in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The projects worth Rs 44 lakhs aims to strengthen the concept of Atmanirbhar Bharat through rural entrepreneurship. As part of the project, there would be focus on the formation and skill development of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to promote rural entrepreneurship at micro level. As part of the initiative, NABARD will conduct 385 village-level programmes and also offer training to leaders of newly formed SHGs with a sum of more than Rs 10 lakh. Training for Mushroom Cultivation and Bamboo Handicrafts making will be provided to the women attached to SHGs in Little Andaman.

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

Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Admiral D K Joshi.

4. Telangana Police rolls out “CybHer” campaign:  The Women Safety Wing, Telangana State Police has launched the “CybHer” campaign in association with the Legal Aid Centre, Symbiosis Law School, Hyderabad. The “CybHer” campaign has been rolled out to tackle cybercrime against children and women in the state. It is a month long virtual campaign which will make cyberspace safe for both women and children. “CybHer” campaign will create awareness and offer proactive measures to help them stay alert and not become a victim of cyberattacks. It will focus on incidents of paedophile activity, sexual harassment of minors, etc.

Note: Chief Minister of Telangana: K Chandrasekhar Rao; Governor: Tamilisai Soundararajan.

5. UNICEF India partners with SAP India for employability of young people:  UNICEF India has partnered with SAP India to offer career counselling to young people in the country. The partnership between the two aims to improve the employability skills of young people in a COVID-19 as well as post COVID-19 era. Under this initiative, UNICEF has collaborated with YuWaah (Generation Unlimited) to offer digital education as well as occupational skillset to the underserved young people of India. The UNICEF – YuWaah – SAP India partnership has a prime objective to empower young people, to utilize their creativity, problem-solving and leadership assets, to improve their own lives as well of their communities.

Note: Executive Director of UNICEF: Henrietta H. Fore; UNICEF HQs: New York

6. IIT Madras start-up developed a portable hospital called “MediCAB”:  Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) start-up Modulus Housing, has developed a portable hospital unit called ‘MediCAB’. MediCAB can be installed anywhere within two hours by four people. It has been launched recently in Wayanad District of Kerala where the units are being deployed to treat COVID19 Patients. The Medicab is foldable and is composed of four zones: a doctor’s room, an isolation room, a medical room/ward and a twin-bed ICU, maintained at negative pressure. It aims to decentralize the approach to detect, screen, identify, isolate and treat COVID-19 patients in their local communities through these portable microstructures.

7. Chief Minister Pema Khandu releases book on endangered tribe: The book titled ‘The Tangams: An Ethnolinguistic Study Of The Critically Endangered Group of Arunachal Pradesh’ was released by Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu. Book is based on the Tangams, a critically endangered speech community of Arunachal Pradesh domiciled at Kugging village, Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The book has been published by Centre for Endangered Languages, Rajiv Gandhi University and Himalayan Publishers, New Delhi. Co-authors: Kaling Dabi, Kombong Darang, Rejhoney Borang, Chera Devi, Rumi Deuri.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Suriname elects Indian-origin ‘Chan’ Santokhi as President: Indian-origin, Chandrikapersad ‘Chan’ Santokhi has been elected the president of South American country “Suriname”. A former Justice Minister, Santokhi of the Progressive Reform Party (PRP) was elected unopposed. He will succeed Desi Bouterse, a former military strongman, whose National Party of Suriname (NPS) lost the election in May as he sent the country to an economic precipice. Suriname is a former Dutch colony where people of Indian descent make up the largest ethnic group comprising 27.4 per cent of the population of 587,000.

Note: Capital of Suriname: Paramaribo; The currency of Suriname: Suriname Dollar.

2. Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa appointed as new Vice-President of ADB: The Metro Manila, Philippines based multilateral funding agency Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed India’s Election Commissioner (EC) Ashok Lavasa as the Vice-President for private sector operations and public-private partnerships. Lavasa will succeed Diwakar Gupta, whose term will end on August 31, 2020. Ashok Lavasa is currently one of the two Election Commissioners of India, serving since January 2018. He will step down from the post, ahead of the completion of his term, to take up the role at ADB. The other EC of India is Sushil Chandra

Note: President of Asian Development Bank: Masatsugu Asakawa; Asian Development Bank Headquarters: Mandaluyong, Philippines; Asian Development Bank Founded: 19 December 1966.

3. World Emoji Day: 17th July: The World Emoji Day is celebrated every year on 17 July since 2014 to promote the use of emojis and spread the enjoyment that they bring to all of those around us. The Day was created by London-based founder of Emojipedia, Jeremy Burge.

4. World Day for International Justice: 17th July: The World Day for International Justice, (also known as Day of International Criminal Justice or International Justice Day), is celebrated globally on July 17 to support and recognize the work of the International Criminal Court (ICC). The day marks the anniversary of Rome Statute adoption on July 17, 1998 through which International Criminal Court (ICC) was created. The day was first observed on the Review Conference of the Rome Statute held at the city of Kampala, Uganda on June 1, 2010

Note: International Criminal Court HQ: The Hague, Netherlands; International Criminal Court President: Chile Eboe-Osuji; International Criminal Court Established: 2002.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. IOC postpones 2022 Dakar Youth Olympics to 2026: The Youth Olympic Games in Dakar will be celebrated in 2026 after Senegal and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) “mutually agreed” to postpone the Games from 2022. The IOC and Senegal understand that this news will be disappointing for many young athletes. Both parties can only appeal to their understanding. This agreement results from the large scale of the operational challenges which the IOC, the NOCs and the IFs are facing following the postponement of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. Earlier, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics have been postponed to next year. Now the event will be held from July 23 to August 8, 2021.

Note: Senegal Capital: Dakar; Senegal Currency: West African CFA Franc.

International Olympic Committee Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland; International Olympic Committee President: Thomas Bach.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. ICRA Predicts India’s GDP to Contract 9.5% in FY21: Credit Rating agency ICRA has sharply revised the GDP forecast for India and expects the Indian economy to contract by 9.5% (-9.5%) in 2020-21. Earlier it had projected the GDP at -5% for FY21. The increasing Covid-19 infections, leading to localised lockdowns in some states and cities, affecting the economic activities is the main reason for this sharp revision. Icra’s projection is the sharpest contraction in the gross domestic product (GDP) for FY21 among all estimations so far.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Marcus Rashford receives honorary degree from University of Manchester: The 22-year-old England football player, Marcus Rashford becomes the youngest ever recipient of an honorary degree from The University of Manchester. He will receive the degree in recognition of his achievements as a footballer and as a passionate campaigner against child poverty. Rashford’s collaboration with FareShare, a poverty and food waste charity, has led to £20million being raised in financial and food donations. Manchester United striker Rashford successfully campaigned for UK govt to extend the scheme for free school meals for underprivileged children.

DEFENCE

1. DRDO develops P7 Heavy Drop System for IL 76 aircraft:  Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed the P7 Heavy Drop System. It is capable of para dropping military stores up to 7-ton weight class from IL 76 aircraft. The design of this fully indigenous system has been developed by Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), a Research & Development (R&D) lab of DRDO based in Agra, Uttar Pradesh (UP). P7 Heavy Drop System system has been made under the Make in India programme. It’s a platform system manufactured by L&T (Larsen & Toubro) while parachutes manufactured by Ordnance Factory.

Note: DRDO Headquarters: New Delhi; DRDO Chairman: Dr G. Satheesh Reddy.

OBITUARIES

1. Maharashtra’s first woman SEC Neela Satyanarayan passes away:  First woman State Election Commissioner (SEC) of Maharashtra Neela Satyanarayan passed away. She was a 1972 batch IAS officer. Neela Satyanarayan was appointed as the State Election Commissioner (SEC) of Maharashtra in 2009 after her brief tenure as an additional chief secretary of Revenue Department. She served as the SEC of Maharashtra till 05 July 2014. Neela Satyanarayan has also penned books such as Vanava and Ek Purna Ek Apurna along with several collections of poetry. She has also composed music for a film.

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

Daily GK Updates – 16th July, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal introduces ‘Pragyata- Guidelines for Online Education’: The Union Minister of Human Resource Development, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank released the ‘PRAGYATA’: Guidelines on #DigitalEducation on 14 July 2020. ‘Pragyata’ is an eight step guidelines on digital education for school heads, teachers, parents and students, to assist them in e-learning, such as recommended screen time for children, tips on coping with mental/physical stress during #DigitalLearning, among other things. These eight steps include: Plan, Review, Arrange, Guide, Yak (talk), Assign, Track, and Appreciate. Some of the areas in which the guidelines have been introduced for administrators, school heads, teachers, parents, and students include: (1) Need assessment; (2) Concerns while planning online and digital education like duration, screen time, inclusiveness, balanced online and offline activities, etc level-wise; (3) Modalities of intervention including resource curation, level-wise delivery, etc.; (4) Physical, mental health, and wellbeing during digital education; (5) Cyber safety and ethical practices including precautions and measures for maintaining cyber safety; (6) Collaboration and convergence with various initiatives

2. Anji Khad Bridge: Indian Railways’ 1st cable-stayed rail bridge: The Railways Minister Piyush Goyal has announced, India’s first cable-stayed Railways bridge “Anji Khad Bridge” to connects Katra and Reasi in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). This bridge is being developed by Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL). This bridge is as a part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. The total length of the Anji Khad Bridge is 473.25 metres. It has a single pylon, standing at a height of 331 metres above the river bed. The pylon had to be constructed in a vertical slope using micropiles of 40-metre depth all around the circumference of 20 metres well foundation. It has the support of 96 cables and has been designed to handle heavy storms of strong winds.

Note: Konkan Railway Corporation Limited Chairman & Managing Director: Sanjay Gupta; Konkan Railway Corporation Limited Headquarter: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

3. AAI & BEL signs MoU for co-operation in civil aviation sector: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Defence Pubic Sector Unit (PSU) Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU aims to tap the emerging global markets in the airport business, including the ones in the Asia-Pacific region. The partnership between the two companies will support each other in addressing the emerging global opportunities in the airport business. This will enable BEL in execution of MEA projects outside India as well as tapping domestic civil aviation market into South-East Asian, African and Latin American market

Note: Chairman of Airports Authority of India: Arvind Singh.

Chairman & Managing Director of Bharat Electronics Ltd: MV Gowtama.

4. HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ Launches World’s Most Affordable COVID-19 Diagnostic Kit ‘Corosure’ Developed by IIT Delhi: The Union Minister of Human Resource Development (HRD), Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal’Nishank’ virtually launched the World’s most affordable RT-PCR based COVID-19 diagnostic kit ‘Corosure’ on 15 July 2020 in New Delhi. The low-cost COVID-19 Diagnostic Kit has been developed indigenously by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, in line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of becoming a self-reliant India. The kit has also received the approval from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) as well as the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI). It is much cheaper than other kits. This will make the cost per test considerably cheaper compared to currently available kits in the market.

5. 5th edition of conference on A & D Manufacturing Technologies:  Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Yesso Naik has inaugurated the 5th edition of the conference on “Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Technologies”. The conference was held with the theme Empowering India with ‘Aatma Nirbhar Bharat Mission’. Tamil Nadu Technology Development & Promotion Centre (TNTDPC) jointly organised the conference with Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The Aerospace and Defence industry in India has been projected to reach around 70 billion Dollars by 2030.

6. Hyderabad Airport Introduces India’s first Completely Contactless Car Parking facility Amid Pandemic: The GMR Hyderabad International Airport (GHIAL) has introduced India’s first fully contact-less airport car parking facility due to the current COVID-19 pandemic crisis. In November 2019, the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, had introduced India’s first-ever “NETC FASTag Car Park” in collaboration with NPCI. But that facility was available only for ICICI Bank holders. Now keeping in mind the current situation, GHAIL has scaled up its NETC (National Electronic Toll Collection) FASTag car parking in collaboration with NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India) by integrating 10 NETC FASTag issuer banks. The NETC FASTag car parking solution is based on a simple to use, reloadable electronic Radio-frequency Identification (RFID) tag which will enable automatic deduction of applicable parking charges, while one drives through the car park without stopping for any cash transaction. However, the traditional mode of transaction with digital payment over-the-counter option will also be available.

Note: NPCI MD & CEO: Dilip Asbe; NPCI Head Office: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

7. IIT Kanpur Incubated Start-ups Develops Smart Water Quality Testing Device “PADMAVATI”: Two of the IIT Kanpur Incubated Start-ups namely Earthface Analytics Pvt. Ltd. & Kritsnam Technologies Pvt. Ltd. have developed a device, named as ‘PADMAVATI’, to analyse and monitor the quality of water. The device will monitor the water quality with the help of easy to use colorimetric test-strip, based on smart-phone technology that screens multiple important water quality parameters in less than 2 minutes. The initiative will enables analysis of multiple water quality parameters in a cost-effective, easy to operate, eco-friendly manner, as well as effectively deal with field-level to household-level water contamination problems.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Tunisia’s Prime Minister Elyes Fakhfakh resigns: The Tunisian Prime Minister Elyes Fakhfakh has resigned from his post, over an alleged conflict of interest with Ennahdha party, the biggest party in parliament. The resignation letter was handed over to the Tunisian President Kais Saied Fakhfakh served as the Prime Minister of Tunisia from 28 February 2020 to 15 July 2020.

Note: President of Tunisia: Kais Saied; Capital of Tunisia: Tunis.

2. 15th edition of India-EU Summit held virtually, with focus on Trade and Investment: The 15th edition of the India-European Union (EU) Summit was held virtually on 15 July 2020. India was represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The EU was represented by Charles Michel, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. The “annual” summit was held after a gap of more than two years. The Summit was put off due to disagreements over trade and investment. The 27-member EU is India’s largest trading partner, with cumulative investment of over $91 billion. Key Highlights of the Summit includes:

The main area of discussions in the 15th India-EU Summit was political & security relations, trade & investment and economic cooperation. The leaders adopted the “India-EU Strategic Partnership: A Roadmap to 2025” to guide cooperation between India and the EU over the next five years. India-EURATOM Agreement was also signed on research and development cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. They also adopted a Joint Declaration on Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy. Renewed the India-EU Science and Technology Agreement for another five years.

3. Around 690 million people were found hungry in 2019, with highest population in Asia: UN Report: As per the annual ‘State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World’ report, by United Nations, almost 690 million people (8.9% of overall population) went hungry in 2019. This figure is up by 10 million from 2018, and by nearly 60 million in five years. This means that more people are going hungry while tens of millions have joined the ranks of the chronically undernourished over the past five years, and countries around the world continue to struggle with multiple forms of malnutrition. The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report was released on 13 July 2020. It is co-developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the International Fund for Agriculture (IFAD), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the UN World Food Programme (WFP) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The report is the most authoritative global study tracking progress towards ending hunger and malnutrition. The report also states that the hungry are most numerous in Asia but expanding fastest in Africa. Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic could tip over 130 million more people into chronic hunger by the end of 2020. High costs and low affordability are also the key reasons why billions cannot eat healthily or nutritiously.

OTHER UPDATES:

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Google acquires 7.73% stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 33,737 crore: The global technology giant Google will invest Rs 33,737 crore (US$4.7 billion) to acquire 7.73 percent stake in Jio Platforms, the subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited which houses its telecom and digital operations. For this purpose, they have signed a binding partnership and an investment agreement. This investment will strengthen the existing efforts of Google and Jio Platforms to expand the benefits of digitization across India. According to exchange filing, Google is investing at an equity valuation of Rs 4.36 lakh crore.

With this investment, Google becomes the second biggest foreign investor in Jio Platforms after Facebook’s Rs 43,574 crore for a 9.99 percent stake. Google is the 13th investor to buy stake in RIL’s telecom and digital business in less than two months. With the latest investment, Jio Platforms has raised Rs 1,52,055.45 crore from 14 investments, for a combined stake of 32.97 percent.

Note: Google Headquarters: California, United States; CEO of Google: Sundar Pichai.

RIL of Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; Chairman & Managing Director of RIL: Mukesh D. Ambani.

2. CCI approves acquisition by Aceso Company in HCG Ltd: Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves acquisition of 58.92% in HealthCare Global Enterprises Limited (HCG) by Aceso Company Pt Ltd under Section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002. The acquisition will include subscription to equity shares and public shareholders as per SEBI. Aceso is a CVC network entity and consist of 3 entities and offers investment, management advices. HCG provides services through cancer treatment clinics, multi-specialty hospitals, fertility treatment centres

Note: Chairperson of Competition Commission of India: Ashok Kumar Gupta.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. N Chandrasekaran & Jim Taiclet to receives Global Leadership Award 2020:  Tata group chairman, Natarajan Chandrasekaran and Chief Executive Officer and President of Lockheed Martin, Jim Taiclet to receive the US-India Business Council (USIBC) Global Leadership Award 2020. The Awards are conferred every year to executives in recognition of outstanding leadership and for promoting Indo-US trade and business. The earlier receivers of this award include Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Google CEO Adena Friedman, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, and Sun Pharmaceuticals Founder and MD Dilip Shanghvi.

Note: Note: USIBC Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States; USIBC President: Nisha Biswal; USIBC Managing Director for India: Ambika Sharma.

2. Sachin Awasthi Honored with the Prestigious Global Humanitarian Award 2020: Sachin Awasthi, the President of National Media Club and founder of Shri Ram Seva Mission, has been awarded with the ‘Top Publicist’ honour under Global Humanitarian Award 2020 by the London-based World Humanitarian Drive (WHD). The Award was given through a webinar during the “Honoring the Honorable” initiative organised by WHD. Sachin has been honored for organizing a 5-days Clean Ganga Awareness Yatra under the name “Vande Gange Swachhata Jan Jagran Yatra”, which was carried on from Haridwar to Varanasi. It was one of the biggest public awareness initiative for keeping the holy Ganga river pollution-free.WHD presents the prestigious “Global Humanitarian Awards” annually to felicitate popular men and women, who’ve worked selflessly towards the greater good of the society and the world.

Note: World Humanitarian Drive (WHD) founder & chairman: Abdul Basit Syed; World Humanitarian Drive (WHD) Headquarters: London, United Kingdom.

DEFENCE

1. Defence Ministry entrusts capital procurement powers to Armed Forces:  Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has entrusted capital procurement powers to Armed Forces. The decision was taken during the Special Meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council held under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh. With this, the Armed Forces will now be able to progress urgent Capital Acquisition Cases upto Rs 300 crores to fulfil their emergent operational requirements.

Daily GK Updates – 15th July, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Amit Shah launches CAPF’s nationwide tree plantation drive: Union Home Minister, Amit Shah has rolled out the Central Armed Police Force’s (CAPFs) nationwide tree plantation drive by planting a sapling of the peepal tree at the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) campus in Gurugram. Under this drive, saplings were planted by the jawans of Central Armed Police Forces in Chhattisgarh. The personnel of BSF, CRPF, ITBP and CISF – deployed in Chhattisgarh for Anti-Naxal operations, planted saplings in their respective campuses as well as in their places of deployment.

2. Madhya Pradesh tops in implementing PM Svanidhi scheme:  Madhya Pradesh has topped among the other states in the implementation of PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi). The scheme is presently benefiting the beneficiaries of 378 urban bodies of the state. Till now 8,70,330 street vendors have registered under the scheme, out of which 1,76,000 street vendors have been issued the identity cards and vending certificates. Apart from this, 15,500 cases have been approved in the state along with interest free loan of around 15 crore 50 lakh.

Note: Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh: Shivraj Singh Chouhan; Governor: Anandiben Patel.

3. UNICEF India Partners with FICCI to launch #Reimagine Campaign: The UNICEF INDIA has entered into partnership with the Socio Economic Development Foundation (SEDF) of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), to co-develop #Reimagine Campaign. The #Reimagine Campaign of UNICEF aims to support the most vulnerable populations and children during the COVID-19 response and its after-math in India. The campaign will also help in avoiding the potential long-term damage to business operations as well as employment pipeline. The FICCI SEDF will leverage its resources like cash and core assets to mobilize funds that can be utilized to help generate support for the most vulnerable population affected due to COVID disruption.

Note: President of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry: Sangita Reddy.

4. Indian Railways launches POST COVID COACH to ensure safer journey: The Indian Railways has launched a new state-of-the-art, ‘Post Covid Coach’ in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus infection. The Indian Railways’ production unit, Rail Coach Factory, Kapurthala, has developed this new Post Covid Coach. It has handsfree amenities like foot operated water tap and soap dispenser, copper-coated handrails and latches and titanium di-oxide coating for Covid-free passenger journey. Plasma air equipment in AC duct installed will sterilize the air and surfaces using ionised air.

Note: Railway Minister: Piyush Goyal

5. Union Minister inaugurates new economic corridor projects in Haryana: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has inaugurated new economic corridors highway projects in Haryana through web based program presided over by CM Manohar Lal. It will have 11 highway projects in Haryana with a total outlay of Rs 20,000 crore. Giving information about the projects, Chairman, National Highways Authority of India Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu said that 3 projects worth over 2,240 crore rupees were inaugurated and foundation stones for 8 projects worth over 17,000 crore rupees were laid. The move will cut down travel time, provide connectivity to neighbouring states and will boost industrialisation in the state reviving economy.

6. VNIR Biotech launches fluorescence probes & PCR mix for RT-PCR detection of COVID-19: Bengaluru based, VNIR Biotechnologies, a spinoff by Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) has launched indigenous fluorescence probes and Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) mix for RT-PCR detection of COVID-19. The molecular probes developed by VNIR Biotechnologies will be used in COVID-19 test kits in the country. PCR based test kit has three critical components, the oligos, enzymes and molecular probes. The molecular probes used in COVID 19 tests, are currently, only imported. VNIR has innovated synthesis protocols for molecular probes, which will be useful for PCR based COVID-19 testing. The company is in the process of filing for the protection of its process innovation. VNIR’s Research and Development effort in line with the Make-In-India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat missions of the Government of India are meant to contribute to self-reliance in COVID-19 testing.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Vidhu Nair appointed as Ambassador of India to Turkmenistan: Government of India has appointed Dr. Vidhu P. Nair as the next Ambassador of India to Turkmenistan. Nair is presently serving as the Director in the Ministry of External Affairs. He is a Foreign Service Officer of 2002 batch.

Note: Capital of Turkmenistan: Ashgabat; Currency: Turkmenistan Manat.

2.  Tandon appointed India’s next Ambassador to Afghanistan: Indian Foreign Service officer, Rudrendra Tandon has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Afghanistan. Tandon is presently serving as Indian envoy to ASEAN at Jakarta.

Note: Afghanistan capital; Kabul; Currency: Afghan afghani; President of Afghanistan: Ashraf Ghani.

3. Vikram Doraiswami appointed India’s next Ambassador to Bangladesh: Indian Foreign Service officer, Vikram Doraiswami has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Bangladesh. Doraiswami is currently serving as additional secretary in-charge of international organisations and summits at the headquarters of the external affairs ministry in Delhi. Doraiswami will succeed Riva Ganguly Das in Dhaka.

4. India hands over outdoor fitness equipment to Maldives: India has handed over outdoor fitness equipment for 61 islands across the Maldives under a cash grant of 8 million US dollars. The installation of equipment would involve the participation of all 61 island councils and further strengthen the idea of decentralization and a cherished ideal for President Ibrahim Solih’s government. The project is expected to contribute to the Maldivian government’s ‘healthy lifestyles’ policy through easier access to fitness equipment.

Note: President of the Maldives: Ibrahim Mohamed Solih; Capital of Maldives: Male; Currency of the Maldives: Maldivian Rufiyaa.

5. Andrzej Duda re-elected as President of Poland: Poland’s incumbent President Andrzej Duda has been re-elected in the 2020 presidential election for another five year term. He won the elections after securing 51.21% of the votes defeating opposition candidate, liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski who got 48.79% votes. It is slimmest presidential election victory of Poland since the end of communism in 1989. He became the President of Poland in 2015 for the first time defeating Bronislaw Komorowski

Note: Poland Capital: Warsaw; Currency: Polish złoty

6. World Youth Skills Day: 15th July: The World Youth Skills Day (WYSD) is observed every year on July 15 as a day to recognize the strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship, and to highlight the crucial role of skilled youth in addressing current and future global challenges. The United Nations General Assembly declared 15 July as World Youth Skills Day in November 2014. Due to the current global crises, the celebration of WYSD will be held virtually on the theme “Skills for a Resilient Youth”

Note: Secretary-General of United Nations: António Guterres.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Former Socceroos captain Mile Jedinak retires from sport: Former Socceroos captain Mile Jedinak has announced his retirement from the sport. Socceroos is the official nickname of the Australia national soccer team that represents Australia in international men’s soccer. Jedinak made his national team debut in 2008 and made 79 appearances for Australia. He also won the 2015 Asian Cup title for the team. He has appeared for his national side in three World Cups.

2. West Indies win 1st test match against England after corona outbreak: West Indies won 1st international cricket after the sport's return from coronavirus outbreak beating England in the Test match at an empty Ageas Bowl Stadium by 4 wickets. Jermaine Blackwood scored highest run. West Indies chased down the victory target of 200-run with four wickets in hand, in their second innings and scored 318 runs in their first innings. England had scored 204 and 313 all out in 1st and 2nd innings respectively. The 2nd test will start in Manchester.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. NABARD organised ‘Digital Choupal’ to mark its 39th foundation day: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) organised its first ‘Digital Choupal’ to mark its 39th foundation day. “Digital Choupal” was conducted in the form of a video conference which was attended by participants of different projects initiated by NABARD, to share their experiences about the projects they are involved in. During the ‘Digital Choupal’ session, NABARD also announced Rs 5,000 crore of refinance scheme for banks and financial institutions. With this refinance scheme, the development finance institution aims to offer finance to the beneficiaries of its 2,150 watershed development projects. NABARD also assigned another Rs 5,000 crore to transform Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) into multi service centres. This concessional line of assistance will be available for a period of three years from 2020-21 to 2022-23.

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

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Reliance Industries becomes first Indian company to hit Rs. 12 lakh crore market cap: Mukesh Ambani led Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) has become the first Indian firm to hit a market capitalisation mark of Rs. 12 lakh crore. The shares price of the company surged to a record high of Rs. 1,947 on 13 July 2020, after which the Market cap of the firm rose to Rs 12.32 lakh crore. The increase in Reliance Industries m-cap comes after it secured deal with Qualcomm Ventures to invest in Jio Platforms for a 0.15 percent equity stake. This is the 13th deal secured by Jio Platforms in a span of 12 weeks, bringing the total funds raised by the company to Rs 1.18 lakh crore.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Gurbux Singh and Palash Nandy to be conferred with Mohun Bagan Ratna Award 2020: Hockey legend Gurbux Singh and former first-class cricketer Palash Nandy has been named for the Mohun Bagan Ratna Award 2020 by the football club Mohun Bagan’s executive committee. The award is presented every year by Mohun Bagan on the occasion of its foundation day on 29 July. However, due to coronavirus pandemic, the function will not be held this year. July 29 was the date of Bagan’s IFA Shield triumph in 1911 when they defeated East Yorkshire Regiment 2-1. The awards will be given personally to all the winners. List of all the awardees:

Mohun Bagan Ratna– club’s highest honor: (1) Shri Gurbux Singh (Hockey); (2) Shri Palash Nandi (Cricket)

Lifetime Achievement: (1) Shri Ashok Kumar (Hockey); (2) Shri Pranab Ganguly (Football); (3) Shri Monoranjan Porel (Athletics)

Best Football Player of the season 2019-20 (Senior): Joseba Beitia (Spain)

Best Youth Player: Sajal Bag (U18 team)

2. Ved Parkash Dudeja conferred with ‘Infra Business Leader of the Year’: Rail Infra and Mobility Business Digital Awards (RIMBDA) has awarded Ved Parkash Dudeja with the coveted ‘Infra Business Leader of the Year’ award for 2020. He is the vice chairman of Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA). He has been awarded for his contribution towards the infrastructure development. Under his leadership, RLDA has launched various commercial projects, multifunctional complex, colony redevelopment and station redevelopment projects. RLDA is a statutory body under Ministry of Railways responsible for the development of vacant railway land for commercial use to generate revenue.

OBITUARIES

1. Dutch Football legend Wim Suurbier passes away: Dutch Football legend Wim Suurbier passed away. He was a key member of the 1970s squad of Netherlands who played in two World Cup finals. Suurbier also achieved the rare feat of playing in consecutive FIFA World Cup Finals in year 1974 and 1978 that his country lost to West Germany and Argentina. He ended his national team career spanning 12 years with 60 caps. Suurbier also played for club Ajax Amsterdam. He played 509 matches for the club and won three European championships from 1964 to 1977. He was described as the 'first modern back of the Netherlands' and ‘king of Dutch football humour’.

2. Hawkins Cookers Chairman Brahm Vasudeva passes away: Hawkins Cookers Chairman, Brahm Vasudeva passed away. He was appointed as Vice Chairman and Managing Director on the board of the company in 1968 and became the Wholetime Chairman and Managing Director in 1984. He was the Non-Executive Chairman and advisor to the company since 2006.