Daily GK Updates - 1st Aug, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. SIDBI partners with TransUnion CIBIL to launch financial knowledge platform ‘MSMESaksham’: The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has partnered with TransUnion CIBIL to launch a comprehensive financial education and knowledge platform for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) named MSMESaksham. The portal MSMESaksham, will act as a one-stop knowledge platform to guide MSMEs in seeking seamless and quick access to finance and will also support them in managing their credit obligations. MSMESaksham will provide MSMEs quick access to finance and empower them by making them financially aware and loan-ready so that timely and affordable financial support is realised. The portal will help MSMEs across their credit lifecycle, ranging from availing credit to start and grow their businesses, manage credit lines, sustain and build structural strength of the business as well as ensuring timely closures and renewals of credit facilities.

Note: Chairman of Small Industries Development Bank of India: Mohammad Mustafa.

 

2. Green-Ag project launched in Mizoram: Green-Ag, a project funded by Global Environment Facility (GEF), which aims to catalyze sustainable transformation of Indian agriculture sector without compromising the country’s food security and farmers’ income, has been launched in Mizoram. Mizoram is among five Indian states where the project will be implemented. The other four states are Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand. In Mizoram, the project will be implemented in Dampa Tiger Reserve in west Mizorams Mamit district and Thorangtlang Wildlife Sanctuary in Lunglei district in the southern part of the state covering more than 30 villages. The project seeks to bring transformative change in India’s agricultural sector for achieving national and global environmental benefits and conservation of critical biodiversity and forest landscapes.

 

3. Centre extends deadline for filing income tax returns till September 30: The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has further extended the deadline for filing income tax returns for the fiscal 2018-19 by two months till 30 September 2020. Earlier, the last date was 31 July 2020. This extension has been given in view of the constraints due to the Covid pandemic & to further ease compliances for taxpayer. It is the third extension given by the government for taxpayers to file both original and revised tax returns for 2018-19 fiscal. Earlier, in March 2020, the due date was extended from March 31 to June 30. Then again in June 2020, the date was extended by a month till July 31, 2020.

 

4. Bombay Flying Club becomes India’s first DGCA-approved drone training school: The Bombay Flying Club (BFC) in Mumbai has become the first Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)-approved drone training school in India. The BFC club’s will now be eligible for conducting remote pilot training for remotely piloted aircraft systems. The organisation’s status as a drone training school will be valid for a period of one year from the date of issue of the letter, or until the Digital Sky Platform goes live, whichever is earlier.

 

5. Commerce Minister inaugurates CII National Digital conference: Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) National Digital conference on Ease of Doing Business for Atmanirbhar Bharat. The conference highlighted a single-window system for industrial approvals which will soon be in place. Highlights: Under this the industry and government will work as partners and urged the industry to play a proactive role in helping the government identify the tax evaders and violators; India's service sector to serve global clients was discussed; India’s exports are almost 88% of the last year’s level while imports are almost 75% of the same period in 2019; The government of India is working with States for easier labour law, the soft launch of land bank portal, single-window clearance for investments; Merchandise Export from India Scheme (MEIS) aims to find a way that does not impact exports; The Ministry aims to promote finance for investments in the country as it has already identified 20 industrial sectors for giving focused push.

Note: Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) President: Uday Kotak; CII HQs: Delhi

 

6. SNBNCBS develops ‘AJO-Neo’ device for bilirubin level screening: S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBNCBS), Kolkata, an autonomous research Institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India has developed “AJO-Neo”, a No-touch and Painless device for non-invasive screening of bilirubin level in new-borns. SNBNCBS hosted a Technical Research Centres (TRC) funded by DST and in scientific collaboration with Nil-Ratan Sircar (NRS) Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata.

AJO-Neo: AJO-Neo is based on non-contact and non-invasive spectrometry-based techniques for the measurement of neonatal bilirubin level as an alternative of total serum bilirubin (TSB) test without limitations of other available bilirubin meters; The device is reliable in measuring bilirubin levels in preterm, and term neonates irrespective of gestational or postnatal age, sex, risk factors, feeding behavior, or skin color; The device is found to deliver an almost instantaneous report (about 10 seconds) to a concerned doctor, who is sitting 10,000 km away from the point of care; The new methods has showed improved output when compared to the conventional “blood test” method, which takes more than 4 hours to generate the report.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NASA Launches Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover Mission to seek signs of ancient life: On 30 July 2020, the NASA launched its boldest-ever Mars 2020 Perseverance rover mission. Purpose: Search for signs of ancient life on the planet, collect and store a set of rock and soil samples that could be returned to Earth in the future and deploy a miniature helicopter to benefit future robotic and human exploration of Mars. Launch Location: The car size Perseverance rover was launched atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida; Landing: The rover will land on the Red Planet on February 18, 2021; Landing Site: The landing will take place on 28-mile-wide (45 kilometers) Jezero Crater, Mars; Mission Duration: It will spend at least one Mars year (around two Earth years (687 days)), exploring the landing site region; Technology Demo: Perseverance is accompanied by a 4-foot-long (1.8 kilograms) helicopter called Ingenuity, making the journey to Mars on the rover’s belly. Ingenuity is going to be a tech demonstrator for this particular mission, and attempt a few short flights.

Note: Administrator of National Aeronautics and Space Administration: Jim Bridenstine; Headquarters of NASA: Washington D.C., United States.

 

2. Ivory Coast Defence Minister Hamed Bakayoko becomes new Prime Minister: Hamed Bakayoko, the Defence Minister of Ivory Coast, has been appointed as the Prime Minister of the country on 30 July 2020. However, he will continue to serve his defence role also. The 55-year-old Bakayoko had been acting as the interim prime minister of the country since the sudden death of Amadou Gon Coulibaly on July 8. He has been holding the defence portfolio since 2017, after serving as interior minister from 2011. Bakayoko was a founding member of the Rally of the Republicans (RDR) party and was also in charge of the party’s daily newspaper, Le Patriote.

Note: President of Ivory Coast: Alassane Ouattara; Capital: Yamoussoukro.

 

3. Reliance Power & JERA inks loan agreement for Bangladesh’s power plant: Reliance Power and Japanese energy major JERA have signed an agreement with a group of banks for their new gas-fired thermal power generation project in Bangladesh. The signed agreement will provide full finance of about $642 million (approx Rs 4,798 crore) for a new 745 MW natural gas combined-cycle power project in Meghnaghat in Bangladesh. This is one of the largest funding tie-ups for a project in Bangladesh’s power sector. With this agreement, Reliance Power and JERA will focus on full-scale construction and aims to work steadily towards achieving commercial operation in 2022. The electricity generated from the 745 MW natural gas combined-cycle power project will be sold under a long-term power purchase agreement with the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB).

Note: Chairman of Reliance Power: Anil Ambani.

Prime Minister of Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina; Capital: Dhaka; Currency: Taka.

 

4. World Breastfeeding Week 2020: 1-7 August: The World Breastfeeding Week is marked every year in the first week of August, between 1 to 7 August to raise awareness on the importance of breastfeeding for mothers and infants. The theme of World Breastfeeding Week 2020 is “Support breastfeeding for a healthier planet”. The annual week is organized by WABA, WHO and UNICEF since 1991.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Domestic allrounder Rajat Bhatia announces retirement: Veteran Indian domestic allrounder, Rajat Bhatia has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. He started his career with Tamil Nadu in 1999-2000 but played most of his cricket for Delhi. Bhatia played 112 first-class games, scoring 6482 runs at an average of 49.10 and taking 137 wickets at a shade under 28. He also played 119 List A games and 146 T20s. He last played a First-Class match in 2019 and scored 700 runs in the 2018-19 season in Ranji Trophy. Bhatia has also been a regular in the IPL having played for Delhi Daredevils, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Rising Pune Supergiants.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Axis Bank launches AI-powered conversational voice BOT for IVR: Private sector lender Axis Bank unveiled as Automated Voice Assistant ‘AXAA’, which is an artificial intelligence-powered conversational voice BOT. AXAA operates like a humanoid and has power to change the paradigm of customer experience from conventional Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system to a new era of call steering and precise response with very high degree of accuracy and consistency. It can converse in English, Hindi and Hinglish and is capable of handling one lakh customer queries and requests per day

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Reliance overtakes Exxon to become world’s No. 2 energy company: Reliance Industries Ltd., controlled by Asia’s richest man, toppled ExxonMobil Corp. to become the world’s largest energy company after Saudi Aramco, as investors piled into the conglomerate lured by the Indian firm’s digital and retail forays. Reliance, which manages the biggest refinery complex, gained 4.3% in Mumbai adding $8 billion to take its market value to $189 billion, while Exxon Mobil erased about $1 billion. Aramco with a market capitalization of $1.76 trillion is the world’s biggest energy company.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Ministry of Tribal Affairs receives SKOCH Gold Award: SKOCH Gold Award has been awarded to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) for its “Empowerment of Tribals through IT enabled Scholarship Schemes” project. The project was launched to show Government of India’s commitment to realize the dreams of Digital India and bringing transparency as well as ease in the delivery of services. MoTA integrated the 5 Scholarship Schemes with DBT Portal under the guidance of DBT Mission in order to align with the larger vision of ‘Digital India’. The 66th SKOCH 2020 Competition was held with name “INDIA RESPONDS TO COVID THROUGH DIGITAL GOVERNANCE”. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) participated in the DIGITAL INDIA & E-GOVERNANCE-2020 Competition.

Note: Union Minister for Tribal Affairs: Arjun Munda.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Former Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui passes away: Former Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui (97-years) passed away due to multiple organ failure in Taipei. He served as president of Taiwan from 1988 to 2000. Lee Teng-hui became president in 1988 after the demise of predecessor, Chiang Ching-kuo. Lee also led constitutional changes towards a democratic political layout, including direct presidential elections. He also served as the mayor of Taipei (1978-81) and the provincial governor of Taiwan (1981-84). Lee was nicknamed “Mr. Democracy” because, as the president of Taiwan, Lee Teng-hui led its transformation from an island in the grip of authoritarian rule to one of Asia’s most vibrant and prosperous democracies.

Note: President of Taiwan: Tsai Ing-wen.

 

2. Former Samajwadi Party leader and Rajya Sabha MP Amar Singh passes away: Former Samajwadi Party leader and sitting Rajya Sabha MP Amar Singh has passed away in Singapore, where he was undergoing kidney transplant treatment.  He was 64. Amar Singh, who hailed from Aligarh district of Uttar Pradesh, was elected to the Rajya Sabha for the first time from Uttar Pradesh in 1996 and got re-elected in 2003. Singh was a key leader in the Samajwadi Party in 2008, however, was expelled from the Samajwadi Party in February 2010 for alleged anti-party activities. In 2016, Mr. Singh elected to Rajya Sabha from Uttar Pradesh as an independent member by the support of Samajwadi Party. 

Daily GK Updates - 31st July, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Government sets up Central Consumer Protection Authority to promote, protect and enforce the rights of consumers: The government has set up the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), under Consumer Protection Act, 2019 with the objective to promote, protect and enforce the rights of consumers. The CCPA has been set up under the section 10 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, which came into force on 20 July, 2020. Smt. Nidhi Khare, the Additional Secretary in the Department of Consumer Affairs, has been appointed as the Chief Commissioner of CCPA. The CCPA will begin its functioning in the premises of Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA). Objective of Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA):

(1) Promote, protect and enforce the rights of consumers as a class.

(2) Conduct investigations into violation of consumer rights and institute complaints / prosecution, order recall of unsafe goods and services, order discontinuation of unfair trade practices and misleading advertisements,

(3) Impose penalties on manufacturers/endorsers/publishers of misleading advertisements among other things.

 

2. Atal Innovation Mission launches ‘AIM-iCREST’, in partnership with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Wadhwani Foundation: NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), has launched ‘AIM-iCREST’, a first of its kind initiative, for advancing innovation to enable the incubation ecosystem, at scale in India. AIM iCREST is an Incubator Capabilities enhancement program for a Robust Ecosystem focused on creating high performing Startups. AIM has collaborated with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Wadhwani Foundation, which will lend credible support and expertise in the entrepreneurship and innovation space. The AIM iCREST initiative will act as a growth hack for AIM’s Atal and Established incubators across the country. Under the initiative, the AIM’s incubators are set to be upscaled and provided requisite support to foster the incubation enterprise economy that will help them to significantly enhance their performance. This will enhance innovation at scale in India along with global expertise and best practices. The program will provide training to entrepreneurs, through technology driven processes and platforms.

 

3. Hardik Satishchandra Shah Appointed as Personal Secretary to PM Modi: Hardik Satishchandra Shah, a 2010 batch IAS officer from Gujarat cadre has been appointed as the Private Secretary (PS) to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah has been appointed on co-terminus basis. He will take over from Rajeev Topno. Topno, a 1996 batch IAS officer, has been appointed as senior advisor to the World Bank Executive Director in June, 2020 and is expected to assume his new assignment after 15 August, 2020. Currently, Hardik Satishchandra Shah is serving as deputy secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). Before moving to the PMO last year, he worked as the PS to Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar.

 

4. DIAT develops ‘Aashray’ to combat COVID-19: Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) has developed ‘Aashray’, a medical bed isolation system to combat COVID-19 by preventing or minimising the spread of the virus. This medical bed isolation system developed by Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, (DIAT) is a low cost, reusable solution to maintain proper isolation of COVID-19 patients by creating a suction or negative pressure near exhale, further filtering and disinfecting the aerosol. As per prototype manufacturer, the cost of the setup for a unit of 10 beds is Rs 1 lakh approximately and for home, the quarantine will be around Rs 15,000 for a single bed. The bed isolation system envelopes are made up of specialised material and manufacturing process with transparent and translucent supported on medical grade materials structure.

Note: Vice-Chancellor of DIAT: CP Ramnarayanan; Headquarters of DIAT: Pune, Maharashtra.

 

5. Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur tops Niti’s aspirational districts ranking: Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh has topped the list of aspirational districts in Overall Delta Ranking by government think-tank Niti Aayog for the February-June 2020 period. Ri-Bhoi (Meghalaya) and Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh) have been placed at the second and third positions. The delta rankings took into account incremental progress made by over 112 aspirational districts across six developmental areas during February-June this year. Health and nutrition, education, agriculture and water resources, financial inclusion, skill development and basic infrastructure were the development areas that were taken into consideration for the ranking.

Aspirational districts programme:  The aspirational district’s programme, launched in January 2018, aims to transform districts that have shown relatively lesser progress in key social areas and have emerged as pockets of under-development.

Note: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog: Amitabh Kant.

 

6. First helicopter service by Pawan Hans in Uttarakhand flagged off: Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri flagged off the first helicopter service by Pawan Hans in Uttarakhand under the UDAN-RCS scheme. The launch of the heli service and opening of these new routes will bring people of the state closer and support tourism in the region. This service will enable connectivity between Dehradun, New Tehri, Srinagar and Gauchar. Commencement of the new heli services will enhance the aerial connectivity between hilly regions in Uttarakhand and bring down the average travel time to 20-25 minutes. This will also assist the Chaar Dhaam Yatra pilgrims. Pawan Hans Ltd. will operate thrice-weekly helicopter services on this route. Two more networks connecting Dehradun to Ramnagar, Pantnagar, Nainital, Almora, Pithoragarh, and Dehradun to Mussoorie will also be operationalized soon by Pawan Hans Ltd. A total of 274 UDAN routes have been operationalized so far connecting 45 airports and 3 heliports since the launch of the first UDAN flight in April 2017 by Prime Minister from Shimla to Delhi.

 

7. Inaugural Muslim Women’s Rights Day observed on 31 July 2020: In India, the first ever “Muslim Women’s Rights Day” was celebrated across the nation on 31 July 2020, to commemorate the first anniversary of the law against instant triple talaq. It was on 31 July 2019, that the triple talaq bill got the Presidential nod. The law is formally called the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019. It prohibits the practice of instant divorce by Muslim men and any violation of the law is punishable by jail term of up to three years.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Cabinet approves MoU between India and Zimbabwe on Traditional Medicine: The Union Cabinet gave ex-post facto approval to Memorandum of Understanding signed between India and Zimbabwe on Cooperation in the field of Traditional Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy. The MoU was signed on 3rd November, 2018. It will provide a frame work for the cooperation between the two countries for the promotion of traditional systems of medicine and homeopathy and will mutually benefit the two countries in the field of Traditional Medicine. The main objective of the MoU is to strengthen, promote and develop co-operation in the field of traditional systems of medicine between the two countries on the basis of equality and mutual benefit.

 

2. Russia chaired 6th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting: The 6th edition of the BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting was held on 30 July 2020 through a video conference. The conference was held under the presidency of Russia. The Environment Ministers of the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa participated in the meeting held via the video conference. Union Environment Minister, Shri Prakash Javadekar represented India in the BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meet. During the meet, the minister highlighted the efforts made by India in controlling Air pollution such as the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) which was launched in 2019. Now India will take over the BRICS Presidency in 2021.

Note: President of Russia: Vladimir Putin; Capital of Russia: Moscow; Currency: Russian Ruble.

 

3. World Ranger Day: 31st July: The World Ranger Day is celebrated every year on 31 July. Purpose: Commemorate the Rangers killed or injured while on duty and to celebrate the work that Rangers do to protect the world’s natural and cultural heritage. A Ranger is a person tasked with preserving and protecting parklands and natural protected areas. A Ranger typically refers to a forest ranger or a park ranger. It was on this day in 1992 that International Ranger Federation (IRF) was founded. The first World Ranger Day was observed in 2007, on the occasion of the 15th anniversary IRF.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Harikrishna finishes 2nd at Biel Chess Festival: Indian Grandmaster, P Harikrishna has finished second in the rapid section of the 53rd Biel International Chess Festival in Switzerland. The World No. 26 scored 10 points, two less than Radoslaw Wojtaszek of Poland, who finished on top. Earlier, the Indian GM had finished on top in the ACCENTUS Chess960 tournament, with 5.5 points.

About Biel International Chess Festival: The Biel Chess Festival, the first major event to be played over the board amid the COVID-19 pandemic, is being organised by adhering to all health protocols. At the chessboard, the distance is increased by having two tables between the players. All pieces, boards and chess clocks are cleaned after each game. Also, spectators are not allowed at the venue.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Rating Agency ICRA appoints N. Sivaraman as MD and Group CEO: The board of directors of Indian credit rating agency ICRA Ltd has appointed N Sivaraman as the Managing Director & CEO of the Company and CEO of ICRA Group for a period of three years with effect from August 10, 2020. He will replace Naresh Takkar, whose service was terminated in August 2019 and the post was lying vacant since last one year. Chief Financial Officer Vipul Agarwal was serving as the interim CEO of the company since then. Prior to this, Sivaraman was serving as the MD & CEO of L&T Finance Holdings & IL&FS.

Note: ICRA Headquarters: Gurgaon, Haryana; ICRA Non-Executive Chairman and Director: Arun Duggal.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. MobiKwik launches personal UPI payment link mpay.me: Digital wallet company MobiKwik has launched ‘mpay.me’, a UPI-powered payment link service, that will enable users to send and receive money from any UPI payment app. Through mpay.me, users and merchants can set up their own mini personal payment link using their mobile number. This single link can then be shared anywhere with anyone over chat, SMS, email, etc to collect or send payments instantly. This means that using this link, payments can be made through any UPI app like MobiKwik, GooglePay, PhonePe, Paytm. This will simplify the payment process in case where a sender and a receiver are on different UPI apps. It will work seamlessly on mobile as well as desktop.

Note: Mobikwik CEO: Bipin Preet Singh; Mobikwik Headquarters location: Gurugram.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Padma Shri winning Folk musician Sonam Tshering Lepcha passes away: Folk musician and Padma Shri awardee Sonam Tshering Lepcha passed away due to old age ailments. He was 92.Sonam Tshering Lepcha was born in Kalimpong, West Bengal. He started his career as a soldier and travelled to Sikkim to complete a wide range of Indian folk and traditional Lepcha songs due to his inclination toward the culture. He had spent much of his time in Sikkim where he played pivot role in the revival of Lepcha culture, which is an indigenous one in Sikkim. He was awarded the Padma Shri for his contribution in the field of folk music.

 

2. Malayalam actor Anil Murali passes away: Famous Malayalam actor Anil Murali has passed away due to liver-related ailments. He was 56. He made his silver screen debut with Kanyakumariyil Oru Kavitha in 1993. He went on to star in over 200 movies across Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu film industries. 

Daily GK Updates - 30th July, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Cabinet Approves New Education Policy (NEP) 2020; Renames HRD Ministry as Education Ministry: The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the new National Education Policy (NEP), to introduce several changes in the Indian education system, both at school to college level. This NEP 2020 will replace the 34-year-old NEP, which was framed in 1986 and revised only once in 1992. The Cabinet has also approved to rename the HRD Ministry as Education Ministry. The committee which suggested changes in the education system under the NEP was headed by former ISRO chief K Kasturirangan. National Education Policy 2020 is aligned to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and is based on the foundational pillars of Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability and Accountability.  Important Highlights of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:

(1) There would be a single regulator for all higher education institutions, except for legal and medical colleges.

(2) MPhil would be discontinued.

(3) National Educational Technology Forum (NETF) would be created to ramp up digital learning.

(4) E-courses will be developed in eight regional languages initially and virtual labs will be developed.

(5) Top 100 foreign colleges will be allowed to set-up campuses in India.

(6) Home language/mother tongue/regional language will be the medium of instruction upto Class 5

(7) School curriculum will be reduced to core concepts and there will be integration of vocational education from class 6

(8) Class 10, 12 board exams will be based on knowledge application and focus will be on testing concepts

(9) National Assessment Centre- ‘PARAKH’ has been created to assess the students.

(10) Target to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education including vocational education from 26.3 pc (2018) to 50 pc by 2035. At least 3.5 crore new seats will be added to higher education institutions.

 

2. Ministry of Home Affairs releases Unlock-3 guidelines: Ministry of Home Affairs has released the Unlock-3 guidelines which will be valid upto 31st August 2020. The new guidelines seeks to re-open more activities in areas outside the Containment zones and to extend the lockdown in containment zones upto 31st August 2020. As per the Unlock-3 guidelines, all activities would be permitted outside the containment zones, except the following:

(1) Schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions will remain closed till 31st August 2020.

(2) Yoga institutes and gymnasiums would be allowed to function from 5th August 2020 as per the standard operating procedures (SOP) issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).

(3) Cinema Halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums, assembly halls and similar places will remain closed.

(4) International air travel of passengers, except as permitted by MHA.

(5) Metro rail; social/ political/ sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural/ religious functions as well as other large congregations.

 

3. Guwahati Municipal Corporation launches manhole cleaning robot 'BANDICOOT': Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has inaugurated its first-ever manhole cleaning robot 'BANDICOOT' to put an end to the unfair practice of manual scavenging in Assam. It is a first of its kind robot developed indigenously by a start-up ‘Genrobotics’ under Make in India initiative and was funded by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) under CSR initiative. After this, Guwahati becomes the third city to procure this technology after Coimbatore and Gurugram.

Note: Assam Chief Minister: Sarbananda Sonowal; Capital of Assam: Dispur; Governor of Assam: Jagdish Mukhi.

 

4. Tripartite MoU signed between CSIR, Unnat Bharat-IIT Delhi & Vijnana Bharat: A tripartite MoU has been signed between Unnat Bharat Abhiyan-Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (UBA-IITD), Vijnana Bharti (VIBHA) and CSIR to offer access to CSIR rural technologies for UBA. MoU will enhance cooperation between the three entities along with meeting the need of UBA.

UBA: Flagship initiative of MHRD to bring transformational change in rural development by leveraging knowledge institutions

VIBHA: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) linked science body.

 

5. PFC signs agreement with IIT- Kanpur for Smart Grid Technology: Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has signed an agreement with the Indian Institute of Technology- Kanpur for Training, Research, and Entrepreneurship Development in Smart Grid Technology. The agreement was on a virtual platform. The objective of the pact is to provide support to IIT-Kanpur in developing infrastructure for research and development on smart grid technology. Under this, PFC will provide financial assistance of Rs. 2,38,97,000 to IIT-K under its CSR initiative. IIT-K will also provide training on smart grid tech to 90 participants and provide fellowship to 9 selected candidates for ideas development under the agreement

Note: Chairman of IIT-K: K. Radhakrishnan; Director of IIT-K: Abhay Karandikar

Chairman and MD of PFC: Ravinder Singh Dhillon; Headquarters of PFC: New Delhi.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. ADB approves grant worth USD 3 million to India to combat COVID-19: Manila-based multilateral funding agency Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved USD 3 million (about Rs 22 crore) grant to India from its Asia Pacific Disaster Response Fund to further support the government’s emergency response to COVID-19 pandemic. The new grant will be used to procure thermal scanners and essential commodities to strengthen the India’s COVID-19 response. This support will enhance disease surveillance and help in early detection, contact tracing, and treatment. In April 2020, ADB approved USD 1.5 billion COVID-19 Active Response and Expenditure Support (CARES) programme to support India in its immediate pandemic response efforts.

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

 

2. Indian Activist Archana Soreng inducted in UN Chief’s New Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change: Archana Soreng, a climate activist from India, has been named by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to his new Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change. Soreng joins six other young climate leaders, from across the world, who have been named by Guterres to his new advisory group comprising young leaders, aged between 18 and 28 years, who will provide perspectives and solutions to tackle the worsening climate crisis. It is an effort by the United Nations to bring more young leaders into decision-making and planning processes, as the UN works to mobilise climate action as part of the COVID-19 recovery efforts. The initial seven members of the group includes:

Nisreen Elsaim – climate activist of Sudan,

Ernest Gibson – the co-coordinator for 350 Fiji, a regional youth-led climate change network

Vladislav Kaim – young economist of Moldova, committed to ensuring green and decent jobs for youth

Sophia Kianni – founder of international nonprofit Climate Cardinals, United States, founder and coordinator of Generation Climate Europe and spokesperson for Youth and Environment Europe

Nathan Metenier of France

Paloma Costa – lawyer and human rights defender of Brazil

Archana Soreng – climate activist, India

 

3. Mahdi Mohammed Gulaid appointed as interim Prime Minister of Somalia: Somalia President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo has appointed country’s Deputy Prime Minister Mahdi Mohamed Gulaid as the interim Prime Minister following the removal of Hassan Ali Khaire from the position due to vote of no confidence against him. His appointment is effective from 25 July 2020, until the nomination of a permanent Prime Minister.

 

4. World Day Against Trafficking in Persons: 30th July: The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is observed every year on July 30. The day was designated by the UN General Assembly in 2013 to raise awareness of the situation of victims of human trafficking and for the promotion and protection of their rights. The 2020 theme for World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is “Committed to the Cause – Working on the Frontline to End Human Trafficking”.

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

 

5. International Day of Friendship: 30th July: International Day of Friendship is observed globally on 30th July. This day is celebrated to mark the importance of friends and friendship in life. The day also advocates the role that friendship plays in promoting peace in several cultures across the world.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Young Bangladesh Pace Bowler Kazi Anik handed two-year ban for doping violation: The Bangladesh national cricket board has handed over a two-year ban to young pacer Kazi Anik Islam for failing a dope test in 2018. Kazi tested positive for Methamphetamine, a prohibited substance, during a 2018 National Cricket League game. The two-year ban of the 21-year-old has began on February 8, 2019.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Paytm Money appoints Varun Sridhar as CEO: The investment & wealth management subsidiary of Paytm, Paytm Money has appointed Varun Sridhar as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company. He will replace former MD and CEO Pravin Jadhav who resigned from the startup due to differences with the management of Paytm. He will lead the launch and development of equity brokerage services and will look after the existing products like mutual funds, national pension system and gold services, which the company offers.

Note: Paytm founder: Vijay Shekhar Sharma; Paytm Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh; Paytm founded: 2010.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Jamie Vardy bags ‘Golden Boot’ while Ederson wins ‘Golden Glove’ of 2019-20 Premier League: In Football, Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy has won the 2019-20 Premier League Golden Boot award, which is presented to the leading goalscorer in the Premier League. The 33-year-old Vardy became the top scorer after finishing the season with 23 goals. He is the ninth English player as well as the oldest player to win the award and the first from Leicester City. Apart from this, Manchester City’s Brazilian keeper Ederson has won the Premier League’s Golden Glove award, which is given to the goalkeeper with the most clean sheets over the course of the season. He collected 16 clean sheet during the season.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Bollywood Actor Kumkum passes away in Mumbai: Veteran Bollywood Actor ‘Kumkum’ (86 years) passed away at her residence in Mumbai. Her real name was Zaibunnissa. She worked in films like Mother India, Kohinoor, Ek Sapera Ek Lootera, Naya Daur, Ujala, Raja Aur Runk, Lalkar, Aankhen, Geet, etc. She was also featured in first Bhojpuri film ‘Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo’ in 1963. Some of the popular songs featuring Kumkum includes 'Yeh Hai Bombay Meri Jaan' and ‘Madhuban Mein Radhika Nache Re’.

 

2. Bollywood Director Parvez Khan passes away: Famous Bollywood Action Director Parvez Khan (55 years) passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He had been working with the film industry since 1986 and worked for around 35 years in the industry. He is known for his films like Andhadhun, Badlapur, Bullett Raja, Fukrey, Ra.One, Johnny Gaddaar, Vishwaroopam, Vishwaroopam 2, Dev.D, Gangster, Sehar, Ab Tak Chhappan, The Legend Of Bhagat Singh, Soldier, and Mr And Mrs Khiladi. 

Daily GK Updates - 29th July, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Fleet of 5 Rafale multi-role combat jets arrived in India: A fleet of five French-manufactured Rafale multi-role combat jets arrived in India. Rafale Jets landed at the Ambala Air Force base after covering a distance of 7,000 km from the Merignac airbase in French port city of Bordeaux. Two Sukhoi 30 MKIs escorted the fleet of Rafale jets after they entered the Indian air space. The fleet, which comprises three single seater and two twin seater aircraft, would be inducted into the IAF as part of its Ambala-based No 17 Squadron, also known as the ‘Golden Arrows’. Government of India signed a Rs 59,000-crore deal with French aerospace major Dassault Aviation on September 23, 2016 to procure 36 Rafale jets. Rafale multi-role combat jets are considered one of the most potent combat jets globally and will provide India’s air power a strategic edge over its adversaries in the neighbourhood. The delivery of all 36 aircraft will be completed on schedule by the end of 2021.

 

2. Schemes for promotion of Bulk Drugs & Medical Devices Parks launched: Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers Shri DV Sadananda Gowda has launched four schemes for the promotion of domestic manufacturing of bulk drugs and medical devices parks in the country.  The Department of Pharmaceuticals has formulated four schemes, two each for Bulk Drugs and Medical Devices parks. These schemes will work towards the development of Indian pharmaceutical capacities and reduce India’s dependence on imports, making itself reliant. The key features of the four schemes are: The scheme will remain open for applications for a period of 120 days from the date of issuance of guidelines. The Scheme for promotion of Bulk Drug Parks aims for the establishment of 3 bulk drug parks in the country. Maximum grant-in-aid for one bulk drug park is limited to Rs.1000 crore. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for promoting domestic manufacturing of Medical Devices aims to boost domestic manufacturing of medical devices in four target segments. This will be achieved by offering financial incentives on sales to a maximum number of 28 selected applicants for a period of 5 years.

 

3. DST selects Acculi Labs to develop “Lyfas COVID score”:  Acculi Labs, a Bangalore based startup has been selected by Centre for Augmenting WAR with COVID-19 Health Crisis (CAWACH), an initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to develop “Lyfas COVID score”, a COVID risk assessment profile. Lyfas, an android application captures the capillary pulse and blood volume change when individual keeps the index finger on the rear phone camera of a mobile phone for 5 minutes. It also derives 95 biomarkers with proprietary algorithms and signal processing techniques. It also utilizes the power of smartphone processor and smartphone sensors to record a bunch of body signals. All the above parameters have been planned to be repurposed with the “Lyfas COVID score”. CAWACH is supporting market-ready innovations to the control COVID-19 and helps the startup ideas to address associated challenges.

 

4. India houses 70% of world’s tiger population: Tiger Census report: The Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar released the detailed report of the Tiger Census on 28 July 2020. As per the report, India’s tiger population stands at 2967 which is 70 percent of the total tiger population in the world. Of these, nearly 30 percent of India’s tigers are outside tiger reserves.

Also, there are 50 tiger reserves in India as per the report. The Ministry is also working in leadership role for Tiger Conservation with all the 13 Tiger range countries to share best practices in their actual management of tiger reserves, etc. There are currently 13 tiger range countries; Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia, Thailand and Vietnam. The detailed report compares information obtained from the earlier three surveys (2006, 2010, and 2014) with data obtained from the 2018-19 survey to estimate population trends at country and landscape scales, patch colonization and extinction rates along with information on likely factors responsible for changes in tiger status at the fine spatial resolution of 100 km.

 

5. HRD Minister launches India Report- Digital Education June 2020: “India Report on Digital Education, 2020” has been launched virtually by the Union Minister for HRD Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’. During the launch, the minister stated that report highlights the innovative methods adopted by Ministry of HRD, Education Departments of States and Union Territories to ensure accessible as well as inclusive education to children at home and reducing learning gaps. India Report on Digital Education, 2020 comprises of various initiatives taken to provide remote learning and education for all by taking schools to the students. Some of the initiatives are as follows: DIKSHA platform, Swayam Prabha TV Channel, Online MOOC courses, On Air – Shiksha Vani, DAISY by NIOS for differently-abled, e-PathShala, etc.

 

6. MoES-Knowledge Resource Centre Network launched: Ministry of Earth Sciences has launched the “MoES-Knowledge Resource Centre Network (KRCNet)” under the Digital India initiative of Government of India. MoES has transformed the traditional libraries of the MoES system into a top-notch Knowledge Resource Centres (KRC). These KRCs will be linked with each other and integrated into the KRCNet portal. This portal would be a single point entry to the intellectual world of Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES). With the launch of KRCNet, MoES aims to set up a Total Quality Management (TQM) system by securing ISO certification for documenting MoES knowledge resources, its maintenance, easy retrieval and dissemination. KRCNet portal would provide 24X7 access to the subscribed knowledge contents. It will also collect, collate, analyze, index, store as well as disseminate the intellectual resources, products and project outputs available in MoES headquarter and its institutes.

Note: Union Minister of Earth Sciences: Harsh Vardhan.

 

7. Road in Lucknow named after former MP Governor Lalji Tandon: The Lucknow Municipal Corporation has named a road and a crossing in the city after former Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon. The Chauk Chauraha will now be known as Lalji Tandon Chauraha and the Lucknow-Hardoi Road will be known as Tandon Marg. The former MP Governor Tandon had started his political career when he became a councillor in Lucknow. He breathed his last on July 21, 2020.

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

 

8. IIT Kharagpur develops COVID-19 Rapid Test technology: IIT Kharagpur has developed technology for COVID-19 Rapid Test enabling affordable cost testing. This entire test can be conducted in an ultra-low-cost portable device with test results available through customized app within an hour without requiring manual interpretation. It will be used at locations with extremely poor resources. It deploys a disposable simple paper-strip for chemical analysis and visualization of test results. It will cost around Rs 400 per test.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IMF Grants $4.3 bn to South Africa to fight COVID-19: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved USD 4.3 billion to South Africa in emergency funding, the largest amount given to any country to fight the coronavirus pandemic. The funds “support the authorities’ efforts in addressing the challenging health situation and economic impact of the COVID-19 shock”. South Africa is the worst-hit country in the continent with over 4,50,000 cases.

Note: Note: Headquarters of IMF: Washington, D.C., United States; Managing Director of IMF: Kristalina Georgieva; Chief Economist of IMF: Gita Gopinath; Membership Countries of IMF: 189 countries.

Capital of South Africa: Cape Town, Pretoria, Bloemfontein; Currency of South Africa: South African Rand; President of South Africa: Cyril Ramaphosa.

 

2. 5th Annual Meeting of Board of Governors of AIIB:  The 5th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) was held virtually. Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman participated in the meeting. The round table discussion was held with the theme ‘AIIB 2030-Supporting Asia’s Development over the Next Decade’. The Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is being held every year to take key decisions that impact the Bank’s future. During the meet, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted various measures taken by the Government of India to respond to the COVID-19 such as $23 Billion Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKP) and $295 Billion Atma Nirbhar Bharat Package (ANBP).

Note: President of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank: Jin Liqun; HQs: Beijing, China

 

3. PM of India & Mauritius to inaugurate Supreme Court Building of Mauritius: Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with his Mauritius counterpart Pravind Jugnauth will jointly unveils new Supreme Court Building of Mauritius through video-conference. It has been constructed with grant assistance from India and will be 1st India assisted infrastructure project within Port Louis, Mauritius. It is one of the 5 projects under ‘Special Economic Package’ extended by India to Mauritius in 2016. The building covers an area of 4700 sqm with over 10 floors.

 

4. International Tiger Day: 29th July: International Tiger Day (also called Global Tiger Day) is celebrated every year on July 29 to raise awareness for tiger conservation. The day was created in 2010 at the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit to put in place a global system for protecting the natural habitats of tigers and raise public awareness and support for tiger conservation issues. The Slogan for 2020 International Tiger Day celebration is “Their survival is in our hands”.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Stuart Broad becomes 7th bowler to take 500 Test wickets: England cricketer, Stuart Broad becomes 7th bowler to take 500 wickets in Test cricket. Stuart Broad achieved an elusive milestone on Day 5 of the third Test against West Indies in Manchester. Kraigg Brathwaite became Stuart Broad’s 500th-Test wicket. Board is the second England bowler after Anderson and the 7th overall in the overall list of highest wicket-takers, which is led by Sri Lankan legend Muttiah Muralitharan with 800 wickets.

 

2. Jamie Vardy wins Premier League’s Golden Boot award: Leicester City striker, Jamie Vardy has bagged the Premier Leagues Golden Boot football award after netting 23 goals across the 2019/20 season. He beat Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (22 goals), Southampton Danny Ings (22 goals), and Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling (20 goals) to scoop the prestigious individual award. Jamie is the first Leicester City player to claim the award and is only the second Englishman after Harry Kane to take the crown in the last 20 years. Manchester City’s Brazilian keeper Ederson won the Golden Glove award after keeping his 16th clean sheet of the season against Norwich City to beat Burnley’s Nick Pope to the award.

 

3. Bangladeshi pacer Kazi Anik Islam gets 2-year ban for doping: Bangladeshi pacer, Kazi Anik Islam has been handed a 2-year ban by the national cricket board for failing a dope test in 2018. Kazi, who was Bangladesh’s leading wicket-taker in the 2018 U-19 World Cup, tested positive for Methamphetamine, a prohibited substance, during a National Cricket League game in the same year. The 21-year-old admitted to the offence. His two-year ban began on February 8, 2019.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IRCTC & SBI Card launches Co-branded Contactless Credit Card: Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and SBI Card has launched a new Co-branded Contactless Credit Card on RuPay Platform. The card was revealed by Union Minister of Railways and Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal. The newly launched card aims to ensure a safe, convenient and improved travel experience for the rail passengers. The new RuPay credit card is empowered with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology which will enable users to expedite their transactions at the POS machines by just tapping the card on the machines instead of swiping. The card will reward frequent railway travellers by offering them maximum savings proposition on their travel together with exclusive benefits.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. MoES National Awards for excellence in Earth System Science: The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) has announced the winners of “MoES National Awards for excellence in Earth System Science”. With award, MoES aims to recognize the major scientific contributions made by eminent scientists/engineers in various fields of Earth System Science. It also seeks to encourage women and young researchers for coming into the mainstream of Earth System Science. Here is the complete list of winners:

 

Sr.No.	Award	Winner
1	Life Time Excellence Award	Professor Ashok Sahni
2	National Award for Atmospheric Science & technology	Dr. S. Suresh Babu
3	National award for Geoscience & technology	N. V. Chalapathi Rao
4	National Award for Ocean Technology	Dr. M. A. Atmanand
5	Anna Mani award for woman scientist	Dr. Lidita D. S. Khandeparker
6	Young Researcher Awards	Dr. Indra Sekhar Sen
7	National Award for Ocean Science & technology	Dr. V. V. S. S. Sarma

 

2. India’s first solar ferry “Aditya” wins Gustave Trouve Award: India’s first solar-powered ferry, Aditya has won the prestigious Gustave Trouve Award for Excellence in Electric Boats and Boating. The ferry was adjudged the world’s best electric boat in the category of ferries designed for paid passenger service. The Aditya, from Navalt Boats, is a sun-powered commuter ferry that is one of the great stories of the future of electric marine propulsion. The ferry belongs to the Kerala State Water Transport Department (KSWTD) and has been plying on the Vaikkom-Thavanakkadavu route in Alappuzha district since January 2017. Aditya was the only ferry from Asia among the 12 vessels from across the globe shortlisted for the award.

Note: Gustave Trouve Award: The Gustave Trouve Award is the world’s only such honour given to individuals and companies building and innovating in state-of-the-art electric boats. It has been instituted in honour of Frenchman Gustave Trouve for his groundbreaking work in mobility based on electric transport, moving away from conventional fossil fuels. He invented the world’s first outboard motor in 1881.

 

DEFENSE

 

1. India-Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue held in New Delhi:  Defence Ministers’ Dialogue between India and Indonesia was held in New Delhi. The Indian delegation was led by the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh while the Indonesian delegation was led by Defence Minister General Prabowo Subianto. During the defence ministers’ dialogue, General Subianto was honored with ceremonial Guard of Honour. The dialogue between the two nations led to an agreement to improve bilateral defence cooperation in mutually agreed areas with identification of potential areas for cooperation like defence industries and defence technology

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Child welfare activist Achyuta Rao passes away: The founder and President of Balala Hakula Sangham, P Achyuta Rao passed away due to COVID-19. He was a well-known child rights activist and had founded Balala Hakula Sangham in 1984. Rao is known to have helped prevent child marriages, incidents of child sexual abuse, and child labour. Rao recently filed a petition in Telangana High Court demanding that mid-day meal be served to students in government schools since they have not been able to access it due to the pandemic-imposed lockdown.

 

2. Former Puducherry MLA V Bhalan passes away: Former Puducherry MLA and NR Congress General Secretary V Bhalan (68 years) passed away due to COVID-19. He was a nominated member of the Puducherry Legislative Assembly. He started his political career with Congress. He joined NR Congress since the party was founded in 2011 by N Rangaswamy. He was the President of Youth Congress of Puducherry. He also held the posts of Chairman of Puducherry Agro Products and Civil Supplies Corporation and Anglo-French Textile Mills.