Daily GK Updates - 20th Oct, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IIT Madras startup launches ‘mooPay’ for dairy farmers in Rajasthan: The IIT-Madras incubated dairy-tech startup, “Stellapps” has launched a first-of-its-kind, fully-automated direct payment platform, ‘mooPay’, for dairy farmers in Rajasthan. The Digital technology solutions provider Stellapps is a first of its kind end-to-end dairy technology solutions company of India. It is also one of the technology pioneers of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

About “mooPay”: mooPay is a payment gateway for dairies and dairy farmers where the dairy officials can transfer milk payments digitally to member farmers from the dairies’ existing bank account to farmers’ savings bank account. Directly depositing payments in farmers’ bank accounts will help enhance farmer savings and will also build farmer loyalty to the dairy. This will remove the risks and costs of transferring money in cash to hundreds of thousands of farmers in hundreds of villages.

Note: Stellapps CEO: Ranjith Mukundan; Stellapps headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka.

 

2. UP Governor launches “Safe City Project” for women’s safety: Uttar Pradesh (UP) Governor, Anandiben Patel has launched “Safe City Project” – a women’s safety campaign in Lucknow, UP. The Project is a 180-day-long campaign under which police and other departments will work towards strengthening the security of women in public places. The campaign will involve the movement of women police personnel to inculcate a feeling of pride and safety for women in Lucknow. The UP Governor flagged off 100 pink scooters and 10 four-wheeler police vehicles as part of the campaign. The vehicles are equipped with first-aid kits, flashlights and other facilities.

About the Safe City Project: It is a mission mode initiative of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Its main aim of Safe City Project is to create a safe, secure and empowering environment for women in public places. Eight cities (Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and Lucknow) have been identified for implementation of this project in the first phase. The projects will be financed under Nirbhaya Fund at a cost of INR 2919.55 Crores.

Note: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister: Yogi Adityanath.

 

3. FSSAI to expand its new food safety compliance platform across entire India from November 01: The food regulator FSSAI has announced to extend its Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) across the entire country from November 1, 2020.  Currently the system is operational only in nine States/UTs since June 2020, which are Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Gujarat, Odisha, Chandigarh, Goa, Manipur, Puducherry and Ladakh. FoSCoS is a cloud-based, upgraded new food safety compliance online platform of FSSAI. It can be accessed at https://foscos.fssai.gov.in. FoSCoS will provide one point stop for all engagement of a food business operator (FBO) with the department, for any regulatory compliance transaction. It will replace the existing online FLRS (Food Licensing and Registration System), which is operational in all the states since 2011 for licensing and registration (URL https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in). FLRS has till date issued about 70 lakh licences/ registrations while over 40 lakh licensees/ registrants are actively transacting on it.

 

4. Three Tamil Nadu students made nano-satellite, to be launched by NASA: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has chosen an indigenous experimental satellite developed by three students from Tamil Nadu for launch in suborbital space. The three students are mentored and guided by Chennai-based Space Kids India. They hail from pockets in Tamil Nadu – M Adnaan of Thanthonrimalai, M Kesavan of Nagampalli village near Malaikovilur and V Arun of Thennilai. They gained this opportunity as they bagged the Cubes in Space competition, a global competitive programme for aspiring space scientists by Idoodledu Inc in association with NASA.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India 4th most powerful country in Asia Power Index 2020: India has been ranked at 4th position, with a score of 39.7 out of 100, in the Asia Power Index 2020, released by the Sydney-based Lowy Institute. The Asia Power Index 2020 ranks 26 countries and territories to assess the relative power of states in Asia. The United States has retained its position as the most powerful country influencing the Asia-Pacific with a score of 81.6. It is followed by China (76.1) and Japan (41) at second and third spot respectively. The annual Asia Power Index is an analytical tool that ranks countries in terms of what they have, and what they do with what they have (resources and influence) to have dominant power in Asia.

 

2. India hosts 7th meeting of Ministers of Justice of SCO: The 7th meeting of Ministers of (Law and) Justice of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Member States was virtually hosted by Indian Minister of Law & Justice, Communication and Electronics & Information Technology, Ravi Shankar Prasad. The Indian side urged the SCO Member States to promote the exchange of ideas, best practices and experiences in identified areas through the platform. He also mentioned initiating Pro Bono Legal Services to provide free legal aid to marginalized sections of the society.

The virtual meeting was attended by justice ministers from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, according to a statement by the Ministry Of Law and Justice. The Seventh Session of the Justice Ministers of SCO member states deliberated on areas of cooperation; emphasized the high relevance of mutual exchange of legal information on counteraction to the spread of the coronavirus pandemic and acknowledged the need for cooperation in ADR mechanism area, among others.

 

3. World Statistics Day: 20th October: The third World Statistics Day is observed globally on 20 October 2020. The celebration of World Statistics Day 2020 is a global collaborative endeavour, organized under the guidance of the United Nations Statistical Commission. The World Statistics Day 2020 theme “Connecting the world with data we can trust.” This theme reflects the importance of trust, authoritative data, innovation and the public good in national statistical systems. The day was first observed in 2010 as proposed by UN Statistical Commission at its 41st Session in 2010 under the theme ‘Celebrating the many achievements of official statistics’.

 

4. World Osteoporosis Day: 20th October: The World Osteoporosis Day (WOD) is observed globally on 20 October. The day is celebrated to raise global awareness of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease. WOD is organized by the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), by the launch of a year-long campaign with a specific theme. WOD aims to make osteoporosis and fracture prevention a global health priority by reaching out to health-care professionals, the media, policymakers, patients, and the public at large. In 2020 the Global WOD Campaign theme is “THAT’S OSTEOPOROSIS”, highlighting emotionally impactful visuals and stories of real people living with osteoporosis in all regions of the world.

Note: International Osteoporosis Foundation Headquarters location: Nyon, Switzerland; International Osteoporosis Foundation President: Cyrus Cooper; International Osteoporosis Foundation Founded: 1998.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Nozomi Okuhara and Anders Antonsen wins Denmark Open 2020: In Badminton, former World Champion Nozomi Okuhara of Japan clinched the Denmark Open 2020 title beating three-time world champion Carolina Marin in women’s singles. In the men’s singles final, world number seven Anders Antonsen of Denmark defeated his compatriot Rasmus Gemke. Winners List:

 

Category	Name of the Sportsperson
Women’s Single	Nozomi Okuhara (Japan)
Men’s Single	Anders Antonsen (Denmark)
Men’s Double	Marcus Ellis and Chris Langridge (England)
Women’s Double	Yuki Fukushima and Sayaka Hirota (Japan)
Mixed Double	Mark Lamsfuss and Isabel Herttrich (Germany)

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IDBI Bank launches banking services on WhatsApp: IDBI Bank announced the launch of banking services on WhatsApp. The WhatsApp Banking service is being offered through a dedicated WhatsApp verified number ensuring end-to-end encryption, the Bank stated. The facility will enable IDBI Bank customers to avail various essential services such as account balance information, last five transactions, request for a cheque book and an email statement, interest rates, as well as details of IDBI Bank branches/ATMs in the vicinity, to begin with.

Note: IDBI Bank Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; IDBI Bank CEO: Rakesh Sharma.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. ISA Solar Awards conferred for the first time: For the first time, since the inception of the framework agreement of ISA, the Solar Awards were presented during the third Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to the countries of the region as well as institutions working for solar. Three categories of awards were conferred which included: (1) Visvesvaraya award recognises the countries with a maximum floating solar capacity in each of the four regions of ISA; (2) Kalpana Chawla awards recognise the outstanding contribution of scientists and engineers working in the field of solar energy; (3) Diwakar award recognizes organisations & institutions that have been working for the benefit of differently-abled people and have maximised the use of solar energy in the host country.

List of Winners:

Visvesvaraya award: Japan for the Asia Pacific region and the Netherlands for Europe and Others region.

Kalpana Chawla awards: Dr Bhim Singh from IIT Delhi (India) and Dr Aaesha Alnuaimi from Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (United Arab Emirates).

Diwakar award: Arpan Institute (Haryana) and Arushi Society.

Note: ISA Headquarters Location: Gurgram, Haryana; ISA Leader: Upendra Tripathy.

 

DEFENSE

 

1. 8th India-Sri Lanka Maritime Exercise SLINEX-20 begins: The 8th edition of the annual Indian Navy (IN) – Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) bilateral maritime exercise SLINEX-20 starts at Trincomalee, Sri Lanka from 19 to 21 October 2020. The Indian Navy will be represented by the indigenously built ASW corvettes Kamorta and Kiltan. The Sri Lanka Navy will be represented by SLN Ships Sayura (Offshore Patrol Vessel) and Gajabahu (Training Ship).

About SLINEX-20: The SLINEX-20 will enhance interoperability, improve mutual understanding and exchange best practices and procedures for multi-faceted maritime operations between both navies. The exercise is being conducted in a non-contact ‘at-sea-only’ format in the backdrop of COVID-19 pandemic. SLINEX series of exercise emphasises the deep engagement between India and Sri Lanka which has strengthened mutual cooperation in the maritime domain.

 

2. India successfully test-fires BrahMos missile from INS Chennai: India successfully test-fired the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, from the Indian Navy’s indigenously-built stealth destroyer INS Chennai with the weapon hitting a pre-designated target in the Arabian Sea. The missile hit the target in the Arabian Sea successfully with pinpoint accuracy after performing high-level and extremely complex manoeuvres.

About BrahMos Missile: The highly versatile BrahMos has been jointly designed, developed and produced by India and Russia under the joint venture, BrahMos Aerospace. The supersonic cruise missile can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, and land platforms. The missile has a top speed of Mach 2.8, nearly three times the speed of sound. The extended-range BrahMos supersonic cruise missile that can hit targets 400 km away. The range has been increased from the existing 290 km.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Marthoma Church Head Joseph Mar Thoma passes away: Spiritual head of the Marthoma Christian community Joseph Mar Thoma (89 years) passed away at a private hospital in Thiruvalla due to pancreatic cancer. He was the 21st Marthoma Metropolitan and primate of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church headquartered in Kerala, India. Mar Thoma Church: It is also known also as the Reformed Syrian Church and is an autonomous Reformed Oriental church. According to the 2011 Census of Kerala it was the 6th largest Christian church in the state.

 

2. Veteran Bengali Vocal Artiste Pradip Ghosh passes away: Noted Bengali elocutionist Pradip Ghosh has passed away at his residence in Kolkata. He tested coronavirus positive, in a swab test which was taken after his death. He was 78. Ghosh was a prominent recitor and renowned vocal artist, who was well-known for his inimitable style of recitation. His most notable works included his recitation of Tagore’s poems, especially those for children. 

Daily GK Updates - 19th Oct, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CRPF collaborates with IIT Delhi, DRDO, JATC to augment R&D capabilities: The country’s largest para-military force, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has collaborated with IIT Delhi, Defence Research and Development Organisation, and Joint Advanced Technology Centre (JATC) to augment its Research and Development capabilities. The CRPF officers/SOs (Subordinate Officers) who are trained by the IIT Delhi will also be associated with joint research projects undertaken by DRDO and IIT Delhi in the field of defence/security tech solutions. CRPF has over 3 lakh personnel, of which more than 500 officers/SOs holds a degree in Engineering.

The benefit of the Initiative: This initiative aims at the capacity building to make optimal use of police technologies. It will also help in integrating with DRDO labs for realistic Indigenisation of technologies on the internal security grid. It will also provide operational feedback on futuristic technologies, which enable the IIT Tech experts to conduct proactive R&D.

Note: Central Reserve Police Force Director-General: AP Maheshwari; Central Reserve Police Force Headquarters: New Delhi, India.

 

2. Raj Police Launches Drive For Women’s Safety And Security: The Rajasthan police launched a campaign to spread awareness among woman about the crime against them and to educate them of their rights and ways to secure justice if they end up becoming its victims. Named ‘AAWAJ’ — Action Against Women-related crime and Awareness for Justice the campaign was launched by Civil Rights and Anti-Human Trafficking Unit of the police and will run across the state to generate gender equality and curb crimes against women. In the first month of the campaign from October 13 to November 12, special efforts will be made to curb rape incidents, besides spreading awareness about the laws related to women safety.

 

3. GoI extends Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla’s tenure till 2021: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the extension of the tenure of Home Secretary, Ajay Kumar Bhalla till August 22, 2021. Bhalla, a 1984 batch IAS officer of Assam-Meghalaya cadre, was appointed as Home Secretary in August 2019. He was to superannuate on November 30, 2020.

 

4. Kati Bihu festival celebrated across Assam: Kati Bihu is one of the sets of three Bihu festivals (agricultural festivals) was celebrated in the state of Assam. The Kati Bihu is also known as Kangali Bihu, the festival of the poor (the word “Kongal” means “poor”) is celebrated in mid-October when the crops are at growing stage and the granaries of the farmers are depleting.

About Kati Bihu: The Kati Bihu is celebrated with the lamp called ‘Saki’ which is lit on the tips of bamboo poles in the fields which represents a guide to spirits and earthen lamps are lit in the garden, under the tulsi plants and in the granaries. The farmers chant spells to ward off the negativity and pests in the field and pray for a prosperous harvest. The locals of Assam celebrate the festival by lighting Diya in their fields and homes and perform cultural dance and organise feasts.

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

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Jacinda Ardern wins 2nd term as New Zealand’s PM: The Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, won a landslide victory in the country’s general election, to be elected as the PM for the second consecutive three-year term. In the battle against Covid, Ardern was alone among her western peers in pursuing an explicit elimination strategy and imposed one of the strictest nationwide lockdowns in the world. Ardern’s centre-left Labour Party won 49.2% of the total 83.7% votes counted in the 120-member parliament. The 40-year-old is serving as the 40th Prime Minister of the country since 26 October 2017.

Note: New Zealand Capital: Wellington; New Zealand New Zealand dollar.

 

2. India slips to rank 151 in protecting labour rights: India has fared poorly in protecting labour rights and has slipped to rank 151 among 158 countries, according to Oxfam’s Commitment to Reducing Inequality Index (CRII) report. India also slipped from rank 141 to 151 with weak labour rights and high incidence of vulnerable employment. Highest presence of informal sector for men was in Uttar Pradesh at 86.9 per cent and for women was in Andhra Pradesh at 73.6 per cent. Overall, India ranked 129 in the CRI index out of 158 countries on government policies, and actions in areas of public services of education, health, social protection, taxation, and workers’ rights. Norway topped the CRI index. The CRII is a global report that ranks 158 governments, including India, on their commitment to reducing inequality.

 

3. India ranked 94 in Global Hunger Index 2020: India ranked 94 among 107 nations in the Global Hunger Index 2020. With a score of 27.2, India has been placed in the “serious” category in the GHI scale. Although there is an improvement in a score as compared to 38.9 in 2000, 37.5 in 2006, and 29.3 in 2012 but still it represent a serious level of hunger. Last year, India’s rank was 102 out of 117 countries. According to the report, 14 per cent of India’s population is undernourished. It also showed the country recorded a 37.4 per cent stunting rate among children under five and a wasting rate of 17.3 per cent. The under-five mortality rate stood at 3.7 per cent.

The neighbouring Bangladesh, Myanmar and Pakistan too are in the ‘serious’ category but ranked higher than India in this year’s hunger index. While Bangladesh ranked 75, Myanmar and Pakistan are in the 78th and 88th position. Nepal in 73rd and Sri Lanka in 64th position are in ‘moderate’ hunger category, the report showed.

About Global Hunger Index: The GHI is a tool designed to measure and track hunger at the global, regional, and national levels to make a reasonable assessment. Data from the United Nations (UN) and other multilateral agencies are used for the calculation GHI on the basis of 4 Indicators. A score of less than 9.9 signifies “low” hunger, that of 10-19.9 represents “moderate” levels of hunger, 20-34.9 points to “serious” hunger, 35-39.9 signifies “alarming” and over 50 “extremely alarming” levels of hunger.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Pakistan’s fast Bowler Umar Gul announces retirement: Pakistani pace bowler, Umar Gul has announced that he will retire from all forms of cricket. The 36-year-old Gul, who played his last match for Pakistan an ODI in 2016, featured for Balochistan team in the National T20 Cup. The Peshawar-born Gul made his international debut in an ODI in 2003. He played his first Test that year itself. His last Test was against South Africa in 2013. From 47 Test matches, Gul took 163 wickets at an average of 34.06. He also claimed 179 wickets from 130 ODIs, besides 85 wickets from 60 T20Is.

 

2. Rohan Jaitley elected unopposed as DDCA President: Advocate Rohan Jaitley, the son of late Union Minister Arun Jaitley, has been elected unopposed as the President of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA). He was the single candidate left for the post, as the lone candidate who had filed his nomination against him withdrew his candidature. The 31-year-old lawyer is slated to remain in the post till June 30, 2021. Notably, late Arun Jaitley had also served as the president of DDCA between 1999 and 2013.

 

3. Odisha to sponsor National rugby teams: Odisha Government announced that it would sponsor the Indian national rugby team for the next three years and facilitate high performance training and conditioning of the players. An agreement with Indian Rugby Football Union (IRFU) was inked at Kalinga Stadium. Sports Director R Vineel Krishna and president of IRFU Maneck Unwala signed the agreement in presence of Sports and Youth Services Minister Tusharkanti Behera, Secretary Vishal Dev, CEO IRFU Naseer Hussain and former rugby player Rahul Bose. The partnership is part of the State Government’s mission to develop, promote and expand the sports ecosystem beyond hockey and football. The sponsorship will cover training, conditioning and incentivising the Indian national rugby teams (men and women) participating in international rugby events. The Odisha Government will pay the Indian Rugby Football Union (also known as Rugby India) ₹3 crores as the sponsor of National teams over three years.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI to conduct first-ever OMO purchase of State Developments Loans: Reserve Bank of India will conduct its first-ever Open Market Operation (OMO) purchase of State Developments Loans (SDLs) on 22nd October. OMOs will have a worth of Rs 10,000 crore and will be conducted as a special case during current financial year to improve liquidity and facilitate efficient pricing.  The size of the auctions may be enhanced subsequently, depending on the market response. The RBI will purchase the SDLs through a multi-security auction using the multiple price method. The result of the auction will be announced on the same day.

SDLs: Dated securities issued by states for meeting market borrowing requirements of the state

 

2. Rajkiran Rai becomes new chairman of IBA: The Managing Director and CEO of Union Bank of India, Rajkiran Rai G has been elected as the Chairman of Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) for the term 2020-21. He succeeds Rajnish Kumar as the IBA Chairman after Kumar recently retired as SBI Chief. Apart from this, Dinesh Kumar Khara, the Chairman of State Bank of India has been elected as the deputy chairman of the association. IBA is an association of banks and other entities in the banking ecosystem in India catering to its members

Note: IBA Headquarters location: Mumbai, Maharashtra; IBA Founded: 26 September 1946.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Aishwarya Sridhar wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year Award: A 23-year-old, Mumbai based girl, Aishwarya Sridhar became the first Indian woman to win the 2020 Wildlife Photographer of the Year award. It is the 56th year of the prestigious award. Her image titled ‘Lights of passion’, won among 50,000 entries from over 80 countries across the world. Only 100 images were shortlisted and she won the award for her photograph in the Behaviour Invertebrates category. She is the first and youngest girl to win this prestigious award from India in the Adult category. The award winners were announced at the Natural History Museum in London.

 

DEFENSE

 

1. India to hand over its kilo-class submarine INS Sindhuvir to Myanmar for training purpose: As per the information delivered by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India has decided to hand over INS Sindhuvir, a Kilo class submarine to the Myanmar Navy by the end of 2020. This initiative has been launched under the vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), to guarantee security for all maritime partners and is also in line with India’s commitment to build capacities and self-reliance in all its neighbouring countries. The Indian Navy had bought the INS Sindhuvir, a Soviet-origin Kilo-class submarine, from Russia in 1980s and has operated it since 1988. It is currently being modernized by the Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Vizag, after which its service life will be extended by 10-15 years. It will then serve the Myanmar Navy till the 2030s. The INS Sindhuvir will be used by the Myanmar Navy for training purposes. It will also be the first-ever submarine for the Myanmar Navy, which is looking at acquiring its own submarine fleet in the coming years.

 

2. India conducts successful night trial of nuclear-capable Prithvi-2 missile: India has successfully conducted the night trial of its nuclear-capable Prithvi-2 missile from Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur near Balasore, off Odisha coast. The user flight trial was carried out by the Strategic Forces Command of the armed force under the watch of DRDO scientists as part of a training exercise.

About Prithvi-2: The state-of-the-art missile is India’s first indigenous surface-to-surface strategic missile, developed by DRDO under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. The 9-metre tall liquid-propelled Prithvi-2 has a range of 350 km and can carry a 1-tonne warhead. It uses Advanced Inertial Guidance System (AIGS) with manoeuvring trajectory to reach the target with a few metre accuracy. It has been designed to deliver advanced warheads deep into enemy territory. The missile dives at the target at an 80-degree angle.

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

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Veteran Bengali Vocal Artiste Pradip Ghosh passes away: Noted Bengali elocutionist Pradip Ghosh (78 years) passed away at his residence in Kolkata due to COVID-19. He was a prominent recitor and renowned vocal artist, who was well-known for his inimitable style of recitation. His most notable works included his recitation of Tagore’s poems, especially those for children. He worked as a joint director in the state information and cultural affairs department. He was awarded with Kaji Sabyasachi award by West Bengal Govt in 2017.

 

2. Bihar Panchayati Raj Minister Kapil Deo Kamat passes away: Bihar's Panchayati Raj minister Kapil Deo Kamat (70 years) passed away at AIIMS, Patna due to COVID-19. He was suffering from kidney failure and had been on ventilator over the past few days. He was JD(U) MLA from Babubarhi assembly constituency. Babubarhi is set to go to polls during the third phase of Bihar elections, on November 7. He is the second minister in Nitish Kumar's cabinet to succumb to the infection this week. 

Daily GK Updates - 18th Oct, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Education Minister launched “KAPILA” Kalam Program: Union Education Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ has virtually launched the campaign ‘KAPILA’, which stands for Kalam Program for Intellectual Property Literacy and Awareness campaign on 15th October 2020. The day was launched in honour of 89th birth anniversary celebration of former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. Through the campaign, the government will spread awareness through educational programs about the importance of patenting an invention, to lead India towards self-reliance. In order to promote awareness in the field, the Ministry has decided to celebrate the week from 15 to 23 October as ‘Intellectual Property Literacy Week’. Various awareness programs will be organised to create awareness about the system and the importance of the process of applying for a patent.

 

2. SC appoints former judge to monitor steps to prevent stubble burning: The Supreme Court has appointed Justice Madan B Lokur, a former judge of the apex court, as a one-man monitoring committee to prevent stubble burning in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, amid rising levels of pollution in the national capital and adjoining regions. The bench also directed court-appointed Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) and chief secretaries of Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh to help the Lokur panel with physical surveillance of fields to check instances of stubble burning and other related matters.

The new committee will monitor the stubble burning and take preventive steps. It will get assistance from chief secretaries of all states as well as National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme and Bharat Scouts. The panel shall submit its report on stubble burning within 15 days to the apex court.

 

3. J&K L-G announces ‘My Town My Pride’ programme: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha has announced that the government is coming up with a movement called ”My Town My Pride” from October 19 to provide governance at the doorsteps in urban areas on the pattern of the ”Back to Village” programme. The three main objectives of the programme: Public outreach in towns; Strengthening grassroots democracy; Service delivery at doorsteps;

Features of “My Town My Pride”: The programme will also ensure that on-the-spot grievance redressal, instant delivery of services to the masses, and on the ground speedy execution of people-centric projects. The “My Town My Pride” programme anticipates the time-bound delivery of documents like domicile, SC/ST/RBA/ALC/OBC certificates, revenue services. This programme will also ensure the time-bound delivery of benefits of various welfare schemes like pensions, scholarships, PMAY, KCC, Health golden cards, Ladli Beti, etc.

 

4. NTPC CMD Gurdeep Singh’s term extended till 2025: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has extended the tenure of state-run National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Ltd, chairman and managing director, Gurdeep Singh till 31 July 2025. He had first assumed the charge of utility’s chairman and managing director in February 2016.

Gurdeep Singh has earlier worked at NTPC and also across the power sector in firms such as CLP, CESC, IDFC, Powergen and AES. His second term will start from 4 February next year and extend till 31 July 2025 which is the date of his superannuation.

Note: National Thermal Power Corporation Founded: 1975; National Thermal Power Corporation Headquarters: New Delhi, India.

 

5. A book titled ‘The Battle of Belonging’ authored by Shashi Tharoor: Renowned Author and Politician, Shashi Tharoor is set to release his new book titled “The Battle of Belonging” is set to be released in November 2020. The book is published by Aleph Book Company. Shashi Tharoor described this book as his “magnum opus” on the Theory, evolution and practice of Nationalism across the globe and especially in India.

About “The Battle of Belonging”: The book appears to be an extension of his book “Why I Am a Hindu”. It provides the historical context to the ideas of nationalism, patriotism, humanism, democracy and their origins. This book established the actual Indianism and what it means to be a patriotic and nationalistic Indian in the 21st century.

 

6. 36th Raising Day of National Security Guard: The 36th Raising Day of National Security Guard (NSG) is observed on 16 October. NSG plays a crucial role in India’s security apparatus. It has been associated with the utmost courage and professionalism. The NSG is a Federal Contingency force to deal with anti-terrorist activities. The NSG is a force equipped and trained to deal with the specific situation and is therefore used in exceptional circumstances to thwart serious acts of terrorism. It was established in 1984, NSG is popularly known as the Black Cats. It is an elite striking force in the country trained and equipped to handle situations like a terrorist attack, hijacking, and hostage captivity.

Note: National Security Guard Headquarters: New Delhi; DG of National Security Guard: Anup Kumar Singh; The motto of National Security Guard: Sarvatra Sarvottam Suraksha.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India & France re-elected as President and Co-President of International Solar Alliance (ISA): India and France have been re-elected as the President and the Co-President of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) respectively for a term of two years. This decision was taken during the Third Assembly of the ISA, held virtually from 14 to 16 October 2020. India’s Power and New and Renewable Energy Minister, RK Singh will represent as the President of the ISA Assembly. Barbara Pompili, the Minister for Ecological Transition from France will be the Co-President of the Assembly. Four new Vice-Presidents have also been selected to represent the four regions of ISA. They are:

Representatives of Fiji & Nauru – Asia Pacific Region;

Representatives of Mauritius & Niger – Africa Region;

Representatives of UK & Netherlands – Europe and others Region,

Representatives of Cuba and Guyana – Latin America and Caribbean Region

 

2. Vishal V Sharma appointed India’s next permanent representative to UNESCO: Vishal V. Sharma has been appointed as the next Permanent Representative of India to the Permanent Delegation of India to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), with the rank of Ambassador. He will replace Jawed Ashraf. Sharma is expected to take up the assignment shortly.

Note: UNESCO headquarters: Paris, France; UNESCO Head: Audrey Azoulay; UNESCO Founded: 16 November 1945.

 

3. North Korea unveils massive new ballistic missile in military parade: North Korea unveiled what analysts believe to be one of the world’s largest ballistic missiles at a military parade celebrating the 75th anniversary in Pyongyang. The massive weapon Hwasong-15, was carried by an 11-axle truck, capable of carrying a super-heavy nuclear warhead. Solid-fueled missiles offer an advantage over liquid-fueled ones in that they can move without fuel trucks accompanying them. This means they can be launched more quickly and hidden more easily from spy satellites.

 

4. New Zealand passport most powerful, India ranked 58 in Global Passport Index: New Zealand has knocked off Japan for the strongest passport in the world according to the latest Global Passport Index compiled by global financial advisory firm Arton Capital. The US passport ranked 21 and India, 58. The passport index lists the power of passports in terms of real-time, visa restrictions, factoring in legislative changes, and entry requirements. The index, which compares the access granted by the passports of 193 United Nations member countries.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. IWF appoint Michael Irani as interim president: Dr Michael Irani of Great Britain (GBR) has been appointed as the Interim President of the International Weightlifting Federation(IWF), at the meeting of the IWF Executive Board, in accordance with the constitution of IWF. Michael Irani was appointed following the resignation of IWF President Tamás Aján. Prior to this, Michael Irani was serving as the chairman of the IWF Medical Committee.

Michael Irani was born in Bombay, India. Michael Irani is a leading physician in Rheumatology who works as a Consultant Rheumatologist at Ashford Hospital NHS Trust. He was the former Chairman of the anti-doping Commission of IWF. He was a member of the IWF Medical Committee since 1992. He served as the President of the European Weightlifting Federation (EWF) Medical Committee from 1995 to 1999.

Note: International Weightlifting Federation Headquarters: Budapest, Hungary; International Weightlifting Federation Founded: 1905.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Indian Bank inks MoU with Housing Ministry, SIDBI for street vendors: Public sector Indian Bank has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and with Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) for payment of subsidy to street vendors under the Centre’s SVANidhi Scheme. Indian Bank has developed an integrated online system to make payments of interest subvention and cash incentives to all street vendor-beneficiaries across the country through the Direct Benefit Transfer.

 

2. PhonePe launches car and bike insurance on its platform in association with Baja Allianz: Flipkart-owned PhonePe launched car and bike insurance products on its platform in association with Bajaj Allianz General Insurance. With this launch, over 230 million registered PhonePe users can now insure their vehicles seamlessly in under 2 minutes, without the need for any documents to be uploaded before the purchase and also view their policy documents instantly on the app. PhonePe users can also customise their car insurance plan based on their needs with a range of value-added offerings such as zero depreciation, 24X7 roadside assistance and engine protection among others.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Centre to borrow Rs 1.1 Lakh Crore to meet shortfall of GST Compensation: The central government will borrow Rs 1.1 lakh crore under the special window to meet the shortfall of Goods and Services Tax (GST) compensation. Under the Special Window, the estimated shortfall of Rs 1.1 lakh cr (assuming all States join) will be borrowed by Government of India in appropriate tranches. The borrowed amount will be passed on to the States as a back-to-back loan in lieu of GST Compensation. This will not have any impact on the fiscal deficit of the Government of India.

 The amounts will be reflected as the capital receipts of the State Governments and as part of the financing of its respective fiscal deficits. This will avoid differential rates of interest that individual States may be charged for their respective SDLs and will be an administratively easier arrangement. The govt also clarified that the General Government (States+Centre) borrowings will not increase by this step. The States that get the benefit from the Special Window is likely to borrow a considerably lesser amount from the additional borrowing facility of 2% of GSDP (from 3% to 5%) under the Aatma Nirbhar Package.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Jnanpith Awardee Malayalam poet Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri passes away: The eminent Malayalam poet Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri, who was conferred with the 55th Jnanpith award in June 2020, has passed away due to age related ailments. He was 93-years-old. The popular Kerala-based writer was often referred to as Akkitham and is the sixth Keralite to be conferred with the prestigious Jnanpith literary award. Apart from this, he was also honoured with Padmashri in 2017. His work includes over 45 works of poems, plays and short stories. 

Daily GK Updates - 17th Oct, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Cabinet approves Rs. 5718 crore World Bank-supported STARS project: Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has approved the implementation of the Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) project. ‘STARS’ is a new Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education for improving the quality of education, in the Indian School Education System. The total project cost is Rs 5718 crore with the financial support of World Bank amounting to the USD 500 million (approximately Rs. 3700 crores). The project will cover 6 states namely Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala and Odisha.

Under the STARS Project: The project envisages improving the overall monitoring and measurement activities in the Indian School Education System by supporting the selected states in developing, implementing, evaluating and improving interventions with direct linkages to improved education outcomes and school to work transition strategies for improved labour market outcomes. The overall focus and components of the STARS project are aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 of Quality-Based Learning Outcomes.

 

2. DG of Shipping notified as National Authority for Ships Recycling: The Central government has notified the Directorate General of Shipping as the National Authority for Recycling of Ships. The DG Shipping has been designated as the apex authority for the ship recycling industry of India under Section 3 of the Recycling of Ships Act, 2019. The office of the National Authority of Ship Recycling will be set up in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

About National Authority for Recycling of Ship: National Authority for Recycling of Ships will administer, supervise and monitor all activities relating to ship recycling. It would be the final authority for the various approvals required by the ship-recycling yard owners and the State governments.

Note: Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Shipping: Mansukh L. Mandaviya.

 

3. Union Cabinet approves Rs 520 crore package under NRLM for J&K and Ladakh: The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved a special package of Rs 520 crore for the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh under the National Rural Livelihood Mission. This special package has been approved for a period of five years till the financial year 2023-24. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) will ensure sufficient funds to both the Union Territories with the aim to eliminate rural poverty and improved access to financial services. The decision is in line with Centre’s aim to universalise all centrally sponsored beneficiary-oriented schemes in J&K and Ladakh in a time-bound manner.

 

4. Rajnath Singh lays foundation stone for Nechiphu tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh: Amid face-off between the Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone for the strategically important Nechiphu tunnel at West Siang district in Arunachal Pradesh via video conferencing. The 450m-long tunnel, which will bypass the existing road, will be D-shaped and comprise two lanes of 3.5m width each. Another 1.8 km-long tunnel is also being constructed on the BCT road and both will reduce the distance to the area bordering China by 10km. Besides this, the Defence Minister also inaugurated 43 BRO-made bridges across 7 Border States of the country, including 7 in Arunachal and 4 in Sikkim.

 

5. Akbar Ebrahim Gets A Second Term As FMSCI President: Former racer Akbar Ebrahim was unanimously elected for a second term as the president of India’s motorsports governing body, FMSCI. Farooq Ahmed was unanimously elected as the vice-president. Ebrahim had his first stint as FMSCI chief from 2016-2018 following which he was replaced by J Prithviraj.

 

6. IIT Delhi-incubated Startup Launches Antimicrobial Water Storage Containers ‘AqCure’: IIT Delhi-incubated startup Nanosafe Solutions has developed a range of antimicrobial mixing traditional science with nanotechnology i.e. antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal water storage containers and launched it as “AqCure”, which is based on the inherent antimicrobial properties of copper. AqCure water containers have >99.99% antibacterial, >99.99% antifungal, and >99% antiviral activity tested as per ISO and ASTM standards. These containers are made from BPA/BPS-free high quality food grade polymers and is ideal for home and office use.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Kyrgyzstan President Sooronbai Jeenbekov resigns: Kyrgyzstan President, Sooronbai Jeenbekov has resigned from his post, following 10 days of unrest caused by protesters who have demanded his removal from office. On 4th October 2020, he was re-elected as the President in Parliamentary election, causing political turmoil throughout the country. The 61-year-old has served as the President of Kyrgyzstan from 2017 to 2020. He was also the Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan from April 2016 to August 2017.

Note: Kyrgyzstan Capital: Bishkek; Kyrgyzstan Currency: Kyrgyzstani som

 

2. Russia approves 2nd coronavirus vaccine “EpiVacCorona”: Russia has given regulatory approval to a second Covid-19 vaccine, named ‘EpiVacCorona’, after early-stage studies. The new coronavirus vaccine comes two months after a similar move for Russia’s first vaccine Sputnik V prompted widespread criticism from scientists both at home and abroad. Russia became the first country to give regulatory approval to a Covid-19 vaccine in August when Sputnik V was officially registered ahead of the large-scale clinical trial. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the country has registered the second Covid-19 vaccine.

About EpiVacCorona: The second Russian vaccine to receive regulatory approval was developed by the Vector State Research Centre of Virology and Biotechnology. The two-shot vaccine, ‘EpiVacCorona’, was tested among 100 volunteers in early-stage, placebo-controlled human trials, which lasted more than two months and were completed two weeks ago. The volunteers were between 18 and 60 years old. Vector’s vaccine EpiVacCorona relies on chemically synthesized peptide antigens of SARS-CoV-2 proteins, conjugated to a carrier protein and adsorbed on an aluminium-containing adjuvant, according to details posted at ClinicalTrials.gov, a database of privately and publicly funded clinical studies conducted around the world.

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

 

3. India contributes 1 million dollars to UNRWA for Palestine Refugees: India has contributed one million dollars to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestine Refugees in Near East. This aid will support the Agency’s programmes and services, including education, health care, relief and social services. The Representative Office of India in Ramallah stated, India’s support for the Palestinian cause is an integral part of the nation’s foreign policy. It shall continue supporting the UNRWA’s activities in providing vital services and necessary humanitarian aid to Palestinian refugees.

Note: UNRWA is a United Nations (UN) agency which was established by the UN General Assembly in 1949. The agency is mandated to provide protection and assistance to some 5.6 million Palestine refugees who are registered with UNRWA across its 5 fields of operation. TThe mission of UNRWA is to help the Palestinian Refugees in Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, West Bank, including Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem.

UNRWA Headquarters: Amman, Jordan; UNRWA Commissioner-General: Philippe Lazzarini.

 

4. International Day for the Eradication of Poverty: 17th October: International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed globally on 17 October every year. The day aims to raise awareness of the need to eradicate poverty and destitution around the world, particularly in developing countries. 2020 Theme: “Acting together to achieve social and environmental justice for all”. The theme for the Day this year addresses the challenge of achieving social and environmental justice for all. This year marks the 27th anniversary of the declaration by the General Assembly, in its resolution 47/196 of 22 December 1992, of 17 October as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This year also marks the 32nd anniversary of the Call to Action by Father Joseph Wresinski — which inspired the observance of October 17 as the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty — and the recognition by the United Nations of the day as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. AIFF announces ‘Indian Football – Forward Together’ as its new motto: All India Football Federation, the apex body for the sport of football in the country, announced the launch of their new motto “Indian Football. Forward Together”, defining the new brand direction. The motto is based on the core belief of the Federation to promote, grow and develop the game of football throughout India with the support of the football community, and creates synergy with the core values of the organization – passion, respect, leadership, teamwork, integrity, professionalism and inclusivity.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IKEA partners Mastercard, Citi to launch Family Credit Card: Citibank India (Citi) and Mastercard jointly announced the launch of “IKEA Family Credit Card by Citi” to make shopping at the Swedish furnishing company more affordable, convenient and rewarding. The card provides instant in-store card bookings, direct payments via Bharat QR, accelerated reward points and attractive EMIs and would also offer reward points on all purchases with instant reward redemption at IKEA. The card is available to IKEA family members at ”zero joining fee and zero annual fee’‘ and can be used for purchases made on IKEAs online and offline stores, or anywhere in the world that accepts credit cards.

 

2. EarlySalary launches ”Salary Card” powered by RuPay to meet the Rising Demand for Digital Credit: EarlySalary, India’s largest consumer lending platform, announced the launch of ‘Salary Card’ a zero-touch digital card that provides instant access for salaried professionals, enabling them to make instant purchases across thousands of merchants across India. Powered by RuPay, the Salary Card comes with a unique feature that allows consumers the flexibility of setting up a dynamic credit limit to suit that shopping, medical, travel, entertainment and other needs. The ‘Salary Card’ backed by advanced Machine Learning (ML) technologies and risk-oriented decision making mechanisms, is designed to serve as a secure payment mode to help consumers spend responsibly.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. BharatPe elevates Dhruv Dhanraj Bahl to chief operating officer: Merchant payment network BharatPe has elevated Dhruv Bahl as its chief operating officer (COO) with immediate effect.  In his new role, Bahl will be leading operations across customer support, deployments – QR, Swipe & Cards, KYC, loan disbursals and lead generation.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Former New Zealand all-rounder John R Reid passes away: New Zealand’s oldest surviving Test cricketer and former captain John Reid has died at the age of 92. Reid, regarded as one of the world’s best all-rounders during his heyday in the fifties and early sixties, captained New Zealand in 34 Tests including, most notably, the country’s first three victories. Reid played 246 first-class games and scored 16128 runs at 41.35, including 39 centuries, while taking 466 wickets at 22.60. He retired in 1965 and later became a New Zealand selector, manager, and an ICC match referee.

 

2. India’s first Oscar winner Bhanu Athaiya passes away: India's first Oscar winner Costume designer Bhanu Athaiya (91 years) passed away in Mumbai. She won Oscar for her work in epic film Richard Attenborough's Gandhi in 1983 jointly with John Mollo. She began her career as a costume designer in movie 'C.I.D.'.  She is known for Bollywood's looks, including Vyjayantihmala in Aamrapaali, Waheeda Rehman in Guide and Zeenat Aman in Satyam Shivam Sundaram. She also won 2 national awards for Lekin (1990) and Lagaan (2001). In 2012, Athaiya returned her Oscar to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for safekeeping.

 

3. Cricket journalist and commentator Kishore Bhimani passes away: Veteran sports journalist and Cricket commentator, Kishore Bhimani passed away. He was a leading cricket commentator in the Eighties and Nineties and is best remembered for being on the air during the tied Test of 1986 between India and Australia in Chepauk, Chennai. He had received a lifetime achievement award for his decades-long contribution in the fields of media and commentary in 2013.