Daily GK Update- 13th Aug, 2021

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi announces palm oil initiative: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced aRs 11,000 crore National Edible Oil Mission-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) to make India self-sufficient in cooking oils, including palm oil. The government will ensure that farmers get all the facilities, from quality seeds to technology under the mission. While India has become self-sufficient in rice, wheat and sugar, it was not enough as the country is hugely dependent on imported edible oils. The Centre has already been running a National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm to boost oilseeds and palm oil production in India for the last few years with an aim to lower imports.

 

2. Maharashtra government announces Rajiv Gandhi award for IT sector: Maharashtra government has announced a new award named after the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi for outstanding performance in the Information and Technology (IT) sector. The Rajiv Gandhi Award in Maharashtra will be given to institutes doing remarkable work in the field of information technology. The decision to start an award in the state after former PM Rajiv Gandhi was taken in a meeting chaired by Maharashtra Minister of State for Information Technology and Home SatejPatil. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced that the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award will be called the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award.

Note: Maharashtra Governor: Bhagat Singh Koshyari; Maharashtra Capital: Mumbai; Maharashtra CM: Uddhav Thackeray.

 

3. UNICEF India, Facebook collaborate to make a safer online world for children: UNICEF India and Facebook have launched a one-year joint initiative on ending violence against children with a special focus on online safety. The partnership seeks to create a safe environment for children online and offline. It aims to improve children’s resilience and capacity to access the digital world safely, increase awareness on violence against children and its impact on children, families, and communities, and increase the skills of communities and frontline workers to better prevent and respond to violence.

In this partnership: The partnership includes a nationwide social media campaign and capacity building for 100,000 school children on online safety, digital literacy, and psychosocial support. Well-known actor and UNICEF India’s celebrity advocate on ending violence against children, AyushmannKhurrana, gave his keynote message during the virtual event.

Note: UNICEF Headquarters: New York, United States of America; UNICEF Executive Director: Henrietta H. Fore; UNICEF Founded: 11 December 1946.

Facebook Founded: February 2004; Facebook CEO: Mark Zuckerberg; Facebook Headquarters: California, United States.

 

4. IT Ministry to host the first Internet Governance Forum in the country: India will host the first Internet Governance Forum in the country, starting from October 20, this year. The theme of this year’s meeting is Inclusive Internet for Digital India. With this announcement, the Indian chapter of the United Nations-based forum namely the Internet Governance Forum has begun. It’s an Internet Governance policy discussion platform to bring representatives together from various groups, considering all at par to discuss public policy issues related to the Internet. National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology(MeitY) and the Chairman of the Coordination Committee, India Internet Governance Forum 2021 (IGF), announced the launch of India Internet Governance Forum (IIGF) -2021.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

 

1. South Africa grants patent to an artificial intelligence system: South Africa grants a patent relating to a “food container based on fractal geometry” to an artificial intelligence (AI) system called DABUS. DABUS (which stands for “device for the autonomous bootstrapping of unified sentience”) is an AI system created by Stephen Thaler, a pioneer in the field of AI and programming. The system simulates human brainstorming and creates new inventions.

About DABUS:

(1) DABUS is a particular type of AI, often referred to as “creativity machines” because they are capable of independent and complex functioning. This differs from everyday AI like Siri, the “voice” of Apple’s iPhones.

(2) The patent application listing DABUS as the inventor was filed in patent offices around the world, including the U.S., Europe, Australia, and South Africa.

(3) But only South Africa granted the patent (Australia followed suit a few days later after a court judgment gave the go-ahead).

Note: South Africa Capitals: Cape Town, Pretoria, Bloemfontein; South Africa Currency: South African rand; South Africa President: Cyril Ramaphosa.

 

2. India ranks 122nd on “New Global Youth Development Index”: India is ranked 122nd on a new Global Youth Development Index 2020 measuring the condition of young people across 181 countries, released by the Commonwealth Secretariat in London. Singapore ranked topmost followed by Slovenia, Norway, Malta and Denmark. Chad, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Afghanistan and Niger came last respectively. The triennial rankings of youth development found India among the top five risers on the index between 2010 and 2018, alongside Afghanistan and Russia, advancing their score on average by 15.74 per cent across areas such as education and employment.About the index:

(1) The index ranks countries between 0.00 (lowest) and 1.00 (highest) according to the developments in youth education, employment, health, equality and inclusion, peace and security, and political and civic participation.

(2) It looks at 27 indicators including literacy and voting to showcase the state of the world’s 1.8 billion people between the age of 15 and 29.

(3) The 2020 Global Youth Development Index reveals that the conditions of young people have improved around the world by 3.1 per cent between 2010 and 2018.

(4) Overall, the index shows advances in youth’s participation in peace processes and their education, employment, inclusion and health care since 2010.

 

3. World Organ Donation Day: 13th August: World Organ Donation Day is celebrated every year on August 13. The day is celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation and motivate people to donate organs after death. The day provides an opportunity to all to come ahead and pledge to donate their precious organs because one organ donor can save up to eight lives.

 

4. International Lefthanders Day: 13th August: The International Left-Handers Day is observed on August 13 every year to celebrate the uniqueness and differences of the left-handers and raise awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of being left-handed in a predominantly right-handed world. Left-handers are likely to have better verbal skills than their right-handed counterparts, according to a 2019 study by Oxford University.

History of the day: The day was first observed in 1976 by Dean R Campbell, the founder of Lefthanders International Inc. Further, in 1990, the Lefthanders International Club was founded with an aim to promote left-handedness, and make their views known to manufacturers towards the development of items for left-handed individuals. In 1992, the Club launched the International Lefthanders Day to create awareness regarding the “advantages and disadvantages of being left-handed.”

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Durand Cup makes re-entry with 130th edition to be held at Kolkata: Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest and world’s third oldest football tournament, is all set to make a comeback, after a year’s gap. The 130th edition of the Durand Cup is scheduled to be held in and around Kolkata between September 05 to October 03, 2021. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the competition was cancelled last season. History of Durand Cup:

(1) The prestigious tournament was first held in 1888, at Dagshai (Himachal Pradesh) and is named after Mortimer Durand, who was then the Foreign Secretary in charge of India.

(2) The tournament was a conscious way to initially maintain health and fitness amongst the British troops but was later opened to civilians and currently is one of the leading sports events in the world.

(3) Mohun Bagan and East Bengal are the most successful teams in the history of the Durand Cup winning it sixteen times each.

(4) The winning team is presented with three trophies ie the President’s Cup (first presented by DrRajendra Prasad), the Durand Cup (the original challenge prize – a rolling trophy) and the Shimla Trophy (first presented by citizens of Shimla in 1903 and since 1965, a rolling trophy).

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SIDBI unveils “Digital Prayaas” lending platform: Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has unveiled ‘Digital Prayaas’ an app-based digital-lending platform to facilitate loans to entrepreneurs from low-income groups. The objective is to sanction a loan by the end of the day. The platform has engaged in the promotion, financing and development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). To cater to those from the urban area, SIDBI has tied up with BigBasket to provide loans to its delivery partners for the purchase of e-bikes and e-vans. the SIDBI-BigBasket initiative would create digital footprints that would further facilitate loans to the borrower’s family members for their own micro-enterprises. SIDBI should enter into similar arrangements with more partner institutions to increase its outreach.

Note: CMD of SIDBI: S Ramann; SIDBI founded: 2nd April 1990; SIDBI Headquarters: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

 

2. RBI appoints Neeraj Chopra for banking fraud awareness campaign: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has started a public awareness campaign to warn people against digital banking frauds. For the new campaign, RBI has roped in Olympic Gold medalist Neeraj Chopra. The central bank has asked people to be a little cautious as doing so can protect them from a lot of troubles. A little caution takes care of a lot of trouble. The campaign sees Chopra urging users to not divulge details like OTP, CVV number and ATM PIN in front of anyone. The users should keep changing their online banking passwords and PIN numbers frequently and immediately block ATM card, credit card, debit card and/or prepaid card if one loses it. Block your card if stolen, lost or compromised.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Retail inflation eases to 5.59% in July: Retail inflation eased to 5.59% in July mainly due to softening of food prices. The Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation was 6.26% in June and 6.73% in July 2020. Inflation in the food basket slowed down to 3.96% in July from 5.15% in the previous month. Earlier this month, the RBI pegged the CPI inflation at 5.7% during 2021-22 — 5.9% in the second quarter, 5.3% in third, and 5.8% in the fourth quarter of the fiscal, with risks broadly balanced.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. ITBP inducts its first women officers in combat: For the first time, India-China LAC guarding the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) force has commissioned its first two women officers in combat. The two women officers, Prakriti and Diksha will be posted as company commanders in ITBP battalions. Heretofore, women officers in the ITBP were serving in the medical branch or were on deputation from the Indian Police Service at top echelons.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Deswal put the ranks of Assistant Commandant, the entry-level officer rank in the paramilitary, on the shoulders of Prakriti and Diksha after the passing out parade and attestation ceremony where they took an oath to serve the country. The ITBP started recruiting women combat officers in its cadre in 2016 through an all-India examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

Note: ITBP Founded: 24 October 1962; ITBP Headquarters: New Delhi, India; ITBP DG: S SDeswal.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Malayalam actor SaranyaSasi passes away: Popular Malayalam film and television actor, SaranyaSasi passed away due to Covid-19 complications. She had also battled cancer for nearly a decade, earning praise for showing remarkable grit and determination in battling the disease. She had been diagnosed with a form of brain tumour in 2012. The actress’ body of work includes films like Chhota Mumbai, Thalappavu, Bombay March 12 and TV soaps like Kootukari, Avakashikal, Harichandanam, Malakhamar and Rahasyam.

 

Daily GK Update- 12th Aug, 2021

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Gujarat CM launches eNagar mobile application and portal: Gujarat Chief Minister, Vijay Rupani has launched eNagar mobile application and portal. The eNagar covers 10 modules with 52 services including property tax, professional tax, water & drainage, Complaints and grievance redressal, building permission, fire and emergency services. Gujarat Urban Development Mission has been appointed as a nodal agency for eNagar project. Total 170 locations including 162 municipalities and 8 Municipal Corporations are covered under the eNagar project.

Note: Gujarat Chief Minister: Vijay Rupani; Gujarat Governor: Acharya Devvrat.

 

2. GoI Approves 3-year extension for Rekha Sharma as Chairperson of NCW: The Government of India has given a three-year extension to Rekha Sharma as Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW). She will serve for another three years term with effect from August 07, 2021, or till the age of 65 years or until further orders whichever is the earliest. The 57-year-old Sharma first assumed the charge as Chairperson of NCW on August 7, 2018. Rekha Sharma has been associated with the Commission as a member since August 2015 and held the additional charge as the chairperson from September 29, 2017, before becoming its regular chief. She has been a vocal advocate of gender sensitisation of police personnel since they are the first point of contact for victims.

Note: National Commission for Women Formed: 1992; National Commission for Women Headquarters: New Delhi.

 

3. India to launch advanced geo imaging satellite “Gisat-1”: India will finally launch its most advanced geo-imaging satellite (GiSAT-1), which will allow better monitoring of the subcontinent, including its borders with Pakistan and China, by imaging the country 4-5 times a day. The satellite will be launched on August 12 from Sriharikota. Isro’s GSLV-F10 rocket will finally put the 2,268-kg Gisat-1, codenamed EOS-3, into the geo-orbit. This will be India’s first launch of a primary satellite this year.

Once placed 36,000 km above the earth in the geostationary orbit after space manoeuvres, the advanced ‘eye in the sky’ can constantly monitor areas of interest (the satellite will move in sync with the rotation of the Earth and hence would look stationary) and will give real-time information about a large area unlike other remote sensing satellites placed in lower orbits that come to a spot only at regular intervals. EOS-3 will also enable quick monitoring of natural disasters, episodic and short-term events.

Note: ISRO Chairman: K.Sivan; ISRO Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka; ISRO established: 15 August 1969.

 

4. A book title “The Earthspinner” authored by Anuradha Roy: A book titled “The Earthspinner” authored by award-winning novelist Anuradha Roy. In the book, Roy delves into the “life and mind of Elango the potter, who must navigate complicated and impossible love, the dedication of a beloved pet, his own passion for creativity and a world turned upside down by the petty violence that characterises the present day”. This novel is about two people struggling to free themselves of such shackles to create a happier world. Roy’s earlier works include “An Atlas of Impossible Longing” and “The Folded Earth”.

 

5. A book title “How the Earth Got Its Beauty” authored by SudhaMurty: A book titled “How the Earth Got Its Beauty” authored by SudhaMurty. The book was published by Penguin Random House imprint Puffin, has illustrations by Priyanka Pachpande. SudhaMurty is a prolific writer in English and Kannada, she has written novels, technical books, travelogues, collections of short stories and non-fictional pieces, and four books for children. Her books have been translated into all the major Indian languages. SudhaMurty was the recipient of the R.K. Narayan Award for Literature and the Padma Shri in 2006, and the Attimabbe Award from the government of Karnataka for excellence in Kannada literature in 2011.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

 

1. Mohammad Mokhber named as first Vice President of Iran: Iran’s new President EbrahimRaisi named the chairman of a powerful state-owned foundation sanctioned by the United States as his first vice-president. Mohammad Mokhber has for years headed the foundation known as Setad or the Execution of Imam Khomeini’s order. Mokhber was appointed to the position by the supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in 2007. The Setad was originally founded in the late 1980s to manage confiscated properties following the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Note: Iran Capital: Tehran; Iran Currency: Iranian toman.

 

2. International Youth Day: 12th August: The International Youth Day is observed on August 12 annually to draw the attention of governments and others towards youth issues worldwide. This day is celebrated to recognize the efforts put in by the youth for the betterment of society. The Day aims to promote the ways to engage the youth and make them more actively involved in their communities through positive contributions. The theme of International Youth Day 2021, “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health”. The theme highlights the ways in which the engagement of young people at the local, national and global levels is enriching national and multilateral institutions and processes, as well as draw lessons on how their representation and engagement in formal institutional politics can be significantly enhanced.

History of International Youth Day: In 1999, the General Assembly endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth (Lisbon, 8-12 August 1998) that 12 August be declared International Youth Day. This day is the first time observed on August 12, 2000, the day marks an awareness day and draws attention to a given set of cultural and legal issues surrounding youth.

 

3. World Elephant Day: 12th August: World Elephant Day is observed every year on August 12 worldwide for the preservation and protection of the global elephants. The main objective of World Elephant Day is to create awareness on elephant conservation and to share knowledge and positive solutions for the better protection and management of wild and captive elephants.

History of the day: The World Elephant Day was initiated on August 12, 2012, when Thailand-based Elephant Reintroduction Foundation teamed up with Canadian filmmaker Patricia Sims. This is not just a day but a movement in itself. Since 2012, Ms Sims has been leading World Elephant Day.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. ICC to push for cricket’s inclusion in Olympics 2028: The International Cricket Council has confirmed it will campaign for the inclusion of the sport at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The ICC’s bid to end what will by then have been an absence from Olympic schedules will include multiple demonstrations of cricket’s suitability for multisport events. Cricket, till now, has made just one appearance in the Olympics, way back in 1900 in Paris when only two teams competed at the event Great Britain and hosts France meaning the sport’s inclusion in 2028 would mark the end of a 128-year absence. The sport will feature in the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games next year, which shapes as a perfect showcase for what the sport can bring to the Olympics, as well as being a momentous occasion on its own.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI to penalise banks if ATMs run out of cash from October 1: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the launch of the ‘Scheme of Penalty for non-replenishment of ATMs’, as per which it will impose monetary penalties on ATMs/WLAs that run out of cash. Concerned over the inconvenience caused to the public due to the non-availability of cash in ATMs, the Reserve Bank has decided to penalise banks for failure to timely replenish currency notes in such machines. The Scheme of Penalty for non-replenishment of ATMs has been formulated to ensure that sufficient cash is available to the public through ATMs.

Effective Date: The Scheme shall be effective from October 01, 2021. Therefore, banks/ WLAOs should put in place a robust system for monitoring the availability of cash in ATMs and ensure timely replenishment to avoid cash-outs.

Quantum of Penalty: Cash-out at any ATM of more than ten hours in a month will attract a flat penalty of ₹ 10,000/- per ATM. In the case of White Label ATMs (WLAs), the penalty would be charged to the bank which is meeting the cash requirement of that particular WLA. The bank, may, at its discretion, recover the penalty from the WLA operator.

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

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Finance Ministry: over 5.82 crore Jan Dhan accounts inoperative: The Finance Ministry has informed Rajya Sabha that over 5.82 crore Jan Dhan (PMJDY) accounts are inoperative. This is 14 per cent of the total number of accounts. It means at least one out of 10 Jan Dhan accounts is inoperative. According to guidelines issued by the Reserve Bank of India, “savings, as well as current account, should be treated as inoperative/dormant if there are no transactions in the account for over a period of two years. According to the website of PMJDY, the total number of Jan Dhan accounts is 42.83 crore with a balance of nearly ₹1.43 lakh crore.

For the purpose of classifying an account as ‘inoperative’ both types of transactions i.e. debit as well as credit, induced at the instance of customers as well as a third party, should be considered. This is key as these accounts are also used for payment under welfare schemes, food grain procurement mechanisms or even rural employment guarantee programmes.

Note: Finance Minister of India: Nirmala Sitharaman.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Army contingent to participate in International Army Games 2021 in Russia: The 7th edition of the International Army Games, 2021, will be held from 22 August to 04 September 2021 in Russia. The competition will be hosted in eleven countries in the 2021 Games. Over 280 teams from 42 countries will compete in the game to show their combat skills, professionalism and determination to win. The International Army Games also referred to as ‘War Olympics’, is an international military sports event, which aims to strengthen military-to-military cooperation between countries and trust between the participating nations.

From India, 101 members of the Indian Army will participate in the International Army Games, which is organised each year by the Russian Ministry of Defence, since 2015. The Indian contingent will participate in Army Scout Masters Competition (ASMC), Elbrus Ring, Polar Star, Sniper Frontier and Safe Route games. In 2019, India had also co-hosted the games for the first time in Jaisalmer and had stood first in Army Scouts Master Competition.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Renowned AyurvedacharyaBalajiTambe passes away: A well-known spiritual leader who was also an Ayurveda doctor and proponent of Yoga, DrBalajiTambe, passed away. The founder of ‘Atmasantulana Village’, a holistic healing centre near Lonavala, DrTambe had written several books on spirituality, Yoga and Ayurveda. He dedicated his entire life to promote and popularize Ayurveda and Yoga.

Note: ITBP Founded: 24 October 1962; ITBP Headquarters: New Delhi, India; ITBP DG: S SDeswal. 

Daily GK Update- 11th Aug, 2021

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ministry for Social Justice launches ‘PM-DAKSH’ Portal and Mobile App: The Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment DrVirendra Kumar has unveiled a portal and mobile application named ‘PM-DAKSH’, which aims to make the skill development schemes accessible to the target groups. The ‘PM-DAKSH’ stands for Pradhan MantriDakshtaAurKushaltaSampannHitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana. The portal can be accessed at: http://pmdaksh.dosje.gov.in. The platform has been developed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, in collaboration with National E-Governance Division (NeGD), under the Department Of Electronics And Information Technology. The training programs will be implemented through Government Training Institutes, Sector Skill Councils constituted by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and other credible institutions.

Features of PM DAKSH: Through PM DAKSH, youths of the target groups can get information about skill development training happening near them and can easily register to avail the benefits of skill development training programmes more easily.

 

2. Indian Railways Launches Rail Madad: A Unified Customer Care Solution: Indian Railways has launched an integrated one-stop solution “Rail Madad” in which the national transporter has merged a number of existing helplines that were used for various purposes into one. The Railway ministry toll-free number 139 can be used for all kinds of enquiries and making complaints and the helpline facility is available round-the-clock in 12 languages.

About the Rail Madad: Rail Madad, the integrated and innovative one-stop solution for customer grievance, enquiry, suggestion and assistance, providing passengers with the choice to access RailMadad through multiple channels, namely, Web, App, SMS, Social Media and Helpline number (139) during the journey for expeditious resolution of their complaints.

 

3. Haryana govt signs MoU with Walmart Vriddhi to help MSMEs: The Haryana government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ‘Walmart Vriddhi’ and ‘Haqdarshak’ to create a pathway for Indian MSMEs’ products to move to the international markets. The MoU was signed in the presence of Haryana Deputy Chief Minister DushyantChautala, Vikas Gupta, MSME Department Director-General, the Indian government, Nitin Dutt from Walmart Vriddhi, and AniketDoegar (CEO of Haqdarshak). To promote MSMEs apart from large industries, many important concessions have been given to investors in ‘Haryana Enterprises and Employment Policy-2020’. This move will bring a big opportunity for the MSME sector, as their products will be displayed in 24 countries and will be available in 10,500 stores under 48 banners.

Note: Haryana Capital: Chandigarh; Haryana Governor: BandaruDattatraya; Haryana Chief Minister: Manohar Lal Khattar.

 

4. Karnataka becomes first state to issue order implementing NEP-2020: Karnataka has become the first state in the country to issue the order with regard to the implementation of the National Education Policy-2020. The state government has issued an order on the implementation of NEP-2020 with effect from the current academic year 2021-2022.

About the policy: This policy seeks to entirely overhaul the system through various reforms: A single regulator to oversee higher education; no more MPhil courses before PhD; fixed fees for public and private institutions; students can choose between three and four-year undergraduate courses; multiple entries and exit points in degree courses.

Note: Chief Minister of Karnataka: Basavaraj S Bommai; Karnataka Governor: Thawar Chand Gehlot; Karnataka Capital: Bengaluru.

 

5. GoI approves 1-year extension to Rajiv Gauba’s term as Cabinet Secretary: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has extended the term of service of Rajiv Gauba, as the Cabinet Secretary of India, for a further period of one year. Gauba, a 1982-batch IAS officer of Jharkhand cadre, was appointed to the top bureaucratic post of the country in August 2019 for two years. His term of service was to end on August 30, 2021. Prior to this, MrGauba was Union Home Secretary from August 2017 to August 2019.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi becomes first Indian PM to Chair a UNSC Debate: Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi has chaired the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) open debate, via video conferencing. With this, PM Modi has become the first Prime Minister of India to chair a UNSC open debate. It must be remembered that India has assumed the Presidency of the UNSC for August 2021, taking over from France. The theme of the high-level open debate was ‘Enhancing Maritime Security – A Case for International Cooperation’. India will organize two more meetings during its presidency, on peacekeeping and counterterrorism.

During the debate, PM Modi also underlined five principles that need to be followed in terms of maritime trade and security, which included:

(1) free maritime trade sans barriers,

(2) peaceful settlement of maritime disputes,

(3) combating maritime threats,

(4) encouraging responsible maritime connectivity and

(5) preserving maritime environment and resources

 

2. KirenRijiju attends 8th SCO Meeting of Ministers of Justice: The Union Law Minister KirenRijiju has virtually attended the eighth meeting of Ministers of Justice of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The Minister of State for Law & Justice, Prof SP Singh Baghel also attended the meeting. During the virtual event, Rijiju highlighted the initiatives taken by the Government of India for providing affordable and easy access to justice for all.

About the meeting: The three days’ meeting was hosted by Tajikistan, and chaired by Tajikistan’s Justice Minister, MK Ashuriyon. The Ministers of (Law and) Justice and senior officials and experts from the Ministries of Law & Justice of ‘India, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russian Federation, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan’ participated in the meeting.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. 7th August to be named “Javelin Throw Day” to honourNeeraj Chopra: The Athletics Federation of India has decided that javelin throw day will be on 7th August every year in honour of Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra. The 23-year-old Neeraj is India’s second individual Olympic gold medallist after AbhinavBindra. Neeraj bagged the gold medal in men’s javelin throw at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on 7th August 2021. Neeraj has scripted the history at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo when he threw the javelin to a distance of 87.58m to end India’s medal drought in athletics at the Olympics. This is India’s first-ever gold medal in athletics in the history of the Olympics.  AFI’s bid to name August 7 as Javelin Throw Day is an attempt to attract more youth towards the sport.

Note: Athletics Federation of India President: Adille J Sumariwalla; Athletics Federation of India Founded: 1946; Athletics Federation of India Headquarters location: New Delhi.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI hikes collateral-free loans to Self Help Groups: The Reserve Bank of India has raised the limit for collateral-free loans to Self-Help Groups (SHG) under the DAY-NRLM (DeendayalAntyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission) from Rs. 10 lakhs to Rs. 20 Lakhs. The DAY-NRLM is the flagship program of Govt. of India for promoting poverty reduction through building strong institutions for the poor, particularly women, and enabling these institutions to access a range of financial services and livelihoods.

Commercial banks provide loans to SHG. The new directions from RBI to commercial banks for this type of loan is as under:

(1) For loans to SHGs up to Rs 10 lakh, no collateral and no margin will be charged. No lien should be marked against the savings bank account of SHGs and no deposits should be insisted upon while sanctioning loans.

(2) For loans to SHGs above Rs 10 lakh and up to Rs 20 lakh, no collateral should be charged and no lien should be marked against the savings bank account of SHGs. However, the entire loan (irrespective of the loan outstanding, even if it subsequently goes below Rs 10 lakh) would be eligible for coverage under Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units (CGFMU).”

About the DAY-NRLM: The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), Government of India launched the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) by restructuring Swarnajayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY). NRLM was renamed as DAY-NRLM (DeendayalAntyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission) w.e.f. March 29, 2016.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. ADB approves USD 300 million additional loan for Maharashtra: The Manila-based Asian Development Bank has approved a USD 300 million loans as additional financing for the ongoing Maharashtra Rural Connectivity Improvement Project for upgrading rural roads and connecting remote areas with markets. The additional financing will be used for improving an additional 1,100 rural roads and 230 bridges for a total length of 2,900 km in 34 districts of the state. The project was approved in August 2019, for improving and maintaining the condition and safety of 2,100 kilometres (km) of rural roads across Maharashtra.

Note: Maharashtra Governor: Bhagat Singh Koshyari; Maharashtra Capital: Mumbai; Maharashtra CM: Uddhav Thackeray.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. India-UAE Navy undertakes bilateral exercise ‘ZayedTalwar 2021’: The Indian Navy and UAE Navy conducted the bilateral naval exercise ‘ZayedTalwar 2021’ on August 07, 2021, off the coast of Abu Dhabi. The main objective of the ‘ZayedTalwar 2021’ naval exercise was to enhance interoperability and synergy between the two navies. Indian Navy participated with INS Kochi, with two integral Sea King MK 42B helicopters, deployed in the Persian Gulf. From UAE, UAES AL – Dhafra, a Baynunah class guided missile corvette and one AS – 565B Panther helicopter took part in the exercise.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. War hero Commodore KasargodPatnashetti Gopal Rao passes away: Commodore KasargodPatnashetti Gopal Rao, a 1971 war hero and recipient of the Mahavir Chakra, passed away. Rao was a recipient of the Veer Seva Medal also. He played a key role in the war with Pakistan to liberate East Pakistan that is now Bangladesh. Rao led a small task group of the Western Fleet and launched an offensive off the coast of Karachi as part of Operation Cactus Lily. Notwithstanding the threat of air, surface and submarine attack, he led the group into enemy waters on the night of December 4, 1971.

 

Daily GK Update- 10th Aug, 2021

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ladakh launches ‘PaniMaah’ to raise awareness about clean water: ‘PaniMaah’ or water month has been launched in Ladakh to inform villagers about the importance of clean water. The Ladakh government has also announced a reward of Rs 2.5 million for the first block in each district that achieves the status of ‘HarGhar Jal’. ‘PaniMaah’ campaign will adopt a three-pronged approach — focussing on water quality testing, planning and strategizing water supply, and seamless functioning of Pani Sabha in villages.

As per the government data:

(1) Only 11.75 per cent of rural households in Ladakh have access to tap water connections. The PaniMaah campaign is expected to expedite the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission in the union territory.

(2) During this campaign, village communities will be encouraged to send water samples to water quality laboratories for quality checks and monitoring.

(3) In the first phase of ‘PaniMaah’, water samples will be collected from all identified sources and service delivery points for testing. The first phase will also include awareness and sensitisation campaigns.

(4) The second phase will focus on organising the PaniSabhas/Gram Sabhas/Block level meetings and door to door visits for effective communication on water quality and service delivery under the Jal Jeevan Mission, a scheme of the Ministry of Jal Shakti launched in 2019 to provide safe piped drinking water to every rural household in the country by 2024.

Note: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh: Radha Krishna Mathur.

 

2. Ministry of S&T Allocated over Rs 1,600 Cr for Covid-related Research, Product Development: The Ministry of Science and Technology has allocated over Rs 1,600 crore for COVID-19 related research and product development, the government informed Rajya Sabha. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and its public sector undertaking Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) have allocated approximately Rs 1,300 crore for COVID-19 related research and product development, Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said. Under the COVID-19 research consortium, as a part of the comprehensive efforts to facilitate development of indigenous research solutions to tackle COVID-19, 107 projects were supported in thematic areas of vaccines (17), diagnostics (45), therapeutics (22) and biomedical interventions (23). To advance biomedical research, the DBT has supported five COVID-19 biorepositories.

 

3. Haryana CM Khattar launches ‘HarHith’ store scheme in Panchkula: Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar launched the first-of-its-kind ‘HarHith’ store scheme to promote the sale of quality products of daily need at reasonable prices.As many as 2,000 stores will be launched in the first phase- 1,500 in rural and 500 in urban areas. The number of stores will later be extended to 5,000 in the first phase. As per the scheme franchise policy, people in the age group of 18-35, women, person with special disabilities, young members of families having annual income less than Rs1.80 lakh and those verified under the MukhyamantriParviarUthan Yojana would be given preference. The state government will also guarantee a minimum monthly income of Rs15,000 per month through these stores. As per the sale provision made in the HarHith store scheme, the franchise partner, who sells products worth Rs1.50 lakh will earn a marginal profit of 10 per cent that is Rs15,000.

 

4. MS Dhoni becomes first brand ambassador of HomeLane: Home interiors brand HomeLane has entered into a three-year strategic partnership with Mahendra Singh Dhoni as an equity partner and brand ambassador. As part of the partnership, Dhoni will own equity in HomeLane and will be the company’s first brand ambassador. With the upcoming cricket and festive season, HomeLane and MS Dhoni are jointly working on a brand new campaign that will be released during the new IPL season. The partnership will last for the next three years. Dhoni will not only become an equity partner but also a brand ambassador for the company.

 

5. A book titled “The Year That Wasn’t – The Diary of a 14-Year-Old” released: Veteran actor ShabanaAzmi has launched the book titled “The Year That Wasn’t – The Diary of a 14-Year-Old”, which is penned by Kolkata girl Brisha Jain. The book was written by a 14-year-old girl, which chronicles the lockdown days seen through her eyes as the Covid-19 pandemic spreading last year. The book handholds readers through a journey – the hopeful beginning of a new decade, the confusion triggered by a pandemic, lockdown travails, coping with the whole new world of online schooling, a new digital divide, the vaccine race, the waning of the pandemic’s severity and it’s a resurgence.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

 

1. IMF approves $650B Special Drawing Rights allocation: The International Monetary Fund has approved an allocation of $650 billion in Special Drawing Rights, the largest such disbursement in the history of the institution and one designed to help countries cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. The SDRs are allocated based on member countries’ share quotas. This means much of the reserve assets will be going to wealthier nations. IMF said about $275 billion will reach the broad category of “emerging markets and developing countries.” But the lowest-income nations will receive the least, with African countries, for example, expected to get just 6.4% of the total allocation.

 

2. World Lion Day: 10th August: World Lion Day is observed globally on August 10 every year. World Lion Day is marked to raise awareness about the king of beasts and the efforts undertaken for their conservation. Owing to their courage, intelligence, strength, and magnificence, lions often feature on national flags, and royal symbols and emblems to represent command, power or authority across cultures. World Lion Day was launched in 2013.

About the big cat: The big cat is listed as an endangered species in the IUCN Red List. The majestic animal is the second-largest member of the Felidae (cat family), after the tiger. There is only one species of the lion in the world whose scientific name is Pantheraleo. As per the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN)’s Red List of Threatened Species (2016), the Pantheraleo has two subspecies: Panthera Leo and Pantheraleopersica, found in Africa and Asia.

Note: International Union for Conservation of Nature Headquarters: Gland, Switzerland; International Union for Conservation of Nature CEO: Bruno Oberle; International Union for Conservation of Nature Founder: Julian Huxley; International Union for Conservation of Nature Founded: 5 October 1948.

 

3. World Biofuel Day: 10th August: World Biofuel Day is observed on August 10 every year. The day is celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of non-fossil fuels as an alternative to conventional fossil fuels and highlight the various efforts made by Government in the biofuel sector. The development of biofuels is in sync with schemes such as Swach Bharat Abhiyan and Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. World Biofuel Day was first observed by the Ministry of Petroleum and Gas in August 2015.

What is Biofuel: Biofuels are environmentally friendly fuels whose use would go a long way in reducing carbon emissions. They are created through renewable biomass resources and therefore make a strong case for sustainable development. As such biofuels will help meet the energy requirements of the 21st-century world without damaging the environment in the process.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. James Anderson becomes 3rd highest wicket-taker in Test cricket: James Anderson overtook Anil Kumble’s tally of 619 Test wickets to become the third-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. He achieved this huge feat after KL Rahul knocked one to wicket-keeper Jos Buttler. His current wickets tally stands at 621 from 163 Tests. Anderson is currently the highest wicket-taker among the fast bowlers and is the only pacer in the 600 club. He achieved the milestone on the 3rd day of the Nottingham Test against India.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Suryoday Small Finance Bank opens ‘Health and Wellness Savings account: Suryoday Small Finance Bank (SSFB) has launched a ‘Suryoday Health and Wellness Savings Account’ to help customers grow their wealth and also take care of their family’s health amid the covid-19 pandemic. The account offers an attractive interest rate and comes with three major benefits for a family of four — top-up health insurance of ₹25 lakh, annual healthcare package and on-call emergency ambulance medical care services. Top-up health insurance and healthcare package are free of charge for one year after opening the account. Free ambulance service up to a distance of 20 km will be available at 102 locations across the country till March-end 2022. For opening the savings account, customers will need to maintain an average monthly balance of ₹3 lakh and have to be eligible as per the key health declaration form.

Key Benefits of health and wellness savings account:

(1) Complimentary top-up health insurance plan of ₹25 lakh with a deductible amount of ₹5 lakh.

(2) The top-up health insurance plan covers self and family (self, spouse, and up to 2 children) for hospitalisation/medical emergencies.

(3) Complementary health care package for up to four members, including free online doctor consultations, free health check-ups, online pharmacy vouchers, network discount card.

(4) Complementary ambulance services for a family in case of any unfortunate medical emergency.

(5) Attractive rate of interest on health and wellness savings account with interest payable monthly.

Note: Suryoday Small Finance Bank MD and CEO: BaskarBabu Ramachandran.

 

2. SBI General partners with SahiPay to offer general insurance products: SBI General Insurance, one of India’s leading General Insurance companies, announced a tie-up with Manipal Business Solutions to increase insurance penetration in the rural markets. SahiPay, the fastest growing tech-enabled financial inclusion platform of Manipal Business Solutions, provides digital and financial services to customers in semi-urban and rural India.

About the partnership:

(1) This association marks a significant milestone for SBI General in realizing its vision of becoming the most trusted general insurer for India as well as Bharat.

(2) Through this partnership, SBI General will provide a bouquet of non-life insurance solutions to SahiPay customers.

(3) This partnership will bring in a perfect blend for rural customers, with SBI General’s non-life product offerings and Manipal Business Solutions, along with the right understanding of the rural segment by both partners.

Note: SBI General Insurance Headquarters: Mumbai; SBI General Insurance Founded: 2009; SBI General Insurance CEO: Prakash Chandra Kandpal.

 

3. RBI Extends Deadline on New Current Account Rules till Oct 31 After Reports of Hassles: The Reserve Bank allowed time to banks till October 31 to implement changes on the current account front, following reports of small businesses being hit with account freezes in the last few days. The central bank said the circular is aimed at enforcing credit discipline amongst the borrowers as well as to facilitate better monitoring by the lenders, but made it clear that a graded approach had been prescribed to banks on opening and operating of current accounts and cash credit/overdraft CC/OD facilities.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Indigenously designed INS Vikrant leaves port for maiden sea trials: India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, Vikrant set sail to begin its first sea trial. INS Vikrant was designed by the Indian Navy’s Directorate of Naval Design (DND) and built at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). This advanced warship is the first attempt by the two entities to build an aircraft carrier from the ground up. INS Vikrant has 75 per cent indigenous content and will be commissioned into the Eastern Naval Command. It will be commissioned into the Indian Navy by August 2022.

About the INS Vikrant:

(1) It is 262 m long, 62 m wide, and has a height of 59 m;

(2) It has 14 decks and 2,300 coaches;

(3) It has a top speed of around 28 knots;

(4) Its design is completely modelled in 3D.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Veteran actor AnupamShyam passes away: Veteran actor AnupamShyam has passed away. The actor was best known for his work on the TV show Mann KeeAwaaz: Pratigya and appearances in films like Slumdog Millionaire and Bandit Queen. In his nearly three-decade-long career, Shyam featured in films like Satya, Dil Se, Lagaan, HazaaronKhwaisheinAisi and received critical acclaim for his role as Thakur Sajjan Singh on Mann KeeAwaaz: Pratigya which aired in 2009 on Star Plus.

 

2. Noted Kerala sculptor, cartoonist P.S. Banarji passes away: Noted Kerala Cartoonist, sculptor and folk singer, P.S. Banarji has passed away. A recipient of the LalithakalaAkademi Fellowship, Banarji was noted for his Ayyankali and Buddha sculptures at Venganur and Koduman. Known for his rendition of a string of folk songs, including the popular ‘TharakaPennale’, he was working as a graphic designer in an IT firm.