Daily GK Update- 24th Feb, 2023

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. New Delhi World Book Fair 2023 to begin: The New Delhi World Book Fair will be started at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi from 25th Febraury to 5th March 2023. The Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan will inaugurate the fair. The 2023 theme of the fair is Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The Guest of Honour Country: France The G20 theme has been integrated with the book fair, and exhibitions of books from G20 member countries will be organized during the fair. NBT Chairman: Prof. Govind Prasad Sharma

 

2. 22nd Law Commission's term extended till August 2024: The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi has approved the extension of the term of the 22nd Law Commission of India from 20th February 2023 to 31st August 2024. The 22nd law panel was constituted for three years on 21st February 2020. Law Commission of India: It is a non-statutory body and is constituted by the Government of India from time to time. It was originally constituted in 1955. Chairperson: Justice (retired) Rituraj Awasthi

 

3. Govt approves Innovative Extension Approaches for Revitalising Agriculture: The J&K govt has approved a five-year project on Innovative Extension Approaches for Revitalising Agriculture in J&K. Aim: To give a push to sustainable agriculture The project, worth 463 crore rupees, is also aimed to empower farmers and educated youth through technology-driven and inclusive agri-extension services. One of the critical outcomes would be the creation of 2,000 Kissan Khidmat Ghars, which will serve as One Stop Centre for farmer-oriented services

 

4. NTPC ranked as the top Independent Power Producers: NTPC Limited has topped the ranking of Independent Power Producers and Energy Traders Globally in the S&P Global Commodity Insights Top 250 Global Energy Company Rankings 2022. These rankings are based on four key metrics: Asset worth, Revenues, Profits, and Return on Investment (ROI). Presently, NTPC contributes 24% of the total electricity produced in India. NTPC is targeting non-fossil fuel-based capacity to make up nearly 50% of the company’s portfolio by 2032.

 

5. PM Narendra Modi chaired the 41st edition PRAGATI Interaction meeting: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has chaired the meeting of the 41st edition of the Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation (PRAGATI) Interaction. PRAGATI is the ICT-based multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation, involving Centre and State governments. In the meeting, 9 key infrastructure projects were reviewed and PM Modi also reviewed ‘Mission Amrit Sarovar’. Among the nine projects, three projects were from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, and two projects were from the Ministry of Railways.

These nine projects have a cumulative cost of over 41 thousand 500 crore rupees and relate to 13 States. PRAGATI Interaction was launched on 25th March 2015 by PM Modi as a part of the Digital India program.

6. Mumbai’s Churchgate station to be renamed after first RBI Governor: The Churchgate railway station in Mumbai will be called as ‘Chintamanrao Deshmukh station’, named after the first governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) CD Deshmukh. The first national executive meeting of Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction, which was declared the original Shiv Sena by the Election Commission. The meeting passed a resolution to rename the ‘Churchgate railway station’ after the former RBI governor and Union Finance Minister Chintaman Dwarkanath Deshmukh. In August 1943, CD Deshmukh was appointed as Governor of the RBI and served in that position till 1949.

 

7. PM Modi inaugurated ‘Barisu Kannada Dim Dimava’ festival: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated ‘Barisu Kannada Dim Dimava’ cultural festival at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi. Barisu Kannada Dim Dimava’ cultural festival is being organized to celebrate Karnataka’s culture, traditions and history. It is in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’. The festival, being held under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, will provide an opportunity to hundreds of artists to showcase Karnataka cultural heritage through dance, music, drama, and poetry etc.

 

8. Anusuiya Uikey sworn in as 18th Governor of Manipur: Anusuiya Uikey was sworn in as the 18th Governor of Manipur in Imphal. Justice MV Muralidaran, Acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Manipur administered the oath of office to Uikey at Darbar Hall in Raj Bhawan. Anusuiya Uikey was the governor of Chattisgarh from 29th July 2019 to 12th February 2023. She became a member of the Rajya Sabha from Madhya Pradesh in 2006.

 

9. 24 February- Central Excise Day: Central Excise Day is celebrated in India every year on February 24 to commemorate the establishment of the Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC). The day is observed to recognise the efforts of the Central Excise and Customs officials who work tirelessly to safeguard the country’s economy. The Central Excise Day is also observed to commemorate the Central Excise Act, which was passed on February 24, 1944.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CAG Girish Chandra Murmu selected as External Auditor of ILO in Geneva: Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) Girish Chandra Murmu has been selected as the External Auditor of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva. He has been selected for a four-year term from 2024 to 2027. CAG will take over from the incumbent External Auditor of ILO, the Supreme Audit Institution of the Philippines. CAG’s appointment is a recognition of its standing among the international community and its professionalism, and its global audit experience

 

2. Former Mastercard CEO, Ajay Banga nominated to Lead World Bank: US President, Joe Biden has nominated former Mastercard CEO Ajay Banga as the president of the World Bank. He would replace David Malpass, who will step down from his role this June before completing his tenure in April 2024. He was nominated for his expertise in handling global challenges including climate change. Presently, he is serving as the vice chairman at private equity firm General Atlantic. Notably, he is the first Indian-born nominee for this role.

 

3. Abu Dhabi defence firm, India's HAL sign MoU at UAE's defence expo: UAE's leading defense group, EDGE signed a Memorandum of Understanding with India's aerospace firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX). Aim: To explore the areas of cooperation, including joint design and development of missile systems and Unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) Besides, both companies will also explore the utilization of HAL's small gas turbine engines on EDGE's guided weapons.

 

4. India & Sri Lanka hold 7th annual defence dialogue: The 7th Annual Defence Dialogue between India and Sri Lanka was held in New Delhi. The meeting was chaired by Defence Secretary, Giridhar Armane and his Sri Lankan counterpart General Kamal Gunaratne.

This Annual Defence Dialogue is the highest institutionalised interactive mechanism between both the countries. Its significance in chartering the future course of the relations between the Armed Forces of India and Sri Lanka was highlighted by the importance given to the talks by both sides. The ongoing defence cooperation activities between the two countries were reviewed during the meeting.

 

5. 7-year-old Prince becomes first digital citizen of Bhutan: Seven-year-old Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck has become the first digital citizen of Bhutan. Prince Jigme is the mountainous country’s first citizen to receive the National Digital Identity (NDI) mobile wallet. The launch of Bhutan’s National Digital Identity based on the Self-Sovereign Identity model, is a major step forward in transforming the way services are delivered in both the public and private sectors. This flagship initiative of GovTech will provide secure and verifiable digital identities to citizens, laying a strong foundation for our digital future. Bhutan NDI uses cutting-edge technology to provide citizens with secure and verifiable identity credentials, ensuring the privacy and protection of their personal information.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Anurag Thakur inaugurated the All India Taekwondo Championship in Delhi: Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh Thakur has inaugurated the three-day All-India Taekwondo Championship in New Delhi. The Championship is being organized to mark 50 years of Korea-India diplomatic relations. The Korean Cultural Centre, India is co-hosting this Championship with the Sports Authority of India under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports of India and Korea National Sports University in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Korea-India diplomatic relations in 2023. In the opening ceremony, an MoU was signed between the two countries in the field of sports exchange and special performances, Korean dance, Taekwondo performances.

 

2. Aishwary won gold in men’s individual 50m rifle 3 positions event: In Shooting, India’s Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar has claimed the gold medal in the men’s individual 50m rifle 3 positions competition at the ISSF World Cup in Cairo. The 22-year-old Tomar, who had also won a gold in the Chagwon World Cup last year, won 16-6 in the gold medal contest to comfortably beat Austria’s Alexander Schmirl. Earlier, India’s Tilottama Sen had won a bronze medal in the women’s 10m Air Rifle India is on top of the medal tally with four gold and Hungary is in second position with two gold medals.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Niva Bupa launches health insurance plan 'ReAssure 2.0': Niva Bupa Health Insurance has launched a new health insurance policy named 'ReAssure 2.0'. Aim: To encourage customers to start investing for their health and financial security at an early age This new-age indemnity plan offers a 'live healthy' benefit. It gives a premium discount of up to 30% on policy renewal basis health points earned. It is available as an individual, multi-individual, and family floater starting from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 1 crore. Age: 18 -65 yrs

 

2. Thomas Cook, Pine Labs launch UPI payment facility for foreign visitors: Pine Labs and Thomas Cook (India) partnered with National Payments Corporation of India to enable payments via UPI for foreign nationals from G20 countries. Pine Labs will issue the prepaid payment product under the PPI authorization from RBI. This facility can be accessed on arrival in India at Thomas Cook’s airport counters. When encashing foreign currency at Thomas Cook’s counter, the customer can open a Pine Labs Fave Money prepaid account loaded with the rupee value

 

3. Karnataka Bank, Paisalo Digital ink co-lending pact: The NBFC Paisalo Digital Ltd entered into a co-lending loan agreement with Karnataka Bank to meet the funding requirements of priority segments such as agriculture and MSME. This agreement will enable Paisalo Digital to drive financial inclusion by providing low-cost financial solutions to priority sectors. As per the RBI circular, released on November 5, 2020, banks and NBFCs can enter into tie-ups for the joint contribution of funding for priority sectors.

 

4. Alliance, Dunzo tie up to offer insurance to 20,000 delivery partners: Dunzo delivery joined hands with Alliance Insurance Brokers to provide insurance to its national network of delivery partners. With this initiative, Alliance Insurance Brokers is providing insurance protection to almost 20,000 delivery partners, insured on a daily basis, while they are active on the platform.

In case of an accident, the policy offers a benefit of Rs 5 lakh to cover children’s education and reimburse business losses and hospitalization expenses.

 

5. Kotak Mahindra Bank launches corporate customer platform fyn: Kotak Mahindra Bank has launched a unified portal named 'Kotak fyn' for corporate customers. Aim: To track their payments, collections, trade, and other services related to their bank accounts The bank is also planning to introduce a new loan origination and management system that would digitize the process from the loan application, to sanction, to disbursal. This system would reduce the turnaround time for corporate borrowers and make the process more transparent.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Sajjan Jindal wins EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2022: Chairman of JSW Group Sajjan Jindal was honored with the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2022. Reason: For his exceptional entrepreneurial journey in scaling the global conglomerate with a presence in steel, cement, infrastructure, energy, and paints He will now represent India at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year Award (WEOY) at Monte Carlo in June 2023. While K P Singh, Chairman Emeritus, DLF Group, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

 

2. Prem Kumar Mallick received for the Sangeet natak Akademi Award 2019: Noted classical singer, Pt Prem Kumar Mallick has been honured with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for 2019. He received the award from President Droupadi Murmu for his contributions in the field of music (Hindustani Vocal) at a ceremony to be held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. He is a professor in the department of music and performing arts at Allahabad University.

Daily GK Update- 23rd Feb, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Aam Aadmi Party's Shelly Oberoi wins Delhi Mayor elections: Aam Aadmi Party's Shelly Oberoi has defeated BJP candidate Rekha Gupta to become the new Delhi Mayor. She received 150 votes while Rekha Gupta got 116 seats. She also becomes Delhi's first woman mayor in 10 years. The election was held after the Supreme Court ruled out the possibility of nominated members participating in the voting process. In Delhi MCD polls, the AAP had bagged 134 seats, BJP got 104 seats, and Congress bagged nine seats.

 

2. ICAR develops wheat variety to beat the heat: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed a new wheat variety called HD-3385. It can overcome the challenges arising out due to changes in weather patterns and rising heat levels. It is amenable to early sowing, escaping the impact of heat spikes, and can be harvested before March's end. Recently, the Centre announced to set up of a committee to monitor the situation arising from the increase in temperatures and its impact on the current wheat crop.

 

3. Kerala HC becomes first to publish judgements in regional language: The Kerala High Court has become the first high court in the country to publish judgments in the regional language. On February 21 (International Mother Language Day), Kerala published two of its recent judgments in Malayalam. The judgments in Malayalam were uploaded on the court's website just below the English version. The Kerala High Court made use of SUVAS (Supreme Court Vidhik Anuwad Software ) tool to translate the judgments. CJ of Kerala HC: S. Manikumar

 

4. Namami Gange Executive Committee approves 9 projects: The Namami Gange Executive Committee, headed by NMCG Director General G. Asok Kumar, has approved nine Projects, worth over 1,200 crore rupees for Pollution abatement in Ganga Basin and Ghat Development.

Out of these projects, seven pertain to the abatement of pollution in the Ganga Basin and two to ghat development. The decision was taken during the 47th meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG).

 

5. JP Nadda launches book 'Modi: Shaping a Global order in flux': BJP national president, JP Nadda has launched a book "Modi: Shaping a Global Order in Flux" in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.

The book is forewarded by S. Jaishankar ( Union External Affairs Minister) and edited by Sujan Chinoy, Vijay Chauthaiwala, and Uttam Kumar Sinha. Over 23 chapters, the book features write-ups by the likes of Amitabh Kant (former CEO of NITI Aayog), Chauthaiwale, Chinoy, Anurag Saxena, Amish Tripathi, and D.B. Venkatesh Varma (former diplomat).

 

6. Nitin Gadkari lays foundation stone of the world’s largest and unique Divyang Park: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has laid the Foundation Stone of the world’s largest and unique Divyang Park – Anubhuti Inclusive Park in Nagpur, Maharashtra. This park is being developed keeping in mind the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to build an inclusive society. Instead of sympathy, this park will show empathy, hence this park has been named Anubhuti Divyang Park. The park will have adapted facilities for all 21 types of disabilities like touch and smell garden, hydrotherapy unit, water therapy, independent room for mentally challenged children, and mother. In 2016, the central government passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act for the rights of persons with disabilities.

 

7. Rajesh Rai appointed new CMD of Indian Telephone Industries (ITI): The Union government has appointed Rajesh Rai as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Indian Telephone Industries (ITI) for a period of five years. Prior to assuming charge as CMD in ITI, he served as general manager (admin) of Mahanagar Telphone Nigam Ltd (MTNL), Mumbai. ITI Limited is a government-owned company in the telecommunications technology segment established as a departmental factory in 1948. It has manufacturing facilities in Bengaluru, Naini, Rae Bareli, Mankapur, and Palakkad.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Cabinet approves Air Services agreement between India and Guyana: Union Cabinet has approved the signing Air Services Agreement between India and Guyana. This agreement will come into force after the exchange of diplomatic notes between parties. Aim: To enable a framework for the provision of air services between the two countries Indians have a sizeable presence in Guyana and are the largest ethnic group comprising about 40% of the population. It will provide an enabling environment for enhanced and seamless connectivity.

 

2. University of Auckland, Tata Memorial Hospital sign MoU for cancer care: Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) and Waipapa Taumata Rau (Auckland University) signed an MoU to engage in long-term cooperation in cancer care. TMH is the most renowned cancer care hospital and research center in India. Initial projects envisaged for the partnership include a digital platform:

For clinical trials to track study-related activities for patients, investigators, and regulators To make outpatient clinics more efficient To enhance prescription medicine safety

 

3. Asia Economic Dialogue 2023 begins in Pune: An annual flagship event of the External Affairs Ministry on Geo-economics, Asia Economic Dialogue is being conducted in Pune, Maharashtra from 23 -25 February 2023. This event is being co-hosted in collaboration with Pune International Centre. Theme 2023: Asia and the Emerging World Order The Dialogue also discusses themes such as Global Growth Prospects, How the Global South Will Shape the G20 Agenda and the Metaverse. 

 

4. 18th UIC World Security Congress organized by Railway Protection Force: The 18th World Security Congress 2023 commenced in Jaipur, the pink city of India. The International Union of Railways, Paris and Railway Protection Force are jointly organizing the 3-day Conference. Theme 2023- Railway Security Strategy: Responses and Vision for Future The World Security Congress is a globally recognized security platform. The Union International Des Chemins (UIC) or International Union of Railways was established in 1922.

 

5. 22 February – World Scout Day: World Scout Day is observed every year on 22 February. It is the birth anniversary of Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of scouting and is also his wife Olave Baden-Powell’s birth anniversary. Boy Scouts and Girl Guides/Girl Scouts and the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) also celebrate the day as World Thinking Day across the world. The Scouting movement began in the United Kingdom in 1907, more than a century ago.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Aishwary Pratap wins gold in men's 50m rifle 3 positions competition, ISSF: Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar has secured the gold medal in the men's individual 50m rifle 3 positions competition at the ISSF World Cup in Cairo, Egypt. In the event, he defeated Alexander Schmirl from Austria by 16-6. With this gold, India topped the medal tally with four gold and Hungary at second. 10m air rifle mixed team: Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil and R Narmada Nithin 10m air pistol mixed team: Varun Tomar and Rhythm Sangwan Men's 10m air rifle: Rudrankksh Patil

 

2. Dmitry Dmitruk appointed as new coach of Indian boxing team: Veteran boxing coach Dmitry Dmitruk was roped in by the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) as India’s foreign coach on a two-year contract. Renowned coach Dmitruk was known for his work with the Irish national team and its youth teams in the past. He served as the high-performance coach in Ireland for the last 12 years. He will work with both men and women boxers alongside the Indian coaches, including men’s chief coach C.A. Kuttappa and women’s head coach Bhaskar Bhatt.

 

3. Rudrankksh Patil won gold in 10m Air Rifle at ISSF World Cup 2023: Rudrankksh Patil has won the gold medal in the men’s 10m air rifle competition of the ISSF Shooting World Cup in Cairo, Egypt. He defeated Germany’s Maximilian Ulbrich in the gold medal match by 16-8. Varun Tomar also won the bronze medal in the men’s 10m air pistol event. Rhythm Sangwan won the 10m Air Pistol mixed team competition at the event.

 

4. Carlos Alcaraz won Argentina Open title 2023: The World No. 2 tennis player, Carlos Alcaraz defeated Cameron Norrie in the final to win the Argentina Open title 2023. He became the first Spaniard to win the Argentina Open tennis title since Rafael Nadal in 2015. He also became the highest-ranked winner in tournament history. Casper Ruud, who won the competition in 2020 at the age of 21, was the youngest winner prior to Alcaraz.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. HDFC Bank, Lulu Exchange sign to enhance cross-border payments: HDFC Bank has signed an MoU with the UAE-based Lulu Exchange to strengthen the cross-border payments between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. In the beginning, the expertise and regulatory framework of Lulu Exchange would be utilized to launch a digital inward remittance service - 'RemitNow2India'. It will allow UAE individuals resident to send money to any bank account in India via IMPS and NEFT through HDFC digital banking channels.

 

2. SBI allows Bhim-based real-time payment with Singapore: The State Bank of India has partnered with PayNow (Singapore Payment System) for cross-border payments. The facility is offered through SBI's Bhim SBIPay mobile application. This partnership will allow fund transfers from India to Singapore through registered mobile numbers, and from Singapore to India using the UPI ID. This initiative will boost the digitization initiatives, providing an easy, seamless cross-border payment facility to users. SBI chairman: Dinesh Khara

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. INS Nireekshak awarded on-the-spot Navy chief Unit Citation for salvage ops: In a first for the Indian Navy, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Harikumar awarded an ‘on the spot’ Unit Citation to INS Nireekshak in Kochi. Reason: For deep sea diving and undertaking salvage operations under the most challenging circumstances He also awarded commendations to the crew involved in the salvage operation. INS Nireekshak: It is a Dive Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel of the Indian Navy. It was built in 1985 by Mazgaon Shipbuilders.

2. Veteran CPI-M Leader TK Rangarajan receives Lifetime Achievement Award: A veteran CPI-M leader, T K Rangarajan has been honored with the Sansad Ratna Lifetime Achievement Award 2023. Thirteen MPs were nominated for the Sansad Ratna Awards 2023. The 13th edition of the award ceremony will be held on March 25 in New Delhi. Sansad Ratna Awards: It was instituted in 2010 and inspired by the teachings of former President APJ Abdul Kalam. It recognizes and felicitates the top-performing MPs based on their work in the apex legislative body

Daily GK Update- 22nd Feb, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. BEL inks MoU with ADA for advanced medium combat aircraft programme: Navratna PSU, Bharat Electronics (BEL) has signed an MoU with Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), DRDO and Cisco. BEL & ADA agreement: For the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme BEL & Cisco: For long-term strategic cooperation in the areas of networking, collaboration, and security among other associated services Aim: To leverage the complementary strengths and capabilities These MoUs were signed during the Aero India 2023 in Bengaluru.

 

2. Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi released two books: Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi released two books — Pt. Deendayal Udadhyaya: Dispersions of Thought and Pt. Deendayal Udpadhyaya: Integral Humanism in Chennai. The book was authored by Professor B. Dharmalingam. Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya was an Indian politician and a proponent of integral humanism ideology.

He also started the monthly publication Rashtra Dharma (National Duty). He also served as the 10th President of Bharatiya Jana Sangh (1967 – 1968).

 

3. IIT Roorkee, IAF join hands to develop indigenous defence technologies: Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) has signed an MoU with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to promote the development of indigenous technologies. They also aim to develop equipment through Research and Development in areas of mutual interest. The MoU was signed at Bengaluru during Aero India 2023. The IIT Roorkee will provide its expertise and cooperation in research for feasibility studies and prototype development.

 

4. Minister of Power, RK Singh inaugurates 15th edition of ELECRAMA 2023: The Union Minister of Power, RK Singh has officially inaugurated the Power Pavilion, ELECRAMA 2023 at the India Expo Mart, Greater Noida. Vivek Kumar Dewangan (Chairman & Managing Director, REC Limited) and other officials attended the event from REC. Theme 2023: Re-imagining the Future: Metamorphosis of the Power Sector in India. Vision: To showcase innovation in the power sector such as Smart Meters, Smart Feeder Management Systems, Methanol production etc

 

5. Ola, Uber and Rapido bike taxi services banned in Delhi: The Delhi government has announced a ban on bike taxis of Ola, Uber, and Rapido with immediate effect. The government notice indicates that using personal vehicles as commercial taxis violates Motor Vehicle Act, 1988. In violation of the order a fine of Rs 5000 will be charged and if the offense is committed the second time then a fine of Rs 10000 will be charged as well as imprisonment. The move by the Delhi government comes after the Supreme Court banned Rapido services in Maharashtra. Another big problem with two-wheeler cab services is that there are no proper arrangements for an emergency button. This poses a threat to women passengers’ safety.

 

6. Gulab Chand Kataria takes oath as Assam Governor: Gulab Chand Kataria was sworn in as the 31st governor of Assam. Kataria was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Gauhati High Court’s Chief Justice Sandeep Mehta at a brief ceremony at the Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra here. Kataria, who was a senior BJP leader, succeeded Jagadish Mukhi after completing his term. He is an 8-time MLA from Udaipur, Rajasthan is also a member of central working committee of the BJP. He was the Home minister in Government of Rajasthan from 2014 till 2018.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Thinking Day 2023: 22nd February: The World Organization of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) has observed World Thinking Day every year on 22nd February. Theme 2023: Our Planet, Our Peaceful Future Aim: To create awareness about issues that affect girls and young women This day also aims to celebrate sisterhood, solidarity, and women’s empowerment. In 1999, at the World Conference in Dublin, the name of the day was changed from Thinking Day to World Thinking Day.

 

2. 18th UIC World Security Congress organized by Railway Protection Force: The 18th UIC World Security Congress has been started commenced in Jaipur, India on 21st February 2023. The International Union of Railways, Paris and Railway Protection Force are jointly organizing the 3-day Conference. Theme 2023: Railway Security Strategy: Responses and Vision for Future The World Security Congress is a globally recognized security platform. The Union International Des Chemins (UIC) or International Union of Railways was established in 1922.

 

3. India and Singapore launched a joint digital payment mechanism: India and Singapore have launched a joint digital payment mechanism to enable residents of both countries to make easier and faster cross-border transactions. Unified Payments Interface (UPI) of India and PayNow of Singapore have made a tie-up to facilitate these transactions. The facility was jointly launched by Shaktikanta Das, Governor of the Reserve Bank of India and Ravi Menon, Managing Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong participated in the virtual launch of Real-Time Payment Linkage. This real-time payment system will help the Indian diaspora in Singapore, especially migrant workers and students.

 

4. Pashupati Kumar Paras inaugurated India Pavillion in Dubai: India Pavilion’ at Gulfood, Dubai was inaugurated by Pashupati Kumar Paras, Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India in the presence of Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE. India Pavilion’ is the largest pavilion at the Gulfood 2023. 306 companies, comprising of leading players, SMEs, and Startups are participating under one umbrella at ‘India Pavilion’. The Indian companies are exhibiting in all segments of the Gulfood viz. Beverages, Pulses, Grains, Cereals, World Food, Meat and Poultry, Dairy, Fats & Oils, etc. The leading Indian companies participating include Amul, MDH, Parle, Rasna, Bikanerwala, Bikaji, Everest Foods, Markfed, Safal and Lal Quilla. In the ‘India Pavilion’, special promotion and branding of millets superfoods will be done as the United Nations celebrates the International Year of Millets 2023.

 

5. India-Uzbekistan biennial military Ex-DUSTLIK 2023 begins in Uttarakhand: The 4th edition of the biennial training ‘Ex DUSTLE 2023’, between the Indian Army and Uzbekistan Army is being conducted in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand from 20th February to 5th March 2023. This joint exercise is aimed at enhancing military capability to undertake multi-domain operations in a Sub Conventional scenario under United Nations Mandate. The 14th Battalion, the GARHWAL RIFLES, part of Western Command represented the Indian contingent. The troops of the North Western Military District represented the Uzbekistan Army.

 

6. 21 February – International Mother Language Day: International Mother Language Day is celebrated every year on 21 February. Objective – To spread awareness of linguistic, and cultural diversity, and to promote multilingualism. Theme 2023 – Multilingual Education – a necessity to transform education Language is not only a means of communication but it also represents a diverse cultural and intellectual heritage. UNESCO announced this day on November 17, 1999, and since 2000, this day has been celebrated all over the world. The day also marks the long struggle put up by Bangladesh to protect its mother tongue, Bangla.

 

7. 20 February – World Day of Social Justice: World Day of Social Justice is observed annually on February 20. Objective – To encourage people to see how social justice affects poverty eradication. Theme 2023 – Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice

At its 62nd session, the UN General Assembly, in November 2007 proclaimed 20 February as World Day of Social Justice. The General Assembly determined that on November 26, 2007, February 20 will be observed annually as World Day of Social Justice. On June 10, 2008, the International Labour Organisation endorsed the ILO Declaration on Social Justice for Equitable Globalization.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Rudrankksh Patil wins gold in men’s 10m air rifle in ISSF World Cup 2023: Indian shooter, Rudrankksh Patil clinched his first World Cup individual gold in the men’s 10m air rifle event at the ISSF World Cup in Cairo, Egypt. He defeated Maximilian Ulbrich of Germany, who was settled for silver. While Miran Maricic of Croatia won the bronze medal. In women’s 10m air rifle, Tilottama Sen (14) won the second bronze for India. Seonaid Mcintosh (Great Britain) won gold and Nina Christen (Switzerland) settled for silver.

 

2. Tata Group becomes the title sponsor for WPL: BCCI secretary, Jay Shah has informed that the TATA Group has bagged the title rights for the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2023. The first match of WPL 2023 will begin between Gujarat Giants and Mumbai Indians on March 4 at the DY Patil Stadium. In its first season, the WPL will stage a total of 20 league matches and two Playoff games that will be played. Five teams: Delhi Capitals, Gujarat Giants, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore & UP Warriorz 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Central Bank of India, Moneywise Financial Services tie up for MSME loans: Central Bank of India and Moneywise Financial Services Pvt Ltd (MFSPL) signed a co-lending agreement for lending to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). This partnership will help to expand the portfolio for both entities. The said loans would be subject to compliance with the applicable laws and guidelines issued by RBI. MFSPL is an RBI-regulated non-banking financial company (NBFC) focused on MSME Lending. Central Bank of India CEO: M. V. Rao

 

2. SEBI proposes more power to shareholders with changes to governance norms: The SEBI has proposed that the listed entities should take approval from shareholders at least once in 5 years for the appointment of directors to serve on their boards. Reason: To curb the practice of occupying permanent directorship in a company SEBI also proposed norms, related to special rights granted to certain shareholders; sale, disposal, or lease of assets of a listed entity outside the ‘scheme of arrangement’ framework and on agreements binding listed entities

 

3. Ind-Ra projects India's FY24 growth at 5.9%: Credit rating and research agency, India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) projected the growth of the Indian economy to 5.9% year on year during 2023-24. The GDP growth estimate of the agency is lower than the 6.4% real GDP growth projected by the RBI for FY24. According to the agency, there are fault lines in the economic recovery that is happening in the Private final consumption expenditure, Government Final Consumption Expenditure, and net exports

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Pt Prem Kumar Mallick bags for the Sangeet natak Akademi Award 2019: Noted classical singer, Pt Prem Kumar Mallick has been selected for the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards for 2019. Reason: Contributions in the field of music (Hindustani Vocal). He is a professor in the department of music and performing arts at Allahabad University. He will receive this award along with other artists from across the country for the award for years 2019, 2020, and 2021. President Droupadi Murmu will present the award on February 23.

 

2. Karthik Subramaniam wins National Geographic 'Pictures Of The Year': An Indian-origin, Karthik Subramaniam has won the prestigious National Geographic ‘Pictures of The Year’ award with his photograph titled “Dance of the Eagles”. The award-winning photograph captured a bald eagle intimidating its peers to claim a prime log while salmon hunting in the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve in Alaska. He titled the picture 'Dance of the Eagles' as a homage to the fictional dragon war in George R.R. Martin’s novel ‘A Dance with Dragons’.

 

3. The Kashmir Files won best film at Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards: SS Rajamouli’s RRR and Vivek Agnihotri’s The Kashmir Files bagged top honours at the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2023. Alia Bhatt also won the Best Actress award for Gangubai Kathiawadi and husband Ranbir Kapoor won the Best Actor award for Brahmastra. Anupam Kher received the Most Versatile Actor of the Year award for The Kashmir Files. Actor-filmmaker Rishab Shetty won the Most Promising Actor award for his Kannada film Kantara. Varun Dhawan also won the Critics Best Actor Award for his film Bhediya. In the television category, Rupali Ganguly-starrer Anupama won the Television Series of the Year award.