Daily GK Update- 27th Feb, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi to inaugurate Shivamogga airport in Karnataka: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Shivamogga airport in Karnataka on 27 February 2023. The airport has been built on 663 acres of land with an investment of ₹449.22 crore. Apart from this, the prime minister has also inaugurated several other development projects in the poll-bound state. The Passenger Terminal Building of the airport can handle 300 passengers per hour. The foundation was laid in June 2020 by former CM B S Yediyurappa.

 

2. PM Modi to release 13th installment of Rs 16,800 crore under PM-KISAN: PM Narendra Modi has released the 13th installment of financial benefits worth Rs 16,800 crore to over eight crore eligible farmers under the flagship PM-KISAN scheme. PM-KISAN refers to Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi . Under this scheme, eligible farmers are provided with a financial benefit of Rs 6,000 per year in three equal installments of Rs 2,000 each every four months. The fund is directly transferred to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.

 

3. 85th plenary session of the Indian National Congress concludes at Raipur: The 85th plenary session of the Indian National Congress has been concluded at Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The three-day Congress summit was attended by nearly 15,000 delegates from various states and discussed socio-political, political economic, and international affairs. During the meeting, they also adopted six resolutions making the party’s stand clear on issues and laying down a party roadmap for them. Congress president: Mallikarjun Kharge

 

4. Defence Secretary Aramane Giridhar gets extension till October 2024: The Appointments Committee of the Union Cabinet approved the extension of the Secretary of the Department of Defence - Aramane Giridhar. He will remain in his post until October 31, 2024, or till further order whichever is earlier. This extension is beyond his age of superannuation. He was due to retire in June 2023, after completing 60 years of superannuation. He is a 1988-batch IAS officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre.

 

5. 14th edition of Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav begins in Bikaner: The 14th Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav commenced at Karni Singh Stadium in Bikaner, Rajasthan. It is organized by the Union Ministry of Culture, was inaugurated with a Shobha Yatra, in which artists from different states of the country participated in traditional dresses. The objective of the festival is to preserve, promote and popularize the rich cultural heritage of the country. Governor of Rajasthan Kalraj Mishra and Union Minister of State for Culture Arjun Ram Meghwal inaugurated the craft fair and various exhibitions. The 9 days long festival is being organized with the support of 7 regional cultural centers and various academies. Performances of about one thousand well-known artists from across the country based on folk dance, folk music, drama and Sufi music will take place during the festival.

 

6. Chatrapati Sambhajinagar hosts Women20 Inception Meeting: The first meeting of the W20 (Women 20) under India’s G20 presidency is being held at Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra on 27-28 February 2023. The theme of the meeting – Pursuit of Gender Equality, Equity and Dignity for Women-led Development More than 150 delegates are expected from the G20 countries to attend the meeting Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani inaugurated the meeting. W20 (Women 20) is an official engagement group under the G20 which was established during the Turkish presidency in 2015.

 

7. Jitendra Singh inaugurated ‘International Biotech Conclave’: Union MoS Science & Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh has inaugurated the ‘International Biotech Conclave’ in Imphal, Manipur. It was held along with the 22nd Congress of the International Society for Ethno-pharmacology and the 10th Congress of the Society for Ethno-pharmacology. The theme for the conclave was “Reimagine Ethnopharmacology: Globalisation of Traditional Medicine”. For the first time since Independence, the North Eastern Region is organizing an event involving over 700 International and national delegates, representing over 35 countries from across the world.

 

8. Ministry of Ayush organized its first ‘Chintan Shivir’ in Assam: The Ministry of Ayush has organized a “Chintan Shivir” for Ayush at Kaziranga National Park, Assam. Union Minister of Ayush Sarbananda Sonowal has inaugurated the event. The event aims to discuss the futuristic improvements in the implementation of existing policies and programs relating to Ayush sectors & traditional medicine. Road map to improve public health, and maximizing the use of technological advancement along with other deliverable are the expected outcomes of the two days deliberation in the “Chintan Shivir.”

 

9. Nitin Gadkari inaugurated Rs 3670 cr Highways projects in Maharashtra: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari inaugurated National Highway projects worth Rs 3670 crore in Maharashtra. These include five National Highway projects totaling 212 km length at Nanded worth Rs 1,575 crore, three National Highway projects worth Rs 1,058 crore and 75 km length at Parbhani, and a National Highway project worth Rs 1,037.4 crore at Hingoli. These projects are expected to improve the connectivity of the state’s Marathwada region with neighbouring Telangana and Karnataka. The projects will help in improving industrial and agricultural development along with connecting religious places and promoting tourism.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Kerala, UN Women sign pact to boost women-friendly activities in tourism: The Kerala government signed an agreement with the UN Women to boost women-friendly activities in the State's tourism sector. Kerala Tourism Director P B Nooh and UN Women India representative Susan Ferguson signed the MoU. Both parties agreed to work towards promoting gender-inclusive tourism sites in the State. It would be implemented by the Responsible Tourism Mission. It will be done by creating modules and capacity-building of relevant stakeholders.

 

2. Ellora Ajanta International Festival begins in Aurangabad: Three-day Ellora Ajanta International Festival 2023 began in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Union Minister of State for Finance Dr. Bhagwat Karad inaugurated this festival. This festival is a celebration of the cultural heritage and diversity of the region and promises to be a feast for the senses. It will feature a range of events, including live music performances, dance shows, art exhibitions, and food festivals. Ajanta and Ellora are two monumental rock-cut caves that define Indian art and architectural accomplishment.

 

3. International IP Index: India ranked 42 in 55 countries: the US Chamber of Commerce has ranked India 42 out of 55 countries in the latest International IP Index report. USA ranks first in the 2023 index, followed by the UK and France. According to the report, India’s size and economic influence is growing on the world stage. India has taken steps to improve enforcement against copyright-infringement and provides a best-in-class framework to promote better understanding and use of IP assets. International Intellectual Property Index is an annual report compiled by the US Chambers of Commerce. It evaluates the protection of IP rights in the world’s 55 major economies, which represent approximately 90% of global GDP.

 

4. Indian Air Force to participate in Exercise Desert Flag VIII in UAE: Indian Air Force is participating in Exercise Desert Flag VIII in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 27 February to 17 March 2023. This is the first occasion when the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas shall participate in an international flying exercise outside India. Exercise Desert Flag is a multilateral air exercise in which Air Forces from UAE, France, Kuwait, Australia, UK, Bahrain, Morocco, Spain, the Republic of Korea, and the USA would also be participating. The exercise aims to participate in diverse fighter engagements and learn from the best practices of various Air Forces.

 

5. INS Sindhukesari becomes the first Indian submarine to dock in Indonesia: INS Sindhukesari has become the first Indian submarine to dock in Indonesia. The 3,000-tonne conventional diesel-electric submarine made its way to the Indonesian capital of Jakarta to dock after traversing through the nearby Sunda Strait. The exercise was part of INS Sindhukesari’s first operational turnaround. In a bid to strengthen bilateral ties, the Indonesian Navy warmly welcomes the arrival of the Indian submarine INS Shindukesari in Jakarta,” the Indonesian Navy tweeted. It was designed as part of Project 877 and built under a contract between Rosvooruzhenie, Russia, and Ministry of Defence, India.

 

6. 27 February – World NGO Day: World NGO Day is celebrated on February 27 every year. Objective – To inspire people to become more actively involved within non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and encourage a greater symbiosis between NGOs. Theme 2023 – The role and influence of NGOs in advancing human rights The day was first celebrated in 2010 and has since become an annual event that highlights the work of NGOs around the world.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Australia beat South Africa to lift ICC Women's T20 World Cup Trophy 2023: Australian women's cricket team has defeated South Africa by 9 runs to lift the ICC T20 World Cup Trophy 2023 at Newlands, Cricket Ground in Cape Town, South Africa. Australian women's cricket team has won this title for the sixth time. They have completed a ‘three-peat’ under the captaincy of Meg Lanning, winning in 2018, 2020, and 2023. Player of the series: Australia Ashleigh Gardner

Most runs: South Africa Laura Wolvaardt (230)

 

2. Manchester United win the Carabao Cup title 2023: Manchester United defeated Newcastle to win the Carabao Cup title in 2023 after six years. Newcastle is a Saudi Arabia-backed club. The Carabao cup is also known as the EFL cup, a major football trophy played in England. The competition was open to all clubs participating in the Premier League and the English Football League. Liverpool is the most successful club in the competition and has won more than nine championships.

 

3. Indian wrestler Ankit Gulia bags Bronze in Ibrahim Moustafa ranking series: Indian Greco-Roman wrestler Ankit Gulia (19) won a bronze medal in the men’s 72 kg division of the  Ibrahim Moustafa ranking series in Alexandria, Egypt. He lost to Otar Abuladze (Georgia) and got the better of Nurzhigit Keneshbek Uulu (Kyrgyzstan) in the repechage round. The Indian grappler won the medal after Iranian 67kg Olympic champion Mohammadreza Abdolhamid Geraei withdrew from the bronze medal match due to an injury.

 

4. Madhya Pradesh women's team wins maiden national hockey title 2023: Madhya Pradesh women's hockey team won the 13th Hockey India Senior Women National Championship 2023 held in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. MP defeated Hockey Maharashtra by 5-1 in the final. MP's Pratibha Arya was adjudged the best defender of the championship. She was also awarded the player of the match title. The team of Hockey Jharkhand secured third place after defeating Hockey Haryana in the third-place match.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. MIT professor Hari Balakrishnan wins 2023 Marconi Prize: Computer scientist, Hari Balakrishnan has been awarded the 2023 Marconi Prize. He is a professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The Marconi Prize is a top honor for computer scientists and is awarded by the U.S.-based Marconi Foundation. It is given to those who have made a significant contribution to increasing digital inclusivity through advanced information and communications technology.

 

2. J&K won best adventure tourism destination award: India Today Tourism Survey has chosen Jammu & Kashmir Tourism for best adventure tourism award in recognition of its efforts in promoting ‘Gulmarg’ as an adventure destination of international order. Union Minister of State gave the awards away at New Delhi for Culture & Parliamentary Affairs, Arjun Ram Meghwal. The award has been given to the J&K Tourism Department in recognition of its efforts in promoting ‘Gulmarg’ as an adventure destination of international order. India Today award comes just within a month of South Asian Travel Trade Expo (SATTE) in which the J&K Tourism Department was awarded for its efforts in post-COVID-19 recovery of the tourism sector.

Daily GK Update- 26th Feb, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Indian Air Force contingent to participate in Exercise Desert Flag VIII: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will participate in Ex-Desert Flag VIII, organized at the Al Dahfra airbase of the United Arab Emirates. The exercise will be scheduled from 27th February to 17th March 2023. The IAF has participated with five Light Combat Aircraft, LCA Tejas, and two C-17 Globemaster III aircraft. The Air Forces from UAE, France, Kuwait, Australia, the UK, Bahrain, Morocco, Spain, South Korea, and the USA would join this multilateral air exercise.

 

2. CJI DY Chandrachud to launch 'neutral citations' for SC judgements: CJI D Y Chandrachud has launched the 'neutral citations' to ensure a uniform pattern of citing the decisions of the Supreme Court. Earlier, the apex court had taken various steps to implement a uniform, reliable, and secure methodology for identifying and citing decisions in the apex court. Other initiative: Electronic Supreme Court Reports (e-SCR) project, which is aimed to provide free access to about 34,000 judgments to lawyers, law students, and the common public.

 

3. Dr Bibek Debroy released the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Report: Dr. Bibek Debroy, Chairman of EAC-PM, released the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy report. Prepared by: Institute for Competitiveness Punjab has emerged as the top-performing state on education and health-related indicators. Delhi, Goa, Maharashtra, J&K, Kerala, Rajasthan, Sikkim, TN, and Puducherry were ranked as high-performing states and UTs. Meghalaya, D&N Haveli, Nagaland, Telangana, UP, Jharkhand, Arunachal Pradesh, and Ladakh were among underperformed

 

4. Kerala becomes first state to use robotic scavengers to clean manholes: The Kerala government has become the first state in the country to use robotic technology to clean all its commissioned manholes. The robotic scavenger named 'Bandicoot'. The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) launched it under the Guruvayur Sewerage Project in Thrissur district. It is a part of the 100-day action plan of the state government. It was developed by Kerala-based Genrobotics, which had recently bagged the 'Kerala Pride' award at the Huddle Global 2022.

 

5. The Maharaja Sayajirao University to host Youth 20 India Summit: The Maharaja Sayajirao University hosted the Y20 India Summit under the aegis of India’s G20 Presidency, focusing on the theme of climate change and environmental conservation. The conference, which was to be inaugurated by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, saw only incumbent Sayajigunj MLA and Mayor Keyur Rokadia in attendance, stirring controversy in the university. More than 600 delegates from 62 countries participated to discuss ‘Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction: Making sustainability a Way of Life’.

 

6. G20 in News (Note – All Meetings are Under the Presidency of G20 by India): First meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) – Bengaluru (24 -25 February 2023) G20 Global Tech Summit (GTS) – Visakhapatnam (16 – 17 February 2023) First G20 Culture Working Group Meeting – Khajuraho, MP (22 – 25 February 2023). First Agriculture Deputies Meeting of the Agriculture Working Group – Indore (14 February 2023) Digital economy working group meeting – Lucknow (13 February 2023)

 

7. IRCTC to operate Baba Saheb Ambedkar Yatra tour package in April 2023: Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) will be operating Baba Saheb Ambedkar Yatra tour pack–age under “Dekho Apna Desh” initiative, covering some of the prominent sites associated with the life of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar. The First Journey of the Baba Saheb Ambedkar Yatra will be from New Delhi in April 2023. Under “Dekho Apna Desh” initiative, the Ministry of Railways along with the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), is operating Bharat Gaurav Tourist Trains on various theme-based circuits across India. Baba Saheb Ambedkar, fondly referred to as “Baba Saheb”, was the main architect of the Indian Constitution. Besides he was also an eminent jurist, political activist, anthropologist, author, orator, historian, writer, economist and scholar. Ambedkar, throughout his life, fought to eradicate social evils like untouchability and stood up for the rights of the socially backward classes. The tour, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Yatra, designed by IRCTC, aims to highlight the places and destinations, connected with the life of Ambedkar.

 

8. Om Birla inaugurated 19th Annual Zone III CPA Conference in Sikkim: Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla has inaugurated the 19th Annual Zone III Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region in Gangtok, Sikkim. The Zone III of the CPA India region is an important platform where legislators of the North Eastern region discuss many subjects and issues and arrive at common solutions. The joint effort of legislatures of the North Eastern Region has led to a huge change in the economic and social life of the region.

 

9. Justice S. Abdul Nazeer sworn-in as Governor of Andhra Pradesh: Justice (Retd) S Abdul Nazeer was sworn in as the new 24th Governor of Andhra Pradesh. Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court Justice Prasanth Kumar Mishra administered the oath office to Nazeer at the Raj Bhavan. He succeeded Biswa Bhusan Harichandan, who has been given charge of Chhattisgarh state. He is a former judge of the Supreme Court. He is also a former judge of the Karnataka High Court.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Indian Air Force to participate in Ex-Cobra Warrior at Waddington, UK: A contingent of the Indian Air Force will participate in Exercise Cobra Warrior at the Waddington Air Force Base in the UK. The exercise is scheduled to be held from 6th -24th March 2023. Air Forces from Finland, Sweden, South Africa, the USA, and Singapore would also participate in a multilateral Air exercise. In 2023, IAF is participating in the exercise with five Mirage 2000 fighters, two C-17 Globemaster, and an IL-78 mid-air refueller aircraft.

 

2. Scientists discovered fifth inner core layer of the earth: Australian National University's researchers are trying to reveal the fifth layer of the Earth. Seismic waves generated by earthquakes have revealed new insights about the deepest parts of Earth’s inner core. The team believes that presented evidence of a distinct layer inside Earth known as the innermost inner core This layer is a solid ‘metallic ball’ that sits within the center of the inner core

So far, scientists believed that there are only four layers on the Earth

 

3. FATF suspends Russia's membership over Ukraine war: Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has suspended its membership in Russia as Moscow's war in Ukraine violated the organization's principles. FATF Core Principle: To promote security, safety, and the integrity of the global financial system FATF is an inter-governmental organization set up to combat money laundering and terrorism financing by setting global standards and checking if countries respect them. The FATF also added South Africa and Nigeria to its grey list.

 

4. Bangladesh, ISA sign agreement to increase use of solar energy: Bangladesh's government signed an agreement with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to increase the use of solar energy in the country. The agreement was signed between the ISA Director General Ajay Mathur and the Bangladesh Power Division Secretary Md. Habibur Rahman. The agreement is to be implemented by December 2026. The government aims to generate 40% of its total energy through renewable sources by 2041 and to produce 4000 MW of solar power by 2030.

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Spain’s Sergio Ramos announced international football retirement: Spain’s most capped player Sergio Ramos has announced his retirement from international football. Ramos, who was part of Spain’s World Cup and Euro winning teams had represented Real Madrid in La Liga and now plays for PSG in Ligue 1. Ramos made his Spain debut in 2005. He went on to play 180 times for his country, and was part of the squad which won the World Cup in 2010 and the European Championships in 2008 and 2012.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI caps savings account withdrawal limit to ₹5000 on these two banks: The Reserve Bank of India has restricted the withdrawal limit to ₹5,000 for savings and current account customers of Uravakonda Co-operative Town Bank and Shankarrao Mohite Patil Sahakari Bank Ltd. Reason: Due to the poor liquidity position of these banks This restriction shall remain in force for a period of six months from the close of business on February 24, 2023. Without prior approval of RBI, these banks shall not grant or renew any loans and advances, etc.

 

2. Saraswat Bank partnered with Tagit to deploy omnichannel banking: Saraswat Bank has partnered with Singapore-based digital banking solutions provider Tagit to implement omnichannel digital banking solutions for its retail and corporate customers. Under the agreement, the bank will use Tagit’s Mobeix Digital Banking platform to enhance customer experience by offering a comprehensive set of digital services securely, anytime, anywhere. This will increase the market reach, faster time-to-market and enhance customer engagement.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. RRR wins four Hollywood Critics Association Film Awards 2023: The RRR (Directed by SS Rajamouli) has won four awards at Hollywood Critics Association Film Awards 2023. The movie has received awards in Best Action Film, Best International Feature, Best Original Song (Naatu Naatu), and Best Stunts categories. The RRR has also been nominated for the Oscars 2023 in Best Original Song (Naatu Naatu). The song 'Naatu Naatu' has already bagged the prestigious awards Best Original Song award at the 80th Golden Globe Awards.

Daily GK Update- 25th Feb, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India slips to 42nd rank in US Intellectual Property Rights Index: India has slipped to the 42nd position in the International Intellectual Property Rights Index 2023 out of 55 countries for 2022. India was ranked 40th in the index in 2021. It was launched by the US Chamber of Commerce's Global Innovation Policy Centre and is monitored by the Indian government. It evaluates the protection of IP rights in 55 of the world's leading economies, together representing approximately 90% of global GDP. Top performer: United States.

 

2. INS Sindhukesari becomes the first Indian submarine to dock in Indonesia: INS Sindhukesari has become the first Indian submarine to dock in Indonesia and is a 3,000-tonne Kilo-class diesel-electric submarine. The submarine made its way to the Indonesian capital of Jakarta to dock after traversing through the nearby Sunda Strait and was part of INS Sindhukesari's first operational turnaround. It was designed as part of Project 877 and built under a contract between Rosvooruzhenie, Russia, and Ministry of Defence, India.

 

3. Union Minister inaugurates International Biotech Conclave in Northeast: Union Minister, Jitendra Singh has inaugurated International Conference on Biotechnology for the first time since Independence in North East Region, along with the 22nd Congress of the International Society for Ethno-pharmacology and the 10th Congress of Society for Ethno-pharmacology (ISE SFEC-2023). It will be held from February 24-26, 2023 at the City Convention Centre, Imphal, Manipur. Theme: Reimagine Ethnopharmacology: Globalization of Traditional Medicine.

 

4. DST has signed LoI with Fraunhofer ISE on hydrogen & clean energy: Department of Science and Technology (DST) has signed Letter of Intent (LoI) with Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (Fraunhofer ISE) for a long-term collaboration focusing on hydrogen technologies. It will trigger development of higher Technology Readiness Level (TRL) for hydrogen energy clusters being set up by DST and identify existing technologies and potential interventions from Fraunhofer in green hydrogen, integrate them with indigenous technologies.

 

5. B.V.R. Subrahmanyam joins as new Chief Executive Officer of NITI Aayog: V.R. Subrahmanyam (IAS officer of 1987) has joined as Chief Executive Officer of NITI Aayog Prior to this, he has held important assignments over the last three decades in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jammu and Kashmir, along with a stint at The World Bank He also holds the position of Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Chief Secretary of J & K, Principal Secretary in Govt of Chhattisgarh, and has held positions in the Prime Minister’s Office.

 

6. Lt Gen RS Reen took over as Director General Quality Assurance: Lt Gen RS Reen (1986-batch officer) took over as the Director General Quality Assurance (DGQA) on 24th February, 2023, which is an Inter-Service Organization functioning under the Department of Defence Production in Ministry of Defence. He is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt from Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata and has headed a Senior Quality Assurance, Brig at Headquarters of DGQA and was Controller (Missile System) in Secunderabad.

 

7. Gujarat Assembly passed a bill to stop paper leak in recruitment exam: With the objective of curbing paper leaks in government recruitment exams, the Gujarat Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed a Bill that provides for up to 10 years in prison for such malpractices. As per the provisions of the bill, the accused shall also be liable for fine which shall not be less than Rs 10 lakh, which may extend to Rs 1 crore. The bill is aimed at curbing “unfair means” which include to leak or attempt to leak a question paper, procure a question paper in an unauthorized manner, and to solve such a paper in an unauthorized manner. Unfair means also include an act of assisting an examinee during examination for monetary gains. Any examinee (candidate appearing for an exam) indulging in unfair means shall be punished with imprisonment up to three years, and shall also be liable for a fine of not less than Rs one lakh. The Gujarat Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2023, was tabled by state home minister Harsh Sanghavi.

 

8. Amit Shah addressed ‘Kol Janjati Mahakumbh’ at Satna, Madhya Pradesh: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah addressed the ‘Kol Janjati Mahakumbh’ organized on the occasion of Shabri Mata Janm Jayanti at Satna, Madhya Pradesh.

He also laid the foundation stone of 70 development works worth Rs 507 crore in Satna. The Kol tribes mainly inhabit the Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand regions of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Kol community had very significant contribution in the freedom movement. The government led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is establishing tribal freedom fighters museum across the country at a cost of Rs 200 crore, the bravery of 1831’s Kol rebel is engraved in all the museums.

 

9. Union government approved renaming of Aurangabad & Osmanabad: The Union government has approved the renaming of Maharashtra’s Aurangabad city as ‘Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar’ and that of Osmanabad city as Dharashiv. Aurangabad derives its name from the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, while Osmanabad was named for a 20th-century ruler of the princely state of Hyderabad. Chhatrapati Sambhaji, the eldest son of warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was the second ruler of the Maratha state founded by his father. Sambhaji Maharaj was executed on Aurangzeb’s orders in 1689. Dharashiv, the name of a cave complex near Osmanabad, dates back to the 8th century as per some scholars.

 

10. Aramane Giridhar gets extension as Defence Secretary: Defence Secretary Aramane Giridhar has been given extension in service till October 2024. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved his extension in service as Secretary, Department of Defence, beyond the age of superannuation for a period upto 31st of October, 2024. Giridhar is a 1988-batch Indian Administrative Service officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World’s longest river cruise ‘MV Ganga Vilas’ to culminate its journey: World’s longest river cruise ‘MV Ganga Vilas’ will culminate its journey on 28th February in Dibrugarh which started its journey on 13^th January 2023 It will cover a distance of 3,200 km in over 50 days before reaching Dibrugarh on the 28th February via Patna Sahib, Bodh Gaya, Vikramshila, Dhaka, the Suderbans and the Kaziranga national park. It is built with a unique design and a futuristic vision, three decks and 18 suites on board with a capacity of 36 tourists.

 

2. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh inaugurates the New Delhi World Book Fair 2023: Union Minister, Rajkumar Ranjan Singh has inaugurated New Delhi World Book Fair 2023, which is being held from 25 February to 5th March 2023 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi It was organized by National Book Trust, India, in collaboration with ITPO (India Trade Promotion Organization).

It will also have an NEP pavilion to mark the successful introduction of the National Education Policy 2020 and will have hundreds of authors, publishers from across the world.

 

3. Three-day Ellora Ajanta International Festival 2023 begins today: Three-day Ellora Ajanta International Festival 2023 has begun from today (25th February) in Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

This festival is a celebration of the cultural heritage and diversity of the region and promises to be a feast for the senses. It will feature a range of events, including live music performances, dance shows, art exhibitions, and food festivals. Ajanta and Ellora are two monumental rock-cut caves that define Indian art and architectural accomplishment.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Spain’s Sergio Ramos announced international football retirement: Spain’s most capped player Sergio Ramos has announced his retirement from international football. Ramos, who was part of Spain’s World Cup and Euro winning teams had represented Real Madrid in La Liga and now plays for PSG in Ligue 1. Ramos made his Spain debut in 2005. He went on to play 180 times for his country, and was part of the squad which won the World Cup in 2010 and the European Championships in 2008 and 2012.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Saraswat Bank partnered with Tagit to deploy omnichannel banking: Saraswat Bank has partnered with Singapore-based digital banking solutions provider Tagit to implement omnichannel digital banking solutions for its retail and corporate customers. Under the agreement, the bank will use Tagit’s Mobeix Digital Banking platform to enhance customer experience by offering a comprehensive set of digital services securely, anytime, anywhere.

This will increase the market reach, faster time-to-market and enhance customer engagement.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. J&K wins best adventure tourism destination award: India Today Tourism Survey has chosen Jammu & Kashmir Tourism for best adventure tourism award in recognition of its efforts in promoting 'Gulmarg' as an adventure destination of international order. India Today award comes just within a month of South Asian Travel Trade Expo(SATTE) in which the J&K Tourism Department was awarded for its efforts in post COVID-19 recovery of the tourism sector.

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.