Daily GK Update- 26th Apr, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Shreekant Bhandiwad appointed as Chairman of Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank: Shreekant M Bhandiwad has taken charge as the new chairman of Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB). KVGB is an Indian RRB sponsored by Canara Bank headquartered in Dharwad, Karnataka. He has replaced the current chairman P Gopikrishna, who was repatriated to Canara Bank as Circle Head, Bengaluru, in Karnataka. He has an experience of 29 years in Canara Bank, having worked across India (Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Karnataka) in various capacities.

 

2. DRDO organizes Conference on Optimising Human Capital of Armed Forces: The Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR), a Delhi-based laboratory DRDO, has organized a four-day International Conference on ‘Optimising Human Capital of Armed Forces: Psychological Perspective’ in Delhi on April 25, 2023. Aim: To deliberate recent advances, emerging trends, and challenges of psychology with respect to the human capital of the Armed Forces upon world over The conference has participation from the three Services, DRDO labs, and academia.

 

3. PM Modi to attend 20th anniversary of SWAGAT initiative in Gujarat: PM Modi will attend the 20th anniversary of the State Wide Attention on Grievances by Application of Technology (SWAGAT) initiative in Gujarat via video conferencing on April 27. This scheme was started by PM Modi in April 2003 during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Aim: To act as a bridge between the citizens and the government using technology by solving their day-to-day grievances in a quick, efficient, and time-bound manner

 

4. Y-20 Pre-Summit Meeting under G20 held in Leh: The Y 20 Pre Summit Meeting under G20 hosted by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs is being organized from 26th to 28th April 2023 in Leh. Five Y20 themes: Shared Future: Youth in Democracy and Governance Future of Work: Industry 4.0, Innovation & 21st Century Skills Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction: Making Sustainability a Way of Life Peace Building and Reconciliation: Ushering in an era of No War Health Wellbeing & Sports: Agenda for Youth

 

5. 6th edition of Advantage Healthcare India 2023: The sixth edition of Advantage Healthcare India 2023 event has been organized in New Delhi. The two-day event aims at showcasing India as the new hub of medical value travel and how it has emerged as a major hub for world-class healthcare and wellness services. The event will be jointly organized by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It will showcase the potential for Indian enterprises to export medical and healthcare products to global markets. This summit will witness more than 150 exhibitors and foreign delegates from 70 countries.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Microsoft India head, Anant Maheshwari appointed as chairperson of Nasscom: Microsoft India President, Anant Maheshwari has been appointed as the chairperson of Nasscom for 2023-24. Earlier, he served as the vice-chairperson of Nasscom'. He has succeeded the president of business and technology services at TCS, Krishnan Ramanujam. Meanwhile, Nasscom has also appointed chairman and managing director of Cognizant India, Rajesh Nambiar as its vice-chairperson for 2023-24 Nasscom refers to National Association of Software and Service Companies

 

2. India to host SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting on April 28: The Chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), India will host the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting on 28 April 2023 in New Delhi. Aim: To discuss amongst other issues matters concerning regional peace and security, counter-terrorism efforts within SCO, and effective multilateralism. SCO 2023 theme under India’s Chairmanship: SECURE-SCO SCO was established in 2001. Members: Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, India, and Uzbekistan

 

3. Australia to host Quad leadership summit in Sydney: Australia will host the third in-person Quad Summit in Sydney on May 24, 2023. It will be the first time when Australia will host the meeting. The meeting will be attended by PM Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Japanese PM Kishida Fumio, and Australian PM Anthony Albanese. The leaders will discuss issues on critical and emerging technologies and high-quality infrastructure, etc. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue comprises India, the US, Japan, and Australia.

 

4. India launches Operation Kaveri to evacuate stranded citizens from Sudan: India has launched a rescue operation named Operation Kaveri to evacuate its stranded citizens from Sudan. The rescue operation is currently underway and around 500 Indians have reached Port Sudan. Two C-130s aircraft and the navy ship INS Sumedha is on standby to evacuate Indians. Kaveri is one of the major Indian rivers flowing through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

 

5. Mongolia refinery to be built by India by 2025: Mongolia Ambassador to India Dambajav Ganbold has informed that the first oil refinery of Mongolia, which is built and funded with Indian assistance, will be completed by 2025. The first stage of the Mongol Oil Refinery will be built with a $1.2 billion Indian soft loan this year. The development comes with strategic implications as Mongolia is entirely dependent on Russia for its energy imports. It would help Mongolia meet 70% of its demand domestically.

 

6. Oliver Dowden elected as UK’s new deputy prime minister: Oliver Dowden has been elected as the new deputy prime minister of the United Kingdom. Dowden’s appointment came after the resignation of former Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab. Before this role, he had been serving as the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Cabinet Office secretary, under the present UK government. He will continue in the roles alongside his new responsibilities. While Alex Chalk becomes the 10th justice secretary in 10 years.

 

7. 25 April – World English Day: World English Day is observed every year on 25 April to honor the language that has become the most commonly spoken in the world. The English language is one of the most popular languages used across the world. Theme 2023 – English as a Global Language The day prospects the development, history, culture, and achievements associated with the language. English is the most widely spoken language or a “world language”. Therefore, it is known as the lingua franca of the modern era. Along with French, English is also the working language of the United Nations (UN). English Language Day is the result of a 2010 initiative by the Department of Global Communications. It established language days for each of the Organisation’s six official languages. Under the initiative, the duty stations of the UN celebrate six separate days and each day is dedicated to one of the Organisation’s six official languages across the world. The language days are as follows:

 

8. 26 April – World Intellectual Property Day: World Intellectual Property Day is celebrated every year on April 26. The aim is to promote the importance of intellectual property (IP) rights and its role in encouraging innovation and creativity. Theme 2023 – Accelerating Innovation and Creativity: Women and IP The day was first established by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 2000. The purpose of this day is to promote creativity and innovation by highlighting the critical role of intellectual property rights in protecting the rights of innovators, inventors, and creators.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Sharjah stadium stand named after Sachin Tendulkar: The West Stand at the Sharjah cricket stadium has been renamed after Indian former cricketer, Sachin Tendulkar in a special ceremony in the UAE, honouring the Indian cricket legend on his 50th birthday. Sharjah Cricket Stadium holds the Guinness record for most One-Day internationals played (244). The gate at the Sydney Cricket Ground was also named after Sachin Tendulkar on his 50th birthday.

CEO of Sharjah Stadium – Khalaf Bukhatir

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Neobank Jupiter secures NBFC licence: Neobanking platform Jupiter has received a non-banking financial company (NBFC) license from the Reserve Bank of India to enter into the lending business. The startup, Jupiter will be offering the loan under Amica Financial Technologies. Jitendra Gupta (founder of Jupiter) has informed that there will be an equity infusion of Rs 100 crore from Jupiter to develop the NBFC product. The startup will be looking to raise a loan from banks for an additional Rs 100 crore.

 

2. RBI cancels Adoor Co-operative Urban Bank’s banking licence: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has canceled the banking license of Kerala-based Adoor Co-operative Urban Bank, with effect from the close of business on April 24, 2023. RBI has allowed Adoor Co-operative Urban Bank to function as a non-banking institution. RBI has also stopped to conduct the banking business, including acceptance of deposits from non-members with immediate effect. The bank shall ensure to repay unpaid and unclaimed deposits of non-members held by it.

 

3. SBI fourth startup branch opens in Mumbai BKC: The State Bank of India (SBI) has opened an exclusive branch for startups at the Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai. This is the fourth startup-focused branch, after Bengaluru, Chennai, and Gurugram. In Mumbai, the bank has entered into multiple MoU with the Society for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at IIT-Bombay, Centre for Incubation and Business Acceleration, and S.P Jain Institute of Management & Research Aim of MoU: To boost the startup ecosystem in the region

 

4. IndusInd Bank to launch digital bank ‘Indie’: IndusInd Bank will launch its digital bank Indie this quarter. The bank is also planning to enter the mutual funds, insurance, and broking sector. Bank is expecting 8 million clients in the next three years with Rs 50,000 crore of balance sheet.

The Hindujas-promoted bank is likely to approach SEBI, IRDAI, and other regulators to obtain the necessary licences.

 

5. Zimbabwe to Introduce Gold-Backed Digital Currency: The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe will introduce a gold-backed digital currency as legal tender to help stabilize the local currency. The tokens will be a form of electronic money backed by the country’s gold reserves, which will be held by the central bank. The RBZ wants people holding Zim dollars to be able to exchange their money for the gold-backed token to help them hedge against the volatility of the local currency.

A year ago, 1 U.S. dollar was worth about 150 Zim dollars, and it’s now worth closer 1,000 Zim dollars.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Uttar Pradesh received HUDCO award for cleanliness drive: The Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) Uttar Pradesh has been awarded the country’s prestigious HUDCO Award for 2022-2023. It was awarded in the Best Practices to Improve the Living Environment 2022-23 category for cleanliness. The award was presented by the secretary of MoHUA, Manoj Josh to Neha Sharma (State mission director, UP). Cash Prize: 1 Lakh Rupees This campaign was organized by the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) Uttar Pradesh from January 14 to 24, 2023.

 

2. PGCIL wins Global Gold Award for CSR work: Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL), a Maharatna CPSU of the Ministry of Power, has been awarded the Global Gold Award 2023 by The Green Organization. Reason: For improving Agriculture Productivity and Rural Livelihood through watershed management, community participation, and better crop management practices in 10 villages of Jaipatna Block of Kalahandi, Odisha The Director (Personnel) of POWERGRID, Dr. V. K. Singh received the award.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Former Punjab CM Parkash Singh Badal passes away: Former CM of Punjab and senior leader of Shiromani Akali Dal, Parkash Singh Badal passed away at 95 in Mohali, Punjab. He became the CM of Punjab for the first time in 1970. Later, he became the Chief minister four times, from 1977 to 1980, 1997 to 2002, 2007 to 2012, and from 2012 to 2017. He briefly joined Morarji Desai's government as the Agriculture minister at the Centre in 1977. He was awarded the second-highest civilian award, Padma Vibhushan in 2015.

Daily GK Update- 25th Apr, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi flagged off India's first water metro in Kochi, Kerala: PM Modi has inaugurated India's first water metro in Kochi (Kerala), which connects 10 islands around Kochi through battery-operated electric hybrid boats. The metro project will start with eight electric hybrid boats developed under Cochin Shipyard Limited. It was funded by the Kerala govt and the German company KfW. It consists of 38 terminals and 78 electric boats. The first phase of this project started from the High Court-Vypin and Vyttila-Kakkanad terminals.

 

2. Rajesh Kumar Singh takes charge as Secretary, DPIIT: Rajesh Kumar Singh has assumed the charge of Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry. He is an IAS officer of the 1989 Batch from the Kerala cadre. Before this, he served as Secretary in the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. He has replaced Anurag Jain, who was appointed secretary in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

 

3. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav launched new features in eShram Portal: Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Environment, Bhupender Yadav has launched new features in eShram Portal. Aim: To enhance the utility of the portal and facilitate ease of registration for unorganized workers A feature for capturing the family details of migrant workers has been added to the eShram portal. The eShram-registered workers can now connect with employment opportunities, pension scheme, digital skilling, and states’ schemes through the portal.

 

4. PM Modi laid foundation stone for first Digital Science Park in Thiruvananthapuram: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid the foundation stone for India’s first Digital Science Park coming up at the Technocity campus in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Located adjacent to the Kerala University of Digital Sciences Innovation and Technology in around 14 acres of land, the ₹1,500 crore Digital Science Park project has been conceived as a multidisciplinary cluster-based interactive innovation zone focused on digital technologies. It will house two buildings with a total area of two lakh sq ft. The first one will spread out over 1.5 lakh sq ft across five floors and host Centres of Excellence, including research labs and a digital incubator. The second will house the administrative office and digital experience centres. The project is to be completed in two years. In the 2022-23 Budget, the State government had announced the establishment of the Digital Science Park over an area of 10 lakh sq ft in two blocks. Of total outlay of ₹1,500 crore, it has already sanctioned ₹200 crore. The rest will be generated from other sources, including industry partners.

 

5. 23 April – Khongjom Day: Khongjom Day is an annual event celebrated on 23 April to commemorate the soldiers who fought in the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. The event was held at Kheba Ching in Khongjom, Thoubal district of Manipur. The observance of Khongjom Day commemorates the sacrifices made by the people of Manipur in the fight for freedom and independence. The Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891 took place at Khongjom and marked the beginning of colonial rule in the region.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Malaria Day 2023: 25th April: World Malaria Day is observed every year on April 25 to commemorate the recognition of global efforts to control malaria. WHO Member States instituted this day during the World Health Assembly of 2007. Theme 2023: Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, implement Malaria is a disease caused by parasites transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. India has registered over 85% decline in malaria cases from 2015 to 2022

 

2. India launches Operation Kaveri to evacuate stranded citizens from Sudan: India has launched a rescue operation named Operation Kaveri to evacuate its stranded citizens from Sudan. Two C-130s aircraft and the navy ship INS Sumedha is on standby to evacuate Indians. The name for rescue operations in Sudan has been kept Operation Kaveri for the same purpose that Prime Minister Modi chose to name rescue ops in Ukraine Operation Ganga. Kaveri is one of the major Indian rivers flowing through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

 

3. Mongolia refinery to be built by India by 2025: Mongolia Ambassador to India Dambajav Ganbold has informed that the first oil refinery of Mongolia, which is built and funded with Indian assistance, will be completed by 2025. The first stage of the Mongol Oil Refinery will be built with a $1.2 billion Indian soft loan. The development comes with strategic implications as Mongolia is entirely dependent on Russia for its energy imports. It would help Mongolia meet 70% of its demand domestically.

 

4. SIPRI report on Trends in World Military Expenditure 2022 released: A report on Trends in World Military Expenditure 2022, published by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, stated that total global military expenditure increased by 3.7% in real terms in 2022 to reach a new high of $2240 billion The three largest spenders in 2022 are the USA, China, and Russia, accounting for 56% of the total world The US remains by far the world’s biggest military spender India’s spending of $81.4 billion was the fourth highest in the world.

 

5. UK tests emergency alert system on millions of phones: The UK conducted its first test of a new emergency alert service with millions of mobile phones set to emit a loud alarm and vibrate at 3:00 pm (1400 GMT). A message will say: “This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new U.K. government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby.” Emergency services and the government hope to use the system to alert people to issues such as severe flooding and fires. The national system, modelled on similar schemes in Canada, Japan, the Netherlands, and the United States, aims to warn the public if there is a danger to life nearby but has generated criticism over “nanny state” intrusion.

 

6. “Locked Shields” cyber-defense exercise 2023 organized in Tallinn: The 2023 edition of the annual exercise “Locked Shields” hosted by the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defense Center of Excellence in Tallinn (Estonia). “Locked Shields” is the world’s largest cyber defence exercise. It involves protecting computer systems from real-time attacks and simulating tactical and strategic decisions in critical situations. More than 3000 participants from 38 countries including NATO allies and partners took part in the exercise. The exercise simulates real-time attacks and tests strategic decision making in critical situations. The NATO Cooperative Cyber Defense Center of Excellence helps participating countries and organizations improve their cyber defence capabilities.

 

7. 24 to 30 April – World Immunization Week: World Immunization Week, celebrated in the last week of April, aims to highlight the collective action needed to protect people from vaccine-preventable diseases. WHO works with countries across the globe to raise awareness of the value of vaccines and immunization and ensures that governments obtain the necessary guidance and technical support to implement high-quality immunization programmes. The ultimate goal of World Immunization Week is for more people – and their communities – to be protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. Theme 2023 – The Big Catch-Up The aim of this week is to increase awareness around the benefits of immunization and also to encourage people to get vaccinated.

 

8. 25 April – World Malaria Day: World Malaria Day is observed on April 25 across the world. Objective – To highlight the significant impact of malaria on global health and encourage action to prevent and eliminate the disease. Theme 2023 – Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, implement Malaria, which is caused by the Plasmodium parasite and transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, poses a serious threat to human life. The United Nations General Assembly declared April 25th as World Malaria Day in December 2007, and it has been observed annually on this date since the first World Malaria Day in 2008.

OTHER UPDATES:

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IndusInd Bank to launch digital bank 'Indie': IndusInd Bank is planning to launch its own digital bank 'Indie'. The necessary approvals for all these expansion plans and other logistics by the bank are likely to be completed in 2 years. The bank is also planning to enter the mutual funds, insurance, and broking sector. It is likely to apply for the license in a few days. The Hindujas-promoted bank is likely to approach SEBI, IRDAI, and other regulators to obtain the necessary licences. IndusInd Bank HQ: Mumbai

2. RBI imposes Rs 44 lakh penalty on 4 co-op banks: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed penalties totaling Rs 44 lakh on four cooperative banks. Bombay Mercantile Co-operative Bank: Penalty of Rs 13 lakh as it failed to transfer the eligible amount to Depositor Education and Awareness Fund (DEAF). Tamil Nadu State Apex Co-operative Bank: Penalty of 16 lakhs as it failed to transfer eligible amounts to DEAF. Baran Nagrik Sahkari Bank: A penalty of 2 lahks has been imposed for contravention of certain norms.

 

3. HDFC Bank, Axis Bank sign definitive agreements with Go Digit: Axis Bank and HDFC Bank would acquire up to a 9.94 percent stake in Go Digit-Life Insurance. HDFC Bank informed that it has executed definitive agreements to invest ₹69.90 crore in Go Digit-Life Insurance Ltd in two tranches. The bank has made the first tranche of payment of ₹10.93 crore for towards the acquisition. Axis Bank has also executed definitive agreements to invest ₹69.90 crore in Go Digit-Life Insurance Ltd in two tranches.

 

4. Zimbabwe to Introduce Gold-Backed Digital Currency: The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe will launch a gold-pegged digital currency and legalize them in the country. It is believed that the government took this step for stabilizing the local currency after its continuous devaluation in comparison to the U.S. dollar. This initiative taken by Zimbabwe will allow the exchange of Zimbabwean dollars with digital gold tokens and secure Zimbabweans against currency volatility. Zimbabwe Capital: Harare;  President: Emmerson Mnangagwa

 

5. Canara Bank partners with Reserve Bank of India innovation hub: Canara Bank, in collaboration with Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH), has announced the launch of “Digitalised Submission of Form 15G/15H”. Form 15G (Individual and HUF) and Form 15H (Individual-Senior Citizen) are self-declaration forms that an individal submits to the bank requesting not to deduct TDS on interest income as their income is below the basic exemption limit. At the start of every financial year, especially in the first few weeks of April, several citizens – especially senior citizens – make their 15G & 15H submissions to their banks. Presently, our Bank is accepting submission of these forms through online Banking/ Mobile banking which requires knowledge and access to Mobile / Internet Banking. The Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) recognized the problem, engaged with various banks to explore possible solutions, and developed a blueprint to resolve the issue. The suggested solution employs technologies that elderly citizens are already familiar with, and uses an OMNI-channel approach. As a result, all depositors, including senior citizens, can now conveniently submit their Tax Waiver forms through SMS and Website, using their registered mobile phone number, from anywhere and at any time.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Sharjah stadium stand named after Sachin Tendulkar: The West Stand at the Sharjah cricket stadium has been renamed after Indian former cricketer, Sachin Tendulkar in a special ceremony in the UAE, honouring the Indian cricket legend on his 50th birthday. Sharjah Cricket Stadium holds the Guinness record for most One-Day internationals played (244). The gate at the Sydney Cricket Ground was also named after Sachin Tendulkar on his 50th birthday. CEO of Sharjah Stadium: Khalaf Bukhatir

 

2. Health Ministry receives PM’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration: The Union Health Ministry’s National Covid-19 Vaccination Programme has received the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration 2022. The award was in the innovation category. Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan received the award at the 16th Civil Services Day event. As per a statement, over 220 crore doses of Covid vaccine have been administered in the country so far. The nationwide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16, 2021, with health workers being the first to be inoculated. This was followed by vaccines for frontline Covid workers beginning in February 2021. In March of that year, India opened up vaccination for people over 60 years of age and those aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. Vaccination for all (18 years and above) was opened up May 1, onwards. PM Gati Shakti national master plan initiative received an award for excellence in public administration 2022 in the ‘Innovation (Central).

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Pakistani-Canadian journalist Tarek Fatah passes away: Pakistani-Canadian journalist, Tarek Fatah passed away at the age of 73 due to Cancer. He was emigrating to Canada from Pakistan in 1987. He worked as a political activist, journalist, and television host. He also authored several books including, 'Chasing a Mirage: The Tragic Illusion of an Islamic State' and 'The Jew is Not My Enemy: Unveiling the Myths that Fuel Muslim Anti-Smitism.' He won various awards such as the Donner Prize, and Stan Vine Canadian Book Award.

 

2. Co-founder of Webchutne Sidharth Rao passes away: The co-founder and former CEO of Webchutney, Sidharth Rao passed away. Rao started Webchutney in 1999 when he was just 19 years old. In 2013, Webchutney was acquired by Dentsu Aegis Network but Rao stayed on to steer it as its CEO, going on to become head of the India unit of dentsuMB, the global creative network of the Japanese multinational media network in 2021. In 2022, he stepped down as group CEO of dentsuMB India and joined hands and launched a new venture in the marketing technology (MarTech) space, called Punt Partners along with serial entrepreneur Madhu Sudan.

Dentsu Webchutney won one of the biggest awards on the advertising stage when it walked away with the Agency of the Year honour at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in 2022.

Daily GK Update- 24th Apr, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi dedicates to nation projects worth Rs 17,000 crore in MP: PM Modi has laid the foundation stone and inaugurated projects worth more than 17,000 crores in Madhya Pradesh. He has also inaugurated the integrated e-Gram Swaraj and GeM portal for public procurement at the Panchayat level. Objective: To enable Panchayats to market their goods and services through GeM With the handing over of around 35 lakh Swamitva Property Cards, about 1 crore 25 lakh property cards have been distributed under this scheme in the country.

 

2. Centre conducts first-ever census of water bodies across the country: The Ministry of Jal Shakti has conducted the first-ever census of water bodies across the nation. Aim: To provide a comprehensive inventory of India's water resources, including natural and man-made water bodies like lakes Over 24.24 lakh water bodies have been enumerated in the country out of which more than 23 lakh water bodies are in rural areas and nearly 69,000 are in urban areas. Top 5 (number of water bodies): WB, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Assam

 

3. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated National Technology Centre: Union Minister of Ports, Sarbananda Sonowal has inaugurated National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts, IIT - Discovery Campus at Chennai. Under the Sagarmala Programme, the centre has been established in IIT Chennai at a cost of 77 Crore rupees. The institute acts as a technological arm of the Ministry and develops cutting-edge technologies and application products to provide solutions to various challenges faced by the Ports and Shipping Sector.

 

4. UIDAI, NPCI to set up eKYC aggregator, fin entities: The Unique Identification Authority of India and the National Payments Corporation of India are setting up an aggregator platform for eKYC (electronic know-your-customer). The process of Aadhaar-based eKYC is used for paperless verification of a customer’s credentials to get a mobile connection or open a bank account. The process can be completed using biometrics or through the use of OTP. It is being used by financial services players, and government agencies.

 

5. A new book ‘A Resurgent Northeast: Narratives of Change’ launched: A new book titled, ‘A Resurgent Northeast: Narratives of Change’ has been released in New Delhi. The book was authored by an IAS officer, and senior bureaucrat Ashish Kundra. The book was launched in the presence of Kiren Rijiju (Union Minister of Law and Justice); Hardeep Singh Puri (Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas), Pema Khandu (CM of Arunachal Pradesh), and Amitabh Kant. Senior bureaucrat-author Ashish Kundra served in the Northeast for eight years.

 

6. National Panchayati Raj Day 2023: 24 April: India celebrates National Panchayati Raj Day every year on April 24 to commemorate the constitutional change that established the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). PRIs are considered the third tier of the government. It manages the local-level administration in rural areas. The first Panchayati Raj system was initiated in the year 1993. 2023 theme: Sustainable Panchayat: Building Healthy, Water Sufficient, Clean & Green Villages

 

7. MoPNG Successfully completed Barauni Guwahati pipeline: The Ministry of Petroleum has successfully completed the Bihar portion of the Barauni Guwahati pipeline (BGPL) under the Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga project. It will connect six districts in Bihar to the National Gas Grid.

Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga Project is also known as Jagdishpur – Haldia & Bokaro – Dhamra Pipeline Project (JHBDPL) project. Launched: 2016 Aim: Caters to the energy requirements of five states (UP, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and WB).

 

8. SAIL-Bokaro Steel Plant sign MoU with Telecommunications Consultants India: SAIL-Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL) has signed a Memorandum of understanding with Telecommunications Consultants India (TCIL) to explore the potential of the application of 5G/ IT/ telecom and other wireless communication technologies in SAIL-Bokaro Steel Plant. This project would include SAIL's Mines and Collieries, Central Coal Supply Organization, and the SAIL refractory unit in Jharkhand. SAIL Chairperson: Soma Mondal

 

9. India proposed to develop G-20 park in New Delhi: India has proposed to develop a G20 park in New Delhi to symbolize ‘togetherness on the path of development’ as part of its year-long presidency of the organization. It will showcase sculptures depicting national animals and birds of the G20 countries made with the Waste to wonder concept. The art pieces will be created on-site in a 20-day-long national camp mode from 21 April 2023 and till 1 May 2023. Each art piece will be made of scrap and other waste material sourced from the yards of New Delhi Municipal Council and other agencies. India has proposed to develop a G20 park in New Delhi to symbolize ‘togetherness on the path of development’ as part of its year-long presidency.

 

10. Shantanu Roy appointed as CMD of BEML Limited: Shantanu Roy has been appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of BEML Limited (Bharat Earth Movers Limited), a Miniratna PSU under the Ministry of Defence. Roy is a graduate in Electrical Engineering from NIT, Raipur. He also has an MBA in Financial Management. Roy is presently serving as Director (Mining & Construction Business) in the same organization and has over 30 years of extensive experience in capital goods sectors for defense, mining & construction, transportation, transmission, renewable, and large power projects.

 

11. Sandeep Singh appointed Military Advisor to National Security Council: Former vice chief of the Indian Air Force, Air Marshal Sandeep Singh has been appointed as the military adviser to the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). Singh retired as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff on January 31, 2023 after a military career spanning almost four decades. Air Marshal Sandeep Singh was commissioned in the IAF as a fighter pilot on December 22, 1983. General Anil Chauhan was the military adviser to the NSCS before being appointed chief of defence staff in September 2022.

12. Gajendra Arya appointed as Senior Vice President at Zypp: Gajendra Arya has been appointed as the new Senior Vice President of Technology at Zypp Electric. Gajendra Arya has worked with companies like Ola, Samsung, and Vodafone. Zypp Electric is a leading electric scooter sharing platform in India, providing sustainable last-mile connectivity solutions.

 

13. 24 April – National Panchayati Raj Diwas: National Panchayati Raj Diwas is celebrated every year on 24 April. The Panchayati Raj Day commemorates the 73rd Amendment Act, 1992 of the Constitution coming into effect in the year 1993. This day celebrates the national local self-governance and democratic decentralization. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the nodal ministry, works on the mission of empowerment, enablement and accountability of Panchayati Raj Institutions to ensure inclusive development with social justice and efficient delivery of services. 73rd Amendment 1992 added a new Part IX to the constitution “The Panchayats” covering provisions from Article 243 to 243(O) & a new 11th Schedule covering 29 subjects.

1st National Panchayati Raj day Celebrated in 2010

Father of Panchayati Raj system – Balwant Rai Mehta

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, Guyana sign Air Services Agreement: India has signed an Air Services Agreement (ASA) with Guyana to facilitate easier travel between the two nations. The agreement was signed between Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill and India’s High Commissioner to Guyana KJ Srinivas in the presence of EAM S Jaishankar, who is on a 3-day visit to Guyana. The agreement’s signing is consistent with the government’s objective to establish ties between Guyana and the rest of the world. It will also complement the more than 50 air service agreements Guyana has negotiated with other ICAO governments for the advancement of interstate air travel. The agreement encourages the development of international air services between the two countries and the global airline market.

 

2. India placed at 38th spot on World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index: India has reached the 38th spot on World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index. In 2014, India was ranked 54th. It climbed 16 places from 2014 to 2022. India is now ranked 38 in the 139 countries index, up from 44 in 2018 LPI is an interactive benchmarking tool created to help countries identify the challenges and opportunities on trade logistics and scope of improvement.

 

3. 21 April – World Creativity and Innovation Day: World Creativity and Innovation Day is celebrated annually on April 21. Objective – To raise awareness about the role of innovation and creativity in each aspect of human development. The first World Creativity and Innovation Day was celebrated in 2002. The event was held in Canada, and since then, it has spread to other countries worldwide. In 2005, the United Nations recognized the importance of creativity and innovation in achieving sustainable development and declared April 21 as World Creativity and Innovation Day.

4. 23 April – World Book and Copyright Day: World Book Day is observed ever year on 23 April.

It is organized by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. The first World Book Day was celebrated on 23 April in 1995. Theme 2023 – Indigenous Languages 23 April is a symbolic date in world literature. It is the date on which several prominent authors, William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega all died. This date was a natural choice for UNESCO’s General Conference, held in Paris in 1995, to pay a world-wide tribute to books and authors on this date, encouraging everyone to access books.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Kenya's Kiptum wins London Marathon in 2nd fastest time: Kelvin Kiptum of Kenya has won the London Marathon and recorded the second-fastest time in history over the distance. He set the course record with a time of 2 hours, 1 minute, and 25 seconds.He just missed out on Eliud Kipchoge's world record by 16 seconds. In the women's race, Ethiopian-born Dutch athlete, Sifan Hassan won her marathon debut in 2:18:34. Switzerland’s Marcel Hug won the elite men’s wheelchair race with a time of 1:23:44.

 

2. Star Sports signs Rishabh Pant as brand ambassador: The Walt Disney Company-owned Star Sports has signed cricketer Rishabh Pant as its latest brand ambassador. The company said it also has other cricketers as its ‘Believe Ambassadors’ like Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer. Star Sports said it only had two ambassadors in 2017. Cricketer Virat Kohli is also part of this association. The ambassadors will represent different parts of the country as well as different IPL Teams.

 

3. Jyothi Surekha Vennam clinches two gold medals at Archery World Cup: India won two gold medals, one each in the mixed team event and women’s individual Compound, at the Archery World Cup 2023 Stage 1 in Antalya, Turkey. Indian mixed team of Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Ojas Pravin Deotale outclassed Chen Yi Hsuan and Chem Chieh Lun of Chinese Taipei 159-154 to win the mixed team gold. The second gold came in the women’s individual Compound event after Jyothi Surekha Vennam defeated Sara Lopez of Columbia 149-146.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Former MP Trilochan Kanungo passes away: Former MP and three-time MLA, Trilochan Kanungo passed away in Bhubaneswar. Kanungo was elected to the assembly in 1971, 1974, and 1985. In 1999, he was elected from the Jagatsinghpur Lok Sabha seat on a BJD ticket. He was a former chairman of Cuttack Municipality and ex-chairperson of the state finance commission. He was born on November 24, 1940, in Badamulei village in Cuttack district, Odisha.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 23rd Apr, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Justice SV Bhatti appointed as acting Chief Justice of Kerala High Court: In the exercise of the power conferred by Article 223 of the Constitution of India, the President has appointed Justice Sarasa Venkatanarayana Bhatti as Acting Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court with effect from April 24, 2023. He would replace the current Chief Justice S Manikumar, who will retire on the aforementioned date. He served as a Judge from the Andhra Pradesh High Court and is presently working as the senior-most judge of the Kerala High Court.

 

2. Madhya Pradesh's Gandhisagar Sanctuary to be second new home of Cheetahs: In a meeting with the Wildlife Advisory Board, Madhya Pradesh CM, Shivraj Singh Chouhan instructed the development of the Gandhisagar Sanctuary as a habitat for cheetahs in the next six months. It will be developed as a second home for cheetahs to retain the tag of cheetah state. Reason: The experts suggested that Kuno National Park in Sheopur does not have enough space for all cheetahs, hence it is necessary to relocate a few

 

3. Arun Sinha appointed as new chairman of NTRO: Arun Sinha has been appointed as the new chairman of the National Technical Research Organization (NTRO) by the Government of India. Sinha is a 1984 batch IPS officer of Kerala cadre. He was the acting chairman of NTRO before becoming the chairman. NTRO is a technical intelligence agency based in India. It works under the National Security Advisor in the Prime Minister’s Office and was established in 2004. The agency follows the same “norms of conduct” as other intelligence agencies in India such as the Intelligence Bureau and the Research and Analysis Wing.

 

4. Kerala launches One Panchayat, One Playground project: The Kerala government has launched a project for reviving the sports culture in the State by opening quality playgrounds in every panchayat of the southern state. The ‘One Panchayat, One Playground’ project was inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at Kallikkad here where he said that a good sports culture was essential for building a healthy and happy society. The playgrounds would serve as a hub of local gatherings and social interactions. The project will address the lack of quality playgrounds in around 450 local bodies in the State. Each playground would cost around Rs one crore, half of which would be footed by the Sports department and the rest would be raised from the MLA and local body funds, through CSR, public private partnerships, etc.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Oliver Dowden named UK's new deputy prime minister: Oliver Dowden has been named the new deputy prime minister of the United Kingdom. He has replaced current Dy PM and Justice Secretary, Dominic Raab, who has resigned. Before this role, he had been serving as the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Cabinet Office secretary, under the present UK government. He will continue in the roles alongside his new responsibilities. While Alex Chalk becomes the 10th justice secretary in 10 years.

 

2. World Book Day 2023: April 23: World Book Day is celebrated annually on April 23 to promote the love for reading, writing, publishing, and copyright. This day is also known as World Book and Copyright Day. The theme for World Book Day 2023 is 'Indigenous Languages.' This theme focuses on promoting the diversity in native languages of a country. It is the date on which several prominent authors, William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega all died.

 

3. AIIB to open its first overseas office in Abu Dhabi: Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a host member agreement to officially open the bank’s first overseas office, an Interim Operational Hub (the Hub), in Abu Dhabi. The new foreign office in Abu Dhabi will support the AIIB’s development agenda by funding sustainable economic development projects, primarily in areas where it is most needed. The AIIB is a multilateral development bank that prioritizes financing infrastructure projects focused on sustainability.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Rohit Sharma Announced as JioCinema’s brand ambassador: JioCinema, owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Viacom18, has signed up Rohit Sharma, captain of the men’s cricket India, as its brand ambassador. The cricketer will build on the OTT platform’s vision of making sports viewing synonymous with digital. As part of this collaboration, Rohit will be working with the JioCinema team to promote their digital-first approach towards sports viewing.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. HDFC Bank gets RBI relief on PSL norms: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has given HDFC Bank three years to comply with the priority sector lending norms (PSL), after its merger with HDFC Ltd (HDFC). No relaxation is allowed for abiding by the cash reserve ratio (CRR) and statutory liquidity ratio (SLR) rules. As per the RBI norms, commercial banks need to extend 40% of the adjusted net bank credit (ANBC) of the previous year towards the priority sector.

 

2. Mastercard collaborates with M1xchange for digital invoice discounting: Mastercard has joined hands with M1xchange to offer a digital invoice discounting solution to farmers, farmer-producer organizations (FPOs), and agri-MSMEs through Farm Pass. This platform will enable easy access to credit and working capital. This solution will also allow farmers and FPOs to directly connect with buyers, negotiate the best price for their produce, and get paid faster. Farm Pass is part of Mastercard’s broader Community Pass platform.

 

3. Morgan Stanley: India's GDP to grow at 6.2% in FY24: According to the Morgan Stanley report, India's GDP in FY24 would grow at 6.2 percent. Inflation in India is likely to be below 5% in the second quarter of the calendar year 2024. The headline consumer price index (CPI) for March was in line with expectations. Morgan noted that the key to sustained domestic demand is a pickup in capex, which will help create more jobs, thus leading to a virtuous cycle of more jobs-to-higher income-higher savings-higher investment.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Wing Commander Deepika Misra received a gallantry award: Wing Commander Deepika Misra was conferred the Vayu Sena medal by Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Marshal VR Chaudhari. She becomes the first woman Air Force officer to receive a gallantry award. She is a trained helicopter pilot, a qualified flying instructor, and an instrument-rated instructor and examiner. She was among 58 personnel who received the gallantry award during the investiture ceremony held in New Delhi.

 

2. Health Ministry receives PM's Award for Excellence in Public Administration: The National COVID-19 Vaccination Programme of the Union Health Ministry received the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration 2022 under the innovation category. The award was received by Rajesh Bhushan (Secretary, Ministry of Health) from PM Narendra Modi. PM Gati Shakti national master plan initiative received an award for excellence in public administration 2022 in the 'Innovation (Central)' category.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Sidharth Rao, co-founder of Webchutney, passes away: The co-founder and former CEO of Webchutney, Sidharth Rao passed away due to a fatal cardiac arrest. In 1999, he founded India’s first and top digital agency WebChutney. In July 2021, Rao was chosen to serve as the global CEO of Dentsu McGarrybowen. In 2022, he stepped down as group CEO of dentsuMB India and joined hands and launched a new venture in the marketing technology (MarTech) space, called Punt Partners along with serial entrepreneur Madhu Sudan.