Daily GK Update- 4th June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Microsoft joins hands with Skill Development Ministry to train students, teachers: With the aim to empower youth in India with future-ready skills, Microsoft has signed an MoU with the Directorate General of Training (DGT), Ministry of Skills Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), to train students and educators at government-led Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skills Training Institutions (NSTIs). Microsoft will offer a wide range of courses, including training in AI, cloud computing, web development and cybersecurity skills for nearly 6000 students and 200 faculty members. This training will empower young students with industry-relevant skills, enhancing their employability, and connecting them to relevant job opportunities. Train-the-Trainer workshops will be conducted to empower faculty members on AI fluency and fundamentals, cloud computing, web development, Power BI, and soft skills. These trained faculty members can then train ITI students attending computer operator and programming assistant (COPA) training. The CyberShikshaa programme focusing on basic and intermediate cybersecurity skills training will also be expanded to students and educators at 10 NSTIs for women.

 

2. Meghalaya sets up expert panel to review reservation formula: The Meghalaya government has set up an expert committee to review the 1972 reservation policy in line with demands made by the opposition Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) whose leader is on an indefinite hunger strike. Following the announcement, VPP MLA Ardent Basaiawmoit called off his hunger strike that lasted for over 200 hours. The expert committee is mandated to review the state reservation policy by obtaining views from all stakeholders. The chairperson and members of the committee shall consist of experts in constitutional law, economics, sociology, demographic studies and related fields. The 1972 job reservation policy awarded 40 percent of reserved jobs to Garos, 40 percent for Khasi-Jaintia tribes, 5 percent for other tribes and 15 percent for general category candidates.

 

3. AIIMS Nagpur becomes first AIIMS to receive NABH accreditation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated AIIMS Nagpur for becoming the first of all AIIMS to receive the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) accreditation. The NABH accreditation is recognized globally as a standard for healthcare excellence. Only a few private hospitals in Nagpur have this accreditation. AIIMS-Nagpur, established in 2018, is one of the premier medical institutions in the region. The process of attaining the NABH accreditation is rigorous and all-encompassing, evaluating various aspects of a hospital’s performance, including patient care, safety protocols, and organizational efficiency. NABH plays a vital role in ensuring that healthcare institutions adhere to rigorous quality standards. By evaluating a hospital’s infrastructure, processes, and patient outcomes, NABH accreditation establishes a benchmark for excellence.

 

4. Tata to build India’s first lithium-ion cell manufacturing gigafactory: Tata Group has signed an MoU with the Gujarat government to set up a first-ever lithium-ion cell manufacturing gigafactory in Gujarat. This MOU is an outcome of the newly formulated Electronics Policy. Estimated initial investment: 130 billion rupees Production capacity: 20 GWh The state government is committed to increasing carbon-free, energy-efficient, and clean energy production by boosting the production of electric vehicles and reducing carbon emissions.

 

5. Indian Navy’s Green Initiatives imbibing Green Technologies: The Indian Navy has undertaken several green initiatives and shared some of the noteworthy initiatives towards a 'Clean and Green Navy'. It employs a number of ships, submarines, and aircraft that have high energy intensity, thus increased energy efficiency is paramount in every operation. It has commissioned solar power with a cumulative capacity of 15.87 MW, with the objective of fulfilling the government's 'Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission.

 

6. Maharashtra govt, Bajaj Finserv sign MoU to invest Rs 5,000 crore: The Maharashtra government has signed an MoU with Bajaj Finserv to invest 5,000 crore rupees in Pune which is expected to create 40,000 jobs. The MoU was signed by Harshdeep Kamble (Industry Secretary, Maharashtra) and S Sreenivasan (Chief Financial Officer, Bajaj Finserv). The development will have a positive impact as it will create new jobs and business opportunities for partners, vendors, suppliers, and contractors in and around Pune, as well as globally.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UAE wins Presidency of World Meteorological Organization: A meteorologist of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Dr Abdulla Al Mandous has been elected as the new President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for a four-year term from 2023 to 2027. He will succeed Prof Gerhard Adrian from the German Meteorological Service, who served as WMO President since June 2019. Abdulla Al Mandous emerged as the official candidate of the UAE and secured 95 votes out of the representatives from WMO’s 193 member states and territories. The election took place during the 19th session of the World Meteorological Congress (Cg-19) held in Geneva, Switzerland from 22nd May to 2nd June Under Dr. Al Mandous’ leadership, WMO’s upcoming 77th Executive Council Session (EC-77) will be chaired by the UAE in Geneva from 5th to 6th June. The WMO is an authoritative body within the UN system that focuses on weather, climate, hydrological, and related environmental fields.

 

2. BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Cape Town: External Affairs Minister Jaishankar joined fellow foreign ministers from the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) in Cape Town. South Africa, which currently chairs the bloc, is hosting the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in Cape Town. The foreign ministers’ meeting will finalize the agenda for the 15th BRICS summit scheduled to be held in South Africa in August. It is believed that 19 countries are in line to join BRICS. The full form of BRICS is Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

 

3. Edgars Rinkevics elected as new president of Latvia: Edgars Rinkevics, Latvia’s foreign minister since 2011, has been elected as the country’s new president. The 100-seat Saeima legislature elected Edgars Rinkevics, the country’s top diplomat since 2011, as president to serve for a four-year term. In 2014, he announced that he is “proudly” homosexual, will be the first openly gay president in the Baltic nations Latvia declared independence in 1918 but was later occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940. It regained independence in 1991 with the collapse of the Soviet Union.

 

4. 4 June – International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression: International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression is observed every year on 4 June. Objective – To raise awareness about the children who have suffered a lot throughout the world and are victims of physical, mental, and emotional abuse. According to the UNICEF report, 104,100 children have been killed or maimed since 2005, with more than two-thirds of these deaths occurring between 2014 and 2020. Since 2005, around 25,700 children have been abducted, 14,200 have been sexually abused and 93,000 have been recruited by armed actors. The idea of the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression emerged from the UN General Assembly’s emergency special session held on August 19, 1982. During the session, the assembly focused on protecting Palestinian and Lebanese children from Israeli aggression during the Lebanon war.

 

5. Indian American Ajay Banga assumes charge as World Bank President: Indian American, Ajay Banga has assumed charge as the President of the World Bank, after replacing David Malpass, who stepped down on June 1, 2023. He has been appointed as the 14th President of the World Bank for a five-year term. In February 2023, US President Joe Biden nominated Ajay Banga to lead the World Bank. He has become the first-ever Indian-American to head the World Bank. Prior to this role, he served as Vice Chairman at General Atlantic.

 

6. THE Impact Ranking 2023 released: According to the 'The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023', Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore has emerged as India’s highest-placed university. The university is ranked at 52nd rank globally out of 1,591 universities. Topped by: Western Sydney University followed by the University of Manchester (UK), Queen’s University (Canada), Universiti Sains Malaysia, and the University of Tasmania Amrita Vishwa stood out for its efforts toward meeting the UNSDGs.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI fines Indian Overseas Bank Rs 2.2 crore for multiple violations: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 2.2 crore on Indian Overseas Bank for violating various norms. The RBI said it fined the bank under the powers vested by the Banking Regulation Act 1949. The RBI imposed this monetary penalty after finding contraventions of banking regulations and non-compliance with specific RBI directions related to income recognition, asset classification, provisioning, interest rates on deposits, and ATM security

 

2. ICICI Bank commits ₹1,200 cr to Tata Memorial centre: The ICICI Bank has committed to donating Rs 1,200 crore towards Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), from its CSR funds. Aim: To set up three new buildings spanning over a combined area of 7.5 lakh square feet at TMC’s centers at Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra), Mullanpur (Punjab), and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) ICICI Foundation for Inclusive Growth (ICICI Foundation), the CSR arm of ICICI Bank, will implement the initiative, which is likely to be completed by 2027.

 

3. Sebi releases bond trading guidelines on RFQ platform: SEBI released guidelines for transactions in corporate bonds through the Request for Quote (RFQ) platform by stock brokers in order to increase liquidity on the platform, from July 1, 2023 For all the trades in a proprietary capacity, stock brokers will have to undertake at least 10% of their total secondary market trades by value in corporate bonds in that month by placing quotes through one-to-one or one-to-many mode In April 2024, the percentage will increase to 25%

 

4. Karbon Card launched country's first mobile-based expense management card: Karbon Card has launched a mobile-based expense management card for businesses and individuals wherein it offers its users uncapped cashback of upto 1%. Card ++ differentiates itself by providing interesting cashback offers, incentivizing people their spending. The unique feature adds value to the card, making it an option for users. Its features include the ability to make payments on various platforms such as Google, Amazon, Swiggy, and Ola.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Noted theatre actor Amir Raza Husain passes away: A noted theatre actor and director, Amir Raza Husain has passed away at 66. He was known for his large outdoor stage productions such as "The Fifty Day War" based on the Kargil War and "The Legend of Ram". He was also the Creative Director of the Stagedoor Theatre Company, established in 1974, which has presented over 91 productions and more than 1,100 performances.   He was honoured with the Padma Shri (2001) by the government for his contribution to theatre.

Daily GK Update-3rd June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan releases UGC Regulations, 2023: Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has released the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023 in New Delhi. These regulations will facilitate the creation of many more quality-focused deemed to be universities in an objective and transparent manner. It will encourage universities to focus on quality and excellence and strengthen the research ecosystem and have a long-term impact in transforming the higher education landscape.

 

2. Punjab Police launches OPS Clean: Punjab Police has launched a massive state-wide operation named “OP Clean” wherein 650 police teams comprising over 5,000 personnel raided more than 2,000 locations across the state to keep a tab on activities of people involved in the smuggling of commercial quantities of drugs. As many as 650 police teams, involving over 5,500 police personnel, raided 2,247 locations and conducted searches at 2,125 houses of people having involvement in drug smuggling cases. The police teams recovered 1.8 kg heroin, 82 kg poppy husk, 1 kg opium, Rs 5.35 lakh drug money and four weapons from them, besides recovering illicit liquor, lahan (raw material used to make liquor) and vehicles after registering 48 FIRs across the state. The operation was conducted by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav.

 

3. Nitin Gadkari inaugurates two Highway projects in Vadodara: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has inaugurated two National Highway projects in Vadodara, Gujarat worth Rs 48 crore. One of the projects focuses on the improvement of the Ahmedabad-Vadodara section of National Highway 48 near Dumad Chowkdi. Spanning approximately 3 kilometers, this project has been inaugurated at a cost of Rs 27.01 crore. The second project, costing Rs 17 crore, stretches about 1 kilometer near Dena Junction on National Highway 48 in Vadodara.

 

4. Srinagar to become smart city by June 2024: Srinagar is all set for a facelift. The city will get a ‘Smart City’ tag by June 2024 under the Srinagar Smart City Project. A total of 137 projects have been sanctioned for Srinagar Smart City under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India. Under the project, Srinagar is aimed to get a complete transformation by using its natural and cultural heritage which will enhance the beauty and quality of life. Till now, 66 projects have been completed and currently, 71 projects are ongoing. Under smart city, the project has eight themes: Jhelum Water Front Development and Water Transport, Urban Mobility, Street and Intersection Development, City Beautification & Urban Art, Green Srinagar, Heritage Conservation and Downtown Renewal, Information Technology, Central Business District Upgradation, Solid Waste Management. Athar Amir Khan, CEO, Srinagar Smart City Ltd (SSCL) and Srinagar Municipal Commissioner informed this.

 

5. Amarendu Prakash appoints chairman of SAIL: Amarendu Prakash has been appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director of Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL). He was earlier Director (In-Charge) of SAIL’s Bokaro Steel Plant. Prakash is heading the Bokaro Steel Plant as Director-in-Charge from September 2020. Under Prakash’s leadership, Bokaro Steel Plant achieved remarkable production records in FY22 and FY23.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Abdulla Al Mandous elected as the President of WMO: Meteorologist of United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abdulla Al Mandous has been elected as the new President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for a 4-year term from 2023 to 2027. He emerged as the official candidate of the UAE and secured 95 votes out of the representatives from WMO’s 193 member states and territories. He succeeded Prof Gerhard Adrian. WMO is an authoritative body within the UN system that focuses on weather, climate, environment, etc.

 

2. India set to remain UAE's largest export destination by 2030: India is set to remain United Arab Emirates' (UAE) largest export destination by 2030, according to a new report by Standard Chartered titled ‘Future of Trade: New opportunities in high-growth corridors’ The report forecasts that the UAE's exports will reach around USD 543 billion by 2030, showcasing a robust annual growth rate of 5.5% It also highlights that trade corridors anchored in Asia, Africa, Middle East are expected to outpace the global trade growth rate by 4%

 

3. India G20 - South Centre Event on International Taxation concludes: India G20 - South Centre Event on International Taxation has been concluded successfully. It was a two-day event on International Taxation was organized on the 1st and 2nd June at the National Academy of Direct Taxes, Nagpur in collaboration with South Centre, a Geneva-based intergovernmental policy research think-tank of 55 developing countries, including India. It was an initiative of the Indian Presidency to bolster capacity building for Indian tax officials.

 

4. World Bicycle Day 2023: 3rd June: World Bicycle Day 2023 is observed every year on 3rd June to promote the importance of bicycles as a means of transportation, fostering sustainability, health, and well-being. The day was declared by the United Nations General Assembly in April 2018 to recognize the uniqueness, versatility and sustainability of the bicycle and its positive impact on society. The initiative to establish this Day was led by Turkmenistan, with the support of numerous other countries.

 

5. UAE to host world's largest Conservation Conference in 2025: United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host the 2025 World Conservation Congress (WCC) of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Abu Dhabi from October 10-21, 2025. WCC: It is the world's largest and most important gathering of conservationists, and it is expected to draw more than 10,000 delegates from over 160 countries. It is expected to bring an estimated 10,000-15,000 delegates from over 160 countries across the globe

 

6. Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be sworn in as the President of Turkish: Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be sworn in as the President of Turkish, after winning a historic runoff election and securing another five years in power. Ambassador Virander Paul will be representing India at the ceremony The inauguration ceremony in Parliament will be followed by an elaborate ceremony at Erdogan's palace in Ankara He won the presidential run-off election by securing 52.18% of the vote, defeating his opponent Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who received 47.82% votes.

 

7. CSIR-CCMB joins global research group for algorithm of genetics: Hyderabad-based CSIR - Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) has joined a global research group in the development of an algorithm along the lines of ChatGPT for genetics. This algorithm uses genome sequencing data instead of human language to predict disease-causing genetic mutations in patients. The group has generated a huge catalogue of genomic information for primates that have been ever produced.

 

8. Canada becomes first country to start putting health warnings on cigarettes: Canada has become the first country in the world to stipulate that individual cigarettes carry mandatory health warnings. While packets carry such warnings of the risks associated with smoking, the Canadian Government is taking this measure to ensure that it becomes virtually impossible to avoid health warnings altogether. These regulations will come into effect on August 1 this year. These cigarettes will be introduced in a phased manner. The individual health warnings will first appear on king-size cigarettes by the end of July 2024, and by the end of April 2025, other varieties, regular-size cigarettes and little cigars with tipping paper, and tubes, will follow.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. India beat Great Britain by 4-2 on penalty shootout in FIH Pro League: India beat Great Britain by 4-2 after a penalty shootout in the FIH Pro League in London This shootout triumph, courtesy of misses from Britain’s Rupert Shipperly and Phil Roper, handed India the bonus point after an exhilarating 4-4 draw. Abhishek Upadhyay, Lalit Kumar, Singh Harmanpreet Singh and Manpreet scored goal in shootout. The bonus point ensured India cut the gap to Great Britain at the top of the FIH Pro League standing.

 

2. India beat Great Britain by 4-2 on penalty shootout in FIH Pro League: India beat Great Britain by 4-2 after a penalty shootout in the FIH Pro League in London This shootout triumph, courtesy of misses from Britain’s Rupert Shipperly and Phil Roper, handed India the bonus point after an exhilarating 4-4 draw. Abhishek Upadhyay, Lalit Kumar, Singh Harmanpreet Singh and Manpreet scored goal in shootout. The bonus point ensured India cut the gap to Great Britain at the top of the FIH Pro League.

 

3. 3rd Khelo India University games conclude in Varanasi: Third khelo India University games has been concluded at IIT BHU campus in Varanasi. Punjab University, Chandigarh regain champions crown as Guru Nanak Dev University fall short despite Fencing sweep on final day, after a gap of one edition of the Khelo India University Games. PUC finished with an overall tally of 69 medals including 26 gold, 17 silver and 26 bronze medals As many as 131 of the 203 Universities who finally participated at the Games.  

Daily GK Update- 2nd Jun, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. OTT platforms mandated to show anti-tobacco warnings: The Union health ministry has amended the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2004, to mandate the display of anti-tobacco warnings and disclaimers on over-the-top (OTT) platforms. India has become the first country to make it mandatory for OTT platforms Features: To display anti-tobacco health spots of a minimum of 30 seconds each at the beginning and middle of a program An audio-visual disclaimer of a minimum of 20 seconds on the ill effects of tobacco use

 

2. NGEL, UPRVUNL collaborate for development of Renewable Energy Power Parks: NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) and Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (UPRVUNL) signed an MoU in Lucknow. Aim: To collaborate in the development of Renewable Energy Parks and Projects Signed by: Mohit Bhargava (CEO, NGEL) and Nidhi Kumar Narang (Director (Finance) UPRVUNL) NTPC is India’s largest Power Utility, with a total installed capacity of about 72 GW. UPRVUNL was constituted to set up and operate Power-generating stations in UP.

 

3. IIT-Kharagpur partners HCLTech for collaboration in petroleum engineering: IIT Kharagpur and HCLTech signed an MoU for collaboration in the field of petroleum engineering and earth sciences. Aim: To develop innovative and sustainable solutions to address critical challenges of the petroleum industry, which include reduction of carbon footprint, and provide significant sustainable solutions towards net zero HCLTech will provide opportunities to IIT-Kharagpur students and research scholars to undertake projects and internships at the company.

 

4. P Upadhyay INAS takes over as Director General of Naval Armament: INAS, P Upadhyay assumed charge as Director General of Naval Armament (DGONA) on June 1, 2023, and replaced KSC lyer, who superannuated on 31 May 2023. He is an alumnus of the Naval Defence College of NDC-53. He belongs to the 1987 batch of the Indian Naval Armament Service. He joined the Naval Armament Organization of the Indian Navy in 1989. He is specialized in Missile and Torpedo Maintenance besides having vast knowledge of the disposal of ammunition.

 

5. India conducts successful training launch of Agni-1 ballistic missile: India successfully launched the Medium-Range Ballistic Missile, Agni-1 from the APJ Abdul Kalam Islands, Odisha.

It was carried out by the Strategic Forces Command, which is responsible for the management and administration of the country's tactical and nuclear assets Agenda: To validate all operational and technical parameters of the missile Agni series of missiles includes Agni-1(700km), Agni-2 (2000), Agni-3 (3000), Agni-4 (4000), and Agni-5 (5000)

 

6. BIS introduces 31 Indian standards related to Ayush: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced 31 Indian standards related to Ayush, encompassing 30 herbs and one product, the stainless steel neti pot. BIS has established an additional department with a dedicated focus on Ayush for strengthening its standardization framework. A Working Group on 'Traditional Medicine' established within the ISO/TC-215 'Health Informatics'. BIS also initiated efforts to formulate international standards in collaboration with ISO

 

7. Amarendu Prakash takes charge as SAIL chairman: Amarendu Prakash has taken charge as a Chairman of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) on May 31, 2023. Prior to this, he was Director in charge at Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL). He is a metallurgical engineer from BIT Sindhri and joined SAIL in 1991 as a Management Trainee (Technical). He also took on additional charge as Director In-Charge of the Rourkela Steel Plant, IISCO, and Durgapur Steel Plant.

 

8. Union Minister For Jal Shakti launched portal for GOBARdhan: The Minister for Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has launched the Unified Registration Portal for GOBARdhan. Aim: One-stop repository to assess investment and participation in the Biogas/CBG sector at the pan India level and streamline the process of setting up CBG/Biogas plants GOBARdhan refers to Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan. It is an initiative of the Government of India, that aims to convert waste to wealth towards promoting a circular economy.

 

9. Ahmednagar to be named after Ahilyabai Holkar: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that Ahmednagar district will be named after warrior queen Ahilyabai Holkar. The announcement was made during a program organized at the birthplace of Ahilyabai Holkar on her 297th birth anniversary at Chondi village in Ahmednagar district. Ahilyabai Holkar, born in 1725, was a famous ruler of the Indore kingdom, known for her wisdom and compassion. Earlier, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that the Bandra-Versova sea-link bridge would be named ‘Veer Savarkar Setu’.

 

10. 1,275 Railway Stations to be upgraded under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme: The Consultative Committee of Members of Parliament for the Ministry of Railways has resolved to upgrade 1,275 railway stations under Amrit Bharat Station. The decision was taken at a meeting in New Delhi. The meeting was chaired by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The catering services were given to passengers through either static or mobile units, adding that there were 473 pairs of trains with pantry cars/mini pantries and 706 pairs of trains with a train-side vending facility. It added that there were 9,342 minor and 582 Major Static units of Indian Railways which included the Jan Aahaars outlets, Food Plazas, and Refreshment Rooms.

 

11. Rajesh Kumar Anand VSM takes over as Air Officer-in-Charge Administration (AOA): Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar Anand took over as the Air Officer-in-Charge Administration (AOA). An alumnus of the National Defense Academy, the Air Marshal was commissioned as Air Marshal in the administrative branch of the Indian Air Force. In a career spanning over 36 years, the Air Marshal has held various field and staff appointments. Prior to his present appointment, he was the Director General (Administration) at Air Headquarters, New Delhi. For his distinguished service, he was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal by the President of India in January 2022.

12. Bidyut Bihari Swain sworn in as UPSC member: Former Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) secretary Bidyut Bihari Swain was sworn in as a member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Swain, a 1988 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Gujarat cadre, was administered the oath of office and secrecy by UPSC chairman Manoj Soni. He served in various capacities within the Gujarat government from 1989 to 2018, holding significant positions such as CEO of the Gujarat Infrastructure Development Board, Secretary of Primary Education, Industries Commissioner, Vice Chairman, and Managing Director of the Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation, and Chief Electoral Officer of Gujarat State. In 2018, he joined the Government of India as Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce, overseeing Special Economic Zones and trade negotiations with CIS countries. He also served in positions such as Chairman of the Kimberley Protocol and Commissioner General of India for the World Expo-Dubai. From January 2021 to May 2023, he served as the Secretary in the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India’s GCC market size to hit $60 billion by 2025: Report: According to the report titled “GCC 4.0 – India Redefining the Globalization Blueprint”, released by NASSCOM – Zinnov, India's Global Capability Centre (GCC) ecosystem will expand with over 1,900 GCCs and a market size of $60 billion by 2025. As of FY23, India is home to 1,580 unique GCCs, with several global MNCs opting to establish their first global center outside of their headquarters in India. The GCC market size in FY 23 was $46 billion.

 

2. NHPC, VUCL sign MoU for Phukot Karnali Hydroelectric Project: NHPC Limited and Vidhyut Utpadan Company Limited (VUCL), Nepal signed an MoU in New Delhi for the development of the Phukot Karnali Hydro Electric Project (480MW) in Nepal. The MoU was signed in the presence of PM Modi and Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’. The project will use the flow from the Karnali River for power generation and the generated power will be fed into the integrated power system of Nepal. The installed capacity of the project shall be 480 MW.

 

3. India, Vietnam hold 3rd Maritime Security Dialogue: The 3rd India-Vietnam Maritime Security Dialogue was held in New Delhi. Both sides discussed ways to better maintain the marine environment which is helpful for the inclusive development of both countries. They also reviewed maritime cooperation initiatives and avenues of reinforcing international and regional mechanisms for comprehensive maritime security. Senior officials from ministries and services dealing with maritime affairs participated in the dialogue.

 

4. French company Alstom to make 100 Vande Bharat trains: French railway major Alstom has emerged as the lowest bidder for manufacture and maintenance of 100 aluminium Vande Bharat trainsets, valued at Rs 30,000 crore. The company, which is a major player in the Indian railway and urban transport sector, bid Rs 150.99 crore as the cost to manufacture one trainset, followed by a consortium of Swiss rolling stock company Stadler Rail and India’s Medha Servo, which quoted Rs 169.9 crore to build one trainset. The basic manufacturing cost would be paid upon delivery of the trainsets, while the remaining portion of close to Rs 17,000 crore would be paid for maintenance for a period of 35 years. The train is pegged to have a speed capability of 200 km per hour.

 

5. 3rd Employment Working Group meeting organized in Geneva: The Indian G20 Presidency is organizing the third Employment Working Group EWG meeting at the International Labour Organization ILO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. It is a G20 tradition since the inception of the EWG, to organize an Employment Working Group at the side-lines of the ILO’s annual International Labour Conference in Geneva. 78 delegates from twenty G20 member countries, nine guest countries and four International Organizations are attending the meeting. The Ministry of Labour and Employment’s international knowledge partners, ILO, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development OECD, International Social Security Association ISSA, World Bank and a domestic knowledge partner, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship are attending the meeting to provide their technical expertise to the Group.

 

6. South Korea launches first commercial-grade satellite: South Korea has launched its first commercial-grade satellite. The commercial-grade satellite was launched by the Naro Space Center in Gohang, South Korea, using a Launch Nuri rocket. The main satellite objectives include verifying imaging radar technology and observing cosmic radiation in near-Earth orbit. The main satellite, called “Next Generation Small Satellite 2”, was accompanied by seven cube-shaped satellites. South Korea also plans to launch three more Nuri rockets by 2027.

 

7. 2 June – International Sex Workers’ Day : International Sex Workers’ Day is observed every year on 2 June. This day is dedicated to all sex workers, and it aims to raise awareness of the exploited working conditions of sex workers globally. According to the latest data, there are around 3 million sex workers in India between the age group 15-35 because of the emphasis on physical appearance and endurance capacity to entertain multiple customers. Globally, the number of sex workers is 40-42 million, of which 80 percent are females and range in age between 13-25. The movement started in 1975 on June 2 when nearly 100 sex workers occupied the Saint-Nizier Church in Lyon. The women occupied the church for eight days, demanding an end to police discrimination against sex work and asking for decent working conditions. The protest by the women was sparked by sex workers facing increasing violence. The movement brought the plight of sex workers to national attention.

 

8. 2 June – Telangana Formation Day:            Telangana Formation Day is celebrated on June 2 every year, marking the day when the state of Telangana was formed in 2014. The Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act 2014 bill was passed in the Parliament in February 2014 for the formation of the Telangana state. The bill was then passed by the President of India on March 1, 2014, and the state of Telangana was finally formed on June 2. The creation of Telangana was a complex and lengthy process. The demand for a separate Telangana state emerged in the early 1960s, eventually leading to the passing of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act in 2009. This act paved the way for the formation of Telangana. Since its establishment, Telangana has experienced positive developments, including increased investment and growth. The state has also witnessed improvements in poverty reduction and employment opportunities.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. India defeated Pakistan to win Junior Men's Asia Cup Hockey in 2023: The Indian hockey team defeated Pakistan in the final of the Men's Junior Asia Cup 2023, held at the Sultan Qaboos Youth Complex Stadium in Salalah, Oman. This was India’s fourth title at Men's Junior Asia Cup, after winning in 2004, 2008, and 2015. With this title win, India has become the most successful country in the history of the Men's Junior Asia Cup. While Pakistan is the second-most successful team in the tournament with three titles.

 

2. India’s Esow Alben wins bronze medal in Bahnen-Tournee cycling 2023: Indian cyclist Esow Alben has bagged the bronze medal in the elite men's keirin event at a UCI Class 1 Event-Finale Bahnen-Tournee 2023 cycling competition in Germany. He has also listed himself in being the first cyclist from India to participate in the UCI Champions League. Alben was also the first Indian who won a medal in a cycling world championship. Apart from Alben, Indian cyclist Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam finished 10th in the men’s sprint event at Germany meet.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI, IIT Madras to launch voice-banking solution: Reserve Bank Innovation Hub has partnered with IIT Madras Research Park and Incubation Cell to launch voice-banking solutions to eliminate language barriers It will assist the illiterate and the visually impaired in their banking needs. Aim: To conduct the basic banking transactions through voice controls in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and English, in the initial stage SBI, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra, and IDFC First conducted a code fest on voice banking called ‘Vaulter Voice’

 

2. Bajaj Allianz Life launches term insurance plan for Type 2 diabetics: Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance has launched an exclusive term plan Bajaj Allianz Life Diabetic Term Plan Sub 8 HbA1c. This is a first-of-its-kind protection plan in the Indian life insurance industry designed especially for Type 2 diabetic and pre-diabetic individuals. The plan offers coverage by factoring in the nuances of the health condition of those having diabetes. For pre-diabetic or Type 2 diabetic individuals whose HbA1c is up to 8 percent, the comprehensive plan will enable them to provide financial security. The insurer offers a 10% premium reduction for individuals trying to achieve health goals and other health management services. The policy term ranges from five to 25 years and premiums can be paid monthly/annually.

Daily GK Update- 1st Jun , 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Govt appoints Ashwani Kumar as UCO Bank MD & CEO: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Ashwani Kumar as Managing Director and CEO of UCO Bank. He has replaced Soma Sankara Prasad, who superannuated on May 31, 2023. Prior to this, he served as an Executive Director at Indian Bank. He would lead the public sector bank for a period of three years from June 1, 2023. He would also be eligible for an extension of the term of office, after a review of his performance.

 

2. Ajay Yadav appointed MD of Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited: Ajay Yadav has been appointed as the Managing Director of Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI). He is a 2005 batch IAS officer of the Bihar cadre. SECI is a Miniratna Category-I Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE). It was incorporated in the year 2011. It is the primary implementing agency of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy for Renewable Energy schemes/projects towards the fulfillment of India's international commitments.

 

3. MeitY launches pilot project on Electronics Repair Services Outsourcing: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity) has launched the Electronics Repair Services Outsourcing (ERSO) Pilot initiative. Aim: To validate certain transformational policy and process changes to make India the Repair Capital of the World The pilot project is being conducted in Bengaluru and will run for three months. The government has supported this project to make India a world leader in a hitherto untapped domain.

 

4. Cabinet approves scheme to increase grain storage capacity: The Cabinet has approved the constitution and empowerment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee for the facilitation of the “World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector”. This will be done by the convergence of various schemes of the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and Ministry of Food Processing Industries. Ministry of Cooperation will implement a pilot project in at least ten selected districts.

 

5. India's GDP growth hits 7.2% for fiscal year 2022-23: According to the Statistics Ministry's provisional estimate, India's GDP is pegged to grow at 7.2% during the fiscal year 2022-23. The data is 20 basis points higher than the government's second advance estimate of 7%. The GDP registered a growth of 6.1% in January-March 2023. Quarterly terms in 2022-23: 13.1% growth (Q1), 6.2% (Q2), and 4.5% (Q3) In the fourth quarter, the agricultural growth was estimated at 5.5% and Manufacturing growth at 4.5 %.

 

6. PM Modi to chair SCO Summit virtually: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the 22nd Summit of the SCO Council of Heads of State on 4th July. It will be held in the virtual format. India assumed the rotating Chairmanship of SCO at the Samarkand Summit on 16 September last year. All the SCO Member States, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have been invited to attend the Summit. In addition, Iran, Belarus, and Mongolia have been invited as observer states. As per SCO tradition, Turkmenistan has also been invited as the Guest of the Chair. The theme of the summit is ‘Towards a Secure SCO’.

 

7. Krithivasan takes charge as CEO of TCS: Krithivasan took charge as the chief executive officer (CEO) for Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). The stepping down of erstwhile chief, Rajesh Gopinathan, isn’t expected to pose any uncertainty for the company, for which Krithivasan is the fifth CEO in its 55-year history. Krithivasan, who has been at TCS for over 34 years now, will be the oldest CEO appointment so far. His predecessor, Gopinathan, was the youngest appointee, taking up the role in 2017, aged 46. TCS is India’s largest information technology (IT) services firm by market capitalization.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India-EU Connectivity Conference held in Meghalaya: The India-EU Connectivity Conference is being organized in Meghalaya on June 1, 2023. It is jointly organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, EU Delegation to India, and the Asian Confluence. Aim: To explore possibilities of boosting connectivity investments in India’s North Eastern States and with India’s neighbours -- Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh It was inaugurated by Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma, and MoS for External Affairs Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh.

 

2. India emerges as key source country for FDI into Dubai: According to a report released by 'fDi Markets’, a service from UK’s Financial Times Ltd, India has emerged as a key source country for FDI in Dubai, one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates in UAE. The top sectors by FDI projects from India into Dubai in 2022 were software & IT services (32%), business services (19%), consumer products, real estate, and financial services. The top sectors by FDI capital from India into Dubai in 2022 were consumer products (28%).

 

3. Pakistan, Afghanistan among global hunger hotspots: UN report: According to the UN's Hunger Hotspots – FAO-WFP early warnings on acute food insecurity report, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Myanmar, are among the hunger hotspots in the world. Globally Hunger is set to worsen in 18 'hotspots' comprising a total of 22 countries. Highest Concern Nations: Afghanistan, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen Very High Concern Nations: Pakistan, the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Kenya, Congo, and Syria

 

4. University of Edinburgh launches Hindi course: The University of Edinburgh and the Indian consulate in the UK have collaborated to create the first open-access course in Hindi language. The Climate Solutions course is available in English, Arabic and Hindi, with versions focused on Egypt, the UAE, India and the UK. It is designed and delivered by award-winning climate change experts, including Executive Director of the Edinburgh Climate Change Institute (ECCI) Professor Dave Reay. This program named Climate Solutions was created with the help of translators and developed in conjunction with the Edinburgh Climate Change Institute and the government of India. The Climate Solutions: India (Hindi) course, unveiled this month, looks at the science, impacts and solutions of climate change in the country as a valuable resource for many thousands of Hindi-speaking students and educators across India and the rest of the world. The university said the collaboration between the government of India and the university was instrumental in the launch of the new Hindi course, having been carefully curated with the help of expert translators.

 

5. Suriname to host Indian energy majors from 19 June: The South American nation of Suriname is hosting an oil and gas conference from June 19 to 23 in hopes of attracting energy companies, particularly from India. Suriname is thought to have at least 3-4 billion barrels of oil reserves which were discovered in recent years. India imports roughly 85% of its crude oil requirements from abroad. While American and European energy companies currently dominate the energy market in Suriname, the country’s officials are interested in bringing in Indian companies and expertise.

 

6. Tayyip Erdogan re-elected as President of Turkey: Recep Tayyip Erdogan re-elected as President of Turkey. After failing to secure more than 50 percent of votes required for an outright win in the first round held on May 14, Erdogan received 52.14 percent of votes in the second round on Sunday, beating his rival, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who won 47.86 percent. The vote seals Erdogan’s place in history as he extends his 20-year rule for a further five years.

 

7. 1 June – Global Day of Parents: The Global Day of Parents is celebrated annually on June 1. It aims to honour parents and their vital role in nurturing and caring for their children. It recognizes the important contributions parents make to the well-being and development of their families. The inception of the Global Day of Parents can be traced back to 1983 when the Economic and Social Council and the Commission for Social Development called upon the Secretary-General to prioritize family-related issues. Subsequently, in 1989, the United Nations General Assembly declared 1994 as the International Year of the Family, highlighting the significance of families. Finally, in 2012, June 1 was officially designated as the Global Day of Parents through a proclamation by the General Assembly. The inaugural observance of the Global Day of Parents took place in 2013, marking a significant milestone in recognizing and celebrating the role of parents worldwide.

 

8. 1 June – World Milk Day: World Milk Day is observed annually on 1 June. Objective – To raise awareness about the benefits of milk for overall nutrition and health. Theme – Enjoy Dairy The day is an opportunity to appreciate the significance of milk and dairy products in our lives. It is also a chance to support sustainable and responsible dairy practices while promoting the importance of a balanced diet for overall health and well-being. World Milk Day was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations to recognize the importance of milk as a global food and to celebrate the dairy sector. The first World Milk Day was celebrated on June 1, 2001, and since then, it has become an annual event observed in many countries around the world.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Bellingham named Bundesliga Player of the Season 2022-23: 19-year-old Borussia Dortmund football player Jude Bellingham has been named Bundesliga Player of the Season for his incredible campaign in season 2022/23. The award is a well-deserved honor for the midfielder, who played a crucial role in BVB’s title bid this season. At the age of 19, he became the youngest-ever captain of Borussia Dortmund.

 

2. Jyothi Yarraji clinches gold medal at T-Meeting 2023: Jyothi Yarraji has bagged the gold medal in the women’s 100m hurdles event in the T-Meeting 2023 athletics meet in Tilburg, Netherlands. The 23-year-old Jyothi Yarraji clocked 13.20s in the final to win the event at the category E World Ranking competition. En route to the final, Jyothi Yarraji topped the heats with a time of 13.08s. Angel Agwazie of Belgium clinched the silver with 13.64s while Dutch athlete Mira Groot clocked 13.78s to bag the bronze. While Mohammed Afsal Pulikkalakath finished third in the men’s 400m race at the T-Meeting 2023.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bajaj Allianz Life launches term insurance plan for Type 2 diabetics: Bajaj Allianz Life has launched an exclusive term insurance plan for Type 2 diabetic and pre-diabetic individuals. The Bajaj Allianz Life Diabetic Term Plan Sub 8 HbA1c is first of its kind protection plan in the Indian life insurance industry. The insurer offers a 10% premium reduction for individuals trying to achieve health goals and other health management services. The policy term ranges from five to 25 years and premiums can be paid monthly/annually.

 

2. Aegon first to provide life insurance cover for surrogate mothers: Aegon Life has become the first insurance company to launch a policy that covers surrogate mothers and egg donors. Aim: To support the financial well-being of surrogate mothers and egg donors The new cover aligns with the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 and the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021, introduced by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. It provides a three-year life cover for surrogate mothers and a one-year cover for egg donors

 

3. YES BANK launches new logo and campaign: Yes Bank has unveiled its new and refreshed brand logo. The logo is designed to resonate with consumer needs by providing them utmost experience. The design language is digitally friendly and reflects a brand that believes in being fluid. The tick has been transformed into a soaring bird, which represents the Bank’s current position of ‘soaring’. In addition, Yes Bank is all set to roll out an integrated campaign with the tagline – ‘Life Ko Banao Rich’ – which represents the bank’s core focus of being a complete solution provider for every financial matter. The revamped identity extends across bank’s headquarters, branches, products, digital platforms, and communication materials

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. AIIMS Nagpur is the first AIIMS to receive NABH accreditation: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Nagpur has become the first of all AIIMS to receive National Accreditation Board for Hospitals(NABH) accreditation. The NABH accreditation is a globally recognized standard for healthcare quality. It assesses the performance of hospitals in various areas including patient care, safety, and organizational efficiency. AIIMS Nagpur achieved this accreditation by demonstrating its commitment to excellence in all areas.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Padamashree Dr Ved Kumari Ghai passes away: A noted Sanskrit scholar Dr. Ved Kumari Ghai passed away at 91. She was an Indian Sanskrit scholar from Jammu City, J&K, and was head of the Sanskrit department at Jammu University. She was awarded the Padma Shri (India's fourth highest civilian award), a Certificate for her scholarship in Sanskrit, and President’s Award for Sanskrit. She was also awarded Gold Medal by Jammu and Kashmir Government for social work and the Dogra Ratan award.