Daily GK Update- 7th June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. MP Govt to launch 'CM Learn and Earn' scheme: MP government has launched Chief Minister's Learn and Earn scheme to teach employable skills to the youth.

Feature:

·       The youth will also be given an allowance of Rs 8,000 to 10,000

·       703 work areas have been identified for training

·       At least one lakh youth would be trained

·       The registration of establishments providing training to youth will start on June 7

·       The registration of youth willing to learn work will start on 15th June

·       The youth will start working from 1st August

 

2. Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research (MAHIR) to be launched: The Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy joined hands to launch a National Mission titled “Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research (MAHIR)”. Aim: To quickly identify emerging technologies in the power sector and develop them indigenously, at scale, for deployment within and outside India Funded by: Ministry of Power, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, and CPSEs under the two Ministries Tenure: Five years, 2023-24 to 2027-28

 

3. Uttar Pradesh govt launches Nand Baba Milk Mission scheme: Uttar Pradesh has launched the Nand Baba Milk Mission scheme at a cost of Rs 1,000 crore. Aim: To provide milk producers the facility of selling their milk at a reasonable price in villages through dairy cooperative societies Under this mission, it is proposed to form a Dairy farmer producer organization (Dairy FPO) in order to facilitate the sale of milk in producers' villages itself. UP is a leading state in the field of milk development and milk production.

 

4. PM flags off two schemes to revive wetlands, mangroves: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched two schemes named Amrit Dharohar and MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes). The MISHTI scheme will help in reviving and protecting the mangrove ecosystem in the country. India currently has 75 Ramsar sites that are wetlands of international importance and designated under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. In the last nine years, the number of wetlands and Ramsar sites in India have increased almost three times. The launch of Amrit Dharohar Yojana on World Environment Day will ensure the conservation of the existing Ramsar sites through public participation, and these Ramsar sites will become centres of eco-tourism and a source of green jobs for thousands of people. In the 2023-24 budget, Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced Amrit Dharohar and MISHTI schemes to protect vital wetlands that sustain aquatic biodiversity and mangrove plantations along the coastline and on salt pan lands.

 

5. AICTE to launch ‘One Student One Tree Campaign 2023’: All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) will launch “One Student One Tree Campaign 2023” and that UGC too has taken initiatives for creating awareness about Mission LiFE. The celebration of World Environment Day across the country envisages involvement of youth in spreading the message of LiFE, along with sensitizing school going children and others about LiFE. The mantra of Mission Life is ‘Lifestyle For Environment’ to make the fight against climate change democratic, in which everyone can contribute within their capacity. He also released guidelines and a curriculum framework for environmental education at the undergraduate level. The guidelines include areas such as climate change, pollution, waste management, and sustainable development.

 

6. UP govt launches ‘Elder Line’ service to give shelter to elderly homeless: Uttar Pradesh Social Welfare Department has launched the ‘Elder Line’ 14567 service. The objective of the helpline is to rescue destitute old persons and provide them shelter in old age homes. The initiative is the brainchild of Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Social Welfare Aseem Arun, who earlier headed the emergency helpline 112. ‘Elder Line’ 14567 service has been activated, actively responding to distress related to older persons. At present there are 6,053 inmates in these homes, both male and female, who are spending the twilight years of their life with dignity. The inmates are provided food, health facilities and entertainment facilities free of cost.

 

7. Colonel Shuchita becomes 1st woman to command Communication Zone: Colonel Shuchita Shekhar has become the first woman officer to command a Communication Zone Mechanical Transport Battalion in the Indian Army Service Corps. She is responsible for the maintenance of the Supply Chain of the fully operational Northern Command. This is a significant milestone in the history of the Indian Army and a great step towards gender equality.

 

8. Wrangler signs Smriti Mandhana as brand ambassador: Ace Turtle Omni Pvt Ltd., a retail company, has appointed Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana as the brand ambassador of its Wrangler brand. The company is the exclusive licensee of the denim brand in India. The company aims for significant expansion in the fiscal year 2024. Mandhana embodies the company’s values and is expected to inspire customers to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Food Safety Day 2023: 7th June: The fifth World Food Safety Day is celebrated on 7 June 2023 to draw attention to help prevent, detect, and manage foodborne risks, contributing to food security, human health, agriculture, and sustainable development. 2023 theme: Food Standards Save Live The 2023 theme emphasizes that how important food standards are to protecting public health. This day was established by the WHO and FAO in 2018. On June 7, 2019, the first World Food Safety Day was observed.

 

2. India's internet economy set to hit $1 trillion in 7 years: Report: According to a report titled 'The e-Conomy of a Billion Connected Indians' published by Google, Temasek and Bain & Company, India’s internet economy is expected to grow six-fold to $1 trillion by 2030 from $175 billion in 2022. The contribution of the Internet economy to India’s technology sector would expand, from 48% to 62% in 2030. The report emphasizes that the growth will be spearheaded by the B2C e-commerce segment, followed by B2B, and SaaS providers.

 

3. Cyclone Biparjoy likely to intensify into severe cyclonic storm: The India Meteorological Department informed that Cyclone 'Biparjoy' would be intensified into a very severe storm as it moved nearly northwards with a speed of 2 kmph in the last 6 hours. The cyclonic storms in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea have been intensifying rapidly and retaining their intensity for a longer duration due to climate change. The name Biparjoy was given to the cyclone by Bangladesh, which means “Disaster” in Bengali.

 

4. Sarbananda Sonowal flags off India’s 1st International Cruise Vessel: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off India’s first international cruise vessel – MV Empress, from Chennai to Sri Lanka. This is the launch of the International Cruise Tourism Terminal at Chennai built at a cost of Rs 17.21 crore, ushering in a new era of cruise tourism and maritime trade in the country. On the occasion of Environment Day, Sonowal along with the port officials also planted 2,500 saplings at the port. The launch of the first cruise service between Chennai and Sri Lanka has opened a new chapter in the cruise tourism sector in the country. This is the result of an MoU signed during the Incredible India International Cruise Summit in 2022 between Chennai Port and M/s Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd to start domestic and international cruise services.

 

5. Israel introduces digital birth certificates: Israel Government has introduced a digital birth certificate for someone who was born in Israel for free. The service allows parents to receive the birth certificate immediately as a digital file via email or mobile device app. The Authority said the new service will allow the public to receive the birth certificate immediately as a digital file sent by email or by mobile device app, without the need for people to personally go down to a government office to take care of this or to wait for the document to arrive in the mail. The new service eliminates the need for people to personally go to a government office to obtain the document.

 

6. 7 June – World Food Safety Day: World Food Safety Day is celebrated every year on 7 June. The day has emerged as an important occasion for raising awareness about the importance of food safety standards at all levels. Theme 2023- Food Standards Save Lives This day was first designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2018. The history of World Food Safety Day traces back to December 2018 when the UN officially approved the day. The inaugural World Food Safety Day was observed on June 7, 2019, marking a milestone in global efforts to address food safety challenges.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Shot putter Siddharth Choudhary wins gold at Asian U20 Athletics C'ship: India's Siddharth Choudhary has clinched the gold medal in the men’s shot put with a personal best throw of 19.52 metres at the Under 20 Asian Athletics Championships in Yecheon, South Korea. Three other players Sharuk Khan (3000-metre steeplechase), Shivam Lohakare (Javelin), and Susmita (Long Jump) have also clinched the silver medals in their respective events. While Shakeel (800 metres) and the mixed relay team won the bronze medal.

 

2. Amlan Borgohain bags two gold medals in Flanders Cup 2023: Indian sprinter, Amlan Borgohain has bagged two gold medals in the men’s 100 and 200-meter races category at the Flanders Cup 2023 athletics in Merksem, Belgium. Borgohain clocked 10.70 seconds to emerge as the fastest man of the meet. He holds the 100-meter national record of 10.25 seconds. In the 200 meter, the 25-year-old Borgohain clocked 20.96 seconds to emerge winner ahead of Hofman 21.42 and Jamaica’s Samuel Rowe 21.88. Meanwhile, Sapna Kumari finished behind Belgium’s Amber Vanden Bosch in the women’s 100m hurdles after clocking 14.10.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. World Bank cuts India growth forecast but lifts global outlook: According to the Global Economic Prospects report, released by the World Bank, India's growth outlook has been lowered to 6.3% in FY2023/24, a 0.3% point downward revision from January 2023. The bank has also raised the 2023 global growth forecast, highlighting that the U.S. and other major economies have proven more resilient than forecast. The global Real GDP would climb 2.1% in 2023, up from a 1.7% forecast issued in January 2023 but below 3.1% (2022 growth rate).

 

2. Wipro and Microsoft launch innovation experience for financial services: Wipro Limited has collaborated with Microsoft to launch the Wipro Industry Innovation Experience for Financial Services. It will feature a new suite of banking and financial services solutions built on Microsoft Cloud. Aim: To help financial services clients accelerate growth and deepen client relationships

It would bring together Microsoft Cloud capabilities with Wipro FullStride Cloud, as well as leverage Wipro’s and Capco’s deep domain expertise in financial services

 

3. Kotak Bank launches Réserve: Kotak Private Banking (division of Kotak Mahindra Bank) has unveiled a Savings Programme named 'Kotak Réserve', curated exclusively for Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNIs) and High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs). This by-invite program extends beyond banking services, offering a range of exclusive amenities to provide clients with an unparalleled luxury banking experience. Aim: To deliver a premium banking experience by offering exclusive lifestyle benefits

1. Yes Securities announced Partnership with WatchYourHealth: YES SECURITIES has partnered with WatchYourHealth to provide investment solutions to healthcare professionals through the ‘Wellth- Where Investments and Health Unite’ program. Aim: To help the healthcare community start their investment journey for successful wealth creation and achieving long-term financial goals It will also provide free-of-cost demat and trading accounts, monthly stock research recommendations, and tailor-made product offerings based on needs.

 

2. HDFC Bank introduces Millennia Credit Card: HDFC Bank has introduced a new credit card 'Millennia', that comes with contactless technology allowing customers to ‘tap and pay’ via POS machine. It offers cashback and reward points on Amazon, Flipkart, and other e-commerce platforms. It also offers 1% cash back on offline purchases, smart EMI, and lounge access for free. It is applicable to both self-employed and salaried persons. People earning a maximum of ₹35,000 gross salary can apply for the card.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Ramanathapuram DFO Jagish S Bakan bagged Unesco award 2023: District Forest Officer (DFO) of Ramanathapuram district, Jagdish Bakan has won the 2023 Michel Batisse Award for Biosphere Reserve Management from UNESCO. The 2017 batch officer of the IFS is currently the director of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. The USD 12,000 award is given in memory of Dr. Michel Batisse for outstanding achievement in the management of biosphere reserves. He will receive the award from Unesco in Paris on June 14, 2023.

Daily GK Update- 6th June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Minister flags off maiden International Cruise Vessel, MV Empress: Union Minister of Ports, Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the maiden International Cruise Vessel named 'MV Empress' from Chennai to Sri Lanka in Chennai on June 5, 2023. It was built at a cost of 17.21 crore rupees. This marks the beginning of the international cruise tourism terminal in Chennai. For this cruise service, an MoU was signed in 2022 between Chennai Port and M/S Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd to start domestic and international cruise services. 

 

2. Maharashtra CM launches Asia's largest cluster development scheme: Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde has launched Asia's largest, ambitious and historic cluster development scheme in Thane. This scheme was conceptualized for the collective redevelopment of unauthorized and official dangerous buildings after the collapse of the Sairaj Building in Thane. The redeveloped township plan includes well-equipped health, educational, sports, recreational, parking, mandi, and civic facilities. The project will be executed by the CIDCO.

 

3. Indian Navy successfully carries out underwater test: The Indian Navy and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) have successfully engaged and destroyed an underwater target using 'Varunastra' Heavy Weight Torpedo (HWT). It is a significant milestone in the Indian Navy and DRDO for accurate delivery of ordnance on target in the underwater domain. The Indian Navy and Naval Science and Technology Laboratory (NSTL) of DRDO developed 'Varunastra', an advanced Heavy Weight anti-submarine torpedo.

 

4. Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan launches Kerala Fibre Optic Network project: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched the Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON) project at Shankaranarayanan Thambi Hall of the State Legislative Assembly. Aim: To ensure internet facilities for all at affordable rates in the State This project will bridge the digital divide in the society. During the first phase of the KFON initiative, Internet facilities will be provided to thirty thousand government institutions and fourteen thousand houses in the State.

 

5. NHAI’s first ‘Sustainability Report for FY 2021-22’: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has released NHAI’s first ‘Sustainability Report for FY2021-22’, which covers NHAI’s governance structure, stakeholders, environment, and social responsibility initiatives. From FY2019-20 to 2021-22, direct emissions were reduced by 18.44% and 9.49% due to less fuel consumption Green House Gas Emissions saw a decline of 9.7% in FY2020-21 and 2% in FY2021-22 Similarly in operations, energy intensity in Giga Joules/km reduced by 27% in FY2021-22

 

6. PM Modi launches schemes for wetland, mangrove conservation: PM Modi launched two schemes 'Amrit Dharohar' and 'MISHTI' to revive the country's wetlands and mangroves. Amrit Dharohar: To ensure the conservation of the existing Ramsar sites through public participation These sites will become the center of eco-tourism and a source of green jobs for thousands of people

MISHTI:

·       It refers to Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes

·       It will help revive and protect the mangrove ecosystem in the country

 

7. National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 2023 released: The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 2023 were released by Minister of State for Education and External Affairs, Rajkumar Ranjan Singh. The latest rankings include four categories: Overall, Colleges, Universities, and Research Institutions. The subject domains now consist of Engineering, Management, Pharmacy, Law, Medical, Architecture and Planning, Dental, and a new addition — Agriculture and Allied Sectors. IIT Madras has emerged as the top college under the overall category for the fifth consecutive year and the best engineering institute for the eighth consecutive year. Under the best university category, IISc Bangalore has topped the university rankings followed by JNU and Jamia Millia Islamia. Three private universities have also made it to the list. Meanwhile, AIIMS Delhi too, retains the number one position under the medical colleges category.

 

8. India’s first zero-carbon village being developed in Bhiwandi: Union Minister of State Kapil Patil announced that India’s first carbon-neutral village is being developed in Bhiwandi Taluka of Thane district, Maharashtra. This initiative aims to minimize carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices for a cleaner and greener environment. Along with the carbon-neutral village, 121 tribal villages are being developed as model villages These model villages serve as examples for sustainable development, showcasing effective infrastructure, amenities, and improved living conditions. In the Bhiwandi Lok Sabha Constituency, around 1,75,000 farmers are benefiting from the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Yojana. Earlier, Palli village in Jammu had become the first carbon-neutral panchayat in the country.

 

9. Jitendra Singh inaugurates ‘Lavender Festival’ in J&K: Union Minister of State, Jitendra Singh has inaugurated a two-day lavender festival at Bhaderwah, Jammu & Kashmir. The festival has been organized by the CSIR-IIIM and is part of the institution’s ‘One Week One Lab Campaign’. It showcases the remarkable progress made in lavender cultivation and its impact on the local community. He also highlighted that Bhaderwah has emerged as the Lavender capital of India and agri StartUp destination. The CSIR-Aroma Mission is a flagship project of CSIR under which Lavender cultivation is being promoted in the temperate regions of J&K The CSIR-IIIM has provided more than 30 lakh free lavender plants to farmers in different districts of Jammu and Kashmir.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Dennis Francis elected 78th UNGA president: A citizen of Trinidad and Tobago (TT), Dennis Francis created history by becoming the first TT citizen to be elected as the President of the UN General Assembly (UNGA). Francis, who has served in the diplomatic service for over 40 years, was nominated on April 1 and faced no opposition in the election. He will serve as the 78th President of the UNGA. The current General Assembly President, Csaba Kőrösi of Hungary, noted that his successor would bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the post.

 

2. 6 June – UN Russian Language Day: United Nations celebrates UN Russian Language Day every year on 6 June, which was established by UNESCO in 2010. This day aligns with the birthday of Alexander Pushkin, a renowned Russian poet known as the founder of the modern Russian language. The purpose of this initiative is to promote equal recognition and appreciation for all six official languages of the UN: English, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, and French. Each language is given the opportunity to find its own unique approach and develop its own program of activities for the day, including inviting famous poets and writers and developing informational and thematic materials.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Max Verstappen wins Spanish Grand Prix 2023: Max Verstappen (Red Bull Driver) has clinched the pole position at the Spanish Grand Prix 2023 extending his lead in the Formula One championship by 53 points. Red Bull's dominance continued as they celebrated their seventh consecutive triumph of the season. While Mercedes driver, Lewis Hamilton (seven-time world champion) has secured the second spot for Mercedes, followed by George Russell (Mercedes driver).

 

2. Aravindh Chithambaram wins 23rd Dubai Open 2023: GM Aravindh Chithambaram (India) won the 23rd Dubai Open 2023 for the second consecutive year, at the 23rd edition of the Dubai Chess Open, organized by Dubai Chess & Culture Club. A total of 172 participants (in category A) from more than 46 different countries participated in this tournament. A total of 9 rounds were played in Swiss format. He became one of only two players to win back-to-back championships in the history of the Dubai Open Chess Tournament.

 

3. Manisha wins Gold, Reetika clinches Silver at Bishkek Ranking Series: Manisha won India’s first gold medal in the women’s 65 kg category at the Ranking Series in Kyrgyzstan. Reetika won silver in the women’s 72kg event and Sarita Mor won bronze in the women’s 59kg.

While Manjeet won bronze in Greco-Roman wrestling on 4 May 2023. Manisha won four matches in the four rounds she completed which helped her win the gold medal.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Governor launches Financial Inclusion Dashboard 'ANTARDRIHSTI': RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das launched a Financial Inclusion Dashboard 'ANTARDRIHSTI' to provide the required insight to assess and monitor the progress of financial inclusion by capturing relevant parameters. It will enable the ability to gauge extent of financial exclusion at granular levels across the country. Presently, the dashboard is intended for internal use in the RBI. It will further facilitate greater financial inclusion through a multi-stakeholder approach.

 

2. RBI panel proposes on customer service send out wake-up call to banks: RBI has set up a committee for Review of Customer Service Standards in RBI Regulated Entities, under the chairmanship of BP Kanungo.

Suggestions:

·       The operations of accounts should not be stopped pending periodic KYC updates

·       The committee has also suggested measures for the benefit of pensioners

·       There should be a time limit for the return of property documents to borrowers after the closure of the loan account, failing which a penalty should be imposed on the lender

 

3. BoB launches facility for cash withdrawals using UPI on its ATMs: Bank of Baroda has launched Interoperable Cardless Cash Withdrawal (ICCW) facility, in which a customer can withdraw cash using UPI from the bank's ATMs. It would be the first public sector bank to launch this service. BoB customers as well as customers of other participating issuer banks that use BHIM UPI, Bob World UPI, or any other UPI application enabled for ICCW on their mobile phone can withdraw cash from a Bank of Baroda ATM without using their debit card.

 

4. NSE, BSE introduces enhanced surveillance for micro-small companies: BSE and NSE have introduced an enhanced surveillance mechanism (ESM) for companies that have a market cap of less than ₹500 crore, which came into force on June 5. SEBI and exchanges in a joint meeting have decided to introduce the ESM framework for "micro-small" companies. Aim: To curb volatility in small-cap counters The parameters for shortlisting the securities under the ESM framework include high-low price variation and close-to-close price variation.

 

5. RBI fines Indian Overseas Bank Rs 2.2 crore for multiple violations: Reserve Bank of India has imposed a penalty of ₹2.2 crore on Indian Overseas Bank for violation of various regulatory norms. The breach pertains to guidelines on disclosure of NPA (non-performing assets) divergence, interest rates on deposits, and advisory on ‘Man in the Middle (MiTM) attacks in ATMs. RBI had conducted the Statutory Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation as per Indian Overseas Bank’s financial position as on March 2021, wherein it found contravention of certain provisions. The public sector bank failed to make a minimum mandatory transfer of a sum equivalent to 25 percent of its disclosed profit for FY21 to its reserve fund. Further, there was a significant divergence between the NPAs, as reported by it and as assessed by the inspection, and the bank offered interest on deposits of non-individual constituents at rates applicable to senior/super senior citizens, in certain instances. The lender also did not implement control measures for ATMs relating to end-to-end encryption of communication between the ATM terminal/PC and the ATM Switch, within the timelines prescribed. As a result, the central bank issued two show-cause notices to the bank and decided that the charges were substantiated after considering the submissions made by the bank.

 

6. SBI launches Project Kuber in Bengaluru: The State Bank of India has launched Project Kuber having four transaction banking hubs and one corporate salary package hub in Bengaluru. The objective is to source, facilitate, and cater to the various banking needs of customers, and these hubs will help increase SBI’s market share in liability products. The Transaction Banking Hubs will provide a range of services to both corporate and non-corporate clients. These services include account opening, onboarding on SBI’s digital platforms, and catering to payment and collection-related requirements. The hubs will serve as a one-stop destination for digital banking services such as Yono Business, e-Payments, Cash Management Products, and more.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. President Droupadi Murmu conferred the highest civilian award of Suriname: Suriname President, Chandrikapersad Santokhi has conferred Suriname's highest civilian honor, The Grand Order of the Chain of Yellow Star, to President of India Droupadi Murmu. She is the first Indian to receive this award. During her visit to Suriname, both countries signed MoUs in the fields of health, agriculture, and capacity building. These MoUs include a Joint Work Plan for Cooperation in the Field of Agriculture and Allied Sectors for the period of 2023-2027.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Veteran Actress Sulochana Didi passes away: Veteran Actress Sulochana Didi passed away at the age of 96. Sulochana Didi is famous for her role as a Mother in Bollywood. Sulochana Latkar is popularly known as Sulochana didi in Bollywood and Marathi film industry. Chimukala Sansar released in 1943 was her first movie. Sulochana Didi has worked in more than 300 Hindi and Marathi Movies. Yarana, Kati Patang, Roti Kapda aur Makan, Mere Jeevan Saathi, Sarswatichandra, Johny Mera Naam, Saajan, Aayi Milan Ki Bela, Prem nagar, Nayi Roshni, Sangharsh are some of her popular Hindi movies. In 1999 she was honoured with Padmashree. In 2004 Sulochana was awarded with lifetime achievement award by Filmfare. She was also awarded by Maharashtra Bhushan, V. Shantaram Award, Best Actress by Maharashtra Government.

 

2. Renowned theater actor Aamir Raza Hussain passes away: Noted theatre actor and director, Amir Raza Husain passed away at the age of 66. Hussain 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. The actor was known for his unforgettable stage plays like ‘The Fifty Day War’ (2000) and ‘The Legend of Ram’. Husain was honored with the Padma Shri in 2001 by the Indian government for his contribution to theatre. Aamir Raj has acted in super hit movies ‘Baahubali’ and ‘RRR’. He will also be seen in the movie ‘Adipurush’ which will be released on 16th June.

Daily GK Update- 5th June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Telangana ranks top on overall environmental performance: CSE Report: A non-profit Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) released its annual compendium, titled 'State of India's Environment 2023. It is based on four parameters i.e. environment, agriculture, public health, and infrastructure. Telangana was ranked at the top in terms of overall environmental performance and in terms of increasing forest cover. In agriculture, MP takes the top slot and Delhi leads in public health. Gujarat leads the rankings in public infrastructure.

 

2. National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 2023 released: MoS for Education and External Affairs Rajkumar Ranjan Singh released the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 2023 on June 5, 2023. IIT Madras has emerged as the top college under the overall category for the fifth consecutive year and the best engineering institute for the eighth consecutive year. Research category: IISc Bengaluru has earned the top spot Agriculture and Allied Sectors: IARI, New Delhi Medical category: AIIMS Delhi

 

3. Tata Group signs deal with Gujarat for EV battery plant: The Tata Group has signed an outline deal with the Gujarat government on building a lithium-ion cell factory with an investment of about Rs 13,000 crore ($1.6 billion). The decision to set up the EV battery plant at Sanand, Gujarat, was taken at a Tata Sons board meeting. Tata Motors already has a plant operational at Sanand, and has also acquired the adjoining Ford Motors’ plant. It would have an initial manufacturing capacity of 20 Gigawatt hours (GWh), which could be doubled in a second phase of expansion.

 

4. Tamil Nadu’s Muthamizh Selvi climb Mount Everest: A teacher from Chennai became the first woman from Tamil Nadu to climb Mount Everest. Muthamizh Selvi set out on the quest to scale the world’s highest peak on April 2. Muthamizh Selvi, who teaches Japanese in Chennai. After 56 days of a challenging journey, she reached the summit on May 23 and returned to Kathmandu on May 27. Selvi faced many challenges and even came across dead bodies on her way to the summit. Even after her sherpa fell ill, Selvi didn’t give up and continued her journey. Despite losing two campmates, Selvi completed the feat in 56 days to become the first Tamil woman to scale Mount Everest.

 

5. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated National Food Safety & Standards Training Centre: Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya has inaugurated the state-of-the-art National Training Centre for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) at Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. He emphasized the need for Swasth Nagrik to create a Swastha Rashtra, leading to a Samruddha Rashtra, and urged citizens to adopt India’s traditional food habits and way of life for wellness and preventive healthcare. The people who will train at the National Training Centre of FSSAI will play a significant role in creating healthy citizens in the country, as they will ensure quality standards for food are followed in the country. The National Training Centre of the FSSAI in Ghaziabad provides various training programs for individuals involved in food businesses, including food business operators, employees, Food Safety Officers, and designated officers.

 

6. Janardan Prasad appointed as DG of Geological Survey of India: Janardan Prasad has been appointed as the new Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Prasad succeeds Dr. S. Raju, who has held the post since April 2022. Prasad is an MSc in Geology from Patna University and joined GSI, Gandhinagar, as a geologist in 1988. He was also posted in Shillong, Patna, Faridabad, Ranchi and Hyderabad in various capacities.

 

7. Hrithik Roshan appointed brand ambassador for Zebronics TV: An IT peripheral, audio systems, and lifestyle accessories company, Zebronics has signed actor Hrithik Roshan as the face of its range of Smart LED TVs. This is the sixth year of its collaboration with Roshan and it has been extended to its new range. According to a report by Kroll, Hrithik Roshan had a value of $71.6 million and was the tenth most-valued celebrity in the country in 2022 as part of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Report. Co-founder and director of Zebronics – Rajesh Doshi

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Environment Day 2023: 5th June: World Environment Day is observed annually on June 5 to create awareness about the protection of the environment and the earth's well-being. The theme for World Environment Day 2023 is 'Solutions to plastic pollution',  under the campaign #BeatPlasticPollution. The day is hosted by Côte d'Ivoire and supported by the Netherlands. This year marks the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day, which will focus on solutions to plastic pollution.

 

2. India set to remain UAE’s largest export destination by 2030: India is set to remain the United Arab Emirates (UAE) largest export destination by 2030, according to a new report by Standard Chartered. The report, titled “Future of Trade: New opportunities in high-growth corridors”, forecasts that the UAE’s exports will reach around USD 543 billion by 2030, showcasing a robust annual growth rate of 5.5 percent. The report also highlights that trade corridors anchored in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East are expected to outpace the global trade growth rate by almost four percentage points, propelling the combined trade volume in these regions to an astounding USD14.4 trillion, accounting for 44 percent of global trade by 2030. India is set to remain the UAE’s largest export destination by 2030, while exports to Turkiye, Vietnam and Singapore are among the fastest growing. The report attributed the UAE’s strong export growth to a number of factors, including its strategic location, its well-developed infrastructure, and its business-friendly environment.

 

3. UAE to host world’s largest Conservation Conference in 2025: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has won the bid to host the 2025 World Conservation Congress (WCC) of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The 2025 WCC will be held in Abu Dhabi from October 10-21, 2025. The WCC 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. The UAE has a long history of environmental protection, and it is home to a number of important conservation initiatives, including the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Center and the Al Ain Oasis. The event will be an opportunity for conservationists from around the world to come together and discuss the most pressing environmental challenges facing our planet. The WCC is also expected to produce a number of important resolutions and recommendations that will help to guide future conservation efforts.

 

4. 5 June – World Environment Day: World Environment Day is celebrated annually on 5 June. Objective – To raise awareness of and take action on urgent environmental challenges Theme 2023 – Beat Plastic Pollution World Environment Day gives individuals a chance to consider how human activity affects the environment and motivates them to change for the better in order to live sustainably. The United Nations General Assembly founded World Environment Day in 1972 to increase public awareness of environmental challenges and encourage action.

 

5. 5 June – International Day Against Illegal Fishing: International Day Against Illegal Fishing is observed every year on 5 June. It is also known as International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing. Objective – To promote awareness of the threats posed by illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities to the sustainability of fisheries resources. The International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing was observed for the first time on 5 June 2018. In 2015, at its 39th session, the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) of the FAO proposed an initiative to declare an International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing to raise awareness of the importance of the fight against IUU fishing. Subsequently, this proposal was endorsed by the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI), at its 32nd session. On 5 December 2017, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution (A/RES/72/72) proclaiming 5 June of each year as the “International Day for the Fight Against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing.”

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Indian sprinter Amlan Borgohain bags two gold medals in Flanders Cup 2023: Top Indian sprinter, Amlan Borgohain has bagged two gold medals in the men's 100 and 200-meter races category at the Flanders Cup 2023 athletics in Merksem, Belgium. He clocked 10.70 seconds to emerge as the fastest man of the meet. He holds the 100-meter national record of 10.25 seconds and holds 20.96 seconds in the 200-meter. Meanwhile, Sapna Kumari finished behind Belgium's Amber Vanden Bosch in the women's 100m hurdles after clocking 14.10.

 

2. Indian shooters win gold medal in Mixed Team event at ISSF Junior World Cup: Indian shooters Abhinav Shaw and Gautami Bhanot have bagged gold in the final of 10 meter Air Rifle Mixed Team event at the ISSF World Cup Junior 2023 in Suhl, Germany. The Indian team of Shaw and Bhanot registered a 17-7 win over the French pairing of Oceanne Mueller and Romain Aufrere in the gold medal match. With this, India now has two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze from the World Cup after two days of competition.

 

3. India win three medals in Asian U-20 Athletics Championship: On the opening day, India won three medals (including two gold) at the 2023 Asian Under 20 Athletics Championships campaign in Yecheon, South Korea. Rezoana Mallick Heena and Bharatpreet Singh kicked off clinched gold medals in women’s 400-meter race and men’s discus throw respectively. Henna clocked 53.31 seconds to take the top position on the podium. Antima Pal won the third medal for India, a bronze, in the women’s 5,000-meter race.

 

4. South Korea’s An Se-young wins Thailand Open final: World No. 2 Ann Se-young of South Korea claimed her fourth title in 2023 by defeating China’s He Bingjiao in the women’s singles final of the Thailand Open badminton tournament in Bangkok. 21-year-old Ann Si-young won 21-10, 21-19. This was Young’s seventh final berth in a row. In Men’s singles, the Thai shuttler Kunlavut Vitidsarn secured the Thailand Open title for the first time in his career becoming the only men’s singles player in the badminton World Tour to have won more than one tournament this year. He defeated Lee Cheuk Yiu of Hong Kong in straight sets, 21-12, 21-10 in the final.

 

5. 3rd Khelo India University games conclude in Varanasi: The third khelo India University games has been concluded at IIT BHU campus in Varanasi. Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur along with Union Minister of state for Sports, Nishith Pramanik and Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath were present at the closing ceremony. 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. GNDU amassed 24 gold, 27 silver and 17 bronze medals to finish second and in the top three for the very first time. Jain University, Karnataka, last time’s champions, were third with 16 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals. As many as 131 of the 203 Universities who finally participated at the Games.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. GST collection rises 12% to ₹1.57-lakh crore in May: Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection in May rose 12 percent to ₹1.57-lakh crore The gross GST revenue collected in the month of May 2023 is ₹1,57,090 crore of which Central GST is ₹28,411 crore, State GST is ₹35,828 crore, Integrated GST is ₹81,363 crore (including ₹41,772 crore collected on import of goods) and cess is ₹11,489 crore (including ₹1,057 crore collected on import of goods). The revenues for the month of May 2023 are 12 percent higher than the GST revenues in the same month last year. During the month, revenue from import of goods was 12 percent higher and the revenues from domestic transactions (including import of services) are 11 percent higher than the revenues from these sources during the same month last year.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. BEST received 'Climate And Health' award at UITP Awards 2023: The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking was honored with the prestigious 'Climate And Health' award at the UITP Awards 2023, Barcelona. Additionally, BEST Undertaking was recognized as one of the top three finalists in the 'Public And Urban Transport Strategy' category. UITP Awards are highly sought-after prizes in the field of public transport. Recently, the BEST was also awarded for 'Smart Mobility' category by FICCI.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Veteran actor Sulochana passes away: Veteran actor Sulochana passed away at 94 due to age-related issues in Mumbai. She was featured in more than 250 Hindi and 50 Marathi films. She started her career with Marathi films in the early 1940s and soon moved to Hindi films, where she portrayed several mother roles in movies like Shammi Kapoor’s Dil Dekhe Dekho, Dilip Kumar’s Aadmi, Dev Anand’s Jhonny Mera Naam, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Himmatwala, and Andar Baahar. She was honoured with Padma Shri in 1999.