Daily GK Update- 21st June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India’s first mRNA-based Omicron-specific booster vaccine approved: Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd informed that its mRNA COVID-19 booster vaccine has received Emergency Use Authorization from the Drugs Controller General of India. The vaccine, 'GEMCOVAC-OM' is approved against the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. GEMCOVAC-OM has demonstrated robust immune responses in phase 3 clinical trials conducted at 20 centers across 13 cities in India. Presently approved vaccines used as precautionary/ booster doses.

 

2. NHAI launches ‘Knowledge Sharing Platform’: National Highways Authority of India has launched a ‘Knowledge Sharing’ platform. This platform will help the authority to join hands with experts and citizens who want to share knowledge and insights related to topics such as road design, environmental sustainability, and related fields. Aim: To encourage sharing of best practices from around the world This platform will also contribute towards the holistic development of NH infrastructure in the country.

 

3. Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani donates ₹315 crores to IIT Bombay: Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani has donated ₹315 crores to IIT Bombay. Reason: Fostering world-class infrastructure, stimulating research in emerging areas of engineering and technology, and nurturing a deep tech startup ecosystem at IIT Bombay An MoU was signed between Nandan Nilekani and Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri, Director, IIT Bombay. His contribution will catalyze philanthropic contributions towards advancing research and development at universities in India.

 

4. Govt approves $2.7-billion Micron's chip plant: The Indian cabinet has granted approval for US chipmaker, Micron Technology to proceed with its $2.7 billion plan for a semiconductor testing and packaging unit. It has also sanctioned production-linked incentives worth 110 billion rupees for the plant in Gujarat. The necessary approval stems from the significant size of the incentive package. Micron Technology's venture coincides with the White House's efforts to encourage U.S. chip companies to invest in India.

 

5. Reliance emerges as Most Valuable Private Company in India: As per Hurun India's 2022 Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 list, Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries Ltd is the most valuable private company in India, with a whopping value of Rs 16.4 lakh crore. TCS with Rs 11.8 lakh crore ranked second in India, followed by HDFC Bank with Rs 9.4 lakh crore. The value of Reliance decreased by 5.1% in the last six months, while the total value of TCS increased marginally by 0.7% and HDFC Bank increased by 12.9%.

 

6. Indian Army takes delivery of Mahindra Armado armoured vehicle: Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS), a subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra has started delivering Armado to the Indian armed forces. It is an Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle, which is designed by and developed by Mahindra. It has been designed keeping in mind a variety of roles the armed forces may use it for. It gets ballistic protection up to B7, Stanag Level II. It can be utilised in counter-terrorist operations by facilitating patrolling in conflict-hit areas.

 

7. Jharkhand government launches panchayat-level medicine scheme: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren launched the panchayat-level drugs shop scheme to make essential medicines available in remote areas The scheme was inaugurated in Chatra district by handing over licenses to three persons for operating the medicine shops in panchayats. A total of 15 people have been selected for licenses in the district so far. The programs like ‘Sarkar Aapke Dwar’ will be restarted to establish a “real connection with people”.

 

8. Karnataka’s free power scheme, ‘Gruha Jyothi Scheme’: Karnataka government has launched a free power scheme named ‘Gruha Jyothi scheme’ for providing free electricity up to 200 units a month. The scheme also extends to tenants living on rent if their electricity consumption matches the scheme’s criteria. Registration to the scheme is done on the Seva Sindhu portal under a special custom-made page. Registration to the scheme is done on the Seva Sindhu portal under a special custom-made page The E-governance department has made the registration process very simple. The consumer must enter the electricity bill’s customer ID, their Aadhar number, and mobile number. The registration simultaneously started at Karnataka One, Grama One and Bengaluru One centre across the state. The beneficiaries will get a ‘zero bill’ starting August 1 if usage is within their entitlement.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. The number of refugees globally stood at 35.3 million by the end of 2022: According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) report, the number of refugees globally stood at 35.3 million by the end of 2022. It also shows an increase in the number of more than 8 million from the year before. Around 52% of all refugees came from Syria, Ukraine, and Afghanistan. According to international law, refugees are people who are forced to flee their home countries to escape persecution or a serious threat to their life or freedom.

 

2. International Day of Yoga 2023: 21st June: The International Day of Yoga is observed every year on June 21 since 2015. This year, the theme for International Yoga Day is "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam". This year's theme highlighted beautifully encapsulates collective aspiration for "One Earth, One Family, One Future." On 11 December 2014, the UN proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga by resolution 69/131. The draft resolution establishing the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India.

 

3. 21 June – International Yoga Day: International yoga day is celebrated every year on 21 June.

Objective – To promote awareness of the benefits of the ancient practice known as yoga Theme 2023 – Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam This year we will be celebrating the 9th edition of the International Day of Yoga, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead a yoga session at the UN Headquarters for the first time on 21 June 2023. It was in 2014 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea of a dedicated yoga day during his address to the 69th session of the UN General Assembly on 11 December 2014 and he was supported unanimously by all the 193 UN member states who agreed to observe the International Day of Yoga on June 21. The inaugural celebration took place on June 21, 2015.

 

4. 21 June – World Music Day 2023: World Music Day is observed every year on 21 June. This global event encourages individuals to appreciate and actively engage with all forms of music, irrespective of genre, style, or language. Theme 2023 –Music on the Intersections Music is an important part of each of our daily lives, serving as an important instrument for stress relief, motivation, emotional expression and as a connecting force with others. The origins of World Music Day have been traced back to 1982 when French Minister of Culture Jack Lang proposed the idea of celebrating a day of music or Fête de la Musique (festival of music). As per another theory, World Music Day has been celebrated since 1976 when Joel Cohen proposed the idea of an all-night music festival to celebrate the beginning of summer solstice.

 

5. 21 June – World Hydrography Day: World Hydrography Day is marked annually on June 21. Objective – To increase public awareness and understanding of hydrography’s role in ensuring safe and efficient navigation, sustainable marine resource management, and coastal zone development This day holds great importance as it serves as a platform to highlight the crucial work carried out by hydrographers worldwide and to promote the significance of hydrography itself. Theme 2023 – Hydrography – underpinning the digital twin of the ocean The International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) was established in 1921, serving as a prominent entity focused on addressing various aspects of marine life. Headquartered in Monaco, the organization played a crucial role in advocating navigation-related concerns, setting technical standards, and protecting marine environments, engaging directly with governments. Through various activities and events organized on this day, the IHO aims to increase public awareness and understanding of hydrography’s role in ensuring safe and efficient navigation, sustainable marine resource management, and coastal zone development.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Bhavani Devi creates history by winning India’s first medal in Asian Fencing Championships: Bhavani Devi has won the bronze medal in the women’s sabre event at the Asian Fencing Championships held in Wuxi, China. Bhavani lost her semi-final match against Uzbekistan’s Zainab Daybekova with a score of 14-15. In the quarterfinals, Bhavani defeated defending world champion Misaki Emura of Japan by a score of 15-10. Bhavani’s next challenge will be the World Championships to be held in Milan from July 22 to 30.

2. Satwik-Chirag become men’s doubles champions at Indonesia Open 2023 : Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty became the first Indian pair to win the doubles title at a BWF Super 1000 event at the Indonesia Open 2023. Indonesia Open 2023 took place at Istora Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta, Indonesia. They defeated the Malaysian world champion pair of Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik in the final. The win made them the first doubles team from India to win the Indonesia Open. They also became the first pair from the country to win India’s first Badminton World Federation Super 1000 title.

 

3. 37th National Games’ mascot ‘Moga’ unveiled: Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has launched ‘Moga’ at a launch ceremony held at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium in Taleigao, Goa. The 37th edition of the national games of India will be held in various locations in the state of Goa in October 2023. It will feature competitions in a total of 43 disciplines. It will also feature ‘Gatka’, a traditional martial art form associated with Punjab.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Government appoints Swaminathan Janakiraman as RBI Deputy Governor: The government has appointed Swaminathan Janakiraman as a deputy governor of Reserve Bank India for three years. He would succeed Mahesh Kumar Jain, who was serving as a deputy governor since 2018, is set to retire. Prior to this role, he held various assignments across Corporate and International Banking, Retail and Digital Banking, Finance, and Assurance functions with SBI. He also served as a Nominee Director of SBI on the Boards of Yes Bank and Jio Payments Bank

 

2. Union Bank launches four new deposit schemes: Union Bank of India has launched four bank account schemes targeting women, women entrepreneurs and professionals, pensioners, and cooperative housing societies. The bank has launched Union Unnati specifically designed for women entrepreneurs and professionals. This account offers free cancer care coverage and personal accident cover. Union Samriddhi has targeted women. The third product is Union Samman, a savings account aimed at pensioners.

 

3. IndusInd Bank collaborates with Wise to offer low-cost & fast inward remittance to India: IndusInd Bank has forged a strategic partnership with Wise, a global technology company specializing in secure money transfers. The collaboration aims to provide convenient and efficient online inward remittance services specifically tailored for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) residing in the United States and Singapore. Through this partnership, IndusInd Bank’s customers can transfer funds from these two major global markets. The remittance service, known as Indus Fast Remit (IFR), will integrate with the Wise Platform, allowing NRIs to enjoy a multi-currency inward remittance service. Through this partnership, IndusInd Bank’s customers can transfer funds from these two major global markets. The remittance service, known as Indus Fast Remit (IFR), will integrate with the Wise Platform, allowing NRIs to enjoy a multi-currency inward remittance service. One of the primary benefits for customers utilizing the “Indus Fast Remit – Wise” service is the ability to avail highly competitive forex rates.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. IndiGo bags World Aviation Awards 2023: IndiGo has won a top award as the Best Low-Cost Airline in India and South Asia at the prestigious 2023 Skytrax World Airline Awards, held at the Paris Air Show. It is the thirteenth time that IndiGo has won this award as the Best Low-Cost Airline in India and South Asia. Recently, IndiGo has placed a firm order for 500 Airbus A320 Family aircraft, which will provide IndiGo with a further steady stream of deliveries between 2030 and 2035.

 

2. Acharya Gopi to be conferred with Prof. Jayashankar Award : Eminent poet, literary critic, and Sahitya Akademi Award recipient, Acharya N. Gopi has been selected for Kothapalli Jayashankar Award instituted by Bharat Jagruthi, a cultural organization and extended arm of Bharat Rashtra Samithi. The award would be presented to Acharya Gopi at an event to be organized at Telangana Saraswatha Parishath in Abids. The award has been instituted earlier this year for honouring the littérateurs every year. Acharya Gopi has so far penned 56 books including 26 compilations of poems, 7 compilations of essays, 5 translations and 3 research books. His books were translated to several Indian languages as also into foreign languages such as German, Persian, Russian and others. He worked as the Vice-Chancellor of Telugu University and acted as the in-charge V-C of Kakatiya and Dravida Universities in the past.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Former Kerala Minister M.A. Kuttappan passes away: Congress leader and former Kerala minister Dr. M. A. Kuttappan passed away at the age of 76 in Kochi. He began his career as a doctor at Alappuzha Medical College and Cochin Port Trust Hospital. Later he become a four-time MLA in the Kerala assembly and was a member of the AK Antony ministry in 2001 as minister for the welfare of backward classes and SC/ST. He was elected to the state assembly from Wandoor, Chelakkara, and twice from Njarakkal constituencies.

 

Daily GK Update- 20th June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ravi Sinha appointed as new chief of the Research and Analysis Wing: Senior IPS officer, Ravi Sinha has been appointed as the new head of the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) for a tenure of two years. He would succeed Samant Goel, who completes his four-year tenure on June 30, 2023. Ravi Sinha is a 1988-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre. At present, he is serving as Special Secretary, Cabinet Secretariat. Earlier, Sinha served in Jammu and Kashmir, the northeast, and foreign countries.

 

2. Telangana govt to disburse money to farmers Under 'Rythu Bandhu' scheme: Telangana CM K Chandrasekhar Rao would release the Kharif installment of financial assistance to farmers under the Rythu Bandhu scheme from June 26, 2023. He directed State's FM Harish Rao to take steps to deposit the Rythu Bandhu funds to the farmers in their respective bank accounts. The Podu land farmers will also be considered for the Rythu Bandhu assistance. In Rabi season 2022-23, over 70 lakh farmers received Rythu Bandhu assistance.

 

3. Indian Army participates in Joint Exercise 'Ex Khaan Quest 2023': The Indian Army Contingent has participated in the multinational peacekeeping Joint Exercise Ex Khaan Quest 2023, organized in Mongolia. This exercise was participated by Military contingents and observers from over 20 countries. A contingent from the Garhwal Rifles represented the Indian Army. Aim: To enhance the interoperability of the participating nations, sharing experience, and training uniformed personnel for the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations

 

4. Karnataka’s free power scheme, 'Gruha Jyothi Scheme': Karnataka government has launched a free power scheme named 'Gruha Jyothi scheme' for providing free electricity up to 200 units a month. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah also stated that the scheme also extends to tenants living on rent if their electricity consumption matches the scheme's criteria. The beneficiaries will get a ‘zero bill’ starting August 1 if usage is within their entitlement. The Gruha Jyothi scheme is part of the Congress government's five poll promises

 

5. G20 Agriculture Ministerial Meeting (AMM) held in Hyderabad: The G20 Agriculture Ministerial Meeting (AMM) has been held in Hyderabad to provide the Agriculture Ministers and delegates from various G20 countries a first-hand experience of ICAR-IIMR (Indian Institute of Millets Research). The delegates discussed about Managing Agribusiness for Profit, People, and Planet and Connecting the Digitally Disconnected- Harnessing the Power of Digital Technologies in Agriculture. The delegates also witnessed programmes which are a blend of vibrant diverse traditions, arts, culture, and heritage of India in the city of pearls.

 

6. Civil Aviation sector records 36% growth during January to May 2023: The civil aviation sector in India recorded a growth of 36% during January-May 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. The number of passengers carried during the period increased to 79.8 million, from 58.9 million in 2022. Domestic passenger traffic grew by 37.7%, while international passenger traffic grew by 33.2%. The cargo traffic also grew by 13.2% during the period. In the month of May last year, passenger count was over 114 lakh, which in May this year rose to over 132 lakh, registering a Month-on-Month growth of 15.24 percent. The overall passenger number in May this year increased by 3.26 lakhs as compared to April this year. Also, the number of passenger-related complaints decreased in May 2023 compared to May 2019.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India gifts missile corvette INS Kirpan to Vietnam: India will gift Missile Corvette INS Kirpan to Vietnam as a friendly gesture and to expand military ties between the nations. INS Kirpan is a Khukri-class warship commissioned in 1991. The announcement was made during a meeting between Rajnath Singh (India's defence minister) and General Phan Van Gang (Vietnamese defence minister). The Vietnamese defence minister is on a visit to enhance the military ties, with maritime security and defence industrial cooperation.

 

2. Himalayan Glaciers on Track to Lose up to 75% of Ice by 2100: Report: According to a new report, Glaciers in Asia’s Hindu Kush Himalaya could lose up to 75% of their volume by the end of the century. Reason: Global warming, is causing dangerous flooding and water shortages for the 240 million people who live in the mountainous region. The international scientist team found that ice loss on the peaks of Everest and K2 is speeding up. In 2010, the glaciers shed as much as 65% of ice, which was faster than they had in the preceding decade.

 

3. World Refugee Day 2023: 20th June: World Refugee Day is commemorated every year on 20th June to serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by millions of individuals who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence. 2023 theme: Hope Away from Home This year's theme highlighted the resilience and challenges faced by refugees, who lost everything. On December 4, 2000, the United Nations General Assembly established this day through Resolution 55/76.

 

4. Intel and Germany sign agreement for $32.8 billion chip plant investment: Intel has signed an agreement with the German government for investing more than 30 billion euros ($32.8 billion) in a chip manufacturing site in Magdeburg, Germany. An agreement was signed between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger. Intel has acquired the land for two semiconductor facilities in Magdeburg in eastern Germany in November 2022 and is expected to start production in four or five years.

 

5. UN adopt first-ever treaty to protect marine life in high seas: UN has adopted the first-ever treaty to protect marine life on the high seas, approved by delegates from the 193 member nations. The treaty will create a new body to manage the conservation of ocean life and establish marine protected areas on the high seas. It also establishes ground rules for conducting environmental impact assessments for commercial activities in the oceans. The new treaty is under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, came into force in 1994.

 

6. 19 June – International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict: The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is observed every year on 19 June. Objective – To raise awareness and end sexual violence in conflict situations. Theme 2023 – Bridging the gender digital divide to prevent, address and respond to conflict-related sexual violence The day focuses on the prevalence and consequences of sexual violence in conflict zones. International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence was established on June 19, 2015, by the United Nations General Assembly. It is aimed at raising awareness about the need to end conflict-related sexual violence and honouring people who are subjected to sexual violence around the world. The day was also created to pay tribute to those who strived to eradicate the crime and lost their lives doing that.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Bhavani Devi wins bronze medal at Asian Fencing Championships: Olympian C.A. Bhavani Devi has secured the bronze medal at Asian Fencing Championships 2023 held in China. In the quarterfinal, she created history by defeating reigning World Champion Misaki Emura and secured India its first-ever medal at the event. She stunned the world number one 15-10 to enter the women’s sabre semifinal. However, Bhavani lost to Uzbekistan’s Zaynab Dayibekova in the semifinals by 15-14, securing a bronze medal.

 

2. Indian Men’s Senior Football Team wins Intercontinental Cup 2023: The Indian men’s football team beat Lebanon 2-0 to win the Intercontinental Cup 2023 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. It was India’s first win over Lebanon in 47 years and second in eight meetings. This was the third edition of the Intercontinental Cup. The Indian football team upset Kenya to win the inaugural Intercontinental Cup in 2018 while North Korea clinched the crown in 2019 by beating Tajikistan. Indian captain – Sunil Chhetri

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SEBI bans IIFL Securities from onboarding new clients for 2 years: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has banned India Infoline Ltd (IIFL) Securities from onboarding any new clients for two years. Reason: Mixing clients’ funds with proprietary funds by routing transactions through common control accounts Utilizing funds of credit balance clients for settlement obligation of debit balance clients Utilizing funds of credit balance clients for settlement obligation of proprietary trades

 

2. World Bank approves $150-million loan for Resilient Kerala programme: The World Bank has approved a $150 million loan to support the Resilient Kerala program to continue strengthening the state’s preparedness against natural disasters, climate change impacts, and disease outbreaks. This additional financing will further deepen Kerala’s resilience in the critical areas of coastal erosion and water resource management. The loan, from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), has a final maturity of 14 years, including a grace period of six years. It complements the World Bank’s earlier investment of $125 million and the overall support is expected to protect nearly 50 lakh people from the impact of floods. In the aftermath of the 2018 floods, the World Bank had aided the State in building the capability to respond to shocks to the economy and prevent the loss of lives, assets, and livelihoods. The programme supported policy and institutional reforms in the State, including improved management of the Pampa River basin, sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture, risk-informed land-use, and disaster management planning at local levels.

 

3. Kotak Mahindra Bank launches ‘ActivMoney’: Kotak Mahindra Bank launched its ActivMoney feature, which gives customers the benefit of fixed deposit (FD)-like interest up to 7 percent per annum, and the flexibility to access their funds at any time from the linked savings account. This is an auto sweep feature that is offered by several other banks, including Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and IndusInd Bank.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Author Salman Rushdie awarded the prestigious German Peace Prize in 2023: British-American author, Salman Rushdie has been selected for the prestigious German Peace Prize 2023 for his literary work and his resolve and positive attitude in the face of constant danger. He would receive the award in Frankfurt on October 22, 2023. Cash prize: €25,000 ($27,300) This prize was established in 1950 to recognize a personality committed to serving international understanding between nations and cultures through their work.

 

2. Acharya Gopi to be conferred with first Prof. Jayashankar Award: Acharya N. Gopi has been selected for the first-ever Prof. Kothapalli Jayashankar Award, instituted by Bharat Jagruthi. The award would be presented to Acharya Gopi at an event to be organized at Telangana Saraswatha Parishath in Abids on June 21. The award has been instituted for honoring the littérateurs every year. Acharya Gopi has penned 56 books including 26 compilations of poems, 7 compilations of essays, 5 translations, and 3 research books.

 

3. Arundhati Roy wins 45th European Essay Prize for ‘Azadi’: Writer Arundhati Roy has been awarded the 45th European Essay Prize for lifetime achievement by the Charles Veillon Foundation. Roy has been awarded the prize for the French translation of her compilation of essays titled “Azadi” (2021). In “Azadi”, Roy has reflected on the meaning of freedom in a world of “growing authoritarianism”. The essays include meditations on language, public as well as private, and on the role of fiction and alternative imaginations in current times. Roy will receive the award, along with the prize money of CHF 20,000 (approx ₹18 lakh), at a ceremony on September 12 in the Swiss city of Lausanne. Since its inception in 1975, the award by the Charles Veillon Foundation has honoured a book or the work of an author “who, through their writings, contributes to nourishing and spreading the evolution of thought”.

 

4. Gita Press, Gorakhpur, awarded Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021: Gita Press, Gorakhpur, will be awarded the Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021 in recognition of its exceptional contribution to social, economic, and political transformation through non-violent and Gandhian methods. The jury headed by Prime Minister Modi, unanimously selected Gita Press as the recipient of the Gandhi Peace Prize. Gita Press, Gorakhpur, one of the world’s largest publishers, has refused to accept the Rs 1 crore cash reward for the Gandhi Peace Prize for 2021 amid a controversy over being picked for the honour. The Gandhi Peace Prize is an annual award instituted in 1995, on the occasion of the 125th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi as a tribute to the ideals espoused by Mahatma Gandhi. The award is open to all persons regardless of nationality, race, language, caste, creed or gender. Recent awardees include Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, Oman (2019) and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (2020), Bangladesh.

Daily GK Update- 19th June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Gross Direct Tax collections register a growth of 12.73% for FY 2023-24: Gross Direct Tax collections for the Financial Year 2023-24 (till now) have registered a growth of 12.73% to 4,19,338 crore rupees. In the preceding financial year, the government recorded a growth of 3,71,982 crores rupees. Net collections are at three lakh 79 thousand 760 crores, showing a growth of 11.18%. The Gross collections include Corporation Tax at 1,87, 311 crore and Personal Income Tax at two lakh 31 thousand 391 crore.

 

2. G20 Tourism Working Group and Tourism Ministerial Meetings start in Goa: The concluding G20 Tourism Working Group meeting along with the Tourism Ministerial Meeting started in Goa on June 19, 2023. Union Minister For Culture, G Kishan Reddy has addressed the first session of "Making Cruise Tourism a Model for Sustainable and Responsible Travel'. The minister highlighted that India is one of the potential cruise tourism destinations with many of its best tourist destinations yet to be disclosed to the world.

 

3. Assam launched a portal to check illegal cattle transportation: Assam Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department launched a web portal for cattle transportation, during a program held in Guwahati. Aim: To prevent the illegal transportation of cattle From now, Livestock farmers and cattle traders can obtain permits required for inter-state transportation of cattle through the website ahvd-cattletrans.assam.gov.in. This system is prepared under the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021.

 

4. Om Birla inaugurates National Legislators’ Conference Bharat in Mumbai: The National Legislators’ Conference Bharat (NLC Bharat) was officially inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in Mumbai. The APJ Abdul Kalam expo pavilion was also inaugurated on the theme of Bharat’s 75th year of independence and celebrating the spirit of democracy. This conference gives a platform to engage in discussions and contemplate strengthening our legislative institutions. It will help to spread the essence of Indian democracy throughout the world.

 

5. Two-day conference of Science-20 organized in Bhopal: The two-day conference of Science-20 under G-20 has organized at the Taj Hotel in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The theme of the conference is “Connecting Science to Society and Culture”. The conference is being presided over by Professor Ashutosh Sharma, President of the Indian National Science Academy. The conference is being attended by representatives of the G-20 countries, invited states, and international organizations. The Science-20 consultation was begun with a preliminary meeting to be held in Puducherry on 30 and 31 January 2023 while the Science-20 conferences will culminate with a summit-level meeting in Coimbatore.

 

6. Google and MeitY join hands for ‘G20-Stay Safe Online’: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has joined hand with Google to drive citizen awareness ‘G20-Stay Safe Online’ campaign on online cyber safety in the country. The duo aims to foster citizen awareness about online safety and security. Under the bright beacon of India’s G20 Presidency, the nation is steering towards a trillion-dollar digital economy. To chart this course, MeitY has launched the mega-campaign, ‘Stay Safe Online.’  To raise the cyber hygiene bar, spreading awareness about online risks and safe practices among users of all ages.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. INS 'Vagir' set to embark on operational visit to Colombo: INS 'Vagir', has embarked on an operational visit to Colombo from 19-22 June 2023 to commemorate the 9th edition of the International Day of Yoga and aligns with the theme of 'Global Ocean Ring'. During the visit, the Commanding Officer of the Indian Naval submarine would meet Rear Admiral Suresh De Silva, the Commander of the Western Naval Area. INS 'Vagir' will also be visited by the visitors and school children to explore the submarine firsthand.

 

2. World Sickle Cell Awareness Day 2023: 19th June: World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed every year on June 19th each year to raise awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD). 2023 theme: Building and strengthening global sickle cell communities, formalising newborn screening and knowing your sickle cell disease status It is a genetic blood disorder characterized by abnormal red blood cells that take on a crescent or sickle shape. These irregularly shaped cells can cause blockages in blood vessels.

 

3. Remains of new species of duck-billed dinosaur found in Chile: Remains of a species of herbivorous dinosaur previously unknown in the southern hemisphere have been discovered in Chile, challenging long-held beliefs about the range of duck-billed dinosaurs. Measuring up to four meters (13 feet) in length and weighing a ton, Gonkoken nanoi lived 72 million years ago in the extreme south of what is now Chilean Patagonia. The discovery demonstrated that Chilean Patagonia served as a refuge for very ancient species of hadrosaurs, a type of duck-billed dinosaur common in North America, Asia and Europe during the Cretaceous period, from 145 to 66 million years ago. Gonkoken nanoi, the fifth species of dinosaur discovered in Chile, was actually found in 2013, kicking off a decade-long investigation. The name Gonkoken comes from the Tehuelche language, the first inhabitants of the region, and means “similar to a wild duck or a swan.

 

4. USA announces to rejoin UNESCO in July 2023: UNESCO has announced that the United States will rejoin the agency in July 2023 four years after leaving due to allegations of bias against Israel. The US stopped funding UNESCO, worth millions of dollars, in 2011 after Palestine became a member of the agency. Palestine was included as a non-member observer state in 2012, granting them participation in General Assembly proceedings.

 

5. Defence Ministry approves MQ-9 Reaper drone deal with US : The Defence Ministry has approved the deal for acquiring the Predator (MQ-9 Reaper) drones from America for which the final decision would be taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The deal for the Predator drones was approved by the Defence Acquisition Council meeting. The DAC is the highest body in the Defence Ministry to take decisions on acquisitions. The hunter-killer MQ-9 drones are capable of a variety of roles, including maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, over-the-horizon targeting, airborne early warning, electronic warfare. The SkyGuardian variant has a wingspan of 79 feet and can carry a payload of 2,155kg on nine hardpoints. The SeaGuardian variant can fly over the horizon via satellite for more than 30 hours and has advanced intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.

 

6. 18 June – Autistic Pride Day: Autistic Pride Day is observed every year on 18 June. Objective – To raise awareness about autism, a complex developmental disorder that affects communication and social interaction. Autistic Pride Day was first observed in 2005 by Aspies for Freedom, which is a community that works for spreading awareness about autism. People with autism often have co-occurring conditions, including epilepsy, depression, anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as well as challenging behaviours such as difficulty sleeping and self-injury. The level of intellectual functioning among autistic people varies widely, extending from profound impairment to superior levels.

 

7. 18 June – International Picnic Day: International Picnic Day is celebrated on June 18 every year.

Picnics have been a popular way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and friends for centuries, and International Picnic Day is a great opportunity to continue that tradition. The term “picnic” finds its roots in the French word “pique-nique,” and its popularity surged in France after the revolution, providing an opportunity to enjoy informal outdoor meals in the country’s royal parks. These leisurely gatherings transformed into elaborate social events in 19th-century England, as depicted in Jane Austen’s novels, featuring elaborate menus with days of preparation.

 

8. 19 June – World Sickle Cell Awareness Day: World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed every year on 19 June. Objective – To raise awareness and promote understanding of sickle cell disease, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals and their families. Recognized as a public health issue by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008, sickle cell disease, specifically sickle cell anaemia, was one of the earliest identified hereditary disorders.

 

9. 19 June – World Sauntering Day: World Sauntering Day is observed every year on 19 June to cherish life as it comes and not bother about the speed of the world, rather set our own pace of life and enjoy it. Theme 2023 – Rediscover the Joy of Simplicity Sauntering is seen to boost the efficiency of people by as much as sixty percent. When people are not bounded by a deadline, they take their time to perfect the work. World Sauntering Day was founded by WT Rabe in 1979 during his employment at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island in Michigan. In response to the rising popularity of the jogging craze in the United States during the 1970s, Rabe introduced the concept of this day, urging people to slow down and take it easy.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Indian Men's Senior Football Team wins Intercontinental Cup 2023: Indian men's senior football team has clinched the Intercontinental Cup 2023 after defeating Lebanon in Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha. This is India's second title in the tournament, following their win in the inaugural edition in 2018. The first half was goalless while in the second half, the hosts made it 1-0 in the 46th minute with Indian captain Sunil Chhetri's goal. Lallianzuala Chhangte netted the second goal in the 65th -minute, making it 2-0.

 

2. Mascot launched for 37th edition of Indian National Games: Chief Minister of Goa, Dr Pramod Sawant has launched the mascot named 'Moga' for the upcoming 37th National Games at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium in Taleigao. The event was organized by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs and the Sports Authority of Goa. The ceremony was attended by the Sports Minister of Goa, Govind Gaude, President of the Indian Olympic Association, Dr. P.T Usha, and Olympic medalist MC Mary Kom.

 

3. Egypt won the World Squash Championship: Egypt emerged victorious in the World Squash Championship, defeating Malaysia 2-1 in the final held in Chennai. Malaysia secured the silver medal in the championship. The third place in the championship was shared between the host country, India, and Japan A total of eight countries participated in the championship, which commenced on June 13.

 

4. First Women’s Kabaddi League Inaugurated in Dubai: The inaugural edition of India’s first-ever Women’s Kabaddi League (WKL) commenced with great fanfare in The league is being organized by the Kabaddi Federation of India and the Dream Sports Group. The league consists of eight teams, featuring a total of 96 players, each representing Indian states. These teams bear the names of various states, including the Delhi Dynamites, Gujarat Angels, Great Marathas, Haryana Hustlers, Punjab Panthers, Rajasthan Riders, Uma Kolkata, and Bengaluru Hawks. The league is expected to provide a platform for talented women kabaddi players to showcase their skills and inspire other women to take up the sport.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Kotak Mahindra Bank launches 'ActivMoney', auto sweep account: Kotak Mahindra Bank has launched its ActivMoney feature, an auto sweep feature that is offered by other banks, including Axis Bank and IndusInd Bank. Benefit: This feature gives customers the benefit of FD like interest up to 7% per annum, and the flexibility to access their funds at any time from the linked savings account It allows a savings account holder to earn higher interest as offered in FDs while retaining the liquidity offered by a saving account.

 

2. Sebi issues guidelines on product offerings by online bond platform: SEBI has restricted online bond platform providers from offering products other than listed debt securities on their platforms. SEBI also allowed them to offer securities such as Government Securities, Treasury Bills, listed SBGs, listed municipal debt securities, and listed securitized debt instruments on their platforms. Under the rules, Online Bond Platform Providers (OBPPs) need to register themselves as stock brokers in the debt segment of the stock exchange.

 

3. RBI imposes Rs 20 lakh penalty on Manappuram Finance: The Reserve Bank of India has imposed ₹20 lakh monetary penalty on Manappuram Finance for non-compliance with certain provisions of Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC). The RBI imposed this penalty on the NBFC as it did not classify certain gold loan accounts with overdue of more than 90 days as Non-Performing Assets (NPAs). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers vested in RBI under the provisions of section 58G (1) (b) read with section 58B (5) (aa) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.” This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the company with its customers. The Reserve Bank of India conducted a statutory inspection of the company concerning its financial position as of March 2021.

 

4. N S Vishwanathan appoints as part-time chairman of Axis Bank: Axis Bank has appointed former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor N S Vishwanathan as a part-time Non-Executive Chairman. The board of directors of the bank have appointed Vishwanathan for a period of three years. Vishwanathan had joined the RBI in 1981 and retired in March 2020 as the Deputy Governor, spanning a career of nearly four decades at the central bank.

 

5. P N Vasudevan re-appointed as MD & CEO of Equitas Small Finance Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the reappointment of P Vasudevan as Managing Director and CEO of Equitas Small Finance Bank. Vasudevan has been reappointed for a period of three years, from July 23, 2023, to July 23, 2026. In December 2022, the bank announced that PN Vasudevan had decided to remain as MD and CEO of the bank in response to the Board’s suggestions.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Gita Press Gorakhpur to be honored with the Gandhi Peace Prize 2021: Gita Press, Gorakhpur has been selected for the Gandhi Peace Prize for the year 2021 in recognition of its outstanding contribution to social, economic, and political transformation through non-violent and other Gandhian methods. The award given by the Ministry of Culture, the Gandhi Peace Prize carries an amount of one crore rupees, a citation, and a plaque. Gita Press was established in 1923, having published over 41 crore books in 14 languages.