Daily GK Update- 4th Nov, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. EESL Launched ‘National Efficient Cooking Programme’: Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL),  launched its groundbreaking National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP) and Energy Efficient Fans Programme (EEFP) in New Delhi. Aim: To revolutionize cooking practices in India and emphasize on the importance and urgency of energy efficient fans.  As part of these programmes, EESL will distribute 1 crore efficient BLDC fans and 20 Lakh energy-efficient induction cook stoves nationwide.

 

2. Rajnath Singh Inaugurated ‘India Manufacturing Show’ In Bengaluru: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the three-day ‘India Manufacturing Show’ in Bengaluru, Karnataka  The central theme of the event is ‘Make in India, Make for the World’. The Raksha Mantri described the small-scale industries as the backbone of India’s economy that contribute immensely to the development of the nation. “Small industries are the motor of the Indian economy. The faster the motor runs, the quicker the vehicle of the economy moves.

 

3. Deepesh Nanda appointed as CEO & MD of Tata Power Renewable Energy: Deepesh Nanda has been appointed as CEO & MD of Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited. Nanda brings with him 28 years of experience across companies like GE, Flowserve and Tyco. He joins Tata Power from GE Gas Power, where he was the Chief Executive Officer for South Asia.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India to Host 2024 World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly: Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Communications and H.E. Houlin Zhao, Secretary General of International Telecommunication Union (ITU) signed the Host Country Agreement for the establishment of an Area Office & Innovation Centre of ITU in Delhi. ITU is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies – ICTs. ITU currently has a membership of 193 countries and over 900 private-sector entities and academic institutions.

 

2. India,Sri Lanka hold 33rd edition of annual International Maritime meeting: The 33rd edition of annual International Maritime Boundary Line meeting between the representatives of Navies and Coast Guards of India and Sri Lanka was held at the Indo - Sri Lanka Maritime Boundary Line off Point Calimere at Palk Bay.  Aim: To discuss maritime security in the Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar region, safety of fishermen, measures to curtail trafficking of contraband, among other issues.

 

3. Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurates SBI branch in Sri Lanka: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited Sri Lanka to opened a branch of the State Bank of India and appreciated its role in supporting corporates in international trade. She is in the country on a three-day visit, started her day by visiting the main Hindu Temple in the multi-ethnic city to pay homage to it before opening a branch of the State Bank of India in Trincomalee. After inaugurating the branch, She appreciated that SBI is the oldest bank in Sri Lanka

 

4. Thailand Announces Visa-Free Entry For Indians to Boost Tourism: Thailand is scrapping visas for scores of Indian tourists in order to rekindle the fire in its tourism sector.  Taiwan has also been included in the plan in a bid to draw in more tourists as the high season approaches.  Thailand in September scrapped visa requirements for Chinese tourists.  India has been Thailand’s fourth largest source market for tourism so far this year with about 1.2 million arrivals after Malaysia, China and South Korea.

 

5. Chinese Communist Party Delegation Enhances Ties with Solomon Islands: A Chinese communist party delegation has visited the Solomon Islands, calling the “flourishing” cooperation between China and the Pacific nation a show of how diplomatic ties were in their peoples’ interest The delegation led by the deputy head of the international department under China’s Communist Party central committee, Guo Yezhou, met Solomon Islands. The delegation also met the foreign minister and energy minister.

 

6. 3 November – International Day for Biosphere Reserve: International Day for Biosphere Reserve is celebrated every year on 3 November. The day established by UNESCO during its 41st General Conference in 2022. This occasion provides an opportunity to understand and appreciate Biosphere Reserves (BR) and their significance in preserving the delicate balance between nature and culture. On the International Day for Biosphere Reserves, we acknowledge the significance of these reserves in striking a balance between human development, cultural preservation, and environmental protection. As we celebrate this day, we reflect on the need to expand and support these designated areas to safeguard our shared heritage for generations to come.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Aishwaryatap Singh Tomar wins Gold in Asian Shooting Championship: Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar won the gold medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions individual event and helped India grab a team silver at the Asian Shooting Championship in Changwon, South Korea. The 22-year-old Tomar shot 463.5 in the final to win the gold. China’s Tian Jiaming took the silver with a score of 462.7. Another Chinese, Du Linshu picked up the bronze with 450.3. Tomar had finished fifth in the qualification round with 591. He won the bronze medal at the 2019 Asian Shooting Championships and secured a quota place for India at the 2020 Summer Olympics. The Indian trio of Tomar, Swapnil Kusale and Akhil Sheoran won the team silver with a total score of 1764, behind China (1777). India has already got maximum two possible Olympic quota places in this event through Kusale and Sheoran. Kusale had won the Paris Games quota during the World Championships in Cairo last year. Sheoran did the same in this year’s World Championships in Baku.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. BoB Appoints ‘Kadgatoor Sheetal Venkatesmurt’ As Head Of Digital Channels: Bank of Baroda appoints Kadgatoor Sheetal Venkatesmurt as the Head of Digital Channels. The move reflects the bank’s commitment to strengthening its digital initiatives. Aspiring candidates for banking exams need to stay updated on industry-specific developments. It highlights the impact of technology and digitalization on the banking sector. The ‘Digital India’ initiative has been a catalyst for the digital transformation in the banking industry.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. T. Padmanabhan receives prestigious Kerala Jyothi Award : Eminent writer T. Padmanabhan has been chosen for the Kerala Jyothi Award 2023 instituted by the Kerala government. He was selected for the highest civilian honour by the government considering his contributions in the field of Malayalam literature. The State also announced other ‘Kerala Puraskarngals’, the highest award given by the government to distinguished personalities who have made outstanding contributions in various spheres of social life. Justice (Retired) M. Fathima Beevi and Nataraja Krishnamurthy (Soorya Krishnamurthy) have been selected for the ‘Kerala Prabha’ award considering contributions in the field of social service and civil service and in the field of arts respectively. Others who won the ‘Kerala Sree’ award include Punalur Somarajan (social service sector), V.P. Gangadharan (health sector), Ravi DC (industry and commerce sector), K.M. Chandrasekhar (civil service sector), Pandit Ramesh Narayan (art, music).

Daily GK Update- 3rd Nov, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Sonowal to launch domestic sailing int'l cruise liner Costa Serena: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal will launch the domestic sailing of the first International Cruise Liner ‘COSTA SERENA’ in India at Mumbai. Costa Cruises is expected to carry approximately 45,000 passengers in its next 2 months voyages. Such cruise initiatives are part of ‘Dekho Apna Desh’, launched on Prime Minister's appeal to the middle class to prefer domestic tourism over international.

 

2. Aligarh Muslim University to launch Its Own Satellite: The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), under the Department of Space, the government of India, has approved Aligarh Muslim University’s (AMU) proposal for the development of the varsity’s first satellite, to be named after its founder Sir Syed Ahmad Khan. The satellite is tentatively scheduled to be launched in 6 months. The SS AMU SAT is a nanosatellite project which began in November 2021 under AMU Robo Club. It is a 3U CubeSat with multiple objectives, including the study of economic growth in India’s poorest districts using satellite imagery and implementation of an in-house developed image compression technology for a faster multimedia transmission. In addition to these, the satellite will test various sub-systems that have been built in-house. A 3U CubeSat is a standardized and relatively small satellite used for various purposes, including research, technology demonstration, and earth observation.

 

3. ECI designed in-house software for election management through ENCORE: The Election Commission of India has designed in-house software for complete Candidate and election management through ‘ENCORE’ which stands for Enabling Communications on Real-time Environment. This provides a seamless facility for Returning Officers to process candidate nominations, affidavits, Voter turnout, counting, results, and data management. The ENCORE counting application is an end-to-end application for returning officers to digitize the votes polled, tabulate the round-wise data, and then take out various statutory reports of counting. Another application called ENCORE Scrutiny Application allows Returning Officers to scrutinize the nominations filed by the candidates online. After verification of the nomination, the status is marked as Accepted, Rejected, or Withdrawn helping the Returning Officer to prepare the final list of contesting candidates and assign the symbols.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India And UAE Sign MoU To Strengthen Educational Ties: UM of Education Dharmendra and UAE Ahmad Al Falasi signed an MoU to strengthen existing educational cooperation between the two countries. Aim: To facilitate student and faculty mobility, joint research programmes, and educational exhibitions in areas of mutual interest held in both countries. UAE being a global economic hotspot and India being a global talent hotspot, both sides should work together to build a knowledge bridge to cement our civilisational connect.

 

2. World Jellyfish Day is observed on 3rd November 2023: World Jellyfish Day is celebrated on November 3rd to raise awareness about jellyfish and their importance in the marine ecosystem

They are often misunderstood and feared, but they play a vital role in the food chain and help to keep the ocean healthy They are gelatinous creatures that come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and color can be found in all of the world's oceans, from the surface to the deep sea. Some jellyfish are harmless and some can have venomous stings.

 

3. Mumbai Ranks Fourth In Global Housing Price Rise: According to Knight Frank’s Prime Global Cities Index 2023 Mumbai recorded the fourth highest year-on-year growth in prime residential prices among global cities. The 6.5 percent increase in prime residential prices has moved the city up by 18 places from 22nd rank in September 2022.  New Delhi and Bengaluru too recorded an upward movement in their index rankings.  NCR moved from 36th rank a year ago to 10th in September 2023 with a growth of 4.1 per cent YoY.

 

4. 15th India-Singapore Defence Policy Dialogue held in New Delhi: The 15th India-Singapore Defence Policy Dialogue was held in New Delhi. The dialogue was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and Permanent Secretary (Defence), Singapore Chan Heng Kee. During the meeting, both sides reviewed the existing defence cooperation between the two countries and agreed to enhance collaboration in Service-to-Service interactions and bilateral exercises. They also articulated steps to take forward cooperation in emerging areas like cyber security. Both sides identified means to enhance existing areas of collaboration, especially in the field of maritime security and multilateral cooperation. India and Singapore also reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the Strategic Partnership based on mutual trust and understanding, common interests and shared values of democracy and rule of law.

 

5. US and India to conduct 2 plus 2 ministerial dialogue: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin would be traveling to India for the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue with their Indian counterparts in New Delhi. The dialogue will be held with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi this month. The dialogue came to existence from an agreement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump. It is being conducted every year since 2018 to discuss bilateral security and geo-strategic issues.

 

6. PM Modi inaugurated ‘World Food India 2023’ in New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the second edition of the Mega food event ‘World Food India 2023’ at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. On the occasion, the Prime Minister disbursed Seed Capital Assistance for over one lakh Self Help Groups SHG members. This support will help SHGs to improve packaging and quality manufacturing and gain better price realization in the market. The Prime Minister also inaugurated Food Street, as part of World Food India 2023. It will feature regional cuisines and royal culinary heritage. Over 200 chefs will participate and present traditional Indian cuisine, cuisine, making it a unique culinary experience. The Secretary of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries Anita Praveen mentioned that over 1200 exhibitors from 23 states and several countries will participate in the event.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Shami becomes India’s leading wicket taker in World Cup history: Mohammed Shami created history with his match-winning five-wicket haul against Sri Lanka at the ODI World Cup. Overtaking bowling icons Zaheer Khan and Javagal Srinath, pace ace Shami became the leading wicket-taker for India at the ODI World Cup. He surpassedJavagal Srinath and Zaheer Khan's joint record, both of who have 44 wickets to their names. He has taken 14 wickets so far in just three matches in world cup 2023.

 

2. Statue of Sachin Tendulkar unveiled at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium: Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has unveiled his life–size statue at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where India won the 2011 edition of the ICC World Cup. The statue was made by Pramod Kamble, who is a painter-sculptor from Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. The statue captures Sachin Tendulkar in the dynamic act of executing a cricket stroke. The legendary cricketer used this shot frequently to smash over 34,000 runs in both Test and One Day International (ODI) matches. Sachin Tendulkar is the only batter in the history of cricket to slam 100 centuries. Wankhede Stadium is Sachin Tendulkar’s home ground where he played his last match in November 2013.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI launches two key surveys for monetary policy inputs: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the introduction of two crucial surveys, namely the ‘Inflation Expectations Survey of Households’ and the ‘Consumer Confidence Surveynetary’. They’re aimed at gathering essential data for the upcoming bi-monthly monetary policy. The next monetary policy review is scheduled to take place from December 6-8.

 

2. Inflation Expectations Survey of Households: The ‘Inflation Expectations Survey of Households’ is designed to capture subjective assessments on price movements and inflation. It will gather data based on individual consumption baskets in 19 cities, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Jammu, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi, and Thiruvananthapuram. The survey will solicit qualitative responses from households regarding anticipated price changes, both general prices and specific product groups, for the next three months as well as the one-year period ahead. Additionally, it will collect quantitative responses on current inflation rates, as well as inflation rates expected in the next three months and one year.

 

3. Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated SBI’s branch in Trincomalee: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has inaugurated the State Bank of India’s branch in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. Governor of Eastern Province of Sri Lanka Senthil Thondaman, High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay, and SBI Chairman Dinesh Khara graced the event. Recognizing SBI’s 159-year-long presence, Mrs. Sitharaman praised its commitment to growth at home and abroad, especially during the Sri Lankan economic crisis. SBI’s endeavors facilitated the smooth extension of a Line of Credit worth 1 billion dollars by the Government of India to Sri Lanka. SBI Sri Lanka has been a pivotal support for international trade corporations and has actively bolstered remittance activities through a robust digital platform.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Writer T. Padmanabhan Receives Prestigious Kerala Jyothi Award: Eminent writer T. Padmanabhan has been chosen for the Kerala Jyothi Award 2023 instituted by the Kerala government.  He was selected for the highest civilian honour by the government considering his contributions in the field of Malayalam literature.  The State also announced other ‘Kerala Puraskarngals’, the highest award given by the government to distinguished personalities who have made outstanding contributions in various spheres of social life.

 

2. India-Born Author Nandini Das Wins 2023 British Academy Book Prize: India-born author Nandini Das has been named the winner of the 2023 British Academy Book Prize for Global Cultural Understanding, a leading international non-fiction prize, for her book ‘Courting India: England, Mughal India and the Origins of Empire'.  The winning book is her debut and has been described by critics as the “true origin story of Britain and India told through England's first diplomatic mission to the Mughal courts”.

Daily GK Update- 2nd Nov, 2023

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NMC to launch “one nation, one registration platform’‘ for doctors: The National Medical Commission, the regulatory body for medical education and medical professionals, is all set to launch its “one nation, one registration platform” for doctors across the country Aim: To eliminate duplication and red tape and allow the public to access information on any physician working in India. NMC will unveil a patch pilot of the National Medical Register in the next 6 months, doctors will be allotted a unique identification number

 

2. 7 Indian States & 2 UTs Celebrated Their Formation Day on November 1^st: Grand events marked the formation day celebrations across seven states and two Union Territories on November 1.  The states celebrating the formation day today are Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab. The Union Territories of Lakshadweep and Puducherry are also celebrating their formation day. Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka and MP came into being in 1956, Punjab and Haryana were carved out as separate states in 1966

 

3. Aligarh Muslim University To Launch Its Own Satellite: The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre has approved Aligarh Muslim University’s proposal for development of the varsity’s first satellite, to be named after its founder Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.  The SS AMU SAT is a nano satellite project which began in November 2021 under AMU Robo Club. It is a 3U CubeSat with multiple objectives, including the study of economic growth in India's poorest districts using satellite imagery.

 

4. PM Modi launched ‘Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)’: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the ‘Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)’ platform for the youth of the country at Kartavya Path on National Unity Day. In a momentous decision on October 11, 2023, the Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Modi, gave its approval for the establishment of an autonomous body known as “Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat).”

 

5. 1 November – 7 Indian States & 2 UTs celebrated their Formation Day: 1st November is recognized as the formation day of seven Indian states and 2 Union Territories. The states celebrating the formation day today are Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab. The Union Territories of Lakshadweep and Puducherry are also celebrating their formation day.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur to Chair International Jury Panel at IFFI: Renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur will be the jury head for the international competition of the International Film Festival of India  2023 in Goa.  The five-member jury also includes cinematographer Jose Luis Alcaine, producers Jerome Paillard, Catherine Dussart and Helen Leake The International Jury will select the winner of the coveted best film award which includes the Golden Peacock, Rs 40 lakh monetary component and certificates for the director and producer.

 

2. Kozhikode Named India’s First ‘City of Literature’ by UNESCO: Kerala’s Kozhikode city was officially designated as a Unesco City of Literature. This recognition makes Kozhikode the first city in India to receive this title. Unesco formally conveyed the honour to the Kozhikode Corporation as the city joined the ranks of 55 newly selected creative cities. Kozhikode Corporation Mayor Beena Philip expressed her enthusiasm for achievement, emphasizing that the "City of Literature" title is a remarkable acknowledgement of the city's

 

3. India Submits ‘Letter of Request’ To France For 26 Rafale Fighter Jets: In a significant development, India has given the Letter of Request to the French government for the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine fighter aircraft for the Indian Navy under a government-to-government deal. As per the proposal, the Indian Navy will get 22 single-seated Rafale Marine aircraft along with four trainer aircraft. The aircraft carriers INS Vikramaditya and Vikrant have been operating the MiG-29s and need the Rafales for operations on both carriers.

 

4. Saima Wazed to lead WHO’s South-East Asia Region : Bangladesh’s Saima Wazed has been nominated to lead the World Health Organization South-East Asia Region. Wazed is a clinical psychologist and the daughter of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Member countries voted to nominate her as the next Regional Director of the United Nation’s health body, according to WHO South East Asia Region Office. She won against Nepal’s candidate, Dr Shambhu Acharya, who has been working in the WHO director-general’s office since 2013. Her nomination will be submitted during the WHO executive board meeting in January 2024 and she will take office in February. She will succeed India’s Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, who was the first woman to hold the office and remained in the position for two five-year terms.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

 

1. Zahid Hussain Clinches Silver At Asian Shooting Championship: Zahid Hussain secured the silver medal at the prestigious Asian Shooting Championship 2023 held in South Korea. He would be representing his nation on the international stage at the Paris Olympics. Star India shooter Manu Bhaker secured her Paris 2024 Olympics quota after she finished fifth in the women’s 25m pistol final Arjun Babuta in men’s 10 metre air rifle event and Sarabjot Singh in men’s 10 metre air pistol event have also secured Paris 2024 quotas.

 

2. Max Verstappen Dominates Mexico City Grand Prix, Sets New Record: Max Verstappen split the Ferrari front row of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to snatch the lead of the Formula One Mexico City Grand Prix 2023 by the first corner,  He drove off to his record 16th victory of the season. Red Bull's three-time season champion collected his third consecutive win at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez and broke his own season victories record set last year. Verstappen started from third and won from the same spot as he did in 2021.

 

3. Saudi Arabia to host FIFA World Cup 2034: Saudi Arabia was the only football association to present a bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup before the deadline closed, soccer’s global governing body FIFA confirmed. FIFA had invited bids from Asia and Oceania for the tournament and Saudi Arabia announced it would bid only minutes after the announcement. Australia said, it would not be presenting a bid to host the tournament, leaving Saudi Arabia as the only candidate. It also confirmed that the sole confirmation of interest in hosting the 2030 World Cup came from Morocco, Portugal, Spain and Uruguay, hosting celebratory games.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI Card Partners With Reliance Retail To Introduce ‘Reliance SBI Card’: SBI Card and Reliance Retail came together to launch the co-branded Reliance SBI Card.  The lifestyle-focused credit card will offer a holistic and rewarding shopping experience to customers. Aim: To leverage the extensive network of SBI Card with the vast consumer reach and unique retail proposition of Reliance Retail to bring a spectrum of exclusive rewards. To unlock rewards and benefits while transacting at Reliance Retail’s extensive and many more.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Lionel Messi wins eighth Ballon d’Or 2023: Argentina captain Lionel Messi won a record eighth Ballon d'Or for the best player in the world beating Norway's UEFA player of the year and treble winner Erling Haaland of Manchester City to the prestigious prize. Spain's Women's World Cup winner and Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati won the women's Ballon d'Or. Earlier, Messi's World Cup-winning team mate Emiliano Martinez won the Lev Yashin award for the world's best goalkeeper.

Daily GK Update- 1st Nov, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IAF fighter squadron converts from MiG-21 to SU-30 MKI: The Number 4 Squadron (Oorials) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) based at Air Force Station Uttarlai (Barmer) is converting from the MiG-21 to the Su-30 MKI. The MiG-21 was the first supersonic fighter in service of the IAF and was inducted in 1963.  The conversion of this squadron to Su-30 MKI implies that the IAF now operates only two squadrons of the MiG-21. The IAF remains committed to phasing out the MiG-21 aircraft by the year 2025.

 

2. PM launcheD 'Mera Yuva Bharat platform on the National Unity Day: PM Narendra Modi launched 'Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)’ platform for the youth of the country on October 31st, at Kartavya Path on National Unity Day.  THE VISION: 'Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)’ is envisioned as a pivotal, technology-driven facilitator for youth development and youth-led development, with the overarching goal to provide equitable opportunities to contribute to the creation of a “Viksit Bharat”.

 

3. Nokia Partners with TATA Play Fiber to Launch India’s First WiFi6: Nokia has teamed up with broadband provider Tata Play Fiber to roll out India's first WiFi6-ready broadband network. As part of the deal, the Finnish gear maker will provide Tata Play Fiber with a variety of fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) and WiFi equipment, including optical line terminal (OLT) and optical network terminal (ONT) with WiFi6. The partnership with Nokia allows us to bring Wi-Fi6-ready network to our customers - which is a first in the category.

 

4. Uttarakhand CM inaugurates 10-day Uttarakhand Mahotsav in UP: The 10-day Uttarakhand Mahotsav began at Pt Govind Ballabh Pant Parvatiya Sanskritik Upvan at Gomti Bank near Khatu Shyam mandir, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was the chief guest on the occasion. On the first day of the ten-day Uttarakhand Mahotsav, several groups of well-dressed men and women adorned with the traditional costumes and jewellery of Uttarakhand thronged the venue. The neatly designed stalls set up at the venue were the centre of attraction. A group of 21 women artists presented a cultural programme that won the hearts of the people.

 

5. Koppu Sadashiv Murthy takes charge as CMD of BHEL: Koppu Sadashiv Murthy has been appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL). Prior to this, Koppu Sadashiv Murthy was the Executive Director of the Corporate Operations Management group at BHEL, and also simultaneously held additional charge of Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Pumps and Compressors Limited (BPCL). An Electrical Engineering graduate from Bhopal University with an MBA in Finance, Koppu Sadashiv Murthy joined BHEL in 1989 at its Jhansi manufacturing unit. During his 34 years of years of wide-ranging and hands-on experience in BHEL’s Corporate Office and in various manufacturing units such as Hyderabad, Bhopal, Jhansi, and Varanasi, Murthy has developed a comprehensive set of competencies in strategic, operational, project and commercial management.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Rajeev Chandrasekhar to participate in 'AI Safety Summit' 2023 in UK: Union Minister of State for Skill Development Rajeev Chandrasekhar participated in the “AI Safety Summit 2023” that is scheduled to be held in United Kingdom on November 1-2, 2023.  It will bring together Ministers and representatives from various countries, including the UK, Australia, Canada, France among others. Aim: To enhance the lives of its citizens while emphasizing the importance of effectively addressing user harm and mitigating risks.

 

2. India, Singapore strengthen bilateral defense ties: India and Singapore decided to further boost interaction between their armed forces as well as cooperation in military technologies and industries.  The two countries have also inked an implementing agreement on submarine rescue support between their navies. India is fortunate to have a defence partner like Singapore. The interaction will benefit both countries on many bilateral issues that are being pursued to further strengthen our special relationship.

 

3. World Vegan Day is observed on 1st November : World Vegan Day is celebrated every year on November 1 to promote the environmental and health impacts of the vegan diet.  The theme of 'World Vegan Day 2023' is ''Celebrating for a Good Cause'. Aim: To spread awareness among people about the advantages of a vegan diet on health and well-being. A vegan diet consists of eliminating all animal products, including meat, eggs, poultry, and other items derived from animals.

 

4. Kozhikode and Gwalior declared Creative Cities of Literature and Music by UNESCO : On World Cities Day, Kozhikode in Kerala and Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh became a part of the prestigious UNESCO Creative Cities Network, adding to the list of 55 new cities. The list was released by the UN body and Union minister G Kishan Reddy called it a “proud moment for India”. These cities have strong commitment to harnessing culture and creativity. Kozhikode, the venue of choice for the Kerala Literature Festival and several book festivals, was named the ‘City of Literature’ by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), making it the first such city in India. Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, was declared the “City of Music” by UNESCO. This is a fitting honor for the city that produced the legendary musician Tansen and where the Scindia Gharana has preserved and propagated music for centuries. UNESCO has shared the full list of the new 55 cities, which include Bukhara (Crafts and Folk Art), Casablanca (Media Arts), Chongqing (Design), Kathmandu (Film), Rio de Janeiro (Literature), and Ulaanbaatar (Crafts and Folk Art). World Cities Day, designated by the United Nations, falls on October 31.

 

5. 1 November – World Vegan Day: World Vegan Day is celebrated every year on 1 November. The day is dedicated to spread awareness among people about the benefits of vegan diet on health and wellbeing. Theme 2023 – Celebrating for a Good Cause It provides a global platform for vegans and vegan organizations to promote positive ethical, environmental, and health impacts of vegan diet. A vegan diet is a choice that is free from animal products like eggs, poultry, meat, and other animal derived products. There are several reasons behind adoption of vegan diet. However, some of the specific ones include health, welfare of animals, and sustainable environment. The history of World Vegan Day dates back to 1 November 1994 when ‘The Vegan Society’ was established to promote veganism and a vegan diet.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Saudi Arabia To Host 2034 World Cup: Saudi Arabia was the only football association to present a bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup before the deadline closed, soccer's global governing body FIFA confirmed. FIFA had invited bids from Asia and Oceania for the tournament and Saudi Arabia announced it would bid only minutes after the announcement It also confirmed that the sole confirmation of interest in hosting the 2030 World Cup came from Morocco, Portugal, Spain and Uruguay, hosting celebratory games

 

2. David Willey to retire from international cricket after World Cup 2023: England all-rounder David Willey has announced that he will retire from international cricket at the end of the ODI World Cup The 33-year-old made his debut for England in 2015 and since then he has earned 70 ODI caps and 43 in T20Is. He amassed 627 runs in the 50-over format and scalped 94 wickets at an average of 30.3 and an economy of 5.57. In T20I he struck 226 runs and picked up 51 wickets at an average of 23.1 and an economy of 8.18.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. India’s Fiscal Deficit Reaches 39.3% of FY24 Target in First Half of the Yr: The central government's fiscal deficit touched 39.3 per cent of the full-year target in the first half of the FY 23 slightly higher than 37.3 per cent recorded in the 2022 The fiscal deficit, or the gap between expenditure and revenue, worked out at ₹ 7.02 lakh crore at the end of Sept, as per data released by the Controller General of Accounts. In the Union Budget, the government projected to bring down the fiscal deficit to 5.9 per cent of the GDP in the 23-24FY

 

2. GST collections surge to ₹1.72 lakh in October: The government has collected Rs 1,72,003 crore in October through GST. This is the second-highest monthly collection after the Rs 1.87 lakh crore netted in April 2023. Gross GST revenue for October is 13 percent higher compared to the same month last year. During the month, revenue from domestic transactions (including import of services) is also 13 percent higher than the revenue from these sources during the same month last year. The average gross monthly GST collection in FY 2023-24 now stands at Rs 1.66 lakh crore, which is 11 percent higher compared to the previous financial year. October’s GST revenues included Central GST (CGST) of ₹30,062 crore, State GST of ₹38,171 crore, and Integrated GST (IGST) of ₹91,315 crore. The government settled ₹42,873 crore to CGST and ₹36,614 crore to SGST from IGST, resulting in a total revenue of ₹72,934 crore for CGST and ₹74,785 crore for SGST in October 2023 after regular settlements.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Bangalore Kid Wins ‘Wildlife Photographer Of The Year’ Award: Vihaan Talya Vikas from Bengaluru was awarded the best photographer in his category at the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition held in London. Organized by the Natural History Museum, London, the competition showcases the finest wildlife photography from around the world.  The event is also considered the ‘Oscars of Photography’.  His photo of a spider along with Krishna’s carving clicked on the outskirts of the city and helped him bag the award

 

2. Social worker Deenanath Rajput from Bastar won Rohini Nayyar Prize: The 2nd Rohini Nayyar Prize 2023 for outstanding contribution to rural development was presented to Deenanath Rajput, an engineer-turned-social worker, for his work on empowering tribal women in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. The prize was presented in memory of late economist-administrator Rohini Nayyar.  It came with a trophy and cash prize of Rs 10 lakh. His work has included providing agricultural extension services to farmers and building cold storage infrastructure.

 

3. Vihaan Talya Vikas wins ‘Wildlife Photographer of The Year’ Award: 10-Year-Old Bangalore Kid, Vihaan Talya Vikas was awarded the best photographer in his category at the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition held in London. Organized by the Natural History Museum, London, the competition showcases the finest wildlife photography from around the world. Vihaan’s achievement is all the more impressive considering the stiff competition he faced. His photograph rose above 50,000 entries from 95 countries to secure the coveted award in the under-10 category. The event is also considered the ‘Oscars of Photography’.

Daily GK Update- 31st Oct, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. National Unity Day is observed on 31st October 2023: The birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first home minister of Independent India, is celebrated as National Unity Day or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas on October 31 Aim:  To maintain the integrity and unity of the Indian nation. Vallabhbhai Jhaverbhai Patel also dubbed as ‘Sardar Patel’ was born on October 31, 1875, into a landowning family of the Leva Patidar caste. He earned the title “Iron Man of India.”

 

2. Indian Navy Launches 25T Bollard Pull Tug ‘MAHABALI’ In Gujarat: ‘Mahabali’ will play a vital role in towing, berthing, and salvage operations, enhancing the Navy’s operational efficiency. This addition underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to modernization and its role in securing the nation’s maritime interests. Navy continues to invest in advanced technology to maintain its superiority in the Indian Ocean Region.

 

3. Manipur celebrates Mera Houchongba 2023: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh sent a powerful message of unity and harmony as he participated in the Mera Houchongba 2023 celebrations in Imphal. Aim: To bring together the diverse communities of the state, emphasizing the strong bond between the people of the hills and the valley.  About Mera Hounchongba The festival is observed and celebrated during the month of ‘Mera,’ which typically falls in September or October.

 

4. Goa CM Pramod Sawant launches ‘Swayampurna e-bazaar’: Goa Government has launched the Swayampurna e-bazaar online platform to give market to different kinds of products made by self-help groups and women. The Swayampurna e-bazaar is an extension of the successful Swayampurna Chavath Bazar. Goan entrepreneurs and self-help groups can contact 9262626262 to join this platform and sell their products online, One can also shop via, thereby supporting rural Goans’ artisans and craftsmanship

 

5. 30 Oct To 5 Nov 2023 – Vigilance Awareness Week 2023: Central Vigilance Commission is observing Vigilance Awareness Week 2023 from 30 October to 5 November. Every year Vigilance Awareness Week is observed as an outreach measure to create greater awareness about the importance of integrity and ethics in public life. Theme 2023 – Say no to corruption; Commit to the Nation. The Commission had sought the participation of all Central Government authorities and organisations to undertake a three month campaign (16th August to 15th November) on preventive vigilance activities as focus areas. As a means of eliciting public participation while also disseminating information on vigilance matters, the Commission has launched a quiz on vigilance matters.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. BigBasket tops Fairwork index 2023 for gig workers: Tata-owned Big Basket scored the overall highest score of 6 out of 10 points according to research firm Fairwork India 2023. Big Basket, BluSmart, Zomato, Urban Company, and Swiggy scored the highest points in the Fairwork India Report 2023. Fairwork assessed platforms against five principles: fair pay, fair conditions, fair contracts, fair management, and fair representation Ride-hailing majors Uber and Ola, along with Porter, are the worst platforms for gig workers

 

2. Norway To Support India’s ‘Hunger Project’ In Uttarakhand: Norway will help fund India’s ‘Hunger Project’ and help strengthen women leaders to protect the environment and promote food security in Uttarakhand. Aim: To strengthen elected women’s leadership in gram panchayats so that they can play a pivotal role in conserving forests and natural resources and adopt strategies. Objective: To promote sustainable living, and food security and collaborate with members of van panchayats and the local community, especially women.

 

3. Katrina Kaif joins Rado as its newest global brand ambassador: Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif has become the global face of the Swiss watchmaking brand, Rado.  Rado released the new Centrix models marking the partnership and onboarding of its new global brand ambassador.  Centrix was first launched in 2010, the model took cues from the sand dunes. The partnership between the two transpired in which Katrina Kaif personifies confidence and grace, while walking out in a desert landscape with a Rado Centrix donning her wrist. 

 

4. FATF removes Cayman Islands from its ‘Grey List’: The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has removed offshore tax haven Cayman Islands from its ‘grey list’. Besides Cayman, Panama, Jordan, and Albania have been removed from the list, which requires jurisdictions to be placed under increased monitoring until the identified deficiencies are resolved in their framework. FATF has added Bulgaria in the grey list. Cayman was added to the grey list in 2021. The Caribbean Island was in the news during the probe into charges made by Hindenburg Research against the Adani group. Some foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) linked to the investigation were domiciled there.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-governmental body responsible for setting international standards to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing.

 

5. 30 October – World Thrift Day: World Thrift Day or World Savings Day is celebrated every year on 30 October. Objective – To raise awareness to people about their financial security, savings, and freedom. Theme 2023 – Preparing for the future through saving In 1934, at the first International Savings Bank Congress, Filipo Ravizza – an Italian professor – proposed the idea of World Thrift Day. This day and the awareness it raised gained more prominence and understanding between 1955 to 1970 as people started watching the horror of the two World Wars and became increasingly conscious about their financial security and savings.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

 

1. Tejas of Maharashtra sets new Games record in Men's 110M Hurdles: Tejas Ashok Shirse of Maharashtra achieved an incredible feat, setting a new National Games record in Men's 110M hurdles by finishing it in 13.80 minutes. Priyanka Goswami of Uttar Pradesh has also set a new National Games record in the women’s 20km Race Walk with an impressive time of 1:36:35.

Gold medal of Women’s 3M Springboard bagged by Palak Sharma of Madhya Pradesh and that of Men's won by H London Singh of Services.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Fincare SFB to merge with AU Small Finance Bank: Fincare Small Finance Bank (Fincare SFB) is set to merge with AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) in 2024.  AU SFB announced its approval of the amalgamation.  As per the terms of the merger, shareholders of Fincare SFB will receive 579 shares in AU SFB for every 2,000 shares they hold in Fincare SFB.  Following the transaction, it is expected that existing shareholders of Fincare SFB will maintain approximately 9.9% ownership in AU SFB.

 

2. IndusInd Bank announces strategic collaboration with Viamericas: IndusInd Bank announced a strategic collaboration with Viamericas Corporation to offer digital inward remittance services to NRIs in the USA through IndusInd Bank ‘Indus Fast Remit’, a remittance service platform Aim: To enable NRIs to benefit from highly competitive exchange rates for digital inward remittances to India Objective: To allow NRIs to book remittance transactions through auto debit payment mode as well as transfer funds through the overseas Bank account

 

3. Bank of Baroda introduces BoB LITE Savings Account: Bank of Baroda has launched the Bob LITE Savings Account, a lifetime zero-balance savings bank account, as part of its festive campaign. Bob LITE offers customers a hassle-free banking experience without any minimum balance requirement. The account also includes a lifetime free RuPay Platinum Debit Card for account holders who maintain a nominal Quarterly Average Balance (QAB) in the account. Additionally, eligible account holders can avail of a lifetime free credit card. The BoB LITE Savings Account with the dual objective of making banking more accessible with an account that has minimal charges, while also adding more joy to our customers during this festive season. The account can be opened by any resident individual, including minors above the age of 10 years. bob LITE opens the doors to the formal banking ecosystem for a new generation of aspiring Indians and aims to fulfill their previously unmet banking needs.

 

 

 

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Nita Ambani Receives USISPF Global Leadership Award: The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) felicitated Nita Ambani, with the 2023 Global Leadership Award for Philanthropy and Corporate Social Responsibility. She is a businesswoman, has impacted millions of lives in India through Reliance Foundation’s initiatives in education, arts, sports, and healthcare. She champions women’s and children’s causes, contributing significantly to bridging the gender divide and enhancing women’s roles in India’s economy