Daily GK Update- 19th Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Assam's highest civilian award for ex-CJI Ranjan Gogoi: The Assam government has announced that it will confer the Assam Baibhav award, the state’s highest civilian honor, to Member of Parliament and former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi.  He has been credited for playing a part in the establishment of the Ram temple in Ayodhya through the apex court judgment delivered under his leadership as CJI. Ranjan Gogoi held the office of the 46th Chief Justice of India.

 

2. PM Modi laid foundation stones of 8 AMRUT projects in Maharashtra: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated or lay the foundation stones of several development projects in Maharashtra's Solapur. He will lay the foundation stones of eight AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) projects in the state worth around Rs 2,000 crore. He will also dedicate more than 90,000 houses built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban).

 

3. Kerala bets big on heli-tourism to attract visitors: Kerala Tourism launched 'Sky Escapes', a heli-tourism project aimed at increasing domestic tourist footfalls. The state has become the first in the country to have a comprehensive heli-tourism policy, offering travel packages through helicopter service providers. Kerala Tourism also plans to host international adventure sporting events such as the International Paragliding Festival, International Surfing Festival, MTB Kerala 2024, and The Malabar River Festival.

 

4. Amit Shah inaugurates Cyber Security Operations Centre for Assam Rifles: Union Home minister Amit Shah inaugurated a Cyber Security Operations Centre at the Assam Rifles Headquarters at Laitkor in Shillong. The Cyber Security Operations Centre will strengthen the Cyber Security will carry out real-time monitoring of the network, mitigation of external threats & prevention of Cyber violations in the Assam Rifles Wide Area Network (ARWAN).

 

5. PM Modi inaugurate Boeing India's tech centre campus near Bengaluru: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated American aircraft manufacturer Boeing's new global engineering and technology centre campus,built at a cost of Rs 1,600 crore. The 43-acre state-of-the-art Boeing India Engineering and Technology Centre (BIETC) campus is the aviation giant's largest such investment outside the US.

 

6. Election Commission Launches Nationwide Awareness Program on EVMs: Election Commission has begun a nation-wide awareness programme on EVMs and VVPATs ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. More than three thousand 500 demonstration centres and nearly four thousand 250 Mobile Vans have been deployed for awareness programme. The programme which is organised ahead of every General Election to Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly focuses on imparting knowledge about the basic features of EVMs and VVPATs.

7. Only one registration for National Pension System is required: The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has notified the Point of Presence (PoP) Regulations 2023, requiring only one registration for the National Pension System PoPs are entities appointed by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority to provide services to all the citizens of the country to open and operate their NPS accounts Now, the subscriber requires only a single registration for NPS, instead of multiple registrations earlier.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. S Jaishankar attends 19th NAM Summit in Uganda: India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, will represent the country at the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit in Uganda. The summit, which brings together over 120 developing countries, will focus on deepening cooperation for shared global affluence. Jaishankar will also visit Nigeria to strengthen bilateral relations and attend various meetings and events during his three-day visit.

 

2. PepsiCo India appoints Jagrut Kotecha as new CEO for India: Jagrut Kotecha is appointed as the new India chief of PepsiCo India. PepsiCo's snacks business, which includes Lays and Doritos, declined in the quarter to September 2023. Kotecha, with extensive experience in snacks, is chosen to bolster PepsiCo India's snacks business. Kotecha previously worked at Cadbury India.

 

3. TCS ranked second most valuable IT brand in global list: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been rated as the second most valuable IT services brand in the world in the 2024 Global 500 IT Services Ranking by Brand Finance. TCS’ brand value has surged to $19.2 billion from $17.2 billion in 2023, showing a strong growth of 11.5 per cent year-on-year (y-o-y). The incremental $2-billion growth is the highest absolute growth posted among the top 25 leading IT firms in the world. Besides TCS, Accenture and Infosys boosted their brand value as well. The three firms topped the list of IT firms in terms of brand value.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Sixth Edition of Khelo India games to be formally inaugurated today: The sixth edition of the Khelo India games will be formally inaugurated today. Most of the indoor and outdoor games will be played in the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai. Other games like cycling, gymnastics, swimming, hockey, shooting, yogasana and wrestling will be played in various other venues in the city and the suburban areas.

 

2. Hrithik Roshan Onboards as Brand Ambassador for RuPay Prime Volleyball League: RuPay Prime Volleyball powered by A23 has appointed Hrithik Roshan as its brand ambassador. Hrithik engaged in a discussion about the upcoming season of RuPay Prime Volleyball League powered by A23 with some of the top volleyball stars who will be competing in the third edition. The actor has redefined the meaning of athleticism and fitness over the years and has been a true source of inspiration for many of our athletes. The RuPay Prime Volleyball League powered by A23, co-owned and exclusively marketed by Baseline Ventures, will enter its third edition this year featuring nine franchises – Hyderabad Black Hawks, Ahmedabad Defenders, Kolkata Thunderbolts, Calicut Heroes, Kochi Blue Spikers, Chennai Blitz, Bengaluru Torpedoes, Mumbai Meteors, and the addition, Delhi Toofans.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Bangalore & Delhi Airports jointly bagged best airport award for the year: Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia has presented the Wings India Awards 2024 at an event held in Hyderabad. Bangalore and Delhi Airports have jointly bagged the best airport award for the year at the 4th edition of “Wings India Awards” in the Civil Aviation Sector Vistara bagged the Best Airline of the Year award The Air India has been recognised for International Connectivity while Alliance Air got recognition for Regional Connectivity.

 

2. Gianni Infantino Honored With Sports Personality Award In Dubai: FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been bestowed with the esteemed title of International Sports Personality of the Year at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Creative Sports Awards’ 12th edition held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He received this recognition for his innovative contributions towards the advancement of sports and the promotion of fair competition.

Daily GK Update- 18th Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IndoSpace Signs Rs 2000 Cr Deal With Tamil Nadu Govt: India’s leading developer and owner of Grade A industrial real estate, IndoSpace has signed an MoU with the government of Tamil Nadu to invest over Rs 2,000 crore in the state. This investment by IndoSpace is expected to generate 15,000 new jobs, providing a substantial boost to employment opportunities in the state. IndoSpace has an existing land bank of around 600 acres in the region. With an expansive presence of 14 Grade A industrial and logistics parks strategically located around the main industrial hubs, IndoSpace has developed and leased around 13 million sq ft with a total investment of Rs 4,000 crore in the state.

 

2. Haldia Petrochemicals becomes India’s first BSI Certified ISO 27001:2022 Petrochemical firm: Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd (HPL), a leading petrochemicals company in India, has become the first ISO 27001:2022 certified petrochemical organization in the industry by BSI (British Standards Institution), a renowned certification body. This milestone showcases HPL’s commitment to maintaining a robust and secure information security governance structure throughout its digital transformation journey. The Certification demonstrates HPL’s commitment towards a secure and reliable digital environment for a seamless exchange of information across internal and external stakeholders.

 

3. Khadi Bhawan unveils 'Sanatan Khadi Vastra’: The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) launched its latest collection, "Sanatan Khadi Vastra". KVIC Chairman Manoj Kumar announced a special 20% discount on the new collection alongside broader discounts ranging from 10% to 60% on all Khadi and village industry products at Khadi Bhawan from January 17 to 25, 2024. "Sanatan Vastra" embodies Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Khadi for Nation, Khadi for Fashion, and Khadi for Transformation. PM Modi releases six commemorative postage stamps on Shri Ram Janmbhoomi

 

4. PM Modi releases six commemorative postage stamps on Shri Ram Janmbhoomi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi released six commemorative postage stamps on Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. He also released an album of stamps issued on Lord Ram around the world. The components of the design include the Ram Mandir, Choupai Mangal Bhavan Amangal Hari, Sun, Sarayu River, and Sculptures in and around the Temple.

 

5. Union Minister Launches Project for Artificial Reefs in Vizhinjam: Union Minister of Fisheries Sri. Parshotham Rupala launched the project of depositing artificial reefs in the seabed in Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, via Videoconferencing. The project is aimed at increasing the income of fishermen by enhancing the fish population in the region. The project is being implemented under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana with a total outlay of 13.02 crore. In the first phase, 6,300 artificial reefs will be laid in 42 fishing villages.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 18 January 2024 – Women’s Healthy Weight Day: Women’s Healthy Weight Day is observed every year on the Thursday of the third week of January. This year it’s being celebrated on January 18. The day aims at spreading awareness around the concept of healthy weight and steps to achieve the ideal weight. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for both men and women and it not only helps you feel better and more energetic but can also reduce risk of falling ill due to chronic diseases like cardiovascular illness, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, thyroid issues to name a few. A balanced meal should be consumed to maintain a healthy weight whether you are on a higher or lower side of the ideal weight.

 

2. Asia's largest civil aviation event ‘Wings India 2024’ in Hyderabad: Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyothiraditya Scindia inaugurated the prestigious Wings India 2024 and Global Aviation Summit at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad. The Wings India 2024 is being held with the main theme ‘Connecting India with the World in Amritkal’ and holds deliberations over the strategies and strategic framework for the future Aviation Sector of the country. He also digitally launched the GMR Aero School of Aviation.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. AN Pramod assumed charge as the Director General Naval Operations (DGNO): Vice Admiral AN Pramod has assumed charge as the Director General Naval Operations (DGNO). An alumnus of the 38th Integrated Cadet Course, Naval Academy, Goa, he was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 01 July 1990. The Flag Officer is a CAT ‘A’ Sea King Air Operations Officer and a Communication & Electronics Warfare Specialist. He did the Staff Course at DSSC Wellington (Nilgiris) and the Naval Higher Command Course at NWC, Goa.

 

2. India,Thailand organized first bilateral exercise “Ex-Ayutthaya”: The Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy (RTN) conducted a maiden bilateral exercise, named ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’, which symbolizes the significance of ‘Ayodhya’ in India and Ayutthaya in Thailand, which holds historic legacies and has rich cultural ties. The Indian Naval ships Kulish and IN LCU 56 participated in the inaugural edition of the exercise. The Royal Thai Navy side was represented by His Thai Majesty’s Ship (HTMS) Prachuap Khiri Khan. The 36th edition of the India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT) was also conducted along with the maiden bilateral exercise. Moreover, the Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both navies participated in the sea phase of the exercise.

 

 

 

 

SPORTS

 

1. Pat Cummins and Deepti Sharma won ICC Players of the Month for December 2023: ICC revealed the Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month award winners for December 2023. Australia skipper Pat Cummins wins ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for December 2023 for bowling heroics in the Test triumph against Pakistan. Meanwhile, Deepti Sharma of India won the maiden ICC Women’s Player of the Month award for December 2023 thanks to her multi-format brilliance against England and Australia.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Yes Bank deploys Veefin’s SmartFin supply chain finance solution: Yes Bank has launched SmartFin, an end-to-end digital supply chain finance (SCF) platform, powered by Veefin Solutions. The initiative reflects Yes Bank’s commitment to fostering innovation and enhancing its digital offerings, particularly in the realm of working capital efficiencies. The SmartFin platform, through its end-to-end digital offerings, will help us drive the required operational & financial efficiencies for all stakeholders.

 

2. LIC overtakes SBI to become the most valuable PSU: Life Insurance Corporation of India, a government-owned insurance giant, has regained its status as the most valued public sector undertaking, surpassing the market capitalization of State Bank of India. While SBI holds a market value of Rs 5.63 lakh crore, LIC has surpassed it with a market capitalization (MCap) of Rs 5.64 lakh crore. In 17 Jan, SBI stock witnessed a 1.5 percent decline to Rs 624, whereas LIC traded at Rs 896 on the BSE, showing a 0.2 percent increase. Concurrently, the benchmark BSE Sensex experienced a 1.02 percent loss, settling at 72,386 points. In 2023, LIC witnessed a remarkable gain of over 22%, and in the ongoing year, 2024, it has surged by an additional 7.5%. In contrast, SBI made modest progress with an advancement of nearly 5% in the previous year, but in the current year, it has incurred a loss of over 1%

 

3. Government of India Launches Sovereign Gold Bonds 2023-24: In a strategic move to channelize domestic savings into financial instruments, the Government of India has launched the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 2023-24 (Series III) Stemming from the inaugural scheme in Nov 2015 under the Gold Monetisation Scheme, aims to reduce the demand for physical gold. The scheme introduces a digital discount for online applications, enhancing the accessibility and attractiveness of secure gold investments to a diverse investor base.

Daily GK Update- 17th Jan, 2024

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Boeing opens its first distribution center in India: Global aerospace giant Boeing has opened its first distribution center in India, located in Khurja, Uttar Pradesh. Spanning 36,000 square feet, this parts warehouse aims to assist regional aviation customers in optimizing fleet utilization. This new facility is part of its ongoing efforts to expand its footprint in the country, providing an efficient, cost-effective, and localized solution. This is one of Being’s eight distribution centers in the world. Furthermore, Boeing has pledged a USD 100 million investment in infrastructure and pilot training programs to meet India’s growing demand for pilots over the next two decades.

 

2. L&T wins Rs 10,000 crore electrification order for high-speed rail project: Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has secured a mega contract from an authorized Japanese agency to construct an electrification system for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed rail project in India. Valued in the range of Rs 10,000 crore to Rs 15,000 crore, the project, according to company executives, is the largest single rail-electrification order in India. This would be the first of its kind railway project in India involving the implementation of Japanese Shinkansen High-Speed Electrification Techno­logy. This electrification system will enable trains to travel at speeds of up to 320 kmph.

 

3. Centre approves equity investments for setting up two thermal power plants: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved a proposal for equity investments for setting up two thermal power plants in the country. These power plants will be set up by the subsidiaries of Coal India Limited to provide cheaper and affordable power to the people. As per the decision, a 1×660 megawatt supercritical coal-based thermal power plant will be set up at Amarkantak Thermal Power Station in Madhya Pradesh.

 

4. Government considers repeal of 1899 Stamp Act: The Union government is contemplating the repeal of the Indian Stamp Act of 1899, paving the way for a more contemporary stamp duty regime. The Department of Revenue, under the Ministry of Finance, has unveiled a draft of the proposed 'Indian Stamp Bill, 2023,' and sought public input over the next 30 days. The existing Indian Stamp Act, dating back to the pre-Constitution era, currently governs the taxation of transactions through stamps.

 

5. National workshop in Tirupati to focus on healthy villages: Minister of State for Panchayati Raj Kapil Moreshwar Patil is set to inaugurate a three-day national workshop on “Healthy Village towards Healthier Tomorrow” in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The workshop will focus on the localization of sustainable development goals in gram panchayats through adopting thematic approaches, specifically addressing the theme Healthy Village. The workshop, with over 800 participants from 24 states and UTs.

 

India levies 50% export duty on sugar-derivative molasses: India is the world’s largest molasses exporter and contributes about 25% to global trade. The Indian government has imposed a 50% export duty on molasses due to the potential decrease in domestic sugar production this season. 

According to an official notification from the Ministry of Finance, the proposed export duty will take effect on January 18, 2024.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Switzerland to Host Ukraine Peace Summit: Switzerland has agreed to host a global peace summit on Ukraine at the request of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Neutral Switzerland has previously acted as a broker to resolve conflicts and could now help find a resolution for the war that began when Russia sent troops into Ukraine on Feb 24, 2022. The summit, aimed at resolving the conflict sparked by Russia’s incursion into Ukraine in 2022, highlights Switzerland’s role as a neutral mediator.

 

2. Kuwait announces formation of New Government under New Emir: Kuwait formed a new government,  the first under the country’s new Emir Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah. The freshly formed cabinet, led by PM Sheikh Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, consists of 13 members and includes new appointments for the ministries of oil, finance, and foreign affairs. A notable departure from tradition is seen in the appointment of Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali al-Yahya, marking the first time a non-royal family member.

 

3. Smriti Irani announces establishment of B20 Global Institute at WEF Davos: Union Minister Smriti Irani announced the creation of the B20 Global Institute,a concept conceived during the B20 Summit 2023 in New Delhi. The B20 Global Institute aims to strengthen global value chains, leverage digital innovations and AI for societal benefit, promote ESG principles, and support sustainability & energy transition. Key initiatives outlined by B20 India included the establishment of a B20 Global Instituter and policy advocacy to global enterprises

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Vineet McCarty appointed as Commandant in Indian Naval Academy: Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty took over as Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy. The Flag Officer was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 01 Jul 1989 and is a graduate of Defence Service Staff College, Wellington (2005) and National Defence College, New Delhi (2017). A specialist in ‘Gunnery and Missiles’, he served as the commissioning crew of INS Delhi and did all his specialist tenures onboard the frontline Guided Missile Destroyer. Before assuming charge as the Commandant of Indian Naval Academy, he was Flag Officer Commanding the Western Fleet.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Indian President Inaugurated 5th Meghalaya Games: President of India, Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated the 5th Edition of the Meghalaya Games in Tura, Meghalaya. The President highlighted the tremendous potential for the development of sports and sportspersons in the North East region, citing its rich tradition of a strong sports culture. It is the first time ever that the Meghalaya Games have been conducted in Garo hills in Tura. Around 3000 athletes will compete across 23 sports disciplines. The torch’s final lap through Tura’s West Garo Hills was carried by Shri Simeon Marak, a Northeast Olympics representative, during the inauguration ceremony at the P.A. Sangma Stadium. The Torch Relay Ceremony illuminated the state’s commitment to athleticism, unity, and youth empowerment, setting the stage for the upcoming Meghalaya Games, 2024.

 

2. Yogesh Singh wins gold medal in men’s 25m centre fire pistol: Yogesh Singh won the gold medal in the men’s 25m centre fire pistol competition in Jakarta, Indonesia. Yogesh claimed the individual gold medal after shooting 573, finishing ahead of silver winner Muad Al Balushi of Oman (570) and Indonesia’s Anang Yulianto (567). The other two Indian participants in the event, Pankaj Yadav (567) and Akshay Jain (564), ended fourth and sixth. In the women’s event, the Indian trio of Shreyasi, Manisha Keer and Bhavya Tripathi, however, won the silver medal in the women’s trap team event with a total of 328, finishing behind China and ahead of Kazakhstan.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Pixxel opens new spacecraft manufacturing facility in Bengaluru: Bengaluru-based space data company Pixxel has inaugurated its first spacecraft manufacturing facility in Bengaluru. The new facility holds significance as it targets to launch six satellites this year and 18 more by 2025, further advancing its mission of building a “health monitor” for the planet. Spread across 30,000 square feet, the facility, at its full capacity, is equipped to handle more than 20 satellites simultaneously that can be turned around within a timeframe of six months, making possible a total of 40 large satellites per year. The facility was inaugurated by S. Somanath, chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IndusInd Bank ties up with EazyDiner to launch credit card: IndusInd Bank has launched the ‘EazyDiner IndusInd Bank Platinum Credit Card’ in association with EazyDiner. The credit card offers an additional discount of ₹500 while paying through the EazyDiner App via PayEazy for both dining and takeaway at select restaurants. Cardholders get an EazyDiner Prime membership for three months, with guaranteed discounts of 25 percent to 50 percent, at over 2,000 premium restaurants, without any joining or annual fees. Users can renew their membership upon payment of ₹30,000 every 90 days. The card offers up to 2 reward points on every ₹100 spent; in addition to the discounts, the reward points earned can be redeemed instantly against dining bills on the EazyDiner app.

Daily GK Update- 16th Jan, 2024

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi inaugurates NACIN Campus in Andhra Pradesh: PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes & Narcotics (NACIN) at Palasamudram in Andhra Pradesh. NACIN, spread over 500 acres, is dedicated to capacity building in indirect taxation and narcotics control administration. Mr modi will be interacte with the Officer Trainees of the 74th and 75th batch of IRS Custom and Indirect Taxes) as well as the Officer Trainees of Royal Civil Service of Bhutan.

 

2. National Startup Day 2024:16th January: PM Narendra Modi proclaimed January 16 as National Startup Day 2024, marking a pivotal moment in India's recognition and celebration of its burgeoning startup ecosystem. The day holds immense significance as it provides a dedicated platform to celebrate the triumphs of the startup community. It serves as an occasion for entrepreneurs to share insights, discuss innovations, and reflect on their journey.

 

3. Kerala comes up with Operation AMRITH to tackle AMR: The Kerala Drug Control Department recently launched Operation Amrith (Antimicrobial Resistance Intervention For Total Health) to prevent the overuse of antibiotics in the state. The aim is to conduct surprise raids in pharmacies to detect over-the-counter (OTC) sales of antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription. AMR refers to the ability of bacteria and microbes to resist the drugs used to inhibit or kill them.

 

4. Pench Tiger Reserve: India’s First Dark Sky Park: The Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Maharashtra has been marked as India's first Dark Sky Park and the fifth such park in Asia for protecting the night sky and preventing light pollution, making the facility ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) emphasises on the recognition of the intrinsic value of the night sky as a natural, cultural, and historical resource.

 

5. Maharashtra’s Pench Tiger Reserve becomes India’s First Dark Sky Park: The Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Maharashtra has been marked as India’s first Dark Sky Park and the fifth such park in Asia. This prestigious acknowledgment underscores the reserve’s unwavering commitment to protecting the sanctity of the night sky and creating an optimal setting for astronomy enthusiasts. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) emphasizes on the recognition of the intrinsic value of the night sky as a natural, cultural, and historical resource. The IUCN also highlights the need to preserve natural darkness for the sake of nature conservation, ecological integrity in protected areas, and the well-being of communities in healthy cities.

 

6. Maiden National Highway steel slag road on NH-66 Mumbai-Goa inaugurated: V.K. Saraswat has inaugurated the first National Highway Steel Slag Road section on NH-66 Mumbai-Goa. Developed by CSIR-CRRI, converts steel industry waste into a resource, contributing to the construction of robust and eco-friendly national highways. This innovation aligns with the National Highways Authority of India’s (NHAI) efforts to enhance infrastructure sustainability in the country. Under the technological guidance of CSIR-CRRI, JSW Steel has successfully constructed a 1 km long four-lane steel slag road section on the Indapur-Panvel Section of NH-66 Mumbai-Goa.

 

7. Wholesale inflation rises to 0.73% in December: The wholesale price index (WPI)-based inflation rose in December at 0.73% mainly due to a sharp rise in food prices. The WPI inflation was in the negative zone from April to October and had turned positive in November at 0.26%. Positive rate of inflation in December 2023 is primarily due to the increase in prices of food articles, machinery & equipment, other manufacturing, other transport equipment and computer, electronics & optical products, etc. Food inflation rose to 9.38% in December from 8.18% in November 2023.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. South Korean firm Simmtech signs MoU for creating semiconductor ecosystem in Gujarat: After US chipmaker Micron and Tata group, South Korean firm Simmtech has signed an MoU with the Gujarat government to set up its plant in Sanand at a cost of Rs1,250 crore as part of creating a semiconductor ecosystem in the state. South Korean firm has been allotted 30 acres of land and the work will start in the next two-three months. The company will need 6-7 months to set up the plants. Simmtech is the world’s biggest manufacturer of semiconductor substrates. The company has been given subsidy under SPECS (Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) by the centre as well as state government.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Defense Minister Sanctions Insurance Scheme for BRO Workers: India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal to provide insurance cover to casual workers employed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) to build infrastructure in remote areas. The scheme will provide INR 10 lakh ($13,500) to the families of casual-paid labourers in the event of death. The insurance scheme will serve as a social security and welfare measure and will go a long way in securing the livelihoods of their families. BRO employs up to one lakh casual workers for infrastructure projects in border areas. BRO has completed around 300 crucial projects during the last three years at a cost of ₹8,000 crore.

 

2. 15 January – Indian Army Day: Indian Army Day is celebrated every year on 15 January. This year, we are celebrating 76th Army Day. This day is celebrated to commemorate the victory of the Indian Army over the British Army. On 15 January 1949, Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa became the first Commander-in-chief of the Indian Army and took over the authority from the British Commander-in-Chief General Francis Butcher. Theme 2024 – In Service of the Nation The Indian Army hold its 76th Army Day parade at the 11 Gorkha Rifles Regimental Centre in Lucknow — the headquarters of the Army’s Central Command.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Lionel Messi Won The Best FIFA Men's Player 2023: Argentina superstar Lionel Messi won the best men's player award for the second successive year after winning a tie-breaker with Erling Haaland. Spain's Aitana Bonmati was the stand-out winner for the women's best player award.

Pep Guardiola was honoured with the best men's manager award.

 

2. Australian cricketer Shaun Marsh announces retirement: Australian cricketer Shaun Marsh has announced his retirement from professional cricket. With the Melbourne Renegades’ fixture against Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League being his last assignment. Marsh also had a great stint with Australia across formats, scoring more than 5,200 runs and 13 centuries, while his last outing for the Kangaroos was against Sri Lanka at The Oval during the 2019 ODI World Cup.

 

3. Rohit Sharma Become First Men’s Player To Play 150 T20Is: India captain Rohit Sharma has become the first men’s player to play 150 T20Is. Rohit achieved this feat during the second T20I match against Afghanistan at the Holkar Cricket Stadium. Rohit returned to India’s T20I setup for the first time since the end of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022. He led his side to a 6-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the first T20I in Mohali. Rohit also secured another milestone by becoming the first player to win 100 T20I Stirling has played 134 matches in his career. His Ireland colleague, George Dockrell, is third on the list, having played 128 matches.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Yes Bank deploys Veefin’s SmartFin supply chain finance solution: Yes Bank has announced the launch of SmartFin, an end-to-end digital supply chain finance (SCF) platform, powered by Veefin Solutions. The SmartFin platform, through its end-to-end digital offerings, will help us drive the required operational & financial efficiencies for all stakeholders. Veefin continues investing in its SCF product capabilities to see that our clients have the latest SCF technology in the market.

 

2. RBI imposes fine on Dhanlaxmi Bank, ESAF Small Finance Bank, Punjab and Sind Bank over non-compliances: The Reserve Bank has imposed penalties totalling ₹2.49 crore on three banks, including Dhanlaxmi Bank and Punjab and Sind Bank, for contravention of regulatory norms. A penalty of ₹1.20 crore has been slapped on Dhanlaxmi Bank for non-compliance with certain directions on ‘Loans and Advances — Statutory and Other Restrictions’, KYC, and certain norms related to interest rate on deposits. Further, a fine of ₹1 crore has been imposed on Punjab and Sind Bank for non-compliance with certain directions on ‘Loans and Advances — Statutory and Other Restrictions.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. US Air Force officer Madison Marsh crowned Miss America 2024: Madison Marsh( 22-year-old) was crowned the Miss America 2024. Madison, a second lieutenant in the US Air Force and master's student at the Harvard Kennedy School's public policy program, won the beauty pageant in Orlando, Florida. The Miss Colorado 2023 winner is the first-ever active-duty Air Force officer to receive the national title. Ellie Breaux of Texas is the first runner-up in the beauty pageant.

Daily GK Update- 15th Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Karnataka Govt. Launched ‘Yuva Nidhi’ Scheme For Jobless Youth: Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar have launched the Yuva Nidhi scheme in Shivamogga, Karnataka. The scheme offers financial aid to graduates and diploma holders who are yet to get a job, but only for a maximum of two years. Training will be provided to the graduates and diploma holders who register themselves on the Skill Connect portal of the State Government. The government has promised ₹3,000 per month to degree holders and ₹1,500 per month to diploma holders who were unable to get a job in the past six months and are not pursuing higher studies. The aid will be paid for two years. The launch was held on the birth anniversary of youth icon Swami Vivekananda.

 

2. PM Modi Inaugurates 27th National Youth Festival In Nashik: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the 27th National Youth Festival in Nashik, Maharashtra. The festival, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, celebrated youthful talent and skills across the nation. He also witnessed a march past by the state’s team and a cultural program on the theme of ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047 – Yuva ke liye, Yuva ke dwara’ which included Rhythmic gymnastics, Mallakhamb, Yogasana and National Youth Festival song.

 

3. First ‘Made In India’ Memory Chip Is Expected To Be Produced In 2024: Ashwini Vaishnav: Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnav said the first ‘Made In India’ Memory chip is expected to be produced in Gujarat this year. Addressing a seminar on Semiconductors and Electronics at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in Gandhinagar, the Minister said Micron’s investment in Gujarat will pave the way for creating a Semiconductor ecosystem in India. The Minister also asked Semicon Giant Micron to undertake research in the semiconductor industry and set up a research centre at IIT Gandhinagar. During the summit, an MoU was exchanged between Gujarat Government and Korean company Simmtec. Also, partnership agreements were signed between Micron and Nantech, and Cisco and Nantec.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. International Camel Festival Organized In Bikaner, Rajasthan: The three-day International Camel Festival has organized with great fervor in the culturally rich district of Bikaner, Rajasthan.

The festival commenced with an enthralling Heritage Walk, setting the stage for a celebration of folk culture that captivated both domestic and foreign tourists. The Tourism Department organized Rangoli, Mehndi, and drawing competitions for the participants at Bikaji ki Tekri, with the winners receiving mementoes in recognition of their skills and talents. Camels have always been an integral part of Bikaner’s culture and history. The Bikaner army had a Camel corps called “Ganga Risala”, which played a vital role in both the World Wars and conflicts in Somaliland, Egypt, and China.

2. 2nd International AYUSH Conference Inaugurated In Dubai: The second International AYUSH Conference and Exhibition was inaugurated at the Dubai World Trade Centre, orchestrated by the Science India Forum and the Ministry of AYUSH. The three-day event was dedicated to showcasing AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy) as a reliable healthcare system for preventing and managing Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases (NCDs). The focal theme of the conference, “Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases – Prevention & Management through AYUSH,” aims to highlight AYUSH as a prevention-oriented and cost-effective approach to creating a disease-free society.

 

3. South Korea Bans Trade Of Dog Meat In New Law: The South Korean parliament has passed a Bill banning the production and sale of dog meat, in a decision that campaigners hailed as a “historic victory” for animal welfare. Although the Bill does not criminalise the consumption of dog meat, it aims to ban the sale, distribution, butchery, and breeding of dogs for their meat by 2027.

 

4. Denmark’s King Frederik X Takes The Throne After Abdication Of Queen: Denmark’s King Frederik X took the throne after the abdication of his mother Queen Margrethe II. For many in Denmark, his mother Margrethe was the only monarch they had ever known. But her shock abdication, after more than five decades on the throne, paved the way for her son, the former Crown Prince Frederik, to succeed her. The Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen then publicly proclaimed the King’s accession from the balcony of the palace – a tradition in place since the constitution of 1849.

 

5. William Lai Elected President Of Taiwan: William Lai, also known as Lai Ching-te, from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) won Taiwan’s presidential election. Lai, the current vice president of Taiwan garnered around 40% of the vote share after counting was done from over 90% of polling stations. He was competing against two other candidates, including Hou Yu-ih from the conservative Kuomintang (KMT) and former Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je from the Taiwan People’s Party which was only founded in 2019. Lai, 64, grew up poor in a coal-mining village in northern Taiwan. His father, a miner, died in a coal mine disaster when he was two years old. Lai was brought up by his mother alongside five siblings.

 

6. 14 January – International Kite Day: International Kite Day is observed on 14 January every year. The day celebrates the end of winter and the onset of summer. It also marks the arrival of harvest season. It is believed that the kite was invented in China in the 28th century BC and the popularity of kite-flying peaked in Lucknow in the 1700s. Benjamin Franklin, an American scientist and author, stated that lightning is electricity with the help of a kite. International Kite Day was first observed in Gujarat. Individuals from across the globe came to show off their kites

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. 14 January 2024 – 7th Armed Forces Veterans Day: Armed Forces Veterans Day is celebrated every year on 14th January. The day was first celebrated in 2016. The 14th of January is commemorated as Armed Forces Veterans Day as a mark of respect and recognition for the services rendered by Field Marshall KM Cariappa. He was the first Indian Chief of the Indian Army. He retired from service on 14th January 1953.

 

SPORTS

 

1. MP emerges overall Champion of first ever Beach Games held in Diu: Madhya Pradesh has emerged as the overall champion at the inaugural Beach Games 2024, held at the pristine blue flag-certified Ghoghla Beach in Diu. The landlocked state secured a staggering total of 18 medals, including an impressive haul of 7 golds, highlighting the depth of talent within its contingent. The competition witnessed 1404 young athletes from 28 states and Union Territories participating in a diverse array of disciplines. Maharashtra clinched 14 medals, including 3 golds, while Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and hosts Dadra, Nagar Haveli, Diu & Daman secured 12 medals each. Notably, Assam secured 8 medals, with an impressive 5 golds.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI Launches Green Rupee Term Deposit: State Bank of India (SBI) has launched the SBI Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD) of 1,111 days, 1,777 days, and 2,222 days tenor for resident individuals, non-individuals, and NRI customers. The deposit has been introduced with the aim of mobilizing funds to support environment-friendly initiatives and projects, thereby fostering the growth of a green finance ecosystem in India. Currently, the scheme is available through the branch network, and it will soon be made available through other digital channels such as YONO and Internet Banking Services (INB).

 

2. Govt approves reappointment of RBI Deputy Governor Michael Patra for 1 year: Reserve Bank of India Deputy Governor Michael D. Patra, who is in charge of monetary policy and is a member of the monetary policy committee, has been given a one-year extension ahead of the end of his tenure. Patra, with RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das, played a vital role in dealing with COVID-related impact on the economy. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the re-appointment of Dr. Michael Debabrata Patra, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a further period of one year with effect from 15.01.2024 or until further orders. Patra was appointed as RBI Deputy Governor in January 2020, and last year he got an extension of one year.