Daily GK Update- 24th Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Over 1500 farmers invited to witness Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path: The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has invited over 1500 farmers to witness the 75th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path. These farmers are beneficiaries of various central government schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana. During their stay, the farmers will also undergo training on key government schemes like the Agri Infrastructure Fund, National Seeds Cooperation, and Per Drop More Crop.

 

2. IICF To Build ‘Masjid Muhammed Bin Abdullah’ Mosque In Ayodhya: The Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) has announced the commencement of the construction of a grand mosque in Ayodhya, starting this May. Haji Arfat Shaikh, the head of the development committee of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) that is overseeing the mosque project. The mosque, named “Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah” after Prophet Muhammad, aims to foster unity and goodwill among people, transcending religious differences. Hindu zealots razed a 16th-century mosque in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya in 1992, saying that it was built over an ancient temple on the site that marked the birthplace of Hindu god-king Ram.

 

3. PM Modi Launched ‘PM Suryodaya Yojana’: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the ‘Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana’, a government scheme under which one crore households will get rooftop solar power systems. According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s website, solar power installed capacity in India has reached around 73.31 GW as of December 2023. Meanwhile, rooftop solar installed capacity is around 11.08 GW as of December 2023. In 2014, the government launched the Rooftop Solar Programme that aimed to achieve a cumulative installed capacity of 40,000 megawatts (MW) or 40 gigawatts (GW) by 2022 — watt is a unit of power and is calculated as the amount of energy used over time, specifically one Joule per second. However, this target couldn’t be achieved.

 

4. Tarun Khulbe appoints as CEO of Jindal Stainless: Tarun Khulbe has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Jindal Stainless Ltd. He has been serving as the Whole Time Director of the company since May 2018. He will continue to hold the post besides that of the CEO. Khulbe has around 35 years of industry experience in business development, supply chain management, people practices, and IT enablement. Khulbe joined JSL as a general manager for the cold rolling mills at Hisar, Haryana, in October 2004. Part of O P Jindal Group, Jindal Stainless is India’s largest stainless-steel manufacturer.

 

5. 24 January – National Girl Child Day: National Girl Child Day is observed every year on 24 January. Objective- To raise awareness of the difficulties that girls in Indian society endure. The day promotes equal opportunities in education, healthcare, and nutrition while raising awareness of the injustices that girls face. Every year on January 24, people celebrate National Girl Child Day, which commemorates the inaugural anniversary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Scheme (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child) on January 22, 2015. The Ministry of Women and Child Development launched this day in 2008.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World’s Tallest Ambedkar Statue Unveiled In Andhra Pradesh: World’s tallest statue of Dr BR Ambedkar, who is known as the architect and developer of the Indian Constitution, was unveiled in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh by the state government. It is going to be the tallest statue of Ambedkar. One of the tallest Ambedkar statues outside India is situated in Maryland, US. This Ambedkar statue is called the Statue of Justice and it is around 206 feet from the ground. This Ambedkar statue in Andhra Pradesh is under the list of top 50 tallest statues around the world, in which Statue of Unity tops. The height of the Statue of Justice is around 125 feet and the pedestal where this statue stands is 81 feet, thus the total height of the statue becomes 206 feet from the ground.

 

2. WHO certifies Cabo Verde as malaria-free: The World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Cabo Verde as a malaria-free country, marking a significant achievement in global health. With this announcement, Cabo Verde joins the ranks of 43 countries and 1 territory that WHO has awarded this certification. Cabo Verde is the third country to be certified in the WHO African region, joining Mauritius and Algeria which were certified in 1973 and 2019 respectively.

Malaria burden is the highest on the African continent, which accounted for approximately 95% of global malaria cases and 96% of related deaths in 2021. Cabo Verde, an archipelago of 10 islands in the Central Atlantic Ocean, has faced significant malaria challenges. Before the 1950s, all islands were affected by malaria.

 

3. North Korea conducts test of underwater nuclear weapons system: North Korea has conducted a test of its underwater nuclear weapons system in a protest against joint military drills by South Korea, the United States, and Japan. The test of the “Haeil-5-23” system, a name North Korea has given to its nuclear-capable underwater attack drones, was carried out by the defence ministry’s think tank in the waters off its east coast. Dubbed “Haeil”, which means tsunami, the new drone system was first reportedly tested in March 2023. it was intended to make sneak attacks in enemy waters and destroy naval strike groups and major operational ports by creating a large radioactive wave through an underwater explosion.

 

4. India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise ‘Khanjar’ commences in HP: The 11th edition of India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise Khanjar started at the Special Forces Training School in Himachal Pradesh’s Bakloh. The exercise is being conducted from January 22 to February 3. The exercise will provide an opportunity for both sides to fortify defence ties while addressing common concerns of international terrorism and extremism. The Indian Army contingent, comprising 20 personnel, is being represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), according to the press release. Meanwhile, the Kyrgyzstan contingent comprising 20 personnel is represented by the Scorpion Brigade.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India, Egypt begin 2nd edition of joint exercise ‘CYCLONE’: The Indian Army contingent comprising 25 personnel reached Egypt to take part in the 2nd edition of a joint exercise called ‘Cyclone’ between special forces of India and Egypt. The exercise will be conducted at Anshas, Egypt from 22nd January to 1st February 2024. The first edition of the exercise was conducted last year in India. The exercise is aimed to acquaint both sides with each other’s operating procedures in the backdrop of special operations in desert/semi-desert terrain under chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The exercise will involve the planning and execution of special operations in the sub-conventional domain and conducted in three phases.

The first phase will include military exhibitions and tactical interactions.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Ravi Shastri received lifetime achievement award: World Cup-winning former India all-rounder and ex-head coach Ravi Shastri has received the prestigious lifetime achievement award in the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) Awards in Hyderabad. While Shubman Gill received the Polly Umrigar Award for the best men’s cricketer of the year for 2023. Jasprit Bumrah won the honour in 2019, a year after making his Test debut. Gill scored 2154 runs in international cricket, most by any batter in 2023. He hit 7 hundred, including an ODI double-hundred and his maiden T20I century.

Ravi Shastri played 80 Tests and 150 ODIs for India, scoring 6938 runs in international cricket, including 15 hundreds. He picked 280 wickets for India at the highest level. The left-arm spinner was part of India’s World Cup triumph in 1983 and the 1985 Champions of Champions triumph.

 

2. Tai Tzu Ying clinches first women’s singles title at India Open: Tai Tzu Ying (Taiwan) secures her maiden women’s singles India Open title, defeating Chen Yu Fei in a dominant straight-game victory. The former world number one from Chinese Taipei is set to retire after this season. The summit clash rematch of the Tokyo Olympic final sees Tai Tzu Ying prevail 21-16, 21-12, highlighting her status as one of the game’s greatest players.

 

3. Madrid to host Spanish F1 GP from 2026: Madrid will become the new host of the Spanish Grand Prix starting from 2026. This decade-long commitment will see the heart of Spain’s capital transformed into a thrilling F1 racing venue, with the action set to unfold around IFEMA Madrid’s exhibition center. The announcement heralds a fresh era for the prestigious event, which has been traditionally held at the Circuit de Catalunya near Barcelona since 1991. The transition will see Madrid hosting the Grand Prix for 10 years, from 2026 to 2035, introducing a brand-new circuit to the world of Formula 1​​​. The new circuit in Madrid, designed around the IFEMA exhibition centre, will feature a mix of street and non-street sections, spanning 5.47 kilometres with 20 corners.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Japan achieved a historic soft moon landing with SLIM Mission: Japan has become the 5th country to achieve a soft moon landing with the successful deployment of the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) spacecraft. The mission, led by Japan’s space agency JAXA, marks a significant leap in precision landing technology with potential applications for future lunar exploration. Japan’s Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (Slim) spacecraft successfully touched down on the lunar surface on Friday, making Japan the fifth nation to achieve a soft landing on the Moon. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has confirmed the landing of the spacecraft equipped with a variety of instruments, including a camera, a laser altimeter, and a magnetometer, which will be used to study the Moon’s geology, environment, and resources

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Karpoori Thakur to be awarded Bharat Ratna posthumously: Former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur, known for championing the cause of the backward classes, will be awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously. Karpoori Thakur, a name synonymous with social justice and the championing of backward classes in North India. In November 1978, he implemented a 26 per cent reservation for backward classes in Bihar. Thakur's journey from humble beginnings in Pitaunjhia village, now known as Karpoorii Gram.

 

2. UP Govt to Honour Dr. Ritu and Naveen with ‘UP Gaurav Samman’: The government of Uttar Pradesh has announced the prestigious ‘UP Gaurav Samman’ award for two distinguished personalities – eminent scientist Ritu and renowned entrepreneur Naveen. This award highlights the government’s commitment to acknowledging excellence and inspiring future generations. Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, who resides in Lucknow, played a crucial role in the development of India’s Mars Orbiter Mission, Mangalyaan. She also served as the Deputy Operations Director for this mission. Mangalyaan was one of ISRO’s greatest achievements, making India the fourth country in the world to reach Mars.

Daily GK Update- 23rd Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi launches new rooftop solar power scheme: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the ‘Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana’, a government scheme under which one crore households will get rooftop solar power systems. This isn’t the first scheme for promoting the installation of rooftop solar power systems, though. In 2014, the government launched the Rooftop Solar Programme that aimed to achieve a cumulative installed capacity of 40,000 megawatts (MW) or  40 gigawatts (GW) by 2022.

 

2. Final Electoral roll of J&K published with a total of 86.93 lakh voters: The final electoral roll of Jammu and Kashmir has been published with a total of 86.93 lakh voters. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Jammu and Kashmir Pandurang K Pole said that out of 86.93 lakh voters, 44.34 lakh are males and 42.58 lakh females. More than 2.31 lakh voters have been added to the roll. The release of the electoral roll paves the way for holding of various polls in the Union Territory.

 

3. Andhra CM Jagan Reddy unveils 125ft tall Ambedkar statue: Andhra Pradesh CM Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy unveiled the 206 feet tall statue of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar at Swaraj Maidan in Vijayawada. The statue, which stands atop an 81-foot pedestal at the Smriti Vanam, takes the total height of the monument to 206 ft, the tallest Dr Ambedkar structure ever built in the world.

It will be included in the list of top 50 tallest statues in the world. It is constructed using approximately 400 tons of steel.

 

4. Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya celebrate 52nd Statehood Day: Three northeastern states– Tripura, Meghalaya, and Manipur– on 21 January celebrated their 52nd Statehood Day.

With the introduction of the North-East Area (Re-organisation) Act 1971, Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya attained statehood on January 21, 1972. At the time of independence, the North East comprised the Assam plains, hill districts, and North Eastern Frontier Tracts (NEFT) of the North-Eastern border. Manipur and Tripura states were granted Union Territory status in 1949. Nagaland achieved statehood on December 1, 1963.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Namibian cheetah Jwala gives birth to three cubs at Kuno: A Namibian cheetah named Jwala gave birth to three cubs at Kuno National park in Madhya Pradesh, just weeks after another Namibian cheetah, Aasha, gave birth to three cubs. Jwala (Namibian name Siyaya) had given birth to four cubs last March. However, only one of them survived. Currently, there are a total of seven cubs being looked after by the Kuno park officials.

 

2. Japan becomes 5th Country to Land On the Moon: Japan became the fifth country in history to reach the moon when one of its spacecrafts without astronauts successfully made a soft landing on the lunar surface. The craft’s solar panel had failed to generate power, which could shorten its activity on the moon. The SLIM’s small rovers were launched as planned and that data was being transmitted back to Earth. SLIM’s solar battery wasn’t generating power and that it had only a few more hours of battery life.

 

3. India, Cuba signed an MoU on digital public infrastructure collaboration: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has signed an MoU with the Ministry of Communications of the Republic of Cuba on Cooperation in the field of Sharing Successful Digital Solutions Implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation in New Delhi. The MoU intends to promote digital transformation through capacity-building programs, exchange of best practices, and other collaborative activities to mutually benefit the digital ecosystems of both countries. India to assist Cuba in adopting Digital Public Infrastructure, fostering development partnerships for enhanced collaboration.

 

4. Arevalo sworn in as Guatemala’s president: Anti-corruption crusader Bernardo Arevalo was sworn in as Guatemala’s president. Guatemala’s attorney general, an ally of Giammattei, has made several attempts to hinder Arevalo’s transition to the presidency, including trying to strip Arevalo and his vice president of legal immunity, attempting to suspend his Semilla party and annul the election. Arevalo won August elections by a landslide and about 9 hours after his inauguration was scheduled to start, he took the oath as president, replacing conservative politician Alejandro Giammattei whose government has been engulfed in corruption scandals. Giammattei skipped the ceremony.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India-Kyrgyzstan Army drill starts in HP’s Bakloh: The 11th edition of India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise ‘Khanjar’ commenced at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh. It is an annual event conducted alternatively in India and Kyrgyzstan. The aim of the exercise is to acquaint both sides with each other’s operating procedures in the backdrop of special operations in desert and semi-desert terrain.

 

2. 23 January – Parakram Diwas: Parakram Diwas is observed every year on 23 January to mark the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle.

This day is celebrated to honour his indomitable spirit and invaluable contribution to India’s independence. This year nation observed the 127th edition of Parakram Diwas 2024. Parakram Diwas 2024 is a national event celebrated annually in India since 2021. The day serves as a reminder of the courage and determination of one of India’s most revered freedom fighters.

 

 

SPORTS

 

1. Tata Group to continue as IPL title sponsor until 2028: Tata Group will pay Rs 2,500 crore, the highest-ever sponsorship amount in the history of the Indian Premier League, as it won the title sponsorship rights of IPL, which has become a decacorn and is the richest cricket league in the world. Tata has won the rights for five years. The TATA Group earlier held the title sponsorship rights for the IPL in 2022 and 2023, paying Rs 670 crore for the two-year rights. Tata is also the title sponsor of the Women’s Premier League, the largest women’s T20 league globally. Tata retained title sponsorship rights from 2024 to 2028 by matching Aditya Birla Group’s (ABG) bid, sources had told ET earlier. Aditya Birla Group and Tata Sons were the only companies in contention for the title sponsorship rights of IPL.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Yes Bank becomes first Indian bank to conduct export finance transaction: Yes Bank became the first Indian bank to execute an export finance transaction on the International Trade Financing Services Platform (ITFS) of RXIL Global IFSC Limited (RXIL), a leading cross-border fintech company registered under the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA).

This strategic partnership facilitates arranging credit for exporters and importers from both Indian and Global Institutions through Factoring, Forfaiting.

 

2. IREDA, Indian Overseas Bank ink pact to co-finance renewable energy projects: State-owned Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) has partnered with the Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) to co-finance renewable energy projects in India. The agreement was signed in the presence of IREDA CMD Pradip Kumar Das and IOB MD and CEO Ajay Kumar Srivastava in the national capital. The partnership aims to streamline loan syndication and underwriting processes, management of Trust and Retention Account (TRA) for IREDA borrowers, and work towards fixed interest rates over a 3-4-year period for IREDA borrowings. This collaboration builds upon IREDA’s successful partnerships with other prominent financial institutions, including Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Union Bank of India, India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited, and Bank of Maharashtra.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Kachchhi Kharek of Gujarat got GI tag: Kachchhi Kharek, the indigenous variety of dates of Kutch, has become the second fruit of Gujarat to get a geographical indication (GI) tag. The presence of dates in Kachchh (Kutch) is believed to be around 400–500 years old. It has become the second fruit of Gujarat to get a geographical indication (GI) tag, after Gir kesar mango. A geographical indication or GI is used on products that have a specific geographical origin that are due to that origin.

 

2. Boman Irani to receive a special honour from British Parliament: Actor Boman Irani will be conferred with a special honour by the British Parliament for his contributions to Indian cinema.

The actor has also been invited as a featured speaker at Oxford University and The London School of Economics. Mr. Irani is known for ‘Munna Bhai’ franchise, ‘3 Idiots’, ‘Khosla Ka Ghosla’, and others.

 

3. Ravi Shastri Shubman Gill to be honoured at BCCI Awards: Ravi Shastri is set to receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement award in the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) Awards, slated to take place in Hyderabad. Shastri is India's 1983 World Cup-winning member, and the former national head coach. Shastri, a veteran of 80 Tests and 150 ODIs, has been a committed servant of Indian cricket since his playing days. Indian opener Shubman Gill will also bag the men's cricketer honour for his outstanding run across formats in 2023.

 

4. Bangalore & Delhi Airports jointly bagged best airport award: 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. Air India has been recognized for International Connectivity while Alliance Air has recognition for Regional Connectivity. Air India Express was declared a Sustainability Champion.

GMR Group has been honoured as the Best Aviation Service Provider while Skyways Air Services for cargo services, Indian Oil Skytanking Pvt. Ltd for Fuel Services, GMR for Aero Academy.

Daily GK Update- 22nd Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi unveils Ramlalla Idol in Ayodhya: The much-anticipated Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shri Ramlalla unfolded today in Ayodhya, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi taking the lead in conducting rituals at the newly constructed majestic temple. Amidst the vibrant atmosphere, the Prime Minister also unveiled the idol of Ram Lalla in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. To the enchanting Bhajan of "Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram," choppers showered flower petals over the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple premises.

 

2. Kishan Reddy inaugurates five new Galleries in Hyderabad: Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy inaugurates five diverse galleries at Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, showcasing ancient Indian sculptures, Bidriware, antique lamps, European bronze statues. The Indian Sculpture Gallery has some of the 40 sculptures dated back to the 2nd century B.C. like an ‘Anantsayana Vishnu’ from the Kakatiya period. The Bidriware Gallery presents 300 unique objects which include exquisite ‘Huqqa’ bases and unique jugs while The Lamp.

 

3. BJP President Nadda launches Gaon Chalo Abhiyaan in Delhi: BJP President JP Nadda launched the Gaon Chalo Abhiyaan in Delhi on Saturday to be run from 4th to 11th February. Under the Gaon Chalo Abhiyaan, BJP workers will go to seven lakh villages and all urban booths to take the work done by Narendra Modi government to the last person. Over 30 lakh party workers will participate in the Abhiyaan.

 

4. Union Minister Puri launches first pilot project to make jet fuel from alco: The first pilot technology project to make jet fuel from alcohol was inaugurated by Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri in Pune. This project will produce sustainable biological aviation fuel or SAF. This pilot project has been set up in the research and development department of Praj Udyog Group in Pirangut Industrial Estate near Pune.

 

5. Dhankhar attends foundation day ceremony of Indira Gandhi Agricultural Univ: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar attended the foundation day ceremony of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. On this occasion, Vice President Shri Dhankhar also launched three products Sanjeevani Instant,\ Sanjeevani Madhu Kalk and Sanjeevani Rice Bar made from the new immunobooster and anti-cancer variety of paddy 'Sanjeevani' developed by Indira Gandhi Agricultural University.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Qatar set to sign cheaper long-term LNG deal with India: The Indian companies and Qatar Energy have agreed on terms and a contract could be signed by the end of this month or early in February. It would extend contracts set to expire in 2028 for the supply of 8.5 million metric tons per year (tpy) LNG to Indian buyers and play a part in meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aim to raise the share of natural gas in the country's energy mix to 15 per cent by 2030 from 6.3 per cent now.

 

2. UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis arrived to India: The President of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Dennis Francis arrived in New Delhi on a five-day visit to India. The visit is an opportunity to advance India-UN ties and exchange views on India’s priorities and global challenges. He will also deliver a public address at the Indian Council of World Affairs on Multilateralism and Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability.

 

3. EAM S Jaishankar to co-chair 6th India-Nigeria Joint Commission Meeting: The President of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Dennis Francis arrived in New Delhi on a five-day visit to India. The visit is an opportunity to advance India-UN ties and exchange views on India’s priorities and global challenges. He will also deliver a public address at the Indian Council of World Affairs on Multilateralism and Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Tata Group to continue as IPL title sponsor until 2028: Tata Group will pay Rs 2,500 crore, the highest-ever sponsorship amount in the history of the Indian Premier League, as it won the title sponsorship rights of IPL, which has become a decacorn and is the richest cricket league in the world. Tata has won the rights for five years. The TATA Group earlier held the title sponsorship rights for the IPL in 2022 and 2023, paying Rs 670 crore for the two-year rights. Tata is also the title sponsor of the Women’s Premier League, the largest women’s T20 league globally. Tata retained title sponsorship rights from 2024 to 2028 by matching Aditya Birla Group’s (ABG) bid, sources had told ET earlier. Aditya Birla Group and Tata Sons were the only companies in contention for the title sponsorship rights of IPL.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IREDA, Indian Overseas Bank ink pact to co-finance renewable energy projects: State-owned Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) has partnered with the Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) to co-finance renewable energy projects in India. The agreement was signed in the presence of IREDA CMD Pradip Kumar Das and IOB MD and CEO Ajay Kumar Srivastava in the national capital. The partnership aims to streamline loan syndication and underwriting processes, management of Trust and Retention Account (TRA) for IREDA borrowers, and work towards fixed interest rates over a 3-4-year period for IREDA borrowings. This collaboration builds upon IREDA’s successful partnerships with other prominent financial institutions, including Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Union Bank of India, India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited, and Bank of Maharashtra.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Bangalore & Delhi Airports jointly bagged best airport award: 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. Air India has been recognized for International Connectivity while Alliance Air has recognition for Regional Connectivity. Air India Express was declared a Sustainability Champion.

GMR Group has been honoured as the Best Aviation Service Provider while Skyways Air Services for cargo services, Indian Oil Skytanking Pvt. Ltd for Fuel Services, GMR for Aero Academy.

Daily GK Update- 21st Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi released commemorative postage stamps, book on Ram Temple: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released a series of commemorative postage stamps dedicated to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and a book featuring stamps from around the world honouring the revered deity. The intricate design of the stamps captures the essence of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, with six distinct components. These include the Ram Mandir itself, the timeless Choupai ‘Mangal Bhavan Amangal Hari’, a radiant depiction of the sun, the sacred Saryu River, and sculptures found in and around the temple. The six stamps within the collection represent key figures and elements from the Ramayana. These include the Ram Temple, Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman, Jatayu, Kevatraj, and Ma Shabri.

 

2. Cabinet approves Coal India power projects through JVs: The Union Cabinet has approved setting up of two pithead thermal power plants through joint ventures by subsidiaries South Eastern Coalfields (SECL) and Mahanadi Coalfields (MCL) aimed at providing cheaper power. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Narendra Modi approved proposals to set up a 1×660 MW thermal power plant at Amarkantak Thermal Power Station in Chachai, Madhya Pradesh. The CCEA also approved a 2×800 MW Thermal Power Plant in Sundergarh, Odisha.

The plant at Amarkantak thermal power station will be set through a joint venture between SECL and MPPGCL. The proposal for equity investment at a capital of Rs 823 crore by SECL and 49 percent equity investment in JV company with an estimated project capex of Rs 5,600 crore has been approved.

 

3. Ministry of Tourism to organize “Bharat Parv” from 23-31 January: The nine-day extravaganza, part of the Republic Day celebrations, is set to unfold from January 23rd to January 31, at the Lawns and Gyan Path in front of the historic Red Fort in Delhi. Since its inception in 2016, Bharat Parv has evolved into a grand celebration, bringing together the rich tapestry of India’s cultural heritage, citizen-centric initiatives, and vibrant traditions. The event promises a captivating blend of Republic Day Parade tableaux, dynamic cultural performances, engaging presentations, and a feast of delectable delicacies from every corner of the country.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Cabinet approves creation of posts for 16th Finance Commission: The Cabinet has approved the creation of three officer-level posts for assisting the 16th Finance Commission, chaired by Arvind Panagariya. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the creation of three posts at the level of Joint Secretary i.e. two posts of Joint Secretary and one post of Economic Adviser, for the 16th Finance Commission. The newly created posts are required to assist the Commission in carrying out its functions. All other posts in the commission have already been created as per the delegated powers. In December 2023, the government appointed the former vice chairman of Niti Aayog Panagariya as the chairman of the 16th Finance Commission. While, Ritvik Ranjanam Pandey was named as the Secretary to the Commission.

 

2. Praveen Achuthan Kutty appointed as MD & CEO of DCB Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Praveen Achuthan Kutty as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DCB Bank. The appointment is for a period of three years with effect from April 29, 2024, the bank said in a regulatory filing. The term of the bank’s MD & CEO Murali Natrajan ends on April 28, 2024. Praveen Achuthan Kutty has over 32 years of experience in all aspects of Retail & SME banking.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. EIL conferred with SCOPE Eminence Award: Engineers India Limited (EIL) has been conferred with the prestigious SCOPE Eminence Award in the category of Women Empowerment for the period 2019-20. The award recognizes EIL’s exemplary commitment to fostering an inclusive & diverse work environment and celebrates the outstanding achievement of its women workforce.

The award was presented to EIL by the Vice-President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar and received by EIL’s Director (Finance) Sanjay Jindal and Director (Commercial) Atul Gupta, during an award ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

 

2. President Murmu presented Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar: President Droupadi Murmu has presented the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar to 19 children for their exceptional achievements. The children, comprising 9 boys and 10 girls, hail from 18 States and Union Territories, including two aspirational districts. The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, 2024 will be given in six categories — art and culture (7), bravery (1), innovation (1), science and technology (1), social service (4), and sports (5). The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, a government initiative, aims to recognize and celebrate the exceptional achievements of children aged 5 to 18 years. Each awardee will receive a medal and a certificate.

Daily GK Update- 20th Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi inaugurates Boeing’s India Engineering and Technology Center: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated Boeing’s new global engineering and technology centre campus near Bengaluru city. Built at a cost of Rs 1,600 crore, the 43-acre Boeing India Engineering and Technology Centre (BIETC) campus is the plane-maker’s largest such investment outside the US.

The campus at Hightech Defence and Aerospace Park in Devanahalli on the city outskirts will become a cornerstone for partnerships with the vibrant startups, private and government ecosystem in India, and will help develop next-generation products and services for the global aerospace and defence industry. PM also launched the ‘Boeing Sukanya Programme’ that “aims to support the entry of more girl children from across India into the country’s growing aviation sector.

 

2. West Bengal CM inaugurates 47th International Kolkata Book Fair: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has inaugurated the 47th edition of the International Kolkata Book Fair. The United Kingdom is the theme country for this year’s fair, which has about 1,000 stalls and is scheduled to run from January 18 to January 31 at Salt Lake’s Central Park here. Nearly 20 countries were participating in this year’s book fair, which has become a big festival for Kolkata.

This year marks the U.K. as the theme country for the fourth time at the International Kolkata Book Fair. The U.K. pavilion is designed to immerse visitors in the essence of British culture, highlighting its modern contributions to education, the English language, and the arts.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, France to jointly fund science research projects: India and France have agreed to jointly fund scientific research projects in the fields of health, decarbonized hydrogen, marine sciences, and applied mathematics. The decision was taken during a meeting of the Indo-French Joint Committee on Science and Technology (JCST) in the India International Science Festival. The two sides also pointed out the key role of mobility and networking in preparing future cutting-edge scientific cooperation.

 

2. WHO Issues Guidance on Healthcare AI Ethics: The World Health Organization published comprehensive recommendations on the ethical governance of emerging large multi-modal AI models (LMM) increasingly used in healthcare like symptom analysis chatbots. Their rapid uncontrolled adoption makes determining proper oversight urgent. Key Healthcare Application Areas WHO ..

 

3. Alliance for Global Good-Gender Equity and Equality: At the 2024 World Economic Forum in Davos organized around the theme of “Rebuilding Trust”, India participated embodying the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – ready to shape a shared future underpinned by global cooperation. A key outcome was the launch ..

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Daljit Singh Chaudhary appointed Director General of SSB: Senior IPS officer Daljit Singh Chaudhary has appointed as the Director General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). Chaudhary, a 1990 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre, is presently working as Special Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved his appointment as the DG, SSB for a period up to November 30, 2025. The SSB guards India’s frontiers with Nepal and Bhutan.

 

SPORTS

 

2. South Africa host ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup 2024: South Africa is hosting the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup 2024. The World Cup started on 19 January and will conclude on 11 February. This 50-over tournament will feature 16 teams, with a total of 41 matches scheduled to be played. The initial phase of the tournament organizes the teams into four groups, each containing four teams. This will be followed by the Super Six stage, comprising two groups of six teams each. This stage will be crucial in determining which teams advance to the semifinals and ultimately compete in the final. The ICC U19 World Cup 2024 in India will be broadcast on Star Sports Network TV channels. The live streaming will be available on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website for free.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. ICICI Bank Canada Launches ‘Money2India (Canada)’ Mobile Banking App: ICICI Bank Canada, a subsidiary of ICICI Bank Ltd., has launched the app Money2India, which allows customers of any Canadian bank to send money to any bank in India without an account with ICICI Bank Canada.

Customers can send money directly through the app via Visa or Mastercard. Customers can send up to $22,446 in a single transaction and can set up recurring transfers. The app features two-factor authentication and a one-time password. The introduction of the ‘Money2India (Canada)’ app reflects our commitment to providing users with a convenient and enriched experience.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. EIL conferred with SCOPE Eminence Award: Engineers India Limited (EIL) has been conferred with the prestigious SCOPE Eminence Award in the category of Women Empowerment for the period 2019-20. The award recognizes EIL’s exemplary commitment to fostering an inclusive & diverse work environment and celebrates the outstanding achievement of its women workforce.

The award was presented to EIL by the Vice-President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar and received by EIL’s Director (Finance) Sanjay Jindal and Director (Commercial) Atul Gupta, during an award ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.