Daily GK Update 31st Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India’s employable youth up from 33.9% in 2014 to 51.3% in 2024: DEA: The Department of Economic Affairs, in its January 2024 review of the economy, said there is ample scope to mainstream skilling into education curriculum and upskilling a large chunk of the existing workforce into future-relevant skills on the back of a transformative journey in skill development in India in the last decade. According to the report, the push to mass skilling since 2014 has begun to pay dividends. “The employable percentage of final-year and pre-final-year students increased from 33.9% in 2014 to 51.3% in 2024,” it said citing the findings of the online Wheebox National Employability Test. Further, the across-the-board progress in skilling has manifested in India’s rising position in WorldSkills Competitions, from 39 in 2011 to 11 in 2022.

 

2. Sharat Chauhan appointed as Puducherry’s New Chief Secretary: Sharat Chauhan (Principal Commissioner, Finance, Planning and Investment Department, Arunachal Pradesh) is the new Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Puducherry. The outgoing Chief Secretary, Rajeev Verma, has been posted as Adviser to the Administrator in Chandigarh. Chauhan belongs to the 1994 AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory) cadre. Chauhan has also served as an Executive Officer to the Regional Director of the World Health Organisation (WHO), South East Asia Region.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. International Zebra Day:31st January: Each year on January 31st, International Zebra Day is observed to bring attention to the conservation and well-being of zebras, shedding light on the difficulties these iconic animals encounter. With their distinct stripe patterns and fascinating social behaviours, zebras remain captivating creatures that spark curiosity and admiration. Zebras are highly social animals that form tight-knit groups called harems.

 

2. Corruption index: India ranks 93 out of 180 countries: India ranked 93 out of 180 countries on the corruption perceptions index (CPI) for 2023, according to the latest report released by Transparency International. The index, which lists countries by their perceived levels of public sector corruption, ranked Denmark at the top, followed by Finland, New Zealand and Norway. In 2023, India’s overall score was 39 while in 2022, it was 40.

 

3. IMF upgrades India’s GDP growth rate to 6.7 per cent for current financial year: International Monetary Fund (IMF) has increased its GDP growth estimate for India to 6.7 per cent for the current financial year. It is 40 basis points higher than its previous forecast of 6.3 per cent. In its latest World Economic Outlook report, IMF also raised India’s upward medium-term GDP growth to 6.5 per cent for 2025 and 2026.

 

4. 31 January – International Zebra Day: International Zebra Day is observed annually on January 31. Objective – To raise awareness about the conservation of zebras. These unique animals, easily recognizable by their black and white stripes, are an integral part of Africa’s wildlife and ecosystem. According to the African Wildlife Foundation, their population has decreased by approximately 54% over the past three decades.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India nominates ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ for 2024-25 UNESCO WHL: The Ministry of Culture announced that India is nominating the 'Maratha Military Landscape' for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List for the 2024-25 cycle, with a total of 12 components included in this nomination. Suvarnadurg Fort is a part of the historic 'Maratha Military Landscape'. The 'Maratha Military Landscapes' represents extraordinary fortification and military system envisioned by the Maratha rulers, showcasing the vibrant history of India.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Indian boxer Mandeep Jangra wins intercontinental title in U.S.: Indian boxer Mandeep Jangra has won the U.S.-based National Boxing Association’s intercontinental super featherweight title after defeating American Gerardo Esquivel at Toppenish City, Washington. Undefeated in his professional career so far the 30-year-old, who trains under former Olympic silver-medallist Roy Jones Jr, dropped down from his previous 75kg weight class to compete for this title. Before the win against Esquivel, Jangra, who made his professional boxing debut in 2021, registered knockout wins in four out of his six fights.

 

2. Divyansh Singh Panwar Clinches ISSF World Cup Gold In 10m Air Rifle Event: 21 years old, Divyansh Singh Panwar has securing his fourth World Cup gold in the 10m air rifle event. This latest triumph adds to his impressive collection, which includes victories in Munich, Beijing, and Delhi since 2019. The former world no. 1, Olympian Divyansh qualified in style by topping the field with 632.4. He beat Danilo Sollazzo of Italy by 1.9 points for the gold. The earlier world record of 253.3 for the men’s final was achieved by Sheng LIhao of China in the Asian Games last year in Hangzhou. Sheng’s qualification world record stays at 637.9

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IMF upgrades India's GDP growth rate to 6.7 percent for current FY: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has increased its GDP growth estimate for India to 6.7 percent for the current financial year.  It is 40 basis points higher than its previous forecast of 6.3 percent. In its latest World Economic Outlook report, IMF also raised India's upward medium-term GDP growth to 6.5 percent, a 20 basis point upgrade from its October 2023 forecast, for years 2025, 2026.

2. Mahila Samman Savings Certificate collected over ₹14,500 crore in 9 months: Over 22.5 lakh accounts have been opened under the Mahila Samman Saving Certificate Scheme (MSSCS) in the first nine months of the fiscal with a deposit of over ₹14,500 crore. The scheme was announced in the budget 2023. The scheme was notified on March 31 and made available through 1.6 lakh post offices from April 1. Data shows, Maharashtra circle leads in opening accounts under MSSCS with over 4.5 lakh accounts and deposits of over 2,800 crore followed by Tamil Nadu circle (around 3.5 lakh accounts, around ₹1,600 crore of deposits), Odisha circle (over 2.5 lakh accounts, over ₹1,000 crore of deposits), Karnataka circle (around 1.7 lakh accounts, around ₹1,200 crore of deposits) and Andhra Pradesh circle (over 1.3 crore accounts, over ₹600 crore of deposits).

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Naorem Roshibina crowned Female Wushu Athlete of the Year: Two-time Asian Games medallist Naorem Roshibina Devi (Manipur) has been named International Wushu Federation’s (IWUF) female athlete of the year in the sanda category after a month-long public voting. The 23-year-old Roshibina, who won a bronze and a silver in the 2018 and 2022 Asian Games respectively, polled 93545 votes to beat Shahrbano Mansouriyan Semiromi (88179) of Iran and Wu Xiaowei (46753) of China. After the IWUF Athletes Committee’s preliminary evaluation, 45 candidates from 23 countries and regions entered in the public voting in various categories. The Manipuri also won a bronze medal in the 2016 World Junior Wushu Championships. She was conferred with the Arjuna Award this year.

 

2. NTPC Limited gets certified as a Top Employer 2024 in India: The 2024 Top Employers of the Top Employers Institute have been announced and NTPC Limited has been certified as a Top Employer in India by the institute. NTPC completed the following steps in order to qualify for the certification: HR Best Practice Survey, Validation and Audit. NTPC’s performance score was rated against an international standard and NTPC has achieved Top Employer status. NTPC Limited, formerly known as National Thermal Power Corporation, is an Indian central Public Sector Undertaking under the ownership of the Ministry of Power and the Government of India, which is engaged in the generation of electricity and other activities.

Daily GK Update 30th Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 4th Orange Festival 2024 In Nagaland: The fourth edition of the annual Orange Festival began at Local ground in Rusoma village Kohima, Nagaland. Theme 2024 – “Organic Orange” The two-day festival was inaugurated by Minister for Women Resources & Horticulture Salhoutuonuo Kruse.

With approximately 3400 attendees, this year’s event showcased the best of organic produce, community spirit, and rural entrepreneurship.

 

2. PM Modi Unveils Infrastructure Boost in Bulandshahr, UP: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 19,100 crore in Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh. The projects are related to several sectors like rail, road, oil and gas and urban development and housing. The PM also dedicated a 173 km long double line electrified section between New Khurja – New Rewari on the Dedicated Freight Corridor. He dedicated the fourth line connecting the Mathura-Palwal section and the Chipiyana Buzurg-Dadri section.

 

3. Election Commission collaborates with Rajkumar Hirani for a short film: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has collaborated with filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani for a short film to spread awareness about voting. Titled ‘My Vote My Duty’, the short is compiled from video messages by cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar as well as actors Rajkummar Rao, Amitabh Bachchan, R Madhavan, Raveena Tandon, Vicky Kaushal, Boman Irani, Arshad Warsi, Bhumi Pednekar and Mona Singh. A short film ‘My Vote My Duty’ produced by #ECI in association with @RajkumarHirani featuring several renowned celebrities on the theme ‘Value of one vote’ was released on #NVD2024.

 

4. THDC dedicates India’s largest Green Hydrogen pilot project: THDC India Limited, a leading Power Sector PSU, has established a benchmark in Green Hydrogen production, by successfully implementing India’s one of the first pilot project aligned with the “National Green Hydrogen Mission”. The Project will be India’s largest electrolyser end fuel cell-based pilot project. THDC India Limited is under the ownership of National Thermal Power Corporation Limited, Ministry of Power, Government of India. It was incorporated in July 1988 to develop, operate and maintain the Tehri Hydro Power Complex and other Hydro Projects. THDC India Limited is a Mini Ratna Category-I Enterprise.

 

5. Odisha CM inaugurates 4th National Chilika Birds Festival: Chief Minister of Odisha Naveen Patnaik has inaugurated the 3-day 4th National Chilika Birds Festival. The festival, jointly organised by the Department of Tourism, the Department of Forest, Environment and Climate Change and the Chilika Development Authority, kicked off with a captivating photo exhibition. The exhibition showcased the pictures of renowned photographers including Shakti Nanda, Umakanta Biswal, Dhritiman Mukherjee and others. The festival witnessed the participation of 52 selected birders from across the country.

 

6. Anil Kumar Lahoti appoints as Chef of TRAI: Former Railway Board Chairman and CEO Anil Kumar Lahoti has been appointed as the Chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The post of TRAI chairman has been lying vacant for four months since PD Vaghela’s retirement on September 30. The 1984 batch Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE) officer has been appointed as TRAI chief for a period of three years from the date of assumption of charge of the post or until he attains the age of 65 years or until further orders, whichever is earlier. During his more than 36 years of career in railways, Lahoti worked in various capacities over Central, Northern, North Central, Western and West Central Railways and in Railway Board.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Sustainable Development Summit to be held in New Delhi: The 23rd World Sustainable Development Summit will be held in New Delhi from Feb 7-9. The summit is Organised by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), this independent international summit aims to address global challenges such as conflict, planetary crises, and setbacks in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Under the theme ‘Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice’, the summit will emphasise the crucial role of visionary leadership in steering the world toward sustainability. Expected to be inaugurated by the Vice President of India, the summit will host prominent speakers, including ministers from Fiji, Kiribati, and Spain, as well as representatives from the World Bank and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

 

2. 28 January 2024 – World Leprosy Day: World Leprosy Day is observed on the last Sunday of January, across the globe. Therefore, it was observed on 28 January, this year. However, in India, this day is annually celebrated on 30 January. World Leprosy Day helps to create awareness about the disease and eliminate the stigma and discrimination faced by those who suffer from the disease. Theme 2024 – Beat Leprosy The first World Leprosy Day was established in 1954 by French Journalist Raoul Follereau. He chose the date as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, who showed compassion and empathy towards people affected by leprosy.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Preeti Rajak Becomes Indian Army’s 1st Woman Subedar: Havildar Preeti Rajak, who is a champion trap shooter, has become the first woman to hold the rank of Subedar in the Indian Army. Subedar Preeti Rajak joined the Army in the Corps of Military Police in December 2022. Preeti Rajak has been awarded a promotion based on her spectacular performance in sports. During the 19th Asian Games, held at Hangzhou in China, Preeti Rajak won a silver medal in the trap women team event. Subedar Preeti Rajak is currently ranked sixth in India (trap women event) and is training at the Army Marksmanship Unit (AMU) in preparation for the Paris Olympic Games 2024.

 

2. 30 January – Martyrs Day or Shaheed Diwas: India commemorates Martyrs’ Day, also known as Shaheed Diwas, on January 30th each year. The death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi is 30 January. He was shot and killed by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist, on 30 January 1948, while he was on his way to address an evening prayer meeting at Birla Bhavan, Delhi. Mahatma Gandhi is known as the ‘Father of the Nation’. He led the freedom movement in India and emphasised the use of non-violent and peaceful methods to fight the British rule.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Indian women’s hockey player Deep Grace Ekka announces international retirement: Indian women’s hockey team defender and penalty corner specialist Deep Grace Ekka has announced her international retirement. The 29-year-old was instrumental in India qualifying for the 2016 Rio Olympics. She was a vital cog in the team’s defence line at the Tokyo Games where India finished fourth. Ekka was also a member of the Indian team that won bronze in the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games. She also represented the Indian teams that won medals in 2014 and 2018 Asian Games. She was also a member of the title-winning Indian teams in 2016 Women’s Asian Champions Trophy and 2017 Asia Cup.

 

2. ICC lifts ban on Sri Lanka Cricket two months after suspension: The ICC Board has lifted the suspension of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) with immediate effect. SLC was suspended in November for being in serious breach of its obligations as an ICC member, in particular, the requirement to manage its affairs autonomously and ensure that there is no government interference in the governance, regulation and/or administration of cricket in Sri Lanka. The Board have been monitoring the situation since the suspension and are now satisfied that SLC are no longer in breach of membership obligations.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. ‘India: Mother of Democracy’ clinches First Spot at Republic Day Parade 2024: The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) announced that its tableau Bharat: Mother of Democracy’ of the Ministry of Culture has secured the first prize at the Republic Day Celebration Parade 2024 at Kartavya Path, marking a significant triumph in the realm of cultural representation. The tableau, a stunning blend of tradition and innovation, captivated audiences with its masterful use of the anamorphic technique alongside a rich display of Bharat’s cultural heritage, often hailed as the mother of democracy. The anamorphic technique, skillfully employed in the presentation, added a contemporary touch, reflecting the dynamism of the culture.

Daily GK Update 29th Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IREDA releases vigilance journal ‘Pahal’: Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), GoI enterprise under the administrative control of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, has unveiled released ‘Pahal’- the insightful house journal of its Vigilance Department. The initiative marks a significant step towards transparency, accountability, and the promotion of renewable energy initiatives by IREDA. The unveiling ceremony was led by IREDA’s Chairman & Managing Director, Shri Pradip Kumar Das at the registered office in New Delhi.

 

2. PM Modi inaugurates Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Supreme Court: The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Diamond Jubilee celebration of the Supreme Court of India on 28 January at the Supreme Court auditorium in Delhi. He also launched citizen-centric information and technology initiatives that include Digital Supreme Court Reports (Digi SCR), Digital Courts 2.0 and a new website of the Supreme Court. Government has also given approval of 800 crore rupees for the new Supreme Court building. The Supreme Court of India held its inaugural sitting on January 28, 1950.

 

3. Rubber meet to be held in Guwahati: The seventh edition of the India Rubber Meet (IRM 2024) will be held in Guwahati on February 23. The theme this year is ‘Natural Rubber — Changing Landscape, Emerging Trends and Insights for Tomorrow’. The event, organised by the India Rubber Meet Forum (IRMF), will feature talks, panel discussions, and interactions on various topics including the future of the global and Indian natural rubber industry, economy and commodity prices, and challenges and opportunities in the tyre, non-tyre, and synthetic rubber industry. The objective of the meeting is to provide a platform for rubber stakeholders to interact, share knowledge, address future concerns, and network for the advancement of the rubber industry.

 

4. Nitish Kumar takes oath as Bihar chief minister for record ninth time: JD(U) president Nitish Kumar took oath as Chief Minister of Bihar for a record ninth time after a dramatic volte-face. Eight other cabinet ministers also took oath at Rajbhavan with him. Governor Rajendra Vishwanat Arlekar administered oath of office and secrecy to three BJP and three JD(U) leaders. Besides this, one member from Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and one Independent also took oath. Deputy Chief Minister – Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha

 

5. 28 January – Indian Newspaper Day: India’s Newspaper Day is celebrated every year on 28 January to commemorate the launch of the country’s first newspaper in 1780. The occasion is observed to commemorate the day on which Irishman James Augustus Hicky launched the first printed newspaper in India. It was known as the Original Calcutta General Advertiser or Hicky’s Bengal Gazette. India has set aside a day to mark the launch of this English-language weekly. It marks the inception of newspapers in India, a historic moment when James Augustus Hicky introduced the first printed newspaper, Hicky’s Bengal Gazette, in 1780. This article delves into the significance of this day, the historical backdrop of Hicky’s Bengal Gazette, and the evolving role of newspapers in today’s digital age.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Squadron Leader Nikita Malhotra conferred with Vayu Sena Medal: Nikita Malhotra, a Squadron Leader of the Indian Air Force (IAF), was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for Gallantry on the 75th Republic Day. She was also part of the Tangail formation of fighters during the flypast over the Kartavya Path on Republic Day Parade. She was piloting a Dornier aircraft of the formation which included one Dakota aircraft and two Dorniers. Based on the twin themes of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat-Loktantra ki Matruka’, this year’s parade witnessed the participation of around 13,000 special guests.

 

SPORTS

 

1. England to host 2027 World Test Championship Final: England will host the 2027 World Test Championship (WTC) final in June, marking the fourth consecutive time. The ICC issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Social Responsibility Provider for the period 2024-2027. So far, India have been played in both WTC Finals that took place in 2021 and 2023. While India lost to New Zealand in the inaugural final, the Rohit Sharma-led side lost to Australia in the summit clash last year in June. Currently, in WTC 2023-25 table, Australia hold the top spot, followed by India. ICC also announces the introduction of the Women’s T20 Champions Trophy. The inaugural edition is slated to take place in Sri Lanka in February 2027.

 

2. Indian pair of Rhythm Sangwan and Ujjwal Malik claim 1st gold at ISSF Shooting World Cup: The Indian pair of Rhythm Sangwan and Ujjwal Malik won India’s first gold medal at the ISSF Shooting World Cup 2024 in Cairo. They defeated the Armenian pair of Elmira Karapetyan and Benik Khlghatyan 17-7 in the 10m air pistol mixed team event. Earlier, Arjun Babuta and Sonam Uttam Maskar won silver in the 10-meter air rifle mixed team event. They lost 16-14 to Great Britain’s Seonaid McIntosh and Dean Bale in the final.

 

3. Australian Open 2024: Rohan Bopanna wins men’s doubles final: Indian tennis player Rohan Bopanna created history as he became the oldest grand slam winner after teaming up with his Australian partner Matthew Ebden to defeat the Italian pair of Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori in the finals of the Australian Open 2024. This is Rohan Bopanna’s second grand slam title after the 2017 French Open win with his Canadian partner Gabriela Dabrowski in mixed doubles. With a grand slam title at the age of 43, Rohan Bopanna surpassed the record of Australian tennis champion Ken Rosewall, who won a grand slam at 37.

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. BoB raises Rs 5,000 Crore via 10-year infrastructure bonds: State-owned Bank of Baroda (BoB) has raised ₹5,000 crore through the issuance of long-term infrastructure bonds. The bank received a total of 128 bids amounting to ₹14,950 crore against the total issue size of ₹5,000 crore (base issue of ₹1,000 crore and greenshoe option to retain oversubscription up to ₹4,000 crore). The bonds have a base issue of Rs 1,000 crore, with retain oversubscription of Rs 4,000 crore as a greenshoe option. It is a provision in an underwriting agreement that grants the underwriter the right to sell investors more bonds than initially planned by the issuer if the demand for a security issue proves higher than expected.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. IIT Guwahati scholar wins ‘Best Product Design’ at Vishwakarma Awards: Satyam, a PhD Scholar in the department of biosciences and bioengineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-Guwahati), has achieved the “Best Product Design” award in the Water and Sanitation category at the prestigious Vishwakarma Awards 2023. The competition, organized by the IIT-Delhi in collaboration with Maker Bhavan Foundation and the WIN Foundation, aimed to recognize and support innovative minds in technology from science and engineering colleges across India. The theme for 2023 focused on water and sanitation, clean technology and smart mobility.

 

2. Thiruvananthapuram airport bags excellence award: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has been selected for the prestigious Excellence Award by Quality Circle Forum of India (QCFI) in the recent National Convention on Quality Concepts 2024 in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The TIA was selected for the recognition based on its continuous improvement initiatives undertaken for airport operations. QCFI is recognised as the institution representing The Quality Circle Movement in India and has represented the country in several international forums. The award jury praised Thiruvananthapuram Airport’s initiatives in establishing an effective mechanism to maintain the Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) free from obstacles for safe aircraft operations and sustenance of the biodiversity through its sustainability initiatives.

 

3. President Murmu approves 80 gallantry awards: President Droupadi Murmu has approved 80 gallantry awards including six Kirti Chakra and 16 Shaurya Chakra on the 75th Republic Day. Out of the six Kirti Chakra, three were conferred posthumously. The 16 Shaurya Chakra, included two posthumous. The Kirti Chakra is India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award after Ashok Chakra. Shaurya Chakra is the country’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award. The Kirti Chakra awardees are Major Digvijay Singh Rawat of the 21st Battalion, the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), Major Deependra Vikram Basnet from the Sikh Regiment’s Fourth Battalion and Havildar Pawan Kumar Yadav from the 21st Battalion of the Mahar Regiment.

Daily GK Update- 28th Jan, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Krutrim becomes India’s first $1 billion AI startup: Ola Krutrim, the artificial intelligence (AI) startup founded by serial entrepreneur Bhavish Aggarwal, has achieved unicorn status following a successful funding round that secured $50 million from prominent investors, including Matrix Partners India. The company proudly announced its newfound status as the first Indian AI startup to reach a billion-dollar valuation, a remarkable feat achieved within a month of unveiling a large language model. The startup, aptly named Krutrim, translating to “artificial” in Sanskrit, is not only focusing on advancing AI language capabilities but is also delving into the development of data centres. The ultimate goal is to create servers and supercomputers tailored to the evolving needs of the AI ecosystem.

 

2. Nirmala Sitharaman To Become 2nd FM To Present 6 Consecutive Union Budgets: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will set a record by presenting the sixth Budget in a row — five annual Budgets and one interim — a feat achieved so far only by former Prime Minister Morarji Desai. With the presentation of the interim Budget on February 1, Ms Sitharaman will surpass the records of her predecessors like Manmohan Singh, Arun Jaitley, P. Chidambaram, and Yashwant Sinha, who had presented five budgets in a row. Desai, as Finance Minister, had presented five annual Budgets and one interim Budget between 1959-1964. Former Prime Minister Morarji Desai who holds the tag of presenting 10 Budgets — the maximum by any finance minister — had presented six of them, including one interim, in a row.

 

3. 63rd Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB) Meeting Convened In Bhopal: The 63rd gathering of the Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB) took place in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.\ The meeting was held under the Chairmanship of Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines. Shri Sanjay Lohiya, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines,Shri Janardan Prasad, Director General, GSI,senior functionaries of different Ministries, State Directorates of Mining & Geology, PSUs, representatives from private mining industry, Mining associations and other stakeholders attended thecrucial The proposed Annual Programme for the ensuing Field Season year 2024-25 was placed before the Board for discussion. During the ensuing year 2024-25 GSI has formulated about 1055 scientific programs for the year 2024-25, which include 392 Mineral Development projects (G2; G3; G4; and Offshore Explorations) that have the potential to generate auctionable mineral blocks in near future.

 

4. Nitish Kumar Back as Bihar CM for Record 9th Term: Researchers from the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR) have discovered two new species of Congrid eels from the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The species add to India’s marine biodiversity knowledge in relatively less studied fish groups ..

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 26 January – International Day of Clean Energy: International Day of Clean Energy is observed every year on January 26. This day serves as a reminder of the critical role clean energy plays in combating climate change, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring a healthier planet for future generations. Adopting clean energy is integral to the fight against climate change. For decades, science has shown that to limit climate change, we need to end our reliance on fossil fuels and invest in alternative sources of energy that are clean, sustainable, accessible, affordable, and reliable.

 

2. 27 January – International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust: January 27th marks a solemn occasion recognised globally as the International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and the enduring need to fight against hatred, bigotry, and racism in all its forms. In November 2005, the United Nations General Assembly designated January 27 as an “International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust”(Resolution 60/7). It reaffirmed that the Holocaust, which resulted in the murder of one-third of the Jewish people, along with countless members of other minorities, will forever be a warning to all people of the dangers of hatred, bigotry, racism, and prejudice. On January 27, 2006, the first worldwide International Holocaust Remembrance Day celebrated.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Joint military exercise – SADA TANSEEQ between India & Saudi Arabia to be held in Rajasthan: The inaugural edition of the Joint Military Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ between India and Saudi Arabia will be held from January 29 to February 10 in The exercise aims to enhance synergy, interoperability and jointmanship by learning and sharing best practices between the Armies of both nations. The joint exercise will focus on counter-terrorism operations under the United Nations Mandate. During the exercise, participants will engage in missions ranging from joint planning, operations, joint tactical drills, and will provide field commanders and troops an opportunity to interact with each other. Earlier in January, India and Saudi Arabia signed a bilateral agreement under which New Delhi has been allocated a quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims for the annual Haj pilgrimage in 2024.

 

2. Major Exercises in 2024 to Showcase Jointness: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will conduct three major exercises in 2024, emphasizing jointness across India’s defense forces as they work towards establishing theater commands. The key focus areas are integration and coordination in modern warfare. Vayu Shakti-2024 The first ..

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. INSAT-3DS Satellite Flagged Off: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has flagged off its advanced meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota for an upcoming launch. The 2275 kg satellite has finished assembly, integration and testing at ISRO’s UR ..

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Four companies get SEBI’s nod to launch IPOs: Entero Healthcare Solutions, JNK India, Exicom Tele-Systems and Akme Fintrade (India) have received markets regulator SEBI’s approval to raise funds through initial public offerings. However, the Securities and Exchange Board of India has returned the IPO papers of Stallion India Fluorochemicals. These four firms, which had filed their preliminary papers with the markets watchdog between June and October, obtained observation letters on January 16-19, an update with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi). In Sebi’s parlance, obtaining observation letters means its go-ahead to launch an IPO.

Daily GK Update- 27th Jan, 2023

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Cabinet approves Protocol for establishment of joint Economic and Trade Committee between India and Dominican Republic: The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi approved the proposal for signing of a protocol for establishment of Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) between the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic. Bilateral relations between India and the Dominican Republic have been friendly and continue to deepen in all spheres. At present, there is no bilateral institutional mechanism between India and Dominican Republic on trade and commerce. India primarily imports gold from the Dominican Republic and exports pharmaceuticals, marine products, motor vehicles, two and three-wheelers etc. to them. The establishment of JETCO will strengthen the economic ties between India and the Dominican Republic and shall play a pivotal role and provide a platform for discussions, exchange of information, knowledge and ideas which would in turn facilitate trade and industry.

 

2. Reliance Jio and OnePlus join hands to set up 5G innovation lab in India: Telecom major Reliance Jio and Chinese smartphone company OnePlus have joined hands to set up a 5G innovation lab in India. The alliance between OnePlus and Jio aims to provide OnePlus and Jio True 5G users with differentiated features and an unparalleled network experience. To bolster these initiatives, both brands are excited to announce the establishment of a state-of-the-art 5G Innovation Lab. The lab will serve as a hub for testing and developing new technologies. 85 per cent of the entire 5G deployment in India has been made by Jio.

 

3. Tata Group, Airbus team up to make helicopters: The Tata Group and European aerospace company Airbus have signed an agreement to manufacture H125 civilian helicopters together in India. The partnership would include air and space tech, maritime tech, including underwater domain awareness, and equipment and systems related to land warfare. It also heavily focuses on cutting-edge technology, including robotics, artificial intelligence, cyber-defence, and autonomous vehicles and platforms. Also, in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), Airbus Helicopters will set up a final assembly line (FAL) for H125 civilian helicopters. This will be India’s first private helicopter manufacturing facility. The FAL will take 24 months to set up and deliveries of the first ‘made-in-India’ H125s are expected to commence in 2026.

 

4. Integrated Industrial Township, Greater Noida: Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the Integrated Industrial Township in Greater Noida (IITGN), a smart township spread over 750 acres. The Rs 1,700 crore project aims to compete with the world’s best manufacturing hubs by providing all necessary industrial ..

 

5. ASI’s Gyanvapi Mosque Survey Report: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) submitted its survey report of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi to the district court in December 2022. The report concludes that remains of an old Hindu temple existed at the site before the ..

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 27 January – International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust: January 27th marks a solemn occasion recognised globally as the International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and the enduring need to fight against hatred, bigotry, and racism in all its forms. In November 2005, the United Nations General Assembly designated January 27 as an “International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust”(Resolution 60/7). It reaffirmed that the Holocaust, which resulted in the murder of one-third of the Jewish people, along with countless members of other minorities, will forever be a warning to all people of the dangers of hatred, bigotry, racism, and prejudice. On January 27, 2006, the first worldwide International Holocaust Remembrance Day celebrated.

 

2. India-France Defence Industrial Roadmap and Comprehensive Dialogue on Global Issues: India and France have formulated a defence industrial roadmap to boost collaboration in defence production and design of military platforms. This comes amid progress on other strategic agreements during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit. Joint Development and Production Plans The ..

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Virat Kohli wins ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year Award 2023: Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli was crowned the ICC men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2023 for his excellent run in the format last year headlined by a phenomenal outing in the World Cup at home. This is the fourth such award for Kohli, who was the second most prolific run-scorer in ODIs last year behind compatriot Shubman Gill. The former India skipper finished the year with 1,377 runs which included six centuries and eight half-centuries. This is the seventh individual ICC award won by Kohli during his glittering career, and his fourth in the ODI category after previous wins in 2012, 2017 and 2018. He also won the Test award in 2018 while the years 2017 and 2018 saw him also win the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bank of Baroda’s arm rebranded as ‘BOBCARD Limited’: Bank of Baroda’s wholly-owned subsidiary for cards, ‘BOB Financial Solutions Limited’, has been rebranded as ‘BOBCARD Limited’ with the tagline “Credit Reimagined”. The NBFC has also unveiled a new logo called ‘Baroda Sun’, which comprises dual ‘B’ letterforms that hold the rays of the rising sun. The rebranding embodies “revitalised commitment to reimagine the country’s credit landscape with excellent credit solutions and customer-centric offerings”. BOBCARD offers an array of consumer and commercial credit cards and caters to all segments of customers with varied needs, including shopping, travel and business cards for large corporates and MSMEs.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Foxconn CEO Young Liu honoured with Padma Bhushan: In a remarkable recognition of his outstanding contributions to the technology industry, Young Liu, the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Foxconn, the Taiwanese multinational electronics contract manufacturer, has been bestowed with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award. Young Liu, a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator, boasts an impressive career spanning over four decades. His entrepreneurial journey began in 1988 when he founded Young Micro Systems, a motherboard company. Subsequently, in 1995, he ventured into the realm of IC design, focusing on PC chipsets. In 1997, Liu established ITE Tech, known as ITeX, marking the third successful venture in his illustrious career.