Daily GK Update- 19th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Cabinet approves Nutrient Based Subsidy rates for Rabi Season 2024 on Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers: The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers for fixing the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for RABI Season, 2024 (from 01.10.2024 to 31.03.2025) on Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers.The tentative budgetary requirement for Rabi season 2024 would be approximately Rs.24,475.53 crore.The subsidy on P&K fertilizers will be provided based on approved rates for Rabi 2024 (applicable from 01.10.2024 to 31.03.2025) to ensure smooth availability of these fertilizers to the farmers at affordable prices.The government is making available 28 grades of P&K fertilizers to farmers at subsidized prices through fertilizer manufacturers/importers.

 

2. Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya and Monash University Sign MoU to Enhance Railway Engineering Research and Education: Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) signed an MoU with Monash University, Australia to facilitate collaboration in joint research, education, and executive training in railway engineering through the Monash Institute of Railway Technology (IRT).The establishment of a joint research lab focusing on advanced technological railway engineering will be explored together with opportunities for collaboration on future industrial projects that will return mutual benefits to both parties and advance Australian and Indian railway systems.Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV), Vadodara was established through an Act of Parliament in 2022, to create best in class manpower and talent for the entire transportation and logistics sectors.

 

3. PMBI and Coal India Limited sign MoU to provide high-quality generic medicines through establishment of Jan Aushadhi Kendras: In a significant milestone under the mission to provide quality generic medicines and surgical equipments at affordable prices to the masses, the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) and Coal India Limited have signed an MoU for the opening of Jan Aushadhi Kendras in the premises of every coal field, selected hospitals, or any suitable location specified or decided by Coal India Limited.The objective of this MoU is to provide high-quality generic medicines to the workforce and communities associated with Coal India, through the establishment of Jan Aushadhi Kendras across Coal India premises, these medicines will help workers, residents, and families save out of pocket expenditure, and will give employment opportunities to entrepreneurs in the project areas.

 

4. Center approves PMJUGA scheme for holistic Tribal Development: The Union Cabinet, in a meeting chaired by PM Narendra Modi has approved a new scheme, Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PMJUGA) to improve the socio-economic condition of the country’s tribal majority villages and aspirational districts.The scheme seeks to utilise the existing central government scheme to achieve the objectives of the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PMJUGA) scheme.Union Finance Minister Niramala Sitharaman proposed the scheme in her 2024-25 Union Budget speech.The duration of the PMJUGA scheme is five years. The total allocation for the scheme is Rs.79,156 crore, of which the central government’s share will be Rs.56,333 crore, and the State government’s share will be Rs. 22,823 crore.The PMJUGA scheme will be implemented in 549 districts and 2,740 blocks in all tribal majority villages and aspirational districts of 30 States / Union Territories.

 

5. Shriram Finance welcomes Cricket Legend Rahul Dravid as Brand Ambassador: Shriram Finance Ltd, announced the onboarding of Rahul Dravid, former captain and head coach of the Indian cricket team, as its brand ambassador.Rahul Dravid’s association with Shriram Finance represents a perfect blend of two entities that have consistently demonstrated trust, reliability, and excellence in their respective fields.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India-Denmark Maritime collaboration gathers momentum with focus on Green Shipping, Digitalization, and Sustainable Development: India and Denmark’s maritime relations continue to strengthen, with both nations working closely to advance sustainable maritime practices.Under the India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership, the collaboration has expanded across key areas such as Quality shipping, Cooperation on Port State Control, Maritime training and education, research and development, Piracy, Green maritime technology, shipbuilding, and green shipping.Denmark, a global leader in sustainable maritime technologies, has been sharing its expertise in green and digital solutions, aligning with India’s goals under the Sagarmala initiative and the Maritime India Vision 2030.Both countries are focusing on decarbonisation efforts, with joint projects aimed at developing hydrogen and ammonia-based fuels for ships.India’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 aims to decarbonize its ports, and Denmark’s success in offshore wind energy is expected to further contribute to renewable energy solutions in Indian ports.

 

2. 18 September – International Equal Pay Day: International Equal Pay Day is celebrated every year on 18 September.This day highlights the effects of the pay gap on women of colour and other minorities.Theme 2024 – Need To Eliminate Wage DiscriminationInternational Equal Pay Day was first observed back in 1996 by the National Committee on Pay Equity. It was a coalition of women’s and civil rights organisations that worked toward eliminating gender and race-based wage discrimination.The goal was to achieve pay equity. It was not until 2019 that the Equal Pay International Coalition began officially marking it as a day to raise awareness. In 2020, the move was recognised by the United Nations and they observed the first International Equal Pay on September 18, 2020.

 

3. 19 September – International Talk Like a Pirate Day: International Talk Like a Pirate Day is observed every year on 19 September.The day aims to bring people together in the spirit of camaraderie and shared amusement as friends, family and even strangers engage in lighthearted conversations, jokes and activities that let them loose, have a good laugh and momentarily escape the stresses of everyday life.Talk Like a Pirate Day was born in 1995 when two friends from Oregon jokingly created the holiday while playing racquetball. They celebrated it quietly for a few years, sharing the joke with a small group of friends.One day in 2002, they wrote to humor columnist Dave Barry asking him to be the spokesperson for National Talk Like a Pirate Day. Amused by the idea, Barry agreed.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Army signs MoU with Tiranga Mountain Rescue to enhance high-altitude operations: The Indian Army has entered an understanding with the Tiranga Mountain Rescue (TMR) at the Centre for Land Warfare Studies in the Delhi Cantonment.This understanding marks a pivotal step in advancing the Indian Army’s rescue and survival operations in mountainous terrains.The MoU stipulates that TMR will collaborate with the Indian Army in conducting customised training programs for Army instructors, aimed at improving their ability to mentor troops in avalanche rescue and survival skills.This MoU builds on the initial agreement made with Northern Command in 2016, which established dedicated avalanche and rescue support by the TMR.Subsequent agreements with Eastern and Central Commands in 2021 and 2024 further expanded this collaboration. The latest MoU will further utilise TMR’s expertise to boost the Indian Army’s capabilities in executing effective rescue operations under demanding conditions.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Glasgow to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games: Glasgow, Scotland’s capital, has agreed to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games after the original host, Victoria of Australia, declined due to the rising cost.Glasgow has previously successfully hosted the 2012 Commonwealth Games.The first Commonwealth Games was held in 1930, and countries or territories that are members of the Commonwealth Games Federation, now known as Commonwealth Sport, participate in the Games.The last of six of the seventh edition of the Commonwealth Games has been held in Great Britain or Australia.Scotland, England and Wales constitute Great Britain.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Union Cabinet approves Chandrayaan -4 Mission to collect lunar sample: The Union cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the mission to moon, named Chandrayaan-4 to develop and demonstrate the technologies to come back to Earth after successfully landing on the Moon and also collect moon samples and analyse them on Earth.This Chandrayaan-4 mission will achieve the foundational technologies capabilities eventually for an Indian landing on the moon (planned by year 2040) and return safely back to Earth.The Chandrayaan -4 mission will collect lunar samples from the moon’s surface and bring them back to Earth. Only three countries—the United States of America, Russia, and China—have successfully brought lunar soil back to Earth.ISRO has been allocated a budget of Rs 2104.06 crore for the Chandrayaan -4 mission to be completed in 36 months.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Banks, FIs to invest Rs 32.5 trillion in renewable energy by 2030: Centre: Leading renewable energy (RE) project developers, manufacturing companies, banks, and financial institutions committed close to $386 billion or around Rs 32.45 trillion to the development of RE projects by 2030.This commitment was made at the inaugural ceremony of the 4th RE-Invest Summit hosted by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).Public sector and private project developers have committed to building close to 570 gigawatts (Gw) of RE capacity. Reliance Industries (RIL) led the pack with a commitment of 100 Gw of capacity addition by 2030. It is followed by NTPC with 41.3 Gw and ReNew with 40 Gw of commitment.Additionally, ReNew will set up 6 Gw of ingot-wafer, solar cell, and module manufacturing.

 

2. Govt notifies NaBFID as a public financial institution under Companies Act: The government has notified the National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID) as a public financial institution under the Companies Act.This will help the government fortify the nation’s infrastructure finance structures.The Corporate Affairs Ministry said that in exercise of the powers,Section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013, the Central Government, in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India, hereby notifies the National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development as a “public financial institution”.The move will enhance the bank’s capacity to finance large-scale infrastructure projects, thereby bolstering the country’s infrastructure development.NaBFID, a specialised Development Finance Institution (DFI), was set up in 2021, by an Act (The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development Act, 2021).

 

Daily GK Update- 18th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi inaugurates and lays the foundation stone for multiple development projects in Ahmedabad: The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects of railways, road, power, housing, and finance sectors worth more than Rs 8,000 crore in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Modi inaugurated India’s first Namo Bharat Rapid Rail between Ahmedabad and Bhuj earlier. He also flagged off several Vande Bharat trains on routes – Nagpur to Secunderabad, Kolhapur to Pune, Agra Cantt to Banaras, Durg to Visakhapatnam, Pune to Hubballi, and the first 20-coach Vande Bharat train from Varanasi to Delhi.Further, he launched the Single Window IT System (SWITS) of the International Financial Services Centres Authority.The Prime Minister mentioned the announcement of a special PM package worth Rs 2 lakh crore which will benefit more than 4 crore youth. He stated that the government will also pay the first salary for the first job in companies if they hire the youth. He also mentioned increasing the limit of Mudra loans from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh.

 

2. PM Modi launches ‘SUBHADRA’ – the largest women-centric scheme in Bhubaneswar: The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi launched ‘SUBHADRA’, the flagship Scheme of the Government of Odisha, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.It is the largest, single women-centric scheme and is expected to cover more than 1 crore women. The prime minister also initiated the fund transfer into the bank accounts of more than 10 lakh women.Under the SUBHADRA scheme, all eligible beneficiaries between the age of 21-60 years would receive Rs. 50,000/- over 5 years between 2024-25 to 2028-29. An amount of Rs 10,000/- per annum in two equal installments will be credited directly to the beneficiary’s Aadhaar-enabled and DBT-enabled bank account.Modi also laid the foundation stone dedicated to the nation’s Railway Projects worth more than Rs 2800 crore and laid the foundation stone for National Highway Projects worth more than Rs 1000 crore.

 

3. Nirmala Sitharaman launches NPS Vatsalya for Minors: Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman has launched the NPS Vatsalya scheme for minors in New Delhi.The event was attended by schoolchildren and was held simultaneously in 75 locations across the country. She also distributed the Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN) cards to new minor subscribers.Nirmala Sitharaman announced the NPS Vatsalya scheme in her 2024-25 union budget speech.The NPS Vatsalya will be regulated by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).

 

4. Manu Bhaker appointed brand ambassador for MoPSW: India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has appointed Manu Bhaker, the double Olympic medal winner, as a brand ambassador.Bhaker, the shooting ace who won Medals in shooting in the recent Summer Olympics held at Paris, is the daughter of a Marine Engineer.Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) – Sarbananda Sonowal

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 16 September – International Day for Interventional Cardiology: The International Day for Interventional Cardiology is observed annually on September 16.This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the critical field of interventional cardiology and its pivotal role in treating heart diseases through minimally invasive procedures.As cardiovascular diseases continue to be the leading cause of death globally, the importance of this specialized field cannot be overstated.The first coronary angioplasty was performed by Dr. Andreas Grüntzig on 16 September 1977. Since then angioplasty has been the procedure that has saved the most grams of myocardium at risk worldwide.

 

2. 18 September – World Bamboo Day: World Bamboo Day is observed every year on 18 September.Objective – To increase the awareness of bamboo globally to promote cultivation and usages of bamboo as well as traditional uses locally for community and economic development.

Theme 2024 – Next Generation Bamboo: Solution, Innovation, and DesignThe World Bamboo Organization (WBO) proclaimed September 18 as World Bamboo Day in 2009, during the eighth World Bamboo Congress in Bangkok. It was decided upon with the unanimous consent of delegates from almost 100 nations.This celebration was initiated by Kamesh Salam, former President of WBO. Since then, this day is a world-wide event gathering hundreds of thousands of people to manifest the importance of bamboo as a plant companion for humanity.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Senior IPS officer Amrit Mohan Prasad appointed as Chief of SSB: Senior IPS officer Amrit Mohan Prasad has been appointed as the Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).Prasad, a 1989-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Odisha cadre, is presently working as Special Director General, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved Prasad’s appointment to the post of Director General, SSB for a tenure up to the date of his superannuation on August 31, 2025.The vacancy necessitated after SSB chief Daljit Singh Chaudhary was appointed as the DG of Border Security Force (BSF) on August 28.The SSB guards the country’s frontiers with Nepal and Bhutan.

 

2. National Symposium ‘Exercise AIKYA’ on Disaster Management begin in Chennai: A two-day national symposium of the National Disaster Management Authority and the Army Southern Command entitled Exercise AIKYA begin inThe primary aim of the exercise is to enhance disaster preparedness and foster robust collaboration among key stakeholders.The exercise will feature simulations, technology discussions and expert insights into various roles of disaster management.Representatives from Railways, transport, civil aviation, health, environment and climate change departments State and National disaster management authorities and the Indian army will be present. IMD officials, National Remote sensing centres, the Central Water Commission and the Forest Survey of India will also participate in the symposium.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Saleema Imtiaz becomes first Pakistan woman to be nominated as International Umpire: Saleema Imtiaz became the first Pakistani woman to be nominated to the ICC international panel of development umpires.Imtiaz’s nomination on the panel means she is now eligible to officiate in women’s bilateral international matches and ICC women’s events.Imtiaz joined the PCB’s women’s umpires panel in 2008 and has officiated in several Asian Cricket Council tournaments over the last three years.Imtiaz’s first on-field appointment in a bilateral series will see her officiate the three-match T20 series between Pakistan women and South Africa women which begins at Multan.

 

2. Santosh Kashyap appointed new head coach of Indian women’s football team: All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed Santosh Kashyap as the new head coach of the national senior women’s team, replacing former international player Chaoba Devi at the helm of affairs.Kashyap’s first assignment will be the SAFF Women’s Championships to be held in Kathmandu, Nepal, from October 17 to 30.A former India international, Kashyap has almost a decade of coaching experience in the I-League, managing clubs like Mohun Bagan, Aizawl FC and Mumbai FC among others.The 58-year-old has also been the assistant coach of NorthEast United FC, and most recently of Odisha FC, in the Indian Super League.Kashyap will have Priya PV as his assistant coach and Raghuvir Pravin Khanolkar as the goalkeeper coach.

 

3. India wins Men’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy for record 5th time: The Indian men’s hockey team, led by Harmanpreet Singh, defeated host China 1-0 in the final to win the Men’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy for a record fifth time.The final match of the 8th Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024 was played at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir City.Defending champion India had earlier won the trophy in 2011,2016,2018 and 2023.In the final, Jugraj Singh scored the only winning goal of the match in the 51 minutes.India was the only team in the 8th Men’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy to defeat all its opponents and remain unbeaten in the tournament.In the league stage, India defeated China 3-0, Japan 5-1, Malaysia 8-1, South Korea 3-1 and Pakistan 2-1.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. WPI inflation drops to 4-month low of 1.31% in August: India’s wholesale price index (WPI)-based inflation fell to a four-month low of 1.31 per cent on an annual basis in August from 2.04 per cent in July due to a reduction in the prices of manufactured products and food items, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.Food prices inflation stood at 3.11 per cent in August as compared to 3.45 per cent in July.Within food articles, the prices of cereals (8.44 per cent), paddy (9.12 per cent), and pulses (18.57 per cent) decelerated. While there was a slight deceleration in the prices of onions (65.75 per cent), inflation remained in double digits.On the other hand, the prices of potatoes (77.96 per cent) and fruits (16.7 per cent) accelerated during the month.

 

2. Bank of Baroda introduces GenAI-powered virtual relationship manager for conversational banking: Bank of Baroda (BoB) has introduced ‘Aditi’, a GenAI-powered virtual relationship manager, to enhance the digital customer service experience.These human-like interface presented in the form of digital avatars, offer conversational banking across a range of services.

Available on the bank’s web portal, the capability supports audio, video and chat-based assistance ensuring 24×7 banking services with multilingual support. This service is being gradually rolled out to our existing customers through an enrollment process available on the bank’s website.In addition, BoB has also launched a GenAI-enabled knowledge management platform, ‘AI’ for its employees.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Award winners of the 8th Men’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy: Top scorer of the  

    tournament.

· Yang Jihun (South Korea; 9 goals)

· Promising goalkeeper of the tournament- Kim Jaehan (South Korea)

· Best goalkeeper of the tournament- Wang Caiyu (China)

· Rising star of the tournament- Shahid Hannan (Pakistan)

· Player of the tournament- Harmanpreet Singh (India)

· Man of the final match- Lin Changliang (China)

 

 

Daily GK Update- 17th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Zanskar celebrates 9th Ladakh Zanskar Festival 2024: The 9th Ladakh Zanskar Festival 2024 began with remarkable grandeur in the picturesque village of Sani, signifying a landmark event for the region.The festival was inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra.This year’s Zanskar Festival is especially significant as it marks the first celebration since Zanskar was officially declared a district. The two-day festival showcases a wide array of cultural performances, reflecting the diverse traditions of the region. Highlights include performances by the Purgi tribes from Kargil, the Shina community of Drass, the Dard-Aryans from Aryan Valley, and the Changpa nomads from Changthang.Cultural teams from Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul & Spiti, Kinnaur, and Uttarakhand are participating, enriching the festival with their unique traditions.

 

2. President Murmu inaugurates 8th India Water Week: President Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated 8th India Water Week 2024.The 8th India Water Week 2024 will start from 17 Sep to 20 Sep in New Delhi.During the four-day event, around four thousand delegates including two hundred foreign delegates from 40 countries will participate. More than one hundred exhibitors and startups will showcase their ideas in the water sector during the exhibition.The event will serve as a global platform to elicit ideas and opinions from global-level decision-makers, researchers, experts, innovators and stakeholders in the field of water resources from across the worldTheme 2024 – Partnership and cooperation for inclusive water development and management.

 

3. PM Modi launches India’s first ‘Namo Bharat Rapid Rail’ connecting Ahmedabad and Bhuj: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged off country’s first Vande Metro, now renamed as Namo Bharat Rapid Rail service, between Bhuj and Ahmedabad.The Ahmedabad-Bhuj Vande Metro service will stop at nine stations and cover the 360-kilometre distance in 5 hours and 45 minutes at a top speed of 110 kilometres per hour.Developed on the same platform as the Vande Bharat Express, the Vande Metro train is a self-propelled train set designed for short-distance inter-city travel. However, unlike Vande Bharat which is a semi-high speed 160 kmph train set, the Vande Metro trains will have a maximum speed limit of 130 kmph.

 

4. Arvind Kejriwal resigns as Chief Minister, Atishi stakes claim to top post: Aam Aadmi Party legislators in New Delhi have elected State Minister Atishi as the new Chief Minister-designate in place of Arvind Kejriwal.Atishi’s name was proposed by Kejriwal at the meeting of the legislature party, and it was unanimously accepted by the AAP MLAs.Ms Atishi now holds key portfolios in the Delhi government such as Education and Public Works Department.

 

5. 15 September – National Engineers Day: India celebrates National Engineer’s Day on September 15, commemorating the birth anniversary of engineer Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, a pioneer in the field of engineering.The day is observed to honour his contributions to the development of India in the fields of engineering, education and economy.Theme 2024 – Innovating for a Sustainable FutureMokshagundam Visvesvaraya was awarded Bharata Ratna by the Government of India in 1955.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 4th edition of the Global Bio-India 2024 concludes in New Delhi: The fourth edition of Global Bio-India 2024 successfully concluded after showcasing India’s biotech prowess.The three-day event was themed on the potential and opportunities in ‘Biotech Innovation’ and ‘Bio-manufacturing’ and their impact on the bio economy.Theme 2024 – Biotech Innovation’ and ‘Bio-manufacturingIn Global Bio India, the country’s biotech startups unveiled 11 products that showcased the country’s emerging talent in biosciences.The 4th Global Bio-India 2024 was organized by the Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India, and the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).South Korea was the partner country at the 4th Global Bio-India 2024.

 

2. India to host high-level international meetings on anti-doping in sports: India is set to host the 2nd Formal Meeting of the COP9 Bureau and the 3rd Formal Meeting of the Fund Approval Committee under the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport on in New Delhi.

As Vice-Chairperson of the COP9 Bureau, India has taken the lead in organizing these high-level gatherings, which will bring together key decision-makers and dignitaries from across the world.

Hosted by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the meetings will see participation from distinguished delegates representing countries such as Azerbaijan, Barbados, Estonia, France, Italy, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, The Netherlands, Türkiye, UAE, and Zambia.Senior officials from the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport will also be present, contributing to the discussions in a hybrid format.

 

3. Iran launches new research satellite Chamran-1 into orbit: Iran successfully launched its Chamran-1 research satellite into orbit, utilising the Qaem-100 rocket developed by the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard.The launch marks a milestone in Iran’s aerospace program, which has faced scrutiny and criticism from Western nations due to concerns that the technology could be repurposed for ballistic missile development.The Chamran-1 satellite, weighing 60 kilograms, was placed into a 550-kilometer orbit and it is designed to test “hardware and software systems for orbital maneuver technology”.The Qaem-100 rocket, a solid-fuel, three-stage vehicle, was previously used in January for another successful satellite launch.

 

4. Jordan’s king appoints Jafar Hassan to serve as PM: Jordan’s King Abdullah II tapped a longtime aide to serve as the kingdom’s new prime minister.Hassan has a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Geneva and a master’s degree in public administration from Harvard University. He will replace the outgoing prime minister, Bisher Al-Khasawneh, whose Cabinet resigned on Sunday in the wake of a parliamentary election. Al-Khasawneh has served since October 2020.

 

5. 17 September – World Patient Safety Day: World Patient Safety Day is an annual observance on September 17th, established by the World Health Organisation (WHO).Objective – To raise global awareness about patient safety, promote actions to enhance safety in healthcare, and encourage stakeholders to unite for safer healthcare practices.Theme 2024 – Improving Diagnosis for Patient SafetyIn 2019, the 72nd World Health Assembly passed a resolution to establish World Patient Safety Day as a global health priority. The WHO began global campaigns each year, focusing on various themes within patient safety, such as safe childbirth, medication safety, and the empowerment of patients and caregivers.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS 

 

1. 4th South Asian Junior Athletics Championship:  India at topped the medal tally: The 4th South Asian Junior Athletics Championships was held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.India led the Medal tally by winning 48 medals- 21 gold,22 silver and 5 bronze.The Sri Lanka team, which gave a tough fight to the Indians, came second with 35 medals—9 gold, 9 silver, and 17 bronze. Bangladesh came third with three bronze medals. Pakistan and Bhutan failed to win a single medal at the event.The first South Asian Junior Athletics Championships was held in Sri Lanka in November 2007. The second edition was held in Ranchi in November 2013, and the third was held in May 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.All seven countries of the South Asian Athletics Federation (SAFF) -India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal—participated in the 4th South Asian Junior Athletics Championships.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India ranked among Tier 1 countries in Global Cyber Security Index 2024: India has ranked among Tier 1 countries in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI). It is issued by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).‘GCI 2024’ has used a five-tier analysis this time. In this, the progress made in cyber security by various countries is tracked.This report places 46 countries in Tier 1, the highest category. These countries have been named “Role Modeling”, which have shown a strong commitment to all important aspects of cyber security.The Global Cyber Security Index 2024 reported that India has performed well in measures such as legal, technical, capacity expansion, and corporations.

 

 

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. UPI users can now send Rs 5 lakh for some transactions: The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has increased transaction limits for tax payments using the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), allowing people to transfer Rs 5 lakh in a single transaction.While announcing its monetary policy statement on August 2024, RBI announced the enhancement of the limit for tax payments through UPI from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, per transaction.Consumers can now make UPI payments of up to Rs 5 lakh per transaction for the following categories: a) tax payments, b) hospital and educational services, and c) IPOs and government securities.Two additional enhancements were previously introduced through circulars issued in December 2021 and December 2023.

 

2. Piramal Finance join hands with Digital India’s CSCs to Boost Credit Access for Bharat’s Budget Customers: Piramal Capital & Housing Finance Ltd. (Piramal Finance), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Piramal Enterprises Ltd., has collaborated with Digital India’s Common Service Centres (CSCs) to satisfy Bharat’s lending needs by expanding access to formal credit for underserved persons and MSMEs.This agreement successfully disbursed approximately Rs. 100 crore in August 2024 to increase credit availability in semi-urban areas, offering vital financial products such as house and business loans.Using CSC’s wide network of over 6 lakh centres, this project intends to assist budget clients in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, successfully addressing the financial requirements of underserved regions and expanding financial inclusion.Piramal Finance will increase its loan offers via CSCs, focussing on underserved areas to better serve individuals and MSMEs in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

 

3. HDFC Bank’s Parivartan initiative aims to uplift rural communities with sustainable development programmes: The HDFC Bank is set to increase the income of 5 lakh marginal farmers earning less than ₹60,000 annually by 2025, scaling up further its over ₹5,000 crore investments in the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the last decade.The bank’s focus on rural development reflects our continued commitment to fostering sustainable growth and uplifting vulnerable communities. Since its inception in 2014, Parivartan has grown into one of India’s largest CSR programmes, active in 28 States and 8 Union Territories.Though following 2013, corporates invested 2 per cent of net profit in the CSR initiative as it has become mandatory due to Section 135 of the Companies Act, Bharucha said his bank started the sustainable livelihood initiative (SLI) way back in 2008, giving affordable credit to people.

 

4. LIC selects Infosys for NextGen digital insurance platform project: The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has selected IT major Infosys to develop its NextGen digital platform.It will be an integrated end-to-end digital insurance solution providing “excellent services to customers, business lifecycle management and operational activities for sales intermediaries and digital front-end platform for branch employees”.The digital platform will be modular, flexible, cloud-native and have platform driven architecture capable of quickly adopting innovative technologies, new products and features.It will form the foundation for building high value business applications such as the customer and sales super apps, portals and digital branch for LIC.

 

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 16th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia launches ‘Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav’ website: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Hon’ble Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), has officially launched the website for the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav.The launch, held at Sanchar Bhawan in New Delhi, highlights the government’s dedication to showcasing Northeast India’s cultural and economic richness on both national and international platforms.The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, to be held from December 6th to 8th, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, is set to be a landmark celebration.The festival draws inspiration from the eight Northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—collectively known as the “Ashtalakshmi,” representing eight forms of prosperity.

 

2. PM releases 1st installment of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana- Gramin to beneficiaries: Prime Minister Modi released the first installment of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana- Gramin in Jharkhand to beneficiaries.Rupees 32 crore was digitally transferred to the bank account of the beneficiaries. Besides sanction letters of 32,000 houses were distributed.He also virtually handed over keys to 46,000 beneficiaries of PMAY-G across the country. The Centre has approved 1,13,400 houses for the poor in Jharkhand under the PMAY-G scheme.

 

3. Group of Ministers to review tax rates on health, life insurance: The GST Council constituted a 13-member Group of Ministers (GoM) to suggest GST rates on premiums of various health and life insurance products. It will submit its report by October 30.Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is the convenor of the GoM. Members of the panel include members from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Meghalaya, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.The 54th GST Council meeting on September 9 decided to establish a GoM to examine and review the present structure of GST on life and medical insurance.Currently, 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is levied on insurance premiums.

 

4. Piyush Goyal launched Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry: Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has launched the Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) initiative which will serve as a central hub where startups, investors, service providers, and government bodies can come together to collaborate, exchange ideas, and accelerate growth.It will also enhance collaboration among key stakeholders within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including startups, investors, mentors, service providers, and government bodies.The primary goal of BHASKAR is to build the world’s largest digital registry for stakeholders within the startup ecosystem.

 

5. IFFI 2024 to introduce new segment, ‘Best Debut Indian Film Section’: Information and Broadcasting Ministry has instituted a new section as part of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024 for young filmmakers called the ‘Best Debut Indian Film Section 2024.’The 55th IFFI is slated to be held in Goa from November 20th to 28th.Through this section, IFFI will also focus on Indian debut films, showcasing a diverse range of narratives and cinematic styles from across the country.These selections will highlight the creative vision and unique storytelling approaches of young filmmakers, providing a platform for new talent and showcasing the work of emerging directors.A maximum of five debut feature films will be selected and shown in the Best Debut Indian Film Section. Entries for the ‘Best Debut Indian Film Section’ are open now, with September 23rd as the deadline for submission.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi inaugurated 4th Global Renewable Energy Investor’s Meet: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the fourth RE Invest Global Industrial Meet at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar.Modi also flaged off the second phase of the Ahmedabad Metro connecting Ahmedabad to Gandhinagar and GIFT City.Modi is scheduled inaugurated and lay the foundation stone for various projects worth over 8 thousand crore rupees, which include the country’s first Vande Bharat Metro train between Ahmedabad and Bhuj.The 4th RE-INVEST Global Renewable Energy Meet & Expo has been organized by the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). The meet will highlight India’s impressive progress in renewable energy manufacturing and deployment.

 

2. India launches Operation Sadbhav to provide humanitarian assistance to Typhoon Yagi affected countries: India has launched Operation Sadbhav to provide humanitarian assistance to typhoon Yagi-affected countries – Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam.India sent urgent relief materials to Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam to assist them in dealing with the impact of the major typhoon. These countries are reeling under massive floods after Asia’s most powerful storm this year hit the three countries.10 tonnes of aid, including dry ration, clothing and medicines, were dispatched to Myanmar onboard the Indian naval ship INS Satpura.A military transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force is carrying 35 tonnes of aid to Vietnam and 10 tonnes of relief materials to Laos. These include genset, water purification items, hygiene supplies, mosquito nets, blankets and sleeping bags.India has been among the first responders in providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to impacted countries. Operation Sadbhav is part of India’s broader effort to contribute to HADR within the ASEAN region, in line with its ‘Act East Policy’.

 

3. Ravindra appointed as India’s next Ambassador to Iceland: Ravindra, currently the Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in New York, has been appointed as the country’s next envoy to Iceland.Ravindran was an Indian foreign service officer of batch 1999 and is currently serving as India’s Deputy permanent representative at the United Nations.

 

4. 16 September – World Ozone Day: World Ozone Day is celebrated every year on September 16.Objective – To raise awareness about the importance of the ozone layer in protecting life on Earth. It also spreads awareness about the steps that have been taken to preserve the ozone layer.Theme 2024 – Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate ActionThe United Nations General Assembly established World Ozone Day in 1994 to celebrate the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.The Montreal Protocol, agreed on September 16, 1987, is an international pact designed to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS).

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy commissions Submarine Escape Training Facility Vinetra: The Indian Navy commissioned its indigenously designed and developed Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility at its premier submarine training base, INS Satavahana, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.The INS Satavahana is under the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy. L&T Defence has constructed the Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility, Vinetra (meaning Trainer).The Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility will train the submarine crews of the Kalvari class of conventional submarines operated by the Indian Navy. It will train the crew to save their lives and escape from the submarine when it is in distress due to an accident or under attack.The facility is equipped with a five-meter escape tower integrated with an adjacent diving basin.

 

2. About Kalvari Class Submarine of the Indian Navy: The Kalvari class submarine is being constructed in India under Project 75 of the Indian Navy, under which six submarines were to be constructed.In 2005, India and France signed a $3.75 billion deal to construct six conventional Scorpene-class submarines in India with technology transfer from France.The French company Naval Group was to provide the technology, while the Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) was to construct it.The 2000-tonne INS Kalvari class submarine is capable of performing all types of missions, such as surface vessel warfare, anti-submarine warfare, long-range strikes, special operations, and intelligence gathering.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Anmol Kharb clinches Belgian International Title: India’s 17-year-old shuttler, Anmol Kharb secured her first senior international title by winning the women’s singles event at the Belgian International 2024 in Leuven.In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the 17-year-old, overcame Denmark’s Amalie Schulz 24-22, 12-21, 21-10 in the final.

 

2. Oscar Piastri won Azerbaijan F1 GP: Oscar Piastri won the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after a late crash impacted the race and required it to finish behind a virtual safety car.The win, combined with the fourth-place finish of McLaren teammate Lando Norris, gave the team a 20-point lead over Red Bull in the constructors standings. Red Bull had topped the standings for the past 55 races; McLaren last held the position in 2014.George Russell (Mercedes) was third and Max Verstappen (Red Bull) fifth in the race at Baku City Circuit in Baku, Azerbaijan.

 

3. Neeraj Chopra finishes second at Diamond League Final in Brussels: Ace Indian javelin throw athlete Neeraj Chopra finished in second position in Brussels with a best throw of 87.86 m at the Diamond League Final.Neeraj missed out on the top spot by just a 1 cm margin.Paris Olympics bronze medallist Anderson Peters hurled the spear to a distance of 87.87 m to claim the top position. Meanwhile, Julian Weber of Germany, with his best attempt of 85.97 m, finished third.

Neeraj finished as runner-up in the Diamond League for the second year in a row. Back in 2023, Neeraj had fallen short of defending his Diamond Trophy after losing to Czech Republic’s Jakub Vadlejch.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. BoB to launch 7 phygital branches as a pilot project: Bank of Baroda (BoB) is planning to launch seven phygital branches as a pilot project across the country. These branches integrate self-service and assisted service models.Debadatta Chand, Managing Director and CEO, recently inaugurated the bank’s second phygital branch in Mumbai at Vile Parle.BoB opened its first phygital branch at Horniman Circle in Mumbai in July. The second branch was opened last month at Chanda Nagar in Hyderabad last month.The phygital branch is equipped with video contact centre, where a customer can connect with the bank’s contact centre through a video call to receive assistance on non-financial services. It has a self service kiosk where tablets are installed and customers can avail services like PAN updation, receive account statements through email, TDS certificate etc.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 15th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Rajiv Ranjan Singh launches ‘Rangeen Machhli’ App.: Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh Alias Lalan Singh, launched the “Rangeen Machhli” mobile app at ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA), Bhubaneswar.Developed by ICAR-CIFA with support from the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the app is designed to meet the growing needs of the ornamental fisheries sector, providing crucial knowledge resources for hobbyists, aquarium shop owners, and fish farmers.The “Rangeen Machhli” app provides multilingual information on popular ornamental fish species in eight Indian languages, making it accessible to a wide audience. Whether hobbyists are seeking guidance on fish care or farmers looking to diversify their breeds, the app offers comprehensive details on care, breeding, and maintenance practices.

 

2. Dr. Jitendra Singh launches dedicated web-portal for Special Campaign 4.0: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh has launched a dedicated web portal to monitor the progress of Special Swachhata Campaign 4.0. via video conferencing.The Special Campaign aims to institutionalize Swachhata in all central government offices using a saturation approach.The government has decided to observe special campaigns every year from October 2nd to 31st to institutionalize Swachhata and reduce pendency.

 

3. Adani Airports launches ‘aviio’ to give passengers real-time access data: Adani Airports Holdings Ltd, the Adani group firm that operates seven airports in the country, has launched ‘aviio’ digital platform to provide passengers with real-time data on a variety of airport accesses – from wait times to gate change and bags on belts.Aviio aspires to bring the aviation community together to collaborate and serve passengers better.By enabling airport stakeholders to access real-time data, passengers can expect easier access to airport information in the form of updates related to security checks, wait times, gate change, and bags on belts, among other aspects.AAHL’s vision for aviio’ encompasses the development of a cutting-edge Smart Airport Operations System, conceived as a replicable model of an ‘Airport-in-a-Box’. This next-generation Airport Planning and Operation Centre (APOC) has 10x more features that help in arriving at data-driven decisions.

 

4. Port Blair to be renamed as ‘Sri Vijaya Puram: Union home minister Amit Shah has announced that Andaman and Nicobar Island’s capital Port Blair has been renamed as “Sri Vijaya Puram.”The government decided to free the nation from the colonial imprints. He said, Sri Vijaya Puram symbolises the victory achieved in the country’s freedom struggle.Andaman and Nicobar Islands have an unparalleled place in the country’s freedom struggle and history. The island territory that once served as the naval base of the Chola Empire is today poised to be the critical base for our strategic and development aspirations.It is also the place that hosted the first unfurling of the Tiranga by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and also the cellular jail in which Veer Savarkar and other freedom fighters struggled for an independent nation.

5. IBM & L&T Partner to Develop Advanced Processors: IBM and L&T Semiconductor Technologies (SiLT) have signed an agreement to co-develop advanced processors for edge devices, hybrid cloud systems and areas like mobility, industrial, energy, and servers.This partnership will boost India’s semiconductor capabilities by creating competitive products for global markets.

 

6. Telangana government has decided to celebrate September 17 as Praja Palan Day: The Telangana State government has decided to celebrate September 17th, the day on which Hyderabad State was integrated into the Indian Union in 1948, as the Telangana Praja Palana Day, the Day of People’s Governance.On that day in 1948, the then-Hyderabad state merged with the Indian Union.In 2023, the then-BRS government decided to celebrate September 17 as National Integration Day. The Union government, on the other hand, decided to celebrate it as Hyderabad Liberation Day, and the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a gazette notification to this effect.Hyderabad merged with the Indian Union on September 17, 1948, following a “police action” under Operation Polo. While some describe it as liberation from Nizam rule, others call it a merger with the Indian Union.

 

7. 14 September – Hindi Diwas : Hindi Diwas is observed every year on 14 September.In 2024, the country is celebrating the 75th year (diamond jubilee) of the adoption of Hindi as India’s official language.On 14 September 1946, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted Hindi in Devnagari script as the official language (Raj Bhasha) of the Indian government, based on the K, M Munshi-N.G Iyenger formula.However, the first Hindi Diwas was observed on 14 September 1953 by the government of India. Since then, every year, 14 September has been observed as Hindi Diwas.On this occasion, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs organised the 4th Akhil Bharatiya Rajbhasha Sammelan and launched Bharatiya Bhasha Anubhag to promote the Hindi language.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Mexico became the first country in the world to allow voters to elect judges at all levels: Mexico became the world’s first country to allow voters to elect judges at all levels after protesters invaded the upper house and suspended debate on the issue.The reform was approved with 86 votes in favor and 41 against, garnering the two-thirds majority needed to amend the constitution, in an upper chamber dominated by the ruling Morena party and its allies.

A two-thirds majority was required to amend the constitution, and the reform achieved this threshold.

 

2. Tayyab Ikram to continue as FIH chief for second consecutive term: Incumbent International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Tayyab Ikram is set to be elected unopposed as the head of the world body at its 49th Congress in Muscat, Oman.The nominations for FIH elections were received by the August 31 deadline for the positions to be elected by the National Associations that are members of the FIH at its Statutory Congress.The former Pakistan and China hockey coach is a member of the IOC Olympic Solidarity Commission and has been an Executive Board member of the FIH since 2016. On 5 November 2022, he was elected as the 13th President of FIH.

 

3. 12 September – International Day of South-South Cooperation: The United Nations International Day of South-South Cooperation is celebrated every year on 12 September.Theme 2024 – A better tomorrow through South-South CooperationThe South-South cooperation is a manifestation of solidarity among peoples and countries of the South that contributes to their national well-being, their national and collective self-reliance and the attainment of internationally agreed development goals, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy’s P8I aircraft reaches Australia’s Darwin to participate in Exercise Kakadu: The Indian Navy’s P8I aircraft, led by Commanding Officer Captain Ajay Kanwar, has reached Australia’s Darwin to participate in the 16th edition of Exercise Kakadu 2024.The Indian Navy will participate in the exercise alongside more than 30 nations with the theme of ‘Regional Cooperation through Trusted and Proven Partnerships.’Australia’s biggest warfare exercise- Kakadu, incorporates warships, helicopters, and maritime patrol aircraft from attending countries.Kakadu is an important exercise hosted by RAN as it deepens relationships and interoperability between participating armed forces. Australia is a maritime nation that like its neighbours, derives prosperity from access to the sea-backed.

 

2. VL-SRSAM missile successfully test-fired by DRDO & Indian Navy: The Indian Navy, in partnership with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has successfully tested the Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM).The test was carried out at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur island off the coast of Odisha.This is the second successful missile test by the DRDO in the past week. On 6 September 2024, the DRDO successfully conducted the user trial of its nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM Agni-4).During the test, the missile equipped with an advanced radio frequency seeker was launched from a land-based vertical launcher, which successfully intercepted a high-speed aerial target flying at a low altitude.

 

3. Oman hosts Indo-Oman Eastern Bridge VII & Al Najah V Exercise: The Indian Army and the Indian Air Force contingent have arrived in Oman to participate in the AL NAJAH -V and Exercise Eastern Bridge -VII, respectively.The seventh edition of the bilateral military exercise Exercise Eastern Bridge between the Indian Air Force and the Royal Oman Air Force commenced at the Air Force Base Masirah, Oman.The Indian Air Force has sent a contingent of MiG-29s, Jaguar fighter planes, and C-17 Globemaster III transport planes.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Star Health Insurance & Policybazaar join hands to launch SUPER STAR: Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (Star Health Insurance) has joined hands with Policybazaar to launch ‘SUPER STAR’, a personalized long-term health insurance plan designed to provide more client value.This game-changing product is designed to satisfy policyholders’ evolving needs while providing unrivaled flexibility and customisation.The 5-year policy period applies to both individuals and families. The Super Star Insurance plan represents a paradigm shift in the health insurance landscape by providing modular coverage that adjusts to consumers’ changing life phases.The Super Star plan offers numerous sum insured options ranging from ₹5 lakhs to ₹1 crore, as well as an unlimited SI option, allowing consumers to select the best plan for their needs. The SUPER STAR plan offers a huge step forward in India’s health insurance system, bridging the gap between cost and comprehensive coverage.

 

2. India’s retail inflation at 3.65 per cent in August 2024: India’s retail inflation rose to 3.65 percent in August, slightly higher than the 3.6 percent reported in July this year.According to data released, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) highlighted that this is the second-lowest retail inflation in the past five years.The inflation rate was within the Reserve Bank of India’s tolerance band of 2-6 percent. Meanwhile, the food inflation rate for August 2024, based on the All-India Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI), is provisionally reported at 5.66 percent, making it the second-lowest since June 2023.Several subgroups, including spices, meat and fish, and pulses and products, have experienced a decrease in inflation.