Daily GK Update- 3rd Oct, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CSIR-NIScPR Commemorates 83 Years of Scientific Excellence of CSIR: CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) celebrated the 83rd Foundation Day of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) at the National Agricultural Science Complex, Pusa, New Delhi.On the occasion, a special issue of ‘Science Reporter’, a monthly publication of CSIR-NIScPR was also released during the event. The title of the issue is “Science Reporter: A Six Decade Journey in Science Communication (1964-2024)”.Awards were distributed by distinguished guests to retirees, employees completing 25 years of service, and meritorious 10th and 12th-class students.

 

2. PM Narendra Modi participates in Swachh Bharat Diwas 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has participated in the Swachh Bharat Diwas 2024 programme on the occasion of 155th Gandhi Jayanti in New Delhi.The event marks the completion of 10 years of the launch of one of the most significant mass movements for cleanliness, the Swachh Bharat Mission.The Prime Minister will launch several projects related to sanitation and cleanliness, worth over nine thousand six hundred crore rupees. These include projects under AMRUT and AMRUT 2.0, National Mission for Clean Ganga and 15 Compressed Biogas Plant projects under GOBARdhan Scheme.The Swachh Bharat Diwas programme will showcase India’s decade-long sanitation achievements and those in the recently concluded Swachhata Hi Seva campaign. It will also set the stage for the next phase of this national endeavour.

 

3. Who will implement the Cruise Bharat Mission?: The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is the nodal ministry for implementing the Cruise Bharat Mission.The mission will be implemented with the support of all regulatory agencies, such as Customs, Immigration, CISF, State Tourism Departments, State Maritime Agencies, District Administrations, and local police.

The ministry will establish a special purpose vehicle (SPV) for cruise development under the Indian Ports Association. The Indian Port Association is an association of major ports in India.

 

4. Kerala Launches India’s First Supercapacitor Manufacturing Facility: Kerala’s Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, recently inaugurated India’s first supercapacitor manufacturing facility at Keltron Component Complex Limited (KCCL) in Kallyassery, Kannur. This marks an important milestone for both Keltron and India’s electronics industry. The Kerala government has plans to invest ₹1,000 crore more to boost the electronics sector. This includes upgrading current factories and building new infrastructure, like an IT corridor and an electronics manufacturing park in Amballur. These steps aim to make Kerala a leader in electronics manufacturing.

 

5. IIT Madras Researchers Develop New Method for Retinal Treatment: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, have developed new techniques to treat eye problems like retinal tears and diabetic retinopathy. These eye conditions affect about 11 million people in India. The research uses mild laser-induced convection, a method that makes delivering treatment to the retina faster and more effective. The study is the result of over 10 years of work between Professor Arunn Narasimhan and eye specialist Dr. Lingam Gopal. They studied how heat from lasers affects the retina and helps deliver medicine more efficiently. By using computer simulations and experiments, they discovered that by gently heating the eye, they could speed up the process of getting medication to the retina.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Claudia Sheinbaum sworn in as Mexico’s 1st female president: Claudia Sheinbaum was sworn in as Mexico’s first woman president.She vowing to bolster women’s rights and ensure Latin America’s number 2 economy remains a secure destination for international investment.The 62-year-old climate scientist and former mayor of Mexico City is set to serve a six-year term, ending in 2030.Sheinbaum’s inauguration is the culmination of a four-decade rise in Mexican politics, punctuated by her history-making election as the first woman to lead Mexico City.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Arti Sarin becomes first woman to take over as DG, Armed Forces Medical Services: Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin became the first woman officer to take over as the Director General, Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS).The DGAFMS is directly responsible to the Ministry of Defence for overall medical policy matters which relate to the Armed Forces.Prior to assuming the appointment of 46th DGAFMS, the Flag Officer held the coveted appointments of DG Medical Services (Navy), DG Medical Services (Air) and Director & Commandant of Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune. She is an alumna of AFMC, Pune and was commissioned into the Armed Forces Medical Services in December 1985.The Flag Officer has the rare distinction of serving in all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces, having served as Lieutenant to Captain in the Indian Army, from Surgeon Lieutenant to Surgeon Vice Admiral in the Indian Navy, and as an Air Marshal in the Indian Air Force.

 

2. Taiwan Receives First Shipment of Harpoon Missile Systems: Taiwan has received its first shipment of 100 land-based Harpoon anti-ship missile systems from the United States, which arrived at Kaohsiung Port on September 27. This is an important step in strengthening Taiwan’s military, especially during times of regional tension. This shipment will make Taiwan’s defenses stronger against threats from the sea and highlight the ongoing support from the U.S., which is important for maintaining security in the region.

 

3. EURONAVAL 2024: EURONAVAL 2024 is shaping up to be an important event in the world of naval defense, with close to 500 exhibitors expected to participate. The event will be held from November 4th to 7th, 2024, at the Paris-Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre. Thirteen countries will have their own dedicated spaces, called national pavilions, where they can showcase their products and ideas more effectively. The countries hosting these pavilions are Brazil, Colombia, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States

 

4. Lt. Gen. Asim Malik Appointed New Pakistan’s ISI Chief: Lt. Gen. Muhammad Asim Malik has been appointed as the new Director General of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), taking over from Lt. Gen. Nadeem Anjum. This change comes at a time when Pakistan is facing growing security risks and political unrest, particularly due to tensions from supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Lt. Gen. Malik is 59 years old and comes from a military family—his father, Lt. Gen. Ghulam Muhammad Malik, also served in the army. He studied at the University of Balochistan and continued his education at well-known defence institutions in the U.S. and U.K. During his military training at the Pakistan Military Academy, he won the prestigious ‘Sword of Honour,’ a recognition given to the best cadet.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Virat Kohli becomes fourth player to complete 27,000 international runs: Indian batsman Virat Kohli became only the fourth player in history to complete 27,000 runs in international cricket across formats, a feat that he achieved on the fourth day of the ongoing second Test against Bangladesh here.Kohli made a brisk 47 off 35 balls with four fours and a six as he helped India push on further in an aggressive mode to make up for the lost time in the Test due to incessant rains.Kohli became only the second Indian to achieve the feat after the Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, who amassed a massive 34,357 runs across the length of his career. He is also the fastest batter to reach 27000 runs, reaching the impressive landmark in just 594 innings.Sachin is followed by Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara (28,016 runs) and, Australia’s Ricky Ponting at third (27,483 runs).Kohli has more than 8,800 runs in Tests, 13,906 runs in 295 ODIs, and another 4,188 runs in 125 T20Is. He has only retired from the T20 format after India won the T20 World Cup 2024 earlier this year. India’s talisman is still a long way from matching Sachin’s record, as the former cricketer scored 15,921 runs in 200 Tests.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Survey Discovers New Reptile and Amphibian Species: A survey of reptiles and amphibians, known as herpetofauna, was conducted in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR), specifically in the Masinagudi Division, from September 7th to 9th, 2024. This survey discovered a large variety of species, with a total of 33 reptiles and 36 amphibians identified. Four of these species might even be completely new to science. The survey covered areas at different heights, ranging from 300 to 2,000 meters above sea level, across different types of habitats. It was led by Deputy Director Arun Kumar P., with guidance from Field Director D. Venkatesh. This was the first full study of herpetofauna in this part of the reserve, which made the findings even more exciting.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SEBI approved new asset class for HNIs with riskier appetite: Market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) approved a new asset class, allowing high-net-worth investors to invest in riskier regulated products.The new asset class is to have a minimum investment amount of Rs 10 lakh. The offerings under the new product will be referred to as ‘Investment Strategies’, to maintain a clear distinction from the schemes offered under the traditional mutual funds.The new product is intended to add depth and variety to the investment landscape of the country through a new asset class.SEBI floated a consultation paper on introducing a ‘New Asset Class’ in July, inviting public comments by August 6, 2024.The move is aimed at creating a new product that lies between mutual funds and portfolio management services (PMS), catering to investors with higher risk-taking capabilities and larger ticket sizes. Among other important decisions, the regulator also approved rules for a new investment product under mutual funds.

 

2. GST collections hit a 40-month low in September, with revenues at ₹1.73 lakh crore: Growth in India’s Gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections slumped to a 40-month low of 6.5% in September, with revenues at ₹1,73,240 crore, about 1% lower than the tally in August.Net GST receipts, after adjusting for refunds made to taxpayers, were 3.9% higher than a year ago, marking the slowest growth in this financial year.However, net collections were 1.5% higher than August’s receipts, at ₹1,52,782 crore. In the preceding month, net GST receipts had grown 6.5% while gross collections were up 10%.As many as seven States recorded negative revenue growth, led by a 33% contraction in Manipur, while revenues were flat in Gujarat. Ten States underperformed the national level 6% uptick in domestic revenues, including Telangana (1%), Rajasthan (2%), Uttar Pradesh (3%), and Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and West Bengal (5% each). Poll-bound Haryana recorded the sharpest rise in revenues of 24%, followed by Delhi where receipts grew 20%.

 

Daily GK Update- 2nd Oct, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 closing ceremony held in Ranchi: The 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 ended on 30 September 2024 with an official ceremony in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annpurna Devi, presided over the closing ceremony.The 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024 was officially launched on 1 September 2024 by Annpurna Devi and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.The Rashtriya Poshan Maah is held annually from 1-30 September 2024.The 7th Rashtriya Poshan Maah focused on Anaemia, Growth Monitoring, Complementary Feeding, and Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi. It also focused on Technology for better governance and. ‘Environmental Sustainability’. The Anganwadi centers across the country were encouraged to plant trees under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative to promote environmental sustainability.

 

2. CSIR-NIScPR Commemorates 83 Years of Scientific Excellence of CSIR: CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR) celebrated the 83rd Foundation Day of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) at the National Agricultural Science Complex, Pusa, New Delhi.On the occasion, a special issue of ‘Science Reporter’, a monthly publication of CSIR-NIScPR was also released during the event. The title of the issue is “Science Reporter: A Six Decade Journey in Science Communication (1964-2024)”.Awards were distributed by distinguished guests to retirees, employees completing 25 years of service, and meritorious 10th and 12th-class students.

 

3. PM Narendra Modi participates in Swachh Bharat Diwas 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has participated in the Swachh Bharat Diwas 2024 programme on the occasion of 155th Gandhi Jayanti in New Delhi.The event marks the completion of 10 years of the launch of one of the most significant mass movements for cleanliness, the Swachh Bharat Mission.The Prime Minister will launch several projects related to sanitation and cleanliness, worth over nine thousand six hundred crore rupees. These include projects under AMRUT and AMRUT 2.0, National Mission for Clean Ganga and 15 Compressed Biogas Plant projects under GOBARdhan Scheme.The Swachh Bharat Diwas programme will showcase India’s decade-long sanitation achievements and those in the recently concluded Swachhata Hi Seva campaign. It will also set the stage for the next phase of this national endeavour.

 

4. Cruise Bharat Mission launched to promote Cruise Tourism: The ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ is a new project launched by the Indian government to promote cruise tourism in India.Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal officially inaugurated at Mumbai port on the cruise ship ‘Empress’.The mission aims to tap into India’s potential as a major cruise destination and increase the number of people who travel by cruise ships. The goal is to double cruise passenger traffic by the year 2029.

 

5. Who will implement the Cruise Bharat Mission?: The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is the nodal ministry for implementing the Cruise Bharat Mission.The mission will be implemented with the support of all regulatory agencies, such as Customs, Immigration, CISF, State Tourism Departments, State Maritime Agencies, District Administrations, and local police.

The ministry will establish a special purpose vehicle (SPV) for cruise development under the Indian Ports Association. The Indian Port Association is an association of major ports in India.

 

6. Govt gives additional charge of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam CMD to Ajit Kumar Saxena: The Union government has assigned the additional charge of CMD of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) to Ajit Kumar Saxena.Saxena is currently the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of MOIL, a PSU under the Ministry of Steel.Atul Bhatt the CMD of RINL is on personal leave from September 9 till November 30, which is also the date of his superannuation.

 

7. Ram Singh, Saugata Bhattacharya, Nagesh Kumar appointed as new MPC members: The Government has appointed the Director of the Delhi School of Economics, Ram Singh, noted economist Saugata Bhattacharya, and the Director of the Institute for Studies in Industrial Development, Nagesh Kumar, to the Monetary Policy Committee.The panel, which decides interest rates, is headed by the Reserve Bank of India Governor.The reconstituted MPC is scheduled to have its first meeting from October 7 to 9. Following the MPC meeting, Governor Das will announce the bi-monthly monetary policy on October 9.The members of the MPC appointed by the central government will hold office for a period of four years, with immediate effect or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

 

8. 2 October – Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Sastri Birth Anniversary: The nation celebrated Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, to honour the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, affectionately known as Bapu, the father of the nation. This year marks the 155th birth anniversary of Gandhi.October 2 also holds global significance as the International Day of Non-Violence. On June 15, 2007, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring October 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence, in recognition of Gandhi’s contributions to non-violent resistance.Gandhi earned the title “Father of the Nation” from Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose for his pivotal role in India’s fight for independence.Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti is celebrated every year on October 2nd to honor the birth anniversary of India’s third Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 1 October – International Coffee Day: International Coffee Day is celebrated on 1st October every year to promote and celebrate coffee as a beverage.Theme 2024 – Coffee, Your Daily Ritual, Our Shared Journey International Coffee Day was celebrated for the first time on October 1, 2015. It was organised by the International Coffee Organisation (ICO), which was established in 1963. Hosted by the ICO, International Coffee Day promotes the fair trade of the beverage.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Arti Sarin becomes first woman to take over as DG, Armed Forces Medical Services: Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin became the first woman officer to take over as the Director General, Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS).The DGAFMS is directly responsible to the Ministry of Defence for overall medical policy matters which relate to the Armed Forces.Prior to assuming the appointment of 46th DGAFMS, the Flag Officer held the coveted appointments of DG Medical Services (Navy), DG Medical Services (Air) and Director & Commandant of Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune. She is an alumna of AFMC, Pune and was commissioned into the Armed Forces Medical Services in December 1985.The Flag Officer has the rare distinction of serving in all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces, having served as Lieutenant to Captain in the Indian Army, from Surgeon Lieutenant to Surgeon Vice Admiral in the Indian Navy, and as an Air Marshal in the Indian Air Force.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. India wins SAFF U-17 Championship 2024 after beating Bangladesh: The undefeated Indian football team lifted the 2024 Men’s SAFF U17 Championship by defeating Bangaldesh 2-0 in the final.The final was played at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu, Bhutan.The Indian boy’s football team, also famously known as Blue Colts, remained undefeated throughout the tournament.India and Bangladesh have met five times in the SAFF men’s age group tournament finals. India has won four times – U18 in 2019, U20 in 2022, U16 in 2023 and U17 in 2024. Bangladesh has won once in U16 in 2015.Seven teams -India, Bangladesh, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan participated in the 2024 Men’s SAAF U17 Championships.India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives were in Group A, and Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan were in Group B.

Captain of Indian team – Ngamgouhou Mate

 

2. Virat Kohli becomes fourth player to complete 27,000 international runs: Indian batsman Virat Kohli became only the fourth player in history to complete 27,000 runs in international cricket across formats, a feat that he achieved on the fourth day of the ongoing second Test against Bangladesh here.Kohli made a brisk 47 off 35 balls with four fours and a six as he helped India push on further in an aggressive mode to make up for the lost time in the Test due to incessant rains.Kohli became only the second Indian to achieve the feat after the Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, who amassed a massive 34,357 runs across the length of his career. He is also the fastest batter to reach 27000 runs, reaching the impressive landmark in just 594 innings.Sachin is followed by Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara (28,016 runs) and, Australia’s Ricky Ponting at third (27,483 runs).Kohli has more than 8,800 runs in Tests, 13,906 runs in 295 ODIs, and another 4,188 runs in 125 T20Is. He has only retired from the T20 format after India won the T20 World Cup 2024 earlier this year. India’s talisman is still a long way from matching Sachin’s record, as the former cricketer scored 15,921 runs in 200 Tests.

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IBBI to celebrate its Eighth Annual Day: The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) is celebrated its Eighth Annual Day on 1st October 2024.To mark the occasion, an annual publication, IBBI has Over the past eight years, the IBC has significantly accelerated the resolution of insolvency cases, bolstered investor and stakeholder confidence and fostering a more favourable environment for business growth.The Code’s deterrent effect, enabling the transfer of control of a Corporate Debtor, has significantly influenced debtor behaviour. The risk of ownership transfer is a strong incentive, encouraging disciplined management and discouraging insolvency-triggering actions.

 

2. SEBI approved new asset class for HNIs with riskier appetite: Market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) approved a new asset class, allowing high-net-worth investors to invest in riskier regulated products.The new asset class is to have a minimum investment amount of Rs 10 lakh. The offerings under the new product will be referred to as ‘Investment Strategies’, to maintain a clear distinction from the schemes offered under the traditional mutual funds.The new product is intended to add depth and variety to the investment landscape of the country through a new asset class.SEBI floated a consultation paper on introducing a ‘New Asset Class’ in July, inviting public comments by August 6, 2024.The move is aimed at creating a new product that lies between mutual funds and portfolio management services (PMS), catering to investors with higher risk-taking capabilities and larger ticket sizes. Among other important decisions, the regulator also approved rules for a new investment product under mutual funds.

 

3. GST collections hit a 40-month low in September, with revenues at ₹1.73 lakh crore: Growth in India’s Gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections slumped to a 40-month low of 6.5% in September, with revenues at ₹1,73,240 crore, about 1% lower than the tally in August.Net GST receipts, after adjusting for refunds made to taxpayers, were 3.9% higher than a year ago, marking the slowest growth in this financial year.However, net collections were 1.5% higher than August’s receipts, at ₹1,52,782 crore. In the preceding month, net GST receipts had grown 6.5% while gross collections were up 10%.As many as seven States recorded negative revenue growth, led by a 33% contraction in Manipur, while revenues were flat in Gujarat. Ten States underperformed the national level 6% uptick in domestic revenues, including Telangana (1%), Rajasthan (2%), Uttar Pradesh (3%), and Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and West Bengal (5% each). Poll-bound Haryana recorded the sharpest rise in revenues of 24%, followed by Delhi where receipts grew 20%.

 

Daily GK Update- 1st Oct, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. President inaugurates the 8th Kala Mahotsav: President Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated the 8th Bhartiya Kala Mahotsav, focussed on the North-Eastern states at the Rashtrapati Nilayam, Secunderabad, Telangana.The eight-day-long Bhartiya Kala Mahotsav will be open to the public from 29 September to 6 October 2024.The 8th Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav, focussed on the North Eastern states, is being organised by the Union Ministry for Development of the North Eastern Region in association with the Union Ministry of Culture.The Mahotsav will showcase the art, culture, crafts, and culinary diversity of the North-Eastern states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.

 

2. PM Modi unveils projects worth ₹ 11,200 crore In Maharashtra: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various projects of ₹ 11,200 crore in Maharashtra via video conference.Prime Minister Modi virtually inaugurated the Pune Metro section from District Court to Swargate, which also marks the completion of the Pune Metro Rail Project (Phase-1).The cost of the underground section between the District Court to Swargate is around ₹ 1,810 crore.PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for the Swargate-Katraj extension of the Pune Metro Phase-1 to be developed at the cost of around ₹ 2,955 crore.This southern extension of 5.46 km is completely underground with three stations, namely Market Yard, Padmavati and Katraj.

 

3. Om Birla inaugurated the 21st CPA Zone III India Region Conference: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has inaugurated the 21st Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Zone III Conference at Aizawl, Mizoram.The conference, which was held at the Mizoram Legislative Assembly Complex in Aizawl, was intended to deepen the democratic process in the country’s Northeastern region.Theme – Democratic Sanctity, Transparency, Accountability, and Results from Democracy.The conference aims to foster collaboration and dialogue among the Northeastern state legislatures, focusing on addressing regional challenges through democratic means.

 

4. Pralhad Joshi inaugurates 2nd India Sugar & Bio-Energy Conference: Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New & Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi has inaugurated the 2nd India Sugar & Bio-Energy Conference in New Delhi.The conference brings together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and stakeholders to encourage dialogue, innovation, and collaboration for sustainable growth and development of the sugar and bio-energy industries.Bioenergy refers to the use of sugarcane to produce energy. Ethanol, derived from molasses, is blended with petrol to run petrol-driven vehicles. Molasses is a by-product produced during the production of sugar from sugarcane.

 

5. PM Modi dedicates Bidkin Industrial Area of DMIC to nation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually dedicated the Bidkin Industrial Area in Maharashtra to the nation.The Bilkin Industrial Area, situated 20 km south of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, is part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC).The project is part of the central government’s “Make in India, Make for the World” programme, which aims to foster industrial growth, economic prosperity, and sustainable development in the region.The government of India launched the Make in India programme on 25 September 2015, and it has been in operation for 10 years.

 

6. National Centre of Excellence for AVGC-XR to be set up in Mumbai: The Government of India has approved the establishment of a National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) in the country.The proposed NCoE will be in Mumbai, Maharashtra, the hub of the Indian film industry.The NCoE is being set up on the recommendation of the Task Force on Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics in 2022.The government of India set up a Task Force on Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics (AVGC) in 2022, headed by the then Secretary of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. Apurva Chandra.The Task Force was established after the Union Minister for Finance, Nirmala Sitharaman, announced the establishment of a task force on Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics in her budget speech for 2022-23.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 1 October – International Day of Older Persons: International Day of Older Persons is observed every year on 1 October.Objective- To raise public awareness about the opportunities and challenges presented to the ageing populations and to mobilize families, community groups and stakeholders to address the difficulties faced by older people.Theme 2024 – Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons WorldwideOn December 14, 1990, the UN General Assembly made October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons. The International Day of Older Persons was observed for the first time on October 1, 1991.

 

2. India and Republic of Uzbekistan sign Bilateral Investment Treaty in Tashkent: The Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of Republic of Uzbekistan was signed by Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman and H.E. Mr. Khodjayev Jamshid Abdukhakimovich, Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan, at Tashkent.The BIT between India and Uzbekistan assures appropriate protection to Uzbekistan investors in India and Indian investors in the Republic of Uzbekistan, in light of relevant international precedents and practices.It will increase the comfort level and boost the confidence of investors by assuring a minimum standard of treatment and non-discrimination.

 

3. Amazon partners with Ministry of Labour and Employment to expand job opportunities through NCS portal: Ecommerce giant Amazon’s India unit Amazon India has signed an MoU with the Ministry of Labour and Employment to leverage the National Career Service (NCS) portal.The partnership is aimed at enhancing job accessibility by allowing Amazon and its staffing agencies to post open job positions on the NCS platform. The MoU initially set for two years.Notably, Amazon is the first e-commerce company to collaborate with the Ministry of Labour and Employment for the NCS portal.The initiative will enable job seekers from across the country to apply for various roles at Amazon and its affiliated agencies.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS 

 

1. 9th World Junior Wushu Championships 2024: India wins 7 medals: The Young Indian Wushu players ended their campaign at the 9th World Junior Wushu Championships 2024 by winning seven medals, including two golds, one silver, and four bronze medals.The Championships were held at Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.India’s Aryan clinched the gold medal after defeating Gong Huanran from China in the Boys’ Group Junior 48 kg weight category. Shaurya triumphed over his Iranian opponent Alireza Zamani to win another gold medal in Boys 48kg (children) section.Nang Mingbi Borphukan won a silver medal in the Taolu Jian Shu C Group event.Indian player Tanish Nagar in the 56kg category lost to Abdulkhamid Odilov of Uzbekistan confirming a bronze medal. Abhijeet in the 60kg category, Divyanshi (60kg women) and Yuvraj (42kg) also won bronze medals. A 24-member Indian team participated in the tournament.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. PM Modi launches PARAM Rudra Supercomputers: Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated three PARAM Rudra supercomputers and two high-performance computing systems to the nation.These Computing systems were developed and manufactured indigenously under the National Supercomputer Mission and in line with the Make in India initiative.The three supercomputers have been deployed in Pune, Delhi, and Kolkata to support cutting-edge scientific research.Pune’s Giant Metre Radio Telescope (GMRT) will use the supercomputer to study Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) and other astronomical events.In Delhi, the Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC) will advance research in material science and atomic physics.Meanwhile, the S.N. Bose Centre in Kolkata will lead advanced studies in physics, cosmology, and earth sciences.

 

2. What is PARAM RUDRA SUPERCOMPUTER?: Param Rudra, named after the fierce avatar of Lord Shiva, is designed to tackle complex computational challenges across various scientific and engineering domains.Three Param Rudra supercomputers have been developed at Rs 130 crores, indigenously under the National Supercomputing Mission.PARAM Rudra SupercomputersIt is based on the indigenous Rudra server developed by C-DAC and has a computing speed of one petaflops (1015 operations per second).C-DAC, under the Union Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeiTY), started developing a High-Performance computing system in the country in 1988 and has developed a series of supercomputers called the PARAM series.

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bandhan Life partners with Bandhan Bank to Strengthen Insurance Business: Bandhan Life Insurance, following its acquisition of Aegon Life and subsequent rebranding earlier this year, has partnered with Bandhan Bank to distribute life insurance products through the bank’s expansive network of 1,700 branches.This move aims to bolster Bandhan Life’s focus on new business and expand its distribution capabilities.Initially, the partnership will see around 550 bank branches offering two new life insurance products tailored for Bandhan Bank customers, with plans to extend this to all 1,700 branches by the end of the year.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Mithun Chakraborty nominated for highest cinema honour Dadasaheb Phalke Award: The Union Ministry for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw announcedthat the jury had selected veteran Hindi and Bengali film actor Mithun Chakraborty, 74, as the recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Awards for 2022.Mithun Chakraborty will be the 54th recipient of the Dada Saheb Phalke Award.Last year, Waheeda Rehman received the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Awards for 2021.Mithun Chakraborty will be conferred the award at the 70th National Film Festival award ceremony, which will be held on 8 October 2024.Asha Parekh, Vipul Shah, and Khusbhu Sundar were members of the Jury that selected the Dadasaheb Lifetime Achievement Award winner for 2022.

 

Daily GK Update- 30th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Central Government Hikes Minimum Wage Rates, Effective From 1st October: The central government has announced an increase in minimum wage rates by revising the Variable Dearness Allowance.The new wage rates will take effect from 1st October. The minimum wage rates are categorized based on skill levels-unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled, and highly skilled, as well as by geographical areas A, B, and C.After the revision, minimum wage rates for workers in area ‘A’ in construction, sweeping, cleaning, and loading & unloading for unskilled work will be 783 rupees a day.For semi-skilled workers, the minimum wage will be 868 rupees a day, and for skilled, clerical, and watch & ward (without arms), the minimum wage will be 954 rupees a day.

For highly skilled workers and watch & ward (with arms), the revised wage will be 1,035 rupees a day.

 

2. Ministry of Tourism announces Winners of Best Tourism Villages Competition-2024: On the occasion of World Tourism Day on 27 September 2024, the Union Ministry of Tourism has announced the winners of the 2024 Best Tourism Villages Competition.The Ministry introduced the Best Tourism Villages Competition in 2023 to promote tourism in India’s soul (village).The first edition of the Best Tourism Villages Competition in 2023 saw applications from 795 villages.In the second edition of the Best Tourism Villages Competition, a total of 991 applications were received from 30 States and UTs, out of which 36 villages were recognized as winners across 8 categories of the Best Tourism Villages competition 2024.

 

3. Nitin Gadkari to inaugurate Oxygen Bird Park (Amrit Mahotsav Park): Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has inaugurated Oxygen Bird Park (Amrit Mahotsav Park) along the Nagpur-Hyderabad National Highway-44.Oxygen Bird Park (Amrit Mahotsav Park) is an eco-initiative developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) near Jamtha, along the Nagpur-Hyderabad National Highway-44.The project, which integrates environmental sustainability and recreational facilities, was formally approved in March 2023 with a development cost of ₹14.31 crores.A key aspect of the park is its focus on sustainability, showcased through its “Oxygen Park” feature

 

4. PK Gupta reappointed as Chairman of Utkarsh Small Finance Bank: Reserve Bank of India has approved the reappointment of Parveen Kumar Gupta as Non-Executive Chairman of Utkarsh Small Finance Bank.Gupta retired as a Managing Director of State Bank of India, after working for 38 years in India and abroad.He was also associated with Bank of Baroda as a senior advisor post-retirement.

 

5. Sumant Kathpalia reappointed as MD & CEO for IndusInd Bank: The board of directors of private sector lender IndusInd Bank has approved the re-appointment of Sumant Kathpalia as the managing director and chief executive officer (MD&CEO) of the bank for a period of three years.

The re-appointment will be effective March 24, 2025 upto March 23, 2028. Kathpalia has been the MD&CEO of the company since March 24, 2020.Kathpalia is a seasoned banker, with over 3 and a half decades of experience, and has previously worked in large multi-national banks such as Citibank etc.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Tourism Ministry Launches ‘Paryatan Mitra’ and ‘Paryatan Didi’ on World Tourism Day: On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Ministry of Tourism has launched a national responsible tourism initiative titled Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi.The primary aim of this initiative is to elevate the overall experience for tourists in destinations, by having them meet ‘tourist-friendly’ people who are proud Ambassadors and Storytellers for their destination.Under this initiative, special emphasis is being placed on the training of women and youth to enable them develop new tourism products and experiences like heritage walks, food tours, craft tours, nature treks, homestay experiences, and other innovative tourism products based on the potential of the destination.

 

2. India elected to GlobE Steering Committee on combating corruption: India has been elected to the fifteen-member steering committee of the GlobE Network following a multi-stage voting process during a plenary session in Beijing.The Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (GlobE Network) is an initiative launched under the G20 framework to address international corruption and financial crime.India’s election to the steering committee will allow it to actively contribute to global efforts in combating corruption and facilitating asset recovery.The GlobE Network provides a platform for international cooperation, enhancing the ability of member countries to address cross-border corruption and financial crime.India has been a supporter of this initiative since 2020, with the network officially launched on June 3, 2021, during a UN General Assembly Special Session against Corruption (UNGASS).

 

3. Global Innovation Index 2024 – India at 39th; topped by Switzerland: India’s ranking in the 2024 Global Innovation Index (GII) has improved to 39, up from 40 in the last edition.India’s ranking has improved by 42 in the last nine years, from 81st in 2015 to 39 in 2024.Switzerland maintained its position as the top-ranked country, while Angola, an African country, was at the bottom.The Global Innovation Index has been published by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) every year since 2007. In the 17th edition, 133 countries and the world’s top 100 science and technology clusters were ranked based on innovation performance.The countries are evaluated using around 80 indicators grouped into four parameters: science and innovation investment, technological progress, technology adoption and the socioeconomic impact of innovation.

 

4. 28 September – World Rabies Day: World Rabies Day is observed every year on September 28. Objective – To raise awareness about rabies prevention and to highlight progress in defeating this horrifying disease.Theme – Breaking Rabies Boundary

 

5. 29 September – World Heart Day: World Heart Day is celebrated annually on September 29th.

Objective – To raise awareness about the importance of heart health and preventing cardiovascular diseases.Theme 2024 – Use Heart for ActionThe day brings people together to increase awareness, engage communities and advocate for universal access to cardiovascular disease prevention, detection and treatment.The concept of World Heart Day was inspired by Antoni Bayes de Luna, who served as WHF president from 1997 to 1999. While it was first established in 1999, the first celebration did not take place until September 24, 2000.

 

6. 30 September – International Translation Day: International Translation Day is celebrated on September 30th every year to honor the work of translators and interpreters.Objective – To promote dialogue and understanding between people from different cultures and linguistic backgrounds.Theme 2024 – Translation, an Art Worth Protecting: Moral and Material Rights for Indigenous Languages.Established by the United Nations in 2017, International Translation Day serves as a tribute to the tireless efforts of translators and interpreters in promoting dialogue, peace, and mutual understanding among individuals from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds,” according to UNESCO.

 

7. 29 September – International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction: The International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW) is celebrated on September 29th each year.The day’s goal is to raise awareness about food loss and waste, and to encourage action to reduce it.Theme 2024 – Climate Finance for Food Loss and Waste ReductionThe 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development – specifically SDG 12, Target 12.3 – calls for halving per-capita global food waste at the retail and consumer levels and reducing food losses along production and supply chains.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. 8th edition of India -Kazakhstan military EX KAZIND 2024 begins in Auli: India -Kazakhstan joint military exercise KAZIND -2024 commenced at the mountainous Surya Foreign Training node in Auli, Uttarakhand.The 8th edition of KAZIND-2024 will be held in Auli from 30 September to 13 October 2024.The last edition of the annual bilateral military exercise was held in Otar, Kazakhstan, from 30 October to 11 November 2023.For the first time, the Air Forces of both countries and the Airborne Assault Forces of Kazakhstan participated.The Indian Armed Forces, comprising 120 personnel, are being represented by a battalion of the KUMAON Regiment of the Indian Army, along with other arms and services, as well as personnel from the Indian Air Force.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Kamal Chawla clinches Gold in IBSF World 6 Red Snooker Championship: In snooker, Indian veteran Kamal Chawla has clinched his maiden IBSF World 6-Red title with a commanding 6-2 victory over Pakistan’s Asjad Iqbal in the final at Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.This triumph marks a significant turnaround for Chawla, who was the runner-up in the 2017 edition of the tournament. India also won three more bronze medals through Malkeet Singh, Vidya Pillai, and Keerthana Pandian.In the women’s category, India’s Vidya was unable to defend her title, finishing with a bronze medal after a hard-fought semifinal loss to Hong Kong’s Ng On Yee, with the scoreline at 2-4.

 

2. BCCI inaugurates state-of-the-art ‘Centre of Excellence’ in Bengaluru: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially opened the new National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, now named the BCCI Centre of Excellence.This state-of-the-art facility, envisioned by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, aims to cultivate the next generation of cricket talent while promoting advancements in sports science across India.Spanning over 40 acres, the Centre of Excellence is equipped with three cricket grounds and a total of 86 pitches, offering both indoor and outdoor training options.The main ground, Ground A, features an 85-yard boundary and 13 meticulously maintained pitches made from Mumbai red soil, ready for action.

 

3. Gulveer Singh breaks his 5000m National Record in Japan: Gulveer Singh broke his national record in the men’s 5000m event by clocking 13:11.82 to win gold at the World Athletics Continental Tour in Niigata, Japan.Gulveer, in June this year, had broken Avinash Sable’s record at the 2024 Portland Track Festival by clocking 13:18.92.The 26-year-old surpassed Avinash’s record of 13:19.30 set at the Sound Running On Track Fest 2023 in LA to secure a personal best.

The 26-year-old missed the Paris Olympic qualification mark by over 13 seconds.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IDBI Bank launched Sugam Rinn Bhugtan Yojana for one time settlement of retail NPAs: IDBI Bank has launched a special Scheme “Sugam Rinn Bhugtan Yojana (SUGAM)”, to boost its recovery efforts through one time settlement of Retail NPAs up to March 31, 2021.The scheme will be applicable to borrower’s principal outstanding above Rs.0.10 crore and up to Rs.10 crore (subject to eligibility criteria), at relaxed terms.It will provide a renewed opportunity to the borrowers who are in distress and are willing to settle their dues to avoid legal entanglement. The scheme will end on March on 2025.The scheme will not be applicable where the sanction given under general One Time Settlement (OTS)/ Negotiated Settlement (NS), if it is in currency, where formal offer for settlement along with upfront amount has been received before launch of this scheme and the proposal is under consideration.

 

2. HDFC Bank launches instant SIP via SmartWealth app: HDFC Bank has launched updates to its SmartWealth app. One of the key additions is the Instant SIP, which allows users to invest in mutual funds on the same day they identify an opportunity.This feature enables users to capitalise on favorable market conditions immediately. It caters to those who wish to respond quickly to market changes.Alongside the Instant SIP, the Unified Dashboard has received a makeover. It now provides a consolidated view of all investments, including mutual funds, demat accounts, and fixed deposits.This revamped dashboard offers users a clearer understanding of their overall financial health, simplifying money management and keeping users informed.

 

3. Axis Bank’s new economy group launches Corporate Credit Card Suite for startups: Axis Bank has unveiled its Corporate Credit Card Suite designed specifically for start-ups within the New Economy Group (NEG).This innovative offering is tailored to streamline various financial processes for start-ups, including travel, expenses, and vendor payments.The suite consists of two distinct cards: the Executive Corporate Credit Card, catering to founders, and the Purchase Reward Credit Card, focused on expense management.

 

4. RBI organizes conference on Governance in Small Finance Banks in Bengaluru: The Reserve Bank of India had organized a daylong conference for the Directors of Small Finance Banks, SFBs in Bengaluru.The theme of the conference was ‘Governance in SFBs – Driving Sustainable Growth and Stability’.Delivering the keynote address, RBI Deputy Governor Mr. Swaminathan J. encouraged the Directors to be vigilant and proactive in identifying and mitigating emerging risks.

He emphasised the need for strengthening cybersecurity and a stronger focus on financial inclusion, customer service and grievance redressal. He also highlighted the importance of sustainable business models.