Daily GK Update- 28th Oct, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 21^st Livestock Census launched to count 16 species of livestock :  The central government launched the centrally sponsored 21^st Livestock Census operation. Simultaneously, the government launched a $25 million Pandemic Fund Project to strengthen the country’s animal health infrastructure. The Livestock census operation and the Pandemic Fund Project were launched by the Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, in New Delhi. The census is 100 per cent funded by the central government, and the total outlay for the 21^st Livestock Census is Rs 200 crore. The first livestock census in the country was held between 1919 and 1920, and since then, it has been held every five years. The 20^th Livestock Census was held across the country in 2019.

 

2. Cyclone Dana hits Coastal Odisha & West Bengal : Severe tropical cyclone ‘Dana’ struck the eastern coast of India, triggering torrential rain and high-speed winds up to 100-120 km per hour. It caused significant damage to the infrastructure and crops in the coastal districts of Odisha and West Bengal. This is the third tropical cyclone to hit India in the 2024 season. The first cyclone of the 2024 season to form in the Bay of Bengal was ‘Remal, ‘which hit coastal areas of West Bengal and Bangladesh in May 2024. Oman suggested the name Remal, which in Arabic means sand. Qatar suggested the name Dana, which is an Arabic word meaning ‘a most perfectly sized, valuable and beautiful pearl’.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. US, Japan and S.Korea to support digital infrastructure in India : The United States, Japan, and South Korea will launch a new framework to collaborate with the Indian private sector to support digital infrastructure in India. The new framework is called the Digital Infrastructure Growth Initiative for India Framework (DiGi Framework). The DiGi Framework will be supported by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, the Export-Import Bank of Korea (Korea Eximbank) and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).

 

2. Russia hosted the 16^th BRICS Summit in Kazan : Russia hosted the 16^th BRICS summit meeting and the first BRICS Outreach/BRICS plus summit meeting at Kazan. Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted the meeting, which was attended by the bloc’s leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The meeting was also attended by the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Gutteras and the President of the New Development, Dilma Rousseff.

The theme of the 16th BRICS summit meeting was Strengthening Multilateralism for Fair Global Development and Security.

Brazil will host the next 17^th BRICS summit meeting in 2025.

 

3. India ranked 176 in the first Global Nature Conservation Index 2024 : India ranks 176th in the first Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI) 2024, with a score of 45.5 out of 100. This places India among the five worst performers globally, alongside Kiribati, Turkey, Iraq, and Micronesia. The tiny European country of Luxembourg was ranked as the top-ranked country.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

       DEFENCE

3. NTPC and Indian Army Join Hands for Round-the-Clock Power Supply using Green Hydrogen :  NTPC has partnered with the Indian Army to establish a Solar Hydrogen-based Microgrid at Chushul, Ladakh. This significant step will provide a stable power supply using Green Hydrogen in off-grid Army locations. NTPC has designed this innovative Solar Hydrogen-based microgrid system to operate independently, using hydrogen as an energy storage medium to supply 200kW of power round-the-clock throughout the year. NTPC will maintain the project for 25 years, aiming to support Indian soldiers stationed in these strategically significant tough terrains and challenging climate.

 

2. Navy launches 7^th GRSE’s Anti-Submarine Warfare Vessel ‘Abhay’ : The Indian Navy’s Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) Abhay, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd, was ceremoniously launched at L&T’s Kattupalli shipyard near Chennai. This vessel is the seventh in an eight-ship ASW SWC series, an initiative from a 2019 contract between the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and GRSE. The Arnala-class ships will eventually replace the existing Abhay-class ASW corvettes, currently serving the Indian Navy.

 

SPORTS

1. Queen of Indian Hockey Rani Rampal retires from the Game : The 30-year-old former Indian women’s hockey captain Rani Rampal, also known as the queen of Indian hockey, announced her retirement from the game The hockey governing body in India, Hockey India, has decided to retire the No.28 jersey as an honour to Rani Rampal. Rani used to wear jersey no.28 while playing for India. Rani played 254 international matches and scored 120 goals since making her debut at just 14 years old in 2008 during the Olympic qualifiers in Kazan, becoming the youngest woman to represent India at the senior level in hockey. In 2020, Rani Rampal was awarded India’s highest sporting award, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. In 2020, Rani was conferred India’s fourth highest civilian award, Padma Shri.

 

2. Manika Batra becomes first Indian to reach Quarterfinals of the World Table Tennis Champions event : Manika Batra has made table tennis history as she became the first Indian to qualify for quarter-finals at a WTT Champions event. Indian paddler Manika yesterday defeated Bernadette Szocs of Romania 3-1 in the round of 16 in Montpellier, France.

 

 

OBITUARIES 

1. Legendary Gussadi folk dancer Kanaka Raju passed away :  The legendary Gussadi folk dancer Kanaka Raju, also known as Gussadi Raju, passed away at the of 84 years. Kanaka Raju was born in the Marlawai village in Jainoor mandal of Komaram Bheem Asifabad district in Telangana. Kanaka Raju was named for the national honour of Padma Shri in 2021 for his role in taking the folk dance to the world. Hailing from the Raj Gond tribe, Kanaka Raju popularised the rhythmic dance of Gussadi In 1982, he captured the nation’s imagination when he performed in front of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 27th Oct, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Special Courts for People with Disabilities : The Delhi government will set up special courts for people with disabilities. This initiative has been approved by Chief Minister Atishi. The aim of this initiative is to streamline the judicial process for people with disabilities. The Chief Minister has emphasized that the new courts will reduce the difficulties faced by people with disabilities in getting legal services. The goal of this action is to ensure that their rights are upheld and their confidence in the legal system is increased

2. Appointment of Vijaya Kishor Rahatkar : Vijaya Kishor Rahatkar has been appointed as the 9^th Chairperson of the NCW. She served as the Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission. She led initiatives such as Saksham, Prajwala, and Suhita. She also launched a publication called Saad dedicated to women’s issues. She is the author of books including Vidhilikhita and Aurangabad Leading to Wide Roads.

3. Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya Launches e-Shram in New Delhi : Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched e-Shram in New Delhi. E-Shram is a one-stop solution for unorganised workers. It will act as an intermediary to ensure easy access to various government schemes to unorganised workers. The primary objective of this initiative is to efficiently integrate data about recipients of all social security and welfare programmes targeted for unorganised workers on a single platform

4. First Anniversary of NaMo Bharat Train Operation : The first anniversary of NaMo Bharat train operation was celebrated as NaMo Bharat Diwas in New Delhi, marking an important milestone in India’s transport history. National Capital Region Enterprises Corporation organized the event which was attended by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister, Shri Manohar Lal Khattar and Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Tokhan Sahu. During the ceremony, awards were given to outstanding employees who contributed to the success of NaMo Bharat’s first train.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Bangladesh Constitutional Reform Commission: Bangladesh announced a nine-member commission focused on constitutional reforms, aimed at addressing issues in governance and democratic processes.

2. Israel-Palestine Ceasefire Talks: Efforts towards brokering a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict were renewed, with mediations led by international diplomats to stabilize the region.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

1. India-Maldives Military Cooperation: India and the Maldives strengthened defense ties, including collaborative efforts in maritime security to counter regional threats.

 

2. India-Israel Defense Ventures: Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and Israel Aerospace Industries formed a joint venture to produce advanced defense systems, marking a significant expansion in India-Israel defense cooperation. 

 

SPORTS

1. Ravindra Jadeja's Milestone: Indian cricketer Ravindra Jadeja became the fifth-highest wicket-taker for India in Test cricket, surpassing Ishant Sharma. This achievement underscores his long-standing contribution to Indian cricket.

 

2. Zimbabwe Sets T20I Record: Zimbabwe's cricket team set a new record in T20 Internationals with a score of 344/4, led by Sikandar Raza’s phenomenal 133 off 43 balls.

 

Daily GK Update- 26th Oct, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. IIM Shillong signs MoU with SIDBI to launch entrepreneurship training and incubation programme : The Indian Institute of Management Shillong, through its IIM Shillong Foundation for Incubation and Enterprise (IIMSFIE), has signed an MoU with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). The partnership aimed at providing comprehensive entrepreneurship training and incubation support to aspiring entrepreneurs. By leveraging SIDBI’s vast network and IIMSFIE’s infrastructure and experience, the initiative will create a robust support system to nurture innovative startups and enterprises.

 

2. Bhupendra Patel Inaugurates 17th Urban Mobility India Conference & Expo 2024 : Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the 17th Urban Mobility India Conference & Expo- 2024 today at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The event, running from October 25 to 27, 2024, gathers over 2,000 professionals and academics to discuss the future of urban transport in India. The conference focuses on the theme “Standardisation and Optimisation of Urban Transport Solutions,” aiming to enhance urban mobility through integrated strategies and innovative practices.

 

3. TPC & Indian Army Collaborate for Sustainable Energy in Ladakh : NTPC has teamed up with the Indian Army to establish a solar hydrogen-based microgrid at Chushul, Ladakh, aimed at ensuring a stable power supply for off-grid Army locations using green hydrogen. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone for this innovative project through video conferencing. This initiative is significant in replacing existing diesel generators with a sustainable energy solution capable of providing 200 kW of power year-round, despite the region’s harsh winter conditions where temperatures can drop to -30°C at an altitude of 4,400 meters.

 

INTERNATIONALUPDATES:

1. 24 October – World Polio Day : World Polio Day is observed on October 24 every year. Objective – To raise awareness about the fight against poliomyelitis.

Theme 2024 – A Global Mission to Reach Every Child

This day was established by Rotary International in honor of Dr Jonas Salk. He developed the first successful polio vaccine. The day serves to highlight ongoing efforts by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), founded in 1988. This initiative has reduced polio cases worldwide by 99 percent.

 

2. 24 October – World Development Information Day : World Development Information Day is observed every year on October 24, coinciding with the United Nations Day. The day focuses on the need to mobilise public opinion in both developing and developed countries in a bid to accelerate their economic and social progress.

In 1972, the General Assembly established World Development Information Day to draw the attention of the world to development problems and the need to strengthen international cooperation to solve them (resolution 3038(XXVII)).

The Assembly decided that the date for the Day should coincide with United Nations Day, 24 October, which was also the date of the adoption, in 1970, of the International Development Strategy for the Second United Nations Development Decade.

3. Asia Clean Energy Summit 2024 :

The Asia Clean Energy Summit (ACES), a cornerstone event of the annual Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW), is held on the 11th edition from October 22-24, 2024, in Singapore. This premier conference and exhibition brings together experts, innovators, and policymakers to advance clean energy solutions in Asia.

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

1. 4 October 2024 – 63rd ITBP Raising Day : The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has celebrated its Raising Day on October 24 every year. The ITBP Raising Day commemorates the founding of this elite paramilitary force, which was raised in the aftermath of the 1962 Sino- Indian War. The force is entrusted with the security of the India-China border in the Himalayas and plays a critical role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) was formally raised on October 24, 1962, as a direct response to the Sino-Indian War that highlighted the vulnerabilities in India’s border security.

2. Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024 Culminates at New Delhi :

The Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024 concluded on October 25th at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi, marking the second edition of this significant international seminar hosted by the Indian Army. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, strategic thinkers, academics, veterans, and defense personnel from various countries, all focused on analyzing India’s strategic directions and developmental priorities

 

SPORTS

1. Sharapova, Bryan brothers elected into Tennis Hall of Fame :

Five-time singles Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova, Russia, and American twins Bob and Mike Bryan, who formed the most successful doubles team in history, were named to the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025. Sharapova, one of only 10 women to achieve a career Grand Slam in singles, became the first Russian woman to reach the world number one ranking in 2005. She also won a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics.

The Bryans won 16 Grand Slam men’s doubles titles together and were the world’s top-ranked team for a record 438 weeks.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Amitabh Chaudhry appoints as MD & CEO of Axis Bank : Axis Bank has reappointed Amitabh Chaudhry as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the bank for the next three years. Chaudhry’s extended term will commence in January 2025 and conclude on December 31, 2027. Chaudhry, who joined Axis Bank in 2019 after a nine-year tenure with HDFC Life, has played a pivotal role in the bank’s growth.

Daily GK Update- 25th Oct, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ayush Ministry to celebrate 9th Ayurveda Day on 29 October: The Ministry of Ayush will celebrate 9th Ayurveda Day at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi on 29th October.This year the day is being celebrated around the theme Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health.Over 150 countries across the globe are to join this year’s Ayurveda Day celebrations.The government’s aim is to promote Ayurveda globally as a robust system of medicine for the welfare of the public.

 

2. IFFI 2024 celebrates Australia’s Rich Film Traditions and Vibrant Cinema Culture: The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has announced that Australia has been nominated as the “Country of Focus” at the 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), to be held in Goa from 20th November to 28th November 2024.This special recognition aims to celebrate the dynamic contributions of Australian cinema to the global film industry, highlighting its rich storytelling traditions, vibrant film culture and innovative cinematic techniques.India & Australia are already parties to an Audio-Visual Co-production Treaty.Founded in 1952, the International Film Festival of India is one of Asia’s most significant film festivals, serving as a platform for filmmakers worldwide to present their works.Held annually in Goa, IFFI attracts directors, producers, actors, and film enthusiasts to celebrate the finest in world cinema.

 

3. Cabinet approves two Railway projects with estimated cost of Rs 6,798 crore and will be completed in 5 years: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved Two Railway projects of the Ministry of Railways with total estimated cost of Rs.6,798 crore (approx.).Two approved projects are – (a) the doubling of Narkatiaganj-Raxaul-Sitamarhi-Darbhanga & Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur Section covering 256 kms and, (b) construction of new line between Errupalem and Namburu via Amaravati covering 57 kms.The doubling of Narkatiaganj-Raxaul-Sitamarhi-Darbhanga & Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur Section will strengthen the connectivity to Nepal, North-east India and Border areas and facilitate movement of passenger trains along with goods train resulting in the socio-economic growth of the region.

 

4. IASST Guwahati Inks Technology Transfer Agreement With Bharat Biotech: The Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) Guwahati has signed an MoU with Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) Hyderabad.The agreement focuses on technology transfer and aims to bring innovative health products, particularly probiotics to market.These probiotics, isolated from traditional fermented foods of Northeast India, have shown promising results in addressing metabolic diseases, improving gut health and promoting healthy ageing.Bharat Biotech, known for its excellence in developing vaccines and health solutions, will conduct pre-clinical and clinical trials to ensure that the probiotics meet regulatory standards. The trials will determine the products’ efficacy in combating lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and obesity.

 

5. Department of Posts issues a Commemorative Stamp to mark 200 Years of Kittur Vijayotsava: On the 200th anniversary of Kittur Vijayotsava a commemorative Postage stamp was released at the historic Kittur Rani Channamma Stage, Kittur Fort Premises.This grand event commemorated Rani Channamma’s glorious victory on 23rd October,1824 against the British rule.The commemorative stamp designed by Shri Brahm Prakash features a striking portrait of Rani Channamma, on her horse drawing a sword, fighting against the British, embodying her strength and bravery.Surrounding her image are forts symbolizing the rich heritage of Kittur and the historic battle of Kittur.

 

6. Govt launches two-year nationwide celebration for Sardar Patel’s 150th Birth Anniversary: The government will commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel with a two-year-long nationwide programme from 2024 to 2026 to honour his monumental contribution to the country. Patel was born on October 31, 1875, at Nadiad in Gujarat.Sardar Patel’s enduring legacy as the visionary behind the establishment of one of the world’s most robust democracies and his pivotal role in unifying India from Kashmir to Lakshadweep remains indelibleThis celebration will serve as a testament to his remarkable achievements and the spirit of unity that he epitomised.The Central government has been observing October 31 as ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ or National Unity Day since 2014 to foster and reinforce its dedication to preserving and strengthening the unity, integrity and security of the nation.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 24 October – United Nations Day: United Nations Day is celebrated every year on October 24 to mark the anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945, which followed the end of World War II.This day offers an opportunity to reflect on the global body’s efforts to maintain peace, promote human rights, and foster social and economic development across the world.As a founding member of the United Nations, India has played a vital role in supporting the UN’s mission and continues to contribute to its various initiative.The UN was established by 51 countries after the Second World War. The UN’s six official languages are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.

 

2. 24 to 30 October – UN Disarmament Week: UN Disarmament Week is observed every year on from 24 October to 30 October.The week-long observance is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of disarmament and promoting international dialogue to reduce the spread and impact of weapons.It was first called for in the Final Document of the UN General Assembly’s 1978 Special Session on Disarmament (resolution S-10/2) and reinforced in 1995 by the General Assembly’s invitation (resolution 50/72 B, 12 December 1995) to governments and NGOs to actively participate.As the world marks UN Disarmament Week, global efforts to promote arms control are under the spotlight as the Church strives to reduce the spread of weapons that fuel conflict and instigate violence.

 

3. 24-31 October – Global Media and Information Literacy Week: Global Media and Information Literacy Week is an annual event observed from 24th to 31st October to raise awareness and celebrate the progress achieved towards Media and Information Literacy for all.Theme 2024 – The New Digital Frontiers of Information: “Media and Information Literacy for Public Interest Information”During Global Media and Information Literacy Week, stakeholders around the world organize events and UNESCO co-hosts with a Member State the global conference gathering, the Media and Information Literacy community. 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Singapore-India maritime exercise SIMBEX begin at ENC Visakhapatnam: The 31st edition of the Singapore India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) will be held till October 29 at the Eastern Naval Command, here.The exercise will be conducted in two phases – the Harbour Phase from October 23 to 25 at Visakhapatnam and the Sea Phase from October 28 to 29 in the Bay of Bengal. SIMBEX, which began as ‘Exercise Lion King’ in 1994, is a bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).RSN ship RSS Tenacious with embarked helicopter, arrived at ENC for participating in SIMBEX2024.This year’s edition aims to further strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Singapore by enhancing interoperability, improving maritime domain awareness, and fostering cooperation to address common maritime challenges.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Liberty General Insurance and Maruti Suzuki Join Hands to Boost Insurance Awareness in Punjab and Delhi: Liberty General Insurance, one of India’s prominent non-life insurers, has joined hands with Maruti Suzuki Insurance Broking to enhance insurance awareness across rural and urban regions.The collaboration is part of the ‘Bima Prachaar Aur Prasaar’ initiative, focusing on raising insurance awareness in Punjab’s Gram Panchayats and increasing penetration in Delhi.This effort aligns with the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India’s (IRDAI) goal of achieving ‘Insurance for All by 2047.Liberty General Insurance, as the lead non-life insurer in Delhi, has been at the forefront of similar awareness campaigns in the capital, while also extending its rural outreach in Punjab.

 

2. SBI raises ₹5,000 cr via AT-I bonds at 7.98%: State Bank of India (SBI) raised ₹5,000 crore through Basel III compliant Additional Tier 1 (AT-1) bond issuance on at a coupon rate of 7.98 percent.This is the bank’s first AT-1 bond issuance in the current financial year. The tenor of these bonds is perpetual with a call option after 10 years, and each anniversary date thereafter.The bonds are rated AA+ with a stable outlook from CRISIL Ratings and CARE Ratings.The issue attracted bids from investors in excess of 3.5 times the base issue size of ₹2,000 crore, the bank said, adding that the total number of bids received from qualified institutional bidders was 108.The participants were from provident funds, pension funds, insurance companies, mutual funds, NBFCs, banks, etc. Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, Chairman, said the wider participation and heterogeneity of bids demonstrated the trust investors place in the country’s largest bank.

 

3. FIU slaps Rs 54 lakh fine on Union Bank of India for multiple PMLA violations: The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has imposed a fine of Rs 54 lakh on the Union Bank of India for “failing” to report suspicious transaction reports and for not undertaking due diligence under the anti-money laundering law for certain accounts at one of its branches in Mumbai.The federal agency issued the penalty notice under section 13 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on October 1 as it observed that the charges against the lender were “substantiated” after it considered written and oral submissions made by the Bank.The investigation started, pursuant to an observation by the FIU, and a “comprehensive review” of the Bank’s operations was undertaken, which uncovered certain “irregularities” related to KYC/AML (know your customer/anti-money laundering laundering) compliance.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Nepal’s Urmila Chaudhary wins Global Anti-Racism Championship Award 2024: Urmila Chaudhary of Nepal won the Global Anti-Racism Championship Award 2024 which was presented by Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken.This award honours six civil society leaders for their exceptional courage, leadership, and commitment to advancing racial equity, justice, and human rights.Urmila Chaudhary is an abolitionist and labour activist who was rescued from child servitude at age 17. She co-founded the Freed Kamlari Development Forum and established 42 cooperatives to empower former bonded labourers. She is currently studying law to further her fight against injustice. Urmila Chaudhary is honoured for her dedication to advancing the rights of marginalized castes and ethnic communities in Nepal and for combating systemic racism and intersectional abuses.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 24th Oct, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi launches retail of Bharat Chana Dal Phase – II in Delhi-NCR: Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi has launched the retail of Bharat Chana Dal Phase – II in Delhi-NCR by flagging off mobile vans of NCCF, NAFED and Kendriya Bhandar.In Phase – II of Bharat Chana Dal, 3 lakh tons of Chana stock from the price stabilisation buffer is being converted to Chana Dal and Chana Whole for retail sale to consumers at MRP of Rs.70 per kg and Rs.58 per kg, respectively. Apart from Chana, the government had also expanded the Bharat brand to Moong and Masur Dals.The Bharat Moong Dal is retailed at Rs.107 per kg, Bharat Moong Sabut at Rs.93 per kg and Bharat Masur Dal at Rs.89 per kg.The resumption of Bharat Chana Dal at this time will enhance the supplies to consumers of Delhi-NCR in this festive season.

 

2. NESTS launches ‘Amazon Future Engineer Program’ for Eklavya Model Residential Schools: National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) launched the Third Phase of the ‘Amazon Future Engineer Program’ in 50 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) spread across Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana and Tripura.The third phase would include an orientation on blockchain, artificial intelligence, coding, block programming and AI sessions.The third phase of the Amazon Future Engineer Program will be rolled out across 410 proposed EMRSs in India.The Amazon Future Engineer Program has been running for two years, has already introduced over 7,000 students in grades 6 to 8 to the fundamentals of computer science and block programming, with over 50 teachers trained in the previous phases.Additionally, project-based virtual sessions will be provided for class 10 students, further aligning with the CBSE AI Skills Curriculum. NESTS remains committed to fostering technological literacy and modernizing education for tribal students across the nation.

 

3. BSNL unveils new brand identity, launches seven digital services for pan-India connectivity: Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) revealed its new logo and introduced seven digital services focusing on secure, affordable, and reliable connectivity across India. The launch event was led by Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya M Scindia in New Delhi.The company also introduced automated SIM kiosks offering 24/7 services with UPI payment options and an intranet TV service providing 500+ channels through its FTTH network at no additional cost.BSNL’s security-focused services feature an automatic spam-blocking system and a dedicated network for disaster relief operations.The company launched a national Wi-Fi roaming service for FTTH customers and pioneered private 5G connectivity for mining operations in collaboration with C-DAC.

 

4. RBI approves Pranav Chawda’s appointment as JP Morgan Chase Bank India CEO: India’s central bank approved the appointment of Pranav Chawda as chief executive officer of JPMorgan Chase & Co.’s local banking unit for a period of three years.Chawda, who heads commercial banking, will expand his current responsibility to become head of the corporate banking entity.

The position fell vacant after former CEO Prabdev Singh stepped down before the end of his term.

Chawda joined J P Morgan in 2019 and has been heading the commercial banking vertical.

 

5. BOBCARD appoints cricketer Shreyanka Patil as brand ambassador: BOBCARD Limited, a subsidiary of Bank of Baroda, has appointed cricketer Shreyanka Patil as its brand ambassador.Shreyanka will represent the company in upcoming campaigns and initiatives, as BOBCARD LIMITED works to promote its vision of ‘Reimagine Credit for Everyone in India.’BOBCARD LIMITED aims to redefine the credit card experience by offering solutions that address the evolving needs of consumers.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia launches ‘International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System’: Union minister for communications Jyotiraditya M Scindia has launched the department of telecommunications’ “International Incoming Spoofed Calls Prevention System” that can detect and block spam international calls that display Indian numbers as the caller ID.Multiple scammers masquerade as police, courier company employees, or others to call victims from international numbers that appear as Indian numbers on the victims’ phones.In July, the finance ministry announced a ₹38.76 crore allocation to the DoT (department of telecommunications) to set up the Centralised International Out Roamer (CIOR), as this system was then called.The allocation for the Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU), a project whose aim is to investigate the fraudulent use of telecom resources, such as scam and spam calls and messages, was also increased from ₹50 crore (revised estimate for FY24) to ₹85 crore (budget estimate for FY25).

 

2. India & Pakistan extends Kartarpur Corridor agreement till 2029: The governments of India and Pakistan have agreed to extend the validity of the Agreement on Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for five years until 24 October 2029. The initial agreement was to lapse on 24 October 2024.The agreement between the two countries comes in the background of the Minister for External Affairs, Dr S Jaishnakar’s visit to Pakistan for the 23rd Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisations (SCO) Council of Heads of Government, held in Islamabad on 15 & 16 October 2024.It was the first direct talk between the foreign ministers of both countries since the 2015 visit of the-External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to Pakistan to attend the Heart of Asia Conference in Islamabad.

 

3. Himanshu Pathak appointed as DG of ICRISAT: Himanshu Pathak, Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), has been appointed as the new Director General of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT).Pathak is the first Indian to hold this prestigious position and only the second individual of Indian origin, following Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, to lead a research institute within the global CGIAR system.

Swaminathan was the Director General of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the CGIAR rice research laboratory in the Philippines, from 1982 to 1988. Currently, Dr. Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes is the Director General of ICRISAT.

 

4. Vietnam appoints Army General Cuong as new President after long turmoil : Vietnam elected Luong Cuong, a military general, as its new president, the fourth official to fill the role in 18 months.Cuong, 67, was elected by the National Assembly to replace To Lam, who remained president even after he was formally appointed as the general secretary of the ruling Communist Party in August.The role of the general secretary is the most powerful position in Vietnam while the presidency is largely ceremonial.Cuong, who has served in the Vietnamese army for over four decades, has been a Politburo member since 2021.Vietnam’s leaders are next due to convene a Communist Party Congress in early 2026.

 

5. Pam Kaur appointed as first female CFO of HSBC: The British multinational bank Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) made history by appointing Pam Kaur as its first female Chief Financial Officer (CFO).She succeeds Georges Elhedery, who has been appointed HSBC’s chief executive officer (CEO).The 60-year-old Indian-born British citizen Pam Kaur joins a growing list of women who occupy top posts in the global banking system.She joins the ranks of Morgan Stanley’s CFO Sharon Yeshaya, JP Morgan’s Mary Erdoes, Marianne Lake, and Jennifer Piepszak, as well as Citi’s chief executive officer (CEO) Jane Fraser.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India’s fourth nuclear submarine launched into water: India’s fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), referred to as S4*, was launched into water at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam.This submarine is bigger and more capable than the first, INS Arihant (S2), which is essentially a technology demonstrator developed under the Advanced Technology Vessel programme.India currently has two SSBNs operational. INS Arihant was quietly commissioned into service in August 2016. It has a displacement of 6,000 tonnes and is powered by an 83 MW pressurised light-water reactor with enriched uranium.The second SSBN, INS Arighaat (S3), which retains the same reactor and dimensions with several technological upgrades, was commissioned end-August.The 3rd SSBN Aridhman (S4) is currently undergoing sea trials and is expected to be commissioned, into service next year.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Ferrari’s Leclerc wins US Grand Prix: Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc clinched his third Formula One race of the season as he finished ahead of teammate Carlos Sainz to win the United States Grand Prix.

Monaco native Leclerc helped Ferrari finish the race one-two as Spaniard Sainz was placed second, 8.562 seconds behind Leclerc’s winning time of 1:35:09.639 in a memorable race at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.Leclerc had also won the Monaco Grand Prix and Italian Grand Prix this year.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. CCI approves Aquilo House’s acquisition of Aavas Financiers: The Competition Commission of India has approved Aquilo House Pte. Ltd (AHPL) ‘s proposed acquisition of Aavas Financiers Limited (AFL).Aavas Financiers Limited (Acquirer) is a newly incorporated entity, wholly and indirectly held by the Relevant CVC Funds which are certain investment funds or vehicles managed and/or advised by members of the CVC Network.The “CVC Network” or “CVC Group” is a global alternative investment manager focused on private equity, credit, secondaries and infrastructure, consisting of CVC Capital Partners plc. (CVC PLC) and each of its subsidiaries from time to time.CVC PLC is a public limited company whose shares are listed and admitted to trading on the Euronext Amsterdam Stock Exchange.

 

2. IMF retains India’s GDP growth forecast at 7% for FY25, 6.5% for FY26: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) kept its growth forecasts for India unchanged at 7 per cent and 6.5 per cent for FY25 and FY26,This is because pent-up demand accumulated during the pandemic has been exhausted, as the economy reconnects with its potential.Earlier this month, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its latest monetary policy committee (MPC) review, also kept its growth projection for the current financial year unchanged at 7.2 per cent. It cited robust consumption and investment momentum.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. SAIL Wins SHRM HR Excellence Awards for Inclusion and Workforce Management: Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has been honored with prestigious awards at the SHRM India Annual Conference 2024, held in New Delhi.SAIL received recognition in two key categories: ‘Excellence in Inclusion, Equity & Diversity’ and ‘Excellence in Managing the Distributed Workforce.’These accolades underscore SAIL’s commitment to innovative and forward-thinking human resource practices, which are being implemented across its various plants and units nationwide.The awards highlight SAIL’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where equity and diversity thrive, ensuring the holistic growth of its workforce.The company is recognized for continuously motivating and engaging its employees, understanding their central role in driving organizational success.