Daily GK Updates - 25th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Govt to set up Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund: Establishment of Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) has been approved by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund will be worth Rs 15000 crore and provide incentivisation of investments in the formation of such infrastructure for dairy as well as meat processing, and value addition infrastructure and establishment of animal feed plant in the private sector. Beneficiaries: FPOs, MSMEs, Section 8 Companies, Private Companies and individual entrepreneur with 10% margin money contribution and 90% will be the loan component. 3% interest subvention will also be provided. Moratorium period: 2 years

Note: Union Minister of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries: Giriraj Singh.

2. MSDE and IBM launches ‘Skills Build Reignite’ learning platform: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) along with IBM has unveil Digital Learning Platform ‘Skills Build Reignite’. The platform is free and will provide job seekers and entrepreneurs, with access to free online coursework and mentoring support for their career and businesses. It will provide personalized coaching on AI, data analytics, machine learning, etc. Along with “Skills Build Reignite”, IBM has also launched the 10-week long Skills Build Innovation Camp. The two initiatives have been created to bridge the current skills gap in the country.

Note: Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: Mahendra Nath Pandey.

3. Union Cabinet approves formation of “IN-SPACe”: Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the establishment of Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe). It will boost private sector participation in Indian space infrastructure. It is a part of Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. IN-SPACe will also promote and guide private players in space activities through various policies and regulatory environment. It will also enable Indian Industry in becoming an important player in global space economy. New Space India Limited will reorient space activities from “supply driven” model to demand driven.

Note: Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation: K.Sivan; Headquarters: Bengaluru.

Union Minister of Science and Technology: Harsh Vardhan.

4. Cabinet gives International airport status to Kushinagar Airport: Union Cabinet has approved status of Kushinagar Airport (Uttar Pradesh) as an International Airport. Kushinagar is a Buddhist site and other sites like Sravasti, Kapilvastu, Lumbini lies in its vicinity. Declaring it as International Airport will improve connectivity, wider choice of competitive costs to air-travellers boosting domestic/international tourism and economic development of the regions. Kushinagar is the place where Gautama Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana. It will be a crucial strategic location with the international border accessible.

Note: Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Aditya Nath; Governor: Anandiben Patel.

5. Strategic Devika Bridge and Puneja Bridge inaugurated in J&K: Union Minister Jitendra Singh has virtually inaugurated Devika Bridge (10 meter) in Udhampur and 'Puneja Bridge' (50-meter) in Dodo region in Jammu and Kashmir. Both the bridges have been constructed by Border Roads Organisation and have strategic relevance. The Bridge on River Devika in Udhampur has been completed within fifteen months time and Puneja Bridge in 36 months. Puneja bridge is inaugurated on 185 km Bhaderwah-Basholi-Pathankot highway which is under construction. It will ease traffic congestion, develop infrastructure, help passage of Army convoys, people and vehicles.

Note: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir: Girish Chandra Murmu.

6. Tripura Govt announces ‘Ektu Khelo Ektu Padho’ scheme:  Tripura government has announced a special initiative for activity-based learning named ‘Ektu Khelo, Ektu Padho’. The new scheme was floated aiming at engaging students by disseminating audio and video contents focused on hands-on learning activities and messages of simple projects, fun activities and games among them through WhatsApp or SMS services. “The new scheme can be accessed via smartphones of guardians. In case no smartphone is available, SMS services would be used to teach students”.

Note: Chief Minister of Tripura: Biplab Kumar Deb; Governor of Tripura: Ramesh Bais.

7. MPMKVVCL starts Nishtha Vidyut Mitra Scheme for women empowerment: In Madhya Pradesh, Madhya Kshetra Vidyut Vitaran Company has launched the Nishtha Vidyut Mitra Scheme for women empowerment. Under the scheme, women Self-Help Groups at Gram Panchayat level will work as Nishtha Vidyut Mitra. This scheme will the company to increase the revenue collection as well as women will also earn extra. This scheme has been implemented in all the Gram Panchayats of all 16 districts of Bhopal, Narmadapuram, Gwalior and Chambal divisions of the company’s jurisdiction.

Note: Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh: Shivraj Singh Chouhan; Governor: Lal Ji Tandon.

8. HRD Ministry releases roadmap for NCERT for 2020-21: HRD Ministry has released roadmap for NCERT 2020-21. Under this, NCERT will prepare infographics, posters and presentations explaining learning outcomes for each subject and grade. It will also prepare online teacher training courses. A supplementary and alternative academic learning material for learners in COVID-19 times is being prepared. National Curriculum Framework (NCF) has also been initiated which will makes changes in the textbooks by subject matter expert.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. NTPC awarded project management contract for 500-MW solar park in Mali: The government of the Republic of Mali has awarded the project management consultancy contract to India’s largest power generation company, NTPC, for the development of 500 megawatt (MW) solar park in the West African nation, making it the second country after Togo to do so. This announcement was made in an event hosted by the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in New Delhi recently, and chaired by renewable energy minister R K Singh. The initiative is a part of the plan of the government to land overseas business under the aegis of International Solar Alliance (ISA). In 2019, ISA had endorsed NTPC as a Project Management Consultant through a competitive process for the member countries to avail the services of NTPC. Earlier, the Republic of Togo had engaged NTPC for similar support for development of 285-MW solar park.

Note: NTPC Chairman: Gurdeep Singh

Republic of Mali Capital: Bamako; Currency: West African CFA franc; President of Republic of Mali: Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta.

International Solar Alliance Headquarters: Gurugram; International Solar Alliance Founded: 30 November 2015; International Solar Alliance Director-general: Upendra Tripathy.

2. Day of the Seafarer: 25th June: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) celebrates the annual Day of the Seafarer (DoS) on June 25 each year to pay respect to Seafarers and sailors who help the entire world function by conducting sea transport. This year, the annual Day of the Seafarer (DotS) will be celebrating its 10th anniversary on 25 June. The 2020 campaign for the day: Seafarers are Key Workers. This special day has been celebrated since 2011.

Note: International Maritime Organization Secretary-General: Kitack Lim; International Maritime Organization Headquarters: London, United Kingdom; International Maritime Organization Founded: 17 March 1948.

3. World’s 1st Yoga University outside India named after Vivekanand: World's first yoga university outside India has been established in Los Angeles marking the celebration of 6th International Yoga Day. The name of the University is Vivekananda Yoga University. It is launched by External affairs MoS V Muraleedharan and standing committe chairperson P P Chaudhary virtually. It will offer online graduate programmes based on scientific principles and modern research approaches to yoga.

OTHER UPDATES:

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. GoI brings all cooperative banks under supervision of RBI:  Government of India will bring an ordinance to bring all cooperative banks under the Reserve Bank of India supervision. The move will bring 1,482 urban cooperative banks and 58 multi-state cooperative banks under the control of RBI. The step is taken to provide safety assurance to more than 86 million depositors and their money of around Rs 4.84 trillion in these banks. They will be regulated by RBI just like the scheduled banks.

Note: RBI 25th Governor: Shaktikanta Das; Headquarters: Mumbai; Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata.

2. Standard Chartered appoints Gaurav Maheshwari as CFO – India: Standard Chartered Bank (India) announced the appointment of Gaurav Maheshwari as its new Chief Financial Officer effective 22 June 2020. He has taken over from Subhradeep Mohanty, who was elevated as CFO, Africa & Middle East (AME) region. In this role, Maheshwari will report to Jean Fernandes, Regional CFO, Asean and South Asia and Zarin Daruwala, India, CEO.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. IMF predicts India’s GDP rate for FY21 to contract by 4.5%: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that India’s GDP will contract by 4.5% in FY21. The reason for this is extended Covid-19 lockdown. IMF has projected India’s GDP growth for FY22 at 6.0%.

2. Facebook’s subsidiary Jaadhu to acquires stakes in Jio Platform: Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved acquisition of 9.99% stake in Reliance Industries’ Jio Platforms by Jaadhu Holdings LLC. Jaadhu is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Facebook which is established in March 2020. Facebook’s Jaadu will buy stake worth around Rs 43,574 crore in Jio Platforms. Jio has raised Rs 1.15 lakh crore since April by selling small stakes to about 11 private equity and sovereign funds across the world.

Note: Facebook HQs: California, US

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Himachal Pradesh wins e-Panchayat Puraskar 2020: The Himachal Pradesh state Panchayati Raj department has won first prize under the e-Panchayat Puraskars-2020 of the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj. The e-panchayat puraskar is conferred to those states which have ensured maximum use of information technology for monitoring the works of the panchayats. Jimachal Pradesh has won the award for effective implementation of the e-application developed by the central government and other applications developed by the state government. All the 3,226 panchayats in the state have been provided with internet facility, with the help of which people can access various services online.

Note: Chief Minister of HP: Jairam Thakur; Governor of HP: Bandaru Dattatraya.

Union Minister of Panchayati Raj: Narendra Singh Tomar.

2. Folk artist Gulabbai Sangamnerkar to get lifetime honour: The Maharashtra government has declared the Vithabai Narayangaokar lifetime achievement award to folk artist Gulabbai Sangamnerkar. The Vithabai Narayangaokar lifetime achievement award is given to a senior tamasha (folk art) artiste. The honour for 2018-19 is being presented upon Gulabbai Sangamnerkar. The honour conveys the money prize of Rs 5 lakh, a citation and a memento.

OBITUARIES

1. Batman’ director Joel Schumacher passes away : Director Joel Schumacher, who is known for the film St Elmo’s Fire, two Batman movies, and Falling Down, passed away in New York. He was 80. Schumacher started off as a costume designer for 1970s films. Schumacher then turned writer in the late ‘70s on Sparkle, Car Wash and film adaptation of Broadway musical The Wiz, and made his directorial debut in 1981 with sci-fi comedy The Incredible Shrinking Woman. He is also credited for nurturing rising talent at the time like Matthew McConaughey (A Time To Kill), Colin Farrell (Phone Booth), Demi Moore and Rob Lowe (St Elmo’s Fire), Gerard Butler (Phantom of the Opera), among others.

2. Trinamool MLA Tamonash Ghosh passes away: Trinamool Congress MLA Tamonash Ghosh, who had tested positive for Covid-19 last month, died at a hospital in Kolkata on Wednesday. He was 60. He represented Falta Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district in West Bengal. He was three-time MLA from Falta & party treasurer since 1998. Ghosh is the first elected public representative in the State to succumb to the contagious viral infection.

Daily GK Updates - 24th June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Centre Allocates Rs. 2000 Crore from PM CARES Fund for supplying Made In India Ventilators to govt run COVID hospitals: Amid surging cases of coronavirus in India, the Government of India has allocated Rs 2,000 crore, from the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM CARES) Fund for supply of 50,000 ventilators to government-run COVID-19 hospitals in all states and Union Territories. All these 50 thousand ventilators will be ‘Made in India’. Out of these 30 thousand ventilators are being manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited. Apart from this, Rs 1,000 crore has been allocated for the welfare of migrant labourers. The amount has already been released to States and Union Territories, which in turn will use the same for arranging accommodation, food, medical treatment and transportation of the migrants.

2. Union HRD Minister virtually launches ‘YUKTI 2.0’ platform for Higher Education Institutes: Union Minister of Human Resource Development, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ has launched an initiative ‘YUKTI 2.0’ to help systematically adopt technologies that have commercial potential and information related to incubated startups in our higher education institutions. The launch was done via video conferencing. Earlier, the Minister had launched the YUKTI (Young India combating COVID with Knowledge, Technology and Innovation) web portal on 11 April, 2020. YUKTI 2.0 is logical extension of earlier version of ‘YUKTI’, an initiative of MHRD, to identify ideas relevant in COVID pandemic.

3. Ministry of MSME launches Credit Guarantee Scheme for Sub-ordinate Debt (CGSSD): The Credit Guarantee Scheme for Sub-ordinate Debt (CGSSD) has been launched by Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises. The Scheme will provide Rs. 20,000 crore of guarantee cover to two lakh MSMEs. The scheme is also called “Distressed Assets Fund–Sub-ordinate Debt for MSMEs”.  Guarantee cover worth Rs. 20,000 crores will be provided to the promoters who can take debt from the banks to further invest in their stressed MSMEs as equity. Promoter(s) of the MSMEs will be given credit equal to 15% of their stake (equity plus debt) or Rs. 75 lakh whichever is lower. 90% guarantee coverage for this sub-debt will be given under the Scheme and 10% would come from the concerned promoters. Moratorium and Repayment Period: There will be a moratorium of 7 years on payment of principal whereas maximum tenor for repayment will be 10 years. The scheme will be operationalised through Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for MSEs (CGTMSE).

4. Union FPI Minister launches Food Processing Edition of Investment Forum: The Food Processing Edition of the “Exclusive Investment Forum” has been launched by the Union Food Processing Industries Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal. It has been designed by the Invest India, the National Investment Promotion & Facilitation Agency of the Government of India. The “Exclusive Investment Forum” is a sectoral series to conduct comprehensive conversations among global industry leaders and key decision makers from the highest levels of the Central and State Governments. Total 180 companies from 18 countries participated in the forum. Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) and Project Development Cell will be formed to attract investors making India Global Investment hub It focused on ‘Go vocal for local’

5. GeM mandates ‘Information about Country of Origin’ for sellers: ‘Information about Country of Origin’ has been mandated for the sellers by the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The sellers have been advised to mention “Information about Country of Origin” while registering all new products on GeM. While those sellers, who had already registered their products before the launch of this new feature on GeM, would be reminded regularly to update the information about Country of Origin. If they fail to update the same, their products shall be removed from GeM.

6. Tamil Nadu CM K. Palaniswami inaugurates compressed biogas plant: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, K. Palaniswami has inaugurated compressed biogas (CBG) Plant in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, through video conference in the presence of Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan. The cost of compressed biogas plant (CBG) is Rs 25 crore. The new plant can make 15 tonnes of CBG per day and 20 tonnes of bio manure per day.

Note: Governor of Tamil Nadu: Banwarilal Purohit.

7. IIT-Bombay develops Indian receiver chip “Dhruva”: IIT-Bombay has created Indian beneficiary chip “Dhruva” which can be utilized in cell phones and gadgets to discover locations and routes inside the nation. Dhruva will get signals from India’s NAVIC group of navigation satellites as well as the US Global Positioning System-based satellites to determine these accurately under all weather conditions. It can receive in multiple frequency bands and handle weak signals. Besides, it can be converted into digital bits and processed by any standard digital signal processor (DSP) to determine one’s location precisely. The radiofrequency collector chip was structured in the year and a half by understudies and specialists at IIT Bombay.

Note: IIT-Bombay Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; Director of IIT-Bombay: Subhasis Chaudhuri.

8. OBC panel gets six-month extension: Union Cabinet has approved six-month extension to Other Backward Classes commission to examine sub-categorisation of OBC in Central list. With this, the panel can submit its report till January 2021. The commission is headed by retired Delhi High Court Chief Justice G. Rohini. OBC commission was appointed in October 2017 under article 340 and have received several extensions. It was working on the issues of communities that were not getting the benefits of reservation.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. India pledges USD 10 million to UN for Palestine refugees: India has pledged to contribute USD 10 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The amount would be contributed over the coming two years. The contribution of USD 10 million would be an additional amount over and above USD 5 million contribution announced for year 2020. India has also pledged to donate life savings drugs to Palestine as a support to in combatting the COVID-19 pandemic. India provides 250 annual scholarships to Palestinian youth and officials, apart from regular customised training programmes, and current project grant is around 72 million dollar. India had stepped up its annual pledge from 1.25 million US dollar to 5 million US dollar in 2018.

2. China launches final Beidou satellite to complete GPS-like navigation system: China successfully launched the final member in its Beidou satellite constellation completing a new global navigation system decades in the making. A Long March 3B rocket launched the final Beidou Navigation Satellite (BDS) into orbit from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China. This was the last satellite in the third version of the BDS and the 55th in the BeiDou satellite constellation.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Wasim Jaffer appointed head coach of Uttarakhand cricket team: Former India opener and domestic stalwart Wasim Jaffer has been appointed head coach of the Uttarakhand cricket team for the upcoming domestic season. This will be his first stint as a head coach with a team.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Karnataka Bank launches KBL Micro Mitra for Micro enterprises: The Karnataka Bank has rolled out a new product titled “KBL Micro Mitra” for the Micro entrepreneurs. Under the newly launched product, the Micro manufacturing and service enterprises will be offered a financial assistance of up to Rs 10 lakhs. This financial assistance would be provided either for working capital or for investment purposes. It will simplify the procedure and rate of interest for entrepreneurs. KBL Micro Mitra would be available for the Micro entrepreneurs across India through all the branches of Karnataka Bank.

Note: MD & CEO of Karnataka Bank: Mahabaleshwara M.S.; Karnataka Bank HQs: Mangaluru

2. Shri. T. Rabi Sankar appointed as Chairman of IFTAS, Dr. N Rajendran as Chief Executive Officer: Indian Financial Technology & Allied Services (IFTAS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reserve Bank of India, (RBI) has appointed Shri. T Rabi Sankar as the Chairman of the organisation and Dr N Rajendran as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Sankar’s appointement is effective from May 15, 2020 while Dr N Rajendran’s appointment is effective from May 27, 2020. T Rabi Sankar is also serving as Executive Director, Reserve Bank of India for Payment systems, Information Technology, Risk Management and Fintech. IFTAS is established under Section 8 of Indian Companies Act, 2013 to provide essential IT-related services, required by the Reserve Bank of India, banks, and financial institutions, effectively and efficiently.

Note: IFTAS Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Moody’s Projects India’s GDP at -3.1% for Calendar Year 2020 and 6.9% in 2021: Moody’s Investors Service has sharply revised its forecast for India’s annual GDP growth and has projected the Indian economy to shrink 3.1 percent in the Calendar year 2020, caused by the disruptions due to the coronavirus pandemic. Moody’s released its June update to Global Macro Outlook (2020-21) on 22 June 2020. In April 2020, it pegged India’s annual growth at 0.2 percent for 2020. However, Moody’s expects the economy to register 6.9 percent growth in 2021.

Note: CEO and President of Moody's: Raymond Whitehead McDaniel

2. India retains its position as 3rd Largest Economy on PPP basis for 2017: World Bank Report: The World Bank has released the new purchasing power parity (PPP) for the reference year 2017, under the International Comparison Program (ICP), that adjust for differences in the cost of living across economies of the world. Globally, 176 economies participated in 2017 cycle of ICP. India has retained its position as the third-largest economy in the world in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP) for 2017, as per the World Bank data. India was 3rd largest in 2011 round of World Bank’s International Comparison Program (ICP) also. In 2017, the United States and China were the two largest economies in the world and together accounted for one-third of the global economy. Key Points of the report

(1) India accounts for 6.7 percent, (amounting to $8,051 billion, out of the world’s total of $119,547 billion) of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in terms of PPP, a measure of relative consumer prices across countries.

(2) China’s GDP stood at $19,617 billion (16.4%) in PPP terms in 2017, while the United States’ GDP was $19,519 billion (16.3%).

(3) The Price Level Index (PLI)- the ratio of a PPP to its corresponding market exchange rate, which is used to compare the price levels of economies- improved to 47.55 in 2017 from 42.99 in 2011.

Note: International Comparison Program (ICP): The ICP is one of the largest statistical initiatives in the world, managed by the World Bank under the guidance of the United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC).

OBITUARIES

1. Former MP Vishwa Bandhu Gupta passes away: Former Member of Parliament and journalist Vishwa Bandhu Gupta (93 years) passed away in New Delhi. He was the member of Congress party during the 1980s and served as the MP from Delhi from April 1984 to 1990 in the Rajya Sabha. He served as the Chairman and Editor-in-chief of the Tej group of publications and was also the President of All India Newspaper Editors Conference. He was also one of the founding members of the Press Club of India.

2. Former Indian Shooter Pournima Zanane passes away: Former India shooter and and coach Pournima Zanane (42 years) passes away due to cancer. She was a national record holder in 10m air rifle event. She had represented India at ISSF World Cups, Asian Championships, Commonwealth Championships. She was an International Shooting Sport Federation-licenced coach and had served as a coach for Sri Lanka. She was honoured with Shiv Chhatrapati Sports award by the Maharashtra government.

3. Former Karnataka Basketball Player K Raghunath passes away: Former Karnataka basketball player K Raghunath (74 years) passes away due to age-related complications. He was known by his nickname ‘Pappachi’. He was one of the founding members of the Beagles Basketball Club. He played as the point guard for Bangalore University team for five years and won around 3 championship Raghunath represented Indian All-Star team which toured Sri Lanka in 1962, and played for the State in the 1960s. 

Daily GK Updates - 23rd June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Mansukh Mandaviya Inaugurates First-ever Virtual Healthcare and Hygiene Expo 2020: The Minister of State for Shipping (Independent charge) and Chemicals & Fertilisers Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the country’s largest and first Virtual Healthcare & Hygiene EXPO 2020 on 22nd June 2020. The Expo has been organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), and supported by Ministry of AYUSH, GoI. This is the first of its kind event and largest virtual exhibition in India. The event was inaugurated virtually and will be live daily from 22nd to 26th June, 2020. The expo will witness participation of over 1,000 international buyers from 120 countries with 147 exhibitors.

Note: Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers: D. V. Sadananda Gowda.

2. Patanjali launches ayurvedic medicine ‘Coronil And Swasari’ for 100 percent treatment of Coronavirus: Yoga guru Baba Ramdev owned Patanjali Ayurved Limited, has launched Corona Kit, an ayurvedic medicine, that it claims can cure Covid-19 infection. The medicine titled ‘Coronil and Swasari’ is slated to treat coronavirus within seven days and has shown 100 percent favourable results during clinical trials on patients. Baba Ramdev claims it as the first ayurvedic medicine for curing COVID-19 in the world. The medicine has been prepared under the guidance of Ramdev and Balkrishna, managing director of Patanjali Ayurved Limited. The Corona kit will be made available at Rs 545 can be used for 30 days.

3. Jharkhand govt launches Jharkhand Mukhyamantri SHRAMIK Yojana Job Card for Urban Poor: The Jharkhand government has launched an employment guarantee scheme for the urban unskilled workers. The scheme will be on similar lines of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The scheme called Mukhyamantri Shramik Yojna will guarantee 100 days of work in a financial year for urban unskilled labourers. The new scheme would have a provision to pay an unemployment allowance if the state fails to provide 100 days of work

4. ISRO receives patent for “Liquid Cooling and Heating Garment”: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has received a patent for its Liquid Cooling and Heating Garment (LCHG). Liquid Cooling and Heating Garment (LCHG) is a protective garment for human spaceflight, also can be used for military, firefighting, and personal cooling-heating purposes shielding. It is a close fitting long garment that covers the torso as well as the limbs from neck to toe as a single piece lightweight comfort inner wear. The flight suit has to be worn by the astronauts over the LCHG. The garment permits the long term use without any impact on the wearer in terms of skin irritation or infection. It has a system for circulating temperature controlling fluid through tubes inside the garment.

Note: ISRO Director: K. Sivan, Headquarters: Bengaluru; Established: 1969.

5. Amish Tripathi launches his new fiction book- ‘Legend of Suheldev: The King Who Saved India’: Bestselling author, Amish Tripathi has released his new fiction book titled ‘Legend of Suheldev: The King Who Saved India’ on 20 June 2020. The latest fiction is set in 11th-century and is a story of a king who united men and women of the nation, irrespective of their religion, caste, region, or status in society. The book begins with Mahmud of Ghazni’s invasion and the massacre of the holy Somnath Temple. It then proceeds to document the adventure of the warrior-king Suheldev and the way he brings together people from various faiths. The book has been published by Westland Publications.

6. Mumbai Civic Body launches Mission Zero for corona containment: Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai has launched ‘Mission Zero’ to contain the spread coronavirus. Under this, 50 mobile dispensary vans are inaugurated to conduct preliminary examination of patients in the hotspot areas. It is a PPP initiative of Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana, Desh Apnayen, CREDAI-MCHI and Bill Gates Foundation. The move is taken for early detection and timely treatment. The initiative will also spread awareness about the disease and cure.

7. CBIC launches Secure QR coded Shipping Bill: CBIC has launched Secure QR coded Shipping Bill that would be electronically sent to exporters after the Customs allows export. It will eliminate process of approaching custom officer for proof of export. The move will make Customs export process fully electronic reducing time and cost improving India’s ranking in World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Report It is a part of Faceless, Paperless and Contactless Customs under ‘Turant Customs’ programme.

Note: CBIC Chairman: Ajit Kumar

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. United Nations Public Service Day: 23rd June: The United Nations Public Service Day is celebrated on June 23 every year, as a tribute to the people who are associated with public service in all the counties of the world. The Day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 to celebrate the value and virtue of public service to the community. Theme of 2020 is ‘On the frontlines: honouring public servants in the COVID-19 pandemic response.’ The United Nations Economic and Social Council also presents the prestigious United Nations Public Service Awards on this day for contributions made to the cause of enhancing the role, prestige, and visibility of public service. Public institution of Bangladesh, Botswana, Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, Korea and Spain will receive prestigious UNPSA 2020. The day also marks the anniversary of the date when the International Labour Organization adopted the Convention on Labour Relations (Public Service), 1978 (No. 151) for determining working conditions of all civil servants across the world.

2. International Widows Day: 23rd June: The International Widows Day is a UN recognised day which takes place annually on 23 June to raise awareness of the issue of widowhood and also to address the “poverty and injustice faced by millions of widows and their dependents in many countries”. The theme of IWD 2020 is ‘Invisible Women, Invisible Problems’. The first International Widows Day took place in 2005. The day was formally recognised by the United Nations General Assembly on 21 December 2010.

3. International Olympic Day: 23rd June: The International Olympic Day is held on June 23 each year to celebrate sports and health. The Olympic Day 2020 theme is “Move, learn and discover”. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) approved to observe Olympic Day in January 1948 to commemorate the creation of the International Olympic Committee on 23 June 1894. Olympic Day 2020 will be celebrated by creating world’s largest 24 hour digital-first Olympic workout. Athletes including PV Sindhu, Vinesh Phogat, etc around the globe will perform live workout.

Note: President of International Olympic Committee: Thomas Bach.

4. I&B Minister inaugurates Virtual India Pavilion at Cannes Film Market 2020: Information & Broadcasting Minister, Prakash Javadekar launches Virtual India Pavilion at Cannes Film Market 2020 depicting India’s participation at Cannes Film Festival. The Festival is taking place from 22 - 26 June 2020. This year, India has sent two films for screening during the festival, namely: MaiGhat: Crime No 103/200 (Marathi) and Hellaro (Gujarati). The Indian Pavilion at Cannes will enable the Indian film makers and delegates to interact with the international community, and make them experience the colour, flavor and aroma of Indian cinema.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. WWE legend The Undertaker announces retirement: Wrestling legend and WWE superstar “The Undertaker” has announced his retirement from World Wrestling Entertainment. The Undertaker’s last match was against AJ Styles at WrestleMania 36. His real name is Mark Calaway. Earlier, the wrestler had announced in the last episode of the WWE docuseries The Last Ride about his decision to leave the ring for good.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Yes Bank partners with Affordplan to launch “Swasth Card”: Yes Bank has partnered with fintech startup “Affordplan” to launch ‘Swasth Card’, a co-branded healthcare card, under Swasth program. YES BANK’s wallet has also been integrated on Affordplan Swasth to enable wallet QR scan for making payments to merchant partners empanelled on the Affordplan Swasth app. Equipped with a chip-enabled card, digital wallet, goal-based savings, loans, and insurance, Swasth program extends access to a family seeking curative as well as preventive care.

Note: Yes Bank Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; Yes Bank MD & CEO: Prashant Kumar.

2. UCO bank partners with 4 insurance companies: UCO Bank has tied up with four insurers to offer various insurance products to its customers through its network of branches across the country. The lender teamed up with SBI Life Insurance Company, the Oriental insurance company and Religare insurance Company, Star Health and Allied insurance company for selling their products. Through the new tie-up, it will offer wide range of insurance products for financial wellbeing of the customer. The bank will digitise and automate the customer interface for availing these facilities.

Note: Headquarters of UCO Bank: Kolkata, West Bengal; Managing Director(MD) & Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of UCO Bank: Atul Kumar Goel.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Nirakar Pradhan appointed as the CEO of PRMIA: Dr Nirakar Pradhan has appointed as new as the Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Risk Managers’ International Association (PRMIA) of its new India office. Pradhan has led teams at State Bank of India and Generali Group in India and Europe. David Coleman, Lakshmi Shyam-Sunder, Tom Wilson have been appointed as the board members. PRMIA is a non-profit recognized global association that aims to boost best practices in risk management.

Note: Professional Risk Managers’ International Association (PRMIA) Founded: 2002; Professional Risk Managers’ International Association (PRMIA) Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware, United States.

AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Annual Golden Globe awards shifted to February 2021: Annual Golden Globe Awards ceremony for film and television has been postponed to February 2021. This will be the 78th edition of the awards. The ceremony begins Hollywood’s awards season will take place on 28th of February instead of its usual slot on the first Sunday in January. Oscar awards have also been postponed to 25th April due to the ongoing pandemic. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are the host for 2021. Hollywood Foreign Press Association will deal with nominations.

2. Amartya Sen wins 2020 Peace Prize of the German Book Trade: Nobel-laureate Indian economist and philosopher Amartya Sen has been selected for the 2020 Peace Prize of the German Book Trade for his decades-long work around issues of global justice. The 86-year-old Harvard professor and past Nobel prize winner will be awarded during a ceremony on 18 October 2020 in Frankfurt. He won 1998 Nobel Prize in Economics for his contributions to welfare economics and Bharat Ratna in 1999. The Peace Prize of the German Book Trade comes with a cash prize of €25,000 euros ($28,000). The German Publishers and Booksellers Association, Borsenverein, presents the prize annually since 1950 to honor individuals “who have made an outstanding contribution to the realization of the idea of peace, primarily through their activities in the fields of literature, science and art.”

OBITUARIES

1. Major General Lachhman Singh Lehl passes away: Major General Lachhman Singh Lehl (97 years) passed away in New Delhi. He was one of the finest military brains of India and one of the last surviving officers who took part in the 1948 (J&K) and 1971 (Bangladesh liberation) wars. He was awarded with Vir Chakra (3rd highest gallantary award) for his role as a forward observation officer with the 50 Para Brigade. He authored a comprehensive book on the 1965 India-Pakistan war titled ‘Missed Opportunities’. 

Daily GK Updates - 22nd June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. NITI Aayog Collaborates with ITF for Decarbonising Transport Project to Develop Pathway to Low-CO2 Mobility for India: NITI Aayog has collaborated with International Transport Forum (ITF) for “Decarbonising Transport in India” project, with the aim to develop a pathway towards a low-carbon transport system for India. The project will be launched online on 24 June, 2020, at YouTube livestream, which can be accessed at https://youtu.be/l2G5x5RdBUM. Purpose?? The “Decarbonising Transport in India” project will design a tailor-made transport emissions assessment framework for India and will provide the government with a detailed understanding of current and future transport activity and the related CO2 emissions as a basis for their decision-making.  ITF: is Paris, France based intergovernmental organisation for transport policy. India has been a member of ITF since 2008. The project is part of the ITF’s “Decarbonising Transport in Emerging Economies” (DTEE) family of projects, which supports transport decarbonisation across different world regions. It is a part of DTEE projects with India, Argentina, Azerbaijan, and Morocco as participants.

Note: Secretary-General of International Transport Forum: Young Tae Kim.

2. Govt Extends Insurance Scheme under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package for health workers till September 2020: The Government has extended the Insurance Scheme announced under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package for health workers who are fighting to contain COVID-19 for another three months till September 2020. Earlier the scheme was slated to end on 30 June 2020. The government has launched the scheme in March 2020, for a period of 90 days, to provide insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh to around 22.12 lakh public healthcare providers. The scheme is funded through the National Disaster Response Fund, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

3. Centre sanctions Rs 190 cr for augmentation of healthcare facilities in North Eastern States: Union Minister of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Dr Jitendra Singh has reviewed the COVID status and healthcare facility in Aspirational districts with special focus on North East. He also disclosed that in the wake of COVID pandemic, Ministry of DoNER has decided to sanction 190 crore rupees  for augmentation of healthcare facility in the eight North Eastern States, particularly for developing infrastructure for management of infectious diseases. Union Minister said, accordingly, proposals have been received from the States of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Sikkim, Mizoram and Nagaland, while the proposal from the eighth State of Tripura is awaited.

4. Rajasthan Govt to Launch Indira Rasoi Yojna to ensure ‘No One Sleeps Hungry’: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot announced that his government will soon launch the Indira Rasoi Yojna for the poor to ensure that “no one sleeps hungry” in the state. Under this scheme, pure and nutritious food on concessional rates will be provided to the needy twice a day. The state government will spend Rs 100 crore every year on the Indira Rasoi Yojna (Indira Kitchen Scheme).

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1.  World Bank approves USD 1.05 billion to Bangladesh: The World Bank has approved USD 1.05 billion for three projects in Bangladesh to generate quality jobs and boost economic recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The three projects namely: Private Investment and Digital Entrepreneurship is a USD 500 million worth project. It will bolster the social and environmental standards in selected economic zones and software technology parks in Bangladesh. Enhancing Digital Government and Economy is a USD 295 million worth project. It will create an integrated, cloud-computing digital platform for all government agencies and enhance cyber-security. Second Programmatic Jobs Development Policy Credit is a USD 250 million worth project which will develop fiscal space to help the government’s response to the COVID-19 crisis.

Note: Prime Minister of Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina; Capital: Dhaka; Currency: Taka.

President of World Bank: David Malpass.

2. India attends 32nd virtual EAG plenary meet: The virtual 32nd special Eurasian Group on Combating Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (EAG) plenary meeting was attended by the Indian officials including the representatives from enforcement agencies. The meeting was held under the aegis of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). EAG is a nine member regional body. The nine member countries of EAG are: India, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

Note: EAG HQs: Moscow Russia

3. France to boost India’s COVID-19 response with 200-million-euros: France has signed a loan agreement of 200-million-euros with India to boost India’s COVID-19 response and to increase the state and central governments’ capacities to support India’s most vulnerable people in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis. World Bank has developed the programme design in collaboration with the Indian authorities to optimize and expand the existing social protection measures taken by India. World Bank would be the lead funder of this programme, being supported by French Development Agency (AFD) including other multilateral and bilateral development banks.

Note: President of France: Emmanuel Macron; Capital: Paris.

4. Exim Bank extends LOC of USD 20.10 Mn to government of Nicaragua: A Line of Credit (LOC) of USD 20.10 million has been extended by the Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) on behalf of the Government of India, to the Government of the Republic of Nicaragua for the reconstruction of Aldo Chavarria Hospital. With the signing of the above LOC Agreement for reconstruction of hospital, the total number of LOCs extended by Exim Bank to the Republic of Nicaragua comes to four with total value of the 4 LOCs is USD 87.63 million.

Note: Managing Director of Exim Bank: David Rasquinha.

Capital of Nicaragua: Managua; Currency: Nicaraguan córdoba.

5. India 2nd biggest driver of global energy consumption in 2019: BP Statistical Review: India was second biggest growth driver of primary energy consumption in the world, according to the 69th annual edition of the BP Statistical Review of World Energy, released by BP, one of the world’s largest energy companies. The report highlights the global energy trends emerging prior to the current COVID-19 pandemic. China was the biggest driver of energy, accounting for more than three quarters of net global growth. The energy consumption is made up of oil, natural gas, coal, electricity and renewables. Some key features in the report includes:

(1) The Global primary energy consumption growth slowed to 1.3 percent in 2019 (583.90 Exajoules (EJ)), less than half the rate of growth in 2018 (2.8 per cent).

(2) India’s consumption rose 2.3 percent to 34.06 EJ. The growth was lower than 5.2 per cent in 2018.

(3) India’s energy consumption was only behind that of China (141.70 EJ)

(4) The increase in energy consumption was driven by renewables and natural gas. All fuels grew at a slower rate than their 10-year averages, apart from nuclear.

(5) Carbon emissions from energy use grew by 0.5 percent in 2019.

OTHER UPDATES:

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI raises PMC bank withdrawal limit to Rs 1 lakh: Reserve Bank of India has increased the withdrawal limit for Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative Bank (PMC) to Rs 1 Lakh per depositor from Rs 50,000. With this move, more than 84% of the PMC depositors will be able to withdraw their entire account balance. RBI had imposed restrictions on the bank under Section 35 A (1) on September 23, 2019 after the case of loan fraudulently given to HDIL Group which subsequently went bad.

Note: RBI 25th Governor: Shaktikanta Das; Headquarters: Mumbai; Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata.

2. India becomes 12th largest US govt securities holder at April end: India has become 12th largest US government securities holder at the end of April. It has securities holding worth $157.4 billion as per the data revealed by US Treasury Department. The holding touched the record in February. Japan stood at the top position of holding US securities with $1.27 trillion, followed by China at $1.1 trillion and UK at $368.5 billion. The American government securities are held by RBI. They are the most safest asset for any central bank.

3. Natarajan Chandrasekaran re-nominated to RBI central board: Centre has re-nominated Natarajan Chandrasekaran as the part-time non-official Director on the Central Board of Reserve Bank of India. He will serve the board for further two years beyond March 3, 2020. Prior to RBI, he was the CEO and managing director of Tata Consultancy Services. He was appointed as the director of RBI central board in 2016.

Note: Central board of directors governs the affairs of RBI. It has 10 non-official directors and 2 government officials.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Mukesh Ambani becomes 9th richest person globally, Jeff Bezos Tops: Forbes: Reliance Industries (RIL) chairman and managing director Mukesh Ambani, has entered into the list of world’s top 10 richest persons, according to the Forbes Real-Time Billionaire list. Ambani’s net worth rose to $64.6 billion on 19 June 2020, making him the 9th richest person in the world. RIL’s shares soared 6.2% to hit a new all-time high of Rs 1,788.60 on the BSE on 19 June before ending at Rs 1,759.50 (up over 6 percent), helping the company’s market capitalisation to cross Rs 11-trillion mark. He is the richest Asian in the list. In March 2020, Ambani was ranked 21st on Forbes’ annual billionaire list. The list is topped by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos ($160.4 billion), followed by Bill Gates ($109.9 billion) and Bernard Arnault.

OBITUARIES

1. Indian social worker and activist Vidyaben Shah passes away: Renowned Indian social worker and activist, Vidyaben Shah (98 years) passes away in Delhi. She is known for her work with children, women and the elderly. She was honoured with Padma Shri in 1992 and National Award for outstanding services in Child Welfare in 1986. She established India’s first Bal Bhavan in Rajkot in the 1940s. She was the president of ICCW for 12 years. She was the 1st non-official to become president of the New Delhi Municipal Council in 1970s.

Daily GK Updates - 21st June, 2020

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. PM Modi launches Rs 50,000 crore Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan for Migrant Workers: Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi has launched a dedicated Rs 50,000 crore Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan, via video conference, on 20 June 2020.

For Whom- Migrant workers; Focus- States with more than 25,000 migrant returnees. Currently the campaign will be launched in six states (Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand and Odisha.); Purpose- The campaign aims to create jobs for millions of migrant workers who returned home during the coronavirus-induced lockdown across the country, and, boost livelihood opportunities in rural India by creating durable infrastructure along with boosting employment opportunities; Duration- The programme will run in “mission mode” for 125 days across 116 districts in six states to help migrant workers get jobs in their home states.

These states witnessed the return of highest number of migrant workers (more than 25,000 migrant). Besides, this, twelve different ministries or departments will participate in the programme, which includes, rural development, panchayati raj, transport, mines, drinking water, environment, railways, petroleum, new and renewable energy, border roads, telecom and agriculture. The campaign will involve intensified and focused implementation of 25 different types of works to provide jobs and create infrastructure in the rural regions of the country. The campaign may be extended to other states or districts which witnesses migrant returnees above 25,000.

2. Niti Aayog forms panel to develop job platform for migrant labourers: Niti Aayog has formed a panel to develop a job platform for migrant labourers. The panel includes top officials of tech companies like Google, Microsoft and Tech Mahindra including Reliance Industries President Kiran Thomas, Microsoft India President Anant Maheshwari, Tech Mahindra MD and CEO CP Gurnani, Google India country manager and vice president Sanjay Gupta, Bharti Airtel CEO Gopal Vittal, among others. This platform helps migrant workers have lost their jobs during the lockdown period. The platform will connect job seekers, employers, government agencies, skill centres and external partners using new-age technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. The platform can be accessed through smartphones and will help location-based jobs.

Note: Headquarters of NITI Aayog: New Delhi; Chairperson of NITI Aayog: Narendra Modi; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog: Amitabh Kant; Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog: Rajiv Kumar.

3. India witnessed rare Annual Solar Eclipse: Northern India witnessed a rare celestial event, an annual solar eclipse also known as ‘ring of fire’. The solar eclipse coincides with the summer solstice. It occurs when the moon comes in between sun and earth blocking the light of sun, casting its shadow on the earth. In this, sun, moon, and earth comes in straight line and plane. Moon is at farthest point allowing the sun’s disc to be visible while covering the other parts that results in ‘ring of fire’ visibility.

4. Ministry of Culture launches Namaste Yoga campaign: Ministry of Culture launches Namaste Yoga campaign celebrating International Yoga Day 2020. Ministry of Culture celebrated International Yoga Day 2020 from 19th to 21st June, 2020 with the goal of making yoga an indispensable part of everyone's life. The ministry urges people to join Surya Namaskar on International Yoga Day using #10MillionSuryaNamaskar and #NamasteYoga.

Note: Union Minister of State for Culture & Tourism (Independent Charge): Prahlad Singh Patel.

5. CIL ties-up with AIM to boost Innovation & Entrepreneurship initiatives: Coal India Limited (CIL) has tied up with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog to boost innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives across the country. For partnership, Statement of Intent (SoI) has been signed in a virtual meet. CIL and AIM will together deal with Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) at school level, Atal Incubation Centres at institutional levels, Atal Community Innovation Centres etc. This will support the youth and innovation ecosystems.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Vijay Khanduja appointed India’s next Ambassador to Zimbabwe: Vijay Khanduja has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Zimbabwe. He is presently serving as Director in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Note: Currencies of Zimbabwe: United States Dollar; Capital of Zimbabwe: Harare; President of Zimbabwe: Emmerson Mnangagwa.

2. Sethuraman Panchanathan appointed as the Head of NSF, USA: The U.S. Senate has appointed Indian-American scientist Dr Sethuraman Panchanathan as the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF). He will replace France Cordova as the 15th director of the NSF. He is the second Indian-American ever to be nominated to the prestigious science position with the first being Dr Subra Suresh who served from October 2010 to March 2013. He is currently leading Arizona State University (ASU).

Note: National Science Foundation is a top American body supporting fundamental research in non-medical fields of science and engineering. National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950.

3. International Day of Yoga: 21st June: International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on 21 June to raise awareness around the world, regarding the many benefits of practicing Yoga. The theme of 2020 is “Yoga for Health – Yoga at Home”. 2020 marks the 6th edition of the annual celebrations. The first International Day of Yoga was observed in 2015 at Rajpath in New Delhi. The proposal to observe the day was first introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address during the opening of the 69th session of the UN General Assembly on 27 September 2014. The day was then declared unanimously by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2014. 21 June has been chosen as it is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

4. World Hydrography Day: 21st June: Every year the World Hydrography Day is observed on 21 June to make the public aware about the hydrography and the essential role that it plays in everyone’s life. The theme for 2020 WHD is “Hydrography – enabling autonomous technologies”. The United Nations General Assembly accepted a resolution to celebrate World Hydrography Day on every June 21 in 2005. The day is organised by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) since 2006 to publicise the work of hydrographers and the importance of hydrography. 21 June has been chosen for the day as it marks the anniversary of the founding of the International Hydrographic Organization on 21 June 1921. Hydrography deals with the study and measurement of the physical features of oceans, seas, coastal areas, rivers and lakes.

Note: Chairman of International Hydrographic Organization: Shepard M. Smith; Secretary-General of International Hydrographic Organization: Mathias Jonas; Headquarters of International Hydrographic Organization: Monaco

5. World Music Day: 21st June: World Music Day (Fête de la Musique, as called in French) takes place on 21 June every year to honor the amateur and professional musicians, and to encourage them to showcase their work to the world. It was first observed in France in 1982. It is celebrated across 120 countries and 700 cities around the world with free concerts to make music accessible to all. Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Guwahati and Nagaland Govt brings ‘One NE concert’ featuring all the Northeast states on Facebook on the occasion.

6. International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice: 21st June: International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice is observed globally on 21st June to spread awareness about solstices and equinoxes and their significance for several religions and ethnic cultures. It is the longest day of the year as it marks the Summer Solstice. Solstice is derived from ‘solstitium’ meaning ‘Sun standing still’ as Sun seems to stand still at Tropic of Capricorn and then reverses its direction. The sun reaches its farthest point north of the celestial equator with maximum tilt in the sky on this day. Arctic Circle experience continuous daylight for 24 hours on June 21.

7. World Humanist Day: 21st June: The World Humanist Day is celebrated every year around the world on the June solstice, which usually falls on June 21. The day aims to spread awareness of Humanism as a philosophical life stance and means to effect change in the world. The day has been organised by the International Humanist and Ethical Union (IHEU), since 1980.

Note: IHEU is the global federation for Humanist, atheist, rationalist, ethical culture, secularist and other freethought groups.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. National Champion Niki Poonacha elected to ITF Men’s Player Panel: India’s reigning national tennis champion Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha has been elected by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) to the ITF World Tennis Tour Player Panels. He will represent the Asia-Oceania zone in men’s player panel. Poonacha is one of the two members from Asia-Oceania zone, to be selected for the panel. The other member is Ti Chen of Chinese Taipei. The ITF World Tennis Tour Player Panel will provide a forum for players to provide their input on various matters related to how the ITF Tour is run.

Note: International Tennis Federation President/CEO: David Haggerty; International Tennis Federation Chief Operating Officer(COO): Kelly Fairweather; International Tennis Federation Headquarters: London, United Kingdom.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Mukesh Ambani is World’s Ninth Richest Person & only Asian Tycoon in top 10: Bloomberg: Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani has joined the elite club of the world’s top 10 richest people, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index released on 20 June 2020. He is ranked as the 9th richest person in the world, in the latest update. The net worth of Ambani jumped to $64.5 billion as of 20 June, making him the only Asian tycoon to feature in the top 10 richest people list. With a total net worth of $160 billion, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos is still the wealthiest person in the world. He is followed by Bill Gates ($112 billion) and Mark Zuckerberg ($90.6 billion). The Bloomberg Billionaires Index is a daily ranking of the world’s richest people. The figures are updated at the close of every trading day in New York.

OBITUARIES

1. Former India player Rajinder Goel passes away: The legendary first-class cricketer player, Rajinder Goel, who holds the record for most wickets in the history of Ranji Trophy, has passed away due to age related issues. He was 77. In all, the left-arm spinner took 750 wickets, in 157 first-class matches which he played from 1958-59 to 1984-85. He mostly played for Haryana, but had also represented Punjab and Delhi. However, despite being the highest wicket taker, he was never selected to play for India. In 2017, Goel received the CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award from the BCCI.