Daily GK Updates - 27th Aug, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ministry of Culture announces 7 new circles of ASI: The Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism (IC), Shri Prahlad Singh Patel has announced 7 new circles of Archaeological Survey of India. These new circles have been formed in Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal and Gujarat. Along with the 7 new circles, the minister also added that the Hampi Mini Circle in Karnataka has been converted into a full fledged circle. Here is the list of all 7 new circles: Trichy in Tamil Nadu; Raiganj in West Bengal; Rajkot in Gujarat; Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh; Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh; Meerut in Uttar Pradesh; Hampi in Karnataka.

Note: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog: Amitabh Kant.

 

2. NITI Aayog to launch NDC-TIA India Component: The India Component of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC)–Transport Initiative for Asia (TIA) will be launched by the NITI Aayog. It will aim to set up a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform in order to decarbonize transport in India. NITI Aayog will be the implementing partner for the India Component of NDC-TIA. The NDC-TIA India Component will offer inputs about the transport challenges of India and how they relate to CO2 reduction ambitions. It will also offer technical support on GHG emission reduction measures. NDC-TIA is a joint programme supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the German Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU). The programme having duration of 4 years, aims to encourage a comprehensive approach to decarbonize transport in India, Vietnam, and China.

Note: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog: Amitabh Kant.

 

3. NeGD signs MoU with CSC E-Governance Services India Limited: The National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) has partnered with CSC (Common Service Center) e Governance Services India Limited. The partnership aims to enable delivery of UMANG services to citizens through the network of 3.75 lakh CSCs. The CSC operators Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) will facilitate citizens to use e-Governance services of 140 Departments with the help of UMANG App. This will help those citizens who either do not have access to smartphones or are not comfortable accessing App based e services on their own.

 

4. Tamil Nadu women top the list of MUDRA loan scheme: According to the data provided by Ministry of Finance to Rajya Sabha, Tamil Nadu has topped the list of Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) in availing loans to women. It was followed by West Bengal and Karnataka. According to the data produced by the Ministry of Finance, around 15 crore loans amounting to Rs 4.78 lakh crores were disbursed to women borrowers since the inception of Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana. As of March 31, 2020, Tamil Nadu had availed Rs 58,227 crores. The loans provided by other states are as follows:

West Bengal: Rs 55,232 crores

Karnataka: Rs 47,714 crores

Bihar: Rs 44,879 crores

Maharashtra: Rs 42,000 crores

All the above states have received 52% of MUDRA loans for women. The loans were availed to activities allied to agriculture, services, trading, processing, manufacturing, etc. Of the total number of loans provided under MUDRA scheme, 70% of borrowers were women.

Note: Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana was launched in 2015 to provide loans to non-corporate, small and micro-enterprises. Under the scheme, loans up to Rs 10 lakhs are provided. The loans are given by Regional Rural Banks, Commercial banks, Small Finance Banks, Non-Banking Financial Corporations, Micro-Financial Institutions.

 

5. NHAI develops a “Vendor Performance Evaluation System”: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has developed a “Vendor Performance Evaluation System” to create a transparent and comprehensive ‘Performance Rating’ System for its Consultants, Contractors and Concessionaires. NHAI has also commenced the portal based objective assessment of vendors to track the performance of the vendors for various NHAI projects. The vendors are required to conduct a self-assessment on the portal. They are required to upload the documents pertaining to the project activities being executed by them. NHAI will evaluate this data and generate ratings for the Vendors and will be shared with them. Those vendors who were unable to upload the requisite documents on the portal will not be permitted to participate in the bids of NHAI.

 

6. APEDA signs MoU with AFC India Ltd and NCUI for the Agri-export policy: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has entered into an MoU with AFC India Limited and National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI), Delhi. The MoU is signed to uplift the agriculture and allied sectors in order to bring better value to the stakeholders. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is a part of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. APEDA has taken an initiative to sign this MoU in order to bring together inherent professionals and experts associated with various organisations and institutions so that they can work and bring value to the stakeholders by addressing them with appropriate and prompt solutions which will led to the development of agriculture and its export and thus to achieve objective framed under Agri Export Policy of GOI. The APEDA, AFC India Ltd and NCUI will work to develop pre-production, production, post-harvesting, primary as well as secondary processing, transportation in order to boost stakeholders and farmers also.

Note: APEDA Chairman: Asit Tripathy

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 17th meeting of India-Vietnam Joint Commission held virtually: The 17th meeting of the India-Vietnam Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation was held virtually. The virtual meeting was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Binh Minh. The 17th meeting included the deliberations on the recent developments in India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. During the meeting, both countries approved to add new momentum to the economic and defence engagement. They also agreed to explore closer cooperation in emerging areas like civil nuclear energy, space, marine sciences and new technologies.

Note: Vietnam Capital: Hanoi; Currency: Vietnamese dong

 

2. World Water Week 2020: 24-28 August: The World Water Week 2020 is observed as the World Water Week at Home (WWWeek at Home) from 24th August to 28th August 2020. The theme for World Water Week 2020 at Home is ‘Water and Climate change: Accelerating Action’. The World Water Week is an annual global event organized by Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) since 1991 to address the planet’s water issues and related concerns of international development. The World Water Week 2020 has been organised from 24-28 August in virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Note: SIWI Executive Director: Torgny Holmgren; SIWI Headquarters: Stockholm, Sweden.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

 

1. James Anderson becomes 1st fast bowler to take 600 Test wickets: England’s James Anderson became the first-ever fast bowler to take 600 wickets in a Test Match Cricket. He achieved this feat against Pakistan when he dismissed Azhar Ali. Overall he is the 4th bowler to take 600 test wickets after 3 spinners Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne, and Anil Kumble. Anderson, who made his Test debut in 2003 against Zimbabwe, had become the highest wicket-taker among seamers in 2018 when he dismissed Mohammed Shami against India at The Oval to go past Glenn McGrath’s tally of 563 Test wickets.

           

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Axis Bank introduced ‘Liberty Savings Account’ for the Indian Youth: Axis Bank has introduced ‘Liberty Savings Account’ for the Indian Youth, to address the ever-changing lifestyle needs of young and digitally interested Indians. It offers a complimentary hospital cash insurance cover of up to Rs 20,000 per year, which covers hospital expenses incurred under COVID -19, which makes this a 1st of its kind savings account to cover the pandemic. This account targets to meet the lifestyle requirements of the working class that falls under 35 years of age. Features of the Liberty Savings Account:

(1) Minimum Balance: It allows customers to maintain a minimum balance of Rs 25,000 per month or spend the same amount each month on lifestyle needs through the Liberty debit card or savings account (via NetBanking, Axis Mobile or UPI- Unified Payments Interface).

(2) Annual Savings & Lounge Benefit: It offers annual savings amounting to Rs 15,000. It also offers 4 complimentary airport lounge access in 1 year.

(3) CashBack & Gift Vouchers: It offers 5% cashback on Debit card spends across Food, Entertainment, Shopping & Travel and gift Vouchers.

Note: Axis Bank Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; Axis Bank MD and CEO: Amitabh Chaudhry

 

2. SBI General Insurance launches “Shagun – Gift an insurance” policy: SBI General Insurance has launched a first-of-its-kind insurance product called ‘Shagun – Gift an Insurance”, which is a unique gift of Personal Accident policy. The unique feature of this policy is that it can be gifted to anyone, which means it is not necessary for the policy buyer to be related to the insured. Key Features of ‘Shagun – Gift an Insurance’ Policy:

(1) A Gift giver (policy buyer) can gift this product to anyone like family, friends, extended family and even domestic helpers, chauffeurs, drivers, cook, etc.

(2) Gift Receiver (insured) should be in the age group of 18 years to 65 years. It can be availed for up to 1 Year.

(3) Shagun covers personal accident insurance which provides complete financial protection to the insured person against uncertainties such as accidental death and partial or total disabilities, and permanent as well as temporary disabilities resulting from an accident.

Note: SBI General Insurance Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; SBI General Insurance MD and CEO: Prakash Chandra(P.C.) Kandpal.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. CCI approves acquisition by Lightstone Fund S.A.: The acquisition by Lightstone Fund S.A., for and on behalf of Lightstone Global Fund (LGT) of certain equity stakes has been approved by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). Under Section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002, the Lightstone Fund S.A. will acquire certain equity stakes in 91Streets Media Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (91Streets), Ascent Health and Wellness Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (Ascent), API Holdings Pvt. Ltd. (API), Aahaan Commercials Pvt. Ltd. (Aahaan) and Lokprakash Vidhya Pvt. Ltd. (Lokprakash). Information about the above mentioned companies:

(1) Lightstone Fund S.A.: It was established as an umbrella fund structure with initially one sub-fund, i.e. Lightstone Global Fund and is presently managed by LGT Capital Partners (Ireland) Limited.

(2) API Holdings Pvt. Ltd.: This company is incorporated in India. It is a stakeholder in Instinct Innovations Private Limited engaged in the business of developing software and enterprise resource planning solutions for healthcare business and non-healthcare space.

(3) Ascent Health and Wellness Solutions Pvt. Ltd.: It is operated on a pan-India basis through its subsidiaries. It is engaged in the (online as well as offline) wholesale B2B sale including the distribution of pharmaceutical, over the counter FMCG as well as nutraceutical products.

(4) 91Streets Media Technologies Pvt. Ltd.: It is is incorporated in India and operated on a pan-India basis. It owns technology and intellectual property required to develop an e-commerce platform.

Note: Chairperson of Competition Commission of India: Ashok Kumar Gupta.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Raksha Mantri launches “DGNCC Training” mobile App: The Directorate General National Cadet Corps (DGNCC) Mobile Training App has been launched by the Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh. The Mobile Training App will support in conducting countrywide online training of NCC cadets as it has been affected adversely due to the restrictions imposed by COVID-19. The DGNCC Mobile Training App seeks to offer entire training material to the NCC cadets on one platform. This will also led to the automation of of NCC training. The mobile application will also allow the cadets to post their queries related to the training syllabus and these will be answered by a panel of qualified instructors.

Note: Director General National Cadet Corps (NCC): Lt General Rajeev Chopra.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Writer-journalist Gail Sheehy passes away: Writer-journalist, Commentator and Pop sociologist, Gail Sheehy passed away. Her best-selling book “Passages: Predictable Crises of Adult Life” was published in 1976. Sheehy’s honors included the National Magazine Award, the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award and a citation from the American Psychological Association. 

Daily GK Updates - 26th Aug, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Kerala’s 1st-ever Dragonfly Festival: WWF-India Kerala State Office is joining hands with the Society for Odonate Studies (SOS) and Thumbipuranam for the first-ever state “Dragonfly Festival” in Kerala, christened ‘Thumbimahotsavam 2020’. This is part of the National Dragonfly Festival organised by WWF India, Bombay Natural History Society and Indian Dragonfly Society in association with National Biodiversity Board, UN Environmental Programme, UN Development Programme and IUCN-CEC. About Dragonfly Festival:

Dragonfly Festival, a series of events will be rolled out in the coming months to reach out to various sections of the society. The official mascot of the festival is “Pantalu” which is the genus of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae commonly known as rain pool gliders. A ‘Dragonfly Backyard Watch’ has also been announced to enhance the participation of people and improve their observation skills. A field guide on ‘Common Dragonflies of Kerala’ and a ‘Children’s Dragonfly Coloring & Activity Book’ is also under development.

Note: Kerala Capital: Thiruvananthapuram; Kerala Chief Minister: Pinarayi Vijayan; Kerala Governor: Arif Mohammad Khan.

 

2. Nitin Gadkari inaugurates 45 Highway projects worth around Rs 11,427 cr in Madhya Pradesh: The Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways and MSMEs Nitin Gadkari virtually inaugurated 45 highway projects in Madhya Pradesh on 25 August 2020. These projects includes construction of 1,361 km of Road, two over bridges and six bridges at an estimated cost of Rs 11,427 crore. The implementation of these projects will create tourism and employment opportunities in the state, as well as help in the development of entire Madhya Pradesh including backward areas. Part from this, Nitin Gadkari also announced his plan to open a driving training school in every district of the country.

 

3. Indian Energy Exchange MD & CEO Rajiv Srivastava resigns: Indian Energy Exchange (IEX), Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Rajiv Srivastava has resigned from the post. The Board of Directors of Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) accepted his resignation. He was relieved from his position with immediate effect from 24th August 2020. Satyanarayan Goel, the current non-executive chairman of the board of IEX was given additional charges as the interim MD and CEO of the company.

Note: Indian Energy Exchange MD & CEO: Satyanarayan Goel (Interim); Headquarters of Indian Energy Exchange: New Delhi; Indian Energy Exchange Founded: 27 June 2008

 

4. Indian Satellite ‘AstroSat’ Detects UV Light From Galaxy 9 Billion Light Years Away: India’s first multi-wavelength satellite, AstroSat, has detected an extreme ultraviolet (UV) light from a galaxy, called AUDFs01. This galaxy is 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth, in the Hubble Extreme Deep field. The discovery was made by an international team of astronomers led by Dr Kanak Saha, associate professor of astronomy at the Pune-based Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA). This research was published on August 24, 2020, by Nature Astronomy. AstroSat is India’s first multi-wavelength satellite, which has five unique X-ray and ultraviolet telescopes working in tandem.

 

5. Ahmedabad Railway Division launches Baggage Sanitization & Wrapping machine: Baggage Sanitization & Wrapping machine has been launched by the Ahmedabad Railway Division at Ahmedabad Railway Station, Gujarat. The machine is a first of its kind across the Indian Railways. The recently launched machine aims to ensure safe travel amid the pandemic. It uses ultraviolet radiation for 360 degree sanitization of the luggage. The Baggage Sanitization & Wrapping machine has been installed in around 69-sq metre space on Ahmedabad Railway Station in order to provide safe journey to the passengers travelling by the Railways amid the pandemic. According to the Ahmedabad Railway Division, the UV rays used by the machine will not have any harmful effects on tiffins, food, vegetables or water kept in the baggage.

 

6. E-auction portal rolled out to promote trading of ‘Kashmir Saffron’: The Agriculture Department of Jammu and Kashmir has set up an e-auction portal to enhance trading of GI-tagged ‘Kashmir Saffron’. The portal has been launched with the primary objective of assuring buyers to have access to quality ‘Kashmir Saffron’. The Departmnent, under the aegis of India International Kashmir Saffron Trading Centre (IIKSTC) has established the portal in partnership with NSE-IT. The Saffron growers of Kashmir valley as well as the buyers across India have been appealed to get themselves registered as sellers and buyers for E- trading on the portal. The portal will ensure free e-Trading between registered growers and buyers.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Health Organization certifies Africa free from wild Polio: The Africa Regional Certification Commission (ARCC), an independent body set up by the World Health Organization (WHO), has certified the African continent free from wild Polio virus. The landmark feat related to public health has been achieved by the continent after decades of work along with international health bodies, national and local governments, community volunteers and survivors. According to the previous records, about 75,000 children in Africa were paralysed by polio in year 1996. The last case of Polio was recorded four years ago in the northern Nigeria. In this fight of Africa with the polio virus, the World Health Organization played a central coordinating role within the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, and local leaders working with Unicef, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Rotary International as well as the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Note: Director-general of World Health Organization: Tedros Adhanom; Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland; Founded: 7 April 1948

 

2. International Conference on ‘Aerosol Air Quality, Climate Change and Impact on Water Resources and Livelihoods in the Greater Himalayas’ to be held at ARIES, Nainital in September 2020: The International Conference on Aerosol Air Quality, Climate Change and Impact on Water Resources and Livelihoods in the Greater Himalayas is set to be held from September 14 to 16. The three-day conference will be organised by the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital in association with Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University. The international conference will be held on online platform. The conference will deliberate on topics such as rapid increase in the air pollution associated with industrialisation, urbanisation and its resultant impact on regional and global air quality, visibility degradation, cloud formation, and atmospheric chemistry, radiation budget, ecosystem, Himalayan climate, and glaciology, cryosphere, monsoon patterns, water availability, and human health.

 

3. Women’s Equality Day 2020: 26th August: The 100th anniversary of the Women’s Equality Day is being observed in the United States on August 26, to commemorate American women getting the constitutional right to vote. Women’s Equality Day is now often observed across the world to encourage and spread awareness about women’s empowerment.

The 19th Amendment to the US Constitution was adopted in 1920. The law prohibits denying citizens, of the United States, the right to vote on the basis of gender. Women’s Equality Day was first marked in 1972. It is proclaimed each year by the President of the United States. President Richard Nixon had issued the first official proclamation. Since then, every US president has issued a proclamation designating August 26 as Women’s Equality Day.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

 

1. Indian Table Tennis star Poulomi Ghatak announced retirement: Indian Table Tennis star, Poulomi Ghatak has announced retirement. She had represented India at the Commonwealth Games in 2006 and Commonwealth championships between 2000 and 2008. She entered the Olympics in Sydney for the first time when she was 16. The achievements and medals won by Poulomi are as follows:

In 2006, she won the gold medal in Women’s doubles at the SAF Games.

She also won bronze at the Commonwealth in 2006.

In 2007, she won bronze at the Commonwealth Champions.

In 2010, she won silver at the Commonwealth.

She had also made till quarter-finals in Asian Games, 2012.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. ICICI Bank uses satellite data to assess creditworthiness of farmers: ICICI Bank uses satellite data to assess the creditworthiness of farmers. ICICI Bank has become the 1st bank in India to use such a technique to measure an array of parameters related to the land, irrigation and crop patterns and use it in combination with demographic and financial parameters to make quick lending decisions for farmers. Advantages of using Satellite Data:

(1) The satellite data with demographic and financial details provides strong information on the land asset of the farmers.

(2) Usage of this technology will help farmers with existing credit to expand their eligibility and help new-to-credit farmers to get better access to formal credit.

(3) It is also expected to cut the time of providing credit, as land verification with the help of satellite data is done in a non-contact manner, and credit assessments are made within a few days as against the industrial practice of up to 15 days.

Note: ICICI Bank Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra; ICICI Bank MD & CEO: Sandeep Bakhshi

 

2. Highlights of RBI Annual Report 2019-20; India’s Growth Projected at -4.5%: On August 25, 2020, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its Annual Report for 2019-20. It is Report of the Central Board of Directors on the working of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for the year ended June 30, 2020 submitted to the Central Government in terms of Section 53(2) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. In the report, RBI projected that India’s growth at minus 4.5% for 2020-21. It will be (-) 3.7% in the single hit scenario and (-) 7.3% in the double hit scenario in FY2020-21. On the global front, the growth is projected at (-) 6.0% in the single hit scenario and (-) 7.6% in the double hit scenario in FY20-21. Balance Sheet of RBI:

(1) The RBI’s balance sheet increased by 30%, or Rs 12,31,888 crore, from Rs 41,02,905 crore to Rs 53,34,793 crore.

(2) The gross total income for the year 2019-20 declined by 29% to Rs 149,672 crore as compared to Rs 193,036 crore in 2018-19.

(3) Its expenditure for the year 2019-20 is Rs 92,540 crore compared to an expenditure of Rs 17,045 crore in 2018-19.

(4) The year ended with an overall surplus of Rs 57,128 billion which was transferred to the government.

(5) On the liability side, the rise was due to an increase in notes issued, other liabilities and provisions and deposits.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash bags Gold Medal in MCWC: Hyderabad’s, Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash Jonnalagadda has bagged the first-ever Gold Medal for India in Mental Calculations World Cup (MCWC) by Mind Sports Olympiad (MSO). He has created a new All-Time Record and has beaten the records of Math Maestros like Shakuntala Devi and Scott Flansburg. Bhanu Prakash had secured the gold medal with a score of 167, Lebanese contender Mohammed El Mir secured the Silver Medal with a score 102 and Asmita Pal from the UAE bagged the Bronze medal with a score of 100 points. Twenty-Year old Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash is a student of Mathematics (Honors) at Delhi University’s St Stephen College and holds 4 World Records and 50 Limca records for being the fastest human calculator in the world.

Note: The MSO is an international event with over 60 different board game competitions ranging from classics like Chess, Scrabble and 7 Wonders. It was first held in 1998.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. IAF launches ‘MY IAF’ app to provide career-related information: The Chief of the Air Staff, Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria has launched a mobile application named ‘MY IAF’ to provide career-related information and details to the aspirants who wish to join the Indian Air Force (IAF). About “MY IAF” App:

The app launched as a part of the Digital India initiative has been developed in association with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC). The app serves as a single digital platform where users can find the details of the selection procedure, training curriculum, pay and perks etc for both officers and airmen in the IAF. The app provides glimpses into the history and stories of valour in the IAF.

Note: Indian Airforce founded: 8 October 1932; Indian Airforce Headquarters: New Delhi.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Former Congo President Pascal Lissouba passes away: Former President of the Republic of Congo, Pascal Lissouba passed away. He became the minister of agriculture in 1960 after Congo became an independent country. He served as the president from 1992 to 1997. He served as the Prime minister under the Presidency of Alphonse Massamba Debat. The high court of Justice in the Republic of Congo sentenced Pascal Lissouba in absentia to 30 years forced labour for treason and corruption in 2001.

Note: Note: The Republic of Congo President: Denis Sassou NguessoThe Republic of Congo Prime Minister: Clément Mouamba; The Republic of Congo Capital: Brazzaville. 

Daily GK Updates - 25th Aug, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. GoI and AIIB sign MoU for $500 million for Mumbai Urban Transport Project-III: The Government of India, the Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has signed a loan agreement for a $500 million Mumbai Urban Transport Project-III. The aim of the project is to improve the network capacity, service quality and safety of the suburban railway system in Mumbai. With a population of 22.8 million (2011), Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) is the most populous metropolitan region in India and is expected to reach 29.3 million by 2031 and 32.1 million by 2041.

Note: President of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank: Jin Liqun; Headquarters of AIIB: Beijing, China; AIIB established: 16 January 2016.

 

2. Validity of motor vehicle documents extended till Dec 31 amid Covid-19 pandemic: Central government on 24 August extended the validity of expiring driving licenses and motor vehicle documents till December 31 in the wake of coronavirus crisis. This is the third such extension after the earlier advisories on March 30 and June 9. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has decided to extend the validity of Fitness, Permits, Licenses, Registration or other documents under Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989 till the 31st of December 2020. “The Ministry had earlier issued advisories on 30th March and 9th June this year regarding extension of validity of the documents related to Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. It was advised that the validity of Fitness, Permit (all types), License, Registration or any other concerned document(s) may be treated to be valid till 30th of September 2020,” the statement added.

 Considering the situation in country due to Covid-19 outbreak, the ministry said that if documents mentioned in the list reached their date of expiration on or after February 1, 2020, and fresh documents in their place could not be granted due to the nationwide lockdown imposed by the government, they would be considered valid till December 31, 2020.

 

3. DRDO chief G Satheesh Reddy gets two-year extension: Renowned Indian scientist, G Satheesh Reddy was given a two-year extension as the chairman of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). He was appointed to the post in August 2018 for two years. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the extension of Reddy”s tenure as the DRDO chairman and as the Secretary of the Department of Defence Research & Development (DoDRD) for a period of two years beyond August 26.

Note: DRDO Headquarters: New Delhi; DRDO Established: 1958.

 

4. Tata Group to launch “Super App” for digital services: Tata Group is launching a new app named “Super App” purported to bring together the country’s disparate sales sector to offer a range of consumer goods. The app will put the conglomerate in competition with giants of the region like Reliance Industries and global titans like Amazon. The app will offer food and grocery ordering, fashion and lifestyle, consumer electronics and consumer durables, insurance and financial services, education, healthcare and bill payments.

Note: Tata Group Chairman: Natarajan Chandrasekaran; Tata Group Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

 

5. Manipur student develops mobile game ‘Coroboi’ amid COVID-19: A class 9 student from Imphal, Baldeep Ningthoujam has developed a mobile game ‘Coroboi’ amid COVID-19 pandemic. The game has become popular and most searched android-based game worldwide and more than 20 thousand users had downloaded the game. Its theme is Coronavirus and Lockdown. It has already made a record by become second trending mobile game app in google play store. The game, based on COVID guidelines is now available for Android users. According to the description of the app on Google play store, “Coroboi, a boy from India (Manipur) is stranded and wants to return home. Wearing Leirum Phee (Manipuri traditional cloth) and a Mask, he will run towards his goal. He will be earning points during his journey. If the police caught him, a fine of 5000 points will be deducted”

 

6. Andhra University Researchers find rare fish ‘Mahseer’ in Sileru river: A team of researchers from the Department of Zoology, Andhra University has spotted a species of rare fish called Mahseer (scientific name Tor) on 24 August 2020, from the upper part of Sileru river, in Andhra Pradesh. This species of fish is listed under the endangered category by IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). Professor D.E. Babu, the leader of the research team has informed that the Golden Mahseer fish, is basically found in the Himalayan region, where the temperature around year does not exceed 20° Celsius such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Nepal and Bhutan. But it is rare to find it in Andhra Pradesh region of the country and calls for a much detailed study.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, Uzbekistan conduct first meeting of National Coordination Committee: India and Uzbekistan held the first meeting of their National Coordination Committee on August 24, 2020. The committee has been set up to monitor the implementation of the mutually agreed projects between India and Uzbekistan. The National Coordination Committee was constituted under the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The first meeting of the committee was co-chaired by the Minister of State for External Affairs, V. Muraleedharan and Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan and Minister of Investments and Foreign Trade, Sardor Umurzakov. Key Highlights:

(1) During the National Coordination Committee's meeting, the two nations comprehensively reviewed the ongoing and planned activities of bilateral economic and trade cooperation between the two nations including the status of negotiations for concluding a Preferential Trade Agreement, Bilateral Investment Treaty and mutual market access for agricultural produce for both nations.

(2) The committee also reviewed the implementation of projects identified under India’s Lines of Credit and the India-Uzbekistan Entrepreneurship Development Centre at Tashkent. It also reviewed the cooperation agreement between India's Gujarat and Uzbekistan's Andijan region.

(3) The co-chairman of the meeting expressed satisfaction at the progress achieved by the two nations in mutual projects and expressed hope that the expeditious completion of the projects will further strengthen bilateral trade and investment between India and Uzbekistan.

(4) The Union Minister of State V. Muraleedharan further extended an invitation to Deputy PM Umurzakov to visit India as per mutual convenience.

Note: Uzbekistan Capital: Tashkent; Currency: Uzbekistani soʻm.

 

2. External Affairs Ministry co-hosted 6th ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks: The Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India has organized the 6th Round Table of ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks (AINTT) in association with Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The theme of the two-day long symposium was ‘ASEAN-India: Strengthening Partnership in the Post COVID Era’. It was jointly inaugurated by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Thailand Don Pramudwinai. ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks was formed at the 7th ASEAN-India Summit, which was held in Thailand in 2009. The aim of AINTT is policymaking for India and the ASEAN countries for future co-operative actions. The 1st Round Table on AINTT was held in 2012. Highlights of Round Table:

(1) India raised some concerns over the UNSC’s approach during the pandemic outbreak, the conflict between USA and WHO after the COVID-19 outbreak, the future direction of global issues in post-pandemic conditions.

(2) India asked for a cooperative solution to all issues and suggested the adoption of strategic autonomy to formulate its own interest without any influence.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Bayern Munich wins UEFA Champions League 2019-20: German professional sports club, Bayern Munich won the UEFA Champions League 2019-20 title by defeating Paris Saint-Germain 1-0. The final was played in Lisbon, Portugal. Bayern Munich has become the first European Cup winners who won all their matches during the tournament. This is the sixth European Champions League title for Bayern Munich. Bayern Munich joins deposed champion Liverpool as six-time champions of Europe, only behind AC Milan (7) and Real Madrid (13).

 

2. German Golfer Sophia Popov wins Women’s British Open 2020: German Golfer Sophia Popov won the Women’s British Open 2020 title (rebranded as 2020 AIG Women’s Open) by defeating Thailand’s Jasmine Suwannapura by two strokes at Royal Troon in Scotland. She went to the final round by 3-shot lead and completed with 68 golf shots. Jasmine Suwannapura from Thailand was the runner-up after shooting 67 shots. Sophia Popov is ranked as the 304 in the world ranking. Sophia has now become the first female golfer from Germany to win the LPGA Tour’s major title.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. NABARD rolls out Debt and Credit Guarantee Product: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development has revealed a dedicated debt and credit guarantee product named as “Structured Finance and Partial Guarantee Program for Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFC)-Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs)”. The newly launched product seeks to offer undisturbed flow of credit to the last mile in rural areas hit by the pandemic. The Structured Finance and Partial Guarantee Program for NBFC-MFIs include offering partial guarantee on pooled loans offered to small and mid-sized MFIs. It will help in facilitating Rs 2,500 crore funding in the initial phase which is expected to be scaled up in the future. The program is targeting to cover over 1 million households across 28 States and 650 districts. Nabard has signed a pact with Vivriti Capital and Ujjivan Small Finance Bank for this.

Note: Chairman of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development: Govinda Rajulu Chintala.

 

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

 

1. Businesses with annual turnover of up to Rs 40 lakh are now exempted from GST: Finance Ministry: The Ministry of Finance on 24 August announced that businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs 40 lakhs are exempt from GST and those with a turnover up to Rs 1.5 crore can opt for the Composition Scheme and pay only one per cent tax.  Earlier, the GST exemption limit was Rs 20 lakh. In a series of tweets, the Ministry also informed that significant reliefs have been extended to the construction sector, particularly the housing sector which has been placed at the 5 per cent tax rate. Significant relief has been extended to the construction sector, particularly the housing sector. It has now been placed at the 5% rate. GST on affordable housing has been reduced to 1%. Once GST was implemented, the tax rate on a large number of items was brought down. As of now, the 28% rate is almost solely restricted to sin and luxury items. Out of a total of about 230 items in the 28% slab, about 200 items have been shifted to lower slabs. The Ministry of Finance said that the taxpayer base has almost doubled since the rollout of GST.

The move comes as another relief for businesses across the country, which is dealing with the adverse effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Earlier, the Central government had also announced an economic package to revive the economy.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. NLCIL bags “Swachhta Hi Seva award” for transforming Neyveli Township: The Government of India Navratna, NLC India Limited (NLCIL) has bagged the award for making an extremely valuable contribution in the implementation of the “Swachhta Hi Seva Programme”. Rakesh Kumar, CMD of NLCIL hailing the efforts of NLCIL in transforming the entire Neyveli into a plastic-free, clean and green campus, and announcing the “Swachhta Hi Seva 2019” Award. The Swachhta Hi Seva Award was conferred to the following three units of NLCIL:

Township Administration Office: First rank

Thermal Power Station-1: Second rank

Mines Sub-Stores: Third rank

About Swachhta Hi Seva programme: The Swachhta Hi Seva programme, an initiative of the Swachch Bharat Mission, was launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in September 2019. NLCIL Implemented the programme in two phases: the first phase from September 11, 2019, to November 2, 2019; and the second phase from October 3 to October 27, 2019.

Note: NLCIL Founded: 1956; NLCIL Headquarters: Neyveli, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

 

DEFENCE

 

1. India Pavilion Inaugurated at Army-2020 International Military and Technical Forum In Russia: The ARMY 2020 International Military and Technical Forum has been organised in Moscow, Russia from August 23 to 29, 2020. The forum is being organised by the Russian Defence Ministry since 2015, at the Patriot Park near Moscow. The India Pavilion at the 6th edition of the International Military-Technical Forum was inaugurated by Secretary (Defence Production) Raj Kumar and Indian Ambassador DB Venkatesh Verma. Delegations from at least 70 nations have confirmed their participation in the high-profile event. Over 730 pieces of Russian weapons and equipment, as well as 28,000 exhibits from industrial enterprises will be showcased for a free inspection. For the first time, a line of 23 tanks and armoured vehicles were deployed in an open area in Patriot Park. Discussions will also be held among global military officials, researchers and defence industry experts about the application of 3D technologies in designing, manufacturing and operating weapons and military equipment.

Note: President of Russia: Vladimir Putin; Capital of Russia: Moscow; Currency: Russian Rouble; Prime minister: Mikhail Mishustin. 

Daily GK Updates - 24th Aug, 2020

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Aarogya Setu introduces ‘Open API Service’: An innovative feature ‘Open API Service’ has been introduced by Aarogya Setu to help the people, businesses and the economy in its efforts to return to normalcy. The newly launched service will help the organizations to get the health status of their employees as well as any other Aarogya Setu User without violating their data privacy. Aarogya Setu’s Open API Service addresses the fear/risk of Covid-19 infections and enables organizations to verify the status of Aarogya Setu and integrate it into its various Work from Home features. Hence it will help the businesses and economy to start functioning while being safe. The service would be available to organizations and business entities, who are registered in India with more than 50 employees. They can utilize the service to query the Aarogya Setu Application in real-time and will receive the health status of their employees or any other Aarogya Setu User, who have given their consent for sharing their health status with the organization.

 

2. Tourism Ministry partners with TAAI & FICCI’s FLO to promote tourism: Ministry of Tourism has signed a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) and FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) with primary objective of women empowerment. The signed MoU will enable FLO & TAAI to focus on personal and hospitality skills, a more flexible work balance and greater options for entrepreneurship with lower capital.

The partnership between the three aims to increase the participation of women in the tourism sector and enable them to become an integral part of the tourism workforce of India. This will be achieved by creating awareness among state tourism departments and state tourism corporations, to highlight the contribution tourism industry can make for sustainable livelihood for women and ensure their economic upliftment.

Note: Union Minister of State for Tourism (I/C): Prahlad Singh Patel.

 

3. Government Forms National Council for Transgenders to Formulate Policies Aimed at Equality & Participation: Central Government has constituted the National Council for Transgender Persons to formulate policies, programmes, legislation and projects for the benefits of the transgender community and help them in achieving equality and have full participation by them. Union Minister of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment will be the ex-officio Chairperson of the council. Presently, this post is held by Thaawar Chand Gehlot. The council was established by the Centre in exercise of the powers conferred by the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.

 

4. Govt activates Aadhaar authentication for new GST registration: Government has activated Aadhaar authentication for new goods and services tax (GST) registration to enhance ease of doing business. For those opting for Aadhaar authentication, new GST registration will be issued within three working days and will not need to wait for physical verification. However, those not opting for Aadhaar authentication will be granted it only after physical verification of the place of business or documentary verification which may take up to 21 working days or more. Government said Aadhaar authentication for new registration will substantially enhance ease of doing businesses for genuine businesses. It said, the move will facilitate genuine and honest taxpayers while at the same time keeping the fake and fraudulent entities away from GST. The facility of quick approval of GST registration through Aadhaar authentication can be availed by all Indian citizens.

 

5. A book titled ‘One Arranged Murder’ authored by Chetan Bhagat: A book titled ‘One Arranged Murder’ authored by Chetan Bhagat will be released globally on September 28, 2020. The fiction book portrays a murder mystery in the backdrop of an arranged marriage. The book will be published by Westland Publications Ltd. It is the author’s 9th novel and 11th book overall. His last release was The Girl in Room 105. The essence of the book: A murder mystery in the backdrop of an arranged marriage will be at the centre stage of bestselling author Chetan Bhagat’s upcoming fiction book. The book not only has intense suspense but also is filled with humour, love and relatable Indian characters.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. China launches 5th Gaofen-9 series Earth observation satellite: China has successfully launched 5th Earth observation satellite, Gaofen-9 (05), from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. The satellite, sent into orbit by a Long March-2D carrier rocket, is an optical remote-sensing satellite with a resolution up to the sub-meter level.  This launch was the 343rd mission of the Long March rocket series and the 23rd for China in 2020.

About Gaofen-9 (05): Gaofen-9 (05) is an optical remote sensing satellite developed by Aerospace Dongfanghong Satellite Co.Ltd, part of China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), a subsidiary of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC). The satellite will be mainly used for land surveying, city planning, road network design, crop yield estimation and disaster prevention and mitigation, as well as providing information for the construction of the Belt and Road. Other payloads carried on the rocket include a multi-functional experimental satellite and Tiantuo-5, a spacecraft developed by the National University of Defense Technology. The major upcoming Chinese mission in 2020, probably in November, is the Chang’e-5 lunar sample return.

About Gaofen satellites: In 2010, the Gaofen satellites series are nominally part of the civilian China High-resolution Earth Observation System (CHEOS) to provide all-weather, all-day coverage with optical and synthetic aperture radar satellites. Land surveying, urban planning, road network design, agriculture and disaster relief are the main uses of Gaofen satellites.

Note: China Capital: Beijing; China Currency: Renminbi; China President: Xi Jinping.

 

2. India ranked 57th in Digital Quality of Life Index 2020, Denmark tops: An online privacy solutions provider, SurfShark Ltd. has released a “Digital Quality of Life Index 2020“. It is a global research on the quality of a digital wellbeing in 85 countries hence covering 81% of the global population. The recently launched index ranks the countries by looking their scores in five fundamental pillars that describes the digital quality of life. India has been ranked 57th in Digital Quality of Life Index 2020 with overall score of 0.5. Denmark has topped the index and was followed by Sweden and Canada. The five pillars are as follows:

(1) Internet affordability: It indicates the amount of time people have to work to afford the internet connection.

(2) Internet quality: It indicates the speed as well as the stability of the internet connectivity in a country.

(3) Electronic infrastructure: It describes the level of development and inclusiveness in the existing electronic infrastructure.

(4) Electronic government: It indicates how much advanced and digitized are country’s governmental services.

(5) Electronic security: It indicates about how much safe and protected can people feel in a country.

India’s rank in the five core pillars is as follows:

Pillar 1: India has been ranked 09th in terms of Internet affordability.

Pillar 2: India has been ranked 78th in terms of Internet quality.

Pillar 3: India has been ranked 79th in terms of Electronic infrastructure.

Pillar 4: India has been ranked 15th in terms of Electronic government.

Pillar 5: India has been ranked 57th in terms of Electronic security.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

 

1. Australia all-rounder Cameron White announces retirement: Australian all-rounder Cameron White has announced his retirement from all forms of professional cricket. He represented Australia in 4 Test matches, 91 ODIs and 47 T20Is. He also led the Australian limited-overs team in 7 international games. He amassed 146 runs in tests, 2072 runs in ODIs and 984 runs in T20Is. Cameron White has been a prolific run-scorer in domestic cricket. He scored 10,537 first-class runs from 177 games at an average of 39.91.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. National Strategy for Financial Education: 2020-2025 released: The second edition of National Strategy for Financial Education (NSFE): 2020-2025 has been released. The first edition of NSFE was for the period 2013-2018. NSFE: 2020-2025 has been prepared by National Centre for Financial Education (NCFE) in consultation with the four Financial Sector Regulators- RBI, SEBI, IRDAI and PFRDA and other relevant stakeholders. It has been prepared under the aegis of the Technical Group on Financial Inclusion and Financial Literacy under the Chairmanship of Shri M. K. Jain, Deputy Governor, RBI. The NSFE document intends to support the Vision of the Government of India and Financial Sector Regulators by empowering various sections of the population to develop adequate knowledge, skills, attitude and behaviour which are needed to manage their money better and plan for their future.  The Strategy has recommended a ‘5 C’ approach for dissemination of financial education in the country. The ‘5 C’ approach of the strategy includes:

Content: emphasis on the development of relevant Content in the curriculum in schools, colleges and training establishments,

Capacity: developing Capacity among intermediaries involved in providing financial services,

Community, Communication, and Collaboration: leveraging the positive effect of Community-led model for financial literacy through appropriate Communication strategy, and, enhancing Collaboration among various stakeholders.

 

2. Ashwani Bhatia becomes new Managing Director of SBI: Government of India has appointed Ashwani Bhatia as the managing director (MD) of the State Bank of India (SBI). He has been appointed as the managing director up to the date of his superannuation that is May 31, 2022. Bhatia is currently working as the managing director and chief executive officer at SBI Mutual Fund. He will be appointed in place of PK Gupta who superannuated on March 31.

Note: Chairman of State Bank of India: Rajnish Kumar; Headquarters: Mumbai; Founded: 1 July 1955.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Anand Mahindra and Shantanu Narayen selected for 2020 Leadership Awards by USISP: Mahindra group Chairman’s Anand Mahindra and Adobe’s Chairman and CEO Shantanu Narayen have been selected for the 2020 Leadership Awards by the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF). The award will be conferred to them during the 3rd Annual Leadership Summit, which is titled as ‘US-India Week: Navigating New Challenges’ and will be held from August 31, 2020 to September 03, 2020. The summit will highlight areas of bilateral cooperation, collaboration in fintech, etc.