Daily GK Update- 26th Dec, 2023

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi addresses Veer Bal Diwas programme in New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi participated in the Veer Baal Diwas function at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The Veer Bal Diwas marks the martyrdom of Sri Guru Gobind Singh’s sons Sahibzadas Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh In January last year, the Prime Minister had announced that 26th December will be observed as Veer Bal Diwas A digital exhibition on the life story and sacrifice of the Sahibzades will be displayed in schools and childcare institutions across the country.

 

2. NIIF Plans To Invest Up To Rs 675 Crore Bhogapuram airport: National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) is planning to invest up to Rs 675 crore on the upcoming greenfield international airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh, which is being developed by the GMR group. This marks NIIF’s second airport investment, after the GMR Goa International Airport Ltd, which operates Manohar International Airport in Goa. GMR Airports Ltd (GAL) — a subsidiary of GMR Airports Infrastructure Ltd (GAIL) — and NIIF have entered into binding agreements for the NIIF to invest up to Rs 6.75 billion (Rs 675 crore) in GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Ltd (GVIAL).

 

3. Digi Yatra, facial recognition tech, implemented at 13 Indian airports: To save time of passengers during security check at airports, Government is continuously making efforts by increasing security equipment, security manpower and using advance technologies. Digi Yatra, which provides for seamless and hassle-free experience for passengers at airports through biometric-based travel using Facial Recognition Technology has also been implemented at 13 airports and other airports will be covered in phased manner. This information was given by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Civil Aviation Gen. (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd) in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha.

 

4. SEBI approves Pramod Agrawal’s appointment as BSE Chairman: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has approved the appointment of Pramod Agrawal as the new Chairman of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). Agrawal’s tenure will start on January 17, 2024, as per a regulatory filing by the stock exchange. He will replace SS Mundra. Agrawal, a former IAS officer, previously held the position of Chairman at Coal India till June 2023.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UN announces 2024 as International Year of Camelids: The United Nations has declared 2024 the International Year Of Camelids. The decision has been taken to highlight the significant importance of camelids in the lives of people across the world. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), camelids influence the lives of millions of households in more than 90 countries. As a group Camelids include alpacas, Bactrian camels, dromedaries, guanacos, llamas, vicuñas which together help in ensuring food security, nutrition and economic growth especially for Indigenous Peoples and local communities. Camelids play an important role in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) envisaged by the United Nations.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. INS Imphal, India’s first warship named after a northeastern state, commissioned: INS Imphal (Pennant D68), the third of four warships of Project 15B that together form the Visakhapatnam class stealth-guided missile destroyers, is set to be commissioned into the Indian Navy in Mumbai. The move aimed at boosting its maritime capability amid China’s increasing forays into the Indian Ocean region. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was the Chief Guest at the event. It is the first warship to have been named after a city from the Northeastern region, the approval for which was accorded by the President in April 2019. The naming of the ship after the capital city of Manipur underlines the importance of the Northeastern region for national security and prosperity.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Indian women records maiden historic Test win over Australia: India recorded their maiden victory against Australia in a women’s test match at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai with their comprehensive eight-wicket win in the one-off contest. India had taken control of the match with a commanding 187-run lead in the first innings. They needed just 75 runs to win the match after bowling Australia out for 261 in the second innings. India reached the target just after lunch losing two wickets. This is India’s first victory against Australia in 11 tests since the teams first clashed in the longest format in 1977. Off-spinner Sneh Rana was chosen player of the match for her seven-wicket haul.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. UP to build India’s first AI city in Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh is set to establish the country’s first AI city in Lucknow. This initiative aims to create a thriving hub for artificial intelligence, integrating cutting-edge technology, research centers, and educational institutions to foster innovation and nurture the workforce of the future. A report by Grand View Research pegged the global AI market size at $137 billion in 2022 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 37.3 percent from 2023 to 2030. Lucknow houses Centres of Excellence in areas like AI and MedTech (with extensive AI integration). The AI COE (centre in IIIT Lucknow) alone supports more than 15 AI/ML start-ups, nurturing a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship. The government will provide 40 acres in Nadarganj Industrial Area for the project, which is free from all encumbrances and supports land acquisition, zoning regulations, and other relevant clearances.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. JICA extends ₹932 crore loan to India to implement Sustainable Development Goals: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has finalized a loan of approximately ₹932 Crore to support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) initiatives in India. This loan will fund projects overseen by NITI Aayog. These projects are set to impact 112 aspirational districts and 500 aspirational blocks nationwide. The initiatives will concentrate on promoting policy actions, implementing effective practices, and enhancing the Japan-India partnership through the exchange of human resources. Based on consultations with NITI Aayog, policy actions in five fields, such as health and nutrition, education, agriculture and water resources, financial inclusion and skill development, and basic infrastructure are prioritized and identified as policy matrix pillars are set in those fields.

 

2. SBI to sign $165 million LoC with World Bank for rooftop solar projects: The country’s biggest lender, State Bank of India (SBI) has signed a $165 million Line of Credit (LoC) from the World Bank in Delhi to support grid-connected rooftop solar photovoltaic projects in residential and institutional sectors. In September, SBI said that it plans to make home loans with rooftop solar installations mandatory for residential projects funded from the bank’s long-term climate action funds drawn down from multilateral agencies. The lender has outstanding forex loans of $2.3 billion from multilateral agencies, including the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and KfW of Germany. SBI is raising its exposure to green initiatives, including funding green buildings, battery recycling, and solar rooftop plans, among others.

 

3. NABARD and ADB jointly launch climate action initiative: Agri-lender National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) have launched an initiative to facilitate climate action in India’s agriculture, natural resources, and rural development sector. Under this initiative, a Technical Support Unit has been set up in Nabard with the partnership of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to enable the agri lender to address the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in the areas of agriculture and rural livelihood sectors in India. NABARD is committed to not just support rural financial institutions in India to identify and abate climate risks but also channel global pools of climate capital into India’s ANR sector.

 

Daily GK Update- 25th Dec, 2023

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ministry of Rural Development signed with JioMart to Self-Help Groups’ Products: The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Reliance Retail’s JioMart as part of its efforts to enhance the outreach of the products of self-help groups (SHGs) of Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). This will bring SHGs under MoRD’s SARAS collection brand onto JioMart offering a range of handlooms and handicrafts products from traditional textiles to pantry, home décor, and beauty products. This collaboration will enable SHGs to be on-boarded as sellers onto the e-commerce fold on JioMart. This initiative will further boost MoRD’s provision under the SARAS collection to be available to a larger consumer base. JioMart will also help set up and support them to navigate and operate their account on the marketplace.

 

2. 23 December – National Farmers Day: National Farmers’ Day, also known as ‘Kisan Diwas’, is observed every year on December 23 to celebrate the hard work and determination of the farmers. This day was chosen to commemorate the occasion as it marks the birth anniversary of former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh who belonged to Uttar Pradesh and worked for the welfare of farmers of the nation. Theme 2023 – Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience Farmers’ Day is also observed in other parts of the world. It is celebrated on the first Friday of December in Ghana, USA celebrates it on 12 October, in Zambia it is observed on the first Monday of August and Pakistan started celebrating the day on 18 December 2019. Chaudhary Charan Singh, born in 1902 in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut, emerged from a humble peasant family. Serving as the prime minister from 1979 to 1980, he dedicated his life to championing the cause of farmers.

 

3. 24 December – National Consumer Rights Day : National Consumer Rights Day is observed on 24th December. National Consumer Rights Day is observed every year on 24 December. It is also referred to as Bhartiya Grahak Diwas. While the market runs on certain ethics and values, sometimes people can exploit us if we do not know our rights well enough. The awareness of the rights helps us to maximize our benefits as a customer and enable an ethical flow of goods and services in the market. In 1986, the Consumer Protection Act was passed and it received the assent of the President on December 24. Since then, National Consumer Rights Day has been celebrated on this day to commemorate the occasion. The Consumer Protection Act acts to protect consumers from defective goods, negligent services, and unfair trade practices.

 

4. 25 December – Good Governance Day: Governance Day, or Sushasan Diwas is observed on December 25 every year to mark the anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This year marks the 99th birth anniversary of the former PM. The day is celebrated to create awareness about government accountability and administration among the people. The purpose behind the Good Governance Day is to raise awareness among citizens, particularly the young generation, who are the country’s future. To hold the government responsible and maintain good governance in the purest sense, it is critical that the citizens understand their roles and responsibilities. Born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, present-day Madhya Pradesh, Atal Bihari Vajpayee served as the Indian Prime Minister thrice – first in 1996 for a term of 13 days, then for 13 months between 1998 and 1999, and later followed by a full term from 1999 to 2004.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Angola to quit OPEC: Angola is leaving the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) with effect from 1 January 2024, after exits from Ecuador in 2020 and Qatar in 2019. Angola, which joined OPEC in 2007, produces about 1.1 million barrels per day, compared with 28 million bpd for the whole group. OPEC was founded in 1960 by Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Venezuela, Iran and Iraq. Angola joined the group in 2007. Since 2017, OPEC has worked with Russia and other non-members as part of the OPEC+ group to manage the market, in whose agreements Angola participated. Angola’s departure from OPEC will leave it with 12 members and crude oil production of about 27 million bpd, some 27% of the 102 million bpd world oil market.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Iran’s navy adds sophisticated cruise missiles ‘Talaeieh and Nasir’ to its armoury: Iran’s navy has added domestically produced sophisticated cruise missiles to its arsenal. Both Talaeieh and Nasir cruise missiles have arrived at a naval base near the Indian Ocean in the southern Iranian port of Konarak, some 1,400 kilometers (850 miles) southeast of the capital, Tehran. The Talaeieh has a range of more than 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) and called it “fully smart”. The cruise missile is capable of changing targets during travel. The Nasi has a range of 100 kilometers (62 miles) and can be installed on warships.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Former South Africa captain Dean Elgar announces retirement from international cricket: Former South Africa captain Dean Elgar has announced his retirement from international cricket after a test series against India concludes early next month. Elgar, who has scored more than 5,000 runs with 13 centuries in his 84 tests, will play his final test at Newlands in Cape Town starting January 3. Elgar said, The Cape Town Test will be my last. My favourite stadium in the world. A place I scored my first Test run against New Zealand and hopefully my last too. Elgar made his debut against Australia in Perth in 2011, making a duck in each innings in an inauspicious start to his 12-year test career, which has yielded 5,146 runs, including a high score of 199 against Bangladesh in 2017. He is South Africa’s eighth highest scorer in tests. Elgar was elevated to captain in March 2021, replacing Quintin de Kock, and led the Proteas to series wins in the West Indies and at home against India, and a draw in New Zealand.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. World Bank provides $300 million loan to Tamil Nadu to help 21 Urban Local Bodies: The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved a new program to support Tamil Nadu and provide around 2 million people with more and better access to water and sewerage services in cities. The $300 million Tamil Nadu Climate Resilient Urban Development Program will help 21 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) update their delivery systems and provide quality and efficient water supply and sewerage services to consumers. The $300 million loan from the International Bank of Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) will use the blended financing instrument of Program-for-Results (PforR) with Investment Project Financing (IPF) to link disbursement of funds directly to the achievement of results while providing technical assistance. The Program loan has a maturity of 32 years with a grace period of 7 years. Tamil Nadu is one of the most urbanised states in India and faces increasing impacts of climate shocks like floods and droughts. For its rapidly growing population, access to services like water and sanitation is essential for more climate-resilient cities.

 

2. SEBI proposes two-phase transition to instant settlement in Indian stock market: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed a phase-wise transition to instant settlement of trades in the equity cash market. An optional T+0 settlement cycle for trades till 1:30 pm may be introduced in the first phase, with settlement of funds and securities to be completed on the same day by 4:30 p.m. To begin with, a T+0 settlement will be made available in the top 500 listed equity shares in three tranches, from the lowest to the highest market capitalization. In the second phase, an optional immediate trade-by-trade settlement will be carried out for trades till 3.30 p.m. An API-based interface will be built between depositories and clearing corporations to facilitate real-time intimation of early pay-in. To begin with, all securities under Phase 1 will be available under Phase 2.

 

3. Fitch expects India to be among fastest-growing nations in 2024-25: Fitch Ratings expects India to be among the world’s fastest-growing countries, with resilient GDP growth of 6.5% in 2024-25. For the current financial year 2023-24, it pegs GDP growth at 6.9%. Demand will remain strong for cement, electricity and petroleum products, with high-frequency data in 2023 sustained at well above pre-Covid-19 pandemic levels. India’s rising infrastructure spending will also boost steel demand. Car sales will continue to rise, despite our expectation of moderation after robust growth in 2023. India is currently the world’s fifth-largest economy, following the US, China, Germany, and Japan. By 2030, India’s GDP is projected to exceed Japan’s, making India the second-largest economy in the Asia-Pacific region.

 

 

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Poet Sukrita Paul Kumar Wins Rabindranath Tagore Literary Prize: The sixth edition of the Rabindranath Tagore Literary Prize was awarded to poet-critic Sukrita Paul Kumar for her book, ‘Salt & Pepper: Selected Poems’. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding literary work from around the globe, promoting world peace, literature, art, education, and human rights. An amount of USD 5,000, a Tagore statue, and a certificate for contribution to literature was given to Kumar at the award ceremony. Founded in 2018 by US-based publisher Peter Bundalo, the award is a platform for world peace, literature, art, education and human rights. It also recognizes works towards human rights and world peace with the Social Achievement Prize.

 

2. Yunqing Tang and Ruixiang Zhang won SASTRA Ramanujan Awards for 2022 and 2023 respectively: The SASTRA-Ramanujan Awards for 2022 and 2023 were presented, respectively, to Yunqing Tang and Ruixiang Zhang, both mathematicians at the University of California in Berkeley, at the SASTRA campus in Kumbakonam. Presenting the awards, T. Ramaswami, former Secretary, the Department of Science and Technology, paid glowing tributes to the genius of legendary Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, and highlighted the relevance of his contributions to the contemporary world. The award, instituted by SASTRA in 2005, with a cash prize of USD 10,000 and a citation, is presented annually to individuals aged 32 and below, who have made outstanding contributions in the field of mathematics. The awards are presented on the birthday of Ramanujan.

 

3. Karnataka bags National Energy Conservation Award 2023: Karnataka bagged first place in the State Designated Agency (SDA Group-1) category at the National Energy Conservation Awards – 2023 (NECA 2022) held in Delhi. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency organized the awards as part of the National Energy Conservation Day. Karnataka has scored highest and placed as a top-performing State categorized as Front runner across India for three consecutive years- SEEI 2020 and SEEI 2021-2022 and 2023. President of India, Droupadi Murmu handed over the award to KP Rudrappaiah, Managing Director, Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited, as an appreciation for the state’s achievement in energy conservation. KREDL was chosen for the award based on the energy efficiency projects implemented in the state.

 

 

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 24th Dec, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

Jute Corporation of India introduced ‘Paat-Mitro’ app for farmers: The Jute Corporation of India has unveiled the ‘Paat-Mitro’ app aimed at aiding jute cultivation and income generation.

It is Launched by Rachna Shah, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, the application offers vital knowledge on jute farming. It will also feature information on jute gradation parametres, farmer-centric schemes like ‘Jute-ICARE’, weather forecasts and procurement policies. ‘Paat-Mitro’ marks a significant step forward in supporting jute farmers and revitalizing the industry. With greater access to information, technical advancements, and market opportunities, Indian jute farmers can unlock a brighter future for themselves and contribute to the sustainable development of the sector.

 

Amrita Raichand named Health Ambassador for Salaam Bombay Foundation: Amrita Raichand partners with Salaam Bombay Foundation, becoming a Health Ambassador for their Preventive Health Education Programme. This incredible partnership is set to make a real difference in the lives of at-risk adolescents from the urban slums of Mumbai, promoting the importance of healthy living and simple nourishing recipes where it is needed most. The initiative focuses on advancing nutrition knowledge in underserved communities, mainly among Mumbai’s urban slum adolescents.

 

Uday A Kaole Takes Over as CMD of Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd: Uday A Kaole has assumed the charge of the Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) of Coal India arm Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL). Before joining MCL as its CMD, Kaole was the Director (Technical) at Bharat Coking Coal Ltd (BCCL). Kaole has over 36 years of rich technical and administrative experience in the coal mining sector. He has a long experience of working in challenging underground coal mines operations, as well as in the opencast mines. He had joined Coal India as Junior Engineering (Trainee) in 1987 and served at various important positions in Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) and South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL).

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

French President Invited to India’s Republic Day 2024: India has invited France President Emmanuel Macron as chief guest for the January 26 Republic Day Notably, this is the 6th time a French leader will be the Chief guest at Republic Day celebrations in the national capital. Prior to Macron, former French Prime Minister Jacques Chirac was the Chief guest on India’s Republic Day celebrations in 1976 and 1998, and former Presidents Valery Giscard d’Estaing, Nicolas Sarkozy, and Francois Hollande in the years 1980, 2008, and 2016 respectively. Earlier in July, PM Modi had visited France to attend the Bastille Day Parade. PM Modi participated in the Bastille Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour on the invitation of President Macron.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

Thakur sets to unveil Khelo India Youth Games logo and mascot: Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Information & Broadcasting, Sh. Anurag Singh Thakur has launched the official logo, jersey, mascot, torch, and theme song for the Khelo India Youth Games Tamil Nadu in Chennai.

The 6th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games is scheduled from January 19 to 31, 2024. The previous 5 editions of the Youth Games have been held in Delhi, Pune, Guwahati, Panchkula, and Bhopal. The upcoming edition will take place in four cities of Tamil Nadu – Chennai, Trichy, Madurai, and Coimbatore.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

President awarded Crompton-Most Energy Efficient Appliance of the Year: Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. (CGCEL), one of India’s leading consumer electrical companies, has been conferred with the prestigious National Energy Conservation Award 2023. The honor was conferred by the Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu and the Ministry of Power through its body viz. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) on the occasion of National Energy Conservation Day. The company secured this achievement in the category of the Most Energy Efficient Appliance of the Year 2023 for its storage water heater.

Daily GK Update- 23rd Dec, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Manipur Initiates “SAANS” Campaign to Counteract Pneumonia: In Manipur, the State Health and Family Welfare Minister Sapam Ranjan Singh has launched the Social Awareness and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully (SAANS) Campaign 2023-24 at Imphal. The Minister also inaugurated the State Newborn Resource Centre at Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) in Imphal. In connection to the launching of SAANS Campaign 2023-24, the Minister said that Pneumonia is a common, preventable, treatable disease if precautionary steps are taken up at the right time. Since the disease is preventable, the Health Department is emphasizing spreading awareness to the people.

 

2. Sanjay Singh becomes new president Wrestling Federation of India: Sanjay Singh has become the new president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). He beat Anita Sheoran in the 50-vote electoral college 42-7 to claim the post. Associated with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for the past 12 years as part of the governing council, Singh, who hails from Varanasi, was promoted to the post of joint secretary in 2019.

 

3. Pramod Sharma appointed as Director (Works) of NHSRCL: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment of Pramod Sharma for the post of Director (Works) of National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL). NHSRCL is an implementation agency for high-speed rail projects in India. Appointed on a deputation basis, his term extends until he reaches 60 years or further orders. Sharma is an Institution of Railway Signal Engineers (IRSE) officer of 1989 batch. Presently, he is serving as Principal Executive Director (Contract) of NHRSCL. NHSRCL was incorporated in 2016 to manage the High-Speed Rail Corridor in India. It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Indian Railways, Ministry of Railways. The objective of this body is the development and implementation of high-speed rail projects in India.

 

4. Formal Sector Employment Trends: October Data Analysis: The latest official data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has revealed a decline in new additions to formal sector employment in the month of October. This decline is evident across three key data sets: Employees’ ..

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. French President Invited to India’s Republic Day 2024: India has invited France President Emmanuel Macron as chief guest for the January 26 Republic Day Notably, this is the 6th time a French leader will be the Chief guest at Republic Day celebrations in the national capital. Prior to Macron, former French Prime Minister Jacques Chirac was the Chief guest on India’s Republic Day celebrations in 1976 and 1998, and former Presidents Valery Giscard d’Estaing, Nicolas Sarkozy, and Francois Hollande in the years 1980, 2008, and 2016 respectively. Earlier in July, PM Modi had visited France to attend the Bastille Day Parade. PM Modi participated in the Bastille Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour on the invitation of President Macron. PM Modi had visited France to mark the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between the two countries.

 

2. First In Situ Discovery of Megalodon Tooth in Deep Sea: A small team of oceanographers, in collaboration with a zoologist from Germany’s SNSB-Bavarian State Collection of Zoology, has made a groundbreaking discovery—the first in situ fossilized megalodon tooth in the deep sea. The findings, published in the journal Historical Biology, ..

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Thakur sets to unveil Khelo India Youth Games logo and mascot: Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Information & Broadcasting, Sh. Anurag Singh Thakur has launched the official logo, jersey, mascot, torch, and theme song for the Khelo India Youth Games Tamil Nadu in Chennai.

The 6th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games is scheduled from January 19 to 31, 2024. The previous 5 editions of the Youth Games have been held in Delhi, Pune, Guwahati, Panchkula, and Bhopal. The upcoming edition will take place in four cities of Tamil Nadu – Chennai, Trichy, Madurai, and Coimbatore.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Display of Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs) in the Arctic: Over a period of more than three days, the Arctic skies have been adorned with an extraordinary celestial display—rare “rainbow clouds,” scientifically known as Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs). This captivating phenomenon was observed in various locations, including Norway, Sweden, Finland, ..

 

2. Serum Institute’s R21/Matrix-M Malaria Vaccine Granted WHO Prequalification: In a significant milestone in the fight against malaria, the World Health Organization (WHO) granted prequalification to the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine developed by the University of Oxford and manufactured by the biotechnology company Serum Institute of India. The announcement, made

 

3. What is XPoSat Mission?: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up to commence the New Year with the anticipated launch of its pioneering polarimetry mission, XPoSat, slated for January 1. This mission marks a significant milestone as the country’s third space-based observatory, joining ..

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBL Bank Introduces Electronic Bank Guarantee on NeSL Platform: RBL Bank has launched the Electronic Bank Guarantee (e-BG), signalling a significant step forward in trade finance digital transformation. The e-BG product builds on the framework enabled by NeSL, incorporating their expertise in e-Stamping and e-Sign. This integration eliminates the traditional physical signing and stamping processes, seamlessly transitioning into a secure and efficient digital format. NeSL’s e-BG substantially transforms the trade finance space and marks a milestone in the digitization of banking services. e-BG envisages online and paperless procurement of stamp duty and thus the e-BG can be issued digitally in a couple of minutes and is made available to beneficiaries instantly in a secure, digital, and paperless form.

 

2. Sandeep Batra reappoints as ED of ICICI Bank: Private sector lender ICICI Bank has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to re-appoint Sandeep Batra as the executive director (ED). RBI vide its letter approved the re-appointment of Sandeep Batra as Executive Director of the bank with effect from December 23, 2023 to December 22, 2025. The board of directors recorded that the current tenure of Batra as ED of the Bank as per RBI approval, which was for three years, ends on December 22, 2023. It unanimously approved the reappointment of Batra for a further period of two years with effect from December 23, 2023, to December 22, 2025.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Bengaluru Airport Recognised As One Of World’s Most Beautiful Airports: The Terminal-2 (T2) of the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has secured recognition as one of the ‘World’s Most Beautiful Airports’ and has been awarded the ‘World Special Prize for an Interior 2023’ by the UNESCO’s Prix Versailles. It is the only Indian airport to receive this recognition. The Prix Versailles, established in 2015, focuses on “intelligent sustainability” as a cultural driver, acknowledging innovation, creativity, reflection of local heritage, ecological efficiency, and values of social interaction. Encompassing 2,55,661 square metres, the terminal is built upon four foundational pillars: technological leadership, a terminal in a garden, environmental and ecological stewardship, and a celebration of Karnataka’s rich heritage and culture. Phase 1 of T2, inaugurated on November 11, 2022, is designed to accommodate 25 million passengers per annum.

 

2. Sai Sudharsan awarded ‘impact fielder of the ODI series: India’s debutant Sai Sudharsan was awarded the ‘Impact Fielder of the Series’ medal by India’s fielding coach Ajay Ratra after the KL Rahul-led side clinched the 3-match ODI series against South Africa 2-1 India defeated South Africa by 87 runs in the series decider as KL Rahul became only the second Indian captain after Virat Kohli to win an ODI series on South African soil. Sudharsan was commended for a brilliant catch during the third ODI match, contributing to India’s 78-run victory.

Daily GK Update- 22nd Dec, 2023

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Govt to boost nuclear power capacity from7480 MW to 22480 MW by 2032: The Government has initiated steps to increase the nuclear power capacity from 7480 MW to 22480 MW by 2031-32. The annual electricity generation from nuclear power plants has increased from 35334 Million Units (including infirm) in 2013-14 to 46982 Million Units (including infirm) in 2022-23. The installed nuclear power capacity in 2013-14 has also increased from 4780 MW to 7480 MW at present. At present 23 nuclear power reactors are installed. The total electricity generated from nuclear power plants during the last ten years (2013-14 to 2022-23) was about 411 BUs averting release of about 353 Million Tons of CO2 equivalent to the environment.

 

2. 22 December – National Mathematics Day: National Mathematics Day is celebrated annually on December 22 to honour the birth anniversary of the renowned Indian mathematician, Srinivasa Ramanujan. The day is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the importance of mathematics in our lives and to pay homage to one of the greatest mathematical minds in history.

National Mathematics Day is commemorated on the birthday of Srinivasa Ramanujan, born on December 22, 1887, in Erode, Tamil Nadu, India. Ramanujan was largely self-taught and made significant contributions to mathematical analysis, number theory, infinite series, and continued fractions.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Dalai Lama inaugurates first International Sangha Forum in Bodh Gaya: Tibetan Spiritual leader Dalai Lama has inaugurated the three-day International Sangha Forum 2023 in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Organized jointly by the Office of the Dalai Lama and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), the forum will be held at the International Convention Centre in Bodha Gaya, Bihar. The event will see discussions among monks, nuns, and Bhikkhu scholars, that delve into the profound teachings of Buddhism. The event will also witness the coming together of practitioners of the Pali traditions of the Southeast and South Asian countries of India, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, as well as those of the Sanskrit tradition from Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal, Vietnam, China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Russia, Mongolia and other parts of the world.

 

2. World Bank sets up task force to act on MDB reform plan: The World Bank has set up a task force to study the recommendations made by the Independent Experts Group, formed under India’s G20 Presidency, for strengthening multilateral development banks (MDBs). The World Bank, which other MDBs looked up to, must take the lead in carrying forward the reform roadmap for MDBs so as to make these global institutions bigger, better, and bolder. Both Ajay Banga and Nirmala Sitharaman discussed outcomes of the G20India Presidency, evolution of the World Bank and its engagement with India in various sectors, besides issues of mutual interest.

World Bank has identified eight unique global challenges to focus on in the next few years as they affect many countries and require attention and Sitharaman expressed India’s support for it.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Defence Ministry signs deal for 6 next-gen OPVs for Coast Guard: The Defence Ministry has signed a ₹1,614.89 crore contract with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) Mumbai for the procurement of six next-generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). Out of the six vessels being procured, four would replace the existing ageing OPVs and the other two would augment the ICG fleet. These modern and high-tech ships will play a critical role in enhancing surveillance, law enforcement, search and rescue, maritime pollution response, and other important capabilities including humanitarian assistance by the ICG. These multirole state-of-the-art vessels will be indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured by MDL, and will be delivered in a total period of 66 months (5.5 years).

 

SPORTS

 

1. Chirag Shetty and Satwik Sai Raj Rankireddy to get Khel Ratna Award: The Government of India has announced the National Sports Awards 2023. Badminton players Chirag C Shetty and Satwik Sai Raj Rankireddy will be honoured with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Twenty-six sportspersons will receive the Arjuna Awards. They are Archers Ojas Pravin Deotale and Aditi Gopichand Swami, Para Archer Sheetal Devi, Athletes Sreeshankar M and Parul Chaudhary, Boxer Mohameed Hussamuddin, Chess player R Vaishali, Cricketer Mohammed Shami, Blind Cricketer Illuri Ajay Kumar Reddy, Equestrian players Anush Agarwalla and Divyakriti Singh, Golfer Diksha Dagar, Hockey players Krishan Bahadur Pathak and P Sushila Chanu, Kabaddi players Pawan Kumar and Ritu Negi, Kho-Kho player Nasreen, Lawn Bowls player Pinki, Shooters Aishwary Pratap Singh and Esha Singh, Squash player Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu, Table Tennis player Ayhika Mukherjee, Wrestler Sunil Kumar and Antim, Wushu player N Roshibina Devi and Para Canoeing player Prachi Yadav.

 

2. Natasha Chethan won sub-junior snooker title: Karnataka’s Natasha Chethan won the sub-junior girls’ snooker title to record a double in the ongoing 90th National Billiards & Snooker Championships at the Nehru Indoor Stadium. The Bengaluru teenager rallied to beat Gujarat’s Aanya Patel 3-1 (35-57, 57-43, 55-42, 41-29) in the snooker final after defeating her for the sub-junior girls’ billiards crown last week. It was the second defeat of the day in a final for Aanya, who lost to Tamil Nadu’s L Shruthi in the junior girls’ billiards title category.

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Karur Vysya Bank, HDFC Life enter into corporate agency tie-up: Private sector Karur Vysya Bank and HDFC Life have entered into a corporate agency agreement to offer life insurance products to their respective customers. This corporate agency arrangement would enable customers of Karur Vysya Bank to avail HDFC Life’s wide range of life insurance products which include solutions for protection, savings and investment, retirement, and critical illness. Our corporate tie-up with HDFC Life will provide one more option to our customers while charting their insurance plans. Since HDFC Life offers claim intimation process online, our customers can avail the services without stepping out of their homes. MD and CEO of Karur Vysya Bank – B Ramesh Babu

 

2. Indian economy to grow 6.3% in FY24 and FY25: IMF: India’s economy is projected to grow at 6.3 percent in the current fiscal year and the next, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The country’s digital public infrastructure and a strong government infrastructure program will continue to sustain growth. India has potential for even higher growth, with greater contributions from labour and human capital, if comprehensive reforms are implemented,” the IMF said. The IMF’s growth projection for the current financial year, ending March 31, 2024, is lower than the 7 percent forecast by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Volatile food prices pushed up retail inflation to 5.55 percent in November from 4.87 percent the previous month. While this was within the RBI’s tolerance band of 2 percent-6 percent, it remains above the target of 4 percent.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Poonam Khetrapal Singh awarded Bhutan’s National Order of Merit Gold Medal: WHO Regional Director (South-East Asia) Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh has been awarded Bhutan’s National Order of Merit Gold Medal for her distinguished services to the country. The King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk honoured Singh, an Indian national, at Bhutan’s 116th National Day celebration. Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, the first woman regional director of the WHO South-East Asia region, played a pivotal role in supporting transformative healthcare leadership in Bhutan from 2014 to 2024. Her tenure witnessed remarkable strides, including Bhutan, becoming one of the first countries to eliminate measles and rubella ahead of schedule. She made significant contributions to help Bhutan excel in COVID-19 vaccination.

 

2. NTPC Kanti received FICCI Water Award 2023 for water use efficiency: NTPC Kanti has received the 11th edition of the FICCI Water Award 2023 under the “Industrial Water Use Efficiency” category. The prestigious accolade was presented during the inaugural event of the 9th Edition of India Industry Water Conclave held at FICCI Federation House in New Delhi. The award acknowledges NTPC Kanti’s notable water conservation efforts and efficient use of water resources in its operations. The company has also launched awareness campaigns to promote responsible water usage among employees and the local community. The FICCI Water Awards, presented annually, play a pivotal role in acknowledging organizations across various sectors for their exemplary efforts in water conservation and management. By promoting best practices, these awards contribute to the broader goal of encouraging sustainable water management practices throughout India.

 

3. IREDA CMD Pradip Kumar Das bagged ‘CMD of the Year’ award: Chairman & Managing Director of Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA), Pradip Kumar Das has been bestowed with the esteemed “CMD of the Year” award under the Mini-Ratna category at the 13th PSE Excellence Awards, hosted by the Indian Chamber of Commerce in New Delhi. This prestigious recognition marks the second consecutive financial year in which Shri Pradip Kumar Das has received this accolade, acknowledging his exceptional leadership that has boosted the company’s growth, pioneering energy transition initiatives, and outstanding contributions for IREDA and Renewable Energy sector development. IREDA also bagged runner-up accolades, emphasizing its commitment to operational, governance, socio-environmental excellence, and inclusivity.

 

4. Chandrayaan-3 Moon Mission Earns Leif Erikson Lunar Prize: For its’s indomitable spirit in advancing lunar exploration & contributing to understanding celestial mysteries and in celebration the first soft landing of Chandrayaan 3, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has been awarded Leif Erikson Lunar Prize. This is the first time that ISRO has received this award.

It is for the first soft landing of a spacecraft near the Lunar South Pole and ISRO’s indomitable spirit in advancing lunar exploration. On behalf of ISRO, this was received by the Indian Ambassador to Iceland Ambassador B Shyam from the Exploration Museum in Husavik (Iceland).

 

5. Sahitya Akademi Awards for 2023 announced: Sahitya Akademi has announced its annual Sahitya Akademi Award 2023 in 24 Languages. Sanjeev will get Sahitya Akademi Award for his Hindi novel Mujhe Pahachaano. Neelam Saran Gour will get the award for her English Novel Requiem in Raga Janki. Nine books of poetry, six novels, five short story collections, three essays and one literary study have won the Sahitya Akademi Awards this year. The awards recommended by distinguished jury members in 24 languages were approved by the Executive Board of the Sahitya Akademi which met under the Chairmanship of Madhav Kaushik, President of the Akademi. The awards relate to books first published during the five years immediately preceding the year of award, that is between January 2017 and December 31, 2021