Daily GK Update- 18th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi inaugurates and lays the foundation stone for multiple development projects in Ahmedabad: The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects of railways, road, power, housing, and finance sectors worth more than Rs 8,000 crore in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Modi inaugurated India’s first Namo Bharat Rapid Rail between Ahmedabad and Bhuj earlier. He also flagged off several Vande Bharat trains on routes – Nagpur to Secunderabad, Kolhapur to Pune, Agra Cantt to Banaras, Durg to Visakhapatnam, Pune to Hubballi, and the first 20-coach Vande Bharat train from Varanasi to Delhi.Further, he launched the Single Window IT System (SWITS) of the International Financial Services Centres Authority.The Prime Minister mentioned the announcement of a special PM package worth Rs 2 lakh crore which will benefit more than 4 crore youth. He stated that the government will also pay the first salary for the first job in companies if they hire the youth. He also mentioned increasing the limit of Mudra loans from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh.

 

2. PM Modi launches ‘SUBHADRA’ – the largest women-centric scheme in Bhubaneswar: The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi launched ‘SUBHADRA’, the flagship Scheme of the Government of Odisha, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.It is the largest, single women-centric scheme and is expected to cover more than 1 crore women. The prime minister also initiated the fund transfer into the bank accounts of more than 10 lakh women.Under the SUBHADRA scheme, all eligible beneficiaries between the age of 21-60 years would receive Rs. 50,000/- over 5 years between 2024-25 to 2028-29. An amount of Rs 10,000/- per annum in two equal installments will be credited directly to the beneficiary’s Aadhaar-enabled and DBT-enabled bank account.Modi also laid the foundation stone dedicated to the nation’s Railway Projects worth more than Rs 2800 crore and laid the foundation stone for National Highway Projects worth more than Rs 1000 crore.

 

3. Nirmala Sitharaman launches NPS Vatsalya for Minors: Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman has launched the NPS Vatsalya scheme for minors in New Delhi.The event was attended by schoolchildren and was held simultaneously in 75 locations across the country. She also distributed the Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN) cards to new minor subscribers.Nirmala Sitharaman announced the NPS Vatsalya scheme in her 2024-25 union budget speech.The NPS Vatsalya will be regulated by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).

 

4. Manu Bhaker appointed brand ambassador for MoPSW: India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has appointed Manu Bhaker, the double Olympic medal winner, as a brand ambassador.Bhaker, the shooting ace who won Medals in shooting in the recent Summer Olympics held at Paris, is the daughter of a Marine Engineer.Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) – Sarbananda Sonowal

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 16 September – International Day for Interventional Cardiology: The International Day for Interventional Cardiology is observed annually on September 16.This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the critical field of interventional cardiology and its pivotal role in treating heart diseases through minimally invasive procedures.As cardiovascular diseases continue to be the leading cause of death globally, the importance of this specialized field cannot be overstated.The first coronary angioplasty was performed by Dr. Andreas Grüntzig on 16 September 1977. Since then angioplasty has been the procedure that has saved the most grams of myocardium at risk worldwide.

 

2. 18 September – World Bamboo Day: World Bamboo Day is observed every year on 18 September.Objective – To increase the awareness of bamboo globally to promote cultivation and usages of bamboo as well as traditional uses locally for community and economic development.

Theme 2024 – Next Generation Bamboo: Solution, Innovation, and DesignThe World Bamboo Organization (WBO) proclaimed September 18 as World Bamboo Day in 2009, during the eighth World Bamboo Congress in Bangkok. It was decided upon with the unanimous consent of delegates from almost 100 nations.This celebration was initiated by Kamesh Salam, former President of WBO. Since then, this day is a world-wide event gathering hundreds of thousands of people to manifest the importance of bamboo as a plant companion for humanity.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Senior IPS officer Amrit Mohan Prasad appointed as Chief of SSB: Senior IPS officer Amrit Mohan Prasad has been appointed as the Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).Prasad, a 1989-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Odisha cadre, is presently working as Special Director General, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved Prasad’s appointment to the post of Director General, SSB for a tenure up to the date of his superannuation on August 31, 2025.The vacancy necessitated after SSB chief Daljit Singh Chaudhary was appointed as the DG of Border Security Force (BSF) on August 28.The SSB guards the country’s frontiers with Nepal and Bhutan.

 

2. National Symposium ‘Exercise AIKYA’ on Disaster Management begin in Chennai: A two-day national symposium of the National Disaster Management Authority and the Army Southern Command entitled Exercise AIKYA begin inThe primary aim of the exercise is to enhance disaster preparedness and foster robust collaboration among key stakeholders.The exercise will feature simulations, technology discussions and expert insights into various roles of disaster management.Representatives from Railways, transport, civil aviation, health, environment and climate change departments State and National disaster management authorities and the Indian army will be present. IMD officials, National Remote sensing centres, the Central Water Commission and the Forest Survey of India will also participate in the symposium.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Saleema Imtiaz becomes first Pakistan woman to be nominated as International Umpire: Saleema Imtiaz became the first Pakistani woman to be nominated to the ICC international panel of development umpires.Imtiaz’s nomination on the panel means she is now eligible to officiate in women’s bilateral international matches and ICC women’s events.Imtiaz joined the PCB’s women’s umpires panel in 2008 and has officiated in several Asian Cricket Council tournaments over the last three years.Imtiaz’s first on-field appointment in a bilateral series will see her officiate the three-match T20 series between Pakistan women and South Africa women which begins at Multan.

 

2. Santosh Kashyap appointed new head coach of Indian women’s football team: All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed Santosh Kashyap as the new head coach of the national senior women’s team, replacing former international player Chaoba Devi at the helm of affairs.Kashyap’s first assignment will be the SAFF Women’s Championships to be held in Kathmandu, Nepal, from October 17 to 30.A former India international, Kashyap has almost a decade of coaching experience in the I-League, managing clubs like Mohun Bagan, Aizawl FC and Mumbai FC among others.The 58-year-old has also been the assistant coach of NorthEast United FC, and most recently of Odisha FC, in the Indian Super League.Kashyap will have Priya PV as his assistant coach and Raghuvir Pravin Khanolkar as the goalkeeper coach.

 

3. India wins Men’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy for record 5th time: The Indian men’s hockey team, led by Harmanpreet Singh, defeated host China 1-0 in the final to win the Men’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy for a record fifth time.The final match of the 8th Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024 was played at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir City.Defending champion India had earlier won the trophy in 2011,2016,2018 and 2023.In the final, Jugraj Singh scored the only winning goal of the match in the 51 minutes.India was the only team in the 8th Men’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy to defeat all its opponents and remain unbeaten in the tournament.In the league stage, India defeated China 3-0, Japan 5-1, Malaysia 8-1, South Korea 3-1 and Pakistan 2-1.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. WPI inflation drops to 4-month low of 1.31% in August: India’s wholesale price index (WPI)-based inflation fell to a four-month low of 1.31 per cent on an annual basis in August from 2.04 per cent in July due to a reduction in the prices of manufactured products and food items, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.Food prices inflation stood at 3.11 per cent in August as compared to 3.45 per cent in July.Within food articles, the prices of cereals (8.44 per cent), paddy (9.12 per cent), and pulses (18.57 per cent) decelerated. While there was a slight deceleration in the prices of onions (65.75 per cent), inflation remained in double digits.On the other hand, the prices of potatoes (77.96 per cent) and fruits (16.7 per cent) accelerated during the month.

 

2. Bank of Baroda introduces GenAI-powered virtual relationship manager for conversational banking: Bank of Baroda (BoB) has introduced ‘Aditi’, a GenAI-powered virtual relationship manager, to enhance the digital customer service experience.These human-like interface presented in the form of digital avatars, offer conversational banking across a range of services.

Available on the bank’s web portal, the capability supports audio, video and chat-based assistance ensuring 24×7 banking services with multilingual support. This service is being gradually rolled out to our existing customers through an enrollment process available on the bank’s website.In addition, BoB has also launched a GenAI-enabled knowledge management platform, ‘AI’ for its employees.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Award winners of the 8th Men’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy: Top scorer of the  

    tournament.

· Yang Jihun (South Korea; 9 goals)

· Promising goalkeeper of the tournament- Kim Jaehan (South Korea)

· Best goalkeeper of the tournament- Wang Caiyu (China)

· Rising star of the tournament- Shahid Hannan (Pakistan)

· Player of the tournament- Harmanpreet Singh (India)

· Man of the final match- Lin Changliang (China)

 

 

Daily GK Update- 17th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Zanskar celebrates 9th Ladakh Zanskar Festival 2024: The 9th Ladakh Zanskar Festival 2024 began with remarkable grandeur in the picturesque village of Sani, signifying a landmark event for the region.The festival was inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra.This year’s Zanskar Festival is especially significant as it marks the first celebration since Zanskar was officially declared a district. The two-day festival showcases a wide array of cultural performances, reflecting the diverse traditions of the region. Highlights include performances by the Purgi tribes from Kargil, the Shina community of Drass, the Dard-Aryans from Aryan Valley, and the Changpa nomads from Changthang.Cultural teams from Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul & Spiti, Kinnaur, and Uttarakhand are participating, enriching the festival with their unique traditions.

 

2. President Murmu inaugurates 8th India Water Week: President Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated 8th India Water Week 2024.The 8th India Water Week 2024 will start from 17 Sep to 20 Sep in New Delhi.During the four-day event, around four thousand delegates including two hundred foreign delegates from 40 countries will participate. More than one hundred exhibitors and startups will showcase their ideas in the water sector during the exhibition.The event will serve as a global platform to elicit ideas and opinions from global-level decision-makers, researchers, experts, innovators and stakeholders in the field of water resources from across the worldTheme 2024 – Partnership and cooperation for inclusive water development and management.

 

3. PM Modi launches India’s first ‘Namo Bharat Rapid Rail’ connecting Ahmedabad and Bhuj: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged off country’s first Vande Metro, now renamed as Namo Bharat Rapid Rail service, between Bhuj and Ahmedabad.The Ahmedabad-Bhuj Vande Metro service will stop at nine stations and cover the 360-kilometre distance in 5 hours and 45 minutes at a top speed of 110 kilometres per hour.Developed on the same platform as the Vande Bharat Express, the Vande Metro train is a self-propelled train set designed for short-distance inter-city travel. However, unlike Vande Bharat which is a semi-high speed 160 kmph train set, the Vande Metro trains will have a maximum speed limit of 130 kmph.

 

4. Arvind Kejriwal resigns as Chief Minister, Atishi stakes claim to top post: Aam Aadmi Party legislators in New Delhi have elected State Minister Atishi as the new Chief Minister-designate in place of Arvind Kejriwal.Atishi’s name was proposed by Kejriwal at the meeting of the legislature party, and it was unanimously accepted by the AAP MLAs.Ms Atishi now holds key portfolios in the Delhi government such as Education and Public Works Department.

 

5. 15 September – National Engineers Day: India celebrates National Engineer’s Day on September 15, commemorating the birth anniversary of engineer Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, a pioneer in the field of engineering.The day is observed to honour his contributions to the development of India in the fields of engineering, education and economy.Theme 2024 – Innovating for a Sustainable FutureMokshagundam Visvesvaraya was awarded Bharata Ratna by the Government of India in 1955.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 4th edition of the Global Bio-India 2024 concludes in New Delhi: The fourth edition of Global Bio-India 2024 successfully concluded after showcasing India’s biotech prowess.The three-day event was themed on the potential and opportunities in ‘Biotech Innovation’ and ‘Bio-manufacturing’ and their impact on the bio economy.Theme 2024 – Biotech Innovation’ and ‘Bio-manufacturingIn Global Bio India, the country’s biotech startups unveiled 11 products that showcased the country’s emerging talent in biosciences.The 4th Global Bio-India 2024 was organized by the Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India, and the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).South Korea was the partner country at the 4th Global Bio-India 2024.

 

2. India to host high-level international meetings on anti-doping in sports: India is set to host the 2nd Formal Meeting of the COP9 Bureau and the 3rd Formal Meeting of the Fund Approval Committee under the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport on in New Delhi.

As Vice-Chairperson of the COP9 Bureau, India has taken the lead in organizing these high-level gatherings, which will bring together key decision-makers and dignitaries from across the world.

Hosted by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the meetings will see participation from distinguished delegates representing countries such as Azerbaijan, Barbados, Estonia, France, Italy, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, The Netherlands, Türkiye, UAE, and Zambia.Senior officials from the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport will also be present, contributing to the discussions in a hybrid format.

 

3. Iran launches new research satellite Chamran-1 into orbit: Iran successfully launched its Chamran-1 research satellite into orbit, utilising the Qaem-100 rocket developed by the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard.The launch marks a milestone in Iran’s aerospace program, which has faced scrutiny and criticism from Western nations due to concerns that the technology could be repurposed for ballistic missile development.The Chamran-1 satellite, weighing 60 kilograms, was placed into a 550-kilometer orbit and it is designed to test “hardware and software systems for orbital maneuver technology”.The Qaem-100 rocket, a solid-fuel, three-stage vehicle, was previously used in January for another successful satellite launch.

 

4. Jordan’s king appoints Jafar Hassan to serve as PM: Jordan’s King Abdullah II tapped a longtime aide to serve as the kingdom’s new prime minister.Hassan has a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Geneva and a master’s degree in public administration from Harvard University. He will replace the outgoing prime minister, Bisher Al-Khasawneh, whose Cabinet resigned on Sunday in the wake of a parliamentary election. Al-Khasawneh has served since October 2020.

 

5. 17 September – World Patient Safety Day: World Patient Safety Day is an annual observance on September 17th, established by the World Health Organisation (WHO).Objective – To raise global awareness about patient safety, promote actions to enhance safety in healthcare, and encourage stakeholders to unite for safer healthcare practices.Theme 2024 – Improving Diagnosis for Patient SafetyIn 2019, the 72nd World Health Assembly passed a resolution to establish World Patient Safety Day as a global health priority. The WHO began global campaigns each year, focusing on various themes within patient safety, such as safe childbirth, medication safety, and the empowerment of patients and caregivers.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS 

 

1. 4th South Asian Junior Athletics Championship:  India at topped the medal tally: The 4th South Asian Junior Athletics Championships was held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.India led the Medal tally by winning 48 medals- 21 gold,22 silver and 5 bronze.The Sri Lanka team, which gave a tough fight to the Indians, came second with 35 medals—9 gold, 9 silver, and 17 bronze. Bangladesh came third with three bronze medals. Pakistan and Bhutan failed to win a single medal at the event.The first South Asian Junior Athletics Championships was held in Sri Lanka in November 2007. The second edition was held in Ranchi in November 2013, and the third was held in May 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.All seven countries of the South Asian Athletics Federation (SAFF) -India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal—participated in the 4th South Asian Junior Athletics Championships.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India ranked among Tier 1 countries in Global Cyber Security Index 2024: India has ranked among Tier 1 countries in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI). It is issued by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).‘GCI 2024’ has used a five-tier analysis this time. In this, the progress made in cyber security by various countries is tracked.This report places 46 countries in Tier 1, the highest category. These countries have been named “Role Modeling”, which have shown a strong commitment to all important aspects of cyber security.The Global Cyber Security Index 2024 reported that India has performed well in measures such as legal, technical, capacity expansion, and corporations.

 

 

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. UPI users can now send Rs 5 lakh for some transactions: The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has increased transaction limits for tax payments using the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), allowing people to transfer Rs 5 lakh in a single transaction.While announcing its monetary policy statement on August 2024, RBI announced the enhancement of the limit for tax payments through UPI from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, per transaction.Consumers can now make UPI payments of up to Rs 5 lakh per transaction for the following categories: a) tax payments, b) hospital and educational services, and c) IPOs and government securities.Two additional enhancements were previously introduced through circulars issued in December 2021 and December 2023.

 

2. Piramal Finance join hands with Digital India’s CSCs to Boost Credit Access for Bharat’s Budget Customers: Piramal Capital & Housing Finance Ltd. (Piramal Finance), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Piramal Enterprises Ltd., has collaborated with Digital India’s Common Service Centres (CSCs) to satisfy Bharat’s lending needs by expanding access to formal credit for underserved persons and MSMEs.This agreement successfully disbursed approximately Rs. 100 crore in August 2024 to increase credit availability in semi-urban areas, offering vital financial products such as house and business loans.Using CSC’s wide network of over 6 lakh centres, this project intends to assist budget clients in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, successfully addressing the financial requirements of underserved regions and expanding financial inclusion.Piramal Finance will increase its loan offers via CSCs, focussing on underserved areas to better serve individuals and MSMEs in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

 

3. HDFC Bank’s Parivartan initiative aims to uplift rural communities with sustainable development programmes: The HDFC Bank is set to increase the income of 5 lakh marginal farmers earning less than ₹60,000 annually by 2025, scaling up further its over ₹5,000 crore investments in the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the last decade.The bank’s focus on rural development reflects our continued commitment to fostering sustainable growth and uplifting vulnerable communities. Since its inception in 2014, Parivartan has grown into one of India’s largest CSR programmes, active in 28 States and 8 Union Territories.Though following 2013, corporates invested 2 per cent of net profit in the CSR initiative as it has become mandatory due to Section 135 of the Companies Act, Bharucha said his bank started the sustainable livelihood initiative (SLI) way back in 2008, giving affordable credit to people.

 

4. LIC selects Infosys for NextGen digital insurance platform project: The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has selected IT major Infosys to develop its NextGen digital platform.It will be an integrated end-to-end digital insurance solution providing “excellent services to customers, business lifecycle management and operational activities for sales intermediaries and digital front-end platform for branch employees”.The digital platform will be modular, flexible, cloud-native and have platform driven architecture capable of quickly adopting innovative technologies, new products and features.It will form the foundation for building high value business applications such as the customer and sales super apps, portals and digital branch for LIC.

 

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 16th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia launches ‘Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav’ website: Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Hon’ble Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), has officially launched the website for the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav.The launch, held at Sanchar Bhawan in New Delhi, highlights the government’s dedication to showcasing Northeast India’s cultural and economic richness on both national and international platforms.The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, to be held from December 6th to 8th, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, is set to be a landmark celebration.The festival draws inspiration from the eight Northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—collectively known as the “Ashtalakshmi,” representing eight forms of prosperity.

 

2. PM releases 1st installment of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana- Gramin to beneficiaries: Prime Minister Modi released the first installment of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana- Gramin in Jharkhand to beneficiaries.Rupees 32 crore was digitally transferred to the bank account of the beneficiaries. Besides sanction letters of 32,000 houses were distributed.He also virtually handed over keys to 46,000 beneficiaries of PMAY-G across the country. The Centre has approved 1,13,400 houses for the poor in Jharkhand under the PMAY-G scheme.

 

3. Group of Ministers to review tax rates on health, life insurance: The GST Council constituted a 13-member Group of Ministers (GoM) to suggest GST rates on premiums of various health and life insurance products. It will submit its report by October 30.Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is the convenor of the GoM. Members of the panel include members from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Meghalaya, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.The 54th GST Council meeting on September 9 decided to establish a GoM to examine and review the present structure of GST on life and medical insurance.Currently, 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is levied on insurance premiums.

 

4. Piyush Goyal launched Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry: Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has launched the Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) initiative which will serve as a central hub where startups, investors, service providers, and government bodies can come together to collaborate, exchange ideas, and accelerate growth.It will also enhance collaboration among key stakeholders within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including startups, investors, mentors, service providers, and government bodies.The primary goal of BHASKAR is to build the world’s largest digital registry for stakeholders within the startup ecosystem.

 

5. IFFI 2024 to introduce new segment, ‘Best Debut Indian Film Section’: Information and Broadcasting Ministry has instituted a new section as part of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024 for young filmmakers called the ‘Best Debut Indian Film Section 2024.’The 55th IFFI is slated to be held in Goa from November 20th to 28th.Through this section, IFFI will also focus on Indian debut films, showcasing a diverse range of narratives and cinematic styles from across the country.These selections will highlight the creative vision and unique storytelling approaches of young filmmakers, providing a platform for new talent and showcasing the work of emerging directors.A maximum of five debut feature films will be selected and shown in the Best Debut Indian Film Section. Entries for the ‘Best Debut Indian Film Section’ are open now, with September 23rd as the deadline for submission.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi inaugurated 4th Global Renewable Energy Investor’s Meet: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the fourth RE Invest Global Industrial Meet at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar.Modi also flaged off the second phase of the Ahmedabad Metro connecting Ahmedabad to Gandhinagar and GIFT City.Modi is scheduled inaugurated and lay the foundation stone for various projects worth over 8 thousand crore rupees, which include the country’s first Vande Bharat Metro train between Ahmedabad and Bhuj.The 4th RE-INVEST Global Renewable Energy Meet & Expo has been organized by the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). The meet will highlight India’s impressive progress in renewable energy manufacturing and deployment.

 

2. India launches Operation Sadbhav to provide humanitarian assistance to Typhoon Yagi affected countries: India has launched Operation Sadbhav to provide humanitarian assistance to typhoon Yagi-affected countries – Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam.India sent urgent relief materials to Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam to assist them in dealing with the impact of the major typhoon. These countries are reeling under massive floods after Asia’s most powerful storm this year hit the three countries.10 tonnes of aid, including dry ration, clothing and medicines, were dispatched to Myanmar onboard the Indian naval ship INS Satpura.A military transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force is carrying 35 tonnes of aid to Vietnam and 10 tonnes of relief materials to Laos. These include genset, water purification items, hygiene supplies, mosquito nets, blankets and sleeping bags.India has been among the first responders in providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to impacted countries. Operation Sadbhav is part of India’s broader effort to contribute to HADR within the ASEAN region, in line with its ‘Act East Policy’.

 

3. Ravindra appointed as India’s next Ambassador to Iceland: Ravindra, currently the Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in New York, has been appointed as the country’s next envoy to Iceland.Ravindran was an Indian foreign service officer of batch 1999 and is currently serving as India’s Deputy permanent representative at the United Nations.

 

4. 16 September – World Ozone Day: World Ozone Day is celebrated every year on September 16.Objective – To raise awareness about the importance of the ozone layer in protecting life on Earth. It also spreads awareness about the steps that have been taken to preserve the ozone layer.Theme 2024 – Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate ActionThe United Nations General Assembly established World Ozone Day in 1994 to celebrate the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.The Montreal Protocol, agreed on September 16, 1987, is an international pact designed to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS).

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy commissions Submarine Escape Training Facility Vinetra: The Indian Navy commissioned its indigenously designed and developed Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility at its premier submarine training base, INS Satavahana, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.The INS Satavahana is under the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy. L&T Defence has constructed the Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility, Vinetra (meaning Trainer).The Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility will train the submarine crews of the Kalvari class of conventional submarines operated by the Indian Navy. It will train the crew to save their lives and escape from the submarine when it is in distress due to an accident or under attack.The facility is equipped with a five-meter escape tower integrated with an adjacent diving basin.

 

2. About Kalvari Class Submarine of the Indian Navy: The Kalvari class submarine is being constructed in India under Project 75 of the Indian Navy, under which six submarines were to be constructed.In 2005, India and France signed a $3.75 billion deal to construct six conventional Scorpene-class submarines in India with technology transfer from France.The French company Naval Group was to provide the technology, while the Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) was to construct it.The 2000-tonne INS Kalvari class submarine is capable of performing all types of missions, such as surface vessel warfare, anti-submarine warfare, long-range strikes, special operations, and intelligence gathering.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Anmol Kharb clinches Belgian International Title: India’s 17-year-old shuttler, Anmol Kharb secured her first senior international title by winning the women’s singles event at the Belgian International 2024 in Leuven.In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the 17-year-old, overcame Denmark’s Amalie Schulz 24-22, 12-21, 21-10 in the final.

 

2. Oscar Piastri won Azerbaijan F1 GP: Oscar Piastri won the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after a late crash impacted the race and required it to finish behind a virtual safety car.The win, combined with the fourth-place finish of McLaren teammate Lando Norris, gave the team a 20-point lead over Red Bull in the constructors standings. Red Bull had topped the standings for the past 55 races; McLaren last held the position in 2014.George Russell (Mercedes) was third and Max Verstappen (Red Bull) fifth in the race at Baku City Circuit in Baku, Azerbaijan.

 

3. Neeraj Chopra finishes second at Diamond League Final in Brussels: Ace Indian javelin throw athlete Neeraj Chopra finished in second position in Brussels with a best throw of 87.86 m at the Diamond League Final.Neeraj missed out on the top spot by just a 1 cm margin.Paris Olympics bronze medallist Anderson Peters hurled the spear to a distance of 87.87 m to claim the top position. Meanwhile, Julian Weber of Germany, with his best attempt of 85.97 m, finished third.

Neeraj finished as runner-up in the Diamond League for the second year in a row. Back in 2023, Neeraj had fallen short of defending his Diamond Trophy after losing to Czech Republic’s Jakub Vadlejch.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. BoB to launch 7 phygital branches as a pilot project: Bank of Baroda (BoB) is planning to launch seven phygital branches as a pilot project across the country. These branches integrate self-service and assisted service models.Debadatta Chand, Managing Director and CEO, recently inaugurated the bank’s second phygital branch in Mumbai at Vile Parle.BoB opened its first phygital branch at Horniman Circle in Mumbai in July. The second branch was opened last month at Chanda Nagar in Hyderabad last month.The phygital branch is equipped with video contact centre, where a customer can connect with the bank’s contact centre through a video call to receive assistance on non-financial services. It has a self service kiosk where tablets are installed and customers can avail services like PAN updation, receive account statements through email, TDS certificate etc.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 15th Sept, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Rajiv Ranjan Singh launches ‘Rangeen Machhli’ App.: Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh Alias Lalan Singh, launched the “Rangeen Machhli” mobile app at ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA), Bhubaneswar.Developed by ICAR-CIFA with support from the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the app is designed to meet the growing needs of the ornamental fisheries sector, providing crucial knowledge resources for hobbyists, aquarium shop owners, and fish farmers.The “Rangeen Machhli” app provides multilingual information on popular ornamental fish species in eight Indian languages, making it accessible to a wide audience. Whether hobbyists are seeking guidance on fish care or farmers looking to diversify their breeds, the app offers comprehensive details on care, breeding, and maintenance practices.

 

2. Dr. Jitendra Singh launches dedicated web-portal for Special Campaign 4.0: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh has launched a dedicated web portal to monitor the progress of Special Swachhata Campaign 4.0. via video conferencing.The Special Campaign aims to institutionalize Swachhata in all central government offices using a saturation approach.The government has decided to observe special campaigns every year from October 2nd to 31st to institutionalize Swachhata and reduce pendency.

 

3. Adani Airports launches ‘aviio’ to give passengers real-time access data: Adani Airports Holdings Ltd, the Adani group firm that operates seven airports in the country, has launched ‘aviio’ digital platform to provide passengers with real-time data on a variety of airport accesses – from wait times to gate change and bags on belts.Aviio aspires to bring the aviation community together to collaborate and serve passengers better.By enabling airport stakeholders to access real-time data, passengers can expect easier access to airport information in the form of updates related to security checks, wait times, gate change, and bags on belts, among other aspects.AAHL’s vision for aviio’ encompasses the development of a cutting-edge Smart Airport Operations System, conceived as a replicable model of an ‘Airport-in-a-Box’. This next-generation Airport Planning and Operation Centre (APOC) has 10x more features that help in arriving at data-driven decisions.

 

4. Port Blair to be renamed as ‘Sri Vijaya Puram: Union home minister Amit Shah has announced that Andaman and Nicobar Island’s capital Port Blair has been renamed as “Sri Vijaya Puram.”The government decided to free the nation from the colonial imprints. He said, Sri Vijaya Puram symbolises the victory achieved in the country’s freedom struggle.Andaman and Nicobar Islands have an unparalleled place in the country’s freedom struggle and history. The island territory that once served as the naval base of the Chola Empire is today poised to be the critical base for our strategic and development aspirations.It is also the place that hosted the first unfurling of the Tiranga by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and also the cellular jail in which Veer Savarkar and other freedom fighters struggled for an independent nation.

5. IBM & L&T Partner to Develop Advanced Processors: IBM and L&T Semiconductor Technologies (SiLT) have signed an agreement to co-develop advanced processors for edge devices, hybrid cloud systems and areas like mobility, industrial, energy, and servers.This partnership will boost India’s semiconductor capabilities by creating competitive products for global markets.

 

6. Telangana government has decided to celebrate September 17 as Praja Palan Day: The Telangana State government has decided to celebrate September 17th, the day on which Hyderabad State was integrated into the Indian Union in 1948, as the Telangana Praja Palana Day, the Day of People’s Governance.On that day in 1948, the then-Hyderabad state merged with the Indian Union.In 2023, the then-BRS government decided to celebrate September 17 as National Integration Day. The Union government, on the other hand, decided to celebrate it as Hyderabad Liberation Day, and the Ministry of Home Affairs issued a gazette notification to this effect.Hyderabad merged with the Indian Union on September 17, 1948, following a “police action” under Operation Polo. While some describe it as liberation from Nizam rule, others call it a merger with the Indian Union.

 

7. 14 September – Hindi Diwas : Hindi Diwas is observed every year on 14 September.In 2024, the country is celebrating the 75th year (diamond jubilee) of the adoption of Hindi as India’s official language.On 14 September 1946, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted Hindi in Devnagari script as the official language (Raj Bhasha) of the Indian government, based on the K, M Munshi-N.G Iyenger formula.However, the first Hindi Diwas was observed on 14 September 1953 by the government of India. Since then, every year, 14 September has been observed as Hindi Diwas.On this occasion, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs organised the 4th Akhil Bharatiya Rajbhasha Sammelan and launched Bharatiya Bhasha Anubhag to promote the Hindi language.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Mexico became the first country in the world to allow voters to elect judges at all levels: Mexico became the world’s first country to allow voters to elect judges at all levels after protesters invaded the upper house and suspended debate on the issue.The reform was approved with 86 votes in favor and 41 against, garnering the two-thirds majority needed to amend the constitution, in an upper chamber dominated by the ruling Morena party and its allies.

A two-thirds majority was required to amend the constitution, and the reform achieved this threshold.

 

2. Tayyab Ikram to continue as FIH chief for second consecutive term: Incumbent International Hockey Federation (FIH) president Tayyab Ikram is set to be elected unopposed as the head of the world body at its 49th Congress in Muscat, Oman.The nominations for FIH elections were received by the August 31 deadline for the positions to be elected by the National Associations that are members of the FIH at its Statutory Congress.The former Pakistan and China hockey coach is a member of the IOC Olympic Solidarity Commission and has been an Executive Board member of the FIH since 2016. On 5 November 2022, he was elected as the 13th President of FIH.

 

3. 12 September – International Day of South-South Cooperation: The United Nations International Day of South-South Cooperation is celebrated every year on 12 September.Theme 2024 – A better tomorrow through South-South CooperationThe South-South cooperation is a manifestation of solidarity among peoples and countries of the South that contributes to their national well-being, their national and collective self-reliance and the attainment of internationally agreed development goals, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy’s P8I aircraft reaches Australia’s Darwin to participate in Exercise Kakadu: The Indian Navy’s P8I aircraft, led by Commanding Officer Captain Ajay Kanwar, has reached Australia’s Darwin to participate in the 16th edition of Exercise Kakadu 2024.The Indian Navy will participate in the exercise alongside more than 30 nations with the theme of ‘Regional Cooperation through Trusted and Proven Partnerships.’Australia’s biggest warfare exercise- Kakadu, incorporates warships, helicopters, and maritime patrol aircraft from attending countries.Kakadu is an important exercise hosted by RAN as it deepens relationships and interoperability between participating armed forces. Australia is a maritime nation that like its neighbours, derives prosperity from access to the sea-backed.

 

2. VL-SRSAM missile successfully test-fired by DRDO & Indian Navy: The Indian Navy, in partnership with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has successfully tested the Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM).The test was carried out at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur island off the coast of Odisha.This is the second successful missile test by the DRDO in the past week. On 6 September 2024, the DRDO successfully conducted the user trial of its nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM Agni-4).During the test, the missile equipped with an advanced radio frequency seeker was launched from a land-based vertical launcher, which successfully intercepted a high-speed aerial target flying at a low altitude.

 

3. Oman hosts Indo-Oman Eastern Bridge VII & Al Najah V Exercise: The Indian Army and the Indian Air Force contingent have arrived in Oman to participate in the AL NAJAH -V and Exercise Eastern Bridge -VII, respectively.The seventh edition of the bilateral military exercise Exercise Eastern Bridge between the Indian Air Force and the Royal Oman Air Force commenced at the Air Force Base Masirah, Oman.The Indian Air Force has sent a contingent of MiG-29s, Jaguar fighter planes, and C-17 Globemaster III transport planes.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Star Health Insurance & Policybazaar join hands to launch SUPER STAR: Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited (Star Health Insurance) has joined hands with Policybazaar to launch ‘SUPER STAR’, a personalized long-term health insurance plan designed to provide more client value.This game-changing product is designed to satisfy policyholders’ evolving needs while providing unrivaled flexibility and customisation.The 5-year policy period applies to both individuals and families. The Super Star Insurance plan represents a paradigm shift in the health insurance landscape by providing modular coverage that adjusts to consumers’ changing life phases.The Super Star plan offers numerous sum insured options ranging from ₹5 lakhs to ₹1 crore, as well as an unlimited SI option, allowing consumers to select the best plan for their needs. The SUPER STAR plan offers a huge step forward in India’s health insurance system, bridging the gap between cost and comprehensive coverage.

 

2. India’s retail inflation at 3.65 per cent in August 2024: India’s retail inflation rose to 3.65 percent in August, slightly higher than the 3.6 percent reported in July this year.According to data released, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) highlighted that this is the second-lowest retail inflation in the past five years.The inflation rate was within the Reserve Bank of India’s tolerance band of 2-6 percent. Meanwhile, the food inflation rate for August 2024, based on the All-India Consumer Food Price Index (CFPI), is provisionally reported at 5.66 percent, making it the second-lowest since June 2023.Several subgroups, including spices, meat and fish, and pulses and products, have experienced a decrease in inflation.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 14th Sept, 2024

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi inaugurates SEMICON India 2024 in Greater Noida: The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has inaugurated SEMICON India 2024 at India Expo Mart in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The three-day conference showcase India’s semiconductor strategy and policy which envisions making India a global hub for semiconductors. With India’s electronics sector now valued at over $150 billion, the Prime Minister outlined a larger goal to grow the country’s electronics sector, to $500 billion and create 6 million jobs by the end of this decade.Under this vision, SEMICON India 2024 is being organized with the theme “Shaping the Semiconductor Future”.

 

2. Cabinet approves implementation of the PMGSY-IV during FY 2024-25 to 2028-29: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the proposal of the Department of Rural Development for “Implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana – IV (PMGSY-IV) during FY 2024-25 to 2028-29”.The financial assistance is to be provided for the construction of 62,500 Kms road for providing new connectivity, to eligible 25,000 unconnected habitations and construction/upgradation of bridges on the new connectivity roads. The total outlay of this scheme will be Rs. 70,125 crore.The details of the approval given by the Cabinet are as follows:

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana -IV is launched for the financial year 2024-25 to 2028-29. The total outlay of this scheme is Rs. 70,125 crore (Central Share of Rs. 49,087.50 crore and State Share of Rs. 21,037.50 crore).

 

3. Cabinet approves ‘Mission Mausam’ to create a more weather-ready and climate-smart Bharat: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved ‘Mission Mausam’ with an outlay of Rs.2,000 crore over two years.Mission Mausam, to be chiefly implemented by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, is envisaged to be multi-faceted and transformative initiative to tremendously boost India’s weather and climate-related science, research, and services.The mission’s focus will include improving observations and understanding for providing highly accurate and timely weather and climate information across temporal and spatial scales, including monsoon forecasts, alerts for air quality, extreme weather events and cyclones, weather interventions for managing fog,hail, and rain, etc., capacity building and generating awareness.Critical elements of Mission Mausam will include the deployment of next-generation radars and satellite systems with advanced sensors and high-performance supercomputers, the development of improved Earth system models and a GIS-based automated Decision Support System for real-time data dissemination.

 

4. Cabinet approves PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme: The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has approved the proposal of Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) for implementation of a scheme titled ‘PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme’ for promotion of electric mobility in the country.The scheme has an outlay of Rs 10,900 crore over two years.Subsidies/Demand incentives worth Rs.3,679 crore have been provided to incentivize e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-ambulances, e-trucks and other emerging EVs. The scheme will support 24.79 lakh e-2Ws, 3.16 lakh e-3Ws, and 14,028 e-buses.MHI is introducing e-vouchers for EV buyers to avail of demand incentives under the scheme.The scheme allocates Rs.500 crore for the deployment of e-ambulances. This is a new initiative of Govt of India to promote the use of e-ambulance for comfortable patient transport. The performance and safety standards of e-ambulances will be formulated in consultation with MoHFW, MoRTH, and other relevant stakeholders.

 

5. Cabinet approves ₹5 lakh health insurance for senior citizens above 70 years: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved health coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above irrespective of income under the flagship scheme Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).This aims to benefit approximately 4.5 Crore families with six crore senior citizens, with 5 Lakh rupees free health insurance cover on a family basis.With this approval, all senior citizens of the age 70 years and above irrespective of their socio-economic status would be eligible to avail the benefits of AB PM-JAY. The eligible senior citizens would be issued a new distinct card under AB PM-JAY.The senior citizens aged 70 years and above belonging to families already covered under AB PM-JAY will get an additional top-up cover up to ₹5 lakh per year for themselves (which they do not have to share with the other members of the family who are below the age of 70 years). All other senior citizens of the age 70 years and above will get a cover up to ₹5 lakh per year, on a family basis.

 

6. ONDC launches Saarthi reference app for businesses to create multilingual buyer apps: Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has launched Saarthi, a reference application designed to assist businesses in creating their own customised buyer-side apps, co-developed with Bhashini.

As a reference tool, Saarthi supports network participants in building buyer apps with multilingual features.The app initially supports Hindi, English, Marathi, Bangla and Tamil, with plans to scale up to all 22 languages provided by Bhashini.The launch of Saarthi is a pivotal development in our journey towards a more inclusive digital commerce landscape. By providing a reference application that enables businesses to create multilingual buyer apps, we are breaking down language barriers and opening up new avenues for engagement and growth.

 

7. MP govt inks MoU with NDDB for promoting milk production: Madhya Pradesh government has signed an MoU with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), aimed at increasing the milk production in the state.This step will help to increase milk production in the state,” CM Yadav said, adding that NDDB and the state government would set up dairies for milk production as a pilot project.The chief minister said with this step, more than 11,000 villages would be able to get a fair milk price.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India hosts 2nd Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation: Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, addressed the media regarding the 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation 2024, at Rajeev Gandhi Bhawan New Delhi.The 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India.The event is co-hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. The first Ministerial Conference of the Asia Pacific region was organized in 2018 in Beijing, China. During the first conference, India volunteered to host the second Conference in 2020, however, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the conference was postponed.

 

2. Nepal Becomes 101st Member of International Solar Alliance: Nepal has become the 101st country to join the International Solar Alliance-ISA as a full member.The Ministry of External Affairs said that Nepal handed over its Instrument of Ratification to the ISA in New Delhi.The Instrument of Ratification was exchanged during a meeting between Nepal’s Charge d’ Affairs Dr. Surendra Thapa and Joint Secretary.The ISA initiative aims to increase solar energy technology deployment in its member countries. The goal is to improve energy access, security, and transition. India and France launched the ISA at the Conference of the Parties (COP 21) in Paris to support the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement.

 

3. 14 September 2024 – World First Aid Day: World First Aid Day is observed annually on the second Saturday of September to highlight the importance of first aid in saving lives. This year, World First Aid Day falls on September 14.The day aims to educate people about the crucial role first aid plays in tackling medical emergencies and encouraging them to come forward when a situation arises.Theme 2024 – First Aid and SportsThe International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) declared the second Saturday of September the World First Aid Day in 2001.

 

4. UNGA 79th Session Begins: The UNGA meets every year in September and includes all 193 member countries, making it the only UN body where every country has an equal say. The resolutions passed here are not legally binding but still carry significant influence. The first UNGA meeting was held in London in 1948. The UNGA also elects non-permanent members to the Security Council for two-year terms and helps approve the UN’s budget. One of the important resolutions passed was the “Uniting for Peace” resolution in 1950, which allows the UNGA to discuss peace matters if the Security Council is unable to.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Defence Minister Rajnath SIngh inaugurates IDAX-24 Expo in Jodhpur: The India Defence Aviation Exposition (IDAX-24) was officially inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at Jodhpur.This major event coincides with Exercise Tarang Shakti-24, one of the largest multinational air exercises hosted by the Indian Air Force (IAF). IDAX-24 highlights the significant advancements and contributions of the Indian aviation industry.This edition of IDAX at Jodhpur will have grand participation from industry and host a wide range of products, and technologies. This will be an opportunity for the FFCs and Indian audiences to witness, experience, and interact with participants from the Indian Aviation Industry including DPSUs, DRDO, Private Industries (Tier-I, Il, III), and top-notch Start-Ups.

 

2. India Unveils First Mountain Tank ‘Zorawar’ After Trials: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has created India’s first locally-made tank specifically designed for mountain warfare, called Zorawar. This tank was developed in response to rising geopolitical tensions, especially with China in Eastern Ladakh, and lessons learned from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. After successful trials, it is ready for deployment in high-altitude regions.

 

3. Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility – VINETRA: Vinetra is designed to help train the crew of Kalvari-class submarines on how to escape during emergencies. This is very important for the safety of the sailors working underwater. The creation of this facility is part of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat programme, which focuses on building more defence technology within the country, reducing the need to depend on other nations. L&T Defence built the facility and includes.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Irani Cup 2024 to be played in Lucknow from October 1-5: The 2024/25 Irani Cup game, which was supposed to be held in Mumbai from October 1 to 5, has been shifted to Lucknow.The match will be played between current Ranji Trophy winners Mumbai and a Rest of the India side selected by the national selection committee.Last year, Rest of India won the Irani Cup after beating Saurashtra by 175 runs in Rajkot.The inaugural edition of the Irani Cup was played in March 1960, and is named after Zal R Irani, who served as Treasurer and President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Rest of India has won the trophy 26 times, while Mumbai has emerged victorious 14 times.

 

 

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Achieves Tier 1 Status in Global Cybersecurity Index 2024: India has achieved Tier 1 status in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024, a remarkable accomplishment that shows the country’s dedication to building a strong cybersecurity foundation. This recognition by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reflects India’s growing strength in protecting digital information and improving online safety for everyone.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. CCI approves Tata Motors Finance merger with Tata Capital: The Competition Commission of India has approved the merger of Tata Motor Finance with Tata Capital.The merger, announced in June, will see Tata Capital issue its equity shares to the shareholders of Tata Motor Finance resulting in Tata Motors effectively holding a 4.7% stake in the merged entity.In a filing to the exchanges, Tata Motors said that the Board of Directors of Tata Motors, Tata Capital, and Tata Motors Finance have approved a merger of Tata Motor Finance with Tata Capital through an NCLT scheme of arrangement.

 

2. RBL Bank & DMI Finance Launches Co-Branded Credit Card: RBL Bank and DMI Finance Private Limited (“DMI”), part of the DMI Group, announced a strategic agreement to provide co-branded credit cards to DMI Finance’s existing customers.This collaboration intends to increase credit card access to clients in India’s metro and non-metro cities by combining RBL Bank’s extensive credit card experience, with DMI’s proven track record of enabling digital financial inclusion at scale.The credit card will offer spend-driven perks such as expedited reward points, no-cost EMI alternatives, and discounts at popular merchants.This partnership will enhance financial inclusion in India by bringing credit card access to underserved, creditworthy individuals across the country.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Indian-origin lecturer wins Singapore Literature Prize for English fiction, ‘Nine Yard Sarees’: An Indian-origin lecturer at Nanyang Technological University has won the prestigious Singapore Literature Prize for English fiction with her debut short story collection, Nine Yard Sarees.Prasanthi Ram, 32, saw her work published in late 2023. Her collection explores the lives of a Tamil Brahmin family spread across cities like Singapore, Sydney, New York, and Connecticut.

The award for best English creative non-fiction went to Shubigi Rao, an Indian-origin artist, for her book Pulp III: An Intimate Inventory Of The Banished Book (2022). This book is the third part of her decade-long project on banned literature.