Daily GK Updates - 4th August, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. PM chaired the 30th PRAGATI interaction: Prime Minister Narendra Modi headed the 30th PRAGATI platform interaction in New Delhi. PRAGATI is the Information and communications technology (ICT) - based, multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation. In the second term of the NDA govrenment, this is the first PRAGATI interaction. In the session, PM reviewed the progress in the resolution of grievances under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban). Modi urged the officers in charge to achieve the government's objective of providing Housing for All by 2022. He also suggested improvements under the Ayushmann Bharat Scheme. 

2. Indian Army employs E cars to its Delhi officials: The Indian Army has launched an ecological initiative by employing electric cars (E-cars) for the use of Government officials in Delhi. E-cars initiative was launched by the Army in partnership with Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EECL) under the Ministry of Power.  The move comes as a solution to the worsening state of air in the capital city. Air pollution has been a major challenge in Delhi, with it crossing the danger mark often.

3. ICMR introduces 2 new TB vaccines: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) launched a trial for two new TB vaccines. This is India’s first large-scale trial. This is a large preventive TB vaccine trial. The initiative involves more than 12,000 healthy household contacts of newly diagnosed TB patients from across six states of India are set to be enrolled. Two thousand participants from each of the six states including Delhi, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana and Karnataka will enroll over the next seven to eight months. Also, seven main centres will have six sub-sites, where these trials will be conducted. The two new TB vaccines that are introduced by ICMR are: Immuvac manufactured by Cadila Pharmaceuticals and VPM 1002 manufactured by Institute of India, Pune. The medicines are to be tested with three testing phases. Based on the results the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will decide and set the price of the vaccines.

4. Mohapatra takes charge as DG of India Meteorological Department: Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, 54, took charge as the Director General (DG) of India Meteorological Department (IMD), New Delhi. He was appointed as DG by the Ministry of Personnel. He will replace K.J. Ramesh, who headed the weather department for over three years. IMD is to request the government to bring new technology for the weather forecasting and provide accurate information of weather.

Note: India Meteorological Department Formed on: 1875; Headquarters: New Delhi; Functions under: Ministry of Earth Sciences; Minister responsible: Dr. Harsh Vardhan

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. US officially withdraw from INF treaty: The US has officially withdrawn from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) treaty with Russia. The withdrawal has ended a Cold war-era missile treaty with Russia. This could start an arms race between the US and Russia, the world’s top two nuclear powers. During the Obama administration in 2014, Russia was accused of violating the agreement by testing a cruise missile in direct violation of the accord. In turn, Russia also said that the US has violated the agreement too. The US has denied the accusation.

Note: Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF): INF treaty is a Nuclear disarmament type of agreement. It was signed on December 1987 in Washington D.C. The agreement was signed by the U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev, the Soviet General Secretary with an unlimited duration. The agreement prohibits both the countries from fielding ground-launched cruise missiles that could fly between 310 and 3,400 miles. The treaty has been extremely successful in the destruction of a total of 2,692 missiles.

2. Nigeria becomes the fourth African nation to join a global coalition to protect pollinators: Nigeria became the fourth African country to join the Global Coalition of the Willing on Pollinators. Ethiopia was the first African nation to be part of this global coalition in 2017. Burundi was the second African country to join this global group. Other non-African nations such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Dominican Republic, Ireland and Mexico had joined the global group last year.

Note: Pollinator: A pollinator is an animal that causes plants to make fruit or seeds. They do this by moving pollen from one part of the flower of a plant to another part. They are biotic (Bees, hummingbirds, flies etc.) as well as an abiotic like water, air etc.

Global coalition to protect pollinators: The coalition now has 28 signatories including 17 European countries, five from Latin America and the Caribbean and four from Africa. They follow up on the findings of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) Assessment on Pollinators. The protecting pollinators will be important for addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) too.

3. Canada to create a protected marine area in Arctic region: Canada government plans to create a protected marine area in the country's Arctic region. The move is after a severe climate change that took effect three times faster than global average weather. Multiple species in the coast of Baffin Island, in Canada's northeastern Arctic archipelago are threatened by the Glacial melting and maritime traffic. The move aims to protect marine area in arctic regions and protect the populations of belugas, narwhals, walruses, seals, polar bears and thousands of other species who depend on year-round sea ice to survive. These species are now migrating, or in some cases, disappearing, In order to save various species the areas are to be planned in well protecting manner. The establishment of protected marine area would help the Canadian government to achieve its goal to protect 10% of marine and coastal regions by 2020. 

4. North Korea confirms another test of rocket launcher system: North Korea tested another multiple rocket launcher system. The country could potentially enhance the country's ability to strike targets in South Korea and US military bases. The report by Pyongyang's official Korean Central News Agency after South Korea's military detected North Korea firing projectiles twice into the sea off its eastern coast in its third round of weapons tests in just over a week.
Note: North Korea Capital: Pyongyang, Currency: North Korean won

5. MacKenzie Bezosis now the world’s third richest woman: Bloomberg report said that MacKenzie Bezos is now the world’s third-richest woman. MacKenzie is now the ex-wife of Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos.  Also, Forbes billionaire list said that after the divorce, she has become the second-largest individual shareholder of Amazon and the third wealthiest woman in the world. Jeff Bezos transferred around 19.7 million Amazon shares to MacKenzie Bezos during the divorce. This has brought Jeff Bezos' ownership stake in the company from 16% down to 12%. Jeff Bezos still remains the richest person on the planet. According to Forbes Real-Time Rankings, Jeff Bezos is worth $117.8 billion. Bill Gates, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates, found wealthier than the second-richest person.

6. Friendship day: 4 August: Friendship Day is observed on the first Sunday of August every year across the world. In 2019, Friendship Day falls on August 4. Friendship Day is a day to celebrate the special relationship between friends and cherish the lovely memories.

OTHER UPDATES:

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. RBI fines Oriental Bank Rs 1.5 cr for delay in reporting KFA fraud: Oriental Bank of Commerce said that RBI has imposed a fine of Rs 1.5 crore on it for delay in reporting fraud in the Kingfisher Airlines account. This is to inform that the RBl in exercise of powers conferred under various sections of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 has imposed an aggregate penalty of Rs 1.5 crore on the bank for failure to classify and report the account of Kingfisher Airlines Limited as fraud, the state-owned lender said in a regulatory filing.

Note: Oriental Bank of Commerce Headquarters: Gurugram; CEO: Mukesh Kumar Jain

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Mindtree appoints Cognizants Debashis Chatterjee as new CEO: Mindtree appointed S.N. Subrahmanyan as its non-executive vice-chairman. Subrahmanyan currently serves as L&T group’s managing director and CEO. Chatterjee Cognizant’s global leader for digital systems and technology practice will be the first person outside Mindtree’s seven-member founding team to be appointed as the chief executive officer. He is the third person to take up the top job since the company launched 20 years ago. He is appointed till 1 August 2024.

2. Edelweiss Tokio Life partners with Mobikwik to offer miniature insurance: Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance partnered with payments platform Mobikwik to sell 'miniature' insurance plans. Sumit Rai, MD & CEO said, Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance will cover Rs 1 lakh, 3 lakh and 5 lakh with a premium of Rs 148, 443 and 738 per annum. The life insurer offers pre-approved sum assured basis customer information already with MobiKwik.

Note: Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance Founded: 2009, Headquarters location: Mumbai, Parent organization: Edelweiss Capital

Daily GK Updates - 3rd August, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. India to conduct 1st National Time Release Study for efficient trade flow: The Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, as part of its strategic commitment to improving global trade, is conducting India’s first national Time Release Study (TRS). The exercise will be institutionalized on an annual basis. This initiative will help India maintain the upward trajectory on Ease of Doing Business, particularly on the Trading Across Borders indicator which measures the efficiency of the cross border trade ecosystem. The TRS is an internationally recognized tool advocated by the World Customs Organization to measure the efficiency and effectiveness of international trade flows.

Note: World Customs Organization Headquarter:  Brussels, Belgium; Established on: 26 January 1952.

2. Maharashtra: 1st State to adopt Digital fingerprint and iris scanning system: Maharashtra became the first state to adopt a digital fingerprint and iris scanning system to aid police investigations. The Automated Multi-modal Biometric Identification System (AMBIS) adopted by the Maharashtra Police will soon be replicated across the country, with the state government working with the National Crime Records Bureau in New Delhi to create standards to be used by other state police forces.

Note: Maharashtra CM: Devendra Fadnavis; Governor: CH Vidyasagar Rao; Capital: Mumbai.

3. Gujarat CM launches ‘Vhali Dikri Yojna’: Gujarat Chief Minister has launched the ‘Vhali Dikri Yojna’ from his home town Rajkot, Gujarat. The scheme for the welfare of the girl child. According to the scheme, the State Government will pay Rs. 4,000 to every girl child at the time of admission to Standard 4th, Rs. 6,000 at the time of taking admission to Standard IX, Rs. 1-lakh at the time of taking admission for higher education at the age of 18 and another Rs. 1-lakh at the time of marriage. It is a statewide cash incentive scheme for every girl child born in Gujarat.

Note: Gujarat Chief Minister: Vijay Rupani; Governor of Gujarat: Acharya Dev

4. Giriraj Prasad Gupta appointed as new CGA: Giriraj Prasad Gupta, Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) officer, took over as the Controller General of Accounts (CGA). Gupta has served in various positions in Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), ministry of rural development, and ministry of finance. Gupta also worked as the Director of National Institute of Financial Management (NIFM). Gupta succeeds Anthony Lianzuala as the new Controller General of Accounts (CGA) under the Finance Ministry.

Note: Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs: Nirmala Sitharaman.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. President Kovind inaugurates exhibitions on M. Gandhi and Khadi in Gambia: President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated exhibitions on Mahatma Gandhi and Khadi at the "Ebunjan Theatre" in the Gambia to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of the Mahatma Gandhi.

Note: President of Gambia: Adama Barrow; Capital: Banjul.

2. Russia to host 45th WorldSkills International Competition in 2019: The WorldSkills International Competition 2019 (Olympics for Skills) will be held in Kazan, Russia (22 to 27th August 2019). The competition will bring together Competitors, Experts, and industry, education, and government leaders from around the world. The Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India has announced 48-member Indian contingent to represent the country at the biggest showcase of skills excellence in the world. The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the aegis of MSDE has been leading India’s delegation at this biennial event since 2011. The programme will be participated by more than 1,500 competitors from 60 countries in 55 skill competitions.

3. 4th South Asian Speaker’s Summit to be held in the Maldives: The 4th South Asian Speaker’s Summit will be held in Male, Maldives (from 1st to 2nd September 2019). The theme of the event is “Achieving Sustainable Development Goals”. A parliamentary delegation led by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will represent India.

Note: The fourth South Asian Speaker’s Summit will be jointly organised by Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Maldivian Parliament.

4. Deep Ocean Mission to commence from 31st October 2019: The Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) to be led by the Union Earth Sciences Ministry will commence from 31st October 2019. The mission has received a go-ahead from the government. Expenditure plans will be drawn and circulated to various institutions affiliated to the Ministry for executing programmes. The Union Ministry of Earth Sciences had unveiled a blueprint of the programme in July 2018. A major thrust of the mission will be looking for metals and minerals.

5. US announce fresh 10 per cent tariff on Chinese imports: President Donald Trump has announced that the US will impose an additional 10% tariff on 300 billion US Dollars in Chinese imports. The US President accused China of not being serious in arriving at the trade deal and failing to keep its promise to buy more American agricultural products. The new tariff, in addition to the 25% on goods worth 250 billion US dollars that was previously in place, would come into effect from 1st of next month. Since the commencement of trade war last year China and the US have so far hit each other with punitive tariffs covering more than USD 360 billion in two-way trade.

6. The Netherlands bans face-covering clothing: The Netherlands banned face-covering clothing, such as a burqa or niqab, in public buildings and on transport as a contentious law on the garment came into force. Between 100 and 400 women are estimated to wear a burqa or niqab in the European country of 17 million people. The legislation - which was passed in June last year after more than a decade of political debate on the subject - also applies to other face coverings such as full-face helmets, balaclavas or ski mask.

7. World Breastfeeding Week Has Observe: The Food and Nutrition Board, Ministry of Women and Child Development, is organizing several activities on the theme “Empower Parents, Enable Breastfeeding” during the World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) being observed from 1st to 7th August 2019. World Breastfeeding Week, which is being observed till 7th of the month, aims to create awareness among parents about breastfeeding, the importance of initiation, exclusive breastfeeding, and adequate and appropriate complementary feeding.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. Lionel Messi suspended from Argentina for 3 months: Soccer body CONMEBOL suspended Lionel Messi from international matches for three months because of accusations of corruption he made at the latest Copa America. The South American body also fined the superstar in USD 50,000 for his comments after Argentina’s 2-1 win against Chile in the third-place playoff of the tournament.

2. Aishwary wins gold at Sardar Sajjan Singh Sethi memorial shooting: Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar (18-years) clinched a yellow metal in Men's Rifle 3 Positions (3P) at 12th Sardar Sajjan Singh Sethi Memorial Masters competition in New Delhi. He posted a comfortable victory with a score of 459.9 and a class 10.7 in the end. Tinjit Dhanota (Punjab) and Esha Singh (Telengana) won the Men's and Women's 10 metres Air Pistol gold medals. India’s most accomplished 3P shooter Sanjeev Rajput had to be satisfied with silver, finishing with a score of 455.5, a clear 4.4 behind Aishwary.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. SBI, Shanghai becomes first Indian bank to link up with CNAPS: The State Bank of India's (SBI) Shanghai branch is now connected to China's National Advance Payment System (CNAPS). SBI is the only Indian bank to have obtained the license to do business in local currency and also inducted to the CNAPS by the People's Bank of China (PBOC). SBI Shanghai can also offer the real-time transfer of local funds within China by routing them through the PBOC. The CNAPS, launched in 2008 by People's Bank of China (PBOC) provides real-time settlement services for all payments.

Note: Chairperson of SBI: Rajnish Kumar; Headquarter: Mumbai; Founded: 1 July 1955.

2. RBI allows Bank of China to offer regular banking services in India: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) allowed "Bank of China" to offer regular banking services in the country. Banks falling under this schedule have to adhere to the norms of the RBI. 'Bank of China Limited' has been included in the 2nd Schedule to the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

3. RBI fines PNB Rs 50 lakh: RBI has imposed a penalty of Rs 50 lakh on Punjab National Bank (PNB) for the delay in reporting of fraud observed from the fraud monitoring report-1 submitted by Punjab National Bank on July 10, 2018, in the account of Kingfisher Airlines Limited.

Note: Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of PNB: Sunil Mehta.

AWARDS AND HONOURS 

1. President Kovind honoured with the highest award of Republic of Guinea: President Ram Nath Kovind has been awarded the National Order of Merit by the President of Guinea for his exceptional contribution to the advancement of overall relations and development of mutual cooperation between India and Guinea and for promoting friendship and partnership between the people of both the countries.

Note: President of Guinea: Alpha Conde; Capital: Conakry; Currency: Guinean franc.

2. Indian-origin doctor wins Miss England 2019: Bhasha Mukherjee, a 23-year-old Indian origin doctor was crowned Miss England 2019.Bhasha holds two different medical degrees, has an IQ of 146 and is fluent in 5 different languages. As a winner of Miss England, she will be entered into the Miss World contest 2019.

Daily GK Updates - 2nd August, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. KABIL set up to ensure the supply of critical Minerals to the Indian domestic market: A joint venture company Khanij Bidesh India limited (KABIL) has been set up with the participation of three Central Public Sector Enterprises, CPSEs to ensure supply of critical Minerals to Indian domestic market. These CPSEs are National Aluminium Company Limited, Hindustan Copper Limited and Mineral Exploration Company limited. The agreement was signed in the presence of Minister of Coal and Mines Prahalad Joshi in New Delhi. The newly set up company will ensure supply of Lithium and Cobalt which is available in less quantity in the country.

2. BIS to set up Pashmina testing centre in Leh: Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in collaboration with Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) will work together to promote the pashmina products at the high-level market for the proper value of this fine product of pashmina (Lena-Ladakhi). Ladakh region and parts of Himachal and Kashmir have world-class Pashmina production.

Note: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national Standards Body of India working under the aegis of Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Government of India. It also works as WTO-TBT enquiry point for India; Bureau of Indian Standards Director General: Surina Rajan.

3. Ministry of I&B launches a competition for designing Postage Stamp: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has launched a competition for designing a Postage Stamp along with the First Day Cover to commemorate Golden Jubilee edition of International Film Festival of India (IFFI). An interested person may log in to www.mygov.in (MyGov platform) to participate in the competition from 1st August to 15th August 2019. The winner will receive a Certificate of appreciation and travel and hospitality for 2 nights and 3 days to become a part of 50th IFFI. IFFI showcases a collage of the best of contemporary and classic films from around the globe. Golden Jubilee edition of International Film Festival of India will be organised from 20th-28th November 2019 at Goa.

Note: International Film Festival of India (IFFI) started way back in 1952, is an ‘A’ grade film festival accredited to the International Federation of Film Producers’ Associations (FIAPF) and is one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in Asia. IFFI is organised by the Directorate of Film Festivals, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), Government of Goa.

4. One Nation-one Ration Card scheme implemented on a pilot basis in four States: The Union Government has launched the One Nation-One Ration Card scheme on a pilot basis in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat. Families who have food security cards can buy subsidized rice and wheat from any ration shop in these states. Their ration cards should be linked with Aadhar Number to avail this service.

Note: The Union Government plans to extend the One nation one ration card scheme to all the states by August 2020 to enable the portability of the food security card; Minister of Food Processing Industries: Harsimrat Kaur Badal.

5. West Bengal launches awareness campaign ‘Save Green, Stay Clean’: The West Bengal Government has launched an awareness campaign ‘Save Green, Stay Clean’ for preserving the greenery and keeping the environment clean. The State Government will distribute more than 1 lakh saplings throughout the state for spreading of greenery.

Note: CM of West Bengal: Mamta Banerjee; Governor: Jagdeep Dhankar.

6. 143rd birth anniversary of freedom fighter Pingali Venkayya: 143rd birth anniversary of freedom fighter Pingali Venkayya celebrates on 2nd of August. Pingali Venkayya, a freedom fighter and the designer of the flag on which the Indian national flag was based was born on this day in 1876, near Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh. Venkayya's design for the National Flag was finally approved by Mahatama Gandhi in a Congress meeting in Vijayawada in 1921. A postage stamp was issued to commemorate him in 2009.

7. Free electricity for Delhiites using up to 200 units: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced free electricity for people consuming up to 200 units under a domestic connection(from 1st August 2019.) In Delhi, people who consume up to 200 units will not have to pay electricity bills. Those consuming 201-400 units of electricity will get about 50% subsidy.

8. Guruprasad Mohapatra takes charge as DPIIT secretary: IAS Officer Guruprasad Mohapatra assumed charge as the secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. Prior to taking over as secretary of DPIIT, he served as chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI).  Mohapatra replaces Ramesh Abhishek, who has retired.

9. Ravi Capoor assumes Charge as Secretary Textiles: Ravi Capoor, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, assumed charge of the office of Secretary, Ministry of Textiles in New Delhi. Ravi Capoor has vast experience of working in international agencies like the World Bank, European Union, United Nations, Department for International Development in the Primary Education Project with Government of India.

10. IIT-KGP researchers develop tech for solid waste management: A research team at IIT Kharagpur has developed a technology which can generate energy from solid waste with high moisture content. The new technology Hydro Thermal Carbonization (HTC) can convert municipal solid waste to biofuel, soil amendment and absorbents. These processes require high energy input to combust municipal solid waste generated in India which has high moisture content due to tropical weather, open collection systems and mixed waste. 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. India, UK launch clean air initiative in Bengaluru: The Innovating for Clean Air (IfCA), is a UK-India joint initiative providing Indian and UK stakeholders opportunities to test interventions related to air quality and EV integration, was launched in Bengaluru. This initiative provides a unique measurement system for air quality by integrating satellite and sensor data, and helping to support India's transition to electric vehicles". The programme is led by Innovate UK - part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

2. Atish Dabholkar appointed as the new director of ICTP: Atish Dabholkar, a theoretical physicist from India, has been appointed as the new director of Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Trieste, Italy. He will succeed Fernando Quevedo, who has led the centre since 2009.

3. President Kovind reaches Guinea: President Ram Nath Kovind has reached the Guinea capital, Conakry on the last leg of his three West African nation visit to Benin, Gambia and Guinea. Mr. Kovind was accorded a warm welcome by President of Guinea Alpha Conde and officials of Indian embassy on his arrival at Conakry International Airport. Guinea is a developing country in the tropical southwestern part of West Africa at the Atlantic Ocean. This is the first-ever state visit by an Indian President to Guinea. During the visit, president conferred with the national order of merit, it is the highest award of guinea by the president Alpha Conde.

Note: Guinea Capital: Conakry; Currency: Guinean franc (GNF); Prime Minister: Ibrahima Kassory Fofana

4. Saudi women can now travel without male guardian's approval: According to official gazette of Saudi Arabia Umm Al Qura, Saudi will allow women to obtain passports and travel abroad without approval from a male "guardian". A passport will be granted to any Saudi national who submits the application. The regulation will be applicable to women over the age of 21 years. Women's rights activists have campaigned for decades against the guardianship system. The decision comes amid a wide-ranging liberalisation drive spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

OTHER UPDATES:

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

1. Crisil cuts India's GDP growth forecast to 6.9% for FY 2019-20: Ratings agency CRISIL has cut its forecast for India's GDP growth by 20 basis points for FY 2019-20. It has lowered India's GDP growth to 6.9% from 7.1%.

Note: MD & CEO of CRISIL: Ashu Suyash.

2. India Slips to 7th Spot in Global GDP Rankings of 2018: World Bank: According to the World Bank’s Report, India has been pushed to the 7th place in the global GDP rankings in 2018. In 2017, India had emerged as the 6th largest economy. The US remains the top economy with a GDP of USD 20.5 trillion in 2018. China was the second-largest economy with USD 13.6 trillion, while Japan took third place with USD 5 trillion. India’s GDP was at USD 2.7 trillion in 2018, while UK and France were at USD 2.8 trillion. India still remains the fastest-growing major economy in the world.

Note: Gross domestic product (GDP) is the market value of all final goods and services from a nation in a given year. Countries are sorted by nominal GDP estimates from financial and statistical institutions, which are calculated at market or government official exchange rates.

AWARDS AND HONOURS 

1. Ravish Kumar wins Ramon Magsaysay award 2019: Indian journalist Ravish Kumar has been awarded the 2019 Ramon Magsaysay Awardfor “harnessing journalism to give voice to the voiceless”.

The other winners of the award are: Ko Swe Win (Myanmar): He is a human rights defender and the chief editor of Myanmar Now news agency.

Angkhana Neelapajit (Thailand) is human rights activist and a leading human rights defender in Southern Thailand.

Raymundo Pujante Cayabyab (Philippines) is a musician who has served in the music faculty of the University of the Philippines and has conducted free workshops for thousands of students all across the country.

Kim Jong-Ki (South Korea) is an activist working with violence and mental health issues in youth and a South Korean agrarian movement leader who pioneered wasteland cultivation, and strove to demonstrate through his work that life as a farmer can be fulfilling and productive.

Note: The Magsaysay award was started in 1957 and celebrates the memory and leadership example of the former Philippine president Ramon del Fierro Magsaysay. It is given every year to individuals or organisations in Asia who manifest the same selfless service and transformative influence that ruled the life of the late and beloved Filipino leader. Ramon Magsaysay Award is regarded as the Asian version of the Nobel Prize. The awardees are presented with a medallion with a right side facing profile image of Ramon Magsaysay along with a certificate.

OBITUARIES

1. Russi Taylor, voice of Minnie Mouse, passes away: Veteran actor Russi Taylor, who voiced Disney's Minnie Mouse for more than 30 years, has passed away. The artiste also lent her voice to roles on other classic TV animated series like "TaleSpin", "The Little Mermaid", "Buzz Lightyear of Star Command" and "Kim Possible". Taylor was named a Disney Legend in 2008.

Daily GK Updates - 1st August, 2019

NATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Dharmendra Pradhan launches Atal Community Innovation Centre: Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Steel has launched Atal Community Innovation Centre (ACIC) in New Delhi, to encourage the spirit of innovation at the community level. This initiative aim is to provide solution-driven design thinking to serve society.  Atal Innovation Mission has a key role to perform in order to achieve the target of five trillion dollar economy by 2025.

2. Lok Sabha to become paperless from next session: Lok Sabha Speaker has announced that the Lower House will become paperless from the next session. This move will save crores of rupees to the exchequer.

Note: Speaker of Lok Sabha: Om Birla.

3. Tarun Chaudhri becomes first IAF pilot to complete wingsuit skydive jump: Wing Commander Tarun Chaudhri has become the first Indian Air Force pilot to perform a wingsuit skydive jump. Chaudhri achieved the feat during the Kargil Diwas celebrations at Air Force Station in Jodhpur. The jump was accomplished from a Mi-17 helicopter from an altitude of 8,500 feet. This is the first IAF Wing Suit Skydive Jump by a pilot who has flown and captained the same type of helicopter.

Note: Chief of the Air Staff of IAF: BS Dhanoa.

4. BJP’s Vishweshwar Kageri is the new Karnataka Speaker: Six-time MLA Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri was unanimously elected as the Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. The Opposition Congress and the Janata Dal (Secular) did not field any candidate. The post fell vacant after KR Ramesh Kumar resigned as the Speaker of the Assembly shortly after the BJP government won the trust vote.

Note: The Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly is the presiding officer of the Legislative Assembly of Karnataka, the main law-making body for the Indian state of Karnataka. He is elected by the members of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly.

5. Mobile library service launched by Delhi Public Library: Mr Prahlad Singh Patel (Culture and Tourism Minister) has flagged off mobile library bus service in New Delhi. The objective of the mobile library bus service to reach out to readers in Delhi, especially those in slums, resettlement colonies and rural areas. The five-bus mobile library service was launched under the "Ghar Ghar Dastak Ghar Ghar Pustak" Scheme of the Delhi Public Library (DPL). These buses have been procured under CSR (corporate social responsibility) assistance from the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

6. J&K: Governor admin approves operationalisation of 24x7 Free Ambulance Service: Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) Governor’s Administration has approved operationalisation of the 102-108 Toll-Free Ambulance Service in the state. The State Government has decided to bring a fleet of 416 Ambulances under the ambit of this service, which will be operationalised through a centralised Call Centre working on a 24x7 basis. The project will be operational by 15th October 2019. It will provide round the clock transportation to the patients requiring immediate medical care especially critical, Trauma, accidental victims, pregnant women & sick children. 102 Ambulance Service will provide free of cost service to the targeted population.

7. Rakesh Asthana given additional charge of NCB: The Appointments Committee on Cabinet has given the additional charge of the post of Director General Narcotics Control Bureau to Rakesh Asthana. He is presently serving as the Director General of Civil Aviation Security.

8. IIT Hyderabad develops, eco-friendly solar cells using 'kumkum dye': Scientists at IIT Hyderabad have developed low-cost, environment-friendly solar cells by employing an off-the-shelf dye used to make kumkum or vermilion. The dye-sensitised solar cell (DSSC) is based on New Fuchsin (NF) dye with aqueous electrolyte and platinum-free counter electrodes, according to the research published in the Solar Energy journal.

Note: Headquarters National Institute of Solar Energy: Gwal Pahari, Gurugram.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

1. Cabinet approves ISRO Technical Liaison Unit at Moscow: Cabinet has approved the setting up of ISRO Technical Liaison Unit (ITLU) at Moscow in Russia. The unit will collaborate with Space agencies and industries in Russia and neighbouring countries for mutually synergetic outcomes. ITLU will support the ongoing bilateral programmes of cooperation in space technology and will act on behalf of ISRO.

Note: Chairman of ISRO: Dr K. Sivan; Headquarters: Bengaluru; Established: 1969.

2. India extends $500,000 assistance to Gambia: During the President Ram Nath Kovind's visit to Gambia, India has promised to extend an assistance of USD 500,000 to Gambia. The assistance will contribute in supporting the skill development and cottage industry projects in the West African country. India has also received an instrument of ratification of the International Solar Allianceframework agreement from Gambia. The two countries has also signed a MoU on Cooperation in the field of Traditional Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy.

Note: President of Gambia: Adama Barrow; Capital: Banjul.

3. Foreign Ministers from South East Asia attend 52nd ASEAN summit: Foreign Ministers from South East Asia are attending the 52^nd ASEAN summit in Bangkok, Thailand (30 July - 3 August 2019). Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, H.E. Mr Don Pramudwinai chaired the 52nd ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) plenary session. The annual meeting opened with a call from the host Thailand for deeper integration to expand trade and bolster prosperity in the region amid rising global challenges.

Note: The AMM was first held in 1967 and is currently held back-to-back with PMCs with Dialogue Partners and External Parties. ASEAN and its Dialogue Partners also discussed preparations for the 35th ASEAN Summit, which will be held later in November 2019.

4. London named the world’s best city for students: UK's capital London has named the world’s best city for students for the 2nd consecutive year, beating Tokyo and Melbourne that came 2nd and 3rd, respectively, on a new worldwide ranking. According to the rankings, India’s best student city is Bengaluru (81st), followed by Mumbai (85th), Delhi at 113th and Chennai at 115th, out of a total of 120th cities in the list. The 'QS Best Student Cities Ranking' compiled by global education consultancy QS Quacquarelli Symonds highlights each city's performance across six categories - the number of top-ranked universities; the proportion of a city's population.

5. Indian tourists exempted from visa fees by Sri Lankan govt: India is among 48 countries whose citizens have been exempted from visa fees for tourism purposes by the Sri Lankan government. According to Sri Lankan tourism minister John Amaratunga, visa fees (20 to 40 US dollars) will not be charged for grant of one-month visa for tourism. The tourists can apply for electronic travel authorisations online or apply for visa on arrival. Sri Lankan tourism has been impacted after the Easter Sunday attacks but the tourism authorities have claimed that there is a revival seen since last month.

Note: Tourism is Sri Lanka’s third-largest and fastest-growing source of foreign currency last year, accounting for almost 5% of the gross domestic product in 2018.

OTHER UPDATES:

SPORTS

1. IFSG appoints Justice A.K. Sikri as ombudsman: The Indian Federation of Sports Gaming (IFSG), country’s self-regulatory industry body for the online fantasy sports gaming sector, announced the appointment of Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri as its ombudsman and ethics officer. Justice A.K. Sikri will be responsible for investigating queries/complaints raised by the users of the online fantasy sports gaming platforms.

2. Ellyse Perry becomes first cricketer to reach 1000 runs, 100 wickets in T20Is: Australia all-rounder Ellyse Perry became the first cricketer of either gender to reach the rare milestone of scoring 1000 runs and taking 100 wickets in the T20 format.

BANKING AND FINANCE

1. Atanu Chakraborty nominated on RBI Central Board: The Union Government has nominated Atanu Chakraborty(Economic Affairs Secretary) as a Director on the Central Board of Directors of Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Currently, he is a Secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance. Shri Rajiv Kumar (new Finance Secretary) is also a Director on the Central Board of Directors of Reserve Bank of India.

Note: The central board of directors is the main committee of the central bank. The RBI has four regional representations: North in New Delhi, South in Chennai, East in Kolkata and West in Mumbai.

2. India Post Payments Bank to be converted into SFB: The Postal Department has decided to convert the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) into a small finance bank (SFB), enabling it to offer small loans to customers. Besides, the department also looks to open one crore accounts for IPPB in 100 days. According to the Postal Department statement, the decisions were taken at the annual Heads of Circles Conference held at Srinagar.

                                      
AWARDS AND HONOURS

1. Kapil Dev honoured with Bharat Gaurav Award: India's first World Cup-winning cricket captain Kapil Dev (60 years) has been conferred with the East Bengal's highest honour, ‘Bharat Gaurav’. Kapil had signed for East Bengal on June 22, 1992, and played for 27 minutes six days later as a substitute forward in an exhibition match against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan. Bhaichung Bhutia honoured with "identifying and nurturing the icon' award, while former India captains, Manoranjan Bhattacharyaand Bhaskar Ganguly have given Lifetime Achievement awards. The club also honoured legendary PK Banerjee with the 'Coach of coaches' award, while Laldanmawia Ralte was given 'Best Footballer of the Year' award.

Note: East Bengal club officially started the centenary celebrations on its foundation day (1st August) with a glittering ceremony at the Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata.

2. Ruhan Rajput honoured with 'Entrepreneur of the Year Award, 2019': Ruhan Rajput, a renowned entrepreneur, co-founder and Director of Einfolge Technologies Pvt Ltd was awarded the prestigious Entrepreneur Award 2019 at New Delhi. Ruhan was acknowledged for his contributions and achievements in the business industry. His company is one of the leading players in the knowledge process outsourcing (KPO) industry. The company operates to provide comprehensive research, analysis and expert solutions to its clients.

3. DD News channel bagged Champions of Empathy Award: DD News is awarded with "Champions of Empathy Award" for spreading awareness about hepatitis. Director General of DD News, Mayank Agrawal received the Award from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. DD News to aware people about various diseases and preventives by showing health related programmes, reports and policies that help to spread awareness towards health in society.

OBITUARIES

1. Former cricketer Malcolm Nash passes away: Former cricketer Malcolm Nash passed away. He was Glamorgan's legendary left-arm bowler who took 993 first-class wickets in a 17-year career between 1966 and 1983. He became famous after Garfield Sobers hit him for six sixes in an over.

2. Founder of Cafe Coffee Day V G Siddhartha passes away: The founder of cafe chain Cafe Coffee Day (CCD) V G Siddharthahas passed away, as he committed suicide. The body of Mr. Siddhartha was found in the Netravati river in Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. He served as the Chairman and Managing Director of CCD. Non-Executive Independent Director S.V. Ranganath has been named the interim chairman.

Note: Cafe Coffee Day (CCD) is an Indian cafe chain owned by Coffee Day Global Limited, a subsidiary of Coffee Day Enterprises Limited. Cafe Coffee Day has also expanded outside India with its outlets in Austria (Vienna), Czech Republic, Egypt and Nepal. As of July 2019, there are 1,843 outlets across 28 states of India.