Daily GK Update- 6th June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Union Minister flags off maiden International Cruise Vessel, MV Empress: Union Minister of Ports, Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the maiden International Cruise Vessel named 'MV Empress' from Chennai to Sri Lanka in Chennai on June 5, 2023. It was built at a cost of 17.21 crore rupees. This marks the beginning of the international cruise tourism terminal in Chennai. For this cruise service, an MoU was signed in 2022 between Chennai Port and M/S Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd to start domestic and international cruise services. 

 

2. Maharashtra CM launches Asia's largest cluster development scheme: Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde has launched Asia's largest, ambitious and historic cluster development scheme in Thane. This scheme was conceptualized for the collective redevelopment of unauthorized and official dangerous buildings after the collapse of the Sairaj Building in Thane. The redeveloped township plan includes well-equipped health, educational, sports, recreational, parking, mandi, and civic facilities. The project will be executed by the CIDCO.

 

3. Indian Navy successfully carries out underwater test: The Indian Navy and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) have successfully engaged and destroyed an underwater target using 'Varunastra' Heavy Weight Torpedo (HWT). It is a significant milestone in the Indian Navy and DRDO for accurate delivery of ordnance on target in the underwater domain. The Indian Navy and Naval Science and Technology Laboratory (NSTL) of DRDO developed 'Varunastra', an advanced Heavy Weight anti-submarine torpedo.

 

4. Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan launches Kerala Fibre Optic Network project: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched the Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON) project at Shankaranarayanan Thambi Hall of the State Legislative Assembly. Aim: To ensure internet facilities for all at affordable rates in the State This project will bridge the digital divide in the society. During the first phase of the KFON initiative, Internet facilities will be provided to thirty thousand government institutions and fourteen thousand houses in the State.

 

5. NHAI’s first ‘Sustainability Report for FY 2021-22’: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has released NHAI’s first ‘Sustainability Report for FY2021-22’, which covers NHAI’s governance structure, stakeholders, environment, and social responsibility initiatives. From FY2019-20 to 2021-22, direct emissions were reduced by 18.44% and 9.49% due to less fuel consumption Green House Gas Emissions saw a decline of 9.7% in FY2020-21 and 2% in FY2021-22 Similarly in operations, energy intensity in Giga Joules/km reduced by 27% in FY2021-22

 

6. PM Modi launches schemes for wetland, mangrove conservation: PM Modi launched two schemes 'Amrit Dharohar' and 'MISHTI' to revive the country's wetlands and mangroves. Amrit Dharohar: To ensure the conservation of the existing Ramsar sites through public participation These sites will become the center of eco-tourism and a source of green jobs for thousands of people

MISHTI:

·       It refers to Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes

·       It will help revive and protect the mangrove ecosystem in the country

 

7. National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 2023 released: The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 2023 were released by Minister of State for Education and External Affairs, Rajkumar Ranjan Singh. The latest rankings include four categories: Overall, Colleges, Universities, and Research Institutions. The subject domains now consist of Engineering, Management, Pharmacy, Law, Medical, Architecture and Planning, Dental, and a new addition — Agriculture and Allied Sectors. IIT Madras has emerged as the top college under the overall category for the fifth consecutive year and the best engineering institute for the eighth consecutive year. Under the best university category, IISc Bangalore has topped the university rankings followed by JNU and Jamia Millia Islamia. Three private universities have also made it to the list. Meanwhile, AIIMS Delhi too, retains the number one position under the medical colleges category.

 

8. India’s first zero-carbon village being developed in Bhiwandi: Union Minister of State Kapil Patil announced that India’s first carbon-neutral village is being developed in Bhiwandi Taluka of Thane district, Maharashtra. This initiative aims to minimize carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices for a cleaner and greener environment. Along with the carbon-neutral village, 121 tribal villages are being developed as model villages These model villages serve as examples for sustainable development, showcasing effective infrastructure, amenities, and improved living conditions. In the Bhiwandi Lok Sabha Constituency, around 1,75,000 farmers are benefiting from the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Yojana. Earlier, Palli village in Jammu had become the first carbon-neutral panchayat in the country.

 

9. Jitendra Singh inaugurates ‘Lavender Festival’ in J&K: Union Minister of State, Jitendra Singh has inaugurated a two-day lavender festival at Bhaderwah, Jammu & Kashmir. The festival has been organized by the CSIR-IIIM and is part of the institution’s ‘One Week One Lab Campaign’. It showcases the remarkable progress made in lavender cultivation and its impact on the local community. He also highlighted that Bhaderwah has emerged as the Lavender capital of India and agri StartUp destination. The CSIR-Aroma Mission is a flagship project of CSIR under which Lavender cultivation is being promoted in the temperate regions of J&K The CSIR-IIIM has provided more than 30 lakh free lavender plants to farmers in different districts of Jammu and Kashmir.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Dennis Francis elected 78th UNGA president: A citizen of Trinidad and Tobago (TT), Dennis Francis created history by becoming the first TT citizen to be elected as the President of the UN General Assembly (UNGA). Francis, who has served in the diplomatic service for over 40 years, was nominated on April 1 and faced no opposition in the election. He will serve as the 78th President of the UNGA. The current General Assembly President, Csaba Kőrösi of Hungary, noted that his successor would bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the post.

 

2. 6 June – UN Russian Language Day: United Nations celebrates UN Russian Language Day every year on 6 June, which was established by UNESCO in 2010. This day aligns with the birthday of Alexander Pushkin, a renowned Russian poet known as the founder of the modern Russian language. The purpose of this initiative is to promote equal recognition and appreciation for all six official languages of the UN: English, Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, and French. Each language is given the opportunity to find its own unique approach and develop its own program of activities for the day, including inviting famous poets and writers and developing informational and thematic materials.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Max Verstappen wins Spanish Grand Prix 2023: Max Verstappen (Red Bull Driver) has clinched the pole position at the Spanish Grand Prix 2023 extending his lead in the Formula One championship by 53 points. Red Bull's dominance continued as they celebrated their seventh consecutive triumph of the season. While Mercedes driver, Lewis Hamilton (seven-time world champion) has secured the second spot for Mercedes, followed by George Russell (Mercedes driver).

 

2. Aravindh Chithambaram wins 23rd Dubai Open 2023: GM Aravindh Chithambaram (India) won the 23rd Dubai Open 2023 for the second consecutive year, at the 23rd edition of the Dubai Chess Open, organized by Dubai Chess & Culture Club. A total of 172 participants (in category A) from more than 46 different countries participated in this tournament. A total of 9 rounds were played in Swiss format. He became one of only two players to win back-to-back championships in the history of the Dubai Open Chess Tournament.

 

3. Manisha wins Gold, Reetika clinches Silver at Bishkek Ranking Series: Manisha won India’s first gold medal in the women’s 65 kg category at the Ranking Series in Kyrgyzstan. Reetika won silver in the women’s 72kg event and Sarita Mor won bronze in the women’s 59kg.

While Manjeet won bronze in Greco-Roman wrestling on 4 May 2023. Manisha won four matches in the four rounds she completed which helped her win the gold medal.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI Governor launches Financial Inclusion Dashboard 'ANTARDRIHSTI': RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das launched a Financial Inclusion Dashboard 'ANTARDRIHSTI' to provide the required insight to assess and monitor the progress of financial inclusion by capturing relevant parameters. It will enable the ability to gauge extent of financial exclusion at granular levels across the country. Presently, the dashboard is intended for internal use in the RBI. It will further facilitate greater financial inclusion through a multi-stakeholder approach.

 

2. RBI panel proposes on customer service send out wake-up call to banks: RBI has set up a committee for Review of Customer Service Standards in RBI Regulated Entities, under the chairmanship of BP Kanungo.

Suggestions:

·       The operations of accounts should not be stopped pending periodic KYC updates

·       The committee has also suggested measures for the benefit of pensioners

·       There should be a time limit for the return of property documents to borrowers after the closure of the loan account, failing which a penalty should be imposed on the lender

 

3. BoB launches facility for cash withdrawals using UPI on its ATMs: Bank of Baroda has launched Interoperable Cardless Cash Withdrawal (ICCW) facility, in which a customer can withdraw cash using UPI from the bank's ATMs. It would be the first public sector bank to launch this service. BoB customers as well as customers of other participating issuer banks that use BHIM UPI, Bob World UPI, or any other UPI application enabled for ICCW on their mobile phone can withdraw cash from a Bank of Baroda ATM without using their debit card.

 

4. NSE, BSE introduces enhanced surveillance for micro-small companies: BSE and NSE have introduced an enhanced surveillance mechanism (ESM) for companies that have a market cap of less than ₹500 crore, which came into force on June 5. SEBI and exchanges in a joint meeting have decided to introduce the ESM framework for "micro-small" companies. Aim: To curb volatility in small-cap counters The parameters for shortlisting the securities under the ESM framework include high-low price variation and close-to-close price variation.

 

5. RBI fines Indian Overseas Bank Rs 2.2 crore for multiple violations: Reserve Bank of India has imposed a penalty of ₹2.2 crore on Indian Overseas Bank for violation of various regulatory norms. The breach pertains to guidelines on disclosure of NPA (non-performing assets) divergence, interest rates on deposits, and advisory on ‘Man in the Middle (MiTM) attacks in ATMs. RBI had conducted the Statutory Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation as per Indian Overseas Bank’s financial position as on March 2021, wherein it found contravention of certain provisions. The public sector bank failed to make a minimum mandatory transfer of a sum equivalent to 25 percent of its disclosed profit for FY21 to its reserve fund. Further, there was a significant divergence between the NPAs, as reported by it and as assessed by the inspection, and the bank offered interest on deposits of non-individual constituents at rates applicable to senior/super senior citizens, in certain instances. The lender also did not implement control measures for ATMs relating to end-to-end encryption of communication between the ATM terminal/PC and the ATM Switch, within the timelines prescribed. As a result, the central bank issued two show-cause notices to the bank and decided that the charges were substantiated after considering the submissions made by the bank.

 

6. SBI launches Project Kuber in Bengaluru: The State Bank of India has launched Project Kuber having four transaction banking hubs and one corporate salary package hub in Bengaluru. The objective is to source, facilitate, and cater to the various banking needs of customers, and these hubs will help increase SBI’s market share in liability products. The Transaction Banking Hubs will provide a range of services to both corporate and non-corporate clients. These services include account opening, onboarding on SBI’s digital platforms, and catering to payment and collection-related requirements. The hubs will serve as a one-stop destination for digital banking services such as Yono Business, e-Payments, Cash Management Products, and more.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. President Droupadi Murmu conferred the highest civilian award of Suriname: Suriname President, Chandrikapersad Santokhi has conferred Suriname's highest civilian honor, The Grand Order of the Chain of Yellow Star, to President of India Droupadi Murmu. She is the first Indian to receive this award. During her visit to Suriname, both countries signed MoUs in the fields of health, agriculture, and capacity building. These MoUs include a Joint Work Plan for Cooperation in the Field of Agriculture and Allied Sectors for the period of 2023-2027.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Veteran Actress Sulochana Didi passes away: Veteran Actress Sulochana Didi passed away at the age of 96. Sulochana Didi is famous for her role as a Mother in Bollywood. Sulochana Latkar is popularly known as Sulochana didi in Bollywood and Marathi film industry. Chimukala Sansar released in 1943 was her first movie. Sulochana Didi has worked in more than 300 Hindi and Marathi Movies. Yarana, Kati Patang, Roti Kapda aur Makan, Mere Jeevan Saathi, Sarswatichandra, Johny Mera Naam, Saajan, Aayi Milan Ki Bela, Prem nagar, Nayi Roshni, Sangharsh are some of her popular Hindi movies. In 1999 she was honoured with Padmashree. In 2004 Sulochana was awarded with lifetime achievement award by Filmfare. She was also awarded by Maharashtra Bhushan, V. Shantaram Award, Best Actress by Maharashtra Government.

 

2. Renowned theater actor Aamir Raza Hussain passes away: Noted theatre actor and director, Amir Raza Husain passed away at the age of 66. Hussain was known for his large outdoor stage productions such as “The Fifty Day War” based on the Kargil War and “The Legend of Ram”. He was also the Creative Director of the Stagedoor Theatre Company, established in 1974, which has presented over 91 productions and more than 1,100 performances. The actor was known for his unforgettable stage plays like ‘The Fifty Day War’ (2000) and ‘The Legend of Ram’. Husain was honored with the Padma Shri in 2001 by the Indian government for his contribution to theatre. Aamir Raj has acted in super hit movies ‘Baahubali’ and ‘RRR’. He will also be seen in the movie ‘Adipurush’ which will be released on 16th June.

Daily GK Update- 5th June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Telangana ranks top on overall environmental performance: CSE Report: A non-profit Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) released its annual compendium, titled 'State of India's Environment 2023. It is based on four parameters i.e. environment, agriculture, public health, and infrastructure. Telangana was ranked at the top in terms of overall environmental performance and in terms of increasing forest cover. In agriculture, MP takes the top slot and Delhi leads in public health. Gujarat leads the rankings in public infrastructure.

 

2. National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 2023 released: MoS for Education and External Affairs Rajkumar Ranjan Singh released the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 2023 on June 5, 2023. IIT Madras has emerged as the top college under the overall category for the fifth consecutive year and the best engineering institute for the eighth consecutive year. Research category: IISc Bengaluru has earned the top spot Agriculture and Allied Sectors: IARI, New Delhi Medical category: AIIMS Delhi

 

3. Tata Group signs deal with Gujarat for EV battery plant: The Tata Group has signed an outline deal with the Gujarat government on building a lithium-ion cell factory with an investment of about Rs 13,000 crore ($1.6 billion). The decision to set up the EV battery plant at Sanand, Gujarat, was taken at a Tata Sons board meeting. Tata Motors already has a plant operational at Sanand, and has also acquired the adjoining Ford Motors’ plant. It would have an initial manufacturing capacity of 20 Gigawatt hours (GWh), which could be doubled in a second phase of expansion.

 

4. Tamil Nadu’s Muthamizh Selvi climb Mount Everest: A teacher from Chennai became the first woman from Tamil Nadu to climb Mount Everest. Muthamizh Selvi set out on the quest to scale the world’s highest peak on April 2. Muthamizh Selvi, who teaches Japanese in Chennai. After 56 days of a challenging journey, she reached the summit on May 23 and returned to Kathmandu on May 27. Selvi faced many challenges and even came across dead bodies on her way to the summit. Even after her sherpa fell ill, Selvi didn’t give up and continued her journey. Despite losing two campmates, Selvi completed the feat in 56 days to become the first Tamil woman to scale Mount Everest.

 

5. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated National Food Safety & Standards Training Centre: Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya has inaugurated the state-of-the-art National Training Centre for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) at Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. He emphasized the need for Swasth Nagrik to create a Swastha Rashtra, leading to a Samruddha Rashtra, and urged citizens to adopt India’s traditional food habits and way of life for wellness and preventive healthcare. The people who will train at the National Training Centre of FSSAI will play a significant role in creating healthy citizens in the country, as they will ensure quality standards for food are followed in the country. The National Training Centre of the FSSAI in Ghaziabad provides various training programs for individuals involved in food businesses, including food business operators, employees, Food Safety Officers, and designated officers.

 

6. Janardan Prasad appointed as DG of Geological Survey of India: Janardan Prasad has been appointed as the new Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Prasad succeeds Dr. S. Raju, who has held the post since April 2022. Prasad is an MSc in Geology from Patna University and joined GSI, Gandhinagar, as a geologist in 1988. He was also posted in Shillong, Patna, Faridabad, Ranchi and Hyderabad in various capacities.

 

7. Hrithik Roshan appointed brand ambassador for Zebronics TV: An IT peripheral, audio systems, and lifestyle accessories company, Zebronics has signed actor Hrithik Roshan as the face of its range of Smart LED TVs. This is the sixth year of its collaboration with Roshan and it has been extended to its new range. According to a report by Kroll, Hrithik Roshan had a value of $71.6 million and was the tenth most-valued celebrity in the country in 2022 as part of its Celebrity Brand Valuation Report. Co-founder and director of Zebronics – Rajesh Doshi

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. World Environment Day 2023: 5th June: World Environment Day is observed annually on June 5 to create awareness about the protection of the environment and the earth's well-being. The theme for World Environment Day 2023 is 'Solutions to plastic pollution',  under the campaign #BeatPlasticPollution. The day is hosted by Côte d'Ivoire and supported by the Netherlands. This year marks the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day, which will focus on solutions to plastic pollution.

 

2. India set to remain UAE’s largest export destination by 2030: India is set to remain the United Arab Emirates (UAE) largest export destination by 2030, according to a new report by Standard Chartered. The report, titled “Future of Trade: New opportunities in high-growth corridors”, forecasts that the UAE’s exports will reach around USD 543 billion by 2030, showcasing a robust annual growth rate of 5.5 percent. The report also highlights that trade corridors anchored in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East are expected to outpace the global trade growth rate by almost four percentage points, propelling the combined trade volume in these regions to an astounding USD14.4 trillion, accounting for 44 percent of global trade by 2030. India is set to remain the UAE’s largest export destination by 2030, while exports to Turkiye, Vietnam and Singapore are among the fastest growing. The report attributed the UAE’s strong export growth to a number of factors, including its strategic location, its well-developed infrastructure, and its business-friendly environment.

 

3. UAE to host world’s largest Conservation Conference in 2025: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has won the bid to host the 2025 World Conservation Congress (WCC) of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The 2025 WCC will be held in Abu Dhabi from October 10-21, 2025. The WCC is the world’s largest and most important gathering of conservationists, and it is expected to draw more than 10,000 delegates from over 160 countries. The UAE has a long history of environmental protection, and it is home to a number of important conservation initiatives, including the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Center and the Al Ain Oasis. The event will be an opportunity for conservationists from around the world to come together and discuss the most pressing environmental challenges facing our planet. The WCC is also expected to produce a number of important resolutions and recommendations that will help to guide future conservation efforts.

 

4. 5 June – World Environment Day: World Environment Day is celebrated annually on 5 June. Objective – To raise awareness of and take action on urgent environmental challenges Theme 2023 – Beat Plastic Pollution World Environment Day gives individuals a chance to consider how human activity affects the environment and motivates them to change for the better in order to live sustainably. The United Nations General Assembly founded World Environment Day in 1972 to increase public awareness of environmental challenges and encourage action.

 

5. 5 June – International Day Against Illegal Fishing: International Day Against Illegal Fishing is observed every year on 5 June. It is also known as International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing. Objective – To promote awareness of the threats posed by illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities to the sustainability of fisheries resources. The International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing was observed for the first time on 5 June 2018. In 2015, at its 39th session, the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) of the FAO proposed an initiative to declare an International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing to raise awareness of the importance of the fight against IUU fishing. Subsequently, this proposal was endorsed by the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI), at its 32nd session. On 5 December 2017, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution (A/RES/72/72) proclaiming 5 June of each year as the “International Day for the Fight Against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing.”

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Indian sprinter Amlan Borgohain bags two gold medals in Flanders Cup 2023: Top Indian sprinter, Amlan Borgohain has bagged two gold medals in the men's 100 and 200-meter races category at the Flanders Cup 2023 athletics in Merksem, Belgium. He clocked 10.70 seconds to emerge as the fastest man of the meet. He holds the 100-meter national record of 10.25 seconds and holds 20.96 seconds in the 200-meter. Meanwhile, Sapna Kumari finished behind Belgium's Amber Vanden Bosch in the women's 100m hurdles after clocking 14.10.

 

2. Indian shooters win gold medal in Mixed Team event at ISSF Junior World Cup: Indian shooters Abhinav Shaw and Gautami Bhanot have bagged gold in the final of 10 meter Air Rifle Mixed Team event at the ISSF World Cup Junior 2023 in Suhl, Germany. The Indian team of Shaw and Bhanot registered a 17-7 win over the French pairing of Oceanne Mueller and Romain Aufrere in the gold medal match. With this, India now has two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze from the World Cup after two days of competition.

 

3. India win three medals in Asian U-20 Athletics Championship: On the opening day, India won three medals (including two gold) at the 2023 Asian Under 20 Athletics Championships campaign in Yecheon, South Korea. Rezoana Mallick Heena and Bharatpreet Singh kicked off clinched gold medals in women’s 400-meter race and men’s discus throw respectively. Henna clocked 53.31 seconds to take the top position on the podium. Antima Pal won the third medal for India, a bronze, in the women’s 5,000-meter race.

 

4. South Korea’s An Se-young wins Thailand Open final: World No. 2 Ann Se-young of South Korea claimed her fourth title in 2023 by defeating China’s He Bingjiao in the women’s singles final of the Thailand Open badminton tournament in Bangkok. 21-year-old Ann Si-young won 21-10, 21-19. This was Young’s seventh final berth in a row. In Men’s singles, the Thai shuttler Kunlavut Vitidsarn secured the Thailand Open title for the first time in his career becoming the only men’s singles player in the badminton World Tour to have won more than one tournament this year. He defeated Lee Cheuk Yiu of Hong Kong in straight sets, 21-12, 21-10 in the final.

 

5. 3rd Khelo India University games conclude in Varanasi: The third khelo India University games has been concluded at IIT BHU campus in Varanasi. Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur along with Union Minister of state for Sports, Nishith Pramanik and Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath were present at the closing ceremony. Punjab University, Chandigarh regain champions crown as Guru Nanak Dev University fall short despite Fencing sweep on final day, after a gap of one edition of the Khelo India University Games. PUC finished with an overall tally of 69 medals including 26 gold, 17 silver and 26 bronze medals. GNDU amassed 24 gold, 27 silver and 17 bronze medals to finish second and in the top three for the very first time. Jain University, Karnataka, last time’s champions, were third with 16 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals. As many as 131 of the 203 Universities who finally participated at the Games.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. GST collection rises 12% to ₹1.57-lakh crore in May: Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection in May rose 12 percent to ₹1.57-lakh crore The gross GST revenue collected in the month of May 2023 is ₹1,57,090 crore of which Central GST is ₹28,411 crore, State GST is ₹35,828 crore, Integrated GST is ₹81,363 crore (including ₹41,772 crore collected on import of goods) and cess is ₹11,489 crore (including ₹1,057 crore collected on import of goods). The revenues for the month of May 2023 are 12 percent higher than the GST revenues in the same month last year. During the month, revenue from import of goods was 12 percent higher and the revenues from domestic transactions (including import of services) are 11 percent higher than the revenues from these sources during the same month last year.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. BEST received 'Climate And Health' award at UITP Awards 2023: The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking was honored with the prestigious 'Climate And Health' award at the UITP Awards 2023, Barcelona. Additionally, BEST Undertaking was recognized as one of the top three finalists in the 'Public And Urban Transport Strategy' category. UITP Awards are highly sought-after prizes in the field of public transport. Recently, the BEST was also awarded for 'Smart Mobility' category by FICCI.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Veteran actor Sulochana passes away: Veteran actor Sulochana passed away at 94 due to age-related issues in Mumbai. She was featured in more than 250 Hindi and 50 Marathi films. She started her career with Marathi films in the early 1940s and soon moved to Hindi films, where she portrayed several mother roles in movies like Shammi Kapoor’s Dil Dekhe Dekho, Dilip Kumar’s Aadmi, Dev Anand’s Jhonny Mera Naam, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Himmatwala, and Andar Baahar. She was honoured with Padma Shri in 1999.

Daily GK Update- 4th June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Microsoft joins hands with Skill Development Ministry to train students, teachers: With the aim to empower youth in India with future-ready skills, Microsoft has signed an MoU with the Directorate General of Training (DGT), Ministry of Skills Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), to train students and educators at government-led Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skills Training Institutions (NSTIs). Microsoft will offer a wide range of courses, including training in AI, cloud computing, web development and cybersecurity skills for nearly 6000 students and 200 faculty members. This training will empower young students with industry-relevant skills, enhancing their employability, and connecting them to relevant job opportunities. Train-the-Trainer workshops will be conducted to empower faculty members on AI fluency and fundamentals, cloud computing, web development, Power BI, and soft skills. These trained faculty members can then train ITI students attending computer operator and programming assistant (COPA) training. The CyberShikshaa programme focusing on basic and intermediate cybersecurity skills training will also be expanded to students and educators at 10 NSTIs for women.

 

2. Meghalaya sets up expert panel to review reservation formula: The Meghalaya government has set up an expert committee to review the 1972 reservation policy in line with demands made by the opposition Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) whose leader is on an indefinite hunger strike. Following the announcement, VPP MLA Ardent Basaiawmoit called off his hunger strike that lasted for over 200 hours. The expert committee is mandated to review the state reservation policy by obtaining views from all stakeholders. The chairperson and members of the committee shall consist of experts in constitutional law, economics, sociology, demographic studies and related fields. The 1972 job reservation policy awarded 40 percent of reserved jobs to Garos, 40 percent for Khasi-Jaintia tribes, 5 percent for other tribes and 15 percent for general category candidates.

 

3. AIIMS Nagpur becomes first AIIMS to receive NABH accreditation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated AIIMS Nagpur for becoming the first of all AIIMS to receive the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) accreditation. The NABH accreditation is recognized globally as a standard for healthcare excellence. Only a few private hospitals in Nagpur have this accreditation. AIIMS-Nagpur, established in 2018, is one of the premier medical institutions in the region. The process of attaining the NABH accreditation is rigorous and all-encompassing, evaluating various aspects of a hospital’s performance, including patient care, safety protocols, and organizational efficiency. NABH plays a vital role in ensuring that healthcare institutions adhere to rigorous quality standards. By evaluating a hospital’s infrastructure, processes, and patient outcomes, NABH accreditation establishes a benchmark for excellence.

 

4. Tata to build India’s first lithium-ion cell manufacturing gigafactory: Tata Group has signed an MoU with the Gujarat government to set up a first-ever lithium-ion cell manufacturing gigafactory in Gujarat. This MOU is an outcome of the newly formulated Electronics Policy. Estimated initial investment: 130 billion rupees Production capacity: 20 GWh The state government is committed to increasing carbon-free, energy-efficient, and clean energy production by boosting the production of electric vehicles and reducing carbon emissions.

 

5. Indian Navy’s Green Initiatives imbibing Green Technologies: The Indian Navy has undertaken several green initiatives and shared some of the noteworthy initiatives towards a 'Clean and Green Navy'. It employs a number of ships, submarines, and aircraft that have high energy intensity, thus increased energy efficiency is paramount in every operation. It has commissioned solar power with a cumulative capacity of 15.87 MW, with the objective of fulfilling the government's 'Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission.

 

6. Maharashtra govt, Bajaj Finserv sign MoU to invest Rs 5,000 crore: The Maharashtra government has signed an MoU with Bajaj Finserv to invest 5,000 crore rupees in Pune which is expected to create 40,000 jobs. The MoU was signed by Harshdeep Kamble (Industry Secretary, Maharashtra) and S Sreenivasan (Chief Financial Officer, Bajaj Finserv). The development will have a positive impact as it will create new jobs and business opportunities for partners, vendors, suppliers, and contractors in and around Pune, as well as globally.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UAE wins Presidency of World Meteorological Organization: A meteorologist of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Dr Abdulla Al Mandous has been elected as the new President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for a four-year term from 2023 to 2027. He will succeed Prof Gerhard Adrian from the German Meteorological Service, who served as WMO President since June 2019. Abdulla Al Mandous emerged as the official candidate of the UAE and secured 95 votes out of the representatives from WMO’s 193 member states and territories. The election took place during the 19th session of the World Meteorological Congress (Cg-19) held in Geneva, Switzerland from 22nd May to 2nd June Under Dr. Al Mandous’ leadership, WMO’s upcoming 77th Executive Council Session (EC-77) will be chaired by the UAE in Geneva from 5th to 6th June. The WMO is an authoritative body within the UN system that focuses on weather, climate, hydrological, and related environmental fields.

 

2. BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Cape Town: External Affairs Minister Jaishankar joined fellow foreign ministers from the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) in Cape Town. South Africa, which currently chairs the bloc, is hosting the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in Cape Town. The foreign ministers’ meeting will finalize the agenda for the 15th BRICS summit scheduled to be held in South Africa in August. It is believed that 19 countries are in line to join BRICS. The full form of BRICS is Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

 

3. Edgars Rinkevics elected as new president of Latvia: Edgars Rinkevics, Latvia’s foreign minister since 2011, has been elected as the country’s new president. The 100-seat Saeima legislature elected Edgars Rinkevics, the country’s top diplomat since 2011, as president to serve for a four-year term. In 2014, he announced that he is “proudly” homosexual, will be the first openly gay president in the Baltic nations Latvia declared independence in 1918 but was later occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940. It regained independence in 1991 with the collapse of the Soviet Union.

 

4. 4 June – International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression: International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression is observed every year on 4 June. Objective – To raise awareness about the children who have suffered a lot throughout the world and are victims of physical, mental, and emotional abuse. According to the UNICEF report, 104,100 children have been killed or maimed since 2005, with more than two-thirds of these deaths occurring between 2014 and 2020. Since 2005, around 25,700 children have been abducted, 14,200 have been sexually abused and 93,000 have been recruited by armed actors. The idea of the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression emerged from the UN General Assembly’s emergency special session held on August 19, 1982. During the session, the assembly focused on protecting Palestinian and Lebanese children from Israeli aggression during the Lebanon war.

 

5. Indian American Ajay Banga assumes charge as World Bank President: Indian American, Ajay Banga has assumed charge as the President of the World Bank, after replacing David Malpass, who stepped down on June 1, 2023. He has been appointed as the 14th President of the World Bank for a five-year term. In February 2023, US President Joe Biden nominated Ajay Banga to lead the World Bank. He has become the first-ever Indian-American to head the World Bank. Prior to this role, he served as Vice Chairman at General Atlantic.

 

6. THE Impact Ranking 2023 released: According to the 'The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023', Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore has emerged as India’s highest-placed university. The university is ranked at 52nd rank globally out of 1,591 universities. Topped by: Western Sydney University followed by the University of Manchester (UK), Queen’s University (Canada), Universiti Sains Malaysia, and the University of Tasmania Amrita Vishwa stood out for its efforts toward meeting the UNSDGs.

 

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. RBI fines Indian Overseas Bank Rs 2.2 crore for multiple violations: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 2.2 crore on Indian Overseas Bank for violating various norms. The RBI said it fined the bank under the powers vested by the Banking Regulation Act 1949. The RBI imposed this monetary penalty after finding contraventions of banking regulations and non-compliance with specific RBI directions related to income recognition, asset classification, provisioning, interest rates on deposits, and ATM security

 

2. ICICI Bank commits ₹1,200 cr to Tata Memorial centre: The ICICI Bank has committed to donating Rs 1,200 crore towards Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), from its CSR funds. Aim: To set up three new buildings spanning over a combined area of 7.5 lakh square feet at TMC’s centers at Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra), Mullanpur (Punjab), and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) ICICI Foundation for Inclusive Growth (ICICI Foundation), the CSR arm of ICICI Bank, will implement the initiative, which is likely to be completed by 2027.

 

3. Sebi releases bond trading guidelines on RFQ platform: SEBI released guidelines for transactions in corporate bonds through the Request for Quote (RFQ) platform by stock brokers in order to increase liquidity on the platform, from July 1, 2023 For all the trades in a proprietary capacity, stock brokers will have to undertake at least 10% of their total secondary market trades by value in corporate bonds in that month by placing quotes through one-to-one or one-to-many mode In April 2024, the percentage will increase to 25%

 

4. Karbon Card launched country's first mobile-based expense management card: Karbon Card has launched a mobile-based expense management card for businesses and individuals wherein it offers its users uncapped cashback of upto 1%. Card ++ differentiates itself by providing interesting cashback offers, incentivizing people their spending. The unique feature adds value to the card, making it an option for users. Its features include the ability to make payments on various platforms such as Google, Amazon, Swiggy, and Ola.

 

OBITUARIES

 

1. Noted theatre actor Amir Raza Husain passes away: A noted theatre actor and director, Amir Raza Husain has passed away at 66. He was known for his large outdoor stage productions such as "The Fifty Day War" based on the Kargil War and "The Legend of Ram". He was also the Creative Director of the Stagedoor Theatre Company, established in 1974, which has presented over 91 productions and more than 1,100 performances.   He was honoured with the Padma Shri (2001) by the government for his contribution to theatre.

Daily GK Update-3rd June, 2023

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan releases UGC Regulations, 2023: Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has released the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023 in New Delhi. These regulations will facilitate the creation of many more quality-focused deemed to be universities in an objective and transparent manner. It will encourage universities to focus on quality and excellence and strengthen the research ecosystem and have a long-term impact in transforming the higher education landscape.

 

2. Punjab Police launches OPS Clean: Punjab Police has launched a massive state-wide operation named “OP Clean” wherein 650 police teams comprising over 5,000 personnel raided more than 2,000 locations across the state to keep a tab on activities of people involved in the smuggling of commercial quantities of drugs. As many as 650 police teams, involving over 5,500 police personnel, raided 2,247 locations and conducted searches at 2,125 houses of people having involvement in drug smuggling cases. The police teams recovered 1.8 kg heroin, 82 kg poppy husk, 1 kg opium, Rs 5.35 lakh drug money and four weapons from them, besides recovering illicit liquor, lahan (raw material used to make liquor) and vehicles after registering 48 FIRs across the state. The operation was conducted by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav.

 

3. Nitin Gadkari inaugurates two Highway projects in Vadodara: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has inaugurated two National Highway projects in Vadodara, Gujarat worth Rs 48 crore. One of the projects focuses on the improvement of the Ahmedabad-Vadodara section of National Highway 48 near Dumad Chowkdi. Spanning approximately 3 kilometers, this project has been inaugurated at a cost of Rs 27.01 crore. The second project, costing Rs 17 crore, stretches about 1 kilometer near Dena Junction on National Highway 48 in Vadodara.

 

4. Srinagar to become smart city by June 2024: Srinagar is all set for a facelift. The city will get a ‘Smart City’ tag by June 2024 under the Srinagar Smart City Project. A total of 137 projects have been sanctioned for Srinagar Smart City under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India. Under the project, Srinagar is aimed to get a complete transformation by using its natural and cultural heritage which will enhance the beauty and quality of life. Till now, 66 projects have been completed and currently, 71 projects are ongoing. Under smart city, the project has eight themes: Jhelum Water Front Development and Water Transport, Urban Mobility, Street and Intersection Development, City Beautification & Urban Art, Green Srinagar, Heritage Conservation and Downtown Renewal, Information Technology, Central Business District Upgradation, Solid Waste Management. Athar Amir Khan, CEO, Srinagar Smart City Ltd (SSCL) and Srinagar Municipal Commissioner informed this.

 

5. Amarendu Prakash appoints chairman of SAIL: Amarendu Prakash has been appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director of Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL). He was earlier Director (In-Charge) of SAIL’s Bokaro Steel Plant. Prakash is heading the Bokaro Steel Plant as Director-in-Charge from September 2020. Under Prakash’s leadership, Bokaro Steel Plant achieved remarkable production records in FY22 and FY23.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Abdulla Al Mandous elected as the President of WMO: Meteorologist of United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abdulla Al Mandous has been elected as the new President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for a 4-year term from 2023 to 2027. He emerged as the official candidate of the UAE and secured 95 votes out of the representatives from WMO’s 193 member states and territories. He succeeded Prof Gerhard Adrian. WMO is an authoritative body within the UN system that focuses on weather, climate, environment, etc.

 

2. India set to remain UAE's largest export destination by 2030: India is set to remain United Arab Emirates' (UAE) largest export destination by 2030, according to a new report by Standard Chartered titled ‘Future of Trade: New opportunities in high-growth corridors’ The report forecasts that the UAE's exports will reach around USD 543 billion by 2030, showcasing a robust annual growth rate of 5.5% It also highlights that trade corridors anchored in Asia, Africa, Middle East are expected to outpace the global trade growth rate by 4%

 

3. India G20 - South Centre Event on International Taxation concludes: India G20 - South Centre Event on International Taxation has been concluded successfully. It was a two-day event on International Taxation was organized on the 1st and 2nd June at the National Academy of Direct Taxes, Nagpur in collaboration with South Centre, a Geneva-based intergovernmental policy research think-tank of 55 developing countries, including India. It was an initiative of the Indian Presidency to bolster capacity building for Indian tax officials.

 

4. World Bicycle Day 2023: 3rd June: World Bicycle Day 2023 is observed every year on 3rd June to promote the importance of bicycles as a means of transportation, fostering sustainability, health, and well-being. The day was declared by the United Nations General Assembly in April 2018 to recognize the uniqueness, versatility and sustainability of the bicycle and its positive impact on society. The initiative to establish this Day was led by Turkmenistan, with the support of numerous other countries.

 

5. UAE to host world's largest Conservation Conference in 2025: United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host the 2025 World Conservation Congress (WCC) of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Abu Dhabi from October 10-21, 2025. WCC: It is the world's largest and most important gathering of conservationists, and it is expected to draw more than 10,000 delegates from over 160 countries. It is expected to bring an estimated 10,000-15,000 delegates from over 160 countries across the globe

 

6. Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be sworn in as the President of Turkish: Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be sworn in as the President of Turkish, after winning a historic runoff election and securing another five years in power. Ambassador Virander Paul will be representing India at the ceremony The inauguration ceremony in Parliament will be followed by an elaborate ceremony at Erdogan's palace in Ankara He won the presidential run-off election by securing 52.18% of the vote, defeating his opponent Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who received 47.82% votes.

 

7. CSIR-CCMB joins global research group for algorithm of genetics: Hyderabad-based CSIR - Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) has joined a global research group in the development of an algorithm along the lines of ChatGPT for genetics. This algorithm uses genome sequencing data instead of human language to predict disease-causing genetic mutations in patients. The group has generated a huge catalogue of genomic information for primates that have been ever produced.

 

8. Canada becomes first country to start putting health warnings on cigarettes: Canada has become the first country in the world to stipulate that individual cigarettes carry mandatory health warnings. While packets carry such warnings of the risks associated with smoking, the Canadian Government is taking this measure to ensure that it becomes virtually impossible to avoid health warnings altogether. These regulations will come into effect on August 1 this year. These cigarettes will be introduced in a phased manner. The individual health warnings will first appear on king-size cigarettes by the end of July 2024, and by the end of April 2025, other varieties, regular-size cigarettes and little cigars with tipping paper, and tubes, will follow.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. India beat Great Britain by 4-2 on penalty shootout in FIH Pro League: India beat Great Britain by 4-2 after a penalty shootout in the FIH Pro League in London This shootout triumph, courtesy of misses from Britain’s Rupert Shipperly and Phil Roper, handed India the bonus point after an exhilarating 4-4 draw. Abhishek Upadhyay, Lalit Kumar, Singh Harmanpreet Singh and Manpreet scored goal in shootout. The bonus point ensured India cut the gap to Great Britain at the top of the FIH Pro League standing.

 

2. India beat Great Britain by 4-2 on penalty shootout in FIH Pro League: India beat Great Britain by 4-2 after a penalty shootout in the FIH Pro League in London This shootout triumph, courtesy of misses from Britain’s Rupert Shipperly and Phil Roper, handed India the bonus point after an exhilarating 4-4 draw. Abhishek Upadhyay, Lalit Kumar, Singh Harmanpreet Singh and Manpreet scored goal in shootout. The bonus point ensured India cut the gap to Great Britain at the top of the FIH Pro League.

 

3. 3rd Khelo India University games conclude in Varanasi: Third khelo India University games has been concluded at IIT BHU campus in Varanasi. Punjab University, Chandigarh regain champions crown as Guru Nanak Dev University fall short despite Fencing sweep on final day, after a gap of one edition of the Khelo India University Games. PUC finished with an overall tally of 69 medals including 26 gold, 17 silver and 26 bronze medals As many as 131 of the 203 Universities who finally participated at the Games.