Daily GK Update- 20th Feb, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. KVS Manian new joint managing director in Kotak Mahindra bank: Kotak Mahindra Bank re-designating whole-time director KVS Manian as the joint managing director effective 1 March. Manian, an alumnus of the Indian Institutes of Technology (BHU) - Varanasi, with a degree in electrical engineering and a postgraduate in financial management. Ekambaram, who has over 30 years of service at Kotak, holds a commerce degree, is a chartered accountant, and a Cost and Works Accountant.

 

2. Women participation in country's labour force rises to 37% from 23%: Labour and Employment Secretary, Arti Ahuja has said that the participation of women in the labour force in the country has increased from 23 percent to 37 percent. She added that as the country’s population is growing, India needs to appreciate fifty percent of the talented, motivated and hardworking female workforce. Female labour force participation rate can be defined as percentage women employed with respect to labour force of the country.

 

3. Statehood Day of Mizoram & Arunachal Pradesh: 20 Feb 2024: The Northern States Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh have celebrated their Foundation Day on February 20 since 1987. Mizoram State took place on 20th February, 1987,as India’s 23rd state. Arunachal Pradesh, a land of natural wonders and cultural heritage, became a full-fledged state on February 20, 1987.

Until 1972, it was known as the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA).

 

4. Government approves fifty more Amrit Bharat Trains: Fifty more Amrit Bharat Trains have been approved by the Government.  Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that after the huge success of Amrit Bharat Train, another 50 trains have been approved. The Amrit Bharat train is an LHB push-pull train with non-air-conditioned coaches. It provides improved facilities for rail passengers like beautiful and attractive designed seats, better luggage racks with suitable mobile holders, among others.

 

5. Maharashtra Cabinet approves draft bill to extend 10% reservation to Marath: The Maharashtra Cabinet approved a draft bill proposing a 10%reservation for the Maratha community in both educational institutions and government employment. This proposed reservation surpasses the 50 percent cap, an extension justified by a report submitted to the state government by the Maharashtra Backward Class Commission (MBCC), led by Chairman Justice (Retired) Sunil Shukre.

 

6. 20 February – Mizoram Foundation Day: Mizoram Foundation Day is celebrated every year on February 20 to honour the northeastern state’s accomplishment of statehood in 1987. It was on this day that the Lushai Hills Autonomous District Council was raised to the status of a complete state, turning into the 23rd state of India. February 20 denotes the Statehood Day of both Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh. Settled in the remote northeast of India, Mizoram remains as the region’s southernmost landlocked state. Thick forests, covering more than three-fourths of its territory, murmur stories of important timber and one-of-a-kind biodiversity.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India contributes 1 million USD to Poverty and Hunger Alleviation Fund: India has contributed 1 million US Dollars to the Poverty and Hunger Alleviation Fund established by India, Brazil, and South Africa, IBSA. India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj handed over the cheque to the Director of the UN Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC) Dima Al-Khatib. The IBSA Facility for Poverty and Hunger Alleviation (IBSA Fund) was established jointly by grouping in March 2004 and it became operational in 2006.

 

2. PM of Greece to arrive in New Delhi on a four-day State visit to India: Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis will arrive in New Delhi tonight on a four-day State visit to India. He will be accompanied by senior officials and a high-powered business delegation. This will be the first bilateral Head of State or Government level visit from Greece to India after 15 years. He will also visit Mumbai before returning to Athens.

 

3. INDUS-X Summit to boost India-U.S. defence cooperation: The India-U.S. Defence Acceleration Ecosystem summit, INDUS-X, began in New Delhi. The two-day aims to enhance strategic technology partnerships and defence cooperation between the two nations. The summit will bring together stakeholders from both countries to explore and leverage emerging opportunities in defence innovation. The event will also recognize winners of the Joint INDUS X challenge under the IMPACT program.

 

4. World Day of Social Justice 2024:20th Feb 2024: Every year on 20 February the World Day of Social Justice is observed worldwide.  As grave injustices and widespread labour insecurity threaten social issues, the day stresses the need to build fairer and more equitable societies. The theme of World Day of Social Justice 2024 is "Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances".

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. North Korea launched new surface-to-sea missiles: North Korea test-launched the new surface-to-sea missiles, “Padasuri-6”. The missile hit a target after launch over waters in the East Sea for around 1400 seconds, or 23 minutes and 20 seconds. The missile seems to be designed to counter the naval capabilities of South Korea and the United States, such as U.S. aircraft carriers.

 

 

SPORTS

 

1. Anush Agarwalla secures country's maiden Paris Olympics quota in dressage: Asian Games medallist Anush Agarwalla has secured the first-ever Paris Olympics quota in dressage discipline for the country. He obtained the Paris 2024 quota for the country based on his performance in four FEI events.  Agarwalla had clinched India’s first individual bronze at the Asian Games in dressage last year. In dressage competitions, the horse and rider perform a series of pre-determined movements in an arena of 20 metres to 60 metres.

 

2. MI Emirates wins ILT20 title by defeating Dubai Capitals: MI Emirates has won the title of the 2nd edition of UAE International League T20 (ILT20). MI Emirates secured the title by defeating Dubai Capitals by 45 runs in the final match at Dubai International Stadium MI team posted a total of 208 runs for the loss of 3 wickets,Dubai Capitals team could score only 163 runs at the loss of 7 wickets in 20 overs. ILT20 is a franchise-based T20 league organized by the Emirates Cricket Board, featuring six participating franchises.

 

3. MS Dhoni Named Captain of IPL’s Greatest All-Time Team: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper MS Dhoni was picked as the captain to lead the all-time greatest IPL side. The 15-member squad was selected by a panel of experts, including former legends Wasim Akram, Dale Steyn, Matthew Hayden, and Tom Moody, along with 70 other journalists. The top order consisted of Australian batter David Warner, Indian superstar Virat Kohli, and West Indian powerhouse Chris Gayle. While Kohli is the all-time leading run-scorer in IPL history with 7,263 runs, Warner is third and first among overseas batters with 6,397 runs.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA, Japan to launch world’s 1st wooden satellite soon: Japan and the US are planning to launch the world’s first wooden satellite, the LingnoSat, into space in 2024. This unusual spacecraft is made up of Magnolia wood which, during the experiments, was found to be particularly stable and resistant to cracking. The wooden satellite was created by Japanese scientists and now the US has become a part of their mission as they finalized the satellite to be launched on a US rocket. The researchers at Kyoto University in collaboration with the logging company Sumitomo Forestry built the timber satellite. They came up with the idea of using an alternative to metal, which are biodegradable material.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Bandhan Bank authorized to collected revenues of West Bengal govt: Private lender Bandhan Bank has been authorized by the West Bengal government to collect tax and non-tax receipts on its behalf. The mandate will enable the bank to collect revenues through the Government Receipt Portal System (GRIPS). By virtue of this mandate, people will be able to pay various taxes like property tax, motor vehicle tax and professional tax using this portal.

Daily GK Update- 19th Feb, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Arunachal Pradesh achieves 100% coverage under Har Ghar Jal: Arunachal Pradesh has achieved 100 percent saturation in ‘Har Ghar Jal’ scheme under the Centre’s Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).The state has become the first in the northeast and tenth in the country to achieve a cent per cent saturation under the central government sponsored scheme. The Centre’s share for the scheme in the state was ₹ 3,965.41 crore, while the state contributed ₹ 455.51 crore to complete the project, ensuring every household gets clean and safe piped water.

 

2. UP emerges as top state in total vehicle sales, Maharashtra 2nd: SIAM: Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of vehicle sales in October-December 2023, followed by Maharashtra, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, according to Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers. As per data from SIAM, Uttar Pradesh clocked a total sale of 8,22,472 units across passenger and commercial vehicles; and two and three-wheeler categories. In two-wheeler category, Uttar Pradesh topped the list followed by Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh & Tamil Nadu.

 

3. Karnataka boasts highest number of EV charging stations in India: BEE: Karnataka tops the country in terms of public electric vehicle charging stations with 5,059, according to statistics from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under the Union Ministry of Power. Bengaluru Urban District has the most public charging stations with 4,281, which constitutes 85% of the charging infrastructure in the State. In 2017, Karnataka became the pioneer in India by introducing the first electric vehicle (EV) policy. At present, it leads in the number of public charging stations, with Maharashtra (3,079), Delhi (1,886), Kerala (958), Tamil Nadu (643), Uttar Pradesh (583), and Rajasthan (500) following suit.

 

4. Pradeep Kumar Sinha to take over as Non-Executive Part-time Chairman of ICICI Bank: Former Cabinet Secretary Pradeep Kumar Sinha will take over as Non-Executive Part-time Chairman of ICICI Bank after G. C. Chaturvedi’s term ends on 30 June 2024. The Bank’s Board, has approved the appointment of Sinha as an Additional (Independent) Director for a period of five years, with immediate effect subject to the approval of shareholders. Sinha joined the Indian Administrative Service (Uttar Pradesh in 1977).

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, Colombia sign MoU on Cooperation in the field of Sharing Successful Digital Solutions: India and Colombia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the field of Sharing Successful Digital Solutions Implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation.

It was signed between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Information Technologies and Communications of Colombia. These infrastructures constitute a set of shared digital systems that are secure and interoperable. They can be built on open standards to deliver and provide equitable access to public and private services.

 

2. 17 February – World Human Spirit Day: World Human Spirit Day is observed on 17 February each year. It is a day to reflect on the human spirit and reconnect with our sense of awe and purpose.

The holiday was first established in 2003 by Michael Levy, and it is now more commonly associated with meditation and mindfulness as a way to induce relaxation and reconnect with our true selves.

 

3. 18 February 2024 – World Whale Day 2024: World Whale Day is observed every year on the third Sunday of February. This year, the day falls on February 18. This day seeks to appreciate these aquatic creatures that are an important part of the ecosystem. It also goes beyond that and draws attention to the man-made challenges that have erupted making marine life difficult. Whales are not just marvels of the natural world; they are essential players in the Earth’s environmental health. Their contribution to carbon capture is immense, with the International Monetary Fund valuing their ecosystem service at $1 trillion. Furthermore, whales bolster phytoplankton growth, which is crucial for oxygen production and carbon dioxide capture, thereby playing a vital role in combating climate change and maintaining marine biodiversity.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. ICC bans UK cricketer Rizwan Javed for over 17.5 years for Match-Fixing: A UK club cricketer, Rizwan Javed received a 17.5 years ban from all cricket due to his participation in match-fixing attempts during the 2021 Abu Dhabi T10 League. Authorities enforced the ban on September 19, 2023, as Javed failed to address charges related to his involvement in the league.

Javed was among eight players and officials charged by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) in September last year. Bangladesh all-rounder Nasir Hossain received charges and is currently serving a two-year ban.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. ISRO launched INSAT-3DS Satellite from Sriharikota: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS with the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS mission from SDSC-SHAR, Sriharikota. This will help in enhancing the weather forecast. This was ISRO’s second success in the current calendar after the launch of XPoSAT from Sriharikota on January 1 in PSLV’s 60th flight. The GSLV-F14 – blasted from the second launch pad – was the 16th flight of India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI launches digital enrolment for PMJJBY and PMSBY Schemes: State Bank of India (SBI) has launched a self-subscribing journey for enrolment under Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) schemes for its customers.

The facility will provide impetus to the Indian Government’s drive of covering all eligible citizens under PMJJBY & PMSBY schemes. The functionality enables customers to enrol under the schemes as per their convenience without visiting the branch or Customer Service Point. The customer needs to key in the account number, date of birth on Jan Suraksha portal and to select the Bank. The Certificate of Insurance is generated instantly on payment of premium.

 

2. IRDAI reconstitutes expert committee for Ind AS/IFRS implementation: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has announced the reconstitution of the Expert Committee on the implementation of Ind AS/IFRS. The 13-member committee, which will be headed by the Member (Finance and Investment) F&I of IRDAI, will also include the Chairman of the Accounting Standards Board (ASB) of ICAI, the President of the Institute of Actuaries of India (IAI), the CGM & HOD of IRDAI’s Actuarial Department, among others. The committee will work on steps that may be taken towards the effective implementation of the Indian Accounting Standards, along with giving phase-wise time-lines.

 

3. Paytm shifts nodal account to Axis Bank for seamless transactions: Fintech firm One97 Communications — owner of the brand Paytm — has shifted its nodal account to Axis Bank from Paytm Payments Bank. The move will allow continuity of Paytm QR, Soundbox, and card machine after the March 15 set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as per a regulatory filing. The company has also shifted its nodal account to Axis Bank (by opening an escrow account) to continue seamless merchant settlements as before. This arrangement is expected to seamlessly replace the nodal account that OCL was using with Paytm Payments Bank.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Gulzar and Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Awarded Prestigious Jnanpith Award 2023: Renowned Urdu poet Gulzar and Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya have been named the recipients of the 58th Jnanpith Award 2023. Sampooran Singh Kalra, popularly known as Gulzar, 89, is celebrated for his works in Hindi cinema and is considered one of the finest Urdu poets of this era. Rambhadracharya, 74, the founder and head of Tulsi Peeth in Chitrakoot, is a renowned Hindu spiritual leader, educator and writer of more than 240 books and texts, including four epics. Gulzar received Sahitya Akademi Award for Urdu in 2002, Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2013, Padma Bhushan in 2004, and at least five National Film awards for his works.

 

Daily GK Update- 18th Feb, 2024

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Haryana launched ‘Van Mitra’ Scheme to Boost Green Cover: Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has launched the ‘Van Mitra’ scheme and its portal to encourage community participation in tree planting activities in non-forest areas. The members of families with an annual income of less than Rs 1.80 lakh can register to become ‘Van Mitras’. The objective of this scheme is to directly involve the local public in increasing forest areas across the state, ensuring an increase in the survival rate of afforestation, and promoting tree planting in non-forest areas. Each van mitra will receive an incentive based on the maintenance of the plant and they can plant a maximum of 1,000 saplings. Any individual aged between 18 and 60 can become a van mitra, according to an official statement.

 

2. UP govt. boosts Kanya Sumangala Yojana grant: The Uttar Pradesh government has increased the grant amount for Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 from the financial year 2024-25. This amount is provided from the birth of daughters up to admission in undergraduate/diploma courses. The increase in grant amount will be effective from April 1. Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana is a conditional cash transfer scheme that ensures social security to the girl child along with her development. In this scheme girl child can have monetary benefits in six stages.

 

3. Odisha CM inaugurates Bagchi Sri Shankara Cancer Center in Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the Bagchi Sri Shankara Cancer Centre and Research Institute (BSCCRI) in Bhubaneswar. Objective – To provide quality treatment to patients at an affordable cost. Set up in association with the Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Bengaluru with a cost of Rs 410 crore, the new institute has 750 beds for treatment of patients.

It has a facility for providing radiotherapy to 300 patients and chemotherapy to 150 patients every day.

 

4. Nand Kishore Yadav elected as Bihar Legislative Assembly Speaker: Senior BJP leader Nand Kishore Yadav was unanimously elected as the Speaker of Bihar Legislative Assembly. A seventh-time MLA Yadav represents the Patna Sahib assembly constituency. He has also held different departments in the state government. His political journey commenced in 1978 with his election as a councillor of the Patna Municipal Corporation, eventually becoming the deputy mayor of Patna in 1982. First elected as an MLA in 1995, Yadav’s career has been distinguished by his several tenures as a minister in the Nitish Kumar government, showcasing his versatility and leadership within the state’s governance.

 

 

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 17 February – Global Tourism Resilience Day: Global Tourism Resilience Day is observed every year on 17 February. Objective – To raise awareness about the significance of resilient tourism.

Theme 2024 – Resilient Tourism: Building Back Better

 

2. Japan’s Bizarre ‘Naked Festival’ Faces Existential Crisis: The bizarre annual ‘naked festival’ of Japan called ‘Sominsai’ has been impacted, as rural towns hosting it grapple with demographic challenges posed by the country’s rapid population ageing. Held every February, the cold weather festival involves scores of men wearing ..

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. 12th Edition of MILAN Naval Exercise will be held in Visakhapatnam: The 12th edition of the MILAN naval exercise will be held in Visakhapatnam from February 19-27, with over 50 countries participating. The “Forging Naval Alliances for a Secure Maritime Future” is the theme of the exercise which aims to facilitate collaboration and idea-sharing among participating navies to enhance security on the high seas. Its primary objective is to ensure the safety of maritime trade for the benefit of all stakeholders. The previous edition of the exercise was held in Visakhapatnam under the Eastern Naval Command and had the theme ‘Camaraderie-Cohesion-Collaboration’.

 

2. India’s $57 Billion Futuristic Tank Development Program: The Indian Army plans to acquire 1,770 technologically advanced Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) under a $57 billion indigenous project to replace its ageing Russian-origin T-72 fleet after 2030. A request for proposal (RFP) is likely to be released this ..

 

3. Indian Navy to Host MILAN-2024 Multilateral Naval Exercise: On 18th February 2024, the Indian Navy announced that it is all set to conduct the 12th edition of the multilateral naval exercise MILAN from 19th to 27th February, 2024 at Visakhapatnam. Over 50 countries have been invited to participate ..

 

SPORTS

 

1. India wins gold at 2024 Badminton Asia Team Championships: On 18 February 2024, the Indian women’s badminton team won a historic gold medal at the Badminton Asia Team Championships in Shah Alam, Malaysia. This was India’s first ever title at the continental competition, with the men’s team having previously ..

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. South Indian Bank gets Best Technology Bank of the Year award: South Indian Bank has been honoured with the title of Best Technology Bank of the Year Award at the 19th IBA Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo, & Citations. The bank’s outstanding performance was recognized with a total of six prestigious awards. In three categories, the bank emerged as the winner, secured the runner-up position in one, and received special mentions in two others.

The awards were presented to PR Seshadri, MD & CEO of South Indian Bank, by T Rabi Sankar, Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, in Mumbai.

 

Daily GK Update- 17th Feb, 2024

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India’s 1st helicopter emergency medical service to start from Uttarakhand: India’s first Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) will be started from Uttarakhand. All Indian Institute of Medical Science in Rishikesh from where it can be sent anywhere within a radius area of 150 km to airlift the people to the hospital. HEMS would operate under project ‘Sanjeevani’. The helicopter is being assembled at present and is under the certification process.

 

2. Pashupati Paras Launches “SUFALAM” For Food Entrepreneurs: Union Minister of Food Processing Pashupati Kumar Paras has inaugurated “SUFALAM: Start-Up Forum for Aspiring Leaders and Mentors Startup Conclave 2024”. This initiative demonstrates the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and building a supportive ecosystem for startups, which in turn empowers aspiring entrepreneurs in the food processing industry.

 

3. Sonowal inaugurates Kalughat Inland Waterways Transport terminal in Bihar: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has inaugurated the newly constructed Kalughat Inland Waterways Transport (IWT) terminal on National Waterways -1 (NW-1) at Kalugaht near Parmanandpur in Saran district in Bihar. It has been constructed with a worth of 82.48 crore rupees. It will provide seamless connectivity to vessels from Haldia and Kolkata ports along NW -1. The new Intermodal Terminal cargo will enhance handling capacity along inland waterways.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Prabowo Subianto elected as Indonesia President: Prabowo Subianto emerges victorious in Indonesia’s Presidential race, securing nearly 60% of the votes in the first round. His military background and alignment with President Joko Widodo’s policies propel him to a clear-cut victory, sparking positive reactions in Indonesian markets.

 

2. Greece Becomes First Orthodox-Majority Nation to Allow Same-Sex Marriage: The Hellenic Parliament of Greece passed a historic legislation, legalizing same-sex civil marriages in the country. It makes Greece the first constitutionally Christian Orthodox-majority nation to grant equal marital rights to LGBTQ couples. The bill was approved by 176 lawmakers ..

 

3. US Passes Legislation to Boost Quad Collaboration:
In a major diplomatic boost to the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), the United States House of Representatives has passed a bill aimed at augmenting strategic ties between member countries – USA, Australia, India and Japan. Key Provisions Enabling Parliamentary Coordination.

 

4. UK Enters Technical Recession Amid Economic Challenges: According to latest GDP figures, the United Kingdom has slipped into a technical recession, with the economy contracting 0.3% in Q4 2023 after a 0.1% decline in Q3. This worsens the economic backdrop for PM Rishi Sunak’s government ahead of ..

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. R Ashwin joins elite 500 test wicket club: Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has claimed his 500th Test wicket in the first innings of the third Test match against England at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. The 37-year-old achieved this monumental feat in his 98th Test Match. Ashwin dismissed Zak Crawley in the second day to join Anil Kumble as the second Indian to take 500 wickets in Test history. Ashwin is the ninth bowler in Test history to reach 500 wickets and Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne, Anil Kumble, and Nathan Lyon are the only spinners who have taken more wickets than him in Test history.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Japan successfully launches next-gen H3 rocket: On February 18th, 2023, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) announced the successful first orbital launch of its next-generation H3 launch vehicle. The new flagship rocket delivered its test payload into intended orbit after two prior failed launch attempts in ..

 

2. ISRO GSLV Mission to Launch INSAT-3DS Weather Satellite: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the advanced INSAT-3DS meteorological observation satellite on 17th February 2023 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota using a Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) rocket. The mission aims to place INSAT ..

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. India, Nepal sign pact to link UPI, NPI for faster remittances: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Nepal Rastra Bank entered into an agreement integrating the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) of India and the National Payments Interface (NPI) of Nepal for cross-border remittances. The integration of Indian and Nepalese fast payment systems is aimed at facilitating cross-border remittances between the two countries by enabling users of the two systems to make instant, low-cost fund transfers. The collaboration between India and Nepal in linking their fast payment systems through the UPI-NPI linkage will deepen financial connectivity and reinforce the enduring historical, cultural, and economic ties between the two countries.

 

2. RBI extends deadline for Paytm Payments Bank restrictions to March 15: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has extended the deadline for restrictions on deposit and credit transactions of Paytm Payments Bank Limited (PPBL) to March 15, stating that customers and merchants might require “a little more time to make alternative arrangements. The earlier deadline was February 29. The regulator has clarified that merchants can accept payments using Paytm QR code, soundbox or point of sale (PoS) terminal even after March 15, if the receipt or transfer of funds are linked to any banks other than PPBL.

Daily GK Update- 16th Feb, 2024

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Sonowal inaugurates Kalughat Inland Waterways Transport terminal in Bihar: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Inaugurated the newly constructed Kalughat Inland Waterways Transport (IWT) terminal on National Waterways -1 (NW-1) at Kalugaht near Parmanandpur in Saran district in Bihar. It  will provide seamless connectivity to vessels from Haldia and Kolkata ports along NW -1. The new Intermodal Terminal cargo will enhance handling capacity along inland waterways. It has been constructed with a worth of 82.48 crore rupees.

 

2. AFMS & IIT Roorkee join hands to foster research: Armed Forces Medical Service has signed an MoU with the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee. The MoU aims towards promoting collaborative biomedical research, to aid in improving the combat medical support and patient care of serving personnel. Under this MoU, Armed Forces Medical Services will be able to utilize the expertise of IIT Roorkee in various fields like, development of novel medical devices, robotics, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and machine learning. Apart from research, faculty exchange programme, joint academic activities and promotion of start-ups in the domain of health care.

 

3. Sanjay Kumar Jain appoints as CMD of IRCTC: Railway PSU IRCTC (Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd) has appointed Sanjay Kumar Jain as its Chairman and Managing Director with immediate effect. Prior to this role, Jain was Principal Chief Commercial Manager (PCCM) of Northern Railway, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC). Jain is an Indian Railway Traffic Services (IRTS) Officer of 1990 batch. A qualified Chartered Accountant (CA), Jain has been at leadership roles in policy making, commercial ventures and developmental ventures of the Government of India and PSUs.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 16th conference of World Social Forum 2024 commences in Kathmandu: The 16th conference of the World Social Forum (WSF) 2024 commenced in Kathmandu. The five-day WSF 2024 under the "Another World is Possible" banner aims to open horizontal exchange among civil society organisations, social movements, trade unions and individuals opposing neoliberal globalisation. The event opened with a Solidarity March starting from the main venue at Bhrikutimandap and passing through Bhadrakali, New Road Gate, Ratna Park and back to Bhrikutimandap.

 

2. PM Modi inaugurates grand BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, the first Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates. The BAPS temple will be an enduring tribute to the values of harmony, peace and tolerance, which both India and the UAE share. The pink sandstone temple sits on a 27-acre plot in Abu Dhabi, making it one of the largest in the Middle East. While Islam is the official religion of the UAE, the country is home to about 3.6 million Indian workers.

 

3. 15 February 2024 – World Anthropology Day: World Anthropology Day is observed every year on the third Thursday in February and this year it is being marked on February 15. To promote the field of anthropology and raise awareness about its significance in understanding human diversity, cultures and societies worldwide. Anthropology Day was established by the American Anthropological Association (AAA) in 2015 and initially called National Anthropology Day. It was changed in 2016 to World Anthropology Day as it seemed more appropriate since anthropology is essential to the whole world and not just one nation and the day was a part of AAA’s larger efforts to promote the discipline and its contributions to society.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Nikhil Joshi appointed as MD of Boeing Defence India: US aerospace major Boeing has appointed Nikhil Joshi as managing director of Boeing Defence India (BDI). Based in New Delhi, Joshi will lead current and future programmes for BDI to enhance the mission readiness and modernisation of India’s defence forces. Joshi has more than 25 years of aerospace and defence industry experience, including over two decades of service with the Indian armed forces in the aviation branch of the Indian Navy.

 

2. MoD signs contract with AWEIL for 463 Stabilised Remote-Control Guns for Indian Navy & Indian Coast Guard: The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Advanced Weapon Equipment India Ltd (AWEIL), Kanpur for the manufacturing & supply of a total of 463 indigenously manufactured 12.7 mm Stabilised Remote-Control Guns (SRCG) for the Indian Navy & Indian Coast Guard at a total cost of Rs. 1752.13 crores. The SRCG will enhance the capability of Navy and Coast Guard to accurately engage small targets that post a threat to ships in an asymmetric environment, both by day and night. This acquisition will provide further boost to the vision of “Aatmanirbharta in Defence”. This contract will also open up a large avenue in defence manufacturing for over 125 Indian Vendors.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Anurag Thakur hands over Chess Olympiad Torch to Hungary: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur handed over the Chess Olympiad Torch to Budapest, Hungary. Hungary to host the 45th edition of the Chess Olympiad. The transfer of the torch took place at the Major Dhyanchand National Stadium in New Delhi. The 44th edition of the Chess Olympiad held in Chennai in 2022 witnessed the participation of over 2500 players and 7000 participants globally.

 

2. Indian hammer thrower Rachna Kumari banned for 12 years for doping: The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has suspended hammer thrower Rachna Kumari for 12 years for a second anti-doping rule violation. Rachna returned positive results for multiple anabolic androgenic steroids in samples collected out of competition at Patiala on September 24 and on November 1 at the National Games last year. Rachna had earlier served a four-year suspension from 2015 to 2019. Her current suspension began on November 24.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI Capital Market names Virendra Bansal as MD & CEO: SBI Capital Markets (SBICAPS), the wholly-owned subsidiary and investment banking arm of the State Bank of India (SBI), named Virendra Bansal as its new Managing Director and CEO. He succeeds Rajay Kumar Sinha, who has been appointed as the Whole Time Member (Finance and Investment) of the IRDAI for three years. The new SBICAPS CEO has previously served as CEO of SBI’s New York office and Vice-Chairman of SBI (California), the bank’s US Retail Banking subsidiary.

 

2. PayU, NPCI join hands to roll out Credit Lines on UPI’ feature: Payments solution provider, PayU has collaboration with National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) for rolling out of the ‘Credit Lines on UPI’ feature on its platform, which will create avenues of financial security and growth for the merchants. The company anticipates over 380 million UPI users to gain easier access to Credit Line. The enablement of pre-sanctioned Credit Lines by banks through UPI will empower businesses and consumers alike, fostering India’s financial inclusion agenda. As part of integration, PayU will share information about the relevant identifiers related to the type of credit the consumer has undertaken, such as pay-later, personal loans, etc.

 

3. Axis Bank appoints Pranam Wahi as Additional Director: The Board of Directors of Axis Bank has appointed Pranam Wahi as an additional independent director of the bank for four years. This appointment is subject to approval of shareholders. A Chartered Accountant by qualification, Wahi has over 40 years of banking experience across various countries, including India, the United Arab Emirates / GCC, Indonesia, and Singapore, per the Bank’s regulatory filing. Wahi began his career with HSBC in 1982 where he was part of various functions and corporate banking within the HSBC Group in India. Wahi subsequently joined DBS as CEO India in April 2004. His last position was Managing Director, Senior Risk Executive, DBS Indonesia, before retiring in 2023.

 

 

 

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. City Union Bank wins IBA’s banking technology awards: Old private sector lender City Union Bank (CUB) has won seven awards in various categories in the ‘19th Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations 2023’ by the Indian Banks Association (IBA) in Mumbai. The awards aim at recognising the best technology providers in the banking industry and instill competition to demonstrate their state-of-the-art innovative products, and sense of purpose and bring huge value addition in Best Practices for serving the bank’s clientele.  Along with his technology team, N Kamakodi, MD & CEO of City Union Bank received the awards from RBI’s Deputy Governor T Rabi Sankar.