Daily GK Update- 20th May, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. IndiaFirst Life Insurance appoints Rushabh Gandhi as MD & CEO: The board of IndiaFirst Life Insurance has approved the elevation of Rushabh Gandhi, deputy chief executive officer, as MD and CEO. He will succeed R.M. Vishakha, Managing Director & CEO, who will be retiring on June 30. Gandhi will have a five-year term effective July 1 or the date of receipt of regulatory approvals, whichever is later. With more than 29 years of experience in Indian and international markets, Gandhi is one of the key driving forces at IndiaFirst Life.

 

2. Sanjiv Puri takes over as CII president for 2024-25: Apex industry chamber Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has a new President in Sanjiv Puri, Chairman and Managing Director of ITC Limited. Puri, who is an alumnus of IIT Kanpur and Wharton School of Business, has assumed office as the President of CII for 2024-25. While Rajiv Memani, Chairman of EY India, has taken over as CII President Designate for 2024-25. R Mukundan, Managing Director & CEO of Tata Chemicals Limited, has assumed charge as Vice President of CII.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India, Australia, Indonesia conclude trilateral maritime security workshop: The second edition of India, Australia, Indonesia Trilateral Maritime Security Workshop (TMSW) concluded after discussing the ongoing maritime security challenges and opportunities for collaboration between the three maritime neighbours in the region. The theme of the workshop was ‘Indian Ocean Region: Collaborative Efforts to Enhance Regional Maritime Security’. The exercise was conducted at INS Dronacharya, Kochi, India. The Workshop was conducted under the aegis of Headquarters Southern Naval Command and witnessed participation of delegates from the three participating Navies.

 

2. World highest competition swimming pool opens in Bhutan: World Aquatics has announced the opening of the first-ever competitive swimming pool at a record altitude of 2,400 meters above sea level in Bhutan. The pool is part of the Pools for All Program to promote aquatic sports in the region. Swimming’s global governing body launched the program in 2019 to ensure accessible aquatics facilities to more countries and regions.

 

3. 20 May – World Bee Day: World Bee Day 2024 is observed every year on May 20. Objective – To raise awareness about the essential role of bees and other pollinators in maintaining the health of our planet, ensuring food security, and promoting biodiversity and sustainable agriculture. Theme 2024 – Bee Engaged with Youth World Bee Day was founded by the United Nations in 2017 following a proposal by Slovenia, which has a long tradition of beekeeping.

 

4. Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi, minister die in helicopter crash: Iran President Ebrahim Raisi was killed in a helicopter crash in East Azerbaijan province. The chopper carrying Iran President Raisi and his foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian had disappeared over a mountainous region The eighth President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisolsadati, more popularly known as Ebrahim Raisi, was a principlist and a Muslim jurist, who became the Iranian President in 2021. This incident follows a period of heightened regional tensions, particularly in light of the Gaza conflict and Iran’s recent escalations with Israel.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Nishad Kumar, Preethi Pal win medals at World Para Athletics Championships: Nishad Kumar and Preethi Pal have clinched silver and bronze at the World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan. Kumar, a Paralympic silver medalist, secures India’s first medal with a 1.99m high jump in the T47 category, finishing second. Preethi Pal then added a bronze to India’s tally after finishing third in the women’s T35 200m final with a time of 30.49 seconds.

 

2. Brazil to host FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027: Brazil was declared the host of the 2027 Women’s World Cup at the FIFA Congress. Brazil beating the joint bid of Belgium, Netherlands and Germany to become the first South American country to hold the tournament. The Brazil bid received the backing of 119 member associations of the FIFA Congress to host the 10th edition of the competition, compared to 78 votes for the European bid.

 

3. Satwiksairaj & Chirag Shetty win Men’s Doubles Title at Thiland Open 2024: Star Indian pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty secured the men’s doubles title at the Thailand Open Super 500 badminton tournament with a straight-game win over Chen Bo Yang and Liu Yi of China in Bangkok. In the form of their lives, Satwik and Chirag, the world number three pair prevailed 21-15, 21-15 over Liu and Chen, ranked 29th, for their ninth BWF world tour title. It was also the second title of the season for the Asian Games champions following their triumph at the French Open Super 750 in March. They had also finished runners-up at Malaysia Super 1000 and India Super 750.

 

4. Max Verstappen won Emilia Romagna GP: Red Bull’s Max Verstappen clinched the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix as McLaren’s Lando Norris finished second. It was the 59th career win for the three-time Formula 1 world champion who kept Norris at bay despite struggling with his car.

Verstappen took his third consecutive win in Imola to take his season’s tally to five in seven races.

McLaren’s Oscar Piastri finished fourth to make it a solid performance for the team.

 

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI raises short-term retail fixed deposit rates by up to 75 bps: State of India (SBI) has increased interest rates on short-term retail fixed deposits (FDs) by 25 to 75 basis points (bps). This is the first increase in the fixed deposit rates by the bank since December 2023. India’s largest bank also increased interest rates on domestic bulk term deposits (₹2 crore and above) by 10-50 basis points on five out of eight maturity buckets. The new interest rates are effective from May 15, 2024. This deposit rate hike comes against the backdrop of credit growth outstripping deposit growth.

 

2. SBI acquires 6.125% stake in CCIL IFSC, strengthens presence in GIFT City: State Bank of India has executed transaction documents to acquire a 6.125 per cent stake in CCIL IFSC Limited for ₹6.125 crore. CCIL IFSC, which will be incorporated with an authorized and paid-up capital of ₹200 crore and ₹100 crore, respectively, will operate the foreign currency settlement system and act as a clearing house and system operator at the IFSC within GIFT City. The indicative period for completion of the transaction (acquisition of 61.25 lakh equity shares at ₹10 each) is up to six months from the date of execution of transaction documents.

 

3. Yes Bank launches premium services under ‘Yes Grandeur’: Yes Bank has launched premium banking services under the label ‘Yes Grandeur’ targeting elite and rising affluent class to drive business growth. The exclusive banking program, tailored to meet distinctive financial and lifestyle needs, has an eligibility threshold of average monthly balance of ₹5 lakh or a Net Relationship Value (NRV) of ₹20 lakh, with additional consideration given to loan relationships.

Customers can also avail zero cross-currency markup charges on international debit card spends, complimentary airport lounge access, and lifestyle privileges across brands like Taj, ITC Hotels, Disney+ Hotstar, SonyLIV, Amazon, among others.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 19th May, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Nayara Energy to invest ₹600 crore in two Ethanol Plants: Nayara Energy, a private downstream company, is planning to invest Rs 600 crore for setting up ethanol manufacturing plants in the country. The move is in line with the government’s target of 20% ethanol blending for FY26. The company plans to set up two ethanol manufacturing plants, each with a production capacity of 200 kiloliters per day (KLPD), in Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. The company also aims to increase the number of ethanol plants to with a combined production capacity of approximately 1,000 KLPD with a focus on value enhancement in retail operations and ensuring the reliability of the ethanol blending program in the future.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ronaldo tops Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes again: Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo topped Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes for the fourth time in his career while Spanish golfer Jon Rahm moved up to second following his sensational switch to Saudi-backed LIV Golf. Ronaldo became the world’s highest-paid athlete after his move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr and Forbes said the 39-year-old’s estimated total earnings were in the region of $260 million, an all-time high for a soccer player. His on-field earnings amounted to $200 million while his off-field earnings were $60 million thanks to sponsorship deals where brands make use of his 629 million Instagram followers.

 

2. Venezuela becomes first country to lose all Glaciers: Venezuela is the first country to lose all of its glaciers, which is a huge change in the environment. New research shows that the Humboldt glacier in the Andes, which used to be very big, has shrunk to less than 2 hectares, which means it is no longer a glacier but an ice field. The Sierra Nevada de Mérida Mountain range in Venezuela used to have six glaciers. As of 2011, five of these glaciers had melted away, leaving only the Humboldt glacier. Professionals thought Humboldt would last for another ten years, but new tests show it has melted much more quickly than expected.

 

3. Armenia, Azerbaijan Agree On Disputed Border Sections In Nagorno-Karabakh: Recently, Armenia and Azerbaijan came to a deal on several border areas in the Nagorno-Karabakh region that were being disputed. This agreement is a big step toward ending problems that have been going on for decades. Background of the Conflict ..

 

4. California Town Campo Listed For Sale At $6.6 Million: Campo is a small town in California. Its owner, Las Vegas real estate investor John Ray, has put it up for sale for $6.6 million. The sale includes more than 20 buildings, both residential and business, and is close to

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Nandini dairy to sponsor for Scotland for T20 World Cup: Scotland cricket team has unveiled its new ICC T20 World Cup jersey with Karnataka Milk Federation’s (KMF) Nandini logo. The Nandini logo is featured in the leading arm of the jersey in both English and Kannada. The jersey was launched in Edinburgh by members of the playing squad. The Nandini brand, which is a household name in Karnataka, is sponsoring Scotland and Ireland teams in the forthcoming T20 World Cup. The tournament is set to begin from June 2 in the West Indies and the USA.

 

2. Sunil Chhetri Announces His Retirement: The leader of the Indian national football team, Sunil Chhetri, has said that he is retiring. One of India’s most famous football players’ long and successful career comes to an end with this important event. Sunil Chhetri is a professional ..

 

3. Brazil to Host 2027 Women’s World Cup Soccer: The 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup will be held in Brazil. This is a big deal in the world of international women’s football. Brazil will be hosting this prestigious event for the first time. It will be a chance to ..

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. World’s first 6G device launched in Japan: A Japanese consortium recently introduced the prototype of the world’s first high-speed 6G device, which is claimed to transfer data at lighting speed. As per reports, the purported device can transmit data at a whopping 100 gigabits per second (Gbps) and can cover more than 300 feet. The device is 20x faster than the ongoing 5G technology. With the use of the 100 gigahertz (GHz), the prototype of 6G device can reach speeds of 100 Gbps indoors and the 300 GHz band enables the device to offer 100 gigahertz (GHz) outdoors.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. UN revises India’s 2024 growth forecast to 6.9%: The United Nations (UN) has revised India’s growth projections for 2024 and expects the economy to grow by 6.9% for FY24. According to the UN’s World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) report, India’s economy is now forecast to grow by 6.9% in 2024. This is an increase from the earlier projection of 6.2% made in January.

The report also predicts a growth rate of 6.6% for 2025, which remains unchanged from the previous forecast.

 

2. RBI approves appointment of Pradeep Natarajan as IDFC FIRST Bank: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Pradeep Natarajan as Whole Time Director on the Board of IDFC FIRST Bank for three years. IDFC FIRST Bank had reported a net profit of Rs 724 crore for the fourth quarter ended March 2024. The bank’s gross Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) reduced to 1.88 per cent of gross advances as of March 31, 2024, from 2.51 per cent by the end of March 2023.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 18th May, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Nayara Energy to invest ₹600 crore in two Ethanol Plants: Nayara Energy, a private downstream company, is planning to invest Rs 600 crore for setting up ethanol manufacturing plants in the country. The move is in line with the government’s target of 20% ethanol blending for FY26. The company plans to set up two ethanol manufacturing plants, each with a production capacity of 200 kiloliters per day (KLPD), in Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. The company also aims to increase the number of ethanol plants to with a combined production capacity of approximately 1,000 KLPD with a focus on value enhancement in retail operations and ensuring the reliability of the ethanol blending program in the future.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ronaldo tops Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes again: Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo topped Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes for the fourth time in his career while Spanish golfer Jon Rahm moved up to second following his sensational switch to Saudi-backed LIV Golf. Ronaldo became the world’s highest-paid athlete after his move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr and Forbes said the 39-year-old’s estimated total earnings were in the region of $260 million, an all-time high for a soccer player. His on-field earnings amounted to $200 million while his off-field earnings were $60 million thanks to sponsorship deals where brands make use of his 629 million Instagram followers.

 

2. Japan’s Mizuho hires Sanjay Nayar as advisor for Mizuho Bank India: Mizuho Financial Group has hired private equity veteran Sanjay Nayar as an external senior advisor for Mizuho Bank India (Mizuho). It is Japan’s third-largest lender with $2 trillion in assets. Nayar, who started his career as a banker at Citibank, served as the CEO of Citigroup’s Indian and South Asian operations and was a member of Citigroup’s management committee and Asia executive operating committee.

 

3. 18 May – World AIDS Vaccine Day: World AIDS Vaccine Day, also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, is observed annually on May 18 Objective – To raise awareness about the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS and the importance of developing a vaccine. The day marks the anniversary of a 1997 speech by US President Bill Clinton highlighting the importance of an HIV vaccine.

 

4. 18 May – International Museum Day: International Museum Day is celebrated annually on May 18. Objective – To raise awareness about the importance of museums in cultural exchange, the enrichment of cultures, and the development of mutual understanding, cooperation, and peace among peoples. Theme 2024 – Museums for Education and Research Established during the ICOM General Assembly in 1977 in Moscow, Russia, International Museum Day aimed to create an annual event that would unite museums and raise global awareness about their activities.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. A.Y.V. Krishna & N. Venu Gopal appointed as Additional Directors in CBI: Senior IPS officers A.Y.V. Krishna and N. Venu Gopal have been appointed as additional directors in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Krishna, a 1995-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Assam-Meghalaya cadre, is currently working as Inspector General in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). He has been inducted as the additional director of CBI for a tenure up to August 6, 2028.

Krishna’s batchmate Venu Gopal (Himachal Pradesh cadre) is presently working as joint director in the CBI.

 

2. 18 May 2024 – Armed Forces Day: Armed Forces Day is celebrated every year on the third Saturday of every May. This year celebrated on 18 May. The best way to celebrate Armed Forces Day is by recogising an armed forces service member and pay your respect. On August 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced that Armed Forces Day will be celebrated every year. President Harry S. Truman was the first person to propose the idea of celebrating a holiday to honour the services provided by the military forces of the country.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. World’s first 6G device launched in Japan: A Japanese consortium recently introduced the prototype of the world’s first high-speed 6G device, which is claimed to transfer data at lighting speed. As per reports, the purported device can transmit data at a whopping 100 gigabits per second (Gbps) and can cover more than 300 feet. The device is 20x faster than the ongoing 5G technology. With the use of the 100 gigahertz (GHz), the prototype of 6G device can reach speeds of 100 Gbps indoors and the 300 GHz band enables the device to offer 100 gigahertz (GHz) outdoors.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IFC extends $500 million financing to HDFC Bank to ramp up microloans: International Finance Corporation (IFC) has provided $500 million loan to HDFC Bank for extending microloans to underserved women” in rural and semi-urban India. It would use IFC’s financing for on-lending as microloans to self-help groups (SHGs) and joint liability groups (JLGs) enrolled in the Sustainable Livelihoods Initiative (SLI). IFC aims to promote greater inclusiveness of underserved women borrowers by showing the viability of scaling up microlending to this segment.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 17th May, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. ReNew inks pact with Societe Generale for $1 billion debt financing: Energy firm ReNew has signed an initial pact with European bank Societe Generale for up to $1 billion financing as debt and advisory solutions over the next three years. The MoU aims to support the financing and development of the company’s various strategic energy transition projects both in India and globally. Both parties will leverage their respective expertise to strengthen the collaboration on utility-scale energy projects including solar, wind, complex renewables, green hydrogen, energy storage and solar modules manufacturing.

 

2. Adani Energy Solutions acquires Essar’s Mahan-Sipat Transmission Project: Adani Energy Solutions Ltd (AESL) has acquired 100 per cent stake in Essar Transco Limited for an Enterprise Value of INR 1,900 crore after obtaining necessary clearances. This share acquisition follows agreements signed in June 2022. The acquisition covers the fully operational 400 kV, 673 circuit kilometres inter-state transmission line linking Mahan in Madhya Pradesh to Sipat pooling substation in Chhattisgarh.

 

3. Police started Operation ‘Maryada’ for smooth conduct of Kedarnath Dham Yatra 2024 in Uttarakhand: Police launched Operation ‘Maryada’ for the smooth conduct of Kedarnath Dham Yatra 2024 in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand. Under Operation Maryada, the police request pilgrims and tourists who consume drugs to maintain decorum in this area. Along with challan, the police is also registering a case against the rioters and drug users. Guptkashi DSP Harshvardhini Suman said, “Under Operation Maryada, we are taking strict action against those who are using any kind of intoxicants, it is not good for the temple and the Dham.

 

4. Porter becomes India’s 3rd Unicorn of 2024: Homegrown logistics services platform Porter has become the third unicorn (with a valuation of $1 billion and above) in India this year. Earlier this year, fintech firm Perfios and Ola’s AI venture Krutrim had turned unicorns. As per Tracxn, there were 113 unicorns in India as of earlier this month. PeakXV-backed Porter’s earlier valuation was $514 million, after it raised $101 million in a Series E round from investors such as Tiger Global, Vitruvian Partners, Lightrock India and more. Till date, it has raised $150 million over nine rounds, according to Tracxn data.

 

5. Kapil Sibal elected as the President of Supreme Court Bar Association: Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal has won the election for the President post of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA). Besides Sibal, senior advocates Adish C Aggarwala, Pradeep Kumar Rai, Priya Hingorani and advocates Tripurari Ray and Neeraj Srivastava were contesting for the post of SCBA president. Kapil Sibal secured 1,066 votes and defeated his nearest rival and senior advocate Pradeep Rai. While Pradeep Kumar Rai received 689 votes. This is the fourth time, Kapil Sibal will serve as the president of the SCBA.

 

6. 17 May 2024 – National Endangered Species Day: National Endangered Species Day is observed every year on the third Friday of the month of May. This year, National Endangered Species Day celebrated on May 17. Objective – To create awareness about the consequences of human activities and what we can do to save endangered species. Theme 2024 – Celebrate Saving Species. In the year 2006, David Robinson and the Endangered Species Coalition established National Endangered Species Day to be celebrated every year to urge people to contribute to the safety and protection of endangered species.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UAE launched10-year Blue Residency Visa for Environmental Champions: The United Arab Emirates has launched a 10-year Blue Residency visa for individuals who have made ‘exceptional efforts and contributions to protecting the environment, whether marine or land’. The 10-year Blue Residency Visa aims to attract and retain global leaders in environmental research, activism, and technological solutions. This visa category extends beyond the UAE’s borders, welcoming those who champion sustainability initiatives worldwide.

 

2. 17 May – World Telecommunication and Information Society Day: World Telecommunication Day is observed every year on May 17 to honour the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Theme 2024 – Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development

In the year 1865, International Telecommunication Union was founded, when the first Indian Telegraph Convention was signed. In 2005, the World Summit on the Information Society asked the United Nations to declare May 17 as World Telecommunication Day to be observed every year.

 

3. 17 May – World Hypertension Day: World Hypertension Day is observed every year on 17 May. Theme 2024 – Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer Objective – To spread awareness about the risk of hypertension and its prevention. World Hypertension Day was first observed on May 14, 2005, by the World Hypertension League (WHL). Since 2006, May 17 has been marked as World Hypertension Day across the world.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Air Force testes BHISHM state-of-the-art indigenous mobile hospital, for airdrop in Agra: Indian Air Force has tested BHISHM Cube, a state-of-the-art indigenous mobile hospital, for airdrop in Agra. This innovative technology is a great leap forward in providing rapid and comprehensive medical aid during emergencies anywhere. This cube is part of the broader initiative, Project BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri), and is tailored to treat up to 200 casualties. These cubes are robust, waterproof, and light, designed for various configurations, making them ideal for diverse emergency scenarios.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Puma signs deal with Athletics Federation of India for official kit sponsor: PUMA India has signed a deal with the Athletics Federation of India to become its official kit sponsor. Puma signed a multi-year deal to exclusively supply performance kits, speed suits and travel gear to every athlete under AFI representing India in track & field, jumps, throws, cross country running and marathons at both domestic and international tournaments. With the partnership, several international stars such as Neeraj Chopra (javelin throw), Kishore Kumar Jena (javelin throw), Parul Chaudhary (steeplechase), Subha Venkatesan (4x 400 m relay), Murali Sreeshankar (long jump), Jyothi Yarraji (hurdle), Priyanka Goswami (race walk) and Jeswin Aldrin (long jump) will benefit from PUMA’s gear across sporting events.

 

2. Neeraj Chopra wins Gold in Federation Cup with throw of 82.27 metres: In men’s javelin throw, Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra won the gold medal in Federation Cup 2024 in Bhubaneswar. The 26-year-old superstar struggled in the initial rounds of competition as he was second after three rounds. He took the lead in the fourth round with an effort of 82.27m. Neeraj Chopra last took part in a domestic competition at the same event in 2021, when he won a gold with a throw of 87.80m.

 

3. Animesh Kujur won Gold at 200m sprint event in Federation Cup: 20-year-old, Animesh Kujur bagged 200m gold at the Federation Cup in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha. Kuju has scorched the track by clocking an impressive 20.62 seconds to win the 200 metres gold. The second-best time ever by an Indian after Amalan Borgohain’s national record of 20.52 seconds. He also qualified for the 100 metre final.

 

4. Manipur wins Senior Women’s NFC for Rajmata Jijabai Trophy for 22nd time: Manipur defeated Haryana 2-0 in the final of the 28th Senior Women’s National Football Championship for Rajmata Jijabai Trophy, to clinch their 22nd title at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan, in Kolkata. Ngangom Bala Devi (68’) and Nongmeikapam Sibani Devi (83’) scored the goals to hand Manipur the match, after Haryana were down to 10 players as Samiksha was sent off for a foul on Dangmei Grace in the 65thminute.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 16th May, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. AIIMS New Delhi signed MoU with University of Bolton Institute of Medicine: AIIMS New Delhi has signed an MoU with the University of Bolton Institute of Medicine to collaborate in the field of medical research, innovation and education. The MoU was signed through a virtual event by executives from both institutions. The partnership will encompass various initiatives such as staff and student exchange, educational conferences and collaborative degree programmes.

 

2. India registers record export at USD 778 Billion in 2023-24: India registered record exports in financial year 2023-24 at USD 778 billion, according to the commerce ministry. In the financial year 2022-23, the combined value of exported goods and services stood at USD 776.3 billion. In 2023-24, services exports increased from USD 325.3 billion to USD 341.1 billion, while merchandise exports marginally declined from USD 451.1 billion to USD 437.1 billion. China, Russia, Iraq, UAE, and Singapore are among the countries where India’s exports in the just-concluded financial year have risen substantially, though with a low base.

 

3. 16 May – National Dengue Day: National Dengue Day is observed every year on May 16. Objective – To spread awareness about the disease and ways to prevent it. Theme 2024 – Dengue Prevention: Our Responsibility for a Safer Tomorrow. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection. it spreads from mosquitoes to humans and is more common in tropical and subtropical regions.

High fever, headache, body ache, joint and muscle pain, nausea and rash are common symptoms of dengue.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India overtakes Australia, Japan and Singapore in data centre capacity: India has become the country with the highest data center capacity in the Asia-Pacific region, surpassing major countries like Australia, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Singapore, and Korea. The country is expected to record the highest capacity addition of 850 MW during the 2024-2026 period, higher than major APAC countries. In 2023, there was an addition of 255 MW of new supply, resulting in a total stock of approximately 1,030 MW by the end of the year.

 

2. Sela Tunnel recognized as India’s highest tunnel by International Book of Honour: Sela Tunnel, constructed by BRO India, is officially recognised as the highest tunnel in the country by the International Book of Honour, The 2.598 Km long tunnel is situated at an altitude of 13000 ft on the Tezpur-Tawang Road. Situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet, the strategically important Sela Tunnel will ensure all-weather connectivity to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.

 

3. Lawrence Wong to be Sworn in as Singapore’s fourth PM: Singapore’s deputy leader Lawrence Wong is set to be sworn in as the nation’s fourth Prime Minister. 51-year-old US-trained economist Wong will succeed 72-year-old Lee Hsien Loong, who stepped down after two decades at the helm. Lee’s resignation marked the end of a family dynasty led by his father Lee Kuan Yew.

Since becoming an independent nation in 1965, Singapore has only had three Prime Ministers – all from the ruling People’s Action Party.

 

4. 16 May – International Day of Living Together in Peace: The International Day of Living Together in Peace is observed on 16 May every year. The United Nations General Assembly established this day to support the international community’s efforts to promote peace, unity, and solidarity.

In 1997, “the General-Assembly proclaimed by its resolution 52/15 the year 2000 as the International Year for a Culture of Peace. In 1998, it proclaimed the period 2001-2010 as the International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for Children of the World.

 

5. 16 May – International Day of Light: International Day of Light is observed every year on May 16. Objective – To highlight the importance of light and its various applications in science, culture, art, education, and sustainable development. In the year 1960, Physicist and Engineer Theodore Maiman conducted the first successful operation of the laser. To commemorate the special day, International Day of Light came to be observed every year on May 16.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. ‘Operation Sadbhavana’: Army’s support for North Sikkim’s communities: The Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps under Operation Sadbhavana provided essential aid and healthcare to North Sikkim’s Naga and Rangrang villages post-GLOF. Over 150 villagers received medical attention, and youths participated in educational sessions linked to the Agniveer Scheme for empowerment. These efforts, rooted in compassion, highlight the Army’s commitment to fostering community development and strengthening bonds with border populations, ensuring sustained harmony and solidarity in the region.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Sunil Chhetri announces retirement from International Football: India Captain Sunil Chhetri will be retiring from international football after the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against Kuwait on June 6. The 39-year-old striker has been capped 145 times by India, scoring 94 goals in a career spanning 20 years. Chhetri, who made his debut in 2005. He will leave the scene as India’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player. He is also third in the list of goal scorers among active players behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

 

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. NASA plans to develop first railway systems on moon: NASA has unveiled its ambitious plan to construct the first lunar railway system, known as FLOAT (Flexible Levitation on a Track), designed to revolutionize payload transport on the Moon. The long-lasting robotic transport system which will play a major role in the daily operations of a sustainable lunar base envisioned for the 2030s. This lunar railway system is part of NASA’s Moon to Mars initiative and mission concepts such as the Robotic Lunar Surface Operations 2 (RLSO2).

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Tata AIG General Insurance partners Aurm for its vault services: Aurm, an asset protection firm has partnered with Tata AIG General Insurance to provide comprehensive insurance coverage to its customers for their valuables. Under this partnership, Aurm’s vaults will be fully insured for up to Rs 2.5 million, courtesy of TATA AIG, India’s leading general insurance provider. Aurm partners with banks and real estate companies to offer state-of-the-art safe deposit storage facilities that are fully automated and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

 

2. LIC gets 3-yr extension from Sebi to achieve 10% public shareholding: Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India has been granted a three-year extension by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to achieve a 10 per cent public shareholding. LIC is required to increase its public shareholding to 10 per cent on or before May 16, 2027. According to SEBI norms, a company must attain a 10 per cent public shareholding within three years from the date of listing. LIC was listed on May 17, 2022.

 

3. PhonePe partners with LankaPay for UPI Payments: PhonePe has partnered with LankaPay to allow its users to pay using UPI across Sri Lanka. PhonePe app users travelling to Sri Lanka can make payments using UPI across LankaPay QR merchants. The transactions will be facilitated by the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and LankaPay National Payment Network. Users can scan LankaQR code to make secure and quick payments without carrying cash or calculating currency conversions. The amount will be debited in INR, showing the currency exchange rate.

 

 

 

Daily GK Update- 15th May, 2024

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd celebrates 250th Foundation Day: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) celebrated its 250th Foundation Day on 14 May 2024. To mark the day, a series of events were organised in Mumbai, presided over by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane. These included the inauguration of adjacent land acquired from the Mumbai Port Authority (MPA) and; the launch of a prototype of an indigenous midget submarine.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana enter ‘UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register’: The Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana have been included in ‘UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register’. The ‘Ramcharitmanas’, ‘Panchatantra’, and ‘Sahṛdayaloka-Locana’ are such timeless works that have deeply influenced Indian literature and culture, shaping the nation’s moral fabric and artistic expressions. The decision to include Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra and Sahṛdayāloka-Locana was taken at the 10th General Meeting of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP) held in Ulaanbaatar, capital of Mongolia.

 

2. Maiden Indian Pavilion set up at the World Hydrogen Energy Summit: India has set up its maiden pavilion at the World Hydrogen Summit and Exhibition 2024. The Pavilion was set up by the Union Ministry of New & Renewable Energy and inaugurated by the Secretary of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Bhupinder Singh Bhalla. The World Hydrogen Summit 2024 was held in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The Summit was attended by 15,000 delegates from around the world.

 

3. Andrei Belousov appointed as new defence minister of Russia: President Vladimir Putin has nominated economist Andrei Belousov to replace long-serving defence minister Sergei Shoigu. For the first time in 12 years, Russia has a new minister of defence. He was appointed minister for economic development in 2012; the following year, he became an aide to Mr Putin. He was also a key backer of the VAT increase from 18 to 20% in 2019.

 

4. 15 May – International Day of Families: International Day of Families is celebrated every year on May 15th. Objective – To raise awareness about the significance of families and the challenges they confront. The day also celebrates the diversity of families and promotes inclusivity. Theme 2024 – Families and Climate Change This year marks the 30th anniversary of the International Day of Families.

 

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Abha Khatua Sets National Record Winning Gold In Women’s Shot Put: Abha Khatua has set a national record and won gold medal in Women’s Shot Put with a massive throw of 18.41 metres at National Federation Cup Athletics Competition in Bhubaneswar. While Uttar Pradesh’s Kiran Baliyan finished second and Delhi’s Srishti Vig stood at third position. Representing Maharashtra at the event, Abha was the joint record holder of 18.06 metres with Manpreet Kaur before this event. Abha was the joint record holder of 18.06 metres with Manpreet Kaur before this event.

 

2. England cricketer James Anderson announced retirement: England pace legend James Anderson has announced retirement from cricket. Having made his debut for England at Lord’s in 2003, Anderson will finish his career at the same ground playing his 188th Test. Anderson will play his 188th Test match — only India great Sachin Tendulkar has more with 200 — and gives him one more chance to add to his total of 700 Test wickets, comfortably the most by a pacer.

Only spinners Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Shane Warne (708) have more Test wickets.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Warburg Pincus to acquire Shriram Housing Finance for Rs 4,630 crore: New York-based private equity firm Warburg Pincus will acquire Shriram Housing Finance Ltd (SHFL) in a deal valued at ₹4,630 crore for equity and convertible instruments. Warburg Pincus will acquire the stake through its affiliate Mango Crest Investment Ltd. At present Shriram Finance Ltd holds a controlling stake in SHFL while private equity firm Valiant Partners L.P. (Valiant), Mauritius, holds the remaining ownership. As a part of this transaction, Valiant and Shriram Finance will completely divest its equity stake to Warburg Pincus.

 

2. Indian economy likely to grow at 6.6% in FY25: Moody’s: Moody’s Ratings projected a 6% growth rate for the Indian economy in the fiscal year ending March 2025 (FY25). The forecast attributes the growth to strong credit demand and robust economic performance, which will support the profitability of non-bank finance companies (NBFCs). In comparison to Moody’s forecast, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other agencies have higher growth projections. The RBI, Asian Development Bank (ADB), and Fitch Ratings each estimate a 7% growth rate for FY25, while S&P Global Ratings and Morgan Stanley predict a 6.8% growth rate.

 

3. HDFC Bank launches virtual credit card ‘Pixel’: The country’s largest private sector lender, HDFC Bank has launched PIXEL, its first virtual credit card with Visa’s network. The card is available in two variants: PIXEL Play and PIXEL Go and allows users to build their own cards with personalised benefits, offers, etc. Customers can register for the cards on the bank’s PayZapp mobile application which can be digitally managed. The PayZapp application will provide credit card users with features like card controls, rewards, EMI dashboard, notifications, statements, repayments, disputes, hotlisting, recent transactions, etc.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Chandrakant Satija honored with Global Excellence Award 2024: Chandrakant Satija wins the Global Excellence Award 2024 for being the “Most Trusted Admission Consultant in Vidarbha Region”. He is the founder and CEO of Chandra Admission Consultants. The award was presented to him by the famous Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra. He was adjudged as the Most Trusted Admissions Consultant in Vidarbha Region.