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GK-Tornado
for
IBPS RRB (PO& Clerk) Mains Exam 2023
Dear Aspirants,
This GK Tornado is a complete docket of important Banking Awareness & Current Affairs news and events that occurred
in the last 5 months (1st April 2023 to 31st August 2023). This file is important and relevant for all competitive exams like
the SBI Clerk & PO exam 2022.

News related to RBI

August 2023

1. ICICI Bank gets RBI nod to raise stake in ICICI 4. RBI has imposed ₹1. 50 lakh penalty on Shri Vinayak
Lombard Sahakari Bank for contravention of provisions of
Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted ICICI Maintenance of Deposit Accounts.
Bank to raise stake in ICICI Lombard by up to 4 per cent Note: Mizoram Urban Cooperative Development Bank
in various tranches. The private lender informed Indian was also penalized of ₹20,000 for non-compliance with
stock market bourses about receiving the RBI's specific directions under Supervisory Action Framework
approval for raising stake in its subsidiary. However, and KYC directions. Further, imposed a monetary penalty
the approval is subject to certain regulatory approvals. of ₹1. 00 lakh on Shreeji Bhatia Cooperative Bank Ltd and
₹1. 50 lakh on Shri Vinayak Sahakari Bank Ltd,
The Board of Directors approved an increase in
Ahmedabad.
shareholding in the Company, in multiple tranches up
5. RBI Unveils AI-Powered “Conversational Payments”
to 4. 0% additional shareholding, as permissible under
for UPI Transactions
applicable law, to ensure compliance with the Section
Note: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced
19(2) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. The Bank Artificial Intelligence-powered conversational features on
would acquire at least 2. 5% stake out of the above 4. UPI, in August 2023. Aims: To enable digital payments
0% before September 9, 2024. through voice commands. The concept, known as
2. RBI data: Bank credit growth to MSMEs decelerates in “Conversational Payments,” introduces a dynamic and
Q1 user-friendly approach to transactions. Objectives: To
Note:According to RBI, Bank credit growth to Micro, Small allow users to initiate payments seamlessly within chat or
and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) has decelerated on a messaging conversations, transforming routine
year-on-year basis in the first three months of the FY interactions into instant financial exchanges
2023. As per the latest Reserve Bank data, the credit to 6. RBI selects McKinsey and Company, Accenture
medium industries in June grew by 13. 2 per cent (47. 8% Solutions to use AI and ML
2022) and micro and small industries by 13 per cent (29. Note: RBI has selected global consultancy firms McKinsey
2 % 2022). Gross bank credit outstanding to medium and Company India LLP and Accenture Solutions Pvt Ltd
industries in June 2023 was Rs 2,63,440 crore compared India in August 2023. Aim: To develop systems using
to Rs 2,32,776 crore in June 2022. artificial intelligence and machine learning for its
3. Reserve Bank of India keeps key interest rate supervisory functions. RBI is looking to AI and machine
unchanged for third time learning to analyze its huge database and improve
Note:According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulatory supervision over banks, NBFCs to ensure that
Monetary Policy, released in August 2023, the RBI's the benefits of advanced analytics can accrue to the
Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously decided Department of Supervision in the central bank.
to keep the repo rate unchanged at 6. 5 percent. Other 7. RBI to launch pilot project on Public Tech Platform
Highlights:The standing deposit facility (SDF) rate Note:The RBI has announced the launch of the Pilot
remains at 6. 25%. The marginal standing facility (MSF) Project for Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit by
rate and the Bank Rate at 6. 75%. RBI has revised the CPI Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH), a wholly-owned
inflation target for the current fiscal to 5. 4%. Projected subsidiary of the RBI in August 2023. Aim: To enable
real GDP growth for 2023-24: 6. 5%
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 delivery of frictionless credit by facilitating a seamless According to RBI these two states together accounted for
flow of required digital information to lenders. Objectives: 57. 2% of the total investment proposals made during the
To encourages various stakeholders, including banks, year. In 2022-23, UP attracted the highest share of new
non-banking financial companies, FinTech firms, and investments, with a total project cost of Rs. 43,180 crore.
startups, and other financial services Followed by Gujarat (Rs. 37,317 crore), Odisha (Rs.
8. Axis Bank partners with RBI innovation hub to launch 11,810 crore), Maharashtra (Rs. 7,900 crore) and
KCCs and MSME loans Karnataka (Rs. 7,300 crore).
Note: Axis Bank announced the launch of two lending 10. RBI approves merger of Akola Merchant Co-operative
products powered by the Public Tech Platform for Bank
Frictionless Credit, introduced by the Reserve Bank Note: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the
Innovation Hub. Objective: To offer Kisan Credit Card merger of The Jalgaon Peoples Co-operative Bank and
(KCC) and unsecured MSME loans to customers powered Akola Merchant Co-operative Bank. Aim: To streamline
by the platform. KCC will be offered in Madhya Pradesh operations and services for customers under a unified
and will be available to customers for up to Rs 1. 6 Lakh to entity. The Akola Merchant Co-operative Bank branches
start with. MSME loans will be available across the would operate as branches of The Jalgaon Peoples Co-
country and will offer loans upto Rs. 10 Lakh. operative Bank. The merger of Twin Cities Co-operative
9. UP, Gujarat among top 5 states in new investments Urban Bank Ltd and Kranti Co-operative Urban Bank Ltd
Note:Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Gujarat are among the top 5 was also given the go-ahead by the central bank.
states in India in terms of new investments in 2022-23.

July 2023

1. IBA sets up a group to implement the RBI committee operative Bank are entitled to receive the full amount of
recommendations on ARCs their deposits from DICGC.
Note:The Indian Banks’ Association has constituted a five- 4. RBI panel recommends measures for
member working group for implementing the internationalization of rupee
recommendations of the RBI committee on the “working Note:RBI's working group has recommended the
of the Asset Reconstruction Companies”. Primary focus: inclusion of the rupee in the Special Drawing Rights
To review assignment agreements and trust deed (SDR) basket and recalibration of the foreign portfolio
templates related to the acquisition of distressed assets by investor (FPI) regime to accelerate the pace of
ARCs from lenders. Aim: To update these templates to internationalization of the rupee. The
align with the evolving changes and expectations within recommendations by an Inter-Departmental Group
the ARC sector
(IDG), headed by RBI Executive Director Radha Shyam
2. Forex reserves rise by $1. 85 billion to $595. 05 billion
Ratho. The group was constituted by RBI Deputy
Note:According to the RBI, India's foreign exchange
Governor T Rabi Sankar to review the position of the
reserves rose by $1. 853 billion to $595. 051 billion in the
rupee as an international currency.
week ended on June 30, 2023. The overall reserve had
dropped by $2. 901 billion to $593. 198 billion in the 5. RBI cancels licenses of two co-operative banks
previous reporting week. In October 2021, the country's Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has canceled the
forex reserve had reached an all-time high of $645 billion. banking licenses of two cooperative banks in
The reserves have been declining as the central bank Maharashtra and Karnataka. The licenses of Malkapur
deploys the kitty to defend the rupee amid pressures Urban Co-operative Bank Ltd, Buldhana, and Shushruti
caused majorly by global developments. Souharda Sahakara Bank Niyamita, Bengaluru have
3. RBI cancels licence of 2 cooperative banks been canceled. The two cooperative banks ceased to
Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the carry on banking business with effect from the close of
licence of two cooperative banks -- Sri Sharada Mahila Co- business on July 5. These banks did not have adequate
operative Bank, Tumkur, Karnataka and Harihareshwar capital and earning prospects.
Sahakari Bank, Wai, Satara. Reason: As the lenders do not 6. Inclusion of NongHyup Bank in Second Schedule: RBI
have adequate capital and earning prospects. About 99. Notification
96% of the depositors of Harihareshwar Sahakari Bank Note: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has informed all
and 97. 82% of the depositors of Sri Sharada Mahila Co- banks about the addition of "NongHyup Bank" to the
Second Schedule of the RBI Act, 1934. According to the
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 RBI, NongHyup Bank has been officially included in the Note:According to the RBI's index measuring the adoption
regulated list through a prior notification issued on June of online transactions, digital payments in the country
20, 2023, and published in the Gazette of India. It is an witnessed a year-on-year growth of 13. 24% until March
agricultural bank headquartered in South Korea. The bank 2023. The RBI's Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI)
was established in 2012 owned by the NACF. Nonghyup showed a rise from 377. 46 in September 2022 and 349.
Bank entered India in 2016. 30 in March 2022 to 395. 57 by the end of March 2023.
7. RBI caps deposit withdrawal from ailing National Co- The increase in the RBI-DPI index across all parameters
operative Bank indicates substantial growth in payment infrastructure.
Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed business 10. India needs average annual 7. 6% GDP growth to
restrictions on The National Co-operative Bank Ltd and become developed by 2047: RBI
capped deposit withdrawal at Rs 50,000 per account in Note:An article published by the Reserve Bank of India
July 2023. According to the RBI, the bank is not allowed to (RBI) in its July 2023 bulletin stated that India could
issue fresh loans or accept fresh deposits without prior become a developed country by 2047 with an average
approval from the central bank. Depositors will be annual real GDP growth of 7. 6% over the next 25 years.
entitled to receive deposit insurance claim amount up to India must rebalance its economic structure by
Rs 5 lakh from the Deposit Insurance and Credit strengthening its industrial sector. Agriculture and
Guarantee Corporation.
services would have to grow at 4. 9% and 13% per
8. Banks write off bad loans worth Rs 2. 09 lakh crore in
annum, respectively. Collaboration between the
2022-23: RBI
government, private sector, civil society and citizens is
Note:According to the RBI’s data during the financial year
essential.
2022-23, banks wrote off bad loans amounting to over Rs
2. 09 lakh crore, contributing to a total loan write-off of Rs 11. RBI cancels banking license of United India Co-
10. 57 lakh crore by the banking sector over the past five operative Bank Bijnor
years. This loan write-off to bring down gross non- Note: The license of United India Co-operative Bank
performing assets or defaulted loans to a 10-year low of 3. Limited, Bijnor has been revoked by the Reserve Bank
9 percent of advances by March 2023. According to RBI, of India. The bank is not allowed to continue its banking
banks have written off a total of Rs 15,31,453 crore since operations, which include taking deposits and
FY2012-13. returning deposits. Result: The bank will stop
9. RBI: Digital payments rise 13% YoY at March-end functioning, and all depositors will be eligible to receive
2023 up to Rs 5 lakh as a deposit insurance claim from the
Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation.
June 2023

1. RBI fines J&K Bank, Bank of Maharashtra, Axis Bank demanded, even after being notified as a non-banking
Note: The Reserve Bank has imposed a penalty of Rs 2.5 Institution.
crore on Jammu and Kashmir Bank for non-compliance 3. India’s CAD narrows to 1. 3 billion dollars in the
with directions related to time-bound implementation January-March quarter
and strengthening of SWIFT-related operational controls. Note: According to the data released by the Reserve Bank,
A penalty of Rs 1.45 crore was also imposed on Bank of the current account deficit (CAD) of India has been
Maharashtra for non-compliance with Loans and narrowed to 1. 3 billion dollars or 0. 2% of GDP in the
Advances Statutory and Other Restrictions' and Advisory January-March quarter of the last fiscal. The decline was
on Man in the Middle Attacks in ATMs'. The RBI also mainly due to moderation in the trade deficit and a robust
imposed a penalty of Rs 30 lakh on Axis Bank. increase in services exports. RBI data has shown that net
2. RBI cancels Mahalaxmi Cooperative Bank Dharwad’s services receipts increased, both sequentially and on a
banking license year-on-year basis, on the back of a rise in net earnings
Note: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has canceled the from computer services.
banking license of the Karnataka-based Mahalaxmi 4. RBI imposed ₹20 lakh monetary penalty on
Cooperative Bank, Dharwad, and allowed function only as Manappuram Finance
a non-banking institution. The cancellation of the license Note: Reserve Bank of India has imposed ₹20 lakh
is with effect from the close of business on June 27, 2023. monetary penalty on Manappuram Finance for non-
RBI has also been instructed to repay unpaid and compliance with certain provisions of Non-Banking
unclaimed deposits of non-members held by it, whenever Financial Company (NBFC). RBI imposed this penalty as it

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 did not classify certain gold loan accounts with overdues 8. RBI, IIT Madras to launch voice-banking solution
of more than 90 days as Non-Performing Assets (NPAs). Note: Reserve Bank Innovation Hub has partnered with
NBFC: It is a company registered under the Companies Act IIT Madras Research Park and Incubation Cell to launch
1956 engaged in the business of loans and advances, voice-banking solutions to eliminate language barriers.
acquisition of shares/stocks/bonds/securities issued. It will assist the illiterate and the visually impaired in
5. RBI notifies 4 key measures to strengthen 1,514 their banking needs. Aim: To conduct the basic banking
Urban Co-operative Banks transactions through voice controls in Hindi, Tamil,
Note: RBI has notified four key measures to strengthen Telugu, and English, in the initial stage. SBI, Axis Bank,
1,514 Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) in the country.
Kotak Mahindra, and IDFC First conducted a code fest
UCBs can now open new branches up to 10% of the
on voice banking called ‘Vaulter Voice’
number of branches in the previous financial year without
9. RBI fines Indian Overseas Bank Rs 2. 2 crore for
prior approval of RBI in their approved area of operation.
multiple violations
UCBs have to get the policy approved by their board and
comply with the Financially Sound and Well Managed
Note: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a
Norms. The deadline to achieve PSL target of 60% also monetary penalty of Rs 2. 2 crore on Indian Overseas
extended to March 31, 2024. Bank for violating various norms. The RBI said it fined
6. RBI penalizes Bihar State Co-op Bank Rs 60. 20 lakh the bank under the powers vested by the Banking
Note: RBI has imposed a penalty of Rs 60. 20 lakh on The Regulation Act 1949. The RBI imposed this monetary
Bihar State Co-operative Bank Limited, Patna for a slew of penalty after finding contraventions of banking
shortcomings and violations. A statutory inspection of the regulations and non-compliance with specific RBI
Patna-based bank by Nabard after FY20 revealed that it directions related to income recognition, asset
failed to put in robust software for identifying and classification, provisioning, interest rates on deposits,
reporting suspicious transactions and submit statutory and ATM security
returns within prescribed timelines. The RBI also imposed 10. RBI Governor launches Financial Inclusion
a monetary penalty of Rs 6 lakh on Jowai Cooperative Dashboard 'ANTARDRIHSTI'
Urban Bank Limited, Meghalaya. Note: RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das launched a
7. RBI permits banks to undertake compromise Financial Inclusion Dashboard 'ANTARDRIHSTI' to
settlement of wilful defaults provide the required insight to assess and monitor the
Note: The Reserve Bank of India has allowed banks to go progress of financial inclusion by capturing relevant
for compromise settlement of fraud accounts and wilful parameters. It will enable the ability to gauge extent of
defaults. Reason: To ensure maximum recovery from
financial exclusion at granular levels across the
distressed assets. All regulated entities (REs) will be
country. Presently, the dashboard is intended for
required to put in place board-approved policies for
internal use in the RBI. It will further facilitate greater
undertaking compromise settlements, with specific
financial inclusion through a multi-stakeholder
guidance on the necessary conditions precedent.
Conditions would include minimum ageing, deterioration approach.
in collateral value etc.
May 2023

1. RBI bought net $750 mn in spot forex market in March Note:The RBI has imposed a penalty of Rs 84. 50 lakh on
2023 the Central Bank of India for non-compliance with norms
Note:According to the RBI's March 2023 bulletin, the related to fraud classification and reporting. The RBI had
Reserve Bank of India bought $750 million on a net basis conducted a statutory inspection for supervisory
in the spot foreign exchange market in March 2023. The evaluation of the bank with reference to its financial
RBI has purchased $6. 91 billion and sold $6. 16 billion. In position as on March 31, 2021. The reports revealed that
February 2023, the central bank bought $254 million on a the bank had failed to report as fraud to RBI certain
net basis in the spot market. The Indian rupee appreciated accounts within seven days of the decision of the JLF to
by 0. 6% against the dollar in March 2023. The RBI's net declare the accounts as fraud.
outstanding forward purchase stood at $23. 6 billion as of 3. RBI sanctions merger of Maratha Co-op Bank with
end-March 2023. Cosmos Co-op Bank
2. RBI imposes Rs 84. 50 lakh penalty on Central Bank of Note: RBI has approved the voluntary Scheme of
India Amalgamation of Maratha Sahakari Bank with The
Cosmos Co-operative Bank, with effect from May 29, 2023.
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 The central bank had placed Maratha Sahakari Bank Note:As per a Finance Ministry notification, the
under Directions under Section 35 of the Banking spending in foreign exchange through international
Regulation Act, 1949, on August 31, 2016. All the branches credit cards (ICCs) will be covered under the RBI’s
of Maratha Sahakari Bank Ltd will function as branches of liberalized remittance scheme (LRS). Under this
The Cosmos Co-operative Bank Limited. Maratha scheme, a resident can remit money abroad up to a
Sahakari Bank has seven branches in Mumbai. maximum of USD 2. 50 lakh per annum without the
4. RBI to introduce expected loss approach for bad loan authorization of the Reserve Bank. Earlier, the usage of
provisioning ICCs for making payments for fulfilling expenses during
Note:RBI has proposed to introduce an expected loss-
travel outside India was not included in the LRS limit.
based approach for provisioning in 2023-24. It would be a
9. RBI withdraws Rs 2000 notes from circulation
part of its measures to strengthen the bad loan resolution
under Clean Note Policy
ecosystem. This will enable banks to design their own
Note:RBI has decided to withdraw Rs 2000
credit loss models and spread the higher provisions over
a five-year period under a newer system of setting aside
denomination banknotes from circulation under the
money for lending. Aim: To classify financial assets as Clean Note Policy. The policy says that 2,000-rupee
held-to-maturity or available-for-sale, into three notes will continue to be legal tender but will not be
categories (Stages 1, 2, and 3) circulated. RBI has said members of the public may
5. RBI working on lightweight, portable payment system deposit Rs 2,000 banknotes into their bank accounts or
Note:RBI has conceptualized a lightweight payment and exchange them for banknotes of other denominations.
settlement system (LPSS), that can be operated from Exchange of Rs 2000 banknotes of other denominations
anywhere by a bare minimum staff in the event of natural can be made up to a limit of Rs 20,000 at a time from
calamities and war. This new payment system will be 23rd May, 2023.
independent of conventional technologies used for 10. RBI to pay ₹87,416 crore as dividend to Centre for
existing payment systems such as RTGS, NEFT, and UPI. FY23
This system is expected to operate on minimalistic Note:The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) central board
hardware and software. It will process transactions that has approved the transfer of ₹87,416 crore as surplus
are critical to ensure the stability of the economy to the government for FY23, surpassing the budget
6. RBI imposes penalty on Mizoram Rural Bank, estimate by 82%. The union budget estimated an
Tripura Gramin Bank aggregate dividend of ₹48,000 crore from the RBI and
Note: RBI has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 5 lakh public sector lenders. The large surplus transfer by the
on Mizoram Rural Bank and 2 lakh rupees on Tripura central bank would help the government manage its
Gramin Bank for contravention of various norms. fiscal math. Last year, the central bank transferred a
Reason: Both banks have failed to categorize certain surplus of ₹30,307 crore to the Centre.
loan accounts as non-performing in line with the 11. RBI imposes ₹1. 73 crore fine on HSBC for wrong
Income Recognition and Asset Classification (IRAC) credit card data
norms. The bank was asked to provide a justifiable Note:RBI has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1. 73 crore
reason as to why a penalty should not be imposed for on Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd
its non-compliance with the directions. (HSBC) for contravention of Credit Information
7. RBI allows SBI Funds Management to acquire up to Companies Rules, 2006. HSBC has furnished incorrect
9. 99% stake in HDFC Bank credit information regarding several expired credit cards
Note: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed SBI with nil dues to all four credit information companies. The
Funds Management (SBIMFL) to acquire up to 9. 99% RBI imposed the penalty in the exercise of powers
of the paid-up share capital or voting rights of HDFC conferred under the provisions of Section 25(1) and
Bank. SBIFML has been advised by RBI to acquire the Section 23(4) of the CIC (Regulation) Act, 2005.
aforesaid major shareholding in the bank within a 12. RBI parks incremental reserves in US treasuries,
period of six months i. e. by November 15, 2023. other sovereign securities
Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has deployed its
SBIFML must ensure that the aggregate holding in
incremental reserves in bonds and securities, focusing on
HDFC Bank remains below 10% of the paid-up share
US Treasuries and debt issued by other top-rated
capital or voting rights of the Bank at all times.
sovereigns. Reason: To manage its foreign currency assets
8. Credit card spending in forex to come under RBI’s
and ensure the stability of the Indian economy. The latest
remittance scheme half-yearly report on foreign exchange management

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 showed that as of end-March 2023, of the total foreign does not see any activity for 10 years or more and is
currency assets of $509. 69 billion, $411. 65 billion was deemed as an inactive deposit.
invested in securities. 18. RBI imposes ₹1. 73 crore fine on HSBC for wrong
13. Reserve Bank gold reserves rose 4. 5% to 794. 64 credit card data
tonnes in 2022-23 Note:RBI has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1. 73 crore
Note:RBI has added 34. 22 metric tonnes of gold in the on Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd
fiscal year that ended March 31, 2023, taking the total gold (HSBC) for contravention of Credit Information
reserves to 794. 64 metric tonnes. RBI held 760. 42 metric Companies Rules, 2006. HSBC has furnished incorrect
tonnes as of March 31, 2022. A recent World Gold Council credit information regarding several expired credit cards
(WGC) report showed that the RBI added 7 metric tonnes with nil dues to all four credit information companies. The
of gold in January-March 2023. The latest WGC report RBI imposed the penalty in the exercise of powers
showed that the Monetary Authority of Singapore was the conferred under the provisions of Section 25(1) and
largest single buyer of gold (69 metric tonnes) during Section 23(4) of the CIC (Regulation) Act, 2005.
January-March 2023. 19. RBI parks incremental reserves in US treasuries,
14. Settle fee, charges on forex prepaid cards in rupee: other sovereign securities
RBI Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has deployed its
Note:RBI has stated that fees and charges payable in India incremental reserves in bonds and securities, focusing on
on forex prepaid cards, store value cards, and travel cards US Treasuries and debt issued by other top-rated
must be denominated and settled in local currency. The sovereigns. Reason: To manage its foreign currency assets
use of such cards is limited to permissible current account and ensure the stability of the Indian economy. The latest
transactions. It is subject to the prescribed limits under half-yearly report on foreign exchange management
the Foreign Exchange Management Rules. The RBI had showed that as of end-March 2023, of the total foreign
previously stated that no prior permission from the bank currency assets of $509. 69 billion, $411. 65 billion was
is needed for such cards. invested in securities.
15. RBI imposes ₹2. 92 Cr penalty on Canara Bank 20. Reserve Bank gold reserves rose 4. 5% to 794. 64
Note:RBI has imposed a penalty of ₹2. 92 crore on Canara tonnes in 2022-23
Bank for violation of various norms, including linking Note:RBI has added 34. 22 metric tonnes of gold in the
interest rates to external benchmarks, and opening fiscal year that ended March 31, 2023, taking the total gold
savings accounts of ineligible entitiesA scrutiny of the reserves to 794. 64 metric tonnes. RBI held 760. 42 metric
bank was carried out by RBI in July 2020 based on a high- tonnes as of March 31, 2022. A recent World Gold Council
value fraud reported by another bank. After scrutiny, the (WGC) report showed that the RBI added 7 metric tonnes
RBI found that the bank failed to link interest on floating of gold in January-March 2023. The latest WGC report
rate retail loans and loans to MSME to an external showed that the Monetary Authority of Singapore was the
benchmark. largest single buyer of gold (69 metric tonnes) during
16. RBI, GFIN collaborate to prevent 'greenwashing' January-March 2023.
Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will be participating 21. Settle fee, charges on forex prepaid cards in rupee:
in the Global Financial Innovation Network's (GFIN) RBI
Greenwashing TechSprint. Aim: To address the concern Note:RBI has stated that fees and charges payable in India
over exaggerated, misleading, or unsubstantiated claims on forex prepaid cards, store value cards, and travel cards
related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) must be denominated and settled in local currency. The
credentials. GFIN support financial innovation in the use of such cards is limited to permissible current account
interest of consumers. The RBI has invited Indian firms to transactions. It is subject to the prescribed limits under
participate in the TechSprint to address sustainable the Foreign Exchange Management Rules. The RBI had
finance as a collective priority. previously stated that no prior permission from the bank
17. RBI launches ‘100 Days 100 Pays’ campaign is needed for such cards.
Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a 22. RBI imposes ₹2. 92 Cr penalty on Canara Bank
campaign ‘100 Days 100 Pays’ for banks to trace and settle Note:RBI has imposed a penalty of ₹2. 92 crore on Canara
the top 100 unclaimed deposits of every bank in every Bank for violation of various norms, including linking
district of the country within 100 days. Aim: To reduce the interest rates to external benchmarks, and opening
quantum of unclaimed deposits in the banking system and savings accounts of ineligible entities. A scrutiny of the
return such deposits to their rightful bank was carried out by RBI in July 2020 based on a high-
owners/claimants.An unclaimed deposit is one which value fraud reported by another bank. After scrutiny, the
RBI found that the bank failed to link interest on floating
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 rate retail loans and loans to MSME to an external border payments. Shortlisted teams will be invited to
benchmark. develop their solutions over a six-week period and each
23. RBI, GFIN collaborate to prevent 'greenwashing' team will be eligible for a stipend of eight lakh rupees. The
Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will be participating winners for each problem statement will receive an award
in the Global Financial Innovation Network's (GFIN) of forty lakh rupees.
Greenwashing TechSprint. Aim: To address the concern 26. RBI updates KYC instructions on wire transfers for
over exaggerated, misleading, or unsubstantiated claims banks, institutions
related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) Note:RBI has updated instructions in the Master Direction
credentials. GFIN support financial innovation in the on KYC related to wire transfers and aligned the same
interest of consumers. The RBI has invited Indian firms to with the relevant recommendation of the FATF. The Banks
participate in the TechSprint to address sustainable and other financial institutions ensure cross-border as
finance as a collective priority. well as domestic wire transfers contain complete
24. RBI launches ‘100 Days 100 Pays’ campaign information about the originator and beneficiary. Wire
Note: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a Transfer: It is an electronic transfer of funds via a network
campaign ‘100 Days 100 Pays’ for banks to trace and settle that is administered by banks and transfer service
the top 100 unclaimed deposits of every bank in every agencies around the world.
district of the country within 100 days. Aim: To reduce the 27. RBI announces 6. 97% interest rate on Floating Rate
quantum of unclaimed deposits in the banking system and Bond 2024
return such deposits to their rightful owners/claimants. Note:RBI has announced the interest rate of 6. 97% on the
An unclaimed deposit is one which does not see any Floating Rate Bond 2024, for the half year from May 7 to
activity for 10 years or more and is deemed as an inactive November 6, 2023. Floating Rate Bonds are securities that
deposit. do not have a fixed coupon rate. They have a variable
25. RBI, BIS launch global technology competition ‘G20 coupon rate which is re-set at preannounced intervals.
TechSprint’ The FRB bonds carry a coupon with a base rate equivalent
Note:RBI and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) to a weighted average yield of the last three auctions of
have jointly launched the fourth edition of the G20 182-day Treasury Bills (T-Bill) plus a fixed spread decided
TechSprint, a global technology competition. Focus: On by way of auction.
developing innovative technology solutions for cross-
April 2023

1. India's forex reserves rise $5. 98 billion to $578. 78 Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced its
billion bimonthly monetary policy and kept the repo rate
Note: According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, unchanged at 6. 50%. The GDP is expected to jump 6. 5%
India's foreign exchange reserves increased by $5.98 in the current financial year. Retail inflation is expected to
billion to $578.78 billion on March 24, 2023. Data for the moderate to 5. 2% in FY2023-24. The standing deposit
previous week showed that India's foreign exchange facility (SDF) would remain unchanged at 6. 25%, and the
reserves rose to $572.8 billion, the highest level since MSF rate and the bank rate at 6. 75%. In Q1FY24, CPI-
early February 2023. India's foreign currency assets based inflation is expected to be 5. 1%. The real GDP
(FCA) also increased from $4.38 billion to $509.72 billion. growth in 2022-23 was 7%.
India's gold reserves rose by $1.37 billion to $45.48 4. FY23 bank credit growth highest since FY12, up 15%,:
billion. RBI data
2. Public sector banks transfer ₹35,012 cr unclaimed Note:According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data,
deposits to RBI the Bank credit rose by 15% year-on-year (YoY) in 2022-
Note: The Public sector banks (PSBs) have transferred 23 (FY23), against 9. 6% YoY in 2021-22 (FY22). FY23
unclaimed deposits of ₹35,012 crore as of February 2023 credit growth is the highest since 2011-12, when it was
to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). These deposits have 19. 3%. Bank deposits expanded 9. 58% YoY in FY23,
not been operated for 10 years or more. SBI tops the list against 8. 9% YoY growth seen in the previous financial
with an unclaimed amount of ₹8,086 crore, while PNB has year (FY22). The outstanding credit stood at Rs 136. 75
₹5,340 crore and Canara Bank has ₹4,558 crore. These trillion at the end of the last fortnight of FY23 (March 24,
unclaimed deposits belong to 10. 24 crore accounts 2023).
transferred to the RBI. MoS for Finance Bhagwat Karad 5. RBI announces framework for Acceptance of Green
shared this information in Lok Sabha. Deposits
3. RBI keeps repo rate unchanged at 6. 50%
8|Page
 Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the Equitas Small Finance Bank has also received Authorized
framework for acceptance of Green Deposits of regulated Dealer Category-I (AD-I) License from RBI. AU Small
entities (RE). Aim: To foster and develop a green finance Finance Bank CEO: Sanjay Agarwal
ecosystem in the country. The framework will come into 8. RBI imposes Rs 44 lakh penalty on 4 co-op banks
effect from June 1, 2023. It is applicable to Scheduled Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed
Commercial Banks including SFB excluding RRBs, Local penalties totaling Rs 44 lakh on four cooperative banks.
Area Banks, and Payments Banks. It also includes all Bombay Mercantile Co-operative Bank: Penalty of Rs
deposit-taking Non-Banking Financial Companies 13 lakh as it failed to transfer the eligible amount to
(NBFCs), including Housing Finance Companies. Depositor Education and Awareness Fund (DEAF).
6. RBI to stop banks from capitalizing penal charges on Tamil Nadu State Apex Co-operative Bank: Penalty of
loans defaults 16 lakhs as it failed to transfer eligible amounts to
Note:The RBI has proposed to prohibit the capitalization
DEAF. Baran Nagrik Sahkari Bank: A penalty of 2 lahks
of penal charges and additional interest levied by banks
has been imposed for contravention of certain norms.
on customers for loan defaults. Aim: To streamline
9. RBI cancels Adoor Co-operative Urban Bank’s
divergent practices followed by lenders. As per the draft
banking licence
circular on 'Fair Lending Practice - Penal Charges in Loan
Accounts', the quantum of penal charges should be
Note:The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has canceled the
proportional to the defaults/non-compliance of material banking license of Kerala-based Adoor Co-operative
terms and conditions of loan contracts up to a threshold. Urban Bank, with effect from the close of business on
7. RBI allows AU SFB, Equitas Bank to deal with foreign April 24, 2023. RBI has allowed Adoor Co-operative
exchange Urban Bank to function as a non-banking institution.
Note: RBI has approved the AU Small Finance Bank and RBI has also stopped to conduct the banking business,
Equitas Bank to deal in foreign exchange. AU SFB including acceptance of deposits from non-members
informed that RBI has granted the Licence to act as with immediate effect. The bank shall ensure to repay
Authorized Dealer Category-I (AD-I) under section 10 of unpaid and unclaimed deposits of non-members held
FEMA, 1999 to deal in foreign exchange. The permission by it.
is subject to compliance with applicable regulations.

Highlights Economic Survey 2022-2023

Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Smt. • Private consumption in H1 is highest since
Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Economic FY15.
Survey 2022-21 in Parliament. Economic Survey is • Outlay for capital expenditure in 2022-23 (BE)
considered as the official report card of the union was increased sharply by 35.4% from 5.5 lakh
government, giving a roadmap for the country's crore in the previous year (2021-22) to 7.5 lakh
economy and spells the way forward. It will also crore, of which approximately 67% has been
project India's gross domestic product growth for spent from April to December 2022.
2023-24. • Credit growth to MSME sector was over 30.6%
on average during Jan-Nov 2022.
1. State of the Economy 2022-23: Recovery • Retail inflation is back within RBI's target
Complete range in November 2022.
• Indian Rupee performed well in comparison to
• Indian economy is staging a broad based other Emerging Market Economies in Apr-Dec
recovery across sectors after recovering from 2022.
pandemic-induced contraction, Russian- • For April-November 2022, Direct Tax
Ukraine conflict and inflation, positioning to collections remain buoyant.
ascend to the pre-pandemic growth path in • Enhanced Employment generation was
FY23. observed in the declining urban unemployment
• India's GDP growth for FY24 to be in the range rate and in the faster net registration in
of 6-6.8 %. Employee Provident Fund.

9|Page
 • Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) shows ceilings to prioritize their spending on
that urban unemployment rate for people aged Capex.
15 years and above declined from 8% in the o It has large-scale positive implications
quarter ending September 2021 to 7.2% in the for medium-term growth with an
quarter ending September 2022. emphasis on infrastructure-intensive
sectors like roads and highways,
2. India’s Medium Term Growth Outlook: with railways, and housing and urban affairs,
Optimism and Hope the increase in Capex has large-scale
positive implications for medium-term
• Indian economy underwent wide-ranging growth.
structural and governance reforms that
strengthened the economy's fundamentals by 4. Monetary Management and Financial
enhancing its overall efficiency during 2014- Intermediation: A Good Year
2022.
• 2014-2022 has also witnessed balance sheet • RBI initiated monetary tightening cycle in
stress caused by the credit boom in the previous April 2022 and since than raised the repo rate
years and one-off global shocks, that adversely by 225 bps, leading to moderation of surplus
impacted the key macroeconomic variables. liquidity conditions.
• This situation is analogous to 1998-2002 when • Cleaner balance sheets led to enhanced lending
transformative reforms undertaken by the by financial institutions.
government had lagged growth returns due to • Non-food credit offtake by scheduled
temporary shocks in the economy. Commercial Banks (SCBs) has been growing
• It shows that India's growth outlook seems in double digits since April 2022.
better than in the pre-pandemic, and Indian • GNPA (Gross Non-Performing Assets) ratio of
economy is prepared to grow at its potential in SCBs has fallen to a seven-year low of 5.0.
the medium term. • CRAR (Capital-to-Risk Weighted Assets
Ratio) remains healthy at 16.0.
3. Fiscal Developments: Revenue Relish • SCBs recovery rate through Insolvency and
Bankruptcy (IBC) was highest in FY22
• Union Government finances have shown a compared to other channels.
resilient performance during FY23, aided by
recovery in economic activity, buoyancy in 5. Prices and Inflation: Successful Tight-Rope
revenues from direct taxes and GST, and Walking
realistic assumptions in the Budget.
• Gross Tax Revenue registered a YoY growth • 2022 witnessed a return of high inflation in the
of 15.5% from April to November 2022. advanced world after decades, India caps the
• Growth in direct taxes during the first eight rise in prices.
months of the year was much higher than their • India’s retail inflation rate peaked at 7.8% in
corresponding longer-term averages. April 2022, above the RBI’s upper tolerance
• Gross GST collections increased at 24.8% on limit of 6%, overshoot of inflation above the
YoY basis from April to December 2022. upper end of the target range in India was
• Capital expenditure (Capex): however lowest in the world.
o Union Government's emphasis on • Import duty on major inputs were brought to
Capex has lead to increase it from a zero while tax on export of iron ores and
long-term average of 1.7% of GDP concentrates increased from 30% to 50%.
(FY09 to FY20) to 2.5% of GDP in • Govt waived customs duty on cotton imports
FY22 PA. with effect from 14 April 2022, until 30
o Union Govt has also incentivized the September 2022
State Governments through interest- • Prohibition on the export of wheat products
free loans and enhanced borrowing under HS Code 1101 and imposition of export
duty on rice and reduction in basic duty on
10 | P a g e
 crude and refined palm oil, crude soyabean oil • Survey also highlights the findings of the
and crude sunflower oil UNDP report on Multidimensional Poverty
• Housing Price Indices (HPI) assessment: Index 2022 which says that 41.5 crore people
Stable to moderate increase in HPI also offers exit poverty in India between 2005-06 and
confidence to homeowners and home loan 2019-20.
financiers in terms of retained value of the • eShram portal developed for creating
asset. National database of unorganised workers,
• Food inflation ranged between 4.2% to 8.6% which is verified with Aadhaar with total of
between April and December 2022, while the over 28.5 crore unorganized registered workers
core inflation rate stayed at around 6% except as on 31 December 2022.
in April 2022. • Labour markets have recovered in both urban
• India’s inflation management has been and rural areas, with unemployment rates
particularly noteworthy and can be contrasted falling from 5.8% in 2018-19 to 4.2% in 2020-
with advanced economies that are still 21.
grappling with sticky inflation rates. • FY22 saw improvement in Gross Enrolment
Ratios (GER) in schools and improvement in
Figure for Higher Retail Inflation in Majority of gender parity.
States in FY23

• Due to several steps taken by the government

on health, out-of-pocket expenditure as a
percentage of total health expenditure
declined to 48.2% in FY19 from 64.2% in
FY14.
• Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), Under Five
mortality rate (U5MR) and neonatal Mortality
Rate (NMR) have shown a steady decline.
• More than 220 crore COVID vaccine doses
administered as on 06 January, 2023.
6. Social Infrastructure and Employment: Big
• Nearly 22 crore beneficiaries have been
Tent
verified under Ayushman Bharat Scheme
(ABS) as on 04 January, 2023 and over 1.54
• Social Sector witnessed significant increased
lakh Health and Wellness Centres have been
government spending.
operationalized across the country under
• Central and State Government’s budgeted
Ayushman Bharat.
expenditure on health sector was 2.1% of GDP
in FY23 (BE) and 2.2% in FY22 (RE) against
7. Climate Change and Environment: Preparing to
1.6% in FY21.
Face the Future
• Social sector expenditure increases from Rs.
9.1 lakh crore in FY16 to Rs. 21.3 lakh crore
• India declared Net Zero Pledge to achieve net
in FY23 (BE).
zero emissions goal by 2070 and achieved its

11 | P a g e
 target of 40% installed electric capacity from Food Security Act for one year from January
non-fossil fuels ahead of 2030. 1, 2023.
• The likely installed capacity from non-fossil • Rs 13,681 crores sanctioned for Post-Harvest
fuels to be more than 500 GW by 2030 Support and Community Farms under
resulting in average emission rate decline by Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF).
around 29% by 2029-30, compared to 2014- • Online, Competitive, Transparent Bidding
15. System with 1.74 crore farmers and 2.39 lakh
• India reduced emissions intensity of its GDP traders put in place under National Agriculture
by 45% by 2030 from 2005. Market (e-NAM) Scheme.
• About 50% cumulative electric power • India stands at the forefront to promote millets
installed capacity to come from non-fossil through International Year of Millets (IYM)
fuel-based energy resources by 2030. initiative.
• A mass movement, titled LIFE (Life style for
Environment) launched. 9. Industry: Steady Recovery
• RBI auctions two tranches of ₹4,000 crores
Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrB). • Overall Gross Value Added (GVA) by
• National Green Hydrogen Mission will enable Industrial Sector for the first half of FY 22-23,
India to be energy independent by 2047. rose 3.7%, which is higher than the average
• Green hydrogen production capacity of at least growth of 2.8% achieved in the first half of the
5 MMT (Million Metric Tonne) per annum last decade.
will be developed by 2030. • PMI manufacturing has remained in the
• Cumulative reduction in fossil fuel imports expansion zone for 18 months since July 2021,
over ₹1 lakh crore and creation of over 6 lakh and Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grows
jobs by 2030 under National green Hydrogen at a very healthy pace.
Mission. • Credit to Micro, Small and Medium
• Renewable energy capacity addition of about Enterprises (MSMEs) has grown by an
125 GW and abatement of nearly 50 MMT of average of around 30% since January 2022 and
annual GHG emissions is planned by 2030. credit to large industry has been showing
• 8 lakh individual household toilets and 6.2 growth of double-digit since October 2022.
lakh community and public toilets have been • Electronics exports rise nearly threefold to US
constructed (August 2022) under the National $11.6 Billion in FY22 from US $4.4 billion in
Mission on Sustainable Habitat. FY19.
• India has become the second-largest mobile
8. Agriculture and Food Management phone manufacturer globally, with production
of handsets going up to 29 crore units in FY21
• The performance of the agriculture and allied from 6 crore units in FY15.
sector has been buoyant over the past several • Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows has
years. risen four times into the Pharma Industry, from
• Private investment in agriculture increases to US $180 million in FY19 to US $699 million
9.3% in 2020-21. in FY22.
• MSP for all mandated crops was fixed at 1.5 • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes
times of all India weighted average cost of introduced across 14 categories, with capex of
production since 2018. ₹4 lakh crore over the next five years, to plug
• Institutional Credit to the Agricultural Sector India into global supply chains. .
continued to grow to 18.6 lakh crores in 2021- • Over 39,000 compliances have been reduced
22 and more than 3500 provisions decriminalized
• Food grains production in India saw sustained as of January 2023.
increase and stood at 315.7 million tonnes in • Annual FDI equity inflows in the
2021-22 and free food grains were given to manufacturing sector have been steadily
about 81.4 crore beneficiaries under National increasing from US$ 12.1 billion in FY21 to
US$ 21.3 billion in FY22.
12 | P a g e
 • India diversified its markets and increased its
exports to Brazil, South Africa and Saudi
Arabia.
• To increase market size and ensure better
penetration, CEPA with UAE and ECTA with
Australia come into force in 2022.
• India is the largest recipient of remittances in
the world receiving US$ 100 bn in 2022 and
remittances are the second largest major source
of external financing after service export
• As of December 2022, Forex Reserves stood at
US$ 563 bn covering 9.3 months of imports.
• As of November 2022, India is the 6th largest
foreign exchange reserves holder in the world.
• External debt is shielded by the comfortable
10. Services: Source of Strength level of foreign exchange reserves.
• India has relatively low levels of total debt as a
• Services sector is expected to grow at 9.1% in percentage of Gross National Income (GNI)
FY23, as compared to 8.4% (YoY) in FY22. and short-term debt as a percentage of total
• Robust expansion in PMI services, indicative debt.
of service sector activity, observed since July • Top export destination in April-November,
2022. 2022: USA, followed by UAE and the
• India was among the top ten services exporting Netherlands.
countries in 2021, with world commercial • Top import items: Petroleum, crude &
services exports increasing from 3% in 2015 to products; electronic goods; coal, coke &
4% in 2021. briquettes; machinery, electrical & non-
• India’s services exports remained resilient electrical and gold.
during Covid-19 pandemic and amid • Top import source: China, UAE, USA,
geopolitical uncertainties driven by higher Russia, and Saudi Arabia
demand for digital support, cloud services, and • Leading export items: Petroleum products,
infrastructure modernization. gems & jewellery, organic & inorganic
• Credit to services sector has grown by over chemicals, drugs & pharmaceuticals were
16% since July 2022 and US$ 7.1 billion FDI among the leading export items.
equity inflows has been observed in services
sector in FY22. 12. Physical and Digital Infrastructure
• Sustained growth in the real estate sector is
showing 50% rise between 2021 and 2022. Government’s Vision for Infrastructure
• Hotel occupancy rate has improved to 68-70% Development
in November 2022 from 30-32% in April 2021.
• Digital platforms are transforming India’s 1. Public Private Partnerships
financial services.
• India’s e-commerce market is projected to • In-Principal Approval granted to 56 projects
grow at 18% annually through 2025. with Project Cost of ₹57,870.1 crore under
VGF Scheme, from 2014-15 to 2022-23.
11. External Sector • IIPDF Scheme with ₹150 crore outlay from FY
23-25 was also notified by government.
• Merchandise exports were US$ 332.8 billion
for April-December 2022. 2. National Infrastructure Pipeline

13 | P a g e
 • 89,151 projects costing ₹141.4 lakh crore under constructed in FY22 compared to 6061 km in
different stages of implementation and 1009 FY16.
projects worth ₹5.5 lakh crore are completed • Budget expenditure increased from to ₹2.4 lakh
• NIP and Project Monitoring Group (PMG) crore in FY23 ₹1.4 lakh crore in FY20 giving
portal linkage to fast-track approvals and renewed push to Capital expenditure.
clearances for projects are under way. • 2359 Kisan rails transported approx 7.91 lakh
tonnes of perishables, as of 2022 October.
3. National Monetization Pipeline • More than one crore air passengers availed the
benefit of the UDAN scheme since its inception
• ₹ 9.0 lakh crore is the estimated cumulative in 2016 and major ports capacity are doubled in
investment potential and ₹ 0.9 lakh crore 8 years
monetization target achieved against expected • Inland Vessels Act 2021 replaced 100-year-old
₹0.8 lakh crore in FY22. Act to ensure hassle free vessel movement
• FY23 target is envisaged to be ₹1.6 lakh crore promoting Inland Water Transport.
(27 per cent of overall NMP Target)
India’s Digital Public Infrastructure
4. GatiShakti
1. Unified Payment Interface (UPI)
• PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, launched
in 2022 budget creates comprehensive database • UPI-based transactions grew by 121 per cent in
for integrated planning and synchronised value and 115 per cent in volume terms,
implementation across Ministries/ between 2019-22, paving the way for its
Departments to improve multimodal international adoption.
connectivity and logistics efficiency while
addressing the critical gaps for the seamless 2. Telephone and Radio
movement of people and goods.

5. Electricity Sector and Renewables

• Central government has sanctioned the entire

target capacity of 40 GW for the development
of 59 Solar Parks in 16 states till 30th
September 2022.
• 17.2 lakh GWh electricity generated during
FY22 compared to 15.9 lakh GWh during
FY21.
• Total installed power capacity (industries
having demand of 1 Mega Watt (MW) and
above) increased to 482.2 GW on 31 March
2022 from 460.7 GW on 31 March 2021.

6. Making Indian Logistics Globally Competitive

• National Logistics Policy was launched to

develop a technologically enabled, integrated,
cost-efficient, resilient, sustainable and trusted
logistics ecosystem in the country for • Total telephone subscriber base in India with
accelerated and inclusive growth. 44.3% of subscribers in rural India, stands at
• Rapid increase in National Highways (NHs) 117.8 crore (as of Sept,22).
/Roads Construction with 10457 km NHs/roads • More than 98% of the total telephone
subscribers are connected wirelessly.
14 | P a g e
 • Overall tele-density in India stood at 84.8% in • Government schemes like MyScheme, TrEDS,
March 22. GEM, e-NAM, UMANG has transformed
• 200% increase in rural internet subscriptions market place and has enabled citizens to access
between 2015 and 2021. services across sectors
• Prasar Bharati is now broadcasting in 23 • Under Account Aggregator, consent-based data
languages, 179 dialects from 479 stations. sharing framework is currently live across over
Reaches 92 per cent of the area and 99.1 per 110 crore bank accounts.
cent of the total population. • National AI portal has published 1520 articles,
262 videos, and 120 government initiatives and
3. Digital Public Goods is being viewed as a tool for overcoming the
language barrier e.g. ‘Bhashini’.
• India has achieved low-cost accessibility since • Legislations are being introduced for enhanced
the launch of Aadhaar in 2009 user privacy and creating an ecosystem for
standard, open, and interoperable protocols
underlining robust data governance.

Highlights of Union Budget 2022-23

Union Budget 2023-24 What is included in Indian Budget?

Union Budget 2023-24 has been laid today on 1st • Estimated receipts and expenditure of
February 2023 in a paperless format and contains Government in a financial year.
Government's revenue and expenditure for the end of a • Estimates of revenue and capital receipts
particular fiscal year, which runs from April 1 to March • Ways and means to raise the revenue
31. • Estimates of expenditure
• Reasons for any deficit or surplus in that year
Before going in the highlights of the budget, lets us • Economic and financial policy of the coming
understand about the Union Budget 2023-24 year (tax proposals, prospects of revenue,
spending programme and introduction of new
About Budget schemes/projects)

• Union Budget of India is also referred to as Financial year begins on 1st April of the current year
Annual Financial Statement and comes under and ends on 31 March of the following year.
Article 112 of Constitution of India
• It is presented on the first day of February. Stages of Budget
• Since 1947, there have been a total of 73
annual budgets, 14 interim budgets and 4 Budget goes through six stages in Parliament (Depict
special budgets, or mini budgets. the underline content in stepwise mode)

Which nodal body is responsible for • Presentation of Budget.

• General discussion.
preparing the Budget?
• Scrutiny by Departmental Committees.
• Voting on Demands for Grants.
Budget Division of the Department of Economic
• Passing of Appropriation Bill.
Affairs in the Finance Ministry
• Passing of Finance Bill.
15 | P a g e
 Highlights of Union Budget 2023-
24
Budget 2023 is termed as the “first Budget of Amrit
Kaal and the blueprint for India @100.

Capital Expenditure

• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while

presenting Union Budget 2023-24 in
Parliament, said that the capital investment
outlay has been increased by 33% to Rs 10 lakh
crore, which will account for 3.3% of the GDP.
• Effective capex will be Rs 13.7 lakh crore,
which will form 4.5% of the GDP.

Fiscal Deficit

• Fiscal deficit for 2023-24 is fixed at 5.9 per

cent of the GDP.
• Government remains committed to bring fiscal
deficit down to 4.5% of the GDP by 2025-26.

Part A
Main Focus Areas of Budget 2023

Budget 2023-24 focuses on seven priorities, which is

termed by Finance Minister as the "Saptrishis guiding
us through Amrit Kaal":

• Inclusive development
• Reaching the last mile
• Infrastructure and investment
• Unleashing the potential
• Green growth
• Youth power
• Financial sector

16 | P a g e
 Enhancing productivity of cotton crop: For this, we
will adopt a cluster-based and value chain approach
through Public Private Partnerships (PPP).

Atmanirbhar Horticulture Clean Plant Program

• It will boost availability of disease-free, quality

planting material for high value horticultural
crops at an outlay of 2,200 crore.

Global Hub for Millets: ‘Shree Anna’

• We are the largest producer and second largest

exporter of ‘Shree Anna’ like jowar, ragi, bajra,
kuttu, ramdana, kangni, kutki, kodo, cheena, and
sama.
• Indian Institute of Millet Research, Hyderabad
will be supported as Centre of Excellence for
sharing best practices, technologies and research
at the international level.

Agriculture Credit

• Agriculture credit target is increased to 20 lakh

crores with focus on animal husbandry, dairy
and fisheries.

Fisheries

• PM Matsya Sampada Yojana has targeted

investment of 6,000 crores, this year.
Priority 1: Inclusive Development
Cooperation
• Government’s philosophy of Sabka Saath Sabka
Vikas has facilitated inclusive development • Ministry of Cooperation was formed to realize
covering in specific, farmers, women, youth, the vision of ‘Sahakar Se Samriddhi’.
OBCs, STs, SCs, divyangjan, EWS and overall • For this, government has already initiated
priority for the underprivileged. computerization of 63,000 Primary Agricultural
Credit Societies (PACS) with 2,516 crore
Agriculture and Cooperation investment.

Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture: It will Health, Education and Skilling
be built as an open source, open standard and inter
operable public good. Medical & Nursing Colleges: 157 new nursing
colleges will be established in co-location with existing
Agriculture Accelerator Fund: It will be set-up to 157 medical colleges established since 2014.
encourage agri-startups by young entrepreneurs in rural
areas to bring innovative and affordable solutions for Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission: Mission to
challenges faced by farmers. eliminate Sickle Cell Anaemia will be launched by 2047
with awareness creation, universal screening of 7 crore

17 | P a g e
people in the age group of 0-40 years in affected tribal Bharat Shared Repository of Inscriptions (Bharat
areas, and counselling through collaborative efforts of SHRI): It will be set up in a digital epigraphy museum,
central ministries and state governments. with digitization of one lakh ancient inscriptions in the
first stage.
Medical Research: Facilities in select ICMR Labs will
be made available for research by public and private Priority 3: Infrastructure & Investment
medical college faculty and private sector R&D teams.
Capital Investment: Capital investment outlay is being
Pharma Innovation: New pharma programme to increased steeply for the 3rd year in a row by 33% to 10
promote research and innovation will be taken up lakh crore, which would be 3.3% of GDP.

Teachers’ Training: It will be re-envisioned through Effective Capital Expenditure: It is budgeted at 13.7
innovative pedagogy, curriculum transaction, lakh crore, which will be 4.5% of GDP.
continuous professional development, dipstick surveys,
and ICT implementation. Support to State Governments for Capital
Investment: Centre will continue the 50-year interest
National Digital Library for Children and free loan to state governments for one more year to spur
Adolescents: It will be set-up for facilitating investment in infrastructure with enhanced outlay of 1.3
availability of quality books across geographies, genres, lakh crore.
languages, and levels, and device agnostic accessibility.
States will also be encouraged to set up physical Enhancing opportunities for private investment in
libraries for them at panchayat and ward levels and Infrastructure: Infrastructure Finance Secretariat will
provide infrastructure for accessing this National assist the same.
Digital Library resources.
Harmonized Master List of Infrastructure: It will be
Priority 2: Reaching the Last Mile reviewed by an expert committee for recommending the
classification and financing framework suitable for
Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme: It was Amrit Kaal.
launched to cover 500 blocks for saturation of essential
government services across multiple domains. Railways: Capital outlay for this is 2.40 lakh crores,
which is highest ever outlay and is 9 times the outlay
Pradhan Mantri PVTG Development Mission: It was made in 2013-14.
launched to improve socio-economic conditions of the
particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs). 15,000 Logistics: 100 critical transport infrastructure projects
crores will be made available to implement the Mission and will be taken up on priority with investment of
in the next 3 years under the Development Action Plan 75,000 crore, including 15,000 crores from private
for Scheduled Tribes. sources.

Eklavya Model Residential Schools: Centre will Regional Connectivity: 50 additional airports,
recruit 38,800 teachers and support staff for 740 heliports, water aerodromes and advance landing
Eklavya Model Residential Schools, that serves 3.5 lakh grounds will be revived for improving regional air
tribal students. connectivity.

Water for Drought Prone Region: Centre will provide Making Cities ready for Municipal Bonds: Through
5,300 crore to Upper Bhadra Project to provide property tax governance reforms and ring-fencing user
sustainable micro irrigation and filling up of surface charges on urban infrastructure, cities will be
tanks for drinking water. incentivized to improve their credit worthiness for
municipal bonds.
PM Awas Yojana: Its outlay is being enhanced by 66%
to over 79,000 crore.

18 | P a g e
Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF): Vivad se Vishwas I – Relief for MSMEs
Like RIDF, UIDF will be established through use of
priority sector lending shortfall and will be managed by • In cases of MSMEs failure to execute contracts
the National Housing Bank and used by public agencies during Covid period, 95% of the forfeited
to create urban infrastructure in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. amount relating to bid or performance security,
will be returned to them by government and
Urban Sanitation: All cities and towns will be enabled government undertakings.
for 100% mechanical desludging of septic tanks and
sewers to transition from manhole to machine-hole Vivad se Vishwas II – Settling Contractual Disputes
mode.
• To settle contractual disputes, voluntary
Priority 4: Unleashing the Potential settlement scheme with standardized terms will
be introduced.
Mission Karmayogi
State Support Mission of NITI Aayog
• Under Mission Karmayogi, Centre, States and
Union Territories are making and implementing • It will be continued for 3 years for our collective
capacity-building plans for civil servants. efforts towards national priorities.
• An integrated online training platform, iGOT
Karmayogi is also launched E-Courts
• Jan Vishwas Bill will amend 42 Central Acts for
trust-based governance Phase-3 of the E-Courts project will be launched with
an outlay of 7,000 crore.
Centres of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence: It
will be set-up in top educational institutions and leading Fintech Services: For proper Fintech innovative
industry players will partner in conducting services, scope of documents available in DigiLocker
interdisciplinary research, develop cutting-edge for individuals will be expanded.
applications and scalable problem solutions in different
areas. Entity DigiLocker: It will be set up for use by MSMEs,
large business and charitable trusts and will be towards
National Data Governance Policy: It will be brought storing and sharing documents online securely.
to unleash innovation and research by start-ups and
academia. 5G Services: 100 labs for developing applications using
5G services will be set up in engineering institutions to
Simplification of Know Your Customer (KYC) realize a new range of opportunities, business models,
process: It will be done by adopting ‘risk-based’ instead and employment potential.
of ‘one size fits all’ approach.
Lab Grown Diamonds (LGD): It is a technology-and
One stop solution for identity and address updating: innovation-driven emerging sector with high
It will be established using DigiLocker service and employment potential was launched to encourage
Aadhaar as foundational identity. indigenous production of LGD seeds and machines.

Common Business Identifier: Permanent Account Priority 5: Green Growth

Number (PAN) will be used as the common identifier
for all digital systems of specified government agencies Green Hydrogen Mission: National Green Hydrogen
and will be facilitated through a legal mandate. Mission was launched with an outlay of 19,700 crores
to facilitate transition of the economy to low carbon
Unified Filing Process: It will be set up for obviating intensity to reach an annual production of 5 MMT by
the need for separate submission of same information to 2030.
different government agencies.

19 | P a g e
Energy Transition: This Budget provides 35,000 opportunities and income generation for local
crores for priority capital investments towards energy communities.
transition and net zero objectives, and energy security
by Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. Coastal Shipping: It will be promoted as energy
efficient and lower cost mode of transport, both for
Energy Storage Projects: Battery Energy Storage passengers and freight, through PPP mode with viability
Systems with 4,000 MWH capacity will be supported gap funding.
with Viability Gap Funding to steer the economy and a
detailed framework for Pumped Storage Projects will Vehicle Replacement: Central Government and States
also be formulated. will also be supported in replacing old vehicles and
ambulances.
Renewable Energy Evacuation: Inter-state
transmission system for evacuation and grid integration Priority 6: Youth Power
of 13 GW renewable energy from Ladakh will be
constructed with investment of 20,700 crore including Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0: It will be
central support of 8,300 crores. launched to skill lakhs of youth within the next 3
years. It will also cover new age courses for Industry
Green Credit Programme: It will be notified under the 4.0 like coding, AI, robotics, mechatronics, IOT, 3D
Environment (Protection) Act for encouraging printing, drones, and soft skills.
behavioural change.
Skill India Digital Platform: Digital ecosystem for
PM-PRANAM (Programme for Restoration, skilling will be further expanded with unified Skill India
Awareness, Nourishment and Amelioration of Digital platform for:
Mother Earth): It will be launched to incentivize States
and Union Territories to promote alternative fertilizers • enabling demand-based formal skilling,
and balanced use of chemical fertilizers. • linking with employers including MSMEs, and
• facilitating access to entrepreneurship schemes.
GOBARdhan scheme: 500 new waste to wealth plants
under GOBARdhan (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme: It will
Resources Dhan) scheme will be established for be rolled out to provide stipend support to 47 lakh youth
promoting circular economy and will include 200 in three years.
compressed biogas (CBG) plants, including 75 plants in
urban areas, and 300 community or cluster-based plants Tourism: With an integrated and innovative approach,
at total investment of 10,000 crore. at
least 50 destinations will be selected through challenge
Bhartiya Prakritik Kheti Bio-Input Resource mode. Sector specific skilling and entrepreneurship
Centres: 10,000 Bio-Input Resource Centres will be development will be dovetailed to achieve the
set-up for creating a national-level distributed micro- objectives of the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiative.
fertilizer and pesticide manufacturing network.
Unity Mall: States will be encouraged to set up Unity
MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Mall in their state capital or prominent tourism centre
Habitats & Tangible Incomes): It will be taken up for and sell their own ODOPs (one district, one product),
mangrove plantation along the coastline and on salt pan GI products and other handicraft products, and for
lands, wherever feasible, through convergence between providing space for such products of all other States.
MGNREGS, CAMPA Fund and other sources
Priority 7: Financial Sector
Amrit Dharohar: It will be implemented over the next
3 years to encourage optimal use of wetlands, and Revamped Credit Guarantee for MSMEs: It will be
enhance bio-diversity, carbon stock, eco-tourism launched with effect from 1st April 2023 through

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infusion of 9,000 crore in the corpus with additional Samman Savings Certificate, will be made available for
collateral-free guaranteed credit of 2 lakh crore. 2-year period up to March 2025 and will offer deposit
facility up to 2 lakh in the name of women or girls for a
National Financial Information Registry: It will be tenor of 2 years at fixed interest rate of 7.5 per cent with
set up to serve as the central repository of financial and partial withdrawal option.
ancillary information.
Senior Citizens:
Financial Sector Regulations: Public consultation will
be brought to the process of regulation-making and • Maximum deposit limit for Senior Citizen
issuing subsidiary directions. Financial sector regulators Savings Scheme will be enhanced to 30 lakh
will be requested to carry out a comprehensive review from 15 lakh.
of existing regulations to simplify, ease and reduce cost • Maximum deposit limit for Monthly Income
of compliance. Account Scheme will also be enhanced to 9 lakh
from 4.5 lakh for single account and from 9 lakh
GIFT IFSC: Various measures are being taken to to 15 lakh for joint account.
enhance business activities in GIFT IFSC:

• Delegating powers under SEZ Act to IFSCA to

Fiscal Management
avoid dual regulation,
• Setting up a single window IT system for
registration and approval from IFSCA, SEZ
authorities, GSTN, RBI, SEBI and IRDAI, etc.
• Data Embassy: It will facilitate countries
looking for digital continuity solutions.

Improving Governance and Investor Protection in

Banking Sector: For this, certain amendments are
proposed to the Banking Regulation Act, the Banking
Companies Act and the Reserve Bank of India Act.

Capacity Building in Securities Market: For this,

SEBI will be empowered to develop, regulate, maintain
and enforce norms and standards for education in
National Institute of Securities Markets and to
recognize award of degrees, diplomas and certificates.

Central Data Processing Centre: It will be setup for

faster response to companies through centralized
handling of various forms filed with field offices under
the Companies Act.

Reclaiming of shares and dividends: For investors to

reclaim unclaimed shares and unpaid dividends with Fifty-year interest free loan to States
ease, an integrated IT portal will be established.
• The entire 50-year loan to states has to be spent
Digital Payments: Fiscal support for this digital public on capital expenditure within 2023-24.
infrastructure will continue in 2023-24.
Fiscal Deficit of States
Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Mahila Samman Bachat
Patra: One-time new small savings scheme, Mahila

21 | P a g e
 • States will be allowed a fiscal deficit of 3.5% of and benefit of a lower tax rate of 15% to new
GSDP of which 0.5% will be tied to power cooperative societies is proposed.
sector reforms. • Start-ups incorporated up to 31st March 2024
shall be eligible to claim tax exemptions under
Revised Estimates 2022-23 Section 80-IAC.
• Higher limit of Rs. 3 crores on TDS on cash
• Revised Estimate of total receipts other than withdrawal is proposed for co-operative
borrowings is 3 lakh crores, of which the net tax society.
receipts are 20.9 lakh crore. • Finance Ministry announces increase in the
• Revised Estimate of the total expenditure is 41.9 threshold limits for presumptive taxation
lakh crores, of which the capital expenditure is schemes.
about 7.3 lakh crore. • Basic Customs Duty on electric kitchen
• Revised Estimate of the fiscal deficit is 6.4% of chimneys duties has been increased to 15% and
GDP. reduced to Basic Customs Duty on heat coils.
• Custom duty exemption on import of capital
goods to produce Lithium-ion cells used in
Part B batteries of EV.
Tax Proposals Income Tax

New personal income tax slab regime has been

reduced to 5 slabs from 6 income slabs with increase in
the tax exemption limit to Rs 3 Lakhs

Budget also increased Income Tax rebate limit to Rs 7

lakh from Rs 5 lakhs.

New tax rates are:

0-3 lakh Nil

3-6 lakh 5 per cent
6-9 lakh 10 per cent
9-12 lakh 15 per cent
12-15 lakh 20 per cent
Above 15 lakh 30 per cent

Legislative Changes in GST Laws

• Highest surcharge rate is reduced to 25% from
37% in the new tax regime. • Amendments to Sections 132 and 138 of
• Number of slabs in new tax regime is revised CGST Act are being proposed to
and maximum exemption limit is now Rs. 3 o Raise the minimum threshold of tax
lakhs. amount for launching prosecution under
• Section 87A rebate increased to Rs. 7 Lakhs GST to Rs. 2 crore from Rs. 1 crore,
from the current Rs. 5 Lakhs in the alternative except for the offence of issuance of
tax regime invoices without supply of goods or
• FM caps the upper limit for exemption under services or both.
Sections 54 and 54F at Rs. 10 crores

22 | P a g e
 o Reduce the compounding amount from evidence and failure to supply the
present range of 50% to 150% of tax information.
amount to the range of 25% to 100%; o FM also proposed to amend Sections 37,
o Decriminalize certain offences specified 39, 44 and 52 of CGST Act, 2017 to
under clause (g), (j) and (k) of sub- restrict filing of returns/ statements to a
section (1) of section 132 of CGST Act, maximum period of 3 years from the due
2017 that contains obstruction or date of filing of the relevant return /
preventing any officer in discharge of his statement.
duties, deliberate tempering of material

Ranking, Indexes, Reports and Survey

August 2023

1. 2023 Plastic Overshoot Day Report 2. Reliance Industries tops India Inc in Forbes
Note: According to Swiss-based research Global 2000 list for 2023
consultancy Earth Action Earth saw its first Plastic Note: Reliance Industries Limited continued to top
Overshoot Day which means the point at which the the Indian corporates in the 2023 edition of 'The
amount of plastics exceeds the global waste Global 2000' published by Forbes. Reliance
management capacity. India is among the 12 Industries was placed at 45 in the overall ranking of
countries which are responsible for 52% of the 2000 global corporates ahead of well-known names
world’s mismanaged plastic waste. When it comes like Germany's BMW Group, Switzerland's Nestle,
to plastic consumption on a per-person basis, the China's Alibaba Group, US's Procter and Gamble,
world’s worst offender is Iceland. The global and Japan's Sony.
average consumption of plastic per person per year
is 20.9 kg.

July 2023

1. Henley Passport Index 2023 2022 to 2028, with Brazil, Indonesia, and India
Note: According to the Henley Passport Index 2023, combined accounting for 70% of this increase.
published by Henley & Partners, Singapore India`s focus is on decarbonization and it has
becomes the world’s most powerful passport with already achieved 12% ethanol blending in Petrol
visa-free access to 192 travel destinations out of and has targeted 20% blending by 2025.
227 around the world. While India ranked 80th 3. Niti Aayog report claims decrease in
with visa-free entry to 57 nations. Germany, Italy, multidimensional poverty
and Spain shared second place with 190 visa-free Note: NITI Aayog released the 'National
destinations. Japan has slipped to third place as the Multidimensional Poverty Index: A Progress of
number of destinations its passport can access Review 2023' in New Delhi. As per the report, India
without a visa fell to 189. witnessed 13.5 crore people moving out of
2. IEA launches Oil 2023 (Analysis & forecast to multidimensional poverty between 2015-16 and
2028) medium-term market report 2019-21 with the fastest reduction in UP, Bihar, MP,
Note: The International Energy Agency (IEA) has Odisha, and Rajasthan. Uttar Pradesh registered the
launched the Oil 2023 medium-term market report, highest decline in the number of poor with 3.43
titled 'IEA Oil 2023 – Supply and Demand Dynamics crore, followed by Bihar and Madhya Pradesh. The
to 2028' in New Delhi. It was launched in National MPI measures deprivations across three
collaboration with the Petroleum Planning and equally weighted dimensions of health, education,
Analysis Cell (PPAC). As per the report, biofuel and standard of living that are represented by 12
production expanded by nearly 600 kb/d from

23 | P a g e
 SDG-aligned indicators. Rural areas saw the fastest global average of 2.314. Iceland has remained the
decline in poverty from 32.59% to 19.28%. most peaceful country in the world since the study
4. 415 million people exited poverty in India in 15 was first released in 2008. It measures the state of
years: UN report peace across three domains: Societal safety and
Note: According to the latest Global security, Ongoing domestic and international
Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), by UNDP, conflict, and Militarisation.
around 415 million people exited poverty within a 6. Unsafe WASH behind 395,000 deaths of children
span of just 15 years between 2005 and 2021 in under 5 in 2019: WHO report
India. India is also one of the 25 countries that have Note: As per the WHO report, Unsafe drinking
successfully halved their global MPI values within water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) were
15 years. It is based on trends from 2000 to 2022 responsible for 395,000 deaths among children
covering 81 countries. It monitors both poverty under the age of five in 2019. Report title: Burden of
reduction and how people experience poverty in Disease Attributable to unsafe drinking water,
different aspects of their daily lives. sanitation, and Hygiene: 2019 Update. Out of these,
5. Global Peace Index 2023 273,000 deaths are attributed to diarrhea, while
Note: According to the 2023 Global Peace Index 112,000 deaths are from acute respiratory
(GPI), released by the Institute for Economics and infections. It also showed that half of the world’s
Peace, India has ranked 126 out of 163 countries. population still does not have adequate access to
With an overall score of 2.31, India falls below the WASH.
June 2023

1. India ranked 67th on Energy Transition Index, ninth position. William White, CMO of Walmart has
Sweden on top topped the Forbes list of most influential CMOs
Note: India bagged the 67th position globally in the 2023. While Ashimita Dubey, chief digital and
World Economic Forum’s (WEF) energy transition marketing officer at L'Oreal, is ranked 21 and
index. WEF informed that India is the only major Infosys chief marketing officer Sumit Virmani is at
economy whose energy transition accelerated 41.
across all dimensions. Top 5: Sweden, Denmark, 4. 2023 Global Competitiveness Index
Norway, Finland, and Switzerland The global Note: According to the Global competitiveness
energy transition has plateaued amid the global index 2023, published by International Institute for
energy crisis and geopolitical volatilities, but India Management Development (IMD), India has ranked
is among the countries that have made significant 40 out of 64 economies in its annual report.
improvements. Denmark, Ireland, and Switzerland took the top
2. QS World University Rankings 2023-24 three places. Switzerland ranked fourth, followed
Note: According to the 20th QS World University by the Netherlands, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Sweden,
Rankings 2023, the Indian Institute of Technology the USA, and UAE. The report uses a combination of
(IIT) Bombay has climbed 23 positions to secure the surveys, statistical data, and trends to benchmark
149th rank globally. While in the overall ranking, competitiveness around the world.
the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), 5. Global Liveability Index 2023
United States topped the rankings for the twelfth Note: According to the Global Liveability Index
consecutive year. UK’s Cambridge University 2023 published by the Economic Intelligence Unit
ranked second followed by Oxford University. This (EIU), Vienna in Austria has topped the ranking of
year, India is the seventh most represented country the most liveable cities. While Copenhagen in
globally, with 45 universities ranked. Denmark placed second on the list, followed by
3. Harish Bhat is ranked 10 on Forbes list of top 50 Melbourne and Sydney. Damascus in Syria and
global CMOs Tripoli in Libya remained at the bottom of the
Note: Forbes has ranked Tata Group’s brand liveability index. From India, New Delhi and
custodian Harish Bhat as among the top ten most Mumbai are at 141st position and Chennai at 144th.
influential Chief Marketing Officers (CMO) for the 6. Gender Gap Index 2023
second consecutive year. Last year, he was in the
24 | P a g e
 Note: According to a Gender Gap Index 2023, Note: According to the 2023 Forbes' -The Global
released by World Economic Forum, India has been 2000, India's largest power generation company,
ranked 127 out of 146 countries in the Global National Thermal Power Corporation Limited
Gender Gap Report 2023, up by 8 positions from (NTPC) has climbed 52 positions to secure the
135 in 2022. The report reflects an improvement of 433rd rank. In the 2022 ranking, the company was
1.4% points. India has closed 64.3% of the overall on 485th rank. The climb of 52 positions has
gender gap, marking a partial recovery toward demonstrated the NTPC's emergence as a strong
India's 2020 (66.8%) parity level. India's force in the global market. 'The Global 2000' List
neighboring countries rank: Bangladesh (59), recognizes the world's largest companies based on
Bhutan (103), China (107), Sri Lanka (115), Nepal sales, profits, assets, and market value.
(116), and Pakistan (142). For the 14th year 11. Global Slavery Index 2023
running, Iceland (91.2%) takes the top position. Note: The Global Slavery Index 2023 provides
While Norway ranked 2nd, followed by Finland, and national estimates of modern slavery for 160
Sweden. countries. Produced by: ILO, Walk Free, and the
7. Burgundy Private Hurun India 500 list International Organisation for Migration. Walk Free
Note: As per Hurun India's 2022 Burgundy Private has reported that 49.6 million people are living in
Hurun India 500 list, Mukesh Ambani's Reliance modern slavery, out of which, India is home to 11
Industries Ltd is the most valuable private company million. Countries with the highest prevalence:
in India, with a whopping value of Rs 16.4 lakh North Korea, Eritrea, Mauritania, Saudi Arabia, and
crore. TCS with Rs 11.8 lakh crore ranked second in Turkey. Countries with the lowest prevalence:
India, followed by HDFC Bank with Rs 9.4 lakh Switzerland, Norway, and Germany
crore. The value of Reliance decreased by 5.1% in 12. Mercer's Cost of Living survey 2023
the last six months, while the total value of TCS Note: According to the Mercer's Cost of Living
increased marginally by 0.7% and HDFC Bank survey 2023, Mumbai has ranked the most
increased by 12.9%. expensive city in India for expatriates. After
8. India to overtake China in oil demand growth by Mumbai, cities like New Delhi and Bengaluru fall on
2027 the second and third place in the most expensive list
Note: According to a report by the International for expats list in India. In global ranking, Mumbai
Energy Agency (IEA), the growth in demand for oil has been positioned at 147, New Delhi (169),
in India will overtake that in China by 2027. 'Oil Chennai (184), Bengaluru (189), and Pune (213).
2023', the multilateral agency’s outlook highlighted Hong Kong, Singapore and Zurich are the most
that China’s demand will fall consistently from 2024 expensive cities for international employees this
after a massive rise this year. The United States, year.
China, and India are the world’s three largest oil 13. India's e-Conomy To Reach $1 Trillion By 2030:
consumers in that order. IEA also raised its forecast Report
for world oil growth demand to 2.4 million barrels Note: According to a report titled 'The e-Conomy of
per day in 2023. a Billion Connected Indians' published by Google,
9. Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI) 2023 Temasek and Bain & Company, India’s internet
Note: The United Nations Development Programme economy is expected to grow sixfold to $1 trillion by
(UNDP) released the Gender Social Norms Index 2030 from $175 billion in 2022. The contribution of
(GSNI) 2023, which covered 85% of the global the Internet economy to India’s technology sector
population. The index has revealed that close to 9 would expand, from 48% to 62% in 2030. While its
out of 10 men and women hold fundamental biases share in India’s GDP will increase from 4-5% to
against women. Nearly 90% of people still hold at nearly 12-13%. The report emphasizes that the
least one bias against women. This index has growth will be spearheaded by the B2C e-commerce
tracked people’s attitudes towards women in four segment, followed by B2B, and SaaS providers.
dimensions i.e. political, educational, economic and 14. Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023
physical integrity. Note: According to the 'Times Higher Education
10. 2023 Forbes' -The Global 2000 Impact Rankings 2023', Amrita Vishwa
Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore has emerged as India’s

25 | P a g e
 highest-placed university. The university is ranked • College Ranking: Miranda House, DU retains
at 52nd rank globally out of 1,591 universities. best college tag
Topped by: Western Sydney University followed by • Law Ranking: NLU Bengaluru
the University of Manchester (UK), Queen’s • University ranking: IISc, Bengaluru
University (Canada), Universiti Sains Malaysia, and • Innovation Ranking: IIT Kanpur taking the
the University of Tasmania. Amrita Vishwa stood lead, followed by IIT Madras and IIT
out for its efforts toward meeting the UNSDGs. Hyderabad.
15. The State of India’s Environment 2023 • Five Parameters: Teaching, Learning &
Note: A non-profit Centre for Science and Resources, Research and Professional
Environment (CSE) released its annual Practice, Graduation Outcome, Outreach
compendium, titled 'State of India's Environment and Inclusivity, and Perception
2023. It is based on four parameters i.e. 17. GCC 4.0 – India Redefining the Globalization
environment, agriculture, public health, and Blueprint
infrastructure. Telangana was ranked at the top in Note: According to the report titled “GCC 4.0 – India
terms of overall environmental performance and in Redefining the Globalization Blueprint”, released by
terms of increasing forest cover. In agriculture, NASSCOM – Zinnov, India's Global Capability Centre
Madhya Pradesh takes the top slot and Delhi leads (GCC) ecosystem will expand with over 1,900 GCCs
in public health. Gujarat leads the rankings in public and a market size of $60 billion by 2025. As of FY23,
infrastructure. India is home to 1,580 unique GCCs, with several
16. National Institutional Ranking Framework global MNCs opting to establish their first global
(NIRF) Rankings 2023 center outside their headquarters in India. The GCC
Note: MoS for Education and External Affairs market size in FY 23 was $46 billion (up from $36
Rajkumar Ranjan Singh released the National billion in FY21).
Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 18. Electoral Democracy Index 2023
2023 on June 5, 2023. IIT Madras has emerged as Note: India has been ranked at 108th in the
the top college under the overall category for the Electoral Democracy Index 2023. Denmark has
fifth consecutive year and the best engineering been ranked first in the Electoral Democracy Index
institute for the eighth consecutive year. 2023, followed by Switzerland and Sweden.
• Research category: IISc Bengaluru has According to V-Dem data, 72% of the world’s
earned the top spot population (5.7 billion people) now live in electoral
• Dental Category: Saveetha Institute of or closed autocracies, which is an increase from
Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai 46% ten years ago. In all these indexes, 0 is the
• Agriculture and Allied Sectors: Indian lowest value and 1 the highest and values of these
Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi indexes have been declining since 2014 in India.
• Medical category: AIIMS Delhi
May 2023

1. Global real estate transparency index (GRETI) initiative to support urgent action to reduce heat-
2022 trapping gases which are fuelling temperature
Note: India is ranked at 36th spot out of 94 increase. Aim: To fill critical information gaps and
countries, in JLL’s 2022 Global Real Estate provide an integrated, operational framework. The
Transparency Index (GRETI). India was ranked framework will bring all space-based and surface-
34th in the 11th edition of the Global Real Estate based observing systems, as well as modelling and
Transparency Index 2020. GRETI is a valuable data assimilation capabilities, under one roof. The
resource for organizations doing business in foreign decision received unanimous support from WMO’s
markets and an exclusive benchmark for real estate 193 Members. It is envisaged that the Global
market transparency. Greenhouse Gas Watch will consist of four main
2. Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Initiatives components:
Note: The World Meteorological Congress has 1. A comprehensive sustained, global set of surface-
approved a new greenhouse gas monitoring based and satellite-based observations of CO2, CH4

26 | P a g e
 and N2O concentrations, total column amounts, worldwide for its Open Enrolment Executive
partial column amounts, vertical profiles, and fluxes Education Programme. IIM Kozhikode has been
and of supporting meteorological, oceanic, and ranked 72 among the top 75 providers of open-
terrestrial variables, internationally exchanged as enrolment executive programs globally. While IIM
rapidly as possible, pending capabilities and Ahmedabad ranked 45, IIM Bangalore at 47, and
agreements with the system operators; Indian School of Business at 65. The ranking was
2. Prior estimates of the GHG emissions based on topped by Iese Business School, Spain, followed by
activity data and process-based models; HEC Paris.
3. A set of global high-resolution Earth System 6. World Economic Forum's latest Future of Jobs
models representing GHG cycles; report
4. Associated with the models, data assimilation Note: According to the World Economic Forum's
systems that optimally combine the observations latest Future of Jobs report, the Indian job market is
with model calculations to generate products of estimated to witness 22% churn over the next five
higher accuracy. years, with top emerging roles coming from AI,
3. Top 50 innovative companies 2023 list machine learning, and data segments. Globally, the
Note: Tata Group is the only Indian company to job market churn is estimated at 23%, with 69
feature in the Top 50 innovative companies 2023 million new jobs expected to be created and 83
list, released by Boston Consulting Group (BCG). million eliminated by 2027. Almost a quarter of jobs
Tata Group ranked 20 among the Top 50 innovative (23%) are expected to change in the next five years
companies. Top 10: Apple, Tesla, Amazon, Alphabet, through a growth of 10.2% and a decline of 12.3%
Microsoft, Moderna, Samsung, Huawei, BYD, and 7. 2023 World Press Freedom Index
Siemens. BCG's list parameters: Superior Note: According to the latest report released by
performance, higher resilience to shocks and global media watchdog Reporters Without Borders,
disruptions, and the ability to exploit innovation India’s ranking in the 2023 World Press Freedom
faster for value-creating growth, among other Index has slipped to 161 out of 180 countries. In
things 2022, India was ranked at 150. Norway is ranked
4. World Bank’s annual “State and Trends of first for the seventh consecutive year, followed by
Carbon Pricing Report Ireland, Denmark, Sweden, and Finland. Last three:
Note: According to the World Bank’s annual “State North Korea (180th), China (179th), and Vietnam
and Trends of Carbon Pricing” report, revenues (178th). This report is based on five indicators -
from carbon taxes and Emissions Trading Systems Political, Economic, Legal Framework,
(ETS) have reached a record high, about $95 billion. Sociocultural, and Safety
This is despite the challenging context for 8. Global Fintech 2023: Reimagining the Future of
governments facing high inflation, fiscal pressures, Finance
and energy crises. As per the report, the prices are Note: According to a report by Boston Consulting
still too low to drive the changes needed to meet Group (BCG) and QED Investors, Asia-Pacific
Paris climate accord target. Several countries are (APAC) region is set to overtake the United States as
using a price on carbon emissions to help meet their the world's largest financial technology (fintech)
climate goals in the form of a tax, Emissions Trading market by 2030. Report title: Global Fintech 2023:
System (ETS), or cap-and-trade system. There are Reimagining the Future of Finance. It has been
currently 73 global carbon pricing instruments in predicted that APAC will have a compound annual
operation covering around 23% of global growth rate (CAGR) of 27%, surpassing North
greenhouse gas emissions. As of April 1, 2023 less America's CAGR of 17%. The growth will be driven
than 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions are by emerging APAC countries such as China, India,
covered by a direct carbon price at or above the and Indonesia.
range recommended by 2030. 9. The World's 10 Highest-Paid Athletes 2023
5. Financial Times Ranking 2023 Note: According to Forbes, Soccer player Cristiano
Note: According to the Financial Times Ranking Ronaldo (Portugal) has become the highest-paid
2023, IIM Kozhikode has been placed among the top athlete in the world for 2023, after moving to Saudi
4 schools in India and among the top 75 schools Arabia's Al-Nassr. He has signed a £175 million-a-

27 | P a g e
 year contract with Al-Nassr, which will expire in worth of over $30 million will rise by over half
2025. He has earned $136m (£108.7m) over the (58.4%) in the next five years. From the last count
past 12 months. Lionel Messi (Argentina) ranked in 2022, the number is likely to grow to 19,119
second with earnings of $130 million, followed by individuals in the next five years in 2027. In that
Kylian Mbappé ($120 million), LeBron James year, the billionaire population is also expected to
($119.5 million), and Canelo Álvarez ($110 million). reach 195 from the current 161 individuals in 2022.
10. The Wealth Report 2023 The high-net-worth-individual (HNI) population,
Note: According to a new report, 'The Wealth with an asset value of $1 million and more will also
Report 2023’ released by Knight Frank India’s ultra- rise to 16.5 lakh.
high-net-worth individuals (UHNWI) with a net

April 2023

1. Delhi airport now 9th busiest in world Financial Architecture. While Nigeria has been
Note: According to the data shared by the Airports elected as the deputy chair of the Finance Ministers
Council International (ACI) World, Delhi’s Indira Working Group. Their collective call for reform
Gandhi International (IGI) Airport has secured the came at the Commonwealth Finance Ministers
ninth position in the list of the world's busiest High-Level Working Group Meeting in Washington
airports in 2022. As per the data, this airport is DC. Commonwealth Secretary-General: Patricia
handling 59.5 million passengers annually. IGI Scotland KC
Airport has improved its ranking from 2021 (13th). 5. Banking on Climate Chaos Report
Top: Georgia’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Note: According to the annual Banking on Climate
International Airport (93.6 million passengers) Chaos report, the world’s 60 largest banks have
2. TIME100 list spent $5.5 trillion (Rs 4,49,36,265 crore) on
Note: Actor Shah Rukh Khan has secured the top financing fossil fuel projects since 2016. This report
position in Time Magazine's poll for its annual was jointly released by Rainforest Action Network,
TIME100 list. For the second spot, the readers BankTrack, Indigenous Environmental Network, Oil
picked the Iranian women protesting for more Change International, Reclaim Finance, Sierra Club
freedom in the country's Islamic regime. The and Urgewald. JPMorgan Chase & Co has spent
healthcare workers of the US made it to third place. $434.15 billion, followed by Citibank NA, Wells
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle took the fourth Fargo & Company, Bank of America Corporation,
spot, with each of them getting 1.9% of the votes. and Royal Bank of Canada. Canada and Japan were
Lionel Messi secured the fifth spot. the top financiers for fossil fuels from 2020-2022.
3. Mumbai among 19 cities with the best public G7 countries provided $73 billion in public finance
transport in the world for fossil fuels from 2020-2022.
Note: According to a survey, published by London- 6. World's Wealthiest Cities Report 2023
based ‘Time Out’ - a media outlet, Berlin (Germany) Note: According to the World's Wealthiest Cities
was ranked as the city with the best public Report 2023, published by Henley & Partners and
transport system globally. It is followed by Prague New World Wealth, New York City has emerged as
(Czech Republic), Tokyo (Japan), and Copenhagen the wealthiest city in the world, with 340,000
(Denmark). While India's city Mumbai secured the resident millionaires. Tokyo with 290,300 resident
19th spot and was the top-ranked Indian city. millionaires, ranked second, followed by The Bay
Mumbai's Suburban Railways form the backbone of Area, London, and Singapore. While the US has
public transport for a population of 12.5 million. topped the list in the number of wealthy cities, with
4. India to chair Commonwealth group on reform 10 out of the top 50 cities in the world, followed by
of financial architecture China, and Australia.
Note: Finance ministers from various 7. India surpasses China to become world's most
Commonwealth countries have agreed for India to populous nation with 142.86 crore people: UN
be the chair of the Finance Ministers Working Group data
for a Commonwealth Call for Reform of the Global
28 | P a g e
 Note: According to the UN data, India has surpassed 9. Prodigy Finance’s Study Abroad Insights Report
China to become the world's most populous nation 2022
with 142.86 crore people. China has a population of Note: According to Prodigy Finance’s Study Abroad
142.57 crore. In 2016, China ended its strict "one- Insights Report 2022, its services have received
child policy", imposed in the 1980s amid significant growth in Tier 2 and Tier 3 regions in
overpopulation fears, and started letting couples India, where they saw an uptick of 162%. * Cities
have three children in 2021. According to the UN like Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi, and
data, the global population will have hit 8.045 Chennai have the highest number of loan
billion by mid-2023. Factors Influencing population applications in 2022 versus 2021. In Tier 1 cities,
growth: Fertility rate, Increasing longevity, Delhi saw a massive increase of 237% followed by
International migration. Hyderabad. Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities witnessed a
8. UNICEF Flagship Report highlights new data on growth of average 53% and 109% respectively in
India’s gains in vaccines confidence amidst large the number of applications.
scale decline of confidence in childhood 10. World Military Expenditure 2022
vaccines following COVID-19 pandemic Note: A report on Trends in World Military
Note: According to a report published by UNICEF, Expenditure 2022, published by Stockholm
India is among the three countries out of 55 studied International Peace Research Institute, stated that
for popular perception of the importance of total global military expenditure increased by 3.7%
vaccines for children that have shown in real terms in 2022, to reach a new high of $2240
improvement. The other two countries are China billion. The three largest spenders in 2022—the
and Mexico. The data was collected by The Vaccine United States, China, and Russia have accounted for
Confidence Project (London School of Hygiene and 56% of the total world. The United States remains
Tropical Medicine). Countries shown low by far the world’s biggest military spender. India’s
confidence, including the Republic of Korea, Papua military spending of $81.4 billion was the fourth
New Guinea, Ghana, Senegal and Japan after the highest in the world.
start of the pandemic.

Banking & Financial Awareness

August, July, June, May, April 2023

1. Fino Payments Bank has renewed its association with Note: It is for the fourth time, in the current financial
Rajasthan Royals (RR) for Season 16 of the Indian year that the gross GST collection has crossed 1.5 lakh
premier cricket competition, IPL. crore rupees, since the implementation of GST. Out of
Note: Fino Bank will be RR’s official digital banking the total collection, CGST is 29,546 crore rupees, SGST
partner. The bank made its maiden foray with the mega is 37,314 crore rupees and IGST is 82,907 crore rupees.
sporting event last season by partnering with RR as the The gross revenues in 2022-23 were 22% higher than
digital payments partner. The newly launched FinoPay in 2021-22.
digital savings account is expected to get more 4. India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) in collaboration
traction through this engagement. with Airtel has launched WhatsApp Banking Services
2. The interest rate of the National Savings Certificate for IPPB customers in New Delhi.
will now attract 7.7% up from 7%. Note: This channel will enable IPPB customers to
Note: The rate for Sukanya Samriddhi has increased seamlessly connect with the bank on WhatsApp and
to 8% from 7.6%. The interest rates for PPF and effortlessly avail of a host of banking services. It
savings deposits have been retained at 7.1% and 4%. includes doorstep service requests, locating the nearest
Senior citizen savings scheme: 8.2%. Kisan Vikas Post Office, and much more. Airtel has been working
Patra (KVP): 7.5%. KVP will now mature in 115 months with IPPB to deliver as many as 250 million messages
as against 120 months earlier. per month to the bank’s customers.
3. India’s GST revenue collection for March 2023 stood 5. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has
at 1.6 lakh crore rupees, which is 13% higher than the approved a 15.6 billion US dollar support package
GST revenues in March 2022. for Ukraine to assist with the conflict-hit country’s
economic recovery.
29 | P a g e
 Note: The loan is part of a broader 115 billion US 11. The Public sector banks (PSBs) have transferred
dollar international support package to help the unclaimed deposits of ₹35,012 crore as of February
country meet urgent funding needs. Of the total amount, 2023 to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
2.7 billion dollars is being made available to Ukraine Note: These deposits have not been operated for 10
immediately and the rest of the funds are due to be years or more. SBI tops the list with an unclaimed
released over the next four years. amount of ₹8,086 crore, while PNB has ₹5,340 crore and
6. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), India's Canara Bank has ₹4,558 crore. These unclaimed
current account deficit (CAD) has narrowed to $18.2 deposits belong to 10.24 crore accounts transferred to
billion (2.2% of GDP) in the October to December the RBI. MoS for Finance Bhagwat Karad shared this
quarter (Q3FY23) from 4.4% of the GDP in the quarter information in Lok Sabha.
ending September 2022. 12. Axis Bank and VISA jointly launched a mobile
Note: Reason: The decline was mainly due to the application, 'Digital Dukaan' to empower merchants
narrowing of the merchandise trade deficit. Services to accept payments through various digital modes.
exports reported a growth of 24.5% on a y-o-y basis. Note: It is designed to address business requirements
CAD: It is the difference between the inflow and such as accepting digital payments, inventory
outflow of foreign exchange. management, and billing. This Android Smart POS
7. Union Bank of India has become the first Indian bank application has an in-built camera with an LED
to open its ‘Special Rupee Vostro’ account through its flashlight to enable scanning of product barcodes and
corresponding bank in Malaysia i.e. India International allow a tap-and-pay option for transactions up to Rs
Bank of Malaysia for trade settlement in rupee. 5,000.
Note: The trade between India and Malaysia can now be 13. World Bank has predicted India's economy to slow in
settled in the Indian rupee, in addition to the current the current fiscal (2023-24) to 6.3% on the back of
modes of settlement in other currencies. In July 2022, shrinkage in consumption due to slower income
RBI decided to allow the settlement of India’s growth.
international trade in rupee. Malaysia currency: Note: The report estimates India's inflation to
Ringgit moderate from 6.6% to 5.5% in the current fiscal. The
8. According to the Controller General of Accounts Current Account Deficit (CAD) is expected to be 5.2% in
(CGA), the government's fiscal deficit for April 2022- FY24. The Economic Survey had projected a growth of
February 2023 has widened to Rs 14.54 lakh crore, 6.5% for the current fiscal while RBI's latest projection
i.e. accounted for 82.8% of the full-year target for pegs growth for FY24 at 6.4%.
2022-23. 14. Canara Bank has introduced a “Premium Payroll
Note: In 2021-22, the Fiscal deficit in the first 11 Package” for Salary account holders with competitive
months was 82.7% of that year's target. The Centre features.
made an upward revision in its fiscal deficit target for Note: This product has been designed to meet all
2022-23 in the 2023 Budget to Rs 17.55 lakh crore Banking requirements of Salaried Customers. Features:
from Rs 16.61 lakh crore. Free Term Life Insurance, Insta over Draft, free Personal
9. IRDAI has identified Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), & Air Accident Insurance coverage, Premium Cards etc.
New India Assurance, and General Insurance All employees of a firm/company with a minimum of 5
Corporation (GIC Re) as domestic systemically employees. Age: 18-65 years. Salary Band: Rs. 50,000-
important insurers (D-SIIs) for 2022-23. Rs.1,00,000
Note: These were the same institutions identified as 15. According to the latest edition of ADB's flagship
DSII in 2021-22. D-SIIs refer to insurers of such size, economic publication, Asian Development Outlook
market importance, and domestic and global (ADO) April 2023, India's GDP would grow to
interconnectedness, whose distress or failure would moderate to 6.4% in FY24 (2023-24).
cause a significant dislocation in the domestic financial Note: Reason: Risks arising from global and domestic
system. factors. ADB has also highlighted that India's GDP will
10. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, rise in FY25 to 6.7%. While inflation will likely
India's foreign exchange reserves increased by moderate to 5% in 2023-24, assuming moderation in oil
$5.98 billion to $578.78 billion on March 24, 2023. and food prices. Inflation will be at 4.5% in FY25.
Note: Data for the previous week showed that India's 16. The government has removed the windfall tax on
foreign exchange reserves rose to $572.8 billion, the crude oil production to nil from 3,500 rupees ($42.56)
highest level since early February 2023. India's foreign per tonne and on diesel has been slashed to Rs 0.5 per
currency assets (FCA) also increased from $4.38 litre from Re 1 per litre, effective from April 4, 2023.
billion to $509.72 billion. India's gold reserves rose by Note: Windfall tax: It is levied by governments when
$1.37 billion to $45.48 billion. an industry unexpectedly earns large profits. The tax
was levied in July 2022 as high energy prices led to

1|Page
 soaring profits for oil producers. The decision comes at Reason: The upward revision was due to an improved
a time when OPEC+ decided to cut production. outlook for China's recovery from Covid-19
17. PhonePe has launched a new consumer-facing lockdowns, with growth now pegged at 5.1% this year
application named Pincode, which will be a part of compared to 4.3%.
India's Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) 23. The Income Tax Department has notified the Cost
framework. Inflation Index (CII) for the current fiscal beginning
Note: Aim: To strengthen its e-commerce forays. April 2023, for calculating long-term capital gains
Pincode is a buyer app that focuses on hyperlocal arising from the sale of immovable property, securities,
commerce and is available for download on both Google and jewelry.
Play and the App Store. It will launch in six major Note: CII is used by taxpayers to compute gains
categories including grocery, food, pharma, electronics, arising out of the sale of capital assets after adjusting for
home decor, and fashion. inflation. The Cost Inflation Index for FY 2023-24
18. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced its relevant to AY 2024-25 stood at 348. It is notified under
bimonthly monetary policy and kept the repo rate the Income-tax Act, 1961 every year
unchanged at 6.50%. 24. The government official has informed that the union
Note: The GDP is expected to jump 6.5% in the government may set up the 16th finance commission
current financial year. Retail inflation is expected to this FY 2023-24.
moderate to 5.2% in FY2023-24. The standing deposit Note: Aim: To suggest the ratio in which tax is to be
facility (SDF) would remain unchanged at 6.25%, and divided between the Centre and states for five years,
the MSF rate and the bank rate at 6.75%. In Q1FY24, beginning April 1, 2026. Finance Commission is a
CPI-based inflation is expected to be 5.1%. The real constitutional body that gives suggestions on Centre-
GDP growth in 2022-23 was 7%. state financial relations. The 15th Commission, under
19. According to the Global Trade Outlook and Statistics NK Singh, had kept the tax devolution ratio at 42%.
report, released by the World Trade Organisation 25. SBI is planning to launch new variants of the current a/c
(WTO), the global merchandise trade volume is (with balances of ₹50,000 and ₹50 lakh) and the
expected to grow by 1.7% in 2023 as compared to an “Parivar” (family) savings a/c in FY24.
earlier estimate of 1% in October 2022. Note: Aim: To minimize the gap between deposit
Note: It would be lower than 2.7% growth in 2022. growth and credit growth. Domestic deposits of SBI
The expectation would be ‘subpar’ due to multiple grew 8.86% year-on-year (y-o-y) by the end of 2022.
factors, including Russia-Ukraine conflict, high inflation, While domestic advances were up 16.9% y-o-y. SBI also
tighter monetary policy, and financial uncertainty. WTO expects that it's domestic deposits and domestic
DG: Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala advances will grow about 12% and 16% y-o-y,
20. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, the respectively, in FY24.
Bank credit rose by 15% year-on-year (YoY) in 26. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the
2022-23 (FY23), against 9.6% YoY in 2021-22 (FY22). framework for acceptance of Green Deposits of
Note: FY23 credit growth is the highest since 2011- regulated entities (RE).
12, when it was 19.3%. Bank deposits expanded Note: Aim: To foster and develop a green finance
9.58% YoY in FY23, against 8.9% YoY growth seen in the ecosystem in the country. The framework will come into
previous financial year (FY22). The outstanding credit effect from June 1, 2023. It is applicable to Scheduled
stood at Rs 136.75 trillion at the end of the last fortnight Commercial Banks including SFB excluding RRBs,
of FY23 (March 24, 2023). Local Area Banks, and Payments Banks. It also
21. The PM MUDRA Yojana has completed 8 years of its includes all deposit-taking Non-Banking Financial
inception on April 8, 2023. Companies (NBFCs), including Housing Finance
Note: As per the government data, around Rs 23.2 lakh Companies.
crore has been sanctioned in 40.82 crore loan accounts 27. The ICICI Bank has introduced an EMI facility for UPI
under this scheme since its inception. About 68% of payments made by scanning a QR code.
accounts under the scheme belong to Women Note: Those customers are eligible for the PayLater
entrepreneurs. 51% of accounts belong to facility can avail of the EMI facility using the Bank’s ‘buy
entrepreneurs of SC/ST and OBC categories. MUDRA now, pay later’ option. Customers can pay amounts
Yojana: Launched: 2015; Aim: To facilitate easy above Rs 10,000 in easy installments for 3, 6, and 9
collateral-free micro-credit of up to Rs 10 lakh months. The ICICI Bank's PayLater facility was
22. World Bank Group President David Malpass has introduced in 2018 to enable customers to buy small
informed that the lender has revised its 2023 global ticket items in a completely paperless manner.
growth outlook slightly upward to 2% from a 28. JICA (Japanese lender) and Citibank will provide a
January 2023 forecast of 1.7%. USD 125 million funding line to India's IndusInd Bank.
Note: But the slowdown from stronger 2022 growth Note: Reason: For co-finance funding for on-lending to
will increase debt distress for developing countries. the agricultural sector in the country. The funding
2|Page
 includes a JPY 13 billion (approx USD 97.45 million) Note: NRIs can now leverage the robust platform
loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency offered by the Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS) to
(JICA) and another USD 30 million from Citi to make bill payments on behalf of their families through
IndusInd Bank. In the past, Citi has committed USD 1 the Musandam Exchange. With this, Canara Bank
trillion to sustainable finance by 2030. becomes the first public sector bank in India to offer
29. The annual World Economic Outlook of the inbound cross-border bill payments through BBPS.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered 35. YES Bank has become the first Indian company to
India's economic growth projection for the current have over 50 lakh shareholders.
fiscal (2023-24) to 5.9% from 6.1% earlier. Note: The bank had 50.6 lakh shareholders as of March
Note: Yet India will continue to be the fastest-growing 31, 2023, all of whom were public shareholders. While
economy in the world. It has also lowered the forecast Tata Power was a far second with 38.5 lakh
for 2024-25 to 6.3% from the 6.8% it had predicted in shareholders, followed by Reliance Industries with 33.6
January 2023. IMF growth forecast is lower than lakh shareholders, according to the December 2022
projections by the RBI, which predicted a 6.4% in the shareholding disclosures. Since then, the total number
current fiscal. of shares held has also more than doubled from 1,255
30. NSE Indices Ltd, an arm of the National Stock Exchange, crores to 2,875 crores.
has launched the country's first-ever Real Estate 36. Agri-tech company Fasal signed a partnership
Investment Trusts and Infrastructure Investment agreement with the State Bank of India (SBI) to
Trusts index -Nifty REITs and InvITs Index. provide farmers with easy access to capital.
Note: Aim: To track the performance of REITs and Note: The partnership will help to solve the cash-flow
InvITs that are publicly listed and traded on the NSE. A constraints during key cycles in farming by providing
Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) or an quick, easy, and collateral-free loans at very competitive
Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) is an rates. These ties will help to fulfill Fasal’s larger
investment vehicle that owns revenue-generating real objective of solving the many challenges across the
estate or infrastructure assets. entire horticulture value chain.
31. The RBI has proposed to prohibit the capitalization of 37. According to the United Nations, India's economic
penal charges and additional interest levied by banks growth is projected to decelerate to 6% in 2023 from
on customers for loan defaults. 6.6% in 2022.
Note: Aim: To streamline divergent practices followed Note: The UNCTAD in its latest Trade and
by lenders. As per the draft circular on 'Fair Lending Development Report Update released, expects global
Practice - Penal Charges in Loan Accounts', the growth in 2023 to drop to 2.1%, compared to the 2.2%
quantum of penal charges should be proportional to the projected in September 2022. UNCTAD expects the
defaults/non-compliance of material terms and South-Asian region to expand at a still fast pace of 5.1
conditions of loan contracts up to a threshold. percent in 2023. Recently, IMF lowered India's
32. HDFC Bank has signed a "Master Inter Bank Credit economic growth projection for the current fiscal to
Agreement" with the Export-Import Bank of Korea 5.9%.
for a USD 300 million line of credit. 38. According to the annual Banking on Climate Chaos
Note: The pact was signed by the two entities at GIFT report, the world’s 60 largest banks have spent $5.5
City in Gujarat's capital Gandhinagar, Gujarat. It will trillion (Rs 4,49,36,265 crore) amount on financing
help bank to raise foreign currency funds which it fossil fuel projects since 2016.
would extend to Korea-related businesses. It can be Note: Released by: Rainforest Action Network,
utilized towards funding requirements of consumers BankTrack, Indigenous Environmental Network, Oil
for the purchase of cars manufactured by Korean Change International, Reclaim Finance, Sierra Club and
companies. Urgewald. JPMorgan Chase & Co has spent $434.15
33. RBI has authorized the Karnataka Bank to collect direct billion, followed by Citibank NA, Wells Fargo &
and indirect taxes on behalf of the Central Board of Company, and Bank of America Corporation
Direct Taxes (CBDT) and the Central Board of Indirect 39. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has collaborated
Taxes and Customs (CBIC). with State Bank of India bank for the National
Note: The RBI authorized on the recommendation from Common Mobility Card or Singara Chennai Card as part
the Controller General of Accounts (CGA). Customers of the multimodal and ticket integration plan.
are enjoying seamless online payments for custom duty Note: It can be used on metro trains and on MTC buses
by selecting Karnataka Bank in the Indian Customs and suburban trains later, and can also be used in other
Electronic Gateway 'ICEGATE' portal of CBIC. metros. The option to link the card to an SBI bank
34. Canara Bank and NPCI Bharat BillPay Ltd (NBBL) account will be available soon. It can be preloaded with
have launched cross-border inward bill payment cash from 100 to 2,000 with a 1.8% commission
services for Indians based in Oman. charged by SBI.

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40. SIDBI has launched a pilot scheme for better financing under the Flood Reconstruction Emergency Assistance
terms in the electric vehicle space and strengthening Project will help in the reconstruction, improvement of
the whole ecosystem. resilience, and economic recovery.
Note: The pilot phase of 'Mission 50K-EV4ECO' aims to 46. AU Small Finance Bank has become the country's first
strengthen the EV ecosystem, including uptake for two, commercial bank to connect with the Bharat Bill
three, and four-wheelers through direct and indirect Payment System (BBPS) and deliver bill payment
lending. Direct lending: SIDBI will directly give loans to services via video banking.
eligible MSMEs. Indirect lending: Targeted at NBFCs, Note: Aim: To increase digital accessibility and
including small unrated focused, and emerging NBFCs. economic capabilities, which will lead to greater
41. State Bank of India (SBI) has reintroduced a retail financial inclusion. Customers can use this platform to
term deposit ‘AMRIT KALASH’, a special scheme of 400 pay their bills without having to go to a branch, which is
days tenor. especially useful for senior persons and others with
Note: Earlier, the bank had launched this retail term mobility challenges.
deposit scheme with a specific duration and it was valid 47. RBI has approved the AU Small Finance Bank and
from February 15, 2023, to March 31, 2023. The Rate of Equitas Bank to deal in foreign exchange.
Interest on this term deposit is 7.10 % w.e.f. April 12th, Note: AU SFB informed that RBI has granted the Licence
2023. While Senior Citizens are eligible for a rate of to act as Authorized Dealer Category-I (AD-I) under
interest of 7.60%. The Scheme will be valid till 30-June- section 10 of FEMA, 1999 to deal in foreign exchange.
2023. The permission is subject to compliance with applicable
42. Gazprombank of Russia has expanded its ties with regulations. Equitas Small Finance Bank has also
banks in India to expedite trade between the two received Authorized Dealer Category-I (AD-I) License
countries in national currencies, as Russia this year has from RBI. AU Small Finance Bank CEO: Sanjay Agarwal
become the biggest supplier of oil to India. 48. South Indian Bank has introduced SIB SEAFARER and
Note: It is the third-largest lender of Russia by assets SIB PULSE, two flexible saving accounts, for NRI
and a key conduit of the Russian energy trade. In 2022, customers.
India implemented a broader framework to facilitate Note: SEAFARER: Flexibility to maintain a minimum
overseas trade in rupees, and since then many Russian balance of Rs.10,000/- in linked accounts. No minimum
institutions have opened vostro accounts with Indian balance is required for the maintenance of the NRI Term
banks. Deposit of Rs.2 lakh and above. PULSE: Flexibility to
43. According to a report by a French payment and maintain a minimum balance of Rs.10,000/- in linked
transactional services firm, Indian city Bengaluru has accounts. NR Term Deposit above Rs.2 Lakh or RD with
topped the list of Indian cities in terms of the highest minimum monthly installment above Rs.20,000/-
digital transactions in the year 2022. 49. Federal Bank has signed with an agri fintech start-up,
Note: The city recorded 29 million transactions worth KiVi as Banking Correspondent.
₹6500 crore in 2022. Delhi ranked second followed by Note: Aim: To scale and expand its agri-lending
Mumbai, Pune, and Chennai. Report title: India Digital portfolio in Tamil Nadu. Federal Bank launched the
Payments Annual Report. Payment modes like UPI, instant KCC platform in September 2022 and claimed to
Debit and Credit cards processed 87.92 billion be the first of its kind in agriculture lending, it offers
transactions. farmers convenience and turnaround time. Aim: At
44. The CBIC (Central Board of Indirect Taxes & providing small loans to small and marginal farmers,
Customs) is likely to introduce a system of publishing and to facilitate efficient credit flow to underserved
daily currency exchange rates on the integrated rural populations
customs portal. 50. Royal Sundaram General Insurance Co. Ltd. provider
Note: It would replace the existing system of notifying has introduced three add-on covers for its vehicle
rates fortnightly. Aim: To capture daily exchange rate insurance policies - Smart Save, Roadside assistance,
fluctuations and help importers and exporters to and Return-to-invoice.
precisely calculate customs duties based on daily Note: Smart Save: This is for private cars, comes at a
exchange rate. Currently, CBIC manually notifies zero cost and will help the customer to get an upfront
exchange rates of 22 currencies every fortnight based discount in OD insurance premium, for repairing their
on rates obtained from SBI. vehicles at Royal Sundaram’s identified repair shops.
45. ADB will provide a loan of USD 230 million to Roadside Assistance: It is for two-wheeler policies and
Bangladesh to help the rehabilitation and will cover 11 emergency services.
reconstruction efforts in the northeastern part of the 51. HDFC Bank has received a three years to comply with
country affected by devastating floods in May–June the priority sector lending norms (PSL).
2022. Note: No relaxation is allowed for abiding by the cash
Note: The agreement between ADB and the government reserve ratio (CRR) and statutory liquidity ratio (SLR)
of Bangladesh was signed in Dhaka. The assistance rules. As per the RBI norms, commercial banks need to
4|Page
 extend 40% of the adjusted net bank credit (ANBC) of Zimbabweans against currency volatility. Zimbabwe
the previous year towards the priority sector. Capital: Harare; President: Emmerson Mnangagwa
52. Mastercard has joined hands with M1xchange to offer 58. Neobanking platform Jupiter has received a non-
a digital invoice discounting solution to farmers, banking financial company (NBFC) license from the
farmer-producer organizations (FPOs), and agri- Reserve Bank of India to enter into the lending business.
MSMEs through Farm Pass. Note: The startup, Jupiter will be offering the loan
Note: This platform will enable easy access to credit and under Amica Financial Technologies. Jitendra Gupta
working capital. This solution will also allow farmers (founder of Jupiter) has informed that there will be an
and FPOs to directly connect with buyers, negotiate the equity infusion of Rs 100 crore from Jupiter to develop
best price for their produce, and get paid faster. Farm the NBFC product. The startup will be looking to raise a
Pass is part of Mastercard’s broader Community Pass loan from banks for an additional Rs 100 crore.
platform. 59. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has canceled the
53. According to the Morgan Stanley report, India's GDP in banking license of Kerala-based Adoor Co-operative
FY24 -- 6.2 percent. Urban Bank with effect from the close of business on
Note: Inflation in India is likely to be below 5% in the April 24, 2023.
second quarter of the calendar year 2024. The headline Note: RBI has allowed Adoor Co-operative Urban Bank
consumer price index (CPI) for March was in line with to function as a non-banking institution. RBI has also
expectations. Morgan noted that the key to sustained stopped to conduct the banking business, including
domestic demand is a pickup in capex, which will help acceptance of deposits from non-members with
create more jobs, thus leading to a virtuous cycle of immediate effect. The bank shall ensure to repay unpaid
more jobs-to-higher income-higher savings-higher and unclaimed deposits of on-members held by it.
investment. 60. State Bank of India (SBI) has opened an exclusive
54. IndusInd Bank is planning to launch its own digital branch for startups at the Bandra Kurla Complex in
bank 'Indie'. Mumbai.
Note: The necessary approvals for all these expansion Note: This is the fourth startup-focused branch, after
plans and other logistics by the bank are likely to be Bengaluru, Chennai, and Gurugram. In Mumbai, the
completed in 2 years. The bank is also planning to enter bank has entered into multiple MoU with the Society for
the mutual funds, insurance, and broking sector. It is Innovation & Entrepreneurship at IIT-Bombay, Centre
likely to apply for the license in a few days. The for Incubation and Business Acceleration, and S.P Jain
Hindujas-promoted bank is likely to approach SEBI, Institute of Management & Research. Aim of MoU: To
IRDAI, and other regulators to obtain the necessary boost the startup ecosystem in the region
licences. IndusInd Bank HQ: Mumbai 61. Reliance General Insurance has become India's first
55. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed penalties general insurance company to accept the RBI's Central
totaling Rs 44 lakh on four cooperative banks. Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) e-Rupee for premium
Note: Bombay Mercantile Co-operative Bank: Penalty of payments.
Rs 13 lakh as it failed to transfer the eligible amount to Note: Aim: To provide customers with an easy, safe,
Depositor Education and Awareness Fund (DEAF). instant, and green payment solution. The company has
Tamil Nadu State Apex Co-operative Bank: Penalty of 16 partnered with Yes Bank to enable premium collection.
lakhs as it failed to transfer eligible amounts to DEAF. Customers with an active e-wallet with any bank can
Baran Nagrik Sahkari Bank: A penalty of 2 lahks has scan Reliance General Insurance's e-Rupee QR code to
been imposed for contravention of certain norms. make immediate payments.
56. Which bank and HDFC Bank would acquire up to a 9.94 62. Bank of India has launched the “Shubh Arambh
percent stake in Go Digit-Life Insurance. Deposit" retail term deposit scheme for senior citizens.
Note: HDFC Bank informed that it has executed Note: With this scheme, seniors, including super senior
definitive agreements to invest ₹69.90 crore in Go Digit- citizens can take benefit of an additional interest rate of
Life Insurance Ltd in two tranches. The bank has made 0.50% for senior citizens and 0.65% for super senior
the first tranche of payment of ₹10.93 crore for towards citizens. It provides super senior citizens seniors with
the acquisition. Axis Bank has also executed definitive 501-day fixed deposits at a high-interest rate of 7.80%.
agreements to invest ₹69.90 crore in Go Digit-Life Other senior citizens between the ages of 60 and 80 can
Insurance Ltd in two tranches. invest at a rate of 7.65%.
57. Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe will launch a gold-pegged 63. FMCG giant ITC has overtaken the market capitalization
digital currency and legalize them in the country. of Infosys to become India’s sixth most valuable
Note: It is believed that the government took this step company on the stock exchanges.
for stabilizing the local currency after its continuous Note: ITC’s market cap currently stands at ₹5.11 trillion
devaluation in comparison to the U.S. dollar. This (at the time of writing this report). This achievement
initiative taken by Zimbabwe will allow the exchange of comes after the share price of ITC rose 59% over the
Zimbabwean dollars with digital gold tokens and secure past year and 24% so far in 2023. Meanwhile, Infosys
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 shares have fallen by 20% in 2023.Top 5: Reliance, TCS, Note: AePS allows customers to carry out financial and
HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, HUL non-financial transactions at any banking point using
64. HDFC Bank has introduced a Digital Distribution their Aadhaar number/ virtual ID to access their
Platform, 'Smart Saathi' for its agents and business Aadhaar-linked bank account. This facility will enable
correspondents to sell services, especially in rural customers to validate the transaction by undertaking
areas. face authentication along with the Aadhaar number.
Note: HDFC Bank Smart Saathi provides a secure and 70. According to the IMF report, the growth of the Asia-
user-friendly experience to its users. The newly Pacific region is expected to increase to 4.6% in 2023
launched feature will use advanced technology from 3.8% in 2022.
solutions to connect Business Note: The two largest emerging market economies
Correspondents/Business Facilitators to the bank. Aim: (India & China) of the region are expected to
To boost financial inclusion by taking banking products contribute around half of global growth in 2023. 2023
and services to the last mile. will be challenging for the global economy, with global
65. Gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) of Rs 1.87 lakh growth decelerating as the effects of monetary policy
crore was collected in April 2023. tightening and Russia's war in Ukraine continue to
Note: It is the highest monthly mop-up since the weigh on economic activity.
inception of the indirect tax regime in July 2017.The 71. Merchant commerce platform, Pine Labs has partnered
government has collected CGST of Rs 38,440 crore, with ICICI Bank for the acceptance of the digital Rupee
SGST of Rs 47,412 crore, and IGST of Rs 89,158 crore on its PoS terminals.
(including Rs 34,972 crore collected on import of Note: The technology integration between the two
goods) and cess is Rs 12,025 crore.The highest GST entities will now support Digital Rupee acceptance at
collection was recorded in April 2022 at Rs 1.68 lakh Pine Labs’ point-of-sale terminals across key retail
crore. outlets in Mumbai and Bengaluru. Pine Labs’ execution
66. Home Ministry has canceled the Foreign of the Digital Rupee payment process is completely
Contribution Registration Act (FCRA) license of the digital via dynamic QR (quick response) built within its
Legal Initiative for Forest and Environment (LIFE). smart Android PoS terminals.
Note: About FCRA: Enacted in: 1976; Validity: 5 years; 72. Cashfree Payments has partnered with YES Bank to
It requires every person/NGO seeking to receive foreign offer ‘Global Collections’, an international collection
donations to be:Registered under the Act, To open a service for exporters.
bank account for the receipt of foreign funds in SBI, Note: Under this partnership, the bank’s account
Delhi, To utilize those funds only for the purpose they holders will be able to collect payments in over 30
have been received and as stipulated in the Act. foreign currencies using the Global Collections service.
67. India and Russia have agreed to explore the possibility The funds so received can then be converted into rupee
of accepting each other's payment cards, RuPay and settled into their local bank account in India within
(India) and Mir. one business day.
Note: Reason: For hassle-free payments between the 73. RBI has released a report titled, 'Currency and
two countries, This decision was made during the Finance 2022-23' with a theme of 'Towards A Greener
meeting of the Internal Governmental Commission on Cleaner India'.
Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Note: This report covers four major dimensions of
Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC). This meeting was chaired by climate change to assess future challenges to
the External Affairs Minister of India S Jaishankar and sustainable high growth in India. Areas: Unprecedented
Russia's Deputy PM Denis Manturov. scale and pace of climate change; its macroeconomic
68. The World Bank will provide financial aid of 2.25 effects; implications for financial stability; and policy
billion dollars to Bangladesh for five infrastructure options to mitigate climate risks. The country's goal of
and development projects. achieving the net zero target by 2070.
Note: Accelerating transport and trade connectivity in 74. Capital markets regulator SEBI has introduced LEI
Eastern South Asia worth $753.45 million. USD 500 system.
million for Resilient Infrastructure Building Project: Note: LEI refers to Legal Entity Identifier. Reason: For
USD 500 million First Bangladesh Green and Climate issuers that have listed or planning to list non-
Resilient Development; USD 250 million Sustainable convertible securities, securitized debt instruments,
Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation; USD and security receipts. It is a unique global identifier for
250 million Bangladesh Environmental Sustainability legal entities participating in financial transactions. It is
and Transformation designed to create a global reference data system that
69. Airtel Payments Bank has collaborated with the uniquely identifies every legal entity party to a financial
National Payments Corporation of India to roll out transaction.
Face Authentication for Aadhaar-enabled Payment
System (AePS).
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75. RBI and Bank for International Settlements (BIS) insurance products. MD & CEO, Capital SFB: Sarvjit
have jointly launched the fourth edition of the G20 Singh Samra
TechSprint, a global technology competition. 81. BharatPe Group has rebranded its multi-brand loyalty
Note: Focus: On developing innovative technology program, Payback India to Zillion.
solutions for cross-border payments. Shortlisted teams Note: Aim: To target customers across age groups and
will be invited to develop their solutions over a six- add a new dimension to their overall shopping
week period and each team will be eligible for a stipend experience, across categories and brands. Zillion will
of eight lakh rupees. The winners for each problem offer a wide range of options for customers to earn and
statement will receive an award of forty lakh rupees. redeem at a wide range of partners across the country.
76. RBI has updated instructions in the Master Direction The customers will be able to earn ‘Zillion coins’ for
on KYC related to wire transfers and aligned the same their routine spending. BharatPe CEO (Interim): Nalin
with the relevant recommendation of the FATF. Negi.
Note: The Banks and other financial institutions ensure 82. According to the Fitch Ratings, India's GDP growth
cross-border as well as domestic wire transfers contain forecast for 2023-24 would be 6%.
complete information about the originator and Note: 6.7% in 2024-25. Reason: Headwinds from
beneficiary. Wire Transfer: It is an electronic transfer elevated inflation, interest rates, and subdued global
of funds via a network administered by banks and demand. The rating firm has also reaffirmed India’s
transfer service agencies worldwide. long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating at
77. RBI has announced the interest rate of 6.97% on the ‘BBB-’ with a stable outlook. ‘BBB’ issuer default rating
Floating Rate Bond 2024, for the half year from May indicates that expectations of default risk are currently
7 to November 6, 2023. low and payment capacity to meet financial
Note: Floating Rate Bonds are securities that do not commitments is considered adequate
have a fixed coupon rate. They have a variable coupon 83. RBI has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.73 crore
rate which is re-set at preannounced intervals. The FRB on HSBC for contravention of Credit Information
bonds carry a coupon with a base rate equivalent to a Companies Rules, 2006.
weighted average yield of the last three auctions of Note: HSBC has furnished incorrect credit information
182-day Treasury Bills (T-Bill) plus a fixed spread regarding several expired credit cards with nil dues
decided by way of auction to all four credit information companies. The RBI
78. Axis Bank and India Shelter Finance Corporation Ltd imposed the penalty in the exercise of powers conferred
(IndiaShelter) have signed a strategic partnership under the provisions of Section 25(1) and Section 23(4)
under the co-lending model to offer secured MSME of the CIC (Regulation) Act, 2005.
loans to middle and low-income borrowers in semi- 84. RBI has added 34.22 metric tonnes of gold in the fiscal
urban areas. year that ended March 31, 2023, taking the total gold
Note: Axis Bank will bring deep financial expertise, reserves to 794.64 metric tons.
while IndiaShelter will provide loan processing Note: RBI held 760.42 metric tonnes as of March 31,
technology to assess borrowers' credit profiles. This 2022. A recent World Gold Council (WGC) report
partnership will strengthen the mortgage segment showed that the RBI added 7 metric tonnes of gold in
and help the bank augment its priority sector lending January-March 2023. The latest WGC report showed
portfolio that the Monetary Authority of Singapore was the
79. HDFC Bank has launched its retail banking program largest single buyer of gold (69 metric tonnes) during
‘Vishesh’ for customers in semi-urban and rural January-March 2023.
geographies. 85. AU Small Finance Bank has partnered RuPay to
Note: The bank plans to add more branches and launch launch the Business Cashback Rupay credit card to meet
tailor-made products and financial solutions for this the financial requirements of self-employed
market segment. They will look to add 675 branches in customers.
semi-urban and rural geographies in FY24. Presently, Note: Aim: To provide a diverse range of benefits to
52% of the bank’s 7,821 branches are in rural and semi- small businesses. It was launched in the presence of
urban locations. Dilip Asbe (CEO, NPCI) and Sanjay Agarwal (MD & CEO
80. Capital Small Finance Bank has partnered with Max of AU SFB). It simplifies financial operations for
Life Insurance Company Limited to offer life insurance businesses with benefits like up to 2% cashback, 48
offerings to Capital SFB’s customers. days of interest-free credit, and instant loans.
Note: Capital SFB would offer its customers a range of 86. Max Life Insurance has partnered with the Indian
savings, protection, retirement, and group life Industries Association (IIA) to provide life insurance
insurance plans of Max Life. Capital SFB has also plans to the MSME sector’s workforce in Uttar Pradesh.
partnered with ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Limited Note: Aim: To enhance accessibility and drive
and HDFC life insurance Limited to provide their life affordable insurance penetration across UP. Max Life is
the appointed lead insurer for UP, under IRDAI’s State
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 insurance plan. It offers life insurance access to more interest of consumers. The RBI has invited Indian firms
than 11 lakh MSME workforce affiliated with IIA and to participate in the TechSprint to address sustainable
their families in the State. finance as a collective priority.
87. Rukart has tied up with SBI for providing easy loans to 93. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched 100
customers for buying the cold storage system 'Subjee Days 100 Pays for banks.
Cooler'. Note: Reason: To trace and settle the top 100
Note: Rukart sells 'Subjee Cooler' to enhance the shelf unclaimed deposits of every bank in every district of the
life of fruits and vegetables by 4-6 days. It is a cold chain country within 100 days. Aim: To reduce the quantum
storage system that requires only 20 liters of water a of unclaimed deposits in the banking system and return
day. The cost of the product is Rs 50,000 each and one such deposits to their rightful owners/claimants. An
Subjee Cooler has a storage capacity of 100 kg. It is unclaimed deposit is one that does not see any activity
dedicated to minimizing the carbon footprint through for 10 years or more and is deemed inactive.
innovative solutions. 94. PayNearby has launched a new meta-commerce
88. SEBI has allowed stock exchanges to extend DMA to platform called PayNearby Mall.
registered Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) with Note: This platform is designed to enable easy access to
immediate effect. goods and services and will be integrated with the
Note: DMA refers to Direct Market Access. Reason: To Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)
promote institutional participation in Exchange Traded platform. Aim: To upgrade every retailer in its million+
Commodity Derivatives (ETCDs). DMA facilitates the active network and help them meet the demand of their
clients of a broker to directly access the exchange customers. Founder, MD & CEO, PayNearby: Anand
trading system through the broker's infrastructure to Kumar Bajaj.
place orders without manual intervention by the 95. RBI has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 5 lakh on
broker. Mizoram Rural Bank and 2 lakh rupees on Tripura
89. Yes Bank has launched YES KIRAN for offering financial Gramin Bank for the failure of Income Recognition
assistance to MSMEs manufacturers. and Asset Classification (IRAC) norms.
Note: Aim: To support the adoption of sustainable Note: Reason: Both banks have failed to categorize
energy practices by small and midsized enterprises. certain loan accounts as non-performing in line with
MSMEs will get various benefits such as reduced the Income Recognition and Asset Classification (IRAC)
operational cost, a flexible loan tenure at competitive norms. The bank was asked to provide a justifiable
interest rates, and a broad range of tie-ups with leading reason as to why a penalty should not be imposed for its
solar panel manufacturers and installers to help MSMEs non-compliance with the directions.
90. RBI has stated that fees and charges payable in India on 96. RuPay has introduced the CVV free payment
forex prepaid cards, store value cards, and travel experience for its debit, credit, and prepaid
cards must be denominated and settled in Local cardholders who have tokenized their cards on the
currency. merchant application or webpage.
Note: The use of such cards is limited to permissible Note: It ensures that the cardholder will not have to
current account transactions. It is subject to the reach out to their wallet or remember card details if
prescribed limits under the Foreign Exchange they have saved their card on the e-commerce
Management Rules. The RBI had previously stated that merchant. Tokenization is a simple technology to secure
no prior permission from the bank is needed for such card transactions without sharing real card details with
cards. the merchants.
91. RBI has imposed a penalty of ₹2.92 crore on Canara 97. IRDAI has constituted a five-member expert
Bank for violation of various norms. committee to advise it on matters related to mental
Note: It includes linking interest rates to external health and insurance.
benchmarks, and opening savings accounts of Note: Headed by: Pratima Murthy (Director at
ineligible entities. A scrutiny of the bank was carried out NIMHANS, Bangalore). The panel will advise on
by RBI in July 2020 based on a high-value fraud coverages offered/to be offered under insurance
reported by another bank. After scrutiny, the RBI found products, for mental illnesses. The panel will also
that the bank failed to link interest on floating rate retail provide expert advice/inputs on terminology, concept,
loans and loans to MSME to an external benchmark. and the like on matters relating to mental illnesses from
92. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will be participating in the medical domain perspective.
the GFIN Greenwashing TechSprint. 98. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed SBI Funds
Note: GFIN refers to Global Financial Innovation Management (SBIMFL) to acquire up to 9.99% of the
Network. Aim: To address the concern over paid-up share capital or voting rights of HDFC Bank.
exaggerated, misleading, or unsubstantiated claims Note: SBIFML has been advised by RBI to acquire the
related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aforesaid major shareholding in the bank within a
credentials. GFIN support financial innovation in the period of six months i.e. by November 15, 2023.
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 SBIFML must ensure that the aggregate holding in HDFC them for banknotes of other denominations. Exchange
Bank remains below 10% of the paid-up share capital or of Rs 2000 banknotes of other denominations can be
voting rights of the Bank at all times. made up to a limit of Rs 20,000 at a time from 23rd
99. According to Morgan Stanley, India is expected to May, 2023.
contribute 16% of the global gross domestic product 105. The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) central board has
(GDP) growth over 2023-24. approved the transfer of ₹87,416 crore as surplus to
Note: The Indian economy is a key contributor to Asian the government for FY23, surpassing the budget
economic growth outperformance and the broad-based estimate by 82%.
recovery in demand runs counter to the weakness seen Note: The union budget estimated an aggregate
outside Asia. In recent months, a wide variety of dividend of ₹48,000 crore from the RBI and public
indicators suggest that India’s recovery is strong and sector lenders. The large surplus transfer by the central
broad-based, and is well-placed to sustain growth rates bank would help the government manage its fiscal
of above 6%. math.
100. HDFC AMC Ltd has launched India's first mutual 106. The Ministry of Finance has notified that no Tax
fund focussed on the defence sector. Collection at Source (TCS) will be levied on individual
Note: Aim: To provide investors with an opportunity to payments using international debit and credit cards of
participate in the growth potential of this space. The up to Rs 7 lakh in a financial year from July 1, 2023.
new fund offering (NFO) of HDFC Defence Fund is an Note: Further, the Union Budget 2023 has increased
open-ended equity scheme, that opened on May 19 and TCS for foreign remittances under the LRS from 5% to
close on June 2, 2023. The fund will invest at least 80% 20% (except for education and medical purposes).
of its net assets in defence and allied sector companies This rule will be effective from July 1, 2023.
including stocks forming part of aerospace and defence. 107. Paytm Money has launched the most advanced
101. IRDAI has formed a task force to facilitate ease of bond platform for retail investors in India.
doing KYC and allied matters using Aadhaar. Note: This platform will simplify debt investing for
Note: KYC refers to Know Your Customers. At present, individuals. Investors can invest in three types of
the UIDAI framework allows insurance companies to bonds – government, corporate, and tax-free on
identify the customer by using his/her Aadhaar with Paytm Money. It provides all relevant information on
consent management. Besides the simplicity of one platform to investors. Investors can find all
customer onboarding and avoiding potential fraud, information related to coupon vs yield, clean price vs
there are problems with providing the services and dirty price, coupon frequency, and coupon record dates
making claims. on one dashboard.
102. Aditya Birla Capital has launched an MSME- 108. Google Pay in association with the National
focused portal, Udyog Plus. Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) rolled out
Note: Aim: To provide capital and other business support for RuPay credit cards on Unified Payments
solutions to small businesses, including investments Interface (UPI).
and utility services. It offers online loans up to Rs 10 Note: With this, the users can now link their RuPay
lakhs to MSMEs through various product offerings such credit cards with Google Pay to pay at all online and
as supply chain finance. Loans up to Rs 2 lakhs are offline merchants where RuPay credit cards are
provided without collateral or documentation. For accepted. It is now available to RuPay credit card
loans above Rs 2 lakhs, MSMEs are required to submit holders of Axis Bank, BoB, Canara Bank, HDFC Bank,
financial statements, ITR, and GST returns. Indian Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, PNB, and Union
103. As per a Finance Ministry notification, the spending Bank of India.
in foreign exchange through international credit 109. According to the RBI's March 2023 bulletin, the
cards (ICCs) will be covered under the RBI’s LRS. Reserve Bank of India bought $750 million on a net
Note: LRS refers to Liberalized Remittance Scheme. basis in the spot foreign exchange market in March
Under this scheme, a resident can remit money abroad 2023.
up to a maximum of USD 2.50 lakh per annum Note: The RBI has purchased $6.91 billion and sold
without the authorization of the Reserve Bank. Earlier, $6.16 billion. In February 2023, the central bank
the usage of ICCs for making payments for fulfilling bought $254 million on a net basis in the spot market.
expenses during travel outside India was not included The Indian rupee appreciated by 0.6% against the dollar
in the LRS limit. in March 2023. The RBI's net outstanding forward
104. RBI has decided to withdraw Rs 2000banknotes purchase stood at $23.6 billion as of end-March 2023.
from circulation under the Clean Note Policy. 110. The Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre
Note: The policy says that 2,000-rupee notes will (SIIC) at the IIT Kanpur joined hands with YES Bank by
continue to be legal tender but will not be circulated. signing an MoU that seeks to provide crucial support to
RBI has said members of the public may deposit Rs the startups incubated at SIIC.
2,000 banknotes into their bank accounts or exchange
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 Note: Aim: To identify innovative startups and extend fieldwork. It also includes eight months of paid
them the necessary financial backing. It bolsters the internship.
startup ecosystem in India by granting these ventures 116. The Central govt has cleared a prompt digital
access to a wide range of resources through YES Bank’s reporting and communication mechanism between
specialized startup-focused program called YES Head banks and Central Economic Intelligence Bureau
Startup. (CEIB) to plug defaults on loans of over Rs 50 crore.
111. YES BANK has adopted Azure Red Hat OpenShift Note: CEIB will send a report digitally regarding
to transform its next-generation mobile banking borrowers to the PSU banks for a loan amount of Rs 50
applications for an efficient mobile banking experience crore or higher at the pre-approval stage within 15
for its customers. days of request. The new system will require banks to
Note: It will enable YES BANK to improve customer submit their requests to CEIB through dedicated emails
experience and provide innovative banking solutions. in a specific format
It will have the agility and flexibility to increase the 117. PhonePe has become the first digital payments
demand and also support creating a seamless customer app to successfully enable the linkage of two lakh
experience across multiple banking solutions. RuPay credit cards to the Unified Payments
112. Axis Bank has launched ‘Sarathi’ a digital Interface (UPI).
onboarding journey to enable Electronic Data Capture Note: Besides, it has also processed a total payment
or Point of Sale (POS) for merchants. value (TPV) of Rs 150 crore via RuPay credit on UPI.
Note: This platform provides a seamless and hassle- PhonePe offers a comprehensive suite of solutions for
free experience for merchants. Onboarding process: RuPay Credit on UPI in partnership with NPCI. It has
Realtime database checks for faster application already enabled the acceptance of RuPay Credit Cards
processing. Live video verification to authenticate on UPI across 12 million merchant outlets.
merchant information. Eliminates the field verification 118. Equitas Small Finance Bank has signed an
process which helps in instant decision-making. Instant agreement with International Business Machines
installation of POS (IBM) to design and build a digital banking platform.
113. The Indian government has signed a loan Note: Aim: To provide a secure experience to
agreement of USD 141.12 million with Asian customers. The collaboration will boost the digital
Development Bank for the development of products offered by Equitas as well as its service
infrastructure in three industrial clusters situated in offerings, as it evolves its business for a digital-first
Andhra Pradesh. generation. Equitas SFB aims to commence its
Note: This financing is the second tranche of the 500 modernization journey with a cloud-native platform
million multi-tranche financing facility. Aim: To architecture.
promote industrialization to increase the share of 119. The RBI has imposed a penalty of Rs 84.50 lakh on
manufacturing in the state’s gross domestic product, Central Bank of India for non-compliance with norms
build competitiveness and create jobs in the project's related to fraud classification and reporting.
target areas Note: The RBI had conducted a statutory inspection for
114. Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) has emerged as the supervisory evaluation of the bank with reference to its
top performer among public sector lenders in terms of financial position as on March 31, 2021. The reports
loan and deposit growth in percentage terms during revealed that the bank had failed to report as fraud
2022-23. to RBI certain accounts within seven days of the
Note: BoM has also recorded the highest growth in decision of the JLF to declare the accounts as fraud.
profitability with the bottom line growing almost 126% 120. RBI has approved the voluntary Scheme of
to Rs 2,602 crore during the year. In terms of Amalgamation of Maratha Sahakari Bank with The
percentage increase in gross advances, BoM recorded a Cosmos Co-operative Bank, with effect from May 29,
29.4% rise in loans at Rs 1,75,120 crore as of March 2023.
2023. It was followed by Indian Overseas Bank and Note: The central bank had placed Maratha Sahakari
UCO Bank. Bank under Directions under Section 35 of the
115. HDFC Bank has partnered with Manipal Global Banking Regulation Act, 1949, on August 31, 2016. All
Academy of BFSI to launch its Future Banker 2.0 the branches of Maratha Sahakari Bank Ltd will function
programme. as branches of The Cosmos Co-operative Bank Limited.
Note: Aim: To groom young graduates into banking Maratha Sahakari Bank has seven branches in Mumbai.
professionals within a year. The nationwide 121. Indian Bank has entered into an agreement with
recruitment initiative seeks to establish a talent Indian Clearing Corporation Ltd. (ICCL) as its
pipeline for the bank's retail banking division. The one- Clearing and Settlement Bank.
year professional diploma incorporates classroom Note: Indian Bank will now facilitate banking services
sessions, guest lectures, role plays, and practical to members of BSE, Mumbai for clearing and
settlement operations. Clearing members can now open
10 | P a g e
 settlement accounts with the bank for funds settlement 127. Bajaj Allianz Life has launched an exclusive term
under the equity derivatives segment. The proposal to insurance plan for Type 2 diabetic and pre-diabetic
extend this facility to the members of NSE is under individual
active consideration. Note: The Bajaj Allianz Life Diabetic Term Plan Sub 8
122. SEBI has formed an Intermediary Advisory HbA1c is first of its kind protection plan in the Indian
Committee to advise the market regulator on changes life insurance industry. The insurer offers a 10%
in the legal framework, is headed by S Ravindran. premium reduction for individuals trying to achieve
Note: The committee will also advise SEBI on increasing health goals and other health management services. The
transparency in the functioning of market policy term ranges from five to 25 years and premiums
intermediaries like stock exchanges, clearing can be paid monthly/annually.
corporations, etc. Other members: Ashish Chauhan 128. Aegon Life provider has become the first
(CEO of NSE) and Sundararaman Ramamurthy (CEO of insurance company to launch a policy that covers
BSE), representatives from the broking community, surrogate mothers and egg donors.
legal, and FI Note: Aim: To support the financial well-being of
123. Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) has emerged as the surrogate mothers and egg donors. The new cover
best bank as far as the management of bad loans is aligns with the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 and
concerned with its net non-performing assets (NPAs). the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act,
Note: The NPA fell as low as 0.25% during the 2021, introduced by the Ministry of Health & Family
financial year ended March 2023. This is the lowest Welfare. It provides a three-year life cover for surrogate
ratio among all banks having total business above Rs 3 mothers and a one-year cover for egg donors
lakh crore and not just public sector banks (PSBs). 129. Reserve Bank Innovation Hub has partnered with
While HDFC Bank's net NPA fell to 0.27% followed by IIT Madras Research Park and Incubation Cell to launch
Kotak Mahindra Bank placed third spot with 0.37% of voice-banking solutions to eliminate language barriers.
net advances. Note: It will assist the illiterate and the visually
124. According to PwC report 'The Indian Payments impaired in their banking needs. Aim: To conduct the
Handbook - 2022-27, UPI transactions are likely to basic banking transactions through voice controls in
reach 1 billion per day by 2026-27, accounting for Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and English, in the initial stage.
90% of the retail digital payments. SBI, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra, and IDFC First
Note: UPI is driving the digital payments revolution, conducted a code fest on voice banking called ‘Vaulter
accounting for about 75% of the total transaction Voice’
volume in the retail segment during 2022-23. The 130. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a
Indian digital payments market also saw steady monetary penalty of Rs 2.2 crore on Indian Overseas
growth at a CAGR of 50% (volume) and is expected to Bank for violating various norms.
reach 411 billion transactions in FY 2026-27 Note: The RBI said it fined the bank under the powers
125. According to the Department for Promotion of vested by the Banking Regulation Act 1949. The RBI
Industry and Internal Trade data, the Foreign direct imposed this monetary penalty after finding
investment (FDI) into India has declined by 22% to contraventions of banking regulations and non-
$46 billion in 2022-23. compliance with specific RBI directions related to
Note: Reason: Lower inflows in computer hardware income recognition, asset classification, provisioning,
and software, and the automobile industry. The FDI interest rates on deposits, and ATM security
inflows stood at $58.77 billion during 2021-22. Top 131. ICICI Bank has committed to donating Rs 1,200
Investors (April-March 2022-23): Singapore ($17.2 crore towards Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), from its
billion), Mauritius, US, and UAE. State-wise, CSR funds.
Maharashtra received the highest inflows of $14.8 Note: Aim: To set up three new buildings spanning over
billion. a combined area of 7.5 lakh square feet at TMC’s centers
126. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched its at Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra), Mullanpur (Punjab),
2023-27 country partnership strategy for India. and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh). ICICI
Note: Aim: To identify accelerating structural Foundation for Inclusive Growth (ICICI Foundation),
transformation and job creation, promoting climate- the CSR arm of ICICI Bank, will implement the initiative,
resilient growth, and deepening social and economic which is likely to be completed by 2027.
inclusiveness as key focus areas. ADB highlighted that 132. SEBI released guidelines for transactions in
India has quickly rebounded from the impact of the corporate bonds through the Request for Quote (RFQ)
Covid-19 pandemic, with economic growth projected platform by stock brokers in order to increase liquidity
at 6.4% in FY24. India ranks among the fastest- on the platform, from July 1, 2023.
growing major global economies. Note: 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
11 | P a g e
 bonds in that month by placing quotes through one-to- companies that have a market cap of less than ₹500
one or one-to-many mode. In April 2024, the percentage crore, which came into force on June 5.
will increase to 25% Note: SEBI and exchanges in a joint meeting have
133. Karbon Card has launched a mobile-based decided to introduce the ESM framework for "micro-
expense management card for businesses and small" companies. Aim: To curb volatility in small-cap
individuals wherein it offers its users uncapped counters. The parameters for shortlisting the securities
cashback of upto 1% . under the ESM framework include high-low price
Note: Card ++ differentiates itself by providing variation and close-to-close price variation.
interesting cashback offers, incentivizing people their 139. According to the World Bank’s latest report, 6.3%
spending. The unique feature adds value to the card, would be India's growth outlook in FY2023/24.
making it an option for users. Its features include the Note: The bank has also raised the 2023 global
ability to make payments on various platforms such as growth forecast, highlighting that the U.S. and other
Google, Amazon, Swiggy, and Ola. major economies have proven more resilient than
134. State Bank of India Bengaluru Circle has launched forecast. The global Real GDP would climb 2.1% in
‘Project Kuber’, which will have four Transaction 2023, up from a 1.7% forecast issued in January 2023
Banking Hubs and One Corporate Salary Package Hub. but below 3.1% (2022 growth rate).
Note: Aim: To increase the market share in liability 140. Wipro has collaborated with Microsoft to launch
products of SBI. Location: SBI Administrative the Wipro Industry Innovation Experience for
Building, KG Road, and Sampige Road in Financial Services.
Malleswaram. Transaction Banking Hubs: It will offer Note: It will feature a new suite of banking and financial
services to corporate/non-corporate clients, from services solutions built on Microsoft Cloud. Aim: To
account opening to onboarding them on SBI’s digital help financial services clients accelerate growth and
platforms deepen client relationships. It would bring together
135. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das has launched a Microsoft Cloud capabilities with Wipro FullStride
Financial Inclusion Dashboard 'ANTARDRIHSTI'. Cloud, as well as leverage Wipro’s and Capco’s deep
Note: Aim: To provide the required insight to assess and domain expertise in financial services
monitor the progress of financial inclusion by capturing 141. Kotak Private Banking unveiled a Savings
relevant parameters. It will enable the ability to gauge Programme named 'Réserve', curated exclusively for
extent of financial exclusion at granular levels across UHNIs and HNIs.
the country. Presently, the dashboard is intended for Note: This by-invite program extends beyond banking
internal use in the RBI. It will further facilitate greater services, offering a range of exclusive amenities to
financial inclusion through a multi-stakeholder provide clients with an unparalleled luxury banking
approach. experience. Aim: To deliver a premium banking
136. RBI has set up a committee for Review of experience by offering exclusive lifestyle benefits
Customer Service Standards in RBI Regulated 142. YES SECURITIES has partnered with
Entities WatchYourHealth to provide investment solutions to
Note: Chairman of the committee: BP Kanungo. The healthcare professionals through the ‘Wellth- Where
operations of accounts should not be stopped pending Investments and Health Unite’ program.
periodic KYC updates. The committee has also Note: Aim: To help the healthcare community start
suggested measures for the benefit of pensioners. There their investment journey for successful wealth creation
should be a time limit for the return of property and achieving long-term financial goals. It will also
documents to borrowers after the closure of the loan provide free-of-cost demat and trading accounts,
account, failing which a penalty should be imposed on monthly stock research recommendations, and tailor-
the lender. made product offerings based on needs.
137. Bank of Baroda has launched Interoperable 143. HDFC Bank has introduced a new credit card
Cardless Cash Withdrawal (ICCW) facility, in which a 'Millennia', that comes with contactless technology
customer can withdraw cash using UPI from the bank's allowing customers to ‘tap and pay’ via POS machine.
ATM. Note: It offers cashback and reward points on
Note: It would be the first public sector bank to launch Amazon, Flipkart, and other e-commerce platforms. It
this service. BoB customers as well as customers of also offers 1% cash back on offline purchases, smart
other participating issuer banks that use BHIM UPI, Bob EMI, and lounge access for free. It is applicable to both
World UPI, or any other UPI application enabled for self-employed and salaried persons. People earning a
ICCW on their mobile phone can withdraw cash from a maximum of ₹35,000 gross salary can apply for the
Bank of Baroda ATM without using their debit card. card.
138. BSE and NSE exchange have introduced an 144. The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee in its second
enhanced surveillance mechanism (ESM) for bi-monthly monetary policy FY24 has kept the repo
rate unchanged at 6.5%.
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 Note: Aim: Focus remains on withdrawal of 150. RBI has notified four key measures to strengthen
accommodation. The RBI also retained FY24 GDP 1,514 Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) in the
growth forecast at 6.5%, while expects FY24 CPI country.
inflation to be at 5.1% (from 5.2%). Standing Deposit Note: UCBs can now open new branches up to 10% of
Facility Rate: 6.25%; Marginal Standing Facility Rate: the number of branches in the previous financial year
6.75%; Bank Rate: 6.75%; Foreign exchange without prior approval of RBI in their approved area of
reserves(as on June 2): $595.1 billion operation. UCBs have to get the policy approved by their
145. The World Bank and Bangladesh signed two board and comply with the Financially Sound and Well
financing agreements totaling USD 858 million to Managed Norms. The deadline to achieve PSL target
enhance climate-resilient agricultural growth, and of 60% also extended to March 31, 2024.
improve road safety. 151. According to the MyGovIndia govt data, India has
Note: The World Bank will provide USD 500 million to topped the global rankings in digital payments for
Bangladesh for Program on Agricultural and Rural the year 2022.
Transformation for Nutrition, Entrepreneurship, and Note: During the year under review, there were 5
Resilience. USD 358 million will be provided to million digital transactions in the country. India
Bangladesh for Road Safety Project, a first dedicated accounted for 46% of the global real-time payments in
road safety project in South Asia supported by the 2022, which was more than the combined digital
World Bank payments the next four top countries. This shows the
146. SIDBI has signed an MoU with HDFC Bank for robustness of India's payment ecosystem as well as the
providing financial solutions to MSMEs. country's acceptance of the digital.
Note: Under the MoU, SIDBI and HDFC Bank will work 152. State Bank of India (SBI) has received board
together to provide complete financial product and approval to raise ₹50,000 crore through debt
services to the customers under MSMEs. Aim: To instruments.
facilitate providing complete financial solutions to Note: These debt instruments could include long-term
MSMEs in a seamless manner. This arrangement will bonds, Long Term Bonds, Basel III compliant
enable MSMEs to avail financial products and services Additional Tier 1 Bonds and Basel III compliant Tier
of both the banks. 2 Bonds. The resources will be raised through private
147. Federal Bank bank has launched a campaign placement mode to Indian and/or overseas investors
named 'I am Adyar, Adyar is me'. during FY24, subject to the government’s approval
Note: Aim: To celebrate people and their culture by wherever required.
transforming an entire bank branch into a museum of 153. The central government and ADB signed a loan
local stories. The campaign has handpicked 40 agreement worth $130 million to boost agricultural
compelling stories of individuals, which are showcased productivity and horticulture agribusinesses.
in an exclusive exhibition at the Adyar branch of Federal Note: The deal aims to increase farmers‘ income and
Bank. This art exhibition will run for two weeks. The improve access to irrigation in Himachal Pradesh.
campaign is a first-of-its-kind micro-marketing The project interventions will help increase the income
initiative in the banking industry. and resilience to the effects of climate change of at least
148. According to the rating agency ICRA, bond 15,000 farm households across seven districts in the
issuances by banks may fall below at Rs 90,000 crore state: Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Sirmour,
in FY24 due to easing liquidity conditions. Solan, and Una.
Note: Banks issued a record Rs 1.1 trillion bonds in 154. Axis Bank in partnership with NGO Dhruvansh
FY23. Stronger foreign institutional investor has organised a lake cleaning drive, ‘Cleanathon’, in
(FII)/foreign portfolio investment (FPI) inflows, as seen Hyderabad.
recently, the derecognition of the Rs 2,000 note and an Note: This initiative was recorded in the Asia Book of
anticipated dividend by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Record as it was the largest cleaning drive conducted
could ease liquidity conditions in the interim. across the country. In Hyderabad, over 100 volunteers
149. According to the new rankings released by Brand participated in cleaning Mushki Cheruvu and
Finance, Tata Group has retained its position as the Neknampur Lake to restore these water bodies. The
most valued brand in India. campaign aligned with the United Nations’ theme for
Note: With a value growth of 10.3% in 2023 as World Environment Day 2023, ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’.
compared to 2022. Notably, Tata Group is the only 155. Go Digit has received the Insurance Regulatory and
Indian brand to feature in the top 100 of the Brand Development Authority of India's approval to
Finance Global 500 2023. While Infosys retained the commence life insurance operations.
second spot in the rankings with a brand value of $13 Note: In 2022, HDFC Bank and Axis Bank announced
billion, followed by LIC with a value of $9.7 billion. that they will both acquire up to 9.94% stake each
in Go Digit-Life Insurance through the investment of
₹50-70 crore, possibly in tranches, subject to executive
13 | P a g e
 of certain terms and agreements. Digit Insurance Sebi or AMFI within three months of the regulation
already has general insurance operations through Go coming into force.
Digit General Insurance. 162. Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB) has
156. Indian Overseas Bank has launched a Unique launched a new deposit scheme ‘Vikas Ashadeep 400
feature named 'My Account My Name' for IOB SB HNI days”.
and IOB SB MAX account holders. Note: The scheme is of a tenor of 400 days with an
Note: This feature allows customers to choose any interest rate of 7.5% for senior citizens and 7% for
name as their account number. The account name can the general public. Prospective customers of the scheme
only be a numeric, alphabetic, or alphanumeric will earn higher interest for a shorter period (almost 13
combination of seven characters. For example, a months). Under the scheme, a minimum of Rs 10,000
customer's account number can be 'Jackson' or and a maximum of Rs 2 crore can be deposited. KVGB
'1234567' or 'Jack123. chairman: Shreekant Bhandiwad
157. RBI has imposed a penalty of Rs 60.20 lakh on 163. RING digital credit platform has partnered with the
Bihar State Co-operative Bank Limited, Patna for a National Payments Corporation of India to add its
slew of shortcomings and violations. newly launched UPI plug-in functionality to RING's pre-
Note: A statutory inspection of the Patna-based bank by existing suite of digital services.
Nabard after FY20 revealed that it failed to put in robust Note: Aim: To help RING offer 'scan & pay' options to its
software for identifying and reporting suspicious existing customers and acquire new customers who use
transactions and submit statutory returns within UPI as a preferred mode of payment. It will become a
prescribed timelines. The RBI also imposed a monetary one-stop integrated payment and credit solution where
penalty of Rs 6 lakh on Jowai Cooperative Urban Bank a customer can avail credit and pay merchants across
Limited, Meghalaya. the country.
158. MRF became the first Indian stock to touch the 164. Sberbank has launched Indian rupee accounts for
rupee one lakh per share mark on June 13, 2023. individuals.
Note: The stock opened at ₹99,500 on BSE against the Note: Aim: To expand the range of foreign currencies
previous close of ₹98,939.70 and touched an all-time available to reduce dependency on the U. S. dollar and
high of ₹1,00,300 in morning trade. The stock has euro. Sberbank has more than 100 million retail clients
witnessed strong gains in the last one year. It is up 45% and already offers deposits in China’s yuan and UAE
in the last one year against a 19% gain in the benchmark dirhams. Rupee accounts would also be available to
Sensex. MRF shares hit their 52-week low of ₹65,900.05 clients. Sberbank would also raise rates on dirham
on BSE on June 17, 2022. deposits by 100 basis points for a six-week period.
159. Equitas Holdings has surrendered its NBFC 165. SBI Mutual Fund will acquire up to 10% of the total
licence and accordingly, its registration has been paid-up equity share capital of ICICI Lombard General
cancelled. Insurance through market purchase.
Note: The RBI, in the exercise of powers conferred on it Note: The approval of IRDAI is valid for one year from
under Section 45-IA (6) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, the date of the Irdai approval letter. This approval is
1934, has therefore cancelled its CoR (certificate of subject to compliance with applicable provisions of
registration). Reason: The company does not hold IRDAI (Registration of Indian Insurance Companies)
public funds. Therefore, it may have voluntarily Regulations, 2022, Indian Insurance Companies
surrendered its certificate of registration. (Foreign Investment) Rules, 2015.
160. Hubble has joined hands with Fino Payments 166. Microfinance loan portfolio increased by 22% to Rs
Bank for introducing India's first spending account. 3. 48 lakh crore during 2022-23.
Note: Depositors can save money in the account and Note: Gross loan portfolio stood at Rs 2. 85 lakh crore
earn up to 10% cash back on all purchases they make as on March 31, 2022. Microfinance loan disbursals
from the account. They can track expenses over 50 during FY 2022-23 improved by 23% to Rs 2,96,423
partnered brands and potentially save up to Rs. 20,000 crores compared to Rs 2,39,433 crore in the previous
annually. Users earn an interest rate of 2.75% annually financial year. About 7. 17 crore loans were disbursed
on their parked funds. It will be integrated with Fino during FY 22-23 as against 6. 30 crore in the previous
Payments Bank's digital savings account. year.
161. SEBI has introduced a regulatory framework for 167. According to RBI data, the outstanding portfolio
online investment platforms that facilitate under education loans grew by 17% at ₹96,847 crore in
investments in commission-free Mutual fund schemes. the year 2022-23.
Note: It also addresses investor concerns about Note: In the previous year, education loans were
associated risks and introduces a grievance redressal recorded at ₹82,723 crore. For the first time in five
mechanism. Platforms providing MF investment years, growth in education loans not only turned
services in direct (commission-free) plans will have to positive but also registered a 17% surge in the last
apply for an 'execution only platform' licence through financial year ended March, 2023. The NPA in education
14 | P a g e
 advances stood at 7. 82% of a total outstanding portfolio accounts; Utilizing funds of credit balance clients for
of ₹80,000 crore at the end of the first quarter of FY23. settlement obligation of debit balance clients; Utilizing
168. Reserve Bank of India has imposed a monetary funds of credit balance clients for settlement obligation
penalty of ₹20 lakh on Manappuram Finance. of proprietary trades
Note: Reason: For non-compliance with certain 174. Union Bank of India has launched the Union
provisions of Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC). Unnati account scheme.
RBI imposed this penalty as it did not classify certain Note: Recently, the Union Bank of India has launched
gold loan accounts with overdues of more than 90 days four bank account schemes targeting women, women
as Non-Performing Assets (NPAs). NBFC: It is a entrepreneurs and professionals, pensioners, and
company registered under the Companies Act 1956 cooperative housing societies. The bank has launched
engaged in the business of loans and advances, and Union Unnati specifically designed for women
acquisition of shares/stocks/bonds/securities issued. entrepreneurs and professionals. This account offers
169. Paytm has introduced a UPI software development free cancer care coverage and personal accident cover.
kit (SDK). Union Samriddhi has targeted women. The third
Note: Reason: For customers to make payments to product is Union Samman, a savings account aimed at
online merchants without any failure of the system. UPI pensioners.
SDK has also assured fail-proof transactions. Paytm UPI 175. Axis Bank has launched its latest feature ‘One-
SDK will let users pay directly from bank accounts View’, on Axis Mobile Application.
through UPI PIN without having to jump between Note: It also becomes the first private sector Bank to
merchant and payment app. Along with Paytm UPI Lite, introduce this new-age banking feature leveraging the
the company is enhancing two-sided payments, for both Account Aggregator ecosystem. Aim: To create a
merchants and customers. seamless banking experience for its customers. It helps
170. The World Bank has approved a $150 million loan in managing finances for customers, by providing them
to support the Resilient program of Kerala. access to multiple bank accounts on a single platform. It
Note: Reason: To continue strengthening the state’s also enables them to track their balances and spending
preparedness against natural disasters, climate change on a real-time basis.
impacts, and disease outbreaks. Aim: To deepen the 176. Lloyds Banking Group would set up a technology
state’s resilience in critical areas of coastal erosion and center in Hyderabad.
water resource management. This loan from the Note: The group, which has brands such as Lloyds Bank,
International Bank for Reconstruction and Halifax, and Bank of Scotland under its belt, is planning
Development (IBRD) has a final maturity of 14 years, to expand its digital capabilities through the tech center.
including a grace period of six years. It won’t offer banking services in the country, rather it
171. Kotak Mahindra Bank has launched its will focus on using technology and digital data, and
ActivMoney feature. analytics capabilities to drive innovation and end-to-
Note: It is an auto sweep feature that is offered by other end product delivery
banks, including Axis Bank and IndusInd Bank. Benefit: 177. Manipal Technologies Limited (MTL) has partnered
This feature gives customers the benefit of FD like with Indian Bank to drive financial inclusion by
interest up to 7% per annum, and the flexibility to offering customized banking products.
access their funds at any time from the linked savings Note: Aim: To build a sustainable network of corporate
account. It allows a savings account holder to earn business correspondents (CBCs). It will enhance the
higher interest as offered in FDs while retaining the availability, affordability, and accessibility of financial
liquidity offered by a saving account. services, particularly in underserved markets and rural
172. SEBI has restricted online bond platform providers areas. MTL will work closely with Indian Bank to offer
from offering products other than listed debt securities tailor-made banking products in rural locations.
on their platforms. 178. The Reserve Bank has imposed a penalty of Rs 2. 5
Note: SEBI also allowed them to offer securities such as crore on Jammu and Kashmir Bank for non-
Government Securities, Treasury Bills, listed SBGs, compliance with directions related to time-bound
listed municipal debt securities, and listed securitized implementation and strengthening of SWIFT-related
debt instruments on their platforms. Under the rules, operational controls.
Online Bond Platform Providers (OBPPs) need to Note: A penalty of Rs 1. 45 crore was also imposed on
register themselves as stock brokers in the debt Bank of Maharashtra for non-compliance with Loans
segment of the stock exchange. and Advances Statutory and Other Restrictions' and
173. SEBI has banned India Infoline Ltd (IIFL) Advisory on Man in the Middle Attacks in ATMs'. The
Securities from onboarding any new clients for two RBI also imposed a penalty of Rs 30 lakh on Axis Bank.
years. 179. World Bank has granted its approval for a USD 255.
Note: Reason: Mixing clients’ funds with proprietary 5 million loan to enhance the quality of technical
funds by routing transactions through common control education in government-run institutions across India.
15 | P a g e
 Note: This funding will support approximately 275 Note: Reason: The fastest growing economy among
selected government-run technical institutions over the Asia Pacific nations. In its quarterly economic update
course of the next five years. The Multidisciplinary for Asia-Pacific, S&P Global Ratings forecasted the same
Education and Research Improvement in Technical growth for Vietnam and the Philippines alongside India.
Education Project will focus on improving student skills In its latest report, S&P has kept the GDP growth
and employability through various measures. forecast for India unchanged for the current and the
180. Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) launched a new next fiscal, FY25 partly on account of domestic
close-ended plan Dhan Vridhhi. resilience.
Note: It is a non-linked, non-participating, individual, 186. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has canceled the
savings, single premium life plan, offering a banking license of Mahalaxmi Cooperative Bank,
combination of protection and savings. This plan Dharwad and allowed function only as a non-banking
provides financial support to the family in case of institution.
unfortunate death of the life assured during the policy Note: The cancellation of the license is with effect from
term. It also provides a guaranteed lump sum amount the close of business on June 27, 2023. RBI has also been
on the date of maturity to the assured. Minimum instructed to repay unpaid and unclaimed deposits of
assured sum: Rs 1,25,000 non-members held by it, whenever demanded, even
181. Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) has signed an MoU after being notified as a non-banking Institution.
with the Tamil Nadu State Rural Livelihood Mission 187. According to the data released by the Reserve Bank,
(TNSRLM) to foster the growth of Self Help Groups India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) has been
(SHGs) in the State and provide them with vital financial narrowed to 1. 3 billion dollars or 0. 2% of GDP in the
support. January-March quarter of the last fiscal.
Note: TNSRLM will facilitate eligible SHGs for credit Note: The decline was mainly due to moderation in the
linkage with IOB. Aim: To streamline access to financial trade deficit and a robust increase in services exports.
resources for SHGs, enabling them to undertake RBI data has shown that net services receipts increased,
entrepreneurial activities, expand their ventures, and both sequentially and on a year-on-year basis, on the
contribute to the economic development of the State back of a rise in net earnings from computer services.
182. The Asian Development Bank has signed an 188. The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors
agreement with Bangladesh to provide a 400 million approved a total of $391 million loan to Assam and
US dollars loan for the construction of 102 km-long dual Tripura.
gauge railways between Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar to Note: Aim: To improve access to high-quality
promote trade, investment, and tourism. healthcare services and to economic opportunities. Out
Note: Aim: To transport 2. 9 million passengers of $391 million, $251 million was approved for the
annually between Chattogram and Cox's Bazar by 2024. Assam State Secondary Healthcare Initiative for Service
Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Railway is part of the Trans- Delivery Transformation (ASSIST) Project. While $140
Asia Railway network, an initiative led by the UN. million was approved for the Tripura Rural Economic
183. Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance launched Growth and Service Delivery Project.
'Nishchit Pension Plan'. 189. Tata AIA has partnered with WhatsApp and PayU
Note: It is a non-linked, non-participating individual to make payments through Unified Payment Interfaces
pension plan that enables the policyholders to plan for (UPI) for their consumers more efficient.
their retirement. Under this plan, the insurer provides Note: This feature provides an instant premium
accrued guaranteed additions during the policy term payment facility through WhatsApp and UPI-enabled
and loyalty addition at the end of the policy term. The payment options. The company has enabled the
policyholders will be able to accumulate a 100% renewal of premium collections via multiple Digital
guaranteed corpus at desired retirement age. modes and enhanced its language capability to 5
184. ICICI Lombard has launched three insurance Languages–English, Hindi, Tamil, Gujarati, and Bengali.
products focusing on MSMEs — MSME Suraksha Kavach 190. The World Bank has approved $1. 5 billion to
Policy, Property All Risk (PAR) Policy, and i-Select accelerate the development of India’s low-carbon
Liability. energy sector.
Note: Aim: To make MSMEs more risk aware and Note: Aim: To help India promote low-carbon energy
provide them with the benefit of comprehensive by scaling up renewable energy, developing green
coverage to safeguard their businesses. MSME Suraksha hydrogen, and stimulating climate finance for low-
Kavach Policy protects MSMEs against loss or damage carbon energy investments. The program will support
to property due to defined insured perils. PAR policy the successful implementation of the National Green
covers a range of properties against damage caused by Hydrogen Mission which aims to stimulate $100 billion
accidents in private-sector investment by 2030.
185. S&P Global Ratings has retained India's GDP growth 191. According to Bloomberg, after the tie-up of HDFC
forecast at 6% for 2023-24. Bank Ltd and Housing Development Finance Corp, the
16 | P a g e
 lender would rank at fourth place in equity market 197. India's external debt has increased marginally to
capitalization. $624.7 billion annually in end-March 2023.
Note: It's valued at about $172 billion. With the merger Note: Although the debt-GDP ratio declined. The
likely effective July 1, the new HDFC Bank entity will external debt increased by $5.6 billion from $619.1
have around 120 million customers, which is greater billion at end-March 2022. Valuation gains due to the
than the population of Germany. JPMorgan Chase & Co appreciation of the US dollar compared to the Indian
ranked first, followed by Industrial and Commercial rupee and major currencies were placed at $20.6 billion.
Bank of China Ltd and Bank of America Corp. Excluding the valuation effect, external debt would have
192. ICICI Lombard General Insurance and ICICI increased by $26.2 billion instead of $5.6 billion in
Prudential have jointly launched a combi product, March 2023.
‘iShield’ . 198. State Bank of India launched 34 Transaction
193. Note: Aim: To provide customers with both health Banking Hubs at 21 district centers across the country.
and life insurance under the “use and file” Note: Aim: To provide quick and efficient Transaction
procedureThe “use and file” procedure allows an Banking solutions to customers. Dinesh Khara, the
insurer to launch a product without prior approval of chairman of the SBI, inaugurated the hubs, on the
the regulator. A combi product offers the benefits of life occasion of the 68th foundation day of the bank. The
insurance, along with that of general or other insurance bank's goal is to meet all customers' needs and provide
covers. The government raised the interest rates on comprehensive solutions for their transaction,
select saving schemes by up to 0.3% for the July- payment, and collection requirements under one roof.
September quarter. 199. Indian Bank has unveiled new services under its
Note: The govt. has raised interest rates on select saving digital transformation initiative 'Project WAVE’.
schemes by up to 0.3% for the July-September quarter Note: The bank in collaboration with National E-
in line with the high-interest rates in the banking Governance Services Ltd, has introduced an electronic
system. The highest increase of 0.3% was for the five- bank guarantee (e-BG) service to ease traditional paper-
year recurring deposit (RD). During the second quarter based processes. This move will also reduce the
of the current fiscal, RD holders would get 6.5% against turnaround time of the bank guarantee issuance and
the existing 6.2%. With the revision, a one-year term delivery to the beneficiary from an industry average of
deposit with post offices will now earn 0.1% higher 3-4 working days to a few minutes.
point at 6.9% and 7% for the two years tenor. 200. Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) has launched a new
194. The government collected GST of Rs 1.61 lakh RuPay Select Debit card, to provide luxury, convenience,
crore in June 2023. and security, all in one card.
Note: The government collected over Rs 1.61 lakh crore Note: One is required to have a savings account or a
of Goods and Services Tax in June 2023, which rose 12% certificate of deposit with IOB. Maintaining an average
from May 2023. The gross GST collection has crossed Rs daily balance of ₹ 1 lakh. The cash withdrawal limit is
1.60 lakh crore mark for the fourth time since the roll- set to ₹50,000. The daily limit for usage in merchant
out of the indirect tax regime six years ago on July 1, establishments (PoS) is set at ₹ five lakh. Daily usage
2017. The gross GST revenue collected in the month of limit in e-commerce platforms: up to ₹3,50,000
June 2023 is Rs 1,61,497 crore of which Central GST is 201. India has doubled its share of global commercial
Rs 31,013 crore, State GST is Rs 38,292 crore, and services exports to 4.4% in 2022 from 2% in 2005,
Integrated GST is Rs 80,292 crore. published by World Bank and WTO.
195. The fiscal deficit of the government for April-May Note: Report title: Trade in services for development.
2023 has been narrowed to 11.8% of annual estimates The report highlighted that China has also doubled its
to ₹2.10 trillion. share of global commercial services exports from 2005
Note: Reason: Sharp jump in non-tax revenue and lower to 2022, from 3% to 5.4%. India, South Africa, and
revenue spending, which combined to offset a robust Türkiye, jobs directly linked to cross-border services
increase in capital expenditure and decline in net tax exports account for more than 10% of total services
revenue.Total receipts during April-May 2023 stood at sector jobs
₹4.16 trillion (15.3% of the annual estimates) of which 202. The RBI's working group has recommended SDR
tax receipts stood at ₹2.78 trillion. and recalibration of the FPI for the
196. SBI has pledged a grant of ₹22.5 crore to the Indian internationalization of the rupee.
Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B). Note: RBI's working group has recommended the
Note: Reason: To establish a Banking Data and inclusion of the rupee in the Special Drawing Rights
Analytics Hub at IIT-B. The focus of the Hub will be to (SDR) basket and recalibration of the foreign portfolio
address the unique challenges faced by the Indian investor (FPI) regime to accelerate the pace of
banking and financial services sector. The collaboration internationalization of the rupee. The
aims to leverage SBI's extensive experience in banking recommendations by an Inter-Departmental Group
and IIT Bombay's research expertise. (IDG), headed by RBI Executive Director Radha Shyam
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 Ratho. The group was constituted by RBI Deputy new customers. With the help of this, customers can
Governor T Rabi Sankar to review the position of the explore the bank's products and services such as bank
rupee as an international currency. deposits, retail/MSME loans, digital products,
203. As per the Global Payments Report 2023, by FIS, the women/senior citizens, 'Do It Yourself', and
global e-commerce market is expected to grow at a government flagship schemes. The bank will offer an
compound annual growth rate of 9% during 2022-26 immersive 3D experience to the customers.
with transaction value rising to over $8.5 trillion in 209. Flipkart has joined hands with Axis Bank to offer
2026. loans for up to Rs 5 lakh to customers.
Note: During 2021-22, all regions except Europe saw Note: The lending service is accessible through
double-digit growth with the highest growth of 21% in Flipkart's app and boasts a 30-second approval time
the Middle East and Africa. Of the 40 markets, 37 saw while removing the need for document submission. By
double-digit YoY growth from 2021 to 2022. The report introducing personal loans, Flipkart is expanding its
predicts a mid-teens CAGR in the regions through 2026. range of financial services, which already includes a
204. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has canceled the 'buy now, pay later' option, EMI payments, and a co-
banking licenses of two cooperative banks in branded credit card. It will empower consumers to
Maharashtra and Karnataka. make big-ticket purchases.
Note: The licenses of Malkapur Urban Co-operative 210. In July 2023, SEBI released regulations for the
Bank Ltd, Buldhana, and Shushruti Souharda Sahakara introduction of general information and important
Bank Niyamita, Bengaluru have been canceled. The two information document concepts.
cooperative banks ceased to carry on banking business Note: Aim: To prevent debt securities issuers from filing
with effect from the close of business on July 5. These numerous copies of the same document. At the time of
banks did not have adequate capital and earning the initial offering, a General Information Document
prospects. (GID) including the details and disclosures listed in the
205. According to UNCTAD’s World Investment Report common schedule will be lodged with the stock
2023, FDI in developing countries in Asia remained flat exchanges.
at $662 billion during 2022. 211. Indian Banks’ Association has constituted a five-
Note: During 2022, FDI inflows to India rose by 10% on member working group for implementing the
an annual basis to $49 billion, while China registered a recommendations of the RBI committee on the
5% yearly growth to $189 billion. Overall global FDI “working of the Asset Reconstruction Companies”.
declined by 12% to $1.3 trillion in 2022 after a strong Note: Primary focus: To review assignment agreements
rebound in 2021 following the steep drop induced by and trust deed templates related to the acquisition of
the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. distressed assets by ARCs from lenders. Aim: To update
206. Bank of India has become the first bank to officially these templates to align with the evolving changes and
roll out Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) expectations within the ARC sector.
scheme. 212. National Housing Bank (NHB) has operationalized
Note: The account will mature after two years from the the Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF)
date of opening. Accounts under this scheme can be with an initial corpus of Rs 10,000 crore.
opened until March 31, 2025. The scheme offers an Note: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her
interest rate of 7.5% per annum, compounded 2023-24 Budget speech announced the setting up of the
quarterly. Individual girls or women can open an UIDF through the use of priority sector lending shortfall
account under the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate for the creation of urban infrastructure in Tier 2 and
scheme or a guardian can open an account on behalf of Tier 3 cities. The interest rate on UIDF loans has been
a minor girl. kept at Bank Rate minus 1.5%, i.e., 5.25% (at present).
207. According to a report, published by Crif High Mark, 213. National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL)
Bihar has overtaken Tamil Nadu to become the state has filed its Draft Red Herring prospectus (DRHP) with
with the highest microlending borrowings in India as of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) for an
March 2023. IPO.
Note: It highlighted Bihar's impressive growth with a Note: The IPO will see IDBI Bank, NSE, SBI, HDFC Bank,
13.5% increase in the gross lending portfolio during the and Union Bank of India paring stakes. IDBI Bank and
March quarter compared to the previous quarter. NBFC National Stock Exchange (NSE) hold 26% and 24%
holds the largest share in the market (37.3% of the stakes in the company, respectively. SBI (5%), Union
overall MFI loans), while Banks at 33.1% and small Bank of India (2.8%), and Canara Bank (2.3%) are other
finance banks at 16.6% key stakeholders.
208. Punjab National Bank (PNB) has launched its 214. According to the RBI, India's foreign exchange
virtual branch, Metaverse. reserves rose by $1.853 billion to $595. 051 billion in
Note: It is a virtual branch of the bank, which will the week ended on June 30, 2023.
deliver a unique experience of banking to existing and
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 Note: The overall reserve had dropped by $2.901 billion Note: Title of the campaign: BHARAT (Banks Heralding
to $593.198 billion in the previous reporting week. In Accelerated Rural & Agriculture Transformation).
October 2021, the country's forex reserve had reached Target: Rs 7,200 Crore. Aim: To promote Rs 1 lakh crore
an all-time high of $645 billion. The reserves have been Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) for the creation of
declining as the central bank deploys the kitty to defend necessary infrastructure in the farm sector. The AIF is a
the rupee amid pressures caused majorly by global financing facility launched on July 8, 2020.
developments. 221. India's Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation has
215. According to the Investment Bank Goldman Sachs, raised for the first time in five months to 4. 81% in June
India is poised to become the world’s second-largest 2023.
economy by 2075. Note: The rise in inflation is higher than the street's
Note: As per the report, India would cross Japan, expectations of 4.58%, but it is still below RBI's upper
Germany, and the US with a population of 1.4 billion tolerance limit of 6%. Reason: Due to a less supportive
people. India’s GDP is estimated to expand remarkably, base and the onset of a surge in vegetable prices.
reaching 52.5 trillion dollars surpassing the US GDP Consumer food price inflation surged to 4.49% in June
projection. The labour force participation set to make 2023. Retail inflation in the food and beverages basket
India the second-largest economy in the world by 2075. also rose sharply to 4.63%.
216. According to a study by Invesco Global Sovereign 222. According to the data released by the Ministry of
Asset Management, India has overtaken China to Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), the
become the most attractive emerging market for index of industrial production (IIP) in India has
investing in sovereign wealth funds in 2023. increased by 5. 2% in May 2023 from 4.2% in April
Note: Reason: This is due to its solid demographics, 2023.
political stability, and proactive regulation. Positives for Note: In May 2022, the factory output was at an all-time
the nation also include the rapidly expanding high-growth of 19.6%. India's industrial production
demography, strong regulatory actions, and a growth (IIP) declined to its lowest level in five months
welcoming climate for sovereign investors. at 1.1% in March 2023. The lowest growth rate was
217. In July 2023, 50th edition of the GST Council observed in October 2022 when it contracted by 4.1%.
meeting, headed by the Finance Minister, Nirmala 223. Razorpay has launched its first international
Sitharaman, has been concluded in New Delhi. payment gateway for the Malaysian market with Curlec.
Note: 28% GST rate has been levied on the full value of Note: In February 2022, Razorpay acquired a majority
gaming, horse racing, and casino. Exempted GST on stake in the Malaysia-based startup which is now
pharma products like cancer drug Dinutuximab, and known as Curlec by Razorpay. Aim: To widen its reach
Food for Special Medical Purposes. Reduced GST on in the international markets and make its capabilities
Uncooked, unfried & extruded snack palettes to 5%. available in emerging markets. As per the report, digital
Reduced GST on Fish soluble paste to 5%. Imitation zari trade in Malaysia contributes 22.6% to the country's
thread brought down from 12% to 5% GDP and is expected to rise to 25.5% by 2025.
218. In July 2023, the RBI canceled the license of two 224. State Bank of India has raised Rs 3,101 crore of
cooperative banks Sri Sharada Mahila Co-operative funds via additional tier-1, or perpetual, bonds at a
Bank and Harihareshwar Sahakari Bank. coupon of 8. 10% .
Note: Reason: As the lenders do not have adequate Note: The AT-1 bonds had a base issue of ₹3,000 crore
capital and earning prospects. About 99.96% of the and received total bids worth ₹5,920 crore and also
depositors of Harihareshwar Sahakari Bank and include a call option after 10 years. Perpetual bonds
97.82% of the depositors of Sri Sharada Mahila Co- (AT-1 bonds) are considered riskier than other debt
operative Bank are entitled to receive the full amount of instruments, as they can be written down before equity,
their deposits from DICGC. leading to losses for investors.
219. India and Bangladesh launched a much- 225. The Insurance Regulatory and Development
anticipated trade transaction in rupees to reduce the Authority of India has selected Tata AIG General
dependence on the US dollar and strengthen regional Insurance as the lead non-life insurer for Maharashtra.
currency and trade. Note: As lead insurer the company will collaborate with
Note: This is the first time Bangladesh has done all non-life and health insurance companies in the state
bilateral trade with a foreign country in addition to the to increase insurance penetration. The concept of a lead
US dollar. The transaction costs during trade with India insurer to increase insurance penetration in the states
would reduce with the introduction of the Taka-Rupee was developed by the regulator in line with its vision of
dual currency card which would be launched in "Insurance for all by 2047.
September 2023. 226. In July 2023, India and Indonesia are working on a
220. Manoj Ahuja (Secretary, Ministry of real-time payment mechanism and trading in local
Agriculture) launched a month-long campaign for currencies.
banks under Agri Infra Fund.
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 Note: Both countries have also discussed the possibility 232. Cognizant Technology Solutions in collaboration
of cooperation in digital technology, payments systems with Max Life Insurance Co. Ltd to launch an
under central banks, and using local currency. The two innovation and development centre in Chennai.
countries launched an Economic and Financial Dialogue Note: Aims: To drive product innovations, enhance
that will focus on enhancing bilateral trade and customer experiences, and lead operational excellence
investment, financial services, and infrastructure for Max Life. Cognizant will use expertise in consulting
development, among others. and emerging technologies, including artificial
227. An article published by the Reserve Bank of India intelligence, automation, and cloud transformation to
(RBI) in its July 2023 bulletin stated that India could further enhance the digital experience for customers, as
become a developed country by 2047 with an average per a release.
annual real GDP growth of 7. 6% over the next 25 years. 233. The government approved the interest rate of 8.
Note: India must rebalance its economic structure by 15% recommended by the Central Board of Trustees of
strengthening its industrial sector. Agriculture and the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation for 2022-
services would have to grow at 4. 9% and 13% per 23.
annum, respectively. Collaboration between the Note: The Ministry of Labour and Employment has
government, private sector, civil society and citizens is conveyed the approval of the Central Government
essential. under para 60(1) of Employees' Provident Fund
228. PhonePe Insurance Broking Services launched Scheme, 1952 to credit interest@ 8. 15 % for the year
the health insurance plans that will for the first time in 2022-23 to the account of each member of the EPF
India offer monthly subscriptions. Scheme as per the provision under para 60 of EPF
Note: Aim: To reduce the burden by breaking down the Scheme,1952.
premium payments into manageable monthly 234. PhonePe has launched an ‘Income Tax Payment’
installments. These insurance plans come with feature on its app.
coverage up to one crore rupees, allow users to choose Note: Aim: To allow taxpayers to pay self-assessment
any hospital room. Only platform in the country where and advance tax directly from the app using UPI or
customers can pay for Insurance in easy installments credit card payments. To enable this feature, the
through UPI on the PhonePe app company has partnered with PayMate, a B2B payments
229. SBI would set up a new trustee company as its and service provider. Users can get a 45-day interest-
wholly-owned subsidiary for managing the Corporate free period and earn reward points on their tax
Debt Market Development Fund. payments, depending on their bank
Note: SBI has a 62. 53 percent stake in SBI Funds 235. NongHyup Bank has been added to the Second
Management Ltd. The fund will act as a safety net to buy Schedule of the RBI Act, 1934.
high-quality corporate debts when the bond market Note: According to the RBI, NongHyup Bank has been
gets stress. This will make investors feel more secure. It officially included in the regulated list through a prior
will also improve the trading of these debts by setting notification issued on June 20, 2023, and published in
up a system that can step in and help during tough the Gazette of India. It is an agricultural bank
market situations. headquartered in South Korea. The bank was
230. According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), established in 2012 owned by the NACF.
India's GDP growth at 6. 4% for the FY 2023-24. 236. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman informed
Note: The Asian Development Bank retained India's Parliament that during the fiscal year 2022-23, Public
economic growth forecast at 6. 7 per cent for the next Sector Banks (PSBs) extended loans amounting to ₹4.
FY (2024-25). The ADB noted that the inflation is 12 trillion to state-backed corporations and public
expected to continue to fall, and is expected to approach sector undertakings.
its pre-pandemic levels as fuel and food prices decline. Note: Canara Bank took the lead in lending ₹187,813
The bank forecasted 3. 6% inflation this year for crore to government-backed entities. The top five PSBs
developing economies in Asia, and 3. 4% in 2024. – Canara Bank, State Bank of India, Punjab National
India's economy grew by 7. 2% in the 2022-23 fiscal Bank, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank and Union Bank of
ended in March 2023 India.
231. The license of United India Co-operative Bank 237. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed business
Limited has been revoked by the Reserve Bank of India, restrictions on the National Co-operative Bank Ltd and
located in Bijnor. capped deposit withdrawal of Rs 50,000 per account in
Note: The bank is not allowed to continue its banking July 2023.
operations, which include taking deposits and returning Note: According to the RBI, the bank is not allowed to
deposits. Result: The bank will stop functioning, and all issue fresh loans or accept fresh deposits without prior
depositors will be eligible to receive up to Rs 5 lakh as a approval from the central bank. Depositors will be
deposit insurance claim from the Deposit Insurance and entitled to receive deposit insurance claim amount up
Credit Guarantee Corporation.
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 to Rs 5 lakh from the Deposit Insurance and Credit entry into the country's life insurance sector, according
Guarantee Corporation. to the company's statement
238. According to the RBI’s data during the financial year 244. Razorpay has introduced the MoneySaver Export
2022-23, banks wrote off bad loans amounting to over Account (MSEA), catering specifically to Indian
Rs 2. 09 lakh crore, contributing to a total loan write- exporters.
off of Rs 10. 57 lakh crore by the banking sector over the Note: The account enables Indian exporters to open a
past five years. smart account in their preferred foreign country,
Note: This loan write-off to bring down gross non- facilitating local receipt of payments through bank
performing assets or defaulted loans to a 10-year low of transfers on the Razorpay platform. Aims: To alleviate
3. 9 percent of advances by March 2023. According to the burden of high transfer costs, chargebacks, and
RBI, banks have written off a total of Rs 15,31,453 crore payment failures, making it a valuable asset for
since FY2012-13. exporters.
239. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) increased 245. According to the RBI's index measuring the
its projection for India's GDP growth in the current adoption of online transactions, digital payments in the
fiscal year from 5. 9% to 6. 1%. country witnessed a year-on-year growth of 13. 24%
Note: As per World Economic Outlook, In 2023 the until March 2023.
growth rate of India's economy is estimated to be 6. 1 Note: The RBI's Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI)
percent, which is 0. 2 percentage points higher than showed a rise from 377. 46 in September 2022 and 349.
what was predicted in April 2023. According to Danish 30 in March 2022 to 395. 57 by the end of March 2023.
Leigh, the division chief of the Research department at The increase in the RBI-DPI index across all parameters
IMF, India contributes one-sixth of the total global indicates substantial growth in payment infrastructure.
growth this year. 246. Union Bank of India has joined forces with IBM
240. Dvara KGFS has entered into a co-lending India Pvt Ltd to embark on a comprehensive digital
partnership with HDFC Bank to provide business capital transformation and to revolutionize the way customers
to micro business units operating primarily in rural interact with their financial services.
areas and the unorganized sector across 10 States. Note: Aims: To establish a Digital Bank equipped with
Note: Dvara KGFS unveiled the enterprise loans vertical state-of-the-art capabilities, focusing on omni-channel
in 2020 with focus on three primary value chains – experiences and data-driven hyper-personalization.
grocery, dairy and agriculture. This engagement will Objective: To enable smooth digital journeys, offering
enhance our capabilities in empowering micro customers unmatched convenience and efficiency.
businesses operating in rural areas. 247. SBI Ecowrap report predicts that India is on track
241. HDFC Bank has overtaken State Bank of India (SBI) to become the world's third-largest economy by FY28.
to earn top spot on the list of 2023 CRISIL’s Greenwich Note: There is a growing agreement among experts that
market share Leaders in Large Corporate Banking. India's GDP in Q1FY24 is set to exceed 8%, leading to a
Note: According to Coalition Greenwich many of the GDP growth rate surpassing 6. 5% in FY24. The
gains for large private sector and foreign banks came at incremental increase in India's economy between 2022
the expense of the smaller banks. Indian companies are and 2027 is greater than the entire current size of
joining forces with the country’s largest banks to help Australia's economy, which stands at $1. 8 trillion.
fuel their drive to become bigger, more international 248. BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager that
and more efficient. teaming up with Mukesh Ambani-led Jio Financial
242. The Reserve Bank has permitted 20 banks Services (JFS) to enter India's asset management sector.
operating in the country to open 92 Special Rupee Note: This collaboration represents BlackRock's return
Vostro Accounts (SRVAs) of partner banks from 22 to the domestic market, and it will serve as a strong
countries. foothold for JFS, which is a recently separated division
Note: Aim: To promote bilateral trade in local of Reliance Industries. This marks BlackRock's second
currencies. Minister of State for Commerce and Industry attempt at tapping into the rapidly expanding domestic
Som Parkash informed that an MoU has been signed asset management space.
between the RBI and the Central Bank of UAE in July 249. Mahindra & Mahindra has acquired a 3. 5% stake
2023 in RBL Bank for Rs 417 crore.
243. Bandhan Financial Holdings Limited has Note: The company might consider making further
finalized a definitive agreement with Aegon India investments, but it will be subject to a ceiling of 9.9%.
Holding and Bennett, Coleman & Company Limited to As per RBI norms, any entity looking to acquire over 5
acquire the complete shareholding of the two entities in per cent stake in a bank needs to seek prior approval
Aegon Life Insurance Company Limited. from the regulator. The Mahindra group is in the
Note: Upon completion, this strategic move will not financial services sector primarily through its arm
only expand Bandhan Financial Holdings' presence in Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services – a non-
the banking and mutual fund sectors but also mark its banking finance company.
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250. The first Rupee trade shipment from West Bengal's relevant topics such as emerging lending models, neo-
Petrapole border to Bangladesh in July 2023. banks.
Note: Petrapole is the major land port for bilateral 256. According to the finance ministry, the gross Goods
trade with the neighboring country. The Indian and Services Tax (GST) revenues for the month of July
government has been promoting Rupee trade with 2023 are 11% higher than the GST revenues in the July
several countries to reduce dependence on the US 2022.
Dollar and strengthen regional currency and trade. Note: It is for the fifth time since the rollout of the
According to Kamlesh Saini, the manager of the Land regime that the gross GST collection crossed the Rs 1. 65
Ports Authority of India the value of the shipment is Rs lakh crore mark. The total revenue of Centre and the
1. 23 crore. States in the month of July 2023 after regular settlement
251. Federal Bank announced the introduction of a was Rs 69,558 crore for CGST and Rs 70,811 crore for
unique NR savings account plan designed exclusively the SGST.
for Non-Resident Indian (NRI) women in July 2023. 257. According to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman,
Note: This scheme, known as NRE Eve+, has been 28 percent GST on casinos and online gaming is
designed to meet the specific financial needs of NRI expected to be implemented from the 1st of October.
women. Objective: To provide a variety of advantages Note: 28% GST would be applicable on the amount
that are geared at enhancing their financial journeys. being paid at the entry level for online gaming. GST
With NRE Eve+, account customers get free access to Council recommended certain amendments in the CGST
domestic and international airport lounges. Act 2017 and IGST Act 2017, including amendment in
252. Govt of India and the Asian Development Bank Schedule III of CSGT Act, 2017, to provide clarity on the
(ADB) signed a $200 million loan as additional financing taxation of supplies in casinos, horse racing and online
in Rajasthan. gaming.
Note: Objective: For the ongoing Rajasthan Secondary 258. According to the S&P, India's gross domestic
Towns Development Sector Project to expand water product is expected to grow at a rate of 6. 7% per year
supply and sanitation systems and enhance urban from fiscal year 2024 to FY 2031.
resilience and heritage living in towns. A new feature in Note: Growth is projected to elevate India's GDP from
ADB’s support is the water facility development for $3. 4 trillion in fiscal year 2023 to $6. 7 trillion. As per
urban resilience improvement and heritage-sensitive S&P Global, the rating agency, the per capita GDP is
urban development in eight heritage towns. anticipated to increase to around $4,500. The main
253. Small Industries Development Bank of India factor driving Indian growth isa capital accumulation.
(SIDBI) has partnered with the Indian Institute of Investment as a proportion of GDP reached a 10-year
Management, Ahmedabad’s (IIM-A) startup incubator high of 34% in fiscal 2023.
Centre for Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship 259. Capital markets regulator Securities and Exchange
to promote tech. Board of India has canceled the registration of Metals
Note: Aims: To promote Deep Tech and science-led and Minerals Trading Corp of India(MMTC) Ltd as a
Innovation by facilitating access to seed capital. stock broker in August 2023.
Objective: To support startups with meritorious ideas Note: Reason: Its involvement in illegal "paired
and technologies important for India’s goals for 2047 to contracts" in a case pertaining to now defunct National
become self-reliant. Spot Exchange Ltd (NSEL) in Aug 2023. While cancelling
254. According to the data released by the Ministry of the licence, Sebi directed MMTC to allow its existing
Commerce, India's eight core sectors have registered a clients to withdraw or transfer their securities or funds
growth of 8. 2 percent in June 2023. held by it within 15 days.
Note: The growth rate of 8. 2 percent in June for India's 260. The combined market valuation of seven of the top-
eight key infrastructure sectors, which include coal, 10 most valued firms eroded by Rs 1,09,947. 86 crore in
crude oil, steel, cement, electricity. The core sector first week of Aug 2023.
growth for May has been revised upward from 4. 3 Note: State Bank of India taking the biggest hit, with a
percent to 5. 0 percent. The core sector growth in June weak trend in the stock market. The valuation of SBI
2022 was 13. 1 percent. tumbled Rs 38,197. 34 crore to Rs 5,11,603. 38 crore.
255. Karnataka Bank hosted the first edition of ‘KBL - First week of Aug 2023, the BSE benchmark fell by 438.
FinOne’, a fintech partnership event, in Bengaluru in 95 points or 0. 66 percent. Tata Consultancy Services,
July 2023. HDFC Bank, and Infosys observed an increase in their
Note: Objective: To develop innovative business market capitalization.
models, provide a seamless banking experience and 261. In the April-June quarter of 2023-24, the financial
offer a complete product suite. The first edition of ‘KBL results of State Bank of India revealed a significant rise
- FinOne’ featured over 30 speakers from various in quarterly profit to ₹16,884 crore, compared to ₹6,068
fintech, delving into some of the interesting and crore in the corresponding quarter of 2022.

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 Note: Net income also more than doubled to ₹18,537 Note: The bank has provided Point of Sale machines to
crore from ₹7,325 crore in 2022. Net interest income facilitate card payments by tourists. Prime locations
showed marginal deterioration while loan loss include Puri, and Bhubaneshwar, will be covered under
provisions more than doubled, leading to SBI shares this tie-up. The PoS machines will hasten tourist
tanking nearly 3 per cent on bourses. payment collections, bringing convenience to both the
262. PayPal has launched a US dollar stablecoin, tourists and OTDC officials.
becoming the first major financial technology firm. 268. ICICI Lombard General Insurance and Bajaj
Note: Aim: To embrace digital currencies for payments Finance have joined forces to offer car and two-wheeler
and transfers. Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency insurance plans.
that typically track the value of a major currency such Note: Customers can easily purchase these policies on
as the dollar one-for-one. They play a key role in the platform, enjoying a fully digital and smooth
connecting traditional and crypto markets, as traders customer experience. The ICICI Lombard Car and Two-
use the coins like cash in order to move in and out of wheeler Insurance policies offer comprehensive
trades without paying high fees. damage coverage, including third-party cover and
263. Postal Life Insurance has introduced the ‘Direct various add-on benefits to vehicle owners.
Incentive Disbursement’ program in the Delhi and 269. As per the information shared by the FM in the
Uttarakhand circles. Rajya Sabha, Public Sector Banks and 5 major private
Note: Aim: To ensure that it receives its hard-earned sector banks collected over ₹35,000 crore in charges
commissions from the previous month directly to their since 2018 on account of non-maintenance of minimum
Post Office Savings Bank accounts. Swift and Secure balance, additional ATM transactions, and SMS Services.
Transactions: Salesforce receives incentives directly in Note: Breakdown of Charges: ₹21,000 crore on account
their POSB accounts. Convenience and Motivation: of non-maintenance of minimum balance. Over ₹8,000
Salesforce can conveniently manage their funds, and crore was collected for transactions through ATM
immediate rewards drive optimal performance. beyond free numbers and SMS charges gave over
264. According to the SEBI report, Domestic companies ₹6,000 crore.
raised Rs 9. 8 lakh crore from capital markets in the 270. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
fiscal 2022-23, which was 4. 6 per cent higher than the Monetary Policy, released in August 2023, the RBI's
amount raised in the fiscal 2022. Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously
Note: The capital market regulator said that the funds decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 6. 5
were raised for the financing needs of the companies percent.
through various instruments such as equity, debt, AIFs, Note: Other Highlights: The standing deposit facility
REITs, and InvITs. According to the SEBI its recovery (SDF) rate remains at 6. 25%. The marginal standing
from erring market participants for the year stood at Rs facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 6. 75%. RBI has
6,031 crore revised the CPI inflation target for the current fiscal to
265. Banks have written off bad loans worth Rs 14. 56 5. 4%. Projected real GDP growth for 2023-24: 6. 5%
lakh crore in the last nine financial years starting 2014- 271. RBI has imposed ₹1. 50 lakh penalty on Shri
15 in Aug 2023. Vinayak Sahakari Bank for contravention of
Note: Out of the total Rs 14,56,226 crore, written off provisions of Maintenance of Deposit Accounts.
loans of large industries and services stood at Rs Note: Mizoram Urban Cooperative Development Bank
7,40,968 crore. According to Minister of State for was also penalized of ₹20,000 for non-compliance with
Finance Bhagwat Karad Scheduled Commercial Banks specific directions under Supervisory Action
have recovered an aggregate amount of Rs 2,04,668 Framework and KYC directions. Further, imposed a
crore in written-off loans, including corporate loans, monetary penalty of ₹1. 00 lakh on Shreeji Bhatia
since April, 2014 2022 and up to March, 2023. Cooperative Bank Ltd and ₹1. 50 lakh on Shri Vinayak
266. Star Health and Allied Insurance jointly partnered Sahakari Bank Ltd, Ahmedabad.
with Standard Chartered Bank in August 2023 to 272. Airtel Payments Bank has become the first Indian
enhance Star Health's distribution network. bank to launch an eco-friendly debit card for its new and
Note: Objective: To serve as a convenient one-stop existing customers with a savings bank account in Aug
destination for its customers seeking comprehensive 2023.
health insurance coverage. Bancassurance is an Note: The debit cards will be made from certified eco-
insurance distribution model where insurance friendly r-PVC (recycled polyvinyl chloride) material,
companies partner with banks to sell policies. SCB which is environmentally safe. Producing the r-PVC
currently has 100 branches spread across 42 cities. cards will lead to a 43 percent reduction in hydrocarbon
267. Bandhan Bank partnered with the state usage, effectively decreasing petroleum consumption
government for Odisha Tourism Development during the manufacturing process.
Corporation to help them strengthen payment solutions
for Odisha Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.
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273. AU Small Finance Bank Limited has become the percent. Inflation in food articles skyrocketed 14. 25
first financial services provider in India to launch a 24x7 percent in July against 1. 32 percent in June 2023
live video banking service in August 2023. 279. RBI has selected global consultancy firms McKinsey
Note: Aims: To provide a virtual platform where and Company India LLP and Accenture Solutions Pvt
customers can communicate with a video banker in real Ltd India to develop systems using artificial
time via video calls, like video conferencing. Objectives: intelligence and machine learning for its supervisory
To extend the reach of banking services to areas with functions.
limited infrastructure and resources, offering a Note: RBI is looking to AI and machine learning to
convenient and personalized banking experience. analyze its huge database and improve regulatory
274. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced supervision over banks, NBFCs to ensure that the
Artificial Intelligence-powered conversational features benefits of advanced analytics can accrue to the
on UPI interface in August 2023. Department of Supervision in the central bank.
Note: Aims: To enable digital payments through voice 280. Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) wholly-
commands. The concept, known as “Conversational owned subsidiary of the RBI has launched the Pilot
Payments,” introduces a dynamic and user-friendly Project for Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit.
approach to transactions. Objectives: To allow users to Note:Aim: To enable delivery of frictionless credit by
initiate payments seamlessly within chat or messaging facilitating a seamless flow of required digital
conversations, transforming routine interactions into information to lenders.Objectives: To encourages
instant financial exchanges various stakeholders, including banks, non-banking
275. The gross direct tax collection has registered a financial companies, FinTech firms, and startups, and
growth of around 16% to RS 653,000 crore compared other financial services
to the same period in 2022 in Aug 2023. 281. Zerodha has received final approval from the
Note: Net direct tax collection, after adjusting refunds, regulator Sebi to launch the mutual fund product.
stands at RS 584,000 crore, which is over 17 % higher Note:The motivation to launch the mutual fund
than the net collections for the same period 2022. The business was two-fold -- the shallow participation in
collection is over 32% of the total Budget estimates of Indian markets wherein lies the challenge and an
Direct Taxes for 2023-24. Refunds amounting to Rs opportunity and creating simple products for
69,000 crore has issued, which is 3. 73% more investors.Zerodha started its journey in 2010 as a ‘Rs 20
compared to year 2022 per order broker’ and gained popularity as a no-frills,
276. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) low-cost player among traders.
launched the 3rd edition of the UPI Safety Awareness 282. Asian Development Bank has approved a USD
Campaign, “UPI Chalega” in August 2023. 40.5 million loan for integrated early childhood
Note: Aim: To promote UPI’s brand awareness, amplify development and maternal mental health in Meghalaya.
understanding of its features, and encourage wider Note:The Meghalaya government is contributing USD
adoption among new users. It also educates users about 15.27 million to the project.Aims: To improve access to
various features such as UPI LITE, which enables swift nurturing care, including a component of maternal
low-value transactions; UPI AUTOPAY, which allows mental health care to enable the inclusion of fathers in
secure and convenient recurring payments using any caregiving.Objective: To strengthen home-based
UPI application childcare and center-based childcare through daycare
277. Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman centers
introduced the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate 283. Canara Bank has introduced Jeevan Dhara, a
(MSSC), a small savings scheme for women and girls in special savings bank account for pensioners, and
August 2023. prospective pensioners.
Note: MSSC is a 2-year deposit scheme, which offers an Note:The primary benefit of this account for senior
interest rate of 7. 5% per annum. Objective: To promote citizens is that it is a zero-balance savings account. With
financial inclusion and empower women, including this savings account, senior citizens do not have to
girls. It is a one-time program that runs from April 2023 maintain a minimum balance and there are no
to March 2025. Banks Include: Bank of Baroda, Union maintenance charges.The interest rate per annum is 4%
Bank of India, Canara Bank and Bank of India for deposits for senior citizens holding the Canara
278. The wholesale price-based inflation remained in the Jeevan Dhara Savings account.
negative territory for the fourth straight month in July 284. Wipro introduced the launch of a new Center of
2023 at (-)1. 36 percent on easing prices of fuel, even Excellence on Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in
though food articles turned costlier. partnership with IIT Delhi.
Note: The wholesale price index (WPI) based inflation Note:Aim: To foster accelerated innovation in some of
rate has been in the negative since April and was (-)4. the most exciting emerging areas of
12 percent in June. In July last year, it was 14. 07 technology.Objective: To enhance our research &
development capabilities in emerging regions, such as
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 generative AI.Teams will jointly work on building Note:On-line locker agreement, which is available
innovative solutions using AI, ML, and other round the clock will enhance customer convenience and
technologies. will reduce the turn-around time of the agreement
285. The Reserve Bank of India launched a centralized execution.DDE is a fully automated contract execution
Web portal, UDGAM (Unclaimed Deposits Gateway to platform with paperless e-stamp and e-Sign facility.
Access Information), for searching unclaimed deposits 291. HDFC Group launched new life insurance and asset
across multiple banks. management services at International Financial
Note:Aim: To identify their unclaimed deposits and Services Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat.
accounts and enable them to either claim the deposit Note:Aim: To offer services to Non-Resident Indians
amount or make their deposit accounts operational at (NRIs) and the global Indian diaspora.HDFC Life unveils
their respective banks.The 7 banks include State Bank HDFC International Life and Re, and HDFC AMC
of India, Punjab National Bank, Central Bank of India, International (IFSC) Ltd to cater to the financial needs
South Indian Bank and Dhanlaxmi Bank of the worldwide Indian community to make world-
286. BAA3 has been affirmed by the rating agency class foreign currency denominated insurance solutions
Moody's on India and maintained a 'stable' outlook on available for NRIs.
the Indian economy. 292. Canara Bank launched the UPI Interoperable
Note:The Baa3 rating and stable outlook also take into Digital Rupee mobile application.
account a curtailment of civil society and political Note: It becomes the first bank in both the public and
dissent, compounded by rising domestic political commercial sectors to offer this feature via its CBDC
risk.India's long-term local and foreign-currency issuer mobile app called the Canara Digital Rupee. Aim: To
ratings and the local-currency senior unsecured rating empower merchants to accept digital currency
remain at Baa3.While the other short-term local- payments using their existing UPI QR codes in addition
currency rating stands at P-3. to UPI-based payments without the requirement of a
287. Axis Bank announced the launch of two lending separate onboarding process for CBDC. CEO of Canara
products powered by the Public Tech Platform for Bank is K. Satyanarayana Raju
Frictionless Credit, introduced by the Reserve Bank 293. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has
Innovation Hub. acquired a 6. 66 per cent stake in Jio Financial Services
Note:Objective: To offer Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and owing to the de-merger action by Reliance Industries.
unsecured MSME loans to customers powered by the Note: According to the LIC the cost of acquisition is
platform. KCC will be offered in Madhya Pradesh and equivalent to 4. 68 per cent of the pre de-merged cost of
will be available to customers for up to Rs 1.6 Lakh to Reliance Industries. The country’s largest insurer held
start with. MSME loans will be available across the a 6. 49 per cent stake in RIL at the end of June 2023. JFS
country and will offer loans upto Rs. 10 Lakh shares hit its lower circuit limits for the second straight
288. The National Health Authority (NHA) and IRDAI session on August 21.
jointly organized an exclusive three-day Accelerator 294. HDFC Bank has partnered with Marriott Bonvoy to
Workshop. unveil the ‘Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card.
Note: Aim: To help insurance companies complete their Note: This pioneering co-branded hotel credit card, the
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) integration first of its kind in India, operates on Diners Club
and to facilitate adoption of Health Claims Exchange platform, a part of the Discover Global Network, and
(HCX) specifications. IRDAI also issued a circular aspires to set new standards for rewarding travel cards
advising the insurers and providers get on-boarded to in the country. This card brings together the strengths
the National Health Claims Exchange (NHCX). of these two prominent brands, presenting consumers
289. YES BANK has introduced its mobile banking app, with an unparalleled selection of travel benefits.
iris by YES BANK, which aims to reform India’s digital 295. Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has
banking landscape. reconstituted the Advisory Board on Banking and
Note:The app allows flexibility and personalization, Financial Frauds (ABBFF) which conducts the first-level
enabling customers to access over 100 features on a examination of bank frauds before recommendations or
single platform.It also ensures the utmost safety of the references are made to investigative by agencies such as
customers’ financial data by incorporating safety CBI.
features like Biometric Authentication, Sim-Binding, Note: The reconstituted APBFF will be chaired by
and a 2-factor Verification.Managing Director & CEO of former CVC Suresh N Patel. There are four Members and
YES BANK is Prashant Kumar. the tenure of the Chairman/ Members would be for two
290. Indian Bank became the First Public Sector Bank to years.
extend facility of execution of on-line locker agreement 296. DBS has partnered with commodities trader
through Digital Document Execution (DDE) Platform of Maptrasco, and announced the completion of the first
National E-Governance Services Limited (NeSL). “live” transaction of electronic Bills of Lading (eBL) for
shipments between Singapore and India.
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 Note: This landmark first shipment marks a pivotal parties can carry out digital transactions amounting to
moment for businesses operating in both Singapore and ₹500 each in the offline mode.
India. It grants them the opportunity to engage with the 301. Yes Bank has launched a co-branded Corporate
TradeTrust network through their preferred Credit Card in collaboration with the spend
TradeTrust-enabled platforms. management platform Zaggle to provide businesses
297. India in partnership with Asian Development with direct control over company expenditures.
Bank to open a climate change and health hub in Delhi. Note: Objective: To empower businesses to reimagine
Note: Objective: To facilitate knowledge sharing, their payment processes, streamline reconciliation, and
promote partnerships and innovations, and also help efficiently manage company expenditures. This
countries beyond the G-20, especially developing includes the ability to set individual spending limits,
countries. Climate change affects all of us and this centre apply merchant category restrictions, and implement
will give us the opportunity to have different partners diverse controls.
discussing this important issue and learning from each 302. Life Insurance Corporation of India has recently
other. tied up with Saraswat Cooperative Bank Ltd in its effort
298. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the to increase the penetration of life insurance through the
merger of Jalgaon Peoples Co-operative Bank with Bancassurance channel in Mumbai.
the Akola Merchant Co-operative Bank. Note: Saraswat Cooperative Bank is the India’s largest
Note: Aim: To streamline operations and services for Urban Cooperative Bank. Citizens in general and
customers under a unified entity. The Akola Merchant customers of Saraswat Bank, in particular, will now
Co-operative Bank branches would operate as branches have the opportunity to fulfill their life insurance
of The Jalgaon Peoples Co-operative Bank. The merger protection needs through the Bank itself by purchasing
of Twin Cities Co-operative Urban Bank Ltd and Kranti insurance products LIC.
Co-operative Urban Bank Ltd was also given the go- 303. Asian Development Bank has joined hands with
ahead by the central bank the Fourth Partner Energy Private Limited signed a
299. Airtel Payments Bank has joined hands with the long-term loan of up to 1. 2 billion Rs to construct and
Frontier Markets, and the Mastercard Center for operate a 25-megawatt solar photovoltaic-based power
Inclusive Growth have announced the launch of ‘She plant.
Leads Bharat: Udyam’, a first-of-its-kind initiative. Note: Aim: To increase clean and low-cost energy
Note: Aim: To elevate women-owned small supply to commercial and industrial customers. The
businesses(WOSB) with resources, tools, and power plant, located in Tamil Nadu in India, is expected
opportunities to grow and diversify their incomes. to generate about 50. 7 gigawatt-hours of electricity
Objective: To bring together the private sector, and annually and will directly sell power to commercial and
social enterprise, to demonstrate a digital-first model industrial users.
designed to unlock ways for WOSB to increase their 304. Axis Bank launched a new savings account variant
incomes. – ‘Infinity Savings Account’ to cater to digitally savvy
300. RBI has announced to enhance transaction limits customers who are frequent adopters of subscription-
for small value digital payments in offline mode to ₹500 based models.
from the earlier cap of ₹200. Note: Objective: To offer Axis Bank’s customers
Note: Aim: To enable faster, more reliable, and exclusive privileges, such as waived Average Monthly
contactless payments for everyday small value Balance (AMB) requirement, complimentary debit
purchases, transit payments, and so on by eliminating cards, and waiver of all the domestic charges against a
the need for two-factor verification for small value small monthly recurring fee of Rs 150 or annual fee of
transactions. This effectively means that transacting Rs 1,650.

Banking & Financial terms

1. AEPS – Aadhar Enabled Payment System 8. BBPS – Bharat Bill Payment System
2. APBS – Aadhar Payment Bridge System 9. BCA -Baseline Credit Assessment
3. ATM – Automated Teller Machine 10. BHIM - Bharat Interface for Money
4. ALM - Asset Liability Management 11. BLRA: Bank Led Resolution Approach
5. AIIB - Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank 12. CBL - Chest Balance Limit
6. AMFI - Association of Mutual Funds in India 13. CMFRI - Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute
7. BIS - Bureau of Indian Standards 14. CBS – Core Banking System
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15. CIDR - Central Identities Data Repository 64. PSPs - Payment Support Providers
16. CTS – Cheque Truncation System 65. TC-CCP - Third-Country Central Counterparty
17. CDR - Corporate Debt Restructuring 66. TRR - Temporary Recognition Regime
18. CASA – Current Account Saving Account 67. TReDS - Trade Receivables Discounting System
19. CAD – Capital Account Deficit 68. RTGS – Real Time Gross Settlement
20. CRA - Counterparty Risk Assessment 69. USSD - Unstructured Supplementary Services Data
21. CRR – Cash Reserve Ratio 70. UIDAI - Unique Identification Authority of India
22. ECS – Electronic Clearing Service 71. VPA - Virtual Payment Address.
23. DNS - Domain Name System 72. WMA - Ways and Means Advances
24. DEAF - Depositor Education and Awareness Fund 73. TIEA - Tax Information and Exchange Agreement
25. EFTPOS - Electronic funds transfer at point of sale 74. NRETP - National Rural Economic Transformation
26. EFT – Electronic Fund Transfer.
Project
27. FRBM - Fiscal Responsibility and Budget
75. IBC - Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code
Management
28. LGD - Loss Given Default 76. GSP - Generalised System of Preferences
29. LTV- Loan To Value 77. IFFCO - Indian Farmers Fertilizer Co-operative
30. LRS - Liberalized Remittance Scheme 78. PMJAY - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
31. LCR - Liquidity Coverage Ratio 79. NBFC - Non-banking finance companies
32. GNFV - Gross Negative Fair Value 80. SWIFT - Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial
33. SFTs: Securities financing transactions Telecommunications
34. HCE - Host Card Emulation 81. NHB – National Housing Bank
35. PFE - Potential Future Exposure 82. NGT - National Green Tribunal
36. IIP - Index of Industrial Production 83. DSIB – Domestically Systematically Important Bank
37. IBBI - Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India 84. RWAs - Risk Weighted Assets
38. IFC - International Finance Corporation 85. TCs - Trade credits
39. IDRBT - Institute for Development and Research in 86. CSO - Central Statistics Office
Banking Technology 87. ASSOCHAM - Associated Chambers of Commerce and
40. Ind As - Indian Accounting Standards Industry of India
41. ICAAP - Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment 88. WPI - Wholesale Price Index
Process 89. FTA - Free Trade Agreement
42. IFSC - Indian Financial System Code
90. NHB - National Housing Bank
43. IMPS - Immediate Payment Service
91. YONO - You only need one
44. IMPS - Interbank Mobile Payment Service
45. MMID - Mobile Money Identifier 92. ARC - Asset Reconstruction Company
46. MPIN - Mobile Personal Identification Number 93. D-SIBs - Domestic Systemically Important Banks
47. NPA – Non- Performing Assets 94. MFIs - Micro Finance Institutions
48. NSFR - Net Stable Funding Ratio 95. FPIs - Foreign portfolio investors
49. NPCI - National Payment Corporation of India 96. FVCIs - Foreign venture capital investors
50. NFS – National Financial Switch 97. PPF - Public Provident Fund
51. NSFR - Net Stable Funding Ratio 98. NSC - National Savings Certificate
52. NACH – National Automated Clearing House 99. CbC - Country-by-Country
53. NEFT – National Electronic Fund Transfer 100.WEF - World Economic Forum
54. NFC - Near field communication 101.MPI - Multidimensional Poverty Index
55. NDTL – Net Demand and Time Liabilities. 102.UNDP - United Nations Development Programme
56. NASSCOM - National Association of Software and
103.UPI - Unified Payments Interface
Services Companies
104.NPCI - National Payments Corporation of India
57. NIIF - National Investment and Infrastructure Fund
105.CII - Confederation of Indian Industry
58. OTC – Over the Counter
106.NBCC - National Buildings Construction Corporation
59. PIN – Personal Identification Number
107.NSSO - National Sample Survey Office
60. PAC - Personal Access Code
61. PCA - Prompt Corrective Action 108.EMV - Europay, MasterCard, Visa.
62. PCR – Public Credit Registry 109.FATF - Financial Action Task Force
63. PCR - Provisioning Coverage Ratio

Books and Authors

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December 2022

1. A book titled, 'The Chipko Movement: A People’s History' 3. Air Marshal PV Iyer (retd.) has launched his book ‘Fit
has won 2022 Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay NIF Book At Any Age’ at India International Centre, New Delhi.
Prize. Shekhar Pathak is the writer of this book. Note: He has penned his journey to fitness in the book
Note: This book was translated from Hindi by Manisha and shared anecdotes from his life to explain how he
Chaudhry and published by Permanent Black & Ashoka became motivated to work out daily. The book, published
University. Prize: Rs 15 lakh, a trophy and citation. The by Bloomsbury India.
fifth edition of this award was instituted by the New 4. A book titled “Forks in the Road: My Days at RBI and
India Foundation in 2018 to recognise powerful works of Beyond” has been authored by former governor of RBI C
non-fiction about contemporary India. Rangarajan.
2. ‘Miracles of Face Yoga’ book has been released recently, Note: It was published by the Penguin Business (Penguin
this book is authored by Mansi Gulati (Founder of Group). The book is the memoir of Dr C. Rangarajan, an
Manasvani). Indian economist, a former Member of Parliament, and
Note: This book was appreciated by the President of the 19th Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
India Droupadi Murmu. Mansi Gulati, an international The book is divided into 3 parts. Part 1- ‘RBI and
Yogi, celebrated author, and thought leader, devoted her Planning Commission’, Part 2-‘Governor of RBI’ and Part
efforts to learning everything possible about yoga 3- ‘Beyond RBI’
practices and philosophy.

November 2022

1. Rene Naba (French) is an author of book “De la readers on an epic journey through the families that have
Nucléarisation de l’Asie“(Nuclearization of Asia). shaped the world, including the Caesars, Medicis, Incas,
Note: The book is bilingual book, and will be available in Ottomans, Mughals, Bonapartes.
both French and English. The book discusses the nuclear 5. The book titled “The Light We Carry” is authored by
emergency and threat posed by the nexus of Pakistan and Michelle Obama, was released in November 2022.
China. The book was published by Golias. Note: This book is a collection of practices and
2. Nirmala James has authored the new book title "E. K. perspectives to deal with challenging times. The book
Janaki Ammal: Life and Scientific Contributions". will be published simultaneously in 14 languages and 27
Note: The book was published by Enview Research and countries around the world. Her memoir, “Becoming”
Development. It was released during the event organised was one of the best-selling books of all time, that was
on the 125 the birth anniversary of E. K. Janaki Ammal. released in 2018.
She was born on 4th November 1897 in Thalassery, 6. Gautaam Borah is the author of the book titled,
Kerala. E. K. Janaki Ammal is the India's first woman ‘Nalanada – Until we meet again’.
botanist. Note: It was launched by legendary writer Ruskin Bond.
3. Subodh first edition was launched by the National Mineral The book is a gripping story of romance, vengeance, and
Development Corporation (NMDC) vigilance department. an age-old mystery.
Note: Aim: To reinforce the NMDC’s commitment to 7. Dharmendra Pradhan (Union Education & Skill
fostering honesty and transparency among all Development Minister) has released the new book title,
stakeholders. The magazine was released by NMDC CMD, ‘India: The Mother of Democracy’, this book was
Sumit Deb. It was released in the presence of Director published by Indian Council of Historical Research
(Finance) Amitava Mukherjee, Director (Production) Dilip (ICHR).
Kumar Mohanty. Note: The event was also attended by Prof. Raghuvendra
4. Simon Sebag Montefiore is the author of the book titled, Tanwar, (Chairperson, ICHR) and Prof. Umesh Ashok
'The World: A Family History'. Kadam (Member Secretary, ICHR). The book is an
Note: The book will be published by Hachette India. This attempt to showcase the democratic ethos ingrained in
book tells the story of humanity from prehistory to the India since the dawn of civilisation.
present day. Through this book, the author takes the

October 2022

1. Tagore & Gandhi: Walking Alone, Walking Together ‘Valley of Words Book Awards’, was written by
has won the best books of the year at the 2022 Rudrangshu Mukherjee.
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Note: Anees Salim's The Odd Book of Baby Names 4. Odisha CM, Naveen Patnaik has released a book
and Neelakshi Singh's 'Khela' were adjudged the titled ‘Pandemic Disruptions and Odisha’s Lessons
best in English and Hindi, respectively, in the fiction in Governance’.
category. The PFC-VoW Book Awards is considered Note: This book was written by Rajya Sabha MP,
one of the most comprehensive independent Amar Patnaik. The book is a collection of the
literary award programmes in India. various essays on pertinent contemporary issues
2. The book titled “The Last Heroes” that is scheduled that emerged in India during the pandemic years of
to release on November 21, 2022, has been authored 2020-21 and 2021-2022. The book also highlights
by P Sainath. the achievements of Odisha's 5-T framework of
Note: The book has been published by the Penguin governance. 5-T: Team work, technology,
Random House India (PRHI). This book is an attempt transparency, transformation and time limit
to recognition those freedom fighter stories, who are 5. A book titled 'The Philosophy of Modern Song',
truly deserve, but were never granted. He is also an written by Bob Dylan.
author of the acclaimed book, Everybody Loves a Note: The book will be published by Simon and
Good Drought. P Sainath was awarded the 2007 Schuster. This book is a collection of essays, is his
Ramon Magsaysay Award. first book of new writing since 2004, when he
3. External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar has released 'Chronicles, Volume One.' He was awarded
participated in the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame Awards the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016 for having
2022, where he launched the book Modi@20: created new poetic expressions within the great
Dreams Meet Delivery in Auckland. American song tradition.
Note: The event was also attended by theNew 6. A new book "The Corbett Papers" has been co-
Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern. The event edited by educator Akshay Shah and Stephen Alter.
felicitated members of the Indian community in Note: This book was published by Hachette India.
New Zealand for their exceptional achievements This book has brought together lesser known parts
and contributions. The book originally launched on of Jim Corbett's life through unpublished letters,
11th May 2022. documents and a privately-published book

September 2022

1. SaumyaSaxena is the writer of the book ‘Divorce and profitable and sustainable. This book was published
Democracy: A History of Personal Law in Post- by Harper Business.
Independence India’. 4. Sjoerd Marijne has authored "Will Power" in which
Note: A new book on divorce laws and various writer shares the inside story of the team's incredible
religions in the post-colonial era was released at the turnaround at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
India International Centre. She is a British Academy Note: The book will be published by HarperCollins
Fellow at the faculty of History, University of India and released on September 21. Marijne was
Cambridge, the book talks about the Indian state’s appointed as the chief coach of the women's team in
difficult dialogue with divorce, which reconciles 2017. He has played for The Netherlands, and guided
largely through religion. the Dutch Under-21 women's side to a World Cup title.
2. Dr Munjpara Mahendra bhai Kalubhai is the writer 5. Former President Ram Nath Kovind has released a
of book titled “Science Behind Surya Namaskar”. book titled “Ambedkar and Modi: Reformer’s Ideas
Note: The book is a collection of evidence-based Performer’s Implementation” in New Delhi.
research on one of the most well-known Yoga asanas Note: It illustrates life, works and achievements of
at the AIIA. The book was released during the Dr. B.R Ambedkar and presents a convergence
Continuing Medical Education (CME) Programme between the ideals of Dr. Ambedkar and New India’s
2022 organised by the departments of Swasthavritta, development journey. It has been compiled in 12
Panchakarma, and Darvyaguna in association with chapters by Bluekraft Digital Foundation and has a
Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth (RAV), New Delhi. foreword by music composer and Rajya Sabha
3. A book titled, 'Forging Mettle: Nrupender Rao and the member Ilaiyaraaja.
Pennar Story' has been authored by Pavan C. Lall. 6. Noted Film Actor, Manoj Bajpayee has released a
Note: In this book, the senior journalist Pavan C. Lall book titled Muskurate Chand Lamhe aur Kuchh
tells the story of Nrupender Rao and his Khamoshiyan, was authored by Jiwesh Nandan.
entrepreneurial journey. It is a unique story of how a Note: The book has been released in presence of
business built with ethics, social and environmental Information and Broadcasting Secretary Apurva
concern at the core of its values can indeed be Chandra in New Delhi. The book offers a collection of
poems. The book has been published by Shobit Arya,
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the founder and publisher of Wisdom Tree, an Indian organised by Ministry of Information and
publishing organisation. Broadcasting. The book is a collection of PM Modi
7. The book titled, She Is–Women in STEAM, has been selected speeches between May 2019 and May 2020.
unveiled by Prof. Ajay Sood (Principal Scientific The book focuses on 86 speeches of PM on various
Adviser to GoI) and Alex Ellis (British High subjects. The book was published in Hindi and
Commissioner), was compiled by ElsaMarie D’Silva. English.
Note: The book has honoured 75 women in STEAM 9. Ira Pande has translated the award-winning book
(fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and “Lata: Sur-Gatha" in English that will be released in
Mathematics) celebrating gender, leadership, and January 2023.
sustainable development in the fields of STEAM. The Note: The announcement has been made by Penguin
book has been illustrated by Supreet K Singh. Random House India (PRHI). This book was originally
8. Former VP, Venkaiah Naidu has released a book written in Hindi by writer-poet, Yatindra Mishra. The
titled “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas Sabka Vishwas” at book has also won the 64th National Film Award and
Akashvani Bhawan in New Delhi. the MAMI Award for Best Writing on Cinema (2016–
Note: The book was released in the presence of 17).
Kerala Governor, Arif Mohammad Khan at an event,

Agreement & Deals

(1st -31st December 2023)

1. Cyprus, India inks 3 agreement while S. Note: The Ministry of Power announced that it has
Jaishankar visits Nicosia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
Note: At a joint news conference held in Nicosia, with the Defence Research and Development
Cyprus, Foreign Minister of Cyprus Ioannis Organisation (DRDO) to implement an early
Kasoulides and External Affairs Minister S. warning system for vulnerable hydro projects and
Jaishankar signed three important agreements. The power stations in hilly regions. The MoU was signed
two ministers had fruitful conversations during by Alok Kumar, Secretary at the Ministry of Power,
Jaishankar’s first official visit to Cyprus about and Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department
bilateral relations, multilateral cooperation, of Defence (R&D) and Chairman of DRDO.
geopolitical and regional problems, the Indo-Pacific 4. Zeliangrong United Front Signs a Peace
issue, the Middle East, Europe, and India’s Agreement with Central and Manipur
relationship with the European Union. Government
2. Tata Steel, TuTr Hyperloop collaborate for Note: The Centre signed a peace agreement with
developing hyperloop technology a Manipur insurgent group, which agreed to give up
Note: In December 2022, Tata Steel and TuTr violence and join the peaceful democratic process.
Hyperloop signed a Memorandum of Agreement The tripartite agreement was signed by the central
(MoA) at IIT Madras to collaborate on the and Manipur governments and the Zeliangrong
development and wide-scale use of Hyperloop United Front (ZUF) rebel group which mostly
technology. The primary study topics will operated in Manipur.The agreement was signed by
concentrate on the most important design and senior home ministry officials and the government
material selection problems. A high-speed, of Manipur and the representatives of ZUF in
affordable, sustainable option for transportation of presence of Chief Minister N Biren Singh.
both people and goods is the hyperloop. Key 5. NTPC and Tecnimont Signed MOU for Green
components of the hyperloop system include tubes, Methanol Project
capsules, propulsion systems, and track. Levitated Note: NTPC signed a non-binding Memorandum of
autonomous pods move through a system of Understanding (MoU) with Tecnimont Private
evacuated tubes. It promises to be 10 times more Limited, the Indian subsidiary of Maire Tecnimont
energy-efficient than rail and road transportation, Group, Italy. NTPC is India’s largest power
utilise 2 3 times less area, and offer quicker journey generation company. The objective of the MoU is to
times than flight. jointly evaluate and explore the possibility to
3. Power ministry, DRDO Ink Pact to Install Early develop a commercial-scale Green Methanol
Warning Systems for Power Stations production facility at the NTPC project in India.
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The Green Methanol Project involves capturing of Ayurveda (REAA), Germany, for five more years
carbon from NTPC power plants and converting it to take forward collaborative programmes. The
into green fuel. Green Methanol has a wide range of agreements were signed on the sidelines of the 9th
applications including serving as a base material for World Ayurveda Congress and Arogya Expo. The
the Chemical industry, storing renewable MoU with Havana-based University of Medical
electricity, and transportation fuel. Sciences was signed between Cuban Ambassador
6. Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) Signs Agreements to India Alejandro Simancas Marin and Dr Tanuja M
with MSMEs Nesari, the director of AIIA.
Note: Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) at the Bhabha 9. IIT Ropar, Army Training Command sign MoU to
Atomic Research Centre (BARC) signed agreements set up Centre of Excellence
with MSMEs for incubation of newer technologies Note: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
into commercial products. The agreements were Ropar and the Army Training Command
signed to commemorate the launch of the AIC at the (ARTRAC) of the Indian Army has signed
BARC to hasten conversion of products from a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for setting
research labs to the market. The incubation up a centre of excellence for studies and applied
agreements are signed specifically for technologies research in defence and security at the premier
aligned with India’s global commitments of institute. The MoU was signed by Rajeev Ahuja,
achieving Net Zero (carbon neutrality) such as director, IIT Ropar and Lt Gen SS Mahal, General
access to safe drinking water, and growth of Officer Commanding –in-Chief of the ARTRAC. IIT
potential import substitutes for advanced and Ropar will also curate training programmes as
affordable healthcare in the country. The exchange of information on educational
technologies include Alkaline Water Electrolyser programmes for security practitioners of the armed
for Green Hydrogen production, DC Accelerator for forces, Central Armed Police Forces, intelligence
Wastewater Treatment, novel Gamma Monitoring, agencies and state police forces run by it as part of
and X-Band LINAC-based X-ray source for its on-campus and off-campus programmes on
radiotherapy machines. research and innovation
7. Airbnb Signs MoU with Goa Govt to Promote 10. NSIC Signs MoU with Walmart
Inclusive Tourism Note: A Memorandum of Understanding was
Note: Airbnb signed a Memorandum of signed between The National Small Industries
Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Corporation Ltd. and Walmart Global Sourcing
Tourism, Government of Goa, to jointly promote India Private Limited, to facilitate services to
Goa as one of the most sought-after high potential MSMEs in Walmart Vriddhi program. Through this
tourism destinations in India and around the world. MoU, NSIC will be able to extend the NSIC schemes
This partnership is aimed at encouraging travel to and other services to MSMEs which would
unique destinations that are lesser-known and participate in various Vriddhi programs. Moreover,
enabling economically regenerative community-led the MSMEs would get the exposure to various
tourism in the state. On the sidelines of the official advantages of gaining working capital, bulk
launch of ‘Rediscover Goa’, a week-long procurement support etc. under various
celebration of Goa’s vast cultural diversity beyond opportunities offered by NSIC.
its beaches and dazzling nightlife, Airbnb and Goa 11. Airtel and Meta collaborate to accelerate India’s
Tourism Department have joined hands to scale digital ecosystem
homestay capacity across the state, and provide Note: The telecom major Airtel has announced that
support to Goan homestay Hosts in delivering it has collaborated with Meta Platforms, Inc. (Meta)
quality tourism experiences to guests, both to support the growth of India’s digital ecosystem.
domestic and international. The announcement comes on the back of telecom
8. AIIA Inks Agreements with International operators’ demand to share revenue with service
Institutions for Promoting Ayurveda providers to build networks. Airtel is currently
Note: In a bid to promote Ayurveda across conducting trials for 4G and 5G Open RAN solutions
continents, the All India Institute on select sites in the state of Haryana and will
of Ayurveda (AIIA) has signed a memorandum of commercially deploy the solution across several
understanding (MoU) with the University locations in India over the next few quarters. Airtel
of Medical Sciences, Cuba, and extended the will share its learnings with wider ecosystem
agreement with Rosenberg European Academy partners within the TIP community, including Meta,
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to help accelerate the deployment of Open RAN days visit, during which she will discuss the
based networks across the world. cooperation on the transition to renewable energy
12. India, Germany sign Migration and Mobility and India’s relationship with Russia and China
Agreement 13. BIS signed MoU with top six Engineering
Note: External Affairs Minister S Institutes of India
Jaishankar and Germany’s foreign Minister Note: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) signed
Annalena Baerbock signed a comprehensive a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the
migration and mobility partnership, which will top six engineering institutes of India for
facilitate easier access for people to study, research introducing Indian standards as an integral part of
and work in both countries. The deal which aims at the curriculum. This initiative is towards
facilitating two-way movement of students, institutionalizing engagement of BIS with eminent
professionals and researchers, is also set to address institutes to secure active participation of
the challenges of illegal migration. German Foreign academia.
Minister Annalena Baerbock is in India on a two-

November 2022

1. India and EU Sign Agreement for Cooperation in System (i-CBTC), an important milestone in India’s
High-Performance Computing journey towards self-reliance in Rail and Metro
Note: India’s Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), and operations. i-CBTC, being indigenously developed for
the Directorate-General for Communications the first time in India, will enable unmanned operations
Networks, Content and Technology (DG CONNECT), of metro and trains. It is a big leap forward in the field
European Commission signed an “Intent of Cooperation ofmetro and rail automation and will give a boost to
on High Performance Computing (HPC), Weather the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission of the Government of
Extremes & Climate Modeling and Quantum India. The project is being carried out under the ambit
Technologies”. The agreement builds on commitments of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA),
by both sides for deepening technological cooperation Government of India. The MoU aims at leveraging the
on quantum and high-performance computing during complementary strengths and capabilities of BEL and
the India-EU leaders meeting on May 8. “Moreover, the DMRC.
signing of the agreement assumes significance in the 4. Bihar Govt Signed Agreement with ICCR to
context of the decision to set up EU India Trade and Showcase Its Soft Power to World
Technology Council (TTC)” on April 25. Note: The Bihar government will sign an MoU with
2. National Museum and Kolding Museum signs the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) to help
Memorandum of Understanding artists from the state, handicrafts and several other
Note: Museum Kolding and the National Museum in ethnic arts to get international exposure. The Art and
New Delhi will open the joint exhibition “Silver Culture Department of the state government will
treasures from Denmark and India” at the beginning of sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
March 2023. An MoU of the exhibition was signed and the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) in
exchanged between the National Museum, New Delhi, this regard. The department is now preparing a
India, and the Museum Kolding, Kolding, in New Delhi. calendar of live art and heritage performances to be
The exhibition will showcase the finest of the silver held worldwide in the coming months after this MoU.
collection from the Museum Kolding and the National 5. India and Finland Agrees to Enhance Cooperation in
Museum in New Delhi in March 2023. The collaboration Digital Partnership
and exhibition are under the recently agreed cultural Note: India And Finland agree to carry mutual
exchange program between India and Denmark for the cooperation between the two countries to a new level
years 2022 to 2026. and enhance partnership in areas such as digital
3. Bharat Electronics, DMRC Inks MoU to Jointly partnership in Future ICT, Future Mobile
Develop i-CBTC Technologies and Digital Education. The decision was
Note: Bharat Electronics signed a Memorandum of taken during a meeting between Finland’s Minister of
Understanding (MoU) with Delhi Metro Rail Education and Culture Petri Honkonen and Minister of
Corporation (DMRC) for jointly developing Science and Technology Jitendra Singh at North Block
the Indigenous Communication-based Train Control in New Delhi. He was accompanied by a high level

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delegation which later held a separate meeting with the Note: The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) has
Indian delegation in the presence of the two Ministers. signed an MoU with Veddis Foundation to support the
Honkonen’s visit comes in the wake of the setting up of effective governance systems under
announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi the DAY-NRLM. The DAY-NRLM stands for Deendayal
and his Finnish counterpart Sanna Marin during a Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission.
Summit meeting on 16 March last year. The partnership with MoRD and Veddis Foundation for
6. Bihar Govt Signed Agreement with ICCR to three years is non-financial in nature.
Showcase Its Soft Power to World 10. NIIFL Signed An Agreement with JBIC to Boost
Note: The Bihar government will sign an MoU with Japanese Investments in India
the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) to help Note: National Investment and Infrastructure Fund
artists from the state, handicrafts and several other (NIIFL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding
ethnic arts to get international exposure. The Art and (MOU) with Japan Bank for International Cooperation
Culture Department of the state government will sign (JBIC) to promote and enhance Japanese investments
a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with into India. The MoU outlines a partnership framework
the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) in this between NIIFL and JBIC which is considering the
regard. The department is now preparing a calendar of establishment of a bilateral India-Japan Fund (IJF).
live art and heritage performances to be held JBIC and the Government of India will invest in the
worldwide in the coming months after this MoU India-Japan Fund, which will make equity investments
7. India and Finland Agrees to Enhance Cooperation in in environmental preservation and low carbon
Digital Partnership emission strategies,”
Note: India And Finland agree to carry mutual 11. TATA Power and the Indian Army collaborate to
cooperation between the two countries to a new level install EV charging stations
and enhance partnership in areas such as digital Note: TATA Power and the Indian Army
partnership in Future ICT, Future Mobile collaborate: The Indian Army collaborated with Tata
Technologies and Digital Education. The decision was Powers to install 16 EV charging stations, in accordance
taken during a meeting between Finland’s Minister of with its “Go Green Initiative.” In several areas of Delhi
Education and Culture Petri Honkonen and Minister of Cantonment, charging stations have been installed. Lt
Science and Technology Jitendra Singh at North Block Gen Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding Delhi
in New Delhi. He was accompanied by a high level Area, officially opened the installation of charging
delegation which later held a separate meeting with the stations in cooperation with the nation’s largest
Indian delegation in the presence of the two Ministers. integrated utility in the presence of army authorities
8. Centre Approves BSNL Rs 26,821 Crore 4G Deal and senior TATA Power and TATA Motors executives.
with TCS 12. Dharmendra Pradhan signs MoU with FIFA and
Note: Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) received a nod AIFF for Football4Schools
from Central Government to go ahead with Rs 26,821 Note: Union Education and Skill Development &
crore deal with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) paving Entrepreneurial Minister Shri Dharmendra
its way to launch 4G services in India. TCS is ready to Pradhan signed an MoU with FIFA and the All India
set up the 4G lines and maintain the network for nine Football Federation for the ‘Football4Schools’ initiative
years. BSNL will give Rs 10,000 crore worth of in India. FIFA President, Mr. Gianni Infantino, and
purchase orders to TCS soon. The state-run telco will President, of All India Football Federation, Shri Kalyan
aim to launch its 4G services by December 2022 or Chaubey signed MoU on behalf of the respective
January 2023. organizations.
9. MoRD signs MoU with Veddis Foundation under
DAY- NRLM

October 2022

1. Retail jewellery major Malabar becomes 1st India and the UAE. The gold has been imported through
Indian jeweller to import 25 kg gold from UAE ICICI Bank with one per cent duty rebate under the
Note: Retail jewellery major Malabar Gold and agreement. The group has effectively utilised the duty
Diamonds has become the first jeweller in India to benefits of the agreement both in import and export for
import 25 kg gold under the Comprehensive the first time in India. The Company has also been
Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between among the first few jewellers to receive permission to
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export jewellery to the UAE with tax concessions under in designing, engineering, constructing, Testing,
this agreement in May 2022. commissioning, and servicing a wide range of
2. Google partners with Assam Government to power products and services to the core sector of the
digitalled learning economy.
Note: Google partners with Assam Government: In 6. Tata Power partnered with 75F Smart
order to help and expedite the Assam government’s Innovations for energy-efficiency solutions
objective to foster digital growth and development in Note: Tata Power Trading Company (TPTCL) has
the State, Google inked a Memorandum of signed an agreement with 75F Smart Innovation
Understanding (MoU). As part of this new initiative, India to jointly promote automation and energy
Google will work with the Assam Government’s Skill, efficiency solutions in the commercial building
Employment & Entrepreneurship Department space. This will include industry verticals
(SEED) to strengthen school digitization efforts with like IT/ITeS, BFSI hospitality, healthcare,
digital tools and solutions to support teaching and education, government, and retail.
learning, as well as to promote the fundamentals of The collaboration of TPTCL and 75F will offer
online safety and digital citizenship to schoolchildren solutions in the space of HVAC optimization and
through the “Be Internet Awesome” programme. smart building automation powered by the finest
3. Arya.ag and FWWB India partner with UNDP to technology like cloud, IoT, and AI.
implement Project Excel 7. Ashok Leyland, IIT Madras tie up to develop
Note: Arya.ag and FWWB India partner with hybrid EVS Using Turbine Tech
UNDP: Project Excel is being implemented in the Note: Ashok Leyland has joined hands with
Gujarati districts of Jamnagar and Dwaraka researchers at the National Centre for Combustion
Devbhumi by the United Nations Development Research and Development (NCCRD) for the
Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the development and commercialization of a ‘swirl
integrated grain commerce platform Arya.ag and mesh lean direct injection (LDI) system’ for
Friends of Women’s World Banking India developing hybrid electrical vehicles using turbine
(FWWB India). It aims to increase the incomes of technology. Ashok Leyland is a flagship company of
10,000 farmer households through the promotion the Hinduja group and a leading commercial
of small businesses, intervention in the agri-value vehicle manufacturer. NCCRD is an arm of the
chain, and skill development in the agricultural Indian Institute of Technology, Madras.
industry. 8. Haryana Govt and Dubai ink an MoU for
4. ICC tie-up with UNICEF to promote gender Economic Cooperation
equality Note: Haryana Govt and Dubai ink an MoU: The
Note: The International Cricket Council (ICC) government of Dubai has sealed a memorandum of
and UNICEF have launched a global partnership to understanding (MoU) with the Govt. of Haryana for
empower women and girls and promote inclusion collaboration in a variety of economic activities for
and gender equality through cricket. The initiatives the Haryana Govt. Under the terms of the MoU, the
to drive greater gender equity along with advocacy Government of Dubai shall identify a suitable entity
campaigns involving some of the world`s best to assist with identifying the potential areas of
players will form the basis of the partnership, which collaboration.
aims to mobilise the “power of cricket to driving 9. India-US Announce Launch of New Energy
positive social change”. Storage Task Force
5. BHEL signed an MoU with CIL & NLCIL for Coal Note: India and US announced the launch of a new
Gasification energy task force to support the large-scale
Note: Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL) signed MoU integration of renewable energy needed to support
with Coal India (CIL) and NLC India for setting up the clean energy transition. The announcement will
Coal Gasification based plants. BHEL rose 2.56% to strengthen the India-US partnership in the critical
Rs 62.20 after the company clarified it has entered energy sector to new levels. There was also a
into a non-binding MoU with CIL and NLCIL. With bilateral meeting between Union Minister of
this, the company aims to set up a Coal Ammonium Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh
Nitrate Project with CIL based on the Gasification of Puri and US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm,
high-ash Indian coal, and a lignite-based after which the announcement was made.
gasification pilot plant with NLCIL for power 10. India and Japan signed an MoU to develop
generation. The state-run BHEL is engaged scientific collaboration for Indian Ayurveda
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Note: India and Japan signed an MoU: The National Information Exchange. Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral
Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and R. Hari Kumar and New Zealand Navy Chief Rear
Technology (AIST), Japan, and the All India Admiral David Proctor signed the contract. In order
Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) signed a Memorandum to encourage more openness in the Maritime
of Understanding (MoU). The MoU aims to increase Domain, the agreement was signed.
academic institutions’ technical capabilities and 13. Historic MoU Signed to launch India’s Rupay
capacities. debit card in Oman
11. NSIC and Utkarsh Small Finance Bank signs MoU Note: National Payments Corporation of India
Note: NSIC and Utkarsh Small Finance Bank signs (NPCI) and Central Financial institution Of
MoU: The National Small Industries Corporation Oman signed a historic MoU to launch the Rupay
Ltd. (NSIC), a Government of India Enterprise under debit card in Oman, paving the best way for a brand
the Ministry of MSME, signed a Memorandum of new period of monetary connectivity.
Understanding (MoU) with the Utkarsh Small 14. India signed an agreement with Armenia to
Finance Bank. This Memorandum of Understanding export missiles, rockets & ammunition
with the banks intends to assist MSMEs with their Note: India will export missiles, rockets, and
lending needs. ammunition to Armenia after the recent clashes
12. India-New Zealand Navies sign pact on White between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The missiles will
Shipping Information Exchange also include Indigenous Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket
Note: India-New Zealand Navies sign pact: The Launcher. India has signed this deal with
Royal New Zealand navy and the Indian navy have Armenia to help them to depend on the country
signed a contract on the exchange of White Shipping against their neighboring country Azerbaijan.

September 2022

1. Air India Signs Agreement With Willis Lease For industry-relevant skills. It will be a part of the
Aircraft Engines government’s ‘Skill India’ initiative that aims to
Note: Air India announced that it has signed a definitive empower the youth with industry-relevant skills in
sale and lease back agreement with Nasdaq-listed emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence,
Willis Lease Finance Corporation for 34 CFM56-5B the Internet of Things, Big Data and Coding &
engines installed on its Airbus A320 family fleet. Programming, in a bid to enhance their employability.
According to the company statement, the engines will The MoU was exchanged by Ken Kang, President and
be covered under Willis Lease’s ConstantThrust, which CEO of Samsung Southwest Asia, and Abhilasha Gaur,
will deliver significant reliability and cost savings over COO, ESSCI.
a traditional MRO (Maintenance, Repair and 4. Hero MotoCorp tie-up with HPCL to set up EV
Operations) shop visit programme. charging infrastructure
2. Royal Society of Chemistry and CSIR collaborate for Note: Hero MotoCorp has joined hands with Hindustan
chemistry in Indian schools Petroleum Corporation Ltd to set up charging
Note: Royal Society of Chemistry and CSIR infrastructure for electric two-wheelers in the country.
collaborate: A initiative to promote chemical sciences As a part of the initiative, the two companies will first
in schools and universities is being supported by a establish charging infrastructure at Hindustan
partnership between the Royal Society of Petroleum Corporation’s (HPCL) existing network of
Chemistry and the Council for Industry and Scientific stations, with the likelihood of subsequently
Research (CSIR). Throughout 30 CSIR laboratories broadening the collaboration for supplementary
hosted the RSC’s Global Coin experiment, which business opportunities.
involved about 2000 students from all over the nation. 5. India, Egypt sign MoU to bolster defence
3. ESSCI partnered with Samsung India to train Indian cooperation in mutual interest sectors
youth Note: India and Egypt have signed an MoU to bolster
Note: The Electronics Sector Skill Council of India defense cooperation and decided to enhance joint
(ESSCI) signed a memorandum of understanding military exercises, training, co-production, and
(MoU) with Samsung India to empower the youth with maintenance of equipment. The MoU was signed
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by Defence Ministry of India Rajnath Singh and General relationship for Academic cooperation. The MoU
Mohamed Zaki from Egypt at a meeting in Cairo. between Amity University and Indian Navy will
6. Indian Navy signed an MoU with Amity University enhance the educational qualifications improving the
for Academic Cooperation prospect for ‘in-service’ appropriate nautical
Note: Amity University Uttar Pradesh signed an assignment and better placements in superannuation
MoU with the Indian Navy to form a long-term from the Indian Navy.
7. IBM and IIT Madras collaborate to promote quantum education through entrepreneurial programs targeted
computing in India towards youth and job seeking entrepreneurs.
Note: IBM and IIT Madras collaborate: Indian Institute of 11. India-Bangla Trade Now Set For CEPA Boost
Technology, Madras (IIT-Madras) and International Note: Following a meeting with the visiting Prime Minister
Business Machines (IBM) have cooperated to improve of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister Narendra
quantum computing research and talent development in Modi said India and Bangladesh will soon commence
India. IIT Madras joins the IBM Quantum Network’s global negotiations on a Bilateral Comprehensive Economic
membership of over 180 organisations through this Partnership Agreement (CEPA). “We both believe that by
agreement. IIT Madras also joins the global network of taking lessons from the Covid pandemic and recent global
Fortune 500 corporations, start-ups, academic developments, we need to make our economies
institutions, and research labs using IBM Quantum stronger,”
technology to enhance quantum computing and 12. BEL tie-up with Smiths Detection to manufacture
investigate business application cases as the “first Indian scanning systems
university.” Note: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has signed a
8. MeitY Startup Hub and Meta Collaborate to speed up XR Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Smiths
technology startups in India Detection, a global leader in threat detection and security
Note: MeitY Startup Hub and Meta Collaborate: In inspection technologies, for offering advanced, high-
association with Meta, MeitY Startup Hub (MSH) will energy scanning systems to the Indian market. The MoU,
introduce a programme to help and accelerate XR signed for a period of five years and can be extended
technology entrepreneurs in India. The program’s further by mutual consent, will leverage the high-end,
announcement is scheduled for September 13, 2022. At technological capabilities of both firms to meet India’s
the event will be Joel Kaplan, Vice President, Global Policy, domestic security needs.
Meta, and Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Minister of 13. Adobe and AICTE collaborate to promote digital literacy
State for Electronics & Information Technology, Skill in India
Development & Entrepreneurship. Note: Adobe and AICTE collaborate: The All-India Council
9. Vedanta And Foxconn to Invest 1.54 Lakh Crore In Gujrat for Technical Education (AICTE) in order to advance digital
For Chip Manufacturing creativity capabilities throughout the nation, has struck a
Note: The Anil Agarwal-led-Vedanta Limited and Foxconn partnership deal with Adobe. According to a release,
Group will invest more than Rs 1.54 lakh crore to set up an under the terms of the agreement, Adobe will provide
semiconductor ecosystem in Gujarat. The oil-to-metals training for educators, provide courses, and incorporate
conglomerate said Vedanta Displays Limited will set up a digital creativity into the curriculum to give kids the
Display Fab Unit with an investment of Rs 94500 crore and fundamental creative and digital literacy skills they need
Vedanta Semiconductors Limited will set up an integrated to succeed in today’s digital-first society.
Semiconductor Fab Unit and OSAT (Outsourced 14. Tata Steel and Punjab govt inked an MoU to establish
Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility with steel facility in Ludhiana
investment of Rs 60000 crore. Note: Tata Steel and Punjab Govt signs an MoU: The Tata
10. NIESBUD, IIE and ISB Signs MoU to offer Entrepreneurial steel company and the Punjabi government have agreed
Programmes to India’s Youth to establish a 0.75 million tonne per year (MnTPA) long
Note: The National Institute for Entrepreneurship and products steel facility with an electric arc furnace (EAF)
Small Business Development (NIESBUD) and the Indian powered by scrap. Tata Steel’s decision to build the
Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE), under the Ministry of greenfield facility at Kadiana Khurd in Ludhiana’s Hitech
Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), signed a Valley is a part of the company’s commitment to investing
memorandum of understanding (MoU) individually with in a circular economy and switching to low-carbon steel
the Indian School of Business (ISB), which is a top-ranking making through steel recycling.
global business school, to offer world-class management 15. Andhra Pradesh signs MoU with Parley for the Oceans

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Note: Andhra Pradesh government has signed a Audimulapa Suresh, MAUD Principal Secretary, Y.Sri
Memorandum of Understanding with the ‘Parley for the Lakshmi, and Founder of Parley for the Oceans, Cyrill
Oceans’, a U.S.-based company that works for plastic- Gutsch. The MoU was signed under the presence of Chief
waste management. The minister of Municipal Minister of Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and an event was held
Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) at the AU Convention Centre in Vishakhapatnam.

Obituaries
August 2023

1. Noted author Sara Thomas passed away at 88 due to Note: He was the four-time JMM MLA from Dumri in
age-related ailments. the Giridih district, Jharkhand. He was also known as
Note: She is a two-time recipient of the Kerala Tiger Mahto or Tiger Jagarnath Da. He was born on
Sahitya Akademi award. Her noted work January 1, 1967, in the Alargo village of Bokaro District
‘Narmadipudava’ won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi in Jharkhand and dropped out of high school and
award in 1979. She was also awarded the academy’s attended Nehru High School in 1995 before leaving his
award in 2010 for her overall contribution to studies to pursue a career in politics.
Malayalam literature. Her second novel ‘Muripadukal’ 6. Legendary theatre actor & co-founder of Akshara
was made into a movie titled ‘Manimuzhakkam’ in Theatre, Jalabala Vaidya passes away at 86 in New
1976, which won several national and state awards. Delhi.
2. Former India all-rounder Salim Durani passed away Note: She was the daughter of Indian author and
at the age of 88 in Jamnagar, Gujarat. freedom fighter Suresh Vaidya and English classical
Note: He played 29 Tests for India from 1960 to 1973, singer Madge Franckeiss. She was awarded the Delhi
scoring 1,202 runs at an average of 25.04, with one government's Varisht Samman, Sangeet Natak
century (104 against West Indies in 1962) and seven Akademi's Tagore Award, Delhi Natya Sangh Award,
fifties. He was a left-arm spinner and claimed 75 the Andhra Pradesh Natya Akademi Honor, and
wickets at 35.42 apiece. In first-class cricket, he Honorary Citizenship of the City of Baltimore, USA.
played for Saurashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. He 7. A former IAS officer and Chief Electoral Officer
was born in Kabul (Afghanistan) in 1934 and was (CEO), Naresh Gupta passed away at 72 after a
raised in Jamnagar. prolonged illness.
3. Former Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court Note: He was a native of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. He
Thottathil B Radhakrishnan passed away in Kochi at was the CEO during the DMK regime between 1998
the age of 63. and 2000. Subsequently, late chief minister J
Note: He also served as the Chief Justice of Jayalalithaa appointed him as home secretary. He was
Telangana and Chattisgarh HC and was a judge of again posted as the CEO between 2005 and 2010 and
the Kerala HC. He was an expert in civil, constitutional, held the post during the 2006 assembly election and
and administrative matters. He also chaired the expert 2009 general elections.
committee formed by the Kerala Forest Department to 8. The former chairman of the Mahindra & Mahindra
record details of houses and commercial Group of companies, Keshub Mahindra passed away
establishments that surround wildlife sanctuaries. at 99 in Mumbai.
4. Veteran composer and green activist Ryuichi Note: He served as chairman of the conglomerate
Sakamoto passed away at the age of 71 due to cancer. from 1963 to 2012. He joined the Board of the
Note: He was a Japanese composer, record producer, company in 1948 and was elected chairman in 1963.
and actor who pursued a diverse range of styles as a He was awarded Chevalier de l'Ordre National de la
solo artist and as a member of Yellow Magic Orchestra Legion d'honneur by the French Government in 1987.
(YMO). As a film-score composer, he won an Oscar, a He re-entered the Forbes list of India’s Richest
BAFTA, a Grammy, and two Golden Globe Awards. He Billionaires for 2023 with a net worth of $1.2 billion.
won an Academy Award with his score for the 1987 9. Veteran Liberation Warfighter and legendary
period epic “The Last Emperor". public health activist Dr. Zafrullah Chowdhury
5. Jharkhand minister Jagarnath Mahto passed away passed away at 81 in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
at 56 in Chennai. Note: He was a vascular surgeon and a pioneer in
public health. He won the Ramon Magsaysay

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Award in the Community Leadership category in born on November 24, 1940, in Badamulei village in
1985 and the Right Livelihood Prize in 1992 for his Cuttack district, Odisha.
outstanding work in the public health sector. In 1971, 14. Tarek Fatah, who passed away, was associated with
he left his medical studies in the UK to join the Journalist.
liberation war of Bangladesh. Note: He was emigrating to Canada from Pakistan in
10. Veteran film and television actress Uttara Baokar 1987. He worked as a political activist, journalist, and
passed away at 79 in Pune, Maharashtra. television host. He also authored several books
Note: In 1984, she won India's National Academy for including, 'Chasing a Mirage: The Tragic Illusion of an
Acting, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award. She also Islamic State' and 'The Jew is Not My Enemy: Unveiling
appeared in Marathi films like Doghi (1995) with the Myths that Fuel Muslim Anti-Smitism.' He won
Sadashiv Amrapurkar and Renuka Daftardar, various awards such as the Donner Prize, and Stan
Uttarayan (2005), Shevri (2006), and Restaurant Vine Canadian Book Award.
(2006), with Sonali Kulkarni. She has played various 15. Parkash Singh Badal, who passed away, was CM of
roles in different plays such as Padmavati in Punjab state.
Mukyhamantri and Mena in Mena Gurjari. Note: He became the CM of Punjab for the first time in
11. An actor and comedian Allu Ramesh passed away due 1970. Later, he became the chief minister four times,
to cardiac arrest in Visakhapatnam, was associated from 1977 to 1980, 1997 to 2002, 2007 to 2012, and
with Telugu. from 2012 to 2017. He briefly joined Morarji Desai's
Note: Allu Ramesh started off his career as an actor by government as the Agriculture minister at the Centre
doing theatre performances. He made his debut in in 1977. He was awarded the second-highest civilian
Tollywood with Tarun’s Chirujallu and starred in award, Padma Vibhushan in 2015.
almost 50 films. Allu Ramesh acted in movies like 16. Mamukkoya, who passed away, was a veteran actor-
Napoleon, Tholubommalata, Madhura Wines, and comedian of Malayalam.
Ravana Desam. Note: He started his acting career by doing theatre in
12. Sidharth Rao, who passed away, was a co-founder and 1979, then he went on to become an actor by doing
former CEO of Webchutney. comic roles and was popular for playing characters
Note: In 1999, he founded India’s first and top digital that spoke Malabar accent. He acted in around 500
agency WebChutney. In July 2021, Rao was chosen to films, including comedies like Sandesam,
serve as the global CEO of Dentsu McGarrybowen. In Nadodikkattu, Innathe Chintha Vishayam, and
2022, he stepped down as group CEO of dentsuMB Varavelpu. He won several awards and honours for his
India and joined hands and launched a new venture in various roles during his extensive career.
the marketing technology (MarTech) space, called 17. Dr. N Gopalakrishnan, who passed away, was a
Punt Partners along with serial entrepreneur Madhu veteran Scientists.
Sudan. Note: He was a scientist at Advanced Seismic Testing
13. Trilochan Kanungo, who passed away in and Research Laboratory (ASTaR) of CSIR-SERC. He
Bhubaneswar, was a Politician. had served as a design engineer at TATA Consulting
Note: Kanungo was elected to the assembly in 1971, Engineers, Bengaluru and later joined as scientist in
1974, and 1985. In 1999, he was elected from the the Structural Dynamics and Machine Foundation
Jagatsinghpur Lok Sabha seat on a BJD ticket. He was division of CSIR-SERC. He was the co-author of 61
a former chairman of Cuttack Municipality and ex- national and international journal articles and filed for
chairperson of the state finance commission. He was five Indian patents.

July 2023

1. Bir Devinder Singh, who passed away was a 2. Alan Arkin, who passed away, was a veteran Actor.
Politician. Note: Alan Arkin, the wry character actor who
Note: Former deputy speaker of Punjab Vidhan Sabha demonstrated his versatility in comedy and drama as
and two-time Congress MLA Bir Devinder Singh he received four Academy Award nominations and
passed away at 73. The senior politician was won an Oscar in 2007 for "Little Miss Sunshine," has
diagnosed with cancer in his food pipe (esophagus) died. In recent years he starred opposite Michael
around 10 to 15 days ago. He was known to be a Douglas in the Netflix comedy series "The Kominsky
politician who called a spade a spade without caring Method," a role that earned him two Emmy
about political repercussions. During his political nominations. He also directed the film version of Jules
career, he was associated with the Congress, Feiffer's 1971 dark comedy "Little Murders".
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), People’s Party of Punjab,
SAD (Taksali), and SAD (Sanyukt).
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3. K M Vasudevan Namboothiri, who passed away at worked at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
Kottakkal in Malappuram district, was a veteran (TIFR) in Mumbai before joining as a lecturer at
Artist. Bombay and Pune universities. Her core fields of
Note: His iconic illustrations gave life to many interest were real and complex analysis, analytic
mythical characters in Malayalam literature. He geometry, and topology.
inspired a golden era of painting and sculpture in 7. Oommen Chandy, who passed away, was a former
Kerala through his unique three-dimensional chief minister of Kerala.
sketches. He had received many honors like Kerala Note: He served as the Kerala chief minister twice
Lalita Kala Akademi's Raja Ravi Varma Award and the from 2004-06 and 2011-16. The veteran leader began
State Institute of Children's Literature award. his stint as a legislator by winning the 1970 state
4. Milan Kundera, who passed away at 94, was a veteran assembly elections at the age of 27. He later went on
Author. to win 11 consecutive polls. He represented the
Note: He won accolades for his style depicting themes Puthupally assembly constituency and was the
and characters that floated between the mundane longest-serving MLA in the state assembly.
reality of everyday life and the lofty world of ideas. 8. Brian Taber, who passed away, was associated with
Other works: The Joke, The Book of Laughter and Cricketer.
Forgetting. Awards: Jerusalem Prize (1985), Austrian Note: He played 16 Test matches for Australia
State Prize for European Literature (1987), Vilenica between 1966 and 1970. Taber made his Test debut
International Literary Festival (1992), Herder Prize in Johannesburg against South Africa, where he took
(2000). seven catches and a stumping. He also played against
5. Ravindra Mahajani, who has passed away, was a England, India, and West Indies. His highest Test score
veteran actor of Marathi cinema. of 48 was achieved against West Indies at Sydney in
Note: He has mainly acted in Marathi, Hindi, and 1969, in a match won by Australia with a 382-run
Gujarati films. He made his film debut with a 1975 margin.
Marathi film Zunj, directed by veteran director V. 9. Bishnu Pada Roy, who passed away, was a famous
Shantaram. His other popular films included Lakshmi, Politician.
Duniya Kari Salaam, Gondhalat Gondhal, and Note: He was elected as Member of Parliament in
Mumbaicha Faujdaar. Mahajani also Directed and 13th, 15th and 16th Lok Sabha representing Andaman
produced the 1997 film Sattesathi kahihi. and Nicobar Islands constituency in the years 1999,
6. Dr Mangala Narlikar, who passed away, was a well- 2009 and 2014, respectively. He was a hardworking
known Mathematician. legislator who made many efforts to fulfil people's
Note: She is the wife of Dr Jayant Narlikar, who is the aspirations. He also worked hard to strengthen
founder and director of the Pune-based Inter-z Centre @BJP4Bengal.
for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA). She initially

June 2023

1. Dr. Ved Kumari Ghai, who passed away at 91, was a was honoured with the Padma Shri (2001) by the
noted scholar in Sanskrit. government for his contribution to theatre.
Note:She was an Indian Sanskrit scholar from Jammu 3. Sulochana, who passed away at 94, was veteran
City, J&K, and was head of the Sanskrit department at Actor (female).
Jammu University.She was awarded the Padma Shri Note:She was featured in more than 250 Hindi and 50
(India's fourth highest civilian award), a Certificate for Marathi films.She started her career with Marathi
her scholarship in Sanskrit, and President’s Award for films in the early 1940s and soon moved to Hindi films,
Sanskrit.She was also awarded Gold Medal by Jammu where she portrayed several mother roles in movies
and Kashmir Government for social work and the like Shammi Kapoor’s Dil Dekhe Dekho, Dilip Kumar’s
Dogra Ratan award. Aadmi, Dev Anand’s Jhonny Mera Naam, Muqaddar Ka
2. Amir Raza Husain, who passed away at 66, was a Sikandar, Himmatwala, and Andar Baahar.She was
veteran Actor. honoured with Padma Shri in 1999.
Note: He was known for his large outdoor stage 4. Gitanjali Aiyar, who passed away, was a veteran
productions such as "The Fifty Day War" based on the Journalist.
Kargil War and "The Legend of Ram".He was also the Note:Aiyar joined Doordarshan in 1971 and was
Creative Director of the Stagedoor Theatre Company, awarded the best anchor four times.She also won the
established in 1974, which has presented over 91 Indira Gandhi Priyadarshini Award for Outstanding
productions and more than 1,100 performances. He Women in 1989.She was a diploma holder from the
National School of Drama (NSD).She had also been a
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popular face in several print advertisements and even and was a member of the AK Antony ministry in 2001
acted in Sridhar Kshirsagar's TV drama "Khandaan". as minister for the welfare of backward classes and
5. Silvio Berlusconi, who passed away at 86, was a SC/ST. He was elected to the state assembly from
former PM of Italy. Wandoor, Chelakkara, and twice from Njarakkal
Note:Berlusconi founded Forza Italia, a center-right constituencies. Other novels: Suttree, Blood Meridian,
party, in 1994 with the aim of defeating the The Border Trilogy, No Country for Old Men.
'communists'.His party introduced a populist style of 8. Sylvester daCunha, the man behind the iconic Amul
politics in Italy, propelling him to the upper ranks of Girl 'utterly butterly' campaign, passed away, was a
the political establishment.He was also known as 'Il veteran Advertiser.
Cavaliere' (The Knight) and remained a flamboyant Note: He conceived the 'Utterly Butterly' campaign for
and influential figure in Italian politics. Amul, the brand owned by Gujarat Co-operative Milk
6. Cormac McCarthy passed away at 89 in the USA, was Marketing Federation (GCMMF), in 1966. In 1969,
a veteran Novelist. daCunha solidified his legacy by establishing daCunha
Note:“All the Pretty Horses,” “The Road” and “No Communications. The 'Utterly Butterly' campaign for
Country for Old Men” were among his acclaimed books Amul had celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016.
that explore a bleak world of violence and 9. Co-inventor of lithium-ion batteries, John Bannister
outsiders.He was awarded the National Book Award in Goodenough passed away at 101, was honoured with
1992 for his novel 'All the Pretty Horses'.He also won the Nobel Prize in 2019.
a Pulitzer Prize in 2007 for 'The Road'.Other novels: Note: He shared the 2019 Nobel Prize with Stan
Suttree, Blood Meridian, The Border Trilogy, No Whittingham, a British-American scientist, for
Country for Old Men. discovering that lithium may be held within sheets of
7. Dr. M. A. Kuttappan, who passed away, was titanium sulphide. He was also instrumental in the
associated with Politics. invention of computer RAM (Random Access
Note: He began his career as a doctor at Alappuzha Memory). He also worked at the Massachusetts
Medical College and Cochin Port Trust Hospital. Later Institute of Technology and Oxford University.
he become a four-time MLA in the Kerala assembly

June 2023
1. Robert E. Lucas Jr. passed away at 85, was a veteran 1952, he joined his father PD Hinduja (founder of
Economist. Hinduja Group) in the family business. Subsidiaries of
Note: He was honoured with the Nobel Prize in Hinduja Group: Ashok Leyland, IndusInd Bank, Gulf Oil
Economics for having developed and applied the International Ltd, Quaker-Houghton, etc.
hypothesis of rational expectations, and thereby 4. Martin Amis passed at 73 in Florida, was a veteran
having transformed macroeconomic analysis and British novelist
deepened our understanding of economic policy in Note: He was a prolific writer and published 15 novels
1995. He was well known for his investigations into during his career. He was best known for his works
the implications of the assumption of the rational "Money: A Suicide Note" and "London Fields." He
expectations theory. was awarded the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for
2. Ambala MP Rattan Lal Kataria passed away at 71, his memoir "Experience." His novels "Time's Arrow"
was a Politician. and "Yellow Dog" were recognized with nominations
Note: He has served as minister of state in the Union for the Booker Prize.
Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Ministry of Social Justice 5. Sarath Babu, who passed away at 71 from Multi-
and Empowerment from May 2019 till July 2021. He Organ failure, was veteran Actor.
was elected to the Lok Sabha from Ambala in 1999, Note: He has primarily worked in Tamil and Telugu
2014, and 2019. He also served as the party's Haryana films and was known for his roles in 'Annamalai' and
unit chief from 2000 to 2003. He was also a minister 'Muthu'. He has appeared in more than 200 films,
in the Haryana government. including Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi films. He
3. Srichand Parmanand Hinduja,passed away in started his career in 1973 through a Telugu film and
London, was a noted Businessman. later became popular through the Tamil film 'Nizhal
Note: He was a chairman of the Hinduja Group. He Nijamagiradhu', directed by K Balachander. He was
was a British billionaire businessman, investor, and honored with eight state Nandi Awards.
philanthropist. As of August 2022, together with his 6. Tina Turner, who passed away, was a Singer.
brother Gopichand, he was the UK's richest man. In
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Note: She started her career with Ike Turner's Kings ‘Nirapeksha’ and V M Inamdhar Memorial Award for
of Rhythm in 1957. Under the name Little Ann, she ‘Nijadani’. He had also been the recipient of the
appeared on her first record, "Boxtop", in 1958. She prestigious Pampa Award. His works include
received 12 Grammy Awards, including eight Samakaalina and Anivaarya
competitive awards, three Grammy Hall of Fame 8. Balu alias Suresh Dhanorkar passed away, was a
awards, and Lifetime Achievement Award. She was the Politician.
first black artist and woman on the cover of Rolling Note: Dhanorkar was born in Yavatmal district on
Stone. June 4, 1975. In 2014, he was elected as an MLA of Shiv
7. Govindaray H Nayak, who passed away, was a Sena, winning the Warora-Bhadrawati Assembly seat.
Writer. He resigned from the Shiv Sena in 2019 and was
Note: He won the Kendra Sahitya Academy Award elected as a Congress MP from Chandrapur Vani Arni
for his work ‘Uttarardha’ in 2014. He was also Lok Sabha. onstituency. His wife Pratibha Dhanorkar
awarded the Karnataka Sahitya Academy Award for is also a Congress MLA from the Varora constituency.

National and International Appointment

August 2023

1. Thuraiya Hamid Alhashmi has been elected as a

member of the Board of Directors and a Constituency
Director at
BRICS' New Development Bank.
Note: With her appointment at the multilateral bank, in March 2019. His portfolio encompassed the critical
She become the first Emirati and Arab woman to domains of financial reporting, tax compliance, and
assume a Director’s position. She will contribute to the internal controls, underscoring his pivotal role in
UAE's financial interests on a global scale and in upholding Tesla's fiscal integrity.
various financial sectors. 5. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC)
2. Puneet Chandok was appointed as the Corporate approved the proposal of the Ministry of Petroleum
Vice President of Microsoft India and South Asia by the and Natural Gas for re-employment on a contract basis
company in Aug 2023. of Shrikant Madhav Vaidya as the Chairman of
Note: He will be responsible for the seamless Indian Oil Corporation Limited for a period of one
integration of Microsoft's operations across South year.
Asian countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Note: This is one of the very rare occasions when a
Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. His focus will be on director on the board of a PSU has been given an
key industries, employing a customer-centric extension of service beyond his retirement age. No
approach empowered by generative AI technology. chairman of a Maharatna PSU has been given an
He was a Partner at McKinsey in India and Asia. extension beyond 60 years.
3. Cabinet Secretary, Rajiv Gauba tenure has been 6. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority
extended by 1-year. of India (IRDAI) has given its official approval and
Note: This marks his third extension in the same appointed Amit Jhingran as the managing director &
position. He is a 1982-batch IAS officer of the CEO of SBI Life Insurance Company in Aug 2023.
Jharkhand and former Union home secretary, in 2019. Note: He had a successful career with the State Bank
He received a one-year extension in 2021, and of India spanning over 30 years. Currently, he serves
subsequently, another extension in August of the as the chief general manager of the Hyderabad Circle.
preceding year. He started as a probationary officer in August 1991
4. Tesla appointed Indian-origin Vaibhav Taneja as and has held various positions in international
Chief Financial Officer of the company replacing banking.
Kirkhorn. 7. International Gemological Institute (IGI), a Blackstone
Note: He initially assumed the role of Corporate portfolio company, has appointed Tehmasp Printer
Controller in May 2018, and his commitment and as Global CEO of IGI, effective October 1, 2023.
competence led to his elevation to the position of CAO

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Note: He would replace current CEO Roland Lorie, 309th on the 2020 Fortune list of the world’s biggest
who will step down after spending nearly five decades. Public sector undertakings in India.
Tehmasp Printer has more than 30 years of 13. Viacom18 has appointed Kiran Mani as CEO
experience in managing and leading businesses. He overseeing digital business operations in August
has been with IGI for 24 years, most recently as 2023.
Managing Director of IGI India. Note: Currently, he holds the position of General
8. PayPal appointed Alex Chriss as CEO, replaced its Manager and MD for Android and Google Play in the
longest-serving chief executive officer Dan Schulman Asia Pacific region at Google. He has been associated
in August 2023. with the company for over 13 years now. Mani, in his
Note: He currently serves as the Executive Vice role as the head of the digital business, will have the
President and General Manager of Intuit's Small responsibility of leading the expansion of JioCinema,
Business and Self-Employed Group. The change of according to the sources.
guard marks a watershed moment for digital 14. Srettha Thavisin has become Thailand’s prime
payments giant PayPal, which has been looking to minister after clinching parliamentary support.
push deeper into the cryptocurrency payments space Note: He co-founded Sansiri in 1988, which later
with the launch of a U.S. dollar stablecoin last week. became one of Thailand's largest real estate
9. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) developers, leading Srettha to become a property
appointed Parminder Chopra as the first full-time tycoon. He was the former chief executive and
women Chairperson and Managing Director of Power president of Sansiri. Srettha will lead an alliance of 11
Finance Corporation (PFC) Limited. parties that includes two pro-military parties
Note: Presently, she is serving as Director (Finance) of affiliated with outgoing Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-
the same Maharatna Power PSU. She has also been ocha.
holding the addition charge of company’s CMD 15. Emmerson Mnangagwa has been re-elected as the
post.She has more than 35 years of experience in President of Zimbabwe, for a second and final five-
power sector, serving in key power sector year term in August 2023.
organizations like NHPC and Power Grid. Note: His victory over his closest competitor, Nelson
10. The Reserve Bank of India appointed PR Seshadri as Chamisa after his first full term in office, strengthened
MD & CEO of South Indian Bank and he will serve for a ZANU-PF 's grip on power. Zimbabwe has over the
period of three years. past two decades suffered under disastrous economic
Note: He is currently mentoring businesses both at an policies that have led to soaring prices, high
operating level as well as at the board level at various unemployment, and a medical system lacking basic
companies. He has served as Managing Director & CEO drugs and equipment.
of the Karur Vysya Bank Limited. He holds a Bachelor’s 16. The Finance Industry Development Council has
degree in Electrical Engineering from the Delhi College appointed Umesh Revankar as its new chairman.
of Engineering and a PG Diploma in Management from Note: He currently holds the position of executive vice
the IIM Bangalore. chairman for Shriram Finance and have decades of
11. The government has approved the appointment of experience and expertise in the financial services
Kamlesh Varshney and Amarjeet Singh as SEBI industry. He has risen through the ranks, assuming
Whole-Time Members. responsibilities and leadership roles in business
Note: Kamlesh Varshney, a 1990-batch officer of the operations. He played a pivotal role in making Shriram
Indian Revenue Service, is a joint secretary at the Transport Finance Company the largest commercial
revenue department in the Finance Ministry. Amarjeet vehicle financer in India.
Singh is an executive director at the Securities and 17. The IndianOil has been appointed Chef Sanjeev
Exchange Board of India (SEBI). Both have been Kapoor as the brand ambassador for its Indane
appointed for three years from the date of assumption XTRATEJ LPG brand.
of charge or until further orders. Note: This announcement was made at the
12. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has prestigious Indane XtraTej Hotelier Harmony Meet in
appointed Rahul Dravid as BPCL latest brand Bengaluru. The event witnessed the unveiling of the
ambassador. new XTRATEJ TV commercial featuring Chef Sanjeev
Note: He will represent BPCL's Pure for Sure initiative Kapoor, who commended IndianOil's commitment to
and its range of MAK lubricants. BPCL operates three culinary innovation and efficiency. Indian Oil
refineries in Bina, Kochi and Mumbai. It was ranked Chairman: Shrikant Madhav Vaidya.

July 2023
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1. Tushar Mehta has been appointed as Solicitor staff of a corps, and command. Previously, Lt Gen
General of India for three years. Nair served as Army Headquarters' chief signal
Note: He has been continuing as Solicitor General officer. He is a distinguished National Defence
of India since October 2018. In 2020, he was re- Academy alumni. Nair has extensive knowledge of
appointed as the SG for a term of three years with both domestic and international communication
effect from July 1, 2020. The center has also re- 7. Justice Sheo Kumar Singh has been appointed as
appointed Vikramjit Banerjee, KM Nataraj, Balbir Acting Chairperson of the National Green Tribunal
Singh, SV Raju, N Venkataraman, and Aishwarya (NGT), till further order.
Bhati as the Additional Solicitors General (ASGs). Note: He has replaced Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel,
2. The State Bank of India board has appointed who retired on July 6, 2023. He was appointed as
Kameshwar Kodavanti as the new Chief Financial Judicial Member of the NGT on March 11, 2020. He
Officer (CFO), effective from July 1, 2023. worked as a district judge in various districts of
Note: He has replaced Charanjit Surinder Singh Uttar Pradesh (UP), as Registrar (Judicial) at the
Attra, who has resigned from his post. He has an Supreme Court of India, and as Registrar General,
extensive career in banking, with over 31 years of Allahabad High Court.
experience at SBI, starting from August 1, 1991. He 8. The Financial Planning Standards Board (FPSB) of
brings expertise in banking, forex, finance, and India has appointed Krishan Mishra as Chief
accounting to his new position. Kodavanti holds the Executive Officer (CEO), effective 1 August 2023.
qualification of a Chartered Accountant. Note: He will lead the strategy and operations of
3. Debadatta Chand assumed charge as Managing FPSB India and champion the advancement of the
Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of financial planning profession in India. FPSB is the
Baroda. global standards-setting body for the financial
Note: He has taken over charge from Sanjiv Chadha, planning profession and owner of the international
whose tenure ended on June 30, 2023. Before this Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification
role, Chand was serving as the Executive Director program.
at the bank since March 2021. He was overseeing 9. K Rajaraman has been appointed as the next
corporate & institutional credit, corporate & Chairperson of the International Financial Services
institutional banking, treasury & global markets, Centres Authority (IFSCA) for three years, or till
mid-corporate business, and trade & foreign attaining the age of 65 years.
exchange. Note: He succeeded the first IFSCA Chairperson
4. Ajit Agarkar has been appointed as chairman of Injeti Srinivas, who led the authority since 2020.
the Senior Men’s Cricket Selection Committee. IFSCA was set up in April 2020 under the
Note: The Selection Committee now consists of Ajit International Financial Services Centres Authority
Agarkar, Shiv Sundar Das, Subroto Banerjee, Salil Act, 2019, at GIFT City, Gandhinagar.
Ankola, and Sridharan Sharath. Ajit Agarkar 10. Sheikh Talal Fahad Al Ahmad Al Sabah (Kuwait)
represented India in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs, and four has been elected as the new President of the
T20Is, in addition to playing 110 first-class, 270 Olympic Council of Asia (OCA).
List A, and 62 T20 matches. He also held the record Note: He replaced his older brother Sheikh Ahmad
for being the fastest to reach 50 ODI wickets for a Al-Fahad Al-Sabah, who led the OCA for 30 years
decade. until 2021. The OCA was founded in 1982 by his
5. QU Dongyu (China) has been re-elected as father Fahad Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who led
Director-General of the Food and Agriculture it until 1990. The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) is
Organization of the United Nations (FAO) for a a governing body of sports in Asia, currently with
second term. 45 member National Olympic Committees.
Note: In the ballot of FAO member countries, Qu 11. Preeti Aghalayam has been named director-in-
received a total of 168 out of 182 votes deposited. charge of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
His new term will run from 1 August 2023 to 31 July Zanzibar campus in Tanzania.
2027. He was elected as FAO Director-General for Note: She is an IIT Madras alumna and professor in
the first time in 2019. Under the leadership of QU, the Department of chemical engineering. Recently,
the World Food Forum (WFF) was created in 2021. India and Tanzania inked an MoU, which facilitated
6. Lt Gen MU Nair has been appointed as the Head of IIT Madras to launch its first international campus
the National Cyber Coordination Centre, after in Zanzibar, Tanzania'. The institute would offer
replacing Lt Gen (ret.) Dr. Rajesh Pant. two full-time academic programs and the
Note: Additionally, he has served as the additional applications for admission are already open.
director general, head of signal intelligence, chief of
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12. Along with Justices Ujjal Bhuyan, SV Bhatti has elected at the Extraordinary General Meeting of
been appointed as the judge of the Supreme Court. CMA. ICI will reiterate its commitment to being
Note: Justice Ujjal Bhuyan: He is currently serving India's partner in nation-building for creating
as the Chief Justice of the Telangana HC. His parent business value chains, supporting infrastructure
High Court is the Gauhati HC. Justice SV Bhatti: growth and a sustainability agenda.
Presently, he is working as the Chief Justice of the 18. Nivruti Rai joined as the Managing Director & CEO
Kerala HC. Prior, he was appointed as a judge of the of Invest India on July 2023.
High Court of Andhra Pradesh and later transferred Note: She has received a special award called the
to the Kerala High Court in March 2019. "Nari Shakti Puraskar" for her outstanding
13. Justice Alexander Thomas has been appointed as achievements in the field of technology. The Board
the acting Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court. of Invest India is chaired by Shri Rajesh Kumar
Note: He has replaced Chief Justice SV Bhatti, who Singh, Secretary, DPIIT. Invest India is well
was transferred to the Supreme Court. He was acknowledged for its contributions and
appointed additional judge of the Kerala High Court instrumental role in executing the Government’s
on January 23, 2014, and was made a permanent flagship initiatives like Make in India, Startup India.
judge on March 10, 2016. He served as a 19. S. Vincent Rajkumar has been appointed as
government pleader (1996-1998) and senior chairman-elect of the Board of Directors of the
government pleader (1998-2001) in the High Court International Myeloma Foundation (IMF).
of Kerala. Note: He takes over from the current chairman,
14. Michele Bullock has been appointed as the first Brian G. M. Durie, who is not seeking re-election to
woman to lead Australia's Central Bank since it was the post. Dr. Rajkumar has also served as principal
founded in 1960. investigator of several clinical trials for the
Note: She will succeed Philip Lowe, who is coming treatment of myeloma. He awarded the Jan
to the end of a seven-year term as governor of the Waldenstrom Lifetime Achievement Award (2021).
Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Her appointment 20. Prime Minister Hun Sen resigned and handed
comes as the country has been battling rising prices power to his eldest son Hun Manet after almost
and the RBA is facing a major shakeup. She is four decades of hardline rule in 2023, was a PM of
currently the RBA's deputy governor and is due to Cambodia.
start her seven-year term as governor on Sept 18, Note: His Cambodian People's Party (CPP) won a
2023. landslide victory in an election on Sunday with no
15. Shantanu Deshpande has been appointed as the meaningful opposition, taking 82 percent of the
MD of Michelin India. vote. Cambodia ranks 150th out of 180 in
Note: He will be based out of Pune, India. During his Transparency International's corruption
career, he held various leadership roles in sales and perception index. In Asia, only Myanmar and North
marketing in India, North America, Africa, the Korea rank lower.
Middle East, and Asia. He joined Michelin India in 21. Reserve Bank of India has granted approval for the
1999 as an Area Sales Manager. He was appointed appointment of NS Vishwanathan as the non-
India Marketing Director in 2007 and also served executive chairman of Axis Bank for a three-year
as VP of Marketing with a Michelin subsidiary in term.
North America. Note: With a career spanning nearly four decades
16. DG Rakesh Pal has been appointed as the 25th at the central bank, Vishwanathan joined the
Director General of the Indian Coast Guard. Reserve Bank of India in 1981 and retired in March
Note: He was conferred with Tatrakshak Medal in 2020 as the deputy governor. He showcased
2013 and President Tatrakshak Medal in 2018 for expertise in various areas, such as, banking, and
his successful service and also holds the non-banking regulation, demonstrating extensive
recognition of being the First Gunner of ICG. He has knowledge in central banking.
commanded all classes of ICG ships namely; ICGS 22. Professor Jim Skea has been appointed as the
Samarth, ICGS Vijit, ICGS Sucheta Kriplani, ICGS Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Ahalyabai, and ICGS C-03, two Coast Guard bases of Change, the globally authoritative UN body on
the forward area in Gujarat - Okha & Vadinar. climate change science.
17. Neeraj Akhoury has been elected as the new Note: He is exceptionally well-qualified to serve in
President of the Cement Manufacturers' this prestigious role and also contributed to the
Association (CMA) the apex body of India's large work of the IPCC for nearly thirty years. He was Co-
cement manufacturers. Chair of the IPCC’s Working Group III on Climate
Note: While Parth Jindal has been appointed as Change Mitigation and co-led the IPCC’s seminal
Vice President of CMA. Both were unanimously Special Report on Global Warming of 1. 5°C.
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23. Nisha Biswal has been designated as the Deputy perspective plan for modernizing the dockyard. He
Chief Executive Officer of a US finance agency. actively participated in the Kargil and Pakistan
Note: She has a career of over over 30 years of operations and played a vital role in establishing
experience in US foreign policy and international the Nuclear and Safety field organization in
development programs, within the White House. Visakhapatnam.
She holds the position of Senior Vice President for 26. Thani Al Zeyoudi has been elected as the chair of
International Strategy and Global Initiatives at the the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade
US Chamber of Commerce and oversees the US- Organisation held to take place in Abu Dhabi.
India Business Council and US-Bangladesh Note: The announcement was made during a
Business Council. meeting with WTO director-general Ngozi Okonjo-
24. Shivendra Nath has been designated as the Iweala at the WTO General Council in Geneva. The
Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of conference will be attended by representatives
Engineering Projects (India) Ltd. from 164 countries and will involve reviewing the
Note: Currently, he holds the position of Senior trading system's performance and making
General Manager at Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited decisions on future work.
(BSNL), which is also a PSU under the Department 27. Dhiraj Singh Thakur has been appointed as the
of Telecommunications. The Public Enterprises Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court.
Selection Board panel has endorsed his Note: In 1989, he became a registered advocate
appointment for the CMD position. with the Bar Council of Delhi, and later with the Bar
25. A Madhavarao has been appointed as the Council of Jammu & Kashmir (JK). He become a
chairman and managing director at Bharat Senior Advocate in 2011, and in 2013, he was
Dynamics Limited. appointed as a permanent judge of the High Court
Note: He held the position of General Manager of JK. The Andhra Pradesh High Court which has a
Technical at Naval Dockyard Visakhapatnam, sanctioned strength of 37 judges is currently
where he was in charge of creating a long-term functioning with 30 judges.

June 2023

1. Ashwani Kumar has been appointed as MD and Organization of the Indian Navy in 1989. He is
CEO of UCO Bank. specialized in Missile and Torpedo Maintenance
Note: He has replaced Soma Sankara Prasad, besides having vast knowledge of the disposal of
who superannuated on May 31, 2023. Prior to this, ammunition.
he served as an Executive Director at Indian Bank. 4. Amarendu Prakash has taken charge as a
He would lead the public sector bank for a period of Chairman of Steel Authority of India Limited
three years from June 1, 2023. He would also be (SAIL) on May 31, 2023.
eligible for an extension of the term of office, after Note: Prior to this, he was Director in charge at
a review of his performance. Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL). He is a metallurgical
2. Ajay Yadav has been appointed as the Managing engineer from BIT Sindhri and joined SAIL in 1991
Director of Solar Energy Corporation of India as a Management Trainee (Technical). He also took
Limited (SECI). on additional charge as Director In-Charge of the
Note: He is a 2005 batch IAS officer of the Bihar Rourkela Steel Plant, IISCO, and Durgapur Steel
cadre. SECI is a Miniratna Category-I Central Public Plant.
Sector Enterprise (CPSE). It was incorporated in 5. Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be sworn in as the
the year 2011. It is the primary implementing President of Turkish.
agency of the Ministry of New and Renewable Note: Ambassador Virander Paul will be
Energy for Renewable Energy schemes/projects representing India at the ceremony. The
towards the fulfillment of India's international inauguration ceremony in Parliament will be
commitments. followed by an elaborate ceremony at Erdogan's
3. INAS, P Upadhyay assumed charge as Director palace in Ankara. He won the presidential run-off
General of Naval Armament (DGONA) on June 1, election by securing 52.18% of the vote, defeating
2023. his opponent Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who received
Note: He has replaced KSC lyer, who 47.82% votes.
superannuated on 31 May 2023. He is an alumnus 6. Abdulla Al Mandous has been elected as the new
of the Naval Defence College of NDC-53. He belongs President of the World Meteorological
to the 1987 batch of the Indian Naval Armament Organization (WMO) for a 4-year term from 2023
Service. He joined the Naval Armament to 2027.
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Note: He emerged as the official candidate of the UAE Ministry. Subhas Chandra Lal Das will move to the
and secured 95 votes out of the representatives from Ministry of MSME as Secretary.
WMO’s 193 member states and territories. He 12. Philip Green has been appointed as Australia's
succeeded Prof Gerhard Adrian. WMO is an next High Commissioner to India.
authoritative body within the UN system that Note: He would succeed incumbent Barry O'Farrell,
focuses on weather, climate, environment, etc. who served as Australian high commissioner to
7. Ajay Banga has assumed charge as the President India since 2020. Presently, he is serving as
of the World Bank, after replacing David Malpass, Australia's ambassador to Germany. Previously, he
who stepped down on June 1, 2023. has also served as Australia's High Commissioner
Note: He has been appointed as the 14th President to Singapore, South Africa, and Kenya. Hilary
of the World Bank for a five-year term. In February McGeachy has been appointed as Australia’s first
2023, US President Joe Biden nominated Ajay Banga Consul-General in Bengaluru
to lead the World Bank. He has become the first-ever 13. Kamal Kishore Chatiwal has assumed charge as
Indian-American to head the World Bank. Prior to this the new managing director of Indraprastha Gas Ltd
role, he served as Vice Chairman at General Atlantic. (IGL).
8. TransUnion CIBIL has appointed V Note: He has replaced Sanjay Kumar, who has
Anantharaman as a new non-executive taken over as Director (Marketing) in GAIL (India)
chairman. Ltd. Prior to this role, he was working as an
Note: He replaced M V Nair, who has stepped executive director and head of zonal marketing of
down from his post, after eleven years. He has GAIL in Jaipur, Rajasthan. IGL is a joint venture of
worked in the banking industry to lead corporate GAIL and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd
and investment banking teams in Standard (BPCL) with the Delhi government holding 5%
Chartered Bank, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank and stake.
Bank of America. He also served on the boards of 14. Jane Marriott has been appointed as the next
The Indian Hotels Company Limited, Axis Asset British High Commissioner to Pakistan.
Management Company, IIFL Home Finance Ltd and Note: She would be replacing Dr Christian Turner,
Ecom Express Ltd. who left Pakistan in January after serving as the
9. Amit Agrawal has been appointed as the new CEO envoy since December 2019. She also becomes the
of Unique Identification Authority of India first female British envoy to Islamabad. Prior to this
(UIDAI). role, she was the high commissioner to Kenya since
Note: While Subodh Kumar Singh has been September 2019. She has also completed two
appointed as director general of the National diplomatic postings to Iraq and one to Afghanistan.
Testing Agency. Both Agrawal and Singh are Indian 15. P Vasudevan has been appointed as MD and CEO
Administrative Service officers of the Chhattisgarh of Equitas Small Finance Bank.
cadre. Rashmi Chowdhary, additional secretary in Note: He has been reappointed for a period of 3
the Department of Personnel and Training, has years, from July 23, 2023, to July 23, 2026.
been appointed as secretary in the Central Headquarters of Equitas SFB: Chennai. After
Information Commission. receiving license from RBI on 30 June 2016, Equitas
10. Nitin Agarwal has been appointed as the new Small Finance bank began banking on 5 September
director general of the Border Security Force 2016 and with effect from 4 February 2017, Equitas
(BSF). became a scheduled bank.
Note: This appointment comes after a vacancy of 16. Axis Bank has appointed NS Vishwanathan as the
over five months in the position. Presently, he is non-executive chairman for three years.
serving as the Additional DG of operations at the Note: His appointment will be effective from
headquarters of the CRPF in Delhi. The additional October 27, 2023, or the date of approval of his
charge of the BSF has been held by Sujoy Lal appointment by the RBI. NS Vishwanathan was a
Thaosen, the Director General of the Central seasoned banker, who handled critical areas like
Reserve Police Force (CRPF). regulation. He has also served as a Deputy
11. The government of India has appointed Pankaj Governor of the Reserve Bank of India between
Agrawal as the new Power Secretary. 2016 and 2020.
Note: He would replace present Secretary Alok 17. Ravi Sinha has been appointed as the new head of
Kumar, who will retire on June 30. While Rajat the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) for a
Mishra will be the new Fertiliser Secretary, and tenure of two years.
Chanchal Kumar to join the Civil Aviation Ministry Note: He would succeed Samant Goel, who
as Secretary. Sudhansh Pant will move from the completes his four-year tenure on June 30, 2023.
Ports, Shipping and Waterways Ministry to Health Ravi Sinha is a 1988-batch Indian Police Service
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(IPS) officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre. At present, 23. WHO has appointed Health Dr Vanessa Kerry as
he is serving as Special Secretary, Cabinet the first-ever WHO Director-General Special Envoy
Secretariat. Earlier, Sinha served in Jammu and for Climate Change and.
Kashmir, the northeast, and foreign countries. Note: She is a renowned global health expert and
18. Swaminathan Janakiraman has been appointed medical doctor and CEO of Seed Global Health. She
as the deputy governor of Reserve Bank India for will play a pivotal role in amplifying WHO's climate
three years. and health messaging and undertake high-level
Note: He would succeed Mahesh Kumar Jain, who advocacy. Climate change is emerging as the
was serving as a deputy governor since 2018, is set greatest health challenge of the 21st century,
to retire. Prior to this role, he held various impacting various aspects of human well-being.
assignments across Corporate and International 24. DBS Bank India has appointed Rajat Verma as
Banking, Retail and Digital Banking, Finance, and managing director and head of institutional
Assurance functions with SBI. He also served as a banking.
Nominee Director of SBI on the Boards of Yes Bank Note: He will succeed Niraj Mittal, who will be
and Jio Payments Bank. taking up a new role as country head of DBS Bank
19. Hasmukh Adhia has been appointed as chairman in Australia. Rajat Verma was formerly with HSBC
of GIFT (Gujarat International Finance Tec) City. as the MD and country head of Commercial Banking
Note: In addition to this role, he was also appointed in India. He will lead the growth of the institutional
as the Chairman and Director of the Gujarat banking franchise for DBS Bank in India given the
Alkalies and Chemicals Ltd (GACL) and the Gujarat significantly expanded footprint of the lender.
Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC). He 25. Kyriakos Mitsotakis has been sworn in as the PM
replaced Sudhir Mankad, to take the helm of GIFT of Greece for a second term, after winning the
City. He has also served as the Principal advisor to Prime Minister election.
Narendra Modi when he was CM of Gujarat. Note: He took the oath of office in the presidential
20. Umesh Kumar was appointed the chairman of the palace at a ceremony. In the election, he bagged 40.
Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC), 55% of the votes, more than twice the main
by the President of India. opposition Syriza’s 17. 84%. He vowed to
Note: President Droupadi Murmu has exercised the accelerate institutional and economic reforms. He
powers conferred by Section 45(b) of the became the PM for the first time in 2019 when his
Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi party defeated Syriza in an election.
(Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, read with sub- 26. The Reserve Bank of India has given its approval to
section 2 of Section 84 of the Electricity Act, 2003. the Federal Bank for the appointment of AP Hota
He served as the justice of Allahabad High Court till as part-time chairman, with effect from June 29,
July 2022. 2023, till January 14, 2026.
21. Finland's parliament elected Petteri Orpo as Note: In 2018, he was appointed as an Independent
prime minister at the head of a four-party coalition Director of Federal Bank Limited. He has also
. worked at RBI as a nominee director to the Board
Note: Parliament voted in favor of Orpo, who won of Vijaya Bank and Andhra Bank. He was the
the April elections. He was formally appointed as architect of NPCI and served as its Managing
prime minister by President Sauli Niinisto. He took Director and Chief Executive Officer between 2009-
over from Sanna Marin, whose Social Democrats 2017.
finished third behind Orpo's National Coalition 27. Rohit Jawa has assumed charge as the Managing
Party and the Finns Party. The new coalition is Director and CEO of FMCG major Hindustan
made up of the smaller Swedish People's Party and Unilever Ltd (HUL).
Christian Democrats. Note: He has replaced Sanjiv Mehta who retired
22. Eddie Wu will take over as the chief executive of after the company's annual general meeting. Mehta
the Alibaba Group. handed over the baton to Jawa, who was appointed
Note: He is one of the co-founders of Alibaba, who as an Additional Director and CEO-Designate from
first served it as a technology director back in 1999. April 1, 2023. Prior to this role, Jawa was the Chief
While Joe Tsai will take over as chairman on of Transformation for Unilever in London. He
September 10th, 2023. He was appointed as the started his career with HUL as a management
company's CFO until 2013. The present CEO and trainee in 1988.
Chairman Daniel Zhang is planning to step down 28. Ajay Bhatnagar has been appointed as Special
this year. Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation
(CBI), effective until his superannuation on
November 20, 2024.
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Note: At present, he is serving as Additional Note: He will take over Markus Duesmann. Gernot
Director in the agency. While Anurag and Manoj Dollner joined Volkswagen as a Ph. D. candidate in
Sashidhar have been promoted to the position of 1993 and subsequently served in a number of
Additional Director. The government has also management roles at Porsche, including as head of
extended the tenure of Sharad Agarwal as Joint Concept Development and head of the Panamera
Director. Series.
29. Audi has appointed Gernot Dollner as Chairman of
the Board of Management, effective September 1,
2023.
May 2023

1. Santiago Peña (Colorado Party) has won the the vice chairman at US investment firm General
presidential election of Paraguay, defeating Atlantic LP. Before that, he worked as president and
Efraín Alegre, the candidate of the Concertación CEO of Mastercard. In 2016, he was awarded the
Nacional coalition. fourth-highest civilian award, Padma Shri.
Note: He got more than 42% votes, while his 6. Charles III has taken his oath and been crowned
opponent Efraín Alegre received nearly 28%. The King in a ceremony in London witnessed by over
Colorado Party has dominated the political scene in two thousand guests and dignitaries in
Paraguay's landlocked South American nation for Westminster Abbey.
more than 70 years. Paraguay's economy is Note: The Archbishop of Canterbury placed the St
expected to grow by more than 4% this year. Edward's Crown on the King's head during a
2. Vanessa Hudson has been appointed as the new ceremony at Westminster Abbey and after the King
chief executive officer of Australia’s flagship was crowned, his wife Camilla was crowned as the
carrier, Qantas . Queen. King had taken the solemn oath to govern
Note: She will succeed Alan Joyce, who will retire the United Kingdom people with justice and mercy.
in November 2023. She has been market-facing as 7. Accenture board has appointed Ajay Vij as the MD
CFO since October 2019. She had held several of Accenture India, succeeded Rekha M. Menon,
senior roles there, including chief customer officer who retired after 20 years.
and senior vice president for the Americas and New Note: He will be responsible for expanding his
Zealand. current responsibilities as Corporate Services &
3. The government of India has cleared the Sustainability lead to provide overall leadership
appointment of Justice T. S. Sivagnana as the and drive coordinated decision-making. While
Chief Justice of Calcutta. Sandeep Dutta will lead the company's Market Unit.
Note: Presently, he is serving as the Acting Chief He will serve as the company's India business lead
Justice of the Calcutta High Court. On 25 October and drive business and operations.
2021, he took oath as a Judge of Calcutta High 8. Margherita Della Valle has been interim CEO of
Court. He was appointed as an Additional Judge of Vodafone Group.
Madras High Court and later he was appointed Note: She has replaced Nick Read, who stepped
Permanent Judge on 29 March 2011. down in December 2022. Della Valle’s career at
4. T. S. Sivagnana has been appointed as the Vodafone has included marketing, operational,
chairman and managing director of Coal India commercial, and financial positions. Vodafone
Limited. Group is a British multinational
Note: He is currently posted as CMD of Central telecommunications company headquartered in
Coalfields Ltd (CCL), Ranchi. In 2015, he joined London, United Kingdom.
NTPC as Executive Director (Coal Mining) and 18. Neera Tanden has been appointed as US
Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) in 2018 as President’s Domestic Policy Advisor to help him
Director of Technical (P&P). In 2019, he was also craft and implement his domestic policy agenda.
appointed as CMD of BCCL. The Union coal ministry Note: She has replaced Susan Rice as Biden's
has set a target for Coal India Limited to produce Domestic Policy Advisor. She served in both the
1012 MT of coal by 2023-24 Obama and Clinton administrations, as well as
5. Ajay Banga has been appointed as the new presidential campaigns and think tanks. Tanden
president of the World Bank, effective June 2, previously served as senior advisor for health
2023. reform at the Department of Health and Human
Note: He was nominated by US President Joe Services.
Biden in February 2023. Presently, he is serving as

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19. The Public Enterprise Selection Board (PESB) has senior member of the Commission. He joined the
recommended Parminder Chopra as a new Commission as a member on June 28, 2017, and has
Chairman and Managing Director of Power been performing the duties of the UPSC chairman
Finance Corporation (PFC). since April 5, 2022. He served as VC at Dr
Note: She will be the first woman to be appointed Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (Gujarat),
as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of and Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda.
the Maharatna company. She has been working 25. Ravneet Kaur has been appointed as the
with the company since 2005. Power Finance Chairperson of the Competition Commission of
Corporation: It is India’s largest NBFC by net India (CCI) for five years.
worth (all reserves). It was incorporated on July Note: She has replaced CCI Member Sangeeta
16th, 1986. Registered office: New Delhi Verma, who has been serving as an acting
20. Larsen & Toubro board has appointed S N Chairperson since October 2022. There has been no
Subrahmanyan as Chairman and MD, with effect full-time Chairperson for the competition regulator
from October 1, 2023. since Ashok Kumar Gupta was demitted from office.
Note: He will succeed A M Naik, who steps down The Chairperson will get a consolidated salary of Rs
as Non-Executive Chairman of the L&T Group at the 4,50,000 per month without a house and car.
end of his tenure on 30 September 2023. Currently, 26. Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit took over as the
S N Subrahmanyan is serving as the CEO and MD of Deputy Chief of the Air Staff.
L&T. He has also worked as Deputy MD & President Note: He is a qualified flying instructor as well as
leading L&T’s infrastructure business to its an experimental test pilot, with over 3,300 hours of
position as the country’s largest construction flying experience on fighter, trainer, and transport
organization. aircraft. He participated in the operations 'Safed
21. Geeta Rao Gupta has been confirmed by the US Sagar' and 'Rakshak'. He is an alumnus of NDA and
Senate as the Ambassador at Large for Global was commissioned in the fighter stream in 1986.
Women's Issues in the State Department. He is a graduate of the Staff Course (Bangladesh),
Note: She was confirmed by the US Senate by 51 and National Defence College (New Delhi).
to 47 votes. Prior to this, she has worked as the 27. Anil Kumar Jain has been appointed as the new
Executive Director of the UN Foundation’s 3D chairman of the Petroleum & Natural Gas
Programme for Girls and Women. She also advises Regulatory Board.
the UNAIDS Global Coalition on Women and AIDS Note: He has been appointed for five years (from
and is on the boards of InterAction and the Moriah the date assumption of charge) or attaining 65
Fund. years, or until further orders, whichever is the
22. Praveen Sood was appointed as the new CBI earliest. He is a 1986-batch IAS officer from the MP
director for a period of two years. cadre. PNGRB was constituted under The
Note: He would replace current CBI Director Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act,
Subodh Jaiswal, who will retire on May 25, 2023. 2006.
He started his career in Mysore as Assistant 28. Economist Ludovit Odor was appointed as the
Superintendent of Police in 1989. Later, he served interim prime minister of Slovakia, who will lead
as Superintendent of Police, Bellary, and Raichur the country until early elections.
before being posted in Bengaluru as Deputy Note: He is a politically independent economist
Commissioner of Police (DCP). who comes to the job straight from the board of the
23. Linda Yaccarino has been appointed as the Chief country’s central bank. Odor and his caretaker
Executive Officer (CEO) of Twitter. cabinet were picked by President Zuzana Caputova.
Note: Prior to this, she was serving as the head of Slovakia is a member of the European Union, the
advertising at NBCUniversal. She had served 19 Euro Zone, and NATO. Slovakia is struggling with
years at Turner Entertainment and has been high inflation due to war in neighboring Ukraine.
credited with dragging the network's ad sales 29. Arjun Ram Meghwal has been appointed as the
operation into the digital future. She is an alumna new union law minister.
of Penn State University, having studied liberal arts Note: He is a retired IAS officer, social worker, and
and telecommunications. In October 2022, Elon farmer, who later turned politician from Rajasthan.
Musk completed $44 billion acquisition of Twitter. Currently, he is serving as the MoS for
24. Manoj Soni has taken oath as the chairman of the Parliamentary Affairs and MoS for Culture. He has
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on also served as the Union Minister of State, and
May 16, 2023. Ministry of Finance from 2016 to 2017. He has
Note: He administered the oath of office and replaced Kiren Rijiju, who will now handle the
secrecy as chairman of UPSC by Smita Nagaraj, a Ministry of Earth Sciences.
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30. Bhavesh Gupta has been appointed as the Rajesh Magow (co-founder and group CEO of
president and chief operating officer (COO) of MakeMyTrip) was elected as vice chairman, while
Paytm. Satyan Ganjwani (vice chairman of Times Internet)
Note: He has served as the CEO of Clix Capital as the treasurer of the association. The IAMAI
(formerly known as GE Capital) and head of SME & governing council election is held every two years.
business banking at IDFC Bank. He will be 36. Karnataka Bank has appointed Srikrishnan
responsible to lead verticals of lending, insurance, Harihara Sarma as the new managing director
payments – online and offline, consumer payments, and chief executive officer of the bank for three
and drive key initiatives including user growth, years.
operations risk, fraud risk, and compliance. Note: The appointment is subject to the approval of
31. CJI DY Chandrachud has administered the oath of shareholders at the ensuing AGM or within a period
office to Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra and of 3 months from the date of assuming charge
Senior advocate Kalpathy Venkataraman whichever is earlier. His expertise and leadership
Viswanathan as judges of the Supreme Court. would drive the bank toward continued growth
Note: Current sanctioned strength: 34 Justice KM and success. He has worked at HDFC Bank Limited,
Joseph, Justice Ajay Rastogi and Justice V Yes Bank, and Jio Payments Bank.
Ramasubramanian will retire in June 2023. 37. The Central government has notified the
Currently, Justice PK Mishra is serving the Chief appointment of Justice MS Ramachandra Rao as
Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court. KV the Chief Justice (CJ) of Himachal Pradesh HC.
Viswanathan is a senior advocate and a former Note: He has succeeded CJ Amjad Sayed, who
Additional Solicitor General. retired in January 2023. In addition, Justice SV
32. Siddaramaiah took oath as the 24th Chief Gangapurwala was appointed as the CJ of Madras
Minister of Karnataka for the second time. HC. Presently, Justice S Vaidyanathan has been
Note: Apart from him, DK Shivakumar was sworn serving as the Acting CJ of Madras High Court.
in as the cabinet minister and has been designated Justice Ramesh Dhanuka has been appointed as the
as the sole deputy chief minister of Karnataka. Chief Justice of Bombay HC with a tenure of four
Karnataka has a parliamentary system of days.
government with Legislative Assembly, and 38. The National Council of Confederation of Indian
Legislative Council.Capital of Karnataka: Industry (CII) has elected R Dinesh as the
Bangalore. president of CII for 2023-24.
33. Paytm Payments Bank for the re-appointment of Note: He is an executive vice-chairman of TVS
Vijay Shekhar Sharma as part-time chairman for Supply Chain Solutions. He has replaced Sanjiv
a year, effective from May 23, 2023. Bajaj, the chairman and managing director, Bajaj
Note: At present, One97 Communications owns a Finserv Limited. Sanjiv Puri (chairman and
49% stake in Paytm Payments Bank and Vijay managing director of ITC Ltd) has taken over as
Shekhar Sharma holds the remaining stakes in the president-designate of CII for the year 2023-24.
entity. Vijay Shekhar Sharma is the promoter of Rajiv Memani has taken over as vice-president of
Paytm Payments Bank. Paytm Payments Bank: It CII for the year 2023-24.
was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Noida 39. Mukesh Ambani has been named as a member of
34. The World Health Organization (WHO) has the international advisory committee that will
appointed Renée Fleming and Pretty Yende as provide guidance and counsel to the presidency of
the Goodwill Ambassadors for Arts and Health. the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties
Note: Renée Fleming is one of the most celebrated (COP28), UAE.
singers and Pretty Yende is an extraordinary Note: He is among 31 international experts named
soprano known for her dazzling performances. on the panel. The panel will inspire collaborative
They would join other distinguished WHO Goodwill and transformative action across adaptation,
Ambassadors such as Alisson, Natalia Becker, mitigation, damage, food, and nature-based
Didier Drogba, Michael Bloomberg, Cynthia solutions.
Germanotta, Gordon Brown, and James Chau, 40. Recep Tayyip Erdogan has won the presidential
among others. election in Turkiye, extending his rule to a third
35. Co-founder, and CEO of Dream Sports, Harsh Jain decade.
has been elected the chairman of the Internet and Note: He defeated opposition leader Kemal
Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) for 2023- Kilicdaroglu in a runoff vote. Out of 99.43% of the
25. votes, Erdogan got 52.14% of the votes and
Note: He has replaced Sanjay Gupta, vice Kilicdaroglu received 47.86%. The vote seals
president, and country manager of Google India. Erdogan’s place in history as he extends his 20-year
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rule for a further five years. Türkiye capital: Ankara Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis signed an MoU with
and Currency: Turkish lira Sachin Tendulkar. Deputy CM has informed that he
41. CAG Girish Chandra Murmu has been re-elected has offered his association free of cost, and for the
as the External Auditor of the World Health entire duration the government wishes to run the
Organisation (WHO) for a four-year term (2024- program.
2027). 43. The Central Government has notified the
Note: The CAG is already holding this position in appointment of Justice Nitin Jamdar as Acting
the WHO for a four-year term (2019-2023). In the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court.
election held at the 76th World Health Assembly in Note: He has succeeded Chief Justice RD
Geneva, the CAG was re-elected with a majority of Dhanuka, who demitted office on May 30. He is
114 out of 156 votes. Earlier, the CAG was selected from Solapur and is the third generation to pursue
as an External Auditor of the ILO. law. He practiced at the Bombay High Court in
42. The Maharashtra govt has named Sachin diverse fields, primarily in administrative and
Tendulkar as 'Smile Ambassador' under the state constitutional law. He represented various public
medical education & drug department’s 'Swachh bodies and was also Senior Standing Counsel for
Mukh Abhiyan. the Union of India.
Note: Aim: To spread awareness about oral health
and hygiene. Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde and

April 2023

1. Amit Kshatriya, an Indian-American software and after four departments, including consumer
robotics engineer was appointed as the first head education and protection.
of NASA's Moon to Mars Programme, with Note: Before being promoted to ED, he was heading
immediate effect. the Bhopal regional office of the RBI as director.
Note: The new office aims to carry out the agency’s During his long career, he served in Regulation and
human exploration activities on the Moon and Mars Supervision, human resource management,
for the benefit of humanity. He will be responsible premises, currency management, bank accounts,
for planning and executing human missions to and other areas in the Reserve Bank.
these celestial bodies for the betterment of 5. The American Space Agency, NASA has selected the
humanity. NASA Administrator: Bill Nelson first woman astronaut, Christina Koch for its
2. Adani Group has appointed the former envoy of Artemis II mission.
Israel to India, Ron Malka as the Executive Note: Other crew members: Victor Glover (First
Chairman of the Haifa Port Company. Black Astronaut) and Reid Wiseman of NASA, and
Note: He served as the ambassador of Israel to Jeremy Hansen of the Canadian Space Agency
India from 2018-2021. It is the second-largest (CSA). It will involve a fly-by of the moon and a 10-
port in Israel in terms of shipping containers. The day journey back to Earth. It is part of NASA's
Adani Group officially took over this port in January Artemis program, which aims to land the first
2023. Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone and woman and the next man on the moon by 2024.
Israel's Gadot Group won the tender in July 2022 to 6. Chennai-based Sudha Shivkumar has assumed the
privatize the Port of Haifa for USD 1.18 billion. charge as the 40th president of FICCI Ladies
3. Vice Admiral, Sanjay Jasjit Singh assumed the Organisation (FLO) at the 39th annual session.
charge of the vice chief of naval staff on April 2, Note: FLO is the oldest women-led and women-
2023. centric business chamber in Southeast Asia. She is
Note: He succeeded Vice Admiral SN Ghormade a lawyer and investment banker by profession and
who retired after over 39 years of service. He is a presently serving as a director at auto ancillaries.
graduate of the National Defence Academy, Pune, She was the Chairperson of the FLO Chennai
and was commissioned in 1986 in the executive Chapter in 2016-17. FLO is the women's wing of
branch of the Indian Navy. In his career, he has the FICCI.
served on most classes of ships of the Indian Navy 7. The board of members of Suzlon Energy has
and has held a range of command, training, and appointed J P Chalasani as the new Chief
staff appointments. Executive Officer (CEO) of the company with
4. The Reserve Bank of India has appointed Neeraj immediate effect, i.e. from 5th April 2023.
Nigam as executive director (ED) who will look Note: He has replaced Ashwani Kumar, who
resigned from the post on account of personal

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reasons. He had been Group CEO of Suzlon from Note: He takes over from Satoshi Uchida, who
April 2016 to July 2020 and continued as Strategic has completed his term as Managing Director. He
Advisor to the Suzlon Group thereafter. He was also has an experience of more than 27 years of industry
the Group CEO and Managing Director of Punj experience across various global markets and will
Lloyd. be responsible for growing and strengthening
8. The Ministry of Law and Justice has notified the Suzuki Motorcycle India’s position in the Indian
elevation of Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh as and overseas markets.
Chief Justice of Tripura High Court. 14. The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) Rajasthan has
Note: He was appointed as an Additional Judge of appointed Dr. Sheenu Jhawar as the new
the High Court of Jharkhand on 24th January President for a term of two years (2023 to 2025).
2012 and confirmed as a permanent Judge on 16th Note: She becomes the first woman to hold this
January 2014. He has also served as the Acting Chief position in the 21-year history of TiE Rajasthan. She
Justice of the Jharkhand High Court from the 20th takes over from Dr. Ravi Modani, who had been
of December, 2022 to the 19th of February, 2023. leading the chapter effectively since 2021.
9. RBI has approved the reappointment of Sanjay 15. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the
Agarwal as Managing Director (MD) & CEO of AU appointment of Sekhar Rao as interim managing
Small Finance Bank (SFB) for the next three years, director (MD) and chief executive officer (CEO) of
till 2026. Karnataka Bank with effect from April 15, 2023.
Note: He was first appointed as MD of AU Note: He has been appointed for a period of three
Financiers on 14 February 2008. Later, he became months or till the appointment of regular MD and
the Managing Director & CEO of AU Small Finance CEO whichever is earlier. He has replaced
Bank. Meanwhile, RBI has also approved the Mahabaleshwara M S, whose term ended on April
appointment of Uttam Tibrewal as Whole Time 14, 2023. Prior to this role, he was serving as an
Director of AU SFB. Uttam Tibrewal joined the executive director of the bank.
board of AU Small Finance Bank in 2005. 16. Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan has
10. Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) has appointed assumed charge as Controller of Personnel Services
Ratnakar Patnaik as the new Chief Investment on April 17, 2023.
Officer. Note: He was commissioned into the Indian Navy
Note: He has replaced PR Mishra, who stepped on July 1, 1987, and is a specialist in
down from the role on April 10, 2023. Additionally, Communication and Electronic Warfare. Earlier, he
PC Paikray has been named the new Chief Risk served as the Chief of Staff of the Western Naval
Officer, taking over from Tablesh Pandey on the Command, Flag Officer Defence Advisory Group,
same date. Patnaik has begun his career at LIC as a and Flag Officer Sea Training. He was the second
Direct Recruit Officer in September 1990. Commanding Officer of the aircraft carrier INS
11. The Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Vikramaditya.
Association (ATMA) has appointed Anshuman 17. Judge Rowan Wilson has been confirmed as the
Singhania as the new chairman. new chief judge of the Court of Appeals, the state’s
Note: He is currently serving as the Managing highest court.
Director of JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. While Arnab Note: He is also New York’s first Black chief judge.
Banerjee, Managing Director & CEO of CEAT Ltd He was appointed by the 57th governor of New
has taken over as the Vice-Chairman. ATMA was York, Kathy Hochul. Since 2017, he has been an
formed in 1975 in India to represent the interests associate judge of the Court of Appeals, New York's
of tyre manufacturers. highest court. He studied at Harvard College, and
12. Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has appointed graduated from Harvard Law School in 1984.
Tsutsumu Otani as the new President, CEO & 18. Miguel Diaz-Canel has become the president of
Managing Director. Cuba for second term.
Note: He is currently the Vice President at Note: His bid was confirmed by 97.66% of votes
Honda Motor Co., Japan. He will take over from cast in the Communist Party of Cuba-aligned
Atsushi Ogata, who will be relocating to Shanghai, National Assembly. He took over the reins in 2018
China, to serve as the Executive General Manager at as the first civilian leader of Cuba. His first five
Shanghai Branch, Honda Motor (China) Investment years in office were marked by the worst economic
Co. Ltd. crisis in three decades. Cuba Capital: Havana;
13. Kenichi Umeda has been appointed as the new Currency: Cuban Peso
Managing Director of Suzuki Motorcycle India 19. Tata Group has appointed Dr. Randhir Thakur as
Pvt. Ltd. the CEO and managing director of Tata Electronics
Pvt Ltd (TEPL).
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Note: Before this, he was associated with the global National Association of Software and Service
electronic chip and circuits manufacturing giant Companies
Intel. He has also held leadership and technical 25. Shreekant M Bhandiwad has taken charge as the
positions at Applied Materials Inc., SanDisk Corp, new chairman of Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank
and Micron Technology Inc. TEPL was founded in (KVGB).
2020 as a greenfield venture of the Tata Group with Note: KVGB is an Indian RRB sponsored by Canara
expertise in manufacturing precision components. Bank headquartered in Dharwad, Karnataka. He
20. Virat Kohli has been appointed as the brand has replaced the current chairman P Gopikrishna,
influencer of HSBC India. who was repatriated to Canara Bank as Circle Head,
Note: HSBC India is also set to launch a multimedia Bengaluru, in Karnataka. He has an experience of
campaign featuring Kohli, aimed at re-establishing 29 years in Canara Bank, having worked across
the value proposition of banking with the India (Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Karnataka) in
company.Virat Kohli will help to amplify HSBC’s various capacities.
purpose of opening up a world of opportunity as it 26. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the
strives to support the ambitions of an aspirational reappointment of N Kamakodi as Managing
India going global. Director and CEO of City Union Bank.
21. In the exercise of the power conferred by Article Note: The tenure of his re-appointment would be
223 of the Constitution of India, the President has for a period of three years with effect from May 1,
appointed Justice Sarasa Venkatanarayana Bhatti 2023. He joined the bank as deputy general
as Acting Chief Justice of Kerala High Court. manager in 2003 and was elevated to general
Note: He would replace the current Chief Justice S manager in 2005. In 2006, he was appointed as
Manikumar, who will retire on the aforementioned executive director. From May 2011, he was serving
date. He served as a Judge from the Andhra Pradesh the bank as its managing director and chief
High Court and is presently working as the senior- executive officer.
most judge of the Kerala High Court. 27. Hari Hara Mishra has been appointed as the new
22. Oliver Dowden has been named the new deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Association of
prime minister of the United Kingdom. Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs).
Note: He has replaced current Dy PM and Justice Note: He has started his career with the State Bank
Secretary, Dominic Raab, who has resigned. Before of India in 1982 and worked there until 2004. He is
this role, he had been serving as the Chancellor of an experienced professional in the field of asset
the Duchy of Lancaster and Cabinet Office reconstruction. The ARCs are the voice of all Asset
secretary, under the present UK government. He Reconstruction Companies in India. Currently,
will continue in the roles alongside his new there are 28 ARCs registered with the Reserve Bank
responsibilities. While Alex Chalk becomes the of India.
10th justice secretary in 10 years. 28. The government has confirmed the appointment of
23. Rajesh Kumar Singh has assumed the charge of Debadatta Chand as a Managing Director (MD) of
Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry the Bank of Baroda for three years.
and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce, and Note: Currently, he is serving as Executive Director
Industry. of the bank. He has succeeded Sanjiv Chadha,
Note: He is an IAS officer of the 1989 Batch from whose term was extended for five months till June
the Kerala cadre. Before this, he served as Secretary 30 by the government. In January 2023, the
in the Department of Animal Husbandry & Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB)
Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry recommended Debadatta Chand as MD & CEO of
& Dairying. He has replaced Anurag Jain, who was the Bank of Baroda.
appointed secretary in the Ministry of Road 29. Ajit Kumar Mohanty has been appointed as the
Transport and Highways. chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and
24. Microsoft India President, Anant Maheshwari the secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy.
has been appointed as the chairperson of Nasscom Note: He has replaced K N Vyas. He was appointed
for 2023-24. as the BARC director in March 2019. In 1983, he
Note: Earlier, he served as the vice-chairperson of joined the Nuclear Physics Division of the BARC
Nasscom'. He has succeeded the president of after graduating from the 26th batch of the BARC
business and technology services at TCS, Krishnan Training School.
Ramanujam. Meanwhile, Nasscom has also
appointed chairman and managing director of
Cognizant India, Rajesh Nambiar as its vice-
chairperson for 2023-24. Nasscom refers to
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Important Days

August 2023

1. World Wide Web Day is a day dedicated to web 2012 though the momentum was set in the preceding
browsing and is celebrated on August 1. years.
Note: Aims: To highlight the importance of the web in 7. World Lion Day is observed every year on August 10
improving people's lives by facilitating to highlight the importance of these majestic creatures
communication, access to information and resources, and to garner support for their conservation.
education and empowerment. The World Wide Web Note: This day is also an opportunity to learn about the
was created between 1989 and 1993 by Sir Tim importance of lions in the natural world and the
Berners-Lee when he was employed at CERN (the potential impacts of their extinction on humanity. The
European Organisation for Nuclear Research). IUCN has designated the Asiatic Lion as an endangered
2. Muslim Women's Rights Day is observed across the species because of its limited population and
nation on August 1 to celebrate the enactment of the constrained habitat.
law against triple talaq. 8. International Youth Day is commemorated every year
Note: The central gov enacted the law on August 1, on 12 August.
2019, that has made the practice of instant triple talaq Note: The theme of International Youth Day 2023 is
a criminal offense. The government has strengthened Green Skills For Youth: Towards A Sustainable World.
the self-reliance, self-respect and self-confidence of the Aims: To encourage youth around the world to
Muslim women of the country and protected organize activities to raise awareness about the
constitutional, fundamental and democratic rights by situation of youth in their country. Objective: Bringing
bringing the law against the triple talaq. youth issues to the attention of the international
3. National Handloom Day is observed on August 7. community and celebrating the potential of youth as
Note: Goal: To pay tribute to the huge handloom partners in today’s global society.
community in the country for their contribution to 9. World Organ Donation Day is observed every year on
carrying on the traditional heritage and ensuring August 13.
financial stability. Aims: To preserve India's handloom Note: Aim: To spread awareness around the
tradition and to provide more prospects for the people importance of organ donation and bust myths around
associated with the handloom industry. This Day in it. Theme for 2023: "Step up to volunteer; need more
India celebrates the Swadeshi Movement that began in organ donors to fill the lacunae". Organ donation
Bengal to rely on Indian-made goods and boycott means when a person allows to surgically remove their
foreign goods. organ and transplant it to another person. This is done
4. World Breastfeeding Week commenced on August 1 with the content of the donor when they are alive or
while it concludes on August 7. that of their kin when they are no more.
Note: Aim: To emphasize regular breastfeeding for 10. International Left-Handers Day is celebrated every
babies. Breastfeeding is extremely crucial for the year on August 13.
healthy growth and development of an infant. 2023 Note: Aims: To raise awareness about the challenges
theme: Let’s make breastfeeding and work, work! and of left-handers, understanding in a predominantly
5. Tamil Nadu Cultural community celebrates Aadi right-handed world. Goal: To work on the challenges
Perukku, also known as Pathinettam Perukku. left-handers face and cater to their unique needs.
Note: It is an auspicious festival to honor the monsoon Theme for 2023: “Left-Handers in Sports. ” Objective:
season and the fertility of the soil. Aadi Perukku is To recognize and appreciate the diversity of skills,
celebrated on August 3rd, coinciding with the 18th day talents, and perspectives that left-handers bring to
of the Tamil month of Aadi. various fields and activities.
6. World Lung Cancer Day is observed every year on 11. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had declared that
August 1 and it has been celebrated on the same date August 14, will be remembered as 'Vibhajan
since 2012. Vibhishika Smriti Diwas' or Partition Horrors
Note: It was first marked to raise awareness around Remembrance Day.
the deadly disease and encourage more research on it Note: Reason: In memory of the struggles and
to break the stigma around the disease. The campaign sacrifices during the partition in 1947. Aim: To keep
for World Lung Cancer Day was recognized in the year reminding us of the need to remove the poison of social
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 divisions, and disharmony and further strengthen the deadly diseases transmitted by the insects that are
spirit of oneness, social harmony and human commonly seen in homes across the world. Theme for
empowerment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi World Mosquito Day 2023 is “Fighting the World's
announced the event on this date in 2021. Deadliest killer -the Mosquito”. The mosquitoes are
12. India is celebrating its 77th Independence Day on responsible for the spread of diseases like malaria,
August 15, 2023. dengue fever, Zika virus, and West Nile virus.
Note:PM Narendra Modi addressed the nation from 17. International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave
the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi and unfurled the Trade and its Abolition is observed annually on August
national flag. This year, the theme is 'Nation First, 23.
Always First' under the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' Note: Aim: To raises awareness about the horrifying
celebration.This year, around 1,800 special guests nature of the slave trade and remind people about the
from various sections of society were invited to transatlantic slave trade and its implications. Theme
witness the ceremony.The G2o logo made from flowers of international Day for the Remembrance of the Slave
is displayed on the ground. Trade and its Abolition 2023 is “Fighting slavery's
13. Navroz observed on August 16, 2023, is a new year of legacy of racism through transformative education”
Parsi community. 18. The Prime Minister announced August 23 will be
Note:This day marks the beginning of the Zoroastrian celebrated as the National Space Day.
calendar. The Parsi New Year, also known as the Note: It was on this day that the ISRO Chandrayaan
festival of Navroz or Nowruz, falls between July and mission made history by landing near the south pole of
August in India. Derived from the Persian words 'Nav' the moon. On this day our Scientific and technological
and 'Roz' which literally translates to 'new day', the progress will be celebrated. He suggested that a
tradition of celebrating Parsi New Year is believed to National Hackathon must be organized by the Central
have been observed by Iranians and Zoroastrians for and State Governments and Universities on ideas that
the past 3,000 years. will ensure good governance and find solutions to
14. Chingam 1 is the first day of the new year of the problems.
traditional Malayalam calendar used in Kerala. 19. Women’s Equality Day is celebrated on 26th August.
Note:In 2023, it's being celebrated on August 17. Note: This day marks a turning point in the history of
Chingam 1 is also known as Chingam Month or the struggle for equal treatment of women and
Chingam Masam and it's followed by the Onam festival. women’s rights. The theme for Women's Equality Day
The Malayam Calendar is based on the solar calendar 2023 is “Embrace Equity,”. Aim: To commemorate the
system and every year, the date of Chingam 1 varies. Nineteenth Amendment being adopted in the 1920s in
Chingam 1 marks the beginning of the harvest season the United States. This act stopped the federal
in Kerala and is considered an auspicious day. government and states from preventing people from
15. World Humanitarian Day is observed on 19th August. the right to vote based on their gender.
Note: Aim: To bring partners from across the 20. The National Sports Day in India is celebrated on 29
humanitarian system together and work collectively August every year.
for survival, well-being and dignity of people affected Note: It is celebrated to commemorate the birth
by crises. World Humanitarian Day 2023 theme is: anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand
NoMatterWhat. It is the day when 22 colleagues were Singh. The day also serves as a reminder for all of us to
killed at the United Nations Office in Baghdad. It is an recall the contributions, determination and
opportunity to pay tribute to colleagues who have lost extraordinary achievements of the athletes and their
their lives in humanitarian service influence in shaping societies. The theme for this year's
16. The World Mosquito Day is commemorated on August National Sports Day celebration is "Sports are an
20 globally. enabler to an inclusive and fit society".
Note: Aim: To mark the importance of protecting
ourselves and our communities from the potentially

July 2023

1. India observed National Doctor's Day on July 1 to the birth anniversary of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, a
recognize the contributions of doctors and medical renowned physician and the second Chief Minister of
professionals toward society. West Bengal.
Note: Aim: To create awareness about the importance 2. National Chartered Accountants Day is observed every
of doctors, their selfless service, and their valuable role year on July 1 to honor the establishment of the
in improving health. 2023 theme: Celebrating Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
Resilience and Healing Hands. This day is observed on
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 Note: 2023 theme: Empowering Financial Excellence. 8. World Youth Skills Day is celebrated on July 15 every
It recognizes the contributions of the ICAI, which year to emphasize the need for imparting the right
serves as the regulatory authority for the accounting skills to youth for employment and entrepreneurship.
profession and financial auditing in the country. ICAI is Note: Theme 2023: Skilling teachers, trainers, and
a statutory body established by an Act of Parliament youth for a transformative future. United Nations
(Chartered Accountants Act, 1949 (Act No. XXXVIII of General Assembly declared 15 July as World Youth
1949) Skills Day in 2014 to celebrate the strategic importance
3. National Postal Worker Day is observed every year on of equipping young people with skills for employment,
July 1 to give tribute to the hardships of the postal decent work and entrepreneurship.
workers of the postal service department. 9. The Day of International Criminal Justice is celebrated
Note: It was first observed in 1997 by the postal every year on 17 July.
carrier in the Seattle area to respect the efforts of his Note: Aim: To commemorate the adoption of the Rome
employees. First post office in India was established by Statute on 17 July 1998, which established the
East India Company in 1727 and later in 1774 Calcutta International Criminal Court. The ICC is a permanent
GPO was established. However, Warren Hastings international court that prosecutes individuals
(1773-1784) opened the posts to the public in March responsible for genocide, crimes against humanity,
1774. war crimes, and the crime of aggression. ICC cannot be
4. International Plastic Bag Free Day is observed annually a substitute for the national courts but is available
on July 3 to raise awareness about the harmful impacts when a country cannot perform investigations.
of single-use plastic bags on the environment. 10. World Brain Day is celebrated globally on July 22
Note: The initiative was started by the Bag Free World every year to promote education, research, and
campaign, a global movement. Aim: To reduce the use support for individuals affected by brain-related
of single-use plastic bags that inspired other parts of conditions.
the world to participate in Plastic Bag Free Day. There Note: World Brain Day's 2023 theme is "Brain Health
is no specific theme for International Plastic Bag Free and Disability: Leave No One Behind. " The World
Day 2023. Federation of Neurology (WFN) was founded on July
5. India observed the National Fish Farmer’s Day on July 22, 1957. This international movement strives to close
10 annually to commemorate the contribution of the information gap and increase public awareness of
eminent fisheries scientist professor Hiralal impairments to brain health.
Chaudhary and his colleague Alikunhi. 11. The Nation celebrates the Kargil Vijay Diwas on July
Note: On July 10, 1957, they successfully achieved the 26, remembering the sacrifice made by soldiers of the
induced breeding of Indian Major Carps in the country, Indian Army.
at Angul in Odisha. This is celebrated to highlight and Note: The nation celebrates the victory of the Indian
encourage the dedicated supremacy of fish farmers. Army over Pakistani troops in Kargil, Ladakh, in 1999,
Aim: To excel in delivering employment chances in this following more than 60 days of intense battle. The
sector. main event was held at Kargil War Memorial in Drass.
6. World Population Day is observed every year on July Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff
11 in order to raise awareness about global population (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan, attended the ceremony at
issues, including population control. Drass
Note: 2023 theme: Unleashing the power of gender 12. In July 2023, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF),
equality: Uplifting the voices of women and girls to India’s largest Central Armed Police Force, is observing
unlock our world’s infinite possibilities. It was its ‘84th Raising Day’ on 27 July.
established by the United Nations Development Note: CRPF is organizing its Raising Day Parade for the
Programme (UNDP) in 1989, after the day the world first time in Chhattisgarh's Bastar, the epicenter of Left
approximately reached a population of five billion, Wing Extremism, and it is a matter of pride for the
which was observed on 11 July 1987. entire nation. The day celebrates the immense and
7. World Paper Bag Day is observed on July 12 annually unparalleled contribution of the force in upholding the
to recognize and celebrate the use of this more unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the nation.
environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bags. 13. International Tiger Day is observed annually on July
Note: The primary objective of this day is to enhance 29.
public awareness regarding the detrimental effects Note: Aim: To promote tiger conservation worldwide.
that plastic bags can have on the environment. The Goal: To safeguard tigers and preserve their natural
history of Paper Bags can be traced back to the 19th habitat on a global scale. As an endangered species in
century when the first paper bag machine was various regions across the world, tigers confront
invented by Francis Wolle in 1852. multiple threats to their existence, including habitat
loss and poaching. International Tiger Day serves as an
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 encouragement for humans and tigers to peacefully Note: The theme of World Day against Trafficking in
coexist. Persons 2023 is ‘Reach every victim of trafficking,
14. World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28 to leave no one behind’. It seeks to exert pressure on
raise awareness about viral hepatitis and its impact on governments, law enforcement agencies, and civil
global health. society to strengthen their efforts in preventing
Note: 2023 theme: One life, one liver. Objective: To trafficking and supporting victims.
promote prevention, testing, and treatment while 16. World Ranger Day is celebrated worldwide on July 31
showing support for those affected by hepatitis. Aims: to commemorate Rangers killed or injured in the line
To increase public awareness about the issue and the of duty and to celebrate the work Rangers do to protect
necessary steps to enhance efforts in the prevention, the planet’s natural treasures and cultural heritage.
screening, and control of viral hepatitis. Note: 2023 Theme: ’30 by 30‘. A Ranger is a person
15. World Day against Trafficking is observed on July 30 who is charged with preserving and protecting
to raise awareness about human trafficking trends as parklands and natural protected areas. World Ranger
identified by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Day is an International Ranger Federation initiative
Crime (UNODC). promoted together with The Thin Green Line.

June 2023

1. World Bicycle Day 2023 is observed every year on 5. International Day for the Fight against Illegal,
3rd June. Unreported and Unregulated Fishing is celebrated
Note: Aim: To promote the importance of bicycles as a on June 5 every year.
means of transportation, fostering sustainability, Note: The day was proclaimed by the United Nations
health, and well-being. The day was declared by the General Assembly in 2017 to raise awareness of the
United Nations General Assembly in April 2018 to problem of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU)
recognize the uniqueness, versatility and fishing. IUU fishing is a major threat to global fish
sustainability of the bicycle and its positive impact on stocks and the marine environment.
society. The initiative to establish this Day was led by 6. World Milk Day is observed every year on 1st June.
Turkmenistan, with the support of numerous other Note: This day was created in the year 2001 by Food
countries. and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United
2. World Environment Day is observed annually on Nations (UN). Aim: To promote the consumption and
June 5 to create awareness about the protection of the benefits of milk around the world. The goal of this day
environment and the earth's well-being. is to provide us with a chance to raise awareness of and
Note: The theme for World Environment Day 2023 is support in any manner possible initiatives related to
'Solutions to plastic pollution', under the campaign the dairy industry. For 2023, the theme for World Milk
#BeatPlasticPollution. The day is hosted by Côte Day will focus on the importance of dairy in the
d'Ivoire and supported by the Netherlands. This year reduction of carbon footprints as well as providing
marks the 50th anniversary of World Environment nutritious foods and livelihoods.
Day, which will focus on solutions to plastic pollution. 7. The Global Day of Parents is observed every year on
3. The fifth World Food Safety Day is celebrated on 7 June 1 to recognize the critical role parents play in the
June 2023 to draw attention to help prevent, detect, lives of their children and the well-being of society as a
and manage foodborne risks, contributing to food whole.
security, human health, agriculture, and sustainable Note: This day serves as an opportunity to honor and
development. appreciate the dedication, love, and sacrifices of
Note: 2023 theme: Food Standards Save Live; The parents worldwide. The day emphasizes the
2023 theme emphasizes that how important food importance of parental guidance in shaping the lives of
standards are to protecting public health. This day was children and promoting their overall well-being.
established by the WHO and FAO in 2018.On June 7, 8. World Oceans Day is observed every year on 8 June
2019, the first World Food Safety Day was observed. to create awareness about the significance of oceans,
4. The International Day of Innocent Children Victims and importance of preserving and conserving oceanic
of Aggression was observed every year on June 4. resources.
Note: Aim: To bring attention to children who Note: 2023 theme: Planet Ocean: Tides are
experience various forms of aggression; It serves as a Changing; The concept was originally proposed by
solemn reminder of the suffering endured by countless Canada’s International Centre for Ocean Development
children globally, regardless of the specific type of and the Ocean Institute of Canada at the Earth Summit
abuse they endure.
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 in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This day was officially Law and Evidence-based Responses. In 2006, this day
recognised by the United Nations in 2008. was started by the International Network for the
9. World Brain Tumor Day is celebrated annually on Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA). In 2011, the United
June 8 for creating awareness about brain tumors. Nations adopted it as a designated day for the
Note: Theme 2023: Protect yourself – keep away prevention of abuse of older people.
from stress; Brain tumor is characterised by abnormal 15. The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
growth of cells in the brain, it can be grown in any part is observed annually on June 17th to raise awareness
of the brain or skull including the underside of the about the threats posed by desertification and drought
brain, brainstem and nasal cavity among and promote efforts to combat these challenges.
others.Researchers have identified more than 120 Note: 2023 theme: Her land. Her rights. The World
types of brain tumors which are based on the brain Day to Combat Desertification and Drought was
tissue that it impacts established in 1994 following a convention held at the
10. World Accreditation Day is an annual global United Nations General Assembly. The inaugural
observance held on June 9 to recognize and promote observance took place in 1995.
the role of accreditation across various sectors. 16. The International Day for Countering Hate Speech is
Note: Aim: To raise awareness about the value and observed on June 18, every year to address the
benefits of accreditation in ensuring competence, pressing global problem of hate speech.
reliability, and credibility in industries such as Note: This day holds great importance as it calls for
healthcare, laboratories, certification bodies, and collective action to counter the spread of divisive
conformity assessment services. 2023 theme: rhetoric and promote understanding, respect, and
Accreditation: Supporting the Future of Global inclusivity. The Day marked by UNGA recognized the
Trade devastating consequences of hate speech and reaffirms
11. The World Day against Child Labour is observed the commitment to human rights and equality.
annually on June 12 to support the expanding anti- 17. World Sickle Cell Awareness Day is observed every
child labour movement. year on June 19th each year to raise awareness about
Note:ILO declared June 12 to be the World Day Against sickle cell disease (SCD).
Child Labour in 2002 to raise awareness of this Note: 2023 theme: Building and strengthening global
problem."Week of Action against Child Labour" is sickle cell communities, formalizing newborn
the theme for the 2023 World Day Against Child screening, and knowing your sickle cell disease status.
Labour.The ILO intends to start a week-long campaign It is a genetic blood disorder characterized by
to raise public awareness of the injustice of child abnormal red blood cells that take on a crescent or
labour and inspire people to take action. sickle shape. These irregularly shaped cells can cause
12. International Albinism Awareness Day is observed blockages in blood vessels.
annually on June 13 to ensure the inclusion of the 18. World Refugee Day is commemorated every year on
voices of persons with albinism in all sectors of life. 20th June to serve as a reminder of the challenges
Note:2023 theme: Inclusion is Strength; Albinism is faced by millions of individuals who have been forced
a genetic condition that can lead to the absence of to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or
melanin production in the human body. In 2013, the violence.
United Nations Human Rights Commission passed a Note: 2023 theme: Hope Away from Home. This year's
resolution called Attacks and discrimination against theme highlighted the resilience and challenges faced
persons with albinism. by refugees, who lost everything. On December 4,
13. World Blood Donor Day is celebrated every year on 2000, the United Nations General Assembly
June 14 to raise awareness for the necessity of blood established this day through Resolution 55/76.
donation and thank the altruistic acts of selflessness of 19. The International Day of Yoga is observed every year
voluntary blood donors and celebrate life and on June 21 since 2015.
humanity. Note: This year, the theme for International Yoga Day
Note:2023 theme: Give blood, give plasma, share is "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam". This year's
life, share often; This day was first distinguished by theme highlighted beautifully encapsulates collective
the WHO in 2004.At the 58th World Health Assembly aspiration for "One Earth, One Family, One Future. On
(2005), it was declared an annual global event on June 11 December 2014, the UN proclaimed 21 June as the
14 (the birthday of Karl Landsteiner). International Day of Yoga by resolution 69/131. The
14. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed every draft resolution establishing the International Day of
year on June 15 to raise awareness about the abuse Yoga was proposed by India.
experienced by older adults. 20. World Music Day is an annual event that is observed on
Note: 2023 theme: Closing the Circle: Addressing June 21 every year to celebrate the global language of
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Older Age - Policy, music.
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 Note: The theme for World Music Day 2023 is "Music region of China. 2023 theme: People first: stop stigma
on the Intersections". Aim: To promote peace and and discrimination, strengthen prevention
bring together people of different nationalities, 24. World MSME Day is observed on June 27 every year to
cultures, races and ethnicity together through the raise awareness about the importance of micro, small,
power of music. World Music Day is also known as Fête and medium-sized enterprises in promoting inclusive
de la Musique as it has its origin in France. and sustainable development worldwide.
21. International Widows Day is observed annually on Note: The Global Council for the Promotion of
June 23 to spread awareness about the plight of International Trade is celebrating the day with
millions of widows facing poverty. “Building a Stronger Future Together" theme of this
Note: 2023 theme: Innovation and technology for year. The theme of MSME Day 2023 in India is “Future-
gender equality. The first-ever International Widows ready MSMEs for India@100. "
Day was established by The Loomba Foundation back 25. India observed National Statistics Day on June 29
on June 23rd, 2005. In 2010, the UNGA recognized the every year, to celebrate the birth anniversary of
importance of this day and they officially adopted statistician P. C. Mahalanobis.
International Widows Day to share its importance on a Note: This day was first celebrated in 2007 in India.
global level. The theme of Statistics Day, 2023 is “Alignment of State
22. International Women in Engineering Day is observed Indicator Framework with National Indicator
every year on June 23 for improving the participation Framework for Monitoring Sustainable Development
of young girls in the field of engineering. Goals”. Statistics Day in India is celebrated by
Note: The theme of the special day this year is ‘Make conducting seminars, conferences, and other
Safety Seen’. In 2014, the United Kingdom officially interactive events.
dedicated June 23 to lead a national campaign for 26. International Asteroid Day is observed annually on 30
women in the engineering field. In 2017, UNESCO June to raise awareness about the potential hazards
celebrated this day for the first time, to mark the posed by asteroid impacts.
vigilant efforts of women in the engineering society. Note: It also aims to educate people about the global
23. The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit crisis communication measures to be taken in the
Trafficking is observed annually on June 26 to spread event of a credible near-Earth object threat. In
awareness about the ill effects of drug abuse. December 2016, the United Nations General Assembly
Note: Various campaigns, rallies, and awareness (UNGA) passed a resolution (A/RES/71/90)
programs are held worldwide on this day. This is establishing June 30th as International Asteroid Day.
observed to honour Lin Zexu, who played a key role in World Music Day is also known as Fête de la Musique
the demolition of the opium trade in the Guangdong as it has its origin in France.

May 2023

1. The states of Gujarat and Maharashtra UNESCO in 1991 in response to the increasing number
commemorated their 63rd Foundation Day on 1st of attacks on journalists around the world.
May 2023. 3. World Athletics Day 2023 is observed every year on
Note: Gujarat celebrates its 63rd foundation day as May 7 to mark the importance of athletes and
Gujarat Gaurav Divas and Maharashtra are also sportspersons globally.
celebrated as 'Maharashtra Din'. During the event, Note: The theme for World Athletics Day 2023 is
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel virtually inaugurated and 'Athletics for All – A New Beginning'. This day was
laid the foundation stone for various projects in established by the late Primo Nebiolo, the then-
Jamnagar worth Rs. 300 crore. Gujarat was carved out president of the International Association of Athletics
of the Bombay State on May 1, 1960, after the Bombay Federations (IAAF). The first World Athletics Day was
Reorganisation Act, 1960. held on May 15, 1996.
2. World Press Freedom Day is observed annually on 4. World Laughter Day is celebrated on First Sunday of
May 3 to raise awareness about the importance of May.
freedom of the press. Note: In 2023, World Laughter Day falls on 7th May
Note: This year marks the 30th anniversary of World 2023. The theme for this year’s celebration is “World
Press Freedom Day. Theme 2023: Shaping a Future Peace Through Laughter." The day was first
of Rights: Freedom of Expression as a Driver for all observed in 1998 by Dr Madan Kataria, who founded
other human rights. This day was first proclaimed by the Laughter Yoga movement.

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5. World Asthma Day is held on the first Tuesday in 2023, May 13 marks the celebration of World
May, every year. Migratory Bird Day. 2023 theme: Water and its
Note: This year, this day falls on May 2. This day was importance for Migratory Bird. World Migratory Bird
organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Day 2023 will be officially held on 13 May and 14
2023 theme: Asthma care for All October. It is a worldwide initiative launched in 2006
6. International Firefighters' Day is observed every by the AEWA and CMS Secretariats.
year on May 4. 26. 7th edition of the UN Global Road Safety Week is
Note: Aim: To remember the past firefighters who being observed from 15-21 May 2023.
have died while serving our community or dedicated Note: Aim: To raise awareness about road safety and
their lives to protecting the safety of us all. In 1999, this the importance of taking steps to prevent accidents.
day was established to pay tribute to the courage and 2023 slogan: #RethinkMobility. The week is
sacrifices made by firefighters worldwide. organized by the WHO and the UN regional
21. World Red Cross Day is celebrated on May 8 every commissions and supported by governments, NGOs,
year to honor the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, and individuals. The Global Plan for the Decade of
who founded the Red Cross. Action for Road Safety 2021-2030 reflects an
Note: World Red Cross Day is also known as Red ambitious target to reduce road traffic deaths and
Crescent Day. The theme of World Red Cross Day 2023 injuries by 50% by 2030.
is ‘Everything we do comes #fromtheheart’. This 27. International Day of Families is celebrated on May
day recognizes the significant contributions of the 15 to raise awareness of the importance of families and
International Red Cross toward providing their role in society.
humanitarian services to individuals regardless of Note: 2023 theme: Demographic Trends and
their race, religion, or political beliefs. Families. The UN adopted a resolution in 1994
22. World Thalassaemia Day is celebrated every year on establishing the International Day of Families to
May 8 to create awareness about the disorder and celebrate the institution of family and to raise
explore treatment options. awareness regarding the issues faced by families. It
Note: 2023 theme: Be aware. Share. Care: acknowledges the role of families in promoting social
Strengthening Education to Bridge the and economic development.
Thalassaemia Care Gap. This day was created by 28. World Telecommunication and Information
Panos Englezos (President and Founder of the Society Day is celebrated annually on May 17.
Thalassemia International Federation) in 1994. Note: Aim: To raise awareness of the possibilities that
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that is the use of the Internet and other ICT. 2023 theme:
inherited by children from their parents. Empowering the least developed countries
23. National Technology Day is observed every year on through information and communication
May 11 across the nation to commemorate India's technologies. The first World Telecommunication Day
nuclear test success that was conducted on May 11th, was celebrated on May 17, 1969, to mark the founding
1998, at Pokhran, Rajasthan. of ITU and the signing of the first International
Note: 2023 theme: School to Startups-Igniting Telegraph Convention in 1865.
Young Minds to Innovate. This term was coined by 29. World Hypertension Day is observed on May 17
former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee to recognize the every year to raise awareness about hypertension or
contributions of Indian scientists. On May 11, 1998, high blood pressure, its consequences, and preventive
India successfully fired the Shakti-I nuclear missile at measures.
an Army test range in Rajasthan's Pokhran. Note: It was established in 2005 by the World
24. International Nurses Day is observed every year on Hypertension League (WHL). 2023 theme: Measure
12th May to recognize the efforts of nurses for their Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live
dedication, compassion, and expertise in delivering Longer. According to the WHO, hypertension affects
quality healthcare services. around one billion people worldwide, with
Note: 2023 Theme: Our Nurses. Our Future. This day complications resulting in over 7.5 million deaths
commemorates the birth of Florence Nightingale annually.
(founder of modern nursing), who was born on May 30. International Museum Day is observed annually on
12, 1820, in Italy. She was a nurse, statistician, and May 18 in order to recognize the vital role that
social reformer. She gained prominence during the museums play in fostering cultural exchange.
Crimean War in the 1850s. Note: 2023 theme: Museums, Sustainability, and
25. World Migratory Bird Day is observed twice a year Well-being. This theme highlights the crucial role that
on the second Saturday of May and October. museums can assume in advancing the concepts of
Note: Aim: To promote the conservation of migratory well-being and sustainability. This day was first
birds and raise awareness about their significance. In
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 celebrated four decades ago in 1977 by the Commonwealth citizens in celebration of their shared
International Council of Museums (ICOM). values and principles and pursue a common future,
31. National Endangered Species Day is observed centered on sustainability and peace. It serves as an
annually on Third Friday of May each year to raise opportunity to raise awareness of the
awareness about endangered species and the need for accomplishments of 54 Commonwealth countries in
their conservation. various areas
Note: In 2023, this day is celebrated on May 19. 2023 35. Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed annually on May
theme: Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 28 to highlight the importance of good menstrual
Endangered Species Act. In 1973, the Endangered hygiene and break stigma around menstruation.
Species Act was passed, which is designed to protect Note: The theme for 2023 is 'Making menstruation
endangered and threatened species in the USA. In a normal fact of life by 2030. This day was selected
India, the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, was enacted. because the menstrual cycle averages 28 days in length
32. The world observed the International Day for and people on average menstruate for five days each
Biological Diversity on May 22 to increase month. This day was started by Germany-based NGO
understanding and encourage the preservation of the WASH United in 2013 and it was observed for the first
Earth’s diverse ecosystems. time on May 28, 2014.
Note: 2023 theme: From Agreement to Action: 36. International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers
Build Back Biodiversity. The origins of the is celebrated every year across the globe on May 29 to
International Day for Biological Diversity can be traced highlight the efforts of the UN peacekeepers work to
back to the United Nations Conference on Environment establish and maintain peace in conflict areas.
and Development, commonly referred to as the Earth Note: 2023 theme: Peace Begins With Me .The first
Summit, which took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in UN peacekeeping effort commenced in the Middle East
1992. in 1948 and this year (2023) marks the 75th year of
33. The non-profit organization, American Tortoise operation of UN peacekeeping. The Dag Hammarskjold
Rescue (ATR) celebrates World Turtle Day on May 23 medal was posthumously awarded to peacekeepers
every year. who passed away in 2022.
Note: Reason: To raise public awareness regarding the 37. World No Tobacco Day, also known as Anti-Tobacco
need to protect turtles, tortoises, and their rapidly Day, has been observed every year on May 31.
diminishing habitat. 2023 theme: I love Turtles .The Note: Aim: To raise awareness about the harmful
theme highlights the critical need to conserve these effects of tobacco use and to advocate for effective
species and their future in the face of dwindling policies to reduce tobacco consumption. This global
habitats. According to ATR, around 61% of turtles initiative was led by the World Health Organization.
worldwide are threatened or already extinct. 2023 theme: We need food, not tobacco. The 2023
34. Commonwealth Day is celebrated every year on theme highlights alternative crop production and
March 13, across the world, while India and some marketing opportunities for tobacco farmers and
other countries observe it on May 24. encourages them to grow sustainable crops
Note: 2023 theme: Forging a Sustainable and
Peaceful Common Future. Aim: To unite 2.5 billion

April 2023

1. World Autism day is observed annually on April 2 to Note: Theme 2023: Mine Action Cannot Wait. The
promote awareness and advocacy for the rights of UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS) leads the mine action
people with autism. community, which plays an important role in achieving
Note: This year marks the 16th anniversary of the day. the goals of mine action. On 8 December 2005, the
This year the theme is “Contribution of Autistic General Assembly declared that 4 April to observe as
Individuals at Home, at Work, in the Arts, and this day.
Policymaking.” In 2007, the United Nations General 3. India observed the 60th National Maritime Day on
Assembly officially declared April 2nd as World Autism April 5, 2023, to commemorate the sailing of the first
Awareness Day, following a proposal put forward by Indian commercial vessel, SS Loyalty.
the State of Qatar. Note: The ship sailed from Mumbai to London. This
2. International Day of Mine Awareness and day was started by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and
Assistance in Mine Action is observed every year on Waterways in 1964. The theme for 2023 has not yet
April 4 to raise awareness against explosive mines and been announced. The theme for National Maritime
gather assistance towards their eradication. Week 2023 is 'Amrit Kaal in Shipping'. World Maritime
Day is observed on 28 September.
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4. The International Day of Sport for Development “father of the Indian Constitution. He was born on April
and Peace (IDSDP) takes place on April 6 to celebrate 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh.
the role of sports and physical activity in our lives 11. India marked the 104th anniversary of the
across the globe. Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
Note: 2023 theme: Scoring for People and the Note: The Jallianwala Bagh massacre occurred on April
Planet. On August 23, 2013, the United Nations 13, 1919, in Amritsar, Punjab. The incident continues
General Assembly adopted resolution 67/296 to to remind us of the brutalities inflicted upon the Indian
proclaim April 6 as the International Day of Sport for people during British colonial rule. To commemorate
Development and Peace. This day was supported by the spirit of revolutionaries and those who lost their
the International Olympic Committee. lives in the brutal massacre, the government set up a
5. World Health Day is celebrated every year on April 7 memorial in 1951 at Jallianwala Bagh.
to spread awareness about health-related issues that 12. The International Day of Human Space Flight is
affect people all over the world. observed annually on April 12th to commemorate the
Note: On this day, World Health Organisation (WHO) beginning of human space exploration.
was founded in 1948 and this year marks the 75th Note: It also acknowledges the significant contribution
founding anniversary of WHO. This year, the theme of space science and technology in achieving the
for World Health Day is ‘Health for All’. The theme peaceful use of outer space. This day is dedicated to
highlights an opportunity for the world to look back at honoring the first human to orbit the Earth, a Russian
public health successes that have helped improve the cosmonaut, on April 12th, 1961. On April 12, 1961,
quality of life. Yuri Gagarin became the first human to journey into
6. International Conscience Day is celebrated on April outer space aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft,
5 to promote peace. completing a full orbit around the Earth.
Note: Conscience is the ability of a person to 13. National Safe Motherhood Day is observed every
distinguish between what’s right and what’s wrong. It year on April 11 for promoting the well-being and
allows people to have a moral backbone and to protect safety of mothers and expectant mothers by increasing
those who are weak. awareness of proper healthcare.
7. The Indian Government organized the Prevention of Note: It was launched by the Indian government to
Blindness Week from April 1-7 every year. decrease the number of maternal and neonatal deaths.
Note: Aim: To raise awareness about the causes and In the past, India was recognized as one of the most
prevention of blindness. The annual event aims to perilous countries to give birth to, responsible for 15%
support individuals with visual impairments and to of all maternal fatalities worldwide. This date also
promote access to eye care services. marks the anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi, the wife of
8. World Chagas Disease Day is observed every year on Mahatma Gandhi.
April 14th to raise awareness about a life-threatening 14. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj is celebrating the
illness that can cause severe heart and digestive National Panchayat Awards Week from 17th – 21st
problems. April 2023 as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav 2.0.
Note: It is also known as American trypanosomiasis, Note: The ministry has conceptualized a series of
silent disease, or silenced disease. It is more common Thematic Conferences for the National Panchayat
in Central America, Mexico, and South America. The Awards Week on the theme “Panchayaton ke
theme for 2023 is Time to integrate Chagas disease Sankalpon ki Siddhi ka Utsav”. Union Minister of
into primary health care. World Chagas Disease Day Panchayati Raj, Giriraj Singh has released a booklet on
was established in 2020. ‘Best Practices on Works of Awardee Panchayats’.
9. World Homeopathy Day is celebrated every year on 15. World Hemophilia Day is celebrated every year on
April 10th to honor the birth anniversary of Samuel April 17th to honor the birth anniversary of Frank
Hahnemann. Schnabel, who established the World Federation of
Note: Samuel Hahnemann is the founder of Hemophilia.
homeopathy and a German physician. This year (2023) Note: Aim: To raise awareness and provide
marks the 268th birth anniversary of Samuel information about hemophilia and other bleeding
Hahnemann. The theme for 2023 is ‘One Health, One disorders. It is a rare medical condition where the
Family’. blood fails to clot correctly due to the lack of specific
10. India has commemorated the 132nd birth clotting factors. Theme 2023: Access for All:
anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar on Prevention of Bleeds as the Global Standard of Care
April 14, 2023, as Ambedkar Jayanti. 16. World Heritage Day (or International Day for
Note: This day has been declared a public holiday by Monuments and Sites) is celebrated on April 18 to
the central government. He is widely recognized as the raise awareness about the importance of cultural

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 heritage and the need to preserve it for future initially proposed during the 33rd Assembly Session of
generations. the WIPO Member States in September 1988, and it
Note: Theme 2023: Heritage Changes. It was was officially established on August 9th, 1999.
established by the International Council on 22. International Girls in ICT Day is celebrated annually on
Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and was approved by Fourth Thursday of April to encourage and empower
the 22nd UNESCO General Conference in 1983. girls and young women to explore and pursue careers
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India (As of April 18, in the field of Information and Communication
2023): 40 Technology (ICT).
17. World Liver Day is observed annually on April 19 to Note: In 2023, it is being observed on April 27. 2023
raise awareness about liver-related diseases. theme: Digital Skills for Life. It raised awareness about
Note: Theme 2023: Be vigilant, do a regular liver the gender gap in the tech industry and inspires
check-up, fatty liver can affect anyone. This day women to consider careers in ICT. This day was
educates the public on lifestyle modifications that can declared by ITU on April 8, 2011.
help prevent liver diseases, such as maintaining a 23. World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed
healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting every year on April 28 to promote safe and decent
vaccinated against hepatitis. As per the WHO, liver work environments across the globe.
ailments amount to the 10th most common reason for Note: 2023 theme: A safe and healthy working
death in India. environment as a fundamental principle and right at
18. India has observed National Civil Services Day every work. It coincides with the anniversary of the 1971
year on April 21 to honour the contributions of the adoption of the Occupational Safety and Health
officers who work for the nation’s numerous public Convention by the International Labour Organization
service departments. (ILO). It was first observed in 2003 after the ILO
Note: On this day, the PM will award the officers from declared it an annual international campaign.
the central and state governments for their 24. World Veterinary Day is celebrated on Last Saturday
outstanding contributions to public administration. On of April to mark the importance of veterinary doctors
April 21, 1947, Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel (Home who serve to protect animal’s.
Minister) gave a speech to the first group of civil Note: In 2023, this day was observed on April 29. 2023
servants in Independent India at the Metcalf House. theme: Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusiveness
19. Earth Day is being celebrated every year on 22nd in the Veterinary Profession. The World Veterinary
April to honor the environmental movement and raise Association (WVA) established World Veterinary Day
awareness to protect natural resources. in 2000 to recognize the role of veterinarians in
Note: Theme for Earth Day 2023: "Invest in Our safeguarding the health and well-being of animals,
Planet". American senator Gaylord Nelson founded the people, and the environment.
Earth Day for environmental education in 1970. 25. India observed Ayushman Bharat Diwas every year on
Generally, Earth Day is either celebrated on 22nd April April 30 to promote the Ayushman Bharat Yojana
or on the day when the spring equinox occurs around values.
the world. Note: In 2018, PM Modi announced the Ayushman
20. World Malaria Day is observed every year on April 25 Bharat Yojna to give healthcare coverage to all Indians
to commemorate the recognition of global efforts to who cannot afford basic medical services. This
control malaria. initiative was established along the lines of universal
Note: WHO Member States instituted this day during health care to satisfy one of the United Nations' SDGs -
the World Health Assembly of 2007. Theme 2023: "leave no one behind." This scheme covers all expenses
Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, of patients.
implement. Malaria is a disease caused by parasites 26. India celebrates National Panchayati Raj Day every
transmitted to people through the bites of infected year on April 24 to commemorate the constitutional
female Anopheles mosquitoes. India has registered change that established the Panchayati Raj Institutions
over 85% decline in malaria cases from 2015 to 2022 (PRIs).
21. The world commemorates World Intellectual Property Note: PRIs are considered the third tier of the
Day on April 26 for promoting awareness of government. It manages the local-level administration
intellectual property and its safeguarding. in rural areas. The first Panchayati Raj system was
Note: The theme for the 2023 celebration of World initiated in the year 1993. 2023 theme: Sustainable
Intellectual Property Day is "Women and IP: Panchayat: Building Healthy, Water Sufficient, Clean &
Accelerating Innovation and Creativity". This day was Green Villages.

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 Important News – National (India)

August 2023

1. Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Note: Rural unemployment rate fell to 7. 89%, from 8.
Zubin Irani will inaugurate the G20 EMPOWER Summit in 73% in June, while the urban unemployment rate ticked
Gandhinagar. up, to 8. 06% from 7. 87% in the same period. Rural
Note: Theme- ‘Women-Led Development. Aims: To unemployment rate falls due to increased demand for
accelerate women’s leadership and empowerment in the laborers for farming work. Labour force rate in urban
private sector across G20 countries. Objective: To ensure areas also fell, indicating a broader weakness in the
sustainable, inclusive, and equitable global economic economy.
growth. Highlights: G20 EMPOWER agenda including the 7. The Government will launch the e-CARe (e-Clearance for
G20 EMPOWER Tech Equity Digital Inclusion Platform Afterlife Remains) portal to facilitate the swift transfer
and the Best Practices Playbook of mortal remains of Indians who die abroad.
2. Confederation of All India Traders has introduced the Note: Aims: To avoid delay during the transportation of
creation of an online platform National Digital Nagrik the deceased human remains across international
Forum(NDNF) to advance the rights of traders and borders. According to Health Minister Mansukh
consumers and other sections of society and shape policy Mandaviya, through this portal intimation will be sent
to boost the digital trade economy. through email, SMS, and WhatsApp to the Central
Note: NDNF will focus on five core themes. First, International Health Division, Nodal Officer and the
consumer protection and online safety with a core focus Airlines.
on efficient grievance redressal. Objectives: To conduct 8. President Draupadi Murmu will inaugurate the national
awareness camps, digital and physical dialogues and festival of India's folk and tribal expressions "Utkarsh"
training and the international literature festival "Unmesh" in
3. Earth Action has observed that Earth saw its first Plastic Bhopal.
Overshoot Day which means the point at which the Note: Culture Department Madhya Pradesh along with
amount of plastics exceeds the global waste management Sangeet Natak Akademi and Sahitya Akademi of the
capacity. Ministry of Culture is organizing this event from 3rd to 5th
Note: India is among the 12 countries which are August. The international literature festival Unmesh is
responsible for 52% of the world’s mismanaged plastic Asia's largest literary convention. 15 countries will
waste. When it comes to plastic consumption on a per- participate in the Unmesh festival.
person basis, the world’s worst offender is Iceland. The 9. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and External
global average consumption of plastic per person per year Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar jointly launched Study in
is 20. 9 kg India (SII) portal in New Delhi to simplify international
4. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has students academic journey in India.
launched the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Note: Aim: To provide comprehensive information about
Reduction. Indian Higher Education Institutions and to provide an
Note: Objective: To reach out to the masses and spread integrated one-stop solution for the student registration
awareness about substance use with a focus on higher and visa application process. It will present information
educational Institutions, university campuses & schools, about the academic facilities, research support.
reaching out & identifying dependent populations, 10. National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has
focusing on counseling & treatment facilities in hospitals, launched the 'Rajmargyatra,' a citizen-centric unified
and Capacity building programs for service providers. mobile application.
5. The Government has launched a digital crop survey in 12 Note: Aim: To create a seamless, user-friendly experience
states on a pilot basis from Kharif season of this year for for highway users. The user-centric app marks a
better sowing data collection. substantial advancement in providing travelers with
Note: Aims: To create a single and verified source of truth comprehensive information about Indian National
about the crop sown data which is useful for accurate crop Highways. It provides real-time weather updates, timely
area estimation and development of farmers' solutions. broadcast notifications and details about nearby toll
The 12 selected states are Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, plazas, petrol stations and hospitals
Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, 11. The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and
Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Odisha, Assam and Telangana Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal launched Port Health
6. According to data released by private forecaster Centre Organisation (PHO) module under Sagar Setu - National
for Monitoring Indian Economy, the total unemployment Logistics Portal (Marine) portal.
rate fell to 7. 95% in July 2023, from 8. 45% in June 2023. Note: Aim: To streamline operations, promoting Ease of
Doing Business (EODB) and ensuring the health and
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 safety of citizens and port workers. It would conduct Territories under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
disease surveillance, health inspections, and quarantine Employment Guarantee Scheme.
measures, leveraging technology to modernize and Note: Central government owes the highest amount – Rs
digitize processes. 2,770 crore – to West Bengal. MGNREGS aims to enhance
12. Along with ‘ketoprofen', aceclofenac has been prohibited livelihood security in rural areas by providing at least 100
for the production, sale, and distribution. days of wage employment in a financial year to unskilled
Note: According to a notification issued by the Union manual work.
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the production, 18. National Commission for Protection of Child Rights
sale, and distribution of ‘ketoprofen’ and ‘aceclofenac’, has developed an application named MASI for real-time
along with their formulations, for animal use are monitoring of the Child Care Institutions.
prohibited under section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Note: MASI stands for Monitoring App for Seamless
Act, 1940. The recommendation for this ban was made by Inspection. The effective and efficient functioning of the
the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB). DTAB is the mechanism for inspection of CCIs provided under the
apex authority for making statutory decisions on Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 (as amended in 2021) and
technical drug-related matters in India. synchronous monitoring of the system is the rationale
13. Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL) and Russian company behind developing this comprehensive application.
Metrowagonmash is on course to manufacture and supply 19. According to the Gov, a valid License for imports of
around 120 Vande Bharat trains to Indian Railways, at a laptops, tablets, and personal computers will be required
cost of ₹120 crore per train. from 1st November 2023.
Note: The RVNL wants a larger share of 69%, leaving 26% Note: The Centre has said that there is no ban on the
for Metrowagonmash and 5% for a third partner, import of IT Hardware as such devices can be imported
Locomotive Electronic Systems. Blue-and-white trains, after obtaining a valid license by companies or traders.
with AC, are expected to be manufactured at a railway Directorate General of Foreign Trade has prepared a
factory in Maharashtra. portal, for getting a license by applying online. Gov has
14. Cabinet has approved an outlay of ₹1. 39 lakh crore for notified Production Linked Incentive Scheme 2. 0 for IT
BharatNet, the government’s project for last-mile Hardware.
connectivity across 6. 4 lakh villages in the country in Aug 20. India is set to host its inaugural World Coffee Conference,
2023. organized by the International Coffee Organization (ICO),
Note: It is one of the biggest rural telecom projects in the in Bengaluru.
world, implemented in a phased manner to all 2. 5 lakh Note: ICO serves as the chief intergovernmental
gram panchayats in the country for last-mile broadband organization aimed at advancing coffee trade and
connectivity. Cabinet has approved ₹1,39,579 crore fund encouraging collaboration among coffee-producing and
for providing last-mile optical fiber-based connectivity to consuming countries. K G Jagadeesha, CEO, and Secretary
homes in all the villages of Coffee Board of India, revealed that tennis player Rohan
15. The Finance Ministry has imposed a definitive anti- Bopanna would endorse the event as its brand
dumping duty on certain optical fibre imports from ambassador.
China, South Korea and Indonesia. 21. Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and
Note: Aim: To give some relief to the domestic optical Centre for Development of Telematics have signed MoU to
fibre industry reeling under the adverse impact of low- establish the mechanism of technical and institutional
price and low-quality imports. The anti-dumping duty cooperation in telecommunications.
ranges from $122 per kfkm to $857. 23 per kfkm, with the Note: According to Secretary of the Department of
commodity being traded in fkm (fibre kilometres). Optical Telecommunication T K Rajaraman, this partnership will
fibres are used to transmit data in the form of light pulses. open new horizons in policy research, regulatory studies,
16. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is and knowledge dissemination of upcoming technologies
implementing the scheme of “Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana” in the telecom and broadcasting sectors.
in August 2023. 22. National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited
Note: Objective: To provide the senior citizens, suffering and Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India
from any of the age related disability/infirmity, with (ALIMCO) have signed a MoU for 1,000 Divyangjans.
assisted living devices that can restore near normalcy in Note: Aim: To provide CSR support for distribution of aids
their bodily functions. Scheme: In the assessment camp, and assistive devices to around 1,000 Divyangjans
the ALIMCO identifies the beneficiaries, suffering from the (Persons with Disabilities) in the vicinity of NHPC Projects
age related disability, for required aids & appliances. located in North and North Eastern states.
17. According to Minister of State for the Ministry Of Rural 23. Subroto Mukherjee Sports Education Society (SMSES)
Development, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti informed that the have signed MoU with the All India Football Federation
Centre owes Rs 6,366 crore in dues to states and Union (AIFF) to promote football at the grassroots level.

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 Note: SMSES would form a Subroto XI team under Junior Note: Out of 508, 13 stations are listed in Karnataka.
Boys (Under-17) from this edition onwards. According to Aims: To transform and modernize 1,309 railway stations
SMSES member Alok Sharma that the team will also across the nation and enhance the overall passenger
participate in AIFF Youth Competition from the 2023-24 experience and make them world-class travel hubs. Gov is
season. Workshop will be held by AIFF for coaches to working to transform the railway stations across the
update and educate them. country in line with its vision of ‘Naya Bharat’.
24. Arunachal Pradesh signed two MoUs with the union 30. Meri Mati Mera Desh campaign has been launched to pay
education ministry, under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar tribute to the ‘Veers’ who laid down their lives for the
Shiksha Abhiyan and the Pradhan Mantri e-Vidya in New countrys.
Delhi. Note: AIM: It will include programs at the village, and
Note: The first MoU is for the implementation of the block levels , by local urban bodies, as well as state and
newly launched PM-USHA, signed on behalf of the state’s national level. During the campaign of “Meri Mati Mera
higher & technical education directorate. The second one Desh”, an Amrit Kalash Yatra will also be taken out. It will
is the MoU for the launching of PM e-Vidya, signed on start on 9th August, with scheduled programs until
behalf of the State Council of Educational Research & Independence Day 2023.
Training. 31. According to the World Trade Statistical Review 2023, the
25. The Ministry of Railways and IIT Madras signed a MoU in annual flagship publication of the World Trade
Secunderabad to establish the India 5G testbed at the Organization (WTO), India ranked 18th among the
Indian Railway Institute of Signal Engineering and Leading exporters in world merchandise trade (2022).
Telecommunications (IRISET). Note: On a global scale, India holds the 9th spot in
Note: Aim: To enhance its operational efficiency, merchandise importing and ranks 7th in merchandise
passenger experience and overall safety. It would serve as exporting (2022). The leading exporters in world
a cutting-edge facility to conduct comprehensive trials of merchandise trade for the year 2022 are China, the USA,
5G-enabled applications tailored for Railway operations. and Germany, occupying the top three positions.
26. The Bureau of Indian Standards signed an MoU with 35 32. India will contribute 700,000 USD from the India-UN
prestigious institutions for fostering collaboration in Development Partnership Fund to the Tuvalu project in
standardization and conformity assessment. August 2023.
Note: The institutions included some prominent NITs, Note: Aim: To store and supply clean water to students,
Government and Private Engineering colleges from teachers, and school staff, fostering good hygiene and
different states nationwide. It will pave the way for the lowering the incidence of water-borne illnesses. In May
partner institutions to participate in standardization 2023, PM Narendra Modi announced the “Sagar Amrut
activities by associating with the technical committees of Scholarship” scheme for the Pacific Island countries, at the
the Bureau at the national and international levels. Summit of the Forum for India–Pacific Islands
27. India has handed over INR 450 million in advance to Sri Cooperation.
Lanka to fund its unique digital identity project in Aug 33. After passing the IIM (Amendment) Bill 2023 in the
2023. ongoing Monsoon Session, in the Parliament, the National
Note: It is the most crucial step in the island nation's Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) would be
digitalization program being implemented through the officially renamed as Indian Institute of Management,
Indian grant assistance. Aims: To collect biographic and Mumbai (IIM Mumbai).
biometric information which will be stored in a Note: With this, NITIE becomes the 21st IIM of India and
centralised system to issue identification cards as per the second in Maharashtra, after IIM Nagpur. Presently, NITIE
standards set by the International Civil Aviation ranked 7th in the Management Category by National
Organisation (ICAO). Institute Ranking Framework (NIRF) in 2023.
28. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman laid the 34. The Minister of Coal, Pralhad Joshi informed in Lok Sabha,
foundation stone for an archeological museum at Coal/Lignite PSUs have established 15 Eco-parks during
Adichanallur, located in Tamil Nadu. the last 5 years.
Note: Objective: To focus on establishing the significance Note: No fund has been allocated by the Government for
of the archaeological sites identified as part of the cultural Eco-parks. It was developed by Coal/Lignite PSUs for
landscape of the Thamirabarani valley, not limiting to the recreational purposes of nearby localities and no revenue
site of Adichanallur. Adichanallur was one of the five earned from these Eco-parks is spent on the development
archaeological sites declared to be developed as ‘Iconic of the mining areas. Kenapara Eco-Park, SECL,
Sites’ in the Union Budget 2020-21. Chhattisgarh is run and maintained by local SHGs to
29. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched work on the promote mine tourism.
redevelopment of 13 railway stations in the State under 35. Air India unveiled its mega brand makeover and new
the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. logo, which signifies “limitless possibilities” in August
2023.
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 Note: AI’s new logo 'The Vista’ includes a modern design Note: The Scheme marks a stride towards transparency
with golden, red and purple colours. It is inspired by the and efficiency as the skilled workforce is paramount, to
peak of the gold window frame, signifying limitless encompass policy evolution. Objective: To focus on the
possibilities, progressiveness, and the airline’s bold, vision of making skilling an apprenticeship aspirational as
confident outlook for the future. It represents the spirit of well as encouraging earning while learning as envisioned
a bold new India, marking a significant turning point in its in the National Education Policy.
Vihaan. 42. The Indian School of Business (ISB’s) Bharti Institute of
36. SEBI reduced the timeline for listing of securities after the Public Policy signed an MoU with Goa to begin a
closing of IPO (Initial Public Offering) to three days from knowledge partnership with a focus on evidence-based
the present requirement of six working days. policy formulation and its impact in the State.
Note: The reduction in timelines will benefit both issuers Note: Objectives: To improve the social and economic
as well as investors. Issuers will have faster access to the prosperity indicators through evidence-based public
capital raised thereby enhancing the ease of doing policy interventions, capacity-building workshops, and
business, and the investors will have opportunity for citizen-centric governance-based initiatives as a
having early credit and liquidity of their investments knowledge partner.
37. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma launched the 43. Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology Delhi
Rs 500 crore (amount) Chief Minister's Solar Mission for Innovation and Incubation Centre (IIITD-IC) signed a MoU
minimizing the power deficit in this northeastern hill with YES BANK to enable IIITD-IC to strengthen its
state in August 2023. mentoring initiatives for startups.
Note: The mission will be a flagship Renewable Energy Note: It will also identify newer investment and funding
intervention committed to fostering green and clean opportunities that can benefit startups. Under the
energy transformation across the state. The mission will partnership, YES BANK will offer banking facilities to
begin a new era of resilience, independence, and green Startups that are in a developmental phase at IIITD-IC
progress for Meghalaya. under the Bank’s YES Head Startup program.
38. National Company Law Tribunal approved the merger 44. The Union Minister for Animal Husbandry and Dairying,
scheme of India’s homegrown entertainment company Parshottam Rupala has unveiled the 'A-HELP'
Zee Entertainment Enterprises with Culver Max (Accredited Agent for Health and Extension of
Entertainment in Aug 2023. Livestock Production) along with an Infertility Camp in
Note: Aim: To create a $10-billion Indian media giant. ZEE Gujarat.
will have 30 days to file with the registrar of companies, Note:Gov is leading these initiatives as part of the
following which, the shares of the company will be de- Pashudhan Jagrati Abhiyaan under Inclusive
listed from the stock exchanges and the merged company Development. Objective: To mark a significant stride
will get re-listed in another six weeks towards empowering women, enhancing livestock
39. Niveshak Sarathi was launched by Investor Education productivity, and advancing the socio-economic
and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) CEO Anita Shah landscape of the region.
Akella. 45. Veteran actor Victor Banerjee and Amitabh Kant (India's
Note: Theme: From Unawareness to Financial G20 Sherpa) have inaugurated the G20 Film Festival,
Independence. Aims: To disseminate crucial financial which was held in New Delhi.
education and raise awareness against fraudulent Note:Aims: To celebrate and showcase a vibrant and
schemes across the Delhi NCR region. These vans are collaborative partnership existing amongst the G20 and
equipped with a TV screen running “Hisab Ki Kitab,” invited countries in the field of cinema. It is organized by
developed by IEPFA. the India International Centre and the G20 Secretariat of
40. Union Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation stone for the Ministry of External Affairs. The event will continue
the Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited Nano till 2nd September.
Urea Plant at Gandhidham in Kutch in August 2023. 46. The G20 4th Digital Economy Working Group and Digital
Note: Aims: To fulfill 3 primary goals which include Economy Ministerial meetings will be held in Bengaluru
achieving self-sufficiency in food production and bringing from August 16th to 19th.
prosperity to the farmers. This will reduce imports of Note:Aim: To discuss the various issues relating to digital
fertilizers and make India self-reliant in the field of information, service delivery to citizens and the growth of
fertilizers and conserve the nutrients of the soil and the digital economy. There would be the Digital
ensure judicious use of fertilizers. Innovation Alliance summit on August 17 and 18th to
41. Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan recognize and support innovators from various G20
launched the Direct Benefit Transfer in National member countries and Guest countries.
Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme in New Delhi in 47. The special scheme named Vishwakarma scheme would
August 2023. be launched by the government of India for traditional
craftsmen and workers during Vishwakarma Jayanti.
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 Note: Objective: To benefit individuals skilled in Note:Goal: To establish the world’s highest motorable
traditional craftsmanship, particularly from the OBC road, spanning an altitude of approximately 19,400 feet,
community. Weavers, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, laundry surpassing the previous record held by Umling La Pass.
workers, barbers, and their families will be empowered The proposed road between Likaru-Migla-Fukche would
through the Vishwakarma Yojana. The PM showcase the provide an axis connecting Hanle to CDFD road at Fukche.
importance of capitalising on the demographic dividend 53. All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)
and preparing a skilled workforce partnered with the Jio Institute for a Faculty Development
48. The first-ever crude oil transaction under the newly Programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data
implemented Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system Science.
took place between Abu Dhabi National Oil Company and Note: Aim: To empower academic leaders and senior
Indian Oil Corporation Limited. Faculty members with a deep understanding of AI and
Note: Both Indian Rupees and UAE Dirhams were used for Data Science while also emphasizing on the ethical
the transaction. India and UAE have a strong oil and gas considerations of utilizing AI tools for immersive learning.
relationship and the UAE is a key partner for India's This is being initiated under AICTE’s ATAL (AICTE
energy security. UAE is the fourth largest source of crude Training and Learning) programme
oil and the second largest source of LNG and LPG for 54. World Health Organization (WHO) and the G20 India
India.Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari launched the presidency announced a new Global Initiative on Digital
Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP) Health (GIDH) at the Health Minister’s Meeting of the G20
to improve road safety through raising the safety Summit.
standards of motor vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes in India. Note:The new GIDH initiative will operate as a WHO-
Note: Aim: To provide a tool to the car customers to make managed network and platform to support the
a comparative assessment of crash safety of motor implementation of the Global Strategy on Digital Health
vehicles available in the market. Under Bharat NCAP, car 2020–2025. WHO is committed to working with countries
manufacturers can voluntarily offer their cars for testing to strengthen their capacities and to improve access to
as per the Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) 197. quality-assured digital solutions.
49. India and Trinidad and Tobago have recently entered 55. Union Minister of State Science & Technology Jitendra
into a significant partnership by signing a Memorandum Singh launched the CSIR Prima ET11, the first indigenous
of Understanding (MoU) to share the renowned INDIA e-Tractor developed by the Central Mechanical
STACK technology. Engineering Research Institute (CMERI), Durgapur.
Note:This collection of open APIs and digital public goods, Note: Jitendra Singh focused on the role of Agri StartUps
pioneered by India, is designed to enhance identity, data, in India’s economy and called for the adoption of new and
and payment services on a large scale.This move reflects AI-driven technologies in Agriculture. An increasing
India’s commitment to aiding the digital transformation of number of new Startups are venturing into the
nations through collaboration and technology sharing. Agriculture sector, focussing on niche technology.
50. The union cabinet approved ‘PM-eBus Sewa’ for 56. The 1st Foreign Office Consultations FOC between India
augmenting city bus operations under which 10,000 e- and Samoa was held in Apia.
buses will be deployed across cities in the country. Note: Aim: To discuss their wide-ranging bilateral
Note: Aim: To improve public transport in cities and is relations including their development partnership
also in line with India’s objectives concerning climate covering areas such as health, Information and
change. Rs 57,613 crores will be spent on this project and Communications Technology ICT, Education, and Small
around 10,000 new electric buses will be provided across and Medium Sized Enterprises SME. They also discussed
the country.Under this scheme, priority will be given to follow-up on Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation
cities not having organized bus services. FIPIC III Summit, as well as regional and global issues
51. The finance ministry will organise a two-day Chintan 57. The 4th G20 Culture Working Group (CWG) Meeting will
Shivir in which Indian state starting from August 20 2023 begin in Varanasi in August 2023.
held at the Statue of Unity at Kevadia, Gujarat. Note: Aim: To arrive at actionable outcomes while
Note:Aim: To discuss various issues including the positioning culture at the heart of policy-making. G20
roadmap for India to become a developed nation by 2047. Culture: Shaping the Global Narrative for Inclusive
Objective: To review the work of the Ministry and to Growth”. will be launched in Varanasi as a part of the
evolve an action plan to implement Prime Minister Shri Culture Ministers’ Meeting. The CWG will also release a
Narendra Modi's “Vision 2047”. FinMin Nirmala special stamp to commemorate the Culture Unites All’
Sitaraman reviewed the progress of the G 20 Finance campaign to highlight India’s unwavering belief in
track. multilateralism.
52. Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has embarked on a 58. Sachin Tendulkar has been appointed as the ‘National
groundbreaking project to construct the ‘Likaru-Mig La- Icon’ for voter awareness and education for the election
Fukche’ road in Ladakh. commission of India.
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 Note: MoU will be signed with Sachin for a period of three 64. The Ministry of Education and All India Council of
years in the presence of Chief Election Commissioner Technical Education have launched the sixth edition of
Rajiv Kumar in New Delhi. Aim: To bridge the gap the Smart India Hackathon 2023.
between citizens, especially youth and urban populations, Note: Aim: To showcase the growing culture of
and the electoral process thereby, trying to address the innovation in India’s education sector. Objective: To bring
challenges of urban and youth apathy. together the creativity of India’s young minds with real-
59. Minister of Science Jitendra Singh launched "NBRI world challenges faced by various government
Namoh 108", a unique variety of Lotus (Nelumbo departments. It has become a global model for hackathons
nucifera) with 108 petals, in Lucknow. and innovation frameworks, reflecting its dynamic
Note: It was developed by the Council of Scientific & evolution over time.
Industrial Research- National Botanical Research 65. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in partnership with
Institute (CSIR-NBRI), Lucknow. He also introduced IIT Bombay and Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation
apparel made from lotus fibre and perfume 'Frotus'. The launched HSBC India’s strategic partnerships to enable
perfume is extracted from lotus flowers and was innovation in green hydrogen.
developed by NBRI, and the Fragrance & Flavour Note: Aim: To provide a roadmap towards reducing
Development Centre. carbon intensity in the economy and enable the creation
60. Government e-Marketplace, GeM has crossed One lakh of green job opportunities. Green hydrogen has a pivotal
crore rupees Gross Merchandise Value in the current role to play as we counter climate change and work
financial year 23-24. towards enabling a low-carbon and self-reliant economy
Note: The average GMV per day has also witnessed 66. Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari
growth from INR 412 crore per day in FY 22-23 to INR 690 launched the world's first 100 percent Ethanol-fueled car
crore per day in FY 23-24. About GeM: It is an online in New Delhi.
platform for the procurement of goods and services by Note: Aim: To reduce carbon footprint, improve
government departments, public sector units, and other sustainable mobility, and decrease the country's
agencies. It is working towards promoting the Make in dependency on traditional fuel sources. According to
India initiative. Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri
61. The standard issued by Ministry of New and Renewable with the implementation of 20 percent ethanol blending
Energy to outline the emission thresholds that must be in petrol, the country will save 35 thousand crore rupees
met in order for hydrogen produced to be classified as annually as import bill.
‘Green’, i. e. , from renewable sources. 67. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
Note: The scope of the definition encompasses both will organize the first edition of the Global IndiaAI 2023 in
electrolysis-based and biomass-based hydrogen October 2023.
production methods. The Ministry of New & Renewable Note: The leading AI players, researchers, startups, and
Energy has decided to define Green Hydrogen as having a investors in India and worldwide will participate in the
well-to-gate emission of not more than 2 kg CO2 event. Union MoS for Skill Development &
equivalent/kg H2. Entrepreneurship and Electronics & IT, Rajeev
62. India has handed over the B20 presidency to Brazil to Chandrasekhar chairs the conference’s steering
host G20 in 2024. committee which is entrusted with the task of shaping the
Note: According to B20 India Chair N Chandrasekaran contours of the Global IndiaAI 2023.
India's B20 Presidency under the its G20 Presidency 68. Two world-famous local specialty products of Jammu
worked under the theme of Vasaudeva Katumbakam (One and Kashmir, namely Bhaderwah Rajma and Ramban
Earth, One Family, One Future). Worked on 9 themes Sulai Honey have earned coveted Geographical Indication
which included the empowerment of women and youth, (GI) Tag.
the transition towards an Artificial Intelligence world, Note: The process for GI Tagging of these products was
building a global resilient supply chain, and financing for initiated by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers
the global economic recovery. Welfare, Jammu. GI tagging will also promote the
63. Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal economic prosperity of locals in the geographical
launched Tele-Law- 2. 0 which Integrates Tele-Law and territory and will act as a tool for social economic growth
Nyaya Bandhu App to ensure access to Justice in New of the producer.
Delhi. 69. Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
Note: Aim: To enable the common citizen to access legal (IREDA) has signed a performance-based MoU with the
advice, legal assistance, and legal representation through Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of
a single registration and single gateway of Tele-Law. The India.
Minister called upon legal professionals to contribute pro Note: The Ministry of Finance outlines strategic targets
bono services to ensure that no citizen is deprived of that IREDA aims to achieve during the fiscal years 2023-
essential legal assistance. 24 and 2024-25. IREDA is a Mini Ratna (Category - I),
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 Government of India, enterprise. The Gov of India has set with third and fourth freedom traffic rights to and from
a Revenue from Operation target of Rs 4,350 crores for the six points in India, namely New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru,
FY 2023-24 and Rs 5,220 crores for 2024-25 Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
70. NHPC signed MoU with Rail India Technical and Economic 76. The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment and the
Service to construct railway siding for a 2,880 MW Dibang National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development
multipurpose project. Corporation (NSKFDC) signed an MoU for 2023-25.
Note: NHPC's total installed capacity is 7,097. 2 MW of Note: Aim: To enhance the socio-economic upliftment of
renewable power (including wind and solar) through its Safai Karamcharis, and their dependants focusing on
25 power stations, including 1,520 MW through its empowering these marginalized communities across the
subsidiary. RITES will provide comprehensive and nation. The MoU underscores the commitment to
efficient solutions for developing rail infrastructure accelerate inclusive growth through the effective
facilities for NHPC Dibang allocation and utilization of funds for targeted welfare
71. Indian Coast Guard has signed a MoU with the Philippine programs.
Coast Guard to enhance maritime cooperation in New 77. South African President and BRICS Chair Cyril Ramaphosa
Delhi. has announced that the group has invited Argentina,
Note: Aim: To enhance bilateral maritime cooperation Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE to become
between the two nations for ensuring safe, secure, and full members of the bloc from January 1, 2024.
clean seas in the region. Objective: To enhance the Note: Aim: To open the doors for numerous interested
professional linkage between the two Coast Guards in the countries to align with a coalition committed to
domain of Maritime Law Enforcement, Maritime Search championing the interests of the "Global South". It can be
and Rescue, and Marine Pollution Response. an example of reforms in other global institutions that
72. NHPC Limited has signed an MoU with APGENCO for the were established in the 20th century
implementation of Pumped Hydro Storage Projects and 78. 26th edition of the National Conference on e-Governance
Renewable Energy Projects in Andhra Pradesh. is being organized in Indore to deliberate on providing
Note: The MoU envisages the implementation of two better facilities to the citizens.
identified Pumped Hydro Storage Projects with a total Note: Theme: 'Developed India: Empowering Citizens'.
capacity of 1,950 MW. The projects will be implemented Aim: To focus on 11 subjects including district level
under Joint Venture mode. The MoU seeks to harness initiatives, emerging technologies for providing citizen-
Pump Storage Projects as Energy Storage Solutions to centric facilities and data governance. Organized by the
achieve the national objective of clean and green energy. Department of Administrative Reforms and Public
73. An MoU was signed between the Inland Waterways Grievances and Ministry of Electronics in collaboration
Authority of India and Numaligarh Refinery Limited to with Gov of MP
use the National Waterways-2 (Brahmaputra) and Indo- 79. Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 15th
Bangladesh Protocol Route. BRICS Summit, which was held under chairship of South
Note: Reason: For export of petroleum products to Africa.
Bangladesh and other southeast Asian countries in Note: Aim: To discuss global economic recovery,
Guwahati. Aim: To fulfill the ‘Hydrocarbon Vision 2030 for partnership with Africa and the Global South, and review
Northeast’ by enabling inland waterways transportation the progress made on the BRICS agenda so far. During his
via NW2 and IBPR, unveiling a new chapter of EXIM trade address, the PM called for a strengthened BRICS that is: B
for the Northeast region - Breaking barriers. R - Revitalising economies. I -
74. NITI Aayog and United Nations Development Inspiring Innovation. C - Creating opportunities. S -
Programme signed an MoU to formalize a cooperative Shaping the future
framework to fast-track India's pursuit to achieve its 80. The B20 Summit India 2023 has been started in New
sustainable development goals (SDGs). Delhi on August 25th, 2023.
Note: Objective: To focus on the two organizations' Note: The three-day Summit will be attended by Union
cooperation in a range of areas, including SDG Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, Dr. S Jaishankar, G20 India
localization, and data-driven monitoring, among others. Sherpa Amitabh Kant, Trade Ministers of various
NITI Aayog is the nodal Institution for coordinating the countries, and several business leaders. PM Narendra
adoption and monitoring of SDGs at the national and sub- Modi will attend the special session on the 27th of August
national levels. as Chief Guest. Theme of B20 India: R. A. I. S. E:
75. India and New Zealand have signed a MoU to boost Responsible, Accelerated, Innovative, Sustainable,
cooperation in civil aviation in New Delhi. Equitable Businesses.
Note: Aim: To cover the scheduling of new routes, 81. CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan has inaugurated the scheme
codeshare services, traffic rights, and capacity Mukhyamantri Seekho-Kamao yojna means 'Chief
entitlement. The designated airlines of New Zealand may Minister's Learn-Earn' scheme in Madhya Pradesh.
operate any number of services with any type of aircraft,
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 Note: The scheme has facilitated on-the-job training on Note: The scheme has been extended to 31,000
the lines of 'learn and earn along with skill development, government schools across the state benefitting 17 lakh
and has been started for the youth in the age group of 18 students. Initially, the scheme was devised to provide
to 29 yrs. Under the scheme, the selected youth will be nutritious breakfast to 1,14,095 students of classes 1 to 5
given training according to the requirements of the studying in 1,545 government schools and an amount of
industries and also get an 8 to 10 thousand rupees Rs 33. 56 crore was allocated for this scheme.
stipend. 87. Government to launch a new scheme for Promotion of
82. The cabinet approved the continuation of the North East Research and Innovation in Pharma- Med Sector with a
Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) total outlay of Five thousand crore rupees.
with an approved outlay of Rs. 8139. 50 crore. Note: Objective: To transform the Indian Pharma Med
Note: Objective: To support infrastructure development Tech sector from cost-based competitiveness to
in identified sectors including connectivity in the North innovation-based growth by strengthening the research
Eastern States. For the period from 2022-23 to 2025-26, infrastructure in the country. Aim: To promote the
Cabinet approved two components: NESIDS-Road and growth of the pharma industry in the country, enhance
NESIDS-Other Than Road Infrastructure. The scheme is a manufacturing of drugs and promote research and
central sector scheme with 100% central funding. innovation in the sector.
83. State Bank of India introduced a facility to allow 88. Karnataka launched the 'Gruha Lakshmi' women's
customers to enrol in social security schemes by just financial aid scheme in Mysuru.
furnishing an Aadhaar card. Note: Under this scheme, about 1. 1 crore women heads
Note: Aim: To make the process of enrolling in various of family will get ₹2,000 each at a function in Mysuru.
social security schemes simpler. Customers visiting CSPs 'Gruha Lakshmi' scheme is one of the five pre-poll
will need only their Aadhaar cards to enrol in schemes 'guarantees' of the Congress, which ousted the BJP from
such as Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, the power in the Karnataka Assembly election held in May.
Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, and the Atal The government has earmarked ₹17,500 crore for 'Gruha
Pension Yojana. Lakshmi' programme in the current financial year.
84. Ministry of Jal Shakti released the report on the sixth 89. The Textiles Ministry released the guidelines of the
census on minor irrigation schemes. GREAT scheme (Grant for Research and
Note: 23. 14 million minor irrigation (MI) schemes have Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in
been reported in the country, out of which 21. 93 million Technical Textiles, under which they will provide a
are groundwater and 1. 21 million are Surface Water grant-in-aid of up to Rs 50 lakh for startups and
schemes. UP has the largest number of MI schemes in the individuals to promote innovation in the niche technical
country followed by Maharastra. For the first time, textiles segment.
information about the gender of the owner of the MI Note: They would grant-in-aid of aup to Rs 50 lakh for up
scheme was also collected in case of individual ownership. to a period of 18 months. Additionally, they will provide
85. Madhya Pradesh has raised the financial aid given to 10% of the total grant-in-aid to incubators.
women in the Ladli Behna scheme from Rs 1,000 to Rs 90. Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda has
1,250 per month. inaugurated the ‘Awareness Campaign and Training of
Note: He also announced 35 percent reservation for them Trainers’ initiative.
in government jobs and provided gas cylinders for Rs 450. Note: Aim: To educate grassroots workers and enable
Under the programme, women between the ages of 23 them to raise awareness about sickle cell anemia,
and 60, who do not pay income taxes and whose families particularly in tribal regions. The government aims to
make less than Rs 2. 5 lakh annually, receive Rs 1,000 eradicate the disease by 2047, under its National Sickle
every month. Cell Anemia Elimination Mission targets. PM Narendra
86. Tamil Nadu launched the expansion of the state Modi formally launched the mission on July 1 in Shahdol
government’s breakfast scheme at Thirukkuvalai. district, MP.

July 2023

1. PM Narendra Modi launched the National Sickle Cell Maharashtra, Rajasthan, MP, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh,
Anaemia Elimination Mission in the Shahdol district of WB, Odisha, TN, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka,
Madhya Pradesh. Assam, UP, Kerala, Bihar, and UK).
Note: Aim: To eradicate anemia by 2047. He also 2. The Union Government has revised the Crop Residue
distributed sickle cell genetic status cards to the Management guidelines enabling efficient ex-situ
beneficiaries at the event.The mission would be management of paddy straw generated in Punjab,
implemented in 278 districts of 17 states in India (Gujarat, Haryana, UP and Delhi.
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 Note: As per the revised guidelines, techno-commercial Foundation for Development of Rural Value Chains (a Not
pilot projects for Paddy Straw Supply Chain will be for Profit Company constituted jointly by the Ministry of
established under bilateral agreement between the Rural Development and Tata Trust).
Beneficiary or Aggregator (Farmers, rural entrepreneurs, 9. According to the Exports data, released by the
Cooperative Societies of FPOs and Panchayats) and government for FY23, Tamil Nadu ($5. 37 billion) has
Industries utilizing the paddy straw. emerged as the top exporter of electronics in India.
3. Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Note: As per the data, TN overtook UP and Karnataka to
Trade (DPIIT) has successfully organized the National emerge as India's top electronics exporter in March 2023.
Workshop on Industrial Park Rating System (IPRS) in Reason: The global giants Foxconn and Pegatron
New Delhi. accelerated iPhone exports last year. In FY23, UP placed
Note: IPRS was launched by DPIIT in 2018 with the help second in electronics exports, exporting $4.90 billion, and
of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Ministry of Karnataka third with $4.52 billion.
Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). It is an 10. Department of Telecommunications has launched
extension of the India Industrial Land Bank (IILB) Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA) to drive innovation and
platform which features more than 4,500 industrial parks. collaboration in next-generation wireless technology.
4. Union Minister of Ports, Sarbananda Sonowal launched a Note: Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA) is a collaborative
campaign to transform 75 historic Lighthouses into platform consisting of public and private companies,
Tourism Spots in India. academia, research institutions, and standards
Note: Under this campaign, the historic lighthouses were development organizations. The website for Bharat6G
renovated with adequate facilities to act as tourist spots. Alliance has been also launched. Bharat 6G Alliance will
It is in line with the visionary approach of PM Modi to forge coalitions and synergies with other 6G Global
transform India’s distinctive lighthouses into captivating Alliances.
tourism sites. Aim: To showcase the rich culture, 11. PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Sai Hira Global
significance, and allure of these magnificent structures. Convention Centre in Puttaparthi in Satya Sai district in
5. Ministry of Women and Child Development has Andhra Pradesh via video conferencing.
organized a one-day Regional Symposium on Child Note: The inauguration witnessed the presence of
Protection, Safety, and Child Welfare in New Delhi. prominent dignitaries and devotees from around the
Note: The event was participated by the states and UTs world. The Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust has constructed a
i.e. Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, new facility at Prasanthi Nilayam, Puttaparthi. Prasanthi
Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Chandigarh, J&K, and Ladakh. It Nilayam is the main ashram of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The
started with a series of regional symposiums to be held Convention Centre was donated by philanthropist Ryuko
across the country to raise awareness and outreach about Hira
child protection, safety, and welfare issues. 12. Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy signed an MoU with
6. Union Minister for Environment Bhupender Yadav Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation Ltd for the
inaugurated a three-day celebration program of the 108th planning, development, construction, and commissioning
Zoological Survey of India Day in Kolkata. of a gallery.
Note: The Special Focus of this day is ‘Mission Life'. ZSI Note: Theme of the gallery “Evolution of Indian Navy &
has completed its 108 glorious years dedicated to the Indian Coast Guard”. The Government of India is building
service of faunal diversity. Minister has also appreciated the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at the
the efforts of ZSI in establishing globally well-known historic Indus Valley civilization region of Lothal (Gujarat)
protected areas. under the aegis of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and
7. Union Home Minister Amit Shah approved the release of Waterways.
Rs 6,194.40 crore to 19 states under the State Disaster 13. National Anti-Doping Agency, India (NADA India) has
Response Fund (SDRF). signed an MoU with South Asia Regional Anti-Doping
Note: The amount includes Rs 1,209.60 crore as a central Organization (SARADO) to increase Regional Cooperation
share of the SDRF to four states (Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya, in anti-doping in sports.
Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh) for 2022-23. Rs 4,984.80 Note: The MoU was signed between Ritu Sain (DG & CEO,
crore will also be given to 15 states (Andhra Pradesh, AP NADA India) and Mohamed Mahid Shareef (DG, SARADO),
Assam, Bihar, Goa, Haryana, HP, Kerala, Maharashtra, in the presence of Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports,
Manipur, Meghalaya, Odisha, Punjab, TN, and Tripura) Anurag Singh Thakur. SARADO members include anti-
8. Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods doping organizations from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives,
Mission (DAY-NRLM) launched a eSARAS mobile App. Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
Note: It will add to eCommerce initiatives for products 14. Meesho has signed a memorandum of understanding
made by the SHGs. Aim: To strengthen the marketing with the Vision & AI Lab of the Indian Institute of Science
support for products made by women of SHGs. The for one year.
eSARAS fulfillment center will be managed by the
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 Note: Aim: To collaborate in the area of generative Equitable Society". More than 100 foreign delegates
artificial intelligence. The goal of this partnership is to including Research Ministers from 29 G-20 members,
foster innovation in generative artificial intelligence and invited guest countries and international organizations to
multimodal large language models in the e-commerce participate in the meeting.
industry, thus enhancing user experience. 21. 4th edition of the Space Economy Leaders Meeting has
15. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) and the started in Bengaluru on July 6.
Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture (ICFA) have Note: It dwells upon the sharing of the space mission
signed an MoU to promote mutual growth and economy, the responsibilities of space agencies, and
development in the food and agriculture sectors of the alliances in space missions. The goal will be to improve
UAE and India. the space economy share in the global economy in a
Note: The agreement strengthens the strategic responsible and sustainable manner. Cultural
collaboration between the two countries. The partnership Programmes representing India’s culture and tradition
aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, trade promotion, are also organized for foreign dignitaries.
investment, and research and development collaboration. 22. Union Power Minister R.K.Singh has inaugurated the
16. DGCA has signed an MoU with the EU Aviation Safety International Conference on Green Hydrogen 2023, which
Agency (EASA) for cooperation in Unmanned Aircraft is being organized in New Delhi from 5-7 July 2023.
Systems and Innovative Air Mobility. Note: Aim: To discuss recent advances and emerging
Note: It will focus on collaboration on unmanned aircraft technologies in the entire green hydrogen value chain. It
and innovative air mobility between the two civil aviation is being organized by the Ministry of New and Renewable
authorities. It would include cooperation in the areas of Energy, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, CSIR, and
development of certification standards and Office of Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of
environmental standards and related requirements for India in collaboration with CII.
the certification. 23. Ministry of Education has released the Performance
17. The Ministry of External Affairs signed an MoU with IIT Grading Index (PGI) for States and UTs.
Madras and the Ministry of Education and Vocational Note: Aim: To assesses the performance of the school
Training Zanzibar (Tanzania) to set up the first-ever IIT education system at the State/UT level by creating an
campus outside India. index for comprehensive analysis. The PGI - States/UTs
Note: It was signed in the presence of External Affairs was first released for the year 2017-18 and so far, has
Minister S Jaishankar and Zanzibar's President Hussein been released up to the year 2020-21. The new PGI
Ali Mwinyi. The National Education Policy 2020 structure covers 73 indicators and focuses on qualitative
recommends that high-performing Indian universities assessment including digital initiatives and teacher
will be encouraged to set up campuses in other countries. education.
18. Ministry of Home Affairs has launched a Scheme for the 24. The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) in collaboration with
Expansion and Modernization of Fire Services in the Bayer launched a unique industry visit initiative under
States with a total outlay of Rs. 5,000 Crore . Atal Tinkering labs in Vapi, Gujarat.
Note: Objective: To expand and modernize Fire Services Note: Aim: To introduce students to the latest
within National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). Out of manufacturing techniques and technologies used in
the total outlay, Rs. 500 crore has been kept for industry. Bayer has partnered with Niti Aayog since 2021
incentivizing the States on the basis of their legal and to support various initiatives of the AIM. Bayer has
infrastructure-based reforms. This scheme was adopted a total of 125 ATL schools in seven states to
announced by the Union Home Minister, Amit Shah. nurture and strengthen science-based learning.
19. PM Narendra Modi hosted the 23rd edition of the SCO 25. The Union Cabinet has approved the draft Data Protection
Summit virtually on July 4, 2023. Bill 2022 which is expected to be tabled in the Monsoon
Note: Theme 2023: Towards a SECURE SCO. SECURE session of Parliament for consideration and passage to
stands for Security, Economic development, Connectivity, safeguard the personal data.
Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, Note: If it is passed, the law will become India’s core data
and Environmental protection. The summit was attended governance framework. Key provisions include requiring
by SCO Members China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, companies collecting data to cease retaining personal
Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Observer States: information or remove any means by which personal data
Iran, Belarus, and Mongolia; Guest of the Chair: can be linked to specific data principles.
Turkmenistan 26. The Central Government issued a notification to bring the
20. The G-20 Research and Innovation Initiative Gathering Goods & Services Tax Network (GSTN) under the purview
(RIIG) Summit and Research Ministers’ Meeting started in of the PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act).
Mumbai on July 4, 2023. Note: Information stored on GSTN can be now shared
Note: In 2023, a total of 5 RIIG meetings were hosted by under PMLA Act. Due to this, it will be possible to take
India under the theme "Research and Innovation for strict action against those involved in tax evasion and
73 | P a g e
 manipulation of documents. Due to this, crimes under GST based enhancement system. It corrects the errors and
like fake input tax credits, fake invoices, etc. will be inaccuracies in the Global Navigation Satellite System
included in the PMLA Act. (GNSS). It will help mariners in safe navigation and will
27. The GST Network (GSTN) has made the geocoding reduce the risk of collisions, and accidents
functionality live for all states and UTs, which converts an 33. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has
address or description of a location into Geographic approved the EKVI Air Training Organization Pvt Ltd
coordinates. which will be based at Salem Airport, Tamil Nadu.
Note: Aim: To ensure the accuracy of address details in Note: This will be the first flying training organization
GSTN records and streamline the address location and (FTO) in Tamil Nadu. India now has 36 DGCA-approved
verification process. The functionality is available for flying schools. This will provide aspiring pilots of Tamil
normal, composition, SEZ units, SEZ developers, input Nadu training opportunities as per DGCA standards and
service distributors, and casual taxpayers who are active, contribute to the growth of the aviation industry in the
canceled, and suspended. country.
28. AB-HWCs (Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness 34. PM Modi has embarked on his two-nation tour of France
Centres) programme of India has grown to more than and the United Arab Emirates.
1.60 lakh centres and registered a footfall of over 178.87 Note: During his visit to France, he will be the Guest of
crore (as of June end). Honour at the Bastille Day Parade, where a tri-services
Note: The government will add more services including Indian armed forces contingent would be participating.
screening, prevention, control, etc. by August-end. The This year (2023) also marks the 25th anniversary of the
essential list of medicines and diagnostics has been India - France Strategic Partnership. During his visit to
expanded to make available 171 medicines at Primary UAE, he will hold talks with the UAE President and Ruler
HWCs and 105 at Secondary Health Care-HWC and 63 of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
diagnostics at PHC-HWC. 35. India’s Vizhinjam railway tunnel will adopt the New
29. The Department of School Education and Literacy Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) for undertaking the
released the Performance Grading Index for Districts tunneling works.
(PGI-D) combined report for 2020-21 and 2021-22. Note: This tunnel connects the under-construction
Note: This report assesses the performance of the school Vizhinjam International Seaport. It is being developed by
education system at the district level by creating an index the Adani Port with the railway mainline at
for comprehensive analysis. Highest grade: Daksh Balaramapuram near Thiruvananthapuram. India's
(scoring more than 90% of the total points in that largest 12.75 km long railway tunnel (T-49) is built as part
category or overall). Lowest grade: Akanshi-3 (Scores of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramula Rail Link (USBRL).
upto 10% of the total points) 36. The Urban 20 (U20) Mayoral Summit was inaugurated by
30. Housing Ministry organized a review-cum-workshop to Bhupendrabhai Patel (Chief Minister of Gujarat) and
evaluate and accelerate the planning and implementation Kaushal Kishore (Minister of State for Housing and Urban
of the SBM-Urban 2.0. Affairs) in Gandhinagar.
Note: PM Modi launched the 2.0 versions of SBM-U and Note: Gujarat CM highlighted forward-looking urban
AMRUT on October 1, 2021. SBM-U 2.0: Achieving 100% initiatives being implemented in the State. While Kaushal
waste segregation in all households and premises and Kishore highlighted the policies and programs initiated by
100% door-to-door collection of segregated waste from the Government to promote green development,
each. AMRUT 2.0: To provide complete coverage of water including the LIFE mission, promotion of renewable
supply to all households and sewerage and septage in 500 energy, etc.
AMRUT cities 37. The inaugural session of the third G20 Culture Working
31. National Law University (NLU), Delhi launched Group (CWG) meeting was organized in Hampi,
Eklavya, a ‘Research Affiliate’ program, for those who do Karnataka.
not have a traditional law degree. Note: Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Pralhad
Note: Aim: To emphasize its commitment to actively seek Joshi addressed the session. Four priority areas:
partnerships outside the varsity and draw from their Protection and restitution of cultural property.
experiences and perspectives to develop quality legal Harnessing living heritage for a sustainable future.
scholarship. It is open to those who have at least three Promotion of cultural and creative industries and creative
years of demonstrable experience working on issues that economy. Leveraging digital technologies for the
have a significant interface with the law. protection and promotion of culture
32. Union Minister of Ports Sarbananda Sonowal 38. India would host the Conference on Traditional
inaugurated the indigenous Differential Global Navigation Medicines for ASEAN Countries on 20th July 2023.
Satellite System (DGNSS) ‘SAGAR SAMPARK’. Note: The conference would be conducted by the Ministry
Note: It would provide more accurate information to the of Ayush, the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian
ships for safe navigation. About DGNSS: It is a terrestrial- Mission to ASEAN, and the ASEAN Secretariat. Aim: To
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 strengthen the platform between India and ASEAN Note: The MoU was signed in the presence of Rajnath
Countries to share their best practices and draw a Singh (Defense Minister) and Dr Mansukh Mandaviya
roadmap for future cooperation in the field of Traditional (Minister of Health). During the event, both ministers also
Medicines. ASEAN founded: 8 August 1967, HQ: Jakarta unveiled a book titled ‘Healthy Recipes for Defence’. FSSAI
39. The Election Commission of India and Panama Election CEO: G Kamala Vardhana Rao.
Tribunal signed an MoU to establish the institutional 45. Dharmendra Pradhan has launched AI for India 2. 0, a
framework for their ongoing cooperation in the field of free online training programme on Artificial Intelligence
election management and administration. on World Youth Skills’ Day.
Note: ECI has already signed MoUs with Mexico, Brazil, Note: It is a joint initiative of Skill India and GUVI, NCVET
and Chile to expand its links and cooperation with foreign and IIT Madras accredited online programme will equip
Election Management Bodies (EMBs) through its youth with frontier skills. GUVI, an IIT Madras incubated
‘International Cooperation Programme’. This is the fourth startup is a tech platform that enables tech learning in
MoU signed by ECI in the Latin Americas region vernacular languages and has been curated in 9 Indian
40. CarTrade Tech Ltd will acquire online marketplace OLX languages.
India's auto sales business for Rs 537 crore . 46. A rare and globally endangered bird species named
Note: CarTrade will acquire a 100% stake in Sobek Auto 'Jerdon's Babbler' was spotted in the buffer zone of the
India Pvt Ltd, the entity that houses OLX India’s Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR), located in Uttar Pradesh.
automotive business, in an all-cash deal. The acquisition Note: Jerdon's Babbler lives in small flocks in pairs in
will likely to be completed in 21-30 days. Sobek is a high/long grasslands and is a globally threatened bird. It
company incorporated under the Companies Act, of 2013. has been listed in the 'Vulnerable' category of the
It is engaged in the business of running an automotive International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in
digital platform. 1994.
41. L&T has signed a teaming agreement with Spanish-based 47. Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah has inaugurated the
Navantia for the submission of a techno-commercial bid National Mega Conclave on Farmers Producer
for the Indian Navy’s prestigious P75 (India) submarine Organization (FPO) in the cooperative sector.
program. Note: He also released the action plan for the formation of
Note: P75 (India) Submarine Project is expected to be 1,100 new FPOs by Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
valued at €4.8 billion. Navantia would carry out the design in New Delhi. The move is taken in the backdrop of
of P75(I) submarines based on its S80 class of government’s announcement to set up ten thousand FPOs
submarines. The first S80 class submarine was launched by 2027 and has allocated 6,900 crore rupees to achieve
in 2021 and is undergoing sea trials prior to its delivery to this goal.
Spanish Navy. 48. Coal Ministry has set a target to achieve coal gasification
42. The International Financial Services Centres Authority of 100 Million Tonnes of coal by FY 2030 to harness the
(IFSCA) and Climate Policy Initiative have signed an power of coal gasification.
MoU for mutual assistance and cooperation. Note: The proposal incorporates comprehensive
Note: Aim: To increase mobilization of global sustainable measures that capitalize on natural resources and
capital flows into India. Sustainable development is a key demonstrate coal gasification's financial and technical
priority of G20 working groups. Mobilization of feasibility. Adopting gasification technology in India will
sustainable finance is critical to achieving the transition to revolutionize the coal sector, reducing reliance on
green and resilient economies. IFSCA was established in imports of Natural Gas, Methanol, and other products.
April 2020 under the IFSC Authority Act, 2019 49. India’s overall exports (Merchandise and Services
43. International Financial Services Centers Authority combined) in June 2023 are estimated to be at USD 60. 09
(IFSCA) and IIML-EIC signed an MoU at the IIM Lucknow Billion.
EIC, Uttar Pradesh. Note: It is exhibiting a negative growth of (-)13.16% over
Note: Aim: To collaborate in supporting and facilitating June 2022. Overall imports are estimated to be USD 68. 98
FinTech and TechFin entities. IFSCA: It is responsible for Billion. Merchandise Trade: Merchandise exports: USD
the development and regulation of international financial 32. 97 Billion; Merchandise imports: USD 53. 10 Billion.
services. IIML -EIC: It is promoted by IIM Lucknow and Service Trade: Estimated value of export: USD 27. 12
supported by the National Science & Technology Billion; Estimated value of services: USD 15. 88 Billion
Entrepreneurship Development Board, Department of 50. NITI Aayog has released the third edition of the Export
Science and Technology. Preparedness Index 2022 report in New Delhi.
44. The Ministry of Defense and FSSAI signed an MoU to Note: Prepared by: NITI Aayog and Institute for
promote the use of millet & healthy eating practices Competitiveness. Evaluate 4 pillars: Policy, Business
among the Armed Forces and ensure safe & nutritious Ecosystem, Export Ecosystem, and Export Performance.
food. Top Performers: (1) TN, (2) Maharashtra, (3) Karnataka,
and (4) Gujarat. The higher average of coastal states
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 represents their better preparedness and higher release of Cursive Writing Books in the 22 vernacular
contribution to national export. languages
51. Cooperation Minister Amit Shah has launched the 57. The Regional Office of Universal Postal Union (UPU) was
‘CRCS-Sahara Refund Portal’. inaugurated in New Delhi.
Note: Aim: To strengthen the cooperative movement in Note: India would undertake UPU’s technical assistance
the country and to protect the interests of the members of activities in the South Asia region. India announced a
the cooperatives. SC directed that 5000 crore rupees be contribution of USD 2,00,000 for four years towards the
transferred out of the ‘Sahara-SEBI Refund Account’ to the UPU’s Development and Technical Assistance activities.
Central Registrar of Cooperative Societies for Aims: To support capacity building, infrastructure
disbursement against the legitimate dues of the genuine development, and other essential activities to strengthen
depositors of the Sahara Group of Cooperative Societies. the postal sector in the region.
52. International Energy Agency (IEA) has launched the Oil 58. The Indian Navy signed an MoU with Ministry of Culture
2023 medium-term market report, titled 'IEA Oil 2023 – to revive the ‘stitched shipbuilding method’.
Supply and demand dynamics to 2028' in New Delhi. Note: Aims: To revive the maritime memory and instill a
Note: It was launched in collaboration with the Petroleum sense of pride in India's rich maritime heritage among its
Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC). As per the report, citizens and to promote cultural memories among the
biofuel production expands by nearly 600 kb/d from Indian Ocean littoral countries. Construction: By stitching
2022 to 2028, with Brazil, Indonesia, and India combined wooden planks together rather than using nails, offered
accounting for 70% of this increase. flexibility and durability, making them less susceptible to
53. NITI Aayog released the 'National Multidimensional damage from shoals and sandbars.
Poverty Index: A Progress of Review 2023' in New Delhi. 59. Minister of Fisheries, Parshottam Rupala inaugurated an
Note: As per the report, India witnessed 13. 5 crore International Symposium on Sustainable Livestock
people moving out of multidimensional poverty between Transformation at NDDB, Anand.
2015-16 and 2019-21 with the fastest reduction in UP, Note: Aims: To promote insightful discussions and
Bihar, MP, Odisha, and Rajasthan. The National MPI collaborations to ensure a more efficient and sustainable
measures deprivations across three equally weighted future for the global livestock sector. “Vasudaiva
dimensions of health, education, and standard of living Kutumbakam” is the signature theme of India’s G20
that are represented by 12 SDG-aligned indicators. Presidency.
54. The government has set up a new oversight mechanism 60. Surat Diamond Bourse has surpassed the Pentagon
for official data has replaced the Standing Committee on (headquarters of the US Army) to become the world’s
Economic Statistics (SCES) with Standing Committee on largest office.
Statistics (SCoS). Note: Surat is known as the world’s diamond capital,
Note: The SCES was tasked with examining economic where 90% of the precious stones are cut. Diamond
indicators pertaining to the industrial sector, the services Bourse was designed by Delhi-based Morphogenesis and
sector, and the labor force statistics. The former Chairman is based on the concept of Panchtatva, the five elements of
of the National Statistical Commission, Pronab Sen has nature – water, fire, air, earth, and sky. The building will
been named the new chair of the committee. be officially inaugurated by Narendra Modi in November
55. Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal has launched the 2023.
sale of subsidized Chana Dal under the brand name 61. India has signed MoU with United Arab Emirates on the
‘Bharat Dal’. Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system to revolutionize
Note: This would be available at the rate of 60 rupees/Kg cross-border transactions between the two nations.
for one-kilogram-pack and 55 rupees/Kg for a 30- Note: LCS system allows the use of the Indian Rupee and
kilogram pack. Aim: To make pulses available to UAE Dirham in bilateral trade, marking India's first-ever
consumers at affordable prices. The retail outlets of the LCS arrangement. It will reduce dependence on
NAFED in Delhi-NCR are selling the chana dal. The milling international currencies and further strengthen economic
and packaging of the Chana Dal has been undertaken by cooperation between India and the UAE.
NAFED for distribution through its retail outlets in Delhi- 62. Abu Dhabi, IIT- Delhi would set up its first foreign
NCR campus.
56. President Droupadi Murmu would inaugurate the Note: Ministry of Education has signed MoU with Abu
‘Festival of Libraries 2023’, to be held on 5th - 6th August Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK),
2023 in New Delhi. and the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) to
Note: Aims: To facilitate the formulation of action- establish 1st campus of IIT Delhi in Abu Dhabi. IIT Delhi
oriented policies for the development of Model Libraries campus in Abu Dhabi will set a brand-new template for
in India, right down to the village and community levels. leveraging the power of knowledge for mutual prosperity
The launch of a crowd-sourced Directory of Libraries, the and global good and unfolds a new chapter in
signing of a Tripartite MoU between 3 libraries, and the
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 internationalization of India’s education. It is expected to universal energy access’ and ‘DRE applications for
launch its academic programs in 2024. achieving SDG7 goals’.
63. India and France signed an MoU to fabricate submarine 69. India would host the ASEAN Countries Conference 2023
and surface combatants and parts in Mumbai and Kolkata on Traditional Medicines.
respectively for export. Note: In this conference, 10 ASEAN countries including
Note: Aim: To boost the Make in India initiative. Mazagon Cambodia, and Vietnam will participate in it. Aims: To
Dockyards Limited will jointly develop and manufacture strengthen the platform between India and ASEAN
Scorpene class submarines with the French Naval Group countries to share their best practices and draw a
for a third country. In addition, GRSE and Naval Group roadmap for future cooperation in the field of Traditional
France also signed an MoU to collaborate in the field of the Medicines. AYUSH has the potential for expansion of ‘Act
surface ship East Policy’ in traditional systems of medicine.
64. Nokia joined hands with Telecom Sector Skill Council 70. Under India's G-20 presidency, PM Narendra Modi will
(TSSC) to establish a 5G skill development CoE at deliver a video message addressing the meeting of Labour
Kaushalya - The Skills University, located in Gujarat. and Employment Ministers.
Note: The Center of Excellence (CoE) at ITI Kubernagar Note: The meeting is being held in Indore where the draft
would establish a skill Lab dedicated to training from the Employment Working Group will also be
individuals in 5G technology skills. Aim: To offer job presented. A minister-level meeting will take place,
placements to at least 70% of learners within 4-6 weeks attended by a total of 165 representatives, including 24
after completing the course. President and CEO of Nokia: ministers from G-20 and invited countries. The meeting
Pekka Lundmark will be presided over by (ULEM) Bhupendra Yadav.
65. Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde inaugurated the PM Mega 71. India and Japan have signed a Memorandum of
Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel Park (PM MITRA Cooperation aimed at fostering a robust semiconductor
Park) at Amravati. supply chain.
Note: The event was also attended by Piyush Goyal Note: According to Mr. Vaishnaw, the Electronics and IT
(Union Textiles Minister) and Darshana Jardosh (Minister Minister, this MoU reflects the global belief in India's
of State of Textiles). The Government of India aims to set competence and dedication to establishing a
up 7 PM MITRA Parks for the Textile industry. The PM comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem in the country.
MITRA Parks was inspired by the 5F (Farm to Fibre to Japan is an important semiconductor producer and
Factory to Fashion to Foreign) vision of PM Modi. technology developer. There will be cooperation on
66. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has chaired the Manufacturing, Equipment Research and Design.
Regional Conference on Drugs Smuggling and National 72. The DAHD has launched a "Credit Guarantee Scheme"
Security in New Delhi. specifically designed for Livestock Sector.
Note: During the Conference, over 1,44,000 kilograms of Note: Objective: To ensure that the credit facility from the
drugs worth 2,416 rupees crore, were destroyed in lender is solely secured based on the primary security of
various parts of the country by Narcotics Control Bureau the financed assets. Scheme: Access to financial resources
(NCB) in coordination with Anti-Narcotics Task Force for the un-served and under-served livestock sector, this
(ANTFs) of all states. The Government has adopted a Zero makes financial assistance from lenders accessible to
Tolerance policy against narcotics to create a drugs-free primarily first-generation entrepreneurs and
India. underprivileged segments of society.
67. Minister of Ports, Sarbananda Sonowal has launched the 73. India Meteorological Department (IMD) has
Curtain Raiser of Global Maritime India Summit 2023 introduced the Heat Index on an experimental basis
event in Mumbai, Maharashtra. across the entire country including the State of Andhra
Note: Objective: To create an international forum for key Pradesh.
decision makers and industry leaders; to provide an Note: Kiren Rijiju, the Union Minister of Earth Sciences,
opportunity platform for start-ups, researchers, and shared that the India Meteorological Department (IMD)
incubators. The official brochure for the Maritime India has recently introduced the Heat Index on an
Summit was also unveiled. The Global Summit event is experimental basis across the entire country including the
scheduled on 17-19th October 2023. State of Andhra Pradesh. It provides information about
68. The 4th G20 Energy Transitions Working Group meeting the impact of humidity on the high temperatures and thus
chaired by Pankaj Agarwal, the secretary of the Union provides a feel-like temperature for human beings which
Ministry of Power, is being held in Goa. can be used as an indication for human discomfort.
Note: The Priority Areas focus on healing our ‘One Earth’, 74. Ministry of Culture and Canara Bank signed an MoU to
creating harmony within our ‘One Family’, and giving provide financial assistance to selected beneficiaries
hope for our ‘One Future’. Highlights: ‘Enabling policies to under the Scheme for Financial Assistance for Veteran
accelerate e-mobility’, ‘Promoting solar energy for Artists.

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 Note: Scheme: Financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per month Note: It processed 17. 14 million metric tonnes of crude
is provided to artists and scholars above the age of 60, oil during the past financial year. It processes 10 per cent
who have contributed in their specialized fields of of the total crude oil refined by the PSU petroleum
performing arts and culture in their active age or still refineries in the country. MRPL can process more than
contribute, but due to old age, they are facing difficulty 250 different types of crude from around the world.
and are in penury condition. 81. Home Minister Amit Shah launches a virtual platform,
75. OPPO India collaborated with NITI Aayog’s Atal part of the unique initiative of 'Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar'
Innovation Mission has announced the establishment of under the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' at Qutub Minar in
the first-ever Atal Tinkering Lab, based on the Public- New Delhi.
Private Partnership model in Kerala. Note: MGMD, a pan-India project under the National
Note: Objective: To create an empowered future-ready Mission on Cultural Mapping in coordination with the
workforce and nurture entrepreneurship and Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). The
technological skills among the youth. The collaboration main objective of the project is to culturally map India's 6.
holds great significance to promote 'out of the box' 5 lakh villages on a comprehensive virtual platform.
thinking and instill community-oriented problem-solving 82. 4th Environment and Climate Sustainability Working
skills in students. Group meeting (ECSWG), a three-day event held in
76. Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Chennai.
‘GST Bhawan’ at Agartala, Tripura. Note: Objective: To reach a consensus on the Ministerial
Note: It is a project for CGST, CX, and Customs Office, Outcome and the Presidency Documents, both of which
Agartala, Guwahati Zone under the Central Board of are vital in shaping policies and actions towards
Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). The project sits at addressing environmental and climate challenges. PM
Mantri Bari Road, Agartala, and has quick and easy access Narendra Modi showcased the importance of
to all taxpayers. The inauguration of the project in Amrit environmental protection. Bhupendra Yadav is the
Kaal during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav showcases the Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
strength of New India. 83. President Droupadi Murmu laid the foundation stone
77. Union Minister of State Science & Technology Jitendra for “Divine Light House” of Prajapita Brahma Kumaris
Singh confirmed that India's first Cannabis Medicine Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya (PBKIVV) at Dasabatia.
Project is set to be pioneered in Jammu. Note: Theme: “The Year of Positive Change” .According to
Note: This project will play a vital role in Atma-Nirbhar the president (PBKIVV) is paving the way for spirituality
Bharat, as it will be capable of producing export-quality through a disciplined lifestyle. She appreciated Brahma
drugs designed for various neuropathies etc. The project Kumaris organization’s efforts for making humanity
will spread awareness that this substance of abuse has aware and helping people move forward in a positive
diverse medicinal uses, especially for patients suffering direction.
from malignancies and other diseases. 84. Chairman of Pension Fund Regulatory & Development
78. In association with FICCI and BIS, Ministry of Textiles Authority (PFRDA), Deepak Mohanty launched the
conducted the 6th National Conclave on Standards & revamped website of the National Pension System Trust.
Regulations under the National Technical Textiles Mission Note: The new website features a sleek and intuitive
(NTTM). design, optimized for both desktop and mobile devices.
Note: The event included 5 technical sessions in The key highlights of the website are: Streamlined
specialized areas of Technical Textiles, such as Protective navigation and menu structure. Structured Information.
textiles, Geotextiles, Build tech, Oekotech. Bureau of Enhanced online services with new features. Enhanced
Indian Standards releases four new standards in the field user experience. Improved search functionality
of Medical textiles, Geotextiles, Agro textiles ,Carpet 85. The 10th meeting of the Sub Committee on Military
textiles Cooperation between India and Malaysia was held in New
79. PM Modi inaugurated Gujarat's first greenfield airport, Delhi.
situated in Hirasar village near Rajkot city in July 2023. Note: The Indian Side was headed by, Ministry of Defence
Note: Aim: To reduce the time and cost related to logistics Amitabh Prasad, while the Malaysian side was headed by
for multiple industries in the region. The Rajkot Assistant Chief of Staff, Khairul Anuar bin Abd Aziz. The
International Airport has been included under PM Gati Indian side highlighted the potential of the Indian defense
Shakti Project. During this event, he will dedicate industry with capacity and capability to cooperate with
packages 8 and 9 of the Saurashtra Narmada Avtaran the Malaysian Armed Forces in its shipbuilding and
Irrigation (SAUNI) Yojana. maintenance plans
80. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited 86. National Health Authority has launched 100 Microsites
(MRPL) has become the single largest PSU refinery in the Project under Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).
country for the year 2022-23. Note: Aim: To establish a small ecosystem within a
particular geographic area where there is complete ABDM
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 adoption, and the entire patient journey is digitized. It will Note: According to Suman Berry, we must enhance food
be a cluster of small and mid-sized health facilities that safety scientific standards and enforce regulations to stop
would be fully compliant with ABDM. It shall encompass food adulteration and counterfeiting. It will serve as a
all small and medium-scale clinics, nursing homes, and timely intervention in addressing global food safety
other healthcare facilities. challenges and achieving the United Nations Sustainable
87. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the Corporate Development Goals of zero hunger, good health and well-
Debt Market Development Fund (CDMDF) and initiated being”.
the muhurat trading in the Limited Purpose Clearing 93. Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
Corporation mechanism — AMC Repo Clearing Limited inaugurated a two-day National Conference on Rural
(ARCL). WASH Partners' Forum (RWPF).
Note: Objective: To deepen the functioning of the Note: Theme: ‘Accelerating Progress towards a Swachh
corporate debt markets. AMC Repo Clearing Limited aims Sujal Bharat’. Objective: To support the expeditious
to provide a settlement guarantee in the repo market, implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and
which will help eliminate the need for bilateral Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G), the flagship
counterparty exposure limits. missions of DDWS, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Govt. of India.
88. Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla inaugurated the 20th 94. Under the Indian Presidency, the inaugural session of the
annual conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary 3rd G20 Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Working Group
Association, India Region. held in Chennai.
Note: The conference will focus on discussing natural Note: Mami Mizutori, Representative of the UN Secretary-
disasters and management strategies, particularly General for DRR stated that the establishment of a
concerning the northeast region. He also highlighted the Working Group is a commitment of all G20 countries to
importance of regional cooperation and connectivity finally change from reacting to disasters to proactively
through the Act East policy, as it can lead to enhanced addressing their root causes. Commitments is to enhance
regional integration at economic, and social levels in the cooperation with the private sector, capital market actors,
North East technology providers
89. Amrit Bharat Station scheme has been launched for 95. The Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of Madhya
development of Railway stations on Indian Railways. Pradesh, Pawan Hans, and the Federation of Indian
Note: 1309 Railway Stations have been identified under Chambers of Commerce and Industry will jointly organize
this scheme including 80 no. of stations in the state of the 5th Helicopter & Small Aircraft Summit in Khajuraho
Madhya Pradesh. Scheme: For the development of of Madhya Pradesh.
stations on a continuous basis with a long-term Note: Theme: "Reaching the Last Mile: Regional
approach.It involves the preparation like improvement of Connectivity through Helicopters & Small Aircraft".
station access, toilet, lift, free Wi-Fi, and kiosks for local Objective: Enhance the scope of the UDAN Scheme in
products through schemes like ‘One Station One Product’ remote and hilly terrains and expand the country's rural
90. Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship to urban connectivity.
(MSD&E) implemented the Capacity Building Scheme for 96. The national conference on "Moving Mental Health
the North Eastern Region, which is carried out by the Beyond Institutions" was inaugurated by Union Minister
Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) located in Guwahati, of State for Health and Family Welfare, Bharati Pravin
Assam Pawar.
Note: IIE has organized numerous capacity development Note: Objective: To address the challenges in
initiatives in Assam as part of the Pradhan Mantri implementing the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 and find
Vandhan Yojana (PMVDY) scheme. In the Sonitpur solutions to mental health issues. The government is
district, a total of 6 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras Clusters have actively promoting cost-effective treatment for common
been approved under the PMVDY scheme. mental disorders, and mental health is integrated into the
91. G20 Energy Transitions Ministers’ Meeting held on in flagship Ayushman Bharat scheme.
Goa. 97. The Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers organized the 3rd
Note: Union Minister of Power, R. K. Singh informed the edition of the Summit on “Global Chemicals and
G20 Energy Ministers have adopted the ambitious and Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India” (GCPMH
forward-looking Outcome Document & Chair’s Summary 2023) in New Delhi.
of the meeting and G20 High-Level Voluntary Principles Note: Minister of Finance Nirmala Sitaraman will
on Hydrogen. Delegates also agreed on five principles and inaugurate the two days Summit on Chemicals and
that free and open trade will be encouraged so that zero Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs 2023. Aim: To
and low-carbon hydrogen is used more and more. develop possible strategies and address the challenges
92. Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, Suman Berry concluded that will shape the Chemicals and Petrochemicals
the 2-day Global Food Regulators Summit 2023. Industry in India and across the world.

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98. PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Semicon India 2023 99. Bengaluru joined the World Cities Culture Forum
conclave at Mahatma Mandir in Gujarat. (WCCF), in July 2023, and becomes the first Indian city to
Note: The three-day conclave is being organized by the achieve the feat.
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to Note: Aim: To curate, facilitate and catalyze activities that
showcase India's semiconductor strategy and will enable the citizens and communities of Bangalore to
development in the field of Semiconductors. The theme of engage better with their city. WCCF is a global network of
the Conference is ‘Catalysing India’s Semiconductor nearly 40 cities, which provides a way for policymakers in
Ecosystem’. Representatives from major companies like these cities to share research and intelligence, and explore
Micron Technology, Applied Materials, Foxconn, and AMD the vital role of culture for their future prosperity.
have participated.

June 2023

1. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology Note: It encompassing 30 herbs and one product, the
(Meity) has launched the Electronics Repair Services stainless steel neti pot. BIS has established an additional
Outsourcing (ERSO) Pilot initiative. department with a dedicated focus on Ayush for
Note: Aim: To validate certain transformational policy strengthening its standardization framework. A Working
and process changes to make India the Repair Capital of Group on 'Traditional Medicine' established within the
the World. The pilot project is being conducted in ISO/TC-215 'Health Informatics'. BIS also initiated efforts
Bengaluru and will run for three months. The to formulate international standards in collaboration with
government has supported this project to make India a ISO
world leader in a hitherto untapped domain. 6. India is set to remain United Arab Emirates' (UAE)
2. Ministry of Cooperation will implement a pilot project of largest export destination by 2030, according to a new
the World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative report by Standard Chartered titled ‘Future of Trade: New
Sector in at least ten selected districts. opportunities in high-growth corridors’.
Note: The Cabinet has approved the constitution and Note: The report forecasts that the UAE's exports will
empowerment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee for the reach around USD 543 billion by 2030, showcasing a
facilitation of the “World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan in robust annual growth rate of 5.5%. It also highlights that
Cooperative Sector”. This will be done by the trade corridors anchored in Asia, Africa, Middle East are
convergence of various schemes of the Ministry of expected to outpace the global trade growth rate by 4%.
Agriculture, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and 7. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has released
Public Distribution, and Ministry of Food Processing the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities)
Industries. Ministry of Cooperation will implement a Regulations, 2023 in New Delhi.
pilot project in at least ten selected districts. Note: These regulations will facilitate the creation of
3. According to the Statistics Ministry's provisional many more quality-focused deemed to be universities in
estimate, India's GDP is pegged to grow at 7.2% during an objective and transparent manner. It will encourage
the fiscal year 2022-23. universities to focus on quality and excellence and
Note: The data is 20 basis points higher than the strengthen the research ecosystem and have a long-term
government's second advance estimate of 7%. The impact in transforming the higher education landscape.
GDP registered a growth of 6.1% in January-March 2023. 8. MV Empress, maiden International Cruise Vessel was
Quarterly terms in 2022-23: 13.1% growth (Q1), 6.2% flagged off from Chennai to Sri Lanka in Chennai on June
(Q2), and 4.5% (Q3). In the fourth quarter, the agricultural 5, 2023.
growth was estimated at 5.5% and Manufacturing growth Note: It was built at a cost of 17.21 crore rupees. This
at 4.5 %. marks the beginning of the international cruise tourism
4. Union health ministry has amended the Cigarettes and terminal in Chennai. For this cruise service, an MoU was
Other Tobacco Products Act, 2004, to mandate the signed in 2022 between Chennai Port and M/S
display of anti-tobacco warnings and disclaimers on Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd to start domestic and
over-the-top (OTT) platforms. international cruise services.
Note: India has become the first country to make it 9. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has released NHAI’s first
mandatory for OTT platforms. To display anti-tobacco ‘Sustainability Report for FY2021-22’.
health spots of a minimum of 30 seconds each at the Note: This report will cover NHAI’s governance
beginning and middle of a program. An audio-visual structure, stakeholders, environment, and social
disclaimer of a minimum of 20 seconds on the ill effects of responsibility initiatives. From FY2019-20 to 2021-22,
tobacco use direct emissions were reduced by 18.44% and 9.49% due
5. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced to less fuel consumption. Green House Gas Emissions saw
31 Indian standards related to Ayush. a decline of 9.7% in FY2020-21 and 2% in FY2021-22.
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 Similarly in operations, energy intensity in Giga South Centre, a Geneva-based intergovernmental policy
Joules/km reduced by 27% in FY2021-22 research think-tank of 55 developing countries, including
10. NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) and Uttar Pradesh India. It was an initiative of the Indian Presidency to
Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (UPRVUNL) bolster capacity building for Indian tax officials.
signed an MoU in Lucknow. 16. UAE will host the 2025 World Conservation Congress
Note: Aim: To collaborate in the development of (WCC) of the International Union for Conservation of
Renewable Energy Parks and Projects. Signed by: Mohit Nature (IUCN) from October 10-21, 2025.
Bhargava (CEO, NGEL) and Nidhi Kumar Narang (Director Note: WCC: It is the world's largest and most important
(Finance) UPRVUNL). NTPC is India’s largest Power gathering of conservationists, and it is expected to draw
Utility, with a total installed capacity of about 72 GW. more than 10,000 delegates from over 160 countries. It is
UPRVUNL was constituted to set up and operate Power- expected to bring an estimated 10,000-15,000 delegates
generating stations in UP. from over 160 countries across the globe
11. IIT Kharagpur and HCLTech signed an MoU for 17. The City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and
collaboration in the field of petroleum engineering and Sustain 2.0 (CITIIS 2.0) has been approved for Four
earth sciences. years (2023-2027).
Note: Aim: To develop innovative and sustainable Note: Conceived by: Ministry of Housing and Urban
solutions to address critical challenges of the petroleum Affairs in partnership with the French Development
industry, which include reduction of carbon footprint, and Agency, Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau, the European
provide significant sustainable solutions towards net Union (EU), and National Institute of Urban Affairs.
zero. HCLTech will provide opportunities to IIT- Funding: A loan of Rs.1760 crore (EUR 200 million) from
Kharagpur students and research scholars to undertake AFD and KfW and a technical assistance grant of Rs.106
projects and internships at the company. cr. (EUR 12 million) from the EU.
12. NHPC Limited and Vidhyut Utpadan Company Limited 18. Minister for Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has
(VUCL), Nepal signed an MoU in New Delhi for the launched the Unified Registration Portal for
development of the Phukot Karnali Hydro Electric GOBARdhan.
Project (480MW) in Nepal. Note: Aim: One-stop repository to assess investment and
Note: The MoU was signed in the presence of PM Modi participation in the Biogas/CBG sector at the pan India
and Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’. The level and streamline the process of setting up CBG/Biogas
project will use the flow from the Karnali River for power plants. GOBARdhan refers to Galvanizing Organic Bio-
generation and the generated power will be fed into the Agro Resources Dhan. It is an initiative of the
integrated power system of Nepal. The installed capacity Government of India, that aims to convert waste to
of the project shall be 480 MW. wealth towards promoting a circular economy.
13. Tata Group has signed an MoU with Gujarat 19. Maharashtra government has launched Asia's largest,
government to set up a first-ever lithium-ion cell ambitious and historic cluster development scheme.
manufacturing gigafactory. Note: This scheme was conceptualized for the collective
Note: This MOU is an outcome of the newly formulated redevelopment of unauthorized and official dangerous
Electronics Policy. Estimated initial investment: 130 buildings after the collapse of the Sairaj Building in
billion rupees. Production capacity: 20 GWh. The state Thane. The redeveloped township plan includes well-
government is committed to increasing carbon-free, equipped health, educational, sports, recreational,
energy-efficient, and clean energy production by boosting parking, mandi, and civic facilities. The project will be
the production of electric vehicles and reducing carbon executed by the CIDCO.
emissions. 20. PM Modi has launched two schemes 'Amrit Dharohar'
14. The India-EU Connectivity Conference is being and 'MISHTI' to revive the country's wetlands and
organized in Meghalaya on June 1, 2023. mangroves.
Note: It is jointly organized by the Ministry of External Note: Amrit Dharohar: To ensure the conservation of the
Affairs, EU Delegation to India, and the Asian Confluence. existing Ramsar sites through public participation. These
Aim: To explore possibilities of boosting connectivity sites will become the center of eco-tourism and a source
investments in India’s North Eastern States and with of green jobs for thousands of people. MISHTI: It refers to
India’s neighbours -- Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. It Mangrove Initiative for Shosssreline Habitats and
was inaugurated by Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma, and Tangible Incomes. It will help revive and protect the
MoS for External Affairs Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh. mangrove ecosystem in the country
15. India G20 - South Centre Event on International 21. The Ministry of Power and the Ministry of New and
Taxation has been concluded successfully in Nagpur. Renewable Energy joined hands to launch a National
Note: It was a two-day event on International Taxation Mission titled MAHIR.
was organized on the 1st and 2nd June at the National Note: MAHIR refers to Mission on Advanced and High-
Academy of Direct Taxes, Nagpur in collaboration with Impact Research. Aim: To quickly identify emerging
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 technologies in the power sector and develop them 27. According to data released by the private economic
indigenously, at scale, for deployment within and outside think tank CMIE, the unemployment rate in India fell
India. Funded by: Ministry of Power, Ministry of New and to 7.7% in May due to a decline in labor participation
Renewable Energy, and CPSEs under the two Ministries. at 441.9 million.
Tenure: Five years, 2023-24 to 2027-28. Note: The unemployment rate in India among people
22. Health Minister, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has unveiled aged 15 years and above fell to 7.7% in May 2023,
the 5th State Food Safety Index on the occasion of World from 8.5% in the previous month. The urban labour
Food Safety Day 2023. market recorded a fall in the number of employed as well
Note: Among the larger states, Kerala secured the top as unemployed people. The rural labour force reduced to
ranking, followed by Punjab and Tamil Nadu. Smaller 299.4 million in May.
states: Goa, Manipur and Sikkim; UTs: J&K, Delhi and 28. According to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme
Chandigarh; The index has evaluated the performance of Implementation data, the index of industrial
states and UTs across six different aspects of food safety. production (IIP) in India has increased to 4.2% on an
He has also unveiled Rapid Food Testing Kit (RAFT) annual basis in April 2023 from 1.1% in March 2023.
portal. Note: Manufacturing sector output rose to 4.9% in April
23. Union Cabinet has approved the third revival package 2023 against 5.6% and Power generation declined by
for BSNL with a total outlay of 89,047 crore rupees, 1.1% in April 2023 against a growth of 11.8%. Mining
includes an allotment of 4G/5G spectrum through equity output rose by 5.1% during the month under review
infusion. compared to a growth of 8.4% in the year-ago period
Note: The authorised capital of BSNL will be increased 29. The Union Government has released the third
from 1,50,000 crore rupees to 2,10,000 crore rupees. instalment of tax devolution to State governments
BSNL will emerge as a stable telecom service provider amounting to 1,18,280 crore rupees, as against the
focused on providing connectivity to the remotest parts of normal monthly devolution of 59,140 crores.
India. First revival package approved in 2019, amounting Note: One advance instalment in addition to the regular
to 69,000 crore rupees. instalment due in June is being released to States. Reason:
24. The union cabinet has approved the continuation of the To speed up capital spending and finance their
Central Sector Scheme of “Exploration of Coal and development and welfare-related expenditure. UP
Lignite scheme” with an estimated expenditure of Rs. received the highest share of Rs 21,218 crore and Goa
2980 crore. the least at Rs 457 crore
Note: It has been approved with an estimated 30. Vigyan -Vidushi – 2023 has been commenced at the
expenditure of Rs. 2980 crore from 2021-22 to 2025-26 Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE),
co-terminus with the 15th Finance Commission cycle. in Mumbai.
Two broad stages conducted under this scheme: (i) Note: It is an initiative to address the gender balance in
Promotional (Regional) Exploration (Outlay: Rs.1650 the discipline of Physics at the doctorate level. 40 women
crore), (ii) Detailed Exploration in Non-Coal India Limited students from forty different institutes all over India have
blocks (Outlay: Rs.1330 crore) attended this program which gave them exposure to
25. NTPC Kanti has launched the Girl Empowerment advanced physics courses. This program is an initiative of
Mission (GEM)-2023, a four-week residential workshop Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), through
program for 40 underprivileged rural girls. its HBCSE.
Note: This is the first time NTPC Kanti is organizing the 31. Microsoft and AirJaldi network signed a three-year
GEM program. The participants will receive academic MoU to provide internet access for underserved
training and development skill sets such as soft skills, life communities in 12 states.
skill training, sports, meditation, yoga, self-defence, Note: Aim: To advance access to high-speed internet and
computer application, communication skills, and other meaningful connectivity, build solutions for broadband
extra-curricular activities. adoption and digital transformation. The program will
26. Researchers at IIT Mandi have developed smart expand AirJaldi Networks into three new states namely,
biodegradable microgels. Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, with an increase in
Note: Aim: To make agricultural practices more the number of network locations from 40 to 62 in 12
sustainable and minimize the adverse impact caused by states.
the use of insecticides and agrochemicals. The research 32. ICAR has signed a MoU with Amazon Kisan to combine
has been published in the "Carbohydrate Polymers" strengths and create synergy between the two
journal. Modern agriculture relies heavily on the organizations.
application of various agrochemicals such as insecticides, Note: Aim: To guide the farmers on scientific cultivation
herbicides, and fertilizers on crops to meet the demand of different crops for optimum yield and income. ICAR will
for food for the growing population. provide technological backstopping to the farmers
through Amazon’s network. It will improve farmers’
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 livelihood and boost crop yield. This MoU will help fundamentals of online safety through the 'Be Internet
ensuring access to high quality fresh produce for Awesome' programme. Both are working to enhance user
consumers across India. awareness on cyber fraud and helping people identify
33. Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) and common types of online scams.
Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) signed an MoU for 39. Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change has
academic and research collaboration. released National Working Plan Code-2023 for scientific
Note: Aim: To synergise the professional capabilities management of forests.
towards capacity building, education, research and Note: It has evolved new approaches during the ‘World
consulting in the domain of Internal Security, Financial Day to Combat Desertification and Drought’ organized by
Crimes, Law Enforcement, Corporate Frauds and other the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education
subject matters common to their mandate and objectives. (ICFRE) in Dehradun on 17th June 2023. It will act as a
It provides for exchange of knowledge and resources guiding principle for State Forest Departments in
34. Directorate General Resettlement (DGR) under the preparation for the working plan for different forest
Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare signed an MoU divisions.
with Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Limited 40. Department of Legal Affairs has set up a panel to
to generate employment. recommend reforms in the Arbitration and Conciliation
Note:Aim: To bring the corporate companies and Ex- Act.
Servicemen on a common platform to generate Note: The committee would be led by former law
employment opportunities for the esteemed Ex- secretary T K Vishwanathan. Aim: To reduce the burden
Servicemen of the Defence Services. This partnership on courts. Other members: Rajiv Mani (Law Ministry
would bring in more visibility of our Ex-servicemen to the additional secretary), some senior advocates,
industry and corporates. representatives of private law firms, and officials of the
35. The Wholesale Price Index (Provisional) for the month of Legislative Department, Niti Aayog, NHAI, railways, and
May 2023 was (-) 3. 48%. CPWD
Note: In April 2023, it was recorded (-) 0. 92%. Reason: 41. PM Narendra Modi has collaborated with Falguni Shah to
Fall in prices of mineral oils, basic metals, food products, promote the benefits of millet and its potential to alleviate
textiles, non-food articles, crude petroleum & natural gas, world hunger.
and chemical & chemical products. The food index has Note: Title of the song track: Abundance in Millets. Falu
declined to 1. 59%, while fuel and power fell to 9. 17%. was awarded the Grammy Award in 2022. The year 2023
Manufactured product prices fell 2. 97% in May 2023. has been designated as the ‘International Year of Millets’
36. Union Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan after a proposal for it was brought forward by India and
has flagged off the first Agri- SEZ project of Gabon from endorsed by Members of the UN’s FAO Governing Bodies.
New Delhi. 42. Union minister of heavy industries, Mahendra Nath
Note: This project will be implemented by the AOM group Pandey has launched the “Dugdh Sanakalan Sathi Mobile
with Centurion University as the technical and knowledge App" in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand.
partner. In the first phase 30 farmers and 20 B. Sc. /M. Sc. Note: This mobile application was developed by
Agri and B. Tech/M. Tech Engineering students from Rajasthan Electronics & Instruments Limited (REIL), a
Gajapati district, Odisha will be traveling together as agri- CPSE Mini Ratna under the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
technical and technical consultants for the agriculture Aim: To bring about a significant transformation in the
SEZ. Indian dairy industry by addressing key challenges in the
37. CBIC Chairman, Vivek Johri has released the National milk collection process.
Time Release Study 2023 report. 43. Gross Direct Tax collections for the Financial Year 2023-
Note: Time Release Study is a performance measurement 24 (till now) have registered a growth of 12. 73% to
tool. Aim: To present quantitative measure of the cargo 4,19,338 crore rupees.
release time. Import Release Time: Arithmetic mean of Note: In the preceding financial year, the government
the period between 'arrival of Goods' and the recorded a growth of 3,71,982 crores rupees. Net
Customs'granting of 'Out of Charge'. Export Release Time: collections are at three lakh 79 thousand 760 crores,
Arithmetic mean of the time between cargo's arrival at the showing a growth of 11. 18%. The Gross collections
port and its physical departure from the port/Customs include Corporation Tax at 1,87, 311 crore and Personal
station. Income Tax at two lakh 31 thousand 391 crore.
38. Google has joined hands with Ministry of Electronics 44. Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd mRNA COVID-19
and Information Technology to drive citizen awareness booster vaccine has received Emergency Use
'G20-Stay Safe Online' campaign on online cyber safety in Authorization from the Drugs Controller General of India.
the country. Note: The vaccine, 'GEMCOVAC-OM' is approved against
Note: Aim: To foster citizen awareness about online the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. GEMCOVAC-OM has
safety and security. Google will raise awareness on the demonstrated robust immune responses in phase 3
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 clinical trials conducted at 20 centers across 13 cities in Blast Furnace in Tata Steel’s Jamshedpur plant with an
India. Presently approved vaccines are used as objective to reduce CO2 emission.
precautionary/ booster doses. 51. NITI Aayog and the United Nations, India has signed the
45. Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani has donated ₹315 Government of India - United Nations Sustainable
crores to IIT Bombay. Development Cooperation (GoI-UNSDC) Framework
Note: Reason: Fostering world-class infrastructure, 2023-2027.
stimulating research in emerging areas of engineering Note: This framework represents the UN development
and technology, and nurturing a deep tech startup system’s collective offer to the Government of India, in
ecosystem at IIT Bombay. An MoU was signed between line with the national vision for development, for the
Nandan Nilekani and Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri, Director, achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals,
IIT Bombay. His contribution will catalyze philanthropic promoting gender equality, youth empowerment and
contributions toward advancing research and human rights.
development at universities in India. 52. Intel has signed an agreement with the German
46. The Indian cabinet has granted approval for Micron government for investing more than 30 billion euros in a
Technology to proceed with its $2. 7 billion plan for a chip manufacturing site in Magdeburg, Germany.
semiconductor testing and packaging unit. Note: An agreement was signed between German
Note: It has also sanctioned production-linked incentives Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger. Intel
worth 110 billion rupees for the plant in Gujarat. The has acquired the land for two semiconductor facilities in
necessary approval stems from the significant size of the Magdeburg in eastern Germany in November 2022 and is
incentive package. Micron Technology's venture expected to start production in four or five years.
coincides with the White House's efforts to encourage U. 53. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has
S. chip companies to invest in India. joined hands with India's Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-
47. India will host the 2025 International Institute of National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM).
Administrative Sciences (IIAS) Annual Conference in Note: Reason: To empower women to make well-
Kochi, Kerala. informed career choices in the field of entrepreneurship.
Note: Theme: Next Generation Administrative Reforms – The partnership will provide support for women looking
Empowering Citizens and Reaching the Last Mile. The to start and expand their own enterprises, particularly in
hosting decision has been conveyed to the IIAS's Council sectors such as the care economy, digital economy,
of Administration via video conference. IIAS was electric mobility, waste management, food packaging, and
established in 1930; HQ: Brussels. Aim: To elaborate the more
public administration solutions to the policy challenges of 54. The Asia Pacific Plant Protection Commission
the day unanimously elected India as chair of the Standing
48. The two-day conference of Science-20 under G-20 is being Committee on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for the
organized in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. biennium 2023-24.
Note: The theme of the conference is "Connecting Science Note: The APPPC Workshop on Systems Approach for the
to Society and Culture". The conference will be chaired by management of fruit flies on mango has been scheduled
Professor Ashutosh Sharma, President of the Indian from 19-23 June 2023 in Navi Mumbai. The Minister of
National Science Academy (INSA). The conference will be State for Agriculture, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje
attended by representatives of G-20 countries, invited inaugurated the workshop.
states and international organisations. 55. Agriculture Minister, Narendra Singh Tomar has
49. The concluding G20 Tourism Working Group meeting unveiled a new feature on the PM-Kisan mobile app.
along with the Tourism Ministerial Meeting started in Note: Farmers can be registered by scanning their faces
Goa. without a one-time password or fingerprint, by using the
Note: Union Minister For Culture, G Kishan Reddy has "face authentication" feature on the mobile application.
addressed the first session of "Making Cruise Tourism a Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-
Model for Sustainable and Responsible Travel'. The KISAN), eligible farmers are provided with a financial
minister highlighted that India is one of the potential benefit of Rs 6,000 per year in three equal installments of
cruise tourism destinations with many of its best tourist Rs 2,000 each every four months.
destinations yet to be disclosed to the world. 56. IFFCO has started exporting the world’s first Nano urea
50. Tata Steel Limited and Germany’s SMS group have invented and manufactured indigenously in India to the
signed an MoU to collaborate on the decarbonization of US.
steel making process. Note: Under this MoU, the Note: An agreement to export Nano urea was signed
companies shall undertake further technical discussions between IFFCO and Kapoor Enterprises Inc of California.
and initiate actions for conducting Joint Industrial The nano urea is a revolution in the agriculture sector as
Demonstration of the EASyMelt technology (developed by it has the potential to reduce storage space and money. A
SMS group). The demonstration will be executed at ‘E’
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 500 ml bottle of IFFCO Nano Urea Liquid has the capacity their farms with field-level officers and fish health
to replace at least one bag of conventional Urea. experts.
57. The first hydrogen-powered trains in India are expected 63. 8th edition of the world’s largest urban swachhata
to start from the Jind district of Haryana by the end of this survey, Swachh Survekshan 2023 – Mera Shehar, Meri
year, 2023. Pehchan has been started.
Note: The officials informed that the plant development Note: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has launched
has entered the final phase and hydrogen will be the Field Assessment for Swachh Survekshan (SS) 2023.
produced from water. The Hydrogen fuel-based train of Swachh Survekshan 2023 indicators focus on parameters
eight bogies will be environment-friendly. Presently, pertaining to segregated door-to-door waste collection,
trains are being run on diesel and electricity. The officials zero waste events, Divyang-friendly toilets, improved
claimed that hydrogen-powered trains are running only plastic waste management, and cleaning backlanes.
in Germany. 64. The Centre government has extended the timeline for the
58. REC Limited has decided to extend financial assistance of disbursement of loans for the completion of ethanol
Rs. 3,045 crores to Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation projects up to 30 September 2023 in respect of all the
Limited (BMRCL). schemes notified during 2018-2021.
Note: Reason: For establishment and development of Note: Aim: To boost the agricultural economy, reduce
Metro Lines under the Phase-II project of Bangalore fossil fuel dependency, save foreign exchange, and cut air
Metro. The Phase-II project of Namma Metro will enhance pollution. The decision has been taken under the ‘scheme
connectivity and ease traffic in the densely populated city for extending financial assistance to sugar mills for
of Bengaluru. REC is a Maharatna Central Public Sector augmentation of ethanol production capacity’.
Enterprise under the Union Ministry of Power. 65. The CCEA has approved the fair and remunerative price
59. The Finance Ministry has approved an investment of of Rs 315 per quintal per quintal for sugarcane farmers
worth Rs 56,415 crore in 16 states as part of the 'Special for the season 2023-24.
Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2023-24’ Note: It will be applicable for the purchase of sugarcane
scheme. from farmers by sugar mills from Oct 1, 2023. It will be
Note: Aim: To boost capital spending by states. The applicable for a basic recovery rate of 10. 25%. A premium
Departments of Expenditure has approved investment of Rs. 3. 07 per quintal will be provided for every 0. 1%
projects in several sectors including health, education, increase in recovery above 10. 25%. Conversely, the FRP
roads, and railways among others. It has also included the will be reduced by Rs 3. 07 per quintal for every 0. 1%
state share of two projects - Jal Jeevan Mission and decrease in recovery.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana 66. The Centre has provided financial incentives of 66,000
60. Union Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Minister crore rupees to 12 states to accelerate power sector
Parshottam Rupala today launched NANDI (NOC reforms.
Approvals for New Drugs & Inoculation System). Note: These states include Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal,
Note: This portal has been developed to pave the way to Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Manipur and Andhra
a resilient Animal Health Sector in India by streamlining Pradesh. The primary objectives of granting financial
and digitizing the regulatory approval process. Aim: To incentives for undertaking power sector reforms are to
speed up the process to assess and examine the safety, improve operational and economic efficiency within the
efficacy, and essentiality of veterinary product proposals sector and promote a sustained increase in paid
received in the Department electricity consumption.
61. Bangalore International Airport Limited has created a 67. The Union Cabinet approved the introduction of the
personalised digital travel buddy named BLR Pulse to National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023, in
cater to the needs of flyers. parliament.
Note: It is an omnichannel platform, developed in Note: Aim: To pave the way to establish NRF that will
collaboration with GrayMatter Software Services. It will seed, grow and promote research and development
allow passengers to navigate within the terminal (R&D) and foster a culture of research and innovation
buildings and provide essential information about the throughout India’s universities, colleges, research
airport in real-time. The interactive chatbot feature in the institutions, and R&D laboratories. The Department of
app will enable a self-sufficient mode of finding answers. Science and Technology (DST) will be the administrative
62. Union Minister for Fisheries, Parshottam Rupala has Department of NRF.
launched the Report Fish Disease App. 68. InterGlobe Aviation Ltd (Indigo) has become India's
Note: The app has been developed by ICAR-NBFGR under leading airline to cross ₹1 trillion in market capitalization.
the National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Note: The stock hit a 52-week high of ₹2,634. 25 on the
Diseases (NSPAAD). It is funded under Pradhan Mantri BSE, with a market value of ₹1. 01 trillion. Shares of
Matsya SampadaYojana. This app will help the farmers to IndiGo settled 3. 55% higher at ₹2,619. 85 apiece on the
report the incidences of diseases in finfish and shrimps on BSE, compared to the previous close of ₹2,529. 95. IndiGo
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 placed an order for 500 Airbus A320 Family aircraft in the enables the recognition of Authorized Economic
largest order in the history of commercial aviation. Operators (AEOs) from both countries.
69. Union Minister of Mines Pralhad Joshi has unveiled 74. India has signed the Artemis Accords with the USA with
India's first-ever report on Critical Minerals for India. the ultimate goal of expanding space exploration to Mars
Note: The report identifies 30 critical minerals essential and beyond.
for sectors including defense, agriculture, and telecom. Note: Artemis Accord is a US-led effort to send humans to
This list marks a milestone in India's pursuit of self- the moon again by 2025. Aim: To build a permanent
reliance and security in mineral resources, aligning with presence in lunar orbit and on the surface after the Apollo
the vision of achieving 'Net Zero' targets. Aim: To guide missions ended. It will boost the cooperation between the
policy formulation, strategic planning, and investment two nations and explore the domain beyond the
decisions in this sector boundaries of Earth. India has become the 27th signatory
70. Meta declared a fresh Mixed Reality program in India that of the Artemis Accords.
has an award of $250,000 for homegrown new companies 75. Infosys has bagged a $454-million deal for the digital
and developers to construct applications and experiences. transformation of Denmark’s Danske Bank.
Note: They can assemble applications utilizing the Note: The deal is for a period of five years, which could be
expansive scope of machine perception, and AI ramped up to $900 million and also renewed for up to
capabilities for the Meta Quest Platform and Metaverse. another three years. The collaboration with Infosys would
Aim: To foster innovation and establish a national XR help achieve its strategic priorities regarding customer
technology ecosystem. A selected group of 5 Indian experience and operational excellence. Infosys was
developers and new companies will get a monetary grant selected to help with the bank's technology
71. PM Modi will inaugurate the 17th edition of the Indian transformation, optimize access to talent and capabilities.
Cooperative Congress (ICC) on July 1st, 2023 at Pragati 76. Ministry of Agriculture has signed an MOU with Pixxel
Maidan in New Delhi. Space India Pvt Limited to develop various geospatial
Note: The two days Indian Cooperative Congress would solutions pro bono for the Indian Agriculture Ecosystem,
be organized by the National Cooperative Union of India. with the help of Pixxel’s hyperspectral dataset.
Theme 2023: Amrit Kaal: Prosperity through Note: This project focuses on leveraging sample
Cooperation for a Vibrant India. Chaired by: HM Amit hyperspectral data from Pixxel’s pathfinder satellites. It
Shah. Aim: To discuss various trends in the cooperative will develop analytics models focused on crop mapping,
movement, to showcase the best practices being adopted crop stage discrimination, crop health monitoring, and
by the successful cooperatives soil organic carbon assessments.
72. Indian Railways has signed an MoU with the United 77. The Ministry of Culture and Canara Bank signed an MoU
States Agency for International Development/India for the disbursal of financial assistance to veteran artists
(USAID/India) for collaboration on Renewable energy under the “Scheme for Financial Assistance for Veteran
and Energy Efficiency. Artists”.
Note: It was signed in the presence of the Chairman of the Note: Ministry of Culture has administered a Scheme
Railway Board, Anil Kumar Lahoti. As Indian Railways is under which financial assistance of Rs. 6000 per month is
proactively working towards the achievement of Net Zero provided to artists and scholars above 60 years.
Carbon Emission by 2030. As part of its commitment to Eligibility: Contributed in their specialized fields of
reduce carbon footprints, Indian Railways is taking performing arts and culture in their active age or are still
several initiatives. contributing
73. India and UAE formally inked an agreement on the 78. The Central government has allocated ₹145 crore for the
sidelines of the 141st/142nd sessions of the World construction of a Unity Mall in Dimapur, Nagaland.
Customs Organization's Customs Co-operation Council Note: Aim: For promoting and showcasing the state’s One
meeting held in Brussels. District One Product offerings. The allocation is part of the
Note: Both countries have signed a Mutual Recognition Union Budget 2023-24, which has earmarked ₹5,000
Arrangement for Authorized Economic Operators. Aim: crore for the establishment of Unity Malls. The
To promote greater trade facilitation and ease of doing announcement was made during an ODOP Sampark event,
business. The agreement establishes a framework that which was organized by the DPIIT, Invest India, and the
Department of Industries and Commerce, Nagaland.

May 2023

1. Australian High Commission in India has announced its Note: This was announced during a Special Meeting at
Government Grant for a Project in Kargil city. Srinagar chaired by the Australian high commissioner to

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 India, Barry O'Farrell. The project "Return to Roots" and Technology and UNIDO, Karnataka has topped the
aims to integrate traditional knowledge with the current ranking of the most innovative state in manufacturing.
school science curriculum in alignment with the goals of Note: Followed by Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra,
the National Education Policy (NEP). and Haryana. The survey also highlighted that Karnataka
2. India's exports to UAE are expected to reach $50 billion has the highest number of companies in manufacturing
by 2026-27 from $31.3 billion at present on the back of that carry out innovations. Bottom: Northeastern states
the free trade agreement between the countries. (excluding Assam), followed by Bihar.
Note: Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal has informed 8. India will launch its own heat index in 2024 to quantify
that the trade between India and the UAE has grown the impact of heat on its population and generate impact-
significantly after the implementation of the trade based heatwave alerts for specific locations.
agreement on May 1, 2022. The India-UAE Note: IMD started issuing an experimental heat index for
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement different parts of the country. It includes various
(CEPA) which was signed between the two nations on 18 parameters like wind, temperature, humidity, duration of
February 2022. exposure, etc. Impact of Heat waves: It has an immense
3. According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy impact on human health, causing cramps, exhaustion,
(CMIE), the unemployment rate of India has surged to a stress, and heat stroke.
four-month high of 8.11% in April, compared to 7.14% 9. Union Agriculture Minister, Narendra Singh Tomar
in March 2023. inaugurated National Conference on Agriculture for
Note: The rise in the unemployment rate came on the Kharif Campaign 2023-24.
back of higher labor participation, which has risen to Note: During the conference, he announced that the
41.9% from 39.7% in March. Rural India: 20.3 million Ministry of Agriculture has set a target of a record 3,320
people entered the workforce and 95% of them got jobs. lakh tonnes (332 million tonnes) production of foodgrains
Urban India: 5.2 million people entered the workforce, for the year 2023-24. In 2022-23, 3,235 lakh tonnes were
but only half of them got jobs produced. The target for the production of Pulses is fixed
4. India's domestic coal production has increased by over at 292.5 lakh and for oilseeds at 440 lakh tonnes in 2023-
22% during the last five years. 24.
Note: The overall coal production has seen a quantum 10. India has operationalized the Sittwe Port in Myanmar
jump to 893.08 Million tonnes in 2022-23 from 728.72 with the departure of the inaugural shipment, the MV-ITT
Million tonnes in 2018-2019 with a growth of about LION (V-273), from Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port,
22.6%. The govt aims to enhance domestic coal Kolkata.
production to reduce the dependence on substitutable Note: It is a part of the Kaladan Multimodal Transit
coal imports. Several measures have been taken to ramp Transport project. IT carried 20,000 bags containing
up domestic coal production to ensure adequate coal 1,000 metric tonnes of cement and is expected to reach
stocks at thermal Power Plants Sittwe Port on 9 May. It was built under a grant of
5. REC Limited has exclusively listed its recently issued assistance from the Indian government. Aim: To boost
Green bonds worth $750 million at GIFT IFSC Stock trade and commerce between the two countries
Exchanges, under its Global Medium Term Programme of 11. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the National
$7 billion. SC-ST Hub Scheme, which crossed over one lakh
Note: The Green bond issuance by REC Limited reinforces beneficiary registrations.
its status as one of the most accomplished and frequent Note: About National SC-ST Hub Scheme: It is an initiative
issuers in the international capital markets. International of the Union MSME Ministry. Aim: To empower and
Financial Services Centres Authority Chairman Injeti promote entrepreneurs among SC, ST Communities. It is
Srinivas attended the ceremony as chief guest. implemented by the National Small Industries
6. UGC Chairman, M Jagadesh Kumar has launched the Corporation (NSIC), a public-sector undertaking under
Central University Faculty recruitment portal CU- the administrative control of the Ministry of MSME.
Chayan. 12. Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
Note: It is a completely user-friendly portal and caters (MSDE) will organize Pradhan Mantri National
to the needs of all the stakeholders in the recruitment Apprenticeship Mela (PMNAM) on 8th May in 200
process. Aim: To create an enabling environment for both, districts across the country.
universities and the applicants with universities driving Note: PMNAM will witness the participation of many
all the stages of the recruitment independently. It has companies representing various sectors, providing
been developed after consultations with all the Vice relevant apprenticeship training opportunities to local
Chancellors of Central Universities. youth. Through this, participating organizations can
7. According to a National Manufacturing Innovation Survey connect with potential apprentices, while strengthening
(NMIS) 2021-22, conducted by the Department of Science the livelihood opportunities of the youth.

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13. NMCG and the National Institute of Urban Affairs jointly people, and vehicles across the border. It will also
organized the ‘River-Cities Alliance Global Seminar: facilitate passenger movement across the border.
Partnership for Building International River- 92. According to a report commissioned by the oil ministry,
Sensitive Cities’ in New Delhi. India should ban the use of diesel-powered four-
Note: Aim: To provide a platform for officials of member wheelers in cities with over 10 lakh population by
cities and international stakeholders to discuss and learn 2027 and switch to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles.
good practices for managing urban rivers This seminar Note: The report of the committee headed by former
has witnessed the participation from Embassies/High Oil Secretary Tarun Kapoor. It has also suggested
Commissions of selected countries and their respective phasing out motorcycles, scooters, and three-wheelers
river cities. with internal combustion engines by 2035. It help India to
14. NTPC has signed a supplementary joint venture achieve the goal of cutting emissions to net zero by 2070
agreement with Nuclear Power Corporation of India 93. Rajesh Bhushan, Union Health Secretary has launched
Ltd (NPCIL) to develop nuclear power projects. the Stimulating Advanced Knowledge for Sustainable
Note: The JV company shall develop two pressurized Health Management (SAKSHAM).
heavy-water reactors (PHWR) projects, Chutka Madhya Note: It is a Learning Management Information System
Pradesh Atomic Power Project 2x700 MW and Mahi (LMIS) of MoHFW. Developed by: National Institute of
Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Power Project 4x700 MW. Health & Family Welfare (NIHFW), New Delhi.
Presently, NTPC has a total installed power generation SAKSHAM is a dedicated and unified platform for
capacity of 71.644 GW, of which 3.01 GW is renewable providing online training and medical education to all
energy. health professionals in the country.
15. International Financial Services Centres Authority 94. India has achieved yet another major milestone under the
(IFSCA) and IHub-Data signed an MoU at IIIT Hyderabad Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin (SBM-G) with 50% of
campus. villages achieving ODF Plus status under phase II of the
Note: Aim: For cooperation and understanding between Mission.
IFSCA and IHub-Data to collaborate in supporting and Note: Top performing states (percentage of ODF Plus
facilitating FinTech and TechFin entities. IFSCA is villages): Big States: Telangana (100%), Karnataka
responsible for the development and regulation of (99.5%), Tamil Nadu (97.8%) & Uttar Pradesh (95.2%);
international financial services. IFSCA aims to develop a Small states: Goa (95.3%) and Sikkim (69.2%); UTs: A&N
strong global connection and focus on the needs of the Islands, Dadra Nagar Havelli & Daman Diu and
Indian economy. Lakshadweep (100%)
16. Sri Lanka’s mobile telecommunication firm, Dialog 95. Minister of Ports, Sarbananda Sonowal has launched the
Axiata, and India’s Bharti Airtel have signed a binding Green Port Guidelines 2023, under the name of ‘Harit
term sheet for the merger of their Sri Lankan Sagar’.
subsidiaries. Note: Aim: To promote environment-friendly practices
Note: With this merger, Bharti Airtel will get access to a across all our Ports, It provides a comprehensive action
large customer base in Sri Lanka. Bharti Airtel started its plan for achieving targeted outcomes in terms of
operations in 2009 in Sri Lanka and has a customer base quantified reduction in carbon emission over defined
of 1 million in the country. Dialog Axiata is a subsidiary of timelines and achieving SDG. It also aims to minimize
Malaysian Axiata. Dialog accounts for 57% of the mobile waste through reducing, reusing, repurposing, and
market in Sri Lanka. recycling to attain zero waste discharge from port
17. India and Israel have signed an MoU on Industrial operations.
Research and Development Cooperation. 96. Union Ministry of WCD has launched Poshan Bhi Padhai
Note: Aim: To collaborate in high technology areas such Bhi for strengthening Early Childhood Care and
as Artificial Intelligence, Quantum, and semiconductors, Education (ECCE).
synthetic biology, etc., The MoU was signed between CSIR Note: This unique initiative is aimed at ensuring that
and the DDR&D, Ministry of Defense of Israel. It enables India has a high-quality preschool network. ECCE is a
cooperation in the industrial R&D programs in mutually significant component of Mission Saksham Anganwadi
agreeable industrial technology fields through the and Poshan 2.0 and is envisaged under the NEP. The work
implementation of specific projects. will be taken by Anganwadis across the country for
91. Union Minister Nityanand Rai has inaugurated the Dawki providing nutrition as well as better education to
Land Port in West Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya. children.
Note: Aim: To promote trade and commerce between 97. The Union government has lowered the threshold limit
India and Bangladesh. The corresponding Land Port in of e-invoicing from Rs 10 crore to Rs 5 crore.
Bangladesh is Tamabil, located in the Sylhet district. The Note: It will be mandatory for smaller businesses to
Dawki Land port will facilitate the movement of goods, carry out business transactions via e-invoices from
August 1, 2023. In the exercise of the powers of the
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 Central Goods and Services Tax Rules, 2017, the Note: Project-SMART envisages developing surrounding
government has made the amendment in the notification areas of Mumbai - Ahmedabad High-Speed Railway
on the recommendations of the Council. The threshold (MAHSR) Stations. This also aimed to enhance
was lowered to Rs 10 crore on October 1, 2022. accessibility and convenience of commuters & other
98. India has extended a $ 1 billion credit line for Sri Lanka stakeholders and to promote economic activities in the
by one year, a backup infusion of dollars for essential vicinity of station areas.
imports Post-negotiations, the credit line was extended 104. India Post, Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT),
till March 2024 . and Tripta Technologies signed an MoU for Bharat eMart
Note: The credit line, part of about $ 4 billion in portal.
emergency assistance extended by India during the peak Note: This portal will provide the facility of pick-up of
of Sri Lanka’s financial crisis early last year, which was consignments from the premises of traders and ensure
scheduled to end in March. The situation has improved delivery at the doorsteps of the consignees across the
with Sri Lanka finalizing a nearly USD 3 billion bailout country. In the recent past, India Post has entered into
package from IMF. similar agreements with GeM, Regional Centers of Tribal
99. The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India
division of the commerce ministry has recommended Limited (TRIFED).
imposing anti-dumping duties on imports of a specific 105. All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi
type of optical fibre from China, Korea, and Indonesia. (AIIMS) has collaborated with World Health
Note: Reason: To protect the domestic industry from Organization (WHO-SEARO) to ensure patient safety and
cheap inbound shipments. The DGTR has recommended quality control.
the duty after conducting an investigation on the dumped Note: A core committee for Patient Safety and Quality at
imports of 'Dispersion Unshifted Single-mode Optical AIlMS is being constituted for the implementation of
Fiber' from these countries. advanced patient safety and quality initiatives. For this
100. According to the Data Governance Quality Index for initiative, AIIMS will follow the learning curriculum
2022-2023 Q3, conducted by DMEO, NITI Aayog, Ministry proposed by WHO in collaboration with Duke-NUS.
of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has secured the 106. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Piyush
second position among 66 ministries. Goyal, and Mary Ng, Minister of International Trade,
Note: The Ministry has achieved an impressive score of Canada have co-chaired the discussions for the sixth
4.7 out of 5. Aim of the survey: To measure the maturity India- Canada Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and
level of administrative data systems and their use in the Investment (MDTI) in Ottawa.
decision-making of various Ministries and Departments Note: MDTI is a bilateral mechanism that provides an
on the implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes institutional mechanism to discuss a broad spectrum of
(CSS). trade and investment-related issues and cooperation
101. Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Narendra areas. The Ministers have also reviewed India-Canada
Singh Tomar attended the 8th meeting of Agriculture CEPA negotiations.
Ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) 107. The 42nd Summit of the Association of Southeast
member countries through video conferencing. Asian Nations (ASEAN) started in Indonesia on May 8,
Note: During the conference, he informed that India's 2023.
exports of agricultural and allied products have crossed Note: 2023 theme: ASEAN Affairs: Epicenter of
four lakh crore rupees. He has also highlighted India's Growth. Aim: To demonstrate the bloc’s hopes and efforts
performance in the agriculture sector and contribution to to become the center and driving force behind global
global food security with food grain production. development. ASEAN is an organization formed by the
102. Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy has governments of Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines,
inaugurated a PM Jan Aushadhi Kendra at Warasiguda Thailand, and Singapore in 1967. Aim: To promote
in Secunderabad. economic growth in the Southeast Asian region
Note: Aim: To provide affordable healthcare and generate 108. Sixth edition of the two-day International Indian
self-employment opportunities for youth. It was launched Ocean Conference has been started in Dhaka,
to make quality generic medicines available to the Bangladesh on May 12, 2023.
common man at a low cost. PM Bhartiya Janaushadhi Note: Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has
Pariyojana: Launched by: Department of inaugurated the conference. The conference is being
Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. organized by the India Foundation in association with the
Initially launched in 2008 Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 2023 theme for
103. The Ministry of Railways and MoHUA jointly signed this conference is 'Peace, Prosperity, and Partnership
an MoU with Japan International Cooperation Agency for for a Resilient Future'. The event is being attended by
'Station Area Development along Mumbai-Ahmedabad about 150 delegates.
High-Speed Rail' (Project-SMART).
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109. The fifth edition of the Global Ayurveda Festival about UGC's initiatives for qualitative reforms in higher
(Gaf 2023) will be held in which Thiruvananthapuram, education. The Professors of Practice portal facilitate
Kerala from December 1 to 5. institutions to get experienced professional experts in the
Note: The theme of the event is ‘Emerging Challenges required area.
in Healthcare & A Resurgent Ayurveda’. Aim: To bring 115. According to a UN report titled, 'World Economic
together Ayurveda practitioners and stakeholders from Situation and Prospects as of mid-2023', India’s
around the world to showcase Ayurveda’s potential in economy is expected to grow by 5.8% in 2023.
addressing health challenges. The event will also feature Note: 6.7% in 2024 (CY), supported by resilient
over 750 research papers and 750 poster presentations domestic demand. The report has also highlighted that the
on the sidelines. higher interest rates and weaker external demand will
110. Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has continue to weigh on investment and exports this year for
launched a mobile application named Meri LiFE (My the country. Inflation in India is expected to decelerate to
life) in New Delhi. 5.5% in 2023 as global commodity prices moderate.
Note: This app is inspired by the concept of LiFE, 116. Minister of Communications, Ashwini Vaishnaw has
envisioned by PM Modi at COP 26. This app will launched the Sanchar Saathi portal.
showcase the power of citizens, especially young people Note: He has also introduced three reforms: CEIR
in saving the environment. Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for (Central Equipment Identity Register) – for blocking
Environment) was launched in October 2022 at Kevadia, stolen/lost mobiles. Know your mobile connections – to
Gujarat. Focus: Behaviour changes in individuals through know mobile connections registered in your name. ASTR
simple easy-to-do actions (Artificial Intelligence and Facial Recognition powered
111. India's Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation fell Solution for Telecom SIM Subscriber Verification) – to
below zero in April 2023 for the first time since July identify fraudulent subscribers.
2020. 117. Union MoS for Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh has
Note: The WPI inflation fell (-) 0.92% in April 2023, as inaugurated the 8th All India Pension Adalat in Delhi.
compared to 1.34 percent recorded in March 2023. Note: Agenda: Chronic cases will be taken up and
Reason: Fall in prices of basic metals, food products, resolved. Till now, 7 All India Pension Adalats have
mineral oils, textiles, non-food articles, chemical and been organized, in which 24,218 cases have been taken
chemical products, rubber and plastic products, and up and 17235 cases have been resolved. The Minister has
paper products. It was at 3.85% in February 2023 and also presided over the 50th Pre-Retirement Counselling
4.73% in January 2023. Workshop, conducted by the Department of Pension &
112. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has set up Pensioners’ Welfare.
the C-PACE. 118. MoS for Communications, Devusinh Chauhan has
Note: C-PACE refers to Centre for Processing launched the ORAN testbed project.
Accelerated Corporate Exit. Reason: To centralize the Note: ORAN refers to Open Radio Access Network. For
process of striking off companies from the MCA Register. conformance, certification, and interoperability testing of
The C-PACE will reduce the burden on the registry and O-RAN-based solutions. It will facilitate the testing of
provide stakeholders with hassle-free filing, timely and ORAN elements and will facilitate the development of a
process-bound striking off of their company’s names from fully indigenous 5G radio network in India. He has also
the register. The C-PACE institution is established released a Postal Stamp to mark the glorious 20 Years of
under sub-section (1) of section 396. Universal Service Obligation Fund of the Ministry of
113. PM Modi has inaugurated the International Communications.
Museum Expo 2023 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi on 18 119. The Ministry of Cooperation has informed that
May 2023. government will form 1,100 New Farmer Producer
Note: He will also unveil several key initiatives, including Organizations (FPOs) in the Cooperative Sector.
the Mascot, a Graphic Novel titled ‘A Day at the Note: These additional 1100 FPOs have been allocated to
Museum’, the Pocket Map of Kartavya Path, and National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)
Museum Cards. The Mascot is an artistic representation under the FPO Scheme. Under the FPO Scheme, financial
inspired by the iconic Dancing Girl sculpture in the assistance of 33 lakh rupees is provided to each FPO.
Chennapatnam art style. Indian Museums Directory Further, financial assistance of 25 lakh rupees per FPO is
serves as a comprehensive survey of museums in India. provided to the Cluster-Based Business Organizations.
114. University Grants Commission has launched a 120. PM Narendra Modi embarked on tour to Japan,
newly redesigned website and portals named 'UTSAH' Papua New Guinea, and Australia on May 19, 2023.
and 'Professor of Practice'. Note: At first, he will attend G7 Summit in Japan at an
Note: UTSAH refers to Undertaking Transformative invitation of Japanese PM Fumio Kishida. G7 Summit
Strategies and Actions in Higher Education. This portal preferesnces: Nuclear disarmament, economic resilience
will serve as a platform providing detailed information and security, food and health and development. Later, he
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 will visit Papua New Guinea to host the third Summit of Note: This scholarship provides Rs 2500 Lankan per
the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation with his student every month to the top six students from each
Papua New Guinea counterpart James Marape. district, based on merit cum means. In 2023, two batches
121. Minister of Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal has of scholarships were awarded simultaneously to
inaugurated the National Ayush Mission Conclave in compensate for the disruptions caused by COVID-19
presence of Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya (Minister of Health). during the 2021-2022 period.
Note: Minister of Health informed that the Government 127. The 50 start-ups exchange program was launched
will launch an ‘Integrative Health Policy’ for the health between India and Bangladesh.
and wellness of public at large. It would be a joint Note: The first group of 10 start-up companies returned
initiative of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of to Dhaka after completing a successful five-day visit to
Ayush. Two ICT initiatives of Ministry of Ayush i.e. E- India from 8-12 May 2023. Under this program, 50
Learning Management System and AHMIS were Startups from Bangladesh and 50 Startups from India
launched. will exchange visits to each other’s countries. Reason: To
122. India launched 'Operation Karuna' to provide explore partnerships, expand business relations, share
humanitarian assistance for people in Myanmar, which experience and knowledge, and expand youth and
is affected by Mocha Cyclone. entrepreneurial cooperation
Note: Three INS (Shivalik, Kamorta, and Savitri) 128. The Union Government has approved the signing of
carrying relief material have already reached Yangon, the Project Collaboration Agreement between the
Myanmar. The ships are carrying emergency food items, Department of Health Research (DHR) and WHO on
tents, essential medicines, water pumps, portable Assistive Technology.
generators, clothes, sanitary and hygiene items. EAM Dr. Note: Aim: Working towards drawing global attention
Jaishankar informed that India continues to be the first toward access to assistive technology, fostering research
responder in the region. and innovation, and developing and disseminating
123. Ministry of Education and World Bank has appropriate training programs. The government has also
organized one of its kind workshops on School-to-Work approved an MoU between the CCI and the Egyptian
Transition under the STARS Program in Mumbai. Competition Authority (ECA).
Note: This workshop was attended by the Secretaries of 129. The first ministerial-level meeting of the India-
Education and Skill Department of the six STARS states: European Union Trade and Technology Council held
Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Odisha, Rajasthan, Madhya Brussels, Belgium on May 16, 2023.
Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. STARS Note: Aim: To discuss ways to increase cooperation in
program was launched for strengthening of Vocational strategic technologies, digital connectivity, clean energy,
Education and the workshop focused on discussion on a trade, and investments. Commerce Minister, Piyush Goyal
Skill Gap analysis. will co-chair the meeting along with EAM S Jaishankar and
124. AirAsia India has successfully operated India's first MoS, Electronics and information technology Rajeev
commercial flight on the Pune-Mumbai sectors using Chandrasekhar.
an indigenously produced sustainable aviation fuel 130. The annual ASEAN Tourism Forum will be hosted
(SAF) blend. by Laos in January 2024.
Note: Flight I5767 was powered by SAF blended Note: The theme of the forum will be "Quality and
aviation turbine fuel (ATF). It was supplied by Indian Oil Responsible Tourism -- Sustaining ASEAN Future".
in partnership with Praj Industries, which provided the The forum will include a tourism exhibition and serves to
technology for the blend. SAF: It is also referred to as bio- spur tourism and further service improvement in
jet fuel. SAF made from renewable biomass and waste associated businesses. Previously, Laos hosted the ASEAN
resources Tourism Forum in 2004 and 2013. The Lao government is
125. The Union Health Ministry has launched the "75/25" working to promote the country’s potential as a nature-
initiative to screen 75 million people for based tourism destination.
hypertension and diabetes on Standard Care by 2025. 131. G20 Research and Innovation Initiative Gathering
Note: The government has launched the Shashakt (RIIG) Conference on Scientific Challenges and
Portal to train the 40,000 primary healthcare medical Opportunities for sustainable blue economy held in Diu
officers on the Standard Treatment Workflow for NCDs. on 18 May 2023.
The MoHFW has also released revised operational Note: The main theme of RIIG during India’s G-20
guidelines for the National Programme for Prevention Presidency in 2023 is “Research and Innovation for an
and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) for Equitable Society”. Secretary, Department of Science and
wider coverage. Technology (DST), Dr Srivari Chandrasekhar has chaired
126. School students from all 25 districts across Sri Lanka the G20 RIIG conference.
have received the prestigious Mahatma Gandhi 132. Ministry of Civil Aviation in collaboration with
Scholarships. Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce &
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 Industry (FICCI) has organized a curtain raiser ahead of 138. The Central Board of Direct Taxes has raised the tax
Wings India 2024 in New Delhi. exemption on leave encashment on the retirement of
Note: The ministry has also unveiled the event and promo non-government salaried employees from ₹3 lakh to
video and released the Wings India 2024 brochure. Wings ₹25 lakh, effective from 1 April 2023.
India 2024 is expected to be Asia's largest event on Civil Note: It was announced in the union budget 2023. It
Aviation on Commercial, General and Business Aviation applies to the period of earned leave in the credit of the
and will bring together various stakeholders. employee at the time of retirement whether on
133. Union Minister of Environment, Bhupendra Yadav superannuation or otherwise. In the case of government
has formally inaugurated the Centre of Excellence on employees, the entire leave encashment amount
Sustainable Land Management (CoE-SLM) at ICFRE, received is tax-exempt.
Dehradun. 139. India will unveil its 18 new petaflop
Note: Aim: To promote South-South Cooperation and supercomputer for weather forecasting institutes by
address land degradation issues through sustainable land the end of 2023.
management practices. The CoE-SLM is poised to make a Note: The new supercomputer will be bought at a cost of
lasting impact in addressing land degradation issues, by Rs 900 crore. NCMRWF will be allocated eight petaflop
leveraging sustainable land management practices, and supercomputing power with the remaining 10 petaflops
achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN). going to IITM. The NCMRWF houses 'Mihir', a 2.8
134. Union Minister of Ports, Sarbananda Sonowal has petaflop supercomputer
informed that the government will provide financial 140. PM Modi inaugurated the new New Delhi
support of 30% for the promotion of Green Shipping. Parliament House on May 28, 2023.
Note: In addition, Green Hydrogen hubs will be Note: He has also installed the Sengol with Nandi in the
developed at the Deendayal Port (Kandla) and Lok Sabha chamber. Constructed by: Tata Projects
Chidambaranar Port (Tuticorin). Under the Green Tug Ltd. Three main gates: Gyan Dwar, Shakti Dwar, and
Transition program, two tugs each will be procured for Karma Dwar. The new building can comfortably seat 888
the Jawaharlal Nehru, VO Chidambaranar, Paradip, and members in the Lok Sabha chamber and 300 in the Rajya
Deendayal ports. A portal will be designed for cruise Sabha chamber. The new Lok Sabha chamber has a
bookings. peacock theme and Rajya Sabha's theme is based on
135. Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) National Flower, Lotus
Ltd launched GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing 141. King of Cambodia, Norodom Sihamoni has arrived
Scheme (GAINS) 2023 in Kolkata. in New Delhi on a three-day visit to India.
Note: Aim: To identify and encourage the development of Note: The King will have s. He will also pay floral tributes
innovative solutions toward technological advances in to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat. The visit marks the
shipbuilding by Startups. Focus: AI, Renewable/Green culmination of the celebrations of the 70th anniversary of
Energy, Energy Efficiency, and Efficiency Enhancement. It diplomatic relations between India and Cambodia. This
was launched by G Surya Prakash, Assistant Manager visit by the King of Cambodia is taking place after almost
(Finance) of GRSE. GRSE was established as a Category six decades.
1 Mini Ratna Company. 142. Ministry of Education and USA’s Department of
136. The Heavy Industries Ministry notified that the State launched the India-US Working Group on
government would reduce the subsidy provided under Education and Skill Development.
the FAME-II scheme applicable to electric two- Note: Aim: To enhance cooperation and collaboration
wheelers registered on or after June 1, 2023. between the two countries in the field of education and
Note: The subsidy for electric two-wheelers would be skill development. The working group exchanged
reduced to ₹10,000 per kilowatt hour (kWh). The cap on perspectives on skill development and vocational
incentives for electric two-wheelers will be 15% of the ex- education, certification and recognition, partnerships
factory price of vehicles from 40% (present). AME India between US and Indian higher educational institutions,
Scheme is a part of the National Electric Mobility Mission and engaging with the private sector.
Plan 143. PM Modi was accorded a Ceremonial Guard of
137. The Union Minister for Rural Development, Giriraj Honour at the Admiralty House in Sydney, Australia.
Singh has launched SAMARTH'on promote Digital Note: During his visit, India and Australia signed
Transactions in 50000 Gram Panchayats' in Lucknow. agreements in the field of migration and mobility
Note: Implemented by: Ministry of Rural partnership and on the Green Hydrogen task force. The
Development. Aim: To promote Digital Transactions in MoUs were exchanged after a bilateral meeting between
rural areas, focusing on women.Minister has lauded the PM Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart
SHG’s NPA, which was reduced from 9.58 % in 2013 to Anthony Albanese.
below 2%, and urged banks to recognize and outstanding
credit performance of SHG Didis and facilitate loans.
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144. Molbio Diagnostics and ShsanMukha Innovations 147. Eighth NITI Aayog Governing Council was
have collaborated to design, develop and commercialize concluded in New Delhi, presided over by PM Modi as
point-of-care diagnostic devices, SickleCert. the Chairman of NITI Aayog.
Note: Aim: To diagnose hemoglobin-related diseases. Note: Theme: Viksit Bharat @2047: Role of Team
ShanMukha Innovations is an IISc spin-off that specializes India. Eight prominent themes were discussed: (i) Viksit
in creating mobile diagnostic solutions. SickleCert is a Bharat@2047, (ii) Thrust on MSMEs, (iii) Infrastructure
first-of-its-kind indigenous point-of-care confirmatory and Investments, (iv) Minimising Compliances, (v)
test in the country for quantitative detection and Women Empowerment, (vi) Health and Nutrition, (vii)
differentiation of sickle cell disease/trait. Skill Development, (viii) Gati Shakti for area development
145. Nepal has decided to allow India's Satluj Jal Vidyut and social infrastructure.
Nigam (SJVN) Limited to develop a second hydropower 148. Union Health Minister, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya has
project in the country. inaugurated 8th International Conference on Pharma and
Note: Presently, SJVN is developing a 900-MW Arun -III Medical Device Sector.
hydroelectric project, a run-of-river located on the Arun Note: He unveiled the National Medical Device Policy
River in Eastern Nepal. The draft project development 2023 and launched the Export Promotion Council for
agreement was approved by Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Medical Devices. He also launched a scheme titled
Dahal Prachanda and is to be signed with India's state- ‘Assistance for Medical Devices clusters for Common
owned SJVN to develop the 669 MW Lower Arun Facilities (AMD-CF)’. Aim: To establish and strengthen
Hydropower project in eastern Nepal. common infrastructure facilities in the medical devices
146. 32nd Arab League Summit has been concluded in clusters
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia with the adoption of the Jeddah 149. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has launched the 5.1
Declaration. version of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) -
Note: This declaration focuses on fostering Arab unity Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN), which is specially
and addressing various regional challenges. The designed for Helicopter.
unanimous decision to readmit Syria to the Arab League. Note: Aim: To further enhance connectivity to remote
The declaration emphasizes the need for increased pan- areas of the country and achieve last-mile connectivity
Arab efforts to assist Syria in resolving its ongoing crisis. through helicopters. For the first time under RCS-UDAN,
It also proclaims the Arab League's commitment to the this round is designed specifically for helicopter routes.
Arab Peace Initiative Airfare caps have been reduced by as much as 25% to
make flying in helicopters more affordable for passengers.

April 2023

1. According to the data from the Centre for Monitoring aged between 15 and 29 spends 5.5 hours doing
Indian Economy (CMIE), India's unemployment rate unpaid labor.
increased to 7.8% in March 2023. Note: While a man between 15 and 29 spends about 50
Note: The unemployment rate in the country surged in minutes daily doing work that yields no money. A
December 2022 to 8.30% but declined in January to senior woman (above 60) spends four hours a day doing
7.14%. It edged up again in February 2023 to 7.45%. In unpaid labor, while a senior man spends 1.5 hours on the
March 2023, the unemployment rate in urban areas of same.
India reached 8.4%, while in rural areas it stood at 7.5%. 4. Bhutan king Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck
In March 2023, unemployment was the highest in arrived in India for a two-day visit and was received by
Haryana at 26.8%. EAM S Jaishankar in New Delhi.
2. Union Minister for Ports, Sarbananda Sonowal launched Note: Both countries will discuss hydro-power
the App Version of the National Logistics Portal cooperation, economic and trade partnership, space
(Marine) named Sagar-Setu. cooperation, scholarships, youth-centric and STEM-
Note: The app has been envisaged with deliverables based initiatives, and establishing digital infrastructure
covering features like a Login Module, Letter of Credit, matters. The defense and security ties between the two
Bank Guarantee, Certification, and Track & Trace etc. countries have seen significant growth in the last few
Benefits for Traders: Improve convenience with the years.
reduced turnaround time for approval and compliance. 5. According to the new joint report from the Institute for
Increase the visibility of operations and tracking. Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) and
3. According to the report titled 'Women and Men in India JMK Research and Analytics, India could become the
2022', released by the Ministry of Statistics and world’s second-largest solar photovoltaic
Programme Implementation, an average Indian woman manufacturer by 2026, after China.

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 Note: India’s cumulative module manufacturing Note: Under this policy roles and responsibilities of ISRO,
nameplate capacity more than doubled from 18GW in NewSpace India Limited, and Indian National Space
March 2022 to 38GW in March 2023. In terms of Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) have
upcoming PV manufacturing installations, Gujarat would been laid down. It enables the ISRO to channelize its focus
be the leading state in India. on research and development of advanced space
6. According to the India Justice Report (IJR) 2022, an technologies. This policy would increase the
initiative of Tata Trusts, Karnataka emerged at the top participation of private players in the space sector.
among the 18 large and mid-sized states with a ISRO Chairman: S Somanath
population of over one crore. 12. The CCEA has approved the revised domestic natural
Note: Tamil Nadu ranked second, followed by gas pricing guidelines for gas produced from
Telangana, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh. Small States nomination fields of ONGC/OIL, New Exploration
(population less than 1 Crore): Sikkim (top), followed Licensing Policy blocks, and pre-NELP blocks.
by Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Meghalaya, and Mizoram. Note: The price of natural gas shall be 10% of the
Four core pillars of the justice system: Police, Prisons, monthly average of Indian Crude Basket and shall be
Judiciary, and Legal aid notified on a monthly basis. For the gas produced by
7. Indian PM Narendra Modi holds a bilateral meeting with ONGC & OIL from their nomination blocks, the
King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in Administered Price Mechanism (APM) price shall be
New Delhi on April 5. subject to a floor and a ceiling.
Note: The two sides will set up the first integrated check 13. The Information & Broadcasting Ministry and Amazon
post (ICP) along the border near Jaigaon and India have signed a collaboration agreement to boost
Phuntsholing. The two sides agreed to find a technically India's creative economy.
sound and cost-effective way forward for the Note: Amazon Prime Video will sponsor scholarships,
Punatsangchhu-I plant. They also agreed to expedite the create internship programs and job opportunities for
operationalization of the third international internet students of the FTII and Satyajit Ray Film and
gateway for Bhutan. Television Institute. International Film Festival of India
8. The Ministry of Union Housing and Urban Affairs has set Award-winning films and films produced as part of India’s
up a 14-members committee to examine stalled real international co-production treaties will be onboarded by
estate projects and recommend ways to complete Amazon Prime Video.
them. 14. Tripura will host the first-ever G20 summit of the State
Note: Headed by: Amitabh Kant (India’s G20 Sherpa and commencing on the 3rd of April 2023.
the former CEO of NITI Aayog). Other members: NOIDA Note: The meeting will delve into 'Clean Energy for
CEO, Finances Services secretary of the Union Finance Greener Future.' After the first session of the summit, the
Ministry, Corporate Affairs secretary, chairperson of the second session will see the opening of exhibition stalls
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India, and other and an Investor Meet. A light and sound show will be
officials. organised for the G20 delegates at the Ujjayanta Palace.
9. The government has announced a plan to add 250 GW of Chief Minister of Tripura: Manik Saha
renewable energy capacity in the next five years to 15. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur is
achieve its target of 500 GW of clean energy by 2030. being hosted the Youth20 (Y20) Consultation under
Note: The government has decided to invite bids for 50 the G20 Presidency of India on April 5, 2023.
GW of renewable energy capacity annually for the next Note: The two-day event was attended by more than
five years (2023-28). These annual bids of ISTS (Inter- 1,200 youth delegates from across India and abroad. It is
State Transmission) connected renewable energy a platform that brings young people together to connect
capacity will also include setting up of wind power and share ideas on finding innovative solutions to
capacity of at least 10 GW per annum. pressing global concerns. It is a pan-India activity in the
10. India plans to give green hydrogen fuel producers run-up to the final Y20 Summit to be held in Varanasi, UP
incentives worth at least 10% of their costs under a $2 16. President Droupadi Murmu has taken a historic sortie
billion scheme by the end of June 2023. in a Sukhoi 30 MKI fighter aircraft at the Tezpur Air
Note: The govt has approved a 174.9 billion rupee Force Station in Assam on April 8, 2023.
incentive plan to promote green hydrogen to cut CO2 Note: She flew for approximately 30 minutes covering
emissions and become a major exporter in the sector. The the Brahmaputra and Tezpur valleys. The aircraft was
cost of manufacturing green hydrogen in India is about Rs flown by Group Captain Naveen Kumar, Commanding
300/ kg and the government will give incentives worth at Officer of the 106 Squadron. She is the third President
least Rs 30/kg for the production of green hydrogen fuel. and second woman President to undertake such a sortie.
11. The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi, The President is the Supreme Commander of the Indian
approved the Indian Space Policy, 2023. Armed Forces.

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17. PM Narendra Modi has released the latest Tiger census 23. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has granted the
data, which shows the country's big-cat count increased national party status to Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi
by 200 in four years to 3,167 from 2,967 in 2018. Party (AAP).
Note: This report revealed that the Western Ghats Note: AAP was recognized as a state party in the NCT of
showed a significant decline in numbers from 981 in Delhi. While ECI has withdrawn the national party
2018 to 824 in 2022. While the Sundarbans is status of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and
threatened by the effects of climate change and the rise Communist Party of India (CPI). Lok Janshakti Party (Ram
of sea levels. India hosts some 75% of the global tiger Vilas) has received recognition as a state party in
population living in forests. Nagaland. Tipra Motha Party got recognition as a state
18. PM Narendra Modi has launched a 97-nation party in Tripura.
International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA) in Karnataka on 24. Union Minister of Law, Kiren Rijiju has released the first
April 9, 2023. edition of the Dogri version of the Constitution of India
Note: b To focus on the protection and conservation of at the University of Jammu.
seven big cat species in the wild. Seven big cat species Note: During the event, he informed that the government
are tiger, leopard, jaguar, lion, snow leopard, puma, is digitizing about 65,000 words of the legal glossary to
and cheetah. The launch of the alliance follows the frame a core vocabulary for the understanding of all
clarion call given by the Prime Minister in July 2019. He citizens. About Dogri Language: It is one of the 22 official
also visited Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka. languages of India. It is widely spoken in the Jammu
19. Home Minister Amit Shah has launched the ‘Vibrant region of J&K, India.
Villages Programme’ in Kibithoo, a border village in the 25. PM Narendra Modi has flagged off Rajasthan’s first
Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh. Vande Bharat Express train on April 12, 2023.
Note: He has also inaugurated nine Micro Hydel Note: It is the world’s first semi-high-speed passenger
Projects of the AP government constructed under the train on high-rise overhead electric (OHE) territory. It will
“Golden Jubilee Border Illumination Programme” in make its inaugural journey between Jaipur and Delhi
Kibithoo. These electricity projects will empower people Cantt railway stations. It will operate between Ajmer
living in border villages. In the first phase, 662 villages and Delhi Cantt, with stops at Jaipur, Alwar, and Gurgaon.
have been identified for priority coverage. It will complete the Ajmer-Delhi Cantt journey in 5 hours
20. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has inaugurated the and 15 minutes.
scientific convention on the occasion of World 26. WhatsApp has launched a new campaign named 'Stay
Homoeopathy Day on April 10, 2023, in New Delhi. Safe with WhatsApp' to highlight the several safety
Note: The Convention has been organised by the Central features that are pre-built on the messaging app.
Council for Research in Homoeopathy under the Ministry Note: It will run for three months with a focus on several
of AYUSH. This year, the theme is "One Health, One safety-centric features like ‘Block and Report,’ ‘Two-
Family." It aims to promote homoeopathic treatment Step Verification,’ and ‘Privacy and group settings.’ The
among the people through the neighbourhood family campaign highlights why it is important to add two-step
physicians. verification to WhatsApp, which requires a 6-digit pin and
21. India’s first post office will be constructed using 3D an OTP to authenticate a user.
printing technology in Bengaluru, Karnataka. 27. According to the data, released by the Ministry of
Note: The project at Cambridge Layout in Ulsoor is Statistics, the index of industrial production (IIP) has
being implemented by Larsen & Toubro, which has expanded as the manufacturing sector's output
experience in constructing 3D-printed buildings. The increased by 5.3% in February 2023.
1,100 sqft building is expected to cost 30-40% less than Note: While the mining output increased by 4.6 % and
conventional buildings because of technological Power generation raised to 8.2%. In January 2023, the IIP
intervention. The post office is being built at a cost of Rs growth was revised to 5.5% from 5.2 percent. The
23 lakh. industrial output of the country in February 2023 rose 5.6
22. According to the State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) percent, on a year-on-year basis.
report 2021-22, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, 28. Union Minister of Fisheries, Parshottam Rupala will be
Rajasthan, and Telangana are the front-runners in the launched the Animal Pandemic Preparedness
SEEI 2021-22. Initiative (APPI) on April 14, 2023.
Note: Achiever category (score between 50-60): Assam, Note: He will also launch the World Bank-funded
Haryana, Maharashtra, and Punjab. Based on their efforts Animal Health System Support for One Health
and achievements, states have been classified into four (AHSSOH) project. Aim: To create an ecosystem for a
categories: Front runner, Achiever, Contender, and better animal health management system using the One
Aspirant. This report was released by Power Minister R. Health approach. It will be implemented over a five-year
K. Singh in New Delhi. as a Central sector scheme with a financial provision of Rs.
1228.70 Cr.
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29. Uttarakhand CM, Pushkar Singh Dhami has launched a ATMA, will collaborate with nearby ATLs to support
program named A-HELP (Accredited Agent for Health agricultural-related innovation.
and Extension of Livestock Production). 35. According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian
Note: Women have been chosen to strengthen livestock- Economy (CMIE), India's labor market has witnessed
related activities in remote rural areas, keeping in mind an improvement with over 15 million people entering
their important role under the A-HELP scheme, the workforce in the last three quarters.
envisioned by Govt. of India. Trained A-HELPs will help to Note: The country's employment rate increased to
prevent the various infectious diseases of animals, and 36.9% in March 2023 from 36.6% in December 2022. The
artificial insemination under Rashtriya Gokul Mission. labor participation rate (LPR) declined from 40.5% in
30. National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has signed an December to 39.8% in March 2023. While the
agreement with 49 Universities to inspire youth towards unemployment rate saw a small decrease from 8.3% to
water conservation and river rejuvenation. 7.8% during this period.
Note: Aim: To bring the student community to the 36. The festivals of Vaisakhi, Vishu, Rongali Bihu, Naba
forefront of the mass movement for creating a sustainable Barsha, Vaisakhadi, Meshadi, Naba Barsha, and
ecosystem of rivers. This also ensures the cleanliness and Puthandu Pirappu are being celebrated in different
purity of River Ganga with the rejuvenation of rivers being parts of the country on April 14, 2023.
the prime objective of the Namami Gange Mission. Jal Note: Baisakhi is celebrated with pomp in the North
Shakti Minister: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat region, especially in Punjab. Rongali Bihu is marked as
31. The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) and Assamese New Year. Poila Baisakh falls on April 15,
State Museum, Lucknow signed an MoU to work marking the beginning of the Bengali New Year. Vishu
together toward environmental conservation and marks the new year in Kerala, while Puthandu marks the
education among the masses. Tamil New Year.
Note: The multi-dimensional efforts will be made in 37. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has inaugurated a three-
organizing programs for school and college students to day International Conference on Defence Finance and
create awareness about nature. NMNH was established to Economics in New Delhi on April 12, 2023.
portray and promote awareness of the country's Note: Through this platform, policymakers, academicians
Natural Heritage. It is an institution devoted to and government officials can share their insights and
environmental education. experiences on Defence Finance and Economics for
32. According to the Association for Democratic Reforms evolving security challenges. Delegates from the USA, UK,
(ADR), Andhra Pradesh’s CM Jagan Mohan Reddy has Japan, Australia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Kenya will
the highest assets totaling Rs 510 crore, followed by participate in the conference.
Arunanchal Pradesh’s Pema Khandu (over Rs 163 crore) 38. Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has
and Odisha’s Naveen Pattnaik (over Rs 63 crore). joined hands with the Indian Institute of Technology,
Note: While West Bengal CM Mamta Banerjee has the Bombay (IIT-Bombay) to develop a robust touchless
lowest total assets of about Rs 15 lakh. Out of the 30 CMs biometric capture system.
analyzed, 29 are crorepatis with the average assets being Note: They will carry out joint research to build a mobile
Rs 33.96 crore for every CM. capture system for fingerprints along with a liveness
33. India's first semi-high-speed regional rail services model integrated with the capture system. The touchless
have been named 'RAPIDX' by the National Capital biometric capture system will allow fingerprint
Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC). authentication from home alike face authentication.
Note: The trains will run on the Regional Rapid Transit 39. The Indian government signed a Memorandum of
System (RRTS) corridors, being implemented to Understanding (MoU) with the World Food Programme
connect key urban nodes across NCR. It is a joint venture (WFP) for sending 10,000 metric tonnes of wheat to
company of the Union government and Delhi, Haryana, the people of Afghanistan.
Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. The NCRTC will Note: The MoU was signed between the Ministry of
commission the entire Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor External Affairs and the United Nations WFP. This MoU
by 2025. marks the fifth tranche, to be shipped through the
34. AIM, NITI Aayog, and the Ministry of Agriculture Chabahar Port in Iran, of humanitarian food assistance tha
signed to promote innovation in the agricultural sector India committed in 2020. In 2022, India has contributed
among school students across India. 40,000 metric tons of wheat.
Note: The Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) with Krishi 40. PM Modi has launched a series of railway projects across
Vigyan Kendra (KVKs) and Agricultural Technology the Northeast, a methanol plant, and laid the foundation
Management Agency agreed to connect. KVKs work as a stone for a bridge over Brahmaputra river.
Single Window Agricultural Knowledge Resource and Note: He commissioned a methanol plant at Namrup in
Capacity Development Centre. KVKs, in partnership with Dibrugarh by Assam Petrochemicals Ltd (APL) with 500
tonnes per day (TPD) capacity. He has also witnessed a
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 mega-Bihu dance performance, which has made it to the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj in 2025, one project for the
Guinness World Records, at the Indira Gandhi Athletic development of seven ghats was approved.
Stadium, Assam. 47. Agriculture Minister, Narendra Singh Tomar launched
41. National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has signed an SATHI Portal to deal with the challenges of seed
MoU with Tiger Reserve Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam, production, quality seed identification, and seed
spread across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. certification.
Note: Reason: To facilitate a seamless and efficient entry Note: SATHI refers to Seed Traceability, Authentication,
process for vehicles entering into the forest area. It will and Holistic Inventory. It has been developed on the
provide FASTag based payment system at Forest entry theme of Uttam Beej - Samriddh Kisan. The minister
points. It will extend the benefit of a collection of highlighted that the government is constantly trying to
Ecosystem Management Coordination fees through overcome the challenges and difficulties faced by farmers.
FASTag at various entrance points of the Tiger Reserve 48. NHAI is working towards the development of around
42. PM Modi has inaugurated the All Indian Institute of 10,000 km of Optic Fibre Cables (OFC) infrastructure
Medical Science (AIIMS) in Guwahati, Assam. across the country by FY2024-25.
Note: The foundation stone was laid in May 2017 and was Note: The network of Digital Highways will be
built at a cost of over Rs 1,120 crore. It has a total capacity implemented by the National Highways Logistics
of 750 beds, including 30 AYUSH beds, and also has an Management Limited (NHLML), a fully owned SPV of
intake capacity of 100 MBBS students per year. He also NHAI. Under the pilot routes for the Digital Highway
laid the foundation of the Rs 546 crore Assam Advanced development, around 1,367 km on Delhi - Mumbai
Healthcare Innovation Institute, a joint initiative of the Expressway and 512 km on Hyderabad - Bangalore
state government and IIT Guwahati. Corridor have been identified.
43. Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is planning to set up a joint 49. ACC (Army Commanders’ Conference) is an apex-level
venture with US-based clean energy technology company biannual event, is scheduled from 17 to 21 April 2023
LanzaJet Inc and multiple domestic airlines. Note: It is an institutional platform for conceptual-level
Note: Reason: For the production of sustainable aviation deliberations, culminating in making important policy
fuel (SAF). The proposed venture will set up a plant to decisions for the Indian Army. For the first time, it is being
make SAF with alcohol-to-jet technology at the state-run conducted in Hybrid format exploiting available
company’s Panipat refinery in Haryana at a cost of Rs technology for secure communication. Army
3,000 crore. IOC will possess a 50% share, while LanzaJet Commanders will meet virtually on the first day and then
Inc will hold a 25% share. travel to Delhi for balance physical meetings.
44. According to the provisional data, released by the 50. IFGE- CBG Producers Forum will organize a two-day
commerce ministry, the bilateral trade between India and Global Conference on Compressed Biogas in New Delhi
The US increased by 7.65% to USD 128.55 in 2022-23 as from 17 April 2023.
against USD 119.5 billion in 2021-22. Note: Theme: Towards Progressive Policy Framework for
Note: The US has emerged as India's biggest trading a Robust CBG Foundation and Growth. Aim: To apprise
partner in 2022-23. During 2022-23, India's two-way the industry regarding the initiatives taken for the
commerce with China declined by about 1.5% to USD development of the compressed biogas industry and to
113.83 billion. In 2022-23, the UAE (USD 76.16 billion) identify the areas where policy modifications are
was the third largest trading partner, followed by Saudi required. Union Minister for Petroleum, Hardeep Singh
Arabia. Puri will also attend the event.
45. According to the government data, India's annual 51. A three-day Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists
Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation has declined (MACS) under India's G20 presidency has been started on
to a 29-month low of 1.34% in March 2023. April 17, 2023, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
Note: This is the 10th straight month of decline in WPI- Note: They will discuss sustainable agriculture and food
based inflation. The WPI inflation data was 3.85% in systems for healthy people and the planet, Agriculture
February, 4.73% in January 2023, and 14.63% in March research and development, including food security and
2022. While the food index inflation eased to 2.32% in nutrition, public-private partnership etc. The 'Millets And
March 2023 from 2.76% in February 2023. Other Ancient GRains International ReSearcH Initiative
46. Eight projects worth ₹638 crore (approx) were approved (MAHARISHI)' is also proposed.
in the 48th meeting of the Executive Committee of the 52. Confederate of Indian Industry has co-organized a
National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG). Digital Health Summit 2023 with the Union Ministry of
Note: Chaired by: Director General, G Asok Kumar. In an Health & Family Welfare on April 16, 2023.
initiative to clean River Hindon, four projects worth Rs Note: The theme of the event was ‘Building One Health
407.39 crore were approved for pollution abatement in Together – Improving Health Equity’. Objective: To bring
the Shamli district. As part of preparations for the together the policy makers, industry leaders, and global

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 healthcare experts and thought leaders to deliberate upon unconnected since Independence. Over 70,000
key issues confronting the digital health space subscribers are expected to benefit from the service.
53. PM Modi will inaugurate the first Global Buddhist Summit 59. India has improved its ranking in the World Bank's
in New Delhi on April 20, 2023. Logistic Performance Index (LPI) 2023 by six places from
Note: Theme 2023: Responses to Contemporary 44 in 2018 to 38 in 2023, among 139 countries.
Challenges: Philosophy to Praxis. This two-day summit Note: LPI is an interactive benchmarking tool created to
will be hosted by the Ministry of Culture and its grantee help countries identify the challenges and opportunities
body International Buddhist Confederation. It will be on trade logistics and the scope of improvement. India’s
attended by scholars, Sangha leaders, and Dharma category-wise ranking: International shipments: 22;
practitioners from all over the world. It will also enhance Logistics competence and equality: 48; Timeline: 17;
the cultural and diplomatic relationships with other Tracking and tracing: 38
countries. 60. The government has launched Fifth round of the regional
54. The Union Minister of State for Steel, Faggan Singh air connectivity scheme, UDAN to further enhance the
Kulaste will inaugurate India Steel 2023, organized in connectivity to remote and regional areas.
Mumbai from 19-21 April 2023. Note: Under this scheme, viability gap funding (VGF) will
Note: The event will be conducted by the steel ministry, be capped at 600 km stage length for both priority and
Department of Commerce, and FICCI. Aim: To bring non-priority areas, which was earlier capped at 500 km.
together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to Besides this, no pre-determined routes would be offered
discuss the latest developments, challenges, and and only network and individual route proposals by
opportunities in the steel industry. It will showcase airlines will be considered.
advance technologies, products, and solutions from the 61. PM Modi has laid the foundation stone and inaugurated
Indian steel industry. projects worth more than 17,000 crores in Madhya
55. Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda has launched the Pradesh.
Marketing and Logistics Development for Promotion of Note: He has also inaugurated the integrated e-Gram
Tribal Products from North-Eastern Region (PTP-NER) Swaraj and GeM portal for public procurement at the
scheme in Manipur. Panchayat level. Objective: To enable Panchayats to
Note: This scheme has been introduced for the benefit of market their goods and services through GeM. With the
Scheduled Tribes of the North-Eastern Region. Vision: To handing over of around 35 lakh Swamitva Property Cards,
strengthen the livelihood opportunities for tribal artisans about 1 crore 25 lakh property cards have been
through increased efficiency in procurement, logistics and distributed under this scheme in the country.
marketing of tribal products from North Eastern States. 62. Ministry of Jal Shakti has conducted the first-ever census
56. Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra of water bodies across the nation.
Singh has launched a YUVA PORTAL for connecting and Note: Aim: To provide a comprehensive inventory of
identifying potential young Start-Ups in the country. India's water resources, including natural and man-made
Note: He has also launched the One Week -One Lab water bodies like lakes. Over 24.24 lakh water bodies
program. This program will offer the opportunity to the have been enumerated in the country out of which more
CSIR labs to showcase the work being done by them so than 23 lakh water bodies are in rural areas and nearly
that others can avail of it. During the launch event, he also 69,000 are in urban areas. Top 5 (number of water
hailed the launching of the astronomy lab that has come bodies): WB, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and
up in Karnal, Haryana. Assam
57. Union Minister of Rural Development has launched the 63. Union Minister of Ports Sarbananda Sonowal has
‘Sangathan Se Samriddhi’ campaign to empower inaugurated National Technology Centre for Ports,
marginalized rural households by bringing all eligible Waterways and Coasts, IIT - Discovery Campus at
rural women into the fold of Self Help Groups (SHGs). Chennai.
Note: The govt is targeting to bring 10 crore women Note: Under the Sagarmala Programme, the centre has
under the purview of SHGs (existing nine crores). The been established in IIT Chennai at a cost of 77 Crore
govt has also set a target that every woman associated rupees. The institute acts as a technological arm of the
with SHGs should be able to earn 1 lakh rupees per Ministry and develops cutting-edge technologies and
annum. He also urged women to produce millet. application products to provide solutions to various
58. The Centre has launched over 254 network towers to challenges faced by the Ports and Shipping Sector.
provide 4G mobile connectivity in border areas of 64. The Unique Identification Authority of India and National
Arunachal Pradesh. Payments Corporation of India are setting up an
Note: It will provide 4G coverage in uncovered villages of aggregator platform for eKYC (electronic know-your-
the state, thereby bringing digital connectivity to 336 customer).
villages, including several areas which have remained Note: The process of Aadhaar-based eKYC is used for
paperless verification of a customer’s credentials to get a
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 mobile connection or open a bank account. The process 71. National Medical Devices Policy, 2023 approved by the
can be completed using biometrics or through the use of union government to reduce India’s heavy import
OTP. It is being used by financial services players, and dependence on the medical sector.
government agencies. Note: It will help the Medical Devices Sector, grow from
65. The Ministry of Petroleum has successfully completed the the present 11 billion USD to 50 billion USD in the next
Bihar portion of the Barauni Guwahati pipeline (BGPL) five years. It also aims to facilitate orderly growth of the
under Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga project. medical device sector to meet the public health objectives
Note: It will connect six districts in Bihar to the National of access, affordability, and innovation. The Cabinet has
Gas Grid. Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga Project is also also approved establishing 157 nursing colleges
known as Jagdishpur – Haldia & Bokaro – Dhamra 72. NITI Aayog has released a report titled Promoting Millets
Pipeline Project (JHBDPL) project. Aim: Caters to the in Diets: Best Practices across States and Union
energy requirements of five states (UP, Bihar, Jharkhand, Territories of India.
Odisha, and WB). Note: The report was released by NITI Aayog Vice
66. SAIL-Bokaro Steel Plant has signed a Memorandum of Chairman Suman K. Bery. Report's theme: State Missions
understanding with Telecommunications Consultants and initiatives to promote millets; Inclusion of millets in
India (TCIL) to explore the potential of the application of ICDS; Research and development and use of technology
5G/ IT/ telecom and other wireless communication for innovative practices. It will serve as a guiding
technologies. repository to revive and mainstream millets in our diets.
Note: This project would include SAIL's Mines and 73. India’s first cable-stayed bridge Anji Khad bridge will be
Collieries, Central Coal Supply Organization, and the SAIL completed by May 2023.
refractory unit in Jharkhand. Note: It connects Katra and Reasi via tunnels T2 and T3
67. PM Modi has inaugurated India's first water metro in on the Katra-Banihal section. Aim: To connect J&K to the
Kochi (Kerala). rest of the country with all-weather rail connectivity. The
Note: The metro project will start with eight electric cables weigh 848.7 MT and the total length of cable
hybrid boats developed under Cochin Shipyard Limited. It strands involved is 653km. The asymmetrical cable-
was funded by the Kerala govt and the German company stayed bridge crosses the deep gorges of Anji river, a
KfW. It consists of 38 terminals and 78 electric boats. The tributary of river Chenab. Total length of the bridge: 725m
first phase of this project started from the High Court- 74. Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA) signed the
Vypin and Vyttila-Kakkanad terminals. tripartite agreement with the Centre and the state
68. India has launched a rescue operation named Operation government of Assam to avoid the violence and join the
Kaveri to evacuate its stranded citizens from Sudan. mainstream.
Note: Two C-130s aircraft and the navy ship INS Sumedha Note: According to the MoU, the DNLA will lay down its
is on standby to evacuate Indians. The name for rescue arms and abide by the Constitution. It was decided to set
operations in Sudan has been kept Operation Kaveri for up a Dimasa Welfare Council and grant a special financial
the same purpose that Prime Minister Modi chose to name package of Rs. 1,000 crores (Rs. 500 crores each by the
rescue ops in Ukraine Operation Ganga. Kaveri is one of Centre and Assam government).
the major Indian rivers flowing through Karnataka and 75. MoHUA has launched ‘City Beauty Competition’ portal.
Tamil Nadu. Note: Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across the country can
69. Union Minister for Labour Bhupender Yadav has participate in this competition through an online process.
launched new features in eShram Portal. Objective: To encourage and recognize the
Note: Aim: To enhance the utility of the portal and transformational efforts made by cities and wards across
facilitate ease of registration for unorganized workers. A the country to create beautiful, innovative and inclusive
feature for capturing the family details of migrant public spaces. Five broad pillars: (i) accessibility (ii)
workers has been added to the eShram portal. Through amenities (iii) activities (iv) aesthetics and (v) ecology
the portal, the eShram-registered workers can now 76. Union Finance Ministry has given its approval to
connect with employment opportunities, pension upgrade Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) to Navratna
schemes, digital skilling, and states’ schemes. Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) from Category-I
70. Union Minister Amit Shah has launched IFFCO's nano Miniratna.
liquid Di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilizer for Note: RVNL, a PSU under the Ministry of Railways, will be
commercial sale at Rs 600 per 500 ml bottle. the 13th Navratna amongst CPSEs. The company will have
Note: Aim: Farmers to use nano urea and DAP extensively more autonomy in terms of investment, setting up JV and
to make the country self-reliant and reduce import other financial decisions. As per the Navratna Company
dependence. One bottle (500 ml) of nano-liquid DAP is criteria, the company must have Miniratna status, with 4
equivalent to one bag (50kg) of conventional granular independent board directors.
DAP, which is currently being sold at Rs 1,350. In 2021,
IFFCO launched the world's first nano urea fertilizer.
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77. Union MoS (IC) S&T, Dr Jitendra Singh visited Imperial Elimination in New Delhi on 24th April 2023, in
College London in the United Kingdom and interacted partnership with Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance
with the Indian students of the college. (APLMA).
Note: During his visit, the Imperial College London Note: It will be held under the guidance of Union Minister.
announced scholarships of £ 400,000 for Indian students Aim: to reaffirm political commitment to galvanize action
studying in the college. Out of which 50% of the for malaria elimination by 2030. It will revitalize national
scholarship would be given to female students from India. and regional momentum towards the goal of an Asia
Imperial College London is a public research university in Pacific Free from Malaria by 2030.
London, England. 84. Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR)
78. The combined Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) has has organized a four-day International Conference on
increased by 3.6% (provisional) in March 2023 as ‘Optimising Human Capital of Armed Forces:
compared to the Index of March 2022. Psychological Perspective’ in Delhi on April 25, 2023.
Note: ICI measures the combined and individual Note: Aim: To deliberate recent advances, emerging
performance of the production of eight core industries - trends, and challenges of psychology with respect to the
Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, human capital of the Armed Forces upon world over. The
Fertilizers, Steel, Cement, and Electricity. The Eight Core conference has participation from the three Services,
Industries comprise 40.27% of the weight of items DRDO labs, and academia.
included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). 85. The Chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
79. According to the Kpler report, India has become Europe's (SCO), India will host the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting
largest supplier of refined fuels, surpassing Saudi Arabia. on 28 April 2023 in New Delhi.
Note: Europe’s reliance on Indian crude oil products has Note: Aim: To discuss amongst other issues matters
grown since the ban on Russian oil. It also showed that concerning regional peace and security, counter-
Europe's refined fuel imports from India are set to surge terrorism efforts within SCO, and effective
above 360,000 barrels a day. Russia was the largest multilateralism. SCO 2023 theme under India’s
exporter of crude oil to India by value in February in spite Chairmanship: SECURE-SCO. SCO was established in
of the Western price cap of USD 60 per barrel. 2001. Members: Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan,
80. Army Southern Command and some civil agencies Russia, Tajikistan, India, and Uzbekistan
conducted a day-long firefighting exercise called ‘Agni 86. The Y 20 Pre Summit Meeting under G20 hosted by the
Daman - 23’. Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs is being organized
Note: The excise was conducted with 56 teams at the 29 from 26th to 28th April 2023 in Indian city Leh.
Field Ammunition Depot (FAD), Dehu Road. Aim: To Note: Shared Future: Youth in Democracy and
enhance synergy among firefighters to work together in Governance. Future of Work: Industry 4.0, Innovation &
the event of major fire incidents. The exercise was a 21st Century Skills. Climate Change and Disaster Risk
landmark endeavor in synergizing all the firefighting Reduction: Making Sustainability a Way of Life. Peace
resources available with the military and civil Building and Reconciliation: Ushering in an era of No War.
establishment in Pune. Health Wellbeing & Sports: Agenda for Youth
81. The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has 87. Australia will host the third in-person Quad Summit in
signed an MoU with Art of Living as part of Nasha Mukt Sydney on May 24, 2023.
Bharat Abhiyaan. Note: It will be the first time when Australia will host the
Note: The signing ceremony was held at Dr. Ambedkar meeting. The meeting will be attended by PM Narendra
International Centre in New Delhi.This campaign will get Modi, US President Joe Biden, Japanese PM Kishida Fumio,
a boost towards achieving a drug-sensitized India. The and Australian PM Anthony Albanese. The leaders will
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) has discuss issues on critical and emerging technologies and
been implementing the National Action Plan for Drug high-quality infrastructure, etc. The Quadrilateral
Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) to curb the menace of drug Security Dialogue comprises India, the US, Japan, and
demand. Australia.
82. India and United Kingdom have agreed to create India- 88. Union Minister of Agriculture, Narendra Singh Tomar has
UK NET zero innovation virtual centre. inaugurated the Summit on Farm Machinery Technology
Note: Aim: To provide a platform for stakeholders of both in New Delhi.
countries to work together in areas like the Note: Organized by: Confederation of Indian Industry
decarbonization of manufacturing processes, transport (CII) and Tractor and Mechanisation Association in New
systems, and green hydrogen as a renewable source. Both Delhi. During the event, the minister informed that, about
countries will also join to launch the first-ever UK-India 85% of small farmers in the country, who should get the
scientific 'deep sea voyage' and 'space parks' partnership. benefit of technology and machinery. It was attended by
83. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will be stakeholders including Original Equipment
organizing Asia Pacific Leaders’ Conclave on Malaria Manufacturers and design firms.
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89. The Indian Merchants Chamber has organized the 'India Note: This scheme was started by PM Modi in April 2003
Calling Conference 2023' in Mumbai. during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Aim: To
Note: The theme of the 2023 Conference is "Rising India- act as a bridge between the citizens and the government
Inviting Partnership for Growth". The conference was using technology by solving their day-to-day grievances in
attended by Union Minister for Commerce Piyush Goyal, a quick, efficient, and time-bound manner
Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, 91. Union Minister for MSME, Narayan Rane has launched the
and MoS for Railways & Textiles Darshana Jardosh. revamped CGTMSE(Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for
Minister Piyush Goyal delivered the inaugural address at Micro and Small Enterprises) Scheme.
the 'India Calling Conference 2023'. Note: Reduction in guarantee fees for loans upto ₹1 crore
90. PM Modi will attend the 20th anniversary of the State by 50% bringing the minimum guarantee fee to the level
Wide Attention on Grievances by Application of of 0.37% pa only. Raising of ceiling for guarantee from ₹2
Technology (SWAGAT) initiative in Gujarat. crore to ₹ 5 crore. Enhanced the threshold limit for claim
settlement without initiation of legal action to ₹10 lakh.

Important News – State

August 2023

1. The University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) will be employees including 4 Deputy Station
opening a first-of-its-kind museum on its campus in Superintendents, 4 Pointswomen, 3 Railway
Bengaluru. Protection Personnel and 1 Ticket Booking Agent
Note: Minister of Agriculture N. Cheluvarayaswamy 5. Telangana launched India’s first Agricultural Data
would inaugurate the museum. Aim: To introduce Exchange (ADeX) and Agriculture Data Management
the evolution of agricultural practices into the lives Framework (ADMF).
of students and the general public increasingly cut- Note: The ADeX has been developed as a digital
off from the experience by the "urban buzz". The public infrastructure (DPI) for the agriculture sector.
museum will serve as a one-stop solution where they Aims: To ensure fair and efficient usage of
can get information about agriculture. agricultural data by the industry and startups and
2. Uttar Pradesh cabinet approved the Water Tourism provide a big boost to the data economy specifically
and Adventure Sports Policy 2023. in the agriculture sector.
Note: Aims: To make the state a water tourism and 6. PM Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for a
adventure sports destination. According to Tourism temple-cum-memorial for Sant Ravidas and along
Minister Jaiveer Singh, this policy will be valid for 10 with that also inaugurated developmental works
years from the date notified by the state government. which are worth Rs 4,000 crore in Madhya Pradesh
The policy will be applicable to all inland land-based, in Aug 2023.
air-based and all adventure activities to be carried Note: The memorial is steeped in the spirit of
out on various water bodies and land parcels in the ‘Samrasta’ as the soil of more than 20,000 villages
state. and 300 rivers have been used in it. Sant Ravidas was
3. Rajasthan Cabinet approved the proposal of a high- an Indian mystic poet-saint of the bhakti movement
level committee to form 19 new districts and 3 new and founder of the Ravidassia religion during the
divisions in the State. 15th to 16th century CE.
Note: Rajasthan will now have a total of 50 districts 7. Rajasthan launched the Mukhyamantri Nishulk
and 10 divisional headquarters. According to CM Annapurna Food Packet Scheme on the occasion of
Ashok Gehlot formation of new districts will improve Independence Day.
governance and bring relief to people who have to Note:Under the scheme, families covered under the
cover long distances to go to the district National Food Security Act (NFSA) will get the
headquarters. The new districts are like, Jaipur has Annapurna food packets every month from the fair
been divided into Jaipur and Jaipur Rural price shops (FPS) for free.Each packet will contain
4. Central Railway has inaugurated New Amravati one kg each of gram pulses, sugar and iodized salt,
station as the 1st “Pink Station” on the Bhusaval one litre soybean refined edible oil, 100 gram each of
Division and the 3rd station on Central Railway to be chili powder and coriander powder.
fully managed by an all-women staff. 8. Goa launched the flagship scheme "Gramin Mitra" in
Note: The examples are set by Matunga station in the August 2023.
Mumbai division and Ajni station in the Nagpur Note:Objective: To provide doorstep delivery of
division. Railway has a staff strength of 12 women government services across the state and promote
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 digital empowerment in rural areas.Aims: To 14. Mayem has become the first village in Goa to have a
empower rural communities with access to biodiversity atlas, a 250-page document with maps
information and opportunities that can transform detailing the floral and faunal biodiversity of the
their lives and drive socio-economic growth.The village.
program will help us accelerate the delivery of e- Note: The atlas was prepared based on the People’s
governance services to rural areas across the state. biodiversity register (PBR) prepared by the village
9. Maharashtra launched a mobile app and WhatsApp Biodiversity management committee. There are
helpline for the Chief Minister's Medical Assistance huge funds to be tapped for villages that have
Fund. registered biodiversity atlases. For every lake, the
Note:A helpline number 8650567567 has been government of India is ready to give Rs 10 crore to
started for patients and their relatives.More than 12 maintain it.
thousand 500 patients have benefited from the Chief 15. India's first 3D-printed post office is coming up at
Minister's Aid Fund in the last one year. On this Cambridge Layout in Bengaluru.
occasion, the fifth edition of the medical aid manual Note:3D printing is a process of making three-
and the book 'Rokhthok' based on the ideology of dimensional solid objects from a digital file.In this
Balasaheb Thackeray was launched. process an object is created by laying down
10. Telangana has announced a farm loan waiver of up successive layers of material until the object is
to 99 thousand 999 in August 2023. created. Each of these layers can be seen as a thinly
Note:It will be cleared within the next 45 days.The sliced cross-section of the object.3D printing enables
Government has released over 5,800 crore rupees you to produce complex shapes using less material
towards this end which will benefit over 9 lakh than traditional manufacturing methods.
farmers.The amount will be transferred directly into 16. Maharashtra cabinet decided to implement the
loan accounts of farmers. With the latest decision, Bhagwan Birsa Munda Jodaraste Scheme in
farm loans up to 99,999, amounting to 7753.43 crore Maharashtra to connect all tribal villages in 17
rupees, of over 16 lakh 66 thousand farmers will be districts of the state with main roads.
cleared. Note:The project is estimated to cost Rs 5,000 crore
11. Arunachal Pradesh signed MoAs with three Central and nearly 6,838 km of roads will be constructed as
Public Sector Undertakings to allot 12 'stalled' part of the scheme.In the Budget Session, Deputy CM
hydropower projects in August 2023. and Finance Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced
Note:The three CPSUs are National Hydroelectric the implementation of the scheme to connect all the
Power Corporation Limited, Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam tribal padas by perennial roads
Ltd (SJVN) and North Eastern Electric Power 17. NLC India (NLCIL) has inked a pact to supply 300
Corporation Limited.The total operational capacity MW of solar power for 25 years to Rajasthan Urja
of these 12 projects, withdrawn from the private Vikas Nigam under the CPSU scheme.
players, will be to the tune of 11,523 MW. CM of Note:NLCIL is presently having 1,421 MW of
Arunachal Pradesh is Pema Khandu Renewable Energy Capacity.As per its corporate
12. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is plan, it contemplates establishing a 6,031 MW
organizing Youth 20 Summit-2023 from 17th August capacity by 2030.NLC India has entered into a long-
to 20th August in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. term power usage agreement with Rajasthan Urja
Note:The themes include Future of Work: Industry Vikas Nigam Limited to supply 300 MW of solar
4.0, Innovation and 21st Century Skills, power under the CPSU Scheme in Rajasthan.
Peacebuilding and Reconciliation: Ushering in an Era 18. Uttar Pradesh (UP) has topped the in terms of new
of No War, and Climate Change and Disaster Risk investments in 2022-23.
Reduction. The Y20 Summit will bring together Note:According to RBI, UP and Gujarat together
youth experts, decision-makers, and youth accounted for 57.2% of the total investment
representatives from G20 countries. proposals made during the year. In 2022-23, UP
13. Based on the FY23 revised budget estimates, attracted the highest share of new investments, with
Maharashtra secured the top position as the best a total project cost of Rs. 43,180 crore. Followed by
state in overall fiscal health in a report conducted by Gujarat (Rs. 37,317 crore), Odisha (Rs. 11,810 crore),
a foreign brokerage firm. Maharashtra (Rs. 7,900 crore) and Karnataka (Rs.
Note:Chhattisgarh, one of the poorest states in the 7,300 crore).
country, is in 2nd position followed by Telangana, 19. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (LGBI)
while the bottom 3 are Bengal, Punjab, and Kerala. Airport became the first in the northeast to launch
The report, penned by Kaushik Das, chief economist Digi Yatra for hassle-free travel, is located in
at the Deutsche Bank, was conducted to survey the Guwahati.
fiscal health of 17 major states across the country
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 Note: Aim: To eliminate the need for verification of Scholarly Scientific Knowledge. Diversity, Equity,
tickets and IDs at various touchpoints. The Digi Yatra and Accessibility in Science & Technology.
service will be available in three major areas namely Institutional Mechanism for Inclusive Global S&T
- first entrance, check-in and boarding areas. Policy Dialogue
Passengers will be able to register their documents 24. Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 26th
on the ‘Digi Yatra’ app and enter the airport by Western Zonal Council (WZC) meeting at
scanning their faces. Gandhinagar.
20. Former President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated Note: Aim: To enhance cooperation between the
Kerala's first AI (Artificial intelligence) school at states through regular dialogue and discussion. The
Santhigiri Vidyabhavan in Thiruvananthapuram. meeting is being organized by the Inter-State Council
Note: It is an innovative learning method that Secretariat under the Ministry of Home Affairs in
ensures international standards and quality learning collaboration with the Government of Gujarat. The
opportunities for students with the help of artificial WZC comprises the states of Gujarat, Goa,
intelligence technology. It is designed and molded by Maharashtra, and the Union Territories of Dadra and
one of the world's most advanced educational Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu
platforms iLearning Engines USA in collaboration 25. Keralalites across the globe are celebrating
with Vedhik eSchool. "Thiruonam" on the 10th and the most auspicious
21. National Tiger Conservation Authority approved day of Onam.
India's 54th tiger reserve in Rajasthan's Karauli and Note: Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala,
Dholpur district. symbolises prosperity, secularism,and harmony.
Note: This is Rajasthan's fifth tiger reserve after Keralites celebrate the festival welcoming the visit of
Ranthambore, Sariska, Mukundra Hills, and the righteous and mythical king Mahabali,in the
Ramgarh Vishdhari. The number of tigers in India memory of good old days. Thiruonam is being
has increased from 2,967 in 2018 to 3,682 in 2022, celebrated in all its cultural and traditional glory
an annual rise of 6%. The number of tigers in instilling the minds with hope.
Rajasthan has increased from 32 in 2006 to 88 in 26. Maharashtra has signed an MoU with Germany's
2022. Madhya Pradesh has the maximum number of professional association football league,
tigers in the country (785). 'Bundesliga', to build a football team for players
22. Sri Lanka hosted its very first Karnataka cultural under the age of 14.
festival organized by the International Cultural Note: Aim: To help young footballers to develop
Council of India in collaboration with Swami their skills and potentially compete at a high level.
Vivekananda Cultural Centre and M. E Global Peace The Bundesliga is Germany’s premier professional
Foundation. football league. It is one of the leading football
Note: Aim: To celebrate cultural diversity and mark leagues in Europe and the best football players and
a significant moment in the shared cultural heritage teams belong to the league.
of India and Sri Lanka. The event showcased 27. Gujarat announced a 27 percent reservation for
performances by over 30 artists from Karnataka Other Backward Classes in local bodies like
including dances, folk songs, multi-lingual poems, panchayats, municipalities, and civic corporations.
and captivating puppet shows Note: In the Panchayats Extension to Scheduled
23. The second G20-Chief Scientific Advisers’ Areas notified areas, the reservation for OBCs will
Roundtable meeting officially began in Gandhinagar continue to be 10 percent to protect the interest of
in August 2023. tribals. The existing quota for Scheduled Castes and
Note: Science advisors, Scientists, researchers from Scheduled Tribes will remain unchanged and there
G20 countries, and invited countries will participate. has been no breach of the 50 percent reservation
Themes Include:Opportunities in One Health. ceiling.
Synergizing Global Efforts to Expand the Access to

July 2023

1. Union Minister for Home and Cooperation Amit Shah the first passenger catamaran built in the country
has virtually launched the ‘Akshar River Cruise’ on under Make in India at a cost of Rs 15 crore with twin
Sabarmati river front. engines where 165 passengers can travel safely for
Note: This cruise was developed by the Ahmedabad one-and-a-half hours. Impact: It will boost Gujarat’s
Municipal Corporation (AMC) and Sabarmati tourism
Riverfront Development Corporation Limited. It is
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2. Gujarat has doubled the insurance coverage under organic methodology to improve the climate of
Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana from Rs. 5 lakhs surrounding areas. The water bodies will also be
to Rs. 10 lakhs, effective from July 11, 2023. developed for recreation of citizens and their
Note: The State Health Minister Rushikesh Patel surroundings will get an aesthetic facelift.
informed that the decision will benefit nearly 1.78 8. Gujarat has signed six MoUs with private industries
crore Ayushman Bharat cardholders in the state. The for the mangrove plantation under the MISHTI
beneficiaries will get free of cost medical treatment scheme.
from over two thousand government hospitals and Note: In Gujarat, the mangroves will be planted over
795 private hospitals in the state under PMAY. 3000 hectares area of land to conserve coastal
3. India’s first Vedic-themed park has been opened to ecosystems. The MoUs were signed in the presence
the public in Noida. of the Union Minister for Environment, Forest &
Note: It was inaugurated by Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Climate Change Bhupender Yadav. The initiative will
Adityanath. This park is also known as Ved Van Park. aid the restoration and conservation of mangroves
It will also highlight excerpts from the four Vedic and achieve India’s carbon sink targets.
literature pieces- Rig Veda, Atharva Veda, Yajur 9. Gujarat launched the Antyodaya Shram Suraksha
Veda, and Sama Veda- via laser shows, wall Accident Insurance Scheme from Kheda.
paintings, and sculptures. The place is home to over Note: All those registered under the e-Shram portal
50,000 plants, such as banyan, kalpavriksha, and from Nadiad will benefit from the scheme. It is being
coconut, which have been mentioned in Vedic implemented through the Indian Postal Department,
literature. the IPPB, and the Ministry of Labour and
4. Odisha has launched the ‘Mo Jungle Jami Yojana’ to Employment. Under this scheme, insurance with a
saturate recognition of rights pertaining to the premium of Rs. 289 and Rs. 499 per year will be a big
Forest Rights Act (FRA) and speed up the post-rights support to workers in the event of death or partial
recognition activities within the prescribed time disability.
frame. 10. Odisha approved a proposal to recommend the
Note: Under the scheme, designed by the ST & SC inclusion of the Kui language in the eighth schedule
Development department, it has been decided to of the Constitution of India.
constitute forest rights cells at the tehsil and district Note: Aim: Help in the preservation, promotion, and
level with human resources to ensure and assist in propagation of the language and culture. Kui is a
the effective implementation of FRA, 2006. South-Eastern Dravidian language spoken by the
5. India’s first Tele-MANAS (Tele Mental Health Kandha community. It is primarily spoken in the
Assistance and Networking Across States) chatbot state of Odisha. Kui is traditionally written using the
was launched in Jammu & Kashmir. Odia script, which is also used for writing the Odia
Note: The service was launched by J&K LG Manoj language.
Sinha. This chatbot will start an instant conversation 11. J&K has launched a path-breaking Mobile-Dost-App
with people in distress. Tele-MANAS is a two-tier in sync with the vision of Apka -Mobile-Hamara-
system - Tier 1 comprises State Tele MANAS cells Daftar.
and Tier 2 comprises specialists at District Mental Note: It is a pioneering initiative for mobile-based
Health Programme /Medical College resources for delivery of citizen-centric services in the UT. Aim: To
physical consultation. enhance accessibility and convenience ensuring that
6. Karnataka‘s CM Siddaramaiah has unveiled the every individual of J&K will get benefited from
budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 and has government services at their fingertips. It will
introduced a notable provision. provide access to all the Government Services
Note: The budget now includes a provision for life directly.
and accident insurance, offering coverage of 4 lahks 12. Assam has launched a campaign named Gajah Kotha
to e-commerce delivery personnel. The government to mitigate the escalating human-elephant conflict
recognized the need to establish a social security net (HEC) issue.
to support these workers. The government will Note: Focus: On HEC-affected villages in eastern
provide additional financial aid of ₹4,000 to ₹5,000 a Assam, where it aims to educate residents about the
month to each household. behavior, ecology, and cultural significance of
7. Odisha launched ‘Ama Pokhari’ Yojana to rejuvenate elephants in the region, emphasizing the importance
around 2,000 large water bodies in all 115 urban of conservation. It is a joint initiative of Aaranyak
local bodies of the state. (wildlife NGO), British Asian Trust, and the Assam
Note: The state government would invest 120 crore Forest Department, supported by the Darwin
rupees in the implementation of the initiative. The Initiative.
project will be implemented using natural and
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13. Haryana has designated nodal officials to assist the Note: Aviation Sector is one of the most dynamic,
Ministry of Railway in the prompt execution of PM publicly visible, and international environment-
Gati Shakti - National Master Plan. sensitive sectors. The Aviation Security Control
Note: Aim: To establish goods sheds in every district Centre have 4 components: Communication and
of Haryana. This strategic move is expected to Monitoring Centre, Incident Management Centre,
significantly boost the State's economy, enhancing Aviation Research Centre and Data Centre.
trade and logistics across the region. These goods 17. Union Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation
sheds will have a transformative impact on stone of 108 feet tall statue of Lord Shri Ram in
Haryana's transportation network, leading to Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.
increased trade and commerce within the state. Note: It will be built at a cost of over 500 crore
14. Department for Promotion of Industry and rupees and this project is spread over an area of 10
Internal Trade has collaborated with the acres in Mantralayam village. Amit Shah stated that
Government of Gujarat to inaugurate the 'One the statue to be erected in Mantralayam will convey
District One Product' Wall at Garvi Gujarat Bhawan the message of Sanatan Dharma to the entire world,
in New Delhi. further bolstering the Vaishnava tradition.
Note: Aims: To select, brand, and promote at least 18. Odisha has approved Mission Shakti Scooter Yojana.
One Product from each District of the country for Note: Under this scheme, an interest subvention on
enabling holistic socioeconomic growth across all bank loans up to Rs 1 lakh will be provided to
regions. Features: 68 unique products, including beneficiaries to purchase a scooter. The State
traditional crafts like Gamthi Block print and Mata- government has made a budgetary provision of Rs
ni-Pachedi to agricultural goods. 528. 55 crore for the execution of the scheme over a
15. Rajasthan assembly passed the Minimum period of the next five years. The Cabinet has also
Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023 to cover an adult approved a budget of Rs 1001. 14 crore for
population of the state with a guarantee of wages or expanding Comprehensive Cancer Services.
pension. 19. Madhya Pradesh would introduce its maiden online
Note: All families of the state, whether urban or gaming industry, named "Madhya Pradesh State
rural, will be able to get an employment guarantee of Esports Academy".
125 days every year and also get a minimum pension Note: Objective: To offer young esports players a
of Rs 1,000 per month in case of platform and opportunity to elevate their skills to a
aged/disabled/single women, etc. The pension will professional level. Goal: To train and nurture
also be automatically increased at the rate of 15% aspiring gaming and esports professionals. Out of the
each year. available seats, 80% will be reserved for gamers
16. Amit Shah inaugurated the Aviation Security from Madhya Pradesh, while the remaining seats will
Control Center (ASCC) of the Central Industrial be open to gamers from across the country.
Security Force (CISF) at the Mahipalpur campus in
New Delhi.
June 2023

1. Maharashtra government has signed an MoU with The CSIR-Aroma Mission is a flagship project of CSIR
Bajaj Finserv to invest 5,000 crore rupees in Pune under which Lavender cultivation is being promoted
which is expected to create 40,000 jobs. in the temperate regions of J&K
Note: The MoU was signed by Harshdeep Kamble 3. Kerala government launched the KFON.
(Industry Secretary, Maharashtra) and S Note: KFON: Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON).
Sreenivasan (Chief Financial Officer, Bajaj Aim: To ensure internet facilities for all at affordable
Finserv). The development will have a positive rates in the State. This project will bridge the digital
impact as it will create new jobs and business divide in the society. During the first phase of the
opportunities for partners, vendors, suppliers, and KFON initiative, Internet facilities will be provided to
contractors in and around Pune, as well as globally. thirty thousand government institutions and
2. Union MoS Jitendra Singh has inaugurated a two-day fourteen thousand houses in the State.
lavender festival in Bhaderwah, Jammu & 4. MP government has launched Chief Minister's
Kashmir. Learn and Earn scheme to teach employable skills
Note: He also highlighted that Bhaderwah has to the youth.
emerged as the Lavender capital of India and agri Note: The youth will also be given an allowance of
StartUp destination. CSIR, Indian Institute of Rs 8,000 to 10,000. 703 work areas have been
Integrative Medicine, Jammu had organized the identified for training. At least one lakh youth would
event as part of its ‘One Week One Lab Campaign’. be trained. The registration of establishments
105 | P a g e
 providing training to youth will start on June 7. The 10. Uttar Pradesh has decided to gift GI-tagged Gulabi
registration of youth willing to learn work will start meenakari handicrafts for the visiting delegates
on 15th June. The youth will start working from 1st from G20 nations.
August. Note: A group of more than 100 trained artisans
5. Uttar Pradesh has launched the Nand Baba Milk were mobilized to fulfil the order of Gulabi
Mission scheme at a cost of Rs 1,000 crore. meenakari peacocks for the G20 delegates. Gulabi
Note: Aim: To provide milk producers the facility meenakari is one of the rarest crafts in India that is
of selling their milk at a reasonable price in practised in the by lanes of Varanasi, near Gai Ghat.
villages through dairy cooperative societies. Under The GI certification and ODOP initiative have got new
this mission, it is proposed to form a Dairy farmer recognition all over the world.
producer organization (Dairy FPO) in order to 11. Karnataka has rolled out its first of the five poll
facilitate the sale of milk in producers' villages itself. guarantees, the ‘Shakti’ scheme.
UP is a leading state in the field of milk development Note: Aim: To offer free travel to women and
and milk production. transgender people in government-run buses in the
6. Madhya Pradesh has launched ‘Ladli Bahna’ state. The scheme was launched by Karnataka CM
scheme to make women financially independent. Siddaramaiah, deputy CM DK Shivakumar and
Note: In this scheme, each woman will be given transport minister Ramalinga Reddy. They have also
1000 rupees per month. MP CM Shivraj Singh issued smart cards to five beneficiaries at an event
Chouhan has deposited the first month's amount of on the steps of the Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.
this scheme in the bank accounts of about 1.25 crore 12. Haryana launched a monthly pension of ₹ 10,000 for
women at a State-level function in Jabalpur. The the Padma awardees from the state.
State government has also issued a phone number Note: Besides the monthly pension, a free travel
181 for the help of women. Ladli Bahna Army also facility in the 'Volvo bus' service of the state
formed for women empowerment and security. government for Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and
7. The central government has agreed to sanction Rs Padma Vibhushan awardees from Haryana. The state
12,911 crore to Andhra Pradesh for completing government is also giving the benefit of health
the first phase of Polavaram Project. insurance up to ₹ 5 lakh to families with an annual
Note: The sanctioned amount of Rs 12,911 crore also income of up to ₹ 1. 80 lakh.
includes Rs 2,000 crore for the construction of 13. Madhya Pradesh will get its seventh tiger reserve
the diaphragm wall, which was washed away due with the notification of Nauradehi and Durgavati
to flood. Polavaram Project is an under construction Wildlife Sanctuaries as a combined protected area.
multi-purpose irrigation project on the Godavari Note: Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary: It is the largest
River in Andhra Pradesh. wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh and acts as a
8. Haryana CM Manohar Lal has launched an corridor for Panna Tiger Reserve and Satpura Tiger
integrated Water Resources Action Plan-2023- Reserve. Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary: It is located
25 under Amrit Jal Kranti in Chandigarh. in the Damoh district of Madhya Pradesh and hosts
Note: A two-day water conservation seminar was 18 species of mammals.
organized in Panchkula in April, 2023, in which 14. Assam launched a web portal for cattle
many departments of Haryana, including experts transportation.
from India and abroad doing research on water Note: Aim: To prevent the illegal transportation of
conservation participated. Several initiatives like cattle. From now, Livestock farmers and cattle
Mera Pani-Meri Virasat Yojana, have been taken traders can obtain permits required for inter-state
towards water conservation which have drawn transportation of cattle through the website ahvd-
significant results. cattletrans. assam. gov. in . This system is prepared
9. Kerala has launched a new scheme to reward for under the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021.
reporting illegal waste dumping on roads. 15. Telangana would release the Kharif installment of
Note: This scheme is a part of the 'Malinya financial assistance to farmers under the Rythu
Muktham Nava Keralam' campaign to make the Bandhu scheme from June 26, 2023.
state garbage-free. Under this scheme, citizens Note: He directed State's FM Harish Rao to take steps
would report about the littering/dumping (solid and to deposit the Rythu Bandhu funds to the farmers in
liquid waste) in public spaces, private property and their respective bank accounts. The Podu land
water bodies. The person who informs authorities of farmers will also be considered for the Rythu Bandhu
such violations will be given Rs 2,500 (maximum) or assistance. In Rabi season 2022-23, over 70 lakh
25% of the fine imposed. farmers received Rythu Bandhu assistance.

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16. Karnataka has launched a free power scheme 21. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has laid the
named 'Gruha Jyothi scheme' for providing free foundation stone of Balidaan Stambh' at Pratap Park,
electricity up to 200 units a month. near the Lal Chowk city centre the commercial hub
Note: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah also stated that of Srinagar city.
the scheme also extends to tenants living on rent if Note: Home Minister has laid the foundation stone in
their electricity consumption matches the scheme's the presence of Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant
criteria. The beneficiaries will get a ‘zero bill’ starting Governor Manoj Sinha. The memorial, a project
August 1 if usage is within their entitlement. The under the Srinagar Smart City, is a tribute to the
Gruha Jyothi scheme is part of the Congress martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
government's five poll promises. 22. Paytm Payment Services Limited signed an MoU
17. Jharkhand launched the panchayat-level drugs shop with Arunachal Pradesh Innovation and Investment
scheme to make essential medicines available in Park to create a startup ecosystem for the youth.
remote areas. Note: Under an MoU, Paytm Incubation Centre will
Note: The scheme was inaugurated in Chatra district provide its product to early-stage startups at a
by handing over licenses to three persons for discounted price. It also offers free credits through
operating the medicine shops in panchayats. A total the Paytm Startup toolkit to aid youths' business
of 15 people have been selected for licenses in the ventures in their early growth stage. This will
district so far. The programs like ‘Sarkar Aapke nurture the startup ecosystem in the state and
Dwar’ will be restarted to establish a “real motivate young entrepreneurs
connection with people”. 23. Uttar Pradesh state Police Department launched
18. Karnataka has decided to give cash instead of rice 'Operation Conviction' to combat criminals and
till rice is procured. mafias in the state.
Note: It was one of the guarantees of the Note: The initiative will expedite the prosecution of
Siddaramaiah govt was to provide 10 kg of rice free cases registered under the Protection of Children
to every member of a BPL household. The from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, cow slaughter,
government has decided to pay beneficiaries cash at religious conversion, and murder. It ensures the
the rate of ₹34 per kilo, for the additional 5kg of the immediate arrest of criminals, the collection of
foodgrain promised under the 'Anna Bhagya' strong evidence against them, quality investigation,
scheme. The disbursement of money will start on and effective representation of cases in courts.
July 1. 24. Seven products of Uttar Pradesh have been given the
19. Surat has set a Guinness World Record with over 1. Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the
53 lakh people participating in a yoga event at one Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai.
place on the International Day of Yoga (IDY), Note: Seven products are: Amroha Dholak, Mahoba
organized on 21st June. Gaura Patthar Hastashlip, Mainpuri Tarkashi,
Note: Guinness officials handed over the certificate Sambhal Horn Craft, Baghpat Home Furnishings,
to chief minister Bhupendra Patel at the venue. Two Barabanki Handloom Product, and Kalpi Handmade
4km-long stretches of roads, each around 300 Paper. The Amroha Dholak is a musical instrument
meters wide, connecting the Y junction were covered made of natural wood. Mango, jackfruit, and
with carpet for participants. The participants were teakwood are preferred for making the dholak.
divided into groups of 1,000 each 25. Gujarat signed an MoU with the US-based computer
20. Himachal Pradesh will collaborate with National storage chip maker Micron for setting up a $2. 75
Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to set up a state- billion semiconductor assembly.
of-the-art milk processing plant at Dagwar in Kangra Note: It will be the first semiconductor
district. manufacturing facility in India and will be
Note: The dairy development board’s assistance manufactured within 18 months. Micron will receive
would be taken for its operation and marketing. The 50% fiscal support for the total project cost from the
Dagwar plant’s capacity would range from 1 lakh to Indian government and incentives representing 20%
3 lakh liters, in which high-quality milk products of the total project cost from the Gujarat
would also be prepared. government.

May 2023

1. Manipur launched the Facial Recognition System flagged off two camera-mounted mobile FRS
(FRS) for Inner Line Permit (ILP) system and vehicles.

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 Note: It will help in the effective checking of ILP an indigenous community of the Tawang and
holders whose validity has expired and in better West Kameng districts, Arunachal Pradesh.
management of the system. The system has been 21. Telangana has introduced a Robotics Framework,
implemented on a trial basis. In addition, two mobile for providing a roadmap to promote a robotic
vehicles will be stationed at different locations in ecosystem in the State.
Imphal East and West districts to identify ILP Note: This is the first-of-its-kind policy in the
defaulters country. The Government will set up a Telangana
2. Haryana will be introducing a new feature on the Robotics Innovation Centre (TRIC) to implement the
‘eSamiksha portal’. framework, which will focus on the key pillars of
Note: Aim: To enable Administrative Secretaries and infrastructure access, business enablement,
Head of Departments to monitor the follow-up action fostering research and innovation, development of a
taken on decisions made during their meetings and skilled workforce, and responsible deployment.
presentations. It will provide updates on file 22. PM Modi has inaugurated and laid the foundation
number, meeting date, chairperson, meeting stone of various development projects worth over
description, and other documents such as the 5,500 crore rupees in Nathdwara, Rajasthan.
minutes of the meeting (MOM), which can be Note: He has also laid the foundation stone for the
accessed by officers of the concerned departments. gauge conversion project and for setting up a new
3. The Central Government has recently promulgated line from Nathdwara to Nathdwara town in
Article 355 in Manipur to take charge of the Rajsamand. He dedicated three NH projects,
security of the state. including a six-lane Udaipur to Shamlaji section of
Note: Article 355 of the Indian Constitution is a part NH-48 and the widening and strengthening work of
of emergency provisions contained in Part XVIII of the Bar-Bilara-Jodhpur Section of NH-25.
the Constitution of India, from Article 352 to 360. It 23. Punjab has become the first state in India to
encourages the centre to take all necessary steps to implement the 'right to walk' by making it
protect the state against internal disturbances and mandatory for all road-owning agencies to provide
external aggression. It empowers the Centre to take footpaths and cycle tracks in all future expansions of
necessary steps to protect a state. roads and construction.
4. The Centre for Innovation Incubation Research Note: Reason: Every month more than 10
and Entrepreneurship was inaugurated at the pedestrians/ bicycle riders are killed in road
KITS Warangal campus in Telangana. accidents due to encroachment on pedestrian
Note: It was inaugurated by Telangana's IT Minister footpaths. Road-owning agencies include NHAI, the
K Taraka Ramarao. The govt has promoted public works department, local bodies, and urban
innovation and entrepreneurship in the student development departments.
community to inculcate research and innovative 24. Lal Bahadur Shastri International (LBSI) Airport
skills among the students, faculty, and young has become the first in India to have a reading
researchers. Aim: To face the latest Engineering, lounge.
technological, and entrepreneurship challenges in Note: Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath's advisor
the 21st Century. Awanish Awasthi has inaugurated the lounge. Apart
19. The Uttar Pradesh's Urban Development from books on Kashi, the lounge's library has a
Department and Lucknow Smart City launched collection of literature and books in many
School Health Program. international languages besides books of youth
Note: This program has been started by Lucknow authors published under Prime Minister Yuva
Smart City in three schools in Lucknow. A digital Yojana. The lounge has been established with the
health report card for the overall physical and assistance of National Book Trust (NBT).
mental well-being of 1765 municipal school students 25. Himachal Pradesh has launched 'Him Data Portal'.
is also being prepared under the project. The benefit Note: Aim: A common digital platform to integrate
of health insurance worth Rs 25,000 is also being data of all organizations for the deliverance of
given to these children. welfare schemes and to better serve the public. The
20. Union minister Kiren Rijiju has launched the trailer people associated with the Him Pariyojna project
of the "first ever" movie in Tagin language of his would get information about various welfare
home state Arunachal Pradesh. schemes easily. From July 2023, the HP government
Note: The film "Love in 90s" will be tax-free and will would start the Him Parivar project which will give a
ask the state government to promote it through special digital identity to the people of the State.
other means as well. The film looks at displaying the 26. Kerala becomes the first state in India to launch a
culture of the Tagin community before the whole welfare fund for MGNREGS workers.
country and the world. Tagin or Ghasi Miri tribe is
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 Note: The workers who have completed the age of 32. Union WCD Minister, Smriti Irani has inaugurated
60 will be entitled to a pension under this fund and the women laborers convention organized by the
it will also provide financial assistance for medical Kerala unit of BMS in Thiruvananthapuram.
treatment, and other benefits. The workers need to Note: Minister of State for External Affairs V
pay a nominal monthly amount of Rs 50 as a Muraleedharan would make the keynote address at
contribution to the fund and the government will the event. Around 3,000 women workers and
also contribute an equal amount. laborers are expected to take part in the convention.
27. Andhra Pradesh has introduced an electronic The trade union informed that 2,000 seminars would
service delivery system, e-Chits' to regulate and be held across the country and out of those 200
usher in transparency in the sector. would be held in Kerala.
Note: Aim: Financially protecting chit-fund 33. Himachal Pradesh has formulated the ‘Green
companies' subscribers amid alleged scams. The Hydrogen’ policy to promote the use of green
transactions can be done only online, which will hydrogen and establish the state as a leading hub for
enable the registration department officials to verify its production.
subscribers and only then give approval. It also Note: It aims to attract investments in large-scale
ensures that subscribers know which registered renewable energy projects, ensuring a consistent
companies are operating in the chit-fund business and sustainable supply of green electricity for
28. Himachal Pradesh will set up an ethanol plant in its electrolysis. The government has already signed an
Una district by Hindustan Petroleum MoU with Oil India Limited to enable the
Corporation Limited (HPCL) with an outlay of Rs production of green hydrogen and green ammonia
500 crore. on a pilot basis.
Note: The government will invest 50% equity in the 34. Andhra Pradesh has launched the Niramaya
project and would extend cooperation to the Health Insurance scheme.
company for setting up the plant. The plant would Note: Beneficiary: Children suffering from autism,
provide employment and self-employment cerebral palsy, mental retardation, multiple
opportunities to the local people and farmers from disabilities, and others. The money for the scheme
Kangra, Hamirpur, and Bilaspur. HPCL CMD: Pushp was arranged from Sanjivani Nidhi (funds for which
Kumar Joshi were donated by government employees on New
29. Uttar Pradesh has launched an online rural Year's Day). The insured person would get 1 lakh a
education program ‘Pahal’. year for health-related issues
Note: The Department of secondary education has 35. Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in the
prepared this program in collaboration with IIT country to conduct pilgrimage by air on
Kanpur. Free online education will be provided at 10 government expenditure, under the Mukhya Mantri
government secondary schools in the initial phase. Teerth-Darshan Yojana.
The rural area students will be able to get the latest Note: Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan
information related to science and mathematics. has flagged off a regular Indigo flight carrying a
30. UP will launch a 5G technology training program batch of 32 senior citizens on pilgrimage to
under the Skill Development Mission for the youth. Prayagraj (UP) from Bhopal (MP) via flight. A help
Note: Aim: To make the youth skilled in new and center was also set up at the airport for the
future employable technologies. The state convenience of the passengers.
government believes that in the future, youths 36. Maharashtra has approved a new financial scheme
trained in 5G technology will be needed on a large named Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Yojana,
scale in the telecom sector. The 5G technology will under which more than one crore farmers in the
transform the entire telecom ecosystem of state will be paid 6,000 rupees annually.
hardware, software, and services. Note: The amount is in addition to the 6,000
31. Madhya Pradesh has approved a new scheme rupees being paid to farmers by the Centre under
named ‘Mukhyamantri Sikho Kamao Yojana the PM Kisan Yojana. Maharashtra Cabinet also
(Learn and Earn scheme) for unemployed youths. approved the implementation of 'Gender Inclusive
Note: Youth who have passed class 12th, ITI, Tourism Policy called 'Aai' to empower women in
Graduation, and post-graduation are eligible for the tourism sector.
this scheme. A stipend amount will also be given to 37. Tripura has appointed former BCCI president
them for learning skills. Youths, who have passed Sourav Ganguly as the brand ambassador of state
Class 12, would be given a stipend of Rs 8000, and an tourism.
ITI pass would be given Rs 8,500. Note: This appointment would help to attract more
visitors to Tripura and boost the tourism industry.
Tripura is a state in Northeast India, bordered by
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 Assam and Mizoram to the east and by Bangladesh to Bengal, after Howrah-NJP Vande Bharat Express and
the north, south, and west. Tripura is divided into 8 Howrah-Puri Vande Bharat Express
districts and 23 sub-divisions. Capital of Tripura: 40. Odisha has launched ‘Artificial Intelligence for
Agartala Youth’ initiatives.
38. The officials of the Government of Goa and Note: He has also launched ‘Odisha for AI’. Odisha
Government of Uttarakhand have signed an MoU for AI: A free 4-hour course on AI by Intel on its
for enhancing the tourism landscape of both states. app/site. In the first phase, the initiative will be
Note: The MoU was signed in the presence of Rohan implemented in Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Cuttack. AI
Khaunte (Minister for Tourism, Goa) and Pushkar for youth: It is for students (below 18) of 2000 5T
Singh Dhami (CM of Uttarakhand). Aim: To promote schools of phase 1 and Odisha Adarsh Vidyalayas.
bilateral cooperation in the travel and tourism Aim: To create an ecosystem fostering research,
sector. The signing of this MoU is also aligned with innovation, and application across sectors
the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiative launched by PM 41. Odisha has launched a 'Mo Ghara’ (My House)
Narendra Modi. scheme.
39. PM Modi has flagged off Assam's first Vande Note: Aim: to provide credit-linked financial
Bharat Express train through video conferencing on assistance to beneficiaries who face a fund crunch to
May 29, 2023. complete or upgrade their houses. The scheme will
Note: This new service will cover the distance of 411 cover all such families who were left out in the
km between Guwahati and New Jalpaiguri in 5 existing housing schemes. Under the Scheme, a
hours and 30 minutes. The train will stop at beneficiary can avail housing loan up to Rs 3 Lakh
Kamakhya, New Bongaigaon, Kokrajhar, New which can be repaid in 10 years excluding a one-year
Alipurduar, and New Coochbehar and culminate at moratorium period in easy installments.
NJP. This will be the third Vande Bharat for West

April 2023

1. The Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik has released Rs 877 Handloom in December 2020. A GI tag is a sign used
crore to 43 lakh farmers through direct benefit on a product that has a special geographical origin.
transfer (DBT) mode on the occasion of Utkal 4. The Punjab government has launched the 'CM di
Divas. Yogshala' program and portal in Punjab.
Note: The state government has extended another Note: Aim: To create a mass movement to carve out
round of funds to Krushak Assistance for a healthy and prosperous Punjab. The initiative was
Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) initially launched for four cities of the state: Patiala,
for undertaking the Kharif operation. About KALIA Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Phagwara. The formation of
scheme: It was launched in December 2018. Aim: To these Yogshalas will be under a pilot project. Trained
reduce poverty and accelerate agricultural Yoga instructors will impart free Yoga training to
prosperity people in open parks and other public places.
2. Telangana govt has launched India’s first Cool 5. A flagship initiative of Telangana government to
Roof Policy 2023-2028 at the CDMA office in prevent controllable blindness, 'Kanti Velugu
Telangana. program', has achieved a milestone by screening 1
Note: It is jointly launched by the state's municipal crore people for eye problems.
administration and urban development Note: The second phase of the programme started
department. The policy aims to drive state-wide on 19th January and will continue till 15th June.
adoption of cool roofs by making it mandatory to Health staff is screening all individuals over 18 years
install cool roofing materials, such as solar reflective old at Kanti Velugu camps set up in all Gram
paints, tiles, or sheets. It is a five-year policy, that Panchayats in the State. A total of 1,500 teams are
came into force on April 1, 2023, and continues till working towards creating a Guinness World Record.
March 31, 2028. 6. Tripura has been given the best state award in the
3. The world-famous Basohli Paintings from the northeastern region by the Centre for the
Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir and the successful implementation of e-procurement.
Ladakh Wood Carving of Ladakh have received the Note: To maintain transparency, the state has made
Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. it mandatory to go for e-procurement if the value of
Note: The process for GI Tagging of these products any government purchase or contract goes beyond
was started by NABARD in consultation with and Rs 25,000. The total value of payments made through
support from the Department of Handicrafts and e-procurement and Government eMarketplace

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 (GeM) portals increased from Rs 4,451 crore in orphans, and specially-abled children in need. Under
2020-21 to Rs 7441 crore in 2021-22. the scheme government will also provide recurring
7. The Tamil Nadu CM, M K Stalin has inaugurated the deposit accounts for each child with contributions
Indian Institute of Technology Madras’ (IIT-M) from the State government up to the age of 27
initiative which connects one lakh government years.
school students to electronic devices. 10. The Tamil Nadu government has formed a one-
Note: This outreach programme on STEM, which is man committee to recommend measures for the
part of the ‘Anaivarukkum IITM’ (IITM for all) effective administration of the homes functioning as
initiative, aims to connect one lakh rural Tamil Nadu per the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of
students. The CM also distributed electronic kits to Children) Act of 2015.
government school students which were developed Note: Headed by: Retired judge K. Chandru. The
by IIT Madras. committee will look into various aspects including
8. Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha has infrastructure, health, and medical facilities, and the
inaugurated the largest Tulip Garden of Jammu qualification of staff. The committee will also provide
region at Sanasar tourist destination in Ramban recommendations to the government for
district of Jammu division. improvement.
Note: As a Tourism Mission initiative, 75 new 11. India's tallest statue of Ambedkar, a 125-ft tall
destinations, 75 Sufi/religious sites, 75 new bronze statue of BR Ambedkar in Hyderabad.
cultural heritage sites and 75 new tracks are being Note: Reason: To mark the 132nd birth anniversary
developed in J&K to open up new economic avenues. of the architect of the Indian Constitution. It stands
Tulip Garden is spread over 40 Kanals of land with next to the State Secretariat on the banks of
2.75 Lakh Tulip Bulbs of 25 different varieties Hyderabad's famous Hussain Sagar Lake. It was built
9. The Himachal Pradesh government is planning to using 360 tonnes of stainless steel and 114 tonnes of
introduce the HP Sukh Ashraya (Care, Protection bronze, at a cost of Rs 146.50 crore.
and Self Reliance of Children) Bill, 2023 in the 12. Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu has
State Assembly. inaugurated the Shar Nyima Tsho Sum Namyig
Note: Aim: To provide proper care protection, Lhakhang (Gonpa) at Gyangkhar village, located in
development, and self-reliance to orphans, semi- Tawang d
13. istrict of Arunachal Pradesh. 16. The first-ever census of Mangrove Pitta Bird was
Note: The Gonpa has great historical importance for conducted by the Odisha forest officials in the
the well-being and betterment of humans, Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary.
particularly for the people of Shar Nyima Tsho Sum Note: In the first census, 179 mangrove pitta birds
and all Buddhists in general. The 11- 12th-century were sighted. The habitats of these beautiful birds
Gonpa was on the verge of collapse but it has been are confined to mangrove forest areas in Odisha’s
restored with a new structure. Bhitarkanika and Sundarban in West Bengal.
14. Andhra Pradesh has renamed the proposed Mangrove pitta is a colorful bird that has a black head
Bhavanapadu port in the Srikakulam district as with a brown crown. It feeds on crustaceans,
Mulapeta port at the request of the locals. mollusks, and insects.
Note: CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will lay a 17. Assam government has signed an MoU with the
foundation stone for this nearly Rs 4,000 crore Arunachal Pradesh government to resolve the long
project on April 19, 2023. This decision was taken as pending border dispute between both states.
farmers from Mulapeta and Vishnuchakram villages Note: The MoU was signed in presence of Union
requested the name change. The state govt also Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on April 20.
issued an order notifying Bhavanapadu Port as The Assam cabinet has approved the
Mulapeta Port with the same limits. recommendations of 12 Regional Committees
15. Kerala has become the first state to adopt a water formed by the state government to resolve the
budget in a bid to come up with a solution to water decades-long border dispute issues with Arunachal
scarcity in certain regions. Pradesh. Assam shares an 804 km long boundary
Note: The first phase would cover 94-gram with Arunachal Pradesh.
panchayats and 15-block panchayats. CM Pinarayi 18. Manohar Lal Khattar has launched three online
Vijayan released Public Water Budget. The third services to digitally empower people, is a CM of
phase of the Ini Njan Ozhukatte (Let me flow now) Haryana.
project for the rehabilitation of irrigation networks Note: These online services are Pro-active Divyang
in the Western Ghats was also launched. The idea of Pension Service, ‘Tau se Poochho’ WhatsApp
a water budget was first mooted by the state in 2019. chatbot, and online booking of government rest
houses. The Pro-active Divyang Pension Service for
111 | P a g e
 the physically challenged is committed to delivering Rs 1 crore, half will be paid by the Sports department
all services for them at their doorsteps. The Haryana and the rest would be raised from other sources.
Parivar Pehchan Authority has created a WhatsApp 20. In a meeting with the Wildlife Advisory Board,
Chatbot Tau Se Poochho. Madhya Pradesh CM, Shivraj Singh Chouhan
19. Kerala government has launched a project 'One instructed the development of Gandhisagar
Panchayat, One Playground' project to revive the Sanctuary as a habitat for cheetahs in the next six
sports culture in the State by opening quality months .
playgrounds in every panchayat. Note: It will be developed as a second home for
Note: It was inaugurated by Kerala CM Pinarayi cheetahs to retain the tag of cheetah state. Reason:
Vijayan at Kallikkad. For the first phase of the The experts suggested that Kuno National Park in
project, the state government has prepared a list of Sheopur does not have enough space for all cheetahs,
113 panchayats. Each playground would cost around hence it is necessary to relocate a few
21. The government of Maharashtra has decided to 22. Kondh Tribe of Nayagarh district in Odisha
constitute a new Commission to decide the celebrates Bihan Mela, which refers to a seed festival.
backwardness of the Maratha Community. Note: The event is participated by farmers from as
Note: Its government will file a curative petition in many as 40 villages in Dasapalla block, surrounded
the Supreme Court for Maratha (Social and Economic by hills and forests. The preparations begin as soon
Backward Class) Reservation. It will ensure all the as farmers have harvested Kharif crops, which
lapses in the Maratha Reservation law will be include both hybrid and indigenous varieties of
overcome and assured that Candidates from paddy, millets, maize, and sorghum. Kondh tribes are
Maratha Community will be given all the benefits like a tribal group found in the hills and jungles of Orissa
other communities. in eastern India.

Important News – World

August 2023

1. Bhutan's Tiger population has increased by 27 2030. India’s average rate of reduction in emissions
percent since its last count in 2015. increased to 3% annually during 2016-2019.
Note: The latest survey estimates there are now 131 4. MakeMyTrip(MMT) has joined hands with the
tigers in the country. It reflected the success of Tiger Ministry of Tourism to launch a microsite,
conservation efforts in the South Asian Himalayan 'Traveller’s Map of India.
landlocked nation situated between China and India. Note: Aim: To showcases 600-plus destinations
It was in 2010 that Bhutan continued its beyond the popular travel spots in the country.
commitment to protecting its wildlife when the Objective: To discover lesser-known tourism gems
country joined the global effort to double the number that lie within the country's borders based on their
of tigers in the wild by 2022. preferences.According to MMT "This microsite has
2. According to EU climate change service report, the been designed in line with the Government of India’s
oceans have hit their hottest-ever recorded visionary 'DekhoApnaDesh' program,"
temperature as they soak up warmth from climate 5. According to the Association for Democratic Reforms
change. (ADR), about 12% of sitting MPs of the Rajya Sabha
Note: The average daily global sea surface are billionaires with Andhra Pradesh having the
temperature beat a 2016 record this week as it highest percentage of such parliamentarians.
reached 20. 96C. That is far above the average for Note:5 (45%) out of 11 MPs are from Andhra
this time of year. The broken temperature record Pradesh, 3 (43%) out of 7 MPs are from Telangana,
follows a series of marine heatwaves this year and 3 (16%) out of 19 MPs from Maharashtra.
including in the UK, the North Atlantic, the 6. The ADR and the National Election Watch (NEW)
Mediterranean, and the Gulf of Mexico. have analyzed and updated the criminal, financial,
3. According to two official’s privy to the latest and other details of Rajya Sabha MPs.The WHO
assessment made for submission to the United South-East Asia Region committed to further
Nations, India’s greenhouse emissions rate dropped accelerate efforts to end tuberculosis by 2030 with
by a faster-than-expected 33% in 14 years. member countries adopting the Gandhinagar
Note: Reason: Renewable energy generation rose Declaration.
and forest cover increased. India is well on the way Note:The South-East Asia Region bears a
to meeting a commitment to the UNFCCC, to reduce disproportionate burden of nearly half of the global
emissions intensity by 45% from the 2005 level by TB cases and deaths.The Declaration calls for
112 | P a g e
 establishing a high-level multi-sectoral commission Note: Aim: To study the status of vegetative cover in
reporting to the highest political level in each the Kingdom and contribute to the goals of
country for synergy of efforts among various afforestation projects and the "Green Saudi"
stakeholders. initiative. It will use AI to analyze satellite imagery to
7. Saudi Arabia Environment Ministry has launched a identify areas that are most vulnerable to
program to combat desertification using artificial desertification. Remote sensing technologies will be
intelligence (AI). used to monitor vegetation cover, and track its
changes over time.

July 2023

1. Canada is developing a scheme to attract digital Note: Report title: Burden of Disease Attributable to
nomads to the country. unsafe drinking water, sanitation, and Hygiene: 2019
Note: This plan aims to make Canada a go-to Update. Out of these, 273,000 deaths are attributed
destination for digital nomads. Under current to diarrhea, while 112,000 deaths are from acute
Canadian immigration rules, digital nomads can stay respiratory infections. Half of the world’s population
in Canada for up to six months under a visitor status still does not have adequate access to WASH.
while still working for foreign companies. They are 6. India ranked at 126 in the 2023 Global Peace Index
also planning to collaborate with public and private (GPI), released by the Institute for Economics and
partners to access if more policies were needed to Peace.
attract global remote workers. Note: With an overall score of 2.31, India falls below
2. Iran has become the new permanent member of the the global average of 2.314. Iceland has remained the
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) at an most peaceful country in the world since the study
India-hosted virtual summit of the grouping. was first released in 2008. It measures the state of
Note: With the addition of Iran as a new member, the peace across three domains: Societal safety and
total membership of the SCO reaches nine. The SCO security, Ongoing domestic and international
was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the conflict, and Militarisation.
presidents of Russia, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, 7. China has launched its first homegrown open-
Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. India and source operating system named OpenKylin for
Pakistan became permanent members of SCO in computers.
2017. SCO headquarters: Beijing, China Note: Aim: To reduce its foreign dependence at a
3. Nord Security has recently joined the United time of increased rivalry with the United States. The
Nations Global Compact (UNGC) community. system has been designed as a rival to the ubiquitous
Note: UNGC: Launched: 2000. It is the largest Windows and MacOS systems. Previous versions of
corporate sustainability initiative in the world. It is a the software had already been deployed on the
call to companies everywhere to align their computers of some government departments. It is
operations and strategies with 10 Principles in the based on the popular open-source Linux operating
areas of human rights, labour, environment, and system.
anti-corruption. It promotes activities that 8. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed that
contribute to sustainable development goals to India and Tanzania have started trade settlements
create a better world. in local currencies.
4. Meta Platforms is planning to launch a Note: This new initiative will help in promoting
microblogging app 'Threads', Instagram’s text-based commerce between the two countries. India-
conversation app. Tanzania bilateral trade has seen very strong growth
Note: It is expected to be released soon and will and stood at USD 6.4 billion in 2022-23. Bank of
allow users to follow the accounts they follow on the India, Bank of Baroda, and Canara Bank have
photo-sharing platform and keep the same operations in Tanzania. About 18 countries have
username. The launch comes after Twitter already opened special vostro accounts with Indian
announced a slate of restrictions on the app, banks.
including the need to be verified in order to use 9. France would join Britain in supplying long-range
TweetDeck. SCALP missiles to Ukraine.
5. Unsafe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene Note: This announcement was made at a summit of
(WASH) were responsible for 395,000 deaths among the NATO alliance in Lithuania. Reason: To boost
children under the age of five in 2019, published by military aid to Ukraine to help its counteroffensive.
WHO. SCALP missile is equipped with inertial, GPS, and
terrain-referencing navigation, and its pre-set target
113 | P a g e
 systems make it highly resistant. About NATO: 15. Meta is partnering with Microsoft to introduce AI
Founded: 4 April 1949; HQ: Brussels, Belgium large language model’s next generation and make
10. Elon Musk launched artificial intelligence startup technology known as Llama 2.
xAI. Note: It will be available for research and
Note: Musk registered a firm named X.AI Corp, commercial use, enabling developers and businesses
incorporated in Nevada. The startup will be led by to hold the next generation of generative AI tools.
Musk, who is already the CEO of electric car maker Meta had already released the first iteration of Llama
Tesla, CEO of SpaceX, and owner of Twitter. He co- (Large Language Model Meta) in February 2023.
founded OpenAI, maker of ChatGPT, in 2015, but 16. According to the Henley Passport Index 2023,
stepped down from the company's board in 2018. He published by Henley & Partners, Singapore becomes
is also an investor in Microsoft's OpenAI. the world’s most powerful passport with visa-free
11. Israel parliament has approved a bill that limits access to 192 travel destinations out of 227 around
some Supreme Court power. the world.
Note: The new bill seeks a curb on the Supreme Note: While India ranked 80th with visa-free entry
Court's power to void decisions made by the to 57 nations. Germany, Italy, and Spain shared
government, ministers, and elected officials by ruling second place with 190 visa-free destinations. Japan
them unreasonably. It now returns to the committee has slipped to third place as the number of
for discussion and could be altered before being destinations its passport can access without a visa
brought for the final votes. Capital of Israel: fell to 189.
Jerusalem; Prime Minister: Benjamin Netanyahu 17. Italy has unveiled the memorial named VC Yeshwant
12. According to the latest Global Multidimensional Ghadge Sundial Memorial at Montone.
Poverty Index (MPI), by UNDP, Around 415 million Note: Reason: To pay tribute to the Indian troops
people exited poverty within a span of just 15 years who fought in the Italian Campaign during the
between 2005 and 2021 in India. Second World War (1939-1945) and also honour
Note: India is also one of the 25 countries that have Naik Yeshwant Ghadge, Victoria Cross, who was
successfully halved their global MPI values within 15 killed in action fighting on the heights of Upper Tiber
years. It is based on trends from 2000 to 2022 Valley. The memorial is in the form of a live sundial.
covering 81 countries. It monitors both poverty Motto: Omines Sub Eodem Sole (Translates to 'We all
reduction and how people experience poverty in live under the same sun')
different aspects of their daily lives. 18. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune informed that the
13. Pakistan launched the 1200-megawatt nuclear nation has applied to join the BRICS (Brazil, Russia,
power plant being built with the assistance of China India, China and South Africa) group, he is a
in Punjab province. president of Algeria.
Note: Earlier, PM Sharif had inked an agreement Note: Algeria has also submitted a request to
with China worth a whopping USD 3. 5 billion under become a shareholder member of the BRICS Bank.
which Beijing would build the Chashma-V nuclear The North African country is rich in oil and gas
plant at Chashma in the Mianwali district of Punjab. resources and seeking to diversify its economy.
Two other nuclear power plants are also operational BRICS nations account for more than 40% of the
in Pakistan. Karachi Nuclear Power Plants (KANUPP world's population and about 26% of the global
2 & 3) have a capacity of 2,290. economy.
14. United Kingdom formally signed the 19. The new logo of Twitter is X.
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Note: The owner Elon Musk, and Chief Executive
Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) trade bloc. Officer Linda Yaccarino of Twitter, revealed its new
Note: The UK also become the first European logo, replacing the blue bird on its website with an X
country to join the CPTPP. Aim: To grow the as part of a broader rebranding effort. The new logo
country's economy and provide access for British now shows a white X on a black background. It is the
businesses to a market of over 500 million people. latest change since Elon Musk bought the social
CPTPP: It is a free trade agreement between 11 media platform for 44 billion dollars last year.
nations (Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Twitter is a free social networking site where users
Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and broadcast short posts known as tweets.
Vietnam). 20. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) and
Meta expanded their ‘WhatsApp Se Wyapaar
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 program to digitally train and upskill 10 million local Shahbaz Khan, the younger brother of renowned
traders on the WhatsApp Business App. mountaineer Sirbaz Khan. Harila and Tenjen set the
Note: Goal: To localize digitization efforts to unleash fastest climbing record by beating Nirmal Purja of
growth opportunities for businesses with hyper- Nepal.
local digital training in 11 Indian languages across all 22. In July 2023, Bhutan has announced the successful
29 Indian states. CAIT will conduct workshops to elimination of rubella.
digitize their storefronts and establish their 'digital Note: In the past 20 years, Bhutan's health workers
dukaan' have worked tirelessly and fought against rubella,
21. A Norwegian woman and her Nepali Sherpa guide also known as German Measles. This infectious
climbed K2, the world's second tallest mountain, in disease poses a threat to those infected and also
Pakistan becoming the world's fastest climber to causes severe complications for pregnant women,
summit all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters (26,246 resulting in irreversible birth defects in newborns.
feet) in 92 days. Bhutan's efforts in vaccination promotion and
Note: This was their 14th highest peak in just over creating awareness have resulted in commendable
three months. Other climbers included Pakistan's success.

June 2023

1. According to a report released by 'fDi Markets’, India Centre (GCC) ecosystem will expand with over
has emerged as a key source country for FDI in 1,900 GCCs and a market size of $60 billion by
Dubai, one of the wealthiest of the seven emirates in 2025.
UAE. Note: As of FY23, India is home to 1,580 unique
Note: The top sectors by FDI projects from India GCCs, with several global MNCs opting to establish
into Dubai in 2022 were software & IT services their first global center outside of their headquarters
(32%), business services (19%), consumer products, in India. The GCC market size in FY 23 was $46
real estate, and financial services. The top sectors by billion.
FDI capital from India into Dubai in 2022 were 5. According to the 'The Times Higher Education
consumer products (28%). Impact Rankings 2023', Amrita Vishwa
2. According to the UN's Hunger Hotspots – FAO-WFP Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore has emerged as
early warnings on acute food insecurity report, India’s highest-placed university.
along with Afghanistan and Myanmar, Pakistan is Note: The university is ranked at 52nd rank
listed in the hunger hotspots in the world. globally out of 1,591 universities. Topped by:
Note: Globally Hunger is set to worsen in 18 Western Sydney University followed by the
'hotspots' comprising a total of 22 countries. Highest University of Manchester (UK), Queen’s University
Concern Nations: Afghanistan, Nigeria, Somalia, (Canada), Universiti Sains Malaysia, and the
South Sudan, and Yemen. Very High Concern University of Tasmania. Amrita Vishwa stood out for
Nations: Pakistan, the Central African Republic, its efforts toward meeting the UNSDGs.
Ethiopia, Kenya, Congo, and Syria 6. Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has
3. Bangladesh named the cyclone 'Biparjoy', that released its annual compendium, titled 'State of
would be intensified into a very severe storm as it India's Environment 2023.
moved nearly northwards with a speed of 2 kmph in Note: It is based on four parameters i.e.
the last 6 hours. environment, agriculture, public health, and
Note: The cyclonic storms in the Bay of Bengal and infrastructure. Telangana was ranked at the top in
the Arabian Sea have been intensifying rapidly and terms of overall environmental performance and in
retaining their intensity for a longer duration due to terms of increasing forest cover. In agriculture, MP
climate change. The name Biparjoy was given to the takes the top slot and Delhi leads in public health.
cyclone by Bangladesh, which means “Disaster” in Gujarat leads the rankings in public infrastructure.
Bengali. 7. MoS for Education and External Affairs Rajkumar
4. According to the report titled “GCC 4.0 – India Ranjan Singh released the National Institutional
Redefining the Globalization Blueprint”, released Ranking Framework (NIRF) Rankings 2023 on
by NASSCOM – Zinnov, India's Global Capability June 5, 2023.
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 Note: IIT Madras has emerged as the top college Note: The report on ‘Har Ghar Jal’ estimates that
under the overall category for the fifth consecutive ensuring safely managed drinking water for all
year and the best engineering institute for the eighth households in the country. The ‘Har Ghar Jal’ report
consecutive year. Research category: IISc Bengaluru focuses on diarrheal diseases as they contribute
has earned the top spot. Agriculture and Allied significantly to the overall disease burden related to
Sectors: IARI, New Delhi. Medical category: AIIMS water, sanitation, and hygiene issues.
Delhi 13. Britain and the United States have backed a new
8. According to a report titled 'The e-Conomy of a "Atlantic Declaration".
Billion Connected Indians' published by Google, Note: Aim: Greater cooperation on pressing
Temasek and Bain & Company, India’s internet economic challenges in areas like clean energy,
economy is expected to grow six-fold to $1 trillion by critical minerals and artificial intelligence. The joint
2030 from $175 billion in 2022. declaration described the partnership covering the
Note: The contribution of the Internet economy to broad spectrum of the two countries' economic,
India’s technology sector would expand, from 48% technological, commercial and trade relations. They
to 62% in 2030. The report emphasizes that the will strengthen their supply chains, develop
growth will be spearheaded by the B2C e-commerce technologies of the future and invest in one another's
segment, followed by B2B, and SaaS providers. industries.
9. According to Mercer's Cost of Living survey 2023, 14. WHO and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS,
Mumbai has ranked the most expensive city in Tuberculosis and Malaria signed a new Strategic
India for expatriates. Framework.
Note: After Mumbai, cities like New Delhi and Note: Reason: For Collaboration to build stronger
Bengaluru fall on the second and third place in the and more resilient health systems and maximize
most expensive list for ex-pats list in India. In the collaboration and impact in support of country,
global ranking, Mumbai has been positioned at 147, regional and global responses to major
New Delhi (169), Chennai (184), Bengaluru (189), communicable diseases. The new five-year
and Pune (213). Hong Kong and Singapore are the framework builds on the previous agreement signed
most expensive cities for international employees in 2018. It aligns with the 2023-2028 Global Fund
this year. Strategy and the WHO General Programme of
10. According to a report, Up to 2.3 billion people Work.
around the world are still using polluting fuels to 15. Microsoft has launched a new 'voice chat' feature to
cook and 675 million don't have electricity. its AI-powered Bing Chat on the desktop.
Note: Report by: IEA, International Renewable Note: Aim: It will help users to talk to the AI chatbot
Energy Agency, U.N. Statistics Division, World by clicking on the microphone icon in the Bing Chat
Bank, and WHO. The report also highlighted that 1.9 box. Currently, the voice chat feature supports five
billion won't have clean cooking opportunities by languages- English, Japanese, French, German, and
2030. The global access to electricity increased from Mandarin. More languages will be added soon. Bing
84% in 2010 to 91% (2021), but the pace of growth Chat supports text-to-speech answers, which will
slowed in 2019-2021. respond to your questions in its own voice.
11. India and Serbia have agreed to set a target for 16. According to the Global Slavery Index 2023,
bilateral trade from the present 320 million Switzerland has the lowest prevalence of modern
euros to one billion euros by the end of the decade. slavery.
Note: Indian President is on a three-day State visit Note: Produced by: ILO, Walk Free, and
to Serbia from the 7th to the 9th of June. President of International Organisation for Migration. Walk
Serbia, Alecsandar Vucic also promised Free has reported that 49.6 million people are living
simplification of the issue of Visa to Indians and also in modern slavery, out of which, India is home to 11
hoped that direct flights between the two countries million. Countries with the highest prevalence:
will begin soon. North Korea, Eritrea, Mauritania, Saudi Arabia, and
12. World Health Organisation (WHO) report has Turkey. Countries with the lowest prevalence:
highlighted significant impacts of 'Har Ghar Jal' Switzerland, Norway, and Germany.
Programme on public health and economic 17. India has drafted resolution to establish a memorial
savings. wall in the UN headquarters to honor fallen
peacekeepers .
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 Note: The UNGA has adopted a draft resolution to Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC)has
establish a memorial wall in the UN headquarters to climbed 52 positions to secure the 433rd rank in the
honor fallen peacekeepers. Ruchira Kamboj (India’s list.
Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador) Note: In the 2022 ranking, the company was on
has introduced the draft resolution titled ‘Memorial 485th rank. The climb of 52 positions has
wall for fallen United Nations peacekeepers. 'The demonstrated the NTPC's emergence as a strong
resolution was submitted by 18 countries including force in the global market. 'The Global 2000' List
Bangladesh, Canada, China, Denmark, Egypt, France, recognizes the world's largest companies based on
India, Indonesia, Jordan, Nepal, Rwanda, and the US. sales, profits, assets, and market value.
18. Embassy of India in Kuwait in association with the 23. According to a report by the International Energy
United Nations (UN) Habitat Office in Kuwait, has Agency (IEA), the growth in demand for oil in India
organized a Beach Cleaning Event. will overtake that in China by 2027.
Note: Aim: To promote environmental awareness Note: 'Oil 2023', the multilateral agency’s outlook
and community participation. This part was highlighted that China’s demand will fall consistently
organized as part of the Mission LiFE (Lifestyle For from 2024 after a massive rise this year. The United
Environment) initiative of the Government of India, States, China, and India are the world’s three largest
that aims to bring individual behaviors to the oil consumers in that order. IEA also raised its
forefront of global climate action by promoting a forecast for world oil growth demand to 2. 4 million
circular economy and mindful utilization. barrels per day in 2023.
19. According to a new report, Glaciers in Asia’s Hindu 24. United Nations Development Programme
Kush Himalaya could lose up to 75% of their volume (UNDP) released the Gender Social Norms Index
by the end of the century. (GSNI) 2023, which covered 85% of the global
Note: Reason: Global warming, is causing dangerous population.
flooding and water shortages for the 240 million Note: The index has revealed that close to 9 out of 10
people who live in the mountainous region. The men and women hold fundamental biases against
international scientist team found that ice loss on the women. Nearly 90% of people still hold at least one
peaks of Everest and K2 is speeding up. In 2010, the bias against women. This index has tracked people’s
glaciers shed as much as 65% of ice, which was faster attitudes towards women in four dimensions i. e.
than they had in the preceding decade. political, educational, economic and physical
20. UN has adopted the first-ever treaty to protect integrity.
marine life on the high seas, approved by delegates 25. As per Hurun India's 2022 Burgundy Private Hurun
from the 193 member nations. India 500 list, Reliance Industries Ltd is the most
Note: The treaty will create a new body to manage valuable private company in India, with a whopping
the conservation of ocean life and establish marine value of Rs 16. 4 lakh crore.
protected areas on the high seas. It also establishes Note: TCS with Rs 11. 8 lakh crore ranked second in
ground rules for conducting environmental impact India, followed by HDFC Bank with Rs 9. 4 lakh crore.
assessments for commercial activities in the oceans. The value of Reliance decreased by 5. 1% in the last
The new treaty is under the UN Convention on the six months, while the total value of TCS increased
Law of the Sea, came into force in 1994. marginally by 0. 7% and HDFC Bank increased by 12.
21. According to the United Nations High Commissioner 9%. Countries with the lowest prevalence:
for Refugees (UNHCR) report, the number of Switzerland, Norway, and Germany.
refugees globally stood at 35. 3 million by the end of 26. According to a Gender Gap Index 2023, released by
2022. World Economic Forum, India ranked at 127.
Note: It also shows an increase in the number of Note: The report reflects an improvement of 1. 4%
more than 8 million from the year before. Around points. India's neighboring countries rank:
52% of all refugees came from Syria, Ukraine, and Bangladesh (59), Bhutan (103), China (107), and
Afghanistan. According to international law, Pakistan (142). For the 14th year running, Iceland
refugees are people who are forced to flee their (91. 2%) takes the top position. While Norway
home countries to escape persecution or a serious ranked 2nd, followed by Finland, and Sweden.
threat to their life or freedom. 27. According to the Global Liveability Index 2023
22. According to the 2023 Forbes' -The Global 2000, published by the Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU),
India's largest power generation company, National
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 Vienna in Austria has topped the ranking of the crisis and geopolitical volatilities, but India is among
most liveable cities. the countries that have made significant
Note: While Copenhagen in Denmark placed second improvements.
on the list, followed by Melbourne and Sydney. 32. INDUS X (India-United States Defence
Damascus in Syria and Tripoli in Libya remained at Acceleration Ecosystem) was launched at an event
the bottom of the liveability index. From India, New in Washington DC, USA on 21st June 2023.
Delhi and Mumbai are at 141st position and Chennai Note: The INDUS X event was co-organised by
at 144th. Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the
28. Forbes has ranked Tata Group’s brand custodian Ministry of Defence, and the US Department of
Harish Bhat as among the top ten most influential Defence (DoD) and hosted by US-India Business
Chief Marketing Officers (CMO) for the second Council (USIBC). Joint Secretary (Defence Industries
consecutive year. Promotion), MoD, Anurag Bajpai led the Indian
Note: Last year, he was in the ninth position. William delegation in the two-day INDUS-X event.
White, CMO of Walmart has topped the Forbes list of 33. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Google
most influential CMOs 2023. While Ashimita Dubey, CEO Sundar Pichai, Amazon CEO Andrew Jassy, and
chief digital and marketing officer at L'Oreal, is Boeing CEO David Calhoun in Washington DC.
ranked 21 and Infosys chief marketing officer Sumit Note: After the meeting, it was informed that Google
Virmani is at 41. is investing 10 billion dollars in India's digitization
29. According to the Global competitiveness index 2023, fund and will open Google's global fintech operation
published by International Institute for Management centre in GIFT City, Gujarat. While Amazon CEO
Development (IMD), India ranked 40. Andrew Jassy has already invested 11 billion dollars
Note: Denmark, Ireland, and Switzerland took the and with an intention to invest another 15 billion
top three places. Switzerland ranked fourth, dollars.
followed by the Netherlands, Taiwan, Hong Kong, 34. Germany Parliament has approved a new
Sweden, the USA, and UAE. The report uses a immigration law designed to attract skilled workers
combination of surveys, statistical data, and trends to the country.
to benchmark competitiveness around the world. Note: Reason: The nation is suffering from an
30. According to the 20th QS World University Rankings unprecedented labour shortage. The law was
2023, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) initiated by the governing center-left coalition of the
Bombay has climbed 23 positions to secure the Social Democrats, the liberal Free Democrats, and
149th rank globally. the Greens. The law includes a points-based system
Note: While in the overall ranking, the that lowers entry hurdles for work visa applicants
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), United according to their professional qualifications, age,
States topped the rankings for the twelfth and language skills.
consecutive year. UK’s Cambridge University ranked 35. A US$5 billion 'smart' city named Arkadag was
second followed by Oxford University. India is the inaugurated in Turkmenistan.
seventh most represented country globally, with 45 Note: Turkmenistan President, Serdar
universities ranked. Berdymukhamedov has unveiled the city around
31. India bagged 67th position globally in the World 30km southwest of the capital, Ashgabat. The new
Economic Forum’s (WEF) energy transition index. city is built in the foothills of the picturesque Kopet-
Note: WEF informed that India is the only major Dag mountains and named after Gurbanguly
economy whose energy transition accelerated across Berdymukhamedov. He ruled the country between
all dimensions. Top 5: Sweden, Denmark, Norway, 2006 and 2022 and now carries the title Hero
Finland, and Switzerland. The global energy Arkadag (Protector).
transition has plateaued amid the global energy
May 2023

1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the guest of Note: PM’s visit coincides with the 25th anniversary
honour at France’s traditional military parade, of the strategic partnership between France and
which will be held during Bastille Day on 14th July. India. Bastille Day is named after the fall of a fortress
that symbolized the French revolution of 1789. PM

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 Modi will be 2nd Indian PM to be the guest of honour manufacturing hub Guangzhou and Handan in
after Manmohan Singh in 2009. China's Hebei province.
2. United States Food and Drug Administration 12. Pasang Dawa Sherpa has scaled Mount Everest on
(USFDA) has approved the world's first May 14, 2023, and become the world's second
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine for person to scale Everest 26 times.
older adults. Note: Kami Rita Sherpa was the first person who
Note: However, this vaccine still needs approval from climbed Mount Everest 26 times. He reached the
the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, summit along with a Hungarian climber. Pa Dawa had
before its launch in Public. The vaccine was climbed the peak 25 times before, including twice in
approved for people aged 60 and older. RSV is a 2022. Since making his first successful of climb of the
common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, peak in 1998, Dawa has made the trip almost every
cold-like symptoms. It can be serious, especially for year.
infants and older adults. 13. European Union regulators have approved Microsoft
8. According to a report Born Too Soon: Decade of proposed acquisition of gaming firm Activision
Action on Pre-term Birth, released by the UN, an Blizzard for $69 billion.
estimated 13.4 million babies were born pre-term in Note: This approval is subject to remedies offered by
2020, with 45% of them being born in just five Microsoft to address antitrust concerns, particularly
countries, including India, Pakistan, Nigeria, in the field of cloud gaming. The European
China, and Ethiopia. Commission (EC) has stated that Microsoft has
Note: It is jointly produced by the WHO, UNICEF, addressed competition concerns while offering 10-
and Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child year free licensing deals and fair market access for
Health (PMNCH). The global pre-term birth rate European consumers and cloud game streaming
increased to 9.9% in 2020, compared to 9.8% in services.
2010. 14. 76th Cannes Film Festival has been started in
9. WHO has declared mpox outbreak is no longer a France on May 16, 2023.
global health emergency. Note: The festival has officially kicked off with the
Note: In July 2022, WHO declared mpox, previously world premiere of the Johnny Depp starring film
known as monkeypox, a public health emergency of Jeanne Du Barry. MoS for I&B, Dr. L Murugan lead an
international concern (PHEIC). This move indicates Indian delegation at the 12-day event, accompanied
that the crisis due to mpox has come under control. by filmmaker Guneet Monga and others. The Indian
Mpox spreads through direct contact with body fluids Pavilion has been conceptualized and designed by the
and causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled skin National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad with the
lesions. The WHO recently also declared an end of theme - ‘Showcasing India’s Creative Economy’.
public health emergency status for COVID-19. 15. According to the report, 'Turning Off The Tap',
10. According to the Internal Displacement plastic pollution across the world can be reduced
Monitoring Centre (IDMC)'s annual report, the by up to 80% by 2040, if companies and countries
number of internally displaced people around the make policy and market shifts using existing
world reached 71 million as of the end of 2022. technologies.
Note: The number of movements in which people Note: This report was published by UNEP. The
fled in search of safety and shelter was also magnitude and nature of changes required to end
unprecedented in 2022 with a figure of 60.9 million. plastic pollution and to create a circular economy to
The conflict in Ukraine triggered nearly 17 million replace the widespread use of single-use plastics and
displacements and monsoon floods in Pakistan their inappropriate disposal. About 400 million
triggered 8.2 million. tonnes of plastic waste are generated every year.
11. China will launch pilot projects in more than 20 cities 16. Decade of the 2080s of Bikram Samvat has been
to create a "new-era" marriage and childbearing marked as 'the Visit Nepal decade'.
culture to foster a friendly childbearing environment. Note: 2025 as a special year for tourism. This was
Note: Aim: To boost the country's falling birth announced by the President of Nepal Ram Chandra
rate. China's Family Planning Association will launch Paudel while presenting the policies/ programmes.
projects to encourage women to marry and have As per the latest statistics maintained by Nepal
children. Cities included in the pilot include the Tourism Board, Nepal recorded the arrival of over
3.26 lakh foreign tourists in the first 4 months of
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 2023. President has announced that timely revisions three critical areas (public transportation, buildings
would be made to tourism-related law. and facilities, and waste management). This move
17. During the visit to Japan, Prime Minister Narendra aligns with the UAE COP28 preparations and UAE
Modi unveiled the bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. It outlined ten
Hiroshima, Japan on 20 May 2023. key initiatives, each assigned to various agencies and
Note: The Mahatma Gandhi bust has been gifted by sectors
the Government of India to the city of Hiroshima as a 22. According to the Financial Times Ranking 2023,
symbol of friendship and goodwill between India and IIM Kozhikode has been placed among the top 4
Japan. The 42 inches tall bronze bust has been schools in India.
sculpted by Padma Bhushan awardee Ram Vanji Note: It has been ranked among the top 75 schools
Sutar. The bust site, adjacent to the Motoyasu worldwide for its Open Enrolment Executive
River, is close to the iconic A-Bomb Dome. Education Programme. IIM Kozhikode has been
18. Saudi Arabia’s Rayyanah Barnawi has made ranked 72 among the top 75 providers of open-
history as the first Arab woman astronaut to travel enrolment executive programs globally. While IIM
to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of Ahmedabad ranked 45, IIM Bangalore at 47, and
the private Ax-2 mission. Indian School of Business at 65. Topped by: Iese
Note: She is a breast cancer researcher and was Business School, Spain, followed by HEC Paris.
joined on the mission by fellow Saudi Ali Al-Qarni, 23. Tata Group is the only Indian company to feature
a fighter pilot. The Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2) crew in the Top 50 innovative companies 2023 list,
took off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the released by Boston Consulting Group (BCG).
Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Note: Tata Group ranked 20 among the Top 50
The team also includes Peggy Whitson and John innovative companies. Top 10: Apple, Tesla, Amazon,
Shoffner. Alphabet, Microsoft, Moderna, Samsung, Huawei,
19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with his BYD, and Siemens. BCG's list parameters: Superior
Papua New Guinea counterpart James Marape performance, higher resilience to shocks and
released the Tamil classic 'Thirukkural' in Tok disruptions, and the ability to exploit innovation
Pisin. faster for value-creating growth, among other things
Note: Aim: To bring Indian thought and culture 24. According to the annual “State and Trends of
closer to the people of this southwestern Pacific Carbon Pricing” report, revenues from carbon taxes
nation. Tok Pisin is the official language of Papua and Emissions Trading Systems (ETS) have reached a
New Guinea. Thirukkural is a collection of couplets record high, about $95 billion.
on ethics, political and economic matters, and love, is Note: This report was published by World Bank.
written by Poet Thiruvalluvar. This is despite the challenging context for
20. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has expanded its governments facing high inflation, fiscal pressures,
partnership with Google Cloud to launch its and energy crises. Several countries are using a price
Generative AI. on carbon emissions to help meet their climate goals
Note: It leverages Google Cloud’s generative AI in the form of a tax and Emissions Trading System
services. It is designed and deployed for custom- (ETS).
tailored business solutions that help clients harness 25. A new greenhouse gas monitoring initiative to
the power of this new technology to accelerate their support urgent action to reduce heat-trapping gases
growth. It is powered by Google Cloud’s which are fuelling temperature increase, is approved
Generative AI tools – Vertex AI, Generative AI at World Meteorological Congress.
Application Builder and Model Garden, and TCS’ own Note: Aim: To fill critical information gaps and
solutions. provide an integrated, operational framework. The
21. The Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai has framework will bring all space-based and surface-
set a target to achieve zero-emissions public based observing systems, as well as modeling and
transportation by 2050. data assimilation capabilities, under one roof. It was
Note: Aim: To contribute to climate change supported by the WMO’s 193 Members.
mitigation and minimize its carbon footprint across

April 2023

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1. Japan, India, and France have announced a common about nuclear threats from North Korea as the country
platform for talks among bilateral creditors to carries out a record number of ballistic missile tests.
coordinate the restructuring of Sri Lanka's debt. 7. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
Note: This move is expected to serve as a model for has unveiled a statue of Maratha warrior king
solving the debt woes. Sir Lanka has secured a 2.9 billion Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Mauritius.
dollar programme from IMF to tackle its huge debt Note: The sculpture was created in India by a Delhi-
burden. But, the middle-income economy could not based artist and sent to Mauritius in a container ship.
apply for relief under the G-20’s common framework for During his visit, an MoU was signed between the
debt treatment, which targets only low-income Economic Development Board of Mauritius and the
countries. Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation to
2. Syria has become the world's foremost narco-state, as its establish a platform for investment between the Western
economic survival now depends heavily on the State and the island nation.
production and export of Captagon. 8. Russian company Sberbank launched its own AI chatbot
Note: Captagon is a banned illicit drug recognized by the GigaChat to compete with OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
UNODC (2021) and is a synthetic stimulant that Note: It was initially designed to support multimodal
combines amphetamine and caffeine. According to the interaction and communicate in Russian more
Collins Dictionary, "narco-state" refers to a nation where intelligently. The GigaChat architecture is based on the
a significant portion of the economy is reliant on the neural network ensemble model called NeONKA (Neural
illicit trade of narcotic drugs. Omnimodal Network with Knowledge-Awareness). It
3. A World Trade Organisation (WTO) panel has ruled that includes several neural network models along with
India has violated global trading rules in a dispute supervised fine-tuning and reinforcement learning with
against the European Union, Japan, and Taiwan. human feedback.
Note: The case pertains to import duties for a wide range 9. A report on Trends in World Military Expenditure 2022,
of products. In 2019, the EU, Japan, and Taiwan published by Stockholm International Peace Research
challenged the import duties on certain IT products. The Institute, stated that total global military expenditure
EU had challenged India’s introduction of import duties increased by 3.7% in real terms in 2022 to reach a new
between 7.5% and 20% for products such as mobile high of $2240 billion.
phones, mobile phone components, and accessories. Note: The three largest spenders in 2022 are the USA,
4. Permanent Representative of India to the United China, and Russia, accounting for 56% of the total world.
Nations, Ruchira Kamboj has handed over the cheque of The US remains by far the world’s biggest military
USD 500,000 (Rs 4.09 crore) to the UN Women - United spender. India’s spending of $81.4 billion was the fourth
Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the highest in the world.
Empowerment of Women. 10. The Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty
Note: The cheque was received by Sima Sami Bahous, Organization (NATO), Jens Stoltenberg has informed
Under Secretary General and Executive Director of UN that Finland has become the 31st member of the
Women. The Indian government is committed to the alliance.
goals of gender equality, the empowerment of women, Note: Turkey’s approval has allowed the extension of
and gender mainstreaming. NATO. Finland shares a long border (over 1,300
5. Mongolia Ambassador to India Dambajav Ganbold has kilometers) with Russia, and its decision to join NATO
informed that the first oil refinery of Mongolia, which is was prompted by security concerns following Russia’s
built and funded with Indian assistance, will be invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However, Turkey and
completed by year 2025. Hungary have declined Sweden’s application to join
Note: The first stage of the Mongol Oil Refinery will be NATO.
built with a $1.2 billion Indian soft loan. The 11. OPEC members including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Iraq,
development comes with strategic implications as Kuwait, and Algeria have announced voluntary oil
Mongolia is entirely dependent on Russia for its energy production cuts exceeding one million barrels per
imports. It would help Mongolia meet 70% of its demand day from May 2023 until the end of the year.
domestically. Note: Reason: It is a precautionary measure aimed at
6. US President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon supporting the stability of the oil market. OPEC slashed
Suk-Yeol have secured a landmark deal. The name of this its collective output by two million barrels per day last
landmark deal is Washington Declaration. year. OPEC is a group of 23 oil-producing countries.
Note: It includes plans to periodically deploy US nuclear- 12. France has invited PM Narendra Modi to visit Paris as
armed submarines in South Korea. This deal will be a guest at the annual Bastille Day parade, which will be
known as the Washington Declaration and strengthen held in July 2023.
the allies' cooperation in deterring a North Korean Note: The Indian PM and French President Emmanuel
attack. The declaration comes amid rising concerns Macron are expected to discuss several major
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 agreements including those on the Indo-Pacific region, initiatives to harness the commercial potential of the
nuclear power, and defense, as the two countries mark region.
the 25th year of their strategic partnership. Earlier, Note: The event will be organized by Asian Confluence,
Manmohan Singh was invited as the Bastille Day a think tank based out of North East India, in
parade guest in 2009. collaboration with India's foreign ministry. It will be
13. Bahrain's government has launched a new initiative attended by deputy foreign ministers of Bangladesh and
called 'Golden Licence' to incentivize investments and India along with the chief minister of Tripura and the
the creation of jobs. Japanese envoy to India
Note: It is designed to provide streamlined services and 19. EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar will be on official visits to
benefits to local and foreign businesses with large-scale Uganda and Mozambique from 11-15 April 2023.
investment projects in Bahrain. Eligibility for the Note: In the first leg, he will visit Uganda and is expected
Licence: Companies with significant strategic projects to hold delegation-level talks with his counterpart
and investments exceeding US$50 million or those Foreign Minister of Uganda General Jeje Odongo. He
creating more than 500 jobs in Bahrain. will also inaugurate the transit campus of the National
14. According to the Forbes Billionaire 2023 list, Mukesh Forensic Science University in Jinja. Later, he will visit
Ambani has regained his spot as Asia's richest person Mozambique and co-chair the 5th Joint Commission
after rival Gautam Adani (USD 47.2 billion) tumbled Meeting with Foreign Minister Ms. Veronica Macamo.
to No. 24. 20. During External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to
Note: Ambani (65) was ranked at No. 9 on the world Kampala (Uganda), he has launched the 'Tulsi Ghat
billionaire list with a net worth of USD 83.4 billion. Restoration Project' of Varanasi.
Bernard Arnault (CEO of LVMH) topped the Forbes Note: He has appreciated the initiatives of Overseas
Billionaires 2023 Rankings with an estimated net worth Friends of BJP-Uganda's initiative to contribute to
of a whopping 211 billion. Elon Musk placed second, further beautifying the oldest living city in the world. He
followed by Jeff Bezos and Lary Ellison. has also discussed cooperation in trade and investment,
15. India has been elected to the United Nations Statistical infrastructure, energy, defense, health, digital and
Commission (UNSC) for a four-year term beginning on agricultural domains.
1 January 2024. 21. The Anti-trust regulator of South Korea has fined
Note: India received a resounding 46 out of 53 votes, Alphabet Inc.’s Google 42.1 billion won ($32 million)
ahead of South Korea (23), China (19), and UAE (15). for blocking its rival from releasing video games.
India was elected by secret ballot while Argentina, Sierra Note: Korea’s Fair Trade Commission informed that
Leone, Slovenia, Ukraine, the United Republic of Google is using its clout in the mobile app market to
Tanzania, and the United States of America were elected squeeze out a rival. The Korean regulator has ordered
by acclamation. UNSC is the highest body of the global Google LLC, Google Korea, and Google Asia Pacific to
statistical system. cease offering support to mobile game companies in
16. India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, exchange for promises of exclusivity.
Ruchira Kamboj has handed over the contribution of 22. Actor Shah Rukh Khan has secured the top position in
USD 2 million to the UN Trust Fund in support of the Time Magazine's poll for its annual TIME100 list.
African Union Transition Mission in Somalia Note: For the second spot, the readers picked the
(ATMIS). Iranian women protesting for more freedom in the
Note: Reason: New Delhi’s commitment to peace and country's Islamic regime. The healthcare workers of the
stability in Somalia and the Horn of Africa. Earlier, India US made it to third place. Prince Harry and Meghan
had contributed USD 4 million to African Union Mission Markle took the fourth spot, with each of them getting
in Somalia (AMISOM). ATMIS was established on 1 1.9% of the votes. Lionel Messi secured the fifth spot.
April 2022. 23. According to a survey, published by London-based ‘Time
17. The first Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Out’ - a media outlet, Berlin (Germany) was ranked as
Ukraine, Emine Dzhaparova is on a four-day visit to the city with the best public transport system
India from April 9, 2023. globally.
Note: During the visit, she will hold talks with Sanjay Note: It is followed by Prague (Czech Republic), Tokyo
Verma, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External (Japan), and Copenhagen (Denmark). While India's city
Affairs. Both sides are expected to discuss bilateral Mumbai secured the 19th spot and was the top-ranked
relations. They will also exchange views on the current Indian city. Mumbai's Suburban Railways form the
situation in Ukraine and global issues of mutual interest. backbone of public transport for a population of 12.5
Both shares warm and friendly relations and million.
multifaceted cooperation. 24. TIME Magazine has published a list of the 100 Most
18. Bangladesh, Japan, and India will hold a meeting in Influential People of 2023, which includes Jennifer
Tripura on 11-12 April, 2023, for connectivity Coolidge (Actor), Doja Cat (Recording Artist), Bob Iger
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 (CEO of The Walt Disney Company), and Salman Rushdie Innovators. Indian Actor Shahrukh Khan and Indian
(Writer). Director S.S. Rajamouli were listed in Icon and Pioneer
Note: There is no particular order to the rankings. Six categories, respectively.
categories: Artists, Icons, Pioneers, Leaders, Titans, and

Government Schemes

August 2023

1. Govt to launch a new scheme for in Pharma-Med state benefitting 17 lakh students. Initially, the scheme
Sector was devised to provide nutritious breakfast to 1,14,095
Note: Government to launch a new scheme for students of classes 1 to 5 studying in 1,545 government
Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma- Med schools and an amount of Rs 33.56 crore was allocated
Sector with a total outlay of five thousand crore rupees. for this scheme.
Objective: To transform the Indian Pharma Med Tech 5. Jal Shakti Ministry releases report on 6th census on
sector from cost-based competitiveness to innovation- minor irrigation scheme
based growth by strengthening the research Note: The Ministry of Jal Shakti released the report on
infrastructure in the country. Aim: To promote the the sixth census on minor irrigation schemes. 23.14
growth of pharma industry in the country , enhance million minor irrigation (MI) schemes have been
manufacturing of drugs and promote research and reported in the country, out of which 21.93 million are
innovation in the sector. groundwater and 1.21 million are Surface Water
2. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah launched 'Gruha schemes. UP has the largest number of MI schemes in
Lakshmi' scheme the country followed by Maharastra. For the first time,
Note: The Karnataka government launched the 'Gruha information about the gender of the owner of the MI
Lakshmi' women's financial aid scheme in Mysuru. scheme was also collected in case of individual
Under this scheme, about 1.1 crore women heads of ownership.
family will get ₹2,000 each at a function in Mysuru. 6. SBI launches Aadhaar-based enrolment for social
'Gruha Lakshmi' scheme is one of the five pre-poll security schemes
'guarantees' of the Congress, which ousted the BJP from Note: The country's largest lender State Bank of India
power in the Karnataka Assembly election held in May. introduced a facility to allow customers to enrol in
The government has earmarked ₹17,500 crore for social security schemes by just furnishing an Aadhaar
'Gruha Lakshmi' programme in the current financial card. Aim: To make the process of enrolling in various
year. social security schemes simpler. Customers visiting
3. MP announced Ladli Behna Yojana aid hike, 35% CSPs will need only their Aadhaar cards to enrol in
job reservation for women schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima
Note: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Yojana, the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, and
Chouhan raised the financial aid given to women in the the Atal Pension Yojana, the bank said in a statement.
Ladli Behna scheme from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,250 per 7. NESIDS with an approved outlay of Rs.8139.50
month. He also announced 35 percent reservation for crore
them in government jobs and provided gas cylinders Note: The cabinet approved the continuation of the
for Rs 450. Under the programme, women between the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme
ages of 23 and 60, who do not pay income taxes and (NESIDS) with an approved outlay of Rs. 8139.50 crore.
whose families make less than Rs 2.5 lakh annually, Objective: To support infrastructure development in
receive Rs 1,000 every month. identified sectors including connectivity in the North
4. CM Stalin launched expansion of breakfast scheme Eastern States. For the period from 2022-23 to 2025-
for Tamil Nadu govt school 26, Cabinet approved two components: NESIDS-Road
Note: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin launched and NESIDS-Other Than Road Infrastructure. The
the expansion of the state government’s breakfast scheme is a central sector scheme with 100% central
scheme at Thirukkuvalai. The scheme has been funding.
extended to 31,000 government schools across the
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8. Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated Mukhyamantri will be implemented in coordination with six public
Seekho-Kamao yojna scheme sector banks in a phased manner. The scheme will be
Note: CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the implemented in coordination with six public sector
scheme Mukhyamantri Seekho-Kamao yojna means banks - State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, UCO
'Chief Minister's Learn-Earn' scheme in Madhya Bank, Union Bank of India, Bank of Baroda and Bank of
Pradesh. The scheme has facilitated on-the-job training India.
on the lines of 'learn and earn along with skill 13. PM Modi Launched ‘Bhartiya Vastra Evam Shilp
development, and has been started for the youth in the Kosh’ E-Portalp
age group of 18 to 29 yrs. Under the scheme, the Note: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the e-
selected youth will be given training according to the portal of ‘Bhartiya Vastra evam Shilp Kosh’ – a
requirements of the industries and also get an 8 to 10 Repository of Textiles and Crafts developed by the
thousand rupees stipend National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in
9. Modi Cabinet approves 'PM-eBus Sewa' for collaboration with the Ministry of Textiles in Delhi
augmenting city bus operations (August 2023). Aims: To create a comprehensive
Note: The union cabinet approved ‘PM-eBus Sewa’ for catalogue of India's diverse clothing on a single
augmenting city bus operations under which 10,000 e- platform. It has a craft atlas, a cultural artefact display,
buses will be deployed across cities in the country. Aim: and a visual museum, among other things.
To improve public transport in cities and is also in line 14. Valid license for import of laptops, personal
with India’s objectives concerning climate change Rs computers to be required
57,613 crores will be spent on this project and around Note: According to the Gov, a valid License for imports
10,000 new electric buses will be provided across the of laptops, tablets, and personal computers will be
country. Under this scheme, priority will be given to required from the1st November 2023. The Centre has
cities not having organized bus services. said that there is no ban on the import of IT Hardware
10. Goa govt launches 'Gramin Mitra' scheme to as such devices can be imported after obtaining a valid
promote digital empowerment license by companies or traders. Directorate General of
Note: Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant launched the Foreign Trade has prepared a portal, for getting a
flagship scheme "Gramin Mitra" in August 2023. license by applying online. Gov has notified Production
Objective: To provide doorstep delivery of government Linked Incentive Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware.
services across the state and promote digital 15. Govt allocates Rs 1,39,579 crore to extend Bharat
empowerment in rural areas. Aims: To empower rural Net in 6.40 lakh villages
communities with access to information and Note: The Communications Ministry informed that the
opportunities that can transform their lives and drive government has allocated 1,39,579 crore rupees to
socio-economic growth. The program will help us extend Bharat Net in 6.40 lakh villages across the
accelerate the delivery of e-governance services to country. The Ministry also informed that the extension
rural areas across the state. project has been decided after the success of a pilot
11. CM Ashok Gehlot launches free food packet scheme project in 60,000 Gram Panchayat villages across the
Note: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot launched country in 8 months. The Bharat Net has reached 1.94
the Mukhyamantri Nishulk Annapurna Food Packet lakh villages during the pilot project and 5.67 lakh
Scheme on the occasion of Independence Day. Under households have active Bharat Net connections so far.
the scheme, families covered under the National Food 16. Ministry implemented ‘Naya Savera’ or ‘Free
Security Act (NFSA) will get the Annapurna food Coaching and Allied’ scheme
packets every month from the fair price shops (FPS) for Note: The Ministry implemented the ‘Naya Savera’
free. Each packet will contain one kg each of gram scheme also known as ‘Free Coaching and Allied’
pulses, sugar and iodized salt, one litre soybean refined scheme. Aim To assist students/candidates belonging
edible oil, 100 gram each of chili powder and coriander to the six minority communities namely Sikh, Jain,
powder. Muslim, Christian, Buddhist and Parsi by way of special
12. Odisha launched scheme to improve banking coaching for qualifying examinations. The coaching
penetration in 4,373 panchayats period under the scheme ranged from 3 months to 2
Note: The Odisha Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister years. This information was given by the Minister of
Naveen Patnaik approved to open banking outlets in Minority Affairs, Smriti Zubin Irani in Lok Sabha.
4,373 unbanked gram panchayats at a cost of Rs 500 17. MASI Portal for Monitoring CHILD CARE HOMES
crore in Aug 2023. Aim: To improve financial inclusion,
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 Note: The National Commission for Protection of Child Note: According to Minister of State for the Ministry Of
Rights has developed an application named MASI for Rural Development Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti the Centre
real-time monitoring of the Child Care Institutions. owes Rs 6,366 crore in dues to states and Union
MASI stands for Monitoring App for Seamless Territories under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Inspection. The effective and efficient functioning of the Employment Guarantee Scheme. Central government
mechanism for inspection of CCIs provided under the owes the highest amount – Rs 2,770 crore – to West
Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 (as amended in 2021) and Bengal. MGNREGS aims to enhance livelihood security
synchronous monitoring of the system is the rationale in rural areas by providing at least 100 days of wage
behind developing this comprehensive application. employment in a financial year to unskilled manual
18. Government launched the scheme - Vivad se work
Vishwas-II 20. Ministry of Social Justice implements "Rashtriya
Note: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has Vayoshri Yojana
launched the scheme, “Vivad se Vishwas 2 in the Union Note: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is
Budget 2023-24. Aims: To resolve the govt's implementing the scheme of “Rashtriya Vayoshri
contractual disputes with private parties, clear the Yojana” in August 2023. Objective: To provide the
backlog of litigation, and improve the ease of doing senior citizens, suffering from any of the age related
business. Objective: To settle contractual disputes of disability/infirmity, with assisted living devices which
government and government undertakings, wherein can restore near normalcy in their bodily functions.
arbitral award is under challenge in a court, a voluntary Scheme: In the assessment camp, the ALIMCO
settlement scheme with standardized terms will be identifies the beneficiaries, suffering from the age
introduced related disability, for required aids & appliances.
19. Centre owes ₹6,366 crores in MGNREGS wages to 18
States and UT
July 2023

1. First ever “Credit Guarantee Scheme” for Livestock attended by Piyush Goyal (Union Textiles Minister) and
Sector launched Darshana Jardosh (Minister of State of Textiles). The
Note: The DAHD has launched a "Credit Guarantee Government of India aims to set up 7 PM MITRA Parks
Scheme" specifically designed for the Livestock Sector. for the Textile industry. The PM MITRA Parks was
Objective: To ensure that the credit facility from the inspired by the 5F (Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion
lender is solely secured based on the primary security to Foreign) vision of PM Modi.
of the financed assets. Scheme: Access to financial 4. Scheme for Expansion and Modernization of Fire
resources for the un-served and under-served livestock Services in the States
sector, this makes financial assistance from lenders Note: The Ministry of Home Affairs has launched a
accessible to primarily first-generation entrepreneurs Scheme for the Expansion and Modernization of Fire
and underprivileged segments of society. Services in the States with a total outlay of Rs.5,000
2. MoU signed between Ministry of Culture and Crore. Objective: To expand and modernize Fire
Canara Bank Services within National Disaster Response Fund
Note: Ministry of Culture and Canara Bank signed an (NDRF). Out of the total outlay, Rs. 500 crore has been
MoU to provide financial assistance to selected kept for incentivizing the States on the basis of their
beneficiaries under the Scheme for Financial legal and infrastructure-based reforms. This scheme
Assistance for Veteran Artists. Scheme: Financial was announced by the Union Home Minister, Amit
assistance of Rs 6,000 per month is provided to artists Shah.
and scholars above the age of 60, who have contributed 5. Capacity building Scheme for North Eastern Region
in their specialized fields of performing arts and culture Note: The Ministry of Skill Development &
in their active age or still contribute, but due to old age, Entrepreneurship (MSD&E) implemented the Capacity
they are facing difficulty and are in penury condition Building Scheme for the North Eastern Region, which is
3. Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde inaugurates PM carried out by the Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE)
MITRA Park in Amravati located in Guwahati, Assam. IIE has organized
Note: Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde inaugurated the numerous capacity development initiatives in Assam as
PM Mega Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel Park part of the Pradhan Mantri Vandhan Yojana (PMVDY)
(PM MITRA Park) at Amravati. The event was also scheme. In the Sonitpur district, a total of 6 Van Dhan
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 Vikas Kendras Clusters have been approved under the under this scheme including 80 no. of stations in the
PMVDY scheme state of Madhya Pradesh. Scheme: For development of
6. 1309 Railway Stations identified under Amrit stations on a continuous basis with a long-term
Bharat Station Scheme approach. It involves the preparation like improvement
Note: Amrit Bharat Station Scheme has been launched of station access, toilet, lift, free Wi-Fi, and kiosks for
for development of Railway stations on Indian local products through schemes like ‘One Station One
Railways. 1309 Railway Stations have been identified Product’

June 2023
1. Karnataka to give money instead of 5 kg additional collapse of the Sairaj Building in Thane. The
rice to BPL families redeveloped township plan includes well-equipped
Note: The Karnataka government has decided to give health, educational, sports, recreational, parking,
cash instead of rice till rice is procured. It was one of mandi, and civic facilities. The project will be executed
the guarantees of the Siddaramaiah govt was to provide by the CIDCO.
10 kg of rice free to every member of a BPL household. 5. PM Modi launches schemes for wetland, mangrove
The government has decided to pay beneficiaries cash conservation
at the rate of ₹34 per kilo, for the additional 5kg of the Note: PM Modi launched two schemes 'Amrit
foodgrain promised under the 'Anna Bhagya' scheme. Dharohar' and 'MISHTI' to revive the country's
The disbursement of money will start on July 1. wetlands and mangroves. Amrit Dharohar: To ensure
2. Centre allocates ₹145 crore to Nagaland for Unity the conservation of the existing Ramsar sites through
Mall public participation. These sites will become the center
Note: The Central government has allocated ₹145 of eco-tourism and a source of green jobs for thousands
crore for the construction of a Unity Mall in Dimapur, of people. MISHTI: It refers to Mangrove Initiative for
Nagaland. Aim: For promoting and showcasing the Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes. It will help
state’s One District One Product offerings. The revive and protect the mangrove ecosystem in the
allocation is part of the Union Budget 2023-24, which country.
has earmarked ₹5,000 crore for the establishment of 6. Union Minister For Jal Shakti launched portal for
Unity Malls. The announcement was made during an GOBARdhan
ODOP Sampark event, which was organized by the Note: The Minister for Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh
DPIIT, Invest India, and the Department of Industries Shekhawat has launched the Unified Registration
and Commerce, Nagaland. Portal for GOBARdhan. Aim: One-stop repository to
3. Madhya Pradesh govt launched ‘Ladli Bahna’ assess investment and participation in the Biogas/CBG
scheme sector at the pan India level and streamline the process
Note: MP government has launched ‘Ladli Bahna’ of setting up CBG/Biogas plants. GOBARdhan refers to
scheme to make women financially independent. In this Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan. It is an
scheme, each woman will be given 1000 rupees per initiative of the Government of India, that aims to
month. MP CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan has deposited convert waste to wealth towards promoting a circular
the first month's amount of this scheme in the bank economy.
accounts of about 1.25 crore women at a State-level 7. Cabinet approves City Investments to Innovate,
function in Jabalpur. The State government has also Integrate and Sustain 2.0
issued a phone number 181 for the help of women. Note: The City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and
Ladli Bahna Army also formed for women Sustain 2.0 (CITIIS 2.0) has been approved for four
empowerment and security. years (2023-2027). Conceived by: Ministry of Housing
4. Maharashtra CM launches Asia's largest cluster and Urban Affairs in partnership with the French
development scheme Development Agency, Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau,
Note: Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde has launched the European Union (EU), and National Institute of
Asia's largest, ambitious and historic cluster Urban Affairs. Funding: A loan of Rs.1760 crore (EUR
development scheme in Thane. This scheme was 200 million) from AFD and KfW and a technical
conceptualized for the collective redevelopment of assistance grant of Rs.106 cr. (EUR 12 million) from the
unauthorized and official dangerous buildings after the EU.

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 May 2023
1. Maharashtra farmers to get Rs 6,000 per annum 5. Mahatma Gandhi Scholarships awarded to 300
under new scheme students across Sri Lanka
Note: The Maharashtra government has approved a Note: School students from all 25 districts across Sri
new financial scheme named Namo Shetkari Lanka have received the prestigious Mahatma Gandhi
Mahasanman Yojana, under which more than one crore Scholarships. This scholarship provides Rs 2500
farmers in the state will be paid 6,000 rupees annually. Lankan per student every month to the top six students
The amount is in addition to the 6,000 rupees being from each district, based on merit cum means. In 2023,
paid to farmers by the Centre under the PM Kisan two batches of scholarships were awarded
Yojana. Maharashtra Cabinet also approved the simultaneously to compensate for the disruptions
implementation of 'Gender Inclusive Tourism Policy caused by COVID-19 during the 2021-2022 period.
called 'Aai' to empower women in the tourism sector. 6. PMJJBY, PMSBY, and APY complete 8 years of
2. Government unveils UDAN 5.1 to enhance inception
connectivity to remote areas Note: Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMJJBY),
Note: The Ministry of Civil Aviation has launched the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMSBY), and
5.1 version of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) Atal Pension Yojana (APY) have completed their 8
- Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) to further enhance years of providing social security cover on May 9.
connectivity to remote areas of the country and achieve PMJJBY: One-year life insurance scheme renewable
last-mile connectivity through helicopters. For the first from year to year offering coverage for death for any
time under RCS-UDAN, this round is designed reason. PMSBY is a one-year accidental insurance
specifically for helicopter routes. Airfare caps have scheme renewable from year to year offering coverage
been reduced by as much as 25% to make flying in for death or disability due to an accident.
helicopters more affordable for passengers. 7. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy inaugurates PM Jan
3. National SC-ST Hub Scheme crossed over 1 lakh Aushadhi Kendra
beneficiary registration Note: Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy
Note: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the inaugurated a PM Jan Aushadhi Kendra at Warasiguda
National SC-ST Hub Scheme, which crossed over one in Secunderabad. Aim: To provide affordable
lakh beneficiary registrations. About National SC-ST healthcare and generate self-employment
Hub Scheme: Launched on: October 2016, It is an opportunities for youth. It was launched to make
initiative of the Union MSME Ministry. Aim: To quality generic medicines available to the common man
empower and promote entrepreneurs among SC, ST at a low cost. PM Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana:
Communities. It is implemented by the National Small Launched by: Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry
Industries Corporation (NSIC), a public-sector of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Initially launched in 2008.
undertaking under the administrative control of the The scheme was rechristened in 2015
Ministry of MSME. 8. MSDE to organize Pradhan Mantri National
4. Government unveils UDAN 5.1 to enhance Apprenticeship Mela on 8th May
connectivity to remote areas Note: Ministry of Skill Development and
Note: The Ministry of Civil Aviation has launched the Entrepreneurship (MSDE) will organize Pradhan
5.1 version of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) Mantri National Apprenticeship Mela (PMNAM) on 8th
- Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) to further enhance May in 200 districts across the country
connectivity to remote areas of the country and achieve PMNAM will witness the participation of many
last-mile connectivity through helicopters. For the first companies representing various sectors, providing
time under RCS-UDAN, this round is designed relevant apprenticeship training opportunities to local
specifically for helicopter routes. Airfare caps have youth. Through this, participating organizations can
been reduced by as much as 25% to make flying in connect with potential apprentices, while
helicopters more affordable for passengers. strengthening the livelihood opportunities of the
youth.
April 2023

1. Tribal Affairs Minister launches PTP-NER scheme Note: Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda has
in Manipur launched the Marketing and Logistics Development for
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 Promotion of Tribal Products from North-Eastern associated with SHGs should be able to earn 1 lakh
Region (PTP-NER) scheme in Manipur. This scheme has rupees per annum. He also urged women to produce
been introduced for the benefit of Scheduled Tribes of millet.
the North-Eastern Region. Vision: To strengthen the 4. PM Modi to attend 20th anniversary of SWAGAT
livelihood opportunities for tribal artisans through initiative in Gujarat
increased efficiency in procurement, logistics and Note: PM Modi will attend the 20th anniversary of the
marketing of tribal products from North Eastern States. State Wide Attention on Grievances by Application of
2. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launches ‘YUVA Technology (SWAGAT) initiative in Gujarat via video
PORTAL’ conferencing on April 27. This scheme was started by
Note: Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. PM Modi in April 2003 during his tenure as the Chief
Jitendra Singh has launched a YUVA PORTAL for Minister of Gujarat. Aim: To act as a bridge between the
connecting and identifying potential young Start-Ups in citizens and the government using technology by
the country. He has also launched the One Week -One solving their day-to-day grievances in a quick, efficient,
Lab program. This program will offer the opportunity and time-bound manner
to the CSIR labs to showcase the work being done by 5. Minister Narayan Rane launches the revamped
them so that others can avail of it. During the launch CGTMSE Scheme
event, he also hailed the launching of the astronomy lab Note: Union Minister for MSME, Narayan Rane has
that has come up in Karnal, Haryana. launched the revamped Credit Guarantee Fund Trust
3. Govt launches 'Sangathan se Samriddhi' scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) Scheme.
Note: Union Minister of Rural Development, Giriraj Modifications: Reduction in guarantee fees for loans
Singh has launched the ‘Sangathan Se Samriddhi’ upto ₹1 crore by 50% bringing the minimum guarantee
campaign to empower marginalized rural households fee to the level of 0.37% pa only. Raising of ceiling for
by bringing all eligible rural women into the fold of Self guarantee from ₹2 crore to ₹ 5 crore. Enhanced the
Help Groups (SHGs). The govt is targeting to bring 10 threshold limit for claim settlement without initiation
crore women under the purview of SHGs (existing nine of legal action to ₹10 lakh.
crores). The govt has also set a target that every woman

Government Committees
April – August 2023

1. Ban diesel four-wheelers in cities with 10 lakh advise on coverages offered/to be offered under
population, says panel insurance products, for mental illnesses. The
Note: According to a report commissioned by the panel will also provide expert advice/inputs on
oil ministry, India should ban the use of diesel- terminology, concept and the like on matters
powered four-wheelers in cities with over 10 lakh relating to mental illnesses from the medical
population by 2027 and switch to electric and gas- domain perspective.
fuelled vehicles. The report of the committee 3. Sebi reconstitutes intermediary advisory
headed by former Oil Secretary Tarun Kapoor. The committee
panel has also suggested phasing out motorcycles, Note: SEBI has formed an Intermediary Advisory
scooters, and three-wheelers with internal Committee to advise the market regulator on
combustion engines by 2035. These steps will help changes in the legal framework. The committee
India achieve the goal of cutting its emissions to will also advise SEBI on increasing transparency in
net zero by 2070. the functioning of market intermediaries like
2. Irdai sets up expert panel for matters related stock exchanges, clearing corporations, etc. The
to mental health committee is chaired by former Sebi executive
Note: Insurance Regulator, IRDAI has constituted director S Ravindran. Other members: Ashish
a five-member expert committee to advise it on Chauhan (CEO of NSE) and Sundararaman
matters related to mental health and insurance. Ramamurthy (CEO of BSE), representatives from
The committee is headed by Pratima Murthy, the broking community, legal, and FI
Director, NIMHANS, Bangalore. The panel will
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4. RBI committee proposes new rules to improve Balasubramanian (Executive Director, Edelweiss
customer service standards ARC); and Dharmendra Pali (senior officials, SBI);
Note: RBI has set up a committee for Review of and Anupama Ranade, (senior officials, ICICI
Customer Service Standards in RBI Regulated Bank).
Entities (REs), under the chairmanship of former 7. Government of India Forms New Standing
deputy governor BP Kanungo. Suggestions: The Committee on Statistics to Enhance Oversight
operations of accounts should not be stopped of NSO Data
pending periodic KYC updates. The committee has Note: The government has set up a new oversight
also suggested measures for the benefit of mechanism for official data, replacing the Standing
pensioners. There should be a time limit for the Committee on Economic Statistics (SCES) with a
return of property documents to borrowers after Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS). The SCES
the closure of the loan account, failing which a was tasked with examining economic indicators
penalty should be imposed on the lender. pertaining to the industrial sector, the services
5. Govt constitutes panel led by former Law Secy sector, and the labor force statistics. The former
T K Vishwanathan to recommend reforms in Chairman of the National Statistical Commission,
arbitration law Pronab Sen has been named the new chair of the
Note: The Department of Legal Affairs under the committee.
Union law ministry, has set up a panel to 8. Central Vigilance Commission reconstitutes
recommend reforms in the Arbitration and advisory board on bank frauds
Conciliation Act. The committee would be led by Note: The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)
former law secretary T K Vishwanathan. Aim: To has reconstituted the Advisory Board on Banking
reduce the burden on courts. Other members: and Financial Frauds (ABBFF) which conducts the
Rajiv Mani (Law Ministry additional secretary), first-level examination of bank frauds before
some senior advocates, representatives of private recommendations or references are made to
law firms, and officials of the Legislative investigative by agencies such as CBI. The
Department, Niti Aayog, NHAI, railways, and reconstituted APBFF will be chaired by former
CPWD CVC Suresh N Patel. There are four Members and
6. IBA sets up 5-member group to implement RBI the tenure of the Chairman/ Members would be
committee’s recommendations on ARCs for two years.
Note: The Indian Banks’ Association has 9. Modi government sets up high power
constituted a five-member working group for committee to review DRDO
implementing the recommendations of the RBI Note: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has set up a
committee on the “working of the Asset nine-member committee of experts to overhaul
Reconstruction Companies”. Primary focus: To the Defence Research and Development
review assignment agreements and trust deed Organization (DRDO). The committee headed by
templates related to the acquisition of distressed Prof K VijayRaghavan to review and redefine the
assets by ARCs from lenders. Aim: To update these role of the department and submit a report within
templates to align with the evolving changes and three months. Prof Vijay Raghavan is a former
expectations within the ARC sector. Group Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of
members: Ajit Kumar (MD, Secondary Loan India and one of the key architects of the National
Market Association); Hari Hara Mishra (CEO, Research Foundation (NRF).
Association of ARCs in India); Mythili

Honor & Awards

August 2023

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1. The Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2023 in Pune was converted to an independent corporation and
conferred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. renamed Karnataka Road Transport Corporation.
Note: The 41st recipient of this award will be the PM. 7. Chairman Subhash Runwal was honored with the
Every year on 1st August, the death anniversary of Lifetime Achievement Award 2023 at the first-ever RICS
Lokmanya Tilak, this award is bestowed upon individuals South Asia Awards.
who have made remarkable and extraordinary Note: Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors is a global
contributions to the progress and development of the industry body representing professionals across the
nation. To inaugurate the services of the completed country. Aim: To acknowledge outstanding
second phase of the Pune Metro, the PM will flag off the accomplishments in both global and Indian industries,
metro rail. showcasing the commitment to the highest levels of
2. Medec Dragon Pvt Ltd received the prestigious "Best professionalism and ethics by individuals and teams
Managed Pharmaceutical Sustainable Organizations working within built and natural environments.
2023" award. 8. Kanwardeep Kaur was named as the recipient of the
Note: While Deepak Shenoy, Managing Director of Medec ‘Union Home Minister’s Medal of Excellence in
Dragon was honored as the "Global Visionary Investigation’ for the year 2023.
Entrepreneur of the year 2023" at the 6th Edition of South Note: She was given the award for her outstanding
Asia Pacific Healthcare Summit & Business Award 2023. investigative work in a minor’s rape case, which resulted
The event was organized by Brandscouncil Ratings & in the accused being sentenced to death within 11 months
Medilinks in Mumbai. The awards were presented by of committing the crime. She worked the case when she
India's first Mrs. World, Aditi Govitrikar. was the SSP of Kapurthala district.
3. Manoj Bajpayee bagged the ‘Best Actor’ trophy, the film’s 9. 954 police personnel have been awarded Police Medals
cinematographer Piyush Puty won the award for ‘Best on the occasion of the 76th Independence Day.
Cinematography’ at the Durban International Film Note: The President's Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG)
Festival 2023 has been awarded to the Central Reserve Police Force's
Note: The film is a psychological thriller about a hunted Assistant Commandant Loukrakpam Ibomcha Singh. The
displaced man who is on the run to protect his daughter Police Medal for Gallantry (PMG) has been awarded to
directed by Devashish Makhija. The film also deals with 229 police personnel. President's Police Medal for
issues such as social inequalities, injustice with the tribal Distinguished Service (PPM) to 82 and Police Medal for
communities and deforestation. Meritorious Service (PM) has been awarded to 642.
4. Mrunal Thakur was honoured with the Diversity in 10. District Kupwara has been conferred with the award for
Cinema Award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne the “Best Performer District 2023 in UT of J&K under
2023. PMAY-G” by Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor J&K UT,
Note: The recognition comes as she completes a year of held at Srinagar.
having made her debut in South Indian Cinema with Note: Kupwara has received the award in recognition of
Telugu film Sita Ramam (2022). The award is a the construction of 4723 PMAY houses out of a target of
recognition of her versatile performances across films of 4902 houses for FY 2022-23. PMAY-G is successfully
different languages. The actor, who made her film with fulfilled the dream of several poor and vulnerable families
"Love Sonia", and then featured in movies such "Super having their own Pucca house in frontier Kupwara
30", "Toofan", "Jersey". district.
5. Tamil Nadu bagged the Best Performing State award 11. National Automated Fingerprint Identification
2023 in cadaver organ donation. System (NAFIS) Team won Gold Award under Excellence
Note: Unioin Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in Government Process Reengineering for Digital
presented the Best State Organ and Tissue Transplant Transformation Category-1 by the Department of
Organisation award to Health Minister Ma Subramanian Administrative Reforms and Public Complaints in Aug
at the 13th Indian Organ Donation Day function held in 2023.
New Delhi. Tamil Nadu leads all Indian states in organ Note: ABOUT NAFIS: NAFIS helps in the quick and easy
donations with 1,705 people donating their organs and disposal of cases with the help of a centralized fingerprint
saving 6,247 human lives. database. It assigns a unique 10-digit National Fingerprint
6. Karnataka Road Transport Corporation has won Asia's Number (NFN) to each person arrested for a crime.
Best Brand Employer Award 2023 under the category 12. President Droupadi Murmu has conferred 76 Gallantry
'Organisation with Innovative HR Practices'. awards to members of the Armed Forces and Central
Note: It was announced at the 14th edition of the 18th Armed Police Forces on the occasion of Independence Day
Brand Congress and would be presented on August 17 in 2023.
Singapore. KSRTC:It was inaugurated by the Mysore Road Note: Awards include:Kirti Chakra awards (awarded
Transport Department on 12 September 1948. Later it posthumously) – 4, Shaurya Chakra awards (including
five posthumous) – 11, Bar to Sena Medals (Gallantry)- 2,
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 Sena Medals (Gallantry) – 52, Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry) Corporation (MIDC). The aim of the Maharashtra Udyog
-3, Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry) - 4 Ratna Awards is to honour those people and groups who
13. 53 personnel have been awarded Fire Service Medals on have significantly impacted Maharashtra's business,
the occasion of Independence Day, 2023. industry, education, financial services, fashion, and other
Note: Awards Include: President’s Fire Service Medal for sectors.
Distinguished Service has been awarded to 8. Personnel 17. Allu Arjun won the Best Actor award at the 69th National
and Fire Service Medal for Meritorious Service has been Film Awards.
awarded to 41. The President's Fire Service Medal for Note: He was awarded for his movie 'Pushpa: The Rise'
Gallantry has been awarded to 3. The Personnel and Fire (Directed by: Sukumar). Alia Bhatt and Kriti Sanon won
Service Medal for Gallantry has been awarded to 1 the Best Actress award for their phenomenal roles in
personnel for their acts of valour and gallantry Gangubai Kathiawadi and Mimi, respectively. Other
14. Raj Chetty has been awarded Harward University's awards: Best Feature Film: Rocketry. Best Director: Nikhil
coveted George Ledlie Prize 2023 for wielding big data to Mahajan (Godavari). Best Popular Film Providing
break myths about who achieves the American Dream. Wholesome Entertainment: RRR. Nargis Dutt Award for
Note:The award is given every two years to a member of Best Film on National Integration: The Kashmir Files.
the Harvard community who has made the most valuable 18. Indore was awarded with the national smart city award
contribution to science or in any way for the benefit of 2022.
mankind.He is also director of Opportunity Insights, a Note: While MP received the state award and Chandigarh
group of economists based at Harvard who studies received the UT award. Aim: To provide core
inequality. infrastructure, clean environment and a decent quality of
15. The Matti banana variety, native to Kanniyakumari life to their citizens through the application of ‘smart
district was recently granted the Geographical Indication solutions’. It includes 35 in Project Award, six in
(GI) tag. Innovation Award, 13 in the National/Zonal City Award,
Note:There are six known types of the Matti banana and five in State/UT Award and seven in Partner Award
they are indigenous to Kanniyakumari.They are known as categories.
‘Baby Banana’ which flourishes mainly in Kalkulam and 19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded with 'The
Vilavancode taluks.Its low total soluble solids content Grand Cross of the Order of Honour' award by Greek
(TSSC) recommends it as a baby food.This GI tag is valid President Katerina Sakellaropoulou.
for 10 years following which it can be renewed. Note: This is the second-highest civilian honour in
16. Ratan Tata conferred the first-ever 'Udyog Ratna' award Greece. The Greek State Honours the Prime Minister of
instituted by the Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath India, a statesman who has tirelessly promoted the global
Shinde. reach of his country and who works systematically for
Note: The honour comprised a shawl, a citation and a India’s economic progress and prosperity, bringing about
memento from the Maharashtra Industrial Development bold reforms.

July 2023

1. Michael Rosen has been awarded the prestigious PEN 3. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) awarded the
Pinter Prize 2023. highest honor, 'Philippe Chatrier Award 2023', to Belgian
Note: This prestigious award is given to a writer from the tennis player Justine Henin.
UK, Ireland, and the Commonwealth whose work is Note: She has won seven Grand Slam singles titles and an
committed to a fearless exposition of truth about Olympic gold medal and won the Fed Cup (Billie Jean King
contemporary life. This prize was named after English Cup) in 2001. The award was named after the former ITF
writer Harold Pinter. It was established in 2009. Previous president and was introduced in 1996. This award
winners: Hanif Kureishi (2010), Salman Rushdie (2014), recognizes people who have made significant
and Lemn Sissay (2019). contributions to the sport on and off the court.
2. Lallianzuala Chhangte has been named the AIFF Men’s 4. NLC India Limited bagged the GeM award in the category
Footballer of the Year for 2022-23. "Timely Payments (CPSEs)" for the year 2023.
Note: He beat Nandhakumar Sekar and Naorem Mahesh Note: Reason: For its outstanding contribution to
Singh of East Bengal to win the award. While Manisha improving the reliability of e-market practices in line with
Kalyan won her second consecutive Women’s Footballer the vision of GeM. NLCIL registered and on-boarded in
of the Year award. AIFF Men’s Emerging Footballer of the GeM portal in the year 2017. GeM is a dedicated e-Market
Year 2022-23: Akash Mishra; AIFF Women’s Emerging service platform for marketing different goods and
Footballer of the Year 2022-23: Shilji Shaji; AIFF services.
President: Kalyan Chaubey.

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5. The Tilak Smarak Mandir Trust (Hind Swaraj Sangh) 11. Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM)
would confer the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak National has bagged the SKOCH Award 2023 under the theme
Award 2023 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “State of Governance India 2047” in the Gold category.
Note: Reason: This award recognizes PM Modi's supreme Note: Reason: For its outstanding efforts in creating
leadership under which India has climbed the ladder of marketing avenues for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the
progress. It is presented annually on the occasion of Union Territory. The SKOCH award marks a significant
Lokmanya Tilak's death anniversary. Other awardees: milestone for JKRLM, being the first award received since
Indira Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Sharad Pawar, Cyrus the inception of the scheme. It represents a remarkable
Poonawalla, and Manmohan Singh accomplishment for the organization.
6. Jammu & Kashmir Bank has been felicitated for the Best 12. Adani Transmission Limited has won the Golden
Performance in CASA-India (1st Runner up in Small Bank Peacock Environment Management Award 2023 in the
Category) at ICC Emerging Asia Banking Conclave & Power Transmission sector from the Institute of
Awards 2022. Directors.
Note: The event was participated by banks from India, Note: Recognition: Environmental management and
Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka & Myanmar. The serves as a testament to its leadership in the industry.
function was organized by the Indian Chamber of This award acknowledges ATL's steadfast dedication to
Commerce in Goa. Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is minimizing its ecological footprint through programs like
a non-governmental trade association and advocacy zero waste to landfill, single-use plastic free, etc. Adani
group headquartered in Calcutta. Transmission MD & CEO: Anil Sardana
7. Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance has won the Insurer 13. NTPC has received the Economic Times (ET) HR World
Innovation Award 2023 for the APAC region at the 8th Future Skills Awards 2023 in Best Use of AI/AR/VR in
World Digital Insurance Awards, hosted by TDI - The Learning and Upskilling category.
Digital Insurer. Note: The organization also received an award in Best
Note: Recognition: Bajaj Allianz Life's ground-breaking Advance in Creating an Extended Enterprise Learning
WhatsApp Conversational Platform - empowering Programme category. The award was received by
customers to digitally services their policies seamlessly. Director (HR), NTPC, Dillip Kumar Patel. NTPC has been
The award entries were shortlisted by industry experts adopting and institutionalizing progressive and best HR
and the winner was selected by the community through practices, which have been recognized by various
pre-voting and live event voting. prestigious fora at national and international levels.
8. India topped the medals tally at the 34th International 14. Prof. T. Pradeep has won the prestigious Eni Award
Biology Olympiad (IBO) 2023 held in Al Ain, UAE from 3 2023.
July to 11 July 2023. Note: He is associated with the Department of Chemistry,
Note: This is the first time that India won all gold medals Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M). Reason: To
at IBO and also the first time that India has topped the discover advanced sustainable and affordable nano-scale
medals tally at the Olympiad. The students this year were: materials for the removal of toxic contaminants from
Dhruv Advani from Bengaluru, Karnataka; Ishan water. Eni Award is considered among the top global
Pednekar from Kota, Rajasthan; Megh Chhabda from honors for scientific research in energy and environment.
Jalna, Maharashtra; Rohit Panda from Risali, Chattisgarh It is given in three categories-Energy Transition, Energy
9. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has named Frontiers and Advanced Environmental Solutions
Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) as the recipients of the 15. Union Minister of State for Skill Development, Rajeev
‘Men's Player of the Month' award for June 2023. Chandrasekhar Flagged off the first batch of Namda Art
Note: Ashleigh Gardner (Australian women’s team all- products for export to the United Kingdom.
rounder) named Women's Player of the Month' award for Note: The Namda craft of Kashmir has successfully been
June 2023. He was honored for his outstanding revived under Skill India’s Pilot Project as part of the
achievements during the World Cup Qualifier matches in Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY). The
Zimbabwe, where he set new records. Ashleigh Gardner project has successfully trained individuals across six
became the first player to win the Player-of-the-Month districts of Kashmir - Srinagar, Baramulla, Ganderbal,
accolade three times. Bandipora, Budgam, and Anantnag
10. PM Modi was honoured with France's highest civilian and 16. Coal Ministry awarded “Best Engagement” for its
military honour, 'Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour', by achievements on e- procurement through GeM by the
French President Emmanuel Macron. Ministry of Commerce.
Note: With this honour, he also becomes the first Indian Note: Coal Ministry sets new standards in the e-
Prime Minister to receive this honour. He also joined the procurement ecosystem, creating a level playing field for
French National Day (July 14) celebrations as the Guest of stakeholders and fostering fair competition. Coal India
Honour. Other awardees: Nelson Mandela, King Charles, Limited has been awarded“Rising Star” and NLC India
Angela Merkel, Boutros Boutros-Ghali
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 Limited has been awarded in the “TimelyPayments” Note: ANI chairman Prem Prakash has dedicated over 70
category. years in the world of journalism. Throughout his
17. Byculla Railway station was awarded by UNESCO after illustrious career, he has established new dimensions to
its successful restoration to its original glory in July 2023. journalism from time to time and emerged as a great
Note: The project, launched in July 2019 by Shaina NC, inspiration to society.
Trustee of 'I Love Mumbai' and in memory of her father 19. The Maharashtra government has decided to confer the
Nana Chudasama, aimed to revive the station's original first 'Udyog Ratna' award 2023 to Ratan Tata.
architectural splendor. Minister for Railways, Ashwini Note: The award is the state's highest honor given to
Vaishnav congratulated Central Railway. eminent individuals, has led the Maharashtra government
18. Prem Prakash was honoured with the prestigious to introduce Udyog Ratna Award from this year onward.
Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding The first recipient of this award will be the renowned
contributions to the field of journalism in New Delhi. industrialist, Ratan Tata. The award is a recognition of his
outstanding achievements in the industrial sector.

June 2023

1. AIIMS Nagpur has become the first of all AIIMS to for his debut novel 'The Secret Diaries of Charles
receive National Accreditation Board for Ignatius Sancho'.
Hospitals(NABH) accreditation. Note: This book is a historical fiction novel that tells the
Note: The NABH accreditation is a globally recognized story of Charles Ignatius Sancho, who was the first Black
standard for healthcare quality. It assesses the man to vote in England RSL Christopher Bland Prize: It is
performance of hospitals in various areas including an annual award that is awarded to a debut writer for
patient care, safety, and organizational efficiency. AIIMS their work of fiction or non-fiction. Cash Prize: £10,000
Nagpur achieved this accreditation by demonstrating its 6. Rebels Against the Raj: Western Fighters for India’s
commitment to excellence in all areas. Freedom has won the £5,000 Elizabeth Longford Prize
2. Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) 2023 for Historical Biography.
Undertaking was honored with the prestigious Note: This book was authored by Ramachandra Guha.
'Climate And Health' award at the UITP Awards 2023, This book tells the story of seven foreigners (4 British, 2
Barcelona. American, and 1 Iris) who joined India’s freedom struggle.
Note: Additionally, BEST Undertaking was recognized as The list includes Annie Besant, B.G. Horniman, Philip
one of the top three finalists in the 'Public And Urban Spratt, Richard Ralph Keithahn, Samuel Stokes, Madeline
Transport Strategy' category. UITP Awards are highly Slade, and Catherine Mary Heilemann. Prize money:
sought-after prizes in the field of public transport. £5,000
Recently, the BEST was also awarded for 'Smart 7. Geological Survey of India Training Institute has been
Mobility' category by FICCI. awarded accreditation as 'Athi Uttam' by the National
3. Suriname President, Chandrikapersad Santokhi has Accreditation Board of Education and Training
conferred Suriname's highest civilian honor, The (NABET).
Grand Order of the Chain of Yellow Star, to President Note: The assessment was made on the basis of the
of India Droupadi Murmu. inspection of all standard operating procedures and
Note: She is the first Indian to receive this award. During methodologies. The team of the Capacity Building
her visit to Suriname, both countries signed MoUs in the Commission (CBC), NABET, and Quality Control of India
fields of health, agriculture, and capacity building. These conducted the on-site assessment. GSITI was
MoUs include a Joint Work Plan for Cooperation in the established in 1976 and its headquarters located in
Field of Agriculture and Allied Sectors for the period of Hyderabad.
2023-2027. 8. EPFO will gain access to professional guidelines, expert
4. Jagdish Bakan has won the 2023 Michel Batisse Award knowledge, services, and support from the International
for Biosphere Reserve Management from UNESCO. Social Security Association (ISSA).
Note: The 2017 batch officer of the IFS is currently the Note: The move comes after the central board of trustees
director of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. The of EPFO gave its approval to change its membership status
USD 12,000 award is given in memory of Dr. Michel with ISSA from associate member to affiliate member
Batisse for outstanding achievement in the management now. The organization became an associate member in
of biosphere reserves. He will receive the award from 1962. Other than EPFO, the Coal Mines Provident Fund
Unesco in Paris on June 14, 2023. Organisation is the only ISSA affiliate member from
5. Author Paterson Joseph was conferred with the 2023 India.
Royal Society of Literature Christopher Bland Prize

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9. RBI Governor, Shaktikanta Das was honored with the compilations of poems, 7 compilations of essays, 5
title of ‘Governor of the Year 2023' by Central Banking in translations, and 3 research books.
London. 15. IndiGo has won a top award as the Best Low-Cost Airline
Note: Reason: For his role in managing inflation and in India and South Asia at the prestigious 2023 Skytrax
handling India's banking system during crises like the World Airline Awards.
COVID pandemic and global turmoils. He is the second Note: It is the thirteenth time that IndiGo has won this
RBI governor after Raghuram Rajan, who was honored award as the Best Low-Cost Airline in India and South
with this title in 2015. While the National Bank of Ukraine Asia. Recently, IndiGo has placed a firm order for 500
was presented with the 2023 Central Bank of the Year. Airbus A320 Family aircraft, which will provide IndiGo
10. Kiya. ai has unveiled its version of the metaverse called with a further steady stream of deliveries between 2030
Bharatmeta at the prestigious VivaTech event held in and 2035.
Paris 2023. 16. Priya A S has been named the prestigious (Kendra)
Note: The demonstration took place at the India Pavilion Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2023.
during the event ‘VivaTech’. VivaTech is recognized as Note: She was awarded for children’s literature in
Europe's largest annual technology and startup gathering. Malayalam for her 2018 novel Perumazhayathe
Bharatmeta offers practical use cases for banking, Kunjithalukal. She won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi
commerce, culture, and collaboration within the Award for Children’s Literature for the same novel in
metaverse. 2020. The book was featured in the Sammanapothi series
11. Arundhati Roy has been awarded the 45th European by Poorna Books. Bal Sahitya Puraskar consists of a cash
Essay Prize for lifetime achievement on the occasion of prize of Rs 50,000 and an engraved copper plaque.
the French translation of her latest essay, 'Azadi'. 17. Egypt President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has conferred the
Note: The French translation 'Liberte, fascisme, fiction' ‘Order of the Nile’ to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
appeared in the leading French publishing group, Note: The ‘Order of the Nile’ was instituted in 1915, which
Gallimard. The award ceremony will take place on is conferred upon heads of state, crown princes, and vice
September 12 at the Lausanne Palace. At the award presidents who offer Egypt or humanity invaluable
ceremony, Arundhati Roy will discuss the environment services. Over the last 9 years, PM Modi has received
and globalization, caste and language. many international awards and this is the 13th highest
12. Gita Press, Gorakhpur has been selected for the Gandhi state honour conferred upon PM Modi.
Peace Prize for the year 2021 in recognition of its 18. Shankar MahadevanShankar Mahadevan was
outstanding contribution to social, economic, and political conferred with an honorary doctorate by Birmingham
transformation through non-violent and other Gandhian City University (BCU) in London, England.
methods. Note: Reason: To celebrate his contribution to music and
Note: The award given by the Ministry of Culture, the the arts. He was honoured by the BCU Vice-Chancellor
Gandhi Peace Prize carries an amount of one crore rupees, Professor Philip Plowden at the ceremony. He was
a citation, and a plaque. Gita Press was established in accompanied by fellow musicians Zakir Hussain and John
1923, having published over 41 crore books in 14 McLaughlin at the ceremony.
languages. 19. Dr. K. Venugopal has been selected for an award
13. British-American author, Salman Rushdie has been instituted by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) to
selected for the prestigious German Peace Prize 2023 for commemorate National Doctors’ Day on July 1.
his literary work and his resolve and positive attitude in Note: He was selected under the category of community
the face of constant danger. service. He will receive the award at a function to be held
Note: He would receive the award in Frankfurt on at IMA headquarters in New Delhi on July 1. Indian
October 22, 2023. Cash prize: €25,000 ($27,300). This Medical Association was formed in 1928 & is
prize was established in 1950 to recognize a personality headquartered in New Delhi.
committed to serving international understanding 20. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak honored Rajindar
between nations and cultures through their work. Singh Dhatt with a Points of Light award on June 28th,
14. Acharya N. Gopi has been selected for the first-ever Prof. 2023.
Kothapalli Jayashankar Award, instituted by Bharat Note: He was recognized for his service and work
Jagruthi. running the 'Undivided Indian Ex-Servicemen's
Note: The award would be presented to Acharya Gopi at Association'. The Points of Light award recognize
an event to be organized at Telangana Saraswatha outstanding people whose service is making a difference
Parishath in Abids on June 21. The award has been in their communities and whose stories can inspire others
instituted for honoring the littérateurs every year. towards innovative solutions to social challenges in their
Acharya Gopi has penned 56 books including 26 own communities and beyond.

May 2023
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1. Meera Syal has been conferred a BAFTA Fellowship, the Note: He was awarded for his remarkable achievements
highest accolade bestowed by the British Academy of Film on the pitch in the past year, which included leading
and Television Arts (BAFTA). Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup. Sportswoman
Note: Recognition: For an outstanding and exceptional of the Year: Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (Jamaica) Athletics,
contribution to film/television. She was honored with an Team of the Year: Argentina Men’s Football Team,
MBE and then a CBE by the late Queen Elizabeth II for her Breakthrough: Carlos Alcaraz (Spain) Tennis, Comeback:
contribution to drama and literature. She is best known Christian Eriksen (Denmark) Football
for television shows such as 'Goodness Gracious Me' and 23. President Droupadi Murmu has conferred 37 Gallantry
'The Kumars at No. 42'. awards to the personnel of the Armed Forces, CAPF, and
2. The Cannes Film Festival will honor Michael Douglas State or Union Territory Police during the Defence
with an honorary Palme d’Or. Investiture Ceremony (Phase-1) in New Delhi.
Note: Reason: For his outstanding career and Note: The 37 Gallantry awards include eight Kirti
contributions to cinema. He will be honoured during the Chakras (including five posthumous) and 29 Shaurya
festival’s opening ceremony on May 16. Douglas has Chakras (including five posthumous). The Gallantry
worked in various films like The China Syndrome, Basic awards were given to the personnel for displaying
Instinct, Falling Down, and Behind the Candelabra. conspicuous gallantry, indomitable courage, and extreme
3. Former Lok Sabha MP Pandit Ramkishan was awarded devotion to duty
the title of “Shatabdi Purush” (Man of the Century) in 24. Prof Jayant V. Narlikar, who was awarded the first-ever
New Delhi. Govind Swarup Lifetime Achievement Award by the
Note: Reason: For his contributions as a socialist Astronomical Society of India (ASI).
leader. The honor was bestowed on him during the birth Note: He was also a founder director of the Inter-
centenary celebrations of Madhu Limaye (renowned University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics
socialist ideologue and parliamentarian). Ramkishan is (IUCAA) in Pune. The ASI instituted the award in 2022 to
considered the most senior and iconic figure in Indian recognize eminent Indian astronomers for their
socialism and has been recognized as the “Socialist contributions to the field of astronomy and astrophysics.
Shatabdi Purush". Prof Narlikar is known for his study of the Universe.
4. UNESCO has awarded its annual World Press Freedom 25. Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan
Prize to three imprisoned Iranian female journalists. has conferred CDS Unit Citations award to the Strategic
Note: The winners, Niloufar Hamedi, Elaheh Forces Command, College of Defence Management,
Mohammadi, and Narges Mohammadi. They were Secunderabad and 2 PARA (Special Forces).
recognized for their work in reporting on human rights Note: Reason: For their exemplary performance for the
abuses in Iran and their commitment to truth and Year 2021-22. The CDS unit citations award was
accountability. constituted after the establishment of the Office of Chief of
20. With Hernan Diaz (Argentina Writer), Barbara Defence Staff in 2019. Aim: To boost jointness and
Kingsolver (American Novelist) has shared the Pulitzer integration in the Armed Forces
Prize 2023 in the fiction category. 26. Musharraf Ali Farooqi has won the inaugural edition of
Note: Barbara Kingsolver was awarded for her novel the Armory Square Prize for South Asian Literature in
'Demon Copperhead' and Hernan Diaz won for his novel Translation.
'Trust'. Drama: English, by Sanaz Toossi; Biography: G- Note: He translated Siddique Alam’s 'The Kettledrum
Man: J. Edgar Hoover and the Making of the American and Other Stories' from Urdu to English. The book will
Century, by Beverly Gage (Viking); Memoir or be published by Open Letter Books in 2024. The Armory
Autobiography: Stay True, by Hua Hsu (Doubleday) Square Prize for translation was instituted by the
21. ICC has named Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman as ICC American venture capitalist firm Armory Square. Aim: To
Men’s Player of the Month for April 2023. recognize literature from underrepresented traditions
Note: While Thailand’s skipper Naruemol Chaiwai as 27. Saantinketan has been recommended for inclusion in
ICC Women's Player of the Month. Fakhar Zaman: He UNESCO’s World Heritage List, is the home of Rabindra
becomes the first Pakistani player to win the monthly Nath Tagore.
accolade since Sidra Ameen in November 2022. Naruemol Note: The quaint town in West Bengal’s Birbhum district
Chaiwai: She chipped in with 55 runs across the T20I is also home to the Visva-Bharti University built by
series that followed, her 29 in the second T20I helping her Tagore. Santiniketan, over 160 km from Kolkata, was
side edge out Zimbabwe in a five-wicket win. originally an ashram built by Tagore’s father
22. Argentina footballer, Lionel Messi has been named the Debendranath Tagore. India has a total of 40 sites that
Sportsman of the Year at the 2023 Laureus World enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage tag.
Sports Awards.

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28. Writer Arinze Ifeakandu has won Swansea Sons in 2017 and later, was given a second term in the role
University's Dylan Thomas Prize 2023 for a for another five years.
“kaleidoscopic reflection of queer life and love in Nigeria”. 34. Harrison Ford was honored with the prestigious Palme
Note: Dylan Thomas Prize is a recognition of literary D'Or award for lifetime achievement at the 76th
works by authors aged 39 or under and is one of the most Cannes Film Festival 2023.
prestigious awards for young writers. His debut book is Note: He received the award before the premiere of his
God’s Children Are Little Broken Things', which is a film 'Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny'. It is an
collection of nine short stories on the themes of queer life, annual film festival, held in Cannes France from 16 to 27
love, and humanity. May 2023. The festival opened with Jeanne du Barry
29. Ben Whishaw has received the best leading actor (directed by Maïwenn). The festival will close with
award for his role in 'This is Going to Hurt (BBC One)' Elemental directed by Peter Sohn
at the BAFTA TV Awards 2023. 35. Two-lifetime achievement awards to Jean-Jacques
Note: Kate Winslet won the leading actress award for Muyembe-Tamfum and Peter Piot at the 76th World
her role in I Am Ruth (Channel 4). Drama series: Bad Health Assembly held in Geneva on May 21.
Sisters (Apple TV Plus). Mini-series: Mood (BBC Three). Note: Professor Muyembe-Tamfum from Congo is
International: Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer being recognized for his innovation and contributions to
Story (Netflix). Supporting actor: Adeel Akhtar – the management and treatment of diseases such as Ebola
Sherwood (BBC One) virus disease. Professor Piot from Belgium is being
30. Technology Development Board (TDB) has conferred recognized for his leadership in the response to the
the National Technology Awards 2023 in five HIV/AIDS epidemic.
categories i.e. Main, MSME, Startup, Translational 36. Veteran actor, Kamal Haasan honored with the
Research, and Technology Business Incubator. Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema award at
Note: T-Hub Foundation, Telangana has received the the 23rd IIFA Awards 2023, held in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
National Technology Awards 2023 in Technology Note: He was awarded various awards including Padma
Business Incubator. T-Hub (Technology Hub) is an Shri (1990), Padma Bhushan (2014), and Ordre des Arts
innovation hub and ecosystem enabler. T-Hub leads et des Lettres in 2016. While Ritesh Deshmukh and
India’s pioneering innovation ecosystem and is the Genelia D'Souza will be honored with Outstanding
world’s largest innovation campus. Achievement in Regional Cinema. Manish Malhotra
31. Gauri has been awarded the ‘Best Long Documentary will also receive the Outstanding Achievement in Fashion
Award’ at the South Asian Film Festival of Montreal in Cinema.
2023. 37. Chandigarh has received the first rank in the best
Note: This documentary was directed by Kavitha Urban Local Body category of the National Water
Lankesh. It is based on journalist and activist Gauri Award 2022.
Lankesh, who was assassinated in 2017. This film was Note: The Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water
commissioned by Free Press Unlimited, Amsterdam. The Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation
Free Press Unlimited mission stems from Article 19 of the declared the 4th National Water Award in 2022. The
Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Everyone has the Ground Water Augmentation Awards and National Water
right to freedom of opinion and expression. Awards were launched in 2007. Aim: To encourage all
32. Uttar Pradesh has received the Geographical stakeholders for adopting innovative practices of
Indications (GI) tags for three more ODOP crafts groundwater augmentation through rainwater
Mainpuri tarkashi, Mahoba Gaura stone craft, and harvesting.
Sambhal horn craft. 38. PM Modi has been conferred with the highest honors by
Note: Uttar Pradesh has now 48 GI tags. Among the 48 GI Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
goods of UP, 36 products belong to the handicraft Note: He was conferred with the "The Companion of the
category. Tamil Nadu has a maximum of 55 GI-tagged Order of Fiji" by his Fijian PM, Sitiveni Rabuka for his
goods while UP and Karnataka have 48 and 46 GI products global leadership. While Papua New Guinea conferred its
respectively. Tarkashi is a technique of inlaying brass, highest civilian order, Grand Companion of the Order of
copper, or silver wires in wood. Logohu for championing the cause of unity of Pacific
33. N Chandrasekaran was conferred with France's highest Island countries. PM Modi is on a visit to Papua New
civilian honor, 'Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur', by Guinea to attend the third India-Pacific Islands
French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Cooperation Summit.
Colonna. 39. Thalapathy Vijay has received the Best Actor Award at
Note: He was awarded for his role in developing and the Osaka Tamil International Film Festival held in
fostering commercial links between India and France. Japan.
N Chandrasekaran was appointed the chairman of Tata Note: He was awarded for his performance in 'Master'
(directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj), released in 2021.
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 While Kangana Ranaut has bagged the Best Actress Note: 25 books have been published in Konkani and
Award for her performance in Thalaivii. Other winners: one in English. Many of his books have also been
Best Tamil Film: Sarpatta Parambarai; Best Director: Pa. translated into different languages. In 1983, he has
Ranjith (Sarpatta Parambarai); Best Supporting Actor: K. conferred the Sahitya Akademi Award for his novel
Manikandan; Best Supporting Actress: Lijomol Jose 'Karmelin'. He is the second Goan to receive the Jnanpith
40. Georgi Gospodinov has bagged the 2023 International Award, after Ravindra Kelekar, who received the award in
Booker Prize for their book 'Time Shelter'. 2008.
Note: Translated by: Angela Rodel. It is the first book 44. 'Anatomy of a Fall' (directed by Justine Triet) was
originally written in Bulgarian to be nominated for the conferred with the Palme d’Or, the highest prize at the
award. The prize has recognized fiction translated into 2023 Cannes Film Festival.
English and published in the United Kingdom or Ireland in Note: She is the third woman director to win Cannes'
the year leading up to the award. Prize money: 50,000 top honour. Other awardees: Honorary Palme d’Or:
pounds (about $62,000) shared equally between the Michael Douglas; Best Actress: Merve Dizdar (for About
author and translator Dry Grasses); Best Actor: Kōji Yakusho (For Perfect Days);
41. Three Indians have been honored posthumously with the Best Director: Tran Anh Hung (For The Pot-Au-Feu); Short
Dag Hammarskjold Medal. Film Palme d’Or: 27 (directed by Flóra Anna Buda)
Note: India's Permanent Representative at UN 45. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and
Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj has received the medal in Industry (FICCI) has conferred the award in the 'Smart
honor of three Indian peacekeepers who lost their lives in Mobility' category to Brihanmumbai Electric Supply &
the line of duty in 2022. BSF Head Constables Shishupal Transport Undertaking (BEST).
Singh and Sanwala Ram Vishnoi have served with the Note: Reason: Pioneering efforts in adopting green and
Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic sustainable practices. The BEST has been working on its
Republic of the Congo. While Shaber Taher Ali served in a transformation for 2 years, such as 10,000 Electric Buses,
civilian capacity with UNAMI Digital Tickets on NCMC and BEST Chalo App, First And
42. Hrithik Roshan has bagged the Best Actor award at the Last Mile Services, and Mobility-As-A-Service (MaaS).
International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) 46. RINL has conferred the prestigious "GreenTech Safety
2023 held in Abu Dhabi. Award 2023" under Safety Excellence Category at the
Note: He was awarded for his performance in Vikram 21st Annual Greentech awards function.
Vedha. While Alia Bhatt also won the Best Actor Note: Reason: For its outstanding contribution to
(Female) award for Gangubai Kathiawadi. Best Film: improving workplace safety in 2022-23. The 21st Annual
Drishyam 2. Best Director: R Madhavan (Rocketry: The Greentech Awards was organized by the Greentech
Nambi Effect). Supporting Role: Best Actor (Female): Foundation to recognize the organizations that are taking
Mouni Roy (Brahmastra: Part One - Shiva); Best responsibility for defining a commercial future by adding
Actor(Male): Anil Kapoor (Jugg Jugg Jeeyo) value through excellence in fire, safety, and security
43. Governor of Goa, P S Sreedharan Pillai has presented the management.
57th Jnanpith Award, the country's highest literary
honor, to Goan writer Damodar Mauzo.

April 2023

1. Anjali Sharma of Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh leading role in fostering Indo-French cultural ties. She is a
has conquered Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, wearing chairperson of the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art.
Luanchari. 3. Bihar's West Champaran was awarded the GI tag for its
Note: She is working to promote Gaddi culture on the 'Mircha' rice.
peaks of the mountains. Lunachari is a traditional dress of Note: The size and shape of the grain appear like that of
Himachal Pradesh. Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters) is black pepper, hence it is known as Mircha or Marcha
the tallest mountain in Africa and the world’s largest free- Rice. This rice is famous for its aroma, palatability, and its
standing mountain. It has three main volcanic peaks aromatic chura (rice flakes) making qualities. The cooked
namely Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. rice is fluffy, non-sticky, sweet, and easily digestible with
2. Kiran Nadar was conferred “Chevalier de la Légion a popcorn-like aroma.
d’Honneur” (Knight of the Legion of Honour) by French 4. Former Indian cricket team captain, MS Dhoni was
Ambassador to India Emmanuel Lenain in April 2023. named among the five Indians to have been inducted with
Note: Reason: In recognition of her contribution to the the Marylebone Cricket Club’s (MCC) honorary life
field of art, her commitment to providing greater access membership.
to culture both nationally and internationally, and her Note: Other four Indian Cricketers: Yuvraj Singh,
Maithali Raj, Suresh Raina, and Jhulan Goswami. MS Dhoni
137 | P a g e
 had featured in 538 international games across formats, Managing India Awards. AIMA JRD Tata Corporate
scoring over 17,000 runs during the same. Yuvraj Singh Leadership: TV Narendran, CEO and MD of Tata Steel.
was an integral part of the Indian team that won the first Transformational Business Leader: Sanjiv Bajaj, MD of
T20 World Cup in 2007. Bajaj Finserv. Outstanding Institution Builder: Venu
5. An Indian-American physician and professor, Dr. Nitya Srinivasan, Chairman Emeritus, TVS Motor
Abraham was honored with the Young Urologist of the 11. Union HM Amit Shah has presented the Maharashtra
Year Award by the American Urological Association Bhushan Award for 2022 to Dr. Appasaheb
(AUA). Dharmadhikari at Raigarh, Maharashtra.
Note: She is an Associate Professor at Albert Einstein Note: He has played a significant role in organizing
College of Medicine and Program Director for the several tree plantation drives, blood donation drives, free
Montefiore Urology residency program. Other honorees: medical clinics, and job fairs. Award: A shawl, citation and
Rena Malik, Jesse D. Sammon, Sarah Vij, Alexander memento, and a cheque of Rs 25 lakh. He was also
J.Ernest, Kerri Thurmon, Zachary Klaassen, and Yahir awarded the Padma Shri in 2017. His father Dr. Narayan
Santiago- Lastra Vishnu Dharmadhikari was also awarded the
6. According to the data shared by the Airports Council Maharashtra Bhushan in 2008.
International (ACI) World, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi 12. Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) has
International (IGI) Airport has secured the ninth been accorded the status of Miniratna Category-I Central
position in the list of the world's busiest airports in 2022. Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE).
Note: As per the data, this airport is handling 59.5 million Note: SECI was incorporated in the year 2011 and is the
passengers annually. IGI Airport has improved its ranking primary implementing agency of the ministry for
from 2021 (13th). Top: Georgia’s Hartsfield-Jackson renewable energy schemes/ projects towards fulfillment
Atlanta International Airport (93.6 million passengers) of India's international commitments. As of date, SECI has
7. The Bharat Biotech has won the `Best Production awarded RE project capacities of over 56 GW.
/Process Development’ award as part of the Vaccine 13. Nandini Gupta has been crowned the 59th edition of the
Industry Excellence (VIE) awards at the World Vaccine beauty pageant, Femina Miss India World 2023.
Congress 2023. Note: Meanwhile, Shreya Poonja from Delhi and
Note: The event was held during April 3-6 in Washington, Thounaojam Strela Luwang from Manipur were
USA. It is the world’s first producer of intranasal Covid- announced as the first runner-up and second runner-up,
19 vaccine, iNcovacc. World Vaccine Congress: It is the respectively. She hails from Kota, Rajasthan, and holds a
largest global meeting dedicated to vaccines, from basic Business Management degree. Femina Miss India 2023
research to commercial manufacture, it covers the whole was held at Indoor Stadium, Khuman Lampak, Imphal,
vaccine value chain. Manipur.
8. An Indian-American mathematician and statistician, 14. Karnataka has bagged the national award for the best
Calyampudi Radhakrishna Rao (102) will be awarded implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
the 2023 International Prize in Statistics in July 2023. (PMFBY) in the country.
Note: Reason: For his monumental work 75 years ago Note: The state has recorded a 47.74% increase in the
that revolutionized statistical thinking. He is currently a enrolment of farmers under the scheme, between the
professor emeritus at Pennsylvania State University and Kharif season 2021 and 2022. While the area covered
Research Professor at University at Buffalo. He will under the scheme increased by 41.80%. The common
receive the prize, with an $80,000 award. It is awarded service centers have also seen an enrolment of 4.66 lakh
every two years to an individual or team. non-loanee farmers over the last six years.
9. Retired Indian track and field athlete, PT Usha has been 15. Utsa Patnaik has been selected for the Malcolm
awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree by the Adiseshiah Award 2023.
Central University of Kerala at Sabarmati Hall, Periya Note: It is granted for outstanding contributions to
Campus. Development Studies. The award consists of a citation and
Note: She was conferred by Vice Chancellor Prof. H. a cash prize of Rs. 2 lakh. The award is given every year by
Venkateshwarlu. She has won 33 medals including 19 the Malcolm & Elizabeth Adiseshiah Trust. It is annually
gold in the Asian Games and Asian Championship. She was given to an outstanding social scientist selected from
the first Indian athlete to win medals in four consecutive nominations received by a specially constituted national
Asian Games and also won six medals including five gold jury.
in the Jakarta Asian Athletic Meet in 1985. 16. Former Chancellor Angela Merkel has received the
10. Chairman of Aditya Birla Group, Kumar Mangalam highest Order of Merit of Germany from the President of
Birla has received the AIMA's Business Leader of the Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier.
Decade Award 2023. Note: The award has only been given twice before, to
Note: Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, former chancellors Konrad Adenauer and Helmut Kohl.
Jyotiraditya M Scindia has presented the 13th AIMA All three former leaders belong to the conservative
138 | P a g e
 Christian Democratic Union (CDU). The Order of Merit Note: Reason: For improving Agriculture Productivity
entails no financial reward. Merkel led Germany from and Rural Livelihood through watershed management,
2005 to 2021, totaling four terms in office. community participation, and better crop management
17. Legendary singer Asha Bhosle will be felicitated with practices in 10 villages of Jaipatna Block of Kalahandi,
the Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar award on April 24, the Odisha. The Director (Personnel) of POWERGRID, Dr. V. K.
Memorial Day of theatre-music veteran Deenanath Singh received the award.
Mangeshkar. 23. Bombay IIT’s SHUNYA team has secured second place in
Note: The family and the trust have instituted the award Solar Decathlon Build Challenge in the United States.
in memory of Lata Mangeshkar, who died on February 6, Note: Reason: For their innovative zero-energy house
2022. This award was aimed to honor people from designed to address air quality challenges in Mumbai's
various fields such as music, drama, art, medicine, and hot and humid climate. SHUNYA refers to Sustainable
social work. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was its first Housing for Urbanizing Nation by its Young Aspirants. It
recipient. is a student-driven technical team of IIT Bombay working
18. National COVID-19 Vaccination Programme of the to build a sustainable future.
Union Health Ministry received the Prime Minister’s 24. Tibetan spiritual leader, Dalai Lama has received the
Award for Excellence in Public Administration 2022 1959 Ramon Magsaysay Award by members of the award
under the innovation category. foundation personally after 64 years.
Note: The award was received by Rajesh Bhushan Note: It was the first international award given for his
(Secretary, Ministry of Health) from PM Narendra Modi. Community Leadership in recognition of his leadership of
PM Gati Shakti national master plan initiative received an the Tibetan community's gallant struggle in defense of the
award for excellence in public administration 2022 in the sacred religion that is the inspiration of their life and
'Innovation (Central)' category. culture. The Ramon Magsaysay Award is often called the
19. Wing Commander Deepika Misra was conferred the Nobel Prize of Asia.
Vayu Sena medal by Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air 25. Rashtriya Ispat Nigam (RINL) has bagged Steel
Marshal VR Chaudhari. Ministry’s "Ispat Rajbhasha Samman" for the year 2021-
Note: She becomes the first woman Air Force officer to 22.
receive a gallantry award. She is a trained helicopter pilot, Note: The award was presented by the MoS for Steel and
a qualified flying instructor, and an instrument-rated Rural Development Faggan Singh Kulaste to CMD, RINL
instructor and examiner. She was among 58 personnel Atul Bhatt, in the meeting of Hindi Salahkar Samiti held at
who received the gallantry award during the investiture Srinagar. The minister also released RINL's March issue of
ceremony held in New Delhi. Hindi In-house Magazine "Rashtriya Ispat Sugandh". The
20. The West Stand at Sharjah cricket stadium has been members of Hindi Salahkar Samiti appreciated various
renamed after Indian former cricketer, Sachin Tendulkar activities being undertaken by RINL.
in a special ceremony in the UAE, honouring the Indian 26. Maria Stepanova has been awarded the prestigious
cricket legend on his 50th birthday. Leipzig Book Prize for European Understanding in 2023.
Note: Sharjah Cricket Stadium holds the Guinness record Note: She was honored in Leipzig for her volume of poetry
for most One-Day internationals played (244). The gate at "Mädchen ohne Kleider" (Girls Without Clothes). It is
the Sydney Cricket Ground was also named after Sachin described as a sensitive and highly poetic study of often
Tendulkar on his 50th birthday. CEO of Sharjah Stadium: hidden violence against the female body and the power
Khalaf Bukhatir imbalance that drives this oppression. About Leipzig Book
21. Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) Uttar Pradesh has Award: Literary prizes in Germany. Prize money: 20,000
been awarded the country’s prestigious HUDCO Award euros
for 2022-2023. 27. Rajkummar Rao has been awarded the Best Male Actor
Note: It was awarded in the Best Practices to Improve the award for his role in Badhaai Do at the 68th Hyundai
Living Environment 2022-23 category for cleanliness. The Filmfare Awards on April 28, 2023.
award was presented by the secretary of MoHUA, Manoj Note: Alia Bhatt was awarded Best Actor (Female) for
Josh to Neha Sharma (State mission director, UP). Cash Gangubai Kathiawadi. Best Film: Gangubai Kathiawadi.
Prize: 1 Lakh Rupees. This campaign was organized by the Best Film (Critics'): Badhaai Do. Best Actor (Critics'):
Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) Uttar Pradesh from Sanjay Mishra (Vadh). Best Actress (Critics'): Bhumi
January 14 to 24, 2023. Pednekar (Badhaai Do) and Tabu (Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2).
22. Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) has been Best Director: Sanjay Leela Bhansali (Gangubai
awarded the Global Gold Award 2023 by The Green Kathiawadi)
Organization.

Sports News
139 | P a g e
 August 2023

1. Sangampreet Singh Bisla and Avneet Kaur bagged gold at 2754. 0. He now holds the 9th position in the live
medals each in the individual events in World University rankings, while the five-time World champion Anand has
Games 2023 in China, are associated with Archery. slipped to 10th place.
Note: Indian archers defeated South Africa’s de Klerk in a 7. At the World University Games 2023 in China, Indian
finale. India bagged a total of nine gold, three silver, andv5 archery Aman Saini and Pragati secured a gold medal in
bronze medals, securing fourth position. China with 17 the mixed archery team.
gold, 5 silver, and 4 bronze medals, followed by Korea Note: They defeat Korea's Sua Cho and Seunghyun Park to
with 10 gold, 10 silver, and 5 bronze medals, and Japan claim the top spot on the podium. Presently, India holds
with 10 gold, 6 silver, and 7 bronze medals. the fourth position in the overall medal standings. The
2. Polish Player Iga Swiatek secured her fourth Women’s bronze medal in the compound team event was secured
Tennis Association title of the year 2023 by defeating by Ming-ching Lin and Z-wei Wu from Chinese Taipei.
Germany’s Laura Siegemund in Warsaw. Indians won two more medals in archery in men’s and
Note: He currently holds the position of world No. 1 in women’s team events
singles according to the Women’s Tennis Association 8. Aditi Swami has become the first-ever Indian to clinch
rankings. She has earned the title of four-time major the individual World Title at the World Archery
singles champion, conquering the French Open in 2020, Championships final 2023 in Berlin.
2022, and 2023 as well as the US Open in 2022. She Note: In the final, she defeated Andrea Becerra of Mexico,
became the first player from Poland to achieve a major 149-147 in the summit clash of the compound women's
singles title. event. Conversely, India's Ojas Deotale also created
3. Stuart Broad announced his retirement, is associated with history after defeating Lukasz Przybylski of Poland in a
Cricket. thrilling final to become the new world champion in Men's
Note: He sits fifth on the all-time list of wicket-takers and Individual compound event.
is one of only two fast bowlers to take over 600 wickets. 9. Sports Authority of India (SAI) under the Umbrella
He has also played in 167 test matches, 121 one-day Campaign 'Cheer4India' has launched a short movie
internationals, and 56 international T20 games. In Test series ‘Halla Bol’ on the journey of Asian Games-bound
cricket, he stands as the sole English player boasting two athletes.
hat-tricks to his credit. Broad is only the second fast Note: Aim: To motivate them for Hangzhou Asian Games
bowler and second bowler for England to reach the and spread awareness about the upcoming Asian Games.
milestone This initiative will also motivate youngsters in the country
4. Viktor Axelsen beat Indonesian Jonatan Christie to bag to take up sports. A similar movie series, 'Olympics ki
the men’s singles title at the Japan Open 2023 in Tokyo. Aasha,' was launched before the Tokyo Olympics.
Note: While Korean An Se-young outplayed He Bing Jiao 10. Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the opening
of China to win the women’s singles crown. World number ceremony of 132nd of Durand Cup today at SAI Stadium
one Axelsen, who recently retained his European title in which marked the grand beginning of the annual football
Poland,to win his third BWF title of the year. In the competition for the first time in the Assamese city.
women’s singles, world number two is Se Young from Note: The mega event is being organized by the Indian
Korea. Army in association with Assam Government and Bodo
5. Former Uruguay captain Diego Godin announced his Territorial Region. The inaugural ceremony was followed
retirement from Professional football after a by the opening match of the tournament between
remarkable career spanning two decades. Bodoland FC and Rajasthan United FC.
Note: He made 627 professional appearances, scored 38 11. In the Four Nations Para-Badminton International 2023
goals, and earned 10 titles, including two Europa League held in England, Pramod Bhagat and Sukant Kadam
trophies and three UEFA Super Cups, all during his men's doubles duo clinched a gold medal in the SL3-SL4
captaincy at Atletico Madrid. He participated in four category.
World Cups and spent a significant part of his club career Note: They achieved this victory by defeating Ranjan
in Spain. Bisoyee and Manoj Sarkar. Bhagat secured a silver medal
6. Grandmaster Gukesh D has become as India's top chess in the singles SL3 category, and he also teamed up with
player, surpassing Viswanathan Anand in Aug 2023. Manisha Ramdass to claim a silver medal in the mixed
Note: He qualified for the third round of FIDE World Cup doubles SL3-SU5 category. Kadam won a bronze in the
2023, secured victory against Azerbaijani Misratdin singles SL4 category.
Iskandarov. He holds a live rating of 2755. 9 in Classic 12. Indian shuttler HS Prannoy won silver at the Australian
chess, slightly edging out Anand, whose live rating stands Open Badminton 2023 final in Sydney.
140 | P a g e
 Note: He went down fighting against World No. 24 Weng Note:He is the fourth male wrestler from India to earn a
Hong Yang of China. He also bagged the silver medal in gold medal in the U20 World Championships, following
Boys' singles at the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics. He Palwinder Cheema in 2001, Ramesh Kumar in
followed it up with another silver, this time at the Bahrain 2001.Jaideep won the bronze in the 74kg category.Sagar
International Challenge, in 2011. Jaglan won the silver medal 79 kg category while Deepak
13. Savita entered the event as the defending champion, won Chahal won the bronze medal in 97 kg category.
the only gold medal for India in the women’s 61kg weight 19. Priya Malik clinched a Gold medal at the 2023 U20 World
division in World aCadet Wrestling Championships 2023 Wrestling Championships (women's 76kg freestyle) in
in Turkey. Jordan by defeating Laura Celine Kuehn of Germany.
Note: India bagged a total of 11 medals, including 1 gold, Note:She became just the second woman wrestler from
7 silver and 3 bronze at the World Cadet Wrestling India to be crowned U20 world championship.Antim
Championship 2023 at Istanbul. It was the women’s Panghal had been the first woman from India to win a
freestyle where India showed best by finishing third, only junior world title in wrestling at last year's edition.She has
behind Japan and USA. now won both the U17 2021 and 2022 and U20 world
14. 69th famed Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2023 would be held titles.
at the picturesque Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha district 20. Tamil Nadu partnered with Racing Promotions Private
in Kerala. Limited to launch India's first-ever night street racing
Note: 72 boats, including 19 Chundan Valloms or Snake circuit in India and South Asia that will be hosting a night
Boats vying for the coveted trophy, will be participating in race.
the boat race, held every year on the second Saturday of Note:RRPL is also the promoter of the Indian Racing
August. Chief Minister of Kerala PInarayi Vijayan would League and F4 Indian Championship. As for the track, it is
inaugurate the event. The current champion, a 3.5km layout, located around the Island Grounds that
Pallathuruthy Boat Club from Alappuzha, has bagged the resides in the heart of the city.Minister for Youth Welfare
Trophy thrice and Sports Development Udhayanidhi Stalin has launched
15. Bangladesh appointed veteran all-rounder Shakib Al the circuit
Hasan as its ODI captain for both the Asia Cup and the 21. Wahab Riaz announced retirement from international
2023 ODI World Cup. cricket in August 2023, is associated with Pakistan.
Note: He had also led Bangladesh in 49 ODIs between Note:In his career of 15 years, he played 27 Tests, 91 ODIs
2009 and 2011, when he first became captain, and won 22 and 36 T20Is, taking 237 wickets from 154
of those. He later captained Bangladesh in three more internationals.The Pakistani paceman is fondly
ODIs in 2015 and 2017, each time standing in for remembered for his fiery spell in the 2015 World Cup
Mashrafe. Shakib has so far led Bangladesh in 19 Tests and against Shane Watson.He will be remembered as one of
39 T20Is, and the last of his 50 ODIs as captain was in the most popular and respected players in Pakistan’s
2017. recent history.
16. India hockey team defeated Malaysia and won for the 22. The duo of Indian shooters, Esha Singh and Shiva
fourth time at the Asian Champions Trophy 2023 final at Narwal won the gold medal at the 10m air pistol mixed
the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai. event in the final of the ISSF World Championship 2023 at
Note: With four Asian Champions Trophy titles, India is in Baku, Azerbaijan.
the first spot in the history of the tournament. Pakistan, Note:The Indian duo defeated the Turkish pair of Ilayda
with three titles, is in the second spot now. Tamil Nadu Tarhan and Yusuf Dikec 16-10 in the final
Chief Minister MK Stalin lauded Team India on their Asian match.Presently, India placed second on the medals table
Champions Trophy win and announced a cash prize of ₹1. with a gold and a bronze medal, while China is leading the
1 crore for the winning team tally with five gold and two bronze medals.
17. American golfer Lilia Vu won the Women’s British Open 23. India has secured Second Rank at the 16th International
to claim her second major title of 2023 by defeating Olympiad 2023 on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) in
Charley Hull. Poland With Four Gold and One Silver Medal.
Note: She also won the Chevron Championship in April Note:The United Kingdom clinched the lead with five
2023, became the first female player to win two majors in Golds.A total of 236 students from 50 nations participated
the same year since Jin Young Ko in 2019, and the first at the Olympiad. Rajdeep Mishra from Kota, Rajasthan,
American woman since Juli Inkster in 1999. Three of the Koduru Tejeswar from Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, Md.
five women's majors have been won by American this Sahil Akhtar from Kolkata, West Bengal, Akarsh Raj Sahay
year 2023 Allisen Corpuz won the Women's U. S. Open from Nagpur, Maharashtra were awarded Gold medals.
title at Pebble Beach. 24. R Praggnanandhaa becomes the first Indian after
18. Mohit Kumar has become the Under 20 World Viswanathan Anand to reach the semifinals of the FIDE
Championship 2023 in the men’s 61 Kg Freestyle category World Cup 2023, defeated his higher-ranked opponent,
by defeating Russia's Eldar Akhmadudinovin in Jordan. Fabiano Caruana, in Baku.
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 Note:Out of four Indians, who had made it to the Note: ASMITA refers to Achieving Sports Milestone by
quarterfinals, Praggnanandhaa remains the only Indian in Inspiring Women Through Action. The Asmita Portal
the fray.No Indian has reached the last four stage of the serves as a comprehensive resource, offering valuable
Chess World Cup, except Anand, who won the first two insights into upcoming leagues among other features. It
editions of the tournament in 2000 and 2002. will enable any school, college, government, or private
25. Mehuli Ghosh secured bronze medals behind the organization to host the 'Asmita Women's League.
People’s Republic of China’s Jiayu Han and Zhilin Hang in 31. 33 Khelo India Centres (KIC) in Rajasthan at the Sawai
the women’s 10-meter air rifle event at the ISSF World Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.
Championship 2023 in Baku. Note: He also announced that a National Center of
Note:This Championship 2023 was a qualifying event for Excellence with a sports science center will be set up in
the Paris 2024 Olympics. A total of 48 Olympic quotas are Rajasthan along with an additional 18 KIC, thus taking the
on offer with the top four finishers (one per country) in total number of KIC in the State to 51. The total number of
each of the 12 Olympic individual shooting events. This KICs across India is 960, out of which 715 are operational
was India’s fourth Paris 2024 quota in shooting. KICs
26. Spain secured their first FIFA Women's World Cup title 32. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a
2023 by defeating England at the Accor Stadium in sponsorship agreement with Mastercard.
Sydney. Note: Under this deal, the brand has become a global
Note:Spain and Germany are now the only two nations to partner for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup
win both the men’s and women’s tournaments.The 2023, which is set to be held in India from October 5 to
victory made La Roja the first team to hold the under-17, November 19, 2023. The advantages are to interact with
under-20 and senior world titles at the same time – and legendary cricketers, see the Men’s Cricket World Cup
the fifth winner in nine editions of the Women’s World trophy up close, and gain special access to games.
Cup.Spanish captain Olga Carmona's first-half goal proved 33. Amanpreet Singh won the gold medal in the Men’s 25
to be the difference maker metre standard pistol shooting event at the ISSF World
27. Anahat Singh has bagged the gold medal defeating Hong Championship 2023 in Baku.
Kong’s Ena Kwong in the U-17 category in the Asian Junior Note: South Korea's Gunhyeok Lee had to settle for silver
Squash Individual Championships 2023 held in China. while France's Kevin Chapon secured a bronze. In the
Note:She also has a bronze medal win, at Macau in the U- Women’s 25-meter Standard Pistol shooting event,
13 category in 2019.She won the U-11 title during the Tiyana, Yashita Shokeen, and Kritika bagged bronze.
British Junior Open Squash and by winning the U-13 title 34. The two medals on the day took India’s tally in the
in the Dutch Junior Open Squash 2019. In 2021, she also Championship to nine - five gold and four bronze medals.
reached the quarterfinals of the Indian Open held at Rajeshwari Kumari has secured a shooting spot for India
Noida. in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
28. Novak Djokovic secured the Men's single title of Note: She finished fifth in the women's trap final at the
Cincinnati Open 2023 after defeating Carlos Alcaraz of ISSF World Championship 2023 in Baku, Azerbaijan. The
Spain. ISSF World Championship 2023 serves as a qualifying
Note: The win delivered Djokovic his 95th career title and event for the Paris Olympics 2024. The best four finishers
39th Masters 1000 crown. The Spaniard is currently (one from each country) in each of the 12 Olympic
ranked at number one in the ATP Tour rankings, with individual shooting events receive a seat on their national
Djokovic ranked just behind him at number two. Djokovic teams, giving a total of 48 shooters
is the only player in tennis history to be the reigning 35. HS Prannoy bagged a bronze medal in badminton at BWF
champion of all four majors at once across all three World Championships 2023 in Denmark.
different surfaces Note: He registered a loss to Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the
29. Honey Dabas and Rahul Jograjiya clinched first-ever semifinals at the Championships and went down to world
gold and silver respectively in the junior men’s 72kg number three position. This is India's 14th medal at the
category at the World Para Powerlifting Championships World Championships. This includes one gold, four silvers
2023 in Dubai. and nine bronze medals. China is the most successful
Note: Dabas lifted a best total of 135kg while Jograjiya team in the tournament's history, with 196 medals,
had his best total lift of 132kg. Dabas has two gold medals including 69 gold, 48 silver and 79 silvers.
from the Dubai 2022 Fazza World Cup. India’s only medal 36. Indian women's visually impaired team won the T-20
at a World Championships has been claimed by Parmjeet final of the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA)
Kumar (men’s -49kg) at the Tbilisi 2021 World World Games 2023, held at Birmingham.
Championships. Note: The Indian team defeated Australia by nine wickets
30. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh in the rain-interrupted match. The Indian men's blind
has announced that the Khelo India Women’s League will cricket team lost to Pakistan in the IBSA World Games
officially be known as Asmita Women's League. final to settle for a silver medal. Cricket for the visually
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 challenged made its debut in the International Blind 40. Max Verstappen has won the Dutch Grand Prix 2023 for
Sports Federation World Games in 2023. the third consecutive year, once again prevailing at his
37. Neeraj Chopra made history by winning the gold medal home race held at Circuit Zandvoort in the Netherlands.
in the men's javelin throw (88. 17 meters) event at the Note: With the dominant win, Verstappen has now
World Athletics Championships 2023 held in Budapest, matched Sebastian Vettel’s all-time record of nine F1
Hungary. victories in a row. The second position was secured by
Note: He became the first-ever Indian athlete to achieve Fernando ALONSO of the team Aston Martin and third
this feat, marking a significant milestone for Indian position was secured by Pierre GASLY of the team Alpine
athletics. Neeraj faced tough competition, notably from 41. Parul Chaudhary finished in the eleventh position in the
Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, who secured the silver medal 3000 meters steeplechase final of the World Athletics
with a commendable throw of 87. 82 meters. Championships 2023 in Budapest Hungary.
38. The Indian men's 4x400 metres relay team comprising of Note: She broke the national record in the World
Muhammed Anas Yahiya, Amoj Jacob, Muhammed Ajmal Athletics Championships and qualified for the Paris
and Rajesh Ramesh ended with what position in the Olympics 2024. Brunei athlete Winfred Mutile Yavi
4x400 metres relay race final at the World Athletics clinched the gold medal, Kenya's Beatrice Chepkoech won
Championships 2023. silver and another Kenya athlete Faith Cherotich achieved
Note: The USA relay team of Quincy Hall, Vernon winning bronze.
Norwood, Justin Robinson, and Rai Benjamin won 42. Youth Affairs Minister, Anurag Singh Thakur has
finished first and won the gold. France clocked bagged announced that 1,000 Khelo India Centres will be
silver while Great Britain claimed bronze. established within a year in the country.
39. Thailand's Kunlavut Vitidsarn became the first Thai to Note: He also informed that each player will receive 5
win the men's singles title at the World Championships lakh rupees to procure equipment for their centres and
2023 and became the badminton world champion after a per year another 5 lakh rupees for operational expenses.
victory over Japan's Kodai Naraoka in Copenhagen. He also launched an Information booklet on Sports
Note: Earlier, world No. 1 An Se-young also became the Infrastructure Projects sanctioned under the Khelo India
first South Korean to win the women's singles gold at the Scheme as well as launched a National Sports Federations
World Championships 2023 after defeating Carolina portal.
Marin. She had knocked out Tokyo 2020 gold medallist
Chen Yufei in straight games in the semi-finals

July 2023

1. India won the 2023 Asian Kabaddi Championship title for 4. India has won the 2023 Asian Squash Mixed Doubles
the eighth time by defeating Iran in a final match, Championships in Huangzhou.
organized in Busan, South Korea. Note: India's squash players, Dipika Pallikal Karthik and
Note: In the initial stages of the final, Iran surged ahead, Harinderpal Singh Sandhu, showcased their excellence by
putting pressure on the Indian team. However, the Indian clinching the gold medal at the Asian Squash Mixed
defenders countered effectively, notching up crucial Doubles Championships in Huangzhou. India's campaign
tackle points. After winning this Championship, India sets at the championship saw another shining moment as
its sights on the Asian Games 2023, which will be held in Anahat Singh and Abhay Singh partnered together to
Hangzhou, China from September 23 to October 8. claim a bronze medal. They faced a tough semifinal battle
2. Neeraj Chopra has clinched the 2023 Lausanne Diamond against Malaysia's Ivan Yuen and Rachel Arnold.
League title with the best throw of 87.66 meters. 5. India defeated Kuwait 5-4 in the penalty shoot-out to lift
Note: While Julian Webber from Germany secured second the SAFF Championships trophy 2023 held at Sree
place with a best throw of 87.03 meters and Jakub Vadlech Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
of the Czech Republic got third place with an 86.13-meter Note: India recorded its win for the ninth time in the SAFF
throw. He won his first Diamond League Trophy when he Championships trophy. Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh
won the Lausanne leg in August 2022 and went on to win turned out as the hero for the Indian side, saving the final
the Diamond League Trophy in the final later that year. kick from the Kuwaiti captain. In the semi-final, India
3. Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen has clinched the defeated Lebanon while Kuwait defeated Bangladesh 1-0
Austrian Grand Prix 2023, held at the Red Bull Ring, in the other last-four clash.
Spielberg in Austria. 6. India has won the final of the 2023 World Archery Youth
Note: Ferrari driver, Charles Leclerc has ranked second, Championships in Limerick, Ireland.
while Red Bull's Sergio Pérez placed third in the Austrian Note: Indian pair Priyansh and Avneet Kaur won gold in
Grand Prix 2023. the junior mixed-team compound event in the final of the
World Archery Youth Championships in Limerick, Ireland.
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 In the final, the Indian pair defeated Israel 146-144. While Asian Championships to be held from 3-10 September
India's Manav Jadhav and Aishwarya Sharma also won a 2023 in South Korea.
bronze medal after defeating Mexico in the cadet mixed 13. Jyothi Yarraji has won India’s first gold medal in the
compound event. The World Archery Youth Asian Athletics Championships 2023, held at the
Championships event is taking place at the University of Supachalasai Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Limerick, Ireland from July 3 to 9. Note: She won the gold medal in the women’s 100m
7. Tamim Iqbal has announced his retirement from hurdles race. She clocked 13.09 seconds to win the final
international cricket, is associated with Bangladesh. race ahead of two Japanese runners Terada Asuka
Note: He played 70 Test matches for Bangladesh scoring (13.13s) and Aoki Masumi (13.26s). She holds a national
5134 runs at an average of 38.89 with 10 tons to his name. record of 12.82 seconds. While Abhishek Pal had opened
As far as the ODIs is concerned, he played 241 matches India’s medal account with a bronze in the men’s 10,000m
amassing 8313 runs at an average of 36.62 with 14 race.
centuries and 56 half-centuries. He last played in the 14. Parul Chaudhary (Long-distance runner) has won the
format in April against Ireland. fifth gold for India in the ongoing 2023 Asian Athletics
8. Max Verstappen has clinched F1 2023 British Grand Prix Championships in Bangkok.
title, held at the Silverstone Circuit, England. Note: She has clinched the 3000m Steeplechase event in
Note: Lando Norris for McLaren placed second and the women’s category and left behind her Chinese
Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton placed third on the podium. counterpart Xu Shuangshuang and finished the event in 9
Previous F1 GP winners (2023): Canadian Grand Prix: minutes 38. 76 seconds. Japan’s Yoshimura Reimi eclipsed
Max Verstappen; Spanish Grand Prix: Max Verstappen; her by 0. 02 seconds, sealing the third place and
Monaco Grand Prix: Max Verstappen;Bahrain Grand Prix: completed her run in 9 minutes and 48. 48 seconds.
Max Verstappen; Saudi Arabia Grand Prix: Sergio Pérez 15. Carlos Alcaraz has won his first 2023 Wimbledon Men's
9. Lakshya Sen has clinched Men’s Singles title of the Single title, held in All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet
Canada Open 2023 badminton tournament in Calgary, Club, London.
Canada. Note: In the final, he defeated Novak Djokovic. Women's
Note: In the final, he defeated Li Shi Feng of China 21-18, Single: Markéta Vondroušová (Czech Republic). Men's
22-20. In the second set he was down four game points Doubles: Wesley Koolhof (Netherlands) and Neal Skupski
but saved all and ended up winning the game in straight ( United Kingdom). Women's Doubles: Hsieh Su-wei
sets. This is the first BWF World Tour title of (Chinese Taipei) and Barbora Strýcová (Czech Republic)
Commonwealth Games champion Lakshya Sen after 16. Ruturaj Gaikwad would lead India's men’s squads in
almost a year. cricket for the 19th Asian Games, held in Hangzhou, China
10. Parth Salunkhe became the first Indian male archer to from September 23 and October 8, 2023.
win a gold in the recurve category at the Youth World Note: While Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the women’s
Championships 2023. cricket competition, which will take place from
Note: He defeated a Korean in the Under-21 men's September 19-28, 2023. Both competitions will be played
recurve individual final, in Limerick, Ireland. He hailed in T20 formats. Team India (Senior Men) squad also
from Satara in Maharashtra. With this medal, India include Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul Tripathi, Tilak Varma,
finished with their highest-ever tally of 11 medals Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), and many more.
including six gold, one silver, and four bronze. Of the 11 17. Australia's state of Victoria has withdrawn from hosting
medals India won, six were bagged in the U21 category - 2026 Commonwealth Games (CWG).
four gold and two bronze. Note: Reason: Due to a significant increase in projected
11. Nishad Kumar has clinched a silver medal in the ongoing costs, reaching around $7 billion, exceeding their
Para Athletics World Championships 2023 in Paris. budgetary limits. Victoria stepped in to bid for the 2026
Note: He bagged this medal in the High Jump T47 Event. Games when no other countries showed interest. The
With this win, he also becomes the second athlete to grab event rotates across different host cities within the
a medal in this event. The top-four ranked athletes at the Commonwealth. It was first held in 1930.
2023 World Para Athletics Championships in each of the 18. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy managed to feature in the
individual medal events qualify for the 2024 Paralympic Guinness World Record by striking the fastest smash in
Games, also to be held in Paris. the ongoing Korea Open 2023.
12. India’s top table tennis league Ultimate Table Tennis Note: He broke the record of Malaysian Tan Boon Heong
(UTT) tournament is being organized in Pune. by surpassing his speed by 72 kmph and registered a
Note: It is being organized under the aegis of the Table record-breaking speed of 565 kmph. He and his partner,
Tennis Federation of India, after a gap of four years. The Chirag Shetty, are the only men's doubles pair from India
event is joined by India's table tennis player Sharath to win the BWF World Tour 1000 & be ranked inside the
Kamal. He will be leading the Indian team to the 26th top 10 of the BWF World Ranking

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19. Harmehar Singh Lally and Sanjana Sood won a silver Note: In this championship, India was second on the
medal in the skeet mixed team event at ISSF Junior World medals table with six gold, six silver, and five bronze
Championships, in Korea. medals. China stayed on top with 12 gold, nine silver, and
Note: Indian duo lost their match with the Italian duo of seven bronze medals. In the women’s free pistol, Tiyana
Andrea Galardini and Sara Bongini. China is at the top Phogat won the silver, one point behind Khanna Aliyeva
with six gold, eight silver, and four bronze medals. India of Azerbaijan.
stayed in second place on the medals table with four gold, 26. Annu Rani won the women’s javelin throw events at the
four silver and three bronze medals. Italy is in the third Lebanon Athletics Championships 2023 in Beirut.
spot with two gold, one silver and three bronze medals. Note: Indian javelin throwers Annu Rani and Kishore Jena
20. The Indian Surf Team earned the bronze medal at the bagged gold medals in the women’s and men’s javelin
Asian Surfing Championship 2023 held in Maldives. throw events, respectively, at the Lebanon Athletics
Note: In this championship, 18 countries from Asia Championships 2023 in Beirut. In the women’s event,
participated. The Surfing Federation of India sent a team Annu Rani recorded a best throw of 55. 32m to top the six-
consisting of 4 senior male surfers and 2 surfers in the woman field. In the men’s event, Kishore Jena achieved a
Under 18 category. 5 out of the 6 surfers representing distance of 78. 96m to clinch the gold medal. Tokyo
India were from Tamil Nadu. Arun Vasu: The President of Olympics champion 2022 Neeraj Chopra holds India’s
the Surfing Federation of India national record in men’s javelin throw.
21. R Praggnanandhaa claimed the championship title in the 27. India secured the Second position at the ISSF Junior
V Geza Hetenyi Memorial Super GM chess tournament Shooting World Championships 2023 held in Changwon,
2023 in Hungary. South Korea.
Note: In the 10-player event, the 17-year-old GM secured Note: Indian shooters achieved a total of 17 medals,
the top spot by scoring 6. 5 points, finishing a clear point comprising 6 Gold, 6 Silver, and 5 Bronze. Seven Indian
ahead of M Amin Tabatabaei from Iran and Russia's Sanan athletes earned more than one medal each. Abhinav Shaw
Sjugirov after nine rounds of play. He notched five and Kamaljeet both claimed two gold medals. Sainyam
victories, drew three games, and experienced a single won three medals, including a gold in the 10m air pistol
defeat in the fifth round at the hands of Amin Tabatabaei. women's event, and a bronze each in the 10m air pistol
" mixed team and women's team events.
22. Stuart Broad (England) has become the second pace 28. Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Singh
bowler to take 600 wickets in Test cricket. Thakur inaugurated the Asian Youth and Junior
Note: He reached the mark by removing Australia's Travis Weightlifting Championships 2023 in Greater Noida.
Head on day one of the fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford. Note: The international event will see the participation of
England team-mate James Anderson is the only other more than 30 Indian weightlifters, including many Khelo
quick bowler to achieve the feat. Broad is fifth on the all- India Athletes who won 61 medals at Weightlifting
time list and Anderson third, with spinners Muttiah Commonwealth Championships. More than 15 nations
Muralitharan, Shane Warne and Anil Kumble completing from the Asian region, 200 athletes are participating. It
the top five. will conclude on the 5th of August.
23. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty defeat 29. Aditya Samant becomes India’s 83rd Grandmaster after
Indonesian top seeds Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Rian earning his third GM norm at the Master Tournament
Ardianto in the men's doubles Korea Open final 2023. (MTO) in the Biel International Chess Festival 2023.
Note: They have won all the four finals they played. They Note: The Maharashtra player had earned his first norm
won the Swiss Open Super-300 tournament on March 26, to become a grandmaster at the Abu Dhabi Masters in
became Asian champions on April 30, and claimed their August 2022To become a GM, a player has to secure three
first Super-1000 title at the Indonesia Open on June 18 GM norms and cross the live rating of 2,500 Elo points and
and Korean open on July 23, South Korea. his live rating going into the ninth round game is 2525.4.
24. Bomman, a mascot for Asian Champions Trophy 2023 30. India women's hockey won the 100th Anniversary
hockey tournament, to be held in Chennai from August 3 Spanish Hockey Federation - International Tournament
to 12. held in Terrassa, defeating hosts Spain with a scoreline of
Note: Tamil Nadu Youth Welfare and Sports Development 3-0.
Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin unveiled the trophy. Six Note: Lalremsiami showcased her remarkable skills,
teams from the continent – India, China, Pakistan, scoring a hat-trick for India. With this win, India took the
Malaysia, Japan and Korea – will compete for the coveted top spot in the standings, earning five points from three
trophy. Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs 17 crore matches. Hosts Spain came second, with four points.
for the conduct of the event. 31. Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar won the Gold medal for
25. Kamaljeet won two gold medals in the 50-meter free India at the FISU World University Games 2023 in China.
pistol event in the Junior World Championship 2023 in Note: Competing in men's 50-meter rifle three positions,
Changwon, Korea. he achieved the top podium with a total score of 461. 7
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 points in the final. With this, India have now a gold, silver Note: Indian athletes clinched six medals at the
and bronze each in shooting. The Indian trio of Tomar, Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo. Amoj Jacob, Aishwarya
Sartaj Singh Tiwana and Surya Pratap Singh joined forces Mishra, Muhammed Anas, and Himanshi Malik, in the
to secure Bronze in the men's 50 meter rifle 3 position 4x400 meter mixed relay team, earned the first gold
team event. medal of the day. Kishore Kumar Jena, the Indian javelin
32. 14 medals medals won by India at the Sri Lanka Athletics thrower who won the gold medal, received the Best Male
National Championships 2023. Thrower trophy.

June 2023

1. Indian Hockey Team defeated Pakistan in the final of now has two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze from
the Men's Junior Asia Cup 2023, held at the Sultan the World Cup after two days of competition.
Qaboos Youth Complex Stadium in Salalah, Oman. 6. India won three medals (including two gold) at the
Note: This was India’s fourth title at Men's Junior Asia 2023 Asian Under 20 Athletics Championships
Cup, after winning in 2004, 2008, and 2015. With this title campaign, which is being held in Yecheon, South Korea.
win, India has become the most successful country in the Note: Rezoana Mallick Heena and Bharatpreet Singh
history of the Men's Junior Asia Cup. While Pakistan is the kicked off clinched gold medals in women’s 400-meter
second-most successful team in the tournament with race and men’s discus throw respectively. Henna clocked
three titles. 53.31 seconds to take the top position on the podium.
2. Indian cyclist Esow Alben has bagged the bronze medal Antima Pal won the third medal for India, a bronze, in the
in the elite men's keirin event at a UCI Class 1 Event- women’s 5,000-meter race.
Finale Bahnen-Tournee 2023 cycling competition in 7. Max Verstappen (Red Bull Driver) has clinched the pole
Germany. position at the Spanish Grand Prix 2023 extending his
Note: He has also listed himself in being the first cyclist lead in the Formula One championship by 53 points.
from India to participate in the UCI Champions League. Note: Red Bull's dominance continued as they celebrated
Alben was also the first Indian who won a medal in a their seventh consecutive triumph of the season. While
cycling world championship. Apart from Alben, Indian Mercedes driver, Lewis Hamilton (seven-time world
cyclist Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam finished 10th in the champion) has secured the second spot for Mercedes,
men’s sprint event at Germany meet. followed by George Russell (Mercedes driver).
3. Third khelo India University games has been concluded 8. GM Aravindh Chithambaram (India) won the 23rd
at IIT BHU campus in Varanasi. Dubai Open 2023 for the second consecutive year, at the
Note: Punjab University, Chandigarh regain 23rd edition of the Dubai Chess Open, organized by Dubai
champions crown as Guru Nanak Dev University fall Chess & Culture Club.
short despite Fencing sweep on final day, after a gap of Note: A total of 172 participants (in category A) from
one edition of the Khelo India University Games. PUC more than 46 different countries participated in this
finished with an overall tally of 69 medals including 26 tournament. A total of 9 rounds were played in Swiss
gold, 17 silver and 26 bronze medals. As many as 131 of format. He became one of only two players to win back-
the 203 Universities who finally participated at the to-back championships in the history of the Dubai Open
Games. Chess Tournament.
4. Indian sprinter, Amlan Borgohain has bagged two gold 9. Siddharth Choudhary has clinched the gold medal in
medals in the men's 100 and 200-meter races category the men’s shot put with a personal best throw of 19.52
at the Flanders Cup 2023 athletics in Merksem, Belgium. metres at the Under 20 Asian Athletics Championships
Note: He clocked 10.70 seconds to emerge as the fastest in Yecheon, South Korea.
man of the meet. He holds the 100-meter national record Note: Three other players Sharuk Khan (3000-metre
of 10.25 seconds and holds 20.96 seconds in the 200- steeplechase), Shivam Lohakare (Javelin), and Susmita
meter. Meanwhile, Sapna Kumari finished behind (Long Jump) have also clinched the silver medals in their
Belgium's Amber Vanden Bosch in the women's 100m respective events. While Shakeel (800 metres) and the
hurdles after clocking 14.10. mixed relay team won the bronze medal.
5. Indian shooters Abhinav Shaw and Gautami Bhanot 10. Union Sports Minister Anurag Singh Thakur send off 198
have bagged gold in the final of 10 meter Air Rifle Mixed special athletes to the Special Olympics World Summer
Team event at the ISSF World Cup Junior 2023 in Suhl, Games 2023 to be held in Berlin.
Germany. Note: The Government spent 450 crore rupees in the
Note: The Indian team of Shaw and Bhanot registered a current Olympic cycle on training, equipment, and
17-7 win over the French pairing of Oceanne Mueller and facilities. It will provide more assistance if needed to
Romain Aufrere in the gold medal match. With this, India ensure India makes a new record in the Paris Olympics
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 2024. India has given the best-ever performance at the secured Gold with a jump of 8.13m and Simon Ehammer
last Olympics with improvements in facilities. of Switzerland won silver with a jump of 8.11m.
11. Japan's Tokito Oda has defeated top-ranked Alfie 17. The Asia Cup 2023 will take place in Pakistan and Sri
Hewett from Britain 6-1, 6-4 to win the 2023 French Lanka between August 31 and September 17, 2023.
Open wheelchair Men's singles title. Note: Earlier, the tournament was originally meant to be
Note: With this win, he also become the sport's youngest held entirely in Pakistan. Recently, the Asian Cricket
Grand Slam champion. While Diede de Groot from Council has approved the hybrid model, in which four of
Netherlands has secured the 2023 French Open – the 13 matches will be played in Pakistan and the
Wheelchair women's singles. Alfie Hewett and Gordon remaining nine in Sri Lanka. In Pakistan, matches will be
Reid (Britain) won the Men's Double title, and Yui Kamiji held in Lahore while the games to be played in Sri Lanka
and Kgothatso Montjane won the Women's Double title. will be held in Kandy and Pallekele.
12. Indian Women's hockey team defeated Republic of 18. Egypt has retained the World Squash Championship, after
Korea to win the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 title in beating Malaysia by 2-1 in the final.
Kakamigahara, Japan. Note: Malaysia won the silver, and third place (bronze)
Note: This is the first time India have won the Women's was shared jointly by hosts India and Japan. India was
Junior Asia Cup. Recently, India had secured a spot in the defeated by Malaysia 3-0 in the semi-final. The
FIH Women's Junior World Cup 2023 in Chile. Japan beat championship was held in Chennai, Tamil Nadu with eight
China 2-1 to become the third team to qualify for the countries as participants and was held from June 13 to 17.
World Cup scheduled this year. For India, Annu and Egypt won the World Cup when it was last held here in
Neelam were on target while Seoyeon Park scored the 2011.
solitary goal for Korea. 19. The inaugural edition of India's first-ever Women's
13. India defeated Argentina 2-1 in its final FIH Pro League Kabaddi League (WKL) has been commenced in Dubai.
2022-23 match in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. Note: It marks the first time that women kabaddi players
Note: Akashdeep Singh and Sukhjeet Singh scored from across India have been given the opportunity to
goals for India while Lucas Toscani netted the only goal exhibit their skills and prowess on a global stage. This
for Argentina. India consolidated their position atop the league consists of eight teams, featuring a total of 96
FIH Pro League standings with 30 points from 16 matches. players, each representing Indian states. The victorious
Argentina is fifth with 13 points from 14 matches. The team will be awarded a prize of approximately half a
Indian men’s hockey team finished in fourth place in their million dirhams (1 crore INR).
debut FIH Pro League campaign back in 2020-21. 20. Chief Minister of Goa, Dr Pramod Sawant has launched the
14. The World Cup Squash championship is being mascot named 'Moga' for the upcoming 37th edition of
organized in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. the National Games at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee
Note: It was formally inaugurated by the State Minister Stadium in Taleigao.
for Youth Affairs and Sports Udhayanidhi Stalin. On the Note: The event was organized by the Directorate of
first day, India will play against Hongkong and China in Sports and Youth Affairs and the Sports Authority of Goa.
the pool B matches and in another match Japan will play The ceremony was attended by the Sports Minister of Goa,
against South Africa. Each match will be played to the best Govind Gaude, President of the Indian Olympic
of five games, each to seven points with a total of 11 points Association, Dr. P. T Usha, and Olympic medalist MC Mary
in general. Kom.
15. Uruguay beat Italy 1-0 to win its first FIFA U-20 World 21. Indian men's senior football team has clinched the
Cup 2023. Intercontinental Cup 2023 after defeating Lebanon in
Note: The Celeste's victory ends a streak of four Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha.
consecutive wins of European teams in the tournament. Note: This is India's second title in the tournament,
Luciano Rodríguez scored the winning goal in the 86th following their win in the inaugural edition in 2018. The
minute with a header from close range, giving Uruguay a first half was goalless while in the second half, the hosts
much-deserved victory after an entire match of made it 1-0 in the 46th minute with Indian captain Sunil
dominance against Italy. Earlier, debutant Israel beat Chhetri's goal. Lallianzuala Chhangte netted the second
South Korea 3-1 to secure third place in the same stadium goal in the 65th -minute, making it 2-0.
in La Plata. 22. C. A. Bhavani Devi has secured the bronze medal at Asian
16. Murali Sreeshankar has secured a third place, with a Fencing Championships 2023 held in China.
jump of 8.09m, in the 2023 Diamond League Meet at Note: In the quarterfinal, she created history by defeating
Paris, France. reigning World Champion Misaki Emura and secured
Note: With this, he also became the only third Indian to India its first-ever medal at the event. She stunned the
finish in the top three of a Diamond League after world number one 15-10 to enter the women’s sabre
Neeraj Chopra (Javelin thrower) and Vikas Gowda semifinal. However, Bhavani lost to Uzbekistan’s Zaynab
(former discus thrower). Miltiadis Tentoglou of Greece
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 Dayibekova in the semifinals by 15-14, securing a bronze Note: It was achieved, when Sri Lanka bundled out
medal. Ireland at 192 to secure the Super Six spot in ICC Cricket
23. India U-23 women's team won the 2023 Women's World Cup 2023 Qualifiers match. He has placed himself
Emerging Asia Cup T20 title after defeating Bangladesh in equal to the legendary Pakistani bowler Waqar Younis.
the final held at the Mission Round Ground in Hong Kong. 28. Sutirtha Mukherjee and Ayhika Mukherjee, Indian
Note: India has scored 127 for the loss of seven wickets in women's doubles pair won the 2023 World Table Tennis
20 overs. India's Kanika Ahuja was named the Player of (WTT) Contender tournament in Tunis.
the Match, who stayed not out on 30 off 23 with four fours Note: The Indian pair won the title after beating the
in the final. While India's Shreyanka Patil was named the Japanese pair of Miyuu Kihara and Miwa Harimoto. The
Player of the Series, as she was the highest-wicket taker. pair also became the first Indians to win a Contender title
24. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath has this year. Meanwhile, the Indian mixed doubles pair as
unveiled the first ticket for the first race of MotoGP 2023, well as the men's doubles duo had lost their respective
to be hosted by Uttar Pradesh. semifinal matches.
Note: For the first time, the motorbike race is being held 29. The International Federation of Association Football
in India. The event is scheduled to be held at the Buddha (FIFA) has confirmed that the 2023 U-17 World Cup will
International Circuit in Greater Noida from September 22 be hosted by Indonesia.
to 24, 2023. The event would firmly establish ‘Brand Uttar Note: Initially, the host of the youngest World Cup event
Pradesh’ at the global level. This is the first time the event was Peru. This announcement was made after the FIFA
is being held outside Europe. Council meeting in Zurich, Switzerland. FIFA also
25. Cristiano Ronaldo has received the Guinness World announced Colombia as the host of the 2024 U-20
Record Award certificate to become the first men’s player Women's World Cup and Dominica as the host of the U-17
to make 200 international appearances. Women's World Cup. FIFA President: Gianni Infantino
Note: He celebrated the milestone by scoring the winning 30. Indian woman cricketer, Jhulan Goswami has joined
goal in the 89th minute as Portugal beat Iceland in England women's team captain Heather Knight and Eoin
European Championship qualifying. He received a Morgan to become a member of the MCC World Cricket
Guinness World Records certificate before the game. The Committee (WCC).
closest to Ronaldo's tally is Bader Al-Mutawa, who was Note: This committee is an independent body that
capped by Kuwait on 196 occasions. consists of current and former international cricketers,
26. Diksha Dagar has secured her second Ladies European umpires, and officials from various countries. Jhulan
Tour (LET) at the Tipsport Czech Ladies Open 2023. Goswami retired from international cricket in 2022. She
Note: In the final, she defeated Trichat Cheenglab of was made an Honorary Life Member of MCC in April 2023.
Thailand. She hails from Jhajjar in Haryana. In 2019, she 31. India has finished its Special Olympics World Games 2023
won her first LET title at the South African Women's Open, campaign by winning 202 medals (76 gold, 75 silver, and
held in Cape Town. After Aditi Ashok, Diksha Dagar is the 51 bronze).
only other Indian woman golfer to have won two or more Note: Indian athletes notched six medals from the track
LET titles. events (2 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze). Aanchal Goyal
27. Wanindu Hasaranga has achieved a remarkable feat in (400m, Level B Female) and Ravimathi Arumugam
cricket by becoming the first spinner and second overall (400m, Level C Female) blew away their competition to
player in history to take three consecutive 5-wicket hauls take the top of the podium. Saket Kundu, who grabbed a
in the One Day Internationals (ODIs). He belongs to Sri silver medal in the mini javelin Level B, also won a bronze
Lanka. in the Level B 400m.

May 2023

1. Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy clinched 2. Ding Liren has become China's first male world chess
the men’s doubles title at the Badminton Asia champion, after defeating his Russian rival Ian
Championship 2023 held in Dubai, UAE from 25 to 30 Nepomniachtchi in the fourth rapid game of the first tie-
April 2023. breaker at Astana, Kazakhstan.
Note: They defeated eighth-seeded Malaysian pair Teo Ee Note: He succeeded as the winner of the World Chess
Yi and Ong Yew Sin in the final. They become the first Championship from Norway’s Magnus Carlsen. His
Indian men's doubles pair to win the Badminton Asia victory makes him the 17th winner of the world chess
Championships title. With this win, they also clinched tournament. In 2009, he became China's youngest chess
India's second-ever Badminton Asia Championships title champion at national level.
after Dinesh Khanna in 1965.

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3. Red Bull’s driver, Sergio Perez won the Formula 1 44. Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has launched a
Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2023 World Championship, in Talent Scout Program for women to unearth new
Baku, Azerbaijan. talents.
Note: He defeated his teammate Max Verstappen to Note: The Talent Scout Wing which will comprise former
victory in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Ferrari’s Charles men and women first-class cricketers and coaches, will
Leclerc finished third and Fernando Alonso finished in help in identifying the talent across the state. The TNCA
fourth place. Previous Grand Prix: Australian GP: M. has formed four groups of four members each who will
Verstappen (Red Bull); Saudi Arabia GP: Sergio Pérez cover all 37 districts in Tamil Nadu. Any player who is
(Red Bull); Baharin GP: M. Verstappen (Red Bull) above 13 years of age can attend the trials.
4. Mairaj Ahmad Khan and Ganemat Sekhon, mixed 45. Hriday Hazarika and Nancy Mandhotra have bagged
Indian shooters pair won India's first gold medal in the silver medals in the men’s and women’s 10-meter air
ongoing ISSF World Cup Shotgun 2023, held in Cairo, rifle events at ISSF World Cup 2023 in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Egypt. Note: In the 10m air pistol mixed team, Sarabjot Singh
Note: The Indian mixed doubles pair defeated Luis Raul and Divya TS won gold. Rhythm Sangwan secured a
Gallardo Oliveros and Gabriela Rodriguez 6-0 in the bronze medal in the women's 25m pistol event. In the
final of the Skeet Mixed Team. While the duo of Simona overall medals tally, India finished its campaign second
Scocchetti and Gabrielle Rossetti from Italy secured their behind China. The Baku meet is the penultimate stage of
bronze medal in the tournament. the ISSF World Cup 2023.
5. Indian Men's team has surpassed Australia to become 46. Prraneeth Vuppala has become the 82nd Grandmaster
the number one Test team in the latest rankings of India.
released by ICC on May 2, 2023. Note: He achieved the required 2,500 FIDE rating points
Note: Currently, India has topped the ranking with 121 during the Baku Open tournament. He had already
points, while Australia ranked second with 116 points. achieved three GM norms earlier and needed to cross
Earlier this year, India posted a 2-1 series win against 2,500 rating points. He got the required points after
Australia to retain the Border-Gavaskar trophy for the defeating GM Hans Niemann of the USA in the penultimate
fourth consecutive time. England, South Africa, and New round of the Baku Open. Prraneeth is now the sixth
Zealand placed third, fourth, and fifth spots respectively. Grandmaster from the State of Telangana.
6. Dubai (UAE) will host the inaugural edition of the 47. Prathamesh Jawkar has defeated the world number one
Global Chess League (GCL) from June 21 to July 2, 2023. Mike Schloesser of the Netherlands to win a maiden
Note: The chess league will be held in association with World Cup gold medal in the men's individual
Dubai Sports Council, the hosting partner of the league. It compound section, Archery World Cup 2023.
will feature six teams with six players each, including a Note: In the non-Olympic compound section, India
minimum of two female players and one icon player per bagged 2 gold with the mixed team duo of Ojas Deotale
team. The six teams will compete in a round-robin format and Jyothi Surekha Vennam beating the top-seeded
where each team will play 10 matches. GCL is a joint Korean team 156-155. Mixed team duo of Sheetal &
venture of FIDE and Tech Mahindra Rakesh also bagged gold.
7. Bindyarani Devi has won the silver in the women's 48. Daniil Medvedev (from Russia) has clinched his
55kg category at the Asian Weightlifting Championships maiden Italian Open 2023 title, after beating Holger
2023, held in South Korea. Rune.
Note: She had lifted a total weight of 194kg (snatch 83kg Note: It is Medvedev's fifth title of 2023 and victory lifts
and 111kg in clean & jerk) in the non-Olympic 55kg him above Novak Djokovic to second in the world
category. Chen Guan Ling (China) won the gold medal rankings. Other winners: Women's Single Title: Elena
with a combined lift of 204kg (snatch 90kg + clean & jerk Andreyevna Rybakina (Kazakhstani) after defeating
114kg) and Vo Thi Quynh Nhu (Vietnam) won the bronze Anhelina Kalinina; Men's Double: Hugo Nys and Jan
with a lift of 192kg. Zieliński; Women's Double: Storm Sanders and Elise
43. Carlos Alcaraz has successfully defended his title at 49. Shaili Singh clinched a bronze medal at the Golden
Madrid Open 2023 and won his fourth ATP Tour Grand Prix 2023 athletics meet in the women's long
trophy of the year and his tenth overall. jump in Japan.
Note: In the final, he defeated Jan-Lennard Struff Note: She has attempted a jump of 6.65 meter, which
(German) 6-4 3-6 6-3. While Aryna Sabalenka from provided her third place on the podium. Germany’s
Belarus has clinched the Women's singles title at Maryse Luzolo won the gold medal with an effort of 6.79
Madrid Open 2023. Other winners: Men's doubles: Karen meter while Australia’s Brooke Buschkuehl bagged the
Khachanov / Andrey Rublev, Women's doubles: Victoria silver medal with a 6.77 meter leap. During the Indian
Azarenka / Beatriz Haddad Maia Grand Prix 4 athletics meet in Bengaluru, she has
registered a jump of 6.76 meter.

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50. Neeraj Chopra has become the new world number one France’s Maxime Vachier-Lagrave finished in a tie for
in the men’s javelin throw with 1455 points. third. The 2023 Grand Chess Tour continues with the
Note: Anderson Peters from Grenadian ranked second, SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz in Zagreb Croatia.
followed by Jakub Vadlejch, and Julian Weber. Neeraj 55. H.S. Prannoy has clinched his maiden BWF World Tour
Chopra also became the first Indian to win a gold medal in title 2023, held at the Malaysia Masters Super 500
a track and field event at the Tokyo Olympics. In 2023, he badminton tournament.
won the Diamond League in Doha with a world-leading Note: In finals, he beat Weng Hong Yang of China 21-19,
effort of 88.67m. 13-21, 21-18. He had previously clinched the title at the
51. Adidas would become the new kit sponsor of the Indian 2017 US Open. Women's singles: Akane Yamaguchi. Men's
national cricket team. Double: Kang Min-hyuk and Seo Seung-jae. Women's
Note: In 2020, the BCCI signed a three-year deal with the doubles: Baek Ha-na and Lee So-hee. Mixed doubles:
Mobile Premier League’s sports merchandise brand MPL Dechapol Puavaranukroh and Sapsiree Taerattanachai
Sports to replace American sportswear manufacturer 56. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has defeated defending
Nike. Clothing brand Killer Jeans became an interim champions Gujarat Titans by 5 wickets to win its 5th IPL
sponsor after that deal ended prematurely and their title.
contract will expire on May 31, 2023. Note: The final match of IPL 2023 was held at Narendra
52. Murali Sreeshankar successfully defended his title in the Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on May 29, 2023.
men’s long jump event at the 13th International IPL 2023 awards: Orange Cap (Highest Run-Scorer):
Jumping Meeting 2023 in Kallithea, Greece. Shubman Gill (GT) 890 runs. Purple Cap (Leading Wicket-
Note: He registered his season-best jump of 8.18m to beat taker): Mohammed Shami (GT) 28 wickets. Most
his compatriot. This was Murali Sreeshankar’s third Valuable Player: Shubman Gill. Emerging Players:
competition of the year and also the third gold medal. Yashasvi Jaiswal. Fairplay Award: Gujarat Titans
While Jeswin Aldrin has claimed silver with an effort of 57. Uttar Pradesh Hockey team defeated the Hockey
7.85m. Jalen Rucker of Australia won bronze for a 7.80m Association of Odisha to win the 13th Hockey India Sub
effort in the 12-man field. Junior Men National Championship 2023, held at the
53. PM Modi will inaugurate Third Khelo India University iconic Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, Odisha.
Games 2022 via video conferencing on May 25, 2023. Note: Meanwhile, Hockey Haryana beat Hockey Madhya
Note: The event will be attended by Union Sports Minister Pradesh to finish third in the competition. Ujjwal Pal
Anurag Singh Thakur and UP CM Yogi Adityanath. The converted three penalty corners, while Rahul Yadav,
events related to the university games have already Ketan Kushwaha, Rahul Rajhbar, and Ajeet Yadav (Team
started on May 23 in the Gautam Budh Nagar district. Captain) each scored a goal to secure their victory.
Event locations: Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Lucknow, and 58. India has won the title of the NSC-CAVA Women’s
Gautam Buddha Nagar. Mascot: Jitu, which represents Volleyball Challenge Cup held in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Swamp Deer (Barasingha) - the state animal of UP Note: India won the title by defeating Kazakhstan in the
54. GM Magnus Carlsen has won the Superbet Rapid and final at the National Sports Council’s Covered Hall in
Blitz Poland 2023, held at the Museum of the History of Tripureshwor, Kathmandu. The event was organized by
Polish Jews in Warsaw, Poland. the Nepal Volleyball Association and is supported by the
Note: He finished with a score of 24/36 and won the cash NSC, eight nations participated in it. In the competition,
prize of $40,000. Jan-Krzyzstof Duda (Polish), who placed Kazakhstan became the runner-up, followed by Nepal,
second ended with 23/36. While the USA’s Wesley So and Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, and Kyrgyzstan.

April 2023

1. Gregoria Mariska Tunjung from Indonesia has clinched 2. Red Bull's driver, Max Verstappen, won his first
the Women's title in the 2023 Spain Masters, held in Australian Grand Prix 2023, held at Melbourne Grand
Madrid, Spain from 28 March-2 April 2023. Prix Circuit, Australia.
Note: She defeated Indian Badminton player, PV Note: While Seven-time world champion, L. Hamilton
Sindhu. While Japanese badminton player, Kenta (Mercedes driver) finished second followed by F.
Nishimoto won the men's title. Other winners: Men's Alonso (Aston Martin) and L. Stroll (Aston Martin). The
doubles: He Jiting and Zhou Haodong (China), Women's Australian Grand Prix is a motor race held annually in
doubles: Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning (China), Mixed Australia since 1928. The next F1 Azerbaijan GP will be
doubles: Mathias Christiansen and Alexandra Bøje held in Baku City Circuit, Azerbaijan on April 30, 2023.
(Denmark) 3. According to the latest FIFA rankings in April 2023, the
Indian men’s football team is now ranked 101.
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 Note: Reason: Recent wins against Myanmar and reach the mark of 6000 runs, while Kohli had taken 188
Kyrgyzstan during the Tri-nation tournament, helped and Dhawan 199 to achieve the same.
them secure 8.57 rating points. Argentina continues to 10. India wrestler, Nisha Dahiya has secured the silver
hold the top spot as the world champions. France ranked medal in the women's 68kg category at the Asian
second, followed by Brazil, Belgium, England,
wrestling championships 2023, held in Astana,
Netherlands, Croatia, and Italy. Japan holds the highest
rank among Asian countries. Kazakhstan.
4. Brazilian artist Dante Akira Uwai has won the Winter Note: She reached the final but fell to Japan’s Ami Ishii 10-
Youth Olympic Games Gangwon 2024 medal design 0 and finished as a runner-up. She had defeated China's
competition. Feng Zhou 7-6 in the semi-finals. Another Indian
Note: Akira Uwai’s creation – ‘A Sparkling Future’ – wrestler, Priya Malik clinched a bronze in the 76 kg
was chosen by a panel of judges. His design will feature on category after defeating Japan's Mizuki Nagashima.
the medals for Gangwon 2024 which will be awarded in 11. Indian wrestler, Aman Sehrawat won India’s first gold
the Republic of Korea from 19 January to 1 February medal in men’s 57 kg freestyle category at the Asian
2024.
Wrestling Championships 2023, held in Astana,
5. FIFA withdrew Peru’s hosting rights to the FIFA U-17
World Cup 2023. Kazakhstan.
Note: The decision was made after extensive discussions Note: He defeated Kyrgyzstan's Almaz Smanbekov 9-4.
between FIFA and the Peruvian Football Federation Among the other Indian wrestlers, Deepak (79kg) won
(FPF). FIFA officials cited concerns over the country’s bronze while Deepak Nehra (97kg) lost his bronze medal
ability to meet the requirements for hosting such a match. The Greco-Roman wrestlers won four medals
major tournament. while the women’s wrestlers bagged seven.
6. An Indian weightlifter, Sanjita Chanu has been banned 12. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has decided that
for four years by the National Anti-Doping Agency the top eight participating teams in the Indian Women's
(NADA) of India. League (IWL), have a minimum of 10 Indian players on a
Note: Reason: She tested positive for banned drugs. She fully professional annual contract worth a minimum of Rs
has won the Commonwealth Games twice. The testing 3.2 lakhs.
took place during the National Games held in Gujarat in Note: Aim: To revamp and restructure women's football
September-October 2022, and the results showed the in the country, in line with the Strategic Roadmap Vision
presence of drostanolone, an anabolic-androgenic steroid 2047. The 2024-25 season will have 10 teams in the top
prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). division followed by two other divisions. AIFF President:
7. Russian tennis player, Daniil Medvedev has won his Kalyan Chaubey
fourth title of the year by defeating Jannik Sinner in 13. Shaili Singh won a gold medal in the women’s long jump
Miami Opens 2023. at the Indian Grand Prix 4 2023 athletics meet in
Note: Women's singles: Petra Kvitová (Czech Bangalore, Karnataka, is associated in Long Jump.
Republic), Men's doubles: Santiago González (Mexico) / Note: She has logged a 6.76m effort, the second-best by an
Édouard Roger-Vasselin (France), Women's doubles: Indian after the legendary Anju Bobby George. With this
Coco Gauff / Jessica Pegula (United States) win, she has also qualified for the Asian Games 2023,
8. Indian badminton player, Priyanshu Rajawat (21) has scheduled in Hangzhou, China, by breaching the women’s
clinched the men's singles title of the Orleans Masters long jump qualifying standard of 6.45m set by the
Super 300 tournament. Athletics Federation of India (AFI).
Note: He defeated Denmark’s Magnus Johannesen by 14. Nithya Sre Sumathy Sivan has won two gold medals at
21-15, 19-21, and 21-16. While the women's singles title the Brazil Para-Badminton International 2023.
Note: In the women's singles SH6 category finals, she
was lifted by Carolina Marín from Spain. Other Winners:
defeated Peru's Giuliana Poveda Flores to win the gold
Men's Double: Chen Boyang & Liu Yi (China), Women's
medal. In the mixed doubles SH6 final, she combined with
Double: Rena Miyaura & Ayako Sakuramoto (Japan), Sivarajan Solaimalai to beat Hong Kong's Chu Man Kai and
Mixed Double: Chen Tang Jie & Toh Ee Wei (Malaysia) Choi Wing Kei. While Pramod Bhagat and Sukant Kadam
9. Delhi Capitals skipper, David Warner became the also won gold in the men's doubles category.
quickest batter to reach the 6000-run mark in the 15. Vedaant Madhavan has claimed 5 gold medals for India at
Indian Premier League (IPL) during a match against the Malaysian Invitational age group Championships
Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. 2023 held in Kuala Lumpur, is associated with
Note: He is the third batter to enter the elite club after Swimming.
Note: He won gold in the 50m, 100m, 200m, 400m, and
Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Virat Kohli and skipper of
1500m swimming categories. In 2022, he also
Punjab Kings, Shikhar Dhawan. He took 165 innings to
participated in the 48th Junior National Aquatics
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 Championships and became the first person in India to Note: He set the course record with a time of 2 hours, 1
break the record of the 1500m freestyle by finishing the minute, and 25 seconds. He just missed out on Eliud
race within 16:01.73 seconds. Kipchoge's world record by 16 seconds. In the women's
16. In the 2023 edition of the Wisden Cricketer's Almanack, race, Ethiopian-born Dutch athlete, Sifan Hassan won her
along with England wicketkeeper-batter Ben Foakes, marathon debut in 2:18:34. Switzerland’s Marcel Hug
India Women captain Harmanpreet Kaur, NZ all-rounder won the elite men’s wheelchair race with a time of
Daryl Mitchell and England pacer Matthew Potts, New 1:23:44.
Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Tom Blundell. 19. Commander Abhilash Tomy has become the first Indian
Note: Harmanpreet is the first India Women’s cricketer to to complete the prestigious Golden Globe Race 2022.
be named a Wisden Cricketer of the Year. She was chosen Note: He finished second in the race, a solo around-the-
primarily for her ODI century against England at world sailing race. This race was started at Les Sables-
Canterbury. The Greco-Roman wrestlers won four medals d'Olonne in France on Sep 4, 2022. South African sailor,
while the women’s wrestlers bagged seven. Kirsten Neuschafer also become the first woman to win
17. India has won two gold medals, one each in the mixed the Golden Globe Race (GGR), a solo, non-stop
team event and women's individual Compound, at the circumnavigation of the globe without using any modern
2023 Archery World Cup Stage 1 in Antalya, Turkey. technological aids.
Note: Indian mixed team of Jyothi Surekha Vennam and 20. Jaden Pariat has won the ROKiT British F4 Championship
Ojas Pravin Deotale outclassed Chen Yi Hsuan and Chem held at Donington Park.
Chieh Lun of Chinese Taipei by 159-154 to win the mixed Note: He is a young Indian racing talent representing
team gold. The second gold came in the women's Argenti Motorsport. He has become the second Indian
individual Compound event after Jyothi Surekha Vennam racer to achieve an international podium in a Tatuus F4
defeated Sara Lopez of Columbia by 149-146. car, following Kush Maini’s feat in 2017.
18. Kelvin Kiptum (Kenya) has won the London Marathon
and recorded the second-fastest time in history over the
distance.

Science and Defence

August 2023

1. Ministry of National Defense announced the air forces of area, as well as the coordination of the various military
China and United Arab Emirates (UAE) will conduct a forces. The drills involve 30 combat ships 30 aircraft of
joint training exercise in Northwest China's Xinjiang naval aviation and Russia’s Aerospace Forces
Uygur autonomous region. 4. Union Minister of State Science & Technology Jitendra
Note: According to the ministry, the exercise, Falcon Singh launched India’s first Indigenously developed,
Shield-2023, will be the first joint training between the Affordable Next Generation Magnetic Resonance Imaging
two nation's air forces. Aims: To deepen pragmatic (MRI) Scanner in New Delhi.
exchanges and cooperation between the two militaries Note: MRI is a type of scan that uses strong magnetic
and enhance mutual understanding and trust, the fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the
ministry added. inside of the body. It is an achievement for the National
2. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) has handed over the Biopharma Mission, Biotechnology Industry Research
first Radio Frequency (RF) Seeker of Akash - the Next Assistance Council, and the Department of Biotechnology.
Generation Weapon System to Defence Research and 5. According to Minister of State for Atomic Energy Jitendra
Development Organization. Singh, India is the fifth among spacefaring countries in the
Note: Seeker is a critical and technology intensive world having end-to-end capabilities in space research
subsystem used in Surface-to-Air Missiles and Air-to-Air and development.
Missiles for target tracking in the terminal phase. RF Note: India has the capability to launch from its own land
Seeker has been designed by DRDO’s Research Centre and operate programmes of earth observation, satellite
Imarat, and produced by BDL at its state-of-the-art Seeker communication, meteorology, space science and
Facility Centre navigation, and ground infrastructure. After space sector
3. The Russian Defense Ministry announced the start of the reforms, the NewSpace industries are also emerging at a
Ocean Shield 2023 naval exercises in Baltic Sea. fast pace.
Note: The exercises are being conducted under the 6. Chief Minister Manik Saha has launched the massive
command of Navy Commander-in-Chief Admiral Nikolay vaccine catch-up campaign of Intensified Mission
Evmenov. Objective: To assess the Russian Navy's Indradhanush (IMI) 5. 0 for three months in the state of
readiness to defend the country's interests in a critical Tripura in Aug 2023.
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 Note: Aim: To immunize pregnant women and children linkages for the same, to increase outreach of academic
up to the age of five against the diseases like Measles and content to industry and enabling industry to add value to
Rubella. This is for the first time that children with up to academic programme through close collaborations.
5 years of age has been brought under the vaccination 13. Russia launched its first lunar landing mission on August
coverage of the IMI 5. 0. 11 2023 after almost 5 decades.
7. World Health Organization has announced, Iraq has now Note: A Soyuz 2. 1v rocket carrying the Luna-25 craft will
joined the league of 17 other countries that have blast off from the Vostochny cosmodrome targeted to the
eliminated trachoma, which is world’s leading infectious south polar region of the Moon. Aims: To study the
cause of blindness in Aug 2023. composition of the polar regolith, and to study the plasma
Note: Iraq established its national trachoma programme and dust components of the lunar polar exosphere.
in 2012 to coordinate the final domestic push against the According to Russia's space chief Yuri Borisov the
disease. A trachoma surveillance system was developed to spacecraft is expected to reach the lunar world on Aug 21
detect and manage cases within secondary and tertiary 2023.
eye care facilities, as well as through school pre- 14. Minister of State Science & Technology Jitendra Singh has
enrolment. approved the establishment of a new spaceport in
8. Tata Play plans to increase its bandwidth capacity by Kulasekarapattinam, which is located in Tamil Nadu.
50% by adding 24 new Ku-band transponders on the Note: Aims: To carrying out the launches of the Small
GSAT-24 communication satellite. Satellite Launch Vehicles developed by ISRO. The Indian
Note: Aim: To offer more channels, services, and improve Space Policy 2023 has the provision for utilisation of a
picture quality. The GSAT-24 satellite was launched by spaceport for carrying out launch activities by Non-
NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) in June 2022 to specifically Government Entities, subject to technical feasibility and
cater to Tata Play’s DTH requirements. NSIL has been range safety constraints.
tasked with satellite missions on a demand-driven model. 15. The first space-based Indian observatory Aditya-L1 is
9. The Indian Space Research Organisation announced the getting ready for its launch in September 2023, this space
transfer of IMS-1 Satellite Bus technology to Alpha programe would study Sun.
Design Technologies. Note: The spacecraft is expected to be placed in a halo
Note: The transfer was facilitated by ISRO’s commercial orbit around the Lagrange point - L1 of the Sun-Earth
arm NewSpace India Limited through an agreement. The system, which is about 1. 5 million Km from the Earth and
IMS-1 satellite bus was developed by the UR Rao Satellite has advantage of continuously viewing the Sun without
Centre and is a small satellite platform designed to enable any eclipses. This will provide a greater advantage of
low-cost access to space. This weighs about 100 observing the solar activities and its effect on space
kilograms and can carry a 30-kg payload. weather in real-time.
10. Indian Army inducted the lighter and more compact 16. Health Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya, declared the goal of
version of the developed Weapon Locating Radar (WLR- suppressing Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027 during the
M) named Swathi Mountains. inauguration of the second phase of the Annual
Note: Aim: To enhance the Army's battlefield surveillance Nationwide Mass Drug Administration initiative.
capabilities, enabling it to effectively monitor and Note: The second phase, targeting 81 districts across nine
respond to threats in mountainous regions. Developed by endemic states, including Assam and Uttar Pradesh. He
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru, and highlighted the "Whole of Government" and "Whole of
designed for operations in mountainous and high-altitude Society" approach as pivotal to successfully eliminating
areas, catering to the unique challenges posed by such the disease.
terrains. 17. The Union Ministry of Defense has informed that the
11. INS Chennai was Deployed in the Red Sea Undertook ministry would install Maya OS, a secure operating
Passage Exercise (Passex) with Royal Saudi Naval Ship system (OS), indigenously developed.
HMS Al Jubail. Note: This OS would replace the existing OS, 'Microsoft
Note: The Indian Navy's indigenously designed and Windows'. About Maya OS: It is based on open-source
constructed guided missile destroyer INS Chennai is Ubuntu software. It would shield against cyber threats,
Mission Deployed in the Red Sea. Aim: To reinforcing offering a familiar interface while boosting security. It
mutual trust, cementing operational understanding and uses Chakravyuh, a protective feature inspired by ancient
enhancing Interoperability between navies, to boost Indian defence tactics.
defence co-operation between India and Saudi Arabia, INS 18. Two Indian Navy ships named INS Visakhapatnam and
Chennai’s visit to Jeddah INS Trikand have arrived at Port Rashid in Dubai, United
12. Government has approved the setting up of research Arab Emirates.
parks at Eight Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) and Note: Reason: For a bilateral exercise 'Zayed Talwar
Indian Institute of Science Bangalore in August 2023. 2023' with the UAE Navy. The exercise is being organized
Note: Aim: To strengthen the research ecosystem in the from August 8 to 11, 2023. Aim: To share best practices
country. Objectives: To enable entrepreneurship and and increase synergies between the two navies. Led by
incubation of students and building strong academic Captains Ashok Rao and Pramod G Thomas, INS

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 Visakhapatnam, and INS Trikand showcase advanced Note: Aim: To prevent lower respiratory tract infection
maritime capabilities. and severe disease in infants until they are six months old.
19. Russia first lunar mission in decades has ended in failure This vaccine has been developed by Pfizer and the
with its Luna 25 spacecraft crashing into the moon’s approval allows the vaccine to be given to women 32 to
surface. 36 weeks of pregnancy
Note:The incident, a blow to Russia’s space ambitions, 26. China sent a new Earth observation satellite Gaofen-12
happened after communication with the robotic 04 into space from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
spacecraft was interrupted.The measures taken to search Note: The satellite, Gaofen-12 04, was launched by a Long
for the device and get in contact with it did not yield any March-4C carrier rocket and has entered the planned
results.According to a “preliminary analysis,” Luna-25 orbit successfully. It will be used in a variety of fields,
“switched to an off-design orbit” before the collision including land surveys, urban planning, road network
20. Indian Air Force (IAF) will hold its first-ever multi- design, crop yield estimation and disaster relief. The
national air exercise 'Tarang Shakti', in October 2023. launch marks the 484th flight mission of the Long March
Note:The exercise intends to strengthen military series carrier rockets.
cooperation between the air forces.Out of 12, Six air forces 27. India has created history as it became the first country to
will participate in the exercise, while the rest will attend land (Vikram Lander) on the South Pole of the lunar
the aerial drills as observers.The air forces of the US, the surface on 23rd August 2023.
UK, France and Australia are among those likely to take Note: The Lander Module comprising the lander (Vikram)
part in the exercise. and the rover (Pragyan), landed on the Moon. Aim: To
21. Prabal, India's first long-range revolver is to be launched study the composition of the lunar soil and probe for
in August 2023 manufactured by Advanced Weapons and water and ice, while listening for small seismic tremors.
Equipment India (AWEIL). India was the fourth nation to succeed at the task after the
Note:The Prabal revolver boasts a firing range of up to 50 United States, the Soviet Union, and China.
metres, more than twice the reach of other revolvers. The 28. Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas has successfully fired
Prabla revolver is light in weight and equipped with a side the ASTRA indigenous Beyond Visual Range air-to-air
swing cylinder.It weighs 700 grams (without cartridges) missile off the coast of Goa.
in weight and its barrel length is 76 m, while its overall Note: ASTRA, a state of the art air-to-air missile to engage
length is 177.6 mm. and destroy highly maneuvering supersonic aerial
22. Agnikul Cosmos has launched its first small satellite targets. Aim: To enhance the combat prowess of Tejas and
rocket, named Agnibaan SOrTeD, with its private reduce the dependency on imported weapons. It is
launchpad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in designed and developed by Defence Research and
Sriharikota. Development Laboratory, Research Centre Imarat and
Note:The rocket is driven by Agnikul’s patented Agnilet other laboratories of DRDO.
engine, which is a 3D-printed, single-piece, 6 kN semi- 29. PM Narendra Modi has announced that the site where
cryogenic engine.These flight events have been Vikram Lander and Rover Pragyan landed on the Lunar
configured to validate key technologies integral to the surface will be named as Shiva Shakti Point.
success of the company’s upcoming orbital flights. Note: Another site on the Moon where the Chandrayaan 2
23. Indian Navy’s fifth Kalvari class submarine INS Vagir that lander crash landed will be known as Tiranga Point. He
will reach Fremantle, Australia. said that Shiva Shakti point will remind the world about
Note:INS Vagir will participate in various exercises with Shiv which is devoting oneself to the welfare of mankind
Royal Australian Navy (RAN) units on the West Coast of and Shakti that gives inherent strength to accomplish that
Australia.On the East coast of Australia, Indian Naval ships will incline towards the good of mankind.
and aircraft is involved in Exercise AUSINDEX 23 from 22- 30. Nabhmitra device developed by ISRO-Space Applications
24 Aug 2023.The RAN submarine and Indian Naval P8i Centre (Ahmedabad) for the safety of fishermen, was
aircraft are scheduled to exercise with INS Vagir. tested at Neendakara.
Note: Satellite-based communication system enables
24. Raja Anirudh Sriram has bagged a silver medal at the two-way messaging services from and to the sea. Weather
Singapore International Math Olympiad Challenge 2023 and cyclone warnings will be communicated in the local
(SIMOC). language, the boats can also send distress messages to the
Note: His journey of success has been marked by authorities. In capsizing and fire, fishers can press a
numerous national and international awards that button on the device and get in touch with the control
highlight his extraordinary capabilities. More than 2000 centre.
students from 32 countries participated in the prestigious 31. Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)
event, where Raja Anirudh came up with flying colours. manufactured India’s first set of Catalysts for Selective
25. USA FDA has approved the first respiratory syncytial Catalyst Reactors (SCR) for limiting NOx emissions from
virus (RSV) vaccine for use in women during pregnancy to thermal power plants.
protect the baby. Note: The first set of indigenously manufactured SCR
catalysts for the 5x800 MW Yadadri Thermal Power

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 Station in Telangana, were flagged, from the company’s Note: It was measured by an instrument named ChaSTE
Solar Business Division (SBD) unit in Bengaluru. BHEL is (Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment). The
India’s largest engineering and manufacturing company graph shows that the temperature at 8 cm (80 mm) depth
of its kind. into the Moon’s surface drops to -10 degrees Celsius and
32. NASA and SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft has blasted off at 6 cm (60 mm) depth, the temperature is around 5-10
carrying four astronauts to the International Space degrees Celsius.
Station (ISS).
Note: The Dragon spacecraft carried by a Falcon 9 rocket 36. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has set up a nine-
lifted off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy member committee of experts to overhaul the Defence
Space Center in Florida. Four astronauts from four Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
countries, including the US, Denmark, Japan, and Russia. Note: The committee headed by Prof K VijayRaghavan to
The agency’s SpaceX Crew-7 mission is the seventh review and redefine the role of the department and
commercial crew rotation mission for NASA. submit a report within three months. Prof Vijay Raghavan
33. The Indian Space Research Organisation has announced is a former Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government
that the Pragyan rover's Laser-Induced Breakdown of India and one of the key architects of the National
Spectroscope confirmed the presence of sulphur in the Research Foundation (NRF).
lunar surface near the south pole, through the first-ever 37. Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent participated for the
in-situ measurements. first time in Exercise BRIGHT STAR-23, a biennial
Note: The rover's spectroscope also detected Aluminium, multilateral tri-service exercise.
Calcium, Ferrous (Iron), Chromium, Titanium, Note: It is being held at Cairo Air Base, Egypt, from August
Manganese, Silicon, and Oxygen as expected and the 27 to September 16, 2023. Aim: To strengthen strategic
search for hydrogen is underway. partnerships and enhance joint operational capabilities.
34. NASA is launching a groundbreaking technology Objective: To practice planning and execution of joint
demonstration known as the Integrated LCRD Low Earth operations. The IAF contingent will consist of five MiG-29,
Orbit User Modem and Amplifier Terminal (ILLUMA-T) to two IL-78, two C-130 and two C-17 aircraft.
the Space Station. 38. The Indian Army has signed contracts for the
Note: ILLUMA-T is scheduled to launch on SpaceX’s 29th procurement of 130 tethered drones and 19 tank-driving
Commercial Resupply mission. Aim: To enhance space simulators under Emergency Procurement (EP).
communications capabilities. The ILLUMA-T, along with Note: The armed forces are currently executing the fourth
the Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) tranche of EPs sanctioned by the Defence Ministry.
launched in December 2021, will complete NASA’s first Tethered drone:It is an unmanned aerial vehicle tethered
two-way, end-to-end laser relay system. to the ground. It consists of a base station on the ground
35. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) released a and the drone, which is connected to the station through
graph of the temperature variation between the moon’s the tether (cable).
surface and a point around 8 cm below.

July 2023

1. Indian Naval ships INS Rana and INS Sumedha undertook 3. Seventh edition of the Indian Navy and US Navy Salvage
Maritime Partnership Exercise with French Navy ship FS and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Eexercise, SALVEX was
Surcouf in Bay of Bengal. conducted from 26 Jun – 06 Jul 23 at Kochi.
Note: INS Rana is a guided missile destroyer and INS Note: Both the navies have participated with their ships –
Sumedha is an indigenously built offshore patrol vessel INS Nireekshak and USNS Salvor in addition to Specialist
were from the Indian Navy side. This Exercise included Diving and EOD teams. Aim: To enhance the skill sets of
tactical manoeuvres, replenishment at sea approaches, air the Diving teams in a number of diverse disciplines such
defence against fighter aircraft and cross deck helicopter as mine detection and neutralization, wreck location, and
operations. salvage.
2. Indian Navy is being hosted the seventh edition of the 4. SpaceX launched the European Space Agency’s Euclid
bilateral Japan-India Maritime Exercise 2023, 'JIMEX 23' observatory toward its ultimate destination 1.5 million
at Visakhapatnam. km away.
Note: This edition marks the 11th anniversary of JIMEX, Note: This telescope has been named after the ancient
since its inception in 2012. Indian Navy participated with Greek mathematician, Euclid. It will take a month to get
the INS Delhi (India's first indigenously built Guided there and another two months before it starts its
Missile Destroyer) INS Kamorta (an indigenously ambitious six-year survey this autumn. Euclid will
designed and built Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvette), measure dark energy and dark matter with
fleet tanker INS Shakti, etc. unprecedented precision. It is four meters tall and almost
as wide.

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5. Voyager Space has signed an MoU with NewSpace India Participating Navies: USA, Italy, UK, Seychelles Defence
Limited (NSIL) to foster collaboration in spacecraft launch Forces & Marine Police, EUNAVFOR members.
and deployment opportunities on board NSIL’s Small 11. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched
Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) and Polar Satellite Launch its third lunar mission ‘Chandrayaan-3’ on-board the
Vehicle (PSLV). heavy lift LVM3-M4 rocket in Sriharikota on July 14,
Note: NSIL is the commercial arm of the Indian Space 2023.
Research Organization (ISRO). The two organizations will Note: It is planned to soft land on the surface of the South
also study the use of space-qualified components from Pole region of the Moon on August 23. If this mission came
NSIL in support of spacecraft manufacturing, deployment, out to be successful, India will enter an elite club of
etc. nations (US, Russia and China) achieving such a feat. It
6. China has launched the world’s first methane-liquid consists of an indigenous lander module (LM), propulsion
oxygen space rocket into orbit. module (PM), and a rover.
Note: The Zhuque-2 carrier rocket was launched from the 12. 15th edition of the joint military exercise between India
Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. The rocket successfully and Mongolia, 'Nomadic Elephant 2023', begins at
delivered a test payload into sun-synchronous orbit Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from 17 to 31 July 2023.
(SSO), the first in the world to make such an achievement. Note: Indian Army soldiers from the Jammu and Kashmir
Methane-powered engines, with their high performance Light Infantry Regiment and Soldiers of the Mongolian
and low operational costs, are particularly suited for the Armed Forces Unit 084 participated in the exercise. Aim:
developing trend of reusable rockets. Counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrain
7. The Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Hindustan under United Nations mandate. The scope of this exercise
Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of two involves a Platoon level Field Training Exercise
Dornier Aircraft for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) along 13. A Joint Military Drills 'Northern Interaction-2023',
with an associated Engineering Support package at an between Chinese and Russian naval and air forces would
overall cost of Rs 458.87 crore. be conducted in Sea of Japan.
Note: The aircraft will be procured under the Buy (Indian) Note: It is organized by the Chinese People's Liberation
Category. The Dornier aircraft are being indigenously Army (PLA) Northern Theater Command. Aim: To
manufactured at HAL, Kanpur, and will significantly enhance the level of strategic cooperation between both
contribute to achieving Aatmanirbharta in defense. militaries, as well as strengthen the ability to jointly
8. India and The USA jointly conducted an ‘Operation safeguard regional peace; China Capital: Beijing; Russia
Broader Sword’ to stop the illegal shipment of drugs Capital: Moscow
through the International Mail System. 14. Ashok Leyland has bagged orders worth Rs 800 crore
Note: It targeted shipments of illicit, potentially from the Indian Army.
dangerous, unapproved prescription drugs, combination Note: Reason: To deliver specialized vehicles to the
medical devices, and synthetic drug precursors shipped defense sector. These vehicles includes the Field Artillery
through International Mail Facilities. The operation Tractor (FAT 4x4) and the Gun Towing Vehicle (GTV 6x6).
resulted in the interception of over 500 shipments of illicit The FAT 4x4 and GTV 6x6 are specialized vehicles
and unapproved prescription drugs bound for US employed by the Artillery for towing light and medium
consumers. guns, respectively.
9. Larsen & Toubro has signed the Master Shipyard Repair 15. Gujarat will get India's first ‘Satellite Network Portal Site’.
Agreement with the US Navy to strengthen the Note: London-based company OneWeb and the state gov
partnership between the two countries in the defense signed MoU for the establishment of the Satellite Network
sector. Portal Site’ in Gandhinagar. Aims: To provide affordable,
Note: L&T' Kattupalli Shipyard, near Chennai, a major secure and high-speed internet access to villages, district
node in the Southern Defence Corridor, has been panchayats, local administrative bodies and government
undertaking voyage repairs of the Military Sealift departments. OneWeb is setting up two ‘SNPS’ and one of
Command vessels. USNS Salvor ship was received at them will be in the Mehsana district of Gujarat.
Kattupalli Shipyard for voyage repairs. This is the third US 16. India's Nuclear power capacity has been set to increase
ship coming to the shipyard for voyage repairs. from over 7000 Mega Watt to over 22480 Mega Watt by
10. INS Sunayna has participated in the 'Op Southern 2031.
Readiness 2023' exercise conducted by Combined Note: The present installed nuclear power capacity in the
Maritime Forces(CMF) in Seychelles from 10-12 July country is seven thousand 480 Mega Watt comprising 23
2023. nuclear power reactors. The share of nuclear power in the
Note: Aim: To strengthen multilateral ties and enhance total electricity generation in the country was about 2.8
cooperation. It is a multinational initiative aimed at percent in 2022-23.
enhancing maritime security, countering piracy to ensure
the region's safety and freedom of navigation.
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17. India has gifted its in-service missile corvette INS Kirpan transmitted to humans through direct or indirect contact
to Vietnam to robust the strategic partnership between with dromedary camels, which are the natural host and
the two nations, especially in the maritime domain. zoonotic source of the MERS-CoV infection. The
Note: The frontline warship was handed over to Vietnam, symptoms include: fever, cough, shortness of breath
during an official visit of Navy Chief Admiral R Hari 20. The Ministry of Earth Sciences celebrated its 17th
Kumar. It is fossr the first time that India gifted a fully Foundation Day 2023 at its Prithvi Bhavan headquarters
operational corvette to any friendly foreign country. INS in New Delhi.
Kirpan was an indigenously built Khukri-class missile Note: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju launched several
corvette, commissioned in 1991. citizen-centric initiatives to mark this occasion. He
18. Union Minister of State Science & Technology, Jitendra highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions
Singh, visited the Technology Showcase at the Shyama the country becoming a developed nation by 2047. Earth
Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa. Sciences Ministry is mandated to provide services for
Note: It was organized on the sidelines of the G20 Energy weather and climate, ocean and coastal state, hydrology,
Transition Ministerial Meeting with the support of the 8th seismology, and natural hazards.
Mission Innovation and 14th Clean Energy Ministerial. It 21. SpaceX launched the world's largest private satellite into
was organized under three parts: Vehicle and Charging space in July 2023.
showcase; Infrastructure Showcase; Mission Innovation Note: From Launch Complex 39A in Florida, the satellite
and Clean Tech Start-up presentations. will be launched on SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket. This
19. The World Health Organization has identified a case of will be the seventh launch for SpaceX's triple-booster
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS- rocket. Instead of attempting a drone-ship landing at sea,
CoV) in a 28-year-old male from United Arab Emirates. SpaceX will expand its core booster in the Atlantic Ocean
Note: MERS-CoV is a viral respiratory infection caused by following the first-stage separation, which deviates from
a coronavirus known as MERS. The infection is their usual practice.

June 2023

1. Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) has 4. The Indian Navy and DRDO have successfully engaged
joined a global research group in the development of an and destroyed an underwater target using 'Varunastra'
algorithm along the lines of ChatGPT for genetics. Heavy Weight Torpedo (HWT).
Note: This algorithm uses genome sequencing data Note: It is a significant milestone in the Indian Navy and
instead of human language to predict disease-causing DRDO for accurate delivery of ordnance on target in the
genetic mutations in patients. The group has generated a underwater domain. The Indian Navy and Naval Science
huge catalogue of genomic information for primates that and Technology Laboratory (NSTL) of DRDO developed
have been ever produced. 'Varunastra', an advanced Heavy Weight anti-submarine
2. India successfully launched the Medium-Range Ballistic torpedo.
Missile, Agni-1 from the APJ Abdul Kalam Islands, 5. GalaxEye is building the world’s first multi-sensor
which is locate in Odisha. earth observation satellite, is an incubated space-tech
Note: It was carried out by the Strategic Forces startup of IIT-Madras.
Command, which is responsible for the management and Note: It will launch its first satellite ‘Drishti Mission’ in
administration of the country's tactical and nuclear 2024. It is being build with the help of a visible spectrum
assets. Agenda: To validate all operational and technical camera providing synchronised imaging that can take
parameters of the missile. Agni series of missiles multiple images at the same time. GalaxEye is working on
includes Agni-1(700km), Agni-2 (2000), Agni-3 deploying a satellite constellation to provide the
(3000), Agni-4 (4000), and Agni-5 (5000) comprehensive imagery dataset from space.
3. Indian Navy has undertaken several green initiatives and 6. Tata Elxsi has partnered with the Indian Space
shared some of the noteworthy initiatives towards a Research Organization (ISRO) for the upcoming
'Clean and Green Navy'. Gaganyaan Mission.
Note: It employs a number of ships, submarines, and Note: It has designed and developed the crew module
aircraft that have high energy intensity, thus increased recovery models (CMRM) for the recovery team training
energy efficiency is paramount in every operation. It has of the space mission. ISRO's Gaganyaan project envisions
commissioned solar power with a cumulative capacity of a demonstration of human spaceflight capability by
15.87 MW, with the objective of fulfilling the launching the crew into a 400-kilometer orbit for a three-
government's 'Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission. day mission and safely bringing them to Earth by landing
in Indian sea waters.

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7. DRDO has successfully flight-tested New Generation uncertainty. It was introduced by two psychologists,
Ballistic Missile ‘Agni Prime’ was successfully from Dr Daniel Kahneman, and Amos Tversky.
APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on June 13. Ministry of Defence (MoD) has inked a contract with
07, 2023. ICOMM Tele Limited, Hyderabad for the procurement
Note: Aim: To validate the accuracy and reliability of the of 1,035 numbers of 5/7. 5 Ton Radio Relay
system. During the flight test, all objectives were Communication equipment containers.
successfully demonstrated. This was the first pre- Note: The value of the contract under Buy (Indian)
induction night launch conducted by the users after three Category is nearly Rs 500 crore. The delivery of the
successful developmental trials of the missile. containers is scheduled to commence from the current
8. The Ministry of Defence informed that first India- Financial Year 2023-24. Aim: To boost the indigenous
France-UAE Maritime Partnership Exercise has started manufacturing of defence equipment and incentivize the
in Gulf of Oman. private sector
Note: It involves the Indian Navy frigate, INS Tarkash, 14. The Defence Ministry has approved the deal for
the French Navy ship Surcouf along with Rafale fighter acquiring the Predator (MQ-9 Reaper) drones from
jets, and UAE Navy maritime patrol aircraft. The two-day America.
exercise involve a wide range of naval operations, Note: The final decision would be taken by the Cabinet
including helicopter cross-deck landing operations, Committee on Security (CCS). The deal for the Predator
advanced air defense exercises, and boarding operations. drones was approved by the Defence Acquisition Council
9. The Indian Army has sealed a deal Astrome Tech Pvt meeting. The DAC is the highest body in the Defence
Ltd to procure the indigenously-developed "tactical LAN Ministry to take decisions on acquisitions. All high value
radio". acquisitions are given final approval by the CCS.
Note: Tactical LAN radio: It is a state-of-the-art high- 15. INS 'Vagir'has embarked on an operational visit to
bandwidth backhaul wireless radio equipment for the Colombo from 19-22 June 2023 to commemorate the 9th
provisioning of reliable communication. It is the second edition of the International Day of Yoga and aligns with
contract that the Army has firmed up under the the theme of 'Global Ocean Ring'.
framework of Innovations for Defence Excellence Note: During the visit, the Commanding Officer of the
(iDEX). iDEX was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Indian Naval submarine would meet Rear Admiral
Modi in 2018. Suresh De Silva, the Commander of the Western Naval
10. 12th edition of a joint military exercise between the Area. INS 'Vagir' will also be visited by the visitors and
Indian Army & the Maldives National Defence Force, school children to explore the submarine firsthand.
'Ex Ekuverin' is being commenced at Chaubatia, 16. India will gift Missile Corvette INS Kirpan to Vietnam as
Uttarakhand. a friendly gesture and to expand military ties between
Note: Ekuverin meaning ‘Friends’, is a bilateral annual the nations.
exercise conducted alternatively in India and Maldives. Note: INS Kirpan is a Khukri-class warship
Aim: To enhance the interoperability in Counter commissioned in 1991. The announcement was made
Insurgency/ Counter Terrorism Operations under the UN during a meeting between Rajnath Singh (India's defence
mandate .The 11th edition of the exercise was held in minister) and General Phan Van Gang (Vietnamese
Maldives in 2021. defence minister). The Vietnamese defence minister is on
11. IIT Madras researchers have recently developed a low- a visit to enhance the military ties, with maritime
cost mobile air pollution monitoring framework. security and defence industrial cooperation.
Note: The pollution sensors mounted on public vehicles 17. The Indian Army Contingent has participated in the
can dynamically monitor the air quality of an extended multinational peacekeeping Joint Exercise Ex Khaan
area at high spatial and temporal resolution. Quest 2023, organized in Mongolia.
Traditionally, ambient air quality is measured in Note: This exercise was participated by Military
monitoring stations and reported by the Air Quality contingents and observers from over 20 countries. A
Index (AQI). Since these stations are at fixed locations, contingent from the Garhwal Rifles represented the
they only measure the air quality of a small geographic Indian Army. Aim: To enhance the interoperability of the
area. participating nations, sharing experience, and training
12. Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) uniformed personnel for the United Nations
researchers have devised a mathematical model on Peacekeeping Operations.
contract farming to predict farmers' delivery of 18. Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS) has started
commodities using a decision-theoretic framework delivering Armado to the Indian armed forces.
based on the 'Prospect Theory'. Note: It is an Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle, which is
Note: Prospect Theory is a psychology theory that designed by and developed by Mahindra. It has been
describes how people make decisions when presented designed keeping in mind a variety of roles the armed
with alternatives that involve risk, probability, and forces may use it for. It gets ballistic protection up to B7,
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 Stanag Level II. It can be utilised in counter-terrorist Note: The ISC ‘Dhruv’ hosts modern state-of-the-art
operations by facilitating patrolling in conflict-hit areas. indigenously-built simulators which will significantly
19. IIT Kanpur has successfully conducted a test flight for enhance practical training in the Indian Navy. These
cloud seeding. simulators are envisaged to give real-time experience in
Note: The project was initiated at IIT Kanpur a few years navigation, fleet operations, and Naval tactics. These
ago and is headed by Prof. Manindra Agrawal from the simulators will also be utilized for training of personnel
Computer Science and Engineering Department. The from friendly countries.
experiment was conducted with due approval from the 22. The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out Exercise
DGCA. Cloud seeding involves the utilization of various Ranvijay in UB Hills and Central Air Command Area of
chemical agents such as silver iodide, dry ice, common Responsibility from June 16-23.
salt, and other elements with the aim of enhancing the Note: The focus was on Integrated operations while
probability of precipitation. optimally exploiting the electronic warfare capabilities.
20. US-based GE Aerospace has signed a memorandum of The exercise was carried out from different air bases of
understanding with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to the command headquartered in Prayagraj. Different IAF
produce fighter jet engines for the Indian Air Force. commands have been carrying out wargames and aerial
Note: Aerospace's F414 engines will be co-produced in drills to enhance jointness with the other two services
India to power the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk2. The 23. India and Philippines decided to collaborate in the
development comes amid Prime Minister Narendra defense sector, with a particular focus on the maritime
Modi's state visit to the US. It is part of an effort to domain at Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation.
improve defense- and technology-sharing between the Note: Both will develop their ties through different
India and US. initiatives including official-level interactions, the
21. Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh inaugurated the resident Defense Attaché office in Manila, and the
Integrated Simulator Complex (ISC) ‘Dhruv’ in Kochi, consideration of a concessional Line of Credit. The
Kerala. bilateral ties will strengthen the partnership between the
two countries in various fields.

May 2023

1. Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M) 4. India has participated in the inaugural edition of the
researchers has developed a machine learning-based ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise with its two frontline
computational tool for better detection of cancer-causing warships- INS Satpura and INS Delhi.
tumors in the brain and spinal cord. Note: The harbor phase of the exercise is scheduled to be
Note: The web server known as ‘GBMDriver’ held at the Changi Naval Base (Singapore) from May 2-
(GlioBlastoma Mutiforme Drivers) is now publicly 4, while the sea phase will be conducted from May 7-8 in
available online. The GBMDriver was developed the South China Sea. INS Delhi is India's first indigenously-
specifically to identify driver mutations and passenger built guided missile destroyer, while INS Satpura is an
mutations (passenger mutations are neutral mutations) indigenously-built guided missile stealth frigate.
in Glioblastoma. 5. BULAND BHARAT, an integrated surveillance and
2. A new low-cost star sensor, named ‘StarBerrySense’, firepower training Exercise that was conducted at the
developed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) Highest Altitude Artillery Ranges of Eastern Theatre.
from off-the-shelf components, has started functioning Note: It involves the synergized application of
properly in its first test launch. surveillance and firepower capabilities of the Artillery
Note: It was put into space by Isro’s PSLV C-55 on April and the Infantry in close coordination with Special Forces,
22, 2023. Function: Quickly and accurately calculate Aviation, and CAPF deployed in West Kameng and
where a satellite is pointing in space as for any space Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh. Uninterrupted
mission. The start sensor can find its pointing direction in communication on multiple media was also tested at long
space by identifying the stars in its field of view. distances.
3. DRDO and Indian Navy conducted the successful maiden 6. INS Magar has been decommissioned after 36 years of
test trial of ‘ADC-150’ from IL 38SD aircraft, Goa. exceptional service to the nation.
Note: It is an indigenously designed and developed Air Note: The ship’s decommissioning ceremony was held at
Droppable Container with a 150 kg payload capacity. The Southern Naval Command, Kochi. It was indigenously
trial was conducted to enhance the naval operational built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd,
logistics capabilities by providing quick responses to meet Kolkata and was launched on 16th November 1984 and
the requirement of critical engineering stores to ships. sIt commissioned into the Indian Navy on 18 July 1987 by
reduces the requirement for ships to come close to the Admiral R H Tahiliani.
coast to collect spares and stores.
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7. INS Tarini will be returned to India after a six-month- 44. Space start up, Vast is aiming to launch a school bus-
long transoceanic intercontinental expedition. sized space station to orbit by late 2025 in association
Note: It commenced from Goa on November 17, 2022, and with Elon Musk’s rocket firm, SpaceX.
is scheduled to be completed at the same venue on May Note: The cylindrical spacecraft dubbed Haven-1 is the
24, 2023. During the expedition, Tarini sailed to Rio de latest platform planned as a replacement for the
Janeiro, Brazil via Cape Town, South Africa, participating International Space Station (ISS). The ISS is expected to
in Cape to Rio Race 2023. retire in 2030. In 2021, NASA awarded $415 million in
39. Rocket Lab has launched NASA's two satellites to study development funds to four companies including Northrop
tropical storms and hurricanes. Grumman and Blue Origin.
Note: The two CubeSats, the founding members of the 45. US space agency, NASA has launched a second football-
agency's TROPICS network, launched atop a Rocket Lab stadium-sized, heavy-lift super pressure balloon (SPB),
Electron rocket, which was lifted off from New Zealand. under its Scientific Balloon Program, from Wānaka
Aim: To improve forecasting and provide new insights Airport, New Zealand.
into how tropical storms evolve and intensify. The Note: The first scientific balloon was launched on April
TROPICS constellation will consist of four CubeSats in low 16, following five failed attempts last year. Airways (New
Earth orbit. Zealand’s air navigation services provider) works with
40. IIT Madras and DRDO have developed cutting-edge Nasa to launch the balloons, which inflate fully in flight to
sensor technology for underwater communications. 532,000 cubic meters and carry a scientific payload.
Note: The Indigenous technology will enable the 46. Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh has inaugurated India's
fabrication of devices at a relatively lower cost. first Indian Air Force Heritage Centre in Chandigarh.
'Piezoelectric MEMS technology' is required to develop Note: It will highlight the IAF’s role in various wars. It also
high-performance thin films and convert 'piezo thin film' houses the first IAF-made patent aircraft Air Force
into state-of-the-art futuristic naval sensors and devices ‘Kanpur-1 Vintage Prototype Aircraft’, a single-engine
for underwater applications. The Piezo Thin Films are indigenous flying machine designed and built by the late
one of the vital components of piezo MEMS devices. Air Vice Marshal Harjinder Singh in 1958. In June 2022, an
41. International Business Machines (IBM) has MoU on the heritage centre was signed between the
collaborated with the National Aeronautics and Space Chandigarh administration and IAF.
Administration (NASA) to launch a new geospatial 47. 35th edition of India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol
foundation model. (Indo-Thai CORPAT) between the Indian Navy and the
Note: It is designed to convert satellite data into high- Royal Thai Navy was concluded in the Andaman Sea on
resolution maps of floods, fires, and other landscape May 10, 2023.
changes to reveal the planet’s past and hint at its future. It Note: Aim: To reinforce maritime linkages between the
is expected to be available for preview in the second half two countries and ensure the safety and security of the
of 2023. This model would be part of IBM’s watsonx.ai, a international trade route in the Indian Ocean. INS Kesari,
next-gen enterprise studio. an indigenously built LST (L), and HTMS Saiburi, a Chao
42. PM Modi laid the foundation stone of scientific projects Phraya Class Frigate participated in the exercise.
worth more than Rs 5800 crore on May 11. 48. 4th edition of the India-Indonesia bilateral exercise
Note: One of the most significant projects is the Laser Samudra Shakti-23 is being organized in Batam,
Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory Indonesia from 14-19 May 2023.
(LIGO). The LIGO-India will be developed in Hingoli, Note: Aim: To enhance interoperability, jointness, and
Maharashtra. It is an extremely sensitive interferometer mutual cooperation between both navies. India Navy has
of 4 km arm length and act as 'antennae' to detect participated with INS Kavaratti, Indian Navy Dornier
gravitational waves. It will work in synchronization with Maritime Patrol aircraft, and Chetak helicopter. While the
two observatories operating in the US. Indonesian Navy participated with KRI Sultan Iskandar
43. ISRO has successfully commenced testing of its semi- Muda, CN 235 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and AS565
cryogenic engines, that would power future launch Panther Helicopter.
vehicles.
Note: The very first integrated test on an intermediate 49. NASA has selected Blue Origin to make its lunar lander
configuration of the 2000 kN semi-cryogenic engine for Artemis V, a mission slated to put astronauts near
was carried out at the newly-commissioned the moon's south pole in 2029.
Semicryogenic Integrated Engine & Stage Test facility at Note: The Blue Origin contract will provide NASA with a
Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. The test is a step towards second ride to the moon. Blue Origin will work with
developing a 2000 kN thrust engine, which works on several industry partners like Lockheed Martin, Draper,
Liquid Oxygen (LOX)-Kerosene propellant combination. Boeing, Astrobotic, and Honeybee Robotics. Blue Origin
plans to use its New Glenn rocket, which has never flown

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 before, to launch both its lander and this refueling Note: Type: Navigation Satellite. NVS-01 would
shuttle. augment the India's regional navigation system, providing
50. Gajraj Corps of the Indian Army has organized a Joint accurate and real-time navigation. The GSLV-F12/NVS-01
Flood Relief 'Exercise Jal Rahat' at Hagrama Bridge mission was launched from the 2nd launch pad at the
on Manas River, Assam. Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. The signals will
Note: Aim: To validate joint drills and coordinate be more secure, civilian frequency band has been
preparedness by multi-agency flood relief columns. The introduced. This was one of five such satellites.
exercise was joined by Indian Army- SSB, National 55. India’s defense production has increased by more than
Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster 12% from last fiscal year and crossed the 1 trillion
Response Force, DDMA, and police representatives. It rupees threshold for the first time.
includes coordination and rehearsals for a rescue Note: Reason: India is reducing its reliance on imports
mission of people from inundated areas. from countries such as Russia. The value of India’s local
51. 4th Indo-Indonesia bilateral Exercise titled ‘Samudra defence production jumped to 1.07 trillion rupees, as on
Shakti-23’ concluded in the South China Sea. March 31, 2023, and was expected to rise further once
Note: The sea phase of the exercise was held from 17th data from some private defence companies came in.
to 19th May 2023 witnessed the participation of ASW 56. Submarine, INS Sindhuratna has been returned to
corvette INS Kavaratti with integral Chetak helicopter Mumbai (India) after undergoing a major refit at Naval
and a Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft. Sea phase was Dockyard in Russia, after sailing for 97 days.
preceded by a harbour phase which saw professional Note: The ship returned passage through the Norwegian
interactions. Samudra Shakti exercise was first held in Sea, English Channel, and the Mediterranean Sea. It had
2018. gone for an upgrade in Severodvinsk after a major
52. Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) accident in February 2014. INS Sindhuratna is a Russian
has launched 15 Centres of Excellence (CoE) as part of Type 877EKM diesel-electric submarine. It is popularly
the ‘Institute of Eminence’ (IoE) Scheme on 24th May called a NATO-defined Kilo-class sub.
2023. 57. Indian Navy and Royal Saudi Naval Force (RSNF)
Note: Aim: To develop next-generation technologies and concluded the sea phase of the second edition of
create a significant impact. The IoE Scheme was launched bilateral exercise 'Al Mohed Al Hindi 23' in Al Jubail,
by the Government of India to empower Higher Saudi Arabia.
Educational Institutions to become world-class teaching Note: Indian Navy participated with the INS Tarkash, INS
and research institutions. IIT Madras, one of the pre- Subhadra, and Dornier Maritime Patrol aircraft (MPA).
eminent institutions in India, was chosen in 2019. The RSNF was represented by HMS Badr and Abdul Aziz,
53. India's AI supercomputer AIRAWAT has secured the 75th MH 60R helo, and UAV. The exercise culminated with
position in the prestigious Top 500 Global debrief at sea followed by a traditional steam past.
Supercomputing List. 58. The Joint Bangladesh-US Naval drill Exercise ‘Tiger
Note: The announcement was made during the 61st Shark 40’ has started at BNS Nirvik in Chattogram.
edition of the International Supercomputing Conference Note: Aim: To increase the strategic capabilities of both
(ISC 2023) held in Germany. Airawat PSAI, stands as countries and to acquire mutual technical and procedural
India’s largest and fastest AI supercomputing system, knowledge. It is being undertaken to improve tsshe
with a remarkable speed of 13,170 teraflops (Rpeak). existing good relations between the armed forces of the
Other Indian supercomputers: PARAM Siddhi-AI (131), two countries. Bangladesh Army and Navy and US Special
Pratyush (169), and Mihir (316) Forces participated in this training exercise held under
54. ISRO has successfully launched a second generation the management of Commodore Swords Command.
NVS-01, by using a GSLV rocket with a cryogenic upper
stage.
April 2023

1. The 10th Edition of the annual Indian - Sri Lanka 2. In Financial Year 2022-23, India's defense exports have
Bilateral Maritime exercise, SLINEX-2023 is scheduled reached an all-time high of 15920 crore rupees, which
to be held in Colombo on April 3, 2023. is almost Rs 3,000 crore more than the previous financial
Note: It is being conducted in two phases of three days year (2021-22).
each, the Harbour Phase followed by Sea Phase. The Note: At present, India is now exporting to over 85
Indian Navy will be represented by INS Kiltan and INS countries. India exports major platforms like Dornier-
Savitri while Sri Lanka Navy will have SLNS Vijayabahu 228, 155 mm Advanced Towed Artillery Guns (ATAGs),
and SLNS Samudura. The exercise will also have the Brahmos Missiles, Akash Missile System, Simulators, Mine
Special Forces of the two navies participate together. Protected Vehicles, Armoured Vehicles, PINAKA Rockets
& Launchers, etc.
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3. The Indian Air Force and the US Air Force started the joint 9. Prashthan exercise is held every 6 months under Indian
exercise ' Cope India' at Kalaikunda airbase in West Navy and involves the participation of all stakeholders in
Bengal from April 10 to 21, 2023. the maritime domain.
Note: This exercise will enhance operational capability Note: It is an important element of ensuring offshore
and interoperability between the two air forces. While security and aims to integrate the efforts of all maritime
Japan will also join as an “observer” in the exercise and stakeholders. It was conducted on the Greatdrill Chaaya
witness “air combat and mobility elements” operating platform, which is about 30 nm South West of Mumbai
from multiple air bases like Kalaikunda, Panagarh, Agra, Harbour. Personnel from Maharashtra Police, Customs,
and Hindon. Fisheries Department, Mumbai Port Authority, etc also
4. Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt informed the Lok participated in it
Sabha that the central government approved the 10. An Indian Air Force contingent is participating in the
induction of women in the Regiment of Artillery. multinational international Exercise Orion, organized
Note: In January 2023, the proposal to induct woman at Mont-de-Marsan in France from 17 April to 5 May
officers in the Regiment of Artillery was sent to the 2023.
government. The exact number of woman officers who Note: The IAF Contingent is joining the exercise with
will be inducted into the Artillery will only be known at four Rafale, two C-17, two ll-78 aircraft, and 165 air
the time of the commission of the next batch from the warriors. It would be the first overseas exercise for the
Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai. IAF's Rafale aircraft. Other participants: France, Germany,
5. Israel has successfully launched the “Ofek-13” spy Greece, Italy, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Spain, and the
satellite into space by the Shavit launch vehicle, from United States of America.
Palmachim Airbase spaceport. 11. South African cricketer has launched its flagship JUICE
Note: This satellite was manufactured by state-owned (JUpiter ICy moons Explorer) mission on April 14, 2023.
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). It is the latest in a Note: The mission was carried by an Ariane 5 rocket
series of domestically produced satellites that were first from Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. It
put into orbit in 1988. Immediately after launch, the will take an eight-year journey to reach Jupiter. Aim: To
satellite successfully entered orbit and started understand whether there are habitable environments
transmitting data, and completed an initial series of tests among those icy moons and around a Jupiter. It will
6. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in make detailed observations of Jupiter and its three large
association with the DRDO and IAF successfully moons: Ganymede, Callisto, and Europa
demonstrated a precise landing experiment for a 12. The Defence Research and Development Organisation
Reusable Launch Vehicle Autonomous Landing (DRDO) Industry Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-
Mission (RLV LEX) test. CoE) has been inaugurated at Indian Institute of
Note: It was conducted at the Aeronautical Test Range Technology -Hyderabad.
(ATR), Chitradurga, Karnataka. This is a part of ISRO’s Note: DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat inaugurated
efforts to develop RLVs, or space planes/shuttles, which the facility at the campus of the IIT-Hyderabad at
can travel to low earth orbits to deliver payloads and Sangareddy in Telangana. The government is taking up
return to earth for use again. futuristic projects towards long-term directed research
7. Skyroot Aerospace has successfully test-fired a fully 3D- needed for DRDO. The DIA CoE IITH is the largest centre
printed 'Dhawan II' cryogenic engine for 200 seconds. among all 15 CoEs in the country.
Note: The company developed the engine for its heavier 13. Kenya has successfully launched its inaugural earth
vehicle, Vikram II. This engine will be used as the upper observation satellite, Taifa-1 using a SpaceX rocket from
stage of the updated version of Vikram-II. A cryogenic the United States.
upper stage instead of a solid fuel stage enhances the Note: The satellite was carried by the Falcon 9 rocket,
payload-carrying capacity of a rocket. In 2022, Skyroot launched from Vandenberg Base in California. It was
Aerospace became the first Indian private company to developed over a two-year period at a cost of 50 million
send a rocket into space. Kenyan shillings, with assistance from the Bulgarian
8. Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) has conducted aerospace firm Endurosat. Additionally, under SpaceX’s
a large-scale Joint Military Exercise ‘Ex KAVACH’ rideshare initiative, the launch rocket carried 50
involving the assets of the Army, Navy, Air Force and payloads from other countries.
Coast Guard. 14. IIT Roorkee has signed an MoU with the National
Note: KAVACH exercise began on 23rd February 2023 Science and Technology Centre for Disaster Reduction
and concluded on April 7, 2023. Aim: Fine-tuning joint (NCDR), Taiwan.
warfare capabilities & SOPs and enhancing Note: Aim: To develop scientific and academic
interoperability and operational synergy between the cooperation and scientific research to promote relations
forces. ANC is the first integrated theatre command in and mutual understanding between NCDR and the
India with headquarters at Port Blair. Centre of Excellence in Disaster Mitigation and
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 Management of IIT Roorkee. The main objective is to DRDO has demonstrated land-based BMD system with
develop a technological solution to natural hazards, capability to neutralize ballistic missile threats.
including earthquakes, landslides, and compound 18. Indian Space Research Organisations (ISRO) has
disasters. successfully launched the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle
15. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras will set C55 (PSLV-C55) mission carrying two Singaporean
up its first International campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania in satellites titled, Singapore’s TeLEOS-2 as the primary
October 2023. satellite and LUMELITE-4 from Satish Dhawan Space
Note: In February 2023, a team of five professors from Center at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
IIT Madras visited Tanzania and held discussions with Note: They are co-passenger satellites precisely into
various officials on starting the campus. It will be the their intended 586 km circular orbit. PSLV-C55 is a
first IIT campus in Africa and classes are to start from commercial PSLV mission of NSIL, which is the
October. This information was shared by IIT Madras commercial arm of ISRO.
Director V Kamakoti at IIT Madras’ 64th Institute Day. 19. Solar Industries Nagpur has recently bagged an order to
16. Moon Village Association and the Indian Space supply the UAV 'Nagastra' to which armed force, beating
Research Organisation (ISRO) have joined hands for competitors from Israel and Poland.
global outreach activities in connection with the Note: Nagastra is India's first indigenous loitering
proposed Chandrayaan-3. munition which can strike enemy targets with precision.
Note: Aim: To increase the impact of Isro’s lunar It has been designed and developed by Economics
program at a global level and ensure further Explosives Ltd (EEL), a 100 per cent subsidiary of Solar
international cooperation. It will focus on the global Industries Nagpur, in association with Z-Motion,
aspect of lunar exploration and identify communication, Bangalore. It has an indigenous content of more than
and encourage the youth to focus on the benefits of every 75%
lunar mission. 20. Seventh edition of a joint military exercise between
17. Defence Research and Development Organization India and the UK, 'Ajeya Warrior 2023' has been started
(DRDO) and Indian Navy has successfully conducted a in the Salisbury Plains, UK.
maiden flight trial of a sea-based endo-atmospheric Note: The biennial training event started on 27 April and
interceptor missile off the coast of Odisha in Bay of continues till May 11. The Indian Army has participated
Bengal. with indigenous weapons and equipment. Scope of
Note: Aim: To engage and neutralize a hostile ballistic exercise: It involves a Command Post Exercise (CPX) at
missile threat thereby elevating India into the elite club the battalion level and company level field training
of Nations having Naval BMD capability. Prior to this, exercise (FTX). Last edition (October 2021): Chaubatia,
Uttarakhand.

Books and Authors

August 2023

1. The Indian-origin author, Chetna Maroo has been RSS leaders but carefully kept a distance between the
selected for the 2023 Booker Prize longlist with her organisation and herself.
debut novel 'Western Lane'. 3. Vipul Rikhi is the writer of Drunk on Love: The Life,
Note: The novel, set in the British Gujarati milieu, Vision and Songs of Kabir.
skillfully uses the sport of squash as a metaphor for Note:A new book aims to capture the life of mystic poet
intricate human emotions, earning praise from the Kabir through popular legends, his vision and his poetry
Booker judges. The longlist comprises 13 books written that has been quoted and translated extensively.The
by authors from various countries, including Ireland, book is published by HarperCollins India and written by
Canada, the US, and the UK, explore universal and writer-singer Vipul Rikhi.The book presents the 15th-
topical themes. century poet, as he is described, quoted, and loved in
2. Veteran journalist Neerja Chowdhury authored the popular imagination.
new book, titled How Prime Ministers Decide. 4. The book titled 'Drunk on Love: The Life, Vision and
Note: A new book also claimed that former Prime Songs of Kabir', was authored by Vipul Rikhi.
Minister Indira Gandhi had good relations with several Note: Published by: HarperCollins India. It presents the
15th-century poet, as he is described, quoted, and loved

163 | P a g e
 in popular imagination. A new book captures the life of Note: The book is launched at the Kushabhau
mystic poet Kabir through popular legends, his vision, Thackeray International Convention Centre in Bhopal.
and his poetry which has been quoted and translated The second and third volumes focusing on the
extensively. It brings into one place stories from Kabir’s addresses of PM Narendra Modi from June 2020 to May
life, his most famous songs. 2022 were released.
5. The book 'Pitchside: My Life in Indian Cricket' was 7. BJP President J P Nadda released the Outlook Group's
authored by Amrit Mathur. Coffee Table Book 'Sikhs and Modi (A Journey of Nine
Note: Through anecdotes, events, and matches, he Years), which was authored by Prabhleen Singh.
provides an insider's view garnered over a span of more Note: The teachings of Sikh Gurus contributed towards
than 30 years of closely observing the game and its the unity of the society, patriotism, and dedication
players. With experience as a cricket administrator, he towards religion. It was the first time after
notably managed the Indian team during the historic Independence that the country has started observing
1992 tour of South Africa ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ on the day of sacrifice by the young
6. Along with Chief Minister of MP Shivraj Singh Chouhan, sahibzade of Guru Gobind Singh for unity and integrity
Union Minister for Sports Anurag Thakur has of the country.
released books based on speeches of PM Narendra Modi
titled “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas”.

July 2023

1. The novel “Dudiya: In your Burning Land”, authored by York. It is a pioneering study of the emergence of
Vishwas Patil. Buddhist art in southern India, featuring vibrant
Note: The fast-paced novel “Dudiya: In your Burning photography of rare works. It will feature over 125
Land”, written by Sahitya Akademi award-winning objects, including a series of spectacular sculptural
Marathi novelist Vishwas Patil, has been translated into masterpieces from southern India on public display.
English by Nadeem Khan. The book originally written in 4. Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh
Marathi, is a story of a spirited young Adivasi girl who Shekhawat unveiled a book named 'Swachhata
challenges conventional norms both within her Chronicles: Transformative Tales from India'.
impoverished tribe and inside a Naxal camp by simply Note: The book features 75 ODF Plus Best Practices and
trying to live a life of dignity and independence. The was launched during the two-day National Conference of
book was published by Niyogi Books. Rural WASH Partners Forum. Innovations: To overcome
2. The book titled Prism: The Ancestral Abode of challenges, awareness-raising efforts, special campaigns,
Rainbow released from the rocket launchpad at Satish and other initiatives of States/UTs in different ODF Plus
Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra activities to achieve the goals of SBM-G Phase-II.
Pradesh. 5. Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the book
Note: The book was authored by Vinod Mankara titled 'Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: Memories Never Die' in
(National award-winning filmmaker-writer). It was Rameshwaram in July 2023.
released by S Somanath (ISRO Chairman) and handed Note: The book is about the history of Indian rocketry,
over to S Unnikrishnan Nair (VSSC Director). It is a science, technology and innovation, beautiful
collection of science articles, which is published by representation of Indian politics and administrative
Kozhikode-based Lipi Books. system, and description of many incidents related to
3. John Guy is the author of the book titled, ‘Tree & wishes and imagination of Dr. Kalam. Amit Shah also
Serpent: Early Buddhist Art in India’. paid a visit to Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam House and the
Note: This book is published by Mapin in collaboration Mission of Life Gallery Museum.
with The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) in New

June 2023

1. Abhay K has authored the book titled ‘Nalanda’. 2. The book titled, 'The Power of One Thought: Master
Note: The book will be published by Penguin Random Your Mind, Master Your Life' is authored by BK
House India. The book delves into the history of the Shivani.
ancient seat of learning in Bihar. It is his highly Note: The book published by HarperCollins India. This
anticipated book which is set to take readers on an book will bring the perfect thought booster, an
enlightening journey through time and history. The book empowering book that is an essential guide to
is scheduled to release in October next year in 2024 from unleashing the power of the mind, where it all begins
the Vintage imprint. from, to make that dream life happen. Brahma Kumari
(BK) Sister Shivani, a Rajyog Meditation practitioner for
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 over 25 years has become a household name for her Note: It chronicles his extensive career in the Indian
refreshing and pragmatic take on life. Foreign Service (IFS) from 1965 to 2005. The book was
3. KK Gopalakrishnan authored the book titled published by the Rupa Publications. The book delves into
"Kathakali Dance Theatre: A Visual Narrative of his journey from being an IFS probationer to assuming
Sacred Indian Mime". the role of Deputy National Security Advisor, providing
Note: The book offers a behind-the-scenes look into the valuable perspectives on Indian diplomacy and tracing
world of Kathakali, focusing on the green room, artists’ the development of the National Security Council (NSC)
struggles, and the unique bonds forged during long framework.
make-up hours. 7. David Hardiman is the author of the book 'Non-
4. The new graphic novel for young readers titled 'Ajay to Cooperation in India: Non-Violent Strategy and Protest'.
Yogi Adityanath', was authored by Shantanu Gupta. Note: It is published by Westland Books. The non-
Note: More than 5,000 children from over 51 schools cooperation movement by the Indian National Congress
across different districts of Uttar Pradesh participated in (INC) was the first mass movement organized
the launch ceremony. Prior to this, author Shantanu nationwide during India’s struggle for freesdom, which
Gupta has written two bestseller titles on Yogi was organized and led by Gandhi Ji. The book is
Adityanath- The Monk Who Transformed Uttar Pradesh comprising seven chapters and is a detailed account of
and The Monk Who Became Chief Minister. India’s first mass movement.
5. The book titled, 'The Snow Forest', will be released in 8. A book titled 'The New New-Delhi Book Club', authored
February 2024, is authored by Elizabeth Gilbert. by Radhika Swarup.
Note: This book is published by Bloomsbury. The novel, Note: The book will be published by Westland Books
“The Snow Forest”, is inspired by the true story of the publishing house. The book is an interconnected
family of religious hermits discovered in Siberia in 1978 collection of short stories, showing both the hopes and
who had escaped early 20th century Russia for a life in fears of life during the pandemic. Her debut novel,
one of the most inhospitable and uninhabited places on "Where the River Parts", was longlisted by the Author &
earth. He has also authored 'Eat, Pray, Love'. Club for the best first novel award. Her last novel 'Civil
6. Satish Chandra has penned a book titled ‘A Life Well Lines' was out in 2021.
Spent – Four Decades in the Indian Foreign Service’.

May 2023

1. NITI Aayog has released the “Best Practices in Social Note: The book is expected to be released on September
Sector: A Compendium, 2023” in collaboration with 12, 2023, by Portfolio Books. This book will introduce
the UNDP. readers to the incredible science of happiness, based on
Note: Reason: To commemorate 75 years of India’s the best research available. Other books by Winfrey:
independence and highlight and laud the efforts of What I Know for Sure, The Path Made Clear, and Food,
Union Ministries and State Governments. This Health, and Happiness.
compendium includes 75 case studies cutting across 14 10. Ruskin Bond is the author of a book titled “The
key social sectors. The aim of this exercise has been to Golden Years: The Many Joys of Living a Good Long
synthesize lessons for the future to expand, enhance Life”.
and improve life at the grassroots level. Note: The Golden Years book is published by
2. Amitabh Kant has authored a new book titled “Made HarperCollins India. This book was released on 19
In India: 75 Years of Business and Enterprise”. May 2023, Bond’s 89th birthday. The Golden Years”
Note: Rupa Publications India published this book. He focuses on Bond’s experiences during the 60s, 70s, and
served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National 80s.
Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) (2016- 11. Anshuman Gaekwad has released his semi-
2022). autobiographical book titled “Guts Amidst Bloodbath”
8. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami has launched at the Cricket Club of India (CCI).
the Hindi version of cybercrime named ‘Cyber Note: The occasion was graced by six former India
Encounters’ . cricket captains - Sachin Tendulkar, Gundapa
Note: This book was co-authored by state director Vishwanath, Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Ravi
general of Police (DGP) Ashok Kumar and former Shastri, and Kapil Dev. These legendary cricketers
DRDO scientist OP Manocha. This book will help the shared anecdotes and praised Gaekwad for his
readers in becoming aware of various cyber crimes as it contributions to the sport.
has mentioned actually related cases. It will serve to 12. The book titled ‘Supreme Court on Commercial
inspire people to protect themselves from cybercrime. Arbitration’ was written by Dr.Manoj Kumar.
9. Oprah Winfrey has co-authored a book titled 'Build Note: It is a compendium of three volumes with
the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Judgments spanning from the year 1988 till 2022
Happier' with Arthur C Brooks. covering Arbitration Act 1940 and 1996. The book was
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 fore worded by R.Venkataramani. There has been Note: This book was written by Chairman of the
substantial jurisprudence laid down by the Hon’ble Editorial Board of Lokmat Media Group and former
Supreme Court in the Country on Commercial MP Dr Vijay Darda. It is a captivating compilation of
Arbitration spanning over multiple statutory Darda’s weekly articles, which were published in the
frameworks. Lokmat Media Group newspapers and other prominent
13. Assam Governor, Gulab Chand Kataria has released a national and regional dailies of the country between
book titled ‘Partitioned Freedom’ at an event in 2011 and 2016
Guwahati. 15. Five books published under the Nayi Pahal scheme
Note: This book was written by Ram Madhav and for new writers, were released by Governor PS
published by Prabhat Prakashan Pvt. Ltd. This book Sreedharan Pillai in a function at Raj Bhavan.
offers great insights into the events that unfolded Note: The five books released were authored by Sanjay
during 1905 and the pre-independence era. Ram Ramesh Salelkar (Konkani), Pallavi Polekar (Marathi),
Madhav is an Indian Politician, Author, and thinker. His Manohar Adpaikar (Marathi), and Pachu Menon (two
other books: Uneasy Neighbours: India and China After books in English). The five titles are the first of 100 odd
50 Years of the War and Asahaj Pados books that the Raj Bhavan plans on publishing in 22
14. A book titled, “RINGSIDE – Up, Close and Personal on different languages through its innovative scheme.
India and Beyond” will be released by Dr Shashi
Tharoor.

April 2023

1. A new book titled Gandhi: Siyasat aur Sampradaiykta Note: It was published by Niyogi Books. The book is
(‘ Gandhi: Politics and Communalism’) was released in about a two-and-a-half-year-old girl named Akku who is
Hindi. imaginative, adventurous, and growing up in Gurgaon
Note: This book was written by journalist-turned- and Singapore.
author Piyush Babele. Currently, he is the head of the 5. A new book titled ‘Basu Chatterji: And Middle-of-the-
Madhya Pradesh Congress’ media department. He cites Road Cinema’ has been released.
extracts from Dr. Ambedkar’s book Pakistan or the Note: This book chronicles the life and times of the
Partition of India and other sources and claims to veteran Indian filmmaker Basu Chatterjee. It is written
contextualize the developments leading up to India’s by Aniruddha Bhattacharjee and published by Penguin
Partition in 1947 to bust the illusion spread by the Hindu Random House India (PRHI).
right-wing that Mahatma Gandhi was responsible for the 6. State Bank of India (SBI) has launched its coffee table
Partition. book titled “The Banker to Every Indian”, which
2. “Courting India: England, Mughal India and the celebrates 75 years of Indian independence and the 200-
Origins of Empire” is a book written by Nandini Das. year history of SBI.
Note: She is a professor of English Literature at the Note: The coffee table book details the Bank’s history
University of Liverpool. The book explores the complex ever since independence. The book is a tribute to the
relationship between England and Mughal India in the spirit of India’s independence and SBI’s contribution to
early modern period. This book also focuses on the nation-building.
cultural and literary exchanges that took place between 7. Pattabhi Ram & Sabyasachee Dash has co-authored a
these two worlds. new book titled “The Great Bank Robbery: NPAs,
3. A book entitled “War and Women”, authored by Dr. Scams and the Future of Regulation”.
M A Hasan was released. Note: This book discusses 11 scams that have rocked
Note: It was launched during the 52nd Session of the India since its Independence (1947). The book is
United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in published by Rupa Publications India Pvt Ltd.
Geneva, Switzerland. This book highlights the suffering 8. A book titled, ‘In Pursuit of Peace: India-Pakistan
of Bengali women who were victims of sexual violence Relations Under Six Prime Ministers’ is a memoir of
perpetrated by the Pakistan Army during the 1971 war. Satinder Kumar Lambah.
The event was organized by the Bangladesh Freedom Note: It was forwarded by former PM Dr. Manmohan
Fighters Sansad in Europe, and it was considered a Singh. Satinder Kumar Lambah had served two tenures
significant moment for raising awareness about the in Pakistan as Deputy Chief of Mission and High
issue. Commissioner and was Chairman of the National
4. Vani Tripathi Tikoo, an actor and member of the Indian Security Advisory Board. He also served as a Special
censor board, has written her debut children’s book Representative for Afghanistan under Prime Minister
titled “Why Can’t Elephants be Red??”. Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

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9. Francois ‘Faf’ du Plessis's memoir 'Faf Through Fire' is 12. A new book 'Smoke and Ashes: A Writer’s Journey
all set to release in India in May 2023, is cricketer of Through Opium’s Hidden Histories', is authored by
South African cricketer. Amitav Ghosh.
Note: The book is published by Penguin Random House Note: This book explores the opium trade's effect on
India. Presently, he is the captain of the Indian Premier world history and how it continues to hugely impact our
League’s Royal Challengers Bangalore team. He is also lives today. The book will be published by HarperCollins
the former Captain of the South African National Cricket India's Fourth Estate imprint. Other Notable works: The
team. In his upcoming memoir, he has shared his Shadow Lines, The Glass Palace, The Hungry Tide, Gun
journey as a cricketer, love for the game, and also Island, and The Great Derangement
reveals his struggles and triumphs. 13. PM Narendra Modi has launched the book ‘Saurashtra-
10. World Book Day is celebrated annually on April 23 to Tamil Sangamprashastih’ by Shree Somnath Sanskrit
promote the love for reading, writing, publishing, and University during the closing ceremony of ‘Saurashtra
copyright. Tamil Sangamam’.
Note: This day is also known as World Book and Note: PM Modi addressed the closing ceremony via
Copyright Day. The theme for World Book Day 2023 is video conferencing. The Saurashtra Tamil Sangamam
'Indigenous Languages.' This theme focuses on takes forward this vision by celebrating the shared
promoting the diversity in native languages of a culture and heritage between Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.
country. It is the date on which several prominent The 10-day confluence saw more than 3000
authors, William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Saurashtrian Tamils come to Somnath on a special train.
Inca Garcilaso de la Vega all died. 14. At the 100th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, a book called
11. A new book titled, ‘A Resurgent Northeast: Narratives of ‘Collective Spirit, Concrete Action’ was launched, is
Change’, is authored by Ashish Kundra. authored by Shashi Shekhar Vempati.
Note: The book was launched in the presence of Kiren Note: Shashi Shekhar Vempati is a former CEO of Prasar
Rijiju (Union Minister of Law and Justice); Hardeep Bharat. According to the author, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ is a
Singh Puri (Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural combination of the power of radio and the vision of a
Gas), Pema Khandu (CM of Arunachal Pradesh), and nation’s leader. Over the course of 15 chapters, the book
Amitabh Kant. Senior bureaucrat-author Ashish Kundra special also offers insights and perspectives from
served in the Northeast for eight years. grassroots change-makers and iconic personalities.

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