Latest Current Affairs For June, 2022

Kerala Govt will launch MEDISEP scheme for State Government employees

Kerala government will launch the MEDISEP scheme - Medical insurance scheme for State Government employees, pensioners and their eligible family members from 1st July, 2022.

It will provide cashless medical assistance with a comprehensive coverage up to 3 lakhs per year.

The annual premium would be Rs 4,800 plus 18% GST for the policy period of 2022-24.

Monthly premium: Rs.500

It is being implemented through the public sector insurer, Oriental Insurance Company.

International Day of the Tropics: 29 June

International Day of the Tropics is observed annually on 29 June.

This day highlights the challenges faced by the tropics nations.

The tropics nations are those that lies between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Tropic of Cancer.

12 leading tropical research institutions collaborated to come up with a State of the Tropics Report on 29th June, 2014.

To mark the anniversary of the report’s launch the UNGA has adopted resolution A/RES/70/267 in 2016.

Karnataka government launches ‘Kashi Yatra’ scheme

The Karnataka government has launched the 'Kashi Yatra' project.

It offers cash assistance of ₹5,000 to each pilgrims, take up a pilgrimage to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

The government will be using funds of up to ₹7 crores from the accounts head of ‘Assistance to Manasa Sarovara Pilgrims’.

Karnataka governor: Thawar Chand Gehlot; CM Basavaraj Bommai; Capital: Bengaluru

IWF appoints Mohammed Jalood as President 2022

Mohammed Jalood has been appointed as president of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) at an event held in Tirana, Albania.

Jalood is the first permanent president since Tamás Aján has stepped down in 2020 after controlling the IWF for 44 years.

Earlier, he has worked as a IWF General Secretary.

He has worked as spending the last five as IWF General Secretary.

IWF Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland; Founded: 1905

राष्ट्रीय सांख्यिकी दिवस: 29 जून

Union Government has observed National Statistics Day on 29th June every year to mark the birth anniversary of late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis.

Since 2007, this day is observed in recognition of his valuable contribution in the field of Economic Planning and Statistics.

Theme 2022: Data for Sustainable Development.

Aim: Create awareness about the importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation for development of the country.

Iran applies to join BRICS group of emerging countries

Iran has applied to become a member of the BRICS.

BRICS is a group of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Iran is the world’s second-largest gas reserves and membership in the BRICS group would added values for both sides.

President of Argentina, Alberto Fernandez has also reiterated his desire for Argentina to join BRICS.

The term BRIC was coined by Goldman Sachs economist Jim O’Neill in 2001.

Iran Capital: Tehran; 

Currency: Rial

Govt launches e-learning portal 'Dak Karmayogi' for Dak Sevaks employees

Communications Minister, Ashwini Vaishnav and MoS Communications Devusinh Chauhan have launched ‘Dak Karmayogi’,  an e-learning portal.

This portal is developed under the vision of ‘Mission Karmayogi’.

This portal will develop the competencies of about four lakh Gramin Dak Sevaks and departmental employees.

After the completion of the final assessment, a system-generated certificate will generate, and sent to the trainee’s registered email ID automatically.

Maharashtra govt signs MoU with Adani Energy for 11000 MW power generation

The Energy department of Maharashtra government has signed an MoU with Adani Green Energy Group Ltd (AGEL) to generate green power.

It would require an investment of Rs 60,000 crore and generate employment.

AGEL will set up Pumped Storage Projects (PSP) in the next five years, and will produce 11,000 MW power.

The MoU was signed by Narayan Karad, Deputy Secretary, Department of Energy, Maharashtra and Ajit Barodia, Senior Vice President, Adani Industries Group.

Olympic medallist and Hockey World Cup winner Varinder Singh passes away

Hockey player, Varinder Singh has passed away at the age of 75.

He was an integral part of the gold-medal winning Indian team at the 1975 men's Hockey World Cup in Kuala Lumpur.

He was also a part of the bronze medal-winning team at the 1972 Munich Olympics and silver medal at 1973 World Cup in Amsterdam.

He has been conferred with the prestigious Dhyan Chand Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.

He used to play for the Railways.

Bajaj Allianz launches Global Health Care plan

Bajaj Allianz General Insurance has launched ‘Global Health Care’, a comprehensive health insurance product.

It covers planned as well as emergency treatment.

It also provides health care Internationally (outside of India) and domestically (within India).

Sum Insured: Rs 37,50,000 to Rs 3,75,00,000

The product is available in two plans, namely ‘Imperial Plan’ and ‘Imperial Plus Plan'.

For Overseas Citizen of India, the minimum period to stay outside is 180 days.

India successfully tests indigenously developed Anti-Tank Guided Missile

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully test-fired indigenously-developed Laser-Guided Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) from Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun Tank in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar. 

The ATGM has been developed with multi-platform launch capability.

It is currently undergoing technical evaluation trials from 120 mm rifled gun of MBT Arjun.

The successful development of the laser guided ATGM will enhance the fire power of the MBT Arjun.

Akash Ambani named as chairman of Reliance Jio

The board of Reliance Jio Infocomm has approved the appointment of Akash Ambani (non-executive director of the company) as its chairman.

He has joined the Reliance Jio in 2014.

The board has also approved the appointment of Raminder Singh Gujral and KV Chowdary, as additional directors of the company.

The appointment of Pankaj Mohan Pawar as MD of Jio has also been approved.

The board has also accepted the resignation of Mukesh Ambani as Reliance Jio director.

Justice Satish Chandra Sharma takes oath as Delhi High Court Chief Justice

Justice Satish Chandra Sharma has sworn-in as the new Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court by lieutenant governor Vinai Kumar Saxena.

He succeeded Justice DN Patel, who retired on March 13.

Earlier, he served as the Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court.

He has also served as an acting chief justice of Karnataka high court.

In Madhya Pradesh HC, he was appointed as an additional judge in January 2008.

Justice Ujjal Bhuyan takes oath as Chief Justice of Telangana.

Government extends levy of GST compensation cess till March 2026

As per the Goods and Services Tax (Period of Levy and Collection of Cess) Rules, 2022, has been notified by the finance ministry that the government has extended the time for levy of GST compensation cess by nearly 4 years till March 31, 2026.

The levy of cess was about to end on June 30.

The revenue from the GST compensation cess is used to pay for the borrowings and arrears of compensation paid to states in the last two financial years.

AI adoption will add $500 billion to India's GDP by 2025: Nasscom report

As per the new report of Nasscom, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and data utilisation strategy can add $500 billion to India's GDP by 2025.

Four key sectors of AI adoption -- BFSI, consumer packaged goods (CPG) and retail, healthcare, and industrials/automotive.

These four sectors can contribute 60% of the total $ 500 billion opportunity.

The current rate of AI investments in India is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30.8%.

Kempegowda International Award to S M Krishna, Narayana Murthy & Prakash

S M Krishna (Former Karnataka CM), N R Narayana Murthy (Infosys founder) and Prakash Padukone (former badminton player) have been selected for the ‘Kempegowda International Award’.

The award presented on the 513th birth anniversary of Kempegowda, the architect of Bengaluru city, on June 27 at Vidhana Soudha.

Award: Cash prize of Rs 5 lakh along with a plaque.

Kempegowda Award is a civilian award which is given by Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) annually.

Former SAIL Chairman, V Krishnamurthy passes away at 97

V Krishnamurthy, a former chairman of steel PSU SAIL has passed away at the age of 97 in Chennai.

He worked as the chairman of SAIL from 1985 to 1990.

He had also been the chairman of Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), Maruti Udyog and GAIL.

Awards: Padma Shri (1973), Padma Bhushan (1986), Padma Vibhushan (2007). 

He also been conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Management given by AIMA for the Year 2005.

Navjeet Dhillon wins gold medal at 2022 Qosanov Memorial

Indian women’s discus thrower, Navjeet Dhillon has won the gold medal at the Qosanov Memorial 2022 athletics meet in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

She won the women’s discus throw with a 56.24m effort.

Karina Vasilyeva (Kazakhstan) placed second with 44.61m and Uzbekistan's Yulianna Shchukina at third with 40.48m on the podium.

In the men’s 400m race, Muhammed Anas Yahiya followed Mixail Litvin of Kazakhstan (46.04s) to come second in 46.27s.

Indian Startup IG Drones wins Global Airwards Best Drone Organisation Award

Indian startup, IG Drones has been conferred with the “Best Drone Organization Start-up Category” by Airwards for its approach of helping local communities.

Airwards, is the first panoptic global awards programme of its kind, which identify the positive drone use cases.

IG Drones is developing disaster response technology and mitigate to increase the efficiency and efficacy of first responders' aid in emergency response.

Chairman of SP Group, Pallonji Mistry dies at 93

Chairman of Shapoorji Pallonji group, Pallonji Mistry has passed away in Mumbai at 93.

In 2022, Pallonji Mistry stands at rank 125 while he was the ninth richest Indian person as of 2021, as per the Forbes Billionaires List.

He has been conferred with the Padma Bhushan (2016) for his contribution in business including Real Estate, Textiles, Power, Shipping, Publications and others.

He was the largest individual shareholder in the Tata Group with a 18.4% holding.

A book titled, 'The Life and Times of George Fernandes' by Rahul Ramagundam

The biography of India’s former Union Defence Minister, late George Fernandes, 'The Life and Times of George Fernandes' will be released in July 2022.

The book was written by Rahul Ramagundam and published by Penguin Random House India.

He was born on June 3, 1930 in Mangalore.

He emerged as a key figure in the fight to restore democracy after the Emergency was imposed in 1975.

He became the Railways minister in 1989 under V P Singh coalition government.

‘One-Health’ initiative launches in Bengaluru on June 28

The Department of Animal Husbadry & Dairying (DAHD) has launched the One Health pilot in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Aim: To bring the stakeholders from animal, human and environment health on a common platform to address challenges.

DAHD has collaborated with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to implement the One-Health framework in the states of Karnataka and Uttarakhand.

Kerala Financial Corp raises the limit of flagship entrepreneurial loan

Kerala Financial Corporation has raised the upper loan limit of loans under the Chief Minister’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme (CMEDP) to ₹2 crore.

Aim: More MSMEs can get funds at a concessional 5% interest rate.

The Kerala government will provide a subsidy of 3% with the Corporation chipping in with 2% towards the effective interest rate.

The age limit set by Govt for SC/ ST entrepreneurs, women entrepreneurs and non-resident Keralites is 55 years.

Acemoney launches wearable ATM cards and offline UPI

Acemoney has launched UPI 123Pay payment and wearable ATM cards.

UPI 123Pay: Allow people to carry out cashless transactions without smartphones or internet connections by using feature phones only.

Wearable ATM cards: It is designed as key chains and rings that allows people to carry out cashless transactions without ATM cards and phones.

Acemoney is India's first company to launch UPI 123Pay services in Malayalam and Tamil.

RBI had launched UPI 123Pay in March 2022.

Mufin Finance received Prepaid Payment Instrument licence from RBI

Mufin Finance (NBFC) has received in-principal RBI approval for issuance of semi-closed prepaid payment instruments.

This PPI licence will allows digital banks, fintech firms and large consumer-facing applications to roll out features such as digital payment solutions for lending.

It is the fourth NBFC to receive such a licence from the RBI. 

Other three: Bajaj Finserve, Manapurram and Paul Merchants.

Mufin Finance established in 2016.

Co-founder : Rajat Goyal

Deepak Punia wins bronze in U23 Asian wrestling championships 2022

Tokyo Olympian, Deepak Punia has won a bronze medal in the U23 Asian wrestling championships 2022 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

He defeated Maksat Satybaldy in the 86kg freestyle weight category.

He has lost to eventual gold medallist, Azizbek Fayzullaev of Uzbekistan and Nurtilek Karypbaev of Kyrgyzstan.

Presently, India won 25 medals (including 10 gold medals) in all in the U23 meet in the wrestling event.

Cyclist, Ronaldo becomes first Indian to win silver at Asian Championship

India’s Ronaldo Singh has scripted history by winning Silver in the sprint event at the Asian Cycling Championships 2022.

He also became the first Indian cyclist to win a silver medal (including the Elite category) at the Asian Track Championship.

Ronaldo Singh Laitonjam hails from Manipur, and started cycling at the age of 14.

He had created a national record in the quarter-final with a 9.946s sprint (first Indian to breach 10 sec mark).

IAF participates in Tactical Leadership Program of Egyptian Air ForceIAF participates in Tactical Leadership Program of Egyptian Air Force

Indian Air Force has participated in Tactical Leadership Programme at Egyptian Air Force Weapon School in Cairo west Airbase.

Indian Air Force: Three Su-30MKI aircraft, two C-17 aircraft and 57 IAF personnel including C-17 contingent.

A month long event, is a unique exercise with Air assets in a Large Force Engagement environment, simulating various conflict scenarios.

Aim: Enhancing defence cooperation between the two countries and exchange of best practices.

Anil Khanna appointed as the acting President of IOA

The Delhi High Court has passed an order, that Narinder Dhruv Batra cannot continue as the President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) in a contempt proceeding.

While hearing a contempt proceeding filed on behalf of former Olympian Aslam Sher Khan against Batra, IOA secretary general Rajeev Mehta and Sports Secretary.

The court has also appointed Anil Khanna as acting president.

Batra was become an IOC member in 2019.

IRS officer, Nitin Gupta appointed as new chairman of CBDT

Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer, Nitin Gupta has been appointed as the new chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT).

Gupta, will replace Sangeeta Singh who had been given an addition charge after the retirement of JB Mohapatra on April 30.

The CBDT is headed by a Chairman and may consist of six members in the rank of Special Secretary.

It is the administrative body for the Income Tax Department.

A noted lyricist, Chowalloor Krishnankutty passed away

A noted lyricist, author and journalist, Chowalloor Krishnankutty has passed away at the age of 86.

Krishnankutty has penned over 3000 devotional songs and authored more than 200 books.

He was retired from the Malayala Manorama daily as an Assistant Editor.

Awards: Kerala Sahithya Academy Award for satire, Poonthanam Jnanapana and Revathy Pattathanam Awards among others.

He was also worked as the Vice-Chairman of the Kerala Kalamandalam.

World MSME Day 2022: 27 June

The World Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) day is observed annually on June 27 to recognise the contribution of these industries in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Theme 2022: Resilience and Rebuilding: MSMEs for Sustainable Development.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has marked first World MSME Day by 74th Plenary on April 6, 2017.

MSME minister: Narayan Rane

Iran launches a solid-fueled rocket, Zuljanah into space

Iran has launched a solid-fueled rocket, a 25.5 meter-long rocket into space.

Rocket name: Zuljanah

This rocket is capable of carrying a satellite of 220 kilograms.

It will gather data in low-earth orbit and promote Iran’s space industry.

This launch just comes after the European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, traveled to Tehran in a push to resuscitate negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program that have stalemated for months.

Vijay Amritraj honoured with 2021 Golden Achievement Award

India’s Vijay Amritraj has been awarded the 2021 Golden Achievement Award by the International Tennis Hall of Fame and International Tennis Federation.

This award is conferred to a person who has made important contributions internationally to tennis in the fields of administration, promotion, or education and has devoted long and outstanding service to the sport.

The award was presented at a special celebration hosted in London.

G7 leaders pledge 600 billion for developing countries

During the Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Germany's Bavarian Alps, G7 leader has made an announcement to help developing countries tackle climate change and pledge to raise 600 billion dollar.

This will boost help to give a boost to the economies of countries.

G7 is offering sustainable, quality infrastructure and will be listening closely to the recipient countries.

G7 members: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, the USA and the EU.

Madhya Pradesh clinches first ever Ranji Trophy title against Mumbai

Madhya Pradesh has created history after defeating the 41-time champions, Mumbai by six wickets to win their first-ever Ranji Trophy title at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Madhya Pradesh has chased down 108 in the fourth innings for the fall of four wickets.

Madhya Pradesh has now become the fourth first-time winner of the Ranji Trophy in the last five seasons - joining Gujarat, Vidarbha (two-time winners now) and Saurashtra.

Garuda Aerospace to set up drone factory in Malaysia

The Garuda Aerospace company has entered into a partnership with HiiLSE Global SdnBhd (HiiLSE Drones), a Malaysian company, to set up the largest plant in the South Asia region.

The HiiLSE Garuda Aerospace Plant will be made across 2.42 hectares of land, with an investment of ₹115 crores.

Aim: To provide state-of-the-art technology to public and private sectors alike in the whole region.

Founder-CEO of Garuda Aerospace: Agnishwar Jayaprakash

Government appoints Tapan Kumar Deka as Director of Intelligence Bureau

The Central government has appointed senior IPS officer, Tapan Kumar Deka as Director of Intelligence Bureau for a tenure of two years from the date of assumption of the charge.

He is a 1988 batch Himachal Pradesh cadre IPS officer.

He will succeed incumbent Intelligence Bureau Director, Arvind Kumar.

He has handled crucial cases such as terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir, especially targeted killings in the Valley.

India successfully test-fired VL-SRSAM missile system

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed shipborne weapon system, Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM), was successfully test fired from Chandipur in Odisha.

This missile system has been designed to strike at the high-speed airborne targets.

Range: 40km to 50km

This missile's design is based on Astra missile.

Two key features: cruciform wings and thrust vectoring

ICICI Bank launches ‘Campus Power’ platform for student ecosystem

ICICI Bank has launched a digital platform called ‘Campus Power.’

Aim: To help students aspiring to pursue higher education in India and outside the country.

This platform will cater the varied needs of the entire student ecosystem comprising students, parents, and institutes.

This will assist users to explore financial products according to their needs ranging from bank accounts including overseas accounts, education loans and its tax benefit etc.

US president, Joe Biden signs landmark gun safety bill

The US President, Joe Biden has signed the gun violence bill, and toughen background checks for the youngest (21 years) gun buyers.

Other reforms: $ 13 billion in federal funding for mental health programs and school security upgrades

The funding will encourage the states to implement "red flag" laws to remove firearms from people considered a threat.

Blocking sales of gun to those convicted of abusing unmarried intimate partners.

Disbursement of Loan to MSME sector grew by 182% after pandemic period

According to the study conducted by credit bureau CRIF High Mark, the loan disbursed to MSME sector grew by a massive 182% in FY22 to Rs 37 trillion.

In terms of value, the loan disbursal of private banks increased from 33.6% in FY20 to 69.8% in FY22.

Share of private banks increased from 26.9% in FY20 to 33.5% in FY22 in volume terms.

Top 3 states (value): Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi

Top 3 states (volume): Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh

Bharat Electronics signs MoU with Belarus firm for Airborne Defense Suite

Bharat Electronics Limited has signed an MoU with Defense Initiatives (DI), Belarus, and Defense Initiatives Aero Pvt Ltd, India (a subsidiary of DI Belarus).

Reason: To supply of Airborne Defense Suite (ADS) for helicopters of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

It would be supported by DI with transfer of technology (manufacturing and maintenance) for supply of advanced electronic warfare suite for helicopters under 'Make in India' category.

International Day of Seafarers: 25th June

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is observed International Day of Seafarer on annually June 25 to pay respect to Seafarers and sailors who help the entire world function by conducting sea transport.

This day was proposed by International Maritime Organization in 2010.

This day recognizes the invaluable contribution of seafarers to the worldwide commerce and economic system. 

2022 theme: Seafarers: at the core of shipping’s future.

IMO HQ: London, UK

Parameswaran Iyer becomes new CEO of Niti Aayog

Former Secretary of the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Parameswaran Iyer has been appointed as a new CEO of Niti Aayog for two years.

He will replace Amitabh Kant.

He is a 1981-batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre.

In 2016, Iyer was appointed to implement government's Swachh Bharat Mission.

He resigned as Secretary of the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation at the Jal Shakti Ministry in 2021.

IGI becomes first airport in India to run entirely on hydro & solar energy

Indira Gandhi International Airport has become India's first airport to run entirely on hydro and solar power since June 1.

Presently, the airport met its electricity requirement of 6% (approx) from onsite solar power plants and rest 94% by hydropower plants.

Delhi Airport has signed a power purchase agreement with Himachal Pradesh to supply hydroelectricity for the airport until 2036.

The airport has also targeted to become a Net Zero Carbon Emission Airport by 2030.

India recognized as 'country of the year' by Europe's Vivatech

The Europe's biggest start-up conference, Vivatech 2020 has recognized India as the "country of the year."

The country has been recognised with this honour, due to the global contribution of Indian start-ups.

The start-up ecosystem of India is growing rapidly and has over 100 unicorns.

India has participated in Vivatech is to showcase Indian start-ups are solving global problems and innovating for the world.

World Banka approved Uttarakhand project to boost rain-fed agriculture

Rain-fed agriculture in the steep areas of Uttarakhand has been approved by the World Bank.

The project will cost Rs. 1,000 crore.

The watershed department will carry out the Uttarakhand Climate Responsive Rain-fed Farming Project.

Aims: Lower the greenhouse gas emissions.

It will also encourage environment friendly agricultural practices.

Uttarakhand Governor: Gurmit Singh;

Chief minister: Pushkar Singh Dhami

Karnataka Bank launches 'V-CIP' for account opening

Karnataka Bank has launched ‘Video-based Customer Identification Process (V-CIP)’.

It is an online savings bank (SB) account opening facility.

This facility will enable in the corporate website of the bank, strengthen the prospective customers to open an SB account through online process and complete KYC verification through a video call.

This is a end-to-end paperless digital process.

It also reduces the turnaround time of account opening.

Liberty General Insurance partners Peerless Financial Products Distribution

Liberty General Insurance has signed an agreement with Peerless Financial Products Distribution Ltd (PFPDL) to enable the distribution of Liberty’s retail and commercial line of products.

The product distribution across the country will be done through the 42 branches of Peerless.

Liberty is working closely with PFPDL to provide training and operational expertise.

Liberty General Insurance HQ: Mumbai;

CEO: Roopam Asthana 

AU Small Finance Bank launches customisable credit card

AU Small Finance Bank has launched customised Credit Card product named AU Bank LIT (Live-It-Today).

This credit card offers a unique value proposition to cardholders.

Cardholders can choose the features and time period according to their wish.

Through the AU0101 app, cardholders can track their saving/earnings daily to maximize their benefits.

Cardholders can get the best of both Cashbacks and Reward Points by using the features.

Indian Oil reveals ‘Surya Nutan’, an indoor solar cooking stove

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has unveiled a stationary, rechargeable cooking stove named Surya Nutan.

It is a kitchen connected cooking stove that uses the sun's energy to cook food.

This was developed by IOC's research and development division at Faridabad.

It captures solar energy through a PV panel that placed outdoor or on the roof.

The cost of base model is ₹12,000, while the top model will cost ₹23,000.

NDB appoints Dr D J Pandian as head of Indian Regional Office, Gift city

Former bureaucrat, Dr D J Pandian has been appointed as the Director-General of New Development Bank (NDB), India Regional Office in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City).

In May 2022, the NDB had announced to set up IRO in the Gift city.

The NDB has also approved 20 projects in India worth of USD 7.2. billion.

The IRO will support the effective and efficient implementation of these projects and work closely with Project Implementation Agencies. 

Rumeli Dhar announces retirement from international cricket

The India seam-bowling all rounder, Rumeli Dhar has announced her retirement from international cricket at 38.

She has played her last international match in the tri-nation women's T20I series between India, Australia and England at Brabourne (2018).

She has been featured in four Tests, 78 ODIs, and 18 T20Is.

She has scored 1328 runs and took 84 wickets across formats.

She was also the part of the 2005 World Cup final, South Africa, India lost to Australia by 98 runs.

Ranjit Bajaj appointed as Chairman of Advisory Panel Formed by CoA

The former owner of I-League side Minerva Punjab FC, Ranjit Bajaj, has been appointed as the chairperson of the 12-member committee formed by the Committee of Administrators (CoA).

The CoA took charge of the AIFF, after the Supreme Court removed the Praful Patel led office bearers for not holding elections on time.

Aim: To look the day-to-day matters of various departments of the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

Gautam Adani pledges ₹60,000 crore for social causes

Asia’s richest person, Gautam Adani and his family have pledged to donate ₹60,000 crore to a range of social causes to celebrate the 60th birthday of Gautam Adani on June 24.

This will be administered by the Adani Foundation, it is also to mark the birth centenary year of his father Shantilal Adani.

As per the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, the net worth of Adani is almost $92 billion.

The Forbes real-time billionaires has placed him at 6th rank ($95 billion).

Gujarat CM launches 17th ‘Shala Praveshotsav’

Gujarat CM, Bhupendra Patel has launched the 17th ‘Shala Praveshotsav’.

Aim: To increases the enrollment of students in primary schools in the state.

This is a three-day enrollment drive, starts from Memadpur primary school in Vadgam taluka (Banaskantha district).

This drive helps to reduce the dropout rate of students.

The drop out rate has been reduced to 3.07% from 37.22 % in 2002.

Gujarat Governor: Acharya Devvrat

Odisha, 'Mo Bus' service received the prestigious UN Public Service award

Mo Bus, Odisha-based public transport service has been honoured with a prestigious United Nations award.

Reason: Role and efforts in helping the world recover better from COVID-19.

Initiatives from Brazil, Canada, India, Ireland, Panama, Philippines, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Ukraine have also been recognised.

Mo Bus service launched: November 6, 2018

Aim: transformation of the urban public transport

Bus fares: Rs 5 -70 (AC), Rs 5 -55 (Non AC)

Jammu and Kashmir to host G-20 meetings in 2023

Jammu and Kashmir has been selected to host the G-20 meetings in 2023.

The UT government has also set up a five-member high-level committee for the coordination of G20 summit.

Piyush Goyal (Commerce and Industry Minister) was appointed as India's Sherpa for the G20 in September 2021.

India will take the G-20 presidency from December 1, 2022.

India has been represented by PM Modi since 2014 in G20 summit.

G20, 2024: Brazil

G20, 2025: South Africa

Sri Lanka revises Minimum Age for Migrant Domestic Workers

Sri Lanka has decided to revise the Minimum Age for Migrant Domestic Workers to 21 years.

The Cabinet of Ministers has also granted permission to revise the age limit, after considering the recommendations of the Cabinet-appointed Sub-Committee.

For Saudi Arabia the minimum age is 25 years, and for other Middle Eastern Countries is 23 years, and for all other countries is 21 years.

Sri Lanka PM: Ranil Wickremesinghe;

President: Gotabaya Rajapaksa

Assam becomes the 36th State/UT to implement One Nation One Ration Card

Assam has operationalised the Centre's 'One Nation, One Ration Card' programme, with this, it is implemented across the country.

Beneficiaries can get their quota of subsidised foodgrains from any electronic point of sale device (ePoS)-enabled fair price shops.

Beneficiaries can use their existing ration cards with biometric authentication.

The implementation of ONORC was initiated in August 2019.

The government has also rolled out the 'MERA RATION' mobile app.

A book titled ‘Ashtang Yoga’ by Dr Sonu Phogat, released by CM Manohar Lal

Haryana CM, Manohar Lal has released a book titled Ashtang Yoga authored by Dr Sonu Phogat on 8th International Yoga Day.

During the launch he announced that various programmes are being organised in Haryana on IYD.

CM also appreciated the efforts of writer Dr Sonu Phogat, as it is a matter of pride that the book on Yoga was released on International Yoga Day.

International Yoga Day: 21 June

2022 theme: Yoga for Humanity

United Nations Public Service Day: 23 June

UN Public Service Day is observed on June 23 with the aim to appreciate the value of public institutions and public servants.

The 2022 theme: “Building back better from COVID-19: Enhancing innovative partnerships to meet the Sustainable Development Goals.”

The General Assembly selected June 23 as Public Service Day, after adopting a resolution 57/277.

The UN established the UN Public Service Awards programme in 2003, which was later reviewed in 2016.

International Olympic Day: 23rd June

International Olympic Day is observed annually on June 23 across the world to commemorate the birth of modern Olympic games.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) was founded on 23 June 1894.

The theme for the International Olympic Day 2022 is “Together For A Peaceful World".

A member of the IOC, named Doctor Gruss has submitted a report suggesting at the 41st session of the International Olympic Committee in Stockholm, to celebrate the Olympic Day.

Freo, Equitas Small Finance Bank offer savings account

Freo has launched a digital savings account offering 'Freo Save' in association with Equitas Small Finance Bank.

With this launch, Freo has become the first consumer neobank in the country to provide full-stack neo-banking products.

It includes smart savings account, credit and payments products, cards and wealth-growth products.

The digital savings account has been integrated with Equitas’ infrastructure on the Freo Save App.

Freo Co-Founder: Anuj Kacker

Max Life launches life insurance savings plan with Policybazaar

Max Life Insurance Company Ltd has launched the ‘Max Life Smart Fixed-return Digital Plan’ with Policybazaar.

It is a non-linked, non-participating, individual life insurance savings plan.

This plan helps customers to meet their short-term financial goals.

The plan also offers guaranteed tax-free returns up to 6.14%.

Monthly premiums: ₹3000

Minimum tenure: five years

The plan is also available to purchase on Max Life’s website and Policybazaar.com.

CARD91 announces strategic partnership with YES BANK and RuPay

CARD91 has joined hands with YES BANK and RuPay, to create a card management system that will allow companies to launch a variety of co-branded card instruments.

This will enable CARD91 to expand its presence in the Indian payments market.

CARD91 is a global payment infrastructure powering B2B payments.

It was designed to help businesses launch co-branded cards and simplify payments.

Yes Bank CEO: Prashant Kumar

NPCI MD& CEO:  Dilip Asbe

South Korea launches homegrown Nuri rocket into orbit

South Korea has successfully launched satellites into orbit with its homegrown Nuri rocket.

This is a crucial step for the country's space program expansion after a failed attempt last year.

With this launch, South Korea becomes the 10th country to place a satellite with its own technology.

Nuri is a three-stage rocket, more than 47 meters (154 feet) long and weighing 200 tons.

It was launched from the Naro Space Center.

Development cost: 2 trillion won ($1.5bn)

Indian Navy conducts 38th coordinated patrol with Indonesian Navy

India has conducted 38th edition of the Coordinated Patrol with Indonesian Navy (IND-INDO CORPAT) from 13-24 Jun 22.

INS Karmuk (indigenously built missile corvette) is based at the Andaman and Nicobar Command, along with a Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft.

While the Indonesian Navy is being represented by KRI Cut Nyak Dien, a Kapitan Pattimura (PARCHIM I) class corvette.

The closing ceremony is scheduled at Sabang, Indonesia on 23 June 22.

South Indian Bank launches SIB TF Online, EXIM trade portal

South Indian Bank has launched a new portal for its corporate EXIM customers named ‘SIB TF Online’.

This portal provides a platform for trade-related payments to foreign entities remotely.

Through this portal, customer can initiate the payment request on SIB TF Online, after uploading the relevant documents for the transaction.

The bank launch SIB TF Online in phases.

South Indian Bank Headquarters: Thrissur;

CEO: Murali Ramakrishnan

PM Modi inaugurates 'Vanijya Bhawan', new premises of Commerce Ministry

PM Modi has inaugurated the new premises of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, 'Vanijya Bhawan' in New Delhi.

He has also launched a new portal named NIRYAT (National Import-Export Record for Yearly Analysis of Trade).

The portal was developed as a one stop platform to get all the required information related to India’s foreign trade.

Vanijya Bhawan, will be used by Department of Commerce and Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade DPIIT.

ISRO launches India's Communication satellite 'GSAT-24' from French Guiana

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched India's communication satellite, 'GSAT-24' from Kourou in French Guiana.

It is built by ISRO for NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

It was launched by French company Arianespace.

It is a 24-Ku band communication satellite, weight 4180 kg, pan-India coverage for meeting DTH application needs.

This is the first demand driven communication satellite mission undertaken by NSIL after space sector reforms.

Govt to collaborate with SBI for creation of integrated pension portal

Government's Department of Pension & Pensioners' Welfare (DoPPW) will collaborate with the State Bank of India (SBI).

Aim: to create an integrated pension portal, which helps to enhance ease of living of pensioners.

It was decided during the special session, that immediate efforts are needed for the creation of pension portal by linking the existing portals of the DoPPW and the SBI.

SBI Chairman: Dinesh Kumar Khara

Red Bull driver, Max Verstappen wins 2022 Canadian Grand Prix

Red Bull's driver, World champion Max Verstappen has clinched the 2022 Canadian Grand Prix title.

Ferrari driver, Carlos Sainz and Seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton ( Mercedes) have finished at second and third respectively.

Azerbaijan GP: Max Verstappen

Monaco GP: Sergio Pérez

Sapinsh GP: Max Verstappen

Miami GP: Max Verstappen

Emilia Romagna GP: Max Verstappen

Australian GP: Charles Leclerc

Saudi Arabian GP: Max Verstappen

RBI extends date for implementation of provisions concerning card issuance

The Reserve Bank of India has notified that it has extended the timeline for implementation of a few provisions under its master directions on credit card and debit card issuance.

The timeline has been extended by three months from July 1, 2022, to October 1, 2022.

Provisions: Card-issuers shall seek OTP based consent from the cardholder for activating a credit card, If consent is not received then card issuers shall close the credit card account without any cost.

Andhra Pradesh signs MoU with BYJU's for government school kids

The Andhra Pradesh government has signed an MoU with BYJU's to provide quality education to government school students.

The government will provide tablets to 4.7 lakh (approximately) students of class VIII at an estimated cost of Rs 500 crore.

Aim: More efficient, quality-oriented and presentable

BYJU's content would be incorporated in bilingual text books for students of classes IV to X from 2023 as the text books for 2022 have already been printed.

India ranks 4th in global gold recycling in 2021, World Gold Council Report

According to a World Gold Council (WGC) report, India has emerged as the fourth largest recycler in the world and the country has recycled 75 tonnes in 2021.

WGC report titled: Gold refining and recycling.

Top three: China (recycled 168 tonnes), followed by Italy (80 tonnes) and the US (78 tonnes in 2021).

The gold refining capacity of India has been increased by 1,500 tonnes (500%) in 2021.

World Gold Council Headquarters: London, UK; Founded: 1987; CEO: David Tait

SEBI forms advisory panel to hybrid securities to enable larger retail play

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has set up 20-member advisory committee under the chairmanship of K V Kamath.

Aim: recommends for giving a fillip to the growth of such instruments, including measures focusing on ease of issuance and attracting domestic and global capital.

Sebi has reconstituted its research advisory committee of 16 members, chaired by V Ravi Anshuman.

Aim: promotion, development, maintenance of databases relevant for regulation research.

American-Canadian writer Ruth Ozeki wins 2022 Women’s Prize for Fiction

American-Canadian writer, Ruth Ozeki has won the 2022 Women’s Prize for Fiction for her novel ‘The Book of Form and Emptiness”.

This is her fourth novel, which depicts the story of a thirteen-year-old boy who, starts to hear the voices of objects to talk to his father, after the tragic death of his father.

She was received £30,000 prize at a ceremony in London.

Other books: A Tale for the Time Being, plus the novels My Year of Meats and All Over Creation

Indian footballer, Sunil Chhetri becomes joint 5th highest goalscorer

Indian men's football team captain, Sunil Chhetri has become the joint fifth highest goalscorer in the history of international football.

He has achieved this feat during their AFC Asian Cup Qualifier clash against Hong Kong, where he scored his 84th goal.

Presently, he is equal to the legendary Real Madrid and Hungarian player, Ferenc Puskas goals.

He has also surpassed legendary football player Pele's record of 77 goals.

Renowned photojournalist, R. Raveendran passes away

Well-known photojournalist, R. Raveendran has been passed away at the age of 69.

He was known for his iconic photo of Rajiv Goswami setting himself on fire during the Mandal agitation in the Capital.

He has been awarded various photography awards.

He has worked in AFP and ANI.

Initially, he worked as a teleprinter operator in AFP 1973 and then became a photographer. He was presently working with ANI as Photo Editor.

A book titled “Gautam Adani: The Man Who Changed India” by RN Bhaskar

The biography of Adani Group chairman and founder, Gautam Adani, "Gautam Adani: The Man Who Changed India", written by journalist-author RN Bhaskar will be released in October 2022.

The book will be published by the Penguin Random House (PRHI).

The book has claimed to bring to light the unknown aspects of one of the richest men in the world.

Other book of Bhaskar: Game India: Seven strategies that could steer India to wealth (2019)

Merger of PVR-INOX gets clearance from BSE and NSE

PVR and INOX Leisure have received clearances for their merger from bourses NSE and BSE.

In March 2022, both multiplex operators has announced the merger to create the largest multiplex chain in the country.

The company has received observation letter with 'no adverse observations' from BSE Ltd on June 20, 2022 and observation letter with 'no objection' from NSE on June 21, 2022 .

Swap ratio: 3:10 i.e., 3 shares of PVR for 10 shares of Inox.

Ruchira Kamboj appointed as next Permanent Representative to UN

Indian ambassador to Bhutan, Ruchira Kamboj has been appointed as the Permanent Representative of India to UN.

She will replace T S Tirumurti.

She has joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1987, was the All India women’s topper of the 1987 Civil Services batch and the topper of the 1987 Foreign Service batch.

She worked in Paris (France) as the third Secretary in the Indian Embassy to France from 1989-91.

She was also posted as ambassador to UNESCO Paris in 2014.

Indian women's Wrestling team wins U-17 Asian Championship, Kyrgyzstan

Indian women's Wrestling team has clinched five medals to claim the Under-17 Asian Championship, held at Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

India has lifted the title with a total of 235 points (eight golds, one silver and one bronze).

With 143 points, Japan finished at second and Mongolia at third with 138 points.

Indian women including: Ritika( gold in 43 kg), Ahilaya Shinde (gold in 49 kg), Siksha (gold in 57 kg), Priya (gold in 73 kg), Pulkit (Silver medal in 65 kg).

LIC India launches Dhan Sanchay life insurance plan

The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has launched Dhan Sanchay, a non-linked, non-participating, individual savings life insurance plan.

This plan offers financial assistance to the family in the event of the life assured's untimely death within the policy's term.

It also offers a guaranteed income stream from the date of maturity until the end of the payout period.

LIC Chairperson: M R Kumar

Headquarters: Mumbai

Founded: 1 September 1956

ONDC joins hands with NABARD to activate e-commerce in agri tech

Open Network for Digital Commerce has joined hands with National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) to activate e-commerce in the agriculture domain.

ONDC and NABARD have come together to host the NABARD-ONDC Grand Challenge to establish market linkages for the enabled players with market ready Farmers Producers Organisations.

Aim: To promote development of innovative solutions that are likely to aid adoption of e-commerce in the agriculture domain.

TCS, HDFC, Infy and LIC placed in Kantar's global 100 most valuable firms

TCS, HDFC Bank, Infosys and LIC have been featured in the top 100 global biggest brands, along with companies like Apple, Google, Amazon and Microsoft.

TCS has been placed on the 46th spot of the list with an estimated of $50 billion by Kantar Brands 2022.

HDFC Bank placed on 61st with $35 billion brand value.

Infosys was ranked at 64th position and LIC placed on 92nd.

Top 10: Apple, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Tencent, McDonalds, Visa, Facebook, Alibaba, Louis Vuitton. 

Health Minister addresses inaugural session at the G20 Health Ministers

Union Health & Family Welfare Minister, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya has virtually addressed the inaugural session at the G20 Health Ministers meeting at Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

Indonesia has hosted two Health Working Group Meetings in Yogyakarta and Lombok.

Priority issues: Harmonizing Global Health Protocol Standards and Building Global Health System Resilience.

India has pledged to End TB by 2025 (five years ahead of the global SDG target of 2030).

Bishweswar Tudu inaugurates 20th Folk Fair and 13th Krishi Fair in Odisha

Minister of State for Tribal Affairs and Jal Shakti, Bishweswar Tudu has inaugurated the 20th Folk Fair (National tribal/folk song & dance festival) and 13th Krishi Fair 2022 at Saradhabali in Puri, Odisha.

Aim: At preserving tribal culture and promoting innovation in agriculture respectively

The fair will be continued for five days and concluded on 24th June.

The Minister has also extended all support of the Government for the upliftment of tribals in the state.

Ram Bahadur Rai's book titled ‘Bhartiya Samvidhan: Ankahi Kahani’ released

PM Narendra Modi has released the book titled, Bhartiya Samvidhan: Ankahi Kahani’, written by Ram Bahadur Rai.

This book of Shri Rai will be in the tradition of New India’s effort to remember the forgotten thoughts to ensure that in the India of the future, consciousness of the past remains strong.

The book with the history of independence and the untold chapters of our constitution will give a new thinking to the youth of the country.

Australia provides financial support of USD 50 million to Sri Lanka

Australia has announced to provide 50 million US dollars support to Sri Lanka for meet urgent food and health care needs.

Presently, Sri Lanka is facing its worst economic crisis in 70 years, which leads to food shortage, medicine and fuel.

Australia will provide 22 million dollars to the World Food Programme (WFP) for emergency food assistance to meet their daily nutritional needs and 23 million dollars in development assistance to Sri Lanka in 2022-23.

MoHUA launches NIPUN Project for promotion of upskilling Nirman Workers

Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Hardeep Singh Puri has launched an initiative for skill training of construction workers called ‘NIPUN’.

NIPUN refers National Initiative for Promoting Upskilling of Nirman workers.

MoHUA has launched this initiative under its flagship scheme of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM).

Aim: To train over 1 lakh construction workers, through fresh skilling and upskilling programmes.

Apollo Hospitals joins hands with Imperial Hospital of Bangladesh

Apollo Hospitals has signed an agreement with Imperial Hospital Ltd to operate and manage the latter's 375 bedded multi-specialty tertiary care hospital in Chittagong, Bangladesh.

The state-of-the-art facility in Chittagong was built with the support of World Bank and will be rebranded as Apollo Imperial Hospital.

The hospital will have experienced clinicians, medical staff and administrative staff.

Apollo will also manage daily operations, clinical service delivery.

PM’s award for contribution for promotion of Yoga announced for 2021

The PM's award for outstanding contribution for promotion of Yoga for the year 2021 has been announced.

The award has been conferred to Bhikkhu Sanghasena (Ladakh); Marcus Vinicius Rojo Rodrigues (Brazil); The Divine Life Society from Uttarakhand; and British Wheel of Yoga from United Kingdom.

The winners will be felicitated with a trophy, certificate and cash award of 25 lakh rupees.

The award was announced by PM on the occasion of the 2nd IDY at Chandigarh in 2016.

8th International Day of Yoga is being observed across the world on June 21

The 8th edition of International Day of Yoga is being observed on 21st June.

Aim:  To raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.

2022 theme: ‘Yoga for Humanity’

PM Modi will lead the mass Yoga demonstration at Mysuru in Karnataka.

To mark the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav', the Yoga Day is being celebrated in 75 iconic places across the country.

The United Nations in 2014 has declared the 21st of June as the International Day of Yoga.

Indian Coast Guard inducts new Advanced Light Helicopter Squadron 840 CG

The Eastern Region of Indian Coast Guard has inducted the indigenously designed and developed Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mark III, the first aircraft of the newly created “840 Squadron”.

The new squadron will be stationed at the headquarters of the Eastern Region of the Coast Guard, Chennai.

ICG will add three more ALHs to the inventory of ‘840 Squadron’ soon.

The aircraft is equipped to carry out target neutralisation.

Gustavo Petro elected as the first-leftist President of Colombia

Leftist party, Gustavo Petro has won presidential election of Colombia  and becomes the first ever leftist president in the history of country.

He defeated construction magnate, Rodolfo Hernandez with a margin of more than 700,000 votes.

Petro is a former mayor of capital Bogota and current senator.

He was also a former member of the M-19 guerrilla movement.

Francia Marquez has become the first Black woman Vice President of Colombia.

Currency: Colombian peso

Govt declares IT resources of ICICI, HDFC, NPCI as critical information

IT resources of ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and UPI managing entity NPCI as ‘critical information infrastructure’, declared by the Union Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY).

The government has the power to declare any data, database, IT network or communications infrastructure as CII to protect that digital asset as per the IT Act of 2000.

Any person who secures access to a protected system in violation of the law can be punished with a jail term of up to 10 years.

Khuvsgul lake of Mongolia added to UNESCO Biosphere Reserves

Khuvsgul Lake National Park of Mongolia has been added to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves of UNESCO.

This decision was made during the 34th session of the International Co-ordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere Programme taking place in Paris, France.

Location of Khuvsgul Lake: Northern Mongolian province of Khuvsgul near the Russian border.

The lake is 1,645 meters above sea level, 136 km long and 262m deep.

Kotak General Insurance joins hands with PhonePe to offer vehicle cover

Kotak Mahindra General Insurance Company Limited (Kotak General Insurance) has partnered with PhonePe Insurance Broking Services Pvt. Ltd (PhonePe).

Aim: To offer motor insurance on the PhonePe platform.

With the help of this platform, the Kotak General Insurance will provide quick and seamless car and two-wheeler insurance policies to its customers.

Phonepe HQ: Bengaluru, Karnataka

Kotak Mahindra General Insurance HQ: Mumbai, Maharashtra

Japan to attend NATO summit for first time in Madrid, Spain

Japanese Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida will attend North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit, which will be held in Madrid and becomes the Japan's first leader to join NATO summit.

Sweden and Finland will also send delegations to the summit and South Korea’s new President Yoon Suk-yeol will also become the first leader from his country to join the meeting.

NATO Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium

NATO Secretary General: Jens Stoltenberg

12th Ministerial Conference of WTO held in Geneva, Switzerland

The 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) of World Trade Organisation concluded at WTO headquarters in Geneva on 16th June 2022.

The Conference was co-hosted by Kazakhstan and chaired by Mr Timur Suleimenov (Deputy Chief of Staff of Kazakhstan's President).

The ministers from across the world attended the meeting to review the functioning of the multilateral trading system, make general statements and to take action on the future work of the WTO.

Fitch revises rating outlook on 9 Indian banks from 'Negative' to 'Stable'

Fitch Ratings has shift the rating outlook of nine Indian banks which include SBI, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank, from negative to stable.

The other banks are: Bank of Baroda (BOB), Bank of Baroda (New Zealand) Ltd, Bank of India, Canara Bank, Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Union Bank of India.

The Fitch's Issuer Default Ratings (IDR) are based on assessment of high to moderate probability of extraordinary state support for these banks.

World Refugee Day 2022: 20 June

World Refugee Day is observed annually on June 20 to throws light on the difficulties faced by refugees.

The United Nations has observed this day since 2001.

This day was first observed on June 20, 2001 to marks the 50th anniversary of the 1951 refugee convention that discussed refugee protection, but UN adopted resolution 55/76 on December 4, 2000.

2022 theme: Whoever, Whatever, Whenever. Everyone has a right to seek safety.

Neeraj Chopra will lead 37-member athletics team in Birmingham CWG 2022

Neeraj Chopra will lead the 37-member Indian athletics contingent in Birmingham, 2022 Commonwealth Games in July-August.

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has named a 37-member contingent for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, Birmingham.

The contingent include Avinash Sable (3000m Steeplechase); Nitender Rawat (Marathon); M Sreeshankar and Muhammed Anees Yahiya (Long Jump); Abdulla Aboobacker, Praveen Chithravel and Eldhose Paul (Triple Jump) and many more.

PM Modi launches various development projects in Bengaluru worth Rs 27K cr

PM Narendra Modi will inaugurate and launch various development programmes in Bengaluru and Mysuru.

During his two days visit, he will inaugurate the Brain Cell Research Centre, it cost 450 crore rupees, which was donated by Kris Gopalakrishnan (co-founder of Infosys).

PM will also lay foundation stone for an 850 bed Bagchi-Parthasarathy Research hospital at IISc being funded by MindTree IT company.

Manu and Shiva win at Kumar Surendra Singh Memorial Shooting competition

The team of Manu Bhaker and Shiva Narwal has won the 10m air pistol mixed team title at the 20th Kumar Surendra Singh Memorial Shooting competition.

They beat the duo of Amanpreet Singh and Shweta Singh of ONGC by 16-8 to clinched the gold medal.

Esha Singh (Telangana), had teamed up with Kaushik Gopu to win bronze in both the senior and junior mixed team competitions.

Meena Kumari (Haryana) has clinched the women’s 50m rifle title. 

Equitas Small Finance Bank to launch exclusive savings account for kids

Equitas Small Finance Bank has announced to launch an exclusive savings account for kids named as ‘ENJOI’.

Aim: Introducing young kids to the financial world and encourage them to develop the saving habit early.

It will allow kids of 0-18 years to open savings accounts under the supervision of their parents.

It will be launched on June 19 to coincide with Father’s Day.

Headquarters of Equitas Small Finance Bank: Chennai.

RBI 'Payments Vision 2025' seeks 3-fold jump in digital payments

RBI increase the number of digital payment transactions by more than 3X by 2025 and to curb volume of cheque-based payments to less than 0.25% of total retail payments. 

Core theme of vision documents: E-Payments for Everyone, Everywhere, Everytime (4Es). 

It covers 47 specific initiatives and 10 expected outcomes. 

It provide users with safe, secure, fast, convenient, accessible, and affordable e-payment options. 

It also envisages annualized growth of 50% for UPI payments. 

China launches third most advanced domestically built aircraft carrier ‘Fuj'

China has launched its third aircraft carrier named 'Fujian', which is the most advanced as well as the first fully domestically built naval vessel of China. 

Its launching ceremony was held at the Shanghai's Jiangnan Shipyard.

Fujian is the name of eastern coastal province of Fujian, China. 

China's first aircraft carrier, Liaoning, is so far the only Chinese aircraft carrier with the initial operational capability or the basic level of combat readiness.

India, Bangladesh to hold first physical Joint Consultative Commission Meet

India and Bangladesh will hold first physical Joint Consultative Commission Meeting in New Delhi. 

JCC meet will be co-chaired by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and his Bangladesh counterpart A. K. Abdul Momen.

It will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations, including cooperation in the wake of COVID-19, border management and security, trade and investment, connectivity, energy, water resources, development partnership and regional-multilateral issues.

Agniveers to get 10% reservation in Defence, CAPF and Assam rifles job

Ministry of Home Affairs has decided to reserve 10% vacancies for recruitment in Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Assam Rifles for Agniveers under Agnipath scheme. 

Ministry has also decided to give 3 years age relaxation beyond the prescribed upper age limit to Agniveers. 

Age relaxation will be for 5 years beyond for the first batch of agniveer. 

The scheme will not only empower, discipline & skill youth with military ethos in civil society. 

Manpreet Kaur, Parmjeet Kumar wins bronze medals in Asia Oceania Open

Indian para-powerlifters Manpreet Kaur and Parmjeet Kumar have won bronze medals in World Para-powerlifting 2022 Asia Oceania Open Championships at Pyeongtaek in South Korea. 

Manpreet Kaur (women’s category) won bronze medal in the 41 kg category and had the best lift of 88 kg and the total lift of 173 kg.

Parmjeet Kumar (men’s category) also won the bronze medal in 49 kg category and lifted 160 and 163 kilograms in two rounds which were his lifetime best lifts.

India beat Argentina in FIH Women's Hockey Pro-League Tournament

Indian women's hockey team has won FIH Women's Hockey Pro-League Tournament after defeating Argentina by four-goal to three.

In stipulated time both the teams scored three goals, but in the shoot-out, India strike two to one.

First match of the tournament was played at Rotterdam in the Netherlands.

Indian team is currently placed at the third position in the points table with 22 points in 10 games. 

Argentina team is at the top with 38 points in 14 matches.

India and EU re-launch negotiations for India-EU free trade agreement

India and European will be re-launching negotiations for India-EU Free Trade Agreement, after a gap of 9 years. 

Negotiations for an Investment Protection Agreement and GI Agreement has also been launched at a joint event at the EU headquarters in Brussels.

Among the most significant FTAs for India as the EU is its 2nd largest trading partner,

India-EU merchandise trade registered an all-time high value of 116.36 Billion dollars in 2021-22 with a year-on growth of 43.5%. 

Education Minister inaugurates National Yoga Olympiad 2022

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has inaugurated National Yoga Olympiad 2022 and quiz competition in New Delhi.

It is being organized jointly by Ministry of Education and National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). 

The Olympiad will be participated by about 600 students from 26 states and UTs and Demonstration Multipurpose Schools of Regional Institutions of Education. 

This year’s theme: Yoga For Humanity.

Justice RP Desai appointed as the Chairperson of Press Council of India

Former Supreme Court judge Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai (72-years) has been appointed as the Chairperson of Press Council of India. 

She succeeded former Supreme Court judge Justice CK Prasad, who held the office from 2014 to 2022.

She became the first women chairperson of Press Council of India. 

She was a judge of the Supreme Court from 2011 to 2014. 

She also headed the Delimitation Commission on J&K. 

PCI: statutory regulatory watchdog of the press, founded in 1966. 

India ranked 3rd in REN21’s renewables 2022 global status report

India ranked third in the REN21 Renewables 2022 Global Status Report (GSR 2022) globally. 

India’s total renewable power capacity additions in 2021 was 15.4 GW. 

Top performer of the report: China (136 GW) and US (43 GW)

India installed 843 MW of hydropower capacity in 2021, brings the overall capacity to 45.3 GW,

India was the 2nd-largest market for new solar PV capacity in Asia and for the first time, it surpassed Germany (59.2 GW) in total installations (60.4 GW).

World’s biggest plant discovered off Australian coast

The world’s largest living plant has been identified in the shallow waters off the coast of Western Australia.

The sprawling seagrass, a marine flowering plant known as Posidonia australis, stretches for more than 112 miles (180 kilometers) in Shark Bay, a wilderness area protected as a World Heritage site.

Using genetic testing, scientists have determined a large underwater meadow in Western Australia is in fact one plant. It is believed to have spread from a single seed over at least 4,500 years. The seagrass covers about 200 sq km.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Australia Prime minister: Anthony Albanese;

Australia Capital: Canberra;

Australia Currency: Australian dollar.

Sustainable Gastronomy Day 2022 observed on 18 June

Every year, the world observes Sustainable Gastronomy Day on 18 June. The objective of this day is to recognise the practices associated with sustainable food consumption, especially with the art of collecting and preparing the food we eat.

To make this day a memorable one, the organisations work in collaboration with global and regional bodies to observe the day.

The day was recognised on 21 December 2016 after the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/71/246, and declared 18 June as Sustainable Gastronomy Day.

Every year, UNGA, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) work together to ensure that the day is celebrated properly around the world.

International Picnic Day 2022: 18th June

International Picnic Day is celebrated annually on 18 June. On this day, people spend time with their loved ones and go for picnics to get a break from their monotonous everyday routine.

A picnic is a very good way to not only spend some quality time but also explore new feast spots. The word “picnic” probably gets its origins from the French language, specifically from the word “pique-nique”.

It is believed that this type of informal outdoor meal became a popular pastime in France after the French Revolution in the mid-1800s when it was possible again to get out into the country’s royal parks.

International Day for Countering Hate Speech: 18 June

International Day for Countering Hate Speech falls on June 18. According to the UN, hate speech is any kind of speech or writing that attacks or discriminates against a person or a group based on religion, ethnicity, nationality, race, color, descent, gender, or any other identity factor.

Speech should not be a weapon for creating more mayhem in this volatile world; thus, the International Day for Countering Hate Speech will help to stop hate-mongering.

Govt establishes 10% quota for Agniveers, alters upper age limit 

Following widespread opposition to the Agnipath plan, the Centre announced a 10% reservation for Agniveers in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and Assam Rifles recruitment. 

The Ministry of Home Affairs also decided to grant a three-year age relaxation to Agniveers in the CAPFs and Assam Rifles who are between the ages of 17.5 and 21. Notably, the initial class of recruits will be given a five-year extension on the maximum age limit.

The Agnipath short-term recruitment strategy for the armed forces was previously announced by the Centre. The plan, which is intended to be a reformative step, attempts to infuse more fresh blood into the three services.

RBI raises limit of e-mandates for transactions up to Rs 15,000

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has raised the Additional Factor of Authentication (AFA) limit from Rs 5,000 to Rs 15,000 per transaction for e-mandates on cards, Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs) and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for recurring transactions.

It implies, additional authentication will not be need for payment of Rs 15,000 per transaction.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, over the past decade, put in place various safety and security measures for card payments, including the requirement of AFA, especially for ‘card-not-present’ transactions.

Piyush Goyal: After several years, India able to win favourable WTO outcome

Despite a strong global campaign against Indian farmers and fishermen, India was able to secure a favourable outcome at the WTO after many years, commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal told the media after the conclusion of the 12th ministerial conference — the WTO (World Trade Organisation)‘s highest decision-making body.

Piyush Goyal described the conference as a ‘outcome-oriented success’, saying the Indian team, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was “100% successful” in expressing the top concerns for India and the developing nations to the world.

Bhagwat Karad: Govt to take additional efforts to reduce inflation if required

Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad, India’s state minister for finance, stated that the Finance Ministry will take additional efforts to reduce inflation if necessary. Inflation is a worldwide phenomena, and India is better off than other countries.

The government is keeping a close eye on inflation and doing everything it can to keep it under control. According to the minister of state, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has had a significant impact on India’s inflation.

Since 1980s, world’s central banks launch their most hawkish campaign

Central bankers around the world are enacting what could be the most dramatic tightening of monetary policy since the 1980s, risking recessions and upsetting financial markets as they try to deal with an unexpected spike in inflation.

The week began with a surprise move on Wall Street to price in a Federal Reserve rate hike of 75 basis points. Chairman Jerome Powell declared himself fully committed to bringing inflation back down, the greatest step by the US central bank since 1994.

Switzerland surprisingly boosted rates, while the Bank of England raised rates for the fifth time, this time by 25 basis points, and indicated that it will soon double the rate.

The bond market’s reaction to the coordinated removal of stimulus was so ferocious that the European Central Bank called an emergency meeting on Wednesday to address rising yields in some euro-zone countries.

47th meeting of GST Council to be held in Srinagar 

The 47th meeting of the GST Council will be held on June 28 and 29, 2022 in Srinagar. The GST Council is chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This is the second time that the GST Council meeting is being held in Srinagar.

Before the launch of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on July 1, 2017, the 14th meeting of the Coun cil was held on May 18 and 19 in the city.

The Council had last year set up a seven-member panel of state ministers, headed by Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, to suggest ways to augment revenue by rationalising tax rates. The GoM had last met in November 2021.

Ministerial meeting on GST rationalisation fails to reach agreement

According to insiders, a group of state ministers working on GST rate rationalisation was unable to achieve an agreement because some members were opposed to modifications to tax slabs and rates.

They stated that the Group of Ministers will provide a status report to the GST Council on the consensus reached at the Group of Minister’s previous meeting on November 20, 2021.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Finance Minister of India: Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman

Chief Minister of Karnataka: Shri Basavaraj Bommai

Hamza Abdi Barre appointed as PM of Somalia

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has appointed a former chairman of the Jubbaland state election commission, Hamza Abdi Barre as the Prime Minister.

The 48-year-old Hamza Abdi Barre from the semi-autonomous state of Jubaland replaced Mohamed Hussein Roble.

Barre served in a number of public and political roles and from 2011 to 2017 was secretary-general of the Peace and Development Party (PDP), the precursor to the Union for Peace and Development (UDP) now led by Mohamud.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Somalia Capital: Mogadishu;

Somalia Currency: Somali Shilling;

Somalia President: Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

Japan to participate in NATO summit for the first time Japan to participate in NATO summit for the first time 

Japanese Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida will attend this month’s NATO summit in Madrid, becoming the country’s first leader to join a top meeting of the transatlantic alliance.

The June 28-30 gathering is seen as a crunch moment for the 30 North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies, four months into Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Japan, a key U.S. ally and not a NATO member, has delivered defensive supplies to Ukraine and imposed tough sanctions on Russia in tandem with the other Group of Seven countries.

Important For All Exam 2022:

NATO Formation: 4 April 1949;

NATO Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium;

NATO Secretary General: Jens Stoltenberg;

NATO Total Member: 30;

NATO Last member of NATO: North Macedonia.

Israel, Haryana Government sign joint declaration on water cooperation

Israel government has signed a joint declaration with Haryana in integrated water resources management and capacity building.

The joint declaration was signed by ambassador Eynat Shlein, Head of MASHAV- Israel's Agency for International Development Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel and the Irrigation and Water Resources Department, Government of Haryana, India.

Both countries are celebrating 30 years of full diplomatic relations.

Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance rebranded as Canara HSBC Life Insurance

Canara, HSBC, and Oriental Bank of Commerce Life Insurance have rebranded and renamed itself as Canara HSBC Life Insurance.

They launched its first brand campaign #PromisesKaPartner aligned to its new positioning - ‘Powering India to re-imagine their dreams and aspirations’.

Existing policyholders can use the benefits of its existing policies under the new brand identity.

Reason: Its third partner Punjab National Bank exit. PNB had acquired the OBC.

Govt clears the appointment of new Chief Justices in 6 High Courts

Justice Vipin Sanghi will be appointed as the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand HC while Justice Rashmin M Chhaya of the as the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court.

Telangana Chief Justice, Satish Chandra Sharma will be appointed to the Delhi HC.

Justice Amjad A Sayed and Justice SS Shinde will be elevated as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh HC and Rajasthan HC respectively.

Justice Ujjal Bhuyan will take over as the Chief Justice of the Telangana HC.

Coursera Global Skills Report 2022 released: Switzerland tops

Coursera has released the latest Global Skills Report (GSR) 2022, which revealed, India’s overall skills proficiency has dipped four places to be ranked at the 68th position globally.

In Asian countries, India stands at the 19th position.

West Bengal leads the Indian states in terms of skills proficiency.

For the second consecutive year, Switzerland had the highest-skilled learners followed by Denmark, Indonesia, and Belgium.

Tamil Nadu becomes the largest State in outstanding microfinance loan

Tamil Nadu, replaced West Bengal to become the largest state in terms of outstanding portfolio of microfinance loans.

It was followed by Bihar (₹35,941 crore) and West Bengal (₹34,016 crore).

The gross loan portfolio of Tamil Nadu as of March 31, 2022 stood at ₹36,806 crore, as per the MFIN Micrometer Q4 FY21-22, a quarterly report published by Microfinance Institutions Network.

The overall microfinance industry has a total GLP of ₹2,85,441 cr as of March 31, 2022. 

Los Angeles, Toronto, Mexico City named FIFA World Cup 2026 host cities

Los Angeles, Toronto and Mexico City have been named among the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

This is the first time when the tournament will be shared by three different countries.

USA: Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Kansas City, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston, Boston, Philadelphia, Miami and New York/New Jersey.

Canada: Vancouver and Toronto.

Mexico: Gadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey

RBI lifts business restrictions imposed on Mastercard

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has lifted the restrictions imposed on Mastercard on June 16 citing improvement compliance.

The RBI had imposed restrictions on Mastercard Asia/Pacific Pte. Ltd. from on-boarding new domestic customers (debit, credit or prepaid) onto its card network from July 22, 2021.

Reason of restriction: For non-compliance with the RBI circular dated April 6, 2018 on Storage of Payment System Data.

Mumbai Airport introduces hybrid power project

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has become India's first airport to launch a one-of-its-kind Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) & Solar PV hybrid (Solar Mill).

Aim: Possible utilization of wind energy at the airport.

This is a pilot program in collaboration with WindStream Energy Technologies India Pvt Ltd.

WindStream Energy Technologies India Pvt Ltd ensures 24/7 energy generation, harnessing maximum energy through wind power systems.

Tamil Nadu government launches Ennum Ezhuthum scheme to fill learning gap

Tamil Nadu CM, MK Stalin has launched the Ennum Ezhuthum scheme to bridge the learning gap that was created due to the COVID-19 pandemic among students aged below eight.

Aim: To ensure foundational literacy and numeracy by 2025.

Under this programme, the education department of state will provide workbooks to students from Classes 1 to 3.

He has also announced Rs 1,000 incentive for girl students, who are pursuing higher education.

Equitas Small Finance Bank launches exclusive savings account for kids

Equitas Small Finance Bank has announced to launch an exclusive savings account for kids named ‘ENJOI’.

Aim: Encourage the young kids to develop the saving habit early.

The account will be launched on June 19 to coincide with Father’s Day.

The ENJOI allow kids of 0-18 years to open savings accounts under the supervision of their parents.

The bank offers 7% interest for savings balances between ₹5 lakh to ₹2 crore.

Jio's president, Pramod Mittal appointed as Chairperson for 2022-23 of COAI

Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has appointed Pramod K Mittal (President of Jio Infocomm), as the new Chairperson of the association for 2022-23.

He will replace Ajai Puri as the COAI Chairperson, who held the position for the two consecutive terms.

COAI members include Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea (VIL).

Chief Regulatory and Corporate Affairs Officer of Vodafone Idea (VIL), P Balaji named as the Vice Chairperson of the association.

Zomato partners with Jio-bp to accelerate EV adoption

Zomato has collaborated with the Jio-bp to support Zomato’s commitment towards “The Climate Group’s EV100 initiative of 100% EV fleet by 2030.”

This partnership will accelerate EV adoption in the rapidly growing Indian delivery and transportation segment.

Zomato will get the EV mobility services from Jio-bp and access to ‘Jio-bp pulse’ battery swapping stations for last-mile delivery.

Jio-bp, is the fuel and mobility JV between Reliance Industries Ltd and bp.

Nitin Gadkari inaugurates Industrial Decarbonization Summit 2022, New Delhi

Nitin Gadkari (Road Transport and Highways Minister) has inaugurated Industrial Decarbonization Summit 2022 in New Delhi.

Aim: Carbon Neutrality by 2070

He emphasized on maintaining balance between ecology, environment and development.

The government is giving the priority to green hydrogen and using biotechnology to increase the productivity of Biomass.

With the use of Biomass, nation can make Bio-ethanol, Bio-LNG and Bio-CNG.

Arati Prabhakar appointed as the Science Advisor to US President, Joe Biden

US president, Joe Biden has appointed Arati Prabhakar as the head of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

She succeeded Eric Lander.

She would be the first woman and the first person of color to serve as science adviser to the President of the United States.

She also served in top roles during the presidential tenures of Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

During the Clinton administration, she lead the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

The 4th Global Startup Ecosystem Report released

As per the Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER), the startup ecosystem in Kerala has been ranked as the best in Asia and fourth in terms of Affordable Talent.

Bengaluru city, has been moved up to number 22 in the ranking.

The report also showed that the Bengaluru’s tech ecosystem value is at $105 billion which is higher than that of Singapore at $89 billion and Tokyo at $62 billion.

Top five: Silicon Valley, followed by New York City, London, Boston, and Beijing.

Google announces startup accelerator program for women founders

Google has announced a program for women founders, 'startup accelerator program', which will help them address challenges such as fundraising and hiring.

The first batch of the Google for Startups Accelerator India – Women Founders will enroll up to 20 women-founded co-founded startups in the country, and support them through a three-month program.

The selected Startups will receive support and mentorship around AI/ML, Android, Web, Product Strategy and Growth.

India’s unemployment rate falls to 4.2% in 2020-21

As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for 2020-21 (July-June), the unemployment rate of India has declined to 4.2%in 2020-21 (July-June).

The survey was released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme.

The labour force participation rate has been raised to 41.6%.

The unemployment rate was 4.8% and the labour force participation rate was 40.1% in 2019-20.

The PLFS provides quarterly updates for urban areas and an annual report for urban and rural areas.

HDFC Bank, 100X.VC sign MoU to collaborate on start-up support

HDFC Bank has signed an MoU with 100X.VC to enhance its engagement with the start-up ecosystem in the country.

The bank has also laid the provision of its comprehensive package of specialised services and facilities customised for start-ups, branded as ‘Smart-Up’.

The bank will also assess start-ups for investment and loan extension opportunities which recommended by 100X.VC.

Eighth Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians held in Egypt

The Eighth Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians has been started in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt to address climate change.

The two-day conference is being jointly organized by the House of Representatives and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

Nagaland's first woman elected as Member of Parliament to Rajya Sabha, S. Phangon Konyak is representing India at the Conference.

Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) HQ: Geneva, Switzerland. 

Adani Transmission gets 'green loan' tag for $700-mn revolving facility

Adani Transmission Limited (ATL) has been tagged as 'green loan' by Sustainalytics for its USD 700 million revolving loan facility.

ATL has also signed an energy compact goals as part of COP26 and the energy compact with the UN in November, 2021.

This revolving facility project is being implemented in Gujarat and Maharashtra.

Sustainalytics, provides analytical environmental, social and governance research, ratings and data to institutional investors and companies.

RBI appointed Anand Mahindra and Venu Srinivasan to RBI Board

The Central Government has nominated Anand Gopal Mahindra (Chairman of Mahindra group), Venu Srinivasan (TVS Motor’s Chairman), Pankaj Ramanbhai Patel (Zydus Lifescience’s Chairman ) and Ravindra Dholakia (IIM Ahmedabad’s ex-faculty) as part-time non-official Directors on the Central Board of RBI.

The appointment will be for a period of four years and effective from June 14.

RBI Governor: Shaktikanta Das

Renowned critic and linguist Professor Gopi Chand Narang passes away

Eminent Urdu critics, theorists and linguists Professor Gopi Chand Narang has passed away at 91.

He has been honoured with the Padma Bhushan (2004) and Sahitya Akademi Awards (1995).

He was a Professor Emeritus at the University of Delhi and Jamia Millia Islamia.

He incorporated a range of modern theoretical frameworks, including stylistics, structuralism, post-structuralism and Sanskrit poetics.

He was born in Dukki (now in present-day Baluchistan, Pakistan).

LinkedIn join hands with UN Women to create employment for women

LinkedIn has invested $5,00,000 (₹3.88 crore) in association with UN Women to create employment opportunities for women.

The pilot project will launch in Maharashtra to cultivate the digital, soft and employability skills of 2,000 women.

After the completion of 15-month of the pilot project, the UN Women and LinkedIn will incorporate lessons learned and evaluative feedback.

LinkedIn HQ: Sunnyvale, California, United States

UN Women HQ: New York, United States

India successfully tests Short-Range Ballistic Missile Prithvi-II

India has tested Short-Range Ballistic Missile, Prithvi-II from an integrated test range in  Chandipur, Odisha.

This missile system is capable of striking targets with a very high degree of precision.

It is an indigenously developed, surface-to-surface missile.

Range: 250 km and can carry one-ton payload.

It is powered by liquid propulsion twin engines.

Recently, India has also tested the nuclear-capable Agni-4 ballistic missile in Odisha.

OmniCard becomes 1st RBI licensed PPI to launch cash withdrawal in all ATM

OmniCard became the 1st RBI licensed PPI to launch cash withdrawal using a RuPay-powered card from any ATMs across the country.

The move came in after RBI permitted the non-bank licensed entities to enable cash withdrawals from the digital wallets.

OmniCard users can withdraw cash from any ATM at their convenience with full security from frauds like card theft, card cloning, and PIN skimming.

The company is working with NPCI to enable the facility.

XPay.Life launches UPI services targeted at rural India

Fintech startup XPay.Life, India’s 1st blockchain-enabled transaction framework, launched its UPI services targeted at rural India.

aim: to make financial facilities accessible for people in rural areas.

The launch of its UPI services is expected to benefit XPay.Life’s 4 mn consumers across more than 15 states and 1 lakh villages.

XPay.Life along with NABARD, NPCI and the state govt working towards strengthening DB and payments by enabling the last mile link.

World Blood Donor Day 2022: 14th June

World Blood Donor Day is observed on 14 June every year to spread awareness regarding the need for “safe blood and blood products for transfusion”.

Theme (Slogan) for 2022: “Donating blood is an act of solidarity.

The host nation for World Blood Donor Day 2022 is Mexico.

The WHO initiated and declared June 14, the birth anniversary of Karl Landsteiner, as WBD in 2004.

 Karl Landsteiner distinguished human blood into A, B, AB and O groups.

Bharat FIH receives Sebi's approval for ₹5,000 crore public offering

Bharat FIH has received market regulator SEBI's approval for an Initial Public Offering (IPO) aggregating to ₹5,000 crores.

Bharat FIH is a subsidiary of FIH Mobile a leading manufacturing services provider for the mobile handset industry, which is a part of Foxconn Technology Group.

The company makes devices for Xiaomi and Nokia.

The IPO size comprises a fresh issue worth ₹2,501.9 crore and an offer for sale up to ₹2,501.9 crore by Wonderful Stars.

Fortified rice to be distributed in 291 aspirational through PDS in 2022-23

The central govt has said that fortified rice will be distributed in 291 aspirational and high-burden districts across the country through Public Distribution System in 2022-23. 

Govt has planned to provide 175 lakh MT of fortified rice during this phase.

The focus will be on to cover all Integrated Child Development Services Centre, PM - Poshan and Mid-Day Meal schools.

During 2021-22, around 17 lakh MT of fortified rice have been distributed under ICDS and PM- Poshan.

Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Mela to be hosted in 200 locations

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship will be organising the Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Mela every month now on.

Aim:  to connect the youth with more opportunities for on-ground training within corporates and further a chance to get employment.

The PM National Apprenticeship Mela will take place across 200+ locations in India.

Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: Dharmendra Pradhan

Railway minister launches Railway Innovation portal for funding Start-up

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the Indian Railway Innovation Portal with a start-up policy for railways.

Aim: promoting Indian innovators and entrepreneurs through a series of innovative start-ups.

Railways will continue supporting the innovative start-ups, by all means, even granting up to Rs 1.5 cr to innovative start-ups.

Platform should be used with getting support from Indian Railways in form of a 50% capital grant, assured market, scale and ecosystem. 

Govt launches Agnipath military recruitment scheme

The Indian govt has introduced the Agnipath Military recruitment scheme, a 4-year tenure scheme for the defense troops.

The scheme will facilitate the induction of more troops for shorter-term tenures.

The scheme has been planned and is being implemented by the Department of Military Affairs.

Under the scheme, candidates will join the defense forces and continue for a period of four years only.

The scheme also aims to induct younger candidates.

Viktor Axelsen, Chen Yufei Clinch Singles Titles at BWF Indonesia Masters

Olympic champions Viktor Axelsen and Chen Yufei clinched the respective men’s and women’s singles titles at the BWF Indonesia Masters 2022.

Axelsen (Denmark) defeated Taiwan's Chou Tien-chen in straight sets.

While  Chen Yufei (China) beats Thailand’s Ratchanok Intanon.

For Chen, triumph in Jakarta marks a first individual tournament victory since she won gold at the Tokyo 2020 Games.

After the Indonesia Masters, the Indonesia Open is set to begin on June 14.

PM Modi to Inaugurate Jagatguru Sreesanth Tukaram Maharaj Shila Mandir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving on a one-day visit to Maharashtra today.

He will inaugurate Jagatguru Sreesanth Tukaram Maharaj Shila Mandir at Dehu near Pune.

The city of Dehu is sanctified by the Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj, a renowned poet and worshipper of Lord Vithala, from 17th century.

This place is highly revered especially by the warkari sect for whom the verses written by Sant Tukaram, fondly called Tukoba, are the essence of their life.

UAE’s META4 to invest ₹250 cr in new EV manufacturing facility in Telangana

UAE-based META4 Group has signed an MoU with the Telangana govt to set up an Electric Vehicle manufacturing plant with an investment of ₹250 crores in Zaheerabad, Telangana.

As per the MoU, the Telangana govt will provide 15 acres of subsidized land in the National Investment and Manufacturing Zone, Zaheerabad.

META4 has made this investment through Voltly Energy, which provides advanced EV 2-wheeler manufacturing and delivers energy-efficient EV charging solutions.

Indian Bank launches digital renewal scheme for Kisan credit card holders

Indian Bank launched its KCC Digital Renewal scheme, enabling eligible customers to renew their Kisan Credit Card accounts via digital modes.  

The initiative is part of the bank’s digital transformation under project ‘WAVE’ - World of Advanced Virtual Experience.

The account renewals can be done using Indian Bank’s IndOASIS mobile app and internet banking.

Out of the total agriculture portfolio of ₹88,100 cr, KCC constitutes ₹22,300 cr with 15.84 lakh customers.

Max Verstappen wins Azerbaijan Grand Prix 2022

Red Bull's Max Verstappen won the Azerbaijan Formula One Grand Prix 2022.

He became the most successful driver in the Red Bull of all time.

Red Bull’s Sergio Perez came second and Mercedes’ George Russell came at the third spot.

He leads over Ferrari's Charles Leclerc.

The Ferrari duo of Leclerc and Carlos Sainz had a terrible outing in the street circuit of Baku with their cars suffering their respective problems, knocking them out midway through the race.

Haryana becomes champion at Khelo India Youth Games 2021

Host state Haryana becomes the champion at the 4th Khelo India Youth Games 2021.

Haryana tops the medal tally with 52 gold, 39 silver, and 46 bronze medals.

While Maharashtra finished 2nd with 45 gold, 40 silver, and 40 bronze.

Karnataka finished 3rd with 22 gold, 17 silver and 28 bronze. 

Karnataka swimmer Aneesh Gowda won the highest number of medals (six Gold).

Maharashtra swimmer Apeksha Fernandes and gymnast Sanyukta Kale won five gold medals each in the games.

India created history by qualifying for FIFAe Nations Cup 2022

India created history by securing a spot at the highly coveted FIFAe Nations Cup (FeNC) 2022 in football.

Representatives from the country will join other sports athletes from 23 other nations to compete at the highest level of FIFA 22 Esports from 26th to 30th July in Copenhagen, Denmark.

It is organized and conducted by EA Sports.

FeNC is one of three major esports events that are held on a worldwide scale to crown the global champions of the game.

Union Minister releases National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment

Union Minister Jitendra Singh has released the 2nd edition of the National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment 2021 (NeSDA 2021). 

It has been prepared covering the assessment of States, Union Territories with focus on Central Ministries on their effectiveness in delivering online services to citizens. 

It covers services across 7 sectors: Finance, Labour and Employment, Education, Local Governance and Utility Services, Social Welfare, Environment and Tourism sectors. 

Ayush Institute, NARIP gets NABL Accreditation

Department of Biochemistry and Pathology of National Ayurveda Research Institute for Panchakarma (NARIP), Cheruthuruthy, Thrissur, Kerala has got NABL M(EL)T Accreditation for its clinical laboratory services. 

NARIP: Premier research Institute under Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences.

It is the first Institute under CCRAS to get NABL accreditation for its clinical laboratory services.

It ensures that citizens get quality health care service.

WTO Ministerial conference 2022 is being held at Geneva

The twelfth WTO Ministerial Conference will begin from 12th June 2022 in Geneva, Switzerland after a gap of almost 5 years.

Indian delegation will be led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. 

Key areas: WTO’s response to the pandemic, Fisheries subsidies negotiations and Agriculture issues including Public Stockholding for Food security.

India is a founding member of the WTO since 1 January 1995 and a member of GATT since 8 July 1948.

International Albinism Awareness Day 2022: 13th June

International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) is annually observed on 13th June, representing the importance and celebration of human rights of people with albinism. 

Theme for International Albinism Awareness Day 2022: United in making our voice heard. 

Albinism: non-contagious, genetically inherited ailment that results in the lack of melanin in skin, eyes, and hair. 

The Day was laid down by the UNGA in 2014 and it first observance was done in 2015.

UNGA adopts India sponsored resolution on multilingualism

United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted an India-sponsored resolution on multilingualism that mentions the Hindi language for the first time.

The resolution urges United Nations to continue spreading vital communications and messages in both official and non-official languages, including Hindi. 

For the first time, Hindi language is mentioned in the resolution besides Bangla and Urdu.

Multilingualism is acknowledged as a basic principle of United Nation. 

NCPCR launches CiSS application under Baal Swaraj portal

National Commission for the Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has launched ‘CiSS application’ under Baal Swaraj portal to help in rehabilitation process of Children in Street Situations (CiSS). 

It has been launched for online tracking and digital real-time monitoring mechanism of children in need of care and protection. 

It has two functions:

COVID care: for children who have lost their parents due to covid-19

CiSS: For collecting, tracking and rehabilitation process

Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurates national museum of customs and GST in Goa

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has inaugurated “Dharohar - the National Museum of Customs and GST” in Panaji Goa. 

It is a two-storey ‘Blue building’, which was earlier known as Alfandega, during Portuguese rule in Goa and has been standing on the banks of Mandovi River in Panaji for more than 400 years.

Dharohar showcases not only the artifacts seized by Indian Customs but also depicts various aspects of work performed by the Customs Department.

NHAI enters Guinness World Record for laying 75 km highway in 105 hours

National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has created Guinness World Record for the longest continuously laid bituminous lane of 75 kilometres in 105 hours and 33 minutes between Amravati and Akola districts in Maharashtra. 

Amravati-Akola section is part of NH 53, which connects cities like Kolkata, Raipur, Nagpur and Surat.

It is equivalent to 37.5 kms of two-lane paved shoulder road. 

The construction work started on June 3 at 7:27 am and completed at June 7 at 5 pm.

Defence Minister enhanced funding limit of TDF Scheme to Rs 50 crore

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved enhancement of funding under Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme to Rs 50 crores per project from Rs 10 crores. 

TDF scheme is executed by Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and supports indigenous development of components, products, systems and technologies by MSMEs and start-ups

It facilitates up to 90% of the total project cost and allows industry to work in consortium with another industry/academia.

Saanapathi Gurunaidu clinches gold medal at IWF Youth World Championship

Indian weightlifter Saanapathi Gurunaidu has clinched Gold medal in men's 55 kilogram event at IWF Youth World Championships in Mexico.

He lifted a total of 230-kilogram, 104 kilogram in Snatch winning Silver and 126 kilogram lifting in Clean and Jerk to finish on the top to grab the Gold medal.

Apart from him, Vijay Prajapati and Akansha Kishor Vyavhare clinched silver medals on the opening day. 

Akanksha won the medal in Women's 40 kilogram category.

RBL Bank appoints R Subramaniakumar as new MD & CEO

The RBI has approved R Subramaniakumar’s appointment as the MD & CEO of RBL Bank.

Subramaniakumar is a former managing director and chief executive director of state-run Indian Overseas Bank.

He was appointed the administrator of Dewan Housing Finance Co Ltd after the mortgage financier’s board was superseded.

Subramaniakumar has been appointed at RBL for three years from the date of taking charge.

Indian GM Praggnanandhaa wins title in Norway chess open

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa won Norway Chess Group A open chess tournament. 

The 16-year old GM, the top-seed, was in fine form and remained unbeaten through the nine rounds.

He finished the tournament with a win over fellow Indian V Praneeth, an International Master.

Praggnanandhaa finished a full point ahead of second-placed IM Marsel Efroimski (Israel) and IM Jung Min Seo (Sweden).

Avani Lekhara wins Gold at Chateauroux 2022 World Cup

Avani Lekhara has won the gold medal at the Chateauroux 2022 World Cup today.

The Tokyo Paralympian has won in the R8 event- women's 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 with a score of 458.3.

She beat Veronika Vadovicova of Slovakia to won this title and gold for India.

She scripted history last year as she became the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the Paralympics in Tokyo.

PM Modi Launches IN-SPACe Headquarters In Ahmedabad

PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Headquarters of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) at Bopal, Ahmedabad.

The establishment of IN-SPACe was announced in June 2020.

It is an autonomous and single window nodal agency in the Department of Space for the promotion, encouragement and regulation of space activities of both government and private entities.

It also facilitates the usage of ISRO facilities by private entities.

UN adopts resolution on multilingualism, mentioning Hindi for the First Tim

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted an India-sponsored resolution on multilingualism that mentions the Hindi language for the first time.

The resolution passed yesterday urges the United Nations to continue spreading vital communications and messages in both official and non-official languages, including Hindi.

The six official languages of the UN are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish.

UN Headquarters: New York, United States

Union minister Sitharaman inaugurates National Museum of Customs and GST

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman dedicated to the nation 'Dharohar', the National Museum of Customs and GST in Goa.

Dharohar is one of its kind museum in the country that showcases not only the artefacts seized by Indian Customs across the country but also depicts basic Customs procedures for the knowledge of the general public.

Finance Minister also launched a set of Board Games, 3D Puzzles and Comic Books.

Bangladesh-India bus services resume after two years

India and Bangladesh's cross-border bus service resumed, two years after its suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The flagging off marked the opening of the bus services through the Akhaura-Agartala and Benapole-Haridaspur Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) between the two countries.

The bus services through the Dawki-Tamabil ICP will start after the necessary clearances are obtained between the two countries.

Capital: Dhaka

Prime minister: Sheikh Hasina

India’s first COVID-19 vaccine for animals ‘Anocovax’ launched

Agriculture Minister, Narendra Singh Tomar has launched the country’s first homegrown COVID-19 vaccine “Anocovax” for animals, developed by Haryana-based ICAR-National Research Centre on Equines (NRC).

Anocovax is an inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Delta (COVID-19) vaccine for animals. The immunity induced by Anocovax neutralises both Delta and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2.

The vaccine contains inactivated SARS-CoV-2 (Delta) antigen with Alhydrogel as an adjuvant. It is safe for dogs, lions, leopards, mice and rabbits, it added.

The COVID-19 vaccine for animals, Anocovax, is effective and capable of neutralising both Delta and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2.

World Day Against Child Labour 2022 observed on 12th June

12 June marks the World Day Against Child Labour under the theme “Universal Social Protection to End Child Labour.” On this day, the ILO, together with its constituents and partners, is calling for increased investment in social protection systems and schemes to establish solid social protection floors and protect children from child labour.

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), there are about 152 million children globally who are engaged in child labour, 72 million of whom are in hazardous work.

The 2022 theme of the world day calls for increased investment in social protection systems and schemes to establish solid social protection floors and protect children from child labour. 2022 Theme: “Universal Social Protection to End Child Labour”.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Headquarters of International Labour Organization: Geneva, Switzerland;

President of International Labour Organization: Guy Ryder;

International Labour Organization Founded: 1919.

2nd Edition of the DSDP Excellence Awards held in New Delhi

In New Delhi, the 2nd edition of the Awards for Excellence in District Skill Development Planning, DSDP, was held, with the top 30 districts in the area being recognised for their unique best practises in skill development.

The top three districts in the competition were Rajkot in Gujarat, Cachar in Assam, and Satara in Maharashtra. District Collectors, District Magistrates, and other officials from 30 states attended the award ceremony to share their views and experiences, as well as to exhibit the skill development work that respective districts had done at the grassroots level.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship: Dharmendra Pradhan.

RBI cancelled licence of Mudhol Co-op Bank, Bagalkot, Karnataka

The Reserve Bank of India has cancelled the licence of “The Mudhol Co-operative Bank Limited, Bagalkot (Karnataka)”, thus restricting it from repayment of deposits and acceptance of fresh funds.

The bank does not have adequate capital and earning prospects, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said while announcing the cancellation of licence. RBI also said that bank with its present financial position would be unable to pay its present depositors in full.

RBI said that bank with its present financial position would be unable to pay its present depositors in full.

Important For All Exam 2022:

DICGC Chairperson: Michael Patra;

DICGC Headquarters: Mumbai;

DICGC Founded: 15 July 1978.

ICICI Bank Partners with ZestMoney to Expand ‘Cardless EMI’ Facility

ICICI Bank has announced that it has partnered with digital EMI/pay-later platform ZestMoney, to expand its ‘Cardless EMI’ facility for purchases on retail and e-commerce platforms.

The partnership enhances affordability of customers of the Bank who can use pre-approved cardless credit to instantly buy products/ services using ZestMoney and take care of the cost into Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs).

Important For All Exam 2022:

ZestMoney CEO & Co-Founder: Lizzie Chapman;

ZestMoney  Established: 2015;

ZestMoney  Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Indian diplomat Amandeep Singh Gill appointed as UN Chief’s envoy on technology 

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appointed senior Indian diplomat Amandeep Singh Gill as his envoy on technology to coordinate programmes for international digital cooperation.

The UN describing him as a “thought leader on digital technology” who has a solid understanding of how to leverage the digital transformation responsibly and inclusively for progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.

Amandeep Singh Gill has been India’s permanent representative to the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva from 2016-to 2018.  He is now the chief executive officer of the International Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence Research Collaborative (I-DAIR) project at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva.

Andhra Pradesh govt launched YSR Yantra Seva scheme

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has launched YSR Yantra Seva Scheme and flagged off the distribution of tractors and combine harvesters at Chuttugunta Centre in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.

Chief Minister YS Jagan Reddy flagged off the state-level mega distribution of tractors and combine harvesters under YSR Yantra Seva Pathakam in Guntur.

Around 3,800 tractors and 320 combined harvesters would be made available at Rythu Bharosa Centres (RBKs) across AP. A subsidy of 175 crores has been credited into 5,260 farmer group bank accounts.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Andhra Pradesh Governor: Biswabhusan Harichandan;

Andhra Pradesh Chief minister: Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy.

Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Switzerland Elected to the UNSC

Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland were elected to the United Nations Security Council as non-permanent members for the 2023-2024 term, and took over the horseshoe table from India, Ireland, Kenya, Mexico, and Norway on January 1, 2023. India has been at the vanguard of the 15-nation Council’s reform efforts for years.

India’s two-year stint as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council will finish in December 2022, when it will simultaneously hold the Presidency of the powerful UN body.

China releases world’s most detailed map of the moon

China has released a new geological map of the moon, which it says is the most detailed to date, registering even finer details of the lunar surface than mapped by the US in 2020.

The new map, which has details of craters and structures not charted before, will assist in further research of the moon.

The world’s most detailed map of the moon released by China is expected to make a great contribution to the scientific research, exploration, and landing site selection on the moon.

Important For All Exam 2022:

China Capital: Beijing;

China Currency: Renminbi;

China President: Xi Jinping.

Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan launches Polyversity

Michigan, USA-based IT Services & IT Consulting company Information Data Systems (IDS) has unveiled the Bharat Blockchain Network (BBN) (Academic Blockchain Consortium) & Polyversity (Educational Metaverse).

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India (GoI) launched the initiatives in the presence of officials from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) at an event held at the AICTE Auditorium in New Delhi.

Polyversity is India’s Largest Educational Metaverse, with over 100 Academic Partners establishing virtual campuses to make education more accessible, immersive and meaningful. Land parcels will be assigned to academic partners in Polyversity.

Important For All Exam 2022:

All India Council for Technical Education Founded: November 1945;

All India Council for Technical Education Headquarters: New Delhi;

All India Council for Technical Education Chairperson: Anil Sahasrabudhe.

PGI’s Resource Centre for Tobacco Control, Chandigarh awarded by WHO

WHO has awarded Resource Centre for Tobacco Control (e-RCTC) of the Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health at Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh with Regional Director Special Recognition Award.

The centre provides information related to tobacco control in India, including circulars, orders, policies and legislations.

RCTC is a joint initiative of PGIMER and UNION-SEA and was set up in 2018.

IISM launches “The Winning Formula for Success” Book

International Institute of Sports Management (IISM) has launched India’s first-ever book on Sports Marketing in the country as part of a series to enrich students with industry knowledge.

The first book in the series is titled as ‘Business of Sports: The Winning Formula for Success’, which is authored by Vinit Karnik. 

It has been published under the banner of Popular Prakashan.

Founder of IISM: Nilesh Kulkarni.

Ramkrishna Mukkavilli recognized as Global SDG pioneer by UNGC

Founder and MD of Maithri Aquatech, Ramkrishna Mukkavilli becomes the first Indian to be recognized by United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) as a Global Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Pioneer for Water Stewardship. 

He was previously selected as India's SDG Pioneer by UN Global Compact Network India (GCNI) for his work in building water security with nature-based water solutions across India and 27 countries spanning South East Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Ex-registrar of MSU, N J Ojha appointed as MGNREGA ombudsman

Ex-registrar of MSU, N J Ojha has been appointed as ombudsman under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA) for 2-year term.

He will now have the power to investigate allegations by MGNREGA staff, consider them, award awards within 30 days of receipt of the complaint. 

MGNREGA: It was launched in 2005 to augment employment generation and social security in India.

It is a demand-driven wage employment scheme under Ministry of Rural Development. 

India's FDI rank rises to 7th position despite falling inflows

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in its latest World Investment Report projected India’s rank to be 7th among the top recipients of foreign direct investment (FDI) despite FDI inflows into the country declining. 

FDI inflow into India declined to $45 billion in 2021 from $64 billion in the preceding year.

US ($367 billion) remained the top recipient of FDI, followed by China ($181 billion) and Hong Kong ($141 billion).

UNCTAD's HQs: Geneva.

India to host special ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers’ meet

India will host Special ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the 16th and 17th June to mark the 30th anniversary of its relations with the 10-nation grouping.

It will be the first meeting hosted by India in New Delhi and will be accompanied by 12th Edition of Delhi Dialogue.

It will be attended by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and ASEAN’s Ministers.

Theme of the Delhi Dialogue 2022: Building Bridges in the Indo-Pacific.

PM Modi inaugurates development initiatives during Gujarat Gaurav abhiyan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development initiatives during 'Gujarat Gaurav Abhiyan' in Navsari:

A M Naik Healthcare Complex and Nirali Multi Speciality Hospital in Navsari. 

Headquarters of Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) in Bopal, Ahmedabad.

Madhuban dam-based Astol regional water supply project. 

Development initiatives worth about Rs 3,050 crore at Khudvel. 

OECD slashes India's GDP growth forecast to 6.9% in FY23

Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in its latest report has projected India's real GDP to grow by 6.9% in fiscal year FY 2022-23 and 6.2% in FY 2023-24.

This projection is due to country's economy loses momentum due to high inflation and rising global energy-food prices. 

OECD's current GDP projections are lower than its earlier estimate of 8.1% GDP growth in 2022-23. 

OECD is an intergovernmental organization with 38 member countries. 

HQs: Paris

Tamil Nadu CM launches logo and mascot of 44th Chess Olympiad

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has launched the official logo and mascot of the 44th Chess Olympiad.

The mascot is names as 'Thambi' and is a knight dressed in the traditional Tamil attire Veshti (Dhoti) with a shirt and is seen with folded hands, apparently extending the Tamil greeting 'Vanakkam'.

Chess Believe is written on its shirt.

It is the 2nd major International chess event to be hosted by Chennai, after World Championship match in 2013.

Mayank Kumar Agrawal given additional charge of Prasar Bharati CEO

Doordarshan News Director-General Mayank Kumar Agrawal (1989-batch IIS officer) has been given additional charge as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Prasar Bharati. 

He succeeded Shashi Shekhar Vempati, who stepped down as CEO following a five-year tenure.

Prasar Bharati: India's public broadcaster, headquartered in New Delhi.

It is a statutory autonomous body set up by Parliament’s Act of Parliament and comprises Doordarshan Television Network and All India Radio. 

Nirmala Sitharaman launches EASE 5.0 'Common reforms agenda' for PSBs

FM Nirmala Sitharaman has launched EASE (Enhanced Access and Service Excellence) 5.0 'Common reforms agenda' for Public Sector Banks (PSBs) under EASENext program. 

EASE has evolved over four annual editions from FY19 to FY22 and has catalyzed reforms in diverse areas in Public Sector Banks. 

EASE 5.0 will focus on digital customer experience, and integrated & inclusive banking, with emphasis on supporting small businesses and agriculture.

Maruti Suzuki installed Asia’s largest 20 MWp solar plant at Manesar

Maruti Suzuki India has installed a 20 MW solar carport at its Manesar, Haryana, site. The project is projected to provide the organisation with 28,000 MWh of electricity per year.

According to the firm, the energy generated by this initiative will be similar to the energy required to create nearly 67,000 cars every year. This is Asia’s largest solar carport, according to the business.

Suzuki Motor Corporation, the parent firm of Maruti Suzuki India, inked a memorandum of understanding with Gujarat in March this year, agreeing to invest around 150 billion yen ($1.13 billion) in local manufacturing of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and BEV batteries.

World Oceans Day observed on 8th June

The World Oceans Day is celebrated on June 8 every year across the globe. The day is commemorated to remind people of the importance of the oceans and the major role they play in everyday life.

The day is also observed to make raise public awareness of the ocean and its resources in order to promote global ocean and resource sustainability.

“Revitalization: collective action for the ocean” is the theme for World Oceans Day 2022, a year framed by the UN Decade of Ocean Science and the celebration of the United Nations Ocean Conference, two years after being cancelled because of the pandemic.

India Beat Poland 6-4 to Clinch Inaugural FIH Hockey 5s Title

India beat Poland 6-4 in final to clinch the inaugural FIH Hockey 5s Championship in Lausanne in Switzerland.

Earlier, India first outplayed Malaysia 7-3, pumping in four goals in the second half in a stunning show before beating Poland 6-2 in the second match of the day.

India, who had topped the five-team league standings with three wins and one draw en route final, ended their campaign with an unbeaten record.

National Air sports Policy 2022 launched by Civil Aviation Minister

The Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia launched the National Air Sport policy 2022 (NASP 2022).

The vision of NASP 2022 is to make India one of the top sports nations by 2023. The policy ensures to provide safe, affordable, accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable air sports in India.

The Air sports included various sports events which are going to be in air medium. India as a developing country has the potential to become one of the top countries in the world of air sports.

India ranked worst in the world in terms of environmental performance in 2022

In the 2022 Environment Performance Index (EPI), an analysis by Yale and Columbia University researchers that gives a data-driven evaluation of the situation of sustainability around the world, India came in last out of 180 countries.

Climate change, environmental public health, and biodiversity are among the 40 performance factors used by the EPI to rank 180 nations.

With an overall score of 18.9, India came in last, while Denmark came in first as the world’s most sustainable country.

SEBI Advisory Committee on Mutual Funds restructured

SEBI, the market regulator, has revamped its mutual fund advisory committee.

According to the latest update with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), the 25-member advisory council will be chaired by Usha Thorat, a former Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Previously, the panel consisted of 24 people.

The committee’s mission is to advise the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on problems relating to mutual fund regulation and development.

It can also advise the regulator on disclosure requirements and steps necessary for a change in the legal framework to bring mutual fund laws closer to simplification and transparency.

Union Health Minister releases FSSAI’s 4th State Food Safety Index

Union Health Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya has released the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India's (FSSAI), 4th State Food Safety Index.

Aim: To measure the performance of states across five parameters.

Tamil Nadu topped the list among large states followed by Gujarat and Maharashtra.

Smaller states: Goa(1st) followed by Manipur and Sikkim.

UTs: Jammu & Kashmir, Delhi and Chandigarh

QS World University Rankings 2023 of top 200 varsities released

QS World University Ranking 2023 has been released, in which 41 Indian varsities have been found place in the rankings.

Indian Institute of Science (IISc) ranked 155th as the top research university in the world with a perfect score of 100 in the citation per faculty parameter.

IIT Bombay placed at the 172nd rank and IIT Delhi has been ranked 174.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) at top position followed by the University of Cambridge, Stanford University

Krishna Srinivasan appoints as the director of IMF's Asia-Pacific

International Monetary Fund (IMF) has appointed Krishna Srinivasan as Director of the Asia and Pacific Department (APD) with effect from June 22.

He will succeed Changyong Rhee whose retirement from the IMF was announced on March 23.

He has joined IMF in 1994 in the Economist Program.

He is currently working as a Deputy Director in APD where he is responsible for the department's surveillance work on large and systemically important countries such as China and Korea.

OECD cuts India Growth forecast to 6.9% in FY23

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has reduced the economic growth for India to 6.9% growth in FY23 from 8.1% estimated earlier.

OECD has also projected the growth for India is 6.2% in 2023.

The Reserve Bank of India has also estimated the nations growth to 7.2%.

The RBI has also raised the repo rate by 50 basis points (bps) to 4.9% in a bid to curb the soaring inflation in the country.

OECD Headquarters: Paris, France

RBI raises individual housing loan limit for co-operative banks

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has raised the limits for individual housing loans being extended by Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) and Rural Cooperative Banks by over 100%.

The limits for Tier I /Tier II UCBs have been revised from ₹30 lakh/ ₹70 lakh to ₹60 lakh/ ₹140 lakh, respectively.

RCBs the limits have been increased:-

(i) From ₹20 lakh to ₹50 lakh for RCBs with assessed net worth less than ₹100 crore

(ii) From ₹30 lakh to ₹75 lakh for other RCBs.

European Parliament votes to ban sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035

European Parliament Members have voted to prohibit the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035.

Aim: To fight against climate change

The EU assembly voted in Strasbourg, France to require automakers to cut carbon-dioxide emissions by 100% by the middle of the next decade.

The mandate would amount to ban on the sale in the EU nations of new cars powered by gasoline.

EU lawmakers also endorsed a 55% reduction in CO2 from automobiles in 2030 compared with 2021.

Indian shooters win gold in 10 meter air pistol mixed team event in France

Indian shooters, Manish Narwal and Rubina Francis have won gold in 10 meter P6 air pistol mixed team event at the Para-shooting World Cup in Chateauroux, France.

The team of Narwal and Francis has defeated Chinese pair of Yang Chao and Min Li by 17-11.

The Indian duo has also created a new world record in the qualification stage with a score of 565 to enter the final at the top position.

Earlier, Avani Lekhara has bagged the gold in women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1.

Mithali Raj announces her retirement from international cricket

Indian Women's cricket legend, Mithali Raj has announced her retirement from all forms of international cricket at the age of 39 years.

She has represented India in matches (232) and scored 7,805 runs at an average of 50.68.

She made her international debut in an ODI against Ireland, in June 1999.

She became the first and is the only woman cricketer to have aggregated more than 10,000 international runs in over 350 matches across all three formats.

Cabinet approves increase in MSP for Kharif crops

The CCEA has approved increase in Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all intended Kharif crops for Marketing Season 2022-23.

Government has approved rates are at least 1.5 times of the all India weighted average cost of production.

The highest absolute increase in MSP has been recommended for: (Per Quintal)

Sesamum: Rs 523

Moong: Rs 480

Sunflower seed: Rs 385

Tur, Urad and Groundnut: Rs 300

Cotton (Medium Staple): Rs 354

Cotton (Long Staple)Rs 355

PM Modi inaugurates Biotech Startup Expo - 2022 in New Delhi

PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Biotech Startup Expo - 2022 at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi.

This 2022 Expo is organised to mark completion of ten years of setting up of Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).

The theme of the 2022 Expo is ‘Biotech Startup Innovations: Towards AatmaNirbhar Bharat’.

This Expo will connect entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders, scientists, researchers, bio-incubators, government officials, etc.

Suryoday SFB and Mobisafar Services partnered to provide banking services across India

Suryoday Small Finance Bank, one of India’s premier small finance banks, has established a cooperation with Mobisafar to provide banking services across India through all of Mobisafar’s franchises and Business Correspondent network.

The cooperation aims to increase financial inclusion by providing vital banking services to underbanked customers digitally, even in the most distant corners of the country.

Mobisafar‘s 1.38 lac Banking Mitras will assist Suryoday Small Finance Bank in onboarding new clients digitally using eKYC and enabling banking services like savings account establishment, deposit / withdrawal of money, balance inquiry, and so on.

World Bank cuts India GDP forecast to 7.5%

The World Bank has slashed its growth forecast for India for the current financial year to 7.5 percent, a hefty 1.2 percentage points down from its previous forecast of 8.7 percent.

Writing in its latest Global Economic Prospects report released, the World Bank said it cut India’s GDP growth forecast due to headwinds from rising inflation, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions.

Important For All Exam 2022:

World Bank Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States;

World Bank Formation: July 1944;

World Bank President: David Malpass.

RBI Monetary Policy: RBI raises repo rate by 50 bps to 4.90%

The six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) led by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das voted unanimously to raise repo rate by 50 basis points to 4.90 percent.

The Monetary Policy Committee has raised the repo rate in order to tackle elevated inflation.

Standing Deposit Facility and Marginal Standing Facility rates also raised by 50 basis points. Standing Deposit Facility rate now 4.65 percent, and Marginal Standing Facility rate now 5.15 percent.

Satish Pai named as the new chairman of International Aluminium Institute

The International Aluminium Institute (IAI), the only body representing the global primary aluminium industry, has announced the appointment of Satish Pai as its new Chair.

He is the Managing Director of Hindalco Industries, one of the world’s largest integrated producers of aluminium.

Earlier serving as Vice Chairman, he succeeds Ben Kahrs, Chief Innovation Officer, Alcoa Corporation.

Alok Kumar Choudhary takes charge as MD of SBI 

Alok Kumar Choudhary has took charge as the new Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI).

His appointment comes in the wake of the superannuation of Ashwani Bhatia as Managing Director on May 31, 2022.

Choudhary was previously Deputy Managing Director (Finance) at the bank. As the new MD, he will be handling retail business and operations.

Important For All Exam 2022:

State Bank of India Founded: 1 July 1955;

State Bank of India Headquarters: Mumbai;

State Bank of India Chairman: Dinesh Kumar Khara.

Goa CM Launches ‘Beach Vigil App’ for Holistic Management of beaches

The chief minister (CM) of Goa, Pramod Sawant has launched a ‘Beach Vigil App’, a collaboration between Information Technology (IT) sector and tourism sector that aims to benefit tourists and the institutions working in the beach tourism sector in a holistic management of beaches.

Through the Beach Vigil App, the Drishti workers, police and other stakeholders can raise issues for safeguarding the interest of the tourists. During the launch, Goa IT and Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte was also present.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Goa Governor: P.S. Sreedharan Pillai;

Goa Wildlife Sanctuaries: Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife

Sanctuary, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary;

Goa Festivals: Goa Mango Festival.

Tamil Nadu launched Nalaya Thiran skilling programme for college students

The Tamil Nadu government recently launched Naan Mudhalvan (I am the first). Under this programme, Tamil Nadu government has now launched Nalaya Thiran (Tomorrow’s ability).

In this programme, 50,000 college students will train with the knowledge in computer science, Electronics and IT domains, skilling them on problem solving using technologies.

The Tamil Nadu government has created the Nalaya Thiran program to help the industry get skilled students.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Tamil Nadu Capital: Chennai;

Tamil Nadu Chief minister: K. Stalin;

Tamil Nadu Governor: N. Ravi.

Andhra Pradesh launched ‘14400 app’ to report corrupt officials 

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy launched the ‘14400’ app. This app has been developed by Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).

This app is customized for the people to register corruption-related complaints against the officials in the state.

This app also aims to ensure fool-proof evidence to present before the court. A complaint can be filed through a toll-free number 14400.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Andhra Pradesh Governor: Biswabhusan Harichandan;

Andhra Pradesh Chief minister: Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy.

‘Sital Sasthi’ festival being celebrated in Odisha

Sital Sasthi is a sacred Hindu festival is being celebrated in Odisha. This week-long special festival highlights the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

According to the Hindu calendar, Sital Sasthi is observed on the sixth day of the Jyestha month during the Shukla Paksha.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Odisha Capital: Bhubaneswar;

Odisha Governor: Ganeshi Lal;

Odisha Chief Minister: Naveen Patnaik.

PM Modi launches new series of coins with Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav design

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a special series of coins that are also ‘visually impaired friendly’.

The coins of Re 1, Rs 2, 5, 10 and 20 denominations will have the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) design.

They are not commemorative coins and will be part of circulation. These new series of coins will remind people of the goal of amrit kal and motivate people to work towards the development of the country.

Airtel Payments Bank offer gold loans in partnership with Muthoot Finance

Airtel Payments Bank has partnered with Muthoot Finance to offer gold loans through Airtel Thanks app.

There will be no-processing charge on the loan.

Muthoot Finance will provide up to 75% of the pledged gold value as a loan.

The loan facility will be available at the 5 lakh banking points for Airtel Payments Bank.

Gold Loans are secured loans that can be availed to cater to a variety of needs, from personal to professional.

Instagram to launch AMBER alerts to help in finding missing children

Meta has announced that AMBER alerts will soon be rolled out to Instagram in 25 countries.

With the help of this alerts, users will get notifications of missing children in the area.

This feature was already available on Facebook and helped to find hundreds of children since it was introduced in 2015.

This was developed in partnership with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children in US and International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children.

MS Dhoni becomes brand ambassador of Garuda Aerospace

Mahendra Singh Dhoni has invested an undisclosed amount in Garuda Aerospace, which is an Indian drone startup.

He has also appointed as a brand ambassador of this company.

Garuda Aerospace is among the four drone startups that had been selected by Swiggy for a pilot project which involve carrying out supply runs for its grocery service Instamart.

Garuda Aerospace was started in 2015.

Founder & CEO: Agnishwar Jayaprakash

Garuda Aerospace HQ: Chennai

Indian Railways awarded by the UIC International Sustainable Railway Awards

Indian Railways have been conferred with the UIC International Sustainable Railway Awards (ISRA) in the category of “Best use of Zero-Carbon Technology” for feeding Solar Energy directly to 25 KV AC Traction System.

Initiatives of Indian Railway to protect environment:-

Use of alternate fuels like CNG.

Improving water use efficiency through measures like water recycling and rain water harvesting.

World Food Safety Day 2022 : 7th June

The World Food Safety Day is observed annually on June 7 to raise awareness of the health hazards associated with unsafe food, and to highlight the significance of hygiene in daily life.

Theme 2022: ‘Safer food, better health’.

This day was marked by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on December 20, 2018.

The  Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and WHO jointly celebrate the observance of this day.

WHO Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland

FAO HQ: Rome, Italy

RBI declares results of its First Global Hackathon - HARBINGER 2021

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had launched its first global hackathon – “HARBINGER 2021 – Innovation for Transformation”.

Theme of HARBINGER 2021: Smarter Digital Payments.

Tone Tag (brand of Naffa Innovations) has been declared the winner in two categories, first is 'Innovative, easy-to-use, non-mobile digital payment solutions' and second is 'Context-based retail payments to remove the physical act of payment'.

RBI releases provisioning norms for upper-layer NBFCs

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released the provisioning guidelines for outstanding loans extended by 'NBFC-Upper Layer'.

These guidelines shall be effective from October 1, 2022.

Individual housing loans and loans to Small and Micro Enterprises (SMEs) : 0.25%

Housing loans extended at teaser rates: 2% (decrease to 0.4% after 1 year from the date on which the rates are raised.)

Advances to Commercial Real Estate- Residential Housing (CRE - RH) Sector : 0.75%

DAC clears proposals worth Rs 76,390 crore to boost ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’

Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has accorded the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for Capital Acquisition Proposals of the Armed Forces amounting to Rs 76,390 crore.

This will give boost to the Indian Defence Industry and reduce foreign spending significantly.

The DAC meeting was headed by Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh.

Indian Army: Rough Terrain Fork Lift Trucks, Bridge Laying Tanks, Wheeled Armoured Fighting Vehicles.

Indian Navy: Next Generation Corvettes (NGC).

Multinational Peacekeeping 'Ex Khaan Quest 2022' begins in Mongolia

A multinational peacekeeping exercise, 'Ex Khaan Quest' 2022 has started in Mongolia.

16 countries are taking part in this exercise including India.

This exercise has been inaugurated by the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh.

Indian Army is represented by a contingent from the Ladakh Scouts.

Aim: Enhance interoperability, building military to military relationships, developing peace support operations and military readiness among participating nations.

Amazon, Manipur Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation sign MoU

Manipur Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation (MHHDC) has signed a pact with Amazon for providing an e-market platform for traditional handloom and handicraft items.

Both representatives, signed the MoU at the opening function of Manipur Heritage Expo, 2022.

As per the National Handloom Census Report, 2019, Manipur is a home of around 2.12 lakh handloom weavers, around 2.11 lakh looms and around two lakh handicraft artisans.

Manipur CM: N. Biren Singh

HM Amit Shah inaugurates National Tribal Research Institute in New Delhi

Home Minister, Amit Shah has inaugurated the National Tribal Research Institute (NTRI) in New Delhi as a part of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' celebration by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

NTRI will be a leading national institute for tribal concerns, issues and  executive and legislative fields. 

It will also monitor projects of Tribal Research Institutes and set up norms for improvement in the quality of research and training.

Minister of Tribal Affairs: Arjun Munda

FM Nirmala Sitharaman launches single nodal agency dashboard

Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman has launched the Single Nodal Agency Dashboard during the Iconic Week Celebrations of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.

The Iconic Week of the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Corporate Affairs was launched by PM Modi.

Aim of this dashboard: It also ensures about Centrally Sponsored Schemes fund utilization, tracking of funds, pragmatic and just-in-time release of funds to the States.

India successfully test-fired Nuclear-capable Agni-4 Ballistic Missile

India has successfully test- fired a nuclear-capable Agni-IV ballistic missile from APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha.

Agni-IV can strike targets 4,000 km away.

This missile is the fourth in the Agni series of missiles which is earlier known as Agni II prime.

This missile was designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by the Bharat Dynamics Limited.

Length of Agni IV: 20 metres

Mukesh Ambani surpasses Gautam Adani to become the Asia's Richest Man

Reliance Industries Limited Chairman and MD, Mukesh Ambani has regained the position of India as well as Asia's richest man after replacing Adani Group Chairman, Gautam Adani.

The net worth of Mukesh Ambani has risen to $99.7 billion, while Gautam Adani's net worth stood at $98.7 billion, according to Bloomberg Billionaire Index.

Mukesh Ambani is ranked the eighth richest person in the world as per the Bloomberg Billionaire index.

Kotak Investment Advisors launches 'Kotak Cherry

Kotak Mahindra Bank subsidiary, Kotak Investment Advisors has launched a one-stop investment solution provider named 'Kotak Cherry'.

Aims: Help investors in choosing from a wide array of offerings beyond the ones manufactured by Kotak group companies.

This platform is currently available for free with a 'do it yourself' offering for users, but they are also working on a subscription fee-based model.

Headquarters: Mumbai

India's digital payments market will be tripled to $10 trillion by 2026

According to the latest study which was conducted by digital payments firm PhonePe and Boston Consulting Group (BCG) states that India's digital payment market is expected to more than triple to $10 trillion by 2026.

Presently, 40% of all transactions in India are digital, and payments worth $3 trillion were processed by digital instruments in 2021.

India's UPI continues to grow, clocking $5.95 billion transactions worth Rs $10.41 lakh crore in May 2022.

OECD projected the Global plastic waste to be tripled by 2060

According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) report, the global usage of plastic is set to increase by three times by the year 2060.

The world that is destroy by severe plastic pollution, has need to take up several measures to combat the the use of plastic.

Currently, nearly 100 million tonnes of plastic waste is either mismanaged or allowed to leak into the environment.

Tamil Nadu CM flags off luxury cruise “Empress”

Tamil Nadu CM, MK Stalin has flagged off the luxury cruise liner “Empress” from Chennai port.

This is the eleven-storey tourist vessel which can accommodate up to two thousand passengers and about 800 crew members.

The vessel has a swimming pool, children’s play area, gym, theatre and a multi-cuisine restaurant.

This is considered the first luxury cruise liner to be operated from the state.

Tamil Nadu Capital: Chennai

Tamil Nadu Governor: N. Ravi

ISRO chairman inaugurates spacecraft manufacturing facility in Karnataka

The chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Dr S Somanath has inaugurated ANANTH Technologies’ spacecraft manufacturing unit at Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) Aerospace Park.

It can conduct assembly integration and testing of four large spacecraft simultaneously.

Ananth has contributed to the manufacturing of 89 satellites and 69 launch vehicles built/launched by ISRO.

Chairman and MD of ANANTH: Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri

Indian American Harini Logan wins 2022 Spelling Bee champion

Indian American girl, Harini Logan from Texas has won the 2022 Scripps National Spelling Bee.

She has spelled 21 words correctly to win the prestigious 2022 Scripps National Spelling Bee and defeated Vikram Raju in a marathon.

Prize money: USD 50,000 cash prize and Scripps Cup trophy on top of awards from Merriam-Webster and Encyclopedia Britannica.

She is the fifth Scripps champion to be coached by Grace Walters.

India-Bangladesh joint military exercise 'Sampriti-X' begins

India and Bangladesh has begun a joint military training exercise, 'Ex SAMPRITI-X' on June 5 at Jessore military station in Bangladesh.

This will continue till June 16 as part of bilateral defence cooperation.

Aim: At strengthening the aspects of interoperability and cooperation between both armies.

Indian contingent represented: Dogra regiment.

The armies of both nations will share expertise in counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

A Manimekhalai appointed as a MD of Union Bank

A Manimekhalai has been appointed as a MD of Union Bank of India for the period of three years with effect from the date of assumption of office.

She has replaced Rajkiran Rai G, who retired on May 31 after a five-year stint.

She also becomes the first woman managing director of Union Bank of India.

Government has also appointed Swarup Kumar Saha as head of Punjab & Sind Bank.

He replaced S Krishnan, who also superannuated on May 31.

Rafael Nadal beats Casper Ruud to win his 14th French Open 2022

Rafael Nadal (Spain) wins his 14th title of the Men's French Open Championship at Roland Garros and 22nd Grand Slam title overall.

He defeated Casper Ruud by 6-3, 6-3, 6-0.

Iga Swiatek (Poland) has defeated Coco Gauff to win the Women's French Open 2022.

Men’s Doubles: Marcelo Arévalo (El Salvador) & Jean-Julien Rojer (Netherlands)

Women’s Doubles: Caroline Garci and Kristina Mladenovic (France)

Mixed Doubles: Ena Shibahara(Japan); Wesley Koolhof (Netherlands)

Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar launched the “SHRESHTA”

Union Minister of social Justice and empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar launched the Scheme“SHRESHTA”.

The Scheme is for residential education for students in High school in Targeted Areas.

The Scheme for Residential Education for Students in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA) has been formulated with the objective to provide quality education and opportunities for even the poorest Scheduled Caste students.

IAF heritage centre to be set up in Chandigarh

A heritage centre to showcase the role of the Indian Air Force in various wars and its overall functioning will come up at Chandigarh.

The 'IAF Heritage Centre' will be set up jointly by the force and the Chandigarh administration.

An MoU between the Union Territory of Chandigarh and the IAF for setting up of the centre was signed.

The ceremony was attended by Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit and Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari.

Tata Projects wins bid to build Jewar Airport

Tata projects will build the national capital region’s new airport at Jewar.

It outbid the Shapoorji Pallinji Group and Larsen & Toubro for the contract.

Tata Projects, the infrastructure and construction arm of the Tata group, will construct the terminal, runway, airside infrastructure, roads, utilities, landside facilities and other ancillary buildings at the Noida International Airport.

The new airport is expected to be functional by 2024.

INS Nishank, INS Akshay decommissioned after 32 years in service

The Indian Navy has decommissioned its two ships, INS Akshay and INS Nishank, after 32 years of service.

These two ships also participated in Operation Talwar and Operation Parakram.

While INS Nishank, a high-speed missile craft, was commissioned on September 12, 1989, INS Akshay was commissioned a year later on December 10, 1990 at Poti, Georgia.

Both were part of the 22 Missile Vessel Squadron and 23 Patrol Vessel Squadron, respectively.

Jennifer Lopez to receive lifetime achievement award at MTV Movie & TV Award

MTV announced that Jennifer Lopez would be awarded the Generation Award at their forthcoming MTV Movie & TV Awards.

MTV Movie & TV Awards recognizes actors who have diversely contributed to both film and TV industry and are known in every household.

Vanessa Hudgens will host the Generation Awards.

Jennifer Lopez will receive the lifetime achievement award.

Jennifer is all set to release her latest Netflix documentary named “Halftime”.

In a first, IIM-Ahmedabad brings out agriculture land price index

In a first, IIM-Ahmedabad (IIM-A) has joined hands with an e-marketplace for agricultural land, SFarms India, to develop a farmland price index based on the sales and purchases done on the platform.

The index has been designed to record and present the “quality-controlled” data on the prices of agricultural land in the country.

The index will track the price movements in the marketplace and come up with a composite pricing mechanism on a monthly basis.

RBI launches annual survey on foreign liabilities, assets of MF, AMC

The RBI has launched the 2021-22 round of its annual survey on "Foreign Liabilities and Assets of Mutual Funds and Asset Management Companies".

The survey collects information from mutual fund companies and asset management companies on their external financial liabilities and assets at the end of March of the latest financial year.

The survey results are released in the public domain besides being used for compilation of balance of payments statistics and other uses. 

National parks, sanctuaries must have ESZ of 1 km from boundary: SC

The Supreme Court of India directed that national parks and wildlife sanctuaries must have an Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of minimum one km from the demarcated boundary of a protected forest. 

The SC said that mining within the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries shall not be permitted and no permanent structure will be allowed within the ESZ. 

It also directed the Chief Conservator of Forests of all states and UTs to prepare a list of existing structures within the ESZs. 

eSanjeevani integrated with NHA's Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission

According to National Health Authority (NHA), telemedicine service 'eSanjeevani' has been ntegrated with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).

This will now enable users of eSanjeevani to create their 14-digit unique Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) and use it to link their existing health records.

eSanjeevani is a telemedicine service of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).

Khelo India Youth Games-2021 begins in Haryana today

The 4th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games 2021 begins today in Panchkula, Haryana. 

The event was inaugurated by the union home minister Amit Shah.

KIYG is the flagship event of the Indian government’s Khelo India initiative.

KIYG 2021 will see participation from 37 States and Union Territories of India.

As many as 25  sports events will be organized at five venues namely Panchkula, Ambala, Shahabad, Chandigarh, and Delhi. 

Govt collects Rs 1.41 lakh crore GST in May 2022

The government has collected Rs 1,40,885 lakh crore Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue for the month of May 2022.

The numbers have been surged 44% as against Rs 97,821 during the corresponding period of preceding fiscal year.

GST revenues has been recorded lower than the record high collection in April at Rs 1.68 lakh crore.

In March GST revenues were at Rs 1.42 lakh crore, while in February it was Rs 1.33 lakh crore.

SBI revises up FY23 economic growth forecast to 7.5%

SBI Research has estimated the growth of the Indian economy at 7.5% in 2022-23, an upward revision of 20 basis points from its earlier estimate.

According to the official data, the economy will grow by 8.7% in FY22, net adding ₹11.8 lakh crore in the year to ₹147 lakh crore.

Nominal GDP will inflate by ₹38.6 lakh crore to ₹237 lakh crore, or 19.5% annualised.

In FY23 also, as inflation remains elevated in the first half, nominal GDP will grow 16.1% to ₹275 lakh crore.

INA Veteran Anjalai Ponnusamy passes away

Indian National Army (INA) veteran solider from Malaysia, Anjalai Ponnusamy has passed away at the age of 102.

She was born in 1920 in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur.

During World War II when Japanese forces invaded Malaysia, then she joined the army.

She belonged to the Jhansi Rani Division of the Indian National Army.

It was created by SC Bose in 1943 to recapture India from British rule.

After the defeat of Japan in World War II, the Indian National Army was disbanded.

Tamil Nadu signs MoU with IPPB for pensioners’ digital life certificate

The Tamil Nadu government has signed an MoU with the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) for obtaining life certificate from pensioners through doorstep services of the Postal Department.

As per the MoU, the IPPB would render the doorstep services at a cost of ₹70 only per digital life certificate.

Over 7.15 lakh State government pensioners/ family pensioners submit their life certificate during July, August and September every year for annual mustering.

Para - Canoeist Prachi Yadav wins bronze at 2022 ICF Paracanoe World Cup

Para -Canoeist, Prachi Yadav wins a bronze medal with a timing of 1:04.71 seconds at the 2022 ICF Paracanoe World Cup held in Poznan, Poland and become the first Indian to win a World Cup medal.

Susan Seipel (Australia) and Brianna Hennessy (Canada) have bagged Gold and silver respectively.

Manish Kaurav (KL3 Men 200m) and Manjeet Singh (VL2 Men 200m) have also reached the finals for the first time ever in the history of the tournament in their respective categories.

Young women entrepreneur, Rashmi Sahoo wins Times Business Award 2022

Director of Ruchi Foodline, Rashmi Sahoo has been awarded the Third Times Business Award 2022 in the category of Eastern India’s Leading READY -TO-EAT brand.

She was given the award by renowned Bollywood actor and social activist Sonu Sood.

She has established Frozit, which is Odisha’s first frozen food company.

Sahoo and Frozit have won various recognition across the world for their innovative food product line, quality and hygiene standards.

Centre appointed SL Thaosen as SSB chief

The central government has appointed Senior IPS officers Zulfiquar Hasan and S L Thaosen as the new directors general of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) respectively.

Hasan is a West Bengal-cadre IPS officer and now serving as the special director general of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Delhi.

Thaosen is a Madhya Pradesh-cadre IPS officer and working in the same capacity in the Border Security Force (BSF).

Dr Swati Dhingra appointed to the Monetary Panel of Bank of England

UK-based academic, Dr Swati Dhingra has been appointed as the first Indian-origin woman as an external member of the Bank of England's interest rate-setting committee.

She is an Associate Professor of Economics at the London School of Economics (LSE) and having a specialisation in international economics and applied microeconomics.

She will join the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on August 9, 2022 for a three-year term.

Former West Indies skipper, Darren Sammy received Sitara-e-Pakistan award

Former skipper of West Indies, Darren Sammy has conferred with the Civil honour of Sitara-e-Pakistan award.

It is considered as the third-highest civil award conferred by Pakistan.

Sammy has represented West Indies in Tests (38), ODIs (126), and T20Is (68).

Last year, he received the highest civilian medal of Pakistan (Nishan-e-Pakistan) for his part in helping bring international cricket back to Pakistan.

Pakistan President: Arif Alvi; 

Prime minister: Shehbaz Sharif

Bangladesh top recipient of Covid vaccines under UNICEF's COVAX

Bangladesh becomes the top recipient of Covid-19 vaccine doses with the delivery over 190 million doses of vaccines under UNICEF's COVAX  programme.

COVAX is a global initiative which is led by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the World Health Organization with UNICEF.

Under the COVAX programme, more than 62% of the doses has been delivered to Bangladesh.

Bangladesh President: Abdul Hamid; 

Prime minister: Sheikh Hasina

Indian men's hockey team win bronze at Hockey Asia Cup 2022

The Indian men's hockey team defeat Japan by 1-0 to clinch the bronze medal at Asia Cup men’s hockey 2022 at Jakarta, Indonesia.

Indian hockey team captain, Birendra Lakra wins the player of the match award award for his sturdy defensive work.

South Korea wins Asia Cup men’s hockey 2022 for the 5th time (1994, 1999, 2009, 2013 2022) and Malaysia placed at second.

Top scorer of the tournament: Razie Rahim of Malaysia (scored 13 goals)

Premium rates of PMJJY and PMSBY revised from June 1

The Finance Ministry has approved hiking the premium rates of Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY).

The premium rates have been revised by making it ₹1.25 per day premium for both schemes.

Revised premium rate for PMJJBY is ₹436, earlier it was ₹330 and PMSBY hiked from ₹12 to ₹20.

Government set a target to increase the coverage to 15 crore under PMJJBY and to 37 crore under PMSBY in the next five years.

Rajesh Gera appointed as Director General of National Informatics Centre

Rajesh Gera has been appointed as the Director General of National Informatics Centre (NIC) under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) with effect from 31st May 2022.

Earlier, he was on deputation in the Ministry of Defence as CEO, DPIT and joined back NIC as Deputy Director General.

He has completed his B.Tech (Electrical Engineering) with Honors from IIT Varanasi, Banaras Hindu University.

NIC Headquarters: New Delhi; 

Founded: 1976

Free trade deal signed between Israel and UAE

Israel has signed a free trade deal with the United Arab Emirates on May 31, its first with an Arab country.

The agreement helps to increase bilateral trade in goods and services, increase Israeli exports to UAE.

It also provides customs exemption immediately or gradually on 96% of trade between the countries.

The UAE was the first Gulf country to normalise ties with Israel and only the third Arab nation to do so after Egypt and Jordan.

SEBI imposed monetary penalty of Rs 1 cr on IIFL for misusing client funds

SEBI has imposed a penalty of Rs 1 crore on India Infoline Ltd (IIFL) for misutilisation of client securities.

The amount has to be paid by IIFL within 45 days.

The penalty came after the SEBI's inspections of the books of account of IIFL for the period April 2011 to January 2017.

It was found that IIFL had misused client funds in the range of Rs 0.59 crores to Rs 397.02 crores for settlement obligation of debit balance clients.

Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India crosses Rs 100 cr sales

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) has crossed 100 crore rupees sales May 2022.

PMBI is the implementing agency of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).

The central government has also set a target to increase the number of Jan Aushadhi Kendras to 10,000 by March 2024 with a view to provide quality medicines at an affordable rate.

739 districts of India have been covered under the PMBJP.

Bharat Dynamics signs deal with Defence Ministry for ASTRA MK-1 BVR

The Defence Ministry has signed a contract of 2,971 crore with Bharat Dynamics Ltd under the ‘buy Indian’ category.

The contract was signed for supply of the indigenously developed Astra Mk-I Beyond Visual Range air to air missiles and associated equipment for the Navy and the Indian Air Force.

The Defence Acquisition Council headed by Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh had approved the purchase of 248 Astra-MK1 missile (200 for the IAF and 48 for the Navy) in July 2020.

Fiscal deficit of India improves to 6.7% in FY22

Fiscal deficit of India for 2021-22 has improved to 6.71% of the GDP over the revised budget estimate of 6.9% mainly on account of higher tax realisation.

The fiscal deficit in the absolute terms was Rs 15,86,537 crore (provisional).

The finance ministry had estimated the deficit at Rs 15,91,089 crore or 6.9 per cent of GDP in February 2022.

The tax receipts were at Rs 18.2 trillion and the total expenditure too was higher at Rs 37.94 trillion.

Net profit of Public Sector Banks double to over Rs 66,500 crore in FY22

Public sector banks (PSBs) have doubled their net profit during FY 2021-22.

The collective profit of banks during 2021-22 is Rs 66,539 crore with an increase of 110% over Rs 31,816 crore in FY21.

Profitability of banks has been improved after completion of clean-up of bad loans and economies of scale after merger of 10 state-owned banks. 

SBI has a highest net profit at Rs 31,675 crore followed by Bank of Baroda (7,272 crore), Canara Bank (Rs 5,678 crore).

J&K Panthers Party founder, Bhim Singh passes away

Founder of Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party, senior leader, and lawyer Bhim Singh passed away in Jammu at 81.

He founded the Panthers Party in 1982.

He was remains Panthers Party chairman for 30 years, until 2012.

The veteran leader was known as  ‘Sher-e-Jammu’ for raising the voice of the people of Jammu before the Kashmir-centric governments.

He was expelled from the party in November 2022.

Singer KK passed away at 53

Renowned Singer-composer Krishnakumar Kunnath, who fondly known as KK, has passed away in Kolkata at the age of 53.

His debut album 'Pal' was released in 1999.

He has recorded songs in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi and Bengali, among other languages.

He gave his last performance in the iconic Nazrul Mancha auditorium on May 31, 2022.

Songs: Tadap Tadap (Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, 1999), Dus Bahane (Dus, 2005)

RBI’s balance sheet raised by 8.46% in FY22 to Rs 61.9 lakh crore

According to the annual report data of the Reserve Bank of India, the size of central bank's balance sheet has been increased by 8.46% during 2021-22.

This shows activities carried out by it in pursuance of currency issue function as well as monetary policy and reserve management.

Revenue has been increased by 20.14% and expenditure rose by 280.13%.

The overall surplus for 2021-22 is Rs 30,307.45 crore as against Rs 99,122 crore in the previous year.

Former SBI executive Natarajan Sundar appointed as CEO of NARCL

Former SBI executive, Natarajan Sundar has been appointed as a managing director and CEO of National Assets Reconstruction Company Ltd (NARCL).

He has served SBI for over 37 years and retired as Deputy MD and Chief Credit Officer of the bank on April 2022.

NARCL:

Incorporated under the Companies Act.

Applied to RBI for a license as an Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC).

Public Sector Banks will maintain 51% ownership in NARCL.

Frontier becomes the world’s fastest supercomputer

US built supercomputer, Frontier dethrones the Japan's Fugaku to become the world’s fastest supercomputer.

Fugaku, was jointly developed by RIKEN and Fujitsu Ltd. in 2020, which topped the supercomputer benchmarking index.

Frontier was built by using Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) architecture and equipped with Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) processors.

Fugaku was built for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Indian women's team wins gold in 10m air rifle at ISSF World Cup 2022

Indian women's shooting team has claimed the gold medal for India in the 10m air rifle women's team event at the ISSF World Cup 2022 in Baku, Azebaijan.

Indian women's team includes: Elavenil Valarivan, Shreya Agarwal and Ramita

The Indian trio team defeated Denmark by 17-5 in finals.

The men's 10m air rifle team of Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil, Paarth Makhija and Deaflympics champion Dhanush Srikanth lost to Croatia in the bronze medal match.

Former Albania President Bujar Nishani Passes Away

Bujar Nishani, a former Albanian President had died at 55 due to a health problem. President Bujar Nishani born on 29 September 1966 in Durrës, Albania, was well known for his centre-right political affiliation with the leftist coalition.

He served as president from 2012 until 2017. At 45, he was elected as the youngest and sixth president in post-communist Albania, supported only by lawmakers from the centre-right Democratic party of then-Prime Minister Sali Berisha.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Albania Capital: Tirana;

Albania Currency: Albanian lek;

Albania President: Ilir Rexhep Meta;

Albania Prime Minister: Edi Rama.

World Vape Day 2022 observed 2022 On 30th May

World Vape Day is observed on 30th May across the globe to create awareness about the alternatives to harmful tobacco products and highlights the relative safety of e-cigarettes and their potential as harm reduction and smoking cessation tools.

World Vape Day (May 30) is observed on the day before World No Tobacco Day(May 31), observed by the World Health Organisation(WHO). World Vape Day was initiated by the World Vapers’ Alliance(WVA). WVA was established by and receives funding from the Consumer Choice Center.

World No Tobacco Day observed on 31st May

World No Tobacco Day is observed on 31st May globally. This yearly celebration aims to raise awareness amid the global citizens about not only the dangers of using tobacco but also the business practices of tobacco companies, what WHO is doing to fight the tobacco epidemic and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living and to protect future generations.

The theme for 2022 is Tobacco: Threat to our environment. The Day is an annual celebration that informs the public on the dangers of using tobacco, the business practices of tobacco companies, what the World Health Organization (WHO) is doing to fight tobacco use, and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living.

In 1987, the World Health Assembly passed Resolution WHA40.38, calling for April 7, 1988, to be “a world no-smoking day” and in 1988, Resolution WHA42.19 was passed, calling for the celebration of World No-Tobacco Day, every year on May 31.

India win first ever medal at the IBSA Judo Grand Prix

In Nur Sultan, Kazakhstan, India earned its first-ever medal at the IBSA Judo Grand Prix.

The Indian Blind and Para Judo Association’s Judoka Kapil Parmar deserves heartfelt praise for bringing medals to the country. It’s worth noting that 18 of the 21 countries that competed won medals.

Several countries, including Iraq, Switzerland, and India, earned their first medals in the IBSA Grand Prix as a result of these. Nur-Sultan is already a universal personality. This Kazakh city hosted the IBSA Grand Prix, and it was here that we saw this universality between countries come to life, as well as the challenge of earning any medal.

After two days of thrilling competition in Nur-Sultan, the 2022 IBSA Judo Grand Prix Kazakhstan came to a close. More than a hundred judokas from 21 countries competed for gold, and Turkey, Iran, Uzbekistan, Romania, Japan, Brazil, and Kazakhstan all ascended to the top of the podiums on an opening day.

Border Coordination Conference between the BSF and the BGB gets underway in Bangladesh

The Border Coordination Conference between India and Bangladesh was opened at Sylhet by Inspector General BSF-Regional Commander BGB. According to a Border Guards Bangladesh official press release, the four-day seminar will end on June 2.

(BGB). The Indian team arrived in Bangladesh via the Integrated Check Post (ICP) in Dawki, Meghalaya, where they were greeted by top BGB personnel.

The conference will be attended by a five-member BSF team led by IG BSF Sumit Sharan. Brigadier General Tanvir Gani Chowdhury, Regional Commander, Chittagong, leads the Bangladesh delegation.

The Bangladesh delegation also comprises representatives from the Home Ministry, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Department of Land Records and Survey, in addition to BGB personnel.

The conference will cover all aspects of border security and administration.

Illegal entrance, drug and other item smuggling, human trafficking of women and children, development activities within 150 yards of international borders, and attempts to improve mutual trust between the BGB and BSF will all be addressed.

RJ Umar receives Immunisation Champion award by UNICEF

Radio Jockey Umar Nisar (RJ Umar) from South Kashmir, has been awarded the ’01 Best Content Award’ and the Immunization Champion award by United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) at the annual Radio4Child 2022 Awards in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

The award was presented by multi-Grammy Award-winning music composer, environmentalist, and UNICEF celebrity supporter Ricky Kej, OIC UNICEF, UP Dr Zafrin Chowdhury, chief of communications and advocacy and partnerships, UNICEF India.

The award has been conferred to Umar for his work of providing awareness and countering rumours to reach audiences during the pandemic. The Radio4Child felicitated radio professionals from private FM and All India Radio from across the country for their commendable work during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as for routine vaccination. These radio professionals highlighted the importance of routine vaccination among people.

Sanjit Narwekar conferred with V Shantaram Lifetime achievement award at MIFF 2022

The 17th edition of the Mumbai International Film Festival of India (MIFF 2022) confers Dr V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award on noted author and documentary filmmaker Shri Sanjit Narwekar to commemorate his exquisitely deep, remarkably diverse and inspiring body of work.

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Textiles Piyush Goyal presented the award to Sanjit Narwekar along with a cash prize of Rs 10 lakhs (Rs 1 million), Golden Conch and a citation.

Shri Narwekar is a National award-winning film historian, author, publisher and documentary filmmaker with more than four decades of cross-media experience in Journalism, Public Relations, Publishing and Filmmaking.

Shri Narwekar has rendered a seminal contribution for the enrichment of documentary cinema and its literature. Through his lifelong and passionate engagement with the past, present and future of films, Shri Narwekar has touched many hearts across ages.

Winner of the National Award for the Best Book on Cinema in 1996, Shri Narwekar’s passion for film history has manifested in writing and editing more than 20 books on cinema, including Marathi cinema ‘In Retrospect’, which won him the Swarna Kamal.

Forbes Magazine: 7th Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list 2022 Released

Forbes magazine has released the 7th edition of the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia List 2022, featuring 10 categories each honouring 30 individuals under the age of 30. The list was edited by Rana Wehbe Watson.

The honourees on the list represent 22 countries and territories across the Asia-Pacific region. India tops the list in terms of the number of entries with 61, followed by Singapore (34), Japan (33), Australia (32), Indonesia (30) and China (28).

The average age of the 2022 list is 26.8 and the youngest honouree on the list is 14-year old Japanese Olympics skateboarding gold-medalist Momiji Nishiya.

118th India-Pakistan Bilateral Meeting on the Indus Water Treaty to be held

The Permanent Indus Commission conference, which is held yearly under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) 1960, began with India and Pakistan.

The Indus discussions have survived the tie-freeze since both countries regard it as a requirement of the IWT. According to the ministry of external affairs, the two sides are expected to meet at least once a year, alternately in India and Pakistan, under the terms of the treaty.

The most recent summit, held in New Delhi on March 23-24, 2021, focused on the exchange of hydrological and flood data.

In March, India and Pakistan reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the Indus Waters Treaty in its entirety, and expressed the hope that the Permanent Indus Commission’s next meeting will be conducted in India soon.

A five-member Pakistani team has arrived in the United States for the two-day discussions.

The Indus talks are not seen as a forerunner to a more substantial engagement between the two countries.

The two countries previously met for diplomatic discussions in December 2015, and while they were able to announce a resumption of talks at that time, the process was never able to get off the ground due to the Pathankot assault.

Public Sector Banks doubled their Net Profit to almost Rs 66,500 crore in FY22 

Public sector banks (PSBs) more than quadrupled their net profit in the fiscal year 2021-2022. During the financial year 2021-22, the aggregate profit of 12 state-owned banks was Rs 66,539 crore, up 110 percent from Rs 31,816 crore in the previous year. For the first time in years, all 12 state-owned banks made a profit. This was also a significant improvement over FY18, when just two of the 21 PSBs declared a profit.

Only two PSBs (Central Bank and Punjab & Sind Bank) declared losses in FY21, dragging down the overall net profit.

Profitability has increased as a result of the conclusion of the bad loan clean-up and economies of scale gained through the merger of ten state-owned banks.

Other factors include the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) cheap liquidity and growth categories such as retail lending.

US Overtakes China as India’s Largest Trading Partner in FY22

The United States overtook China to become India’s top trading partner in 2021-22, reflecting strong economic ties between the two countries. According to commerce ministry data, in 2021-22, bilateral trade between the US and India stood at US$ 119.42 billion as against US$ 80.51 billion in 2020-21.

Exports to the US increased to US$ 76.11 billion in 2021-22 from US$ 51.62 billion in the previous fiscal, while imports rose to US$ 43.31 billion as compared to around US$ 29 billion in 2020-21.

During 2021-22, India’s two-way commerce with China aggregated at $115.42 billion as compared to $86.4 billion in 2020-21, the data showed.

Exports to China marginally increased to $21.25 billion last fiscal year from $21.18 billion in 2020-21, while imports jumped to $94.16 billion from about $65.21 billion in 2020-21. The trade gap rose to $72.91 billion in 2021-22 from $44 billion in the previous fiscal year.

In 2021-22, the UAE is India’s third-largest trading partner with USD 72.9 billion. It is followed by Saudi Arabia (USD 42.85 billion) as 4th, Iraq (USD 34.33 billion) as 5th, & Singapore (USD 30 billion) as its 6th largest trading partner.

LIC Launches Savings Life Insurance Plan Bima Ratna

The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), India’s largest insurer, has launched “Bima Ratna” – a non-linked, non-participating, individual, savings life insurance plan. The new plan, which is aimed at the domestic market, provides both protection and savings.

Bima Ratna can be purchased through Corporate Agents, Insurance Marketing Firms (IMF), Brokers, CPSC-SPV, and POSP-LI employed by these intermediaries namely Corporate Agents, Insurance Marketing Firms (IMF), and Brokers. 

The key features of the plan include Death benefits, Survival benefits, Maturity benefits, Guaranteed Additions, Settlement Options, Grace Period and Revival solutions among other things.

The Bima Ratna plan from LIC provides financial assistance to the policyholder’s family in the case of the policyholder’s untimely death during the policy term. It offers for periodic payments for the policyholder’s survival at specified intervals to address various financial demands.

The plan also addresses liquidity requirements through a loan facility.

Premiums can be paid on a yearly, half-yearly, quarterly, or monthly basis (monthly premiums can only be paid through the National Automated Clearing House (NACH)) or by deductions from salary.

Important For All Exam 2022:

LIC Chairperson: M R Kumar;

LIC Headquarters: Mumbai;

LIC Founded: 1 September 1956.

Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai Launched AAYU App

Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has launched a new health and wellness app AAYU to address and help heal chronic diseases and lifestyle disorders through yoga.

Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (S-VYASA) collaborated to develop the App with RESET TECH, an AI-driven integrated health-tech platform that aims to deal with chronic diseases and lifestyle conditions through yoga and meditation.

The App would provide users with personalised wellness solutions and offer doctor consultations based on an individual’s personal history and monitor its progress enabling them to accelerate healing and recovery.

The app would provide users with customised wellness solutions and doctor consultations based on their specific histories, as well as track their progress, allowing them to heal and recover faster.

The App is accessible in various languages and aims to reach and impact over five million chronic disease patients within the next five years.

The App addresses the root cause of the diseases goes beyond temporary care and helps restore lost health. Also, aims to cure diseases borne out of lifestyle disorders that have plagued people over the past decades.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Karnataka Governor: Thawar Chand Gehlot;

Karnataka  Chief Minister: Basavaraj Bommai;

Karnataka Capital: Bengaluru