Latest Current Affairs For September, 2022

Uttarakhand wins the Best Adventure Tourism Destination Award

Uttarakhand has received the first prize for the best adventure tourism destination and all-around development of tourism from the Ministry of Tourism.

The State’s Tourism and Culture minister, Satpal Maharaj has received the awards from Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar during the presentation of the National Tourism Awards 2018-19 in New Delhi.

Uttarakhand Governor: Gurmit Singh; 

Chief minister: Pushkar Singh Dhami

Bhupender Yadav releases report on 4th round of quarterly employment survey

Labour minister, Bhupender Yadav has released the report on 4th round of quarterly employment survey (January to March 2022).

Findings:

It indicates that the overall employment has increased in the last four quarterly survey.

The estimated employment has increased from 3.14 crore of the third quarter to 3.18 crore of 4th Quarter.

It provides quarterly estimates about the employment and related variables of establishments in both organized and unorganized segments.

Bank of Baroda launched Khushiyon ka Tyohaar, as festive campaign

Bank of Baroda has launched a festive campaign named "Khushiyon ka Tyohaar" with a range of offers for customers.

BoB Home Loans are available at a competitive interest rate beginning at 7.95% p.a. with no processing charges.

BoB Car Loans are being offered at a special rate starting from 7.95% p.a. – a 25 basis points concession.

Other benefits: No pre-payment/ part payment charges, concessional processing charges, and longer repayment tenure of seven years.

World Bank cuts 2022 East Asia growth outlook

The World Bank has reduced the expected growth in the East Asia and Pacific region for 2022 to 3.2% from 5.0% (earlier forecast).

The previous year growth of East Asia and Pacific region was 7.2%.

Reasons:

Due to sharp slowdown in China that caused by its strict zero-COVID rules.

China strict rules have disrupted industrial production, domestic sales and exports.

Interest rate hikes that central banks across the world are undertaking to combat soaring inflation. 

World Heart Day 2022: September 29

World Heart Day is observed every year on September 29 to raise awareness about the cardiovascular issues and illnesses.

Theme 2022: Use Heart for Every Heart

This day was created in the collaboration of the World Health Organization and the World Heart Federation (WHF).

The President of WHF, Antoni Bayes de Luna, who served in the position from 1997 to 1999, had come up with this idea.

Earlier, this day was originally celebrated on September 24, 2000.

Samsung India, Axis Bank launch co-branded Credit Card

Samsung has partnered with the Axis Bank to launch a co-branded credit card, that is powered by Visa.

Benefits: Consumers will get 10% cashback across all Samsung products and services round the year.

Variants: Visa Signature and Visa Infinite

Signature variant: Cardholders can avail up to ₹10,000 cashback annually, with a monthly cashback limit of ₹2,500. 

Infinite variant: Cardholders can avail up to ₹20,000 cashback annually, with a monthly cashback limit of ₹5,000. 

Yubi partners SBI to provide credit access to priority sector

Yubi (earlier, CredAvenue) has joined hands with the State Bank of India (SBI) to provide growth in co-lending portfolio of bank.

Yubi Co.Lend is a co-lending marketplace, that facilitate lenders to collaborate with multiple partners and disburse joint loans to the priority sector.

Yubi is a unified credit platform with a comprehensive product suite catering to all stages of the debt lifecycle.

Founder and CEO, Yubi: Gaurav Kumar

World Bank, SIDBI launches fund for financing purchase of 2/3 wheelers EV

The govt will launch $1 billion fund in collaboration with World Bank and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).

Aim: To provide guarantees against loan default to lenders financing purchase of 2/3 wheelers EV and facilitate faster and easier financing of EVs.

The NITI Aayog will be the facilitating agency of the project.

Initially a $300 million fund will be used as a “first loss risk sharing instrument.”

Implementing institution: SIDBI

BSE get Sebi's final approval to launch EGR

BSE has received the final approval from SEBI for introducing the Electronic Gold Receipts (EGRs) on its platform.

Earlier, SEBI has proposed a regulatory framework for setting up a gold exchange.

Aim: To help in having a transparent domestic spot price discovery mechanism.

EGRs:

The instruments representing gold is known as EGRs. 

It will be notified as securities, with trading, clearing and settlement features similar to other securities that are available in India. 

'Gangsta's Paradise' rapper, Coolio passed away

US rapper Coolio, who is known for the iconic hit Gangsta's Paradise, has been passed away at the age of 59 in Los Angeles.

His real name was Artis Leon Ivey Jr, has won 1996 Grammy Awards for Gangsta's Paradise in Best Rap Solo Performance category.

He has also received the American Music Awards in 1996.

His other albums: It Takes a Thief (1994), My Soul (1997), Fantastic Voyage (1994), 1, 2, 3, 4 (Sumpin' New) (1996), and C U When U Get There (1997). 

Centre approves ₹10,000 cr plan to modernise three major railway stations

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Indian Railways for the re-development of three major railway stations -New Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai CSMT.

This re-development project involves an investment of approximately ₹10,000 crore.

Re-development project includes:

Installation of CCTV and access control.

Spacious roof plaza with all passenger amenities (spaces for retail, cafeterias, recreational facilities).

Divyang friendly facilities, etc.

Government appoints R. Venkataramani as the new Attorney General of India

R Venkataramani (Senior advocate) has been named as the 14th Attorney General of India for a period of three years w.e.f. 1st October 2022.

He will replace current Attorney General, KK Venugopal whose term ends on September 30, 2022.

He was registered as a lawyer with the Bar Council of TN in 1977.

In 1997, SC has designated him as Senior Advocate.

Earlier, Gov.t appoints Mukul Rohatgi (senior lawyer) as the Attorney General of India, but he had declined offer.

Lt Gen Anil Chauhan (Retired) becomes India's second Chief of Defence Staff

Government has appointed Lt General Anil Chauhan (retired) as the second Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of India.

He had retired as the Eastern Army Commander in May 2021 and was serving as the Military Advisor to the National Security Council.

He was commissioned into the 11 Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army in 1981.

He is an alumnus of the NDA (Khadakwasla) and Indian Military Academy, Dehradun.

He has also served as a United Nations mission to Angola.

Eliud Kipchoge breaks own world record in Berlin Marathon

Eliud Kipchoge (Kenya) has shattered his own world record by lowering the mark to 2:01:09 (new record) to win at the Berlin Marathon.

His previous best in an official 42.2km race was 2:01:39 set on the same course in 2018.

He has long been dubbed the world’s best marathon runner.

He was the first athlete to run a marathon distance in under two hours in Vienna in 2019.

Tigist Assefa (Ethiopia) has won the women’s race in a course record of 2:15:37.

India and Maldives signed MoU Hanimaadhoo International Airport

Government of Maldives has signed an MoU with the Indian JMC Projects for Maldives Hanimaadhoo International Airport Development Project.

The worth of project is about USD $136.6 million.

It was confirmed that the project will be financed by India's Exim Bank.

The Maldives govt is expected to build a 2.46 kilometer runway in addition to a terminal that can serve 1.3 million passengers annually.

The construction work is expected to be fully operational by the year 2024.

Hardeep Singh Puri launched special aviation fuel, AVGAS 100 LL

In an event, hosted by IndianOil at Hindon Airforce Station, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Housing and Urban, Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri has launched AVGAS 100 LL.

AVGAS 100 LL: It is a special aviation fuel meant for piston engine aircrafts and unmanned aerial vehicles.

With this launch, IndianOil has become the first oil marketing company (OMC) to produce and market, AVGAS 100 LL.

Currently India is importing AVGAS 100 LL from European countries.

International Day for Universal Access to Information: 28th September 2022

The International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) is observed on September 28 every year to raise awareness regarding the need to expand laws related to information.

Aim: To support the idea that everyone has the right to seek, receive, and distribute information.

The theme of the Global Conference in 2022 is “Artificial Intelligence, e-Governance and Access to Information". 

On 17 November 2015, UNESCO has declared September 28 is date as IDUAI.

World Rabies Day: 28th September 2022

World Rabies Day is celebrated each year on September 28 to promote the fight against Rabies and raise awareness of its prevention.

As per the World Health Organisation, the theme of World Rabies Day 2022 is ‘Rabies: One Health, Zero Deaths.’

This day was first observed in 2007 to raise awareness about the world’s deadliest infectious disease.

The campaign was started as a partnership between many organizations including the Alliance for Rabies Control.

Asha Parekh will be conferred with 2022 Dadasaheb Phalke award

Veteran actor, Asha Parekh (79) will be awarded the highest recognition in the field of Indian cinema, Dada Saheb Phalke award for 2020.

She will receive the award from President Droupadi Murmu at the 68th National Film Awards on September 30.

She was conferred the Padma Shri in 1992.

She also became the first women to head the Central Board of Film Certification from 1998-2001. 

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award was instituted in 1969 and it was first presented to Devika Rani.

English translation of ‘Lata: Sur-Gatha’ to release in January 2023

The English translation of award-winning book “Lata: Sur-Gatha" will be released in January 2023.

The book has been translated by noted writer and translator Ira Pande.

The announcement has been made by Penguin Random House India (PRHI).

This book was originally written in Hindi by writer-poet, Yatindra Mishra.

The book has also won the 64th National Film Award and the MAMI Award for Best Writing on Cinema (2016–17).

Govt appoints Rajendra Kumar as Director General of ESIC

IAS officer of TN cadre, 1992-batch, Rajendra Kumar has been appointed the director general of the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC).

He is currently an additional secretary in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

Other appointments:

T Natarajan has been appointed as an additional secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs.

V Hekali Zhimomi has been appointed as additional secretary in the Department of Health and Family Welfare.

ADB provides $14 billion support for food security in Asia Pacific

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced plans to provide at least $14 billion to Asia-Pacific for 2022–2025.

Reason: To ease a worsening food crisis and improve long-term food security by strengthening food systems due to climate change.

Use of fund: The funding will be channeled through existing and new projects in sectors including farm inputs, food production and distribution, social protection, irrigation, and water resources management.

Kumar Sanu, Shailendra Singh, Anand-Milind will get Lata Mangeshkar Award

Kumar Sanu and Shailendra Singh (Playback singers) and Anand-Milind (music-composer duo) will be conferred with the National Lata Mangeshkar Award for different years.

The prestigious award will be presented on September 28 (birth anniversary of the late legendary singer) at her birthplace Indore.

Shailendra Singh will be given the Lata Mangeshkar Award for 2019.

While Anand-Milind will be conferred with the honour for 2020.

Kumar Sanu will be given the award for 2021.

DRDO successful tests of Very Short Range Air Defence System Missiles

DRDO has conducted successful test flights of Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missiles at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha. 

It is a Man Portable Air Defence System that is designed and developed by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad in collaboration with other DRDO facilities. 

Use: To neutralize low-altitude aerial threats at short ranges. 

The design of the missile including the launcher has been highly optimized to ensure easy portability. 

Government launched Jaldoot app for groundwater tables

Faggan Singh Kulaste (MoS for Rural Development and Steel) has launched the JALDOOT App and e-brochure.

Developed by: Ministry of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.

Use: To capture the water level of selected 2-3 wells in a village.

The manual monitoring of water levels in open wells will be measured twice in a year (pre-monsoon and post-monsoon level for the same well ).

Assigned officers will measure the water levels and upload the geo-tagged photographs.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman named prime minister of Saudi Arabia

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been appointed the prime minister of Saudi Arabia by the King Salman bin Abdulaziz.

He is already de facto ruler of the Saudi Arabia.

Previously, he has served as the deputy prime minister as well as defence minister.

He is being replaced as defence minister by his younger brother, Khalid bin Salman, who was deputy defence minister.

Saudi Arabia's Capital: Riyadh; 

Currency: Saudi riyal

Govt to launch Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has launched a Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan for implementing City Action Plans prepared as part of National Clean Air Programme.

Aim: To reduce air pollution upto 40% by 2025-26.

This survey has categorized 131 cities into three groups based on population.

First group: Population more than 10 lakh (47 cities)

Second group: Population between 3 to 10 lakh (44 cities)

Third group: Population less than 3 lakh (40 cities)

BPCL, Petrobras signs MoU to diversify crude oil sourcing

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd has signed an MoU with Brazilian oil major, Petrobras to diversify its crude oil sourcing.

The MoU was signed by Arun Kumar Singh (Chairman BPCL) and Caio Paes de Andrade (CEO Petrobras) in Brazil.

Aim: To strengthen future crude oil trade relations between the two companies and explore potential crude import opportunities by BPCL.

Petrobras operates in an integrated and specialized manner in the oil, natural gas and energy industry.

CEC of LAHDC Kargil inaugurated first ever Mega Kissan Mela in Ladakh

CEC of LAHDC Kargil Feroz Ahmad Khan has inaugurated the first ever Mega Kissan Mela at Indoor Stadium Kargil.

This event was organised by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir. 

Stalls were established by scores of progressive farmers, KVK Centre, & Research Centre from across UT Ladakh and J&K.

Aim: Experts will educate the farmers about latest techniques and use of high yielding varieties for satiable agriculture.

Union Bank of India opens ethical hacking lab

Union Bank of India has inaugurated ‘Ethical Hacking Lab’ at the Cyber security Centre of Excellence (CCoE) in Hyderabad.

Aim: To build cyber defence mechanism to safeguard the Bank’s Information Systems, Digital Assets, Channels etc against potential cyber threats.

The Ethical Hacking Lab was inaugurated by Ms. A. Manimekhalai (MD & CEO, Union Bank of India).

Union Bank is adopting various new initiatives to increase Digital Footprints.

Union Bank of India HQ: Mumbai

Himachal Pradesh government approves tutor scheme for 3 to 6 age group

The HP cabinet has given their nod to the ‘Himachal Pradesh early childhood care and education tutor scheme-2022’ for children in the age group of 3 to 6.

Aim: To provide an appropriate care and stimulation of the brain in early years to ensure healthy development and growth.

The govt will be paid a sum of ₹9,000 a month to those candidates who have done a one-year diploma in nursery teacher, so that they can bridge courses to make them eligible.

Veteran Congress leader, Aryadan Muhammed passes away

Former Kerala minister and senior Congress leader, Aryadan Muhammed has been passed away at the age of 87 in Kozhikode, Kerala.

He has won the Nilambur seat (Malappuram district) of Kerala legislative assembly in 1977.

He was also a minister in the EK Nayanar cabinet when he was part of the Left Front Group A in 1980.

He also held the ministerial post in the AK Antony cabinet and Oommen Chandy cabinet.

Giorgia Meloni becomes first woman PM of Italy

Giorgia Meloni has become the first woman prime minister of Italy, after defeating, Mario Draghi by a huge margin.

She has joined politics at age 15 in 1992, joining the neo-fascist Social Movement.

She has also served as a youth minister in Berlusconi's 2008-2011 government before founding the Brothers of Italy in 2012.

Three prominent political leaders Meloni, La Russa, and Crosetto founded a new political movement Brothers of Italy in 2012. 

President Murmu inaugurates HAL's Cryogenic Engines Manufacturing Facility

President Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated the Integrated Cryogenic Engines Manufacturing Facility of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru.

The Cryogenic engines are used by ISRO for its satellite launch operations.

The President has also laid the foundation stone of the South Zonal Institute of Virology virtually at HAL.

She has also inaugurated the St. Joseph University and attended a Civic reception hosted by the State Government in her honour.

S&P Global retains India’s 2022-23 growth at 7.3%

S&P Global Ratings has retained economic growth projection of India at 7.3% in the current fiscal.

S&P has also predicted that inflation is likely to remain above the Reserve Bank of India's upper tolerance threshold of 6% till the end of 2022.

Reason: The external environment has soured for economies in the region and higher global interest rates will exert pressure on central banks.

While, OECD has projected India's GDP growth rate 6.9% for FY23.

World Tourism Day: 27th September 2022

World Tourism Day 2022 is observed annually on 27 September to promote tourism in various parts of the world.

The theme of World Tourism Day 2022 is ‘Rethinking Tourism’.

This day was initiated by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in 1979.

This date was selected by UNWTO, because the date marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Statutes of UNWTO.

In 1997, UNWTO decided that the day would be celebrated in different host countries each year. 

Leh achieves 100 percent digitization of banking operations

RBI has felicitated the bankers of the district to Leh district for achieving 100% digitization of banking operations.

Digital Banking: It refers to the electronic banking service provided by a bank for its financial and other transactions through electronic devices online.

In 2019, RBI has proposed to make at least one district of every state in the country have 100% digitization of banking operations.

First fully digital banking district of India: Thrissur, Kerala. 

Indian govt appoints Bandaru Wilsonbabu as Indian Ambassador to Madagascar

IFS officer. Bandaru Wilsonbabu has been appointed as the next ambassador of India to the Republic of Madagascar.

He is presently serving as the joint secretary in the ministry of external affairs.

He will be replacing ambassador Abhay Kumar.

He has also served as the joint Secretary in the Eurasia division.

Madagascar:

Capital: Antananarivo; 

Currency: Malagasy ariary. 

President: Andry Rajoelina; 

Prime Minister: Christian Ntsay. 

Indian-origin Suella Braverman wins first-ever Queen Elizabeth II award

Indian-origin UK Home Secretary, Suella Braverman (42) has been honoured with the first-ever Queen Elizabeth II Woman of the Year award in 20th Asian Achievers Awards, held at London. 

In 2022, she has replaced Priti Patel for the position of Home Secretary. 

Other AAA 2022 Winners:

Art and Culture: Namit Malhotra (Chairman of DNEG). 

Business Person of the Year: Shamil and Kavi Thakrar (Founders of Dishoom). 

Community Service: Dr Zareen Roohi Ahmed (CEO of Gift Wellness). 

Health Minister inaugurates two-days long Arogya Manthan 2022

Health Minister, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has inaugurated Arogya Manthan 2022 to celebrate the four years of implementation of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri - Jan Arogya Yojana and one year of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.

The scheme provides a health cover of five lakh rupees annually to vulnerable families.

The Minister has also launched several new initiatives including Health Claims Exchange (HCX), National e-Rupi Portal and Roadmap for Digitization.

Quad signs Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief partnership guidelin

The QUAD group has signed the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) partnership guidelines during a ministerial meeting hosted by the US on the sidelines of UNGA in New York.

The partnership was announced during the Quad Leaders’ Tokyo Summit 2022 as part of the grouping’s shared vision of free and open Indo-Pacific.

These guidelines aim to respond to disasters occurring in the Indo-Pacific region.

Defence ministry inks Rs 1700 cr pact for dual-role BrahMos missiles

The Ministry of Defence has signed an agreement with BrahMos Aerospace Pvt. Ltd. (BAPL) for acquisition of additional dual-role capable Surface to Surface BrahMos missiles at ₹1700 Crore (approx) under “Buy-Indian" Category.

The Induction of these dual-role capable Missiles will enhance the operational capability of Indian Navy fleet assets.

BrahMos variants can be launched from land, air and sea, and all three variants are in service in the Indian armed forces.

China discovers rare lunar crystal and nuclear power source on moon

The researchers of China have discovered a rare lunar crystal and nuclear power source on near side of the moon.

Changesite-(Y):

It is a small, transparent crystal (Diamond shape).

It was named after the Chinese moon goddess Chang'e.

It is as wide as a human hair.

Chang’e-5 Mission:

It is China’s first lunar sample-return mission and fifth lunar exploration mission.

It was launched in November 2020 and returned the sample back to Earth in December 2020.

MoHUA launches Swachh Toycathon 2022

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched the Swachh Toycathon as a part of the Swachh Amrit Mahotsav.

It is a unique competition to make toys from dry waste.

Aim: To explore innovative solutions for the use of dry waste in manufacturing toys.

The knowledge partner for the initiative is the Center for Creative Learning, IIT Gandhinagar and the competition will be hosted on the MyGov portal.

G. Kishan Reddy launches Conference 'SymphoNE' to boost Tourism Sector

Union Minister, G. Kishan Reddy has launched Virtual Conference 'SymphoNE' to boost Tourism Sector in North East India.

SymphoNE is the start of a series of dialogues on North Eastern Region's Development Conference comprised of a broad range of Policy Thinkers, Stakeholders & Influencers.

The Virtual Conference is being organized on 24th - 27th September 2022, by Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region on the occasion of World Tourism Day(27 September).

Chhattisgarh government launches a campaign 'Hamar Beti – Hamar Maan'

Chhattisgarh government will launch a special campaign called ’Hamar Beti – Hamar Maan’ (our daughters, our honour).

Aim: For protection and safety of girls and women and provide them essential services.

Implementation: Women police personnel will visit schools and colleges in all districts and educate girls about their legal rights.

Govt will soon launch a helpline number for complaints about misbehaviour, molestation and other crimes against women.

A book titled “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas Sabka Vishwas” released

Former VP, Venkaiah Naidu has released a book titled “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas Sabka Vishwas” at Akashvani Bhawan in New Delhi.

The book was released in the presence of Kerala Governor, Arif Mohammad Khan at an event, organised by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The book is a collection of PM Modi selected speeches between May 2019 and May 2020.

The book focuses on 86 speeches of PM on various subjects.

The book was published in Hindi and English.

ISRO develops microprocessor-controlled smart limbs

ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre has developed an intelligent artificial limb, under an MoU with National Institute for Locomotor Disabilities, Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities (Divyangjan).

Weight: 1.6 kg. 

It has enabled an amputee to walk about 100 metres in the corridor with minimum support.

It is a microprocessor-controlled knees (MPKs) that offers extended capabilities for the amputee.

Dr Rajiv Bahl appointed as Director General ICMR

The Central government has appointed Dr Rajiv Bahl as a Director General of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) cum- Secretary Department of Health Research (DHR) for three years.

Presently, He is serving as a head of the research on maternal, newborn child and adolescent health cum-newborn unit at WHO, Geneva.

He has replaced Dr Balram Bhargav, whose tenure has been ended in July 2022.

ICMR Headquarters: New Delhi

China discovers new type of mineral on Moon

A new type of crystal was discovered by researchers in China from the near side of the Moon.

Key facts:

The newly discovered crystal was named Changesite-(Y) after the Chinese moon goddess Chang’e.

This small and transparent crystal was found among the volcanic debris of the near side of the moon.

It is more than a billion years old and its width is almost comparable to human hair.

It has a unique composition and is related to other minerals found only found on the lunar surface or in meteors.

The crystal was found among the 1.8 km of lunar rocks brought back by Chang’e-5 mission in 2020.

These samples are the first to the delivered to the Earth from Moon since 1976 and the first ever lunar samples collected by China.

The Changesite-(Y) crystal is the sixth new mineral to be discovered on the Moon and the first identified by China. The previous 5 discoveries were made by either the United States or Russia.

The lunar samples from Chang’e-5 also had helium-3, a version of helium that is extremely rare on Earth but highly abundant on the Moon.

It is seen as a potential source of fuel for nuclear fusion, as it is known to emit lesser radiation and nuclear wastes than other elements.

It is found in abundant quantities as it was deposited directly onto the lunar soil for billions of years by solar wind.

The availability of Helium-3 on Earth is few and far between. Hence, its discovery has triggered a potential lunar resource race.

Several space-faring nations and private companies are looking to mine the moon for Helium-3, including the US and China.

About Chang’e-5 Mission:

The Chang’e 5 is China’s first lunar sample-return mission launched in November 2020. It is China’s fifth lunar exploration mission. It returned the sample back to Earth in December 2020. It is the first lunar sample-return mission since the Soviet Union’s Luna 24 in 1976. With Chang’e 5 mission, China became the third country after the US and the USSR to return lunar samples to the Earth.

Fridays for Future Campaign

Fridays for Future activists have launched climate change protests in Germany and other countries.

Key facts:

About 280,000 people in over 270 cities and towns across Germany are taking part in demonstrations as part of the Fridays for Future movement.

One of the biggest rallies took place in Berlin, where over 36,000 people gathered to conduct climate demonstrations.

These protesters are calling for the stopping of global warming and demanding the German government to set up a 100 billion euro funding to expand renewable energy use.

They are also demanding the cancellation of financial and climate debts to developing countries.

These protests were organized 6 weeks before the start of the UN Climate Summit (COP27), which is set to take place in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.

Countries like Italy, South Korea, the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo have also witnessed similar protests.

What is Fridays for Future Movement?

Fridays for Future is an international student movement that aims to push towards an immediate climate action through active campaigning and advocacy. It was chosen as the Champion of the Earth because of its role in creating awareness about the adverse impact caused by climate crisis. This movement was inspired by Greta Thunberg, who sat in protest in front of the Swedish Parliament for three weeks to bring political attention towards climate emergency. Now, this global movement has spread to over 100 countries across the globe. It has played a major role in starting the international conversation about climate change at a time when the window of opportunity to avoid the adverse impact of increasing global temperature is closing.

Champions of the Earth:

Champions of the Earth is a flagship environmental award conferred by the United Nations. It was established by the United Nations Environment Programme in 2005. It recognizes individuals and organizations involved in the protection of environment and addressing climate change.

Banking System Liquidity turns to deficit mode

Banking system liquidity has turned into a deficit mode for the first time since May 2019.

Key facts:

On September 20 this year, the banking system liquidity situation has turned into deficit mode of Rs.21,873.4 crore.

On the same day last year, the liquidity surplus was Rs.6.7 lakh crore.

The deficit was caused because of increased bank credit, advanced tax payments by corporates, interventions by the Reserve Bank of India into the foreign exchange market and incremental deposit growth not keeping pace with the credit demand.

The RBI’s persistent interventions to stop the fall of rupee against the US dollar is one of the causes of the deficit.

As of August 26, the outstanding bank credit was Rs 124.58 lakh crore. This is a 4.77 per cent increase when compared to March 2022.

However, the deposit growth was just 3.21 per cent during the same period.

If the banking system liquidity is in deficit mode, it could cause a rise in the government securities yields and consequently result in an increase in interest rate for consumers.

The short-term rates would increase at a faster pace if the liquidity is tight.

An increase in repo rate would result in banks increasing their repo-linked lending rates and their funds-based lending rate, to which loans are linked to.

About banking system liquidity. 

Liquidity in banking system refers to the readily available cash the bank requires to meet the short-term business and financial needs. If the banking system is a net borrower from the RBI under the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), the banking system liquidity is said to be deficit. If the bank is the net lender to RBI, the system liquidity is surplus. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) is a tool used by the central bank to inject or absorb liquidity into or from the banking system in the country.

India to host maiden Moto GP race in 2023

India will host its maiden MotoGP World Championships race at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida in 2023.

MotoGP commercial rights owner, Dorna has signed an MoU with the Noida-based race promoters, Fairstreet Sports to host the premier two-wheel racing event in India for next seven years.

MotoGP has plans to also introduce MotoE into the Indian racing scenario that will not only be a first in Asia but a green initiative with net zero carbon emission.

Max Life ropes Rohit Sharma and Ritika Sajdeh as brand ambassadors

Max Life Insurance has appointed Indian men’s cricket team captain, Rohit Sharma and his wife, Ritika Sajdeh as their new brand ambassadors for two years.

The core message of Max Life Insurance is to be prepared mentally, physically, and financially for emerging challenges.

Aim: To promote the Max Life brand ethos of valuing the 'self' to determine the right financial value to protect themselves and their family.

Japan’s MUFG Bank injects ₹3,000 crore in India biz

MUFG Bank (Japan) has boosted the capital of its branches within India by ₹3,000 crore ($380m).

Reason: As the bank looks to expand its India business. 

Impact: It will strengthen its financial base in India and better respond to the diverse financing needs of its clients. 

With this capital injection, the total capital of MUFG Bank in India will rise to ₹5,207 crore.

The bank has already expanded its presence by opening a branch at Gujarat International Finance TecCity.

3rd edition of Lok Manthan programme inaugurates by VP Jagdeep Dhankhar

VP, Jagdeep Dhankhar has inaugurated 3rd edition of the Lok Manthan programme at Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra in Guwahati.

Theme of 2022 biennale is Lokparampara (Lok traditions).

Kerala Governor, Arif Muhammad Khan will be the Chief Guest at the concluding session (24th September).

Lokmanthan: It is an occasion where artists, intellectuals, and academicians are come from different parts of the country converge and brainstorm on the questions that haunt the society.

SC appoints former Judge L Nageswara Rao for amending IOA's Constitution

The bench of SC, headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud, has appointed former apex court judge Justice L Nageswara Rao for amending constitution of Indian Olympic Association.

Responsibility: To prepare a road map for amending the constitution and holding elections by December 15, 2022.

Background: IOC had issued a final warning to IOA to resolve its governance issues and hold elections by December.

Impact: If failed to do so, then the world sports body will ban India.

NCC, UNEP sign MoU to tackle the issue of plastic pollution

National Cadet Corps (NCC) has signed an MoU with and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Aim: To tackle the issue of plastic pollution and achieve the universal goal of clean water bodies through Puneet Sagar Abhiyan and Tide Turners Plastic Challenge programme.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Puneet Sagar Abhiyan, was launched by the NCC on 1st December 2021.

National Cadet Corps DG: Lt. Gen. Gurbirpal Singh

Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurates conference on consciousness

Ayush Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal has inaugurated the international conference on Consciousness at NIMHANS, Bengaluru.

Theme 2022: Exploring Consciousness- From Non- Locality to Non- Duality: The Man- Machine Debate

The conference was organized by India Foundation and NIMHANS and supported by Ministry of Ayush.

He has also inaugurated the Centre of Excellence project in the Department of Integrative Medicine at NIMHANS, Bengaluru as part of Ayurswasthya Yojana.

RBI cancels license of Maharashtra-based Laxmi Cooperative Bank

RBI has cancelled the licence of Maharashtra-based the Laxmi Co-operative Bank.

Reason: Lack of adequate capital

Claim: Every depositor would be entitled to receive a deposit insurance claim amount upto 5 lakh rupees.

The Commissioner for Cooperation and Registrar of Cooperative Societies (Maharashtra) has also been asked wind up the business and appoint a liquidator for the bank.

As per the data, 99% of the depositors are entitled to receive the full amount of DICGC.

Sign Language Day 2022: 23rd September 2022

The United Nations has declared 23rd September as the International Day of Sign Languages to spread the awareness about the importance of sign language in the realisation of the human rights of people who are deaf.

Theme 2022:  Sign Languages Unite us

The first International Day of Sign Languages was celebrated in 2018 as part of the International Week of the Deaf.

Indian govt conduct Sign Language Day event, in which Indian Sign Language Dictionary App launched.

EAM Dr. S Jaishankar hosts G-4 meeting of Foreign Ministers

External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S Jaishankar has hosted the G-4 meeting of Foreign Ministers.

The summit was attended by Ministers Foreign Ministers -

Carlos França (Brazil). 

Yoshimasa Hayashi (Japanese). 

Annalena Baerbock (German). 

He is on visit USA from 18-28 September 2022.

He led India delegation for the High Level Week at the 77th Session of UNGA.

77th UNGA theme: Watershed Moment: Transformative Solutions to Interlocking Challenges

Author-poet, Meena Kandasamy wins German PEN award

Indian author and poet, Meena Kandasamy has been named as the recipient of the Hermann Kesten Prize by the PEN Centre in Germany’s Darmstadt.

The Hermann Kesten Prize honours to those personalities who are in the spirit of the charter of the PEN association and stand up for the rights of persecuted authors and journalists.

Her notable works: The Gypsy Goddess (2014), When I Hit You: Or, A Portrait of the Writer as a Young Wife (2017), and Ms Militancy (2010).

Gates Foundation provides $1.27 billion aid for poverty, social inequality

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has announced to provide financial assistance of USD 1.27 billion to address poverty and social inequalities.

A per the annual Goalkeepers report, that every indicator of the UN SDGs are off track for achieving them by 2030.

2022 Goalkeepers awards:

Global Goalkeeper Award: Ursula von der Leyen (Germany). 

Campaign Award: Vanessa Nakate (Uganda). 

Changemaker Award: Zahra Joya (Afghanistan). 

Progress Award: Dr. Radhika Batra (India). 

Daniel A. Spielman awarded 2023 Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics

Daniel A. Spielman has been honoured with the 2023 Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics for multiple discoveries in theoretical computer science and mathematics.

In Fundamental Physics:

Charles H. Bennett, Gilles Brassard, David Deutsch and Peter Shor. 

Reason: Discovering the fundamental physics that underlie quantum computation.

Life Sciences:

Clifford Brangwynne and Anthony Hyman. 

Demis Hassabis and John Jumper. 

Emmanuel Mignot and Masashi Yanagisawa. 

Elvis Ali Hazarika becomes first from North East to cross North Channel

Veteran Assamese swimmer, Elvis Ali Hazarika has become the first from the North East to cross the North Channel.

The North Channel is the strait between north-eastern Northern Ireland and south-western Scotland.

Elvis and his team clocked a timing of 14 hours 38 minutes to achieve this feat.

With this, Elvis has become the oldest Indian swimmer to cross the North Channel.

He also became the first Assamese to successfully swim from Dharamtar Jetty to Gateway Of India.

Kotak Mahindra Bank launched “Kotak IITM Save Energy Mission”

Kotak Mahindra Bank and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) have jointly launched the Kotak IITM Save Energy Mission.

Aim: To encourage adoption of various energy conservation measures in the micro, small and medium enterprises sector.

Under the CSR initiative of Kotak Mahindra Bank, satellite centres would be set up at IIT-Bombay, IIT-Gandhinagar, IIT-Indore, IIT-Ropar.

While the hub of Save Energy Mission would be at the IIT-Madras campus in Chennai.

ESAF Bank re-appointed Ravi Mohan as Chairman

Reserve Bank of India has approved the reappointment of PR Ravi Mohan as the Chairman of ESAF Small Finance Bank for a further period of three years from December 21, 2022.

He is a certified associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers.

Previously, He was employed as a chief general manager in the department of banking supervision of the Reserve Bank of India.

He was a resident advisor in financial sector supervision with IMF, AFRITAC South, Mauritius.

Indian, United States Coast Guard hold joint exercise Abhyas

An Indo-US coast guard joint exercise called Abhyas-01/22 held was conducted off Chennai coast.

Aim: Search and rescue, anti-piracy operation and coordinated joint boarding of vessels. 

Anti-piracy demonstration: A scenario of pirates hijacking a ship was created and the coast guard personnel of both the countries carried out a coordinated interdiction of the vessel.

Search and rescue operation involves activities and external fire-fighting to salvage burning ships.

Book titled, She Is - Women in STEAM released, to honour 75 women

The book titled, She Is–Women in STEAM, has been unveiled by Prof. Ajay Sood (Principal Scientific Adviser to GoI) and Alex Ellis (British High Commissioner).

The book has honoured 75 women in STEAM (fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) celebrating gender, leadership, and sustainable development in the fields of STEAM.

The book has been compiled by ElsaMarie D’Silva and illustrated by Supreet K Singh.

MoFPI launches Convergence Portal to support Food Processing Enterprises

The government has launched a joint convergence portal for different schemes run by Food Processing and Agriculture ministries.

Schemes include: Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY).

The portal was launched in the presence of Union Agriculture Minister, Narendra Singh Tomar and Minister of State for Agriculture Kailash Choudhary.

India receives UN award for its Hypertension Control Initiative under NHM

The India Hypertension Control Initiative (IHCI) has won the ‘2022 UN Interagency Task Force and WHO Special Programme on Primary Health Care Award’ at the UN General Assembly, held at New York in USA.

Reason: For its initiative to control and prevent hypertension under the government's National Health Mission.

This initiative was launched in 2017 and expanded in a phased manner to cover more than 130 districts across 23 states.

Health Minister: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

PM Modi receives Braille version of Assamese Dictionary Hemkosh

PM Narendra Modi has received a copy of the Braille version of Assamese Dictionary Hemkosh from Jayanta Baruah in New Delhi.

The Braille version of ‘Hemkosh’ has been conceptualized and published by the Editor of Asomiya Pratidin, Jayanta Baruah.

Hemkosh is South-East Asia's first Braille dictionary in Assamese.

It was also the first Assamese dictionary which was edited by Hemchandra Baruah in the 19th century.

This edition of ‘Hemkosh’ comprises of appro 10,000 pages,

PM to inaugurate National Conference of Environment Ministers in Gujarat

PM Narendra Modi will inaugurate the National Conference of Environment Ministers in Gujarat through video conferencing on 23rd September.

Agenda: To create synergy amongst the Central and State govt in formulating better policies

The two-day Conference will have six thematic sessions: (1) LiFE, (2) Combating Climate Change, (3) PARIVESH, (4) Forestry Management, (5) Prevention and Control of Pollution, (6) Wildlife Management and Plastics and Waste Management. 

World Rhino Day 2022: 22 September

World Rhino Day is observed every year on 22nd September to spread awareness about the different Rhinoceros species.

This day also celebrates all five rhino species namely the Sumatran, Black, Greater One-horned, Javan, and White rhino species.

The theme 2022: “Five Rhino Species Forever”.

The announcement of this day was done in 2010 by WWF-South Africa.

This day was first observed in 2011 and since then it has been observed worldwide.

ADB cuts GDP growth forecast of India for FY23 to 7%

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has reduced the economic growth projection of India for 2022-23 to 7%  from 7.2%.

Reason: Higher inflation and monetary tightening.

The economy of India has been grew 13.5% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) in the first quarter of 2022-23, that shows strong growth in services.

Report: Second supplement to Asian Development Outlook Report 2022.

The ADO also expects that the Chinese economy to expand by 3.3% in 2022 rather than 5% forecast.

Govt appoints Ratan Tata and two others as trustees of PM CARES Fund

The government has appointed Ratan Tata (Tata Sons chairman),  KT Thomas (former SC judge) and Kariya Munda (former Deputy Speaker) as the trustees of the PM CARES Fund.

The Trust further decided to nominate other eminent persons for the constitution of Advisory Board to the PM CARES Fund.

Advisory Board: Rajiv Mehrishi, Sudha Murthy, and Anand Shah (Former CEO of Piramal Foundation).

Aim: To provide wider perspectives on the functioning of the PM CARES Fund.

R Gandhi appointed as non-executive chairman of Yes Bank

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has given its approval to the appointment of Rama Subramaniam Gandhi as the Non-Executive (Part-time) Chairman of Yes Bank with effect from September 20, for a tenure of 3 years.

He is currently serving as a financial sector policy expert and adviser.

He served as an RBI deputy governor for three years from 2014 to 2017.

He also served as a director of Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology IDRBT), Hyderabad.

Adani group becomes India's most valued conglomerate

The Adani group has overtaken the Tata-led conglomerate with an overall market capitalisation of Adani on the BSE at over ₹ 22 lakh crore makes it the most valued in India.

The combined consolidated revenues and net profit of listed companies of Tata Group were Rs 8.6 trillion and Rs 74,523 crore in FY22 respectively.

Mukesh Ambani's group of nine companies stood third on the list with a market capitalisation of more than ₹ 17 lakh crore.

CCI approves merger of Jio Cinema OTT with Viacom18 Media

CCI has approved the proposed merger of Jio Cinema OTT with Viacom18 Media.

Under this, Jio Cinema OTT app of Reliance will be transferred to Viacom18.

In April 2022, RIL and Viacom18 have announced a strategic partnership with Bodhi Tree Systems (BTS).

BTS will invest Rs 13,500 crore in Viacom18 while Reliance Projects & Property Management Services will invest Rs 1,645 crore in the broadcaster.

BTS is an investment firm of Uday Shankar (ex-chairman of Star).

Russian cosmonaut, Valery Polyakov passes away

Russian cosmonaut, Vladimirovich Polyakov, who holds the record for the longest single stay in space, has been passed away at 80.

He flew his first mission into space in 1988 and returning in 1989 after eight months.

He had lived and worked in space for a record 437 days in one stint, orbiting Earth aboard the Mir space station more than 7,000 times between January 8, 1994 and March 22, 1995.

He undertook two space expeditions during his career(678 days and 16 hours).

SBI Foundation, WWF India join hands for Red Panda conservation

SBI Foundation and WWF India have partnered to generate fine-scale information on Red Panda species at a transboundary level and engage with communities in safeguarding them in the Khangchendzonga landscape of Sikkim and West Bengal.

The event was organised at the Himalayan Zoological Park in Gangtok.

International Red Panda Day is celebrated every year on the third Saturday of September to support Red Panda conservation. 

SBI Foundation is the CSR arm of SBI.

World Bank approves $150 million loan to Punjab

Punjab government has received a loan of $150 million (approx Rs 1,200 crore) from the World Bank to help the state better manage its financial resources and improve access to public services.

Punjab at present has a debt of Rs 2.63 lakh crore.

The $150 million loan has a maturity of 15 years including a grace period of 6 months.

Punjab government will launch new projects with World Bank's assistance to attain its development goals.

Punjab CM: Bhagwant Mann

International Day of Peace: 21st September

The International Day of Peace is observed globally on September 21 to promote ideals of peace among nations and people by observing non-violence and ceasefire for 24 hours.

Theme for the International Day of Peace 2022 is “End racism. Build peace.”

The day was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly.

The General Assembly unanimously in 2001 voted to designate the day as a period of non-violence and cease-fire.

Odisha to invest Rs 261 crore in livelihood action plan

The Odisha government has approved Rs 261 crore for regeneration of coastal ecosystem and to enhance climate resilience among people living on the coast.

The government has decided to implement this livelihood action plan from the current year till 2026-27.

The main coastal landscapes to be treated under the project and would include areas like Bhitarkanika in Kendrapara district, Bahuda and Chilika in Ganjam district, and Devi Mouth, Chilika in Puri district.

36 OneWeb satellites reach at Satish Dhawan Space Centre

The 36 satellites of OneWeb, the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications company has been arrived at Satish Dhawan Space Centre ahead of a planned launch from Sriharikota.

The satellites will be launched by the heaviest ISRO rocket, the GSLV-MkIII.

OneWeb has partnered with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) to facilitate the launch.

NSIL is the commercial arm of national space agency Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Chairman and MD, NSIL: Radhakrishnan D

Comedian, Raju Srivastava passes away

Comedian, Raju Srivastava has been passed away at 58 due to heart attack in AIIMS, New Delhi.

He was the chairman of the Film Development Council Uttar Pradesh.

He got fame after participating in the first season of the reality stand-up comedy show "The Great Indian Laughter Challenge" in 2005.

He played supporting roles in Hindi films such as Maine Pyar Kiya, Baazigar, the remake of Bombay to Goa and Aamdani Atthani Kharcha Rupaiya.

World Alzheimer’s Day 2022: 21st September

World Alzheimer's Day is observed every year on September 21 to raise awareness about neurological disorders.

The theme 2022: know dementia, know Alzheimer's.

Alzheimer's disease: It is the most common form of dementia. It destroys the brain cells which causes memory loss, memory changes, erratic behaviour, and loss of body functions.

This day was first marked on 21 September 1994.

The month is being observed by Alzheimer’s Disease International.

RBI take out Central Bank of India from PCA restrictions

RBI has decided to remove the Central Bank of India from its Prompt Corrective Action Framework (PCAF).

Reason: Improvement in various financial ratios, including minimum regulatory capital

PCA norms: It is a supervisory tool and is imposed on banks, when they breach certain regulatory thresholds on capital to risk weighted assets ratio, net NPAs, and return on assets.

The RBI imposed PCA norms on the bank in June 2017 due to its high net NPA and negative RoA.

AIBD extended India’s Presidency for one more year

India’s Presidency of Asia-pacific Institute of Broadcasting Development (AIBD) has been extended for one more year.

The decision was taken unanimously by the AIBD member countries at the two-day General Conference held in New Delhi.

Currently, CEO of Prasar Bharati and DG of Doordarshan, Mayank Kumar Agrawal is the President of AIBD. 

The conference was inaugurated by Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Singh Thakur.

AIBD was established in 1977.

Gujarati film 'Chhello Show' becomes India’s official entry for Oscars 2023

Gujarati Film, Chhello Show (Last Film Show) has been selected as the India’s submission to the Best International Feature Film category at the 95th Academy Awards.

This movie was directed by Pan Nalin.

This movie was honoured the Golden Spike at the 66th Valladolid International Film Festival in 2021.

This movie was premiered at Tribeca Film Festival in 2021.

The film was also nominated for Tiantan Awards at 11th Beijing International Film Festival.

Manoj Bajpayee released ‘Muskurate Chand Lamhe aur Kuchh Khamoshiyan’

Noted Film Actor, Manoj Bajpayee has released a book titled Muskurate Chand Lamhe aur Kuchh Khamoshiyan.

The book has been released in presence of Information and Broadcasting Secretary Apurva Chandra in New Delhi.

The book offers a collection of poems.

This book has been authored by a retired IAS officer of UP cadre, Jiwesh Nandan.

The book has been published by Shobit Arya, the founder and publisher of Wisdom Tree, an Indian publishing organisation.

VK Singh appointed as Ex-Servicemen Welfare Secretary

Senior bureaucrat, Vijoy Kumar Singh has assumed charge as Ex-Servicemen Welfare Secretary.

He is a 1990-batch IAS officer of Punjab cadre and has an experience of more than 32 years in administration.

He recently served as special secretary in Ministry of Textiles.

Prior to this appointment, he had served as joint secretary in Department of Personnel & Training and had extensive interactions with Armed Forces personnel during his career in Punjab.

Dharmendra Pradhan launches Ramakrishna Mission’s ‘Awakening’ Programme

Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan has launched Ramakrishna Mission’s ‘Awakening’ Programme for students of classes I to V.

Highlights:

The NEP 2020 is inspired by the philosophy of Swami Vivekananda.

Ramkrishna Mission has a legacy of imparting applied education.

NEP 2020 has emphasized on creating value-based educational programs for 9th and 12th in addition to creating programs for classes I to VIII.

International Week of Deaf People 2022: 19 to 25 September 2022

The International Week of the Deaf (IWD) is observed on the full week ending on the last Sunday of September.

In 2022, IWD is being observed from September 19 to 25 September 2022.

The theme of the 2022: Building Inclusive Communities for All

It is an initiative of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) and was first launched in 1958 in Rome, Italy to commemorate the month when the first World Congress of the WFD was held.

Swati Piramal conferred French honour for business, industry contribution

Dr Swati Piramal has been conferred the top civilian honour of France 'Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur or Knight of the Legion of Honour' by Catherine Colonna (France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs).

She has been honoured for her contributions in the fields of business and industry, science, medicine, and towards strengthening Indo-French ties.

She is the vice-chairperson of the Piramal Group.

She has also received the Padma Shri in 2012.

Bihar govt to introduce 'no-bag day' in schools

The Bihar government is ready to introduce a 'no-bag day' rule in schools and a mandatory games period at least once a week to reduce the burden on students.

Aim: To engage students in various activities which can positively impact their learning.

As per the notification, the weekly ''no-bag day'' will have task-based practical classes.

At least once a week, students will come to schools only with their lunch boxes. They do not need to carry books.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands become India’s first Swachh Sujal Pradesh

Jal Shakti Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has declared Andaman and Nicobar Islands as India's first Swachh Sujal Pradesh.

He handed over the certificate to A&N's LG Admiral DK Joshi.

All the villages of Andaman and Nicobar Island have been certified as Har Ghar Jal and verified as open defecation free - ODF plus.

On World Water Day (22 March 2021) A&N Islands were declared to have achieved 100% coverage of rural households with tap water connection.

SBI WeCare FD scheme for senior citizens extended till March 2023

SBI has extended the deadline to invest in its senior citizen FD scheme, SBI WeCare FD, till March 31, 2023.

Aim: To secure senior citizens' income by paying additional interest on term deposits.

Features:

Period of Deposit: 5 to 10 years

Interest Rate: Additional premium of 30 bps (over and above existing premium of 50 bps) over card rate for Public.

Interest rate applicable to the FD will be 6.45%.

It also provides availability of Loan Facility.

MAS and IFSCA join hands to pursue cross-border FinTech innovations

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) have signed a FinTech Co-operation Agreement to provide regulatory collaboration and partnership in FinTech technology.

MAS is Singapore’s central bank and integrated financial regulator.

IFSCA is a unified authority for the development and regulation of financial products in the International Financial Services Centres in India.

Indian Navy decommissions INS Ajay after 32 years of service

Indian Navy has decommissioned INS Ajay after rendering 32 years of glorious service to the nation at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai.

About INS Ajay:

It was commissioned on January 24, 1990 at Poti, Georgia in the erstwhile USSR.

It was a part of the 23rd Patrol Vessel Squadron under the operational control of Flag Officer Commanding, Maharashtra Naval Area.

Participation: Op Talwar during Kargil War and Op Parakram in 2001

Chief Guest: Vice Admiral Ajendra Bahadur Singh

Manipur CM N. Biren Singh launches 'CM Da Haisi' web portal

Manipur CM N. Biren Singh has launched a web portal named 'CM Da Haisi' (Inform to CM).

Aim: To receive complaints and grievances from the general public.

The public can raise their grievances in the web portal by logging on to www.cmdahaisi.mn.gov.in.

With the help of this portal, the complainants can also check the status of their complaints.

This portal will be used by the Public Grievances Redressal and Anti-Corruption Cell stationed at CM Secretariat.

Bangladesh beat Nepal to clinch maiden 2022 SAFF Women's Championship title

Bangladesh has secured the maiden SAFF Women’s Championship  title at the Dashrath Rangshala Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal.

The Bangladesh has defeated hosts Nepal by 3-1 in the finals.

Sabina Khatun(Bangladesh skipper) has become the top scorer of the tournament with 8 goals in 5 matches.

She was also named as the Most Valuable Player of the tournament for her extraordinary game.

The Bangladesh won the fair play award also.

Best goalkeeper: Rupna Chakma (Bangladesh)

UP tops chart among states in trials pending in fast-track courts

UP accounts for more than 70% of the 13.81 lakh pending trials in fast-track courts in cases of heinous crimes against women, children and senior citizens.

More than 9.33 lakh cases are pending in the fast-track courts of Uttar Pradesh, followed by over 1.4 lakh cases in Maharashtra, 1.06 lakh cases in Tamil Nadu, 71,260 cases in West Bengal and 12,538 cases in Telangana.

As many as 3,28,556 cases are pending in the FTSCs across 28 states and Union territories.

Former Pakistan cricket umpire Asad Rauf passes away

Former Pakistan umpire Asad Rauf has been passed away at the age of 66 due to cardiac arrest in Lahore.

He had made his first appearance as an umpire in international cricket in 2000.

He officiated in 64 Tests, 139 ODIs and 28 T20Is and was one of Pakistan's leading umpires in the mid-2000s.

He had played 71 first-class matches for National Bank and Railways before taking up umpiring, was appointed in the ICC elite panel in April 2006.

Saudi becomes India's second-largest oil supplier in August 2022

Saudi Arabia emerged as the second-biggest oil supplier to India after a three-month gap.

Saudi Arabia has overtaken the Russia by a thin margin, while Iraq retained the top spot in August 2022.

India is the world's third biggest oil importer and consumer, shipped in 863,950 barrels per day (bpd) of crude from Saudi Arabia (up 4.8% from the previous month).

UAE has ranked four, while Kazakhstan replaced Kuwait to become fifth oil supplier to India, followed by US.

Bengaluru FC lifts maiden Durand Cup by defeating Mumbai City FC

Bengaluru FC has defeated Indian Super League (ISL) giants Mumbai City FC by 2-1 to clinch the 131st edition of the Durand Cup at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.

The goal by Alan Costa in 61st minute gave Bengaluru FC the winning lead against Mumbai.

The first edition of the competition was played in 1888.

The club is owned and operated by the Mumbai-based company JSW Group and its managing director Sajjan Jindal.

India emerges as Sri Lanka’s largest bilateral lender

India has overtaken China to emerge as the largest bilateral lender for Sri Lanka.

India has provided a total of 968 million US dollars in loans to Sri Lanka in four months of 2022.

In the past five years from 2017-2021, China has been the largest bilateral lender to Sri Lanka.

Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been the largest multilateral lender in the past five years and disbursed funds amounting to 610 million dollars in 2021.

Jitendra Singh led Indian delegation at Global Clean Energy Action Forum

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh will lead the Joint Indian Ministerial official delegation in the Global Clean Energy Action Forum.

The coveted joint convening of the Clean Energy Ministerial CEM13 and Mission Innovation MI-7 will take place from 21st to 23rd of September at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, USA.

Aim: To bring together thousands of clean energy leaders from across the world to accelerate clean energy innovation and deployment.

Bajrang Punia bags Bronze medal at World Wrestling Championships

In Wrestling, Bajrang Punia has secured bronze medal in the men's 65 kg category at World Wrestling Championships.

He defeated Sebastian C Rivera from Puerto Rico by 11-9.

This is Punia's fourth medal at the Championships, starting his journey with bronze in 2013.

This is India's second medal at the ongoing edition of the World Wrestling Championships.

Earlier, Vinesh Phogat has captured a bronze medal in the women's 53 kg category at World Wrestling Championships.

Edelweiss General Insurance signs pact with Repco Home

Edelweiss General Insurance (EGI) has tied up with Chennai-based Repco Home Finance Ltd (RHFL) to offer insurance solutions to the home loan customers of the latter.

EGI will offer property insurance cover and loan protection cover to RHFL’s customers through their branches spread across India.

EGI will offer customised, affordable, and convenient insurance solutions to financially protect loan borrowers.

MD and CEO, Edelweiss General Insurance: Shanai Ghosh

Prasanna Kumar Motupalli appointed as CMD of NLC India Limited

The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has selected Prasanna Kumar Motupalli as the Chairman and Managing Director of NLC India Limited.

He is currently serving as the Executive Director of NTPC limited.

He is a gold medalist in Mechanical Engineering and Master of Business Management in Operation Management, HR Management, Marketing, and Financial Management.

NLC Founded: 1956; 

Headquarters: Chennai

Czech's Linda Fruhvirtova wins maiden WTA Chennai Open title

Linda Fruhvirtova (Czech Republic) has secured the 2022 WTA Chennai Open after beating third seed, Magda Linette (Poland) by 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 at the SDAT Stadium, Chennai.

At 17 years and 141 days old, she is the youngest titlist of the season on the WTA Tour so far.

She is the youngest singles champion on tour since Coco Gauff won Parma last year at 17 years, 70 days old.

Doubles WTS Chennai Open: Gabriela Dabrowski and Luisa Stefani.

India's first forest university to come up in Telangana

The Telangana legislative assembly has approved the University of Forestry (UOF) Act 2022.

The ‘University of Forestry (UOF) will be the first of its kind in the country.

With only Russia and China having forest universities in the world, globally, this will be the third university of forestry.

The Government of Telangana has decided to expand Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI) in Hyderabad into a full-fledged university.

India launches joint whitepaper on ‘Urban Wastewater Scenario in India’

India has launched a joint whitepaper on ‘Urban Wastewater Scenario in India’ with Denmark at World Water Congress and Exhibition 2022 in Copenhagen.

Aim: Capturing the current status of wastewater treatment in India and potential pathways for future treatment structures, co-creation, and collaborations. 

The event was attended by Jal Shakti Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat along with Danish Environment Minister Lea Wermelin.

Mukul Rohatgi appointed as Attorney General of India for second time

Senior Advocate, Mukul Rohatgi is set to be appointed the 14th Attorney General for India again after KK Venugopal vacates the post.

Mukul Rohatgi has served as AG between June 2014 and June 2017.

At the end of June this year, AG Venugopal’s tenure was extended for a period of three months or “until further orders”.

This extension is set to expire on September 30.

Rohtagi will take the seat of the country’s top law officer from 1st October. 

Mastercard partnered with UNDP on Lighthouse MASSIV

Mastercard Lighthouse MASSIV has partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Aim: To amplifying the private sector’s role in creating significant positive impact on people.

It is a free of charge startup partnership program dedicated to helping one billion people live more prosperous and secure lives by 2025.

Purpose: To support the impact tech companies on their impact measurement and management and connect them to the broader UN initiatives.

ICICI Lombard introduces digital voice agent to track claim status

ICICI Lombard has launched an AI-powered digital voice agent in collaboration with an AI-based SaaS voice automation platform named Skit.ai.

Feature: It will assist customers with the status of their insurance claims for health and motor insurance policies.

The Digital Voice Agent has already started helping customers to complete the process of receiving updates on the status of their claims in under a minute.

ICICI Lombard CEO: Bhargav Dasgupta

SBI joins Rs 5-trillion market cap club

SBI has hit the mark of Rs 5-trillion in market capitalisation (market cap) for the first time after its shares touched a record high of Rs 564.45, up 1% on the BSE in intra-day trade in an otherwise weak market.

With a market cap of Rs 5.03 trillion, SBI stood at the seventh position in the overall market cap ranking.

After, HDFC Bank (market cap of Rs 8.38 trillion) and ICICI Bank (market cap of Rs 6.33 trillion), SBI has become the third lender in the country.

PM Modi on a two-day visit to Uzbekistan to attend SCO Summit

PM Narendra Modi is on two-day visit to Samarkand in Uzbekistan from September 15 to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit.

Mr. Modi has received an invitation from Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Agenda: To review the grouping's activities over the past two decades and discuss the prospects of multilateral cooperation. 

The SCO is an inter-governmental organisation founded in Shanghai in June 2001. 

Vinesh Phogat wins bronze in World Wrestling Championships in Serbia

Vinesh Phogat has clinched a bronze in 53 kilogram category at the World Championships, in Belgrade, Serbia.

She becomes the first Indian woman wrestler to win two medals at the World Championships.

She has defeated reigning European champion, Emma Malmgren of Sweden.

This is her second bronze medal at the Championships.

She had previously won the bronze in the 2019 edition of the tournament at Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan.

National Engineers Day: 15th September

India observes National Engineer’s Day on September 15 every year to recognise the contribution of engineers in the development of the nation.

This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Sir Moksha Gundam Visvesvaraya, who is considered one of the greatest engineers of India.

MV was the Chief Engineer of Krishna Raja Sagar dam in the north-west suburb of Mysuru city.

Along with India, Sri Lanka and Tanzania also celebrate Engineers Day on September 15, 2022.

Indore becomes India's first ‘Smart City’ with ‘Smart Addresses’

Indore (MP) has implemented a fully digital addressing system that makes Indore the first city in India to do so.

For this smart city initiative, an MoU was signed with the firm Pataa Navigations.

Pataa: This organisation has developed patented technology and is working with ISRO to develop a digital addressing system for the nation.

Users of the Pataa App can upload images of their homes, landmarks, etc, along with their addresses in the full text.

NSDF signs MoUs with NTPC and REC for development of sports in India

National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) has signed an MoU with National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) and Rural Electrification Corporation (REC).

Reason: For the development of sports in India. 

NTPC and REC have been provided financial support of 215 crore rupees for the development of sports.

NTPC: Contributed an amount of Rs115 crore for Archery (5 years).

REC: Committed an amount of Rs 100 crore to support Women’s Hockey, Athletics and Boxing (3 years).

India invites Bangladesh as guest country during its G-20 presidency

भारत सरकार ने बांग्लादेश, मिस्र, मॉरीशस, नीदरलैंड, नाइजीरिया, ओमान, सिंगापुर, स्पेन और संयुक्त अरब अमीरात को अपनी अध्यक्षता के दौरान जी 20 बैठक में भाग लेने के लिए अतिथि देशों के रूप में आमंत्रित करने का निर्णय लिया है।

अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संगठन: यूएन, आईएमएफ, विश्व बैंक, डब्ल्यूएचओ, डब्ल्यूटीओ, आईएलओ, एफएसबी और ओईसीडी और एयू, ऑडा-नेपैड और आसियान, आईएसए, सीडीआरआई और एडीबी।

यह कुछ अतिथि देशों और अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संगठनों (IO) को अपनी बैठकों और शिखर सम्मेलन में आमंत्रित करने की G20 परंपरा का एक हिस्सा है।

India beat Nepal to clinch SAFF U-17 Championship Title in Colombo

India has secured the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) U-17 Championship title after defeating Nepal by 4-0 in the final in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

India has played well to lift the title for the fourth time (2013, 2017, 2019, 2022).

India captain, Vanlalpeka Guite has named the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament, while goalkeeper, Sahil won the Best Goalkeeper awards. 

SAFF members: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. 

SAFF HQ: Dhaka

DBS partners withSandbox to launch 'DBS BetterWorld

DBS Bank in partnership with Sandbox will create the ‘DBS BetterWorld’ in the metaverse world to showcase the importance of building a better and more sustainable world.

Metaverse is a virtual 3D animated world where users can navigate and interact using avatars, and NFTs, among others.

In India, at the present, only Union Bank of India (UBI) has a presence in the metaverse world.

Sandbox is a subsidiary of Animoca and it is in the business of development of metaverse.

Chief Justice Munishwar Bhandari appointed as chairman of PMLA

The Centre appoints Chief Justice of Madras High Court, Justice Munishwar Nath Bhandari as the Chairman of the Appellate Tribunal under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. 

The post of the Chairperson of the Tribunal was vacant since September 2019.

The order was issued by the Department of Revenue under the Ministry of Finance.

The Tribunal for Forfeiture of Property under the SAFEMA and the PMLA Appellate Tribunal were merged in 2016 through the Finance Act, 2016.

Nayara Energy appoints Prasad K Panicker as Chairman

Nayara Energy has appointed Prasad K Panicker, Director and Head of Refinery as the Chairman of the company with effect from October 3, 2022.

He will take on this role from Charles Anthony (Tony) Fountain who has served the company for five years.

In his new role, he will deploy his technological experience and knowledge of the local Indian market to lead Nayara Energy.

He  will also continue with his leadership role as Head of Refinery.

Pushpa: The Rise won the Tenth SIIMA Awards for best movie

Pushpa: The Rise has won the Tenth SIIMA Awards in the category of best movie in Telugu Cinema.

While the Allu Arjun won the SIIMA Award in the category of best male lead role for his performance in  'Pushpa: The Rise' (Telugu Cinema). 

Other Winners:

Best Actor: Late Puneeth Rajkumar for Yuvarathnaa (Kannada)

Best Director: Sukumar for 'Pushpa: The Rise'

Best Actor (Critics Choice): Naveen Polishety for Jathi Ratnalu

Best Actress: Pooja Hegde for 'Most Eligible Bachelor'

RBI sells $13 billion in August to hold rupee at 80

The Reserve Bank of India is estimated to have sold about $13 billion in the spot market in August 2022.

Reason: To defend the rupee from falling further against the US dollar. 

A majority of India's foreign exchange reserves is held in US dollar-denominated currency while the rest comes from investment in non-dollar assets.

This is the highest monthly currency market intervention so far in 2022-23 as the central bank is said to be defending the psychological mark of 80.

Max Verstappen wins 2022 Italian Grand Prix

Red Bull F1 driver, Max Verstappen has secured title of Formula One Italian Grand Prix 2022.

Ferrari Driver, Charles Leclerc has secured second spot in the Grand Prix, while George Russell (Mercedes) placed third in the event.

Lewis Hamilton (Seven times world champion) has also raced and  finished in the fifth position, while Nyck de Vries finished ninth in his F1 debut.

Previous winners:

Dutch GP, Belgian GP: Hungarian GP, French GP: Max Verstappen

Sikkim to host Ranji Trophy matches for the first time

Sikkim will host Ranji trophy matches for the first time in December 2022 at the Mining Cricket Ground near Rangpo.

The state will welcome three northeast teams i.e. Mizoram, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.

The decision was taken by BCCI, that will act as a game-changer in cricket’s promotion in Sikkim.

Along with Ranji Trophy matches, Sikkim will also play two Cooch Behar Trophy matches, and three Col CK Nayudu Trophy matches at Mining Cricket Ground.

Retail inflation surges up to 7% in August 2022

According to the new data, the Retail inflation has been increased up to 7% in August 2022 from 6.71% in July 2022.

Reason: Due to higher food prices

The consumer price index (CPI)-based inflation is above the Reserve Bank’s decided level of 6% for the eighth month in a row.

The inflation in food basket was 7.62% in August 2022, was up from 6.69% in July and 3.11% in August 2021.

RBI has maintained its inflation forecast for 2022-23 at 6.7%.

AN Shamseer elected as Kerala Assembly Speaker

The Kerala Assembly has elected CPM's Thalassery MLA AN Shamseer as the 24th Speaker of the Kerala Legistlature.

He defeated UDF MLA Anwar Sadath by 56 votes in the election.

UDF candidate and Aluva MLA Anwar Sadath secured 40 votes against the LDF nominee who received 96 votes.

Deputy Speaker Chittayam Gopakumar headed the election procedures.

The speaker post was vacant after MB Rajesh, who became Minister of excise and Local Self Government departments.

Axis Bank, Square Yards launch co-branded home buyer ecosystem

Axis Bank has partnered with the Square Yards to launch a joint branded home buyer ecosystem named “Open Door”.

Aim: The entire process of finding and purchasing a dream house is hassle-free, effective, and enjoyable for clients.

This partnership also ensure that all customers get easy access to home loans.

Open Doors is an integrated platform that is created to handle all consumer inquiries around residential real estate.

CEO, Square Yards: Tanuj Shori

HDFC Bank issues first Electronic Bank Guarantee of India

HDFC Bank has become the first bank in India to issue an Electronic Bank Guarantee (e-BG) in partnership with National E-Governance Services Limited (NeSL).

The new e-BG will eliminate the paper based and time-consuming process.

It can be processed, stamped, verified and delivered instantly with enhanced security.

HDFC Bank will migrate to eBG platform completely in order to expedite the issuance of BGs for customers.

MD & CEO of NeSL: Debajyoti Ray Chaudhuri

MeitY Startup Hub joins hands with Meta to support XR technology startups

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) Startup Hub has collaborated with Meta to launch a programme to support and accelerate XR technology startups across India.

The programme was launched by the Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

The MeitY Startup Hub is a national platform that focuses on promoting technology innovation, start-ups, and the creation of intellectual properties. 

Sanjay Khanna appointed as CEO of American Express India

American Express Banking Corp has appointed Sanjay Khanna as the chief executive officer and country manager for India.

Responsibilities: For increasing growth across the organization’s consumer and commercial businesses.

Prior to this role, Khanna has held many leadership positions in the company including head of global financial operations, India centre lead for finance and chairman of the American Express India Pvt Ltd (AEIPL) legal entity board.

Lee Jung-jae won the 74th Emmy Award for Best Male Actor in Drama Series

Actor of Squid Game (Netflix), Lee Jung-jae has won the 74th Emmy Award for Male lead actor, at the Microsoft Theater, LA, California. 

Zendaya has won the 74th Emmy Award for best lead actress in a drama Series for her best performance in Euphoria (HBO). 

Other Winners:

Best Drama Series: Succession (HBO)

Best Comedy Series: Ted Lasso (Apple TV)

Best Limited or Anthology Series: The White Lotus (HBO)

Best Writing for a Drama Series: Succession - All The Bells Say (HBO)

World First Aid Day 2022: Second Saturday of September.

World First Aid Day is celebrated every year on the second Saturday of September.

This year, World First Aid Day falls on September 10. 

Aim: To raise public awareness of how First Aid can save thousands of lives in everyday crisis.

The theme for World First Aid Day 2022 is 'Lifelong Frst Aid.'

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) had established World First Aid Day in 2000.

World Suicide Prevention Day: 10 September

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is observed annually on 10 September to raise awareness about suicide prevention worldwide.

The day is organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Theme 2022: Creating hope through action; it is the triennial theme for this day from 2021 to 2023.

The theme showcased that suicide is not a solution to any action and hope must be created through action.

Gujarat government unveils Cinematic Tourism Policy

Gujarat CM, Bhupendra Patel has unveiled the state’s first Cinematic Tourism Policy at an event in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

During the launch the govt has signed MoUs worth ₹1,020 crore with organisations and individuals with the department for the development of film infrastructure and film production.

The policy offers various financial and non-financial incentives for film infrastructure development projects and for film-making projects.

Special guest: Actor Ajay Devgan

Former Chief Justice of India, KN Singh passes away

Former Chief Justice of India, Kamal Narain Singh has been passed away on at the age of 95.

He was the 22nd Chief Justice of India, with a term from November 25, 1991 to December 12, 1991.

He started his career as an Additional Judge of the Allahabad High Court in 1970.

He then became a Permanent Judge in August 1972.

He got elevated as a Supreme Court judge in 1986.

He also served as Chairman of the 13th Law Commission of India from 1991-1994.

HSBC commits Rs 125 cr to green causes in India over next 5 years

HSBC has committed to invest Rs 125 crore over the next five years to support green causes like wetland conservation and energy transition projects in India.

Under the commitment, the HSBC has divided the works into energy transition and nature-based solutions.

Nature-based solutions: Projects to protect and revitalise wetlands, mangroves and forests, landscape restoration.

Energy transition: Renewables and energy efficiency programmes

Max Life launches Smart Flexi Protect Solution

Max Life Insurance Company Ltd. has launched the ‘Smart Flexi Protect Solution’, that offers health and enhanced life cover, along with market-linked investment returns.

This is a combination of Max Life Flexi Wealth Plus, and Max Life Critical Illness and Disability Secure Rider.

This policy is a unique proposition of wealth creation along with comprehensive protection against death, disability and critical illness.

Walong-Kibithu road in Arunachal Pradesh named after Gen Bipin Rawat

The strategically key Kibithu military force on the banks of Lohit Valley along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and a key road in this mountain hamlet were named after India’s first Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat.

He had commanded Battalion 5/11 Gorkha Rifles at Kibithu from 1999-2000.

He had also contributed immensely to strengthening the security structure in the area.

The small hamlet is inhabited by Meyor and Jarkin tribes.

Dwarka Sharda Peeth Shankaracharya Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati passes away

Dwarka peeth Shankaracharya Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati has been passed away at Narsinghpur, Madhya Pradesh, at the age of 99.

He was born as Pothiram Upadhyay in Dighori village in the Seoni district of Madhya Pradesh in 1924.

He had left his home in the pursuit of God at the age of nine.

He was incarcerated during the freedom struggle.

He was the Shankaracharya of Dwarka Sharada Peetham in Gujarat and the Jyotir Math in Badrinath.

He became a Shankracharya in 1981. 

Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences bags International Literacy Prize 2022

Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) has been conferred with the highest global recognition on Literacy- UNESCO International Literacy Prize 2022.

This award has been given at a global award ceremony organised by UNESCO in Côte d’Ivoire on 8 September 2022.

KISS is the fifth recipient from India and the first and only institute from Odisha to receive this International honour.

It was founded by Dr Samanta, a well-known Educationist and Social Activist. 

Carlos Alcaraz beats Casper Ruud to clinch 2022 US Open Singles title

Spanish, Carlos Alcaraz(19) has defeated Casper Ruud to secure his maiden Men's Singles title at the 2022 US Open tennis.

He is the youngest men's Grand Slam champion since Rafael Nadal won the French Open in 2005.

Women's singles: Iga Świątek (Poland)

Men's doubles: Rajeev Ram (US) / Joe Salisbury (UK)

Women's doubles: Barbora Krejčiková (Czech Republic) / Kateřina Siniaková (Czech Republic)

Mixed doubles: Storm Sanders / John Peers (Australia)

Himalaya Diwas 2022: Know Theme, History and Significance

The National Mission for Clean Ganga organized Himalayan Diwas on September 09, in association with Naula Foundation. The day is celebrated with an aim to preserve the Himalayan ecosystem and region.

This day is celebrated to mark the importance of the Himalayas. The Himalayan hill cities face many challenges due to poor building planning and design, poor infrastructures like toads, water supply, sewage etc. and unprecedented felling of trees.

Himalaya Day 2022 was observed under the theme ‘Himalayas will be safe only when the interests of its residents are protected.

World Suicide Prevention Day observed on 10th September

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), celebrated annually on 10 September, is organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The overall goal of this day is to raise awareness about suicide prevention worldwide. Objectives include promoting stakeholder collaboration and self-empowerment to address self-harm and suicide through preventative action.

The theme of WSPD 2022, “Creating hope through action,” reflects the need for collective, action to address this urgent public health issue. This has been the triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021 to 2023.

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO).

A book title “Forging Mettle : Nrupender Rao and the Pennar Story” by Pavan C. Lall

A senior journalist Pavan C Lall has authored a new book ‘Forging Mettle: Nrupender Rao and the Pennar Story’, which is set to be released in September 2022. The book will be published by HarperCollins Publishers India.

The book is focused on how a business is built into a large organisation on the foundations of values and sustainability. Forging Mettle is a story of Nrupender Rao, Chairman of the Board at Pennar Industries Limited and his entrepreneurial journey.

The story gives a unique philosophy for a company, recommended to striving entrepreneurs to understand how to construct a principled and ethical institution. It’s also the story of how a business built with ethics and social and environmental concern at the core of its values can indeed be profitable and sustainable.

Australia Captain Aaron Finch to Retire from ODI Cricket

Aaron Finch, Australia’s captain announced his retirement from one-day international cricket after Australia’s third and final ODI against New Zealand.

Finch will continue to be the captain of the Australian cricket team for T20 and will lead it in defense of its world title in the T20 World Cup which is going to be held in October and November in Australia.

Finch is known as one of the most damaging opening batters in the world, Finch has scored 5,401 runs in the ODI format with an average of close to 40, and 17 centuries.

DRDO & Indian Army Successfully Conduct Six Flight-Tests of QRSAM Off Odisha Coast

Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and the Indian Army completed six flight tests of the Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) system from Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, on the Odisha Coast, as part of evaluation trials.

QRSAM is a short-range Surface Air Missile (SAM) system, which is designed and developed by the DRDO.

The QRSAM aims to provide a protective shield to the moving armored columns of the Army from aerial attacks.

The six flight tests were carried out against high-speed aerial targets mimicking various types of threats to evaluate the capability of the QRSAM as a short-range Surface Air Missile (SAM) system.

Fortune India Rich List 2022: Gautam Adani India’s richest man

According to Fortune India’s list of ‘India’s Richest’ for 2022, the wealth of 142 billionaires based in India is collectively worth USD 832 billion (Rs 66.36 trillion). The maiden list, made in collaboration with the wealth management firm, Waterfield Advisors, is primarily based on the wealth of entrepreneurs of listed firms.

According to Forbes real­time billionaires list, Asia’s richest man Gautam Adani has overtaken Amazon founder Jeff Bezos to become the 3rd richest person in the world. He became India’s richest man with a net worth of USD 129.16 billion (Rs. 10.29 trillion). 

Meanwhile, Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani’s net worth stands at USD 94 billion becoming the 8th richest in the world and the 2nd richest in India.

RBI imposes fine on three entities for failing to comply

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposes fine on three entities: Three organisations, including Industrial Bank of Korea, have received fines from the Reserve Bank for breaking regulations.

The Reserve bank of India announced that Industrial Bank of Korea has been fined Rs 36 lakh for failing to follow several Know Your Customer (KYC) guidelines.

Woori Bank was fined Rs 59.10 lakh for failing to follow RBI guidelines regarding the “Creation of a Central Repository of Large Common Exposures – Across Banks.”

Indiabulls Commercial Credit Limited, New Delhi, has been fined Rs. 12.35 lakh for failing to follow some KYC directives.

The Reserve Bank did emphasise that the purpose of penalties is not to judge the legality of any transaction or arrangement entered into by the firms with their clients but rather to reflect weaknesses in regulatory compliance.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Woori Bank Chairman: Yo Hwan Shin

Indiabulls Commercial Credit Limited Chairman: Mr. Ajit Kumar Mittal

RBI Governor: Shaktikanta Das

Lord’s Mark Insurance receives direct insurance broker’s licence by IRDAI

Lord’s Mark Insurance recieves insurance licence: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has given Lord’s Mark Insurance Brokerage Private Limited, the insurance division of Lord’s Mark Industries, a direct insurance broking licence to market life and general insurance products. With this direct broking licence, Lord’s Mark Insurance Industries lays the groundwork for its entry into the insurance sector.

Insurance from Lord’s Mark Insurance In order to formalise relationships for the launch of life and general insurance products on its Policy King platform, broking is already in talks with a few top insurance providers.

Vehicle Dispatches Rise 21% As Chip Supply Improves

Passenger vehicle wholesales in India witnessed a 21 per cent annual growth in August, riding on improved supplies of semiconductors and festive demand, according to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers.

As per the latest data released by industry body Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), passenger vehicle (PV) dispatches to dealers stood at 2,81,210 units last month, against 2,32,224 units in August 2021. Passenger car wholesales were up 23 per cent at 1,33,477 units last month, as against 1,08,508 units in the year-ago period, SIAM said.

Bihar CM inaugurated India’s longest rubber dam on Falgu River

Bihar Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar has inaugurated India’s longest rubber dam ‘Gayaji Dam’ on the Falgu River in Gaya. The dam has been built at an estimated cost of Rs 324 crore. Experts from IIT (Roorkee) were involved with the project.

There will be enough water in the dam round the year for the convenience of pilgrims. With its construction, now at least two feet of water will be available in the Falgu River near Vishnupad Ghat throughout the year for the devotees who come here to do Pind Daan.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Bihar Capital: Patna;

Bihar Chief Minister: Nitish Kumar;

Bihar Governor: Phagu Chauhan.

Chinese Economy Is In Real Trouble 

As growth in major global economies slows as a result of high inflation, exacerbated by the Ukraine war, many economists are hoping that China will again come to the world’s rescue.

But this is not 2008, when China’s then rapidly expanding economy and a huge stimulus unleashed by the Beijing government, helped Western countries to recover much faster from the financial crisis.

This time, China’s economic woes run deep. The government has all but given up on this year’s target of 5.5% GDP growth and Premier Li Keqiang warned last month there was little appetite right now for more expansionary policymaking.

Odisha govt launched rainwater harvesting scheme named ‘CHHATA’

Odisha government has launched a rainwater harvesting scheme named ‘Community Harnessing and Harvesting Rainwater Artificially from Terrace to Aquifer (CHHATA). The new scheme was approved by the Cabinet last month. It will be implemented for a period of five years.

The State sector scheme will work towards conserving rainwater and improving water quality in urban local bodies (ULBs) and water scarce blocks.

As per the feasibility based on a groundwater resource assessment conducted in 2020, rainwater harvesting structures will be constructed on the roofs of 29,500 private buildings and 1,925 government buildings covering 52 water-stressed blocks and 27 urban local bodies.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Odisha Capital: Bhubaneswar;

Odisha Chief Minister: Naveen Patnaik;

Odisha Governor: Ganeshi Lal.

Chhattisgarh CM Inaugurates 2 New Districts in the State, Takes Total To 33

Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel inaugurated the 32nd and 33rd districts of the State. Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur and Sakti were announced as the 32nd and 33rd districts of Chhattisgarh.

Sakti is carved out from Janjgir-Champa, and Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur is carved out from the Koriya district.

The Chattisgarh Chief Minister said that people have been demanding the creation of the Manendragarh district for a very long time and it has been a long-term struggle to create Manendragarh as a district.

Three new districts have been inaugurated in Chattisgarh by the Chief Minister. There are now, 33 districts in Chattisgarh including Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki, Sarangarh-Bilaigarh, and Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai.

Volker Turk set to become next UN human rights chief

The United Nations (UN) General Assembly approved Volker Türk of Austria to be the global body’s Human Rights Chief by UN Secretary­-General Antonio Guterres. Volker Turk replaces Verónica Michelle Bachelet Jeria, a Chilean politician who served at the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) from 2018 to 2022.

Turk, currently serving as assistant secretary-general for policy. Previously, Volker Türk served as the Assistant High Commissioner for Protection at UN refugees, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), Geneva. He had a long and successful career in the advancement of human rights globally.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) Headquartered:­ Geneva, Switzerland; New York City, United States;

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights Establishment­ December: 1993.

E-FAST- India’s first National Electric Freight Platform Launched by NITI Aayog, WRI

NITI Aayog and World Resources Institute (WRI), launched India’s first National Electric Freight Platform- E-FAST India (Electric Freight Accelerator for Sustainable Transport-India).

The National Electric Freight Platform brings different stakeholders together with the support of the World Economic Forum, CALSTART, and RMI India.

The platform aims to raise awareness of freight electrification bolstered by an on-ground demonstration pilot and evidence-based research.

It will support scalable pilots and inform policies aimed at accelerating freight electrification in India.

The launch of E-Fast India has witnessed participation from major automobile industries, logistics companies, development banks, and fin-tech companies.

नासा का मोक्सी उपकरण मंगल पर सफलतापूर्वक ऑक्सीजन बनाता है

The Mars oxygen in-situ resource utilisation experiment (MOXIE) has been successfully producing oxygen from Mars carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere since February 2021.

MOXIE, is a lunchbox-sized gadget that generated breathable oxygen on Mars which is equivalent to the effort of a tiny tree.

MOXIE was landed on the Mars surface as part of Nasa's Perseverance rover mission.

The MOXIE has met its objective of producing 6g of oxygen per hour in each run.

Telangana's Warangal, two cities of Kerala join UNESCO learning cities

Warangal (Telangana), Thrissur (Kerala) and Nilambur (Kerala) have joined the Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC) of UNESCO.

Reason: For their outstanding efforts to make lifelong learning a reality for all at the local level.

These three cities are among the 77 cities from 44 countries which have joined this network of the world body.

The 77 new members bring the total number of cities to 294 in 76 countries.

Union Culture Minister: G Kishan Reddy

Australia passes legislation to reduce carbon emissions by 43%

Australian Parliament has passed government legislation to reduce carbon emissions by 43% by 2030 and further bring it to zero by 2050.

The legislation needs royal assent before it officially becomes law.

To achieve this target, the government bodies such as clean energy and infrastructure financing agencies, requires to take emissions targets into account in their decisions.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy of Australia: Chris Bowen 

Agribazaar launches Kisan Safalta Card for agri financing

Agribazaar has introduced the 'Agribazaar Kisan Safalta Card to help farmers to meet their pre and post-harvest farm requirements and allied expenses.

Farmers can use this card to obtain financing to purchase farm inputs.

The card's limit, the financing scale, and maintenance costs are determined by the crop yield of each farmer.

The card amount is adjustable for marginal farmers from Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000.

Repayment period: 12-month

Axis Bank ties up with PayNearby for priority sector lending

PayNearby has partnered with the Axis Bank to aid the private lender in achieving the targets of priority sector lending.

This partnership will be used to set up current and savings accounts for both retail and individual customers in remote areas.

As per the Reserve Bank of India guidelines, 40% of net bank credit is to be extended to the priority sector (includes agriculture and micro, small and medium enterprises).

WAAREE partners with SBI to finance projects for consumers channel partners

WAAREE (Solar Panel manufacturer) has signed an agreement with SBI for providing unsecured financing for solar projects through Surya Shakti Solar Finance Scheme.

The agreement also provide working capital for Channel Partners under EDFS (Electronic dealer finance scheme).

WAAREE intended to leverage over Rs 500 Cr of a credit line through Surya Shakti Solar Finance Scheme.

WAAREE is the only manufacturer in India to get a 650Wp Solar panel listed in ALMM.

Lord’s Mark gets direct insurance broking licence from Irdai

Lord’s Mark Insurance has received direct insurance broking licence from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).

The insurance firm has  received the license for selling life and general insurance products.

Lords Mark will collaborate with other insurance firms for launching life and general insurance products on its platform called Policy King.

Policy King: Offer its customers facilities to compare all available insurance offers.

HDFC Bank launched ‘Bank on Wheels’ in Gujarat

HDFC Bank, has unveiled 'Bank on Wheels' service in Gujarat, as a part of Rural Banking service.

Aim: To increase the accessibility of Bank in rural area. 

Currently, the van is part of the pilot project and more vans are planned to be rolled out in various states.

Bank on Wheels:

Bank vans will visit remote villages located 10 - 25 km from the nearest branch.

The van will cover three towns in a day.

The vehicle will also make two weekly trips to each community.

India ranks 132nd out of 191 in 2021 Human Development Index

As per the United Nations Development Program report, India has ranked 132nd among 191 countries and territories on the 2021 Human Development Index.

India had ranked 131st among 189 countries in 2020 report.

Findings: The data show that the performance of the country has declined due to fall in life expectancy.

Top five: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Hong Kong, Australia. 

Last four: Central African Republic (188), Niger (189), Chad (190), South Sudan (191). 

Britain's Longest-Reigning Monarch, Queen Elizabeth II passes away

The longest-reigning royal of United Kingdom and among the world’s longest-ruling monarchs in history, Queen Elizabeth II has died at the age of 96.

She was ascended the throne in 1952.

She became the UK's longest-serving monarch in 2015, when she surpassed the record of Queen Victoria (1837 to 1901).

Charles III (73) has become king of the UK and the head of state of 14 other realms including Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

His wife Camilla becomes queen consort.

UP govt to provide unique farm ID to farmers

Uttar Pradesh government will provide a unique farm ID that is similar to Aadhar number to the farmers.

This unique ID will be linked with Aadhar to provide them benefits of all government schemes.

With the help of this initiative, the government will bring those families into the ambit of this scheme who are not getting any kind of benefits till now.

With the help of Aadhar, UP Government has given the benefit of the government schemes to maximum number of people.

President Droupadi Murmu to launch Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan

President, Droupadi Murmu has virtually launched two initiatives -  Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and Ni-kshay Mitra initiative.

Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan:

To revive the mission of TB elimination from the country by 2025.

This initiative was launched in the presence of Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.

Ni-kshay Mitra:

A platform for donors to provide various forms of support to those undergoing TB treatment.

Singapore's meritorious service Medal to Former Navy chief Sunil Lanba

President of Singapore, Halimah Yacob has conferred the prestigious military award of Singapore, the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) or Meritorious Service Medal (Military) to former India Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba.

Reason: For enhancing the strong and long-standing bilateral defence relationship between the Indian Navy and Singapore Navy.

The award has been presented by Defence minister of Singapore, Ng Eng Hen.

Neeraj Chopra becomes first Indian to win 2022 Zurich Diamond League

Gold medallist javelin thrower, Neeraj Chopra has become the first Indian to win the prestigious Zurich Diamond League Final 2022 in Switzerland with best throw of 88.44m.

While, Olympic silver medallist, Jakub Vadlejch of Czech Republic has finished second with a best throw of 86.94m.

Julian Weber of Germany was third with a best of 83.73metre.

He was also awarded a USD 30,000 prize money and a wild card for the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Hungary.

International Literacy Day 2022: 8th September

International Literacy Day is celebrated annually on September 8 to create importance about the literacy for individuals and societies.

Theme 2022: Transforming Literacy Learning Spaces

The 14th session, General Conference of UNESCO on October 26, 1966 has declared September 8 as International Literacy Day.

Since 1967, this day celebrations have taken place annually around the world.

UNESCO Headquarters: Paris, France; Head: Audrey Azoulay.

Google Cloud partners with HDFC ERGO to digitise insurance buying in India

Cloud computing division of Google has been partnered with HDFC ERGO General Insurance to build a platform that will help digitize the buying and servicing of insurance in India.

HDFC ERGO will launch innovative insurance products.

HDFC ERGO aims to fully migrate to the cloud by 2024.

At present, nearly 93% of its retail policies are issued digitally and almost 40% of its customer requests are serviced virtually. 

Karnataka Bank becomes part of Khajane II IFMS

Karnataka Bank has now become the participant of the Treasury Department's Khajane-II (K2) integrated financial management system (IFMS).

Reason: For implementing the Single Nodal Agency (SNA) account system for Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS).

The bank will continue to engage and cooperate with the Government of Karnataka in implementing its numerous efforts to benefit the people through its technology and digital-led solutions.

Reliance General Insurance, Policybazaar launch Reliance Health Gain Policy

Reliance General Insurance and Policybazaar have jointly launched Reliance Health Gain Policy.

This policy gives its customers the freedom to choose and personalise their health policies as per their requirements.

To make accessible to all, the product is being live on digital distribution channel, Policybazaar.

This policy is available in – Plus, Power and Prime.

This plan will cater to the needs of a small family of 2 as well as a larger one of 12.

IDFC FIRST Bank joins the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)

IDFC First Bank has signed up as participant in the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), an initiative of ministry of commerce and industry.

The bank has enabled a platform for buyers, that help them to discover sellers in the ONDC network.

The bank has started onboarding small merchants, who are its current account customers, on to a partner app registered with ONDC.

The app is expected to help small merchants carry out transactions over ONDC’s electronic network.

ESAF बैंक ने ट्रांसजेंडर समुदाय के लिए 'इंद्रधनुष खाता' लॉन्च किया

ESAF Small Finance Bank Ltd has launched a 'Rainbow Savings Account' for the transgender community.

This bank account offer a host of features, including high savings rate and advanced debit card facilities.

In 2015, the Reserve Bank of India has directed banks to include a separate column 'third gender' in all their forms and applications.

The savings habit of the marginalised community will contribute heavily to the growth of the economy as a whole.

Ombudsman disposed of 32% more complaints against insurers in 2021-22

The Insurance ombudsman has disposed of 40,527 complaints against insurance firms across the country during 2021-22 as compared with 30,596 in 2020-21.

The complaints relating to health insurance made up a third of the total number cases disposed of by ombudsmen in 2020-21.

Ombudsman:

An alternative mode of settling insurance disputes.

It was constituted under rules framed by the finance ministry in 2017.

At present, 17 Insurance Ombudsman in different locations.

UPI transactions reached 657 Crore in August 2022

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has recorded 657 crore transactions in August 2022, a 5% month-on-month growth compared to the previous month.

The transaction volume has crossed Rs 10.72 lakh crore in August.

In July 2022, the UPI transactions breached the level of 600 crore.

The growth in UPI volumes by nearly 100% year-on-year (YoY) and amounts transacted growing by 75% YoY.

NPCI also aims to process 1 billion transactions per day in the next few years.

RBI selected Precision and HDFC Bank for retail payments test phase

RBI has selected HDFC Bank and Precision Biometric India for testing their 'on tap' retail payments applications under the regulatory sandbox scheme.

Regulatory sandbox:

It refers to live testing of new products or services in a controlled/test regulatory environment.

For this regulators permit certain relaxations for the limited purpose of the testing.

It allows the regulator, innovators, financial service providers and customers to conduct field tests.

HDFC Bank launched new SMS banking facility for its customers

HDFC Bank has introduced a new SMS banking facility for its customers with an aim to provide a wide range of banking services round-the-clock.

In order to start new SMS banking facility of HDFC Bank, a customer need to complete the registration process.

They need to SMS “Register” <Space> “Last 4 digits of customer ID” <Space> “Last 4 digits of A/C No. ” and then sent it to 7308080808 from their registered mobile number. 

Digital currency to reduce time, cost for cross-border transactions

RBI Deputy Governor, T Rabi Sankar has announced that, government will launch Central bank digital currency (CBDC) by the end of 2022.

The RBI will launch digital currency on a pilot basis in 2022.

In Budget for 2022-23, the finance minister had said the RBI would roll out a digital equivalent to the rupee.

Benefit: CBDC could become a tool for reducing time and cost for cross-border transactions.

Data Security Issue: They are keep working on it on a continuous basis.

Legendary artist Ram Chandra Manjhi passes away

Legendary artist, Ram Chandra Manjhi, has been passed away at the age of 97.

He was an Indian Bhojpuri folk dancer and theatre artist who is known as a Launda Naach performer.

He has been felicitated with Sangeet Natak Academy Award (2017), Padma Shri (2021) awardee in the field of Arts.

Launda Naach:

It is a prominent Bhojpuri folk art of Bihar.

In this art, men impersonate women wearing sari, blouse, long hair wig during the performance.

Healthcare sector in India will grow to USD 50 billion by 2025

While addressing the 14th CII Global MedTech Summit, Science and Technology Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh has announced that Healthcare sector in India is expected grow to 50 billion dollar by 2025.

India aims to achieve 10 to 12% of the global market share of the medical devices sector.

The Indian healthcare system has become more focused on innovation and technology.

The govt also aiming to increase their investment in digital healthcare tools in coming five years.

DRDO and Indian Army successfully conducted six flight-tests of QRSAM

DRDO and Indian Army have successfully conducted six flight-tests of Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) system from Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off the Odisha coast.

Aim: To check the pin-point accuracy of the weapon system with state-of-the-art guidance and control algorithms. 

QRSAM:

It is a canister-based system.

It is stored and operated from specially designed compartments.

Range: 30 km (short-range SAM)

Altitude: up to 10 km

UIDAI tops Grievance Redressal Index in August 2022

Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has topped all Ministries/Departments for resolving Public Grievances in the ranking.

Month: August 2022

Report published by: Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances. 

UIDAI has been a top performer in resolution of cases received through Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System.

Its robust grievance redressal mechanism is enable to resolve around 92% of CRM Grievances within 7 days.

Captain B K Tyagi appointed as new CMD of Shipping Corporation of India

Capt. B. K. Tyagi has assumed charge as Chairman & MD of the Shipping Corporation of India Ltd (SCI) on 3rd September, 2022.

Prior to this, he was the director, who was looking after the liner and passenger services division at SCI.

He started his career as a trainee nautical officer and sailed on board various ships in different ranks including as master in SCI in 1990.

SCI is a Navratna CPSE under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW).

Barack Obama wins Emmy award for his narration in Netflix documentary

The former President of the US, Barack Obama has won Emmy Award for his narration in the Netflix documentary “Our Great National Parks".

The documentary has been released in five-parts, and produced by Barack and Michelle Obama's production company “Higher Ground".

He has already won two Grammys and is now halfway to an EGOT- the achievement i.e. an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony. 

Barack Obama is 2nd US President to win Emmy, after Dwight D Eisenhower.

ISRO successfully test Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully demonstrated a new technology with Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (IAD).

It was designed and developed by ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).

IAD is a game-changer with multiple applications for future missions including to Mars and Venus.

The IAD was successfully test flown in a 'Rohini' sounding rocket from Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station. 

ISRO chairman: S. Somanath 

Centre decides to rename the Rajpath as Kartavya Path

The Centre has decided to rename Rajpath and Centre Vista lawns stretching from the Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate as ‘Kartavya Path’.

PM Modi, will inaugurate the entire stretch on September 8, 2022, that has been renovated under the government’s ambitious Central Vista redevelopment project.

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has convened a special meeting on September 7 and the proposal will be placed before it.

Rajpath was known as Kingsway during British Rule.

Carnatic vocalist T.V. Sankaranarayanan passes away

Renowned Carnatic musician, TV Sankaranarayan has passed away at the age of 77 due to cardiac arrest.

He was the tourchbearer for Madurai Mani lyer style of Carnatic music.

He had shared several stages with Madurai Mani lyer.

He won the Madras Music Academy's Sangeeta Kalanidhi Award in 2003 and was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2003.

He was the son of musicians Tiruvalangal Vembu lyer and Gomati Ammal.

Tamilnad Mercantile Bank appoints S Krishnan appointed as MD & CEO

The Board of Directors of Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Ltd has approved the appointment of veteran banker, Krishnan Sankarasubramaniam (aka S Krishnan) as the Managing Director & CEO with effect from 4th September 2022 for a term of 3 years.

He has replaced present MD & CEO, K V Rama Moorthy, whose tenure ended on 3rd September 2022.

Earlier, he was the MD & CEO of Punjab and Sind Bank from 4th September 2020 to 31st May 2022.

CCI approves PayU's $4.7 billion BillDesk acquisition

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the $4.7 billion acquisition deal between PayU (backed by Prosus) and online payments firm, BillDesk.

The commission has cleared the acquisition of 100% of the equity share capital of http://IndiaIdeas.com (BillDesk) by PayU Payments.

The PayU-BillDesk deal is pegged as the second-largest buyout in the Indian internet sector after Walmart’s $16 billion acquisition of ecommerce major Flipkart in 2018.

Tamil Nadu Government launched Pudhumai Penn for girl students

Tamil Nadu CM, M K Stalin has launched the ‘Pudhumai Penn’ (modern woman) scheme for state's girl students.

Under this scheme, all girl students, who studied from Classes 6 to 12 in government schools, will get Rs 1,000 per month to pursue higher education.

The money will be directly transferred to the bank accounts of students.

Aim: Reduce child marriages and make women independent

The government has also launched 26 Schools of Excellence and 15 Model Schools.

India, Australia sign six MoUs at Bangalore Space Expo

Australia and India have signed six space industry MoU at the Bengaluru Space Expo (BSX) 2022.

HEX20 - Skyroot Aerospace: For launch services, spacecraft avionics and components for Australian space initiatives.

QL Space - Skyroot Aerospace: To develop launch facilities in Australia and support joint mineral exploration missions in space

QL Space - GalaxEye: To develop a hybrid optic and radar payload

QL Space - SatSure: To build satellite and Al-based solutions

External debt of India rises by 8.2% to over $620 bn till Mar 2022

The external debt of India has been increased by 8.2% from USD 573 billion (March 2021) to over USD 620 billion (March 2022).

Report title: 28th edition, Status Report on India’s External Debt 2021-22

Released by: Department of Economic Affairs

The External debt as a ratio to GDP fell marginally to 19.9% (2022) from 21.2% (2021).

The Commercial borrowings, NRIs deposits, short-term trade credit and multilateral loans together accounted for 90% of the total external debt. 

PM Modi announced PM-SHRI Yojana on National Teachers Day

PM Modi has announced that 14,500 schools across the country, will be developed and upgraded under the Pradhan Mantri Schools For Rising India (PM-SHRI) Yojana.

These PM-SHRI schools will become model schools which will summarizer the full spirit of National Education Policy (NEP).

These schools will provide modern infrastructure including latest technology, smart classrooms, sports and more.

This initiative will benefit lakhs of students in the spirit of NEP.

Liz Truss elected as 56th Prime Minister of United Kingdom

Leader of the Conservative Party, Liz Truss (47) has been elected as the 56th prime minister of United Kingdom and will be sworn-in as PM of United Kingdom on September 6th, 2022.

She has succeeded present PM Boris Johnson, who will tender his resignation to Queen Elizabeth II.

She has been served as the foreign secretary since 2021.

She has defeated rival Rishi Sunak with 57 per cent of the vote.

She will be third female prime minister to lead the country.

First Homoeopathy International Health Summit held in Dubai

The first edition of “World Health Summit for Pride of Homoeopathy” was held in Dubai with the theme “Diseases caused by climate change and global warming”.

Aim: To educate and promote a homoeopathic system of medicine, drugs, and practices.

The summit was organised by Burnett Homoeopathy Pvt Ltd. 

Burnett Homoeopathy Pvt Limited deals with homoeopathic dilutions, mother tincture, lower trituration tablets and various other homoeopathic medicines.

UP's district Bhartaul becomes first village in state to have RO water

The Bhartaul village in Bareilly district of Uttar Pradesh has become the first village in the state to have RO water in every household.

The achievement comes under the Adarsh Gram Panchayat initiative.

Till now, four RO plants have been set up in the village with an aim to make clean drinking water available to all.

It will save people from water-borne diseases.

The village head Pravesh Kumari is in charge and has been taking care of the RO plants in the village.

Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki becomes the 29th district of Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh CM, Bhupesh Baghel has inaugurated Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki as the 29th district of the state.

It has been carved out of Rajnandgaon district.

Rajnandgaon district had a large area and people spend their entire day to reach the headquarters.

This has been reduced to 70 kilometres with the inauguration of the new district.

He is scheduled to inaugurate Sarangarh-Bilaigarh and Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai as the 30th and 31st districts of the state.

Kiccha Sudeep appointed as brand ambassador of Punyakoti Dattu Yojana

The Karnataka government has appointed Kannada actor, Sudeep as the brand ambassador for ‘'Punyakoti Dattu Yojana', a cattle adoption scheme.

Aim of scheme: Encouraging adoption by the public for the purpose of rearing cattle in 'goshalas' (cow shelters).

The actor has decided not to charge for being the ambassador of the scheme.

The scheme was  launched in July and any individual or an organization can adopt a cow by paying a total of Rs 11,000 for one year.

64th Ramon Magsaysay Award 2022 announced

The Ramon Magsaysay Awards Foundation has announced the 2022 Ramon Magsaysay Awards, which is also known as “Nobel Peace Prize of Asia”. 

Winners:

Sotheara Chhim (Cambodia): For mental Health

Bernadette Madrid (Philippines): For effort in child protection

Tadashi Hattori (Japan): For training local doctors who have treated Vietnamese

Gary Bencheghib (Indonesia): For fight against marine plastic pollution

Ramon Magsaysay Award was established in April 1957. 

India to emerge third-largest economy of world by 2029

As per the report of State Bank of India (Economic Research Department), the India is set to become the third largest economy in the world by 2029.

India will surpass Germany in 2027 and most likely Japan by 2029 at the current rate of growth.

The country has undergone a large structural shift since 2014 and is now the 5th largest economy overtaking the United Kingdom.

The report is authored by Soumya Kanti Ghosh, group chief economic adviser, SBI.

Union Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri to attend Gastech Milan-2022

Hardeep Singh Puri (Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister) has attended the Gastech Milan-2022, that scheduled to held in Milan, Italy.

The Minister will chair the “India Spotlight: Powering India’s energy industry - new avenues for a sustainable future” panel discussion.

He will also participate in the select Ministerial Panel of the  Opening Ceremony along with Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources and State Secretary of Energy of Portugal. 

HM Amit Shah launches mascot & anthem for 36th National Games in Ahmedabad

Union Home Minister, Amit Shah has launched the mascot and the anthem for the 36th National Games at Trans Stadia in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

Mascot: Savaj (means cub in Gujarati)

Anthem is based on the theme of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.

The National Games will be organised in six cities of the state namely Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot and Bhavnagar.

He has also launched the official website -www.nationalgamesgujarat.in and the mobile App NGGujarat.

Anishka Biyani wins Gold in Malaysian Age Group Rapid Chess Championship

Anishka Biyani (6) has won the gold medal in the Malaysian Age Group Rapid Chess Championship at Kuala Lumpur.

She is a first-grade student of Dhirubhai Ambani school and achieved the feat in the Under-6 Open category.

She has also qualified as one of the best under-7 players in the All India FIDE rating chess tournament held in Yousufguda, Hyderabad.

She is currently preparing for the Singapore Open National Age Group Championship.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen wins Dutch Grand Prix 2022

Red Bull driver, Max Verstappen has lifted the Formula One Dutch Grand Prix auto race, at the Zandvoort racetrack, in Zandvoort, Netherlands.

Mercedes driver, George Russell of Britain has secured second place while the Ferrari driver, Charles Leclerc of Monaco has secured third place in the race.

Mercedes's driver, Lewis Hamilton has placed fourth.

Previous GP'22:

Belgian GP, Hungarian GP, French GP: Max Verstappen (Red Bull)

Austrian GP: Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)

Apeksha Fernandes Becomes 1st Indian Woman to Reach WJS Championships Final

Apeksha Fernandes became the first Indian woman to make the Junior World finals by finishing eighth overall. Apeksha Fernandes sets a new national record with a time record of 2:18.18.

She finished eighth in the women’s 200m butterfly finals by clocking 2:19.14 at the FINA World Junior Swimming Championships 2022. The previous National record was set in June 2022 at 2:18.39 which was set by Apeksha Fernandes. She has one of the fastest reaction times of 0.65s.

India to Host Quad Senior Officials’ Meeting

The Quad group meeting will be hosted by India in New Delhi with Japan, U.S, and Australia in the coming week. The Quad meeting is the first such “Senior Officers Meeting” (SOM) to be held after tensions rose between China and Taiwan. The Quad SOM meeting is one of several meetings to be held between India and Indo-Pacific Partners.

The Quad SOM meeting is going to be held anytime between 5th-6th September. The SCO summit in Uzbekistan in mid-September is ahead of the Quad SOM meeting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with the important leaders of Russia, Iran, China, Pakistan, and Central Asia will attend the SCO Summit, as it is the first such in-person meeting since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war.

Hardeep S. Puri presents Smart Solutions Challenge & Inclusive Cities Awards 2022

The Minister for Housing & Urban Affairs & Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri presented Smart Solutions Challenge & Inclusive Cities Awards 2022.

These awards are an initiative of the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) and the United Nations (UN) in India to address city-level accessibility and inclusion challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PwD), women and girls, and the elderly.

64th Ramon Magsaysay Award 2022 Announced

The Ramon Magsaysay Awards Foundation (RMAF), which is widely regarded as the “Nobel Peace Prize of Asia,” recently announced this year’s awardees in a global announcement ceremony.

The 2022 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees are Sotheara Chhim (Cambodia), Bernadette Madrid (Philippines), Tadashi Hattori (Japan) and Gary Bencheghib (Indonesia).

The Ramon Magsaysay Award, established in 1957, is Asia’s greatest honour and distinction. The award is managed by RMAF. It is named after Ramon Magsaysay, the third president of the Philippines.

The award is regarded around the world as ‘’Asia’s Nobel Prize’’. The prize is annually presented in a ceremonial ceremony in Manila, Philippines on August 31. The first Ramon Magsaysay Awards ceremony was held on 31st August 1958.

World Bank Applauds India’s Effective Response to the COVID-19 Crisis Strategies

The World Bank acknowledged that the Indian government’s decision to have centralised procurement, support to long-term market development and production of Emergency Medical Equipment (EME), and early export restrictions worked in its favour during the public health emergency in the country in a paper titled “India Covid-19 Procurement: Challenges, Innovations, and Lessons.”

The health ministry shared in a report detailing the difficulties, innovations, and lessons learned in the purchase of crucial medical supplies, the World Bank praised India’s efforts to combat the Covid-19 outbreak.

According to the report, the development of strong inter-ministerial bodies enabled the government to decide quickly on a centralised procurement to aid the states.

NPPA Launched Apps for Enhancing Ease of Business

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) launched Pharmaceutical Database Management System 2.0 and Pharma Sahi Daam 2.0 app during the celebration of the silver jubilee on 29th August 2022.

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority has provided quality products for years. The Union Health minister Mansukh Mandaviya urged NPPA to produce medicines and conduct innovative research to ensure good health and well-being of people other than for commercial purposes. The Pharmaceutical Database Management System 2.0 and Pharma Sahi Daam 2.0 app were launched during the inaugural event.

All-India House Price Index rose by 3.5% in Q1 of 2022-2023

The all-India house price index (HPI) increased by 3.5% year over year, during the first quarter of 2022–2023 according to information made public by the Reserve Bank of India. The HPI increased by 1.8% between January and March and by 2% between April and June of 2021–22.

According to the RBI, there were significant differences in the year-over-year movements of the HPI among the cities, ranging from a growth of 16% in Kolkata to a contraction of 4% in Bengaluru.

In the first quarter of 2022–2023, the all-India HPI climbed by 2.2% sequentially.

The indicator sequentially decreased in Delhi, Kolkata, and Jaipur, while it increased in all other cities.

India Surpasses UK to Become World’s 5th Largest Economy

India has surpassed Britain to become world’s fifth largest economy, Bloomberg reported. The change in ranking has pushed the United Kingdom to the sixth spot as the country continues to grapple under the brutal cost-of-living shack.

The Indian economy is forecast to grow more than 7 per cent this year. On an adjusted basis and using the dollar exchange rate on the last day of the relevant quarter, the size of Indian economy in “normal” cash terms in the quarter through March was USD 845.7 billion. On the same basis, UK was USD 816 billion, according to the report.

India’s GDP projection lowered by Moody’s to 7.7 percent 

According to Moody’s Global Macro Outlook 2022-2023 study, India’s central bank is anticipated to maintain a hawkish posture this year and keep a moderately restrictive policy stance in 2023 to prevent domestic inflationary pressures from escalating.

India’s GDP is now expected to grow at a 7.7% annual rate, down sharply from the earlier estimate of 8.8% in May. Moody’s Investors Service drastically reduced India’s GDP growth by 1.1 percentage points, citing a slowdown in global growth, rising interest rates, and an irregular monsoon as reasons for the economy’s potential to lose steam in the coming quarters.

India’s 2022 GDP growth prediction reduced by Goldman Sachs from 7.6% to 7%

Goldman Sachs has revised lower its growth projections for India. A lower-than-expected growth during April to June increased the negative risk to current fiscal year growth predictions by 40 basis points.

The current fiscal year predictions decreased by 20 basis points from 7.2% and downgraded the full-year 2022 GDP growth forecast from 7.6% to 7%.

In the reporting quarter, India’s real GDP growth increased 13.5% year over year, falling short of the 15.2% projection made by experts surveyed by Reuters.

GDP growth momentum decreased to -3.3% quarter-on-quarter after increasing by 0.5% from January to March.

Adobe and AICTE collaborate to promote digital literacy in India

The All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) in order to advance digital creativity capabilities throughout the nation, has struck a partnership deal with Adobe.

According to a release, under the terms of the agreement, Adobe will provide training for educators, provide courses, and incorporate digital creativity into the curriculum to give kids the fundamental creative and digital literacy skills they need to succeed in today’s digital-first society.

By 2024, the alliance hopes to equip more than 75,000 educators working in 10,000 institutions of higher learning with critical digital creativity abilities.

Former goalkeeper Kalyan Chaubey elected as new AIFF chief 

Kalyan Chaubey, who was a goalkeeper with the storied Mohun Bagan and East Bengal football clubs in Kolkata, was elected president of the All India Football Federation.

Choubey got 33 votes in the 34-member electorate comprising representatives of various state associations. His opponent and former East Bengal teammate Bhaichung Bhutia, also 45, had to be content with a solitary vote.

Important For All Exam 2022:

All India Football Federation Founded: 23 June 1937;

All India Football Federation Headquarters location: New Delhi.

Yamuna Kumar Chaubey named as CMD of NHPC

Yamuna Kumar Chaubey takes over as Chairman and Managing Director of NHPC for three months beginning September 1. He succeeded Abhay Kumar Singh.

Chaubey is currently Director (Technical) in NHPC & has been given additional charge of the post of CMD for a period of 3 months till a regular incumbent joins the post.

Abhay Kumar Singh ceased to be the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the company with effect from August 31, 2022, upon attaining the age of superannuation.

Odisha Govt Disburses Rs 869 crore for Farmers Under KALIA Scheme

Odisha government distributed ₹869 crore to 41.85 state farmers under the Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme and assured them of additional aid for crop losses due to floods in the state. ₹2000 each was directly transferred to the bank accounts of 41 lakh farmers and 85,000 landless farmers under the KALIA Scheme.

The state government launched the KALIA Scheme in 2019, under which the farmers of the state are given 4000 in two instalments. The first instalment of 2000 per farmer was distributed on Akshaya Tritiya and the occasion of Nuakhai, and the second instalment was distributed among the farmers.

Karnataka introduces the VentuRISE Global Startup Challenge

VentuRISE Global Startup Challenge: The Karnataka government announced the worldwide startup competition VentuRISE Global Startup Challenge, which aims to aid entrepreneurs in the manufacturing and sustainability-related industries.

The global startups will give business owners from all over the world a stage to present their cutting-edge goods or solutions and make connections with potential investors.

The Global Investors Meet-Invest Karnataka 2022, which takes place from November 2 to 4 in Bengaluru, will include VentuRISE as a participant.

The challenge’s winners will get a cash prize of USD $100,000.

IILM University: Law School is India’s 1st NEP 2020 compliant Law School

IILM University launched the first National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) Complaint Law School in the Country. The IILM University also got the approval of the Government of Uttar Pradesh and the recognition of the Bar Council of India (BCI).

The IILM Law school is also known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure. The IILM University’s interdisciplinary teaching and training techniques comply with NEP 2020 which directs the IILM Law School to achieve its goals and planned experiential learning through various practical initiatives.

Home Minister Amit Shah will unveil the “CAPF eAwas” web portal in Delhi

CAPF eAwas: Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the CAPF eAwas web portal for the Central Armed Police Forces. The Central Armed Police Forces have always been a solid backbone of the nation’s internal security, Mr. Shah stated in remarks made on the occasion.

More than 35,000 police officers have died since independence day while maintaining internal security, he mentioned, and as a result of their sacrifices, people may sleep well at night and feel secure.

The Indian government launched the “Ayushman CAPF” programme to give families of fallen soldiers access to better medical care.

Meghalaya CM launches 'Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme' for farmers' welfare

Meghalaya CM, Conrad K Sangma has launched "Rural Backyard Piggery Scheme" with an aim to ensure that the farmers earn a sustainable livelihood through different livestock farming activities.

Under the phase 1 of this Scheme, the govt has earmarked Rs 15.18 crore under which four high-yielding improved varieties will be distributed to 6000 families.

The additional Rs 25 crore will be earmarked to roll out the second phase of the programme.

AICTE partnered with Adobe to advance digital literacy in India

The All-India Council for Technical Education has partnered with Adobe to accelerate digital creativity skills across the country.

As per the agreement, Adobe will offer courses and expertise for upskilling educators, and integrate digital creativity into the curriculum, to prepare students with the essential creative and digital literacy skills.

Aim: To empower educators across higher education institutions with essential digital creativity skills by 2024.

Tejas Mark-2 Project approved by Cabinet Committee on Security

The Cabinet Committee on Security  has approved Tejas Mark-2 Project and sanctioned 6,500 crore rupees for designing and developing of Tejas Mark-2 fighter jet with prototypes, flight testing, and certification.

The allocation comes in addition to the existing 2500 crore rupees sanctioned to HAL.

Tejas 2.0 will be equipped with more powerful GE- F414 engines in the 98 Kilonewton thrust class and carry additional payload and weapons as compared to the existing version. 

India’s first indigenously developed vaccine for cervical cancer

Union Minister of Science and Technology Jitendra Singh has launched India’s first indigenously developed quadrivalent Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine for the prevention of cervical cancer.

Vaccine name: CERVAVAC

DCGI had granted market authorisation to Serum Institute of India to manufacture an indigenously-developed vaccine against cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer in India ranks as the second most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age.

Muthoot FinCorp, IME India joins hands for money transfer service to Nepal

Muthoot FinCorp has partnered with IME India Pvt Ltd to expand its money remittance services between Indo-Nepal corridor.

Muthoot has been assisting the Nepali community in India in remitting money through their existing partner (Prabhu Money Transfer Pvt Ltd).

Now, Muthoot will be able to serve a larger mass of Nepalese diaspora living in India.

IDFC First Bank, India and Global IME Bank Ltd., Nepal are the banking partners to facilitate Indo-Nepal remittance service.

World Coconut Day 2022: 2nd September

World Coconut Day is observed annually on September 2 to highlight the significance of coconut in our daily lives and how beneficial are they for health.

Theme 2022: Growing coconut for a better future and life

The event started on September 2, 2009, by the Asia Pacific Coconut Community (APCC) to raise awareness and the significance of coconuts and their impact on society.

Top exporters of coconuts: Indonesia, India, Philippines, Brazil and Sri Lanka

SBI Card launches cashback card

SBICard has launched ‘CASHBACK SBI Card’, a cashback focused credit card, to boost the online transactions.

Consumers across country, including tier-2 and 3 cities, can apply for the card on the digital application platform ‘SBI Card SPRINT’.

CASHBACK SBI Card customers will earn unlimited 1% cashback on all spends, cashback will increase to 5% on all online spends up to maximum of ₹ 10,000 per monthly statement cycle.

MD & CEO, SBI Card: Rama Mohan Rao Amara

GST collection in August was ₹1.43 lakh crore

According to Finance Ministry data, the government has collected ₹1,43,612 crore as the gross GST revenue in the month of August 2022.

CGST is ₹ 24,710 crore, SGST is ₹ 30,951 crore, IGST is ₹ 77,782 crore.

It includes ₹ 42,067 crore collected on import of goods and cess is ₹ 10,168 crore (including ₹ 1,018 crore collected on import of goods).

The revenues for the month of August 2022 are 28% higher than the GST revenues in the same month in 2021 of ₹ 1,12,020 crore.

Services exports rise 20.2% to $23.26 billion in July 2022: RBI data

As per the Reserve Bank India data, the services exports of India has been increased by 20.2% year-on-year to $23.26 billion in July 2022.

However, the July exports were lower than June by $25.29 billion in 2022.

As per the monthly data on India's international trade in services for July 2022, the imports surged by 22.3% to $13.92 billion in July.

The exports during April-July 2022-23 stood at $94.75 billion, and the imports totalled $58.94 billion during the period.

Air traffic of India may surge annually by average 7% till 2040

As per the Boeing report, the air traffic of India will grow by an average of 7% per year till 2040 even as the country’s carriers face challenges like high fuel prices, rupee depreciation and low fares.

While the air traffic of India will grow 6.9% till 2040, the south-east Asian market will grow at an average annual rate of 5.5%.

The Chinese, African and the Latin American market will grow at an average annual rate of 5.4%, 5.4% and 4.8% respectively, till 2040.

India's unemployment rate increases to 1-year high of 8.3% in August

As per the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy data, the unemployment rate of India has been surged to a one-year high of 8.3% in August 2022, as employment sequentially fell by 2 million to 394.6 million.

In August, the urban unemployment rate has been increased to 9.6% and rural unemployment rate also increased to 7.7%.

In July 2022, the unemployment rate was at 6.8% and the employment was 397 million.

In August, the unemployment was the highest in Haryana (37.3%).

NZ cricketer, Colin de Grandhomme retires from international cricket

New Zealand all-rounder, Colin de Grandhomme has announced his retirement from international cricket.

He has played 29 Test matches scoring 1432 runs at 38.70, including centuries against the West Indies and South Africa.

His best score was 120 not out.

He has also registered 49 wickets in the format at an average of 32.95, including six for 41 on debut against Pakistan.

He has played 45 ODIs and 41 T20Is for New Zealand.

Rajasthan govt launches ‘Mahila Nidhi’ to support women entrepreneurs

Rajasthan Chief Minister, Ashok Gehlot has launched loan scheme ‘Mahila Nidhi’ with an aim to ensure easy loans for women in business.

The scheme also aims the social and economic development of women through credit.

CM Ashok Gehlot has announced in the budget 2022-23 about the ‘Mahila Nidhi’ scheme through Rajasthan Rural Livelihood Development Council.

The scheme will disburse loans of up to Rs 40,000 within 48 hours, and above Rs 40,000 within 15 days. 

Indian-origin Laxman Narasimhan appointed as CEO of Starbucks

Starbucks has appointed Laxman Narasimhan as the next chief executive officer and a member of the Starbucks Board of Directors.

He will work closely with the interim CEO, Howard Schultz, before taking charge as CEO role.

Howard Schultz will continue as interim CEO until April 1, 2023.

Prior to this, he served as global chief commercial officer at PepsiCo; worked as a senior partner at the consulting firm McKinsey & Company; served as CEO in Reckitt.

Delhi CM Kejriwal launches virtual school

Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal has launched the India's first Delhi Model Virtual School.

The school will be for classes IX to XII and will be affiliated to the Delhi Board of School Education.

The platform was created by two globally recognised organisations, Google and Schoolnet India.

Virtual school teachers have received special training to conduct online classes.

The platform will also provide students access to a huge digital library and the content.

Government appoints Nagesh Singh as India’s ambassador to Thailand

Nagesh Singh has been appointed as next ambassador of India to Thailand.

He is presently Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs.

He will replace ambassador, Suchitra Durai and is expected to take up the assignment shortly.

Nagesh Singh is a 1995 batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) who has served as Consul General of India in Atlanta.

Thailand Capital: Bangkok;

Currency: Thai Baht

HM Amit Shah to launch “CAPF eAwas” web-portal

HM, Amit Shah has launched the Central Armed Police Forces' eAwas web-portal to operationalise the revised policy of allotment and  bring transparency to the allotment process.

The web-portal will enable online registration and allotment of residential quarters to eligible personnel of CAPFs and Assam Rifles.

CAPF has been classified into three major categories: Border Guarding Forces; Forces for Internal Security; and Special Task Force

National Nutrition Week 2022: 1st to 7th September

India has observed National Nutrition week from September 1 to September 7 every year to make people aware about the adequate nutrition in food while enjoying the different flavours of Indian cuisine.

The theme of National Nutrition Week 2022 is to ‘Celebrate a World of Flavours.’

An annual week-long celebration has been organised by the Food and Nutrition Board of the Government of India’s Ministry of Women and Child Development.

Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev passes away

The former Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev has been passed away at the age of 91 after a serious and protracted disease.

He had served as the general secretary of the Soviet Communist Party and de facto leader of the country in 1985.

He had been honoured with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1990 for negotiating a historic nuclear arms pact with US leader Ronald Reagan.

He was the youngest member of the ruling council known as the Politburo.

India approves MoU with Nepal on biodiversity conservation

Cabinet has approved an MoU with the Government of Nepal on biodiversity conservation to strengthen and enhance coordination and cooperation in the field of forests, biodiversity conservation, and climate change.

This MoU also aims the restoration of corridors and interlinking areas and sharing of knowledge and best practices, between the two countries.

Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change: Bhupender Yadav

MoS,  Environment: Ashwini Kumar Choubey

CERT-In conducts exercise Cyber Security Exercise “Synergy”

Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has collaborated with the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore to design and conduct the Cyber Security Exercise “Synergy” for 13 Countries.

It was a part of the International Counter Ransomware Initiative- Resilience Working Group.

The Group is being led by India under the leadership of National Security Council Secretariat.

Theme: “Building Network Resiliency to counter Ransomware Attacks”. 

Indian Railways installed 'Meghdoot' machines in Mumbai railway stations

The Central Railways has set up atmospheric water generators (AWG), Meghdoot in six railway stations in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

With the help this, machine can directly harvest water from the air and the commuters can refill their bottles for Rs 12 per litre and Rs 8 for 500 ml.

The Railways has already installed 17 kiosks across six major stations, including five each at CSMT and Dadar, four at Thane, and one each at Kurla, Ghatkopar and Vikhroli.

All-India house price index increased by 3.5% in Q1 of 2022-23

As per the data released by RBI, during the first quarter of 2022-23, the pricing index for homes in India has been grown by 3.5% year-on-year.

The all-India house price index (HPI) is a quarterly release done by the central bank.

This index is based on transaction-level data obtained from the housing registration authorities in 10 major cities in the country.

The cities are: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Jaipur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolkata, Lucknow, and Mumbai.

Kerala's Alappuzha declared full digital banking district

RBI Kerala and Lakshadweep Regional Director, Thomas Mathew has declared that Alappuzha has become the fifth fully digital banking district in Kerala.

Four Kerala districts: Thrissur, Kottayam, Palakkad and Kasaragod

The project was initiated by the RBI with the support of the State Level Bankers’ Committee and respective district administrations as part of the Digital India project.

As part of the initiative, at least one digital transaction facility has been enabled.

India Inc's foreign investment declines over 50% in July

As of 31st August 2022, as per the RBI data, the India Inc's foreign direct investment has been declined over 50% to $1.11 billion in July 2022. 

The domestic firms had invested over $2.56 billion on Outward Foreign Direct Investment in July 2021 in the form of equity, loan and issuances of guarantees. 

The Indian businesses has invested $579.15 million by equity infusion, $193.21 million as loans and $337.49 million infused by issuing guarantees to their overseas Ventures. 

India GDP increases by 13.5% in Q1 FY23

As per the official data, Indian economy has been grown by 13.5% in the April-June period 2022, this is the fastest in the last four quarters.

Reason: Better performance by the agriculture and services sectors.

India has also remained the fastest growing major economy as China registered economic growth of 0.4% in the April-June 2022 quarter.

As per the data released by the National Statistical Office, the Indian economy has been grown by 20.1% in April-June 2021-22.

HSBC India collaborates with AFI to support future female athletes

Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has joined hands with HSBC India to support women athletes of the country.

Under the partnership, promising girl athletes will be selected from the National Inter District Championships for U-14 and U- 16 categories.

Special coaching camps would be set up for the selected athletes and nurtured them to perform on the global platform.

Attended by: Anju Bobby George, Priyanka Goswami, Annu Rani and Hima Das

HSBC India CEO: Hitendra Dave

सरकार ने राजेश कुमार श्रीवास्तव को ONGC का अंतरिम अध्यक्ष नियुक्त किया

ONGC has appointed interim chairman in Rajesh Kumar Srivastava for a period of 4 months with effect from September 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022 (i.e the date of his superannuation) or until further orders, whichever is the earliest.

He is the senior-most director on the ONGC board.

He has been given additional charge of chairman and managing director after current acting head Alka Mittal has been superannuated.

ONGC founded: 14 August 1956

ONGC HQ: New Delhi

UGC to launch 'e-Samadhan' portal to address student grievances

The University Grants Commission (UGC) will launch a new student grievance redressal platform named "e-Samadhan".

Aim: This platform will address all the students' problems online. 

Definite timelines for addressing issues:

For student-related matters, the deadline has been fixed at 10 working days. 

For teaching and non-teaching issues, the issue needs to be addressed within 15 days. 

For any matter related to the university or college, a time limit of 20 days is allowed. 

Subedar Major Yadav authored autobiography titled "The Hero of Tiger Hill"

Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) has written an autobiography titled “The Hero of Tiger Hill”, tells the inspiring story of Yogendra Singh Yadav.

Yogendra Singh Yadav is the youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee (India’s highest gallantry award) at the age of 19 for his actions in the 1999 Kargil conflict.

This book was published by Srishti Publishers.

It is the true story of a brave soldier who left no stone unturned and fought valiantly for the honour of India. 

J&K Police launches online mobile application 'JK Ecop'

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has launched online mobile application named JK Ecop, an easy-to-use interface to facilitate common people.

This mobile app enables the citizens to use a host of services ranging from registering a complaint to downloading a copy of FIR.

A citizen can make requests like obtaining a character certificate, employee verification, event performance, or tenant/PG verification through this app.

Director General of Police, J&K: Dilbag Singh l

Indigo joins sustainable initiative of WEF

Indigo Airlines has joined a sustainability initiative led by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

The airline has become a signatory to "Clear Skies for Tomorrow" coalition campaign of India.

Commitment of Indigo: To deploy sustainable programmes to achieve the significant scale of SAF (sustainable aviation fuel), achieve critical mass and cost-effectiveness for widespread adoption in India.

Clean Skies for Tomorrow was launched in January 2019.

Uttarakhand CM launches CM Udyman Khiladi Unnayan Yojana

Uttarakhand CM, Pushkar Singh Dhami has launched “CM Udyman Khiladi Unnayan Yojana’ on the occasion of National Sports Day.

The Chief Minister Sports Development Fund will be set up to offer financial benefits to the students.

Under the scheme:

A sports scholarship of Rs 1500/ month will be provided to budding sportspersons between the age group of 8 -14 year. 

Players of 14 to 23 years will be given scholarships. 

Malchang game will be included in the game policy.

SEBI penalises Aadhaar Ventures for flouting market norms

SEBI has imposed the monetry penatly of ₹25 lakh (Total) on Aadhaar Ventures India Ltd and its directors for violating insider trading rules and listing conditions.

Directors: Jils Raichand Madan, Somabhai Sunderbhai Meena and Jyoti Munver.

SEBI has conducted an early investigation for alleged price manipulation in the scrip of AVIL.

AVIL, Madan, Meena and Munver had failed to disclose the information to the stock exchange, thereby violating disclosure lapses.

Telangana AI Mission 4 startups to represent India at G20 DIN

The Telangana AI Mission (T-AIM) has announced that four of its startups have been selected by MeitY to represent India at the G20 Digital Innovation Network (DIN).

Four startup: Arficus, Edubuk, Eunimart, and MayaMD supported by Revv Up programme. 

T-AIM is an initiative of Government of Telangana and supported by NASSCOM.

Revv Up is a free-of-equity-or-cost acceleration program by T-AIM.

The G-20 DIN will be held at Bali International Convention Center, Bali, Indonesia. 

PCIM&H and IPC signed MoU for “One Herb, One Standard”

भारतीय चिकित्सा और होम्योपैथी के लिए फार्माकोपिया आयोग ने भारतीय फार्माकोपिया आयोग के साथ एक समझौता ज्ञापन पर हस्ताक्षर किए हैं।

उद्देश्य: वन हर्ब, वन स्टैंडर्ड के प्रचार और सुविधा के लिए अंतर-मंत्रालयी सहयोग के लिए।

समझौता ज्ञापन वैज्ञानिक जानकारी और दवा कच्चे माल या अर्क, संगोष्ठियों, कार्यशालाओं, प्रशिक्षण और विचार-मंथन कार्यक्रमों को साझा करके पारंपरिक चिकित्सा के मानकीकरण के क्षेत्र में सूचनाओं के आदान-प्रदान को बढ़ावा देने में भी मदद करेगा।

Exercise SAREX-22 concluded in Chennai

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has concluded the 10th National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise SAREX -22 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Theme of 10th edition of the biennial exercise is “Capacity Building Towards Marine Passenger Safety”.

This exercise was reviewed by Indian Coast Guard chief VS Pathania along with other agencies and foreign participants.

The two-day exercise was conducted under the aegis of the National Maritime Search and Rescue Board (NMSARB). 

NCRB releases 2021 report on Accidental Deaths & Suicides in India

The Home ministry has released Accidental Deaths & Suicides in India (ADSI) and Crime in India (CII) reports for 2021, were published by NCRB.

Findings:

Deaths by suicide has increased in India by 7.2% from 2020. 

Report says every year more than 1,00,000 people die by suicide in the country. 

Majority of suicides: Maharashtra, TN, MP, WB and Karnataka. 

Delhi has reported the highest number of suicides among UTs. 

Highest rate of crime against women in 2021: Assam

Shershaah wins 67th Filmfare award 2022 for best movie

Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani-starrer, Shershaah has been awarded the 67th Filmfare award 2022 for best movie.

This movie was directed by Vishnuvardhan, who has won the best director award for Shershaah.

Other winners:

Best Actor: Ranveer Singh (83) as Kapil Dev

Best Actress: Kriti Sanon, Mimi as Mimi Rathore

Best Supporting Actor: Pankaj Tripathi (Mimi)

Best Supporting Actress: Sai Tamhankar (Mimi). 

Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award: Subhash Ghai. 

Karnataka's Divita Rai crowned LIVA Miss Diva Universe 2022

Divita Rai (23) from Karnataka has won the prestigious title of Miss Diva Universe 2022 and was crowned by Miss Universe 2021, Harnaaz Sandhu.

Pragnya Ayyagari from Telangana has been crowned LIVA Miss Diva Supranational 2022.

Ojasvi Sharma was adjudged the LIVA Miss Popular Choice 2022.

Sandhu was also awarded the Pride of India trophy by the Times of India Group ownership for her remarkable achievement of making India proud globally.

Mercedes-Benz India appoints Santosh Iyer as Managing Director (MD) and CEO

Luxury carmaker, Mercedes-Benz has appointed Santosh Iyer as the Managing Director & CEO of the Indian operations with effect from January 1, 2023.

He is currently serving as the Vice President of Sales & Marketing. 

He will succeed Martin Schwenk who will take charge as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-Benz Thailand. 

He joined Mercedes-Benz as VP of Customer Services & Retail Training business in 2016. 

Mercedes-Benz HQ: Stuttgart, Germany