Latest Current Affairs For October, 2022

Dabur to acquire 51% stake in Badshah Masala for Rs 588 crore

Dabur India (FMCG firm) has announced that it will acquire 51% stake in Badshah Masala in a Rs 587.52-crore deal.

While the balance 49% of the equity share will be acquired after a period of 5 years.

With this acquisition, Dabur India aspires to expand its Foods business to Rs 500 crore in 3 years and expand into new adjacent categories.

This also marks Dabur’s entry into the over Rs 25,000-crore branded spices and seasoning market in India.

India Post Payment Bank launches group accident insurance plan

IPPB has launched a group accident insurance plan with an accidental death coverage of Rs 10 lakh.

It has been launched in partnership with TATA AIG and Bajaj Allianz General Insurance companies, will offer the insurance plan at a premium of Rs 399 or Rs 396 p.a.

The policy will be issued digitally in five minutes using a smartphone or a fingerprint sensor carried by the postman under e-KYC (Aadhaar based) method.

Age between18 and 65 years can join this insurance plan. 

Irdai sets up health insurance consultative committee

IRDAI has set up a 15-member Health Insurance Consultative Committee with an aim to achieve the goal of universalisation of health insurance in the country.

The panel has been set up for two years.

The committee will be headed by Irdai member Rakesh Joshi.

He will be responsible for identifying the challenges in carrying out the health insurance business smoothly and make recommendations to facilitate ease of doing business.

Indian Bank rolled out six digital initiatives under ‘Project WAVE’

Indian Bank has launched six new digital initiatives under ‘Project WAVE’ to enhance customer experience through integrated services on its digital platform.

The bank will provide online vehicle and health insurance through its mobile banking app IndOASIS, in association with Universal Sompo General Insurance.

Bank partnered with Rupeek Capital to offer jewel loan at doorsteps.

The bank has extended pre-approved personal loans to self-employed customers of the ba nk.

Delhi airport emerges as world's 10th busiest airport in October

As per the report of aviation analytics firm OAG, Indira Gandhi International airport (Delhi) has emerged as world’s 10th busiest airport in October 2022.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Georgia) was the busiest in the world.

Dubai and Tokyo Haneda airports are at the 2nd and 3rd positions, respectively.

The rankings by OAG are based on scheduled airline capacity in the current month and compared to the equivalent month in 2019, pre-pandemic.

Centre approved Terai Elephant Reserve in Uttar Pradesh

The Union ministry of forest, environment and climate change (MoFECC) has given its nod to establish the Terai Elephant Reserve (TER) in Uttar Pradesh.

The area of reserve will be spread in a 3,049 sq km area, which include Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) and Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR).

It will be the second elephant reserve in UP and  33rd in India.

Project Elephant: It is a centrally sponsored scheme and was launched in February 1992  for the protection of elephants.

Kerala set to become women-friendly tourism destination

Kerala govt has launched a ‘women-friendly tourism’ project named State Responsible Tourism Mission (RT Mission).

Aim: To establish women-friendly tourism centres and empower women.

The project will be implemented to ensure the participation of women from all sections of society.

Under the project, it will create a network of women’s units and tourism centres manned by women.

Training will be provided to selected women to work as tour coordinators, storytellers etc.

RBI lifts ban on new branches of Tamilnad Mercantile Bank

RBI has lifted ban of three years on Tamilnad Mercantile Bank (TMB), which had prevented the banker from opening new branches.

The restrictions was rescinded with effect from October 21, 2022.

The restriction was imposed by RBI on TMB in 2019 after the bank's shareholders decided to raise authorized share capital to Rs 500 crore.

The central bank objected to the bank not raising its subscribed capital to at least half of the authorized capital as required.

BCCI announces equal match fee for men and women cricketers

BCCI has announced the implementation of a pay equity policy for contracted Indian women cricketers, which means the the match fee for both, Men and Women Cricketers will be the same.

Test cricket match: ₹15 lakh

One Day International (ODI) match: ₹6 lakh

T20 match: ₹3 lakh

Aim: To promote gender equality in sports

Recently, the Indian women's cricket team won the Asia Cup in Bangladesh, beating the Sri Lankan.

President of BCCI: Roger Binny

Odisha CM launches first common agricultural credit portal for farmers

Odisha CM, Naveen Patnaik has launched a common credit portal SAFAL (Simplified Application for Agricultural Loans) for the welfare of farmers.

This credit facility will enable farmers and agri-entrepreneurs to access more than 300 term loan products of over 40 banks.

This portal has been integrated with Krushak Odisha and will have access to 70-plus model project reports.

It will ease the loan application process and provide benefit to farmers and banks significantly.

Veteran Assamese actor, Nipon Goswami passes away

Veteran Assamese actor, Nipon Goswami has been passed away at the age of 80.

He was an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune.

He was born in Tezpur, and made his acting debut as a child actor in the Assamese film 'Piyoli Phukan'.

He has started his film career as the lead actor of the Assamese movie 'Sangra.

His last Assamese film was 'Lankakanda', directed by Rajani Barman.

IMF slashed economic forecast of Asia due to slowdown in China

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reduced the economic forecasts of Asia to 4.0% for 2022-23 and 4.3% next year, down 0.9% point and 0.8 point from April, respectively.

Reason: Global monetary tightening; Rising inflation (due to war in Ukraine); and Sharp slowdown in China. 

The IMF has expected that the growth of China to slow to 3.2% in 2022-23.

As per the IMF, the China economy would grow to 4.4% in next year and 4.5% in 2024.

PM Modi to lay foundation stone of Gujarat military plane plant

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of the facility in Vadodara on 30th October 2022.

The new plant will manufacture C-295 transport aircraft that are on order by IAF under a ₹21,935 crore deal inked in 2021.

Airbus (European aviation major) and India’s TATA group will jointly manufacture at least 40 C-295 transport aircraft in India.

16 aircraft out of 56, will be delivered in flyaway condition, from Airbus, Spain by September 2023.

Delhi LG announces SAMRIDDHI scheme for property disputes and tax dues

Delhi LG, Vinai Kumar Saxena has announced a one-time property tax amnesty scheme named Strengthening & Augmentation of Municipal Revenue for Infrastructure Development in Delhi (SAMRIDDHI) 2022-23 scheme.

With this scheme, the NCR people will be able to pay only the principal amount of the current and pending tax of past five years for residential properties.

The people can also get a waiver on all pending dues, including penalty and interest through this scheme.

World Day for Audiovisual Heritage: 27th October

World Day for Audiovisual Heritage is observed on October 27 every year to promote the importance of such preservation.

Theme 2022: Enlisting documentary heritage to promote inclusive, just and peaceful Societies. 

The Recommendation for the Safeguarding and Preservation of Moving Images was adopted in the 21st General Conference of UNESCO held on October 27, 1980, at Belgrade, Serbia.

International Federation of Film Archives HQ: Brussels, Belgium

Elizabeth Jones as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim at US Embassy New Delhi

The US administration has named a senior US diplomat, Elizabeth Jones (74) as the next Charge d’Affaires ad interim in New Delhi.

She is the sixth interim US envoy in the last 21 months (since January 2021).

She had worked on NATO’s role in Europe vis-a-vis Russia as the US Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia.

Currently, Patricia A Lacina is the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, who assumed charge on September 9, 2021.

Indian Navy join hands with Drone Federation to promote drone technology

The Technology Development and Acceleration Cell of the Naval Innovation Indigenisation Organisation under the Indian Navy has signed an MoU with Drone Federation of India.

Reason: For promoting indigenous development, manufacturing and testing of a drone, counter-drone, and associated technologies for the Navy.

This collaboration will increase the Navy-industry-academia synergy, and source technology development challenges towards component indigenisation.

IIT Madras won National Intellectual Property Award for 2021 and 2022

The Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M) has been awarded the national intellectual property award for 2021 and 2022.

This award was instituted by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The criteria for evaluation was patent applications, grants and commercialisation.

The award was presented by Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal.

Award: A trophy, citation and Rs. 1 lakh

Assam launched Trees Beyond Forests initiative

The Assam government has launched the “trees outside forests in India (TOFI)” programme in collaboration with US Agency for International Development (USAID).

Aim: To bring farmers, companies, and private institutions together to expand the tree coverage outside of traditional forests in the State.

The new programme will enhance carbon sequestration, support local communities, and strengthen the climate resilience of agriculture.

Harmanpreet Singh named captain for India's FIH Pro League matches

Hockey India has named Harmanpreet Singh as the captain of the 22-member Indian men’s hockey team.

He has been appointed for the upcoming double-header matches against Spain and New Zealand in the season opener of FIH Hockey Pro League 2022-2023 to be held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

While, Manpreet Singh has been named as his deputy.

All matches will be held at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Turkish competition board fines $18.6 million on Meta

Competition authority of Turkey has imposed monetary penalty of 346.72 million lira ($18.63 million) on Meta Platforms (Facebook).

Reason: For violating competition law

The firm has obstructed its competitors operating in social network services and online advertising markets as it merged data collected through Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

The fine was imposed according to the 2021 annual income of the company.

Indian-origin Navjit Kaur Brar becomes councillor of Canada Brampton

Indian-origin Sikh woman, Navjit Kaur Brar has become the first turban-wearing Sikh woman to be elected as a city councillor of Brampton in Canada.

She is an Indo-Canadian respiratory therapist.

She was elected in the recent municipal council polls after she won the race in Wards 2 and 6.

She is a former Conservative MP candidate for Brampton West.

Elections for municipal government in Canada held every four years on the fourth Monday of October.

CRISIL upgrades Muthoot FinCorp to AA-

CRISIL has upgraded its long-term rating on the bank facilities and debt instruments of Muthoot FinCorp to ‘CRISIL AA-'.

It has also upgraded the ratings of Muthoot Microfin Ltd, Muthoot Capital Services Ltd and Muthoot Housing Finance Company Ltd, to A+.

These upgrades are driven by improvement in the capitalisation profile and expected improvement in the earnings profile of MPG.

Chairman of Muthoot Pappachan Group: Thomas John Muthoot

Two Indian beaches receive Blue Flag certification

Thundi and Kadmat beaches in Lakshadweep have received the Blue Flag certification and were added to the list of the cleanest beaches in the world.

This has taken India's tally of ‘Blue Beaches’ to 12.

Golden Beach of Puri is also Asia's first Blue Flag certified beach.

Blue Flag Certification:

It is awarded by a non-profit organisation known as Foundation for Environmental Education.

It is an eco-label given to the cleanest beaches in the world.

UNSC Counter-Terrorism Committee meet to be held in India

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Counter-Terrorism Committee will be hosted in Mumbai and Delhi on 28th and 29th of October.

2022 Theme: Countering the use of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes. 

The special meeting in India will also be attended by UK foreign secretary, James Cleverly.

Focus of meet: Internet (including social media), new payment technologies and fundraising methods, and unmanned aerial systems (including drones). 

Shefali Juneja elected as chairperson of Air Transport Committee of ICAO

Shefali Juneja (representative of India at ICAO) has been elected as the chairperson of UN specialized aviation agency’s Air Transport Committee (ATC).

She is a 1992 batch officer of IRS (Income Tax cadre), served as a Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Civil Aviation before joining the ICAO. 

India has secured this position in ICAO after 28 years when she was unanimously elected to the post. 

ATC is a standing committee of the ICAO created by the Chicago Convention in 1944. 

J&K LG, Manoj Sinha inaugurates cultural festival Jashn-e-Kashmir

J&K, LG, Manoj Sinha has inaugurated a three-week-long cultural festival “Jashn-e-Kashmir”- New Kashmir at Srinagar. 

The Cultural Festival is being organized by All J&K Folk Artists Association, Shah Qalander Folk Theatre, in collaboration with J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages and Office of Divisional Commissioner Kashmir. 

The govt has taken steps to reconnect youth to their roots and provide an environment to showcase goals and values.

Jakson Green to invest ₹ 22,400 crore for green project in Rajastha

Jakson Group has signed a pact with the Rajasthan government to set up a green hydrogen and green ammonia project in the state at an investment of ₹ 22,400 crore.

Jakson Green will set up a 3,65,000 tons per annum green hydrogen and green ammonia plant along with an integrated hybrid renewable power complex in phases.

The project is expected to generate over 32,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities.

IRDAI formed panel to develop insurance coverage for rural inhabitants

IRDAI has set up a committee of 24-member to develop and suggest an affordable and comprehensive cover for the rural population.

Headed by: Thomas M Devasia, Member (non-life), IRDAI.

While the proposed cover will be a benefit based / parametric structure, called Bima Vistaar.

IRDAI has asked committee to develop and suggest constitution and operation of women centric distribution channel to focus on reaching rural areas and recommend regulatory framework.

Akshay Shah & Stephen Alter compiled and edited “The Corbett Papers” book

A new book "The Corbett Papers" has been co-edited by educator Akshay Shah and writer Stephen Alter.

This book was published by Hachette India.

This book has brought together lesser known parts of Jim Corbett's life through unpublished letters, documents and a privately-published book.

Corbett was born in Nainital in 1875, was known for tracking and hunting down a number of man-eating tigers and leopards in different parts of North India.

Microsoft launches ARM-based computer for developers

Microsoft has launched the Windows Dev Kit 2023, a new personal computer designed for developers using the ARM chip design.

It is available in eight countries; Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, U.K., and U.S.

It is a part of ‘Project Volterra’, that was started in May 2022.

With the help of this new device, developers can build, run, and test Windows apps for Arm on a single compact device.

It is powered by the Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 SoC.

Aman Sehrawat wins first ever gold for India in U23 World Championships

Indian wrestler, Aman Sehrawat (16) has become the first Indian wrestler to win a gold medal at the U-23 World Wrestling Championships in Pontevedra, Spain.

He has defeated Ahmet Duman of Turkey by 12-4 in the finals.

India has finished with six medals - one gold, one silver, and four bronze at the U-23 World Wrestling Championships 2022.

Sajan Bhanwala became the first Greco-Roman wrestler from India to win a medal bronze at the U23 world wrestling championships.

RRR wins Best International Film award at 50th Saturn Awards

RRR has won the Best International Film award at the 2022 Saturn Awards.

The movie has been directed by SS Rajamouli.

Prior to this, SS Rajamouli had received Saturn Awards for Baahubali: The Conclusion.

Saturn Awards:

It is awarded for Best in genre fiction film, television and home media releases. 

Country: United States

Presented by: Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films. 

The award was created in 1973.

Upper Bhadra scheme will be first national project of Karnataka

Karnataka CM, Basavaraj Bommai has announced that the Union cabinet will soon approve the Upper Bhadra lift irrigation scheme.

It will be the first national project of Karnataka.

It will revive the drought-prone districts of Chitradurga, Chikkamagaluru, Davanagere and Tumakuru, as it is expected to irrigate about 2.3 lakh hectares by drawing water from the Tunga and Bhadra rivers.

He has also announced that the Tumakuru-Davanagere railway line has been reviewed.

Gujarati celebrates new year 'Bestu Varsh'

Bestu Varas, Gujarati New Year has been celebrated a day after Diwali on the Pratipada Tithi in the month of Kartik.

The day is also called Varsha Pratipada or Padwa.

In 2022, Gujaratis were celebrated their New Year on October 25.

Significance: Gujarati businessmen and traders start new books of account and close the old ones.

These account books are called chopda or bahi-khata.

The Gujarati New Year coincides with Govardhan Puja.

Bengali film director Pinaki Chaudhuri passes away

Bengali films director, Pinaki Chaudhuri has been passed away at the age of 82 in Kolkata.

He was suffering from lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system.

He had been awarded the two national awards for Shanghaath (Conflict) in 1996 and for Ballygunge Court in 2007.

His other notable films: 'Kakababu Here Gelen?' (Kakababu defeated?), 'Ek Tukro Chand' (A slice of the moon) and 'Arohan' (Ascension).

CCI imposes Rs 936 crore penalty on Google for abuse of dominance

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed another  penalty of Rs. 936.44 crore on Google.

Reason: Abusing its dominant position with respect to its Play Store policies.

Google dominance in the markets for licensable OS for smart mobile devices & market for app stores for Android smart mobile OS, in India.

Earlier, CCI had imposed a penalty of ₹1,337.76 crore on Google for abusing its dominant position in multiple markets in the Android Mobile ecosystem.

Tata Steel's Dutch arm signs MOU to supply Ford with green steel

Tata Steel's Dutch arm has signed an MoU with the Ford in Europe to supply "green" steel after 2030.

Tata has planned to produce green steel (steel made without using fossil fuels) in 2030 at its plant in Ijmuiden, Netherlands.

Ford has also signed supply MOUs with Tata, ThyssenKrupp (Germany) and Salzgitter (Germany) to supply "low carbon" steel for use in manufacturing the new electric crossover model.

It would help to meet a target of having zero emissions by 2035.

MCA appoints Sangeeta Verma as acting Chairperson of CCI

The government of India has appointed CCI member, Sangeeta Verma as the acting chairperson of the Competition Commission of India (CCI).

Her appointment came into effect from 26th October 2022.

She will remain in office for three months or till appointment of regular Chairperson or till any further orders, whichever is the earliest.

She has replaced Ashok Kumar Gupta, who relinquished office after a four-year tenure.

CCI HQ: New Delhi;

Formed: 14 October 2003

Shi Yuqi wins Men's Singles title in 2022 Denmark Open

Shi Yuqi (China) has secured the men's singles title in 2022 Denmark Open after defeating Indonesia's Lee Zii Jia by 21-18, 16-21, 21-12.

Chinese, He Bingjiao has clinched the women's singles title after defeating Chen Yufei by 22-20, 12-21, 21-10.

Other winners:

Men's doubles: Fajar Alfian (Indonesia), Muhammad Rian Ardianto (Indonesia). 

Women's doubles: Chen Qingchen(China), Jia Yifan(China). 

Mixed doubles: Zheng Siwei (China), Huang Yaqiong (China). 

Red Bull F1 owner Dietrich Mateschitz passes away

Founder and owner of the Red Bull Formula One racing team, Dietrich Mateschitz has been passed away at the age of 78.

He was also a co-founder of energy drink company Red Bull.

He was co-founder of the Wings for Life foundation that supports spinal cord research together with Heinz Kinigadner.

He has also initiated the World Stunt Awards, an annual fundraiser to benefit his Taurus Foundation.

He founded Red Bull GmbH in 1984 and launched it in Austria in 1987.

Pakistan, China jointly agree to launch 3 new corridors

Pakistan and China have decided to launch three new corridors besides the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

China-Pakistan Green Corridor (CPGC): It will focus on agricultural environment, food security and green development. 

China-Pakistan Health Corridor (CPHC): It will help  get efficiency in the medical field. 

China-Pakistan Digital Corridor (CPDC): It will boost Pakistan's IT industry.

The new corridors would become sources of strengthening Pakistan-China ties. 

Vienna to host INTERPOL General Assembly in 2023

The 91st General Assembly of INTERPOL will take place in Vienna, Austria in 2023, where the International criminal police organisation was officially created in 1923.

The 90th INTERPOL General Assembly was held in New Delhi from October 18-21, 2022.

The General Assembly of INTERPOL is a supreme governing body and meets once a year to take key decisions related to its functioning.

The Assembly meeting held in India after a gap of 25 years.

Kerala govt launched 'Kunjapp' to prevent cyber crimes against children

Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan has launched the 'Kunjapp', a mobile application to prevent cyber crimes against children in the state.

He has also inaugurated the training for the newly appointed Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) members at Kovalam.

The duty of the CWC and JJB members is to ensure the safety and security of the children.

Child exploitation can be reported through the application.

BSE launched Electronic Gold Receipts

Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has launched Electronic Gold Receipt (EGR) on its platform.

Aim: Efficient and transparent price discovery of the yellow metal.

The EGR was introduced in two new products of 995 and 999 purity and trading will be in multiples of 1 gram and deliveries in multiples of 10 gram and 100 gram.

This platform will lead to greater assurance in the quality of gold supplied, efficient price discovery, and transparency in transacting.

Emmy-winning actor, Leslie Jordan passed away

Veteran actor, Leslie Jordan has been passed away at the age of 67.

He has played roles including Lonnie Garr on Hearts Afire, Beverley Leslie on Will & Grace and and American Horror Story.

He won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series, Will & Grace, in 2006.

He had published his autobiography 'How Y'all Doing?: Misadventures and Mischief from a Life Well Lived' in April 2021.

Uttar Pradesh bagged top honours at PMAY-U Awards 2021

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Urban Awards 2021 has been awarded to Uttar Pradesh (first position), followed byMadhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu.

Gujarat has been honoured with 5 ‘Special Category’ awards for performance related to Affordable Rental Housing Complexes and ‘Convergence with other Missions’.

J&K and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu have been adjudged ‘Best performing UT'.

Aim: Confronting and tiding over the shortage of housing facilities in urban India.

Yuvraj Singh named brand ambassador of T20 World Cup for the Blind

The Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) has appointed former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh as their brand ambassador for the 3rd T20 World Cup for the Blind.

While, Ajay Kumar Reddy B2 (Andhra Pradesh) will lead the Indian team and Venkateswara Rao Dunna – B2 (Andhra Pradesh) will be the vice-captain.

The World Cup matches will be held from December 6 to 17.

Participants: India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Australia, South Africa, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Indian origin Rishi Sunak becomes new Prime Minister of UK

Indian-origin Rishi Sunak (42) has become the prime minister of United Kingdom.

He has replaced former PM Liz Truss, who had resigned from the post just after 44 days.

He also the youngest PM of UK in modern history at the age of 42 years.

While, William Pitt the Youngest PM of UK, who become the PM at the age of 24 in 1801.

He was born in UK's Southampton area to an Indian family.

He became a member of Parliament in 2015 after he got elected from Richmond, Yorkshire.

Chinese President Xi Jinping wins record third term in power

Chinese President Xi Jinping has created history, becoming the first leader of the ruling Communist Party after party founder Mao Zedong to get re-elected for an unprecedented third term.

Chinese President Xi Jinping:

Chinese President Xi Jinping has created history, becoming the first leader of the ruling Communist Party after party founder Mao Zedong to get re-elected for an unprecedented third term in power with the prospect of ruling China for life. He was elected as General Secretary of the Communist Party for 3rd five-year tenure by the new seven-member Standing Committee packed with his supporters who appeared before the local and foreign media here to herald the new era, widely termed ‘Xi era’.

Notably: Xi’s “election” for the third term in power formally ends the over three decades of rule followed by his predecessors, barring Mao, of retiring after a 10-year tenure. Xi was first elected in 2012 and will be completing his 10-year term this year.

Chinese President Xi Jinping. 

With moderates like Premier Li Keqiang, who was ranked number two, eased out in the election to over 300-member Central Committee by the once-in-a-five-year Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the Committee which met on Sunday elected a 25-member Political Bureau.

The Political Bureau elected a seven-member Standing Committee, which in turn elected Xi for a third five-year term as General Secretary.

Xi was elected to the Central Committee, to the Political Bureau and the Standing Committee and then as General Secretary with relative ease as the Congress passed the key amendment to the Party’s constitution reinforcing his “core” status with the directive that all party members have the “obligation” to follow his directives and doctrines.

Observers say Xi’s emergence as the most powerful leader as President, party leader and head of the military with the prospect of being a leader for life in the footsteps of Mao, whose extremist ideological campaigns like the Cultural Revolution resulting the extermination of millions, is widely expected to be viewed with sense of unease and concern as the one-party state has now become a one-leader state.

Important For All Exam 2022:

China Capital: Beijing

China Population: 140.21 crores (2020) World Bank

China Currency: Renminbi

China Official language: Mandarin

Ayodhya Deepotsav to light over 15 lakh diyas, to make World Record

Ayodhya Ram Mandir- Ayodhya Deepotsav: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present during the sixth Deepotsav in Ayodhya. He carried out a ceremonial coronation of the Lord and inspected the Ram temple’s building. The big “Deepotsav” celebrations began when the PM attended the “aarti” on the banks of the Saryu at approximately 6.30 p.m on Sunday. Over 15 lakh diyas would be lit on the event, breaking its own previous world record.

Ayodhya Deepotsav to light 15.76 lakh diyas

Ayodhya Deepotsav, in the presence of Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and a large crowd on Sunday at the Ram Katha Park, the holy scene of Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman returning to Ayodhya by a “Pushpak Viman” after 14 years of exile was recreated.

Ayodhya set a new Guinness World Record for burning the most earthen lamps, 15.76 lakh, on the banks of the Saryu.

Ayodhya Deepotsav: Important Highlights

As part of Ayodhya Deepotsav, around 18 lakh earthen lamps will be kindled on Sunday.

On the occasion of Ayodhya Deepotsav more than 22,000 volunteers will light over 15 lakh earthen lights at Ram ki Paudi on the Saryu bank.

Volunteers were instructed to place 256 earthen lanterns in each square, with a two to three foot gap between each square.

Fireworks, a 3D projection mapping extravaganza, and a musical laser show will also be present.

During the Ayodhya Deepotsav, 11 Ramlila tableaux exhibiting dance styles from various states were presented, along with five animated tableaus.

Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Lord Lakshman, and Lord Hanuman depicted at the Ram Katha Park coming down from a “pushpak vimana.”

On this day, an aarti of the Saryu river was conducted.

Because Sunday, October 23, Ram Lalla will be donning a red-pink outfit.

Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, has unveiled a new logo for the occasion, which broadcasted live on 30 LED screens throughout the city.

To guarantee tourists’ security and receive the best medical care, 14 health centres had been established.

United Nations Day 2022 celebrates on 24th October

United Nations Day, on 24 October, marks the anniversary of the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter. With the ratification of this founding document by the majority of its signatories, including the five permanent members of the Security Council, the United Nations officially came into being. In 1945, 50 governments gathered to draft the UN Charter. They have struggled and accomplished great feats to uphold peace, protect human rights, and play a key role in bringing international justice.

The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945. At present, there are 193 Member States. The UN is guided by the purposes and principles contained in its founding Charter which was signed in 1945. The United Nations Day commemorates the signing of that charter. According to their official website, the United Nations is “One place where the world’s nations can gather together, discuss common problems, and find shared solutions.”

United Nations Day 2022: Significance

The United Nations plays a crucial role in establishing peace between warring nations and promoting the development of democratic institutions. They have provided economic support and helped in social development, as well as been instrumental in protecting human rights.

The global response to HIV by the UN has prevented 30 million new HIV infections and nearly 8 million AIDS-related deaths since 2000. Tackling multitudes of global issues like climate and water crisis, decolonization, disarmament, ending poverty, to name a few, UN has played a key role in “safeguarding peace, protecting human rights, establishing the framework for international justice”.

The United Nations Day is a celebration of these efforts and a day to raise awareness towards the issues still impacting millions of people around the globe.

United Nations Day 2022: History of the United Nations:

The year 2022 marks the 77th anniversary of the United Nations and its founding Charter. The Charter was signed on 26 June 1945 by the representatives of the 50 countries. Poland, which was not represented at the Conference, signed it later and became one of the original 51 Member States.

The United Nations officially came into existence on 24 October 1945, when the Charter had been ratified by China, France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, the United States and by a majority of other signatories. The name “United Nations” was coined by the United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt and first used in the Declaration by United Nations of 1 January 1942, during Second World War.

In 1971, the United Nations General Assembly recommended that all countries that are a part of the UN should recognize the United Nations Day as a public holiday. However, it was not until Post Cold War, in 1991, that the Security Council resolutions more than doubled in number and the peacekeeping budget grew.

In the 1990s, the UN faced multiple crises with its new members, Somalia, Haiti, Mozambique, and Yugoslavia. A 2005 study by RAND corporation found that the United Nations has been successful in two-thirds of their peacekeeping efforts around the globe.

Important For All Exam 2022:

United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA.

Mr Antonio Guterres is the Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Rishi Sunak bid for prime minister of United Kingdom with over 131 MPs support

Rishi Sunak bid for prime minister of UK: Rishi Sunak formally entered the race to succeed Liz Truss as leader of the Conservative party and the next prime minister of the United Kingdom.

Rishi Sunak bid for prime minister of UK: Rishi Sunak, the son-in-law of Infosys founder N R Narayana Murthy, formally entered the race to succeed Liz Truss as leader of the Conservative party and the next prime minister of the United Kingdom on the day of Diwali. About 131 to 153 MPs have reportedly supported Sunak so far, compared to Penny Mordaunt and Boris Johnson, who served as Truss’ predecessors, who received 56 to 76 and 22 to 28 MPs, respectively.

Rishi Sunak bid for prime minister of UK: Key Points

Only candidates who have received nominations from 100 or more MPs will advance to the first round.

Rishi Sunak will automatically become the prime minister of the UK on Diwali if he is the only person to cross the finish line.

Ben Wallace, the defence minister, offered that the three candidates establish a tripartite government to prevent political squabbling at a time when risks to UK national security were so high.

After meeting Johnson on Saturday night, Sunak’s associates noted that he already had the necessary numbers and did not need to secure an agreement with Johnson.

Johnson reportedly spent Sunday making phone calls to Conservative MPs to ask them to support him and maybe switch from Sunak.

Suella Braverman, a former home secretary of Goan descent, however, publicly endorsed Sunak, dealing Johnson a severe blow.

UK’s Former prime minister Boris Johnson announced his withdrawal from the race to become the next leader of Britain on Sunday.

Boris Johnson claimed he had garnered enough support from parliamentarians to advance to the next round despite trailing front-runner former finance minister Rishi Sunak by a significant margin.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Capital of the United Kingdom, UK: London

Emperor of the United Kingdom, UK: King Charles III. 

Currency of the United Kingdom, UK: Pound sterling. 

ISRO renamed GSLV Mark-III as LVM-3

ISRO has renamed the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mark -III as Launch Vehicle Mark-III.

Reason: To identify its task of placing satellites into a variety of orbits.

The rocket is no longer to the geosynchronous orbit.

This rocket can go anywhere - GEO (Geosynchronous Earth Orbit), MEO (Medium Earth Orbit), LEO (Low Earth Orbit).

It will be used for India's maiden human space flight, Gaganyaan, which is tentatively scheduled for late 2024.

Anna May Wong will become first Asian American featured on US currency

Chinese-American movie star in Hollywood, Anna May Wong will be the first Asian-American to feature in US currency.

This will be the fifth coin in the American Women Quarters (AWQ) Program and its circulation would start on October 24, 2022.

AWQ program: It is four-year program that honors the achievements of women in the United States from 2022 to 2025.

Till date, Maya Angelou, Dr. Sally Ride, Wilma Mankiller, and Nina Otero-Warren have been featured under the program. 

Western Air Command of IAF wins Air Force Lawn Tennis Championship

Western Air Command of IAF has won the Air Force Lawn Tennis Championship 2022-23, held at Head Quarter MC, Vayusena Nagar, Nagpur.

The team has defeated Training Command in the finals.

While, the final of the open singles was played between Corporal Pradeep (Training Command) and Sergeant Manolin (Western Air Command), where, Corporal Pradeep emerged as the winner.

The Championship was inaugurated by Air Marshal Vibhas Pande, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, HQ MC.

Delhi govt launches ‘Diya Jalao, Patake Nahi’ campaign

Delhi government has launched anti-firecracker campaign named 'Diya Jalao, Patake Nahi'.

Aim: To promote a pollution-free festival of Diwali.

As per the order, those who will be found indulging in storage, production and sale of crackers will have to pay a fine of 5000 rupees and imprisonment of three years as well.

Those who will be found bursting of firecrackers, will be imposed a fine of 200 rupees and imprisonment for six months.

Karnataka Assembly Deputy Speaker Anand Mamani passes away

Deputy Speaker of Karnataka Assembly and BJP legislator, Anand Mamani has been passed away at the age of 56.

He was the three-time MLA, who has represented Saudatti legislative assembly constituency in Karnataka.

In 2020, he was unanimously elected as the deputy speaker of Karnataka legislative assembly.

He was the son of Chandrashekhar M Mamani, who also served as the deputy speaker in the 1990s.

IIT-Madras, NASA researchers study microbes on International Space Station

The Indian Institute of Technology-Madras and NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory researchers have studied the interactions between microbes in the International Space Station (ISS).

Finding: A microbe that resides on the ISS, was found to be beneficial to various other microorganisms but hampered the growth of a fungus.

This study would help devise strategies for the disinfection of space stations to minimise any potential impact of microbes on the health of astronauts.

Indian, US militaries conduct 'Tiger Triumph' exercise

The Indian and US militaries have conducted a three-day joint humanitarian assistance exercise, "Tiger Triumph" exercise at Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam.

Aim: To build strategic cooperation between the two countries.

Focus: Staff planning, with an emphasis on processes for streamlining diplomatic, operational, and logistical coordination.

This exercise is the second collaboration between the Indian and US militaries to coordinate disaster relief in the region. 

Indian shooter Swapnil Kusale wins India’s 3rd Paris 2024 Olympics quota

Indian shooter, Swapnil Kusale has secured the third Paris 2024 Olympics quota for India at the ongoing ISSF World Championship in Cairo, Egypt.

He finished at the fourth position in the men's 50 meter rifle 3 positions event.

He is also an ISSF World Cup gold medalist.

While, Rhythm Sangwan has missed a quota place in the women’s 25 meter pistol for India.

Other two Paris 2024 quota: Rudrankksh Patil (men’s 10 meter air rifle), Bhowneesh Mendiratta. 

Indian Banks’ Association re-elects PNB's AK Goel as chairman

Indian Banks’ Association has re-elected MD and CEO of Punjab National Bank, A K Goel as its new chairman.

He will serve the association for FY 2022-23.

Generally, the senior most MD of a public sector bank is elected as chairman for a period of one year.

IBA has also appointed Dinesh Khara (Chairman of SBI), A S Rajeev (MD & CEO of Bank of Maharashtra), and Madhav Nair (CEO of Mashreq Bank) as deputy chairman.

Honorary secretary: N Kamakodi (CEO of City Union Bank). 

India ranks 41st among 44 nations on pension index

As per the Mercer CFS Global Pension Index, India has been ranked 41 out of 44 countries in the index, with the index value of 44.4.

Findings: India needs to strengthen its regulatory framework and boost the coverage under private pension arrangements.

The MCGPI is a comprehensive study of 44 global pension systems, which accounts 65% of the world’s population.

The survey was topped by Iceland, followed by the Netherlands and Denmark.

Tazuni unveiled as mascot for 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup

Penguin Tazuni has been unveiled as the official mascot of 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, will be held in Australia and New Zealand.

The design is based on the Eudyptula minor species that found in both host countries.

"Tazuni" is the combination of Tasman Sea and the word unity.

The 9th edition of FIFA Women's World Cup is due to be held from July 20 to August 20, 2023.

FIFA President: Gianni Infantino

Headquarters: Zürich, Switzerland

K.P. Ashwini appointed as UNHRC Special Rapporteur

K.P. Ashwini has been appointed Special Rapporteur for United Nations Human Rights Commission.

She will take over the UNHCR special rapporteur in Geneva on November 1 for a period of six years.

She is the first Indian and Asian woman to be appointed to this post.

She hails from Kurabarahalli in Kolar district, Karnataka.

She has obtained MPhil and PhD from JNU, Delhi.

She served as a lecturer at Mount Carmel College and a professor at Saint Joseph’s College, Bengaluru.

The Ukrainian people awarded the European Parliament's 2022 Sakharov Prize

The European Parliament has awarded the people of Ukraine its annual Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to honour their fight against Russia’s invasion.

The prize money of 50,000 euros ($49,100), will be distributed to representatives of Ukrainian civil society.

The prize was named after the late Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov.

This awarded annually since 1988 to individuals and organizations defending human rights and freedoms.

HDFC Securities Opens the First Women-Only Digital Centre in Bengaluru

HDFC Securities has opened its the first-ever women-only Digital Centre (DC) in India.

The centre, staffed with a team of women, will serve both male and female investors.

The DC will be based in Bengaluru and cater to customers from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

This closely follows the company’s announcement regarding the opening of multiple DCs across India to ease access to services and promote digital adoption.

PhonePe launches green data centre with Dell Technologies and NTT

PhonePe has launched its first green data centre in India, leveraging technologies and solutions from Dell Technologies and NTT.

This facility has opened up new opportunities in data management with efficient data security, power efficiency, and cloud solutions.

This 4.8-megawatt facility will occupy 13740 sqft at Mahape, Navi Mumbai.

It is built and designed with advanced alternative cooling technologies like Direct Contact Liquid Cooling and Liquid Immersion Cooling.

India ranks 3rd in list of centi-millionaires list

As per the report, international investment migration advisory firm Henley & Partners, India ranks third in the world's first-ever global study on the rise of centi-millionaires with assets of more than Rs 830 cr ($100 million).

The list is topped by USA, followed by China.

India will overtake China as the fastest growing market for centi-millionaires by 2032.

Top Cities for Centi-Millionaires: New York, followed by San Francisco Bay Area, London, and Mumbai (15)

Google, Assam Govt partner to power digital-led learning

Google has signed an MoU with the Assam government to promote digital growth and development in the State.

Under this new initiative, Google will collaborate with the Skill, Employment & Entrepreneurship Department (SEED) of Assam.

Aim: To strengthen the school digitization efforts of state with digital learning tools and solution.

Google will also provide scholarships for Google Career Certificates to youth in collaboration with Assam Skill Development Mission.

Fifth Khelo India Youth Games to be held in Madhya Pradesh in 2023

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur  has announced that the 5th Khelo India Youth Games 2022 will be organised in Madhya Pradesh from 31st Jan to 11th Feb, 2023.

The Khelo India Youth Games will be held at eight locations.

The sports event would be participated by more than 8,500 athletes and sportspersons.

This event was stared in 2016, to provide a platform to the youth of the country to showcase their performance and talents in sports.

First conference on Akash Tatva - Akash for Life to be held in Dehradun

The first conference on Akash Tatva - Akash for Life, will be held from 5th to 7th November, 2022 in Dehradun.

This event will showcase the blend of traditional and modern knowledge through an extended integration of all schools of though.

Aim: To expose the youth of India to the wisdoms of ancient science along with modern scientific advancements.

The campaign ‘Sumangalam’ is being organised across the country for finding the solutions to the environmental problems.

CCI imposes Rs 1,338 cr fine on Google for 'anti-competitive practices'

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed a penalty of over 1,337 crore rupees on Google.

Reason: For misusing its dominant position in multiple markets.

The Commission has also directed Google to modify its conduct within a defined timeline.

Google has leveraged its position in the app store market for Android OS to enter as well as protect its position in non-OS specific web browser market through Google Chrome App.

ISRO to launch its third mission to moon, Chandrayaan-3 in June 2023

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch its third mission to the moon, Chandrayaan-3 in June 2023.

The launch of Chandrayaan-3 (C-3) will be onboard from the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3).

It will be launched with more robust lunar rover onboard which is crucial for future inter-planetary explorations.

Chandrayaan-3 is the successor to the Chandrayaan-2 mission.

ISRO also plans to fly Indian astronauts into orbit by the end of 2024. 

ISRO Chairman: S Somnath

Sankarasubramanian named Principal Scientist of ISRO's Aditya-L1 mission

ISRO has named senior Solar Scientist, Dr Sankarasubramanian K as the Principal Scientist of the 'Aditya-L1' Mission.

He is the head of the Space Astronomy Group (SAG) of ISRO's UR Rao Satellite Centre, Bengaluru.

He has contributed to AstroSat, Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2 missions of ISRO in several capacities.

Aditya-L1: It is the first observatory-class space-based solar mission from India and it is scheduled for launch in 2023.

Finance ministry releases Rs 1,764 crore grant to four states

The finance ministry has released Rs 1,764 crore grant to four states - Andhra Pradesh (Rs 136 crore), Chhattisgarh (Rs 109 crore), Maharashtra (Rs 799 crore) and Uttar Pradesh (Rs 720 crore).

The govt has released the grants for Million Plus Cities/ Urban Agglomerations (MPC/UAs) of Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh; Durg Bhilainagar and Raipur in Chhattisgarh; Aurangabad, Greater Mumbai, Nagpur, Nashik, Pune and Vasai-Virar City in Maharashtra.

Mahindra Finance partners India Post Payments Bank to enhance credit

Mahindra and Mahindra Financial Services Ltd has partnered with India Post Payments Bank to enhance credit access to a larger customer base.

IPPB will provide lead referral services to Mahindra Finance for passenger vehicles, three-wheeler, tractor and commercial vehicle loan categories.

As a pilot, this scheme would launch in the IPPB branches of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

It is expected to spread across other states over the next four-six months.

RBI approves Cygnet to operate as NBFC account aggregator

Fintech firm, Cygnet has received in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a non-banking financial company (NBFC) account aggregator.

Account Aggregator: It is an open financing data-sharing protocols, regulated by the RBI.

It allows consumers to instantly share their financial data with various financial institutions.

It also facilitates financial institutions to quick access consumers' consent-based financial data.

PM Jan Dhan account crosses ₹1.75-lakh crore mark

As per the government data, PM Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) has crossed the ₹1.75 lakh crore mark on October 5, 2022.

The total number of beneficiaries has reached 47 crore.

Women hold a bigger share of 26.16 crore accounts, of which the bulk 31.42 crore accounts were in rural and semi-urban areas.

Of the total, PSBs held Rs 1.35 lakh crore, followed by Regional Rural Banks with Rs 34,573 crore.

About 18% of total accounts are either dormant or inoperative as on June 2022.

IPPB, RBIH join hands for financial products and services

India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) and Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) have joined hands to enhance the reach of financial solutions to large sections of society across India.

Under the arrangement, both will plan, design and execute innovative products to bridge the gap by bringing digitalised services at the customer's doorstep.

RBIH, a wholly-owned subsidiary of RBI, that promotes and facilitates innovation across the financial sector.

RBIH CEO: Rajesh Bansal

IRDAI approved ‘Bima Sugam’ portal

Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai) has recently approved the launch of Bima Sugam portal.

It is an online marketplace, under which all insurance companies can sell life and non-life insurance on a single platform.

The portal will be operationalised from 1 January 2023.

Aggregators like PolicyBazaar, brokers, banks and insurance agents will act as facilitators or bridges to sell insurance policies through Bima Sugam to individuals.

CCI imposes Rs 392 crore penalties on MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, OYO

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed monetary penalties of more than ₹392 crore on MakeMyTrip (MMT), Goibibo, and OYO.

Reason: For alleged unfair business practices.

CCI imposed a fine of ₹223.48 crore on Make My Trip-Goibibo (MMT-Go) and ₹168.88 crore on OYO.

CCI was investigating the companies since 2019 following allegations by a hotel body that MMT gave special treatment to Oyo on its platform.

While, MMT-Go imposed price parity on hotel partners.

REC, PFC sign with STPL to finance Buxar Thermal Power Plant

REC Limited and Power Finance Corporation Limited (PFC) have signed an MoU with SJVN Thermal Private Ltd (STPL).

Aim: To finance the 2x660 MW coal based Buxar Thermal Power Plant (BTPP).

The total estimated project cost is ₹12,172.74 crores, with debt requirement of ₹8520.92 crores.

As per the agreement, the debt requirement will be financed by REC and Power Finance.

It is a green field project designed on supercritical technology.

14th edition of World Spice Congress to be held in Maharashtra

The 14th edition of World Spice Congress (WSC) will be held on 16-18 February at CIDCO Exhibition and Convention Centre, Maharashtra.

The summit will be organized by Spices Board India in association with various trade and export farmers.

Theme: Vision 2030: SPICES (Sustainability– Productivity – Innovation – Collaboration - Excellence and Safety). 

It will be organized as a G20 event, after India takes up the presidency from Dec 2022 to Nov 2023.

Global Youth Climate Summit 2022 organised in Bangladesh

Global Youth Climate Summit 2022 has been inaugurated in Khulna, Bangladesh from October 20-22, 2022.

Aim: To bring together 650 youth in a hybrid format with 150 youth participating in person and 500 online.

The youth will explore how they can lead the fight against climate change.

The mission of GYLC is to build the knowledge of youth about climate science.

This summit was organised by the Global Youth Leadership Centre (GYLC).

GYLC CEO: Ejaj Ahmad

Ramita Jindal wins gold in 10 meter Air Rifle Women Junior event at ISSF

India's Ramita Jindal has won gold in the 10-meter Air Rifle Women Junior event at ISSF World Championship Rifle/Pistol in Cairo, Egypt.

She defeated Ying Shen from China by 16-12.

In the 50-meter Pistol Women Junior event, India's Divanshi has won gold, Varsha Singh settled for silver and Tiyana won bronze.

Rhythm Sangwan won a silver in the 25m Standard Pistol Women.

India's Abhinav Choudhary has secured silver in the 50-meter Pistol Men Junior event.

Indus Waters Treaty: World Bank appoints chairman of Court of Arbitration

The World Bank has appointed neutral expert and chairman of the Court of Arbitration regarding the design features of the Kishenganga (330 megawatts) and Ratle (850 megawatts) hydroelectric power plants.

Reason: For disagreements and differences between India and Pakistan over the 1960 Indus Water Treaty (IWT).

Michel Lino has been appointed as the Neutral Expert.

Sean Murphy has been appointed as Chairman of the Court of Arbitration.

Sanjay Malhotra appointed as new revenue secretary

The Centre has named Sanjay Malhotra, a 1990 batch IAS officer, Rajasthan cadre, as the new revenue secretary.

He will replace Tarun Bajaj who will retire on November 30.

Road Transport and Highways Secretary, Aramane Giridhar has been named the new defence secretary. He will replace Ajay Kumar.

Other appointments (Secretary):

Ministry of Heavy Industries: Kamran Rizvi

Department of Rural Development: Shailesh Kumar Singh

Ministry of Corporate Affairs: Manoj Govil

Adani Airports appoints Arun Bansal as CEO

Adani Airport Holdings has named Ericsson veteran, Arun Bansal its chief executive officer.

He has spent 25 years at the Swedish telecom network company and was most recently its president for Europe and Latin America.

The appointment will help strengthen digital transformation and the business growth agenda.

Adani’s airports account for 25% of airport footfalls and 40% of air cargo in India.

Adani Airport Headquarters: Ahmedabad

CASHe, IRCTC partner to launch ‘travel now pay later’ facility

CASHe has partnered with Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) to provide a ’travel now pay later’ (TNPL) payment option on its IRCTC Rail Connect, travel app.

This feature will enable travellers of Indian Railways to book their rail tickets instantly and pay for it later in EMIs, ranging from three to six months.

With this option, the booking and paying for rail tickets on the IRCTC travel app, is become easier and hassle-free.

Wildlife board approves new tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh Wildlife Board has approved a 2,339 Sq km new tiger reserve, will be known as Durgavati Tiger Reserve.

The new tiger reserve will be spread across Narisinghpur, Damoh and Sagar districts of MP.

The Board’s meeting was chaired by Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who has approved a proposal to notify 1,414 sq km area as core area and 925 sq km as a buffer in the new tiger reserve.

The proposal will be sent to NTCA for final approval.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema won the Ballon d’Or 2022

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema has won the 2022 Ballon d'Or trophy at the 66th Ballon d'Or ceremony, held at Theatre du Chatelet Paris, France.

While, Barcelona's Alexia Putellas won the women's Ballon d'Or.

Other awards:

Kopa Award: Barcelona's Gavi (best-performing player under the age of 21).

Gerd Muller: FC Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski

Socrates Award: Bayern Munich's Sadio Mane

Club of the Year Award: Manchester City

Yachine Award: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)

SBI General Insurance launches insurance buying facility via WhatsApp

SBI General Insurance has joined hands with Gupshup to offer a new insurance policy, renew an existing one, intimate claims and more, through WhatsApp.

Customers across the country can buy insurance from SBI General by sending a ‘Hi’.

The Gupshup’s chat bot will guide users through a simple and secure buying process.

It also help them to complete the purchase within the WhatsApp chat thread.

SBI General Insurance MD & CEO: Kishore Kumar Poludasu. 

LIC launches new 'Dhan Varsha' plan

Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) has launched a new scheme 'LIC Dhan Varsha.'

This is a non-linked, non-participating, individual, savings life insurance plan that offers a combination of protection and savings.

This is a close ended plan and would be available for sale till March 31, 2023.

Premiums can be paid in single (lumpsum) payment mode only.

The policy can be surrendered by the policyholder at any time during the policy term.

Javelin thrower, DP Manu bags gold at National Open Athletics C'Ships

Indian javelin thrower, DP Manu has won Gold medal in the men’s javelin with the throw of 81.23m at the National Open Athletics Championships in Bengaluru.

No other athlete could cross the 80 m mark in the final.

Former national champion, Rohit Yadav has clinched Silver medal with throw of 79.80 metre, and Kishore Kumar Jena has settled for bronze.

Manu, who represents Services, had won gold at the National Games 2022 with threw of 80.32m.

Indian junior women's team wins 10m air pistol gold medal at ISSF

India’s junior women’s 10m air pistol team has won Gold medal at the ISSF Rifle/Pistol World Championship 2022 in Cairo, Egypt.

The team comprising Esha Singh, Shikha Narwal and Varsha Singh.

The Indian women team beat China’s Zhao Nan, Wang Siyu and Shen Yiyao by a 16-6.

This was sixth gold medal of India at the ISSF Rifle/Pistol World Championship 2022.

Presently, China top the list with 32 medals, which include 17 golds, while, India placed second with 15 medals.

Hardeep Singh Puri inaugurates Asia's largest Compressed Bio Gas plant

Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri has inaugurated Asia's largest Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) plant in Lehragaga, Sangrur, Punjab.

The plant has been commissioned with FDI of approximately Rs. 220 crores by Verbio AG (German bioenergy company).

The present production of plant is about six tonnes per day.

Soon, it will process 300 tonnes of paddy straw per day to produce 33 TPD of CBG by using eight digester of 10,000 cubic meters.

Father of ORS, Dr Dilip Mahalanabis passes away

Renowned physician, Dr. Dilip Mahalanabis, who is also known as the father of oral rehydration therapy, has been passed away at 87 in Kolkata due to lung infection and other old-age ailments.

During the Liberation War in Bangladesh in 1971, he saved thousands of lives with the oral rehydration solution during an outbreak of cholera while serving in a refugee camp at Bangaon in West Bengal.

It is a solution used to prevent and treat dehydration.

Barbara D Metcalf awarded 2022 Sir Syed Excellence International Award

Noted American historian, Prof. Barbara Metcalf has been awarded the Sir Syed Excellence Award 2022 by the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).

The award ceremony was held on the 205th birth anniversary of the founder of AMU, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.

She has written extensively on the history of the Muslim population of India and Pakistan.

Sir Syed Ahmad Khan established the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental (MAO) College in 1875, later known as Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).

Bharati Das takes charge as 27th Controller General of Accounts

Senior officer of Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS), Bharati Das has been appointed as the 27th Controller General of Accounts (CGA).

She has replaced Sonali Singh, who had given the additional charge of CGA, after the superannuation of Dipak Dash.

Prior to this, she has served as Principal Chief Controller of Accounts (Pr. CCA), CBDT and Ministries of External Affairs, Home Affairs.

CGA is ‘the Principal Advisor’ on Accounting matters to the Union Government.

Former Indian cricketer Roger Binny appointed as new BCCI president

Former Indian cricketer, Roger Binny (67) has been appointed as the new president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

He has replaced Sourav Ganguly.

Jay Shah has been re-inducted as the secretary of the board.

Other appointments:

Vice President: Rajiv Shukla

Joint-secretary: Devajit Saikia

Treasurer: Ashish Shelar

IPL Governing Council Chairman: Arun Singh Dhumal. 

IPL Governing Council member: Avishek Dalmiya

Apex Council member: M Khairul Jamal Majumdar

PM launches Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Urvarak Pariyojana

PM Narendra Modi has launched the ‘One Nation, One Fertiliser’ scheme (or PM Bhartiya Jan Urvarak Pariyojana) at the PM Kisan Samman Sammelan 2022 at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute.

He has also launched an e-magazine on fertilisers, called Indian Edge.

Under this scheme, the all type of fertilisers, whether it is DAP, NPK or urea will be sold under the brand name of ‘Bharat’.

This will ensure affordable quality fertiliser of Bharat brand to the farmers.

UNDP: 415 million exited poverty in India in 15 years

According to a new Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), the number of people living below the poverty line in India decreased by 415 million between 2005-06 and 2019-21.

The index was released jointly by UNDP and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI).

As per the index, India still has the world's highest number of poor at 228.9 million, followed by Nigeria.

90% of India’s poor people live in rural areas and 10% in urban areas.

Paytm Payments Bank appoints Deependra Singh Rathore as Interim CEO

Paytm Payments Bank has appointed Deependra Singh Rathore as the interim chief executive officer (CEO), in addition to his role as chief product & technology officer.

He will replace Satish Gupta, who is presently serving as the bank's CEO and retire in October 2022.

The bank will announce the new full-time CEO after receiving regulatory approvals.

The bank has also appointed Sunil Chander Sharma, a former IRS officer as chief operating officer (COO).

Qatar to host AFC Asian Cup 2023

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Executive Committee has confirmed the Qatar Football Association (QFA) as the host association for AFC Asian Cup 2023. 

The AFC Executive Committee has also shortlisted the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) as the final two bidders for the AFC Asian Cup 2027.

Australia withdrew from the AFC Asian Cup 2023™ bidding process on September 1, 2022.

FIFA President: Gianni Infantino

Jyothi becomes 1st Indian woman to clock sub-13 seconds in 100m hurdles

Jyothi Yarraji (23), representing Railways, has created history by becoming the first Indian woman to clock a legal sub-13 second time in 100-meter hurdles.

She has smashed her own record at the 61st National Open Athletics Championships at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru.

Her record of 12.82s made her amongst the top 10 fastest in Asian athletics history.

She had won the same event in the National Games in Gandhinagar in a time of 12.79 seconds.

Atanu Chakraborty appointed as chairman of Yubi

Yubi (formerly CredAvenue) has appointed Atanu Chakraborty as the independent chairman of its board.

He is also currently serving as the chairman of the board of HDFC Bank.

He is a 1985 batch officer of the Indian Administrative Service, of the Gujarat cadre.

He has served as Economic Affairs Secretary of India till his retirement in April 2020.

He was also appointed on the Central Board of Directors of the Reserve Bank of India.

Sri Lankan writer, Shehan Karunatilaka wins 2022 Booker Prize

Sri Lankan author, Shehan Karunatilaka has won the prestigious Booker Prize for fiction, for his second book "The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida".

The book is about a war photographer murdered in the country’s civil war.

He received a trophy from Queen Consort Camilla at a ceremony on in London.

He is the second Sri Lankan to win the award, after Michael Ondaatje’s victory in 1992 for The English Patient.

He has also received a 50,000 pound ($56,700) prize.

Goa to host 9th World Ayurveda Congress & Arogya Expo

Goa will host 9th World Ayurveda Congress & Arogya Expo from December 8 to 11.

The expo will be organised by World Ayurveda Foundation, an initiative of Vijnana Bharti.

Aims: To create an accessible and affordable healthcare system that is in harmony with modern medical practices.

The expo would provide a transformational push to ayurveda to bring it into global focus.

The focus theme of the December expo is "Ayurveda for one health".

Partha Satpathy appointed India’s new ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Partha Satpathy has been appointed as India’s next ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

He is currently as the Ambassador of India to the Republic of Hungary.

He served as the Hungarian Ambassador for 11 months and then became the Ambassador of India to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Meanwhile, Dr Adarsh Swaika, joint secretary in MEA, has been appointed India’s next Ambassador to Kuwait.

Avtar Singh has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Guinea.

Karnataka Bank launches ‘KBL Centenary Deposit Scheme’

Karnataka Bank has launched a Term Deposit Scheme “KBL Centenary Deposit Scheme” with higher rate of interest.

Aim: To provide an opportunity to bank customers to save and invest for better returns.

This deposit will be for a period of 555 days with interest rate of 7.20 % p.a.

For Senior Citizens the rate of interest will be 7.60 % p.a.

Karnataka Bank MD & CEO: Mahabaleshwara M S; Chairman:  P Pradeep Kumar

Union Minister, Jitendra Singh launches Integrated Pensioners’ Portal

Union Minister, Jitendra Singh has launched an Integrated Pensioners’ Portal at the Anubhav Awards Ceremony that was organised by the Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare in New Delhi.

This portal provides a single window to address the needs of pensioners.

SBI has become the first pension disbursing Bank which has integrated its portal with the portal of DoPPW.

Anubhav portal provides a platform to retiring government employees for sharing their experiences. 

12th defence expo organised in Gandhinagar, Gujarat

The 12th edition of biennial DefExpo is being organised in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, Gujarat from 18th - 22nd, Oct, 2022.

The theme of 12th DefExpo is ‘Path to Pride’.

Agenda: Live demonstrations showcasing the equipment and skill set of the Armed Forces, DPSUs and Industry.

This also provide an opportunity to showcase their equipment and platforms and to explore the capabilities of the expanse of Indian Defence industry for forging business partnerships.

Government appoints Justice DY Chandrachud as 50th Chief Justice of India

President, Murmu has appointed Dr. Justice Dhananjaya Yashwant Chandrachud as the 50th Chief Justice of India. 

His appointment will come into effect from 9th Nov, 2022 and continue till 10 November 2024. 

He will replace CJI, Uday Umesh Lalit. 

He was appointed as the Judge of SC on 13th May 2016.

Prior to this, he served as Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court.

He is the son of the longest serving CJI, YV Chandrachud served as Chief Justice of India from 1978 to 1985.

Haryana topped the Public Affairs Index 2022 in big states

According to the Public Affairs Index 2022, Haryana has emerged as the best-governed among 18 big states of the country, followed by Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Punjab and Karnataka.

This report was prepared by a Bengaluru-based think tank.

The states have been divided into two categories - large and small.

Union Territories are not a part of the report.

Sikkim has topped in the category of 10 smaller states.

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2022: 17th October

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed every year on October 17 globally.

Aim: To raise awareness about the global issue of poverty and how it is a violation of human rights and of human dignity.

2022 theme: Dignity For All in Practice

On December 22, 1992, the United Nations General Assembly, through resolution 47/196 declared 17 October as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

PM distributed PMJAY-MA Ayushman cards in Gujarat

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has started the distribution of Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana - Mukhyamantri Amrutam (PMJAY-MA) Ayushman cards in Gujarat through video conferencing.

Fifty lakh Ayushman cards was distributed to all the beneficiaries across Gujarat, at their doorstep.

In 2012, then CM of Gujarat, Modi had started the Mukhyamantri Amrutam scheme to protect poor citizens from the catastrophic costs of medical treatment and illness.

Education minister launches NEP in higher education institutes in U’khand

Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan has launched the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in higher education for the session 2022-23 in Uttarakhand.

The event was attended by CM, Pushkar Singh Dhami.

Under the NEP, children will be linked to formal education for three years initially.

Under this policy, Bal Vatika has been started.

After learning for three years under the Bal Vatika scheme the child will enter the first class.

Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurates India’s First Aluminum Freight Rake

Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw has inaugurated India’s First Aluminum Freight Rake -61 BOBRNALHSM1 at Bhubaneswar Railway Station in Odisha.

It was fully designed and developed indigenously in collaboration with RDSO, HINDALCO and Besco Wagon.

Aim: To reduce carbon footprint due to lower consumption of fuel.

A single rake can reduce 14,500 tonnes Carbon dioxide emissions during its lifetime.

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates PM Kisan Samman Sammelan

PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated the PM Kisan Samman Sammelan 2022 at Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi.

The conference was participated by more than 13 thousand farmers and around 1,500 Agri Startups.

PM has also released the 12th installment amount of 16,000 crore rupees under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi through DBT.

Under the scheme, eligible farmer families are provided a benefit of 6,000 rupees per year in three equal installments.

PM Modi dedicates 75 Digital Banking Units to the nation

PM Narendra Modi has dedicated 75 digital banking units (DBUs) to the nation.

Aim: To promote financial inclusion

The ceremony was attended by Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman and RBI Governor, Shaktikanta Das via virtual mode.

The setting up of 75 DBUs in 75 districts of the country was done to commemorate the 75 years of independence of the country.

11 public sector banks, 12 private sector banks and one small finance bank are participating in the endeavour. 

Harry Potter actor Robbie Coltrane passes away

The veteran actor, Robbie Coltrane, who played Hagrid in "Harry Potter" movies, has been passed away at 72 in Scotland.

He was known for his role in a crime-solving psychologist on  "Cracker", Bond villain Valentin Dmitrovich Zukovsky in "Golden Eye" (1995) and "The World is Not Enough" (1999).

He was awarded the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II in 2006.

He was active in Amnesty International, Greenpeace and the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament.

India to host 90th General Assembly of INTERPOL from 18 to 21 Oct

The 90th General Assembly of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) from 18th - 21st October, 2022 in New Delhi.

The General Assembly is taking place in India after 1997.

The move was proposed by HM, Amit Shah to Interpol secretary general, Jurgen Stock in August 2019.

India joined the INTERPOL in 1949.

Aim of INTERPOL: To promote possible assistance between all criminal police authorities in the prevention and suppression of ordinary law crimes.

Hyderabad wins the prestigious ‘World Green Cities Award 2022’

Hyderabad city of Telangana has been awarded ‘World Green City Award 2022' at the AIPH World Green City Awards 2022 held in Jeju, South Korea.

Hyderabad was awarded in the category of "Living Green for Economic Recovery and Inclusive Growth" for Green Garland to the State of Telangana.

Mexico City’s Environmental and Climate Change Program of Mexico City was also awarded in Living Green for Climate Change.

Living Green for Social Cohesion: OASIS Schoolyard Project, Paris

MP Aparajita Sarangi elected to IPU executive committee

Aparajita Sarangi has been elected as a member to the executive committee of Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

She is a Lok Sabha member from Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

She has bagged 12 votes out of total 18, in the election to the post, held at Kigali, Rwanda.

She will represent India at the 15-member executive committee of the union.

IPU empowers the parliaments and parliamentarians to promote peace, democracy, and sustainable development through diplomacy.

Odisha CM releases book on Odisha's lessons in governance during pandemic

Odisha CM, Naveen Patnaik has released a book titled ‘Pandemic Disruptions and Odisha’s Lessons in Governance’.

This book was written by Rajya Sabha MP, Amar Patnaik.

The book is a collection of the various essays on pertinent contemporary issues that emerged in India during the pandemic years of 2020-21 and 2021-2022.

The book also highlights the achievements of Odisha's 5-T framework of governance.

5-T: Team work, technology, transparency, transformation and time limit. 

7th edition of IBSAMAR conducted at Port Elizabeth, South Africa

The 7th edition of IBSAMAR, a joint multinational maritime exercise was organised Port Elizabeth, South Africa from 10 - 12 Oct 22.

In the exercise, Indian Navy has represented the Teg class guided missile frigate, INS Tarkash, Chetak helicopter and personnel from the Marine Commando Force.

The harbour phase of 7th edition includes professional exchanges such as damage control and fire-fighting drills, VBSS/cross boarding lectures and interaction among Special Forces.

Nuclear-powered INS Arihant carries out successful launch of SLBM

India’s nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arihant has carried out a successful launch of a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) in the Bay of Bengal.

Reason: To validate the operational and technological parameters of the weapon system.

INS Arihant:

It is a 6,000-tonne submarine.

It is a lead ship of India's Arihant class of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines.

It is India's first indigenous nuclear submarine that has been inducted in the Indian Navy.

India's forex reserves rise to USD 532.868 billion

Forex reserves of India has been raised by 204 million to USD 532.868 billion for the week ended on 7th October 2022.

Reason: An increase in the value of gold holdings.

Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs) was decreased to USD 471.496 billion.

SDRs has been increased by USD 155 million to USD 17.582 billion.

Reserve position of India with IMF increased to USD 4.836 billion.

Last week, the overall reserves were dropped by USD 4.854 billion to USD 532.664 billion.

International Day of Rural Women 2022: 15th October

The International Day of Rural women is observed across the world on October 15 to promote gender quality and highlight the important role played by women in rural areas.

The United Nations General Assembly has established this day on December 18, 2007.

The theme for 2022 is “Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All”.

As per a UN report, approximately 40% of the total agricultural labour force in developing countries comprises women.

Global Handwashing Day 2022: 15 October

Global Handwashing Day is marked on October 15 with the aim of increasing awareness and understanding about the importance of handwashing with soap.

2022 theme: Unite for Universal Hand Hygiene. 

The Global Handwashing Partnership has observed the first Global Handwashing Day in 2008 in Stockholm, Sweden.

2008 was also marked the International Year of Sanitation.

Later, the United Nations General Assembly marked it as Global Handwashing Day.

India's Rudrankksh Patil bags Gold medal at ISSF World Championship

Indian shooter, Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil won the gold medal in men's 10m air rifle event at ISSF World Championship held in Cairo, Egypt.

He defeated Danilo Dennis Sollazzo from Italy by 17-15.

This win helped him to secure 2024 Paris Olympics quota for the country.

He is only the second Indian to achieve this feat, after Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra, who had won the gold in 2006 in Zagreb, Croatia.

ISSF Headquarters: Munich, Germany; President: Vladimir Lisin.

India defeats Sri Lanka to win Women's Asia Cup 2022

The Indian women's team has clinched the Women's Asia Cup 2022 title, after defeating Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the final, held at  Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh.

India has defeated Sri Lanka for the fifth time in an Asia Cup final.

This is India's record seventh Women's Asia Cup title.

Deepti Sharma has been adjudged Player of the Tournament.

While, Renuka Singh adjudged Player of the Match.

Harry Potter Actor Robbie Coltrane Dead at the age of 72

Robbie Coltrane, the veteran comic and actor known for his star turns in the British crime series Cracker and the Harry Potter movie franchise, passed away at the age of 72.

Coltrane was born Anthony Robert McMillan on March 30, 1950, in Glasgow, Scotland, as the son of a doctor and a teacher. After graduating from Glasgow Art School, he continued his studies in art at Moray House College of Education in Edinburgh.

International Day of Rural Women 2022 observed on 15 October

October 15 is celebrated as the International Day of Rural women across the world. The day focuses to promote gender quality and highlight the important role played by women in rural areas.

The International Day of Rural Women is a time to celebrate the important role that rural women play in society. It is also an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges faced by rural women and to call for action to address these issues. We hope that this day will help empower rural women and give them the recognition they deserve.

The theme for the International Day of Rural Women (15 October), “Rural Women Cultivating Good Food for All”, highlights the essential role that rural women and girls play in the food systems of the world.

World Student’s Day 2022 celebrates on15 October

October 15 is celebrated as World Students’ Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, a celebrated Aerospace scientist and former President of India. The day is marked to acknowledge his efforts toward students and education. Dr Kalam was born on October 15, 1931.

He served as an inspiration to many students to achieve and do something remarkable. After his tenure as the President came to an end, he became a visiting faculty at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Shillong, IIM-Indore and IIM- Ahmedabad.

PM inaugurates Indian Institute of Information Technology in Una

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) in Una, Himachal Pradesh.

During the occasion, Himachal Pradesh Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, and Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Singh Thakur were present. PM Modi also inaugurated the fourth Vande Bharat Express Train of India at the event.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the need for skill and innovation institutions across the country.

Himachal Pradesh has been valued less on its strength and more based on the number of its parliamentary seats, and long pending demands of educational institutions.

Cabinet approved PM-DevINE scheme for development of Northeast states

Prime Minister’s development initiative for North East region (PM-DevINE), was approved by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The PM-DevINE is a Rs 6,600 crore scheme to support infrastructure, industries, and other Livelihood projects in northeastern states of India.

The PM-DevINE is a 100 percent Central Government funded plan and will be administered by the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER).

This scheme is going to be implemented during the remaining four years of the 15th Financial Commission from 2022-2023 to 2025-2026.

The PM-DevINE is aimed to be completed by the year 2025-2026 so that there are no committed liabilities beyond this year.

Living Planet Report 2022: Wildlife Populations decline by 69% in 50 years

There has been a 69 per cent decline in the wildlife populations of mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles and fish, across the globe in the last 50 years, according to the latest Living Planet Report by World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

The highest decline (94 per cent) was in the Latin America and the Caribbean region, the report released October 13, 2022 showed. Africa recorded a 66 per cent fall in its wildlife populations from 1970-2018 and the Asia Pacific 55 per cent, according to the WWF report.

Global Hunger Index 2022: India ranks 107th out of 121 countries

India ranks 107 out of 121 countries on the Global Hunger Index in which it fares worse than all countries in South Asia barring war-torn Afghanistan.

India’s score of 29.1 places it in the ‘serious’ category. India also ranks below Sri Lanka (64), Nepal (81), Bangladesh (84), and Pakistan (99). Afghanistan (109) is the only country in South Asia that performs worse than India on the index.

China is among the countries collectively ranked between 1 and 17 having a score of less than five. India’s child wasting rate (low weight for height), at 19.3%, is worse than the levels recorded in 2014 (15.1%) and even 2000 (17.15%), and is the highest for any country in the world and drives up the region’s average owing to India’s large population.

The Global Hunger Index is a peer-reviewed annual report, jointly published by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe, designed to comprehensively measure and track hunger at the global, regional, and country levels.

Times Higher Education Rankings 2023: IISc tops among Indian Universities

Times Higher Education Rankings 2023 has been announced. This year, the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore has secured the top place among Indian universities. Five Indian universities made it into the world’s top 500 varsities. IISc has been placed under the 251-300 bracket.

The complete list of the top 10 Indian Universities is enlisted below. Globally, the University of Oxford continued to retain the top spot for the seventh consecutive year, while the University of Cambridge jumped to joint third from joint fifth last year. The US is the most-represented country overall with 177 institutions in the overall ranking list.

Index of Industrial Production (IIP) Witnessed Contraction of 0.8% in August 2022

India’s industrial production slipped to an 18-month low, contracting by 0.8 per cent in August, mainly due to a decline in output of the manufacturing and mining sectors, according to official data.

The data showed that the previous low in industrial output growth was a contraction of 3.2 per cent in February 2021. Index of Industrial Production (IIP) is an index which details out the growth of various sectors in the economy. The Eight Core Industries comprise more than 40 percent of the weight of items included in IIP. These are Electricity, steel, refinery products, crude oil, coal, cement, natural gas and fertilisers.

RBI and SEBI Issue Standard Operating Procedure for Inter-Operable Regulatory Sandbox (IoRS) 

SEBI came out with a standard operating procedure for inter-operable regulatory sandbox in a bid to facilitate testing of innovative products falling within the regulatory ambit of more than one financial sector regulators.

Financial products or service providers whose business models fall within the remit of more than one financial sector regulator such as Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Sebi, IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India), PFRDA (Pension Fund Regulatory & Development Authority) and IFSCA (International Financial Services Centres Authority) will be considered for the testing under Inter operable Regulatory Sandbox (IoRS).

MEA: Dr Adarsh Swaika named India’s next ambassador to Kuwait 

Dr Adarsh Swaika, a joint secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, has been appointed India’s next Ambassador to Kuwait. Dr Adarsh Swaika (IFS: 2002), is presently Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs.

He is expected to take up his assignment shortly. Swaika will succeed Sibi George as the Indian envoy in Kuwait. There has been a significant upswing in ties between India and Kuwait in the last few years.

Avtar Singh, a Director in the Ministry of External Affairs, has been appointed as India’s next Ambassador to the Republic of Guinea. Avtar Singh (YOA: 2006), presently Director in the Ministry of External Affairs.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Minister of External Affairs: Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

India Opposes G7’s Just Energy Transition Plan 

The G7 nations’ plan of persuading India to start negotiations on a Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), an initiative of the rich nations to accelerate phasing out of coal and reducing emissions has hit a road-block.

JETP makes various funding options available for this purpose in identified developing countries. The Power Ministry has refused to give its consent to the negotiations so far, as it argues that coal cannot be singled out as a polluting fuel, and energy transition talks need to take place on equal terms.

Abdul Latif Rashid elected as President of Iraq 

The Iraqi Parliament chose Kurdish politician, Abdul Latif Rashid to lead the country. Rashid won more than 160 votes against 99 for the incumbent Saleh. Rashid, 78, is a British-educated engineer and was the Iraqi minister of water resources from 2003-2010. Outgoing President Saleh reportedly walked out of the parliament building as the votes were tallied.

Rashid was born in 1944 in the northeastern Sulaymaniyah region of Iraq. He graduated as a civil engineer from the University of Liverpool in 1968. He went on to complete his engineering doctorate in 1976 from the University of Manchester.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Iraq Capital: Baghdad;

Iraq Currency: Dinar;

Iraq President: Abdul Latif Rashid;

Iraq Prime Minister: Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani.

17th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas to be held at Indore in January 2023

The 17th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas Convention is to be held in Indore, Madhya Pradesh in January 2023.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar launched the website of the 17th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas Convention with Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan and Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan.

Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the construction industry of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the government for giving the highest priority to the Indian Diaspora.

Government engagement is founded in the 4Cs: Care, Connect, Celebrate, and Contribute.

During the occasion, Secretary in Consular, Passport, visa, and Overseas Indian Affairs Division of the Ministry of External Affairs Ausaf Sayeed was also present on the occasion.

The Pravasi Bhartiya Divas is celebrated every year on the 9th of January to mark the contribution of the overseas Indian community to the development of India.

It also commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India on 9th January 1951.

PM Modi to Dedicate 75 Digital Banking Units to the Nation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to dedicate 75 Digital Banking Units (DBUs) to the nation on 16th October. He will address the occasion via video conferencing. The Finance Minister has announced the setting up of the 75 DBUs in 75 districts of the country to commemorate the 75 years of Independence of India as part of the Union budget speech for 2022-2023.

Digital Banking Units (DBUs) are being set up to increase the reach of Digital Banking.

The DBUs will help Digital Banking to reach every corner of the country and will cover all states and Union Territory.

11 public sector banks, 12 private sector banks, and one small finance bank are participating in the endeavor.

DBUs will be mortal outlets that will provide a variety of digital banking facilities to people such as opening a savings account, balance-check, print passbook, transfer of funds, investment in fixed deposits, loan applications, stop-payment instructions for cheques issued, applying for credit, etc.

DBUs will enable customers to have cost-effective, convenient access and enhanced digital experience of banking products and services all around the year.

Himachal Pradesh govt launched “HIMCAD” scheme to help farmers

The Himachal Pradesh government has launched a new scheme named ‘HIMCAD’ to provide irrigation facilities to farmers.

As per the data, about 80% of the agricultural area of Himachal Pradesh is rain-fed.

This scheme will provide end-to-end connectivity of farmers’ fields for better water conservation, crop diversification and integrated farming.

It is planned to provide command area development activities to 23,344 hectares of cultivable command area by March 2024.

State Bank of India home loan AUM crosses Rs 6 trillion

State Bank of India (SBI) has become the first bank in the country to achieve Rs 6-trillion Assets Under Management (AUM) in the home loan segment.

SBI has offered a concession of up to 0.25% on Home Loans, 0.15% on Top Up Loans, and 0.30% on Loan Against Property. 

The bank has also waived off the processing fees on home loans up to January 31. 

As per the Crisil, the share of bank in the home loan segment has risen to around 62% as of March 2022.

NTPC, Siemens inks MoU for demonstrating hydrogen co-firing

NTPC and Siemens have signed an MoU to demonstrate the feasibility for hydrogen co-firing blended with natural gas in Siemens V94.2 gas turbines installed at NTPC Faridabad gas power plant.

The total installed capacity of Faridabad gas power plant is 432 MW with two V94.2 gas turbines.

Aim: To explore the pathways to reduce CO2 emissions from Faridabad gas power plant. 

NTPC is India’s largest energy conglomerate.

As on 30 June 2022, the govt of India holds 51.10% in NTPC. 

J&K LG, Manoj Sinha inaugurates 6th Senior Asian Pencak Silat Championship

J&K LG, Manoj Sinha has inaugurated 6th Senior Asian Pencak Silat Championship that is being held in Srinagar.

Pencak Silat is relatively new to India and was introduced in 2014.

The event brings together over 150 athletes from different countries.

Pencak silat: It is an umbrella term for a class of related Indonesian martial arts.

Pencak silat was recognized as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity from Indonesia by UNESCO in 2019.

CIL signs MoUs with BHEL, IOCL and GAIL for Coal Gasificiation Projects

Coal India Ltd (CIL) has signed MoUs with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and GAIL (India).

Reason: For setting up four Surface Coal Gasification (SCG) projects. 

Aim: To convert coal converted into syngas that can be subsequently processed for downstream production of value added chemicals.

Aggregated estimated cost: Rs.35,000 crores. 

The SCG projects are planned to be set up in WB, Odisha, Chattisgarh, Maharashtra and TN.

IISc Bangalore retains its spot in the 2023 THE ranking

The IISc has topped the 2023 Times Higher Education (THE) rankings among Indian institute.

IISc Bengaluru is the only Indian university in the top 300 list.

India has become the 6th most represented country in the list, with featuring 75 institutes in THE's 2023 ranking.

Other Indian Institute: IIT Ropar (501-600), IIT Indore (601-800), IIT Gandhinagar ((801-1000). 

The University of Oxford is topped the ranking in the world (seventh consecutive year).

International E-Waste Day 2022: 14 October

The International E-Waste Day is held on 14 October to raise awareness about the impacts of e-waste.

This day was first observed in 2018 by the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment recycling (WEEE) Forum.

2022 Slogan: Recycle it all, no matter how small!

UN had estimated that in 2019, over 22 million tonnes small e-waste were produced worldwide.

If the quantity of these small items keeps on increasing at the same rate, it will reach 29 million tonnes by 2030.

India’s first slender loris sanctuary in Tamil Nadu

The TN govt will set up the first Indian sanctuary for Slender Loris in Karur and Dindigul districts.

The forest areas (11,806 hectares) of these two districts will be merged to create the Kadavur Slender Loris Sanctuary.

They will be protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

Slender Loris:

Endangered species

Survival: Depends on its habitat improvement.

Use: Biological predators of pests that harm agricultural crops and help farmers.

Eastern Naval Command conducts offshore security exercise ‘Prasthan’

The Eastern Naval Command has conducted an offshore security exercise, ‘Prasthan’ in the Krishna Godavari Basin Offshore Development Area (ODA) on October 11 and 12.

The exercise is conducted every six months.

It  aims to integrate the efforts of all maritime stakeholders involved in offshore defence.

The exercise resulted in refining the standard operating procedures (SOPs) and response actions to several contingencies in the Offshore Defence Area, off Kakinada.

Indo-US Vaccine Action Programme Joint Statement extended till 2027

The present five-year Indo-US Vaccine Action Programme (VAP) Joint Statement has been extended till 2027.

It is a unique bilateral programme.

It is implementing by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), India,  and National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA since July 1987.

Aim: To improvise the current knowledge of vaccine science to strengthen the scientific basis for future vaccine design.

CERT-In and Power-CSIRTs conduct Cyber Security Exercise “PowerEX-2022”

Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) in association with Power-CSIRTs (Computer Security Incident Response Teams in Power sector) have conducted Cyber Security Exercise named “PowerEX” for 193 power sector utilities.

Aim: To recognize, analyze & respond to Cyber Incident in IT & OT Systems.

2022 Theme: Defending Cyber induced disruption in IT & OT infrastructure.

This exercise was hosted by CERT-In on its exercise simulation platform.

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurates Supercomputer facility at IIT Guwahati

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated ‘PARAM KAMRUPA’ Supercomputer facility at IIT, Guwahati.

This facility will be provided to conduct advanced research in various scientific fields such as weather and climate, bioinformatics, computational, AI, etc.

This is a state-of-the-art supercomputer, set up under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM).

She has also inaugurated a high-power active and passive component laboratory of SAMEER.

Justice Magrey sworn-in as Chief Justice of J-K and Ladakh High court

Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey has been sworn in as the new Chief Justice of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh.

J&K LG, Manoj Sinha has administered the oath of office to Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey.

He has replaced Justice, Pankaj Mithal, who has been transferred to the Rajasthan high Court.

He started his career as an advocate after completing his law degree from Kashmir University in 1984.

He became a permanent judge of the J&K high court in March 2013.

World Bank extends unconditional loan of $250 million for SALT project

The World Bank (WB) has extended an unconditional loan of $250 million to the Supporting Andhra’s Learning Transformation (SALT) project.

SALT project aims to improve the quality of learning for students in Andhra Pradesh.

The SALT is the first project in the school education sector to be funded by the World Bank without any precondition.

It is a five-year result-oriented programme, for which World Bank release funds after key goals are achieved.

India's CPI inflation surged to 7.4% in September 2022

As per the data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO), the retail inflation of India has been increased to 7.41% in September 2022.

The number retains above the RBI upper tolerance band (2-6 per cent) for the ninth straight month.

The food inflation has been surged to a 22-month high of 8.6% while core inflation rose to a 4-month high of 6.3%.

Meanwhile, industrial growth has been contracted 0.8% in August as compared to 2.4% in July. 

Padma Shri, Dr Temsula Ao passes away

Padma Shri awardee Naga writer, Temsula Ao has been passed away at the age of 80 in Dimapur, Nagaland.

She had also served as the Chairperson of the Nagaland State Commission for Women.

She was conferred with the Padma Shri in 2007 and also won Sahitya Akademi Award, Nagaland Governor’s Award for Distinction in Literature.

Books: 'Books of Songs', 'Poetry Here and There', 'These Hills Called Home', 'The Tombstone in My Garden'. 

JSW Steel joins UN Global Compact initiative for sustainability

JSW Steel has joined as the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) network, world’s largest voluntary corporate sustainability initiative.

JSW Steel is the fifth Indian company in the "Industrial Mining and Manufacturing" category.

Aim: To conduct business responsibly by aligning their operations and strategies with the UN’s Ten Principles.

It also commits companies to take actions to advance broader social benefits in accordance with UN SDGs.

RBL Bank, BookMyShow partner to launch ‘Play’ credit card

RBL Bank and BookMyShow have partnered to launch a new credit card named ‘Play’.

With this card, RBL Bank will be able to reach BMS's wide base of 200 million monthly customer visits.

This card will be available to select customers on BookMyShow and give them access to offers on transactions.

While BMS customers can purchase this credit card for an annual fee of Rs 500.

Earlier in 2016, RBL Bank had partnered with BMS for the launch of Fun Plus credit card.

India climbs six places in CRI Index 2022

As per the Commitment to Reducing Inequality Index 2022, India has ranked 123 out of 161 countries, improved its ranking by six places.

Findings: India has reduced inequality but continues to be among the lowest performers in health spending.

Top three: Norway, Germany and Australia

Prepared by: Oxfam International and Development Finance International (DFI).

It measures the government's policies and actions in three areas (health, education, and social protection).

Google launches Play Points in India

Google has launched its global rewards programme named 'Play Points' in India.

Aim: To allow users to earn points and rewards for using Google Play Store billing for in-app purchases, subscriptions and buying apps, games, movies, and ebooks.

This programme was first launched in 2018 and available in 28 other countries.

This programme is fully funded by Google.

It will only be available on the use of Google Play billing and will not be applicable on third party billing.

36th National Games medal tally topped by Services Sports Control Board

The 36th National Games has been concluded on October 12, 2022 at Surat, Gujarat.

The closing ceremony was chaired by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.

The medal tally of 36th National Games has been topped by Services with a total of 128 medals (61 Gold, 35 silver, and 32 bronze), followed by Maharashtra and Haryana.

Best female player: Harshika Ramchandran (Karnataka). 

Best Male player: Sajan Prakash (Kerala). 

Goa will host the 37th National Games in October 2023. 

Rajnath Singh to launch 'Maa Bharati Ke Sapoot' website

Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh will launch ‘Maa Bharati Ke Sapoot’ website on October 14, 2022.

Aim: To enable citizens to contribute for the Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund (AFBCWF).

It is a Tri service fund that will be utilised for grant of immediate financial assistance of ex-gratia, to the Next of Kin and dependents of Battle Casualties.

The government appoints veteran actor, Amitabh Bachchan as the Goodwill Ambassador.

Cabinet approves 'PM-DevINE' for North-Eastern states

The Union Cabinet has approved a Rs 6,600-crore scheme, PM-Devine, to fund the infrastructure projects in the northeastern states.

PM-DevINE refers to the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region.

It will be applicable for the next four years of the 15th Finance Commission from 2022-23 to 2025-26.

This is a 100% central funding scheme and will be implemented by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER).

CESL sets up first integrated solar charging station in Ladakh region

Convergence Energy Services Ltd (CESL) has set up a solar-powered charging station for electric vehicles in the Ladakh region.

The integrated carport was inaugurated by LG of Ladakh, R K Mathur in Leh.

He also handed over customised electric cars that was manufactured by Hyundai Motor Company.

The EV carport constitutes 100 kW solar PV panels with a 860 kW/hour lithium-ion battery storage system.

CESL is a wholly owned subsidiary of EESL under the Ministry of Power.

WWF report: Wildlife population decline by 69% worldwide since 1970

As per the WWF's Living Planet Report 2022, the Wildlife populations have been declined by 69% between 1970 and 2018.

Latin America and Caribbean regions have seen the largest decline (94%) of monitored wildlife populations globally.

Wildlife populations have dipped by 66% in Africa and 5% in Asia Pacific.

While, Freshwater populations have declined by 83% on average as compared to other species groups.

As per the IUCN Red List, cycads are the most threatened species.

NASA’s DART Mission successfully changed the course of an asteroid

NASA has announced that Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) spacecraft has successfully managed to change the motion of the asteroid 'Dimorphos'.

This is the first demonstration of the “kinetic impactor” method of asteroid mitigation. 

It was launched in November 2021 and crashed into the space rock on September 26, 2022. 

Prior, it took Dimorphos 11 hours and 55 minutes to orbit its asteroid Didymos, now it changed the moonlet asteroid’s orbit by 32 minutes. 

India's space economy to be reach $13 bn by 2025

As per the report, 'Developing the Space Ecosystem in India: Focusing on Inclusive Growth', India's space economy is expected to touch $12.8 billion by 2025.

The report was released by the Indian Space Association (ISpA) and Ernst and Young.

Reason: Increasing private participation, increased demand for small satellites. 

It was also noted that, India has of over 100 space tech start-ups with investments in the segment touching $68 million in 2021.

RBI raised minimum capital requirement for setting up ARCs

The Reserve Bank has raised the minimum capital requirement for setting up an asset reconstruction company (ARC) to Rs 300 crore from Rs 100 crore.

Aim: To strengthen the securitisation sector which plays a vital role in the management of distressed financial assets.

RBI has generally requested all ARCs to gradually increase their minimum net-owned fund to Rs200 crore by the end of March 2024 and Rs300 crore by the end of March 2026.

SBI unveils next-gen contact centre

State Bank of India (SBI) has unveiled its next-gen Contact Centre service for an enhanced and more personalized customer experience.

This revamped Contact Centre will set a new industry benchmark by providing 30+ banking solutions in 12 languages, with the availability of 24x7.

The bank has introduced easy-to-remember 4-digit toll-free numbers (1800-1234 or 1800-2100) to simplify the process further.

The contact centre is also helping in early stage collections.

IDBI Bank partners Vayana Network on supply chain finance

IDBI Bank has signed an MoU with Vayana Network for end-to-end digitalization services.

Aim: To contribute in the growth of the supply chain finance penetration in India, which is less than 1% of gross domestic product (GDP) and contributes only 5% of the outstanding banking assets.

IDBI Bank has an existing CMS and e-trade platform.

With this partnership, the bank aims to provide complete digital solutions to corporate banking and small business clients.

Dhoni launches made-in-India 'Droni' drone

Mahendra Singh Dhoni has launched a 'made-in-India camera drone named 'Droni' with advanced features.

This drone was manufactured by Garuda Aerospace.

The new drone is useful for surveillance and will be available for purchase towards the end of 2022. 

During the event, it was also announced the launch of Kisan Drone, a battery-powered device, aimed at farmers who want to spray pesticides.

Garuda Aerospace founder: Agnishwar Jayaprakash. 

NCLT approves Adani Ports to acquire remaining 58.1% in Gangavaram Port

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) has received an approval from the National Company Law Tribunals (NCLT) to acquire the balance 58.1% stake in Gangavaram Port Limited (GPL).

Earlier, APSEZ had acquired 31.5% in the company from Warburg Pincus and 10.4% from Andhra Pradesh government.

GPL is an all-weather deep-water multipurpose port.

APSEZ is the flagship transportation arm of the diversified Adani group.

The deal prices GPL at around Rs 6,200 crore.

Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik launches 'Football for All'

Odisha CM, Naveen Patnaik has launched an initiative called ‘Football for All’ with an aim to promote football among school children.

The programme has been initiated by FIFA in partnership with the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS).

2022 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup host:

Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. 

Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Margao, Goa. 

DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra. 

World Arthritis Day 2022: 12th October

World Arthritis Day is observed globally on 12th October every year to raise awareness about the existence and impact of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases.

The theme for 2022 is “It’s in your hands, take action”.

The first World Arthritis Day was observed in 1996, in collaboration with The Arthritis and Rheumatism International Foundation.

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that causes pain and stiffness in joints which can worsen with age.

RBI cancels the licence of Seva Vikas Co-operative Bank Limited

RBI has cancelled the license of Pune based Seva Vikas Co-operative Bank, with effect from October 10, 2022.

Reason: Lack of adequate capital and earning prospects.

As per the data submitted by the bank, about 99% of the depositors are entitled to receive the full amount of their deposits from DICGC.

RBI has also imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 48 lakh on Kerala State Co-operative Bank Ltd, Thiruvananthapuram for non-compliance of ‘Gold Loan - Bullet Repayment’.

IMF cuts FY23 GDP growth forecast to 6.8%

As per the World Economic Outlook 2022 report, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cut the GDP growth forecast of India to 6.8% from 7.4% for  2022-23.

The IMF has also predicted that India will remain on track to become one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.

While, IMF has projected that global growth will slow from 6% in 2021 to 3.2% in 2022 and 2.7% in 2023.

IMF has also expected that inflation in India will come down to 4% range next year.

PM Modi addressed UN World Geospatial International Congress

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has addressed the 2nd United Nations World Geospatial International Congress (UNWGIC), which being held in Hyderabad.

The theme of UNWGIC 2022 is Geo-Enabling the Global Village: No one should be left behind.

Geospatial technology is used to create intelligent maps and models which help to collect geographically referenced data.

It was hosted by the ministry of science and technology of the government of India.

Nitin Gadkari launches Toyota pilot project on Flex-Fuel Strong Hybrid EV

Nitin Gadkari (Road Transport and Highways Minister) has launched first of its kind pilot project of Toyota on Flex-Fuel Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicles in India.

The Toyota Corolla Altis FFV-SHEV, which was imported from Toyota Brazil for the pilot project, was unveiled.

Flex-fuel:

It is compatible cars, run on more than one type of fuel and also a mixture.

These vehicles will run on 100% petrol as well as 20 to 100% blended ethanol and electric power.

Ananth Narayan Gopalakrishnan takes charge as whole-time member at SEBI

Ananth Narayan Gopalakrishnan has assumed charge as Whole Time Member of SEBI.

He has an experience of more than 25 years in banking and financial sector.

He served as the Associate Professor, SP Jain Institute of Management & Research, Mumbai. 

He has completed his post-graduate diploma in Management from IIM, Lucknow and awarded the Director’s Gold Medal for standing second in the batch. 

He did his graduation in technology (electrical engineering), IIT, Bombay.

BSE gets SEBI nod for social exchange

SEBI has granted its in-principle approval to BSE for introducing a social stock exchange as a separate segment.

Social stock exchange will enable the listing of non-profit organisations and for-profit social enterprises that are engaged in 15 broad eligible social activities approved by the market regulator.

These social entities can raise funds through equity, issue of zero-coupons zero-principal bonds, MF, social impact funds and development impact bonds.

Russia launches GLONASS-K satellite navigation system

Russia has launched a GLONASS-K navigation system from northern cosmodrome, north of Moscow.

This system was carried by Soyuz-2.1b medium-class launch vehicle.

GLONASS-K is a navigation satellite intended as a part of the Russian GLONASS radio-based satellite navigation system.

Russia has spent billions of dollars in the past two decades on developing the GLONASS system.

This system seen as a potential rival to the U.S. global positioning system (GPS).

South Indian Bank enters World Book of Records for ‘101 Oonjals’

South Indian Bank has bagged a world record for staging and swinging the highest 101 Oonjals (Jhoolas), beautifully decorated- in Kochi.

The South Indian Bank has organized an event 'Onnichirikkam Oonjaladam'.

The World Book of Records team has also presented the award to South Indian Bank officials.

Swings were made using wood and rope in the traditional way.

MD and CEO of the South Indian: Murali Ramakrishnan

Gujarat’s Modhera becomes India's first 24x7 solar-powered village

PM Narendra Modi has declared Modhera village in Gujarat as the country's first 24x7 solar-powered village.

Modhera, is famous for Sun temple that was built during the Chalukya.

The village has a ground-mounted solar power plant, and over 1,300 rooftop solar systems with 1kW capacity have been installed on houses to generate electricity.

Both the central and state governments have invested over ₹80 crore in this project in two phases.

Goa to host 37th National Games in October 2023

The Indian Olympic Association has announced that the 37th edition of the National Games will be hosted by Goa in October 2023.

The date of the 37th National Games will be decided while keeping in view of the dates of 19th Asian Games that will be held from 23rd September to 8th October, 2022 in Hangzhou, China.

Goa had received the rights to host the National Games in 2008, failed to host them, due to different reasons.

Kishore Kumar Poludasu becomes new MD & CEO of SBI General Insurance

SBI General Insurance Company has appointed Kishore Kumar Poludasu as its new Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer.

His appointment was came into effect from 4th October 2022.

He was nominated by SBI (parent company).

He was associated with SBI since 1991.

Prior to this, he was the Deputy Managing Director, Head of State Bank of India, Singapore Operations.

He was also associated with setting up of National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development.

Amazon India gets approval by Delhi govt to operate 24/7 in New Delhi

Delhi Lieutenant Governor, VK Saxena has granted an approval to Amazon India to operate 24/7 in New Delhi.

The application was submitted by the company around three years back.

Impact:

Now Amazon's products can be delivered round-the-clock in New Delhi. 

Boost employment generation. 

Promote a positive and a favourable business environment.

The decision has been made providing exemption under Sections 14, 15 and 16 of the Delhi Shops & Establishment Act, 1954.

Villupattu exponent, Subbu Arumugam passes away

Veteran Villupaattu exponent, Kavignar Subbu Arumugam has been passed away at the age of 95 in Chennai.

He was conferred with Padma Shri (fourth highest civilian award of India) in 2021.

Other awards: Sangeetha Natak Akademi; Kalaimamani Award and Bharathi Award (By Tamil Nadu govt). 

Villupaattu: It is an ancient form of musical story-telling and the narration is interspersed with music.

It is performed mostly during temple festivals.

Minister, Anurag Thakur inaugurates Water Sports Center in HP

Anurag Singh Thakur (Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports) has inaugurated a Water Sports Center in Koldam Barmana, Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh.

This centre has been dedicated for training of athletes in water sports like Rowing, Canoeing and Kayaking.  

It is a joint initiated of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC).

During the event, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also exchanged between SAI and NTPC.

Banking crisis breakthroughs win 2022 Nobel Prize for Economics

The 2022 Nobel Prize for Economics has been awarded to Ben S. Bernanke (USA), Douglas W. Diamond (USA) and Philip H. Dybvig (USA) for their research on banks and financial crises.

Their research has significantly improved the understanding of the role of banks in the economy, particularly during financial crises.

Diamond has demonstrated that how banks perform another societally important function.

While, Ben Bernanke has analysed the Great Depression of the 1930s.

International Day of Girl Child 2022: 11th October

The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to raise awareness about the gender inequality faced by girls worldwide.

Theme 2022: 'Our time is now - our rights, our future.'

On December 2011, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted resolution to declare 11th October as this day.

This day was first celebrated on October 11, 2012.

This year will be the 10th anniversary of the International Day of the Girl Child (IDG).

National Conference on Skilling in Non-Traditional Livelihood for girls

Ministry of WCD has organized National Conference on Skilling in Non-Traditional Livelihood for Girls - Betiyan Bane Kushal in New Delhi.

This conference was organized under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative.

Aim: Convergence between Ministries and Departments to ensure the skill development of girls.

During the event, MoUs was signed between the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Ministry of Minority Affairs for Skilling of young Girls.

Harmanpreet Kaur wins ICC Player of the Month awards for September 2022

India Captain, Harmanpreet Kaur has won the ICC Player of the Month awards for September 2022 in women's category.

She received the award for her memorable 3-0 ODI series sweep over England.

She beat her deputy, Smriti Mandhana and Bangladesh counterpart, Nigar Sultana.

This was India's first series win in England since 1999.

While in men's category, Pakistan wicketkeeper batter, Mohammad Rizwan won the ICC Player of the Month awards for September 2022.

Asteria Aerospace receives first micro-category drone certification

Asteria Aerospace Limited has received India’s first micro category drone type certification for its indigenously designed A200 drone from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The A200 drone was found to be fully compliant with the Certification Scheme for Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

Asteria’s A200 drone has been developed for surveying and mapping applications in GIS, agriculture, construction, mining and other industries.

India to host military exercise, Manesar Anti-Terror 2022

The National Security Guard (NSG) has organised the multinational Joint Anti-Terror Exercise (JATE), “Manesar Anti-Terror 2022” at NSG Manesar Garrison.

The exercises was conducted under the framework of SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS).

It is the second stage of the exercise, as the Stage-1 was conducted from July 27 to August 1 by the National Counter Terrorist Forces of SCO Member Countries in their respective territories.

Smriti Mandhana appointed as Gulf Oil India ambassador

Gulf Oil Lubricants has appointed Indian cricketer, Smriti Mandhana as its new brand ambassador.

With this association, Gulf Oil became the first company in the lubricant space to appoint a woman cricketer as ambassador.

She will join the ranks of current brand ambassadors Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Hardik Pandya.

Aim: To celebrate women power and inspire female audience in the country and also honored the achievements of Indian women cricketers.

Max Verstappen won 2022 Formula One Japan GP

Red Bull, Max Verstappen has declared Formula One world champion after winning a 2022 Japanese Grand Prix.

Sergio Pérez (Red Bulls) finished second in the list, while, the second-place finisher, Charles Leclerc was given a five-second penalty, dropping him to third.

Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) placed fifth.

Previous GP 2022:

Singapore: Sergio Pérez

Italian; Dutch; 

Belgian; Hungarian; 

French: Max Verstappen

Austrian: Charles Leclerc

Government, LIC to sell 60.72% stake in IDBI Bank

The government and LIC will together divest a 60.72% stake in the IDBI Bank.

The Centre will divest a 30.48% stake while LIC will offload 30.24%.

For this, the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) has invited expressions of interest (EoIs) from potential bidders.

The potential investor should have a minimum net worth of ₹22,500 crore, must report net profit in three out of the past five years, will be eligible for bidding.

World Mental Health Day 2022: 10th October

World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 to draw attention to mental health issues and their effects.

The theme for 2022 is “Make mental health & well-being for all a global priority.”

The then World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) Deputy Secretary General, Richard Hunter had initiated the first celebration of World Mental Health Day on October 10, 1992.

WFMH is a non-governmental organisation founded in 1948.

India's hockey star Harmanpreet Singh voted FIH Player of the Year

India men’s hockey team defender and vice-captain, Harmanpreet Singh has been voted the 2021/22 FIH Player of the Year for the second year running.

He becomes the fourth player to win the Player of the Year award in men's category in consecutive years.

He joined an elite list, that includes Teun De Nooijer (Netherlands), Jamie Dwyer (Australia) and Arthur van Doren (Belgium).

Felice Albers of Netherlands has been named 2021/22 FIH Player of the Year in women's category.

Founder of Samajwadi Party Mulayam Singh Yadav passes away

Samajwadi Party founder, Mulayam Singh Yadav has been passed away at the age of 82.

He was born in a small village Saifai in the Etawah district of Uttar Pradesh and was a trained wrestler.

His had started his political career in 1967 and formed the Samajwadi Party in 1992.

He served for three non-consecutive terms as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.

He was also served as the Minister of Defence (1996 – 1998) and elected an MLA 10 times and an MP seven times. 

Chandrayaan-2 spectrometer maps abundance of sodium on moon

According to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the X-ray spectrometer 'CLASS' on the Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter has mapped an abundance of sodium on the moon for the first time.

Chandrayaan-1’s X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (C1XS) has detected sodium from its characteristic line in X-rays.

CLASS was built at the U R Rao Satellite Centre of ISRO in Bengaluru.

It provides clean signatures of the sodium line due to its high sensitivity and performance.

Novak Djokovic clinches 90th ATP title in Astana Open, Kazakhstan

21-time Grand Slam champion from Serbia, Novak Djokovic has clinched his 90th ATP title after defeating Greek, Stefanos Tsitsipas by 6-3, 6-4 in the final of Astana Open in Kazakhstan.

He joined Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer in the list of players in Open Era with 90 or more ATP titles.

In men's doubles, Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic have captured their fifth tour-level title of the season and beat Adrian Mannarino and Fabrice Martin by 6-4, 6-2.

Nitin Gadkari inaugurate Indian Roads Congress in Lucknow

Uttar Pradesh is hosting 81st 'Indian Road Congress' in Lucknow from 8th to 11th October 2022 and more than 1,500 delegates are attending the event.

It will discuss modern techniques in road construction, and it will have many sessions regarding it.

Union Minister, Nitin Gadkari along with UP CM Yogi Adityanath has jointly inaugurated 81st annual session of the Indian roads Congress in Lucknow.

Projects worth Rs 5 lakh crore rupees will start in Uttar Pradesh by 2024. 

First seminar of Agni Tattva campaign under LiFE mission held in Leh

The first conference of the Agni campaign was organized in Leh on the theme of ‘Sustainability and Culture’ under LiFE (Lifestyle for environment) mission. 

It is organized by Power Foundation of India in association with Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA). 

It witnessed participation from key stakeholders working in the areas of energy, culture, and sustainability.

Agni Tattva is an element that is synonymous with energy and is amongst the five elements of Panchmahabhoot.

Union Minister inaugurates Science Museum at Chamba, Himachal Pradesh

Union Minister for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh has inaugurated Science Museum at Chamba in Himachal Pradesh. 

It is termed as ‘DBT-NIPGR-Pandit Jaiwant Ram Upmanyu Science Museum’. 

This state-of-art institution will inspire young children to discover their potentials and use their innovative skills to find a source of livelihood in later life.

It is set up by the National Institute of Plant Genome Research at Government Boys Senior Secondary School (GBSSS). 

DPIIT notifies establishment of Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups

Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under Ministry of Commerce has notified the establishment of Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS). 

It will provide credit guarantees to loans extended by Scheduled Commercial Banks, Non-Banking Financial Companies and Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).

Credit guarantees cover under the Scheme would be transaction based and umbrella based.

First-ever Hero MotoCorp EV scooter, Vida V1 launched in India

Hero MotoCorp has wraped off their new electric scooter under the sub-brand, titled as ‘Vida’.

Hero Vida V1 is the first electric scooter of the brand, as it looks to catch up with newer firms who have taken the lead in the country's clean mobility push.

It was first launched at a starting price of Rs 1.45 lakh (ex-showroom) at Jaipur Centre and would be launched in New Delhi, and Bangalore.

It is available in two variants named Vida V1 Plus and Vida V1 Pro.

Ales Bialiatski awarded 2022 Nobel Peace Prize

Belarusian human rights advocate Ales Bialiatski, Russian human rights organization ‘Memorial’, and Ukrainian human rights organization 'Centre for Civil Liberties' have been jointly awarded 2022 Nobel Peace Prize.

This award was announced by the Norwegian Nobel Committee for promoting the right to criticize power and protecting the fundamental rights of citizens.

Apart from this, Chemistry, Physics, Physiology or Medicine and Literature has also been announced. 

Centre constitutes task force for monitoring Cheetah introduction project

Centre has constituted a 9-member task force for monitoring Cheetah introduction in Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh and other suitable designated areas.

National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) will facilitate the working of Cheetah Task Force and render all necessary help.

The task force will include Principal Secretaries, Forests and Tourism of Madhya Pradesh, and Inspector General of NTCA, New Delhi Amit Mallick.

Tenure: 2 years.

Indian Air Force Day: 8th October

Indian Air Force Day is observed every year on 8th October.

Indian Air Force (IAF) was officially established on 8th October 1932, as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire which honoured India's aviation service during World War II with the prefix Royal.

First aircraft of IAF came into being on 1st April 1933 with six RAF-trained officers and 19 Havai Sepoys (air soldiers).

IAF is celebrating the 90th foundation day in 2022.

RBI to soon commence pilot launch of E-Rupee for specific use cases

RBI has released a Concept Note on Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) to create awareness about Digital Rupee.

This note explains the objectives, choices, benefits, and risks of issuing a digital currency in India.

It also discusses issues like technology and design choices, possible uses of the Digital Rupee, issuance mechanisms, and role of RBI in introduction of the CBDT.

RBI will soon commence the launch of Digital Rupee on a pilot basis for specific use.

Pooja Patel becomes first athlete to win Gold in Yogasana

Pooja Patel from Gujarat has become the first athlete to win gold in Yogasana at the 36th National Games. 

Yogasana: It is one of the five sports to be played at National Games 2022 for the 1st time. 

Indian indigenous sport, Yoga made its debut at the Khelo India University Games earlier this year.

Apart from this, Maharashtra won gold in women’s diving 1-meter springboard event. 

36th National Games will be held in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, Bhavnagar. 

Mohit Bhatia appointed as CEO of Bank of India Mutual Fund

Bank of India Investment Managers Private Ltd has appointed Mohit Bhatia as its chief executive officer with effect from 4 October, 2022.

He has over 26 years of professional experience in mutual funds and financial services industry.

He served as head-sales and marketing in Canara Robeco Asset Management Company Ltd.

Bank of India Investment Managers Private Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of India.

BOI MF Headquarters: Mumbai

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-5 launches to International Space Station

SpaceX has launched group of four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Crew-5 mission, from Launch Complex 39A, Kennedy Space Center, Florida.

This is the first time that the SpaceX has launched a Russian cosmonaut on its vehicle, which comes as part of an exchange deal between Nasa and Roscosmos.

The Crew-5 flight carried Nasa astronauts Nicole Mann and Josh Cassada, Koichi Wakata (JAXA), and Anna Kikina (Roscosmos cosmonaut).

Indian origin, Dr Vivek Murthy is US representative on WHO Executive Board

US President, Joe Biden has nominated Dr Vivek Murthy (45) to serve as America's representative on the executive board of the World Health Organisation.

He will serve in the new position alongside his continued duties as the US Surgeon General.

In March 2021, He was confirmed by the US Senate to serve as the 21st Surgeon General of the country.

He also served as the 19th Surgeon General under President Barack Obama.

Veteran actor, Arun Bali passed away

Veteran actor, Arun Bali has been passed away at the age of 79 in Mumbai.

He was best known for his work on TV show “Swabhimaan” and “3 Idiots”.

He has started his acting debut with noted filmmaker Lekh Tandon's TV show “Doosra Keval” and his last film is “Goodbye”.

He was suffering with Myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disease.

This happens when the communication between the muscles and nerve cells become impaired.

French writer, Annie Ernaux wins the 2022 Nobel Prize in literature

The French writer, Annie Ernaux (82) has been awarded the 2022 Nobel Prize in literature.

Reason: For the courage and clinical acuity with which she uncovers the roots, estrangements and collective restraints of personal memory.

She is known for works that blur the line between memoir and fiction.

She becomes the 17th female writer to have won the prize.

Her notable books: Cleaned Out;  The Years; and Simple Passion

Centre raises credit guarantee limit for airlines sector

The Department of Financial Services (DFS) has modified the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) for the aviation sector.

The department has raised the scheme’s cheaper loan limit to ₹1,500 crore from ₹400 crore.

Aim: To help the sector tide over cash-flow problems.

As per the modified ECLGS, an airline would be eligible for 100% of its fund- based or non-fund-based loan outstanding or ₹1,500 crore, whichever is lower.

Hardeep Puri co-chairs US-India strategic clean energy partnership dialogue

The Ministerial dialogue of US-India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (USISCEP) is being organisedin the United States from October 7 to 11, 2022.

The event will be co-chaired by Hardeep Singh Puri (Union petroleum minister) and  Jennifer Granholm (US energy secretary).

The revamped USISCEP was launched in 2021.

It is based on the US-India climate and clean energy agenda 2030 partnership that was announced by PM Modi and President Joe Biden at a summit in April 2021.

World Bank cuts India's growth forecast to 6.5% for 2022-23

The World Bank has reduced the GDP growth forecast of India for 2022-23 to 6.5% from 7.5%.

Reason: The impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine, rising global interest rates and high inflation.

The organization has also noted that slowing global demand will impact the country's exports.

Recently, RBI has cut the economic growth projection for the current fiscal to 7%.

UNCTAD has also  declined the India's economic growth will decline to 5.7% for 2022-23.

HDFC Bank launches SmartHub Vyapar for merchants

HDFC Bank has launched an one-stop merchant solution app named Smart Hub Vyapar Merchant app.

It is a comprehensive payments and banking solution.

It is designed to fulfill the everyday business needs of merchants.

This app would facilitate instant, digital and paperless merchant on-boarding for HDFC Bank customers.

It also allow merchants to accept interoperable payments across multiple payment modes which include Cards – Tap & Pay, UPI and QR code.

NTPC, GE Gas Power ink MoU for hydrogen co-firing in gas turbines

NTPC Ltd has signed an MoU with GE Gas Power to explore the feasibility of hydrogen (H2) co-firing blended with natural gas.

This process will be done in GE’s gas turbines installed at NTPC’s Kawas gas power plant in Gujarat.

NTPC’s Kawas plant is powered by four GE gas turbines.

It is operating in a combined-cycle mode and has an installed capacity of 645 MW. 

GE’s advance E-class gas turbine portfolio can burn upto 100% by volume of hydrogen when blended with natural gas. 

RBI launched SupTech app, DAKSH to improve supervisory processes

The Governor of RBI, Shaktikanta Das has launched a new 'SupTech' initiative called DAKSH.

Aim: It will be the advanced supervisory monitoring system of bank.

It will help to make the supervisory processes more robust.

DAKSH:

It is a web-based end-to-end workflow application.

With the help of this, RBI shall monitor compliance requirements in a more focused manner.

This also improves the compliance culture in Supervised Entities (SEs) like Banks, NBFCs, etc.

Prashant Kumar appointed Yes Bank MD & CEO for 3 years

The Reserve Bank of India has approved the reappointment of Prashant Kumar as the MD and CEO of YES Bank for another three years, with effect from 6th October 2022.

The appointment will be subject to the approval of shareholders of the private sector lender.

He was appointed as the CEO of the bank after YES Bank was bailed out by a consortium of lenders in March 2020.

He has served as the Deputy MD and CFO of State Bank of India.

Yes Bank Headquarters: Mumbai

Tamil Nadu’s Mamallapuram beats Taj Mahal in number of foreign visitors

As per the report, Indian Tourism Statistics 2022, the Mamallapuram (Unesco world heritage site), a Tamil Nadu town has beaten the Taj Mahal in the number of foreign visitors.

As per the report, 1,44,984 foreign visitors came to Mamallapuram in 2021-22.

While the Taj Mahal (Agra) has occupied the second spot with 38,922 foreign visitors.

Top five states for domestic tourist visits in 2021: Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra. 

CCI approves merger of ZEEL, BEPL with Culver Max Entertainment

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved amalgamation of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEE) and Bangla Entertainment Private Limited (BEPL) with Culver Max Entertainment Private Limited (CME), with certain modifications.

CME: It is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation (SGC), is part of the SGC group (SGC Group).

BEPL: It is also an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of SGC and a part of the SGC Group.

NABARD sanctions Rs 222 cr for infra in rural schools in Punjab

Nabard has sanctioned Rs 221.99 crore under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) to Punjab government.

Reason: For the construction of 2,328 additional classrooms, 762 labs and 648 playgrounds in rural schools in all 23 districts of Punjab.

Presently, there are 632 projects involving the RIDF assistance of Rs 686 crore under varous stages of implementation by the Department of School Education, Punjab.

India's Rupay debit card to be launched in Oman

National Payments Corporation of India has signed a historic MoU with Central Bank Of Oman to launch the Rupay debit card in Oman.

The MoU was signed during the visit of MoS for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, V. Muraleedharan to Oman.

It enables the acceptance of Indian RuPay cards issued by banks in India at all OmanNet network ATMs, POS & E-commerce sites.

As a reciprocal, acceptance of Oman cards/MPCSS in the networks of NPCI in India.

IFC launches financing platform to respond to global food crisis

The investment arm of World Bank, the International Finance Corp. (IFC) has launched a $6 billion financing facility.

Aim: To strengthen private sector’s ability to respond to the crisis and help support food production.

Concern: The Ukraine  war and an uneven global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic have raised the levels of hunger and malnourishment.

This crises have already worsened by climate change(damaging harvests and reducing yields).

HM Amit Shah announces ST status for Paharis in J&K

Union Home Minister, Amit Shah has announced Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the Pahari community in Jammu and Kashmir.

Justice GD Sharma Commission has recommended reservation for Paharis in his report that was submitted to the government.

The reservation will be rolled out after completion of administrative formalities.

The minister has inaugurated and laid foundation stone of various developmental works of Kashmir Division.

Nobel Prize in Chemistry for 2022 awarded for "Click" chemistry

The 2022 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to Carolyn Bertozzi (American), Morton Meldal (Danish) and Barry Sharpless (American).

Reason: For their work on snipping molecules together which is known as click chemistry.

Click chemistry: It is about linking together molecules like those in living cells.

Use: To explore cells and track biological processes; can be applied in cancer treatment drugs.

Before this, Barry Sharples has won Nobel in 2001 for chemistry.

66th Dhammachakra Pravartan Day celebrated at DeekshaBhoomi in Nagpur

The 66th Dhammachakra Pravartan Day is being celebrated at DeekshaBhoomi in Nagpur, Maharashtra.

Reason: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar (Architect of the Indian Constitution) has embraced Buddhism on the day of Viajaydashmi on 14th October 1956 with lakhs of his followers.

From that date, the day is celebrated as DhammaChakra pravartan day.

Millions of followers have reached Deekshabhoomi, to pay their respects to the Central memorial of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar in this day.

Gujarat launched Atmanirbhar Gujarat Schemes 2022 for Industries

The Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel has launched an incentive scheme for industries to attract Rs 12.5 lakh crore of investments to the state in the next 10 years.

He has unveiled the “Aatmanirbhar Gujarat Schemes 2022 for assistance to Industries”.

This scheme will remain in force for MSMEs, Large and Mega industrial units.

The incentive schemes also include EPF and SGST reimbursements.

A similar incentive scheme was launched in 2016. 

PM Modi inaugurates AIIMS in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh

PM Modi has inaugurated AIIMS at Kothipura in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh.

This institution will be built over an area of about 247 acres with the cost of 1471 crore rupees.

Other projects:

Inaugurated 140 crore rupees Government Hydro Engineering College in Bilaspur.

Foundation stones of 350 crore rupees for Medical Devices Park at Nalagarh.

Pinjore-Nalagarh four-lane road project under the Bharat Mala project with a cost of 1692 crore rupees.

World Trade Organization forecasts slowdown in global trade growth

WTO has forecasted a slowdown of global trade growth  for 2023.

Reason: Sharply higher energy and food prices and rising interest rates curb import demand. 

As per the report, the merchandise trade would increase by 3.5% in 2022-23, up from its April estimate of 3%.

However, for 2023, it sees trade growth of just 1%, compared with a previous forecast of 3.5%.

The WTO has provided a band of trade growth expansion of 2% to 4.9% for 2022-23 and of -2.8% to 4.6% for 2023.

India emerges as largest producer of sugar in world

India has emerged as the world’s largest producer and second largest exporter of sugar.

In 2021-22, more than five thousand lakh metric tons of sugarcane was produced in the country.

Out of this, 35 lakh metric ton sugar was used for ethanol production and 359 lakh metric ton of sugar was produced by sugar mills.

The country has registered records highest sugar exports of over 109 lakh metric tons.

These exports earned foreign currency of about 40 thousand crore rupees.

Former German leader, Angela Merkel wins 2022 UN refugee prize

Former German chancellor, Angela Merkel has won the 2022 United Nations refugee agency’s prestigious Nansen Refugee Award.

Reason: For her determination to protect asylum seekers while in office.

In 2015 and 2016, Germany had welcomed the more than 1.2 million refugees and asylum seekers of migrant crisis.

Nansen Award:

Established: 1954

This award was created to honour of the first UNHCR, Norwegian Arctic explorer and humanitarian Fridtjof Nansen.

Prize: $150,000

लेखक-अकादमिक माधव हाडा को 32वें बिहारी पुरस्कार से सम्मानित किया जाएगा

KK Birla Foundation has confirmed that the 32nd Bihari Puraskar wll be awarded to writer, Dr Madhav Hada.

Reason: For his 2015 literary criticism book ‘Pachrang Chola Pahar Sakhi Ri'.

He has written extensively on literature, media, culture and history.

He has also been a member of the general council of the Sahitya Akademi and the Hindi Advisory Board.

He was alos a recipient of the Bhartendu Harishchandra Award and the Devraj Upadhyay Award.

Indian Olympic javelin thrower, Shivpal Singh banned until 2025

The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has suspended Indian javelin thrower, Shivpal Singh (Uttar Pradesh) from competing till October 2025.

Reason: Due to a doping violation.

The ban comes into effect from October 21, 2021.

He has been subsequently tested positive for the banned substance methandienone that is a performance-enhancing steroid.

He was won silver medal at the 2019 Asian Championships, where he achieved his personal best throw of 86.23m.

India's Mars orbiter dies after eight years

The Indian Mars Orbiter Craft, Mangalyaan has runs out of fuel and battery after completing 8 years.

ISRO has launched the Mars Orbiter Mission (MoM) on November 3, 2013.

The spacecraft entered the Martian orbit on September 24, 2014.

It helped to study the Martian landscape including surface geology, morphology, atmospheric processes, surface temperature, and atmospheric escape process.

India is the first nation in the world to reach Mars on a Maiden attempt.

World Space week 2022: 4-10 October

World Space Week (WSW) is observed every year from October 4 to 10.

2022 theme is “Space and Sustainability”

This day observed to celebrate science and technology, and their contribution towards the betterment of the human condition.

October 4 marks the launch of the first human-made Earth satellite, Sputnik 1.

The first time this event was celebrated was in 2000.

In 2000, the theme was “Launching the Space Millennium.” 

UNCTAD decline India GDP growth to 5.7% in 2022

As per the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Trade and Development Report 2022, the expected economic growth of India has been declined to 5.7%.

Reason: Higher financing cost and weaker public expenditures.

The organization has also predicted that the GDP of country will further decelerate to 4.7% in 2023.

India has experienced an expansion of 8.2 per cent in 2021.

UNCTAD:

Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland

Founded: 30 December 1964

World Teachers’ Day 2022: 5th October

World Teachers’ Day is observed every year on October 5 to honour teachers for their contributions to their students.

2022 Theme: The Transformation of Education Begins with Teachers

It is observed all over the world over since 1994 after the UNESCO recommendation.

On October 5th, 1966, International Labour Organization (ILO) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) have signed a recommendation concerning the "Status of Teachers".

Lalit Bhasin elected as President of Indo-American Chambers of Commerce

Veteran lawyer, Lalit Bhasin has been appointed as the national president of Indian American Chambers of Commerce (IACC).

Prior to this, he was the executive vice president of IACC.

He is the 54th national president of IACC.

He has been awarded the Plaque of Honor for his outstanding contribution to the Rule of Law (2002), the President of India’s National Law Day Award (2007).

IACC:

It was set up in October 1968.

Headquartered: Mumbai

Ajay Bhadoo appointed as Deputy Election Commissioner of ECI

The Committee of Cabinet has approved the appointed Ajay Bhadoo as the Deputy Election Commissioner of the Election Commission of India.

He has been appointed as the deputy election commissioner until July 24, 2024.

He is a 1999-batch Indian Administrative Officer (IAS) officer of the Gujarat cadre.

Prior to this, he was appointed as the Joint Secretary of the President of India.

Earlier, he has also served as Gujarat's Vadodara Municipal Commissioner.

India's PR Sreejesh voted FIH Men's Goalkeepers of Year

Goalkeeper, PR Sreejesh has been voted the FIH goalkeeper of the year title in the men's categories.

He is the third player to win this title in a row.

Earlier, David Harte (Ireland) won the prize twice in 2015 and 2016, while Vincent Vanasch (Belgium) won it three times in a row from 2017 to 2019.

While, Savita Punia (captain) was voted the FIH Women's Goalkeeper of the Year.

She is the third athlete to win this title in Women category for three years in a row.

PM Modi launches phase-1 of Ahmedabad Metro rail project at Kalupur station

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated phase-1 of the Ahmedabad Metro rail project between Thaltej and Vastral.

He inaugurated the metro rail stretch on the city's East-West corridor from Kalupur station.

The prime minister waved a green flag to the metro train at Kalupur railway station.

With this, the 21-km corridor of the project between Thaltej and Vastral with 17 stations became operational.

15th International Sufi Rang Festival 2022 begins in Ajmer

The 15th International Sufi Rang Festival 2022 began in Ajmer, today (October 1).

This event is being organized and planned by Haji Syed Salman, Chairman of Chishty Foundation, an Ajmer Sharif-based organisation.

The annual International Sufi Festival India (ISFI) is a commemorative fiesta in honor of the Sufi Saint, Hazrath Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty.

The Held yearly in Ajmer, the ISFI festival, remembers the teachings of Sufi Saint Hazrath Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty. 

Anurag Singh Thakur to launch month-long nationwide Swachh Bharat 2022

Union Minister Anurag Thakur launched month-long nationwide campaign Swachh Bharat 2022 from Prayagraj in UP.

Swachh Bharat 2022 is being organized in 6 Lakh villages of 744 districts across the country.

The Department of Youth Affairs has set a target of collecting and disposing of 1 crore kg plastic waste through Swachh Bharat 2022.

Swachh Bharat 2022 will be launched with an aim to raise awareness, mobilize people and ensure their participation in making India clean.

USOF launches Telecom Technology Development Fund scheme

Universal Service Obligation Fund, a body under the Department of Telecommunications, launched Telecom Technology Development Fund Scheme on October 01st, 2022. 

The scheme is aligned with PM Modi’s clarion call of adding Jan Anusandhaan in the new phase of Amrit Kaal.

TTDF aims to fund R&D in rural-specific communication technology applications and form synergies among academia, start-ups, research institutes, and the industry to build and develop the telecom ecosystem. 

National Mission for Clean Ganga approves 14 projects worth ₹1145 crore

The executive committee of the National Mission for Clean Ganga has approved 14 projects at an estimated cost of ₹1,145 crore rupee.

The decision was taken at the 45th meeting of the executive committee under the chairmanship of director general G. Ashok Kumar. 

These include eight projects of sewerage management in five main stem Ganga basin states - Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.

National Pension System (NPS) Diwas: 1st October 2022

To encourage pension and retirement planning among Indian residents, PFRDA is marking 1st October as National Pension System (NPS) Diwas.

The Day was established last year as part of a programme to encourage pension and retirement plans for worry-free and Azad retiring.

This initiative is being promoted by PFRDA via its social media channels every year on the said date.

PFRDA Chairperson: Supratim Bandyopadhyay. 

Lalit Bhasin elected new IACC national president

Noted lawyer Lalit Bhasin has been appointed as the national president of Indian American Chambers of Commerce (IACC).

A well - known name in business and social circles Bhasin was the executive vice president of IACC.

Bhasin is the 54th national president of IACC, which was set up in October 1968 and is headquartered in Mumbai.

He is closely associated with India’s apex business organizations like CII, PHD CCI and served as chairman of its legal committees.

S Bharathan appointed director-refineries at HPCL

S Bharathan took over as director, of refineries, at HPCL.

He replaced Vinod S Shenoy.

HPCL is the 3rd-largest oil refining and fuel marketing company.

Bharathan earlier served as executive director, Refineries Coordination, with additional charge of research and development (R&D).

Bharathan has wide exposure to the refinery operations of the company and has worked in operations and technical departments of Mumbai and Visakh refinery for over 25 years. 

President of India Presents Swachh Survekshan Awards 2022

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, presented the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2022. 

Indore has been adjudged as India's cleanest city, followed by Surat and Navi Mumbai. 

Madhya Pradesh has secured the first position, followed by Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra in the category of best performing states in 'Swachh Survekshan Awards 2022'.

Tripura topped among the states having fewer than 100 urban local bodies.

Maharashtra's Deolali was adjudged cleanest Cantonment Board.

International Day of Older Persons celebrates on the 1st October

October 1 is observed as the International Day of Older Persons across the globe. The day was introduced by the United Nations General Assembly with an aim of honouring the contribution of older persons and looking into the problems that they face.

Older people make significant contributions to society via volunteer work, passing on experience and knowledge, and assisting their families with different responsibilities. As today we celebrate this occasion, let’s glance at its history and significance.

The overall umbrella theme for the United Nations International Day of Older Persons in 2022 is “Resilience of Older Persons in a Changing World.”

World Vegetarian Day 2022 observed on 01st October

World Vegetarian Day is celebrated on the first day of October. It also kickstarts Vegetarian Awareness Month. This global day of advocacy and awareness celebrates the benefits of vegetarianism and encourages people to reduce their consumption of animal products.

The day is commemorated to create awareness about the benefits of vegetarianism like reducing the risks of heart diseases and other health complications.

Important For All Exam 2022:

International Vegetarian Union Founded: 1908, Dresden, Germany;

Chair of International Vegetarian Union: Marly Winckler.

International Coffee Day 2022 celebrates on 01st October

Every year, International Coffee Day is observed on October 1, to celebrate and promote the use of coffee. The day is marked to celebrate “the coffee sector’s diversity, quality and passion.” It is an opportunity for coffee lovers to share their love of the beverage and support farmers whose livelihood depends on the aromatic crop.

Every year 77 Member States of the International Coffee Organization (ICO), dozens of coffee associates, and millions of coffee lovers come together to celebrate their favourite beverage.

Shashi Tharoor explores different strands of Ambedkar’s life 

Shashi Tharoor, a congress leader announced to write a biography of BR Ambedkar next month. The book will be published by Aleph and it will provide insights into the legendary leader’s life and times. The book will be known as “Ambedkar: A Life”.

Shashi Tharoor claims to answer the question of whether Ambedkar was the greatest Indian of modern times or not through the book.

The book will emphasize the “Humiliation and hurdles” faced by Ambedkar to overcome in society.

MoS for Culture Arjun Ram Meghwal attends UNESCO-MONDIACULT 2022 in Mexico

The Indian delegation headed by the Minister of State for Culture Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal represented at UNESCO-MONDIACULT 2022 World Conference held at Mexico City from 28th-30th September 2022.

The Minister addressed the conference on burning issues and concerns of the Cultural sector policies. In the conference, Culture Ministers of more than 100 countries participated on this multilateral forum to decide on the global cultural discourse.

Active credit cards drop 2.3 million in August over new RBI norms

The outstanding credit card base dropped to 77.99 million in August from over 80 million in July, mainly on account of the new norms of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) that warrant the deactivation of cards that are inactive for a year.

While there was a 2.8 per cent decline in net card additions on a month-on-month (MoM) basis in August, a first in many months, credit card spends slipped 3 per cent on a high base. Still, spends topped the Rs 1-trillion mark for the sixth consecutive month.

N S Rajan named as the new chairman of ASCI

 N S Rajan, new chairman of ASCI: The election of N S Rajan, Director of August One Partners LLP, as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) was done.

Of the board meeting that followed the 36th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of ASCI, Saugata Gupta, Managing Director & CEO, Marico Limited, was elected Vice-Chairman, and Shashidhar Sinha, Chief Executive Officer at IPG Mediabrands India, was named Honorary Treasurer.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Director of GMS India (Meta): Arun Srinivas

Group CEO of Lintas India: Virat Tandon

Hero MotoCorp Appoints Movie Star Ram Charan New Brand Ambassador 

The Hero MotoCrop has appointed actor Ram Charan as the new brand ambassador. Hero MotoCrop, the country’s largest two-wheeler maker has launched the Hero GIFT Programme.

The Hero GIFT stands for the Grand Indian Festival of Trust. This initiative includes exciting model refreshers, retail benefits, several financing schemes, pre-booking offers, and many more.

The new campaign or initiative emphasizes the new age youth culture of swiping.

World’s largest safari park to be developed in Gurugram

 World’s largest jungle safari park to be developed in Haryana. The World’s largest jungle safari park is spread across an area of 10000 acres in the Aravalli Mountain Range of Gurugram and Nuh District. This project will be the largest such project in the world.

The park will also include a large herbarium, an aviary, four zones for big cars, a large area for herbivores, an area for exotic animal/birds, an underwater world, natural trails, visitors, tourism zones, botanical garden, biomes, equatorial, tropical, coastal, desert, etc.

For the making of the World’s largest jungle safari park an Aravalli Foundation will be set up which will manage the project.

Vladimir Putin Declares Annexation Of 4 Ukrainian Regions by Russia

Vladimir Putin has declared the Annexation of 4 Ukrainian regions by Russia namely Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhia.

The West has denounced the annexation of occupied Ukrainian territory by Russia as an illegitimate land grab after Russian President Vladimir Putin signed treaties.

The president of Ukraine, Zelenskyy responded by unexpectedly submitting an application to join the NATO armed alliance.

Kazakhstan changes capital’s name from Nur-Sultan back to Astana

Kazakhstan’s President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is to restore the former name of the country’s capital, Astana, just three years after he renamed it in honour of his predecessor.

Kazakhstan’s president has signed a law limiting presidential terms and reverting to the old name of the Central Asian country’s capital, in the latest step of breaking with the legacy of his predecessor. The bill also reinstated the capital’s name to Astana.

The name was changed to Nur-Sultan in March 2019, in honour of outgoing president Nursultan Nazarbayev. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a bill on 24 Sept limiting presidential mandates to a single seven-year term, a day after parliament approved the measure.

Important For All Exam 2022:

Kazakhstan President: Kassym-Jomart Tokayev;

Kazakhstan Currency: Kazakhstani tenge.

Eurozone Inflation Hits At 10%, A new High

 Inflation in the 19-member eurozone reached 10% in September, the highest it has ever been in the history of the common European currency, according to the latest flash estimate from Eurostat, the EU statistics agency.

This is up from the 9.1% seen in August. Just one year ago, inflation was 3.2%. The high inflation figure comes as the region experiences soaring electricity and natural gas prices, and also comes amid forecasts of a looming recession.

The price of energy has risen 40.8% when compared to last year’s prices, while the cost of food, alcohol and tobacco rose 11.8% in September, up from the 10.6% recorded in August. The inflation figure in Estonia for September was pegged at a whopping 24.2%, a little lower than the 25.2% seen in August, but also the highest in the eurozone.

5G Launch: PM Modi says rollout of 5G a gift to 130 billion Indians

5G Launch: The nation’s 5G services were officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 1st, 2022, ushering in a period of ultra-high-speed mobile internet, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office. The sixth iteration of the India Mobile Congress was also launched by PM Modi.

A new era in the nation is ringing in with the arrival of 5G. A limitless sky of options will open up with 5G.

The PM continued by saying that the New India will actively participate in the creation and use of technology rather than simply becoming a consumer of it.

Future wireless technology design and related production will be heavily influenced by India.

Rajneet Kohli appointed as a new CEO of Britannia

Britannia Industries has appointed Rajneet Kohli as executive director and chief executive officer effective September 26, 2022.

He has a 25-years long experience in Asian Paints and Coca-Cola and Britannia.

He joined Britannia from food services company Jubilant FoodWorks.

Under his leadership, Jubilant FoodWorks has delivered sustained profitable growth and emerged as the largest QSR chain.

The board has also elevated Varun Berry to executive vice-chairman and MD.

Zerodha’s founder, Nikhil Kamath tops Hurun's under 40 rich list

Zerodha’s founder, Nikhil Kamath (36), with a wealth of Rs 17,500 crore, has topped a self-made rich list of individuals under 40 years.

The list was released by the IIFL Wealth Hurun India 40 & Under Self-Made Rich List 2022.

Ola Electric CEO, Bhavish Aggarwal, with a wealth of Rs 11,700 crore has been placed second in the list, followed by Divyank Turakhia (Media Network, with Rs 11,200 crore).

The Hurun India rich list has 53 entrepreneurs under 40 years of age.

Union cabinet approves 4% hike in DA Under 7th Pay Commission

The Cabinet has increased the dearness allowance (DA) and dearness relief by 4%, effective July 1, 2022.

The additional instalment of DA and dearness relief (DR) is an increase of 4% over the existing rate of 34% of basic pay/pension.

The combined impact on the exchequer on account of both DA and DR would be Rs 12,852.5 crore p.a.

The increase in the DA and DR is based on the percentage increase in 12 monthly average of All India CPI for the period ending June, 2022.

DBS Bank India collaborates with HDFC ERGO and Atradius

DBS Bank (India) has collaboration with HDFC ERGO General Insurance Co Ltd and reinsured by Atradius (trade credit insurance provider).

Aim: To provide Credit Insurance - Accounts Receivable solution to Tata Metaliks (manufacturer of pig iron and DI pipes in India).

This credit insurance deal is amongst the first to leverage Trade Credit Insurance.

The revised framework was rolled out by IRDAI in November 2021, that allow banks to participate in this proposition.

AIFF launches Grassroots Football Development Scheme in Arunachal Pradesh

The All India Football Federation has launched grassroots football development (GFD) scheme in Arunachal Pradesh.

Aim: Tap, select and nurture football talents in the age group of 6 to 12 years.

GFD committee chairman, Shantanu Pujari has launched this scheme in the presence of CM Pema Khandu and AIFF President, Kalyan Chaubey. 

The state government would begin this scheme in 100 schools, and physical training teachers of selected schools would be trained by AIFF experts. 

Data Security Council of India appoints Vinayak Godse as CEO

Data Security Council of India (DSCI) has appointed Vinayak Godse as the new CEO of the organisation.

Prior to this, he was serving as the senior vice president of organisation.

He will succeed Rama Vedashree, who served DSCI for nearly six years.

Vedashree has also served on the Justice BN Srikrishna committee, which was charged with developing a model for the nation’s Personal Data Protection Bill.

DSCI was founded by NASS COM.

Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates 13th FICCI Global Skills Summit 2022

Education minister, Dharmendra Pradhan has inaugurated the 13th FICCI Global Skills Summit 2022 in New Delhi.

Theme 2022: Education to Employability - Making It Happen. 

The Summit would look through the NEP lens and focus on how India can become the “Skill Capital of the World,” using the UN SDG4 as an underlying theme.

The two day Summit was conclude with an event “VIRASAT” The Heritage which honours the exquisite craft of the Indian artisan s. 

Hitachi Astemo installs its first solar power plant in India

Hitachi Astemo, a subsidiary of Japanese firm, Hitachi has installed its India's first solar power plant at Jalgaon manufacturing plant in Maharashtra.

Hitachi is working to reduce its carbon emissions and become carbon neutral by 2050.

With the set up of 3 MW solar power plant, the company would be able to eliminate close to 4000 tons of CO2 emissions each year.

At its Jalgaon plant, Hitachi Astemo is responsible for making high quality brake systems for vehicles.

World Maritime Day 2022: 29th September

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) observes World Maritime Day on the last Thursday of September.

This year, it was observed on September 29.

Focus: Draw public attention to maritime safety and the marine environment.

2022 Theme: New technologies for greener shipping. 

World Maritime Day was celebrated for the first time on March 17, 1978.

The IMO was founded in 1948 to oversee the shipping sector.

Veteran Congress leader, Jayanti Patnaik passes away

Four time Congress MP, Jayanti Patnaik has been passed away at 90 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

She was also the first chairperson of NCW (1992 to 1995) and second chairperson of All India Mahila Congress.

She was elected from Cuttack and Berhampur Lok Sabha constituencies in 1981, 1984 and 1998.

She was nominated to Rajya Sabha in 1996.

She was also known for her literary skills, translated KM Munshi’s Krishnavatara into Odia.

RBI hikes repo rate by 50 basis points to 5.9%

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased repo rate by a half percent to 5.9%.

Accordingly, Standing Deposit Facility stands adjusted to 5.65%, and Marginal Standing Facility and Bank rate stand adjusted to 6.15%.

Since May 2022, he RBI has raised the repo rate by 190 basis points. 

The Real GDP for 2022-23 is projected to grow at 7.0%.

The RBI has retained it's inflation projection at 6.7 per cent for this fiscal year.

India’s foreign exchange reserves: $537.5 billion. 

India ranks 40th in Global Innovation Index of WIPO

As per the 2022 Global Innovation Index of World Intellectual Property Organization, India has climbed to the 40th rank.

India was at 46th position in 2021 and at 81st rank in 2015.

Switzerland with the score of 64.6, has emerged as the world's most innovative economy for the 12th consecutive year.

The second position was secured by the US followed by Sweden, and UK. 

Other countries: China (11th); Lithuania(39th); Latvia (41st); Bangladesh  (102nd); Guinea (132nd, last)

Srishti Bakshi wins ‘Changemaker’ award at UN SDG Action Awards

Indian women’s rights Activist, Srishti Bakshi was honoured with the ‘Changemaker’ award at UN SDG Action Awards.

Reason: For confronting gender-based violence and advocating for safe access to public spaces.

This is a flagship of the UN SDG Action Campaign that 'Mobilise, Inspire and Connect' people to drive action towards a more sustainable future on a healthy planet.

Other categories awards:

Mobilise: SUPvivors say NO MORE

Inspire: Masungi Story

Connect: CyprusInno