National
1. India has been elected as the vice-chair of the Supply Chain Council (SCC) under the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). This council is focused on making supply chains stronger and more reliable for its 14 member countries.
2. On 2nd August 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the introduction of the Boilers Bill, 2024, in the Rajya Sabha. This new Bill aims to replace the old Boilers Act of 1923. The main purpose of the Bill is to update the rules about boilers to fit current industry and safety standards.
3. The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024, introduced by Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu in the Lok Sabha, is a new law meant to replace the old Aircraft Act of 1934. This new law is designed to update and simplify the rules for civil aviation in India.
4. In 2023, India continued to be the eighth-largest exporter of agricultural products worldwide. However, India's agricultural exports dropped from $55 billion in 2022 to $51 billion. This decline happened during a time when many other leading countries also saw a decrease in their agricultural exports.
5. Recently, the Union Cabinet approved a large plan for eight high-speed road corridor projects totaling 936 kilometers, with a total investment of Rs. 50,000 crore. These projects are designed to improve connectivity for both pilgrims and freight transport across various regions.
6. On 4th August 2024, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced that the state would buy all crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), making Haryana the first state in India to do this on such a wide scale. This move is seen as a strategic effort before the upcoming Assembly elections, especially after the ruling party's poor performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections.
7. The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 is an important project started in 2021 by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government. Its goal is to improve city infrastructure in India with a big investment.
8. On 5th August 2024, the Union government introduced a Bill in the Lok Sabha to reserve seats for Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Goa Legislative Assembly, where currently no seats are allocated for them. The Bill is called the "Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2024," and was presented by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal.
9. The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2024, was introduced in the Rajya Sabha to improve investment in the oil and gas sector. The Bill aims to stabilize policies, facilitate international arbitration, and extend lease durations to address long-standing concerns from investors.
10. On 12th July 2024, the Maharashtra State government introduced the Maharashtra Prisons and Correctional Services Bill during the Legislative Assembly's monsoon session. Although the Bill was not passed, it has been approved by the State Cabinet to be enacted as an Ordinance. This means it will become law temporarily while waiting for approval from the Central government and the President.
11. On 26th February 2024, the Lok Sabha passed the Appropriation (No. 2) Bill, 2024, allowing the Indian government to withdraw funds from the Consolidated Fund of India for the 2024-25 financial year. This followed discussions on budget allocations for several ministries, especially the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
12. There are ongoing discussions about a possible government bill to change the Waqf Act of 1995. This bill aims to improve accountability and transparency in Waqf boards and promote the inclusion of women in their administration.
13. The Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) is under investigation for possible unfair practices in giving out land as compensation for taking over private property. The issue became more serious when it was alleged that Parvathi, the wife of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, received 14 residential plots in a high-end area. This has raised questions about whether the process was fair and legal.
14. The Madras High Court has recently ruled that Section 77-A of the Registration Act, 1908, is unconstitutional. This section, added through a 2022 State amendment, gave District Registrars too much power to cancel property documents if there were accusations of fraud or forgery.
15. Recently, Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Mr. Bhupender Yadav, announced the creation of two new Peacock Sanctuaries in India: Adichunchanagiri in Karnataka and Choolannuar in Kerala. This decision shows the government's ongoing effort to protect wildlife and the national bird, the peacock.
16. The Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has proposed a new law called the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2024. This law aims to put strict rules on independent news creators who share content on digital platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and X. People are worried that these rules could limit freedom of speech and expression.
17. Nagaland has become the first state in India to start a disaster management insurance scheme by signing an agreement with SBI General Insurance. This new program called the Disaster Risk Transfer Parametric Insurance Solution (DRTPS), is designed to protect against natural disasters.
18. The Union government's proposed changes to the Waqf Boards Act of 1995 have caused a big political argument in India. Opposition parties are worried that these changes could harm the rights of the Muslim community to manage their lands and religious affairs. They believe that the amendments could take away some of the community's control.
19. The Maharashtra Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has approved the Maharashtra Logistics Policy 2024. This policy is designed to boost the state's economy by generating about Rs. 30,573 crore in revenue and creating around 5,00,000 jobs over the next five years. These plans are based on recommendations from the State Economic Advisory Council.
20. Odisha government introduced the state's first Grain ATM, a new technology designed to improve food distribution under the National Food Security Programme on 8th August 2024. This machine is part of the central government's Annapurti programme and was developed with help from the World Food Programme (WFP) to enhance food security in the region.
21. India's government is considering changes to the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Act and related rules to strengthen domestic accounting firms. The goal is to make it easier for these firms to merge and grow larger, potentially creating big domestic audit companies that can compete with the Big Four global firms.
22. On 9th August 2024, the Union Cabinet approved a new version of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U) program. This program is designed to help one crore (10 million) urban poor and middle-class families find housing. PMAY-U, also known as the Prime Minister's Housing Scheme, is a major government effort to provide strong, weather-resistant homes to eligible people living in cities, especially those with low incomes.
23. Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary introduced the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha. The purpose of this Bill is to give customers more options and to improve the way banks are governed.
24. On 9th August 2024, the Union Cabinet in India approved eight new railway projects, with a total investment of Rs. 24,657 crore. These projects aim to improve connectivity, make travel more efficient, and be environmentally friendly by reducing logistics costs and cutting down on carbon emissions.
25. Three underwater geographical features in the Indian Ocean have been officially named, following proposals from India. These are the Ashoka Seamount, Chandragupt Ridge, and Kalpataru Ridge, recently recognized by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).
26. Chhattisgarh has recently approved the creation of the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve to address a sharp decline in the state's tiger population. The new reserve combines an existing national park and a wildlife sanctuary, to improve conservation efforts despite some legal and environmental challenges.
27. The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) has gained notable recognition in the 2024 National Board of Accreditation (NBA) and National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings. It has moved up to 12th place in the top 100 overall category, improving from 14th place in 2022 and 2023.
28. On 12th August 2024, India's Union Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, shared the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings for the year 2024. In these rankings, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, stood out as one of the best, consistently ranking within the top five in four important categories: Overall performance, University ranking, Research Institutions, and Innovation.
29. The Maharashtra government has officially designated the geoglyphs and petroglyphs in Ratnagiri as protected monuments under the Maharashtra Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1960. This decision responds to growing concerns about preserving these important cultural artifacts.
30. Maharashtra will launch the 'Mukhyamantri Ladki Bahin' scheme on 17th August, announced by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This scheme is designed to give financial help to more than one crore (10 million) eligible women in the state. The launch coincides with Raksha Bandhan, a festival celebrated on 19th August.
31. The Union Cabinet approved three new Metro projects in India to improve city transportation. These are the Bengaluru Metro Phase-3, Thane Integral Ring Metro, and an extension of the Pune Metro, with a total estimated cost of Rs. 30,765.5 crore.
32. A research team at the Central University of Kerala, led by Dr. Ravi Kumar Kanaparthi, has developed an advanced cyanide sensor. This new technology is crucial for improving the safety of drinking water and food, especially in areas where cyanide-rich foods are common.
33. The Indian government is pushing forward with the IndiaAI Mission, aiming to build strong AI computing abilities. They have finalized a plan to buy 1,000 graphics processing units (GPUs), which are crucial for helping start-ups, researchers, and public agencies.
34. Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar inaugurated the 17th Divya Kala Mela in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, this event celebrates the talents of Divyang (disabled) individuals.
35. India made changes to its rules about exporting electricity to other countries, in August 2024. These changes were made to protect Indian companies from political risks in countries like Bangladesh. The new rules allow Indian power companies to bring the electricity back to India if there are delays in payments from the countries they supply.
36. Karnataka is leading India in the number of public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, with a total of 5,765 stations, according to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). Most of these stations (about 85%) are in the Bengaluru Urban district, showing Karnataka's strong commitment to supporting electric vehicles.
37. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has launched the Solar Village Scheme. This program aims to power 100 villages with 100% solar energy. Manyachiwadi in Satara district is the first village to benefit from this scheme, making it the first fully solar-powered village in the state.
38. Amul was honored as the world's strongest food brand by Brand Finance, a leading brand valuation firm. Amul achieved this recognition with a high Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 91 and a brand valuation of $3.3 billion. This is a significant achievement, reflecting an 11% increase in brand value compared to the previous year, 2023.
39. Delhi Airport made history by becoming the first airport in India to achieve 'Net Zero Carbon Emission Airport' status under the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme by Airport Council International (ACI). This significant milestone was proudly announced by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL).
40. Recently, a large group of Dhangars marched to the office of the subdivisional officer in Khamgaon, Maharashtra. They demanded a "grazing corridor" for their sheep and goats. The Dhangars are a community of shepherds. They live in several states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. They are also known by names like Golla and Kuruba in other regions.
41. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the Mukhyamantri Bal Paushtik Aahar Yojana in Hamirpur, a program designed to provide nutritious food to children in government schools. This new initiative builds on the existing midday meal scheme by adding more nutritious options.
42. The Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE) has introduced KITE GNU Linux 22.04, a new free operating system designed specifically for public schools in Kerala. This initiative aims to boost digital education across about 3,00,000 computers in the state's schools.
43. The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad has once again been recognized as the Best Airport at the India Travel Awards for the third year in a row. This achievement highlights RGIA's dedication to providing an exceptional experience for its passengers.
44. In July 2024, India became the top buyer of Russian oil, overtaking China. This change happened because China was making less money from refining oil, which led them to buy less Russian crude. India imported 2.07 million barrels of Russian oil per day. This was a 4.2% increase from June and a 12% increase from July 2022.
45. A recent study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has examined the risk factors for heart disease among adults in India, focusing on unemployment and high blood sugar levels. The study involved nearly 4,500 adults aged 40-69 and revealed important trends in heart disease risk across different groups.
46. Union Power Minister Manohar Lal held an important discussion with John Podesta, a senior adviser to the US President on International Climate Policy. This meeting marked a key moment in strengthening the cooperation between India and the United States in the energy sector, with a strong focus on clean energy projects.
47. Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic, smaller than 5 millimeters across. They come from the breakdown of larger plastic items, like bottles and bags, and can easily spread through the environment. Unfortunately, these tiny plastics can also get into the human body.
48. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has decided that dairy products like milk, ghee, butter, and curd should no longer be labeled as "A1" or "A2." These labels, according to FSSAI, can be misleading for consumers. Companies that currently have products with these labels are given six months to sell off their existing stock before the labels must be removed.
49. India and Ukraine have taken a big step forward in their relationship by signing four important agreements. These agreements are designed to improve cooperation between the two countries in key areas like defence, trade, medicine, green energy, and education.
50. The Environmental Strategic Partnership between India and Denmark has launched the Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) project to help restore the Varuna River. This project has received Rs. 16.8 crore from India's Jal Shakti Ministry and an additional Rs. 5 crore from Denmark.
51. The Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT) are urging the Sikkim government to shut down the NHPC Stage V and Stage III dams. Their demand follows a major landslide near Singtam, which caused significant damage to important structures, including the Balutar Teesta Stage V GIS building. This incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and environmental impact of nearby hydropower projects.
52. India and Indonesia recently criticized the use of terrorist groups to carry out attacks across borders, focusing on Pakistan's support for terror groups targeting Jammu and Kashmir. This issue was discussed during the sixth meeting of the India-Indonesia joint working group on counter-terrorism in Jakarta.
53. The mithun, also known as the gayal (Bos frontalis), is a semi-wild type of cattle traditionally raised by hill tribes. For the first time, this animal has been recorded in Assam, which is an important discovery in animal science. Previously, mithuns were only thought to live in the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
54. The Union Cabinet of India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the BioE3 policy, which stands for "Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment", on 25th August 2024. This policy aims to use advancements in biotechnology to support India's development goals by 2047.
55. Indian government will start a new pension system called the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), on 1st April 2025, after getting approval from the Union Cabinet. This scheme aims to address the dissatisfaction among government employees with the current National Pension Scheme (NPS) and comes at a time when several important Assembly elections are approaching.
56. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) reversed its earlier advisory. This advisory had instructed food businesses to remove any references to 'A1' and 'A2' milk from their product packaging. The decision to retract this advisory was made to allow more discussions with food sector stakeholders.
57. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently unveiled solar-powered tricycles during an important event held by the Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ). These tricycles are designed to help individuals with disabilities by offering them a new, sustainable way to get around.
58. A study led by Riya K. Alex at Cochin University has brought attention to the presence of microplastics, especially polyethylene (PE), in personal care products (PCPs). The study highlights concerns about the effects of these tiny plastic particles on the environment and human health, particularly in a fast-growing market like India.
59. Scientists at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) did a study to see how well nano diammonium phosphate (DAP) works compared to traditional nitrogen fertilizers. They found that nano DAP may not be as good, especially when it comes to growing wheat. This brings up concerns similar to those raised earlier about another nano fertilizer called nano urea.
60. The Himachal Pradesh government has introduced the 'Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojana.' This scheme allocates Rs. 53.21 crore every year to help vulnerable families. The main focus is on supporting widows, destitute women, divorced women, and parents with disabilities.
61. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has fined the Punjab government a huge amount Rs. 1,000 crore. This fine was imposed because the state has repeatedly failed to manage its solid and liquid waste properly, despite many warnings and legal obligations. The NGT has also ordered that this money be sent immediately to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and has held top government officials responsible for the ongoing failures.
62. The Union Cabinet has given the green light to build 12 new industrial smart cities across different states, with a budget of Rs. 28,602 crore. This plan, announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, aims to boost domestic manufacturing.
63. Karnataka has reported around 24,028 dengue cases and five deaths. To tackle this outbreak, the state's health department started a pilot project on 26th August 2024, using Ovitrap baskets to attract and monitor mosquitoes.
64. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, people have become much more concerned about where their food comes from and how safe it is. This worry comes from a better understanding of health risks and foodborne illnesses, which can make people sick. Groups like infants and elderly people are especially at risk from unsafe food. As a result, people in India are asking for more information about how food is produced and delivered.
65. The Himachal Pradesh Assembly passed a new law called the Prohibition of Child Marriage (Himachal Pradesh Amendment) Bill, 2024. This law raises the minimum age for women to get married from 18 to 21 years. It updates the Prohibition of Child Marriage (PCM) Act of 2006 to better address issues related to early marriage.
66. The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced a new policy to encourage social media influencers to promote its programs and achievements. Influencers will be paid for their posts, but the policy has received significant criticism from opposition parties and other groups.
67. The Assam Legislative Assembly passed a new law called the Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces Bill, 2024. This law is designed to address serious issues like child marriage, marriages without mutual consent, and polygamy. It replaces an old law from 1935, bringing in new rules to protect vulnerable individuals, especially women and children.
68. World Wide Fund(WWF)-India has started a new project called "Vulture Count 2024," which will take place from 7th September to 6th October 2024. This initiative is timed to coincide with International Vulture Awareness Day. The goal is to count and evaluate the number of vultures in India, particularly focusing on species that are critically endangered.
69. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for a major new project called the Vadhvan Port in Palghar, Maharashtra, on 30th August 2024. This project is expected to cost around Rs. 76,000 crore and aims to make Vadhvan one of the top ten ports in the world.
International
1. On 2nd August 2024, Turkey's Information and Communication Technologies Authority announced a block on Instagram, affecting about 85 million people. More than 50 million users in Turkey actively use Instagram. The Turkish government has not disclosed the reason for the ban.
2. A rising outbreak of Legionnaire's disease in Victoria, Australia has caused concern among health officials. The number of confirmed cases has increased from 22 to 33, with an additional 10 cases suspected. Chief Health Officer Clare Looker has noted a troubling rise in cases, mostly in the northern and western suburbs of Melbourne.
3. Since Sheikh Hasina became Prime Minister of Bangladesh in 2009, the country has built a strong relationship with India. This partnership is based on working together against terrorism and sharing economic and cultural interests. However, leadership changes could threaten this relationship, potentially affecting trade, travel, and a planned Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
4. Australia has added 13 new species to its threatened list. This has led to urgent calls to reform the country's environmental laws. Among the newly listed species are the vulnerable pig-nosed turtle, the critically endangered Dalhousie catfish, and the Coffs Harbour Fontainea. These species face extinction risks due to habitat destruction and climate change.
5. The U.S. State Department announced the release of $3.5 billion in military assistance to Israel after Congress approved the funds amidst rising tensions due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This money is part of a larger $14 billion supplemental bill that was passed in April 2023.
6. Africa is facing a serious outbreak of mpox, and the World Health Organization (WHO) has held an urgent meeting to decide if this situation should be declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Currently, 15 African countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda-which previously had no cases-are reporting confirmed cases of mpox.
7. On 11th August 2024, U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered the deployment of a guided missile submarine to the Middle East due to increasing tensions after the deaths of top members of Hamas and Hezbollah. This move comes as a response to fears that Iran and its allies might retaliate.
8. The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) helps skilled individuals apply for permanent residency in Alberta. It aims to address labour shortages and support business growth. The program works with both the Alberta provincial government and the Canadian federal government, with the final step being a permanent residency application processed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
9. On 13th August 2024, the 6th India-Australia Maritime Security Dialogue was held in Canberra, focusing on strengthening maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. This meeting reflects the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Australia and addresses crucial maritime issues.
10. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a "public health emergency of international concern" (PHEIC), on 14th August 2024. This decision was made after experts noticed a rise in mpox cases, especially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other African countries.
11. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that Sweden became the first country outside of Africa to report a case of the emerging clade I variant of mpox, on 15th August 2024. Due to the rapid spread of clade 1b, a variant of clade 1, the WHO declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
12. Croatia announced plans to reintroduce two months of compulsory military service starting 1st January 2025. This decision comes in response to rising tensions in Europe, fueled by Russia's actions in Ukraine and increasing military activities in the Balkans, a region with a history of conflict.
13. Germany recently joined the U.S.-led United Nations Command (UNC) in South Korea, making it the 18th member. This move shows Germany's commitment to global security and its belief that stability in Europe and the Indo-Pacific region are connected.
14. The Sri Lankan government has introduced a new policy that allows citizens from 35 countries to visit Sri Lanka without needing a visa. This policy starts on 1st October 2024, and is part of Sri Lanka's efforts to increase tourism and strengthen its relationships with other countries.
15. Australia recently recorded its hottest winter temperature ever, reaching 41.6°C (106.7°F) at Yampi Sound. This breaks the previous winter record by 0.4°C. It's also the highest temperature ever recorded in August across the country. The previous winter record was 41.2°C (106.2°F), set in August 2020 at West Roebuck. In Australia, winter lasts from early June to late August, and extreme heat is common in desert areas year-round.
16. The Philippine government accused China of acting aggressively and illegally in the South China Sea. This accusation came after a series of confrontations between the two countries at sea and in the air. The situation has increased tensions between the Philippines and China, reflecting the ongoing disputes over control of this important region.
17. The second meeting of the Joint Russian-Indian Commission on Cooperation in Emergency Management recently took place in Moscow. The Indian delegation, led by Shri Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs, aimed to strengthen how both countries handle emergencies.
18. The INDUS-X Summit is a major event where leaders from India and the United States come together to talk about new ideas and technologies in the defense sector. The third edition of this summit is set to take place on 9th-10th September 2024, at Stanford University in California. The goal of the summit is to strengthen the collaboration between the U.S. and India, especially in defense innovation.
Defence
1. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is getting ready to host its largest-ever multilateral military exercise called 'Tarang Shakti,' planned for August and September 2024. This exercise shows India's commitment to building strong international defense relationships and military partnerships.
2. The 14th India-Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue was held in New Delhi, showing the commitment to strengthen defence cooperation between the two countries, especially with growing security concerns in the region. The meeting was led by India's Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and Vietnam's Deputy Minister of National Defence, Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien.
3. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has recently given Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) the go-ahead to manufacture 200 Astra Mark 1 air-to-air missiles. This is a big step forward for India's homegrown missile production abilities. The decision was made when Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, the IAF Deputy Chief, visited the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Hyderabad.
4. On 10th August 2024, the Indian Air Force (IAF) team came back to India after taking part in Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 in Malaysia. This exercise happened from 5th to 9th August 2024, in Kuantan and involved working together with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).
5. The Indian Army recently conducted a military exercise called 'Parvat Prahaar' in the Ladakh region, which is located near the India-China border. This exercise focuses on preparing soldiers for high-altitude warfare, which involves fighting in the difficult and mountainous terrains of Eastern Ladakh. The exercise is a key part of India's military strategy, especially given the ongoing tensions with China.
6. On 13th August 2024, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India successfully carried out the first flight test of a long-range glide bomb named Gaurav. This test, conducted using a Su-30 MK-I fighter jet from the Indian Air Force, is a significant step forward in India's efforts to develop its own advanced defence technologies.
7. The U.S. Navy has deployed the AIM-174B missile to boost its aerial capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, aiming to counter China's aerial advantage amid growing tensions. The AIM-174B is a new missile based on the Raytheon SM-6, and it has the longest range of any U.S. air-to-air missile.
8. The 10th edition of Exercise Mitra Shakti, a joint military training exercise between India and Sri Lanka, is happening from 12th to 25th August 2024, at the Army Training School in Maduru Oya, Sri Lanka. This year, military dogs, also called "K9s," are playing a key role, showing how important they are in modern military operations.
9. China has recently added a laser weapon to one of its Type 071 amphibious assault ships. This move is part of a broader global trend where many countries, including the US, are integrating advanced laser weapons into their naval forces.
10. The 51st Fighter Wing (FW) at Osan Air Base in South Korea is conducting a major military training exercise by integrating its readiness drills with Ulchi Freedom Shield 24, an annual joint exercise between the U.S. and South Korea. This combined exercise started on 19th August 2024, and will continue until 23rd August 2024. The goal is to improve how well-prepared and ready the military is to respond to any threats.
11. The United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has given the green light for a possible sale of anti-submarine warfare equipment to India, worth around USD 52.8 million. This move highlights the strong commitment between the US and India to strengthen their relationship, especially in the areas of defence and security.
12. The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Mumbai is scheduled to visit Colombo, Sri Lanka, on 26th August 2024. This visit is important as it highlights the growing maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka and showcases India's dedication to regional security and mutual assistance.
13. India recently commissioned its second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) called INS Arighaat. This event took place in Visakhapatnam and was a significant step in strengthening India's defense capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh mentioned that this move is crucial for boosting India's nuclear triad, which is a three-part system that includes land-based missiles, aircraft, and submarines capable of launching nuclear weapons. This makes India more secure against potential threats.
Business, Economy & Banking
1. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to improve how solid waste and sanitation are handled in 100 cities across India. This project is part of the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, which aims to create cleaner cities.
2. India is preparing for the World Bank's new Business-Ready (B-Ready) index, which will evaluate the global business environment and investment climate. This new index replaces the Doing Business index and focuses on key factors that affect how businesses operate.
3. Global equity markets experienced a severe downturn starting on 5th August, causing significant declines in major markets from Tokyo to London. Japan's Nikkei had its largest single-day drop since 1987, indicating a major systemic issue.
4. India and Russia are working on introducing a "dynamic reference rate" for their currencies, the Indian Rupee (INR) and the Russian Rouble (RUB), to make financial transactions between the two countries easier and to reduce the impact of U.S. sanctions on Russia. Despite these efforts, India's Reserve Bank Governor, Shaktikanta Das, has clarified that there are no plans to completely stop using the U.S. dollar, which remains the dominant currency in global trade.
5. The $8.5 billion merger between Reliance and Disney is under the spotlight as India's antitrust body, the Competition Commission of India (CCI), examines its impact on competition in the media sector. This merger will create the largest entertainment company in India, bringing together 120 TV channels and two streaming services.
6. The Jackson Hole Economic Policy Symposium is a yearly event that gathers important people like central bankers, economists, and policymakers from around the world. It is organized by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Since it began in 1978, this event has become a key meeting place where big ideas about the global economy and money policies are discussed. People like Ben Bernanke, a former U.S. Federal Reserve Chair, and Mario Draghi, the former President of the European Central Bank, have spoken at this event, making it very influential.
7. The Unified Lending Interface (ULI) is a new technology platform that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plans to introduce across the country. Its main purpose is to make it easier and faster for people, especially those in rural areas, to get loans. ULI is designed to improve the lending process by lowering costs and speeding up how quickly loans are given out.
8. Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett, made history by becoming the first non-technology company to reach a market value of $1 trillion, on 28th August. This achievement came after a key decision to sell nearly half of its shares in Apple, which helped the company build up a huge cash reserve of $280 billion.
Science & Technology
1. Scientists from India and the UK have recently discovered six new species of bent-toed geckos in Northeast India. This finding highlights the region's rich and largely hidden ecological diversity, emphasizing the importance of ongoing biological exploration.
2. In 2024, scientists made a significant discovery when they announced that comet A117uUD had been ejected from our solar system after a close encounter with Saturn. The comet, A117uUD, was discovered by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) on 14th June 2024. Researchers studied its path around the Sun using 142 tracking observations.
3. The National Institute of Technology-Calicut (NIT-C) has launched a new web portal called 'Nivahika'. This portal is designed to change how the institute handles and reports data. According to the director, Prasad Krishna, Nivahika will improve the accuracy and consistency of the institute's data submissions and help with national rankings.
4. CAR-T cell therapy is a groundbreaking type of immunotherapy that uses the patient's immune system to fight certain blood cancers. It is particularly promising for treating leukemia and lymphoma.
5. India has chosen two astronauts for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the main mission pilot, and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair will be the backup pilot. This mission is a big step for India's human spaceflight program and involves working closely with the United States.
6. When ChatGPT was launched in November 2022, it sparked a lot of discussion in the field of education. Many people were worried about the impact it would have on the honesty and originality of student work. Teachers found it challenging to tell the difference between work written by students and content generated by AI.
7. A new flowering plant called Ceropegia Shivrayiana has been discovered in the Vishalgad area of Kolhapur. This discovery was detailed in a research paper published in the journal Phytotaxa, highlighting the biodiversity and ecological importance of Vishalgad Fort.
8. Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) have developed a new machine learning framework called 'LEAP' that significantly improves the process of Electronic Design Automation (EDA) for Integrated Circuits (ICs). EDA is a critical process in the $600 billion semiconductor industry. This software takes high-level circuit designs and converts them into a format that can be manufactured, known as Graphic Design System (GDS).
9. IIT Indore has created advanced shoes using a special technology called Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG). These shoes are designed to improve safety and efficiency for armed forces personnel but could also be useful in many other areas. TENG technology works by turning the movement of your steps into electrical energy. As you walk, the energy from each step is collected and stored in the shoe.
10. NASA recently shared a stunning picture of the Earth's terminator taken from the International Space Station (ISS). This image, captured from about 267 miles above Earth, shows the beautiful line between night and day. The photo highlights a special visual effect where the sun's light creates a glowing edge where night turns into day.
11. The European Space Agency (ESA) is about to perform a very important and new kind of move in its JUICE mission. This move called a Lunar-Earth gravity assist, will use both the Moon and Earth to help change the spacecraft's speed and direction. It's the first time a spacecraft will use two different celestial bodies in this way. This maneuver is crucial and will greatly affect how the rest of the mission goes.
12. The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) has created a new center called the Centre for Narmada River Basin Management (cNARMADA) to study the Narmada River and its surrounding areas. This center will work with IIT Indore and is supported by the Ministry of Jalshakti, responsible for water resources in India.
13. The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission, a joint project between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has encountered delays, pushing its launch to after February 2025. This mission is focused on improving our understanding of environmental changes and natural hazards through advanced radar imaging.
14. Archaeologists at Gobekli Tepe in southern Turkey have discovered what is thought to be the Earth's oldest known Sun-and-Moon calendar, carved into a large stone pillar. This discovery, reported in a study on 24th July, offers new insights into the development of early timekeeping methods.
15. India and Israel have launched a joint project to set up a Centre of Water Technology at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. This initiative is designed to strengthen India's efforts in sustainable water management and improve water resource management practices.
16. The Type 1 Diabetes Grand Challenge, supported by the Steve Morgan Foundation, Diabetes UK, and JDRF, awarded over £2.7 million to various research projects, on 12th August 2024. These funds aim to create advanced insulin therapies that better manage type 1 diabetes by mimicking how a healthy pancreas functions.
17. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning on 13th August, about an increase in cases of parvovirus B19, also known as "fifth disease." This is a highly contagious infection that is currently affecting many young children in the United States. There has also been a spike in cases across 14 European countries earlier in 2024.
18. Researchers at Lund University in Sweden have developed an exciting new blood test called PrecivityAD2, which can detect Alzheimer's disease (AD) with around 90% accuracy. This breakthrough allows for earlier diagnosis and is especially useful for people with mild cognitive impairment. The results were published in the peer-reviewed journal JAMA.
19. The Indian automobile industry will soon see a new addition - a tiny electric car called the Robin. This new car is designed to make personal travel easier and greener, and it's expected to help reduce city traffic congestion. The car is created by a startup called Wings
20. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission. This mission launched a small satellite designed to observe Earth. It follows the success of the earlier SSLV-D2-EOS-07 mission, which was launched in February 2023.
21. The South American lungfish, Lepidosiren paradoxa is a unique species found in the stagnant waters of South America. It has gained attention for being a living fossil and possessing the largest known genome of any animal, approximately 30 times the size of the human genome.
22. The rare supermoon blue moon, also known as the 'Sturgeon Moon' appeared on 19th August 2024. A super moon happens when the full moon is at the closest point to Earth in its orbit. Because the moon is closer, it looks about 14% bigger and 30% brighter than it does when it's farther away. A full moon occurs when the moon is positioned directly opposite the sun, making the whole side we see fully lit up.
23. Recent research has revealed large amounts of liquid water hidden beneath the surface of Mars. This discovery challenges what scientists previously thought about water on Mars and opens up new possibilities for understanding the planet's geology and the potential for life.
24. Astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have developed a new way to predict the strength of solar cycles. This helps scientists understand solar activity better and improve forecasts for space weather, which can affect communication systems, satellites, and even astronauts.
25. Nature uses genetic instructions to create living things, called a genome. Recent advances in gene editing, especially with CRISPR technology, aim to improve agriculture and make crops more resilient by precisely changing their genetic makeup. CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) allows scientists to edit genetic codes.
26. The Polaris Dawn mission is set to achieve remarkable feats in space exploration. It aims to be the first private mission where astronauts will perform a spacewalk at a record-breaking altitude of 700 kilometers (435 miles) above Earth. This altitude is higher than the International Space Station (ISS), making it a significant milestone in human spaceflight.
27. Astronomers have created the Black Hole Finder app, a tool designed by the Dutch Black Hole Consortium. The main goal of this app is to help everyday people-like you-find newly-formed black holes. Now available in eight different languages, the app has been made accessible to people all around the world. By using this app, you can actively participate in discovering black holes, and contributing to important scientific research.
28. Dr. Atikur Rahman's research group at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Pune has created a new method for growing tiny crystals called CsPbBr3 nanoplatelets. These crystals are important because they can be used in devices that detect light and are used in electronic devices like solar panels and LEDs.
29. Astronomers at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have come up with a new way to study the Sun's atmosphere by looking at its magnetic fields in different layers. This is a big breakthrough because it uses data from a special telescope called the Kodaikanal Tower Tunnel Telescope. By understanding these magnetic fields better, scientists can learn more about how the Sun works, including things like the solar wind, which affects us here on Earth.
30. As the world moves towards using more renewable energy, solar paraboloid technology is becoming more popular because it could make solar power more efficient. This technology might play a big role in reducing carbon emissions and helping countries meet their net-zero goals.
31. India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket, Rhumi-1, from Thiruvidanthai, Chennai, marking a significant achievement in the country's space exploration efforts, on 24th August 2024. This event, known as Mission Rhumi, not only showcased advanced technology but also aimed to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts.
32. On 25th August 2024, the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore (IIM-B), signed an important agreement with Mathew Cyriac, a former student and the Executive Chairman of Florintree Advisors Pvt Ltd. This partnership aims to establish India's first Global Centre of Excellence focused on Private Equity (PE) and Venture Capital (VC).
33. NASA's Perseverance rover began an important new phase of its mission on Mars by starting its climb to the top of Jezero Crater, on 27th August 2024. After spending over three years exploring the crater's floor, the rover is now on a journey to reach the crater's rim. This mission is particularly exciting because the rock samples it collects could help scientists learn more about Mars' climate history and whether life ever existed on the planet.
34. In 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans to launch the Gaganyaan mission, featuring an uncrewed robot called Vyomitra. This robot, known as a half-humanoid, is designed to help with tasks in space.
35. Google DeepMind's India unit is leading a big AI project called "Morni." This project is focused on developing AI technologies that can understand and work with 125 different Indian languages and dialects. This is very important because India is a country with many languages, and making AI work for all of them will help ensure that everyone can benefit from AI, no matter what language they speak.
36. A teenager in Missouri recently got sick with the West Nile virus, leading to very serious health problems. These included paralysis (loss of the ability to move parts of the body) and the need for machines to help him breathe in the intensive care unit (ICU). His situation has made many people more aware of the dangers of the West Nile virus and has caused concern in the community.
37. OpenAI has grown quickly and now has around 200 million people using its products every week. Even though some people wonder if the company can stay ahead of its competitors, OpenAI is doing well, especially as more and more people are interested in generative AI. This type of AI can create text, images, and other content.
38. At the 47th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), Chairman Mukesh Ambani introduced a new AI initiative called "Jio Brain." This initiative aims to significantly improve how the company operates and interacts with customers by using advanced artificial intelligence tools.
39. Astronomers have found an extraordinary quasar named J0529-4351, which is the brightest object ever observed in the universe. Detected with the Very Large Telescope (VLT) by the European Southern Observatory, this quasar has amazed scientists because of its incredible brightness and fast expansion.
Government Schemes
1. Safe City Projects are organized efforts by local police and city authorities to make cities safer, especially for women, and to fix problems with infrastructure. These projects are part of national plans to prevent cyber crimes against women and children, supported by the Nirbhaya Fund.
2. To reduce academic pressure on students in Classes 6 to 8, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has proposed 10 'bagless days'. These days are meant to encourage hands-on learning and vocational experiences.
3. To promote the Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana, four awareness chariots have been launched by Deputy Development Commissioner Manish Kumar and District Magistrate Ananya Mittal. These chariots will travel across Panchayats and Municipal bodies from 3rd August to 10th August 2024.
4. Chief Minister Hemant Soren has recently introduced the Upasthiti Portal under the Health, Medical Education, and Family Welfare Department. This initiative aims to accurately track the daily attendance of all health department staff, including doctors and paramedical workers. It shows the government's dedication to improving health services in
5. The PM-KUSUM scheme, started in 2019 to introduce solar energy in Indian agriculture, is facing difficulties. According to a report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), only 30% of the scheme's targets have been met. With the 2026 deadline approaching, improvements are urgently needed.
6. The Union Government of India is considering adding an AYUSH package to the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). This initiative aims to improve health coverage for a large segment of the population.
7. The Indian government is starting a major auction process to encourage the production of green ammonia as part of its Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) Scheme. This effort is aimed at helping India move towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources by supporting the creation of green hydrogen and its related products.
8. The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is a key initiative by the Indian government aimed at providing affordable, high-quality medicines to citizens. Through this program, medicines are made available at significantly reduced prices-often between 50% to 90% cheaper than their branded equivalents.
9. The Union Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of three major schemes, combining them into a new central sector scheme called 'Vigyan Dhara.' This scheme will have a proposed budget of Rs. 10,579.84 crore for the period from 2021-22 to 2025-26, according to the 15th Finance Commission.
10. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in India is proposing a new policy to repair and upgrade old national highways using a method called Whitetopping Technology. MoRTH is asking for feedback on this idea from stakeholders by 7th September. This policy is needed because many parts of India's national highways, which cover about 1.46 lakh km, are aging and require improvement.
Awards & Honours
1. On 1st August 2024, Preeti Sudan will start her role as the Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. She is taking over from Manoj Soni, who resigned for personal reasons. Preeti Sudan will hold this position until April 2025, when she will turn 65 years old.
2. KIIT Deemed to be University (KIIT DU) has received a special honor from the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC). This recognition, given on 23rd July 2024, in New York, puts KIIT DU in a special group of global institutions that are committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
3. Leonard Hayflick, a renowned biomedical researcher, passed away at 98, on 1st August 2024. He was famous for his discovery related to how cells divide and age, which has dramatically changed our understanding of biology and aging.
4. Muhammad Yunus, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006, has been appointed as the chief adviser to Bangladesh's interim government. This happened after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned due to growing protests. The announcement was made by Army Chief Waker-uz-Zaman and is related to widespread unrest over government job quotas.
5. The Indian government has brought back the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar, marking the first national awards for scientists since their number was reduced in 2022. On 7th August 2024, it was announced that thirty-three awards would be given out on 23rd August, which is also National Space Day. This date celebrates the successful Chandrayaan-3 moon landing.
6. Shah Rukh Khan, famous as Bollywood's 'King Khan', received a career achievement award at the 77th Locarno Film Festival on 10th August. This award recognizes his major impact on cinema. In his speech to an audience of 8,000, Khan shared his thoughts on cinema, calling it a strong artistic form that goes beyond cultural and geographical limits.
7. On 11th August 2024, Paul Kagame, the President of Rwanda, began his fourth term in office after winning an election with more than 99% of the vote. The ceremony occurred in a crowded stadium in Kigali, Rwanda's capital, and was attended by many important leaders from different African countries. During his speech, Kagame promised to continue working for peace and unity in Rwanda.
8. Vinay Mohan Kwatra has been appointed the Indian Ambassador to the United States, starting his role on 12th August 2024, and succeeding Taranjit Singh Sandhu. This move is part of a broader plan to strengthen India-US relations.
9. Paetongtarn Shinawatra was elected as Thailand's youngest prime minister at the age of 37. Her election came after the dismissal of Srettha Thavisin, marking a major change in Thailand's political scene amid ongoing instability. Paetongtarn is the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, a highly influential and controversial figure in Thai politics.
10. General Sundararajan Padmanabhan, a former Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army, died on 19th August 2024, in Chennai at the age of 83. Known as "Paddy" among friends, he is remembered for his outstanding leadership. General Padmanabhan had a long military career of over 43 years.
11. Indian President Droupadi Murmu's recent two-day state visit to Fiji marks a significant step in strengthening diplomatic relations between India and Fiji. This event is a key moment in building stronger partnerships between the two countries.
12. M. Suresh has been appointed as the Interim Chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) starting from August 2024. This change comes after the government decided to relieve the previous Chairman, Sanjeev Kumar, marking an important shift in the organization's leadership.
13. Jay Shah, who is currently the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), is getting ready to take over as the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC). This change is expected to happen in November after discussions about Shah's plans to step into this role.
14. Sanjeev Raina, a senior officer from the 1987 batch of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), has been appointed as the Additional Director General (ADG) of the ITBP. He will be specifically responsible for overseeing the forces along the India-China Line of Actual Control (LAC). This is a significant event because he is only the second officer who is not from the Indian Police Service (IPS) to reach this high rank in the history of the ITBP.
15. Pavel Durov, the co-founder and CEO of Telegram, was arrested at Le Bourget airport in Paris. His arrest is connected to an ongoing investigation in France. Authorities are looking into accusations that Telegram, due to its privacy features and lack of moderation, has allowed various illegal activities to occur on its platform.
16. The Indian government has named B. Srinivasan as the new Director General of the National Security Guard (NSG), following Nalin Prabhat's reassignment. Prabhat has been moved to the role of Special Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police.
17. Apple announced that Kevan Parekh will become the company's new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) on 1st January 2025, replacing Luca Maestri. This change marks an important moment in Apple's leadership, as Parekh takes on a key role in managing the company's finances.
Sports
1. In a historic 100m final, US sprinter Noah Lyles won gold in a dramatic photo finish, beating Jamaica's Kishane Thompson by just 0.005 seconds. All eight runners finished the race in under 10 seconds, which had never happened before in legal wind conditions.
2. Wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified because she was a bit over the weight limit for her gold medal match. Although she gained weight the day before, she was found to be "a few grams over 50 kg" on the competition day. This situation shows the ongoing issues in sports like wrestling with managing weight.
3. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic champion in men's javelin throw, secured a silver medal, marking a significant achievement even though he couldn't defend his title. This event showcased the fierce competition among the world's top javelin throwers.
4. India's men's hockey team won the bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics with a 2-1 victory over Spain. This is a significant achievement because it marks India's first time winning consecutive Olympic medals in hockey since the 1972 Munich Games. The bronze medal match was held at the Yves du Manoir Stadium in Paris.
5. At the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Aman Sehrawat of India made his mark by winning a bronze medal in the men's 57 kg wrestling category, adding a proud moment to India's Olympic wrestling history. His performance was remarkable, showcasing his skill and determination throughout the competition.
6. The Paris Olympics 2024 ended with India winning a total of six medals: one silver and five bronze. This was a decrease from the seven medals, including one gold, that India achieved at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. India sent a delegation of 117 athletes competing in 16 different sports.
7. Avani Lekhara set a new Paralympic record with a score of 249.7, becoming the first Indian woman to win two individual gold medals at the Paralympics. With this achievement, Avani joined Devendra Jhajharia as the only Indian Paralympian to win multiple individual gold medals.
References:
jagranjosh.com
gktoday.in
business-standard.com
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