National News
1. Presidential Approval for Central and Integrated GST Amendment Bills, 2023
President Droupadi Murmu has officially given her assent to two significant pieces of legislation: the Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023. The Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, aims to introduce amendments to the existing Central Goods and Services Tax Act of 2017. These changes encompass adjustments to key definitions and provisions to align with evolving technological and economic landscapes. The Integrated Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, focuses on refining provisions in the Integrated Goods and Services Tax Act of 2017, particularly in relation to online activities.
2. BRO's Remarkable Feat: World’s Highest Motorable Road in Eastern Ladakh
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has embarked on a groundbreaking project to construct the 'Likaru-Mig La-Fukche' road in the Demchok sector of Ladakh. This strategic road aims to establish the world’s highest motorable road, reaching an altitude of around 19,400 feet, surpassing the previous record held by Umling La Pass. The project, initiated on India’s 77th Independence Day, holds great significance for national security. This 64-kilometer road will connect vital military outposts in the sensitive Fukche sector, situated just three kilometers from the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC). The road's construction will enhance communication and accessibility to remote military installations, reinforcing national security.
State News
3. Launch of 'My Bengal, Addiction-Free Bengal' Campaign by President
At the Raj Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu launched the 'My Bengal, Addiction-Free Bengal' campaign, organized by the Brahma Kumaris to address the issue of drug usage among the youth. The president stressed the urgent need to find viable solutions to eradicate this threat from society, highlighting a multi-faceted approach that involves spiritual awakening, medical intervention, social unity, and determined political will. President Droupadi Murmu emphasized that addiction often originates from mental stress and peer pressure, resulting in detrimental consequences for individuals and their families.
Defence News
4. Historic Achievement by INS Vagir: Longest Scorpene Submarine Deployment
INS Vagir, an Indian Navy submarine, has set a significant milestone by achieving the longest-ever deployment of any scorpene-class submarine. Covering a remarkable distance of 7,000 kilometers, INS Vagir's journey to Australia for joint military exercises marks a momentous achievement for naval prowess and international collaboration. This deployment to Australian waters symbolizes the growing partnership between the Indian Navy and the Royal Australian Navy, strengthening maritime security and defense strategies.
Banking News
5. RBI's Updated Guidelines to Enhance Infrastructure Financing by IDF-NBFCs
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced revised guidelines for Infrastructure Debt Fund-Non-Banking Financial Companies (IDF-NBFCs) to enhance their role in financing the infrastructure sector. The updates align regulations governing infrastructure sector financing by Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs). The new guidelines require IDF-NBFCs to maintain a minimum Net Owned Fund (NOF) of Rs 300 crore, ensuring financial strength for significant infrastructure financing. These norms also mandate a Capital-to-Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of at least 15%, with a minimum Tier 1 capital of 10%, safeguarding financial stability as funds are directed towards infrastructure projects.
Awards News
6. Maharashtra Government Honors Ratan Tata with 'Udyog Ratna' Award
Renowned industrialist Ratan Tata received the inaugural 'Udyog Ratna' award instituted by the Maharashtra government. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar presented the award to the 85-year-old chairman emeritus of Tata Sons. The Tata group operates in over 100 countries across six continents, with a collective revenue of $128 billion in 2021-22. The Udyog Ratna award recognizes the achievements of outstanding industrialists in Maharashtra, highlighting their contribution to the state's economic development.
Appointments News
7. Cricketer Rahul Dravid Appointed Brand Ambassador for BPCL
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL) has chosen cricketer Rahul Dravid as its brand ambassador. Dravid will endorse BPCL's Pure for Sure initiative and range of MAK lubricants. BPCL, an Indian public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, operates three refineries in Bina, Kochi, and Mumbai. As India's second-largest government-owned downstream oil producer, BPCL's operations are overseen by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The appointment of Rahul Dravid aligns with BPCL's commitment to promoting its initiatives and products.
Schemes News
8. Remarkable Achievement: Over 50 Crore Jan Dhan Accounts
India has achieved an impressive milestone as the total number of Jan Dhan accounts in the country surpasses 50 crore within less than nine years. This achievement underscores substantial changes in the nation's financial landscape, with gender inclusivity being highlighted by 56 percent of these accounts being owned by women. Additionally, around 67 percent of these accounts have been opened in rural and semi-urban areas, showcasing the program's widespread reach and positive impact in less urbanized regions. The cumulative deposits in Jan Dhan accounts have exceeded ₹2.03 lakh crore, reflecting increased financial engagement and empowerment of a significant population segment.
Sports News
9. Spain Clinches FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Title
Spain secured its first-ever Women’s World Cup title with a 1-0 victory over England in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup final held in Sydney. Spain's victory marked a historic campaign, as they reached the final after knockout wins against Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Captain Olga Carmona's decisive goal sealed the victory, making Spain the proud winners of the FIFA Women's World Cup.
10. Indian Wrestler Mohit Kumar Claims Gold at U-20 World Championship
Indian wrestler Mohit Kumar achieved a significant feat by winning the gold medal in the Men’s 61 kg Freestyle category at the U-20 World Wrestling Championship. In a captivating final match, Mohit Kumar overcame a trailing score of 0-6 against Russia's Eldar Akhmaduninov, securing nine consecutive points and ultimately clinching the coveted gold medal. This victory places Mohit Kumar among the elite group of Indian wrestlers who have attained this prestigious honor.
11. Indian Squash Prodigy Anahat Singh Triumphs in Asian Junior Championships
Indian squash prodigy Anahat Singh showcased exceptional talent and determination by securing the gold medal in the U-17 category of the Asian Junior Squash Individual Championships. Competing in the championship held from August 16 to 20, Anahat emerged victorious in the finals by defeating Hong Kong's Ena Kwong with a resounding 3-1 victory. Anahat's remarkable performance in the tournament adds another accolade to her growing list of accomplishments.
12. Indian Wrestler Priya Malik Wins Gold at U20 World Wrestling Championships
Indian wrestler Priya Malik achieved a remarkable feat by winning the gold medal at the U20 World Wrestling Championships held in Jordan. Competing in the 76 kg category, Priya Malik displayed her prowess on the mat, triumphing over Germany's Laura Kuehn with a convincing score of 5-0. Priya Malik's victory makes her the second Indian woman to attain a gold medal in the prestigious U20 World Wrestling Championships.
Important Days News
13. Sadbhavana Diwas 2023: Remembering Rajiv Gandhi's Legacy
Sadbhavana Diwas, observed on August 20th in India, commemorates the birthday of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. This day highlights Rajiv Gandhi's vision of national integration, peace, and public harmony among India's diverse population. The term "Sadbhavana" signifies "goodwill and bonafide." Rajiv Gandhi's modern and visionary approach towards a developed nation is celebrated on this day, which promotes national integration and communal harmony among people of all religions and languages.
Science and Technology News
14. Russia's Lunar Ambitions: Luna-25 Mission Ends in Setback
Russia's ambitious lunar mission, Luna-25, faced a setback as the spacecraft lost control and crashed onto the Moon's surface. This failure serves as a reminder of the challenges inherent in space exploration, emphasizing the unpredictability even with advanced technology. The article delves into the mission's details, the implications of its failure, and Russia's ongoing commitment to lunar exploration.
Obituaries News
15. Passing of Adobe Co-Founder Dr. John Warnock
Dr. John Warnock, co-founder of Adobe, passed away at the age of 82. In 1982, he established the revolutionary software company Adobe with his partner, Dr. Charles Geschke. Adobe's first program, Adobe PostScript, was released two years later. Dr. Warnock's leadership role at Adobe continued until 2000, and he remained on the company's board of directors afterward. His passing marks the end of an era in the technology industry.
Miscellaneous News
16. Srinagar’s Tulip Garden Sets Record with 1.5 Million Flowers
Srinagar's Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden has made its mark in the World Book of Records as Asia's largest and most spectacular park of its kind. With a captivating variety of 1.5 million blooming flowers, the garden is a living testament to nature's beauty and diversity. The garden's enchanting collection of 68 distinctive tulip varieties paints a tapestry of colors and shapes, showcasing the magnificence of the natural world.
17. GI Tag for Matti Banana Variety of Kanniyakumari District
The Matti banana variety native to Kanniyakumari district has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Thriving uniquely in the district's climate and soil, Matti bananas are slightly larger-than-human finger-sized fruits with a sweet fragrance and honey-like taste. This recognition emphasizes the unique qualities of these bananas and their cultural significance in the region.