National News
1. Over 5.25 Crore Subscribers Enrolled in Atal Pension Yojana
The Atal Pension Yojana (APY), a scheme focused on ensuring old age income security for Indian citizens, particularly those in the unorganized sector, has achieved a significant milestone of over 5.25 crore enrolled subscribers during its successful eight-year implementation. Launched in 2015, the APY has consistently garnered increasing enrollments, experiencing a remarkable 20% surge in new enrollments during the fiscal year 2022-23 compared to the previous year. This growth pattern aligns with previous years, where FY 2021-22 saw a robust 25% increase over FY 2020-21.
International News
2. Iraq Implements Ban on Term ‘Homosexuality’ in Media
Iraq's media regulatory body has introduced a ban on the use of the term 'homosexuality,' replacing it with the term 'sexual deviance' across all media and social media platforms. This directive is a response to intensified opposition to LGBT rights within Iraq, exemplified by the burning of rainbow flags in protests.
3. China's July Exports Experience Significant Decline, Prompting Economic Concerns
China's economy faces challenges as its July exports witness a double-digit drop of 14.5% compared to the previous year. This decline contributes to an already sluggish economic growth rate of approximately 3.2%, a significant decrease from previous quarters. The export contraction, attributed to falling prices rather than volume, is the most substantial since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Defence News
4. Defence Ministry Adopts Indigenous OS for Enhanced Cybersecurity
India's Ministry of Defence takes a proactive stance against escalating cyber threats by replacing the Microsoft operating system with a domestically developed alternative, the 'Maya' operating system. Created within a mere six months, this strategic shift aims to bolster the nation's cybersecurity measures.
5. Quad Navies Set to Enhance Anti-Submarine Warfare Capabilities in Joint Drills
The much-anticipated Malabar naval exercises, involving maritime forces from India, Japan, the United States, and Australia, are poised to commence along Australia's eastern coast. These exercises prioritize anti-submarine warfare capabilities, underscoring the participants' commitment to collaborative maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
6. Swathi Mountains: Compact Weapon Locating Radar Empowers Indian Army
The Indian Army introduces the 'Swathi Mountains,' a compact and advanced version of the indigenous Weapon Locating Radar (WLR-M). Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), this radar system holds significant potential in enhancing military operations, particularly in challenging terrains
Banking News
7. Banks Accumulate Over ₹35,000 Crore in Charges, RBI Emphasizes Fairness
Indian public sector and major private banks have amassed over ₹35,000 crore in charges since 2018, largely due to penalties imposed on account holders failing to maintain minimum balances and additional ATM transactions. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) stresses the importance of reasonable charges aligned with service costs and urges equitable fees for SMS alerts.
Important Days News
8. Global Observance of World Lion Day on 10th August
Annually observed on August 10th, World Lion Day aims to raise awareness about lion conservation and preservation efforts. This day acknowledges the challenges faced by lions worldwide and promotes initiatives to safeguard their populations. Founded in 2013 by Big Cat Rescue, the observance is a response to declining lion populations and increasing threats.
9. Worldwide Recognition of World Biofuel Day on 10th August
World Biofuel Day, marked on August 10th, highlights the significance of non-fossil fuels as alternatives to conventional fossil fuels. It commemorates the research experiments by Sir Rudolf Diesel, predicting vegetable oils as future substitutes for mechanical engines. The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas has observed this day since 2015.
Schemes News
10. BHU-VISION: Innovative Soil Testing System with IoT Integration
BHU-VISION, also known as KRISHI-RASTAA Soil Testing System, revolutionizes soil testing and agronomy advisory through an IoT-based platform. This portable device, requiring minimal training, performs 12 crucial soil parameter tests within 30 minutes. Its electrochemical sensors and colorimetric methods analyze pH, nutrients, and minerals, enhancing agricultural productivity.
11. Pending Crop Insurance Claims Totaling Rs. 2,761.10 Crore Addressed by GOI
A substantial backlog of crop insurance claims totaling approximately Rs. 2,716.10 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna (PMFBY) has been resolved. Delays were attributed to factors such as delayed yield data transmission and disagreements between insurance companies and states. The government emphasizes reasonable settlement of claims.
Appointments News
12. Justice Subhasis Talapatra Takes Oath as Chief Justice of Orissa High Court
Justice Subhasis Talapatra assumes the role of the 33rd Chief Justice of the Orissa High Court, succeeding Justice S Muralidhar. Holding the position for a brief period of under two months until his retirement on October 3, 2023, Justice Talapatra's journey in the judiciary began in 2013.
13. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal Assumes Role as CBIC Chairman
Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, an IRS officer, assumes the position of Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). He succeeds Vivek Johri, who previously held the position. Agarwal's appointment reflects his expertise in compliance management and investigations.
Obituaries News
14. Renowned Malayalam Director Siddique Ismail Passes Away
Renowned Malayalam director and screenwriter Siddique Ismail, known for iconic films like "Friends" and "The French Connection," passes away at the age of 63. Siddique Ismail's contributions to Malayalam cinema have left an indelible mark.
15. Oscar-Winning Director William Friedkin's Demise
William Friedkin, the Oscar-winning director of acclaimed films such as "The Exorcist" and "The French Connection," passes away at the age of 87. Friedkin's cinematic legacy has significantly influenced the film industry with his exceptional works.