International News

sraeli Researchers Uncover Underwater Canyon Near Cyprus

• The Geological Institute of Israel has recently made a groundbreaking discovery near Cyprus, uncovering an underwater canyon of unprecedented proportions.
• Named Eratosthenes after the nearby underwater mountain, this canyon sheds new light on the geological history of the Mediterranean region.
• Eratosthenes Canyon, dating back approximately 5.5 million years to the Messinian Event, stretches across approximately 10 kilometers in width and plunges to depths of 500 meters, showcasing its sheer magnitude.

State News

Bharat Rang Mahotsav, India’s Biggest Theatre Festival, Kicks Off In Gujarat

• The prestigious Bharat Rang Mahotsav, India’s foremost theatre festival, inaugurated its festivities in the culturally vibrant Kachchh district of Gujarat, heralding the onset of a lively homage to the performing arts.
• The festival commenced with a mesmerizing rendition of ‘Uttararamacharitam,’ a classic masterpiece by Bhavabhuti, directed by Chavan Pramod R. from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda.
• This stirring play, presented in Gujarati, showcased the remarkable talent of NSD students. As Bharat Rang Mahotsav enters its 25th year, it stands as a testament to the diverse theatrical voices that enrich India’s cultural landscape, bringing together artists from across the nation to offer a kaleidoscope of performances.

Uttarakhand CM Launches “Dhami Against Drugs Campaign”

• Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the “Dhami against drugs campaign,” a pivotal initiative spearheaded by the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha Metropolitan Dehradun.
• Running from February 5 to February 10, this campaign marks a significant step in the state government’s resolution to eradicate drug abuse and cultivate a healthier, drug-free society by 2025.
• More than just a slogan, the “Dhami against drugs campaign” is a call to action for the entire community, aiming to engage various stakeholders, including students, educational institutions, and civil society, in fostering a collective resistance against the drug menace.

Bapu Tower: A Monumental Tribute To Mahatma Gandhi In Patna, Bihar

• In the heart of Patna, Bihar, a new landmark has emerged as a monumental tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, fondly known as the Father of the Nation.
• The Bapu Tower, located in Gardanibagh, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Towering at a height of 120 feet and comprising six stories, the Bapu Tower is the realization of a dream project envisioned by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
• More than just an architectural marvel, it serves as a hub for learning and reflection on Gandhi’s life and contributions to India’s freedom struggle, embodying his universal principles of peace, non-violence, and harmony.

Economy News

Jammu And Kashmir Gets $14 Billion From Interim Budget

• India has taken a significant step towards the economic development of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir by announcing an interim Budget of $14 billion for the fiscal year 2024-25.
• This financial commitment is noteworthy, being approximately 4.5 times greater than the total amount Pakistan is seeking from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to address its ongoing economic challenges.
• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the interim budget on a symbolic day, as Pakistan observed “Kashmir Solidarity Day,” reflecting India’s resolve to prioritize the economic upliftment of Jammu and Kashmir and its integral territories.

Banking News

RBI’s Analysis Report On Trend And Progress Of Banking In India 2022-23

• The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) recent analysis report on the trend and progress of banking in India for 2022-23 provides a thorough overview of the sector's performance.
• As mandated by Section 36(2) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, this report delves into various aspects of the banking landscape, including cooperative banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), offering valuable insights into their contributions to the nation's economic framework.
• Highlighting the robustness of India's banking system, the report underscores high capital ratios, improved asset quality, and substantial earnings growth.
• Notably, NBFCs have exhibited remarkable growth and enhanced asset quality, with their combined balance sheets registering a notable 14.8% growth in the specified period.

Important Days News

Safer Internet Day 2024

• 7th February marks Safer Internet Day, a global initiative aimed at promoting online safety and security. With the theme "Inspiring Change.
• Making a difference, managing influence and navigating change online," Safer Internet Day 2024 emphasizes proactive measures to foster a positive and secure digital environment.
• In an era where digital interactions are integral to daily life, this observance serves as a reminder of the critical need for awareness and education on internet safety.
• It encourages individuals, families, and communities worldwide to evaluate their digital habits, implement robust security measures, and advocate for a respectful and inclusive online community.

Ranks & Reports News

Mukesh Ambani Tops Global Brand Guardianship Index 2024

• In the Global Brand Guardianship Index 2024 by Brand Finance, Mukesh Ambani, the visionary leader behind Reliance Industries Limited, has secured the top position among Indian executives and an impressive second place globally.
• With an outstanding Brand Guardianship Index (BGI) score of 80.3, Ambani surpasses renowned global leaders such as Satya Nadella, Sundar Pichai, Tim Cook, and Elon Musk.
• This recognition underscores Ambani's exemplary stewardship of his company's brand and long-term value, positioning him just below Huateng Ma of China-based Tencent, who leads with a score of 81.6.

Summits & Conferences News

PM Narendra Modi To Address World Government Summit In Dubai

• Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address the prestigious World Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai on February 14.
• This marks his second invitation to the WGS, reaffirming India's active engagement in global dialogues on pressing issues. The WGS, an annual gathering of world leaders, policymakers, and experts, serves as a platform to address global challenges.
• PM Modi's participation underscores India's commitment to international cooperation and collaboration.
• Additionally, on the same day, PM Modi will inaugurate the UAE’s first traditional stone temple, the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, symbolizing the deepening cultural ties between India and the UAE.

Awards News

PT Usha Honored With Lifetime Achievement Award By SJFI And DSJA

• Legendary sprinter PT Usha, currently serving as the President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), has been honored with the prestigious 'Lifetime Achievement' award by the Sports Journalists Federation of India (SJFI) and Delhi Sports Journalists Association (DSJA).
• This accolade recognizes Usha's extraordinary contributions to Indian athletics. Celebrating her illustrious career, the event highlighted her significant impact on Indian sports and her role as an inspiration to countless athletes nationwide.
• Usha's recognition serves as a testament to her enduring legacy and remarkable achievements in the field of athletics.

REC Receives Best Green Bond – Corporate Award

• REC Limited, a leading NBFC and Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power, has been honored with the prestigious Best Green Bond – Corporate Award at The Asset Triple A Awards for Sustainable Finance.
• In April 2023, REC issued USD Green Bonds worth $750 million, making history as the first such issuance from India post its assumption of G20 Presidency.
• This significant milestone, recognized as the largest Senior Green Bond Tranche by a South or South-East Asian issuer, garnered widespread acclaim.
• The Asset Triple A Awards, with a rich legacy spanning over two decades, are a benchmark for excellence in various industries, showcasing unparalleled industry insight and recognizing top-performing institutions and deals.

Dr. Bina Modi Named ‘Outstanding Business Woman Of The Year 2023’

• Bina Modi, the esteemed Chairperson of Modi Enterprises, has been conferred with the prestigious ‘Outstanding Business Woman of the Year’ Award.
• Honored by Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister of India, at a distinguished conference organized by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC), this accolade underscores her remarkable leadership and contributions to the industry.
• As Chairperson of Modi Enterprises – KK Modi Group, Dr. Bina Modi oversees a diverse portfolio of companies, including the renowned FMCG giant, Godfrey Phillips India, and the leading agro-chemical firm, Indofil.

Appointments News

Rajendra Prasad Gupta Assumes Role of Rajasthan’s Advocate General

• Rajasthan welcomes Senior Advocate Rajendra Prasad Gupta as its new Advocate General, following the approval of his appointment by Governor Kalraj Mishra.
• This appointment marks a significant transition in the state’s legal leadership, filling the vacancy left after the change of government in December.
• Gupta succeeds MS Singhvi, assuming the role of the 19th Advocate General of Rajasthan, embarking on a new chapter in legal stewardship.

Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi Appointed Army Vice Chief

• In a strategic move within the Indian Army, Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi has been appointed as the new Army Vice Chief, effective February 15.
• This seamless succession plan sees Lt Gen Dwivedi succeeding Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, who is slated to assume command at the Northern Army Command in Udhampur.
• With a distinguished career within the Indian Army, including key positions such as Deputy Chief and Director General of Infantry at the Army Headquarters, Lt Gen Dwivedi's operational experience positions him well for his new role as Army Vice Chief.

Yemen Appoints Ahmed Awad Bin Mubarak As New Prime Minister

• Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council appoints Foreign Minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak as the country’s new Prime Minister amidst increased tensions and security challenges.
• The outgoing Prime Minister, Maeen Abdulmalik Saeed, assumes the role of advisor to the Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
• Bin Mubarak, a prominent figure in Yemeni politics, brings extensive experience, having served as Yemen’s ambassador to the United States and represented the country at the United Nations.
• His appointment is viewed as a strategic move by the Presidential Leadership Council amidst ongoing challenges.

Books & Authors News

CDS Anil Chauhan Presents Book on AI and National Security at Pune Festival

• Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan unveils a groundbreaking book titled ‘Artificial Intelligence and National Security’ at the Defence Literature Festival, “Kalam and Kavach,” in Pune.
• This significant literary contribution blends India’s rich cultural heritage with contemporary national security strategies, marking a pivotal moment in the domain of national security.
• The festival, hosted by Army Southern Command at the prestigious RSAMI Institute, Pune, features several notable book launches, including ‘AI and National Security’ by Col Amit Sinha and Vijay Khare, offering insights into the intersection of artificial intelligence and national defense.

Miscellaneous News

Hon’ble Justice U.U. Lalit Joins K.R. Mangalam University As Distinguished Professor

• R. Mangalam University proudly announces the appointment of the distinguished former Chief Justice of India, Hon’ble Justice U.U. Lalit, as the Eminent Jurist and Distinguished Professor at The School of Legal Studies.
• This appointment follows the university's remarkable achievement of securing the 2nd position in Haryana, according to the BW Legal World Law School Rankings 2022, reaffirming its commitment to delivering unparalleled legal education.
• Justice Lalit's illustrious legal career, characterized by dedication and commitment to justice, makes him a valuable addition to the institution's academic faculty.

Isha Foundation’s Adi Shiva Statue Approved Near Jewar Airport

• The Civil Aviation Ministry grants in-principle approval for the installation of a towering 242 feet high statue of Adiyogi Shiva near the upcoming Noida International Airport in Jewar, western Uttar Pradesh.
• Requested by the Isha Foundation, the statue’s installation holds the promise of enriching the spiritual identity and cultural landscape of the region.
• As a beacon for yoga enthusiasts and spiritual seekers, it will complement existing landmarks and contribute to the harmonious coexistence of industrial and spiritual activities.