Current Affairs january-20th-2024
National News
New Guidelines Enhance Coaching Centre Standards for Student Welfare
- The Ministry of Education in India has introduced fresh guidelines for coaching centres, marking a significant step towards establishing a legal framework for their operation.
- These guidelines outline the minimum standards required for the proper functioning of coaching centres. To ensure quality education, only individuals with a minimum qualification of graduation are eligible to teach.
- Moreover, coaching centres are now prohibited from making false claims about ranks or marks to attract students. Enrollment is restricted to students above 16 years old, and admission is granted only for post-secondary school examinations.
- These guidelines aim to address concerns related to student welfare, uncontrolled growth of private coaching, and the escalating incidents of student suicides associated with coaching centres.
Union Minister Unveils Artificial Reef Project to Boost Fish Population
- Union Fisheries Minister Parshottam Rupala has launched a groundbreaking project for artificial reefs in Vizhinjam, Kerala, with the goal of boosting fish population and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
- The initiative is expected to double the income of fishermen by enhancing fish stocks and contributing to the economic well-being of the local fishing community.
- The project, overseen by the Kerala State Coastal Development Corporation with technical assistance from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), plans to deploy 6,300 artificial reef units across 42 fishing villages in the Thiruvananthapuram district.
MeitY Secretary Launches India’s First Graphene Centre and IoT CoE
- MeitY Secretary S Krishnan inaugurated India's first Graphene Centre (IICG) and a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Intelligent Internet of Things (IIoT) Sensors in Kerala.
- The Digital University Kerala (DUK) and CMET, Thrissur, are key technical partners in establishing these innovative centers.
- The CoE in IIoT Sensors, located at Makers Village Kochi, aims to boost the development of sensors within the domain of Intelligent IoT systems, covering a wide range of applications across networks, devices, and sensor systems.
4. Farsi Recognized as India’s New Classical Language
- Under the New Education Policy, the Government of India has designated Farsi (Persian) as one of the nine classical languages of India.
- External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made this announcement during his visit to Iran, emphasizing the cultural, literary, and linguistic connections between the two countries.
- Farsi, an Indo-Iranian language with rich historical and cultural significance, will now be included in India's classical language repertoire, acknowledging its extensive literary heritage.
International News
5. China Grapples with Population Decline: Addressing Birth Rate Challenges
- China is grappling with a demographic crisis as its population declined for the second consecutive year in 2023.
- Factors contributing to this decline include a falling birth rate and increased deaths, particularly following the lifting of COVID-19
- With a total population of 1.4 billion, China has fallen behind India as the world's most populous nation. The number of births has fallen for the seventh consecutive year, with only about 9 million babies born in 2023.
- High childcare and education costs, job market uncertainty, and gender discrimination are identified as key factors discouraging couples from having more children.
6. The Houthis’ Escalation in the Red Sea: Unraveling Causes and Consequences
- Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have escalated their attacks on ships in the Red Sea, citing retaliation against Israel for its actions in Gaza.
- This has prompted the US and UK to launch strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, raising concerns about a broader regional conflict.
- The conflict in Yemen has resulted in one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with millions in need of aid, widespread displacement, and significant casualties.
- Efforts to bring a permanent end to the conflict have proven challenging.
7. Japan's Lunar Ambition: Successful Smart Lander Mission
- Japan is set to achieve a significant milestone in space exploration with the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) mission, developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
- Scheduled to land on the Moon on January 20, 2024, SLIM aims to demonstrate highly accurate landings, a capability that will enhance the science value of future lunar missions.
- Launched on September 6, 2023, SLIM represents a leap in lunar exploration technology and is expected to contribute valuable insights to advance lunar science.
- The mission targets the rim of Shioli crater, aiming for a precision landing within 100 meters of its target point.
State News
8. Moh-Juj Fights: A Cultural Resurgence in Assam
- After a hiatus of nine years, Moh-Juj, the traditional buffalo fights, have made a comeback in Assam, reclaiming their cultural significance.
- The revival, coinciding with the Magh Bihu festival in mid-January 2024, showcases the state's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
- Initially suspended in 2015 due to concerns about animal cruelty, Moh-Juj has been reinstated with detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the welfare of animals.Moh-Juj, deeply rooted in Assamese culture, symbolizes strength and valor. The decision to permit these events again is seen as a positive step toward preserving Assam's rich cultural traditions.
- The revival of Moh-Juj reflects a collective effort to maintain a balance between tradition and ethical considerations.
9. Mamata Banerjee Inaugurates 47th Kolkata Book Fair with the UK as the Theme Country
- Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the 47th International Kolkata Book Fair on January 18, embracing a unique cultural experience.
- The United Kingdom (UK) takes center stage as the theme country for this year's fair, fostering literary exchange and global perspectives.
- Despite challenges posed by drizzling rain, the fair promises to be a melting pot of ideas, literature, and cultural dialogues until January 31.The Kolkata Literature Festival, an integral part of the event, elevates the cultural experience by featuring discussions, readings, and interactions with renowned literary figures.
- Attendees are encouraged to engage in thought-provoking discussions, adding a dynamic layer to the overall cultural milieu.
10. Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival in Arunachal Pradesh: A Celebration of Culture and Conservation
- Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in India's northeastern region, celebrates its cultural diversity and commitment to biodiversity through the Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival (PPHF).
- Launched in 2015, the festival holds a unique purpose — recognizing the Nyishi tribe's role in hornbill conservation within the Pakke Tiger Reserve.Beyond cultural festivities, the PPHF serves as a platform for raising awareness about environmental conservation.
- The festival actively promotes alternative income sources, steering communities away from practices like hunting and logging.
- By emphasizing the importance of nature conservation, the PPHF contributes to creating a sustainable future for Arunachal Pradesh.
11. Unveiling the Tallest Ambedkar Statue in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
- In a grand ceremony, the Andhra Pradesh government unveiled the world's tallest statue of B.R. Ambedkar in Vijayawada.
- Named the 'Statue of Social Justice,' this colossal structure stands at an impressive height of 206 feet, making it one of the top 50 tallest statues globally.
- Mounted on an 81-feet pedestal, the statue symbolizes Dr. Ambedkar's profound impact on justice and equality.The sheer magnitude of the 'Statue of Social Justice' is a visual testament to Dr. Ambedkar's ideals and serves as an iconic representation of the state's commitment to social justice.
- The unveiling marks a significant milestone in recognizing the contributions of Dr. Ambedkar to the Indian Constitution.
Banking News
12. HDFC Bank Explores Singapore Expansion with Banking License Application
- In a strategic move, HDFC Bank Ltd, India's largest private sector lender, is actively pursuing its first branch in Singapore, expanding its global footprint.
- With Singapore hosting a substantial Indian diaspora, HDFC Bank aims to cater to this market by offering a range of financial products and services tailored to the needs of the Indian community.
- This move aligns with the bank's vision for international growth and diversification.The strategic expansion into Singapore positions HDFC Bank to tap into the financial needs of the Indian diaspora, fostering stronger economic ties between India and Singapore.
- This move is expected to contribute to the bank's global presence and enhance its role in serving diverse communities.
13. ICICI Bank Canada Launches 'Money2India (Canada)' Mobile Banking App
- ICICI Bank Canada, a subsidiary of ICICI Bank Limited, introduces the 'Money2India (Canada)' mobile banking app, providing a seamless platform for 24/7 fund transfers to any Indian bank.
- The user-friendly interface caters to Canadian customers across various banks, enabling instant and round-the clock money transfers to any bank in India.
- The app supports transactions of up to CAD 30,000 in a single transaction, offering flexibility and convenience.
- This innovative mobile banking app streamlines cross-border transactions, providing a convenient solution for Canadian customers to transfer funds to India without the need for account opening specifically with ICICI Bank Canada. The app's ease of use and flexibility make it a valuable tool for users across Canada.
Defence News
14. Indian Army and MeitY Collaborate for Advanced Defense Technology
- In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Indian Army is partnering with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to develop cutting-edge military-grade software.
- This strategic alliance focuses on harnessing technology to enhance national defense capabilities, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and healthcare.
- The collaborative efforts between the Indian Army and MeitY aim to create advanced tools such as AI-powered decision-making tools and predictive analytics.
- Operational software designed for interpreting the Enemy’s Electronic Order of Battle (ORBAT) and recognizing patterns is already in use, demonstrating the successful integration of technology into defense operations.
Business News
15. Apple Overtakes Samsung as Top Smartphone Maker in 2023
- In a notable shift, Apple Inc.'s iPhone has surpassed Samsung Electronics Co., claiming the title of the best-selling smartphone series in 2023.
- This marks the first time since 2010 that Samsung has conceded the top spot in the smartphone market. According to research firm IDC, the iPhone secured a substantial 20% share of the global market, with nearly 235 million shipments in the previous year.
- This shift in leadership highlights Apple's market dominance and consumer preference for the iPhone series. The competition between these tech giants is indicative of the dynamic nature of the smartphone industry.
16. Adani Group Announces Rs 50,000 Crore Investment for 1 GW Data Centre in Maharashtra
- The Adani Group has unveiled plans to invest Rs 50,000 crore over the next decade in establishing a 1 GW hyperscale data centre in Maharashtra.
- This significant investment, announced at the World Economic Forum 2024, underscores the group's commitment to green energy infrastructure and sustainability goals.
- The strategic location of the data centre in key areas like Mumbai or Navi Mumbai and Pune aligns with broader sustainability objectives. The project is expected to generate direct and indirect employment for approximately 20,000 individuals, contributing significantly to Maharashtra's economic landscape.
- The Adani Group's investment signals a major leap in advancing digital infrastructure and green technology in the state.
Important Days News
17. Kokborok Day 2024: Celebrating Tripura's Linguistic Heritage
- Kokborok Day, observed annually on January 19th, is a significant cultural event in Tripura, India. In 2024, the celebration marks the 46th anniversary of Kokborok's recognition as an official language of the state alongside Bengali and English.
- Kokborok, native to the Tripuri community, holds cultural importance and belongs to the Sino-Tibetan language family.
- The recognition of Kokborok on January 19, 1979, ended the sole official status of Bengali in Tripura, commemorated as Kokborok Day.
- This cultural celebration emphasizes the importance of preserving and promoting the Tripuri language, reflecting the rich linguistic heritage of the region.
Schemes News
18. Assam Govt's Empowerment Initiative: Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan
- The Assam government has launched the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyaan (MMUA), a financial assistance scheme designed to empower rural women entrepreneurs.
- The scheme targets the development of women in self-help groups, transforming them into "Rural Micro Entrepreneurs" with an annual income target of ₹1 lakh per member.
- To qualify for the grant, specific eligibility criteria are set, including restrictions on the number of children for women from general and other backward caste categories.
- The MMUA scheme aims to uplift rural women, fostering economic independence and sustainable development.
19. Digital Transformation of MPLADS: e-SAKSHI App Revolutionizes Constituency Development
- The launch of the e-SAKSHI mobile application marks a significant advancement in the administration of the Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) in India.
- Initiated by the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), e-SAKSHI aims to transform how Members of Parliament engage in and manage development projects within their constituencies.
- MPLADS, established in 1993, is a central sector scheme allowing MPs to recommend developmental projects based on locally felt needs.
- The digital shift with e-SAKSHI replaces the predominantly paper-based process, streamlining and enhancing the efficiency of constituency development projects.
Agreements News
20. Google Pay's Global Expansion: Partnership with NPCI for UPI Payments Abroad
- In a significant move, Google India Digital Services and NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) have joined forces to extend UPI payments globally.
- The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two entities aims to revolutionize the way Indian travelers engage in financial transactions abroad.
- Google Pay becomes the conduit, facilitating seamless and convenient transactions for Indian globetrotters beyond India's borders.
- This collaboration signifies a departure from traditional reliance on cash or international payment gateways, opening new possibilities for international digital transactions using UPI.
Appointments News
21. Senior IPS Officer Daljit Singh Chaudhary Appointed Director General Of Sashastra Seema Bal
- Senior IPS officer Daljit Singh Chaudhary has been appointed as the Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
- His vast experience positions him to lead the force in maintaining the security and integrity of India’s borders. SSB, one of the five Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), plays a crucial role under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Established in 1963, SSB was initially set up to counter activities along the Indo-Nepal border. Chaudhary's appointment underscores the importance of experienced leadership in safeguarding India's borders.
22. RuPay Prime Volleyball League Season 3: Hrithik Roshan Onboards As Brand Ambassador
- The RuPay Prime Volleyball League (PVL) has appointed Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan as the brand ambassador for its third season.
- Roshan, known for his commitment to fitness, will represent the league in its upcoming season commencing on February 15, 2024.
- The league, featuring nine franchises, aims to promote volleyball and engage a wider audience.
- Roshan's association with PVL adds star power to the league and is expected to enhance its visibility and popularity among sports enthusiasts.
23. Gianni Infantino Honored With Sports Personality Award In Dubai
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino was honored with the International Sports Personality of the Year award at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Creative Sports Awards in Dubai.
- These awards, established in 2009, recognize individuals contributing significantly to the development and fairness of sports globally.
- Infantino's acknowledgment as the International Sports Personality of the Year is a testament to his contributions to the world of football and sportsmanship on the international stage.
Sports News
24. Carlos Sainz’s Historic Victory In Dakar Rally 2024
- At the age of 61, Carlos Sainz has made history by winning the Dakar Rally for the fourth time in 2024, becoming the oldest winner of this challenging race.
- Known as 'El Matador,' Sainz's Dakar journey has been marked by diversity, adaptability, and victories with different manufacturers.
- His triumph in the Dakar Rally showcases not only his exceptional skills but also his ability to navigate the varied and challenging terrains of one of the most demanding motorsport events globally.
Miscellaneous News
25. World’s Largest Lamp Illuminates Ayodhya for Ram Temple Opening
- In a remarkable display, the world’s largest lamp, standing at an impressive 300 feet, illuminated Ayodhya during the Ram Temple opening festivities.
- Comprising significant quantities of cotton, oil, soil, and water from different regions across the country, the lamp holds profound symbolic significance.
- The use of diverse materials represents unity and sacredness, contributing to the grandeur of the celebration and marking a historic moment in Ayodhya.