Defence News
The Indian Navy and US Navy Successfully Conduct the Seventh SALVEX Exercise in Kochi
The joint Indian Navy – US Navy Salvage and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) exercise, known as SALVEX, concluded successfully in Kochi from June 26 to July 6, 2023. This exercise has been an integral part of the collaboration and cooperation between the two navies since 2005, focusing on salvage and EOD operations.
Economy News
Stricter Registration Rules Proposed by GST Council to Counter Fake Registrations
To combat fake registrations and bolster the integrity of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system, the GST Council is considering implementing new measures. Among these measures are a reduced time period for PAN-linked bank account details submission, mandatory physical verification for "high-risk" applicants, and amendments to GST Rules pertaining to applicant presence during verification.
India and Malaysia Facilitate Trade in Indian Rupee
The Ministry of External Affairs has announced that trade between India and Malaysia can now be conducted using the Indian Rupee (INR) as a mode of settlement, alongside other currencies. This move, following the launch of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 by the Ministry of Commerce, is expected to enhance bilateral trade and reduce transaction costs for businesses.
Banking News
PNB Launches Immersive 3D Virtual Branch in the Metaverse
Punjab National Bank (PNB) has introduced PNB Metaverse, a virtual branch providing customers with a unique banking experience. Through their mobile phones and laptops, customers can explore various products and services such as bank deposits, loans, digital products, and government schemes.
Important Days News
Kiswahili Language Day 2023: Date, Theme, Significance, and History
On July 7, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) celebrated World Kiswahili Language Day. Kiswahili, also known as Swahili, is the only African language within the Directorate of Global Communications at the United Nations. The day serves as a platform to promote Kiswahili's potential in achieving the UN Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development and the African Union Agenda 2063.
World Chocolate Day 2023: Date, Significance, Celebrations, and History
World Chocolate Day is celebrated worldwide on July 7. People of all ages come together on this day to indulge in their favorite chocolate treats, whether it be a plain chocolate bar, a decadent truffle, or a delightful chocolate cake.
Appointment News
FPSB India Appoints Krishan Mishra as CEO
Krishan Mishra has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Financial Planning Standards Board (FPSB) of India, effective from August 1, 2023. FPSB India is the Indian subsidiary of FPSB, the global standards-setting body for the financial planning profession and the owner of the international Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification program.
P Vasudevan Appointed as New Executive Director of RBI
Vasudevan has been appointed as an executive director at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), effective from July 03, 2023. In this role, Vasudevan will be responsible for overseeing the Department of Currency Management, Corporate Strategy and Budget Department (Areas other than that of Budget & Funds), and Enforcement Department.
Bangladesh Captain Tamim Iqbal Announces Retirement
Bangladesh's one-day captain, Tamim Iqbal, has announced his unexpected retirement from international cricket, three months before the team's ODI World Cup campaign in India. The 34-year-old made the emotional decision to end his 16-year international career during a news conference.
Agreements News
India and Singapore Extend MoU on Cooperation for 5 Years
The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances of India and the Public Service Division of the Republic of Singapore have signed a protocol document to extend their memorandum of understanding for an additional five years until 2028. The MoU focuses on promoting administrative reforms, public sector transformation, and capacity building.
Sports News
Netherlands Men's Team Clinches Second FIH Hockey Pro League Title
The Netherlands men's team secured the championship in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2022/23 season, concluding their season four campaign with 35 points. With this victory, the Netherlands becomes the first team in the men's competition to win a second title, successfully defending their first title won in the previous year's competition.
ICC World Cup 2023 Schedule, Date, Time & Location
The schedule for the ICC World Cup 2023 has been released by the ICC. The tournament will take place in India from October 5 to November 19, 2023, featuring a total of 10 teams. As the host nation, India has qualified directly, along with Afghanistan, Australia, England, Bangladesh, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa.
Science and Technology News
Elena Unveils India's First NavIC Navigation Device
Elena Geo Systems, a Bengaluru-based firm, has introduced India's first handheld navigation device based on the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (NavIC). Priced at Rs 6,000, the device is designed to provide precise directions for infrastructure projects such as railways, land surveys, telecoms, and hydrocarbon exploration. It can be conveniently attached to smartphones using an on-the-go (OTG) connector, allowing users to utilize data from mapping applications or satellite sources.
Chandrayaan-3 to be Launched on July 14
India's lunar mission, Chandrayaan-3, is scheduled to be launched on July 14 at 2:35 P.M. from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The announcement was made by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The mission aims to further India's progress in lunar exploration.
Summits and Conferences News
Highlights from the 67th TAAI Conference in Colombo
The 67th Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) convention commenced in Colombo on July 6. Over the course of three days, the conference brought together industry professionals from India and Sri Lanka, fostering collaboration and offering valuable business opportunities in the travel industry.
Miscellaneous News
Dalai Lama Celebrates His 88th Birthday
The revered Tibetan spiritual leader, Dalai Lama, celebrated his 88th birthday with a joyous gathering at his headquarters in Dharamsala, India. Hundreds of supporters and exiled Tibetans came together to honor the occasion, expressing gratitude for his teachings of peace and nonviolence. The celebration reflected the deep respect and admiration people have for the Dalai Lama. The event took place in the courtyard of the Tsuglakhang Temple, adorned with Tibetan and Buddhist flags and portraits.