International News

China’s Nuclear Arsenal Buildup: U.S. Pentagon Report

• The S. Pentagon recently unveiled a report on China's military developments. This report reveals that China is rapidly expanding its nuclear weapons arsenal, surpassing earlier estimates.
• By 2030, China is projected to possess more than 1,000 nuclear warheads.
• These developments have sparked concerns as China intensifies its pressure on Taiwan through various military, diplomatic, and economic measures.
• To achieve its goal of becoming a "world-class" military by 2049, China has allocated substantial resources, with its 2023 military spending exceeding economic growth, leading to speculations about even higher actual expenditures.

S Jaishankar Unveils Mahatma Gandhi’s Bust In Vietnam

• During a significant official visit to Vietnam, India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, celebrated the enduring values of Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore by unveiling their busts.
• The event in Ho Chi Minh City marked the symbolism of Gandhi's global recognition for his principles of truth, non-violence, and freedom.
• Additionally, Rabindranath Tagore's bust was unveiled in Bac Ninh province, emphasizing India's rich cultural heritage and its cultural connections with Vietnam.

State News

Assam CM Inaugurated ‘Shraddhanjali,’ Second Longest Flyover In The State

• Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the 'Shraddhanjali' flyover in Guwahati, a notable achievement in the state's infrastructure development.
• Completing the 28-kilometer-long flyover in just 60 days, significantly ahead of the original schedule, marks a remarkable milestone.
• The flyover, linking Commerce Point with Sundrapur, is the second longest in the state, built within a budget of Rs 316 crore.
• The name "Shraddhanjali" pays tribute to Assam's rich cultural and natural heritage by honoring a park within the state zoo cum-botanical garden.

Arunachal Cabinet Approves Formation Of Special Tiger Protection Force For 3 Tiger Reserves

• The Arunachal Pradesh State Cabinet has given its approval for the establishment of a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) for three tiger reserves: Namdapha, Pakke, and Kamlang.
• This dedicated force will work towards protecting these critically endangered big cats by curbing poaching and illegal activities within the reserves.
• Additionally, the cabinet's decision to formulate the Arunachal Pradesh Home Guard Rules for 2023 will enhance the efficiency of the Home Guard in safeguarding the state's citizens.

Important Days News

World Statistics Day 2023 Celebrated On 20 October

• October 20 is globally celebrated as World Statistics Day, recognizing the essential role of high-quality statistics in the development of nations.
• The United Nations established this observance in 2015 to highlight the remarkable achievements of national statistical systems and their relevance across various aspects of society.
• The idea for World Statistics Day was initially proposed in 2010, marking October 20, 2010, as the first-ever celebration.

World Osteoporosis Day 2023 Observed On 20th October

• Each year on October 20th, the world observes World Osteoporosis Day, focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis, a critical global public health concern.
• The 2023 theme, "Step Up for Bone Health – Build Better Bones," emphasizes proactive measures to improve bone health and prevent osteoporosis.
• This annual event, initiated in 1996, is championed by the International Osteoporosis Foundation, advocating for the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and research of osteoporosis worldwide.

International Chef’s Day 2023 Celebrated On 20th October

• October 20th is celebrated as International Chefs Day, paying tribute to the art and science of cooking.
• This day highlights the contributions of chefs worldwide and, in 2023, focuses on "Growing A Healthy Future."
• The theme underscores the importance of a healthy and sustainable planet through culinary practices and encourages everyone to explore their culinary creativity.
• This observance also promotes healthy dietary habits in daily routines.

Appointments News

Puma Ropes In Mohammed Shami As Its Brand Ambassador

• Puma, the renowned sports brand, has enlisted Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami as its brand ambassador.
• Under this strategic partnership, Shami will endorse a range of products, including footwear, apparel, and accessories.
• Notably, the brand has introduced new bowling spikes designed for fast bowlers.
• Mohammed Shami's remarkable journey in cricket, including his unforgettable debut, adds another star to Puma's impressive roster of brand ambassadors.

Centre Notifies Appointment Of 17 Judges Across 8 HCs

• The Union government issued notifications for the transfer of 16 high court judges and the appointment of 17 new judges across various high courts.
• This notable action, marking the highest number of judicial notifications issued by the Centre in a single day, aimed to address the high vacancy rate of high court judge positions.
• The transferred judges included those recommended by the collegium, and this decision followed a controversial order in Manipur by Justice MV Muralidaran.
• As of October 1, 2023, high court judge positions faced a 31% vacancy rate, posing significant challenges to the judiciary.

Awards News

ICAI Receives UN Award For Its Contribution To Sustainability Reporting

• The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) received a prestigious UN award for its sustainability initiatives, particularly the Sustainability Reporting Standards Board.
• This recognition, bestowed by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), acknowledges ICAI's contributions to sustainability reporting.
• ICAI's initiatives received the highest score among 70 worldwide initiatives, emphasizing the organization's commitment to sustainability.

Jina Mahsa Amini Wins EU’s Sakharov Prize 2023

• Jina Mahsa Amini and the "Woman, Life, Freedom" movement in Iran were honored with the 2023 Sakharov Prize.
• This prestigious award, presented by the European Parliament, recognizes individuals and movements championing human rights and freedom.
• Jina Mahsa Amini's tragic passing while in custody of Iran's religious police, due to a dress code violation, drew global attention and support for the movement.
• The Sakharov Prize carries a significant endowment and symbolizes the ongoing global struggle for justice and equality.

Shreya Ghoshal Won 5th National Awards 2023

• The renowned playback singer, Shreya Ghoshal, received her fifth National Film Award at the 69th National Film Awards.
• She was honored with the Best Female Playback Singer award by the Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu.
• Shreya Ghoshal's remarkable journey in the Indian film industry has been marked by numerous accolades.
• Her first National Award was in 2003 for her rendition of "Bairy Piya" in the iconic movie 'Devdas'. The National Film Awards stand as a prestigious recognition for excellence in Indian cinema.

Sports News

Karthikeyan Murali’s Remarkable Victory Over Magnus Carlsen

• In a remarkable turn of events at the Qatar Masters, 24-year-old Indian chess grandmaster Karthikeyan Murali achieved a historic feat by defeating the world's number one player, Magnus Carlsen.
• This victory not only positions Karthikeyan among the elite players but also emphasizes the immense talent of Indian chess players on the global stage.
• With a remarkable score of 5.5 out of 7, Karthikeyan joins other leading chess masters in making history.

Hyderabad To Host Second Edition Of E-Prix In 2024

• After a period of uncertainty, the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula E have officially confirmed the return of the Hyderabad EPrix for its second edition in 2024.
• This event, scheduled for February 10, 2024, marks a significant milestone for motorsport in India.
• A notable feature of the 2024 Hyderabad EPrix is the debut of Indian driver Jehan Daruvala, who will represent Mahindra Racing, marking an exciting moment for both competitors and fans.

Miscellaneous News

IMD Issues Alert For Cyclone Tej To Mumbai

• The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a cautionary notice regarding a potential cyclonic storm, likely named 'Cyclone Tej,' forming in the Arabian Sea.
• While the system's intensification into a cyclonic storm remains uncertain, the IMD has issued warnings to fishermen in Maharashtra and South Gujarat, urging them to avoid venturing into the sea.
• These precautions are vital to ensure the safety of those involved in maritime activities and to prepare for any potential impacts on regions including Mumbai and Pune.