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June 2024
Smart 350 News PDF
(PDF in English)

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INDEX
National & States Affairs……..…………………………………………………………………………….….…5
International Affairs..………………………………………………………………………………………..…..19
Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs..………..………………………….……….……..24
Defence Affairs….…………………………………………….….……...………………………………………..50
Sports & Games ..…………………………………………….….……...…………………………….………....54
Persons in News…………………….……………………….….……...………………………………….……..62
Science & Technology………..…………………………………………………….…….…..…………….......63
Appointments & Resignations…………………………….……………………….……..…………….......76
Awards, Rewards, Recognition & Prizes ………………………….……………….…………..….….....88
Schemes & Initiatives…………………………………………………………………….………….……........99
Meetings, Conferences and Summits…………………………….…………………….…..…….….…..103
Ranks, Reports & Surveys…………………………………………………………………..…….…….….…106
Amount & Agreements……………………………………….……………………………….…………..…..126
Ordinance, Bills & Acts……………………………………….……………………………….…………..…..127
MoUs, Collaborations & Parterships….………………….…………………………..…………….…....128

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National & States Affairs
1. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recently organized an event to observe World No Tobacco Day
2024 on May 31. Operational Guidelines for Establishing Tobacco Cessation Centres in Medical
Institutions was also unveiled. The initiative aims to educate and sensitize medical students about
tobacco cessation, aligning with the guidelines set by the National Medical Commission to train
graduates in holistic medicine. Moreover, Indian badminton maestro PV Sindhu was designated as the
brand ambassador for Tobacco Control to motivate young children and youth to steer away from
tobacco in all forms. During the event, awardees of the WHO World No Tobacco Day 2024 Award were
felicitated. The WHO WNTD Award for 2024 was presented to the State Tobacco Control Cell of Odisha and the Regional
Director’s Special Recognition Award for 2024 was presented to Dr. Mir Mushtaq Ahmad (Nodal Officer Kashmir, National
Tobacco Control Program) and the Generation Saviour Association, Punjab. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoHFW organized an event to observe World No Tobacco Day 2024 on May 31
• ‘Operational Guidelines for Establishing Tobacco Cessation Centres in Medical Institutions’ was unveiled
• PV Sindhu – designated as brand ambassador for Tobacco Control to motivate youth to steer away from tobacco
• WHO World No Tobacco Day 2024 Award:
- WHO WNTD Award 2024 – State Tobacco Control Cell of Odisha
- Regional Director’s Special Recognition Award 2024 – Dr. Mir Mushtaq Ahmad & Generation Saviour Association, Punjab

2. The Department of Telecom (DoT) has introduced a new tool to identify genuine calls from those made by fraudsters. The
telecom department has allocated a dedicated 10-digit numbering series starting with 160 for service and transactional calls
made by government, regulators and financial entities. This new 160 series will replace the 140 series which is currently
used by telemarketers. The 10-digit number will have a 160 prefix and will be issued in 1600ABCXXX format for government,
financial institutions as well as telecom regulators. The AB will show the code of the telecom circle like 11 for Delhi, 22 for
Mumbai. While the digit at C place will show the code of the telecom operator. The xxx will be digits between 000-999.
Similarly, for financial entities regulated by RBI, SEBI, PFRDA, IRDAI, the 10-digit number will be issued in 1601ABCXXX
format. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DoT – introduced a new tool to identify genuine & fraud calls
• It allocates a 10-digit numbering series starting with “160” for service & transactional calls of genuine users
• This new 160 series will replace the 140 series which is currently used by telemarketers
• It is issued in 1600ABCXXX format for government, financial institutions & telecom regulators
- AB – code of telecom circle | C – code of telecom operator | xxx – digits between 000-999
• Similarly, it is issued in 1601ABCXXX format for financial entities regulated by RBI, SEBI, PFRDA, IRDAI
• Minister of Communications: Ashwini Vaishnaw | Constituency – Odisha
MoS in Ministry of Communications: Devusinh Chauhan

3. The Department of School Education, Ministry of Education, signed an MoU with the National Book Trust (NBT) under
Ministry of Education, to create an institutional framework for the Digital Library Platform, “Rashtriya e-Pustakalaya”. The
Content Enrichment Committee will decide on the books to be included in the platform. In the coming 2-3 years, there will
be over 10,000 books in more than 100 languages. The books will be categorized by four age groups, as per NEP 2020, for
readers aged 3-8, 8-11, 11-14, and 14-18 years. {Read more}

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4. Coal India Limited (CIL) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) have incorporated a joint venture company, Bharat
Coal Gasification & Chemicals Limited (BCGCL), which marks the foray of these two PSUs into coal-to-chemical business. It
is a subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL) in which CIL holds 51% and BHEL holds 49% equity. BCGCL has floated a tender
document for selection of LSTK-2 contractor for ‘Coal to Ammonium Nitrate’ Project at Odisha. This will be the first
commercial Coal gasification plant that showcase the indigenous coal gasification technology developed by BHEL. The
project is expected to be the first to qualify for the benefit of Rs 1350 crore under Category-1. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CIL (51%) + BHEL (49%) = formed a JV, “Bharat Coal Gasification & Chemicals Limited (BCGCL)”
• BCGCL – floated a tender document for selection of LSTK-2 contractor for ‘Coal to Ammonium Nitrate’ Project at Odisha
• It will be first commercial Coal gasification plant to showcase indigenous coal gasification technology developed by BHEL
• HQs of CIL – Kolkata, West Bengal | CMD – P. M. Prasad
• HQs of BHEL – New Delhi | Chairman & MD – Koppu Sadashiv Murthy

5. Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSEL), under Ministry of Education,

has launched an “Implementation Manual of Tobacco Free Educational Institutions
(ToFEI)” in collaboration with Socio Economic and Educational Development Society
(SEEDS). The newly launched manual has been designed in line with the theme of
World No Tobacco Day 2024, “Protecting children from tobacco industry
interference”. The manual aims to assist schools in adhering to the ToFEI guidelines
issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, thereby creating a healthier,
tobacco-free environment for students. As per the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), 2019, 8.5% of students in the age
group of 13 to 15 consume tobacco. This initiative will empower all the stakeholders to adopt and enforce guidelines that
protect students from the dangers of tobacco. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DoSEL + SEEDS = launched an “Implementation Manual of Tobacco Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI)”
• Designed with theme of World No Tobacco Day 2024 – “Protecting children from tobacco industry interference”
• Aim: To assist schools in adhering to MoH&FW’s ToFEI guidelines & creating tobacco-free environment for students
• As per ‘Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), 2019’: 8.5% of students consume tobacco (in age group of 13-15 years)
• Minister of Education: Dharmendra Pradhan | Constituency – Madhya Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Education: Subhas Sarkar

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6. On the occasion of 10th Telangana State Formation Day, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy released a state anthem/song,
titled ‘Jaya Jaya He Telangana’, penned by Ande Sri. The music, composed by Oscar winner M M Keeravani and sung by
Indian Idol fame Revanth and playback singer Harika Narayan, was played for the gathering at Parade Grounds. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• A Revanth Reddy – released a state anthem/song, ‘Jaya Jaya He Telangana’ on 10th Telangana State Formation Day
• Anthem/song penned by – Ande Sri | Music composed by – M M Keeravani | Singers – Revanth & Harika Narayan
• Telangana: Capital – Hyderabad | CM – A. Revanth Reddy | Governor – Tamilisai Soundararajan

7. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Agricultural and
Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) have jointly developed
a “Unified India Organic” logo to replace the ‘India Organic’ and ‘Jaivik Bharat’ logos. The
‘India Organic’ logo was used on organic products complying with the National
Programme for Organic Products (NPOP), while ‘Jaivik Bharat’ logo was used on organic
products certified by FSSAI. The new logo has been developed to bring uniformity and
convergence in implementation of Indian regulations by NPOP and FSSAI. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• FSSAI + APEDA = jointly developed a “Unified India Organic” logo to replace ‘India Organic’ & ‘Jaivik Bharat’ logos
• ‘India Organic’ logo – used on organic products complying with National Programme for Organic Products (NPOP)
• ‘Jaivik Bharat’ logo – used on organic products certified by FSSAI
• HQs of FSSAI – New Delhi | Chairperson – Sudhansh Pant | CEO – G Kamala Vardhana Rao
• HQs of APEDA – New Delhi | Chairman – Abhishek Dev | Established in – 1986 (functions under Ministry of C&I)

8. The Supreme Court has reconstituted its Gender Sensitisation and Internal Complaints Committee, in exercise of powers
conferred by Clause 4(2) of the ‘Gender Sensitisation and Sexual Harassment of Women at the Supreme Court of India
(Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Regulations, 2013’. The 12-member committee is headed by the Supreme Court
judge Hima Kohli. The panel also comprises Justice B.V. Nagarathna, Additional Registrar Sukhda Pritam and senior
advocates Meenakshi Arora and Mahalakshmi Pavani. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Supreme Court – reconstituted its Gender Sensitisation and Internal Complaints Committee
• The 12-member committee is headed by – Supreme Court judge Hima Kohli
• Other members – B. V. Nagarathna, Sukhda Pritam, Meenakshi Arora & Mahalakshmi Pavani
• Present CJI of Supreme Court – Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud (50th) | Established on – Jan 28, 1950
• Retirement age: Chief Justices & Judges of HC – 62 years | CJI & judges of the SC – 65 years
• Sanctioned strength of judges in the SC – 34 (including CJI)

9. India has moved 100 metric tonnes of its gold stored in the U.K. to domestic vaults in FY24. This
is one of the biggest movements of gold undertaken by the country since 1991. This movement
has taken the overall quantity stored locally to over 408 metric tonnes of gold, which means the
local and foreign holding is now split almost evenly. In FY24, India’s overall gold holding increased
by 27.46 metric tonnes and it stands at 822 metric tonnes, as per official data. Of the overall gold
reserves, 413.79 metric tonnes are held abroad. Over 308 metric tonnes of gold are held in India
as backing for notes issued, while another 100.28 tonnes are held locally as an asset of banking department. At present, the
gold held locally is stored at high security vaults and facilities in Mumbai & Nagpur. {Read more}

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10. Haryana Government has announced the launch of Rs 10,000 crore “Haryana Clean Air Project for Sustainable
Development” to address air pollution. The 10-year comprehensive project would be funded by the World Bank. The project
will be implemented in the state in a phased manner with the first phase being implemented in the districts falling in the
National Capital Region (NCR). The initial phase involves enhancements to Haryana’s air quality monitoring infrastructure.
Additionally, a model for setting up automated testing stations (ATS) will be designed to monitor vehicle health. Also, 4 state
sample-testing laboratories have been established in the state. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Haryana – launched of Rs 10,000 Cr “Haryana Clean Air Project for Sustainable Development” to address air pollution
• The 10-year comprehensive project would be funded by – World Bank
• Haryana: Capital – Chandigarh | CM – Nayab Singh Saini | Governor – Bandaru Dattatraya

11. Google has launched the 2nd edition of its “Indian Languages Programme (ILP 2.0)” with a focus on providing next-
generation tools for newsrooms working with Indic languages. The ILP 2.0 will be delivered in 9 languages - English, Hindi,
Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Malayalam, Gujarati, and Marathi, and will have 8 sessions featuring guest speakers,
success stories, and product-focused training. Google has partnered with Gurugram-based content distribution and digital
services firm, Mediology, for the initiative. The first edition of the programme led to a 56% surge in digital ad revenue and
a 53% increase in total page views for news publishers. The ILP 1.0 also created a 30% growth in active users. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Google + Mediology = launched the 2nd edition of its “Indian Languages Programme (ILP 2.0)”
• ILP 2.0 will be delivered in 9 languages – English, Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Malayalam, Gujarati, & Marathi
• HQs of Google – California, US | CEO – Sundar Pichai | Founded in – 1998

12. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced that India has created a world record with
64.2 crore voters, including 31.2 crore women, participating in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Over
68,000 monitoring teams and 1.5 crore polling and security personnel were involved in the world’s
largest electoral exercise. 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw a total voter turnout of 65.79%, compared
to 67.40% in 2019 elections. Lakshadweep recorded the highest voter turnout at 84%, followed by
Assam at 81%. The lowest turnout was recorded in Bihar at 56.19%. The President ordered the
dissolution of the 17th Lok Sabha following a recommendation from the Union Cabinet. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv
Kumar met President Droupadi Murmu and submitted the list of MPs elected to the 18th Lok Sabha. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – created a world record with 64.2 Cr voters (31.2 Cr women) participating in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections
• 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw a total voter turnout of 65.79% (compared to 67.40% in 2019 elections)
• Lakshadweep recorded the highest voter turnout at 84% (followed by Assam at 81%)

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13. Two of Bihar’s wetlands have been added to the “Global List of Wetlands of
International Importance” under the Ramsar Convention (also known as The
Convention on Wetlands), taking tally of Ramsar sites in India to 82. The Nagi and
Nakti bird sanctuaries, both located in Bihar’s Jamui district, are now recognised
under the Ramsar Convention. These two new wetlands are man-made reservoirs
situated in the Jhajha forest range of Jamui. Both sites were declared as Wetlands
of International importance on the occasion of World Environment Day on June 5. The Ramsar Convention is an international
environmental treaty signed on 2 February 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, under the auspices of UNESCO. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nagi & Nakti bird sanctuaries (Bihar) – added to “Global List of Wetlands of Int. Importance” under Ramsar Convention
• They are man-made reservoirs | Situated in – Jhajha forest range of Jamui, Bihar
• Now, total Ramsar sites in India – 82
• Ramsar Convention – international environmental treaty signed on Feb 2, 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, under UNESCO
• HQs of UNESCO – Paris, France | DG – Audrey Azoulay | Founded in – 1945 | Members – 194 Countries

14. Secretary of Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), S Krishnan, has inaugurated the “Indigenous
Air Quality Monitoring System (AQ-AIMS)” and launched “Air-Pravah” App on the occasion of World Environment Day. The
Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Kolkata in collaboration with TeXMIN (ISM, Dhanbad) and industry
partner J M Envirolab Pvt Ltd, under the ‘National programme on Electronics and ICT applications in Agriculture and
Environment (AgriEnIcs)’, has developed an outdoor air quality monitoring system to monitor environmental pollutants,
Temperature, Humidity, etc, for continuous air quality monitoring. The AQ-AIMS comes with the mobile application named
“Air-Pravah” for real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) monitoring. It offers quick setup, real-time data visualization, unit
conversions, AQI comparison, multi-device support, data analysis tools, remote monitoring and automatic updates. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• S Krishnan – inaugurated “Indigenous Air Quality Monitoring System (AQ-AIMS)”
• C-DAC + TeXMIN (ISM, Dhanbad) + J M Envirolab Pvt Ltd = developed AQ-AIMS
- Under – ‘National programme on Electronics and ICT applications in Agriculture and Environment (AgriEnIcs)
- To monitor environmental pollutants, Temperature, Humidity, etc. for continuous air quality monitoring
• S Krishnan – also launched “Air-Pravah” for real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) monitoring
• Minister of Electronics & Information Technology: Ashwini Vaishnaw | Constituency – Odisha
MoS in Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology: Rajeev Chandrasekhar

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15. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed an
MoU to facilitate collaboration between the two Ministries in operating a special cell of “Tele
MANAS”, the National Telemental Health Helpline of MoHFW, as a pilot project for a period of
two years at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune. Tele MANAS is the digital
extension of the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), offering comprehensive, integrated,
and inclusive 24/7 tele-mental health services. The initiative provides a toll-free number, 14416, in each State and Union
Territory (UT) for easy access to mental health support. Currently, there are 51 operational Tele MANAS cells functioning
across all 36 States and UTs, offering services in 20 different languages. Since its launch in October 2022, Tele MANAS has
received over 10 lakh calls and is managing more than 3,500 calls daily. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoHFW + MoD = an MoU to operate a special cell of “Tele MANAS” as a pilot project for 2 years at AFMC, Pune
• Tele MANAS (14416) – a National Telemental Health Helpline of MoHFW | It is a digital extension of ‘DMHP’
• Currently, there are 51 operational Tele MANAS cells functioning & offering services in 20 different languages
• Tele MANAS – received over 10 lakh calls & is managing more than 3,500 calls daily | Launched in – October 2022
• Minister of Health & Family Welfare: Mansukh L. Mandaviya | Constituency – Palitana, Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: Bharati Pravin Pawar & S. P. Singh Baghel
• Ministry of Defence: Rajnath Singh | Constituency – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Defence: Ajay Bhatt

16. Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) recently celebrated its 33rd Foundation Day,
commemorating over three decades of unparalleled contributions towards the Indian
technology sector in terms of software exports. The event was held in New Delhi with the
theme of “Positioning Bharat as a Tech Product Nation”. To strengthen the tech startup
ecosystem in terms of networking and affordable incubation space, STPI launched a
networking and resource discovery platform, “SayujNet”, and “STPI Workspace” portal.
STPI announced its initiative towards developing India’s sovereign cloud journey under the brand name “Ananta”, which will
be a hyperscale cloud made by Indians for Indians. Moreover, an MoU was signed between Sabudh Foundation and STPI
with the objective of creating skill-development initiatives and nurturing an entrepreneurial training ecosystem in DeepTech
for Engineering Graduates. The event also saw an MoU exchange between STPINEXT initiatives and DBS Bank India Pvt Ltd
aimed at strengthening the tech startup ecosystem in India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• STPI – celebrated its 33rd Foundation Day in New Delhi | Theme – “Positioning Bharat as a Tech Product Nation”
• STPI – launched a networking & resource discovery platform, “SayujNet” & “STPI Workspace” portal
- To strengthen tech startup ecosystem in terms of networking & affordable incubation space
• STPI – announced its initiative towards developing India’s sovereign cloud journey under the brand name “Ananta”
• Sabudh Foundation + STPI = an MoU to create skill-development initiatives & nurturing entrepreneurial training
ecosystem in DeepTech for Engineering Graduates
• STPINEXT + DBS Bank India Pvt Ltd = an MoU aimed at strengthening the tech startup ecosystem in India
• HQs of STPI – New Delhi | DG – Arvind Kumar | Founded in – 1991

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17. Zuperspeed Automotive, a Bangalore-based start-up, is set to introduce “Hyperflux”,
India’s first electric sports car. Zuperspeed Automotive aims to set new standards in the
Indian automotive industry. The Hyperflux is designed to deliver high-speed acceleration and
a powerful driving experience, all while producing zero emissions. Ijaz Anvar, the founder
and CEO of Zuperspeed Automotive, was previously part of Flipkart’s team. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Zuperspeed Automotive – to introduce India’s first electric sports car, “Hyperflux”
• HQs of Zuperspeed Automotive – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Founder & CEO – Ijaz Anvar

18. Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, has launched two groundbreaking initiatives
aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability in India - the 4th edition of “Water Challenge
4.0” and the 5th edition of “Innovations for You”, a coffee table book, spotlighting SDG
entrepreneurs of India. The open innovation water challenge was conducted in collaboration
with the Innovation Centre Denmark (ICDK) at the Royal Danish Embassy in India. This
initiative endeavors to address critical water-related challenges through inventive solutions.
The selected teams will form the Indian cohort which will participate in the ‘Global Next Generation Digital Action’ program
and engage with young talents from leading universities and innovation hubs of 9 countries (India, Denmark, Ghana, Kenya,
Korea, Tanzania, South Africa, Ghana, Colombia and Mexico). The challenge invites entries under two tracks: One for the
students and the other for the young entrepreneurs both under the age of 35. Additionally, participants will have the
opportunity to showcase innovations at the ‘Digital Tech Summit’ scheduled in Copenhagen from October 30 to 31, 2024
funded by the Government of Denmark. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• AIM (NITI Aayog) – launched two initiatives aimed at fostering innovation & sustainability in India:
- 4th edition of “Water Challenge 4.0” (in collaboration with Denmark)
- 5th edition of “Innovations for You”, a coffee table book
• ICDK + NITI Aayog = conducted open innovation water challenge at Royal Danish Embassy, India
• Selected teams will form Indian cohort which will participate in – ‘Global Next Generation Digital Action’ program
• ‘Digital Tech Summit’ – scheduled in Copenhagen on Oct 30-31, 2024 | Funded by – Government of Denmark
• HQs of AIM – New Delhi | Director – Chintan Vaishnav | Launched in – 2016 (a flagship initiative of NITI Aayog)

19. Oracle and Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation (TNSDC) have jointly launched a Specialised Skills Development
Programme under Tamil Nadu’s massive skill enhancement initiative, “Naan Mudhalvan”, to provide employment-linked
skills development training to more than 2 lakh students in the State. TNSDC is also collaborating with Oracle to offer Oracle
Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) training to help students in the State advance their careers. As part of the new skilling initiative,
over 2 lakh youth at different stages of their learning and professional goals, will be trained and certified on modern
technologies from Oracle, including cloud, data science, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and blockchain.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Oracle + TNSDC = launched a Specialised Skills Development Programme under Tamil Nadu’s “Naan Mudhalvan”
• Aim: To provide employment-linked skills development training to more than 2 lakh students in Tamil Nadu
• TNSDC + Oracle = to offer Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) training to help students in State advance their careers
• HQs of Oracle – Austin, US | CEO – Safra Catz | Founded in – 1977
• Tamil Nadu: Capital – Chennai | CM – Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin | Governor – Ravindra Narayan Ravi

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20. Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved government assistance for the construction of 3 crore additional houses under
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). Of the 3 crore houses, 2 crore will be constructed under PMAY-Gramin, while 1 crore
under PMAY-Urban. Under the PMAY-G, each beneficiary gets funds up to Rs 1.2 lakh in the plains and Rs 1.3 lakh in hilly
states, difficult areas, and tribal and backward districts under the Integrated Action Plan (IAP). As per the sources, the Centre
has decided to increase the cost of construction of the PMAY-G house by 50% from existing Rs 1.2 lakh to Rs 1.8 lakh in the
plains and Rs 1.3 lakh to Rs 2 lakh in the hilly areas. The Centre and states share expenses in 60:40 ratio in case of plain
areas, and in 90:10 ratio for northeastern states, two Himalayan states and the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. The Centre bears
100% cost in case of other Union Territories. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – approved government assistance for construction of 3 crore additional houses under PMAY
- 2 crore under PMAY-Gramin & 1 crore under PMAY-Urban
• Centre decided to increase cost of construction under PMAY-G by 50%: Plains – to Rs 1.8 lakh | Hilly areas – Rs 2 lakh
• Sharing of expense between Centre & States:
- Plains – 60:40 | Northeastern states, two Himalayan states & J&K – 90:10 | Other UTs – 100% by centre only

21. The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated the National Institute of Indian Medical Heritage (NIIMH),
Hyderabad, as WHO-Collaborating Centre (CC) for “Fundamental and Literary Research in Traditional Medicine”. In India,
there are approximately 58 WHO-CCs spanning various disciplines of biomedicine and allied sciences. Notably, CCRAS-NIIMH
joins the ranks as the third WHO-CC in the domain of traditional medicine, following the Institute for Teaching and Research
in Ayurveda, Jamnagar, and the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), New Delhi. The NIIMH is a unit under the
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Ministry of Ayush. This prestigious recognition is granted for a
period of 4 years, starting from June 3, 2024. The institute, established in 1956, has been a pioneer in various digital
initiatives of Ayush, including the AYUSH Manuscripts Advanced Repository (AMAR) portal. The Showcase of Ayurvedic
Historical Imprints (SAHI) portal showcases 793 medico-historical artefacts, while the e-Books of Ayush project provides
digital versions of classical textbooks. The institute also publishes the Journal of Indian Medical Heritage. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• WHO – designated NIIMH as WHO-Collaborating Centre for “Fundamental & Literary Research in Traditional Medicine”
• India – has approx. 58 WHO-CCs | CCRAS-NIIMH – 3rd WHO-CC in domain of traditional medicine
- 1st – Institute for Teaching & Research in Ayurveda | 2nd – Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga
• NIIMH – a unit under Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Ministry of Ayush
• This recognition is granted for – 4 years (from June 3, 2024)
• ‘Showcase of Ayurvedic Historical Imprints (SAHI)’ portal – showcases 793 medico-historical artefacts
• HQs of NIIMH – Hyderabad, Telangana | Director – Prof. Vaidya Rabinarayan Acharya | Founded in – 1956
• HQs of WHO – Geneva, Switzerland | DG – Tedros Adhanom | Member Countries – 194 | Founded in – 1948

22. Dr Kapil Dua, a pioneer in hair transplant surgery in India with over two decades of experience, is
appointed as the President of the Asian Association of Hair Restoration Surgeons (AAHRS). The
announcement was made at the 8th Annual Scientific Meeting and Surgical Workshop of AAHRS, held in
China. Dr Kapil Dua, Co-founder of AK Clinics, is a leading figure in hair transplant surgery in India. Dr
Kapil Dua, who previously served as President of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery
(ISHRS) in 2022-2023 and the Association of Hair Restoration Surgeons (AHRS) India in 2016-2017, is the only Indian hair
transplant surgeon to have led national, global, and now Asian organizations in hair restoration. His presidency at AAHRS
will focus on advancing educational initiatives, fostering innovative surgical techniques, and enhancing collaboration among
professionals across Asia. {Read more}

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23. Indian Army has received the first-of-its-kind Man Portable Counter Drone System (MPCDS)
developed by AXISCADES Technologies Ltd. AXISCADES received a Landmark Order of Rs 100
Crore from the Indian Army for the same. Uniquely designed and entirely Made in India, the
MPCDS is compact, portable, and operates on both battery and mains power. The system holds
the ability to detect and jam a wide variety of drones within a range of up to 5 kilometres. This
is the first Counter Drone System being inducted into the Indian Defence Forces in the man
portable category. Arun Krishnamurthi is the CEO and Managing Director of AXISCADES. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Army – received the first-of-its-kind ‘Man Portable Counter Drone System (MPCDS)’
• It is developed by AXISCADES Technologies Ltd (a Landmark Order of Rs 100 Cr from Indian Army)
• The system holds the ability to detect and jam a wide variety of drones within a range of up to 5 Km
• HQs of AXISCADES – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CEO & MD – Arun Krishnamurthi

24. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced to undertake “Miyawaki Plantations” for greening of
national highways. Miyawaki Plantations is a unique Japanese approach to ecological restoration and afforestation. NHAI
has identified 53 acres of land parcel adjacent to national highways in and around Delhi and the national capital region
where Miyawaki method of Japan will be used for plantations during the upcoming monsoon season. The process will be
replicated across India following its success in Delhi-NCR. The Miyawaki method aims to create dense, native, and biodiverse
forests in a short period of time. These forests retain ground water and help to recharge the groundwater table. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• NHAI – announced to undertake “Miyawaki Plantations” for greening of national highways
• Miyawaki Plantations – a unique Japanese approach to ecological restoration & afforestation
• NHAI – identified 53 acres of land adjacent to national highways in & around Delhi-NCR to implement this method
• HQs of NHAI – New Delhi | Chairman – Santosh Kumar Yadav | Founded in – 1988

25. Ministry of Jal Shakti has launched an “Environmental flows (E-flows) Monitoring System” that allows real-time
monitoring of river quality. This will aid the planning and monitoring of projects, river water quality, and other key
parameters. The system has been developed by the National Mission for Clean Ganga, an arm of the Jal Shakti Ministry. It
also allows monitoring of the Namami Gange programme activities at the central level. This includes monitoring the
performance of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), and ensuring that they operate at their rated capacity. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ministry of Jal Shakti – launched “Environmental flows Monitoring System” allowing real-time monitoring of river quality
• Developed by – National Mission for Clean Ganga (an arm of Ministry of Jal Shakti)

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26. The Union Cabinet has approved a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme with a total outlay of Rs 7,453 crore for 1 GW
offshore wind energy projects in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. The VGF scheme aims to set up first-ever offshore wind energy
projects in India. The VGF scheme for offshore wind energy projects also includes an outlay of Rs 6,853 crore for installation
and commissioning of wind energy projects (500 MW each off the coast of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu), and grant of Rs 600
crore for upgradation of two ports to meet logistics requirements for offshore wind energy projects. The successful
commissioning of 1 GW offshore wind projects will produce renewable electricity of about 3.72 billion units annually. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved a VGF scheme with outlay of Rs 7,453 Cr for 1 GW offshore wind energy projects in Gujarat & TN
• VGF – Viability Gap Funding | Aim: To set up first-ever offshore wind energy projects in India
• It also includes:
- installation & commissioning of wind energy projects (500 MW each off the coast of Gujarat & TN) for Rs 6,853 Cr
- grant of Rs 600 Cr for upgradation of two ports to meet logistics requirements for offshore wind energy projects
• It will produce renewable electricity of about 3.72 billion units annually

27. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved an increase in the minimum support prices
(MSP) for all 14 kharif crops for the 2024-25 crop season that runs from July to June. The increase means farmers will get
around ₹2 trillion as MSP, ₹35,000 crore more than what they got in the previous season. The highest absolute increase in
MSP over the previous year has been recommended for oilseeds and pulses. The government aims to achieve self-sufficiency
in pulses by 2027. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Cabinet approved an increase in MSP for all 14 kharif crops for 2024-25 crop season (from July to June)
• Now, farmers will get around ₹2 trillion as MSP (₹35,000 Cr more than previous season)
• Highest absolute increase in MSP recommended for – Oilseeds & Pulses
• Government aims to achieve self-sufficiency in pulses by – 2027

28. Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has introduced the “Self-Service Bag Drop (SSBD) Quick Drop Solution”. Delhi’s
Indira Gandhi International Airport is the first-ever in India and the second globally, after Toronto Airport in Canada, to offer
this facility. Currently, the SSBD units are available with three airlines: Air India, IndiGo, and Air India Express. This new
system enables passengers to drop their luggage, collect tags, and complete the check-in process more efficiently and
swiftly. The service eliminates the need for boarding passes and biometric validation, as the required information is
embedded in the tags. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indira Gandhi International Airport – introduced the “Self-Service Bag Drop (SSBD) Quick Drop Solution”
• Delhi Airport is India’s 1st & world’s 2nd airport (after Toronto Airport) to offer this facility
• Currently, the SSBD units are available with 3 airlines – Air India, IndiGo, & Air India Express

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29. S Krishnan, Secretary at Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) inaugurated the 1st “National
Additive Manufacturing Symposium (NAMS) - 2024” organized in New Delhi, to provide an overview of the Additive
Manufacturing (AM) ecosystem in India. The event featured release of ‘Additive Manufacturing Landscape Report’ and
unveiled indigenously developed ‘Additive Manufacturing Machine’. The NAMS-2024 has seen participation from diverse
stakeholders, e.g., industry, academia and government. The participants also included Industry associations and central
ministries. National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM) is located in Hyderabad. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MeitY – inaugurated the 1st “National Additive Manufacturing Symposium (NAMS) - 2024” organized in New Delhi
• ‘Additive Manufacturing Landscape Report’ & indigenously developed ‘Additive Manufacturing Machine’ were unveiled
• National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM) – located in Hyderabad
• Minister of Electronics & Information Technology: Ashwini Vaishnaw | Constituency – Odisha
MoS in Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology: Jitin Prasada

30. The Central Government has introduced the “Offshore Areas (Existence of Mineral Resources) Rules, 2024” by exercising
powers conferred by ‘Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002’. The new rules shall apply to all
minerals except on mineral oils & hydrocarbons, and on minerals specified in Part B of the First Schedule to the ‘Mines and
Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957’. It defines the stages of exploration, feasibility studies, economic viability
assessments, and classification of mineral resources and reserves. This comprehensive regulatory framework mandates
rigorous exploration standards to ensure accurate assessment and sustainable development of offshore mineral resources.
The rules define exploration for any mineral deposit in 4 stages: Reconnaissance Survey (G4), Preliminary Exploration (G3),
General Exploration (G2), and Detailed Exploration (G1). According to the new rules, a minimum of G2 is required to grant
mining leases, while G4 is necessary for obtaining composite licences. These new rules categorise feasibility studies for
offshore mineral resources into 3 stages: Geological study (F3), Pre-feasibility study (F2), and Feasibility study (F1). Besides,
the economic viability of offshore mineral resources is classified into 3 stages: Intrinsically Economic (E3), Potentially
Economic (E2), and Economic (E1). Classification of economic viability into categories (E3, E2, E1) based on feasibility studies;
emphasis on technical and environmental assessments. India’s offshore mineral reserves include Gold, Diamond, Copper,
Nickel, Cobalt, Copper, Manganese, and Rare Earth Elements (REE) essential for development. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Center introduced “Offshore Areas (Existence of Mineral Resources) Rules, 2024”
- by exercising powers conferred by ‘Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002’
• New rules shall apply to all minerals except: on mineral oils & hydrocarbons & on minerals specified in Part B of 1 st
Schedule to ‘Mines & Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act, 1957’
• These rules define exploration for any mineral deposit in 4 stages:
- Reconnaissance Survey (G4), Preliminary Exploration (G3), General Exploration (G2) & Detailed Exploration (G1)
• A minimum of G2 is required to grant mining leases, while G4 is necessary for obtaining composite licences
• These new rules categorise feasibility studies for offshore mineral resources into 3 stages:
- Geological study (F3), Pre-feasibility study (F2) & Feasibility study (F1)
• Economic viability of offshore mineral resources is classified into 3 stages:
- Intrinsically Economic (E3), Potentially Economic (E2) & Economic (E1)
• India’s offshore mineral reserves include – Gold, Diamond, Copper, Nickel, Cobalt, Copper, Manganese & REE

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31. Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), India’s foremost National Security and Police University, celebrated Olympic Day on
June 23, 2024, and inaugurated the “Bharat Centre of Olympic Research and Education (BCORE)” at the RRU’s campus in
Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The centre will serve as a repository of knowledge, housing invaluable data and insights in Olympics,
training methodologies, sports science and athlete development. BCORE has attained official recognition by the
International Olympic Committee (IOC) as an academic center promoting Olympic values. It now operates within the
esteemed Olympic Studies and Research Centers (OSRCs) network, comprising over 70 academic centers globally dedicated
to Olympic studies and research. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Bharat Centre of Olympic Research & Education (BCORE)” – inaugurated at RRU, Gandhinagar, Gujarat
• BCORE – attained official recognition by IOC as an academic center promoting Olympic values
• Rashtriya Raksha University – Gandhinagar, Gujarat | VC – Bimal N. Patel | Established in – 2010

32. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under Ministry of Communications, has announced two proposals, “5G
Intelligent Village” and “Quantum Encryption Algorithm (QEA)”, aimed at catalysing innovation and technological
advancement in the telecom sector. Both proposals shall be funded under the ‘Telecom Technology Development Fund
(TTDF)’ scheme of the DoT. The 5G Intelligent Village Initiative aims to enable effective utilisation of Ultra-Reliable Low-
Latency Communication (URLLC) and massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC) aspects of 5G in selected villages. This
initiative aims to unite telecom service providers, sensor manufacturers, CCTV suppliers, and IoT providers on a single
platform. Meanwhile, creating an India-specific QEA will represent a cutting-edge approach to securing digital
communication channels by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics. The TTDF has been set up under the ‘Universal
Services Obligation Fund (USOF)’ of Department of Telecom (DoT). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DoT – announced two proposals, “5G Intelligent Village” and “Quantum Encryption Algorithm (QEA)”
• Both proposals shall be funded under the ‘Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF)’ scheme of the DoT
• ‘5G Intelligent Village Initiative’ aims to enable effective utilisation of URLLC & mMTC aspects of 5G in selected villages
• ‘QEA’ will represent a cutting-edge approach to securing digital communication channels by leveraging the principles of
quantum mechanics
• TTDF has been set up under the ‘Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF)’ of DoT
• Minister of Communications: Jyotiraditya M. Scindia | Constituency – Guna, Madhya Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Communications: Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani

33. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an advisory circular on ‘Gender Equality in the Civil Aviation
Sector’ for aviation stakeholders. The Circular aims to increase the number of women in various positions to a desirable
representation of 25% by 2025 within the aviation industry in India. The Circular is issued in line with the principle of gender
equality that is enshrined in the Constitution of India and the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s vision for promoting
equal opportunities to achieve gender equality in aviation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DGCA – issued an advisory circular on ‘Gender Equality in the Civil Aviation Sector’ for aviation stakeholders
• The Circular aims to increase the number of women to 25% by 2025 within the aviation industry in India
• HQs of DGCA – New Delhi | Director General – Vikram Dev Dutt

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34. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh has announced the grant of “Miniratna” status (Category-1) for
Central Electronics Ltd (CEL) at its Golden Jubilee celebration at the Ghaziabad campus. The CPSEs
which have made profit in the last 3 years continuously, pre-tax profit is Rs 30 crores or more in at
least 1 of the 3 years and have a positive net worth are eligible to be considered for grant of
Miniratna-I status. Besides, the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) has approved the proposal
to grant “Navratna” status to Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). This makes the company
the 18th Navratna company among the public sector enterprises (PSEs). The company received Miniratna Category I status
in 2006. The Miniratna Category - I and Schedule ‘A’ CPSEs, which have obtained ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’ rating under the
Memorandum of Understanding system in 3 of the last 5 years, and have composite score of 60 or above in the 6 selected
performance parameters, are eligible for grant of Navratna status. Navratna companies have enhanced financial autonomy,
allowing them to invest up to ₹1,000 crore, or 15% of their net worth, on a single project without needing government
approval. Kindly note, MDL is the 18th PSU, 21st CPSE, 3rd Defence PSU & 1st Shipyard to receive ‘Navratna’ Status. While,
there 13 Maharatna CPSEs at present. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Central Electronics Ltd – received “Miniratna” status (Category-1) at its Golden Jubilee (50-year) celebration
• Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd – received “Navratna” status
• MDL is the 18th PSU, 21st CPSE, 3rd Defence PSU & 1st Shipyard to receive ‘Navratna’ Status | Total Maharatna – 13
• Eligibility criteria for ‘Miniratna-I’ status: CPSEs which have made profit in the last 3 years continuously, pre-tax profit is
Rs 30 crores or more in at least 1 of the 3 years and have a positive net worth
• Eligibility criteria for ‘Navratna’ status: Eligibility criteria for ‘Navratna’ status: Miniratna Category - I and Schedule ‘A’
CPSEs, which have obtained ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’ rating under the Memorandum of Understanding system in 3 of
the last 5 years, and have composite score of 60 or above in the 6 selected performance parameters
• Navratna companies can invest up to ₹1,000 Cr or 15% of net worth on a single project without needing Govt approval
• HQs of CEL – Ghaziabad, UP | CMD – Chetan Prakash Jain
• HQs of MDL – Mumbai, MH | CMD – Sanjeev Singhal

35. Srinagar has become the 4th Indian city to be recognised as a ‘World Craft City’ by the
World Craft Council (WCC), 3 years after it was designated as part of the UNESCO Creative
City Network (UCCN) for crafts and folk arts. This prestigious honour celebrates the rich
heritage, craftsmanship and vibrant culture of Srinagar. Jaipur, Malappuram and Mysore
are the other Indian cities that have previously been recognised as World Craft Cities. As
of now, at least 10 different forms of craftsmanship survive in Srinagar, including papier-
mâché, walnut wood carving, carpets, Sozni embroidery and Pashmina and Kani shawls. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Srinagar – became 4th Indian city to be recognised as a ‘World Craft City’ by World Craft Council (WCC)
• 3 years ago, it was designated as part of UNESCO Creative City Network (UCCN) for crafts & folk arts
• Other Indian cities recognised as World Craft Cities earlier – Jaipur, Malappuram & Mysore
• HQs of WCCI for the term (2021-2024) – Kuwait | President – Saad Al-Qaddumi | Established in – 1964

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36. Jaipur Military Station has become India’s second military station to construct the ‘Plastic Waste Road’. The first plastic
waste road was constructed in Narangi Military Station in North East in 2019. A 100m-stretch spans from Sagat Singh Road
under bridge to Cubs Corner complex. The road has been constructed under the aegis of GE (South), CE Jaipur Zone in line
with Indian Army’s policy to create sustainable & Green Military Station. The project was also assisted by Deep constructions
Pvt Ltd. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Jaipur Military Station – became India’s second military station to construct the ‘Plastic Waste Road’
• 1st plastic waste road was constructed in 2019 – in Narangi Military Station (Assam)
• HQs of Indian Army – New Delhi | Chief – General Manoj Pande | Vice Chief – Lt. Gen. Upendra Dwivedi

37. Ministry of Education has constituted a high-level committee of experts led by former ISRO
Chief, Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, to ensure transparent, smooth and fair conduct of examinations
through the National Testing Agency (NTA). The seven-member committee will make
recommendations on reforms in the mechanism of the examination process, improvement in data
security protocols and the structure and functioning of the NTA. Central University of Hyderabad
Vice-Chancellor Professor B J Rao and former director of AIIMS Delhi Randeep Guleria are on the 7-member panel. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• MoE constituted a high-level committee to ensure transparent, smooth & fair conduct of examinations through NTA
• The 7-member committee is led by – Dr. K. Radhakrishnan (Former ISRO Chief)
• Minister of Education: Dharmendra Pradhan | Constituency – Sambalpur, Odisha
MoS in Ministry of Education: Jayant Chaudhary & Sukanta Majumdar

38. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched the “Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP)”, a
special programme under which the immigration process for pre-verified Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
cardholders will be fast-tracked. It is designed for faster, smoother, and safer immigration clearance for international
travellers. The initiative will provide more facilities for the Indian nationals and OCI passengers coming from other countries.
The FTI-TTP will be launched at 21 major airports in the country. In the first phase, it will be launched at 8 major airports -
Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi and Ahmedabad. The FTI registration will be valid for a
maximum of 5 years or until the validity of the passport, whichever comes first. The FTI-TTP will be implemented through
an online portal and the Bureau of Immigration will be the nodal agency. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Amit Shah – launched “Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP)”
- Under this, immigration process for pre-verified Indian nationals & OCI cardholders will be fast-tracked
• It will be launched at 21 major airports & in the first phase, it will be launched at 8 major airports:
- Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi & Ahmedabad
• FTI registration will be valid for a maximum of 5 years (or until validity of passport, whichever comes first)
• Nodal agency for FTI-TTP – Bureau of Immigration
• HQs of Bureau of Immigration – New Delhi | Head – Harinath Mishra (under MHA)

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39. Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Dr. BD Mishra, has announced Ladakh as the first administrative unit to achieve full
functional literacy under the “ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram”, with over 97% literacy. The celebration in Leh
included the launch of the ‘2023 Annual Achievement Report’ and praised volunteerism in literacy efforts. The ULLAS
program, aligned with NEP 2020, has empowered millions nationwide, emphasizing foundational literacy, critical life skills,
and vocational education through volunteer-driven initiatives. ULLAS - Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram or New India
Literacy Programme (NILP) is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented from 2022-2027. The scheme aligns with the
recommendations of the ‘NEP 2020’ and aims to empower those adults aged 15 years and above from all backgrounds who
could not get due schooling. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ladakh – 1st administrative unit to achieve full functional literacy under “ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram” with
over 97% literacy
• ‘ULLAS’ or ‘NILP’ – a centrally sponsored scheme implemented from 2022-2027
• Aim: To empower those adults aged 15 years and above from all backgrounds who could not get due schooling
• Ladakh: Capital – Leh | Lt. Governor – B. D. Mishra

40. Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) has enhanced the share of allocation for the Fertilizer Sector under the
‘SIGHT Programme’ of the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) by 2 lakh tonnes per annum, from 5.5 lakh tonnes per
annum to 7.5 lakh tonnes per annum of Green Ammonia. The National Green Hydrogen Mission was launched in January
2023 with an outlay of Rs 19,744 crores up to FY 2029-30. Under the Mission, the ministry had issued the scheme guidelines
for implementation of the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) Programme to cater for the needs
of the fertilizer sector. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MNRE enhanced the share of allocation for the Fertilizer Sector under the ‘SIGHT Programme’ of NGHM by 2 LTPA
- From 5.5 lakh tonnes per annum to 7.5 lakh tonnes per annum of Green Ammonia
• SIGHT – Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition
• National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) – launched in Jan 2023 | Outlay – Rs 19,744 Cr up to FY 2029-30
• Minister of New & Renewable Energy: Pralhad Joshi | Constituency – Dharwad-Hubballi, Karnataka
• MoS in Ministry of Power: Shripad Yesso Naik

International Affairs
41. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) launched a new $135 million
Blue and Green Islands Integrated Programme (BGI-IP) during the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing
States (SIDS4) in St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda. This initiative aims to emphasize the crucial role of nature and expand
nature-based solutions to combat environmental degradation in three key sectors: urban development, food production,
and tourism. Targeting 15 SIDS, the program seeks to foster nature-positive changes. Managed by the UNDP and funded by
the GEF and partners, this effort represents a new wave of support for SIDS as they embark on the Decade of Action from
2024 to 2034. Selected through the “Expressions of Interest” process, the 15 SIDS, out of 39 in total, are: Belize, Cape Verde,
Comoros, Cuba, Maldives, Mauritius, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Saint Lucia, Samoa, Seychelles, Timor Leste,
Trinidad & Tobago, and Vanuatu. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) – held in St John’s, Antigua & Barbuda
• UNDP + GEF = launched a new $135 million Blue & Green Islands Integrated Programme (BGI-IP)
• Aim: To combat environmental degradation in 3 key sectors: Urban Development, Food Production & Tourism
• The Programme seeks to foster nature-positive changes, targeting 15 SIDS
• 15 SIDS (out of 39) are: Belize, Cape Verde, Comoros, Cuba, Maldives, Mauritius, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea,
Saint Lucia, Samoa, Seychelles, Timor Leste, Trinidad & Tobago, and Vanuatu
• HQs of UNDP – New York, US | Administrator – Achim Steiner | Founded in – 1965
• HQs of GEF – Washington, US | CEO and Chairperson – Carlos Manuel Rodriguez

42. India, South Korea, the United States, Japan, and the European Union (EU) have collaborated to launch the
“Biopharmaceutical Alliance” to put joint efforts into building a resilient supply chain in the biopharmaceutical sector. The
inaugural meeting of the Biopharmaceutical Alliance, held in San Diego (California, US) during the “Bio International
Convention 2024”, had representatives from government officials and bio and pharmaceutical companies from the
participating countries. The alliance was launched in response to the drug supply shortages experienced during the Covid-
19 pandemic. Initially, South Korea and the US agreed to form the alliance during their dialogue on core emerging
technologies in December 2023, and expanded it to include Japan, India and the EU. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Bio International Convention 2024” – held in San Diego, California, US
• India + South Korea + US + Japan + EU = collaborated to launch the “Biopharmaceutical Alliance”
• Reason to form this alliance: Drug supply shortages experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic
• Initially, only South Korea & US had agreed to form the alliance in Dec 2023

43. Pakistan, Somalia, Denmark, Greece and Panama were elected as non-permanent members of the
UN Security Council (UNSC) for a two-year term beginning 2025. The 5 members were elected by a
secret ballot in the UN General Assembly for a 2-year term starting on January 1, 2025, until December
31, 2026. These newly elected members will replace Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Ecuador and
Switzerland. The newly elected members will join Algeria, Guyana, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone
and Slovenia as the other non-permanent members of UNSC. The UNSC comprises 15 members, 5 of
whom are permanent and 10 non-permanent. The five permanent members of the UNSC are the USA, the UK, France, Russia
and China. They have veto power. India has been elected 8 times as a non-permanent member of UNSC. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Pakistan, Somalia, Denmark, Greece & Panama – elected as non-permanent members of UNSC for 2 years from 2025
• These new members replaced – Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Ecuador & Switzerland
• Other 5 non-permanent members – Algeria, Guyana, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone & Slovenia
• India – has been elected 8 times as a non-permanent member of UNSC
• HQs of UNSC – New York, US | Presidency in June – South Korea (May - Mozambique | July - Russia)
The UNSC has 10 non-permanent members & 5 permanent members (China, France, Russia, UK, US)

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44. Peru, Slovakia & Armenia officially signed NASA’s “Artemis Accords”, a set of
principles that aims to lay out a framework for peaceful cooperation in space and on the
moon. The addition of these two nations brings the total of signing countries to 43. The
Artemis Accords were first launched and signed in October 2020 by 8 nations. Through
the Artemis program, NASA and its international partners aim to establish a permanent
and sustainable human presence on the moon by around the end of the decade. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• Peru, Slovakia & Armenia – signed NASA’s “Artemis Accords” | Now, total signing countries – 43
• Artemis Accords aim to lay out a framework for peaceful cooperation in space & on the moon
• Artemis Accords – launched & signed in October 2020 initially by 8 nations
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958

45. The United Nations has designated 2025 as the “International Year of Quantum Science and Technology” to increase
public awareness about the importance of quantum science, encourage young people to study it and bolster support for
using it to address current challenges. 2025 marks 100 years since the publication of a paper by the German physicist Werner
Heisenberg, which laid the foundation for quantum mechanics. The resolution to declare 2025 as “International Year of
Quantum Science and Technology” was submitted by Ghana, co-sponsored by 6 other countries. Quantum mechanics is a
fundamental theory in physics that describes the behavior of nature at and below the scale of atoms. Moreover, 2024 is
being observed as the “International Year of Camelids” by the UN to raise awareness about the economic, social, and cultural
importance of camelids animals. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UN – designated 2025 as the “International Year of Quantum Science and Technology”
• The resolution was submitted by – Ghana
• 2025 marks 100 years since the publication of a paper which laid the foundation for quantum mechanics
- Author – Werner Heisenberg (German physicist)
• 2024 – being observed as “International Year of Camelids” by UN
• HQs of UN – New York, US | Secretary-General – Antonio Guterres | Established in – October 24, 1945

46. UNESCO has launched two new tools - “Greening Curriculum

Guidance (GCG)” and “Green School Quality Standards (GSQS)” - under
Greening Education Partnership. GCG is a practical manual providing, for
the first time, a common understanding of what climate education should
consist of and how countries can mainstream environmental topics
across curricula, with detailed expected learning outcomes. GSQS set the
minimum requirements on how to create a green school by promoting an action-oriented approach. The ‘Greening
Education Partnership’ is a global initiative comprising 80 member states and supports countries to tackle the climate crisis
by harnessing the critical role of education. 50% of 100 countries in recent UNESCO survey have no mention of climate
change in their curriculum. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UNESCO – launched “Greening Curriculum Guidance (GCG)” & “Green School Quality Standards (GSQS)” under Greening
Education Partnership
• GCG – a practical manual providing a common understanding of what climate education should consist of

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47. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has added Israel’s military to a global list of offenders that have
committed violations against children. Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad were also added to the list, along with the Israel
Defense Forces (IDF). Israel’s inclusion on the list comes after 8 months of war in Gaza, in which more than 15,500 children
have been killed. Meanwhile, dozens of UN staffers have been killed by IDF in Gaza since the conflict began, the largest loss
in the world body’s history. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Antonio Guterres – added following to a global list of offenders that have committed violations against children:
- Israel Defense Forces, Hamas & Palestinian Islamic Jihad
• More than 15,500 children have been killed by IDF in 8 months of war in Gaza, Palestine
• HQs of UNSC – New York, US | Presidency in June – South Korea (May - Mozambique | July - Russia)
The UNSC has 10 non-permanent members & 5 permanent members (China, France, Russia, UK, US)

48. Armenia has decided to leave ‘Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO)’, a Russia-led security bloc. Armenian Prime
Minister Nikol Pashinyan accused the CSTO of failing to protect Armenia from resurgent Azerbaijani aggression, threatening
to leave the bloc if Moscow did not provide greater assurances and trying to cleave more closely to the United States and
European Union. The CSTO, headquartered in Russia’s Moscow, also includes Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and
Belarus. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Armenia – to leave Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a security bloc led by Russia
• CSTO includes – Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan & Belarus
• Armenia – Yerevan – Dram | PM – Nikol Pashinyan | President – Vahagn Khachaturyan
• HQs of CSTO – Moscow, Russia | SG – Imangali Tasmagambetov | Founded in – 2002

49. Nepal has approached India to set up ‘Jan Aushadhi Kendras’ in that country,
which would allow its citizens to benefit from low cost ‘Made in India’ generic
medicines. Earlier, Mauritius became the first country to adopt the ‘Jan Aushadhi
Scheme’, enabling it to source about 250 high quality medicines from the
Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India. The Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya
Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), launched in November 2008, is a flagship Central
government scheme under which quality generic medicines are made available at
affordable prices via dedicated outlets called Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK). India currently has
over 10,000 PMBJKs across the country. The scheme is being implemented by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices
Bureau of India, an autonomous society under the Department of Pharmaceuticals. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nepal – approached India to set up ‘Jan Aushadhi Kendras’ to allow its citizens to benefit from generic medicines
• Medicines are available via dedicated outlets called ‘Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK)’
• Mauritius – became first country to adopt ‘Jan Aushadhi Scheme’ | India currently has over 10,000 PMBJKs

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50. Ukraine has officially established the world’s first “Unmanned Systems Forces (USF)”, dedicated to
advancing the capabilities of unmanned and robotic warfare across air, sea, and ground domains. This
ambitious development program also aims to position the country as a global leader in unmanned military
technologies. The emblem of the new branch, an ‘iron swallow’ designed by artificial intelligence,
symbolizes Ukraine’s transformation from vulnerability to resilience. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ukraine – established world’s first “Unmanned Systems Forces”, to advance capabilities of unmanned & robotic warfare
• ‘Iron swallow’ (designed by AI) is the emblem of new branch
• Ukraine – Kyiv – Ukrainian Hryvnia | President – Volodymyr Zelensky

51. Finland-based Wartsila has launched the world’s first large-scale 100% hydrogen-
ready engine power plant, to enable the net-zero power systems. The new engine
power plant is a significant step beyond existing technology, which can run on natural
gas and 25% hydrogen (H2) by volume blends. The Wartsila 31 engine platform is the
most efficient in the world. It synchronises with the grid within 30 seconds from start
command. It has completed more than 1 million running hours, with over 1,000 MW
installed capacity globally. The 100% hydrogen-ready engine is expected to be available for orders in 2025, and available for
delivery from 2026. According to the IEA’s ‘World Energy Outlook 2023’, the pathway to reach net zero emissions by 2050
requires 17 Mt of hydrogen to be consumed in power generation in 2030, reaching 51 Mt by 2050. That’s why hydrogen is
an essential component of our future power systems. Anders Lindberg is the President of Wärtsilä Energy. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Wartsila – launched world’s first large-scale 100% hydrogen-ready engine power plant to enable net-zero power systems
• It can run on natural gas & 25% hydrogen (H2) by volume blends
• ‘Wartsila 31’ engine platform (most efficient in world) – synchronises with grid within 30 seconds from start command
- It has completed more than 1 million running hours, with over 1,000 MW installed capacity globally
• As per ‘World Energy Outlook 2023’ by IEA – pathway to reach net zero emissions by 2050 requires 17 Mt of hydrogen
to be consumed in power generation in 2030, & 51 Mt by 2050
• HQs of Wartsila – Helsinki, Finland | CEO – Håkan Agnevall | President – Anders Lindberg | Established in – 1834

52. Thailand has become the first country in south Asia to legalise same-sex marriage. Thailand is the third country in Asia
after Nepal and Taiwan, to do so. This means that two persons can marry each other, regardless of their gender. It also
grants same-sex couples the same rights as heterosexual couples in areas such as adoption, inheritance, and tax benefits.
LGBTQ+ couples effectively possess the same legal powers as their heterosexual counterparts in case of legal incapacitation.
Currently, same-sex marriage is legal in 36 countries (not including Thailand) globally, according LGBTQ+ rights advocacy
Human Rights Campaign. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Thailand – became 1st country in south Asia & 3rd in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage

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53. Paraguay has become the 100th country to join as full member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The South
American nation, Paraguay, officially handed over its Instrument of Ratification to the ISA in New Delhi. Fleming Raul Duarte
is Paraguay’s Ambassador to India. The ISA, co-founded by India and France during the 2015 United Nations Climate Change
Conference (COP21) in Paris, aims to promote solar energy deployment worldwide. It serves as a collaborative platform for
member countries to increase energy access, ensure energy security, and drive the transition towards sustainable energy
sources. Spain joined as the 99th member of ISA in May. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Paraguay – became 100th country to join as full member of ISA
• Paraguay’s Ambassador to India – Fleming Raul Duarte | 99th member of ISA – Spain
• ISA – co-founded by India & France during 2015 UN COP21 in Paris
• HQs of ISA – Gurugram | DG – Ajay Mathur | President – R. K. Singh | Signatory Countries – 116 | Membes – 100

Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs

54. The Center’s decision to increase its employees’ dearness allowance by 4% to 50% has resulted in a substantial revision
in other allowances, including retirement gratuity. As per para 6.2 of the OM dated 4-8-2016 issued by Department of
Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare, the maximum limit of Retirement gratuity and death gratuity shall be increased by 25%
whenever the dearness allowance rises by 50% of the basic pay. Accordingly, the maximum limit of Retirement Gratuity and
Death Gratuity under the ‘Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 2021’ or the ‘Central Civil Services (Payment of Gratuity
under National Pension System) Rules, 2021’, is now increased by 25%, from Rs 20 Lakh to Rs 25 Lakh, with effect from
January 1, 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Under ‘Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 2021’ / ‘Central Civil Services (Payment of Gratuity under NPS) Rules, 2021’:
• Maximum limit of Retirement gratuity & death gratuity – increased by 25% to Rs 25 Lakh (from Rs 20 Lakh)
- This revision is a result of dearness allowance increased by 4% – to 50%

55. P. Santhosh has been recommended by the board of the National Asset Reconstruction Company (NARCL) to take the
position of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the state-owned ‘Bad Bank’ or NARCL. Since January, Santhosh
has served as NARCL’s acting CEO when N Sundar unexpectedly left the position before the end of his term. Santhosh has
been recommended for a 3-year term by the NARCL board. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• P. Santhosh – to take the position of MD & CEO of NARCL or ‘Bad Bank’ for 3 years (succeeding - N Sundar)
• MD & CEO of NARCL – P Santhosh | Chairman – Diwakar Gupta | Lead Sponsor – Canara Bank (12% equity)

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56. The gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue for the month of
May 2024 stood at Rs 1.73 lakh crore. This represents a 10% year-on-
year growth, driven by a strong increase in domestic transactions (up
15.3%) and slowing of imports (down 4.3%). The breakdown of May
2024 Collections is - Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) at Rs 32,409
crore, State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) at Rs 40,265 crore,
Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) at Rs 87,781 crore, and Cess
at Rs 12,284 crore. GST collections had touched a record high of Rs 2.10 lakh crore in April 2024. After accounting for refunds,
the net GST revenue in the FY 2024-25 till May 2024 stood at Rs 3.36 lakh crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Gross GST revenue for May 2024 – Rs 1.73 lakh Cr (y-o-y growth of 10%)
• Breakdown of May 2024 GST total collection of Rs 1.73 lakh Cr:
- CGST – Rs 32,409 Cr | SGST – Rs 40,265 Cr | IGST – Rs 87,781 Cr | Cess – Rs 12,284 Cr
• Highest GST collection – Rs 2.10 lakh Cr (in April 2024)
• GST net revenue for FY 2024-25 – Rs 3.36 lakh Cr (as of May 2024)

57. According to the provisional estimate of the National Statistical Organisation (NSO), India’s GDP grew by 8.2% in the
financial year 2023-24, from 7% in FY in 2022-23. The Quarterly GDP Growth Rate in 2023-24 was 8.2% in Q1, 8.1% in Q2,
8.6% in Q3, and 7.8% in Q4. The Real GDP or GDP at constant price (base year 2011-2012), in 2023-24 was estimated at Rs
173.82 lakh crore, with a growth of 8.2% compared to 2022-23. The Nominal GDP or GDP at market price in 2023-24 was
estimated at Rs 295.36 lakh crore, registering a growth rate of 9.6%. The real Gross Value Added (GVA) was estimated at Rs
158.74 lakh crore in 2023-24, a growth of 7.2%. The nominal GVA was estimated at Rs 267.62 lakh Cr, 8.5% growth rate.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per the provisional estimate of the NSO:
• India’s GDP – grew by 8.2% in FY24 (from 7% in FY23)
- Quarterly GDP Growth Rate in FY24: Q1 – 8.2% | Q2 – 8.1% | Q3 – 8.6% | Q4 – 7.8%
• Estimation of GDP in FY24 (from FY23): Real GDP – Rs 173.82 lakh Cr (8.2%) | Nominal GDP – Rs 295.36 lakh Cr (9.6%)
• Estimation of GVA in FY24 (from FY23): Real GVA – Rs 158.74 lakh Cr (7.2%) | Nominal GVA – Rs 267.62 lakh Cr (8.5%)

58. For the first time, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the auction of 10-year Green Bonds as traders refused
to pay greenium. Greenium signifies the premium investors are willing to pay for green bonds because of their sustainability
impact. Diverging from the pattern of issuing green bonds in the latter half, the government plans to issue green bonds
worth Rs 12,000 crore in the first half of the current financial year. The green bonds were planned to be issued in two
tranches of Rs 6,000 crore each for a period of 10 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – cancelled auction of 10-year Green Bonds for first time as traders refused to pay greenium
• Greenium is a premium that investors are willing to pay for green bonds because of their sustainability impact
• Govt – to issue green bonds worth Rs 12,000 Cr in first half of FY25
- Planned to be issued in two tranches of Rs 6,000 Cr each for a period of 10 years
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

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59. The global unemployment rate is expected to fall slightly to 4.9% in 2024 from 5% in 2023, according to the “World
Employment and Social Outlook: May 2024 Update” released by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The revision is
mainly due to lower-than-expected unemployment rates in China, India, and high-income countries reported so far this year.
The report highlights that 183 million people are considered unemployed, while jobs gap (the number of those without a
job but wanting to work) stands at 402 million. Informal employment has risen to 2 billion in 2024, from 1.7 billion in 2005.
Globally, only 45.6% of working-age women are employed in 2024, compared to 69.2% of men. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “World Employment and Social Outlook: May 2024 Update” – released by International Labour Organization (ILO)
• Global unemployment rate – expected to fall slightly to 4.9% in 2024 (from 5% in 2023)
• 183 million people are considered unemployed, while jobs gap stands at 402 million
• Informal employment has risen to 2 billion in 2024 (from 1.7 billion in 2005)
• Globally, only 45.6% of working-age women are employed in 2024, compared to 69.2% of men
• HQs of ILO – Geneva, Switzerland | DG – Gilbert F. Houngbo | Founded in – 1919

60. The Union Government has contained the fiscal deficit, the gap between expenditure
and revenue, at 5.6% of the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023-24 (FY24), compared with
the Revised Estimates of 5.8%. The fiscal deficit stood at Rs 16.54 trillion in FY24, against the
budgetary target of Rs 17.86 trillion. The fiscal deficit for April 2024 stood at Rs 2.1 trillion
or 12.5% of the full-year target. The Centre has set an FY25 fiscal deficit target of 5.1%, or
Rs 16.85 trillion, in order to achieve a fiscal deficit of 4.5% of GDP by FY26. According to the
data, net tax receipts for FY24 were above projections at Rs 23.27 trillion. The total amount
spent (expenditure) that year stood at Rs 44.43 trillion. India’s direct tax collections grew by
17.7% year-on-year to Rs 19.58 trillion in FY24, exceeding the Revised Estimates by Rs 13,000 crore and Budget Estimates
by Rs 1.35 trillion. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Centre contained fiscal deficit at – 5.6% of GDP in FY24 (compared with Revised Estimates of 5.8%)
• Centre has set fiscal deficit target of 5.1% in FY25 & 4.5% in FY26
• Net tax receipts for FY24 – Rs 23.27 trillion | Total amount spent in FY24 – Rs 44.43 trillion
• India’s direct tax collections in FY24 – grew by 17.7% y-o-y to Rs 19.58 trillion
• Fiscal deficit for April 2024 – stood at Rs 2.1 trillion or 12.5% of full-year target

61. India received the highest foreign direct investment (FDI) from Singapore in
2023-24, according to the latest government data released by Department for
Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). FDI from Singapore has dipped
by 31.55% to $11.77 billion in 2023-24. Since 2018-19, Singapore has been the
largest source of such investments for India. FDI equity inflows in India declined
3.49% to $44.42 billion in FY 2023-24, as against $46.03 billion in FY 2022-23.
During FY24, FDI equity inflows decreased from major countries, however, investments increased from the Netherlands and
Japan. FDI from Mauritius dipped to $7.97 billion in FY24, followed by the US with $4.99 billion at the third place. It was
followed by the Netherlands ($4.93 billion), Japan ($3.17 billion), the UAE ($2.9 billion), U.K. ($1.2 billion), Cyprus ($806
million), Germany ($505 million), and Cayman Islands ($342 million). {Read more}

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62. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has set up a committee to review the ownership and economic structure
of Clearing Corporations and suggest measures to ensure that Clearing Corporations function as resilient, independent, and
neutral risk managers. The ad-hoc committee would be chaired by Usha Thorat, former Deputy Governor of the Reserve
Bank of India (RBI). The committee will examine the feasibility, and broadening the list of eligible investors, who are allowed
to take shareholding in a clearing corporation and suggest categories of investors who can acquire stakes in such
corporations. Additionally, it will examine the need to alter the caps on the shareholding of various entities in a clearing
corporation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SEBI – set up a committee to review the ownership & economic structure of Clearing Corporations
• The ad-hoc committee would be chaired by – Usha Thorat (Former Deputy Governor of RBI)
• HQs of SEBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Madhabi Puri Buch | Established in – 1992

63. Adani One, the digital platform of the Adani Group, and ICICI Bank have announced the launch of
two variants of co-branded credit cards in collaboration with card network Visa. This marks the Adani
Group’s foray into the retail financial sector. It is available in two variants - Adani One ICICI Bank
Signature Credit Card and Adani One ICICI Bank Platinum Credit Card. Cardholders can get up to 7%
Adani reward points on spends within the Adani Group ecosystem. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Adani One + ICICI Bank + Visa = announced launch of two variants of co-branded credit cards
- ‘Adani One ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card’ & ‘Adani One ICICI Bank Platinum Credit Card’
• HQs of ICICI Bank – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Sandeep Bakhshi | Taglines – “Hum Hain Na!” & “Khayal Apka”
• HQs of Adani Group – Ahmedabad, Gujarat | Chairman – Gautam Adani | MD – Rajesh Adani
• HQs of Visa – Foster City, California | CEO – Ryan McInerney | Founded in – 1958

64. The State Bank of India (SBI) had become the 1st Public Sector Bank and the 7th Indian company to cross the Rs 8 trillion
market capitalisation (m-cap). HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank are the only other banks with m-cap of over Rs 8 trillion. At present,
six Indian companies are valued over Rs 8 trillion. Apart from SBI, Reliance Industries, TCS, HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, and
ICICI Bank are in the Rs 8 trillion league. Infosys had crossed Rs 8 trillion milestone, but is now valued at Rs 5.8 trillion. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• SBI – became 1st Public Sector Bank & 7th Indian company to cross Rs 8 trillion market capitalisation (m-cap)
- Other 6 – Reliance Industries, TCS, HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel & ICICI Bank | Infosys (excluded at present)
• HQs of SBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara
MDs – Challa Sreenivasulu Setty | Alok Kumar Choudhary | Ashwini Kumar Tewari | Vinay M. Tonse

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65. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) “Global Outlook Report” has forecast India to be the fastest growing major
economy in 2024-2028, with its growth expected to outpace China’s. The EIU has revised its forecast for India’s real GDP
growth for 2024 to 2.5%, up from 2.4% previously. Over the next 5 years, EIU has projected the global economy to grow by
2.8%, with more fragmentation and regionalisation in the world economy dragging the growth potential. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Outlook Report” – released by EIU
• As per report by EIU:
- India will be the fastest growing major economy in 2024-2028, outpacing China
- EIU has projected the global economy to grow by 2.8% over the next 5 years
- EIU has revised its forecast for India’s real GDP growth for 2024 to 2.5% (up from 2.4%)
• HQs of EIU – London, UK | MD – Robin Bew

66. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its annual report, reported a 17% increase in its FY24 income to Rs 2,75,572.32 crore.
Expenditure shrank by 56.3% to Rs 64,694.33 crore. The sharp contraction in spending helped the central bank end the year
with a transferrable surplus (net income) of Rs 2,10,873.99 crore, as against Rs 87,416.22 crore in the previous year, which
was fully paid to the government. The size of the RBI’s balance sheet increased by Rs 7,02,946.97 crore, or 11%, to Rs
70,47,703.21 crore. Domestic assets constituted 23.31% while foreign currency assets, gold and loans and advances to
financial institutions outside India constituted 76.69% of total assets in FY24. A provision of Rs 42,819.91 crore was made
and transferred to the Contingency Fund (CF). Besides, the RBI also reiterated its outlook for economic growth, projecting
real GDP growth for 2024-25 at 7%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per annual report of RBI:
• In FY24, RBI’s: Income – increased by 17% to Rs 2,75,572.32 Cr | Expenditure – shrank by 56.3% to Rs 64,694.33 Cr
• Transferrable surplus (net income) – Rs 2,10,873.99 Cr (from Rs 87,416.22 Cr in FY23)
• RBI’s balance sheet – increased by 11% (Rs 7,02,946.97 Cr) to Rs 70,47,703.21 Cr
• Constitution of total assets in FY24:
- Domestic assets – 23.31% | Foreign currency assets, gold & loans & advances to FIs outside India – 76.69%
• Transferred to Contingency Fund – Rs 42,819.91 Crore | RBI projected real GDP growth for FY25 – at 7%
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

67. Federal Bank has announced a bancassurance tie up with Tata AIA Life Insurance Company to provide its customers
access to the insurance companies’ products. Similarly, Capital Small Finance Bank has announced a Bancassurance
Corporate Agency tie-up with ICICI Lombard to enhance its product offerings and provide a diversified range of general
insurance products to its customers. Sarvjit Singh Samra is the MD & CEO of Capital SFB. Bancassurance refers to the
agreement between a bank and an insurance company through which the bank sells the insurance product of the concerned
insurance company to its customers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Federal Bank + Tata AIA Life Ins. Com. = a bancassurance tie up
• Capital SFB + ICICI Lombard = a bancassurance tie up

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68. NSE Indices Limited, a subsidiary of NSE specializing in index services, has unveiled a new thematic index named the
“Nifty EV & New Age Automotive Index”. This index is designed to monitor the performance of businesses within the electric
vehicle (EV) sector and those engaged in the advancement of new-age automotive vehicles and associated technology. The
index’s base date is April 2, 2018, with a base value of 1000. It will undergo semi-annual reconstitution and quarterly
rebalancing. Currently, the NSE hosts 17 thematic indices, including Nifty Commodities, Nifty India Consumption, Nifty CPSE,
Nifty Energy, and Nifty Infrastructure. In addition to these thematic indices, the NSE oversees Broad Market Indices such as
Nifty, Nifty Next 50, Nifty 100, and others, along with 15 sectoral indices like Nifty Bank, Nifty IT, and Nifty Auto. Mukesh
Agarwal is the CEO of NSE Indices which was established in 1998. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NSE Indices Limited (NSE) – unveiled a new thematic index named “Nifty EV & New Age Automotive Index”
• It is designed to monitor performance of businesses within EV sector & engaged in advancement of new-age AV
• Base date of Index – April 2, 2018, with a base value of 1000
• Currently, NSE hosts 17 thematic indices & 15 sectoral indices
• HQs of NSE Indices Ltd – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Mukesh Agarwal | Founded in – 1998

69. SBI Mutual Fund (SBI MF) has made history by becoming the first fund house in India to achieve
the Rs 10 trillion milestone in assets under management (AUM). The sharp growth in SBI MF’s AUM
has been driven by the equity market rally and expanding MF investor base. As of April 2024, SBI
accounted for Rs 2 trillion of SBI MF’s AUM. Over Rs 5 trillion of the AUM was in direct plans, with the
remaining Rs 2.2 trillion linked to other distributors. ICICI Prudential MF, HDFC MF, Nippon India MF,
and Kotak MF complete the top five. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI MF – became 1st fund house in India to achieve Rs 10 trillion milestone in assets under management (AUM)
• As of April 2024, SBI accounted for – Rs 2 trillion of SBI MF’s AUM
• Other 4 among Top 5: ICICI Prudential MF, HDFC MF, Nippon India MF, & Kotak MF
• HQs of SBI Mutual Fund – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Shamsher Singh

70. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has launched “Saarthi 2.0”, a focussed mobile app, on personal finance for
investors with comprehensive tools aimed at simplifying complex financial concepts. The first version of Saarthi was
introduced in January 2022, with the objective of engaging an investment-oriented public. The updated “Saarthi” app
introduces a user-friendly interface with comprehensive tools aimed at simplifying complex financial concepts. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SEBI – launched “Saarthi 2.0”, with comprehensive tools aimed at simplifying complex financial concepts
• The first version of Saarthi was introduced in January 2022
• HQs of SEBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Madhabi Puri Buch | Established in – 1992

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71. The Defence Accounts Department (DAD) of the Ministry of Defence has signed MoUs with 4 banks - Bank of India,
Canara Bank, Central Bank of India and Utkarsh Small Finance Bank - to onboard them as “SPARSH” service centres across
1,128 branches of these banks in India. The System for Pension Administration - RAKSHA (SPARSH), an initiative of the
Ministry of Defence, is a web-based system for processing pension claims and crediting the pension directly into the bank
accounts of defence pensioners without any external intermediary. With these MoUs, SPARSH services would now be
available at over 26,000 branches of a total of 15 banks across the country. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DAD (Ministry of Defence) – signed MoUs with BoI, Canara Bank, CBoI & Utkarsh SFB to onboard them as “SPARSH”
service centres across 1,128 branches
• SPARSH – System for Pension Administration - RAKSHA
• SPARSH – a web-based system for processing pension claims & crediting pension directly into bank accounts of defence
pensioners without any external intermediary
• Ministry of Defence: Rajnath Singh | Constituency – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Defence: Ajay Bhatt

72. Asirvad Micro Finance Limited, a subsidiary of Manappuram Finance Limited (MAFIL), has appointed
Satish Nair as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Asirvad, headquartered in Valapad, Kerala, is
the third largest microfinance institution (in terms of AUM as of June 2023), offering microfinance loans
to low-income women. As of June 2023, Asirvad has a presence in 22 States and 4 Union Territories in
India through its network of 1,684 branches, with assets under management (AUM) of over Rs 10,000
crore. VP Nandakumar is the Chairman of Asirvad. MAFIL currently owns 97.59% in Asirvad. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Satish Nair – appointed as President & CEO of Asirvad Micro Finance Ltd (a subsidiary of Manappuram Finance Ltd)
• HQs of Asirvad Micro Finance – Valapad, Kerala | President & CEO – Satish Nair | Chairman – VP Nandakumar

73. NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) has signed a pact with the Central Reserve Bank of Peru to develop the UPI-
like instant payments system. Peru is the first South American country to do so. This is NIPL’s second partnership with a
central bank to deploy the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) stack in the international market, after Bank of Namibia (BoN).
The partnership will facilitate instant payments between individuals and businesses, and expand the use of digital payments
to Peru’s unbanked population. In January 2024, NPCI announced the launch of the ‘UPI-PayNow’ linkage that enables
Indians to receive remittances directly into their bank accounts from Singapore and vice-versa. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NIPL + Central Reserve Bank of Peru = to develop UPI-like instant payments system
• Peru – first South American country to do so
• This is NIPL’s 2nd partnership with a central bank | 1st – Bank of Namibia
• In Jan 2024, NPCI launched ‘UPI-PayNow’ to enable Indians to receive remittances from Singapore & vice-versa
• CEO of NIPL – Ritesh Shukla
• HQs of NPCI – Mumbai | Chairman – Ajay Kumar Choudhary | MD & CEO – Dilip Asbe | Established in – 2008

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74. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed to enhance the threshold for the Basic Service Demat Account
(BSDA) to Rs 10 lakh from the current Rs 2 lakh in a bid to boost the participation of retail investors in the securities market.
The BSDA is a more basic version of a regular demat account. The facility was introduced by SEBI in 2012 for reducing the
burden of demat charges on investors with small portfolios. At present, an individual can hold debt securities worth up to
Rs 2 lakh and other than debt securities worth up to Rs 2 lakh in a single demat account to be eligible for BSDA. The regulator
proposed that the value of securities held in the demat account should not exceed Rs 10 lakh for debt and other than debt
securities combined at any point of time. For portfolio values up to Rs 4 lakh, SEBI has proposed that annual maintenance
charge for a BDSA should be nil and for portfolio values of between over Rs 4 lakh and up to Rs 10 lakh, the charges should
be Rs 100. However, if portfolio value exceeds Rs 10 lakh then BDSA should automatically be converted into a regular demat
account. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SEBI – to enhance threshold for Basic Service Demat Account (BSDA) to Rs 10 lakh (from current Rs 2 lakh)
• BSDA – introduced by SEBI in 2012
• Value of securities held in demat account should not exceed – Rs 10 lakh for debt & other than debt securities combined
• Annual maintenance charge for portfolio values: Up to Rs 4 lakh – Nil | From Rs 4 lakh to Rs 10 lakh – Rs 100
• If portfolio value exceeds Rs 10 lakh then BDSA should automatically be converted into a regular demat account
• HQs of SEBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Madhabi Puri Buch | Established in – 1992

75. All India Bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA) has launched “Bank Clinic” initiative to help customers
address their grievances amid rapid expansion in technology and a series of Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
guidelines on retail banking. The initiative will guide retail customers about their rights and remedies. It
will not be liable to resolve the customer’s query but will guide them on available remedies. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• AIBEA – launched “Bank Clinic” initiative to help customers address their grievances amid rapid expansion in technology
• HQs of AIBEA – Chennai, Tamil Nadu | General Secretary – C. H. Venkatachalam

76. Life insurer PNB MetLife India Insurance has appointed Sameer Bansal as its Managing Director (MD)
and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective from July 1, 2024. He succeeds Ashish Srivastava, who has been
appointed as MD for New York-based MetLife Inc’s global shared services team in India. The company is
promoted by MetLife International Holdings and Punjab National Bank. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sameer Bansal – appointed as MD & CEO of PNB MetLife India
• He succeeds Ashish Srivastava (appointed as MD for MetLife Inc’s global shared services team in India)
• HQs of PNB Metlife – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Sameer Bansal | Established – 2001

77. Muthoot Microfin has announced a strategic co-lending partnership with the State Bank of India
(SBI) to extend its financial services to women in the economically weaker segment in rural and semi-
urban regions across India. The loan amounts will range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 3 lakh. Muthoot Microfin
and SBI will co-lend to members of joint liability groups who are engaged in agricultural and allied
activities as well as other income-generating enterprises. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Muthoot Microfin + SBI = a strategic co-lending partnership to extend its financial services to women in rural areas

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78. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das announced the 2nd bi-monthly
monetary policy of the financial year 2024-25. The RBI Governor headed 6-member
Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decided to keep the benchmark repo rate unchanged at
6.5% for the 8th consecutive time. RBI raised its GDP growth forecast for FY25 to 7.2% from
7% earlier. The central bank retained CPI inflation forecast at 4.5% for FY25. During the MPC
meeting, RBI proposed to revise the definition of bulk deposits as ‘Single Rupee term deposit
of ₹3 crore and above’ for Scheduled Commercial Banks (excluding RRBs) and Small Finance Banks (SFBs). Further, it also
proposed to define the bulk deposit limit for Local Area Banks as ‘Single Rupee term deposits of ₹1 crore and above’. Besides,
the RBI announced the establishment of a “Digital Payments Intelligence Platform”. This platform will leverage advanced
technologies like AI and machine learning to identify and mitigate fraud risks, ultimately leading to a safer digital payments
environment. To advance this initiative, the RBI has also formed a committee, chaired by A. P. Hota, former MD & CEO of
NPCI. The RBI also announced the launch of the 3rd edition of the RBI’s global hackathon, “HARBINGER 2024 - Innovation for
Transformation”, aimed at enhancing the safety, security, and inclusivity of India’s financial ecosystem. The winners of this
hackathon will receive prize money of Rs 40 lakh across each problem statement. Special Prize worth Rs 20 lakh will be given
to the best all-women team across all problem statements. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 2nd bi-monthly monetary policy of FY25 – announced by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das
• 6-member MPC decided to keep benchmark repo rate unchanged at 6.5% for 8th consecutive time
• Latest rates:
- Repo rate – 6.50% | Reverse Repo Rate – 3.35% | Bank Rate or MSF – 6.75%
- CRR – 4.50% | SLR – 18% | SDF – 6.25%
• RBI’s new forecast for FY25: GDP – 7.2% (from 7%) | CPI inflation – 4.5%
• RBI proposed to revise:
- Bulk deposits limit for SCBs (excluding RRBs) & SFBs – ₹3 Cr & above
- Bulk deposit limit for Local Area Banks – ₹1 Cr & above
• RBI also launched “Digital Payments Intelligence Platform” – to leverage advanced technologies like AI & ML to identify
& mitigate fraud risks
- a committee, chaired by A. P. Hota, is formed to advance this initiative
• RBI launched 3rd edition of its global hackathon, “HARBINGER 2024 - Innovation for Transformation”
- Aim: To enhance safety, security & inclusivity of India’s financial ecosystem
- Winner Prize: Rs 40 lakh | Special Prize to the best all-women team – Rs 20 lakh

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79. New York-based credit ratings and research giant, Moody’s, has affirmed the “Baa3” ratings
on three Indian public sector banks, including Bank of Baroda (BOB), Canara Bank, and Punjab
National Bank (PNB). The rating agency maintained a stable outlook on the long-term ratings
of all three banks. The banks’ non-performing loan (NPL) ratios have also declined. It is a ratio
of bad or unpaid loans to total loans. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Moody’s (US) – affirmed “Baa3” ratings on 3 Indian public sector banks, including BOB, Canara Bank & PNB
• Non-performing loan (NPL) ratio: a ratio of bad or unpaid loans to total loans
• HQs of BoB – Vododara, Gujarat | MD & CEO – Debadatta Chand | Tagline – “India’s International Bank”
• HQs of Canara Bank – Bengaluru | MD & CEO – K. Satyanarayana Raju | Non-Ex Chairman – Vijay Srirangam
• HQs of PNB – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Atul Kumar Goel | Tagline – “The Name You Can Bank Upon”

80. Hong Kong has launched trading of Asia’s first Spot Bitcoin and Ether Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) to become a regional
virtual asset investment hub. Hong Kong’s pioneering crypto ETFs on the city’s bourse include 6 funds issued by 3 managers
- Bosera Funds, China Asset Management (Hong Kong) Limited and Harvest Global Investments. Each company issued a spot
bitcoin and a spot ether ETF. Hong Kong also allows investors to carry out in-kind creation and redemption through eligible
dealers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Hong Kong – launched trading of Asia’s 1st Spot Bitcoin & Ether ETFs to become a regional virtual asset investment hub
• Hong Kong’s pioneering crypto ETFs include 6 funds issued by 3 managers – Bosera Funds, China Asset Management
(Hong Kong) Limited & Harvest Global Investments

81. Punjab National Bank (PNB) and India Infrastructure Finance Company Ltd (IIFCL) have signed an agreement to offer
long-term financial assistance to viable infrastructure projects. With this, both the institutions will collaborate to fund the
infrastructure projects wherein the parties can mutually participate under consortium/multiple lending arrangements to
provide financial support to the prospective borrowers subject to due diligence and on a case-to-case basis. Padmanabhan
Raja Jaishankar is the MD of IIFCL. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PNB + IIFCL = an agreement to offer long-term financial assistance to viable infrastructure projects
• HQs of PNB Metlife – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Sameer Bansal | Established – 2001
• HQs of IIFCL – New Delhi | MD – Padmanabhan Raja Jaishankar

82. Axis Bank, a private sector bank, and Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, a private general
insurer, have entered a strategic bancassurance partnership to boost insurance penetration
and financial inclusion in the country. Under this Bancassurance tie-up, a comprehensive suite
of Bajaj Allianz General Insurance products will be distributed through Axis Bank’s network of
5,250 plus branches. Bancassurance is an insurance distribution model where companies
partner with banks to sell policies. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Axis Bank + Bajaj Allianz = a strategic bancassurance partnership to boost insurance penetration & financial inclusion
• HQs of Axis Bank – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Amitabh Chaudhry | Tagline – “Badhti ka Naam Zindagi”
• HQs of Bajaj Allianz Gen Ins – Pune, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Tapan Singhel

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83. Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance has been rechristened as Edelweiss Life Insurance, as part
of its transformational journey. This transformation reflects in the refreshed logo. The
company has retained its brand positioning of ‘Zindagi Unlimited’. Since inception, the life
insurer has grown at a CAGR of 40%. In FY24, it reported a claim settlement ratio of 99.23%,
and an NPS (indicator of customer satisfaction) of 56. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance – rechristened as ‘Edelweiss Life Insurance’
• The company has retained its brand positioning of ‘Zindagi Unlimited’
• HQs of Edelweiss Life Insurance – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Sumit Rai

84. Axis Bank has launched “NFC Soundbox” in collaboration with Mastercard. The new soundbox is expected to act as an
all-in-one solution allowing the users to accept Bharat QR, UPI, Tap & Pay and Tap + Pin payments. With this launch, Axis
Bank will be the first bank in India to introduce a Soundbox that can accept “Tap + Pin” payments, enabling merchants to
accept transactions greater than Rs 5000 via card instruments. The new device will also be available on all leading payment
networks, such as Visa, RuPay, and American Express. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Axis Bank + Mastercard = launched an all-in-one solution, “NFC Soundbox”
• It allows users to accept Bharat QR, UPI, Tap & Pay and Tap + Pin payments
• With this, Axis Bank will be the first bank in India to introduce a Soundbox that can accept “Tap + Pin” payments
- It enables merchants to accept transactions greater than Rs 5000 via card instruments
• HQs of Axis Bank – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Amitabh Chaudhry | Tagline – “Badhti ka Naam Zindagi”

85. Ashok Leyland Ltd, in partnership with The Oriental Insurance Co., has introduced “Sarathi Suraksha Policy”, a
comprehensive insurance policy to safeguard the driver community. The policy provides coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh per
chassis for accidental death, and permanent and partial disability for 4 years from the date of retail. It also covers other
aspects such as accidental hospitalisation and special education bonuses for children. Classified as an “Unnamed Group
Personal Accident Policy,” it covers any driver operating an Ashok Leyland vehicle, providing comprehensive protection for
the drivers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ashok Leyland + The Oriental Insurance Co. = introduced “Sarathi Suraksha Policy” to safeguard the driver community
• Coverage: up to Rs 10 lakh per chassis for accidental death & permanent/partial disability for 4 years
• It is classified as an “Unnamed Group Personal Accident Policy”
• HQs of Ashok Leyland – Chennai | CEO – Shenu Agarwal | President – Sanjay V. Jorapur (owned by Hinduja Group)
• HQs of The Oriental Insurance Co. – New Delhi | CMD – R. R. Singh

86. State Bank of India (SBI) has launched “SME Digital Business Loans” with the aim of sanctioning loans in 45 minutes. The
proposition eliminates the need for traditional credit underwriting and lengthy appraisal processes, ushering in a new era
of simplicity, speed, and accessibility in MSME lending. Notably, for loans up to Rs 50 lakh, SBI has waived the requirement
for financial statements, relying instead on transaction history and GST returns for appraisal. Besides, SBI has developed a
data-driven Credit Assessment Engine capable of providing sanction decisions within a remarkable 10 seconds after
submitting the required details, without any human intervention. {Read more}

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87. Universal Sompo has launched a new theme, “Insure Today for a Safe Tomorrow,” to raise awareness about the
importance of insurance in safeguarding against unforeseen risks. As part of an initiative called ‘Insurance for All by 2047,’
Universal Sompo collaborated with Maruti Suzuki Insurance Broking to spread insurance awareness in Andhra Pradesh.
Under the theme ‘Insure today for a safe tomorrow,’ a free vehicle checkup was provided at Krishna district in Andhra
Pradesh. Headquartered in Mumbai, Universal Sompo General Insurance is a Joint venture of Indian Bank, Indian Overseas
Bank, Karnataka Bank, Dabur Investments, and Sompo Japan Insurance Inc. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Universal Sompo – launched a new theme, “Insure Today for a Safe Tomorrow”
• Aim: To raise awareness about importance of insurance in safeguarding against unforeseen risks
• Universal Sompo + Maruti Suzuki Insurance Broking = to spread insurance awareness in Andhra Pradesh
• Under this theme, a free vehicle checkup was provided at Krishna district in Andhra Pradesh
• Universal Sompo is a JV of = Indian Bank + IOB + Karnataka Bank + Dabur Investments + Sompo Japan Insurance Inc.
• HQs of Universal Sompo – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Sharad Mathur | Founded in – 2007

88. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued a framework for Financial Disincentive in Case of
Surveillance Related Lapses (FDSRL) for Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs). The framework will come into effect from
July 1, 2024. MIIs such as stock exchanges, clearing corporations and depositories may now have to pay a fine if there are
any surveillance-related lapses. Penalties may vary from 1 lakh to Rs 1 crore for each instance of surveillance related lapse
during the Financial Year. In case of penalty, the MII is required to deposit the penalty within the 15 days to the Investor
Protection and Education Fund (IPEF) of SEBI. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SEBI – issued a framework for “Financial Disincentive in Case of Surveillance Related Lapses for MIIs” w.e.f. July 1, 2024
• Now, MIIs have to pay a fine for any surveillance-related lapses:
- Penalties vary from 1 lakh to Rs 1 Cr for each instance of surveillance related lapse during Financial Year
- In case of penalty, MII is required to deposit penalty within 15 days to Investor Protection & Education Fund of SEBI
• HQs of SEBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Madhabi Puri Buch | Established in – 1992

89. Bank of India (BOI) has launched a “666 Days Fixed Deposit (FD)”, which offers returns of up
to 7.95% per annum for senior citizens on deposit amounts less than ₹2 crore. On this 666-day
FD, Senior Citizens will get 7.80% p.a., Other age customers will get 7.30% p.a., while Super Senior
Citizens will get 7.95% p.a. A super senior citizen is an individual whose age is 80 years or more,
according to ClearTax. The revised interest rates are applicable for domestic, NRO and NRE Rupee Term deposits, which are
made effective from June 1, 2024. {Read more}

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90. Government of India has launched “BIMReN (BIMSTEC-India Marine Research Network)”, a joint-initiative of Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA) and the Bay of Bengal Programme-Inter Governmental Organization (BOBP-IGO), to facilitate
sustainable development of blue economy by networking researchers and research institutions in BIMSTEC countries.
BIMReN aims to enable PhD students from BIMSTEC countries to conduct doctoral research in India and facilitate
collaborative research among scientists / academicians from BIMSTEC countries through: (i) “BIMReN Split-Site Doctoral
Fellowships”, which offers doctoral candidates in BIMSTEC member countries a Research Grant of up to Rs 1 million and the
opportunity to pursue studies at Indian research labs for 6-12 months, (ii) “Twinning Research Projects”, which is aimed at
facilitating collaborations between institutions and individuals from BIMSTEC member countries, to work together on
research programmes of regional interest, with an associated grant of up to Rs 5 million per project of tenure of 24 months.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• MEA + BOBP-IGO = launched “BIMReN (BIMSTEC-India Marine Research Network)
• Aim: To facilitate sustainable development of blue economy by networking researchers & research institutions in
BIMSTEC countries
• BIMReN aims to enable PhD students to conduct doctoral research in India & facilitate collaborative research from
BIMSTEC countries through:
- “BIMReN Split-Site Doctoral Fellowships” – It offers doctoral candidates in BIMSTEC member countries a Research
Grant of up to Rs 1 million & opportunity to pursue studies at Indian research labs for 6-12 months
- “Twinning Research Projects” – It facilitates collaborations between institutions & individuals to work together on
research programmes of regional interest, with a grant of up to Rs 5 million per project of tenure of 24 months
• HQs of BIMSTEC – Dhaka, Bangladesh | Secretary General – Indra Mani Pandey | Established in – 1997
• Minister of External Affairs: S. Jaishankar | Constituency – Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of External Affairs: Kirtivardhan Singh & Pabitra Margherita

91. PhonePe has partnered with Sri Lankan ride-hailing platform, PickMe, to enable UPI-based
payments for Indian travellers in Sri Lanka. This collaboration not only enhances the convenience for
Indian travellers but also supports the mission to drive digital transformation in Sri Lanka’s
transportation sector. In May 2024, PhonePe entered into a partnership with LankaPay to allow its
users to pay using UPI across Sri Lanka. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PhonePe + PickMe (Sri Lanka) = to enable UPI-based payments for Indian travellers in Sri Lanka
• PhonePe + LankaPay (Sri Lanka) = allowed its users to pay using UPI across Sri Lanka (in May 2024)
• HQs of PhonePe – Bangalore, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Sameer Nigam | Founded in – 2015
• Sri Lanka – Colombo/Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte – Sri Lankan Rupee
PM – Dinesh Gunawardena | President – Ranil Wickremesinghe

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92. MSME-focused non-banking financial company, Ashv Finance, part of the impact investor Aavishkaar
Group, has signed a co-lending agreement with HDFC Bank to provide unsecured business loans to micro
and small enterprises (MSEs). The co-lending deal is part of Ashv Finance’s focus on growing co-lending
partnerships for lending to MSMEs. The unsecured business loans by Ashv Finance are offered between
Rs 20 lakh and Rs 50 lakh for a minimum of 12 months and a maximum of 36 months. The repeat
customers can avail of unsecured loans for up to Rs 75 lakh. MSMEs are required to be at least 3 years old with a turnover
between Rs 3 crore and Rs 100 crore with GST & ITR returns for the previous 3 years. Nikesh Kumar Sinha is the CEO of Ashv
Finance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ashv Finance + HDFC Bank = a co-lending agreement to provide unsecured business loans to Micro & Small Enterprises
• Unsecured business loans are offered between Rs 20 lakh & Rs 50 lakh for a tenure of 12 to 36 months
• The repeat customers can avail of unsecured loans for up to Rs 75 lakh
• MSMEs are required to be at least 3 years old with a turnover between Rs 3 Cr to Rs 100 Cr with 3 years’ GST & ITR
• HQs of Ashv Finance – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Nikesh Kumar Sinha
• HQs of HDFC Bank – Mumbai, MH | MD & CEO – Sashidhar Jagdishan | Tagline – “We understand your World”

93. Data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) showed that Consumer
Price Index (CPI)-based retail inflation eased to a 12-month low of 4.75% in May
2024, on the back of a softening core and fuel inflation. Besides, the Index of
Industrial Production (IIP) also moderated to 5% in April 2024, from 5.4% in the
preceding month. Food inflation remained sticky at 8.69% in May 2024, from 8.7%
in April. The data showed that six out of 23 manufacturing sectors in the IIP - such
as food products, tobacco, leather, wood and paper - registered a contraction in
output growth during April 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per data released by NSO: CPI-based retail inflation eased to a 12-month low of 4.75% in May 2024
• IIP moderated to 5% in April 2024 (from 5.4% in March 2024)
• Food inflation – 8.69% in May 2024 (from 8.7% in April 2024)
• 6 manufacturing sectors in IIP (out of 23) – registered a contraction in output growth during April 2024
• HQs of NSO – New Delhi | Chairperson – Bimal Kumar Roy

94. World Bank announced to lend support to the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) to achieve Sustainable Waste
Management in the city. Recently, World Bank held discussions on Solid Waste Management with officials of the State
government and the GCC to stop waste dumping by 2026-2027. World Bank intends to improve solid waste management in
the city and various parts of the State over a period of 20 years. Once the World Bank completes the study, it will suggest
reforms to be implemented in cities. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• World Bank – to lend support to Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) to achieve Sustainable Waste Management in city
• Aim: To stop waste dumping by 2026-2027
• World Bank aims to improve solid waste management in city & various parts of State over 20 years
• HQs of World Bank – Washington D.C., US | President – Ajay Banga | MD/CFO – Anshula Kant | Members – 189

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95. The Central Government has announced the interest rate on the General Provident Fund (GPF) and other government
retirement funds at 7.1% for the April-June quarter (Q1) of FY 2024-25. It is the 17th consecutive quarter where the interest
rate has remained unchanged. GPFs are specialised provident funds exclusively available to Indian government employees.
All government personnel are eligible to allocate a portion of their salaries towards the General Provident Fund. Employees
are entitled to withdraw their GPF funds for various purposes after they have completed 10 years of continuous service, or
if there are 10 years remaining until their superannuation date. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Centre announced interest rate on GPF & other government retirement funds at 7.1% for Q1 of FY25
- 17th consecutive quarter where interest rate has remained unchanged
• General Provident Funds (GPF): Specialised provident funds exclusively available to Indian government employees
• Employees can withdraw their funds:
- after they have completed 10 years of continuous service
- if there are 10 years remaining until their superannuation date

96. In order to streamline arbitration process to resolve commercial dispute having government or PSE is one party, the
Ministry of Finance has recommended restricting arbitration clauses in government contracts to disputes of less than Rs 10
crore (upper limit), stating that the arbitration processes are expensive and time-consuming. Arbitration as a method of
dispute resolution should not be routinely or automatically included in large contracts. The guidelines also call for setting
up a High-Level Committee to resolve high value cases. The committee should have a retired judge and a retired top official
or technical expert. Arbitration in India is governed primarily by the ‘Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996’, which aligns
with the ‘UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MoF – recommended restricting arbitration clauses in government contracts to disputes of less than Rs 10 Cr
• Aim: To streamline arbitration process to resolve commercial dispute having government or PSE
• Arbitration in India is governed primarily by – ‘Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996’
• Ministry of Finance: Nirmala Sitharaman | Constituency – Karnataka
MoS in Ministry of Finance: Pankaj Chaowdhary & Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad

97. Bank of India (BoI) has signed an MoU with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), offering a Defence service Salary Package with
best-in-class features under its “BOI Rakshak Salary/ Pension Savings Scheme”. Through this package, Bank of India will offer
numerous benefits to all ranks of the Indian Coast Guard, veterans, recruits and Agniveers including personal accidental
insurance coverage up to 150 lakhs, Permanent Total Disability cover up to Rs 50 lakhs, Air Accidental Cover up to Rs 100
lakhs and Permanent Partial Disability Cover of Rs 25 lakhs. Apart from this the Bank will also offer Concessions in Retail
Loans, Processing Charges and Locker Rentals. BOI’s digital Initiative and BOI Mobile Omni Neo app will also enable the
defence personnel at borders and other remote areas. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• BoI + ICG = an MoU to offer a Defence service Salary Package under “BOI Rakshak Salary/ Pension Savings Scheme”
• BoI will offer benefits to all ranks of ICG, veterans, recruits & Agniveers including:
- Personal accidental insurance coverage – up to Rs 150 lakhs
- Permanent Total Disability cover – up to Rs 50 lakhs
- Air Accidental Cover – up to Rs 100 lakhs

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98. India and UAE have introduced the “Local Currency Settlement System (LCSS)” to revolutionize how transactions are
conducted between these two vibrant economies. During the PM Narendra Modi’s visit last year, the Reserve Bank of India
and the Central Bank of the UAE signed an MoU to this effect. This LCSS system will allow exporters and importers to invoice
and pay for goods and services in their respective domestic currencies-Indian Rupees and UAE Dirhams. This step reduces
dependency on intermediary currencies like the US Dollar, thereby cutting down transaction costs and settlement times.
Besides, the deployment of the RuPay Stack as a domestic card scheme called ‘JAYWAN’ in the UAE is scheduled, with the
customer roll-out beginning in July 2024. India’s UPI is also integrated with the UAE’s Aani service to facilitate personal
remittances and money transfers. All these efforts support the ambitious target of $100 billion in non-oil trade between
India and the UAE by 2030. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India + UAE = introduced “LCSS” to revolutionize how transactions are done | LCSS - Local Currency Settlement System
• RBI + Central Bank of UAE = signed an MoU for this effect in 2023
• Aim: To allow exporters & importers to invoice & pay for goods & services in Indian Rupees & UAE Dirhams
• Deployment of RuPay Stack as a domestic card scheme called ‘JAYWAN’ in UAE – scheduled in July 2024
• UPI (India) + Aani service (UAE) = integrated to facilitate personal remittances & money transfers
• Target: 100 billion in non-oil trade between India & UAE by 2030
• UAE – Abu Dhabi – Dirham | President – Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan

99. India has reclaimed the 4th biggest global equity market tag from Hong Kong. India’s market capitalisation soared 10%
to reach $5.20 trillion (BSE-listed companies). In comparison, Hong Kong’s equity market cap is $5.17 trillion. This comes as
the Indian stock market has seen a significant rally in recent months and is now attracting global funds which are going to
accelerate in the near future. The US leads the chart with $56.49 trillion, followed by China with $8.84 trillion and Japan
with $6.30 trillion at 2nd & 3rd places. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – reclaimed 4th biggest global equity market tag from Hong Kong
• India’s m-cap – rose 10% to reach $5.20 trillion (BSE-listed companies) | Hong Kong’s m-cap – $5.17 trillion
• 1st – US ($56.49 trillion) | 2nd – China ($8.84 trillion) | 3rd – Japan ($6.30 trillion)

100. Namdev Finvest, a Jaipur based NBFC, has entered into strategic alliance with Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, a leading
insurance platform, to offer comprehensive financial solutions, including insurance and NBFC services, to its customers. The
strategic alliance leverages Namdev’s customer network and geographic presence, backed by Bajaj General Insurance’s
expertise in insurance products. As part of this collaboration, Namdev strives to enhance its product portfolio, and offer
complete risk cover against assets, thereby providing added value to its customers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Namdev Finvest + Bajaj Allianz General Insurance = to offer comprehensive financial solutions to its customers
• HQs of Namdev Finvest – Jaipur, Rajasthan | MD & CEO – Jitendra Tanwar | Founded in – 1997
• HQs of Bajaj Allianz Gen Ins – Pune, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Tapan Singhel | Founded in – 2000

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101. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is awarded the “Risk Manager of the Year Award 2024” by
Central Banking, headquartered in London, UK. This prestigious accolade highlights the
RBI’s significant progress in cultivating a robust risk culture and heightened awareness,
solidifying its essential role in maintaining the stability of India’s financial system. The RBI
established a Regulatory Sandbox to facilitate controlled experimentation with new
financial technology products and services. This allows fintech companies to test their
innovations in a limited environment, enabling the RBI to assess potential risks before widespread adoption. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – is awarded “Risk Manager of the Year Award 2024” by Central Banking (London, UK)
• The award highlights the RBI’s significant progress in cultivating a robust risk culture & heightened awareness
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

102. Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has made policy loan facility mandatory in all life
insurance savings products as a measure enabling policyholders to meet liquidity requirements. It will be effective from
September 30, 2024. All non-linked savings products should have the facility of policy loan based on eligible surrender value.
The insurer may also offer such facility under annuity products with ‘Return of Purchase Price’ option based on eligible
surrender value. However, no loan will be permitted under unit linked insurance products. On customer protection, IRDAI
said insurers are required to comply with the award of the Insurance Ombudsman within 30 days of receipt of the award. In
case the insurer does not honour the ombudsman award, a penalty of Rs 5,000 per day shall be payable to the complainant.
The IRDAI has also allowed policyholders an option of partial withdrawal under pension products. It can be partially
withdrawn after 3 years from the date of commencement of the policy during deferment period. The withdrawal, which will
be permitted only three times during the tenure, should not exceed 25% of the total premiums paid. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IRDAI – made policy loan facility mandatory in all life insurance savings products to enable policyholders to meet liquidity
requirements w.e.f. Sept 30, 2024
• No loan will be permitted under unit linked insurance products
• Insurers are required to comply with the award of the Insurance Ombudsman within 30 days of receipt of the award
- If insurer does not honour the ombudsman award, a penalty of Rs 5,000 per day shall be payable to the complainant
• IRDAI has also allowed policyholders an option of partial withdrawal under pension products
- It can be partially withdrawn after 3 years from the date of commencement of the policy
- The withdrawal will be permitted only 3 times during the tenure
- The withdrawal should not exceed 25% of the total premiums paid
• HQs of IRDAI – Hyderabad, Telangana | Chairman – Debasish Panda | Established in – 1999

103. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and State Bank of India (SBI) have signed an MoU for digital payment aggregation
services by integration of ‘SBIePay’ with ‘eMigrate’ portal. The MoU is aimed at providing additional digital payment services
of the SBI through payment gateway called SBIePay to Indian migrant workers, Recruiting Agents (RAs) and other users of
the eMigrate portal. Since its launch in 2014, the eMigrate project has been assisting Indian workers going to Emigration
Check Required (ECR) countries for employment. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MEA + SBI = an MoU for digital payment aggregation services by integration of ‘SBIePay’ with ‘eMigrate’ portal
• Aim: To provide additional digital payment services of SBIePay to Indian migrant workers, Recruiting Agents, etc.

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104. State Bank of India (SBI) has approved a plan to raise up to Rs 20,000 crore through long-term bonds in the financial
year 2024-25. Earlier this month, SBI also raised $100 million through its London branch by selling 3-year senior unsecured
floating-rate bonds, priced at a spread of 95 basis points above the secured overnight financing rate (SOFR). Recently, SBI
also approved raising $3 billion through a public offer or private placement of senior unsecured notes in U.S. dollars or other
major foreign currencies. In January, SBI raised Rs 5,000 crore through perpetual bonds at a coupon rate of 8.34%. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• SBI – approved a plan to raise up to Rs 20,000 Cr through long-term bonds in FY25
• SBI (London branch) – also raised $100 million by selling 3-year senior unsecured floating-rate bonds
• SBI – approved raising $3 billion through a public offer or private placement of senior unsecured notes
• SBI – raised Rs 5,000 Cr through perpetual bonds at a coupon rate of 8.34% (in January)
• HQs of SBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara
MDs – Challa Sreenivasulu Setty | Alok Kumar Choudhary | Ashwini Kumar Tewari | Vinay M. Tonse

105. India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has partnered with Ria Money Transfer (Ria) to offer unique remittance services across
Rural India. The ease of access brought by this collaboration will provide customers in remote areas across India with
convenient and affordable doorstep financial services. 65% of India’s population lives in rural areas with limited financial
infrastructure. Through this partnership, the Internationals Inward Money Transfer service will become available at more
than 25,000 Post Office locations immediately with an expected reach to over 1 lakh locations through the Post Offices.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• IPPB + Ria Money Transfer (US) = partnership to offer unique remittance services across Rural India
• It will provide customers in remote areas across India with convenient & affordable doorstep financial services
• Internationals Inward Money Transfer service – will become available at more than 25,000 Post Office locations
• HQs of IPPB – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Venkatram Jayanthy | Established on – 1st Sep, 2018

106. Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has selected NEC Corporation India as System Integrator
(SI) for its digital platform ‘PFRDA-TRACE’ for a period of 6 years. PFRDA-TRACE is expected to serve as a comprehensive tool
for submitting regulatory and supervisory compliance reports by intermediaries. PFRDA-TRACE (Tracking, Reporting,
Analytics, and Compliance E-platform) is the second phase of its technology architecture (TARCH) project to digitise and
automate its operations. The system integrator will be responsible for studying existing processes, proposing improved
workflows and providing design, development, customisation, implementation and maintenance services for PFRDA-TRACE.
The technology architecture envisaged for PFRDA will have 4 modules - Website revamp and Chatbot; PFRDA Online
Intermediary Supervision Engine (POISE); PFRDA Repository and Information Systems Management (PRISM): Data and
Analytics platform; and PFRDA Intranet - internal digitalisation (PINTRA). {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• PFRDA – selected NEC Corporation India as System Integrator (SI) for its digital platform ‘PFRDA-TRACE’ for 6 years
• TRACE – Tracking, Reporting, Analytics, and Compliance E-platform
• PFRDA-TRACE – 2nd phase of its technology architecture (TARCH) project to digitise & automate its operations
• TARCH (envisaged for PFRDA) will have 4 modules
- Website revamp & Chatbot
- PFRDA Online Intermediary Supervision Engine (POISE)
- PFRDA Repository and Information Systems Management (PRISM): Data and Analytics platform
- PFRDA Intranet - internal digitalisation (PINTRA)
• HQs of PFRDA – New Delhi | Chairperson – Deepak Mohanty | Founded in – 2003
• HQs of NEC Corporation India – New Delhi | CEO – Aalok Kumar | Founded in – 2006

107. Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund announced to introduce the “Motilal Oswal Nifty India Defence Index Fund”, an open-ended
fund designed to mirror the total returns of the Nifty India Defence Index. The fund is India’s first index fund offering
exposure to defence stocks listed in India. The fund aims to provide investors an opportunity to participate in the growth
potential of the defence sector. The Motilal Oswal Nifty India Defence Index Fund requires a minimum application amount
of Rs 500, with subsequent investments allowed in multiples of Re 1. Prateek Agrawal is the MD & CEO of Motilal Oswal
Mutual Fund. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Motilal Oswal MF – to introduce “Motilal Oswal Nifty India Defence Index Fund”
• It is India’s first index fund offering exposure to defence stocks listed in India
• Minimum application amount – Rs 500 (with subsequent investments allowed in multiples of Re 1)
• HQs of Motilal Oswal MF – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Prateek Agrawal | Founded in – 1987

108. Samsung has partnered with Paytm parent, One97 Communications Ltd, to integrate travel and entertainment services
to Samsung Wallet in India. Through the partnership, users of Samsung Galaxy smartphones can access Paytm’s suite of
services, including flight and bus bookings, movie ticket purchases, and event bookings, through the digital wallet. These
features allow Galaxy smartphone users to easily purchase bus and airline tickets, as well as movie and event tickets, without
needing to switch between multiple apps. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Samsung + One97 Communications Ltd = to integrate travel & entertainment services to Samsung Wallet in India
• HQs of Samsung Electronics – Suwon-si, South Korea | CEO – Jong Hee Han | Executive Chairman – Jay Y. Lee
• HQs of One97 Communications – Noida, Uttar Pradesh | CEO – Vijay Shekhar Sharma

109. CAMSRep (CAMS Insurance Repository Services) has launched “Bima Central”, a
platform for insurance portfolio management. Bima Central allows users to manage life,
health, and motor policies through an e-Insurance account (eIA). Policyholders will get
access to the platform for managing policies with various insurers. Currently, the
interface is available in English and Hindi on Android, iOS and web portal. Vivek Bengani is the CEO of CAMSRep, a subsidiary
of Computer Age Management Services Private Limited (CAMS). {Read more}

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110. Bank of Maharashtra has introduced “MAHA-DOC Scheme”, designed specifically for doctors. This scheme aligns with
the bank’s commitment to fostering a robust healthcare ecosystem that prioritizes quality and accessibility for all. The
scheme is tailored for registered medical practitioners holding degrees like BAHMS, BAMS, BPT, MBBS, and BDS, with
professional experience spanning at least 2 years after qualification. Medical professionals can avail term loans up to Rs 25
crore. Loans of up to Rs 5 crore are covered under Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE).
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• BoM – introduced “MAHA-DOC Scheme”, designed specifically for doctors
• For registered medical practitioners holding degrees with professional experience spanning at least 2 years
• Medical professionals can avail term loans up to – Rs 25 crore
• Loans of up to Rs 5 Cr covered under Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE)
• HQs of BoM – Pune, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – A. S. Rajeev | Tagline – “One Family One Bank”

111. Karnataka Bank has launched “KBL WISE Senior Citizens Savings Bank Account”, a unique banking product designed to
cater to the Banking, Healthcare and Wellness needs of senior citizens. The Wellness, Investments, and Savings for Elderly
(WISE) product is available in two variants - KBL Wise Signature, a regular variant; and KBL Wise Advantage, a premium
variant. The product offers an array of bundled features, including free top-up health insurance up to ₹10 lakh. The bank
has partnered with Care Health Insurance Co Ltd., and MediBuddy, a digital healthcare platform to bring together the
proposition on the health and wellness front. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Karnataka Bank – launched a unique banking product, “KBL WISE Senior Citizens Savings Bank Account”
• Aim: To cater to Banking, Healthcare & Wellness needs of senior citizens
• WISE – Wellness, Investments, and Savings for Elderly | It is available in two variants
• Karnataka Bank + Care Health Insurance Co Ltd + MediBuddy = to bring together proposition on health & wellness front
• HQs of Karnataka Bank – Mangalore, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Srikrishnan Harihara Sarma | Founded – 1924

112. Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB), a regional rural bank sponsored by Canara Bank, has
been honoured with a national award by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)
for significant enrolment under the Atal Pension Yojana (APY). Shreekant M Bhandiwad, Chairman of
KVGB, received the award from Vivek Joshi, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Government
of India, and Deepak Mohanty, Chairman of PFRDA, in New Delhi. APY provides a safety net for workers
in the informal sector, ensuring a pre-defined pension after 60 years. During 2023-24, the bank enrolled
86,350 accounts against a target of 67,932, achieving the target well ahead of schedule. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• KVGB (sponsored by Canara Bank) – honoured with a national award by PFRDA for significant enrolment under APY
• KVGB – enrolled 86,350 accounts during 2023-24 (against the target of 67,932)

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113. The RBI has revised its priority sector guidelines to encourage banks to provide small loans in economically
disadvantaged districts with low average loan sizes. The new norms discourage lending in districts with high average loan
sizes. Starting from FY25, more weight (125%) will be given to fresh priority sector loans in districts where the loan
availability is low (less than Rs 9,000 per person). In districts with high loan availability (more than Rs 42,000 per person),
the loans will have a weight of 90%. With the exception of outlier districts with low credit availability and those with high
loan sizes, all other districts will continue to have the current importance level of 100%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI – revised its priority sector guidelines to encourage banks to provide small loans in economically disadvantaged
districts with low average loan sizes
• From FY25, loan weight will be 125% in districts with low loan availability, 90% in high loan availability, & 100% in others
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

114. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 1.45 Crore on the Central Bank of India, citing
deficiencies in regulatory compliance. The Central Bank of India was found to have violated RBI directions related to ‘Loans
and Advances - Statutory and Other Restrictions’ and ‘Customer Protection - Limiting Liability of Customers in Unauthorised
Electronic Banking Transactions.’ {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RBI imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 1.45 Crore on the Central Bank of India
• HQs of Central Bank of India – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Matam Venkata Rao

115. Bharti AXA Life Insurance, a wholly owned by Bharti Group, has announced the appointment of Akhil
Gupta as its new Chairman. Mr Akhil is currently the Vice Chairman of Bharti Enterprises. Bharti AXA Life
Insurance has also appointed two new Board of Directors (BoD) - Dinesh Kumar Mittal and VV Ranganathan.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Akhil Gupta – appointed as new Chairman of Bharti AXA Life Insurance (owned by Bharti Group)
• Dinesh Kumar Mittal & VV Ranganathan – appointed as new Board of Directors of Bharti AXA Life Insurance
• HQs of Bharti AXA Life Insurance – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Parag Raja | Chairman – Akhil Gupta

116. Global cryptocurrency exchange, Binance, has been fined Rs 18.82 crore ($2.25
million), the highest ever on any crypto entity by the Financial Intelligence Unit of India
(FIU-IND) for non-compliance to anti-money laundering laws. Binance is the world’s
largest crypto exchange, in terms of both asset holdings and daily trade volume. Virtual
digital asset service providers such as crypto exchanges are required to be registered with
the FIU as a reporting entity and comply with its anti-money laundering rules. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Binance – is fined Rs 18.82 Cr by FIU-IND for ‘non-compliance to anti-money laundering laws’ (highest on crypto entity)

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117. HDFC Bank has launched a new digital investment platform, “SmartWealth”, to take wealth services to every Indian
and make investments simple and transparent. This new platform comes loaded with first-ever features that allow investors
to make the right investment decisions and plan their financial journey. Users can create SmartJars, which gives users
personalised portfolio plans that can be modified or paused anytime. The Portfolio Analytics feature on SmartWealth
analyses asset distribution and alerts users to overexposure in a particular fund, thereby mitigating risk. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HDFC Bank – launched a new digital investment platform, “SmartWealth”
• Aim: To take wealth services to every Indian & make investment simple & transparent
• SmartJars – gives users personalised portfolio plans that can be modified or paused anytime
• Portfolio Analytics feature – analyses asset distribution & alerts users to overexposure in a particular fund
• HQs of HDFC Bank – Mumbai, MH | MD & CEO – Sashidhar Jagdishan | Tagline – “We understand your World”

118. NSE’s index services subsidiary, NSE Indices Limited, has launched a new thematic index, called “Nifty India Tourism”,
which will track the performance of a maximum of 30 stocks in Nifty 500 index representing the travel and tourism theme.
The index comprises 17 stocks. The base date for the index is April 1, 2005 and the base value is 1,000. The index will be
reconstituted semi-annually and rebalanced on a quarterly basis. Mukesh Agarwal is the CEO of NSE Indices. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NSE Indices Ltd – launched a new thematic index, called “Nifty India Tourism,” comprising 17 stocks
• Aim: To track performance of a maximum of 30 stocks in Nifty 500 index representing travel & tourism theme
• Base date – April 1, 2005 | Base value – 1,000 | It will be reconstituted semi-annually & rebalanced quarterly
• HQs of NSE Indices Ltd – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Mukesh Agarwal | Founded in – 1998

119. BharatPe has entered into a strategic partnership with Invest India to promote digital
financial inclusion and digital financial literacy across One District One Product (ODOP)
producers and sellers across ODOP districts in the country. This will enhance access to
digital payment mediums amongst ODOP merchants in tier 3-4 cities and rural areas of
India. The programs will be conducted for ODOP stakeholders operating in micro and small-
size industries. The targeted locations for this initiative include key districts across Haryana,
Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Delhi NCR. Nivruti Rai is the MD & CEO
of Invest India. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• BharatPe + Invest India = partnership to promote digital financial inclusion and digital financial literacy across ODOP
producers & sellers across ODOP districts
• Targeted locations for this initiative include key districts in – Haryana, HP, Punjab, Rajasthan, UP, Gujarat, MP & Delhi
• HQs of BharatPe – New Delhi | CEO – Nalin Negi
• HQs of Invest India – New Delhi | MD & CEO – Nivruti Rai

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120. Mirae Asset Investment Managers has introduced India’s first exchange-traded fund (ETF) specialising in Electric
Vehicles (EVs) and the Emerging Automotive sector, named the “Mirae Asset Nifty EV and New Age Automotive ETF”. This
open-ended scheme is crafted to harness the sector’s promising long-term growth potential. Investors have the flexibility
to trade units on stock exchanges, akin to other securities. The fund will follow the Nifty EV and New Age Automotive Total
Return index. During the new fund offer (NFO) period, the scheme requires a minimum initial investment of ₹5,000, with
additional investments in multiples of Re 1. Ekta Gala and Akshay Udeshi will serve as the managers for this scheme. Swarup
Anand Mohanty is the Vice Chairman & CEO of Mirae Asset Investment Managers (India). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mirae Asset Investment Managers – introduced the “Mirae Asset Nifty EV & New Age Automotive ETF”
• It is India’s first exchange-traded fund (ETF) specialising in Electric Vehicles (EVs) & Emerging Automotive sector
• During the NFO period, the scheme requires a minimum initial investment of ₹5,000
• Managers – Ekta Gala & Akshay Udeshi
• HQs of Mirae Asset Investment Managers –Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Swarup Anand Mohanty

121. APIX, a leading global collaborative innovation platform for financial institutions and fintechs, has partnered with the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to host the prestigious “HaRBInger 2024” hackathon. This landmark collaboration aims to bring
together the brightest minds from around the world to develop cutting-edge solutions that enhance the security and
inclusivity of the financial ecosystem. “Zero Financial Frauds” and “Being Divyang Friendly” are the themes of HaRBInger
2024. The hackathon challenges participants to tackle 4 critical problem statements focused on real-time fraud detection,
ensuring transaction anonymity, identifying mule accounts, and empowering the visually impaired in financial transactions.
Umang Moondra is the CEO of APIX. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• APIX + RBI = partnership to host the prestigious “HaRBInger 2024” hackathon
• Aim: To bring together the brightest minds from around the world to develop cutting-edge solutions
• Themes – “Zero Financial Frauds” and “Being Divyang Friendly”
• HQs of APIX – Singapore | CEO – Umang Moondra
• HQs of RBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Governor – Shaktikanta Das (25th) | Established on – 1st April, 1935
Total Deputy Governors (4) – S. Janakiraman | T. Rabi Sankar | Michael D. Patra | M. Rajeshwar Rao

122. Mindspace Business Parks raised funds by issuing Sustainability-linked bonds worth Rs 650 crore from the International
Finance Corporation (IFC). With this, it has become the first Indian Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) to issue such bonds.
The bonds have been issued for the tenure of 7 years. This investment would help Mindspace enhance the sustainability of
its portfolio of business parks and reduce greenhouse gas emissions year-on-year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mindspace Business Parks – raised funds by issuing Sustainability-linked bonds worth Rs 650 Cr from IFC for 7 years
• Mindspace Business Parks – became first Indian Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) to issue such bonds
• HQs of Mindspace REIT – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – Vinod Rohira

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123. ICICI Bank has become the 6th Indian company to achieve a market capitalisation of $100 billion. ICICI Bank is the second-
largest bank in India by market capitalisation, after HDFC Bank. At present, it is also the 5 th largest entity by market value.
The other five companies that have reached the $100 billion market capitalisation milestone are Reliance Industries, Tata
Consultancy Services (TCS), HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, and Infosys. Notably, Infosys reached this milestone in January 2022
but could not maintain that level for long. Currently, Reliance Industries is leading the list with a market capitalisation of
$236 billion, followed by TCS with a market value of $166 billion. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ICICI Bank – became 6th Indian company to achieve a m-cap of $100 billion (5th largest entity by market value at present)
• Other 5 companies to reach $100 bn m-cap: Reliance ($236 bn), TCS ($166 bn), HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel & Infosys
• ICICI Bank – 2nd largest bank in India by m-cap | 1st – HDFC Bank
• HQs of ICICI Bank – Mumbai | MD & CEO – Sandeep Bakhshi | Taglines – “Hum Hain Na!” & “Khayal Apka”

124. India’s current account registered a surplus in the final quarter (Q4) of the previous fiscal (FY24) boosted by higher
services, while its current account deficit lowered in FY24 overall owing to lower merchandise trade deficit. India has
recorded a current account surplus of $5.7 billion or 0.6% of GDP in the March quarter (Q4) of FY 2023-24. For FY24, the
current account deficit (CAD) narrowed to $23.2 billion or 0.7% of GDP, against $67 billion or 2% of GDP in FY23, the RBI said
in a release on the Developments in India’s Balance of Payments. In FY24, the portfolio investment recorded a net inflow of
$44.1 billion against an outflow of $5.2 billion a year ago, while net FDI plummeted to $9.8 billion from $28 billion in FY23.
India’s foreign exchange reserves saw an accretion of $63.7 billion in FY24. Merchandise trade deficit in Q4 stood at $50.9
billion. Net services receipts, at $42.7 billion, contributed to the surplus in current account balance in Q4 FY24. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘Developments in India’s Balance of Payments’ – released by RBI
• India recorded a current account surplus of $5.7 billion or 0.6% of GDP in Q4 of FY24
• For FY24, CAD narrowed to $23.2 billion or 0.7% of GDP (from $67 billion or 2% of GDP in FY23)
• Portfolio investment in FY24 – $44.1 bn against an outflow of $5.2 bn in FY23 | Net FDI – $9.8 bn (from $28 bn in FY23)
• India’s foreign exchange reserves in FY24 – $63.7 billion | Merchandise trade deficit in Q4 FY24 – $50.9 billion
• Net services receipts ($42.7 billion) contributed to surplus in current account balance in Q4 FY24

125. Globally, the size of the non-bank financial intermediation (NBFI) sector declined by 3% in 2022, However, India’s non-
banking financial sector registered a growth of 10%, as per the report published by State Bank of India (SBI). The report
highlighted India as the 3rd largest entities in the non-banking financial sector, following the United States and the United
Kingdom. The improvement in asset quality and the strong macroeconomic fundamentals have played a crucial role in
improving the Indian banking sector. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SBI: Globally, the size of non-bank financial intermediation (NBFI) sector declined by 3% in 2022 (India - 10% growth)
• India – 3rd largest entities in the non-banking financial sector | 1st – US, 2nd – UK

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126. KisanKraft Ltd, the Bengaluru-based agri-firm has joined the “Low Methane Rice” project by World Bank’s 2030 Water
Resource Group (WRG) under UP-PRAGATI Accelerator programs to promote direct seeded rice (DSR) cultivation in Uttar
Pradesh. Also, KisanKraft Ltd has recently entered into agreement with seed companies Delta Agri Genetics and Savannah
Seeds to offer its DSR seed varieties for multi-location trials. Over the past few years, KisanKraft has developed 15 new
varieties of paddy that are suited for DSR method of cultivation that uses less water for growing the cereal crop. KisanKraft
has also entered into agreements to provide their dry-DSR technologies to Hyderabad-based “Delta Agri Genetics” and
Gurugram-based “Savannah Seeds Private Ltd”. Besides, Uttar Pradesh has launched an acclerator program, named “Uttar
Pradesh Program for Agricultural Transformation and Increased Incomes (UP-PRAGATI)”, in collaboration with the 2030
Water Resources Group, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and the private sector. It aims to bring about significant
agricultural advancements and boost incomes across the state by promoting water-use efficiency and low-carbon practices
through technological and institutional innovations. Ravindra Agrawal is the Chairman of KisanKraft. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• KisanKraft – joined the “Low Methane Rice” project by World Bank’s 2030 Water Resource Group (WRG) under ‘UP-
PRAGATI’ acclerator program
• KisanKraft – also entered into agreement with Delta Agri Genetics and Savannah Seeds to offer its DSR seed varieties for
multi-location trials
• KisanKraft – developed 15 new varieties of paddy that are suited for DSR method of cultivation
• KisanKraft – also entered into agreements to provide their dry-DSR technologies to Hyderabad-based “Delta Agri
Genetics” and Gurugram-based “Savannah Seeds Private Ltd”
• UP – launched ‘UP-PRAGATI’ acclerator program in collaboration with 2030 Water Resources Group & BMGF
• HQs of KisanKraft – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Chairman – Ravindra Agrawal

127. The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has recommended Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, one
of the four Managing Directors, as the next State Bank of India (SBI) Chairman. The current Chairman
of SBI Dinesh Khara is set to retire on August 28. Setty will start duty on the same day as Khara’s
retirement. Among the contenders, Setty is the most senior, with nearly 36 years of service at SBI. The
other two MDs who were interviewed are Ashwini Kumar Tewari and Vinay M Tonse. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Challa Sreenivasulu Setty – recommended by FSIB as next Chairman of SBI w.e.f. Aug (succeeding - Dinesh Kumar Khara)
• HQs of SBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Dinesh Kumar Khara (From Aug’24 - Challa Sreenivasulu Setty)
MDs – Challa Sreenivasulu Setty | Alok Kumar Choudhary | Ashwini Kumar Tewari | Vinay M. Tonse

128. Panasonic Life Solutions India Private Limited (PLSIND), a leading player in the distributed
solar energy sector, has announced a new partnership with the State Bank of India (SBI) to make
solar energy solutions more accessible to individuals and businesses, with the aim of supporting
the Indian government’s ambitious goal of achieving 500GW of renewable energy capacity by
2030. The collaboration between Panasonic and SBI will provide attractive financing options to
customers interested in solar energy and help in smoother adoption. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PLSIND + SBI = to make solar energy solutions more accessible to individuals & businesses
• Aim: To support Indian government’s ambitious goal of achieving 500GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030
• HQs of PLSIND – Thane, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Tadashi Chiba

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129. Flipkart has launched Unified Payments Interface (UPI) app “super.money” to further the group’s fintech ambitions.
The Walmart-backed company has its own UPI handle within the shopping app and the launch of a separate app indicates
the group’s aggressive intent in the fintech space. The app offers up to 5% cashback on food, travel and other merchant
payments using the app. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Flipkart – launched Unified Payments Interface (UPI) app, “super.money”
• The app offers up to 5% cashback on food, travel and other merchant payments using the app
• HQs of Flipkart – Bangalore, Karnataka | Chairperson – Binny Bansal | CEO – Kalyan Krishnamurthy

130. The government has monetised assets worth ₹1.56 lakh crore under the “National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP)” in
2023-24, lower than the target of ₹1.8 lakh crore. The total target for the first two years, 2021-22 & 2022-23, under the
NMP, was around ₹2.5 lakh crore, against which about ₹2.30 lakh crore was achieved. Under the NMP, the aggregate
monetisation potential of the central government’s brownfield infrastructure assets has been estimated at Rs 6 lakh crore
over a 4-year period, from FY22 to FY25. Asset monetisation is aimed at tapping private sector investment to create new
infrastructure. In August 2021, Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs launched the asset monetisation pipeline
of Central Ministries and Public Sector Entities (PSEs) as ‘National Monetisation Pipeline’. The Ministries of Road Transport,
and Highways monetised assets, worth ₹40,314 crore in FY24, while the amounts for coal ministry was ₹56,794 crore, power
(₹14,690 crore), mines (₹4,090 crore), petroleum, and natural gas (₹9,587 crore), urban (₹6,480 crore), and shipping (₹7,627
crore). All these ministries achieved 70% of their monetisation targets. The NMP listing potential core assets of the central
government ministries/PSEs for monetisation during 2021-22 to 2024-25 was prepared by NITI Aayog, in collaboration with
the infrastructure ministries concerned. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Govt monetised assets worth ₹1.56 lakh Cr under “National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP)” in FY24 (Target - ₹1.8 lakh Cr)
• Total target for the first two years, 2021-22 & 2022-23, under the NMP, was – ₹2.5 lakh Cr | achieved - ₹2.30 lakh Cr
• Under the NMP, aggregate monetisation potential is estimated at Rs 6 lakh Cr from FY22 to FY25
• Ministry-wise monetised assets (all these ministries achieved 70% of their monetisation targets):
- MoRTH – ₹40,314 Cr | Coal – ₹56,794 Cr | Power – ₹14,690 Cr | Mines – ₹4,090 Cr | MoPNG – ₹9,587 Cr
- MoHUF – (₹6,480 Cr) | MoPSW – ₹7,627 Cr
• NMP listing potential core assets of the Ministries/PSEs for monetization during FY22-25 – prepared by NITI Aayog
• NMP was launched by Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs in August 2021

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Defence Affairs
131. Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent reached the Eielson Air Force Base of the U.S. Air Force in Alaska, USA, to participate in the
upcoming edition of the multi-national exercise, “Red Flag 24-2”. Ex-Red Flag 24-2 is a two-week advanced aerial combat
training exercise aimed at integrating aircrew in a multinational environment. The Indian Air Force has sent eight Rafale fighter
planes, Il-78 mid-air refueling aircraft, and C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft to Eielson Air Force Base. India conducts more
military exercises with the US than with any other country. The Red Flag exercise was started by the US Air Force after the
Vietnam War in 1975. The US Air Force conducts several military exercises code named Red Flag in a year. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IAF – participating in the multi-national exercise, “Red Flag 24-2”, in Alaska, USA
• IAF has sent 8 Rafale fighter planes, Il-78 mid-air refueling aircraft, & C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft
• HQs of IAF – New Delhi | Chief – Air Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari | Vice Chief – Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh
• US – Washington, D.C. – US Dollar | 46th President – Joe Biden | 49th VP – Kamala Harris

132. INS Shivalik has departed for Yokosuka in Japan, and is scheduled to participate in Japan-
India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX) and Rim of Pacific (RIMPAC) military exercise. INS Shivalik, an
indigenously developed stealth multi-role frigate, is part of the Indian Navy’s eastern fleet
deployed for South China Sea and Pacific Ocean. This deployment is aimed at enhancing the
degree of interoperability with the Japan Maritime Self Defence Force, US Navy and other
partner navies participating in Rimpac 24. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• INS Shivalik – scheduled to participate in ‘JIMEX-24’ & ‘RIMPAC-24’
• INS Shivalik – an indigenously developed stealth multi-role frigate deployed for South China Sea and Pacific Ocean
• HQs of Indian Navy – Delhi | Chief – Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi | Vice Chief – Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan

133. The Indian Army has launched “Vidyut Rakshak”, an integrated generator
monitoring, protection, and control system developed by the Army Design Bureau
(ADB). This tech-based innovation, part of the Army’s ‘Year of Tech Absorption’, utilizes
Internet of Things (IoT) technology to monitor, predict faults, and automate manual
operations of all existing generators, regardless of type or make. The system aims to
save manpower and signifies the Army’s commitment to leveraging technology for
transformative change. Vidyut Rakshak was showcased during ‘Aero India 2023’ and has
already been inducted into the Indian Army. Vidyut Rakshak has been developed by Major Rajprasad R S and was displayed
recently during the ‘Exercise Bharat Shakti’ and was witnessed by PM. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Army – launched “Vidyut Rakshak”, an integrated generator monitoring, protection & control system
• Developed by = Army Design Bureau + Major Rajprasad R S | Aim: To save manpower
• This tech-based innovation is part of Indian Army’s ‘Year of Tech Absorption’
• It was displayed recently during the ‘Exercise Bharat Shakti’ & ‘Aero India 2023’
• HQs of Indian Army – New Delhi | Chief – General Manoj Pande | Vice Chief – Lt. Gen. Upendra Dwivedi

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134. Indian Navy’s indigenous Stealth Frigate, INS Shivalik, has participated in the bilateral
maritime exercise, “Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX 24)”, at Yokosuka in Japan.
While, Japan was represented by the Guided Missile Destroyer JS Yugiri. Navies of both
the countries will jointly hone their war fighting skills at sea and enhance their
interoperability. The exercise also reaffirms their shared commitment towards maritime
security in the Indo-Pacific region. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• INS Shivalik – participated in bilateral maritime exercise, “Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX 24)”, at Yokosuka, Japan
• Japan – Tokyo – Yen | PM – Fumio Kishida

135. Adani Enterprises’ defence arm, Adani Defence & Aerospace, has entered into an agreement with UAE-based EDGE
Group to cater to the military requirements of both global and local customers. Under the partnership, both the firms aim
to establish a global platform leveraging the defence and aerospace capabilities of both companies to bring together their
respective product portfolios. Ashish Rajvanshi is the CEO of Adani Defence & Aerospace. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Adani Defence & Aerospace + EDGE Group (UAE) = an agreement for global & local military requirements
• HQs of Adani Defence & Aerospace – Ahmedabad, Gujarat | CEO – Ashish Rajvanshi

136. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has unveiled a new air-launched ‘deep stand-off’
variant of its Long-Range Artillery (LORA) precision strike tactical missile, called the “Air
LORA”. The Air LORA is a long-range air-to-ground missile (AGM) developed for strike
missions against high-value and well-protected targets such as command centres, air
force bases, infrastructure, and naval vessels in dense littoral environments. With a
robust warhead of various types, Air LORA enables air forces to strike enemy targets
from far distances outside the reach of enemy air defences. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IAI – unveiled a new air-launched ‘deep stand-off’ variant of its LORA precision strike tactical missile, called “Air LORA”
• Air LORA – a long-range ‘air-to-ground missile’ developed for strike missions against high-value & well-protected targets
• Israel – Jerusalem – Israeli Shekel | President – Isaac Herzog | PM – Benjamin Netanyahu

137. Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd, Pune, has secured a contract from the Defence
Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Technology Development Fund
(TDF) to develop “Underwater Launched Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (ULUAVs)”. This
groundbreaking project aims to enhance the strategic prowess of the nation’s defense
forces. The ability to deploy autonomous aerial vehicles from underwater platforms will
be a critical factor in maintaining maritime security. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd – secured a contract from DRDO’s TDF to develop “Underwater Launched UAVs”
• Aim: To enhance strategic prowess of the nation’s defense forces | TDF – Technology Development Fund
• HQs of Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd – Pune, MH | CEO – Nikunj Parashar | Established in – 2015
• HQs of DRDO – New Delhi | Chairman – Samir V. Kamat | Established in – 1958

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138. 20 NATO Allies, more than 50 ships, more than 85 aircraft, and approximately 9,000 personnel commenced the 53 rd
edition of annual exercise, “Baltic Operations (BALTOPS 24)”, the premier maritime-focused annual military exercise in the
Baltic Region, initiated by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Participating nations include Belgium, Denmark,
Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania,
Spain, Sweden, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This year will mark the first time Sweden will participate
in the exercise as a member-nation and NATO Ally. The exercise is led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and U.S. Sixth Fleet
(NAVEUR-NAVAF/SIXTHFLT), while it will be command-and-controlled by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO,
headquartered in Oeiras, Portugal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 53rd edition of “Baltic Operations 2024,” annual military exercise in Baltic Region – commenced by 20 NATO allies
- With more than 50 ships & 85 aircrafts, and approx. 9,000 personnel
• Led by – U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa & U.S. Sixth Fleet (NAVEUR-NAVAF/SIXTHFLT)
• Command-and-controlled by – Naval Striking & Support Forces NATO (Oeiras, Portugal)
• Participating nations: Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Türkiye, UK & US
• Sweden – participates for 1st time as a member-nation & NATO Ally
• HQs of NATO – Brussels, Belgium | Secretary General – Jens Stoltenberg | Members – 32 | Founded in – 1949

139. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) received a Request For Proposal (RFP) from
the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs), “Prachand”.
The order of 156 LCHs includes 90 for the Indian Army and 66 for the Indian Air Force.
Estimated value of 156 LCH is Rs 45,000-50,000 crore. HAL has already delivered the
initial 15 LCH contract received in FY22. The Government of India held majority stake
of 71.64% in HAL, while 1.89% was held by the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)
as on March 31, 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• HAL – received a Request For Proposal (RFP) from MoD for 156 LCHs, “Prachand” (90 for Indian Army & 66 for IAF)
• Estimated value of 156 LCH is Rs 45,000-50,000 Cr
• Majority stake in HAL is held by Govt of India (71.64%) | 1.89% held by LIC
• HQs of HAL – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CEO – Amitabh Bhatt | CMD – C. B. Ananthakrishnan (addi. charge)

140. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has collaborated with Bengaluru-based SpacePixxel Technologies Pvt Ltd for the design
and development of a miniaturised satellite capable of carrying multiple payloads up to 150 kg for Indian Air Force (IAF). The
tie-up emerged from a landmark 350th contract that the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the MoD’s flagship
initiative, signed with SpacePixxel Technologies Pvt Ltd. The miniaturised satellite would be capable of carrying electro-
optical, infrared, synthetic aperture radar, and hyperspectral payloads. The contract was exchanged between Anurag Bajpai
(CEO of Defence Innovation Organisation) and Awais Ahmed Nadeem Alduri (Founder & CEO of SpacePixxel Technologies
Pvt Ltd). iDEX, the recipient of the esteemed Prime Minister Award for Public Policy in Innovation Category in 2021, has
emerged as a game-changer in the defence ecosystem. Established by the DIO under Department of Defence Production,
iDEX has launched 11 editions of the Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC). {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• MoD + SpacePixxel Technologies Pvt Ltd = to design & develop miniature satellite to carry payloads up to 150 kg for IAF
- This tie-up emerged from 350th contract signed between iDEX & SpacePixxel Technologies
• It would be capable of carrying electro-optical, infrared, synthetic aperture radar & hyperspectral payloads
• iDEX – received Prime Minister Award for Public Policy in Innovation Category in 2021
• iDEX – launched 11 editions of Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC) | Established by – DIO
• HQs of SpacePixxel Technologies Pvt Ltd – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Founder & CEO – Awais Ahmed Nadeem Alduri
• Minister of Defence: Rajnath Singh | Constituency – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
MoS in Ministry of Defence: Sanjay Seth

141. The Indian Air Force’s first multinational air exercise, “Tarang Shakti-
2024”, will be held in August, and is likely to see the participation of 10
countries, in addition to a few others acting as observers. The exercise is now
scheduled to be held in two phases. The first will be held in southern India in
the first two weeks of August and the second will be in the western sector from
the end of August to mid-September. Among the countries sending contingents
are Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Spain, the UAE, UK, and US. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IAF’s 1st multinational air exercise, “Tarang Shakti-2024”, will be held in August 2024
• 1st phase in southern India & 2nd phase in western India
• Countries sending their contingents are – Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Spain, UAE, UK, & US
• HQs of IAF – New Delhi | Chief – Air Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari | Vice Chief – Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh

142. The 4th joint exercise, named “HOPEX”, between the India Air Force (IAF) and Egyptian Air Force
(EAF) was conducted in Egypt from June 21-26, 2024. The exercise includes participation from C-17, IL-
78, and Rafale aircraft. The aim of this exercise is to promote bilateral and regional cooperation, which
is a symbol of the long-standing relations between the two countries. Ajit Gupte is India’s Ambassador
to Egypt. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 4th joint exercise, “HOPEX”, between the India Air Force (IAF) & Egyptian Air Force (EAF) – conducted in Egypt
• The exercise included participation from C-17, IL-78, & Rafale aircraft
• HQs of IAF – New Delhi | Chief – Air Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari | Vice Chief – Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh
• Egypt – Cairo – Egyptian Pound | President – Abdel Fattah el-Sisi

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Sports & Games
143. Indian contingent has clinched a total of 7 medals including 1 gold and 6 bronze at the
“Asian Arm Wrestling Championship 2024” in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Shrimant Jha, who
participated in two categories, was the top performer for India. He won the gold medal in the
left-hand para category, while he won the bronze medal in the right-hand para category. In
the Masters category, Laxman Singh Bhandari secured two bronze medals, while Sachin Goyal
won the bronze medal in the competitive right-hand Senior category. Meanwhile, in the
Women’s Right and Left-hand categories, Ibi Lollen from Arunachal Pradesh clinched two
bronze medals. The Indian contingent was competing under the banner of the People’s Armwrestling Federation of India
(PAFI), led by President Preeti Jhangiani. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Asian Arm Wrestling Championship 2024” – held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
• Indian contingent clinched a total of 7 medals (1 Gold + 6 Bronze)
• Top performer for India – Shrimant Jha (1 Gold + 1 Bronze)
• HQs of PAFI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | President – Priti Jhangiani

144. India’s Tanvi Sharma bagged the women’s singles title of the “Bonn International Badminton
Tournament”, a BWF Future Series event, in Germany. The young Indian shuttler defeated Wang Pei
Yu of Taiwan. This is the first senior title for the 15-year-old Tanvi from Punjab. In women’s doubles,
Indian pair of Srinidhi Narayanan and Radhika Sharma lost to the Turkish pair of Yasemen Bektas and
Zehra Erdem in the semifinal. In Men’s Doubles, Prakash Raj and Gouse Sheik lost to the Dutch pair of
Noah Haase and Dyon van Wijlick in the semifinal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Bonn International Badminton Tournament” – held in Germany
• Women’s singles title – Tanvi Sharma (India) | Defeated – Wang Pei Yu (Taiwan)

145. Indian contingent bagged 7 medals (3 golds, 3 silvers & 1 bronze) at the “Taiwan Athletics
Open 2024”. In women’s Long Jump, Nayana James clinched the gold medal, registering the best
jump of 6.43 metres. In Men’s 800 metres, India’s Ankesh Choudhary bagged the gold, clocking 1
minute 50.63 seconds. While, DP Manu clinched the gold medal in men’s Javelin throw with the
best effort of 81.58 metres. Besides, the 3 Indian silver medalists are - Somnath Chouhan (Men’s
800 metres), Dev Meena (Men’s pole vault), and Nithya Ramraj (women’s 100 metre hurdles).
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Taiwan Athletics Open 2024:
• India – finished with 7 medals (3 golds, 3 silvers & 1 bronze)
• Gold medalists:
- Women’s Long Jump – Nayana James (6.43 metres)
- Men’s 800 metres – Ankesh Choudhary (1 mins, 50.63 secs)
- Men’s Javelin throw – DP Manu (81.58 metres)
• Silver medalists:

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146. Spanish football club Real Madrid defeated the German football club Borussia Dortmund
in the “Champions League” final at Wembley, England, to win the 2023-24 UEFA Champions
League for the 15th time. It was also a record-extending 5th success as a coach for Carlo Ancelotti,
who also won the trophy twice as a player with AC Milan. Spanish teams have been the most
successful in the tournament, having won it 20 times. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Real Madrid FC (Spain) – won “UEFA Champions League 2023-24” for 15th time (defeating - Borussia Dortmund FC)
• Most successful team of “Champions League” – Spanish teams (20 times)

147. Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is implementing new measures designed further to support
the well-being of players and coaches during pregnancy and after the birth of their children. The FIFA protocols give players
and coaches a minimum of 14 weeks of paid maternity leave and 8 weeks of paid leave for those who adopt a child younger
than 2 years. There is also a minimum of 8 weeks paid for women who are non-biological parents of newborns. While the
players’ maternity leave was previously adopted in 2020, the new rules extend it to coaches, non-biological and adoptive
mothers. The protocol goes into effect on June 1, 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• FIFA – is implementing new measures to support well-being of players & coaches during pregnancy & after birth
• As per FIFA protocols, players and coaches will get a minimum of:
- 14 weeks of paid maternity leave
- 8 weeks of paid leave on adopting a child younger than 2 years
- 8 weeks paid for women who are non-biological parents of newborns
• HQs of FIFA – Zurich, Switzerland | President – Gianni Infantino

148. Indian shooter Sarabjot Singh won the gold medal in the Men’s 10m Air Pistol event at the “ISSF
World Cup 2024” in Munich, Germany. Sarabjot Singh scored 242.7 to win the gold medal in the final.
China’s Shuaihang Bu shot 242.5 for silver, while Germany’s Robin Walter settled for the bronze with a
score of 220. With this, Sarabjot won the first medal for India at the ISSF World Cup 2024 in Munich. This
was the second individual ISSF World Cup gold medal for Sarabjot Singh. He also won the air pistol mixed
team gold medal in Baku in 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sarabjot Singh – won gold medal in the Men’s 10m Air Pistol event at the “ISSF World Cup 2024” in Munich, Germany
- Silver – Shuaihang Bu (China) | Bronze – Robin Walter (Germany)
• It is the first medal for India at the ISSF World Cup 2024
• HQs of ISSF – Munich, Germany | President – Vladimir Lisin

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149. Dinesh Karthik of Tamil Nadu has officially announced his retirement from all forms of
cricket. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter had made his India debut when he was 19 in an ODI
against England at Lord’s in September 2004 and has played in as many as 6 IPL teams. He
ended the current season with 326 runs in 15 matches with an average of 36.22, and a strike
rate of 187.36. Besides, Maharashtra’s batter Kedar Jadhav has also announced his retirement
from international cricket. The 39-year-old made his international debut for India in November 2014. Jadhav is currently
captaining Kolhapur Tuskers in the Maharashtra Premier League. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dinesh Karthik (TN) – announced his retirement from all forms of cricket (debut in 2004)
• Kedar Jadhav (Maharashtra) – announced his retirement from international cricket (debut in 2014)

150. Norwegian chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen won the “Norway Chess 2024”
tournament in men’s section, after defeating Fabiano Caruana. In his 10 games, Carlsen
claimed 3 wins in the classical format while he had 5 victories via the Armageddon format.
Meanwhile, in the women’s section of Norway Chess, Ju Wenjun of China, claimed the title
with 19 points ahead of Anna Muzychuk. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Norway Chess 2024” tournament:
• Men’s section – Magnus Carlsen (Norway) | Defeated – Fabiano Caruana (Italian-American)
• Women’s section – Ju Wenjun (China) | Defeated – Anna Muzychuk (Ukraine)
• Magnus Carlsen claimed 3 wins in classical format & 5 in Armageddon format (out of total 10 games)

151. Sumit Nagal, India’s highest-ranked tennis player, clinched the men’s singles title at the “Heilbronn
Neckarcup 2024 Challenger” ATP Challenger tennis tournament in Germany. This is his 6th ATP Challenger
title. The Indian tennis player, ranked 95th in the men’s singles world rankings, beat world No. 184
Alexander Ritschard of Switzerland. With this victory, Sumit has qualified for the upcoming Paris Olympics.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Heilbronn Neckarcup 2024 Challenger” ATP Challenger tennis tournament – held in Germany
• Men’s singles title – India’s Sumit Nagal (his 6th ATP Challenger title) | Defeated – Alexander Ritschard (Switzerland)

152. Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Iga Swiatek of Poland won the “2024 French Open” men’s
and women’s tennis single titles, respectively. It marks the first French Open singles title for
Carlos Alcaraz and the fourth singles title for Iga Swiatek. Carlos defeated Alexander Zeverev
of Germany, while Swiatek defeated Jasmine Paolini of Italy. Chris Evert of the USA holds the
record for maximum women’s singles title at 7 times. Besides, Men’s Doubles title was won
by Mate Pavic (Croatia) and Marcelo Alevaro (El Salvador), while Coco Gauff (USA) and
Katerina Siniakova (Czech) won Women’s Double title. Desirae Krawczyk (USA) and Neal Skupski (Britain) won Mixed
Doubles. French Open is the second Grand Slam event in a calendar year after the Australian Open. It is played on the Red
Clay surface. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2024 French Open” titles:
- Men’s singles – Carlos Alcaraz (Spain) | Defeated – Alexander Zeverev (Germany)

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153. India’s Puja Tomar, from Uttar Pradesh, has scripted history as she became the first Mixed
Martial Arts (MMA) fighter from India to win a bout at the “Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)
2024” in UFC Louisville, Kentucky, US. She won over Brazil's Rayanne dos Santos in the straw-
weight (52kg) bout. Born in Budhana village of Uttar Pradesh’s Muzaffarnagar, Tomar is a five-time
national wushu champion and also has a background in karate and taekwondo. UFC is an American
mixed martial arts promotion company. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 2024” – held in UFC Louisville, Kentucky, US
• Puja Tomar (UP) – first Mixed Martial Arts fighter from India to win a bout in straw-weight (52kg) bout
- Defeated – Rayanne dos Santos (Brazil)
• She is a 5-time national wushu champion | UFC – an American mixed martial arts promotion company

154. Indian chess player Divya Deshmukh emerged victorious in the U-20 category during the “2024 World
Junior Chess Championship: Girls” by defeating Beloslava Krasteva of Bulgaria at the Gift City,
Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Deshmukh, an International Master, finished the tournament with an impressive
score of 10 points out of a possible 11. In the Men’s section, Kazybek Nogerbek from Kazakhstan clinched
‘World Junior Chess Championship: Open’ title, defeating Mamikon Gharibyan of Armenia. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “World Junior Chess Championship 2024” – held in Gift City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat
• Girls’ section: Divya Deshmukh (India) | Defeated – Beloslava Krasteva (Bulgaria)
• Men’s section: Kazybek Nogerbek (Kazakhstan) | 3rd – Mamikon Gharibyan (Armenia)

155. In Equestrian, Shruti Vora has scripted history becoming the first Indian rider to win a 3-star
Grand Prix event. Shruti along with her astride Magnanimous, scored 67.761 points in the CDI-3
event in “FEI Dressage World Cup” held in Lipica, Slovenia. She finished ahead of Moldova’s Tatiana
Antonenco, who scored 66.552 points. With this, she earned her first Minimum Eligibility
Requirement (MER) point for 2024 Paris Olympics. Veteran rider Shruti Vora also represented India
in Dressage World Championship 2022 and in the Asian Games of 2010 and 2014. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• CDI-3 event in “FEI Dressage World Cup” – held in Lipica, Slovenia
• Shruti Vora (Equestrian) – first Indian rider to win a 3-star Grand Prix event (score - 67.761 points)
• 2nd – Moldova’s Tatiana Antonenco (66.552 points)
• With this, Shruti Vora earned her first Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER) point for 2024 Paris Olympics
• HQs of Equestrian Federation of India – New Delhi | Secretary General – Col. Jaiveer Singh

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156. The Executive Board of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) has announced India as
the host of “FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025” to be held in December 2025. It will be
the first time that a Junior Hockey World Cup will be comprising as many as 24 teams. India has
previously hosted the tournament thrice in 2013 (New Delhi), 2016 (Lucknow) and 2021
(Bhubaneswar). The last edition of the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup took place in 2023
in Malaysia where Germany won their 7th title beating France. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – to host “FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025” in Dec 2025
• India – previously hosted this tournament thrice in – 2013 (New Delhi), 2016 (Lucknow) & 2021 (Bhubaneswar)
• Last edition of tournament – held in Malaysia in 2023 | won by – Germany (7th title) by defeating France
• HQs of FIH – Lausanne, Switzerland | President – Mohammad Tayyab Ikram | CEO – Thierry Weil | Founded – 1924

157. Wipro has launched the “Lab45 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platform”, which leverages
Generative AI (GenAI), machine learning (ML), and deep learning technologies to enable companies
to realize enhanced efficiencies, transform business functions, and enable industry-specific
solutions. Lab45 is Wipro’s Innovation Lab and the Lab45 AI platform is available to all Wipro
employees and clients. The Lab45 AI Platform runs on a SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) model and
supports various state-of-the-art Large Language Models (LLMs) from leading providers as well as custom deep-learning and
other models. The platform allows for seamless integration of language and visual processing for generating images from
text prompts, as well as the ability to index, parse, and summarize content. With over 1,000 GenAI agents and more than
10 GenAI applications, the platform offers no code and low code pre-built applications for HR, sales, marketing, and
operations functions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Wipro – launched “Lab45 AI Platform” to leverage GenAI, ML & deep learning technologies
• Aim: To enable companies to realize enhanced efficiencies, transform business functions & enable industry-specific
solutions
• It runs on a SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) model & supports various LLMs
• It allows for seamless integration of language & visual processing for generating images from text prompts
• HQs of Wipro – Bangalore, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Srinivas Pallia | Founder Chairman – Azim Premji

158. Uttar Pradesh government has decided to sign an agreement with Dorna Sports, which has the licence to hold MotoGP
globally, and its Indian partner Fairstreet Sports to conduct the premier bike racing event, “MotoGP”, in the state every year
till 2029. Invest UP, an agency recently formed by the government to attract investments, will create a corpus to pay Dorna’s
licencing fee of Rs 80 crore for MotoGP Bharat every year. MotoGP came to India for the first time in 2023 and was held at
Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida from Sept 22-24. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UP + Dorna Sports + Fairstreet Sports = an agreement to conduct bike racing event, “MotoGP”, in UP every year till 2029
• Invest UP – will create a corpus to pay Dorna’s licencing fee (Rs 80 Cr) for MotoGP Bharat every year
• MotoGP – came to India in 2023 & held at Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida, UP (Sept 22-24, 2023)
• UP: Capital – Lucknow | CM – Yogi Adityanath | Governor – Anandiben Patel

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159. Indian contingent concluded their journey at the “ASBC Asian U-22 and Youth
Boxing Championships” with 43 medals in Astana, Kazakhstan. This includes 12 gold,
14 silver, and 17 bronze medals from both categories. India finished with the second-
highest medal count, only behind the hosts, Kazakhstan, who have won 48 medals.
Brijesh gave India its first gold medal in youth category by defeating Tajikistan’s
Muminov Muinkhodzha in the men’s 48kg. While, Vishvanath Suresh (48kg) won
India’s first gold medal in the U-22 category by defeating Kazakhstan’s Karap Yernar. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “ASBC Asian U-22 and Youth Boxing Championships” – held in Astana, Kazakhstan
• India – stood 2nd with 43 medals (12 gold, 14 silver & 17 bronze) | 1st – Kazakhstan (48 medals)
• Youth category in men’s 48kg: Brijesh (India) – Gold | Defeated – Muminov Muinkhodzha (Tajikistan)
• U-22 category (48kg): Vishvanath Suresh – Gold | Defeated – Karap Yernar (Kazakhstan)

160. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed the winners of the ICC Player of the
Month awards for May 2024. Gudakesh Motie of the West Indies won the prize for Men’s
Player of the Month, and Chamari Athapaththu of Sri Lanka won the prize for Women’s
Player of the Month. Motie wins the accolade for the very first time after wicket-taking feats
against South Africa in the buildup to ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ICC Player of the Month for May 2024:
- Men’s – Gudakesh Motie (West Indies) | Women’s – Chamari Athapaththu (Sri Lanka)
• HQs of ICC – Dubai, UAE | Chairman – Greg Barclay | CEO – Geoff Allardice | Members – 108 countries

161. World Athletics has announced a 5-year global broadcasting services deal with Tata Communications, making the Indian
telecom major a partner in the coverage of marquee events from next year, including the Tokyo World Championships. Tata
Communications will be a ‘key strategic supplier’ for the world body with a view to elevating innovation and audience
engagement to new heights. The year 2025 features events such as the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing in
March, World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou in May, and World Athletics Road Running Championships in San Diego in
September. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• World Athletics + Tata Communications = a 5-year global broadcasting services deal
• Tata Communications will be a ‘key strategic supplier’ in the coverage of marquee events from next year
• HQs of World Athletics – Monaco | President – Sebastian Coe | Founded in – 1912
• HQs of Tata Communications – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – A. S. Lakshminarayanan

162. Indian Army has received the first batch of domestically produced man-portable
suicide drones, called “Nagastra-1”. These drones are engineered to accurately strike
enemy training camps, launch pads, and infiltrators, thus minimising risk to soldiers.
The drones have been designed and developed fully in India by Economic Explosives
Limited (EEL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries, and have an indigenous content of over
75%. Nagastra-1 is a cutting-edge unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for loitering
munitions with advanced features such as abort, recover, and reuse capabilities. The fixed-wing electric UAV has an
endurance of 60 minutes, a man-in-loop range of 15 km, and a range of 30 km in autonomous mode. {Read more}

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163. Australian swimmer Ariarne Titmus has set a world record in the Women’s 200-meter
Freestyle at Australia’s Olympic swimming trials. Titmus finished in 1 minute, 52.23 seconds
in the final, taking almost two-thirds of a second off Mollie O’Callaghan’s world mark of
1:52.85. Titmus, the Olympic champion in the 200- and 400-meter freestyle events, now
holds the world records in both events. O’Callaghan placed second at the Australian titles
in 1:52.48. The top six swimmers are likely to form Australia’s 4x200 freestyle relay squad
in Paris. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ariarne Titmus (Australian swimmer) – set a world record in Women’s 200m Freestyle by finishing in 1:52.23
• Previous record – Mollie O’Callaghan (1:52.85)
• Top 6 swimmers at Australia’s Olympic swimming trials are likely to form Australia’s 4x200 freestyle relay squad in Paris

164. Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra has clinched the gold medal with a best throw of 85.97m at
the “Paavo Nurmi Games 2024” held in Turku, Finland. In second place is Finland’s Toni Keranen
with a best of 84.19m, and in third place is Oliver Helander, who threw 83.96m in his second
attempt. The competition is a Continental Tour Gold meet, a top-tier World Athletics event. The
event was Neeraj’s third of the year after the Doha Diamond League and the Federation Cup. Neeraj
clinched second place in Doha with a 88.36m throw before a 82.27m throw fetched him top spot at the 27th Federation Cup
in Bhubaneswar. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Paavo Nurmi Games 2024” – held in Turku, Finland | Neeraj Chopra – clinched gold medal with a throw of 85.97m
• 2nd – Toni Keranen (Finland) with a throw of 84.19m | 3rd – Oliver Helander (83.96m)
• It is a Continental Tour Gold meet, a top-tier World Athletics event
• Neeraj’s rank in earlier events (2024): Doha Diamond League – 2nd (88.36m) | Federation Cup – 1st (82.27m)

165. India’s top-rated chess player Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi has won the 5th “Stepan Avagyan
Memorial 2024” in Jermuk, Armenia. Arjun defeated Volodar Murzin from Russia with white pieces
in 63 moves to finish the 8th round, the penultimate round. With this, the 20-year-old Arjun who
hails from Warangal jumped to a career-high live rating of No. 4. He added 9 points from the 8th
rounds to reach a total of 2779.9 ELO points. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 5th “Stepan Avagyan Memorial 2024” – held in Jermuk, Armenia
• Winner – Arjun Erigaisi (India) | Defeated – Volodar Murzin (Russia)
• With this victory, Arjun Erigaisi jumped to a career-high live rating of No. 4

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166. India finished with two medals at the “ISSF World Cup 2024” in Munich, Germany,
after shooter Sift Kaur Samra won the bronze in the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions shooting
event. Sift Kaur Samra’s bronze was India’s second medal at the ISSF World Cup. Sarabjot
Singh won the gold medal in the men’s 10m air pistol. With these 2 medals, India finished
3rd on the medals table along with France. China, with 11 medals (4 golds, 4 silvers, 3
bronze), topped the medal chart, followed by Norway. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “ISSF World Cup 2024” – held in Munich, Germany | India – ranked 3rd with two medals (1 Gold & 1 Bronze)
• Gold – Sarabjot Singh (Men’s 10m air pistol) | Bronze – Sift Kaur Samra (Women’s 50m rifle 3 positions shooting event)
• 1st – China (4 golds, 4 silvers, 3 bronze) | 2nd – Norway | 3rd – India & France

167. 4 Armed Forces Medical Service (AFMS) Officers have brought laurels to India by
clinching a record 32 Medals in the 43rd “World Medical and Health Games” held in
Saint-Tropez, France, from 16 to 23 June, 2024. These Officers, namely Lt Col Sanjeev
Malik, Maj Anish George, Capt Stephen Sebastian, and Capt Dania James, won 19 Gold,
9 Silver, and 4 Bronze medals in the world’s largest sports event for health
professionals, often regarded as the ‘Olympic Games for Health Professionals’. The
Games annually attract over 2500 participants from more than 50 different nations. Lt
Gen Daljit Singh is the Director General of AFMS. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 43rd “World Medical and Health Games” (aka ‘Olympic Games for Health Professionals’) – held in Saint-Tropez, France
• 4 AFMS Officers (India) – clinched a record 32 medals (19 Gold, 9 Silver & 4 Bronze)
- Lt Col Sanjeev Malik, Maj Anish George, Capt Stephen Sebastian & Capt Dania James
• Director General of AFMS (DGAFMS) – Lieutenant General Daljit Singh

168. Sreeja Akula has created history by becoming the first ever Indian paddler to win a ‘WTT
Contender Singles’ title as she defeated Chinese player Ding Yijie in the final held in Lagos,
Nigeria. Harmeet Desai and Manav Thakkar also became the first Indian male combo to win
Men’s Doubles title at the “WTT Contender Lagos 2024” by defeating Azeez Solanke and Olajide
Omotayo in the men’s doubles final. Men’s Singles title was won by Dimitrij Ovtcharov
(Germany) by defeating Ricardo Walther (Germany), while Women’s Doubles title was also won by Indian pair Sreejas Akula
and Archana Kamath with a victory over compatriots Diya Chitale and Yashaswini Ghorpade. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Winners of “WTT Contender Lagos 2024” – held in Lagos, Nigeria
• Women’s Singles title – Sreeja Akula (1st Indian paddler) | Defeated – Ding Yijie (China)
• Men’s Doubles title – Harmeet Desai & Manav Thakkar (1st Indian pair)
• Men’s Singles title – Dimitrij Ovtcharov (Germany) | Defeated – Ricardo Walther (Germany)
• Women’s Doubles title – Sreejas Akula & Archana Kamath (India)

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169. India concluded their campaign at the Under-17 “Asian Wrestling Championships
2024” in Amman, Jordan, with a total of 11 medals, including 4 gold, 2 silver, and 5 bronze
medals. Women wrestlers who grabbed all 4 gold medals are - Dipanshi in 46 kg, Muskan
in 53 kg, Rajnita in 61 kg, and Mansi Lather in 69 kg. Bala Raj had to settle for a silver in
the 40 kg category. On the men’s front, Samarth Gajanan Mhakave bagged a silver medal
in 55 kg category. While Akash in 65 kg, Sachin Kumar in 71 kg, Bikash Kacchap in 48 kg,
Tushar Tukaram Patil in 60 kg, and Ronak in 110 kg clinched bronze medals. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – concluded with 11 medals at the Under-17 “Asian Wrestling Championships 2024” in Amman, Jordan
• 4 Gold: Dipanshi (46 kg), Muskan (53 kg), Rajnita (61 kg), Mansi Lather (69 kg)
• 2 Silver: Bala Raj, Samarth Gajanan Mhakave
• 5 Bronze: Akash, Sachin Kumar, Bikash Kacchap, Tushar Tukaram Patil, Ronak

Persons in News
170. Bruhat Soma, a 7th-grade Indian-American student from Florida, has emerged victorious at the “2024
Scripps National Spelling Bee”. He hails from Telangana, India. After winning a significant prize of $50,000,
Bruhat intends to donate the amount to a worthy cause. Bruhat’s remarkable memory prowess extends
beyond spelling, as he revealed his accomplishment of memorizing 80% of the Bhagavad Gita. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Bruhat Soma (Indian-American student) – won “2024 Scripps National Spelling Bee” | Prize – $50,000
• Bruhat Soma – originally hails from Telangana

171. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla won the Kota parliamentary seat by a margin of more than 41,139 votes
on June 4, thus becoming the first presiding officer in 20 years to be re-elected to the Lower House of
Parliament or Lok Sabha. The last Lok Sabha speaker to get re-elected to the Lower House was P. A. Sangma,
who was the presiding officer of the 11th Lok Sabha from 1996 to 1998. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Lok Sabha Om Birla – became the first presiding officer in 20 years to be re-elected to the Lower House
• He won the Kota (Rajasthan) parliamentary seat by a margin of more than 41,139 votes
• The last Lok Sabha speaker to get re-elected to the Lower House – P. A. Sangma

172. India’s first woman Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ruchira Kamboj, retired
after 35 years of service, during which she served as Indian envoy in Bhutan, South Africa and the
UNESCO. Kamboj was the All India women’s topper of the 1987 Civil Services batch and the topper
of the 1987 Indian Foreign Service (IFS) batch. She became Permanent Representative/Ambassador
of India to New York, on August 2, 2022. From 2011-14, she was India’s Chief of Protocol, the first
and the only woman so far in Government to have held this position. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ruchira Kamboj (India’s first woman Permanent Representative to UN) – retired after 35 years of service
• She served as Indian envoy in Bhutan, South Africa and the UNESCO
• She was India’s Chief of Protocol, the first & the only woman so far in Govt to have held this position (from 2011-14)

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173. Sub Lieutenant Anamika B. Rajeev became the Indian Navy’s first woman helicopter pilot
during a passing out parade held in the naval air station INS Rajali at Arakkonam in Ranipet
district, Tamil Nadu. A total of 21 officers were awarded the prestigious ‘Golden Wings’ by Vice
Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command.
Lieutenant Gurkirat Rajput received the FOC-in-C, Eastern Naval Command Rolling Trophy for
the trainee pilot standing First in Order of Merit in flying. Lt Nitin Sharan Chaturvedi received
the Sub Lieutenant Kunte Memorial Book Prize for standing First in Order of Merit in ground subjects. Lieutenant Deepak
Gupta received the Governor of Kerala Rolling Trophy for first in Overall Order of Merit. A passing out parade was held on
June 7 to mark the graduation of the 102nd Helicopter Conversion Course. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sub Lt Anamika B. Rajeev – became Navy’s first woman helicopter pilot during a passing out parade
• 21 officers were awarded ‘Golden Wings’ – by V Adm Rajesh Pendharkar (FOC-in-C, ENC)
• ‘FOC-in-C, ENC Rolling Trophy for Trainee Pilot’ – given to Lt Gurkirat Rajput
• ‘Sub Lt Kunte Memorial Book Prize’ – given to Lt Nitin Sharan Chaturvedi
• ‘Governor of Kerala Rolling Trophy’ – Lt Deepak Gupta
• Passing out Parade was held at – INS Rajali at Arakkonam in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu
• HQs of Indian Navy – Delhi | Chief – Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi | Vice Chief – Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan

Science & Technology

174. IIT Bombay has entered a strategic partnership with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
to develop India’s first Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager. This advanced sensing tool
will enable better quality control of semiconductor chips, thereby improving product
reliability, safety, and energy efficiency of electrical devices. The collaboration between
TCS and IIT-Bombay is aligned with the National Quantum Mission (NQM). The Quantum
Diamond Microchip Imager can image magnetic fields, enabling a non-invasive and non-
destructive mapping of semiconductor chips. It uses the defects in a diamond’s structure, known as Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV)
centres. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Bombay + TCS = partnership to develop India’s first ‘Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager’
• Aim: To enable better quality control of semiconductor chips
• HQs of TCS – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – K. Krithivasan | Founded in – 1968
• Director of IIT Bombay – Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri

175. Newgen Software Technologies Ltd has introduced “LumYn”, a Gen AI-powered
hyper-personalisation platform, designed specifically for the banking sector aimed
at enhancing profitability and improving customer experiences for banks worldwide.
LumYn is aimed at addressing this need by combining predictive intelligence with
advanced conversational AI capabilities. This will enable banks to build a hyper-
personalised understanding of each customer’s need, behavior, preferences and
intent to drive deeper engagements. Virender Jeet is the CEO of Newgen Software. {Read more}

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176. The European Space Agency’s (ESA) latest scientific mission, “EarthCARE” satellite, was
successfully launched into space from the United States onboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 launcher. The
“Earth Cloud Aerosol and Radiation Explorer (EarthCARE)” satellite - a collaboration between ESA
and Japanese space agency JAXA - will study how the formation of clouds and the density of
aerosols in the atmosphere impact the Earth’s temperature. It is expected to be in orbit for at least
3 years gathering data for ESA’s Copernicus programme. EarthCARE was first conceived in 2004
and was designed and built by Airbus and 75 subcontracted companies. Moreover, the world’s first wooden satellite,
“LignoSat”, has been built by Kyoto University, Japan. This unusual spacecraft is made up of magnolia wood. It will be sent
into space on a SpaceX rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in September, bound for the International Space Station (ISS).
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• “EarthCARE” satellite (ESA’s mission) – successfully launched into space from US onboard a ‘SpaceX Falcon 9’ launcher
- EarthCARE – Earth Cloud Aerosol and Radiation Explorer (a collaboration between ESA & JAXA)
- Aim: To study how formation of clouds & density of aerosols in atmosphere impact Earth’s temperature
- It was first conceived in – 2004 | Designed & built by – Airbus + 75 subcontracted companies
• ‘LignoSat’, world’s first wooden satellite – built by Kyoto University, Japan | Made of – magnolia wood
- To be sent into space on – SpaceX rocket from Kennedy Space Center in Sept 2024 for ISS
• HQs of ESA – Paris, France | DG – Josef Aschbacher | Founded in – 1975
• HQs of JAXA – Tokyo, Japan | President – Yamakawa Hiroshi

177. South Korea has officially launched its space agency, called the “KASA (Korea AeroSpace Administration)”. South Korea
plans to make a Mars landing by 2045 and spend 100 trillion won ($72.6 billion) until then on space exploration. South Korea
became the 7th country to own an indigenous space launch vehicle and satellite development technology with the launch of
‘Nuri’ rocket in May, 2023. South Korea plans at least three more space launches by 2027 and has plans to launch military
satellites. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• South Korea – officially launched its space agency, called the “KASA (Korea AeroSpace Administration)”
• South Korea plans to make a Mars landing by 2045 & spend 100 trillion won ($72.6 billion) until then
• South Korea became the 7th country to own an indigenous space launch vehicle, with the launch of ‘Nuri’ rocket in 2023
• South Korea plans at least 3 more space launches by 2027
• South Korea – Seoul – Korean Republic won | President – Yoon Suk-yeol

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178. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has developed Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, named
“PraVaHa” (Parallel RANS Solver for Aerospace Vehicle Aero-thermo-dynamic Analysis). This software was developed in
ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). It can simulate external and internal flows on launch vehicles, winged and non-
winged re-entry vehicles. The CFD is one such tool to predict the aerodynamic and aerothermal loads which solve
numerically the equations of conservation of mass, momentum, and energy along with the equation of state. PraVaHa is
expected to replace most of the CFD simulations for aero characterisation. Currently, the PraVaHa code is operational to
simulate airflow for Perfect Gas & Real Gas conditions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• VSSC (ISRO) – developed Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, named “PraVaHa”
• “PraVaHa” – Parallel RANS Solver for Aerospace Vehicle Aero-thermo-dynamic Analysis
• PraVaHa – can simulate external & internal flows on launch vehicles, winged & non-winged re-entry vehicles
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969

179. Nvidia has unveiled its next generation artificial intelligence (AI) chip platform, called “Rubin”. Currently under
development, the AI chip will be based on 8 stacks of HBM4 memory, the next iteration of the essential high-bandwidth
memory. The platform will be available in 2026. The new chip platform will be equipped with new GPUs to train and launch
AI systems. It will also have a central processor called “Vera”. Nvidia has named its Rubin AI platform after Vera Florence
Cooper Rubin, an astronomer who discovered dark matter. The company also plans to bring Rubin Ultra featuring 12 HBM4
stacks. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nvidia – unveiled its next generation artificial intelligence (AI) chip platform, called “Rubin”
• This AI chip will be based on 8 stacks of HBM4 memory (Platform will be available in 2026)
• It will be equipped with new GPUs to train and launch AI systems | It will also have a central processor called “Vera”
• ‘Rubin’ AI platform is named after Vera Florence Cooper Rubin, an astronomer who discovered dark matter
• HQs of Nvidia – California, US | CEO – Jensen Huang

180. Indian-Origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, along with Butch Wilmore, has become the first
to fly to space aboard the Boeing Starliner’s first-ever crewed mission. The 59-year-old Williams
created history by becoming the first woman to fly on the maiden mission of a new human-rated
spacecraft. Butch will be commanding the flight, and Williams, will be piloting the flight. The Starliner
mission aims to carry astronauts and cargo for future NASA missions to low Earth orbit, and beyond.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sunita Williams (along with Butch Wilmore) – became 1st to fly to space aboard Boeing Starliner’s 1st-ever crewed mission
• She created history by becoming the first woman to fly on the maiden mission of a new human-rated spacecraft
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958

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181. A team of teachers and students of IIT Dharwad, led by Sudheer Siddapureddy and Ameer
Mulla, has developed first-of-its-kind fire rescue assistant drone. The project was completed with
funding from TiHAN Foundation, IIT Hyderabad (NMICPS, Government of India). The unveiling and
demonstration of the fire rescue assistant drone was held during the two-day workshop on Drone
Design and Autonomous Navigation in Fire Rescue (DDANFR 2024) held at IIT Dharwad. The event
was organised by the Fire and Thermal Research Laboratory (FTRL) and the Control Systems and
Robotics Laboratory. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Workshop on Drone Design and Autonomous Navigation in Fire Rescue (DDANFR 2024)” – held at IIT Dharwad
• IIT Dharwad – developed first-of-its-kind fire rescue assistant drone
• The project was completed with funding from – TiHAN Foundation, IIT Hyderabad
• Director of IIT Dharwad – Venkappayya R. Desai

182. NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has spotted the earliest-known galaxy,
called “JADES-GS-z14-0”. The discovery was made by an international team of astronomers,
who used JWST to observe galaxies as part of the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey
(JADES) program. This galaxy measures about 1,700-light years across. The galaxy has a mass
equivalent to 500 million stars the size of our Sun. The galaxy is surprisingly bright and big
considering it formed during the universe’s infancy. It existed about 290 million years after the
Big Bang event. Until now, the earliest-known galaxy dated to about 320 million years after the Big Bang. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• JWST (NASA) – spotted earliest-known galaxy, “JADES-GS-z14-0,” while observing galaxies as part of JADES program
• JADES – JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey
• It measures about 1,700-light years across | Mass – equivalent to 500 million stars the size of our Sun
• It existed about 290 million years after the Big Bang event
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958

183. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the European Space Agency (ESA) have collaborated to
develop a Standardized Time System for the moon as part of the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the lunar
surface. The initiative addresses the need for a unified timekeeping system to coordinate missions from different countries
and private entities. The moon’s day-night cycle lasts about 29.5 Earth days. The Artemis program, led by NASA, aims to land
the first woman and the next man on the moon by 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NASA + ESA = to develop a Standardized Time System for moon as part of Artemis program aiming to return humans to
lunar surface
• It addresses need for a unified timekeeping system to coordinate missions from different countries & private entities
• Day-night cycle of Moon – lasts about 29.5 Earth days
• Artemis program – led by NASA | Aim: To land first woman & next man on moon by 2024
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958
• HQs of ESA – Paris, France | DG – Josef Aschbacher

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184. China has become the first country to display its national flag on the moon’s far side,
which permanently faces away from Earth. The Chang’e-6 lunar probe, carrying the first
lunar rocks ever collected from the far side of the moon, took off and entered lunar orbit,
following successful sample collection over the previous two days. Chang’e-6 successfully
landed in the South Pole-Aitken Basin, the moon’s oldest impact basin formed some 4
billion years ago. It marked the 2nd time a mission has successfully reached the far side of
the moon, after China first completed that historic feat in 2019 with its Chang’e-4 probe. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• China – first country to display its national flag on the moon’s far side, which permanently faces away from Earth
• Chang’e-6 lunar probe – landed in South Pole-Aitken Basin (moon’s oldest impact basin)
• China marked 2nd mission that reached far side of the moon | 1st – in 2019
• China – Beijing – Renminbi | President – Xi Jinping | PM – Li Qiang

185. The “Tmesipteris oblanceolate”, a fork fern species, has been crowned as Guinness World
Record holder for having the world’s largest genome of any organism on the Earth. It is 7% larger
than that of the previous record-holder, the Japanese flowering plant, ‘Paris japonica’, and more
than 50 times the size of the human genome. The fern grows primarily on the ground or atop
fallen tree trunks in New Caledonia, about 750 miles (1,200 km) east of Australia. The specimens
used in the study were collected last year on New Caledonia’s Grande Terre Island. The fern
grows 5 to 10 centimetres tall. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Tmesipteris oblanceolate”, a fork fern species – crowned as Guinness World Record holder for having world’s largest
genome of any organism on Earth
• It is 7% larger than previous record-holder, Japanese flowering plant, ‘Paris japonica’ & more than 50 times size of human
genome
• Location – New Caledonia | It grows 5 to 10 centimetres tall
• New Caledonia – Noumea – CFP Franc | President – Louis Mapou

186. Qatar Airways has unveiled “Sama 2.0”, the world’s first AI-powered digital flight attendant.
Sama, developed in collaboration with UneeQ, is named after the Arabic word for ‘sky’. Sama
interacts with passengers in real-time, providing answers to queries ranging from FAQs to
destination information. The digital flight attendant is accessible through Qatar Airways’ immersive
digital platform, QVerse, and their mobile app. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Qatar Airways – unveiled “Sama 2.0”, world’s first AI-powered digital flight attendant
• Developed by = Qatar Airways + UneeQ
• It is accessible through – Qatar Airways’ immersive digital platform, ‘QVerse’ & their mobile app

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187. Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko has broken a major record, becoming the first person to spend a
cumulative 1,000 days in space. The 59-year-old reached this milestone while on his current mission aboard
the ISS, which he started in September 2023 and will end a later year in September 2024. The cosmonaut has
been on 5 missions to the ISS. By the time he touches down on Earth again, his total number of days spent in
orbit will have reached 1,110. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Oleg Kononenko (Russian cosmonaut) – became first person to spend a cumulative 1,000 days in space
• He is currently on his mission aboard ISS (from Sep 2023 to Sep 2024) | He has been on 5 missions to ISS
• By the time he touches down on Earth again, his total number of days spent in orbit will be – 1,110
• Russia – Moscow – Russian Ruble | PM – Mikhail Mishustin | President – Vladimir Putin

188. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath has inaugurated a state-of-the-art Propellant

Tank Production and Computer Numerical Centre (CNC) Machining facility at
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) Aerospace Division in Bengaluru,
Karnataka. The ISRO has partnered with HAL for this facility. The newly established
facilities would provide a major boost to ISRO’s ability to meet its growing
production needs, particularly for India’s heaviest and most powerful rocket, the
Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LMV3). The ongoing collaboration of HAL with ISRO would
accelerate human spaceflight missions and development of Next-Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ISRO + HAL = inaugurated a state-of-the-art Propellant Tank Production & Computer Numerical Centre (CNC) Machining
facility in Bengaluru
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969
• HQs of HAL – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CEO – Amitabh Bhatt | CMD – C. B. Ananthakrishnan (addi. charge)

189. The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the French Space Agency, CNES,
have agreed to work together on a satellite mission, called “Thermal Infrared Imaging
Satellite for High-resolution Natural Resource Assessment (TRISHNA)”. TRISHNA is
engineered to deliver high spatial and high temporal resolution monitoring of earth’s surface
temperature, emissivity, and biophysical and radiation variables for surface energy budgeting
at regional to global scale. TRISHNA’s primary objectives include detailed monitoring of the energy and water budgets of the
continental biosphere for quantifying terrestrial water stress and water use. TRISHNA mission will also help in a
comprehensive assessment of urban heat islands, detection of thermal anomalies linked to volcanic activity and geothermal
resources, and precise monitoring of snow-melt runoff and glacier dynamics. The mission will also provide valuable data on
aerosol optical depth, atmospheric water vapour, and cloud cover. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ISRO + CNES = agreed to work together on a satellite mission, called “Thermal Infrared Imaging Satellite for High-
resolution Natural Resource Assessment (TRISHNA)”
• Aim: To deliver high spatial and high temporal resolution monitoring of earth’s surface temperature, emissivity, and
biophysical and radiation variables for surface energy budgeting at regional to global scale
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969
• France – Paris – Euro | President – Emmanuel Macron | PM – Gabriel Attal

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190. Nokia CEO Pekka Lundmark has made a phone call using a new technology called
“immersive audio and video” that improves the quality of a call with three-dimensional
(3D) sound, making interactions more lifelike. Current smartphone calls are monophonic
which compresses audio elements together and sound flatter and less detailed, but the
new technology will bring 3D audio where a caller will hear everything as if they were
there with the other person. Nokia made the call using a regular smartphone over a public 5G network. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Pekka Lundmark (Nokia CEO) – made a phone call using a new technology called “immersive audio and video”
• This technology improves quality of a call with 3D sound, making interactions more lifelike
• HQs of Nokia – Espoo, Finland | CEO – Pekka Lundmark | Founded in – 1865

191. Researchers of IIT Madras and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory are studying multi-
drug resistant pathogens on the international space station (ISS). The researchers
studied the ‘Enterobactor bugandensis’, a nosocomial pathogen found on the surfaces
within the ISS. An understanding of the microbial landscape on the ISS would help to
assess the impact of the micro-organisms on astronauts’ well-being. The findings were
published in the peer-reviewed journal ‘Microbiome’. The researchers uncovered a
complex web of interactions between E. bugandensis and other microorganisms aboard
ISS, highlighting the parasitic and symbiotic relationships that influence microbial growth dynamics. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Madras + NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory = studying multi-drug resistant pathogens on ISS
• They studied ‘Enterobactor bugandensis’, a nosocomial pathogen found on surfaces within ISS
• Findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal, ‘Microbiome’
• Director of IIT Madras – V. Kamakoti
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958

192. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has unveiled “WisdomNext”, a platform that aggregates
multiple Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) services into a single interface. TCS AI
WisdomNext helps businesses choose the right models and simplify the design of new
business solutions using GenAI tools. This platform helps customers take advantage of GenAI
to unlock the full potential of their data, drive greater business innovation and efficiency, and
gain a competitive edge. The company has created one of the largest AI / ML and GenAI talent pools in the industry, by
training over 3,00,000 employees on the foundational skills of AI/ ML, including GenAI. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• TCS – unveiled “WisdomNext”, a platform that aggregates multiple GenAI services into a single interface
• It helps businesses choose right models & simplify design of new business solutions using GenAI tools
• HQs of TCS – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CEO – K. Krithivasan | Founded in – 1968

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193. The Startup Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC) at IIT Kanpur has
partnered with the Centre of Excellence for Capacity Building, Training, and Design
of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) at IIT Kanpur (Drone CoE Kanpur), an
initiative by the Government of Uttar Pradesh, and the Drone Federation of India
(DFI) to launch the “UAV/UAS/Drone Acceleration and Networking (UDAAN)
Program”. This program promises to be a game-changer for aspiring and
promising drone startups in India, providing them with the resources and
expertise needed to scale their businesses rapidly. The UDAAN program will select 20 startups annually, divided into two
cohorts, for an intensive acceleration journey. The program offers a comprehensive support system designed to equip
startups with the tools they need to thrive in the competitive drone landscape. Furthermore, startups will have access to
state-of-the-art testing facilities at the Drone CoE, including the Helicopter and VTOL Laboratory, Flight Laboratory, and the
National Wind Tunnel Facility. Additionally, the top 6 startups in each cohort will receive fellowship support of Rs. 3 lakhs
per annum. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SIIC (IIT Kanpur) + CoE for UAVs + DFI = launched “UAV/UAS/Drone Acceleration and Networking (UDAAN) Program”
• It will select 20 startups annually, divided into two cohorts, for an intensive acceleration journey
• Top 6 startups in each cohort will receive fellowship support of Rs 3 lakhs per annum
• Director of IIT Kanpur – Manindra Agrawal

194. The scientists of Ahmedabad-based Physical Research Laboratory (PRL)

have discovered three new craters on Mars. They have been discovered in the
Tharsis volcanic region on Mars. International Astronomical Union (IAU)
Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature has approved naming the
three craters on Mars. One crater has been named “Lal crater” after Prof.
Devendra Lal, a renowned Indian geophysicist and former director of PRL from
1972-1983. The second crater has been named “Mursan crater” after a town in
Uttar Pradesh, India. The third crater is “Hilsa crater” after a town in Bihar, India. A crater is a bowl-shaped depression, or
hollowed-out area, produced by the impact of a meteorite, volcanic activity, or an explosion. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Scientists of Physical Research Laboratory – discovered 3 new craters on Mars in Tharsis volcanic region
• International Astronomical Union (IAU) Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature – approved their names
- “Lal crater” – named after Prof. Devendra Lal, a renowned Indian geophysicist & former director of PRL
- “Mursan crater” – named after a town in Uttar Pradesh | “Hilsa crater” – named after a town in Bihar
• Crater – a bowl-shaped depression produced by impact of a meteorite, volcanic activity, or an explosion
• HQs of PRL – Ahmedabad, Gujarat | Director – Anil Bhardwaj | Founded in – 1947
• HQs of IAU – Paris, France | President – Debra Elmegreen | Founded in – 1919

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195. Elon Musk-owned SpaceX’s “Starship” rocket has accomplished its first fully successful
test flight in its 4th attempt. Starships’ booster (called ‘Super Heavy’) detached from the upper
section (or the Starship spacecraft), to make a soft landing in the Gulf of Mexico. Starship is a
two-stage heavy lift-off vehicle designed to carry crew or/and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon,
Mars, and beyond. Put together, the rocket system is nearly 120 metres tall, making it the
largest rocket ever flown, taller than even the NASA’s ‘Saturn V’ (111 m), which took Neil
Armstrong to the Moon. The Super Heavy booster consists of 33 Raptor engines that can
produce 74 meganewtons of thrust. NASA’s biggest currently-operational rocket, the Space
Launch System (SLS), generates 39 meganewtons off the pad. According to SpaceX, upon the project’s completion, the Super
Heavy will be fully reusable, and capable of re-entering Earth’s atmosphere after a mission to land at the launch site. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• “Starship” rocket – accomplished its first fully successful test flight in its 4th attempt to soft land in the Gulf of Mexico
• Starship – a two-stage heavy lift-off vehicle designed to carry crew or/and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars
• This rocket system is 120m-tall (largest) | NASA’s ‘Saturn V’ – (111m-tall)
• Super Heavy booster consists of 33 Raptor engines that can produce 74 meganewtons of thrust
• Super Heavy is fully reusable, & capable of re-entering Earth’s atmosphere after a mission to land at launch site
• HQs of SpaceX – California, U.S. | Founder & CEO – Elon Musk | Founded in – 2002
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958

196. The “XRISM” (X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission), a collaborative

effort between NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), has
successfully identified the presence of iron in the active galaxy NGC 4151. This
discovery was made using the ‘Resolve’ instrument aboard XRISM, which
captured crucial data from the galaxy’s center, where a supermassive black hole
is actively consuming material from its surrounding accretion disk. This finding is
part of ongoing research efforts to understand the universe’s energetic
processes and the materials involved at a fundamental level. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• XRISM – identified presence of iron in active galaxy “NGC 4151”, by using ‘Resolve’ instrument
• XRISM – X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission | It is a collaboration between = NASA + JAXA
• HQs of NASA – Washington D.C., US | Administrator – Bill Nelson | Founded in – 1958
• HQs of JAXA – Tokyo, Japan | President – Yamakawa Hiroshi | Founded in – 2003

197. Ingenious Research Solutions has successfully developed an AI tool “Divya Drishti” that integrates face recognition with
immutable physiological parameters such as gait and skeleton. This innovative solution marks a significant advancement in
biometric authentication technology, offering enhanced accuracy and reliability in identifying individuals. Divya Drishti
creates a robust and multifaceted authentication system by combining facial recognition with gait analysis. The AI tool has
been developed under the technical guidance and mentoring by Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (CAIR), a
laboratory of DRDO based at Bangalore. Ingenious Research Solutions is a startup established by a woman entrepreneur,
Dr. Shivani Verma after winning the prestigious Dare to Dream Innovation contest 2.0. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ingenious Research Solutions – successfully developed an AI tool “Divya Drishti”

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198. Orbit Connect India, a joint venture (JV) between Reliance Industries’ Jio Platforms and Luxembourg-based Satellite
Communication Service Provider (SES) to provide gigabit fibre internet, has received approval from the Indian National Space
Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) to operate satellites for high-speed internet. Inmarsat, another company
hoping to provide high-speed satellite-based internet, has also gotten approval to operate satellites over India. Two other
companies, Elon Musk’s Starlink and Amazon.com’s Kuiper, have applied. Eutelsat’s Bharti Enterprises-backed OneWeb was
given all of its approvals in 2023. India’s satellite broadband service market is expected to grow 36% per year over the next
5 years and reach $1.9 billion by 2030, according to the consultancy Deloitte. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Orbit Connect India – received approval from IN-SPACe to operate satellites for high-speed internet
• Orbit Connect India – a JV between Jio Platforms & SES (Luxembourg)
• Inmarsat – also received approval to operate satellites over India | Starlink & Kuiper – also applied
• OneWeb – is given all of its approvals in 2023
• As per Deloitte, India’s satellite broadband service market – expected to grow 36% per year over next 5 years & reach
$1.9 billion by 2030

199. Google has launched its “Gemini” app in India with support for 9 Indian languages and
English, giving users an artificial intelligence (AI) tool to answer queries by typing, talking, or
uploading an image. It will help people access information and complete tasks in their preferred
language. The Gemini app will be available in English, Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada,
Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Google – launched “Gemini” app in India with support for 9 Indian languages & English
• 9 Indian languages: Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu & Urdu
• It gives users an AI tool to answer queries by typing, talking, or uploading an image
• HQs of Google – California, US | CEO – Sundar Pichai | Founded in – 1998

200. Infosys has launched “Aster”, a set of AI-amplified marketing services, solutions and platforms
that deliver engaging brand experiences, enhanced marketing efficiency, & accelerated
effectiveness for business growth. It drives AI-led transformation of marketing with integrated, real-
time view across customers, brands and channels, enabling companies to increase ROI from
marketing. Infosys Aster™ brings agility to marketing value chain for B2B & B2C brands. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Infosys – launched “Aster”, a set of AI-amplified marketing services, solutions & platforms
• Infosys Aster™ – brings agility to marketing value chain for B2B & B2C brands
• HQs of Infosys – Bengaluru, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Salil Parekh | Chairman – Nandan Nilekani | Founded – 1981

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201. Hyderabad-based Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has developed a new product to
predict the emergence of El Niño and La Niña conditions up to 15 months in advance. The new product, known as Bayesian
Convolutional Neural Network (BCNN), uses the latest technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), deep learning, and
machine learning (ML) to improve forecasts related to the different phases of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO). ENSO is
a climate phenomenon which involves changes in the temperature of waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific
Ocean, coupled with fluctuations in the overlying atmosphere. It can alter the global atmospheric circulation, which, in turn,
influences weather across the world. ENSO occurs in irregular cycles of 2-7 years and has 3 different phases - warm (El Niño),
cool (La Niña), and neutral. According to the reports, La Niña conditions would emerge during July-September (probability
70-90%) and continue till February 2025. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• INCOIS – developed a new product, “Bayesian Convolutional Neural Network (BCNN)”, to predict emergence of El Niño
& La Niña conditions up to 15 months in advance
• ENSO – a climate phenomenon involving changes in temperature of waters in central & eastern tropical Pacific Ocean,
coupled with fluctuations in overlying atmosphere
• ENSO occurs in irregular cycles of 2-7 years & has 3 different phases - warm (El Niño), cool (La Niña) & neutral
• La Niña conditions would emerge during July-September (probability 70-90%) & continue till February 2025
• HQs of INCOIS – Hyderabad | Director – Dr. Tummala Srinivasa Kumar | Works under – Ministry of Earth Sciences

202. After more than 15,000 orbits combined, ‘Thybolt-1’ and ‘Thybolt-2’ satellites of Dhruva
Space have completed their mission. They have been deorbited safely and securely. In November
2022, Dhruva Space became the first private Indian space tech company to successfully send these
indigenously developed satellites into orbit. The two cubesats were launched onboard ISRO’s PSLV
C54. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘Thybolt-1’ & ‘Thybolt-2’ satellites of Dhruva Space – completed their mission after completing more than 15,000 orbits
• The two cubesats were launched aboard – ISRO’s PSLV C54
• Dhruva Space – 1st private Indian space tech company to send indigenously developed satellites into orbit in Nov 2022
• HQs of Dhruva Space – Hyderabad, Telangana | CEO – Sanjay Nekkanti | Founded in – 2012

203. Manav Rachna University (MRU) has become the first university in Delhi NCR to install a Global Navigation Satellite
System (GNSS) receiver, in partnership with the National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL) of the Indian Space
Research Organization (ISRO). The setup includes a GNSS receiver, antenna, 30M RF cable, laptop, and iron mast. This
initiative also offers substantial benefits for student projects and learning, especially for those in the Sciences, Electronics
and Communication Engineering (ECE), and Computer Science Engineering (CSE) departments. Students will gain hands-on
experience with cutting-edge technology and real-time data analysis. Dr. Deependra Kumar Jha is the Vice-Chancellor of
MRU. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Manav Rachna University – became first university in Delhi NCR to install a GNSS receiver with NARL (ISRO)
- The setup includes a GNSS receiver, antenna, 30M RF cable, laptop & iron mast
• Dr. Deependra Kumar Jha – Vice-Chancellor of MRU
• Location of NARL-ISRO – Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh | Director – Dr. Amit Kumar Patra

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204. Chinese scientists have discovered a new pattern of solar atmospheric rotation,
obtaining the world’s first three-dimensional (3D) image of solar atmospheric rotation. It
was done by using the solar exploration satellite, China’s H-alpha Solar Explorer (CHASE).
The study reveals that as solar atmospheric altitude increases, the sun’s rotational speed
also increases. Before this research, experts didn’t know much about the patterns of
rotation. The ‘CHASE’, which is also called the ‘Kuafu-1’ satellite, is a groundbreaking
project that China started to look at solar flares and other things going on in the sun.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Chinese scientists – discovered a new pattern of solar atmospheric rotation & obtained its 3D image (world’s first)
• It was done by using – ‘China’s H-alpha Solar Explorer (CHASE)’, also called ‘Kuafu-1’ satellite
• China – Beijing – Renminbi | President – Xi Jinping | PM – Li Qiang

205. China’s Chang’e-6 has become the world’s first spacecraft to bring back samples from the
far side of the Moon. The Moon’s far side is often referred to as the 'dark side’ because it cannot
be seen from the Earth. We see only one side of the Moon, also known as the ‘near side’. This
is a major event for scientists worldwide. The Moon’s far side has a thicker crust, more craters
and fewer maria, or plains where lava once flowed. China is the only country to achieve a soft-
landing on the far side of the Moon. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Chang’e-6 (China) – became world’s first spacecraft to bring back samples from far side (dark side) of the Moon
• Moon’s far side has a thicker crust, more craters & fewer maria, or plains where lava once flowed
• China – only country to achieve a soft-landing on far side of the Moon
• China – Beijing – Renminbi | President – Xi Jinping | PM – Li Qiang

206. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed 6 consecutive developmental
trials of High-Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) “ABHYAS” with improved booster configuration from the Integrated
Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha. With this, ABHYAS has successfully completed 10 developmental trials demonstrating
the reliability of the system. During the trials, various mission objectives covering safe release of booster, launcher clearance,
and endurance performance were successfully validated. ABHYAS has been designed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development
Establishment (ADE), Bengaluru, and developed through production agencies Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) & Larsen
& Toubro. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DRDO – fully completed 6 consecutive developmental trials of High-Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) “ABHYAS”
from the ITR, Chandipur, Odisha
• With this, ABHYAS has successfully completed 10 developmental trials, & this time, with improved booster configuration
• ABHYAS is designed by – ADE (Bengaluru), a lab of DRDO | Produced by = HAL + L&T
• HQs of DRDO – New Delhi | Chairman – Samir V. Kamat | Established in – 1958

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207. Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), an autonomous nodal agency under the
Department of Space, has launched the “Pre-Incubation Entrepreneurship (PIE) Development Programme” to support and
nurture early-stage space startups. According to IN-SPACe, the PIE development programme will cultivate and empower the
next generation of space tech innovators, providing them with the tools and guidance necessary to transform their space
dreams into reality. The 21-month programme will guide aspiring entrepreneurs through a comprehensive journey divided
into distinct phases of ideation, innovation, and prototype development. Start-ups registered with the Department for
Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) on or after July 1, 2022, are classified as early-stage start-ups. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IN-SPACe – launched “Pre-Incubation Entrepreneurship (PIE) Development Programme”
• Aim: To support & nurture early-stage space startups
• This 21-month programme is divided into distinct phases of ideation, innovation & prototype development
• Start-ups registered with DPIIT on or after July 1, 2022 are known as ‘Early-stage start-ups’
• HQs of IN-SPACe – Ahmedabad, Gujarat | Chairman – Dr. Pawan Goenka | Works under – Department of Space

208. China has launched a joint French-Chinese satellite, named the “Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM)” to explore
the most powerful explosions in the universe. It was co-developed by China National Space Administration (CNSA) in
partnership French space agency, Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales (CNES). SVOM’s mission is using X-ray vision to track
down the source of gamma-ray bursts, which are detected in the sky around once every day. Moreover, the “DORN
(Detection of Outgassing RadoN)” instrument, dedicated to measuring radon and polonium on the Moon’s surface, was
developed at IRAP-OMP. This success of SVOM and DORN indeed marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship
between China and France. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• China – launched a satellite, “Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM)” to explore most powerful explosions in universe
- Co-developed by = CNSA (China) + CNES (France)
- Aim: To use X-ray vision to track down source of gamma-ray bursts detected in the sky around once every day
• “DORN (Detection of Outgassing RadoN)” instrument – developed by China & France
- Aim: To measure radon & polonium on the Moon’s surface
• China – Beijing – Renminbi | President – Xi Jinping | PM – Li Qiang

209. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) completed the 3rd Landing Experiment (LEX)
of Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV), “Pushpak”, at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in
Chitradurga, Karnataka. This was the third and final test in the series of LEX (03). The winged
vehicle, Pushpak or RLV LEX-03, was launched from an Indian Air Force Chinook Helicopter at an
altitude of 4.5 km. Due to this vehicle’s low lift-to-drag ratio aerodynamic configuration, the landing velocity exceeded 320
kmph, higher than 260 kmph for a commercial aircraft and 280 kmph for a typical fighter aircraft. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ISRO – completed 3rd (final) Landing Experiment of Reusable Launch Vehicle, “Pushpak”, at ATR in Chitradurga, Karnataka
• ‘Pushpak’ or ‘RLV LEX-03’ – launched from an Indian Air Force Chinook Helicopter at an altitude of 4.5 km
• Its landing velocity exceeded 320 kmph
• HQs of ISRO – Bengaluru, Karnataka | Director – S. Somanath | Formed on – August 15, 1969

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210. India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI)- based smart fence project, called “Ele-fence”, is being installed in Wayanad,
Kerala, to mitigate the accelerating human-wildlife conflict in the region. The pilot project is being installed by White
Elephant Technologies, a Kochi-based R&D firm with support from the Kerala Forest department at Chelakkolly, near
Pambra, in Chethalth forest range of the south Wayanad forest division. The proposed 70-metre Ele-fence incorporates an
effective blend of real-time monitoring as well as preventive and protective features. The fence is duly equipped with AI-
based logical trip wires, which enable early warning of intrusive elephant movements. The fence has sound and alarm lights
installed to keep the elephants from approaching the regions around the barrier. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India’s first AI-based smart fence project, “Ele-fence” – being installed in Wayanad, Kerala
• Installed by – White Elephant Technologies (Kochi) | Aim – To mitigate accelerating human-wildlife conflict in the region
• It is equipped with AI-based logical trip wires, sound & alarm lights
• Kerala: Capital – Thiruvananthapuram | CM – Pinarayi Vijayan | Governor – Arif Mohammad Khan

211. In a bid to control crowds at four Char Dham shrines, IIT Roorkee has developed a “Crowd Eye” device that can send
alerts when the number of pilgrims exceeds the capacity of the shrines. This device would be able to perform real-time
monitoring of religious places and also protect against stampede-like situations. Char Dham Yatra or pilgrimage is a tour of
four holy sites - Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Roorkee – developed a “Crowd Eye” device to send alerts when number of pilgrims exceeds capacity of shrines
- Developed to control crowds at 4 ‘Char Dham’ shrines
• Char Dham Yatra or pilgrimage includes – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath
• Director of IIT Roorkee – Ajit K. Chaturvedi

212. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has handed over the “Medium
Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR)” to the Indian Navy at a ceremony held in
New Delhi. Microwave Obscurant Chaff (MOC) is a niche technology developed by DRDO’s Defence
Laboratory in Jodhpur. It obscures radar signals and creates a microwave shield around platforms
and assets, and reduces radar detection. The rocket forms microwave obscurant cloud in space
when fired, spreading over a sufficient area. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DRDO – handed over the “Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR)” to the Indian Navy
• Microwave Obscurant Chaff (MOC) – a niche technology developed by DRDO’s Defence Laboratory in Jodhpur
• It obscures radar signals and creates a microwave shield around platforms & assets
• HQs of DRDO – New Delhi | Chairman – Samir V. Kamat | Established in – 1958

Appointments & Resignations

213. Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra addressed the BRICS Health Ministers’ Meeting on the sidelines of the 77 th
World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. Recently, Apurva Chandra was appointed as the head of Committee A at the
77th session of WHA. Apurva Chandra highlighted that the BRICS Vaccine Research and Development Centre was virtually
launched during India’s presidency, and designated the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-National Institute of
Virology (NIV) as the coordinating agency for BRICS vaccine and R&D Centre activities. {Read more}

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214. Emmanuelle Soubeyran of France is elected as the Director General of the World Organisation
for Animal Health (WOAH). She succeeds her compatriot, Monique Eloit. Soubeyran, who had been
chosen as the candidate for the European Union as a whole, is also France’s Deputy Director General
for Food. She takes the helm of the WOAH as bird flu is increasingly spreading to mammals, including
dairy cows in the United States, raising concern that it could mutate into a virus that could easily
spread between humans. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Emmanuelle Soubeyran (France) – elected as DG of World Organisation for Animal Health (succeeding - Monique Eloit)
• HQs of WOAH – Paris, France | DG – Emmanuelle Soubeyran | Founded in – 1924

215. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has recently approved some Secretary level appointments,
including the appointment of IAS Rakesh Ranjan as Chairman of Staff Selection Commission (SSC). Pradip Kumar Tripathi
(IAS) has been appointed as Secretary to the Lokpal till the date of his superannuation, i.e. June 30, 2024. While, Raj Kumar
Goyal (IAS) has been appointed as Secretary in the Department of Justice under the Ministry of Law & Justice. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rakesh Ranjan – appointed as Chairman of Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
• Pradip Kumar Tripathi – appointed as Secretary to the Lokpal till June 30, 2024
• Raj Kumar Goyal – appointed as Secretary in the Department of Justice (under Ministry of Law & Justice)
• HQs of SSC – New Delhi | Chairman – Rakesh Ranjan

216. Businesswoman and B Team CEO, Halla Tomasdottir, has been elected the 7th President of Iceland and
will take over from Guana Johannesson on August 1, 2024. Tomasdottir will be the second woman to hold
the office after Vigdis Finnbogadottir, who was the first woman in the world to be democratically elected
as president in 1980. The contest was mainly between businesswoman Halla Tomasdottir, former Prime
Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Halla Tomasdottir (CEO of B Team) – elected as 7th President of Iceland (succeeding - Guana Johannesson)
• She is 2nd woman to hold office | 1st – Vigdis Finnbogadottir
• Iceland – Reykjavik – Krona | President – Halla Tomasdottir

217. Claudia Sheinbaum secured a victory to become Mexico’s first female President. She succeeded her
mentor and outgoing leader, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. A climate scientist and former mayor of
Mexico City, Sheinbaum, clinched the presidency with an estimated vote share ranging from 58.3% to
60.7%. This marks a historic high in Mexico’s democratic record for vote percentage. {Read more}

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218. The government has named Sushil Kumar Singh as the Chairperson of Deendayal Port Authority
(formerly Kandla Port). He is a Joint Secretary looking after Ports/PPP and PHRD in the Ministry of Ports,
Shipping and Waterways. He succeeds S. K. Mehta who stepped down from the post in April after a 5-
year term. Deendayal Port Authority runs India’s second biggest state-owned commercial port by
volumes handled. Singh’s appointment will run through January 31, 2027. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sushil Kumar Singh – appointed as Chairperson of Deendayal Port Authority till Jan 31, 2027 (succeeding - S. K. Mehta)
• Deendayal Port Authority – runs India’s 2nd biggest state-owned commercial port by volumes handled
• Location of DPA – Gandhidham, Gujarat | Chairperson – Sushil Kumar Singh

219. Kuwait’s emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah has appointed Sheikh Sabah Khalid al-Sabah
as Crown Prince of Kuwait. This marks the first time a crown prince has been chosen from the Al
Hamad branch of the Mubarak line of the ruling ‘Al Sabah’ family. This new move breaks the
tradition of selecting crown princes from the ‘Al Jaber’ or ‘Al Salem’ branches. It is also the first
time a Kuwaiti crown prince has been named, without his father ever ruling as an Emir. Sheikh
Sabah Al Khalid previously served as Kuwait’s Prime Minister from 2019 to 2022. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sheikh Sabah Khalid al-Sabah – appointed as Crown Prince of Kuwait
• This marks the first time a crown prince is chosen from the ruling ‘Al Sabah’ family, instead ‘Al Jaber’ or ‘Al Salem’
• Kuwait – Kuwait City – Dinar | PM – Ahmad Abdullah al-Ahmad al- Sabah | Emir – Sheikh Meshal

220. 73-year old Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi took oath for a third straight term
as PM of India. PM Modi is the head of a 72-member Council of Ministers. He was sworn in
by the President Droupadi Murmu. PM Modi equalled the feat of the first Prime Minister
Jawaharlal Nehru, who won 3 straight terms in the 1952, 1957 and 1962 general elections.
After PM Modi, Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari were among 35 other Cabinet
Ministers who took oath. 36 Ministers of State, and 5 Ministers of State (independent charge) also took oath of office. The
NDA won 286 seats in this election, and the BJP won 240 seats, falling short of the 272 majority mark. This is well below the
303 and 282 seats BJP had won in 2019 and 2014, respectively. TDP MP Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani with an asset of
₹5700 crore has become the richest minister to join the council of ministers in the 18th Lok Sabha. 36-year old K Ram Mohan
Naidu of the Telugu Desam party is the youngest ever to become a cabinet minister in India. Indira Gandhi holds the record
for being the Prime Minister of India 4 times but not in straight terms. Among the States/Union Territories, Uttar Pradesh
has the highest representation and the largest number of seats in the Lok Sabha at 80. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Narendra Modi – took oath for a third straight term as PM of India | He is head of a 72-member Council of Ministers
• He is 2nd PM to took oath for 3 straight terms | 1st – Jawaharlal Nehru (1952, 1957 & 1962)
• Other ministers: Cabinet Ministers – 35 | Ministers of State – 36 | Ministers of State (I/C) – 5
• Seats won by NDA in 2024 General Elections – 286 | BJP – 240 (303 in 2019 & 282 in 2014)

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221. Prime Minister Narendra Modi allocated portfolios to the newly elected ministers in his cabinet on June 10. The first
cabinet meeting took place in New Delhi. It has 27 ministers from Other Backward Classes, 10 from Scheduled Castes, 5 from
Scheduled Tribes and 5 from minorities. Council of Ministers - Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, JP Nadda, Shivraj
Singh Chauhan, Nirmala Sitharaman, S Jaishankar; ML Khattar, HD Kumaraswamy, Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Jitan
Ram Manjhi, Rajeev Ranjan Singh, Sarbananda Sonowal and Dr Virendra Kumar - among others took oath. Narendra Modi
is the Prime Minister and also in-charge of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions; Department of Atomic
Energy; Department of Space; All important policy issues; and All other portfolios not allocated to any Minister. Union
Ministers like Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, S. Jaishankar and Nirmala Sitharaman have retained their old
portfolios, but there were some new faces like Shivraj Singh Chouhan, J.P. Nadda and H.D. Kumaraswamy. Notable absentees
were Anurag Thakur and Smriti Irani. Other ministers and their ministries are mentioned below. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Latest List of newly elected Cabinet Ministers and Ministers of State:
• Cabinet Ministers:
- Narendra Modi – Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions; Department of Atomic Energy; Department
of Space
- Rajnath Singh – Ministry of Defence
- Amit Shah – Ministry of Home Affairs; Ministry of Cooperation
- Nitin Gadkari – Ministry of Road Transport & Highways
- JP Nadda – Ministry of Health & Family Welfare; Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers
- Shivraj Singh Chouhan – Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare; Ministry of Rural Development
- Nirmala Sitharaman – Ministry of Finance; Ministry of Corporate Affairs
- Subrahmanyam Jaishankar – Ministry of External Affairs
- Manohar Lal Khattar – Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs; Ministry of Power
- HD Kumaraswamy – Ministry of Heavy Industries; Ministry of Steel
- Piyush Goyal – Ministry of Commerce & Industry
- Dharmendra Pradhan – Ministry of Education
- Jitan Ram Manjhi – Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises
- Lalan Singh – Ministry of Panchayati Raj; Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying
- Sarbanda Sonowal – Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways
- Virendra Kumar – Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment
- Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu – Ministry of Civil Aviation
- Prahlad Joshi – Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution; Ministry of New & Renewable Energy
- Jual Oram – Ministry of Tribal Affairs
- Giriraj Singh – Ministry of Textiles

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- Ashwini Vaishnaw – Ministry of Railways; Ministry of Information & Broadcasting; Ministry of Electronics &
Information Technology
- Jyotiraditya Scindia – Ministry of Communications; Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region
- Bhupendra Yadav – Ministry of Environment & Forests
- Gajendra Singh Shekhawat – Ministry of Tourism; Ministry of Culture
- Annpurna Devi – Ministry of Women & Child Development
- Kiren Rijiju – Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs; Ministry of Minority Affairs
- Hardeep Singh Puri – Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas
- Mansukh Mandaviya – Ministry of Labour & Employment; Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports
- G Kishan Reddy – Ministry of Coal; Ministry of Mines
- Chirag Paswan – Ministry of Food Processing Industries
- C R Patil – Ministry of Jal Shakti

• Ministers of State (Independent Charge):

- Rao Inderjit Singh – Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation; Ministry of Planning; Minister of State in
the Ministry of Culture
- Jitendra Singh – Ministry of Science & Technology; Ministry of Earth Sciences; Minister of State in the Prime
Minister’s Office; Minister of State in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions; Minister of State in
the Department of Atomic Energy; Minister of State in the Department of Space
- Arjun Ram Meghwal – Ministry of Law & Justice; Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
- Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav – Ministry of Ayush; Minister of State in the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
- Jayant Chaudhary – Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship; Minister of State in the Ministry of Education

• Ministers of State:
- Jitin Prasada – MoS Ministry of Commerce & Industry; MoS Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology.
- Shripad Yesso Naik – MoS Ministry of Power; MoS Ministry of New & Renewable Energy
- Pankaj Chaudhary – MoS Ministry of Finance
- Krishan Pal – MoS Ministry of Cooperation
- Athawale Ramdas Bandu – MoS Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment
- Ram Nath Thakur – MoS Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
- Nityan& Rai – MoS Ministry of Home Affairs
- Anupriya Singh Patel – MoS Ministry of Health & Family Welfare; MoS Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers
- V Somanna – MoS Ministry of Jal Shakti; MoS Ministry of Railways
- Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani – MoS Ministry of Rural Development; MoS Ministry of Communications
- S. P. Singh Baghel – MoS Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying; MoS Ministry of Panchayati Raj
- Shobha Karandlaje – MoS Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises; MoS Ministry of Labour & Employment
- Kirti Vardhan Singh – MoS Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change; MoS Ministry of External Affairs

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- BL Verma – MoS Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution; MoS Ministry of Social Justice &
Empowerment
- Shantanu Thakur – MoS Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways
- Suresh Gopi – MoS Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas; MoS Ministry of Tourism
- L. Murugan – MoS Ministry of Information & Broadcasting; MoS Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
- Ajay Tamta – MoS Ministry of Road Transport & Highways
- Bandi Sanjay Kumar – MoS Ministry of Home Affairs
- Kamlesh Paswan – MoS Ministry of Rural Development
- Bhagirath Choudhary – MoS Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
- Satish Chandra Dubey – MoS Ministry of Coal; MoS Ministry of Mines
- Sanjay Seth – MoS Ministry of Defence
- Ravneet Singh Bittu – MoS Ministry of Food Processing Industries; MoS Ministry of Railways
- Durga Das Uikey – MoS Ministry of Tribal Affairs
- Raksha Nikhil Khadse – MoS Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports
- Sukanta Majumdar – MoS Ministry of Education; MoS Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.
- Savitri Thakur – MoS Ministry of Women & Child Development.
- Tokhan Sahu – MoS Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs
- Raj Bhushan Choudhary – MoS Ministry of Jal Shakti
- Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma – MoS Ministry of Heavy Industries; MoS Ministry of Steel
- Harsh Malhotra – MoS Ministry of Road Transport & Highways; MoS Ministry of Corporate Affairs
- Nimuben Bambhania – MoS Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution
- Murlidhar Mohol – MoS Ministry of Cooperation; MoS Ministry of Civil Aviation
- George Kurian – MoS Ministry of Minority Affairs; MoS Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying
- Pabitra Margherita – MoS Ministry of External Affairs; MoS Ministry of Textiles

222. The Centre has appointed Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi as next Chief of the Army Staff. He will take charge
from June 30. Dwivedi, currently Vice Chief of the Army Staff, will succeed incumbent General Manoj
Pande, whose tenure was extended by one month till June 30. During his long service spanning nearly 40
years, Mr Upendra has served in a variety of Command, Staff, Instructional and Foreign appointments. The
Command appointments of Lt Gen Dwivedi include Command of Regiment (18 Jammu & Kashmir Rifles),
Brigade (26 Sector Assam Rifles), Inspector General, Assam Rifles (East) and 9 Corps. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi – appointed as next Chief of the Army Staff (succeeding - Gen Manoj Pande)
• HQs of Indian Army – New Delhi | Chief – General Manoj Pande | Vice Chief – Lt. Gen. Upendra Dwivedi

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223. Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) convener Prem Singh Tamang was sworn in as the Chief Minister of
Sikkim for the second consecutive term. His council of Ministers will also be administered the oath of office
at the Paljor stadium in Gangtok. The ruling SKM secured a resounding victory in the state, clinching a
landslide win by capturing 31 out of 32 seats in the assembly elections. In contrast, the Sikkim Democratic
Front (SDF) only managed to secure a victory in the Shyari constituency. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Prem Singh Tamang (Sikkim Krantikari Morcha party) – sworn in as CM of Sikkim (2nd consecutive term)
• Sikkim: Capital – Gangtok | CM – Prem Singh Tamang | Governor – Lakshman Prasad Acharya

224. United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has elected Philemon Yang of Cameroon as President of
the 79th Session of the UNGA, starting on September 10, 2024. The President was elected by acclamation.
At an informal dialogue with Assembly members in May, Yang highlighted his theme for the 79 th session
as “Unity in Diversity, for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for
Everyone Everywhere”. He will succeed Dennis Francis, Trinidad and Tobago’s Permanent Representative
to the United Nations. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Philemon Yang (Cameroon) – elected as President of 79th Session of UNGA from Sep 10 (succeeding - Dennis Francis)
• His theme for 79th session – “Unity in Diversity, for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human
Dignity for Everyone Everywhere”
• HQs of UNGA – New York, US | 78th Session’s President – Dennis Francis (Trinidad & Tobago) | Members – 193

225. The Central Government has appointed Vijaya Bharathi Sayani as the Acting Chairperson of National
Human Rights Commission (NHRC), with former SC judge Arun Mishra demitting office as Chairperson of
NHRC after a 3-year stint. Justice Mishra was appointed as the 8th Chairperson of the human rights body
in June 2021. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vijaya Bharathi Sayani – appointed as Acting Chairperson of NHRC (succeeding - Arun Mishra)
• HQs of NHRC – New Delhi | Acting Chairperson – Vijaya Bharathi Sayani | SG – Bharat Lal | Established in – 1993

226. Four-time MLA and tribal leader Mohan Charan Majhi was sworn in as the first BJP Chief Minister of
Odisha at a ceremony in Bhubaneswar attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. K.V. Singh Deo and Pravati
Parida took oath as Deputy Chief Ministers. Governor Rabghubar Das administered the oath of secrecy and
office to them at Janata Maidan. Majhi is the 16th Chief Minister of Odisha. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mohan Charan Majhi – sworn in as the first BJP Chief Minister of Odisha (16th CM) | succeeding - Naveen Patnaik
• K.V. Singh Deo & Pravati Parida – took oath as Deputy Chief Ministers
• Odisha: Capital – Bhubaneswar | CM – Mohan Charan Majhi | Governor – Raghubar Das

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227. BJP leader Pema Khandu took oath as the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh for the third
consecutive term on June 13, 2024. Mr. Khandu was re-elected unopposed from the Mukto
constituency in Tawang district. He was sworn in by Governor K.T. Parnaik. Chowna Mein took oath as
the Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh. The BJP returned to power in this northeastern State
for the third time in a row, winning 46 seats including, 10 unopposed, in the 60-member Assembly.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Pema Khandu – took oath as CM of Arunachal Pradesh for 3rd consecutive term (re-elected)
• Chowna Mein – took oath as Deputy CM of Arunachal Pradesh
• Arunachal Pradesh: Capital – Itanagar | CM – Pema Khandu | Governor – Lt. Gen. Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik

228. The Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the re-appointment of P K
Mishra as the Principal Secretary to Prime Minister and Ajit Doval as the National Security Advisor
(NSA). Ajit Doval to continue as NSA for the third term. He took over as the NSA in 2014. The first
NSA of India to be appointed in 1998 was Brajesh Mishra. Besides, in a separate order, the ACC
also approved the appointment of former IAS officers Amit Khare and Tarun Kapoor as Advisors
to the Prime Minister, in the PMO, in the rank and scale of Secretary to Government of India.
Their term will be for a period of 2 years. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• P K Mishra – re-appointed as Principal Secretary to PM | Ajit Doval – re-appointed as NSA for 3rd term
• Amit Khare & Tarun Kapoor – appointed as Advisors to PM for 2 years
• 1st NSA of India – Brajesh Mishra (1998)

229. Telugu Desam Party (TDP) President N Chandra Babu Naidu was sworn in as Chief Minister to
lead the NDA Government in Andhra Pradesh along with 24 Ministers. The 25-member Cabinet
has 3 women ministers, 12 members from Other Category, 8 Backward Class, 2 Scheduled Caste,
1 Scheduled Tribe and 1 Muslim. The 74-year-old Naidu became Chief Minister of the State for the
4th time. Naidu’s TDP contested the polls, as part of the NDA. The NDA achieved a landslide
victory, bagging 164 out of the 175 seats in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• N Chandra Babu Naidu (President of TDP) – sworn in as CM of Andhra Pradesh (4th time)
• His 25-member Cabinet has – 3 women, 12 members from Other Category, 8 BC, 2 SC, 1 ST & 1 Muslim
• Andhra Pradesh: Capital – Amaravati | CM – N Chandra Babu Naidu | Governor – Syed Abdul Nazeer

230. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has appointed Jyoti Vij as its
Director General. Vij is currently the Additional Director General at FICCI. She will take charge of the FICCI
secretariat with immediate effect. In another development, Shailesh Pathak, Secretary General of FICCI has
resigned citing personal reasons. Jyoti succeeds Arun Chawla. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Jyoti Vij – appointed as DG of FICCI (succeeding - Arun Chawla)
• Shailesh Pathak – resigned from post of SG of FICCI
• HQs of FICCI – Delhi | DG – Jyoti Vij | President – Subhrakant Panda | Founded – 1927

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231. Harsh Pati Singhania, Chairman & MD of JK Paper Ltd and Director of JK Organisation, has been
elected as First Vice-Chair of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Paris. The election took place
during the World Council meeting held in Paris, France. ICC, known as the voice of world business,
represents over 45 million businesses globally. Singhania’s past roles include President of ICC-India,
FICCI, and the All India Management Association (AIMA), among others. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Harsh Pati Singhania – elected as First Vice-Chair of International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Paris
• The election took place at World Council Meeting – in Paris, France
• HQs of ICC – Paris, France | Secretary General – John W.H. Denton AO | Founded in – 1919

232. Suzlon Vice Chairman, Girish Tanti, has been elected as the Chair of Global Wind Energy Council India (GWEC India). He
was elected Vice-Chair of GWEC in April. Mr Giris will succeed Jonathan Cole. As the world’s 4th biggest wind market, with
46 GW of onshore wind and one of the world’s most prominent wind energy manufacturing hubs, Tanti’s leadership at
GWEC and GWEC India shall help further catalyze momentum. Ben Backwell is the CEO of GWEC. Belgium-based GWEC has
members representing over 1,500 companies, organisations and institutions in more than 80 countries. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Girish Tanti – elected as the Chair of Global Wind Energy Council India (succeeding - Jonathan Cole)
• India – world’s 4th biggest wind market with 46 GW of onshore wind
• HQs of GWEC – Lisbon, Portugal | CEO – Ben Backwell | Chairperson – Girish Tanti

233. Private sector general insurer, HDFC Ergo General Insurance, has announced the appointment of Anuj
Tyagi as its new Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) from July 1, 2024. Tyagi will
succeed Ritesh Kumar, who has been the MD & CEO of HDFC Ergo General Insurance since 2008. Tyagi who
currently serves as the Deputy MD joined the company in 2008. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Anuj Tyagi – appointed as MD & CEO of HDFC Ergo General Insurance from July 1, 2024 (succeeding - Ritesh Kumar)
• HQs of HDFC ERGO General Insurance – Mumbai, Maharashtra | MD & CEO – Anuj Tyagi | Founded in – 2002

234. Paul Thomas, MD & CEO of ESAF Small Finance Bank, has been elected as Chairperson of the board
of Sa-Dhan, which is an association of microfinance and impact finance institutions. So far, Thomas was
the co-chair of the Association. Sadaf Sayeed, CEO of Muthoot Microfin, and Mukul Jaiswal, MD of
Cashphor Micro Credit, have been appointed as the Co-Chairs of Sa-Dhan, and V N Salimath, Chairman
of IDF Financial Services, is appointed as its Treasurer. Jiji Mammen is the CEO of Sa-Dhan. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Paul Thomas – elected as Chairperson of Sa-Dhan (an association of microfinance & impact finance institutions)
• Paul is currently serving as MD & CEO of ESAF Small Finance Bank
• Sadaf Sayeed (CEO of Muthoot Microfin) & Mukul Jaiswal (MD of Cashphor) – appointed as Co-Chairs of Sa-Dhan
• V N Salimath (Chairman of IDF Financial Services) – appointed as Treasurer of Sa-Dhan
• HQs of Sa-Dhan – New Delhi | CEO – Jiji Mammen | Chairperson – Paul Thomas

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235. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (I/C) for Science & Technology, has assumed the charge
as Chairman of the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) for the third consecutive term at IIPA
campus, New Delhi. During the event, the minister inaugurated two ‘Smart Conference Halls’ at the
Campus for digital and immersive learning experience. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr. Jitendra Singh – assumed charge as Chairman of Indian Institute of Public Administration (3rd consecutive term)
• HQs of IIPA – New Delhi | Chairman – Jitendra Singh | Founded in – 1954

236. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has appointed Manoj Jain as the new Chairman and Managing
Director of the company. He replaces Bhanu Prakash Srivastava who was holding additional charge
as CMD of BEL. Previously, he served as Director (R&D) from September 26, 2022, and took on
additional roles from August 1, 2023. Additionally, before his elevation as Director (R&D), he was
the General Manager of the Electronic Warfare and Avionics SBU at BEL’s Bangalore Complex. He
also served as Chief Scientist of CRL-Bangalore from December 2017 to May 2019. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Manoj Jain – appointed as CMD of Bharat Electronics Limited (replacing - Bhanu Prakash Srivastava)
• HQs of BEL – Bengaluru, Karnataka | CMD – Manoj Jain

237. The government has appointed Girija Subramanian as Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of the
largest general insurer, New India Assurance Co. Ltd (NIACL), effective from June 19, 2024, until she attains
the age of superannuation or until further orders. She is a fellow member of the Insurance Institute of India
and also an associate member of the Chartered Insurance Institute, London. Girija succeeds Neerja Kapur.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• Girija Subramanian – appointed as CMD of New India Assurance Co. Ltd (succeeding - Neerja Kapur)
• HQs of NIACL – Mumbai, Maharashtra | CMD – Girija Subramanian | Established in – July 23, 1919

238. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved 1-year extension in service to
Tapan Kumar Deka as the Director of Intelligence Bureau (IB). Mr. Deka, a retired Indian Police Service
(IPS) officer of the 1988 batch and belonging to the Himachal Pradesh cadre, was to complete his two-
year tenure on June 30. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Tapan Kumar Deka – tenure extended by 1-year as the Director of Intelligence Bureau (IB)
• HQs of IB – New Delhi | Director – Tapan Kumar Deka

239. Om Birla, a BJP member, is elected as the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha, defeating
Kodikunnil Suresh of the Congress in a voice vote. Om Birla, who was also the speaker of the 17th
Lok Sabha, is the 17th person to be elected as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. He is the 5th person
to hold the office of Lok Sabha speaker twice. A 3-time member of Lok Sabha, Om Birla was
elected from the Kota constituency of Rajasthan in the 2014, 2019 and 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Ganesh Vasudev Mavlankar was the Speaker of the 1st Lok Sabha (1952-57). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Om Birla (a BJP member) – elected as Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha (defeating - Kodikunnil Suresh)

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240. NATO’s 32 nations have appointed outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte as the alliance’s
next Secretary General. Mr. Rutte will take over from existing Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on
October 1. His opponent for the post was Romanian President Klaus Iohannis. The Secretary-General
is normally a senior European politician who is appointed by consensus by the members of NATO for
a tenure of 4 years. Sweden is the 32nd member of NATO, joining on 7 March 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Mark Rutte (Dutch PM) – appointed as next Secretary General of NATO for 4 years (replacing - Jens Stoltenberg)
• Sweden – 32nd member of NATO, joining on March 7, 2024
• HQs of NATO – Brussels, Belgium | Secretary General – Jens Stoltenberg (Mark Rutte from Oct’24) | Members – 32 |
Founded in – 1949

241. The GST Council has reconstituted the Group of Ministers (GoM) to give recommendations on
Rate Rationalisation. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary is appointed as the new
convenor of the GoM, replacing Finance Minister of Uttar Pradesh Suresh Khanna. The other
members of the reconstituted panel are Suresh Kumar Khanna, Goa Transport Minister Mauvin
Godinho, Rajasthan Medical & Health Services Minister Gajendra Singh, West Bengal Finance
Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya, Karnataka Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, and Kerala
Finance Minister K N Balagopal. The 7-member GoM has been tasked with suggesting required rate rationalisation and
correction of inverted duty structure with an objective of simplifying the rate structure, reviewing the GST exemption list
and enhancing revenues from Goods and Services Tax (GST). This is the second time that the GST rate rationalisation panel
was reconstituted. The GoM was originally set up in September 2021, under then Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj
Bommai. Currently, the GST regime has five broad tax slabs of 0, 5, 12, 18, & 28 percent. A cess is levied over and above the
highest 28% rate on luxury and demerit goods. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• GST Council reconstituted (2nd time) the Group of Ministers (GoM) to give recommendations on Rate Rationalisation
• Samrat Chaudhary (Bihar Deputy CM) – appointed as the new convenor of the GoM (replacing Suresh Khanna)
• 7-member GoM includes: Samrat Chaudhary, Suresh Kumar Khanna, Mauvin Godinho, Gajendra Singh, Chandrima
Bhattacharya, Krishna Byre Gowda, & K N Balagopal
• GoM was originally set up in September 2021 (under Basavaraj Bommai)
• Currently, the GST regime has five broad tax slabs of 0, 5, 12, 18, & 28 percent
- Cess is levied over and above the highest 28% rate on luxury and demerit goods

242. World Cup-winning former India cricket captain, Kapil Dev, has taken over as the new President of
the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI). The 65-year-old, who was already a member of the PGTI
Board as its Vice President, was chosen unanimously and would be taking over from incumbent H R
Srinivasan. Kapil played cricket for India from 1978 to 1994. One of the greatest all-rounders of all time,
he played 131 Test matches and 225 ODIs and led India to the 1983 World Cup win. {Read more}

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243. Deputy National Security Advisor, Vikram Misri, will take charge as the Foreign Secretary on July 15.
Mr. Misri, who is a former Indian ambassador to China, will succeed current Foreign Secretary Vinay
Mohan Kwatra, who is likely to be appointed as India’s ambassador to the US. His diplomatic career also
included stints in the Indian missions in Pakistan, U.S., Belgium and Spain. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vikram Misri (Dy. NSA) – to take charge as the Foreign Secretary on July 15 (succeeding - Vinay Mohan Kwatra)
• Vinay Mohan Kwatra – likely to be appointed as India’s ambassador to the US

244. Union government has appointed Pradeep Singh Kharola, a retired IAS officer, as the new Director
General of the National Testing Agency (NTA). He has been given additional charge for this post. This
comes amidst a period of intense scrutiny for the NTA, following allegations of irregularities in the conduct
of high-stakes exams like NEET UG and UGC NET. He has been serving as the Chairman of the India Trade
Promotion Organisation (ITPO). His dedication to public service was recognized by the National Award for
e-governance in 2012 and Prime Minister’s Outstanding Public Administration Award in 2013. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Pradeep Singh Kharola – appointed as new DG of NTA (addi. charge)
• He is currently serving as Chairman of India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO)
• He received National Award for e-governance in 2012 & PM’s Outstanding Public Administration Award in 2013
• HQs of NTA – New Delhi | Chairperson – Pradeep Kumar Joshi | DG – Pradeep Singh Kharola (addi. charge) | Founded
in – 2017

245. Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, currently the commander of the Army’s Central Command,
is set to take over as Vice Chief of the Army Staff (VCOAS). Lt Gen Subramani will be replaced by
Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, who is appointed as the new General Officer Commanding-in-
Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Central Command. Sengupta is presently the Chief of Staff in Northern
Command. Moreover, General Upendra Dwivedi is taking charge as the 30th Chief of the Army Staff, succeeding Gen Manoj
Pande, w.e.f. July 1, 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani – took over as Vice Chief of the Army Staff
• Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta – appointed as new General Officer C-in-C of Central Command (replacing - Lt Gen Subramani)
• Gen Upendra Dwivedi – takes charge as 30th Chief of the Army Staff w.e.f. July 1, 2024 (succeeding - Gen Manoj Pande)
• HQs of Indian Army – New Delhi | Chief – General Upendra Dwivedi | Vice Chief – Lt. Gen. NS Raja Subramani

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Awards, Rewards, Recognition & Prizes
246. The World Health Organization (WHO) has conferred the National Institute of Mental Health
and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, the country’s premier mental health institution, with
the “Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024”. NIMHANS director Pratima Murthy
received the award at the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva. The Nelson Mandela Award for
Health Promotion, established by WHO in 2019, recognises individuals, institutions and/or
governmental or non-governmental organisations that have demonstrated remarkable
contributions to health promotion. The 2024 award was won jointly by the NIMHANS, India, and Professor Bontle Mbongwe
of Botswana. Edwin Dikoloti of Botswana is the current President of the 77th WHA. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 77th World Health Assembly – held in Geneva, Switzerland
• NIMHANS – conferred with “Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024” by WHO
• Other winner along with India’s NIMHANS is – Prof. Bontle Mbongwe (Botswana)
• The award was established by WHO in 2019 | President of the 77th WHA – Edwin Dikoloti (Botswana)
• HQs of WHO – Geneva, Switzerland | DG – Tedros Adhanom | Member Countries – 194 | Founded in – 1948

247. Naik Dhananjay Kumar Singh, who served with the UN Stabilisation Mission in
the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), will be honoured posthumously with
the “Dag Hammarskjold Medal”. Indian peacekeeper, who lost his life serving under
the UN flag, is among 64 military, police and civilian peacekeepers honoured
posthumously with this prestigious medal for their service and supreme sacrifice in
the line of duty. India is the second largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN
Peacekeeping. It currently deploys more than 6,000 military and police personnel to
the UN operations in Abyei, the Central African Republic, Cyprus, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, the Middle
East, Somalia, South Sudan, and Western Sahara. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Naik Dhananjay Kumar Singh (served with MONUSCO) – honoured posthumously with “Dag Hammarskjold Medal”
• India – 2nd largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping
• India – currently deploys 6,000+ military & police personnel to UN operations
• HQs of UN – New York, US | Secretary-General – Antonio Guterres | Established in – October 24, 1945

248. Poet and playwright Siddhalinga Pattanashetti has been chosen for the prestigious “Gudleppa Hallikeri
Award for 2024” by the Gudleppa Hallikeri Memorial Foundation, Hosaritti, in Haveri district of Karnataka.
Prof. Pattanashetti will be the 19th recipient of the award that comprises a purse of Rs 25,000 and a
memento. It will be presented in honour of the birth anniversary of Gudleppa Hallikeri on June 6. The award
ceremony will be presided over by Chairman of Legislative Council, Basavaraj Horatti. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Siddhalinga Pattanashetti (Poet) – chosen as the 19th recipient of prestigious “Gudleppa Hallikeri Award for 2024”
• He is selected by the Gudleppa Hallikeri Memorial Foundation, Hosaritti, in Haveri, Karnataka

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249. Indian archers have won 5 medals (1 gold, 2 silver & 2 bronze) at the Archery Asia Cup
2024 Stage 3 in Suwon, South Korea. Kumud Saini won the sole gold medal by defeating Park
Yerin of South Korea in the women’s compound gold event. Kumud Saini, Maya Bishnoi and Tejal
Rajendra Salve won silver in the Women’s compound team event, while other silver medal was
won by Kumud Saini and Manav Jadhao in the Mixed compound team event. The Archery Asia
Cup Stage 1 was held in Baghdad, Iraq, while the Stage 2, to be held in Bangkok, Thailand, was cancelled. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Archery Asia Cup 2024 Stage 3” – held in Suwon, South Korea | India – won 5 medals (1 gold, 2 silver & 2 bronze)
• Gold medal: Kumud Saini in women’s compound gold event | Defeated – Park Yerin (South Korea)
• Silver medals:
- Women’s compound team event – Kumud Saini, Maya Bishnoi & Tejal Rajendra
- Mixed compound team event – Kumud Saini & Manav Jadhao
• Archery Asia Cup: Stage 1 – held in Baghdad, Iraq | Stage 2 – was to be held in Bangkok, Thailand (cancelled)

250. Vellayan Subbiah, Executive Vice-Chairman of Tube Investments of India (TII) and Chairman of
Cholamandalam (Chola) Investment and Finance Co. Ltd., was named the “EY World Entrepreneur
of The Year 2024” at an award ceremony held in Monaco’s Salle des Etoiles. Vellayan was selected
from among nearly 5,000 programme participants that included 51 winners across 47 countries and
jurisdictions competing for the global title. He is the 4th winner from India in the award’s 24-year
history, after Narayana Murthy, Uday Kotak and Kiran Mazumdar Shaw. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vellayan Subbiah – named as “EY World Entrepreneur of The Year 2024” at award ceremony in Salle des Etoiles, Monaco
• He is Vice-Chairman of Tube Investments of India & Chairman of Cholamandalam (Chola) Investment & Finance Co. Ltd.
• He is 4th winner from India | 1st – Narayana Murthy, 2nd – Uday Kotak, 3rd – Kiran Mazumdar Shaw

251. Krishna Prakash, renowned as the head of Mumbai Police’s elite counter-terrorism unit, Force
One, has been honored with the prestigious Annual “Hindi Sahitya Bharati Award”. The recognition
was bestowed during the ‘Sab Me Ram Shashwat Shri Ram’ multicultural festival in Mumbai. The
festival featured a confluence of music, literature, dance, and theatre. Krishna Prakash has been
instrumental in conceptualizing this festival, aiming to present Lord Ram’s narrative in an engaging
and educational manner. Krishna Prakash is also a two-time Guinness World Record holder who will
achieve his third in June 2024 for initiating the maximum number of letters through postcards to Lord Ram. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘Sab Me Ram Shashwat Shri Ram’ multicultural festival – held in Mumbai
• Krishna Prakash (head of Mumbai Police’s unit, Force One) – honored with Annual “Hindi Sahitya Bharati Award”
• Krishna Prakash – aims to present Lord Ram’s narrative in an engaging & educational manner
• Krishna Prakash – a two-time Guinness World Record holder
- 3rd one to receive in June 2024 for initiating maximum number of letters through postcards to Lord Ram

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252. Dr Rashmi Saluja, Executive Chairperson of Religare Enterprises and Chairperson of GTTCI
(Global Trade & Technology Council of India), was awarded the “International Buddha Peace
Award” at the ‘Mahasaddhammajotikadhaja’ title conferring ceremony that took place at the
Myanmar Embassy in New Delhi. Dr Saluja was recognized for her contributions to promoting
peace and global harmony. Over 150 Buddhist monks, followers, dignitaries from various
embassies, and diplomats attended the ceremony. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr Rashmi Saluja – awarded with “International Buddha Peace Award” at ‘Mahasaddhammajotikadhaja’ title conferring
ceremony, held at Myanmar Embassy in New Delhi
• She was recognized for her contributions to promoting peace & global harmony
• She is Executive Chairperson of Religare Enterprises & Chairperson of GTTCI (Global Trade & Technology Council of India)

253. Actor Sanya Malhotra has bagged the Best Actress award for her role in the film ‘Mrs.’ at the “New
York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) 2024”. Other awardees include - Mohit Agarwal as Best Actor (for ‘Agra’),
Sumanth Bhatt as Best Director (for ‘Mithya’), ‘Agra’ as Best Film, ‘Mithya’ as Best Debut Film, ‘The World
is Family’ as Best Documentary (Feature), ‘Occupied’ as Best Documentary (Short), and ‘Monsoon Walk’
as Best Short (Narrative). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Awardees of “New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) 2024”:
- Best Actress – Sanya Malhotra (for ‘Mrs’)
- Best Actor – Mohit Agarwal (for ‘Agra’)
- Best Director – Sumanth Bhatt (for ‘Mithya’)
- Best Film – ‘Agra’ (directed by Kanu Behl)
- Best Debut Film – ‘Mithya’ (directed by Rajat Kapoor)
- Best Documentary (Feature) – ‘The World is Family’
- Best Documentary (Short) – ‘Occupied’
- Best Short (Narrative) – ‘Monsoon Walk’

254. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has been given ‘Best Conduct of Business Regulator’ award in Asia Pacific
by Singapore-based The Asian Banker for its role in enhancing the regulatory framework for securities markets in India. The
award was received by SEBI’s Whole Time Member Kamlesh Chandra Varshney in a ceremony held in Hong Kong. The Asian
Banker creates platforms to build a greater sense of community amongst players in the financial services industry, from
traditional banks and digital disruptors to fintechs and platform players. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• SEBI – given ‘Best Conduct of Business Regulator’ award in Asia Pacific by ‘The Asian Banker’ (Singapore)
• Received by – Kamlesh Chandra Varshney (SEBI’s Whole Time Member) in Hong Kong
• HQs of SEBI – Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chairman – Madhabi Puri Buch | Established in – 1992

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255. The All India Tennis Association (AITA) has announced the “Dilip Bose Award 2024” for
lifetime achievement to coach Nar Singh. The 65-year-old Nar Singh, who has served as a
coach and educator for several years, is the 11th recipient of the Dilip Bose award. The award
along with a cash prize of Rs 50,000 was presented during the 11th National Coaches
Workshop held at the PYC Hindu Gymkhana in Pune. The Secretary General of AITA, Anil
Dhupar, also announced a new lifetime achievement award for women coaches. The first award would be presented to the
69-year-old Rohini Lokhande who was a member of the national team. Rohini was the first woman tennis coach to qualify
from the National Institute of Sports. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 11th National Coaches Workshop – held at PYC Hindu Gymkhana, Pune
• Nar Singh (coach & educator) – announced as 11th recipient of “Dilip Bose Award 2024” for lifetime achievement by AITA
• Rohini Lokhande – to receive a new lifetime achievement award for women coaches
• HQs of AITA – Delhi | President – Anil Jain | Secretary General – Anil Dhupar

256. Director of the ICAR-Central Tobacco Research Institute, Dr. Sheshu Madhav Maganti, has
been awarded the prestigious “National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) Fellow Award”
for his outstanding contributions to agricultural sciences, particularly his work on the sustainable
production of rice and tobacco. The award ceremony took place in New Delhi on June 5,
coinciding with the Foundation Day of NAAS. Hailing from Warangal Hanamkonda, Dr. Madhav is
a distinguished postdoctoral fellow from Ohio State University in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. Dr. Madhav’s
research primarily addresses biotic stresses impacting rice productivity. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Dr. Sheshu Madhav Maganti – awarded “National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) Fellow Award” in New Delhi
• For his contributions to agricultural sciences, particularly his work on sustainable production of rice & tobacco
• He is director of ICAR-Central Tobacco Research Institute | June 5 – Foundation Day of NAAS
• HQs of ICAR-CTRI – Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh | Director – Dr. Sheshu Madhav Maganti | Founded in – 1947

257. The winners of the “2024 Kavli Prize” have been announced. Eight winners were awarded
for their contributions to astrophysics, neuroscience, and nanoscience. This year’s prize for
astrophysics has been awarded to David Charbonneau of Harvard University, and Sara Seager,
of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Robert Langer of MIT, Armand Paul Alivisatos of
the University of Chicago, and Chad Mirkin of Northwestern University were given the prize
for nanoscience. The prize in neuroscience has been awarded to Nancy Kanwisher of MIT,
Winrich Freiwald of Rockefeller University, and Doris Tsao of the University of California at
Berkeley. The Kavli Prize is awarded in honour of Norwegian-American businessman and philanthropist Fred Kavli (1927-
2013). Along with the US-based Kavli Foundation, the prize is given in partnership with the Norwegian Academy of Science
and Letters, and the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research. The prize comprises a $1 million cash prize (per field),
a scroll, and a medal. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Winners of Kavli Prize 2024:
- Astrophysics – David Charbonneau (Harvard University) & Sara Seager (MIT)
- Nanoscience – Robert Langer (MIT), Armand Paul Alivisatos (Chicago University) & Chad Mirkin (Northwestern
University)

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258. Indian Railways has entered its name into the prestigious “Limca Book of World Records” for most people at a public
service event at multiple venue. Ministry of Railways organized an event on 26 February 2024 which was attended by
40,19,516 people at 2,140 venues. The event was organized for the inauguration of road over/ road under railway bridges
and for laying the foundation stones of railway stations by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Indian Railways – entered in “Limca Book of World Records” for most people at a public service event at multiple venue
• Event was organized by Ministry of Railways on Feb 26, 2024 – attended by 40,19,516 people at 2,140 venues
• HQs of Indian Railways – New Delhi | Chairman & CEO – Jaya Varma Sinha

259. The illustrious wildlife filmmaker, Subbiah Nallamuthu, has been conferred the much coveted “V.
Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award” at the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF).
Subbiah Nallamuthu has made exceptional contributions to wildlife cinematography, earning him
global acclaim. His passion for the Royal Bengal Tiger has translated into five tiger-centric international
documentaries for National Geographic Channel and BBC. The award carries a cash award of 10 lakh
rupees, trophy and a citation. Other illustrious recipients of the award in previous years include Shyam
Benegal, Vijaya Mulay and other prominent filmmakers. His prolific filmography includes Tiger Dynasty (2012-2013), Tiger
Queen (2010) and The World’s Most Famous Tiger (2017). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Subbiah Nallamuthu – conferred with “V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award” at 18th MIFF
• Award carries – a cash award of 10 lakh rupees, trophy & a citation
• Previous recipients of this award – Shyam Benegal, Vijaya Mulay, etc.
• His filmography includes – Tiger Dynasty (2012-2013), Tiger Queen (2010) & The World’s Most Famous Tiger (2017)

260. UNESCO has shortlisted 7 most beautiful museums in the world for the
prestigious “Prix Versailles Award”, including the Smritivan Earthquake Memorial
Museum of Bhuj, Gujarat. Prix Versailles is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
An Indian Museum has received global recognition for the first time in this manner for
its expression of local culture and nature conservation. The museum is built amidst
thousands of trees on Bhujia Hill. Smritivan features the world’s largest Miyawaki
forest with 5,00,000 trees. The site includes 50 check dams adorned with plaques
bearing the names of 12,932 victims of the earthquake as a mark of tribute. Other six museums on the Most Beautiful
Museums in the World 2024 are - A4 Art Museum (Chengdu, China), Grand Egyptian Museum (Giza, Egypt), Simose Art
Museum (Hiroshima, Japan), Paleis Het Loo (Apeldoorn, Netherlands), Oman Across Ages Museum (Manah, Oman), Polish
History Museum (Warsaw, Poland). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UNESCO – shortlisted 7 museums for “Prix Versailles Award”, including Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum, Bhuj
• This is 1st time an Indian Museum has received global recognition for its expression of local culture & nature conservation

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261. The Sahitya Akademi has announced the names of 23 writers, including English writer K. Vaishali and Hindi author
Gaurav Pandey, who will receive the prestigious Yuva Puraskar across as many languages. The National Academy of Letters
(Sahitya Akademi) also announced the names of 24 winners of the Bal Sahitya Puraskar for 2024. The Yuva Puraskar has
been awarded for 10 poetry books, 7 collections of short stories, 2 collections of articles and 1 of essays, 1 novel, 1 book of
ghazals and 1 memoir. The Bal Sahitya Puraskar has been awarded for 7 novels, 6 books of poetry, 4 stories, 5 short stories,
1 play, and 1 historical fiction. Yuva Puraskar awardees and Bal Sahitya Puraskar awardees will receive a casket containing
an engraved copper plaque and a cheque of Rs 50,000. The full list of awardees is given below. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sahitya Akademi – announced 23 winners of Yuva Puraskar 2024 & 24 winners of Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2024
• Winners of both prizes will receive a casket containing an engraved copper plaque & a cheque of Rs 50,000

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262. Recently, 10 ‘Land Heroes’ were announced by United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
(UNCCD) at the global observance event of the UN World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
marked on June 17. This year’s event coincides with the 30th anniversary of the UNCCD, the sole global
agreement dedicated to sustainable land management ratified by 196 countries and the European Union.
Land degradation affects up to 40% of the world’s land and nearly half the world’s population. The 10
‘Land Heroes’ include India’s Siddhesh Sakore, a farmer from Maharashtra and the founder of AGRO
RANGERS. He is passionate about solving the problems of soil degradation on agricultural land. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• UNCCD – announced 10 ‘Land Heroes’ at global observance event of UN World Day to Combat Desertification & Drought
• 10 ‘Land Heroes’ include: Siddhesh Sakore (a farmer from Maharashtra & founder of AGRO RANGERS)
• Land degradation affects up to 40% of world’s land & nearly 50% of world’s population
• June 17 – UN World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
• HQs of UNCCD – Bonn, Germany | Executive Secretary – Ibrahim Thiaw | Founded in – 1994

263. Ramky Infrastructure Limited (Ramky) has been awarded the prestigious “FICCI
Smart Urban Innovation Award 2024” in the ‘Sustainable Cities’ category. This
recognition honours their significant contribution to the treatment and disposal of
legacy leachate, the first of its kind in India, in Jawahar Nagar, Hyderabad,
Telangana. The award was presented during the 5th edition of the Smart Urban
Innovation Awards, held alongside the 7th edition of FICCI’s Cities Summit to foster
dialogue and innovative solutions for critical urban infrastructure development
issues. The Hyderabad leachate treatment plant, the first of its kind in the country,
is a testament to this commitment. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ramky Infra. – awarded with “FICCI Smart Urban Innovation Award 2024” in ‘Sustainable Cities’ category
• It is given for their contribution to treatment & disposal of legacy leachate, first of its kind in India
- Located in – Jawahar Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana
• The award was presented during – 5th edition of ‘Smart Urban Innovation Awards’
• HQs of Ramky – Hyderabad, Telangana | CEO – Shuvendu Mohanty | Founded in – 1994

264. Globally acclaimed film-maker Vinod Ganatra has become the first Indian to be conferred the
prestigious “Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award” of South Africa for his contribution to
films. He was honoured with the coveted award at the ongoing 7th ‘Nelson Mandela Children’s Film
Festival’, for his immense contributions to the world of cinema for kids. Ganatra has bagged 36
national and international awards, including the ‘Janakinath Gaur Award’ from Doordarshan for his
children’s programme, ‘Baingan Raja.’ He became the only Indian filmmaker to receive the ‘Liv Ullmann Peace Prize’, in
Chicago, for his Gujarati film, ‘Harun-Arun’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Vinod Ganatra (film-maker) – 1st Indian to be conferred “Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award” of South Africa
- For his contribution to the world of cinema for kids
• He bagged 36 national & international awards, including ‘Janakinath Gaur Award’ from Doordarshan for ‘Baingan Raja’
• He became only Indian filmmaker to receive ‘Liv Ullmann Peace Prize’, in Chicago, for his Gujarati film, ‘Harun-Arun’

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265. Gujarat over took Tamil Nadu and bagged the ‘1st rank’ award for highest wind power
installed capacity at “Pawan - Urja: Powering the Future of India”, an event held in New
Delhi under the aegis of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). Gujarat had 11,823
MW of installed wind power capacity as of May 2024, while Tamil Nadu had 10,743 MW.
Karnataka is ranked third with 6,312 MW. Gujarat also has 14,182 MW of installed solar
power capacity and stands only second to Rajasthan (22,180 MW) in solar power. At end of
May 2024, Gujarat had a total of 28,200 MW of renewable energy capacity, which is the
highest among all states. Gujarat has set an ambitious target of achieving cumulative 100 GW of installed RE capacity by
2030. This is expected to attract investment to the tune of ₹5 lakh crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MNRE – organised an event, “Pawan - Urja: Powering the Future of India”, in New Delhi
• Gujarat – bagged the ‘1st rank’ award for highest wind power installed capacity | 2nd - Tamil Nadu, 3rd - Karnataka
• As of May 2024, Gujarat had total 28,200 MW of RE capacity (highest among all states)
- Wind – 11,823 MW (1st rank) & Solar – 14,182 MW (2nd rank)
• Gujarat has set a target of achieving cumulative 100 GW of installed RE capacity by 2030 (investment - ₹5 lakh Cr)
• Gujarat: Capital – Gandhinagar | CM – Bhupendra Patel | Governor – Acharya Dev Vrat

266. Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

(IPBES) is one of the two recipients of the “2024 Blue Planet Prize”. IPBES has
been awarded as it is the leading global authority on the state of knowledge
and science about biodiversity, ecosystem services and nature’s contributions
to people. IPBES’s co-laureate is Robert Costanza, from the Institute for Global
Prosperity, University College London, UK. He has been recognised for his
foundational contributions to the field of ecological economics. The Blue
Planet Prize, awarded by Japan’s Asahi Glass Foundation, is awarded annually
to individuals and organisations to recognise outstanding achievements in scientific research and its application, which have
helped provide solutions to global environmental problems. The prize includes an award of $5,00,000. The prize will be given
away on October 23 in Tokyo, Japan. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Two recipients of the “2024 Blue Planet Prize”:
- IPBES – for being leading global authority on the state of knowledge and science about biodiversity, ecosystem
services and nature’s contributions to people
- Robert Costanza (UK) – for his foundational contributions to the field of ecological economics
• The Blue Planet Prize is awarded by – Asahi Glass Foundation (Japan) | Prize – $5,00,000
• HQs of IPBES – Bonn, Germany | Executive Secretary – Anne Larigauderie

267. Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has been honoured with the “Sustainable Governance Champion
Award” at the ‘Outlook Planet Sustainability Summit & Awards 2024’ held in Goa. The Award ceremony was organised by
Outlook Group, in collaboration with IIT Goa. The Sustainable Governance Champion Award is a testament to GRSE’s efforts
in integrating sustainability into its core operations, driving innovation, and promoting environmental stewardship within
the maritime and defense sectors. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ‘Outlook Planet Sustainability Summit & Awards 2024’ in Goa – organised by Outlook Group + IIT Goa

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268. A project titled ‘AMRSense: Empowering Communities with a Proactive One Health Ecosystem’ by the Indraprastha
Institute of Information Technology, Delhi (IIIT-Delhi), has won the joint second prize in Trinity Challenge’s second
competition, on tackling the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The project was led by Tavpritesh Sethi of
IIIT-Delhi in collaboration with CHRI-PATH, 1mg.com, and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). AMRSense
addresses the challenges of engaging, motivating, and training community health workers (CHWs) in AMR surveillance and
management. The IIIT-Delhi project shared the second prize with another project, also from India, titled ‘OASIS: OneHealth
Antimicrobial Stewardship for Informal Health Systems’. The OASIS solution will be developed and implemented over 3
years, with the community medicine team of AIIMS Kalyani in their rural field sites in West Bengal. Each joint second prize
winner will receive £6,00,000 in funding over the next 3 years. Both projects are based in India and aim to empower
community health workers and informal caregivers with new technologies to gather data on AMR at the community level.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• AMRSense (IIIT-Delhi) + OASIS (AIIMS Kalyani) = won the joint second prize in Trinity Challenge’s second competition
• ‘AMRSense’ addresses the challenges of engaging, motivating, and training CHWs in AMR surveillance & management
• ‘OASIS’ solution will be implemented over 3 years in the rural field sites in West Bengal
• Each joint second prize winner will receive £6,00,000 in funding over the next 3 years

269. Sanjana Thakur, a 26-year-old writer from Mumbai, beat competition from over 7,359
entrants worldwide to emerge as the winner of the GBP 5,000 “Commonwealth Short Story
Prize 2024” in London, UK, for her story “Aishwarya Rai”. Sanjana is the third Indian to win
the prize after Kritika Pandey won it in 2020 for her story “The Great Indian Tee and Snakes”,
and Parashar Kulkarni in 2016 for “Cow and Company”. The literary magazine ‘Granta’ has
published all the regional winning stories of the 2024 Commonwealth Short Story Prize. The
prize covers the Commonwealth regions of Africa, Asia Canada and Europe, Caribbean and Pacific. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sanjana Thakur (MH) – won GBP 5,000 “Commonwealth Short Story Prize 2024” in London for her story “Aishwarya Rai”
• Sanjana is 3rd Indian to win this prize | 1st – Kritika Pandey in 2020 for story “The Great Indian Tee and Snakes”
- 2nd – Parashar Kulkarni in 2016 for “Cow and Company”
• Literary magazine ‘Granta’ published all regional winning stories of ‘2024 Commonwealth Short Story Prize’
• This prize covers Commonwealth regions of Africa, Asia Canada & Europe, Caribbean & Pacific

270. Booker Prize-winning author Arundhati Roy has been honoured with the prestigious
“Pen Pinter Prize 2024” for her unflinching and unswerving writings. The PEN (Poet,
Playwright, Editors Essayist, Novelist) Pinter Award, established in 2009 by the charity
English PEN, defends freedom of expression and celebrates literature in memory of Nobel-
Laureate playwright Harold Pinter. The author will be honoured at a ceremony in London
co-hosted by the British Library on October 10, 2024. Arundhati Roy is the first Indian to win
the prestigious Booker Prize in 1997 for her fiction ‘The God of Small Things’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Arundhati Roy – honoured with “Pen Pinter Prize 2024” for her unflinching & unswerving writings

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271. Nistha Jain’s ‘Golden Thread’ film won the prestigious “Golden Conch Award
for the Best Documentary” at the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF)
2024. The MIFF 2024 was organised by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
and executed by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) at Mumbai
from June 15 to 21, 2024. The awards at the 18th MIFF 2024 were given in 5
sections - International, National, Sponsored, Special and Technical. In National
section, ‘6-A Akash Ganga’ directed by Nirmal Chander Dandriyal received “Best
Indian Documentary Film (above 60 minutes)”, ‘Salt’ directed by Barkha Prashant
Naik received “Best Indian Short Fiction Film (up to 30 minutes duration)”,
‘Nirjara’, directed by Gaurav Pati received “Best Indian Animation Film”. In Sponsored section, Sreemoyee Singh won
“Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari Award for Best Debut Director”, ‘Chanchisoa (Expectation)’ directed by Elvachisa Ch
Sangma & Dipankar Das won “IDPA Award for Best Student Film”. Moreover, in Special section, ‘Life in Loom’, directed by
Edmond Ranson, won the “Best short film made on India in Amrit Kaal”. In Technical section, “Best Cinematographer” award
was given to Nepal’s Babin Dulal for the film ‘Dhorpatan: No Winter Holidays’, and India’s Suraj Thakur for the film
‘Entangled.’ While, the “Best Editor” award in the same section was given to Vignesh Kumulai for the film ‘Karparaa’, and
Irene Dhar Mallik for the film ‘From the Shadows’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) 2024 – held in Mumbai from June 15-21, 2024
• Organised by – MoI&B | Executed by – National Film Development Corporation (NFDC)
• Awards were given in 5 sections – International, National, Sponsored, Special & Technical
• International Section:
- Golden Conch Award for the Best Documentary – ‘Golden Thread’ film by Nistha Jain
• National Section:
- Best Indian Documentary Film (above 60 minutes) – ‘6-A Akash Ganga’ by Nirmal Chander Dandriyal
- Best Indian Short Fiction Film (up to 30 minutes duration) – ‘Salt’ by Barkha Prashant Naik
- Best Indian Animation Film – ‘Nirjara’ by Gaurav Pati
• Sponsored Section:
- Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari Award for Best Debut Director – Sreemoyee Singh
- IDPA Award for Best Student Film – ‘Chanchisoa (Expectation)’ directed by Elvachisa Ch Sangma & Dipankar Das
• Special Section:
- Best short film made on India in Amrit Kaal – ‘Life in Loom’ by Edmond Ranson
• Technical Section:
- Best Cinematographer – Babin Dulal (Nepal) for ‘Dhorpatan: No Winter Holidays’ & Suraj Thakur (India) for
‘Entangled’
- Best Editor – Vignesh Kumulai for ‘Karparaa’ & Irene Dhar Mallik for ‘From the Shadows’

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272. Kozhikode in Kerala, known for its rich cultural heritage, was officially declared as India’s first UNESCO ‘City of
Literature’. The state government also announced that June 23 will be celebrated as the ‘City of Literature’ Day of Kozhikode,
a place known for literary greats like late S K Pottakkad and Vaikom Muhammed Basheer. On this day, special awards will
be announced in six categories. Gwalior and Kozhikode from India are among the 55 new cities which have joined the
UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). In October 2023, Kozhikode had earned a place in the ‘Literature’ category of the
UCCN, while Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh made it to the coveted list in the ‘Music’ category. With the latest additions, the
UCCN now counts 350 cities in more than a hundred countries, representing seven creative fields: Crafts and Folk Art, Design,
Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts and Music. The newly designated Creative Cities are invited to participate in the
2024 UCCN Annual Conference (July 1-5, 2024) in Braga, Portugal, under the theme “Bringing Youth to the Table for the
Next Decade”. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Kozhikode (Kerala) – officially declared as India’s first UNESCO ‘City of Literature’
• June 23 – will be celebrated as ‘City of Literature’ Day of Kozhikode & special awards will be announced in 6 categories
• Gwalior (‘Music’) & Kozhikode (‘Literature’) – are among 55 new cities joining UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)
• UCCN now has 350 cities in 100+ countries, representing these 7 creative fields:
- Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, & Music
• 2024 UCCN Annual Conference – in Braga, Portugal (July 1-5, 2024)
- Theme - “Bringing Youth to the Table for the Next Decade”
• HQs of UNESCO – Paris, France | DG – Audrey Azoulay | Founded in – 1945 | Members – 194 Countries

Schemes & Initiatives

273. Rajasthan government has decided to ramp up water conservation work in the state through the “Mukhyamantri Jal
Swavlamban Abhiyan 2.0”. The move comes after many areas in the state reported water scarcity. Under the campaign, 5
lakh water harvesting structures are proposed to be built in 20,000 villages in the next 4 years. With annual rainfall in the
state ranging from 100 mm to 800 mm, many parts of the state face unavailability of water, even for drinking purposes.
Recently, Rajasthan State Industrial Development & Investment Corporation (RIICO) had issued a circular stating all plot
lessees with an area of 500 square metres and above would need to construct Rainwater Harvesting Structures (RWHS) in
their premises for water conservation and increasing the level of groundwater. A penalty would also be charged for delay in
completion of RWHS. The penalty amounts to Rs 25,000 per annum for plot sizes ranging from 500 sq m-2,000 sq m and Rs
50,000 per annum for plots above 2,000 sq m. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rajasthan – to ramp up water conservation work through “Mukhyamantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan 2.0”
• Under this campaign, 5 lakh water harvesting structures are proposed to be built in 20,000 villages in next 4 years
• RIICO issued a circular stating all plot of 500 sq m & above need to construct Rainwater Harvesting Structures
- Penalty as per plot size for not constructing: 500-2,000 sq m plot – ₹25,000 pa | Above 2,000 sq m – ₹50,000 pa
• Rajasthan: Capital – Jaipur | CM – Bhajan Lal Sharma | Governor – Kalraj Mishra

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274. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sanctioned the 17th instalment of the “PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme”, his first
move after being sworn-in as PM for the third consecutive time. The instalment is expected to benefit 9.3 crore farmers and
entails distribution of around Rs 20,000 crore. Launched in 2019, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
scheme offers eligible farmers an annual financial assistance of ₹6,000. This amount is distributed in three equal instalments
of ₹2,000 every four months. The government has allocated Rs 1.27 lakh crore budget for the Ministry of Agriculture &
Farmers Welfare for FY 2024-25. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• PM Modi – sanctioned 17th instalment of “PM-KISAN (PM Kisan Samman Nidhi) Scheme”
• It is expected to benefit 9.3 Cr farmers & entails distribution of around Rs 20,000 Cr
• PM-KISAN scheme – launched in 2019 & offers eligible farmers an annual financial assistance of ₹6,000
- 3 equal instalments of ₹2,000 every 4 months
• Budget allocation for Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare for FY25 – Rs 1.27 lakh Cr

275. The Haryana government has removed the age limit cap under the “Mukhyamantri Kisan Evam Khetihar Mazdoor
Jeevan Suraksha Yojana”, a scheme for farmers and farm labourers under which financial assistance is provided in case of
death or disability while operating agricultural machinery. The government has taken a decision to remove the age limit cap
for farmers, agriculture labourers, and market yard labourers. Now, children younger than 10 years and persons older than
65 years will also be eligible for benefits under the scheme. Earlier, under the scheme, the age group of the victim had to be
not less than 10 years and more than 65 years. Under this scheme, financial assistance ranging from Rs 37,500 to Rs 5 lakh
is provided to farmers, agriculture labourers, and market yard labourers in case of death or disability while operating
agricultural machinery. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Haryana – removed age limit cap under “Mukhyamantri Kisan Evam Khetihar Mazdoor Jeevan Suraksha Yojana”
• Now, children younger than 10 years & persons older than 65 years will also be eligible for benefits under this scheme
• Under this scheme, financial assistance ranging from Rs 37,500 to Rs 5 lakh is provided in case of death or disability
while operating agricultural machinery
• Haryana: Capital – Chandigarh | CM – Nayab Singh Saini | Governor – Bandaru Dattatraya

276. In a move to boost innovation in textiles, the Central Government has approved grants of Rs 50 lakh each for 7 startups
in the technical textiles sector under the ‘National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM)’. The grants have been approved under
the NTTM’s ‘Grant for Research and Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT)’ scheme. This
initiative aims to promote innovation and sustainability while fostering transformative developments in the industry. The
ministry has set a target to support 150 startups to promote innovations in technical textiles. Additionally, the textiles
ministry has relaxed the royalty cap on this scheme. Besides startup funding, the Empowered Programme Committee (EPC)
has also approved a grant of Rs 6.4 crore to IIT Guwahati. This funding will be utilised to introduce new subjects in technical
textiles and enhance the laboratory infrastructure in the institute’s Civil Engineering Department. As per a KPMG report, the
Indian technical textiles market is the 5th largest in the world and stood at $21.95 billion in 2021-22. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Centre approved grants of Rs 50 lakh each for 7 startups in technical textiles sector under NTTM’s ‘GREAT’ scheme
• NTTM – National Technical Textiles Mission
• GREAT – Grant for Research and Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles
• Aim: To promote innovation & sustainability while fostering transformative developments in industry

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277. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin inaugurated the “Chief Minister’s Mannuyir Kaathu Mannuyir Kaappom” scheme
to improve the soil health across the state. Under the scheme, to be implemented on an outlay of ₹206 crore, a sum of ₹20
crore would be allotted for preservation of soil fertility through the use of green manure. In the first phase in 2024-25, it has
been planned to distribute green manure seeds, covering about 2 lakh acres and benefiting over 2 lakh farmers. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• M. K. Stalin (TN) – inaugurated “Chief Minister’s Mannuyir Kaathu Mannuyir Kaappom” scheme to improve soil health
• Outlay of the scheme – ₹206 Cr | ₹20 Cr for preserved for soil fertility with usage of green manure
• In phase 1, it is planned to distribute green manure seeds, covering about 2 lakh acres & benefiting over 2 lakh farmers
• Tamil Nadu: Capital – Chennai | CM – Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin | Governor – Ravindra Narayan Ravi

278. Assam government has introduced new scheme called “Mukhya Mantri Nijut Moina (MMNM)” to combat child
marriage and empower girl children through education. The scheme will benefit approximately 10 lakh girl students. It aims
at empowering young girls and ensuring their continued education. Under MMNM scheme, girls enrolled in higher
secondary first year will receive Rs 1,000 on 11th day of each month. Those enrolled in 3-year or 4-year degree courses will
receive Rs 1,200 per month. Post-degree and B.Ed. students will be granted Rs 2500 per month. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Assam – introduced new scheme called “Mukhya Mantri Nijut Moina (MMNM)”
• Aim: To combat child marriage and empower girl children through education
• Under MMNM scheme:
- Girls enrolled in higher secondary first year will receive Rs 1,000 on 11th day of each month
- Girls enrolled in 3-year or 4-year degree courses will receive Rs 1,200 per month
- Post-degree and B.Ed. students will be granted Rs 2500 per month
• Assam: Capital – Dispur | CM – Himanta Biswa Sarma | Governor – Gulab Chand Kataria

279. The central government has given a year-long extension to the “Digital Health Incentive Scheme (DHIS)” meant for
digitising patients’ health records and linking them with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Health Account (ABHA ID). The scheme,
which was launched on January 1, 2023 by the National Health Authority (NHA), will now remain in effect till June 30, 2025.
Under the scheme, government and private hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, diagnostic labs, and pharmacies are paid Rs
20 for each additional record they digitise, over and above the threshold of 100 transactions a month. Each facility or digital
solution company can earn incentives up to Rs 4 crore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Central Govt extended “Digital Health Incentive Scheme (DHIS)” for 1 year till June 30, 2025
• DHIS – launched on January 1, 2023 by National Health Authority (NHA)
• Aim: Digitising patients’ health records and linking them with ABHA ID

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280. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav launched an intra-State air service,
called “PM Shri Paryatan Vayu Seva” to promote tourism. The first flight was flagged off
from the capital Bhopal to Jabalpur. The service operated by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism
Board (MPTB) with two aircraft will connect 8 cities across the State - Bhopal, Indore,
Jabalpur, Gwalior, Khajuraho, Ujjain, Rewa, and Singrauli. The new venture has been
started on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) basis with a private firm named Jet Serv
Aviation Private Limited (Flyola). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Madhya Pradesh – launched an intra-State air service, “PM Shri Paryatan Vayu Seva,” to promote tourism

• Operated by – Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) | First flight – flagged off from Bhopal to Jabalpur
• It will connect 8 cities across – Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Khajuraho, Ujjain, Rewa & Singrauli
• The new venture is started on a PPP basis with a private firm named ‘Jet Serv Aviation Private Limited (Flyola)’
• Madhya Pradesh: Capital – Bhopal | CM – Mohan Yadav | Governor – Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel

281. The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, has approved the proposal of Ministry of Home Affairs for Central
Sector Scheme “National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES)” with a total financial outlay of Rs 2254.43
crore during the period from 2024-25 to 2028-29. The scheme underscores the importance of high quality, trained forensic
professionals in the timely and scientific examination of evidence for an efficient criminal justice process. The Cabinet has
approved 3 components under this Scheme: (i) Establishment of Campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University
(NFSU) in India; (ii) Establishment of Central Forensic Science Laboratories in India; (iii) Enhancement of existing
infrastructure of the Delhi Campus of the NFSU. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Union Cabinet approved MHA’s proposal for “National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES)”
• Financial outlay during the period from 2024-25 to 2028-29 – Rs 2254.43 crore
• 3 components under this Scheme:
- Establishment of Campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in India
- Establishment of Central Forensic Science Laboratories in India
- Enhancement of existing infrastructure of the Delhi Campus of the NFSU
• Minister of Home Affairs: Amit Shah | Constituency – Gandhinagar, Gujarat
MoS in Ministry of Home Affairs: Nityanand Rai & Bandi Sanjay Kumar

282. The Government of India has approved new Inter State Transmission System (ISTS) schemes to evacuate 9 GW of
Renewable Energy power from Rajasthan and Karnataka. These schemes will be implemented through Tariff Based
Competitive Bidding (TBCB) mode. These schemes are part of 500 GW RE capacity by 2030 out of which 200 GW is already
connected. The power evacuation scheme of Rajasthan Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) will evacuate 4.5 GW of RE power
from Rajasthan. The scheme will be completed in 2 years at the cost of about ₹12,241 crore. While, the System strengthening
scheme of Karnataka will evacuate 4.5 GW RE power from Koppal area and Gadag area of Karnataka. The scheme will be
completed by June 2027 at the cost of about ₹1,354 crore. {Read more}

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283. The Khunti district administration for the first time in Jharkhand has approved pension benefits for persons suffering
from sickle cell anemia under the ‘Swami Vivekananda Nishakt Swawlamban Protsahan Scheme’. People suffering from
sickle cell anemia will get a monthly pension of Rs 1,000 in Khunti. In the first phase, nine beneficiaries have been identified
from different blocks. Sickle cell anemia is considered to be a hereditary blood-related disease in which red blood cells
contort into a sickle shape. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Khunti (Jharkhand) – approved pension benefits for persons suffering from sickle cell anemia
- Under ‘Swami Vivekananda Nishakt Swawlamban Protsahan Scheme’
• They will get a monthly pension of Rs 1,000 | 1st phase – 9 beneficiaries have been identified from different blocks
• Sickle cell anemia – a hereditary blood-related disease in which red blood cells contort into a sickle shape
Jharkhand: Capital – Ranchi | CM – Champai Soren | Governor – C. P. Radhakrishnan

Meetings, Conferences and Summits

284. MECON Limited along with Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) organized a two-day
“International Conference on Steel (ICONS-2024): Focus on Capital Goods” at Ranchi,
Jharkhand. The objective of the conference is to bring together the brightest minds and
leading stakeholders from across the steel industry to foster new partnerships, explore
innovative solutions and to drive forward the future of steel industry. As per the National
Steel Policy (NSP)-2017’s target to reach the 300 Mt steel capacity, about 138-139 Mt of
new capacity is estimated to be added in next 7-8 years involving a huge investment of
$120-130 billion from the Indian Steel industry. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MECON Ltd + SAIL = organized “International Conference on Steel 2024: Focus on Capital Goods” at Ranchi, Jharkhand
• Aim: To foster new partnerships, explore innovative solutions & to drive forward the future of steel industry
• HQs of SAIL – New Delhi | CMD – Amarendu Prakash | Founded – January 24, 1973
• HQs of MECON Ltd – Ranchi, Jharkhand | Director – Sanjay Kumar Verma | Founded – 1959

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285. After a gap of 42 years, India will host the 81st “Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the
International Air Transport Association (IATA)” in 2025, the world’s most premier aviation event.
This will be the 3rd time the IATA AGM, considered one of the most significant events in the aviation
industry’s calendar, will be convened in Delhi, after 1958 and 1983. IndiGo, India’s largest airline by
market share, will be the host airline of the AGM and the World Air Transport Summit, which will
take place in Delhi between June 8 and 10, 2025. About 330 airlines, comprising more than 80% of
global air traffic, are members of IATA. The decision to host the 81st IATA AGM in India was made at
the 80th IATA AGM, which was recently held in Dubai, UAE. Currently, India ranks 5th in terms of flights handled per week,
with 29,998 flights. The US tops with 1,99,469 flights, followed by China, UK & Spain. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India – to host 81st “Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA)” in 2025
• India will host this event for 3rd time (after 1958 & 1983)
• IndiGo – host airline of AGM & World Air Transport Summit, to be held in Delhi from Jun 8-10, 2025
• 80th IATA AGM – held in Dubai, UAE
• In terms of flights handled per week: India – 5th (29,998 flights) | 1st – US | 2nd – China | 3rd – UK | 4th – Spain
• HQs of IATA – Montreal, Canada | DG – Willie Walsh

286. The “World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)+20 Forum 2024”, a High-Level
Event, was conducted by International Telecom Union (ITU) in Geneva, Switzerland, from
May 27-31, 2024. The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), the premier Telecom
R&D centre of the Government of India, has been awarded UN’s “WSIS 2024 Champion
Award” for the project “Mobile-Enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast
emergency Alerting”, recognised under AI, C-7, E-environment, in the category of ‘Benefits
in all aspects of life - E-environment’. The ‘WSIS+20 Forum’ recognised the project of C-DOT’s Cell Broadcast Emergency
Alerting Platform for its outstanding contribution towards strengthening the implementation of the WSIS outcomes and
underscores C-DOT’s commitment to leveraging technology for societal impact. Besides, the ‘AI for Good Global Summit’
was also organised along with WSIS in Geneva. Two AI Startups, DeepVision Tech and Nayancom, from India, selected by C-
DOT through a selection process, also showcased their innovative solutions along with C-DOT. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “World Summit on Information Society (WSIS)+20 Forum 2024” – held in Geneva, Switzerland | Conducted by – ITU
• C-DOT – received UN’s “WSIS 2024 Champion Award” in category of ‘Benefits in all aspects of life - E-environment’
- For “Mobile-Enabled Disaster Resilience through Cell Broadcast emergency Alerting” project
• ‘AI for Good Global Summit’ – also organised in Geneva
• DeepVision Tech & Nayancom – showcased their innovative solutions along with C-DOT
• HQs of C-DoT – New Delhi | CEO – Rajkumar Upadhyay | C-DoT works under – DoT (Ministry of Communications)

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287. Indian delegation led by Sunil Barthwal, Secretary of Department of
Commerce, participated in the “Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity
(IPEF) Ministerial Meeting” held in Singapore. Mr Barthwal reflected on
substantial progress made on the establishment of the 3 cooperative bodies
under the Supply Chain Agreement, the Cooperative Work Programmes under
the Clean Economy Agreement, and the cooperative activities under the Fair
Economy Agreement. These cooperative activities will be undertaken through
joint collaborative actions such as Cooperative Work Programmes and the IPEF
Catalytic Capital Fund. The IPEF Catalytic Capital Fund has been set up by IPEF member countries Australia, Japan, the
Republic of Korea, and the United States, as well as by a private company, Infrastructure Development Group. These
countries have committed to providing $33 million as a grant for the fund. IPEF was launched on 23 May 2022 at Tokyo,
Japan, comprising of 14 countries - Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand,
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and USA. The IPEF is structured around 4 pillars relating to - Trade, Supply Chains,
Clean Economy and Fair Economy. India has joined all the pillars except the ‘Trade’. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Sunil Barthwal – led Indian delegation at the “IPEF Ministerial Meeting” held in Singapore
• IPEF Catalytic Capital Fund was set up by – Australia, Japan, South Korea, & US (They provided $33 million as a grant)
• IPEF was launched on 23 May 2022 at Tokyo, Japan, comprising of 14 countries:
- Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore,
Thailand, Vietnam & USA
• IPEF is structured around 4 pillars: Trade, Supply Chains, Clean Economy & Fair Economy
• India has joined all the pillars except the ‘Trade’

288. The 3rd Indian Analytical Congress (IAC) was recently held at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian
Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is a 3-day International Conference cum Exhibition IAC-2024
jointly organized by CSIR-IIP and Indian Society of Analytical Scientists (ISAS-Delhi Chapter) under the theme of “Role of
Science and Technology in Green Transitions”. The 3-day International Conference will provide a platform for industries,
academia, scientists, and technologists in the Analytical Sciences to present the prevalent and upcoming solutions in this
area. CSIR’s initiative and thematic achievements in Energy and Energy Devices (EED) were showcased through the ‘One
Week One Theme’ (OWOT) program. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 3rd Indian Analytical Congress (IAC) – held at CSIR-IIP in Dehradun, Uttarakhand
• Theme – “Role of Science and Technology in Green Transitions”
• Organized by = CSIR-IIP (Dehradun) + Indian Society of Analytical Scientists (ISAS-Delhi Chapter)
• CSIR’s initiative & thematic achievements in Energy and Energy Devices – showcased through ‘One Week One Theme’
(OWOT) program

289. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the “G7 Summit 2024” for the 5th consecutive
time (2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 & 2024) at the invitation of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
With this, he has equalled the record of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, who has
also attended the G7 outreach session 5 times. The 50th G7 meeting was hosted by Italy in
Apulia from 13 to 15 June 2024. This time, Italy invited Algeria, Argentina, Brazil, India, Jordan,
Kenya, Mauritania, Tunisia, Türkiye and the UAE. The G7 is an informal group of the seven most
industrialised democratic countries, created on the initiative of France after the Arab countries
increased crude petroleum oil prices after the Arab-Israeli war of 1973. The first G7 Summit took place in France in 1975.
The next (51st) G7 Summit will be held in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, in 2025. {Read more}

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290. The National Commission for Indian Medical Systems (NCIMS), in collaboration with All India Council for Technical
Education (AICTE) and Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell (MIC), organized a two-day national conference, “PRANA -
Protecting Rights and Novelties in ASUS” (Mind to Market for Indian System of Medicines Professionals), to mark its fourth
foundation day. The seminar of the conference involved a significant number of innovations that have the potential to be
patented, can be commercialized or could be fit for technology transfer of those patented items. Besides, NCIMS conducted
an online survey, among ISM professionals and students to estimate the number, types, and status of innovations in Ayush.
Survey relates to patents granted (115); applied for patents (112); and developed but not applied for patent (183). NCIMS
is the statutory body constituted under ‘NCISM Act, 2020’. Vaidya Jayant Deopujari is Chairperson of NCISM. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• NCIMS + AICTE + MIC = organized a 2-day national conference, “PRANA - Protecting Rights and Novelties in ASUS”
• NCIMS – conducted an online survey, among ISM professionals & students to estimate number, types & status of
innovations in Ayush
- Patents granted – 115 | Applied for patents – 112 | Developed but not applied for patent – 183
• HQs of NCIMS – New Delhi | Chairperson – Vaidya Jayant Deopujari | Founded in – 2020
• HQs of AICTE – New Delhi | Chairman – T. G. Sitharam (AICTE functions under Ministry of Education)
• Minister of Education: Dharmendra Pradhan | Constituency – Sambalpur, Odisha
MoS in Ministry of Education: Jayant Chaudhary & Sukanta Majumdar

Ranks, Reports & Surveys

291. Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), along with the Tata Group and
Adar Poonawalla-led Serum Institute of India (SII), have been included in the 4th edition of
the “Times Magazine’s Global 100 Most Influential Companies of 2024”. TIME’s annual list
categorizes the top 100 companies into various categories, like Leaders, Disruptors,
Innovators, Titans, & Pioneers. Reliance and Tata Group have been placed in the ‘Titans’
category, while the Serum Institute of India has been chosen for the ‘Pioneers’ category. For Reliance, this marks its second
appearance in the TIME 100 list. TIME magazine described Reliance Industries as “India’s Juggernaut”. In addition to
Reliance, TIME acknowledged the Serum Institute of India as the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer. The full TIME 100
Companies list will be featured on June 10, 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• RIL + Tata Group + SII = included in the 4th edition of “Times Magazine’s Global 100 Most Influential Companies of 2024”
• RIL & Tata Group – placed in the ‘Titans’ category | SII – placed in the ‘Pioneers’ category

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292. London-based Anish Kapoor, one of the most influential

artists of his generation, has topped the 6th edition of “2024
Hurun India Art List” of most successful Indian artists. Issued by
Shanghai-based Hurun Research Institute, the list ranks the top
50 living Indian artists, according to the value of their works sold
in public auctions (as of January 1, 2024). Others names on the list include artist-pedagogue Gulammohammed Sheikh (rank
2) from Gujarat, Arpita Singh (rank 3) from Delhi, Rameshwar Broota (rank 4), and the 98-year-old modernist Krishen Khanna
(rank 5). Mumbai-born Anish Kapoor won the prestigious Turner Prize in 1991. He became the first living artist to have a
solo exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts in London in 2008, and was knighted in 2013 in recognition of his contribution
to arts in Britain. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 6th edition of “2024 Hurun India Art List” – issued by Hurun Research Institute (Shanghai)
• 1st – Anish Kapoor (London) | 2nd – Gulammohammed Sheikh (Gujarat) | 3rd – Arpita Singh (Delhi)
• Anish Kapoor – ‘Turner Prize’ in 1991 | 1st living artist to have solo exhibition at Royal Academy of Arts, London in 2008
• Anish Kapoor was knighted in 2013 in recognition of his contribution to arts in Britain

293. More than half of the world’s mangrove ecosystems are at risk of collapse, with
nearly one in five facing severe risk, according to the first global mangrove
assessment, titled “Red List of Mangrove Ecosystems”, released by International
Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Climate change threatens one-third (33%)
of the mangrove ecosystems. Deforestation, development, pollution and dam
construction also pose a serious threat to mangroves. This study classified the
world’s mangrove ecosystems in 36 different regions. IUCN led the work with active
involvement of more than 250 experts in 44 countries. Mangroves store around 11
billion tonnes of carbon, which is almost 3 times the amount of carbon stored by tropical forests of the same size. These
ecosystems protect 15.4 million people and $65 billion worth of property per year from coastal disasters. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 1st global mangrove assessment, “Red List of Mangrove Ecosystems” – released by IUCN
• More than half of world’s mangrove ecosystems are at risk of collapse, with nearly one in five facing severe risk
• Climate change – threatens one-third (33%) of mangrove ecosystems
- Other threats: deforestation, development, pollution & dam construction
• The assessment classified world’s mangrove ecosystems – in 36 different regions
• Mangroves – store around 11 billion tonnes of carbon (almost 3 times amount stored by tropical forests of same size)
• Mangroves protect 15.4 million people & $65 billion worth of property per year from coastal disasters
• HQs of IUCN – Gland, Switzerland | President – Razan Al Mubarak | CEO – Bruno Oberle | Founded in – 1948

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294. As per the “Times Higher Education’s (THE) Asia University Rankings 2024”
(12th edition), only one Indian varsity, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru,
featured in the top 100 list of top universities in Asia, compared to 4 universities in
the top 100 rankings last year. IISc Bengaluru is followed by Anna University (119),
Mahatma Gandhi University (134) and Jamia Millia Islamia (148). IISc has moved up
to 32nd spot this year as compared to 48th last year. In addition, there are 91 Indian universities in the ranking this year, up
from 75 last year, which means that India has the 2nd-highest number of universities in the rankings after Japan. The rankings
show that five Chinese universities list in the top 10 universities in Asia. China’s Tsinghua University topped the overall list,
followed by Peking University, China, & National University of Singapore. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 12th edition of “Asia University Rankings 2024” – by Times Higher Education
• 1st – Tsinghua University (China) | 2nd – Peking University (China) | 3rd – National University (Singapore)
• IISc Bengaluru – 32nd (from 48th in 2023) | It became only Indian university in top 100 list of top universities in Asia
• Other Indian universities in list:
- 119th – Anna University | 134th – Mahatma Gandhi University | 148th – Jamia Millia Islamia
• Highest no. of universities: 1st – Japan | 2nd – India (91)

295. According to the “Global Food Policy Report 2024: Food Systems
for Healthy Diets and Nutrition” released by International Food Policy
Research Institute (IFPRI), 16.6% of India’s population suffers from
malnutrition, as a result of poor diet. At least 38% of the Indian
population ate unhealthy foods, while only 28% ate all 5
recommended food groups, i.e., starchy staple food, vegetable, fruit,
pulse, nut or seed, and animal-source food. In India, the proportion of
the population suffering from malnutrition increased from 15.4% in 2011 to 16.6% by 2021. Co-authored by 41 researchers
representing IFPRI and several partner organisations, the report called for urgent and concerted efforts to transform global
food systems to ensure equitable access to sustainable, healthy diets for everyone. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Food Policy Report 2024: Food Systems for Healthy Diets and Nutrition” – released by IFPRI (US)
• 16.6% of India’s population suffers from malnutrition, as a result of poor diet
- 38% – ate unhealthy foods | 28% – ate all 5 recommended food groups
- Proportion of population suffering from malnutrition – increased to 16.6% by 2021 (from 15.4% in 2011)
• 5 recommended food groups – Starchy Staple Food, Vegetable, Fruit, Pulse, Nut Or Seed & Animal-source Food
• Some of the key information related to this report is also given below:

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296. Netherlands has emerged as India’s 3rd largest export destination after the US and UAE during 2023-24, according to
the Commerce Ministry data. Netherlands has taken over major destinations such as the UK, Hong Kong, Bangladesh and
Germany. India’s exports to the Netherlands rose by about 3.5% to $22.36 billion in 2023-24. Overall exports reached $778.2
billion in 2023-24, as compared to $776.4 billion in 2022-23. Netherlands is among the top trading partners of India in
Europe, after Germany, Switzerland, the U.K. and Belgium. India and the Netherlands established diplomatic relations in
1947. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Netherlands ($22.36 billion) – emerged as India’s 3rd largest export destination after the US & UAE during 2023-24
• Overall exports reached $778.2 billion in 2023-24 (from $776.4 billion in 2022-23)
• Netherlands – among top trading partners of India in Europe (after Germany, Switzerland, UK & Belgium)
• Netherlands – Amsterdam – Euro | PM – Mark Rutte

297. Billionaire Gautam Adani has reclaimed the title of Asia’s richest person, surpassing
Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, according to the “Bloomberg Billionaires
Index”. Gautam Adani, the Chairman of Adani Group, holds the 11th spot on the index with a
net worth of $111 billion, compared to Ambani’s $109 billion. The significant rise in Adani
Group stocks has been a key factor in Adani’s overtaking of Ambani. Currently, Bernard
Arnault is the richest person in the world with a net worth of $207 billion. He is followed by
Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos with total wealth of $203 billion and $199 billion respectively. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg
($166 billion) & Google Co-founder Larry Page ($153 billion). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Gautam Adani – reclaimed the title of Asia’s richest person in “Bloomberg Billionaires Index” | 2nd – Mukesh Ambani
• Richest person in the world:
- 1st – Bernard Arnault | 2nd – Elon Musk | 3rd – Jeff Bezos | 4th – Mark Zuckerberg | 5th – Larry Page

298. IIT Bombay has secured the top spot in India in the latest “QS World University
Rankings 2025” released on June 5, 2024. 61% of Indian universities have improved
their standings as compared to last year. IIT Bombay has risen from 149th in 2024 to
118th in the 2025 rankings, followed by IIT Delhi (150th) and IISc, Bengaluru (211th),
which are ranked 2nd and 3rd in India, respectively. While IIT Kharagpur (222nd) and IIT
Madras (227th) secured the 4th & 5th spots. Globally, the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology (MIT) has maintained its position as the best institute in the world for the 13th consecutive year, followed by the
UK’s Imperial College London at 2nd place. The 3rd rank is jointly held by Harvard University (US) and the University of Oxford
(UK). The University of Cambridge, however, has dropped from 2nd last year to 5th this time. India’s score for the proportion
of international students is mere 2.9, significantly below the global average of 26.5. Similarly, the average score for the
proportion of international faculty is 9.3. Additionally, India’s Faculty/Student ratio score of 16.2 is considerably lower than
the global average of 28.1. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “QS World University Rankings 2025” – IIT Bombay secured top spot in India with 118th rank
• Other Indian universities: 150th – IIT Delhi | 211th – IISc, Bengaluru | 222nd – IIT Kharagpur | 227th – IIT Madras
• Globally: 1st – MIT (13th time) | 2nd – Imperial College London | 3rd – Harvard University (US) & University of Oxford (UK)
• India’s score for proportion of international students – 2.9 (global average - 26.5)
• India’s Faculty/Student ratio score – 16.2 (global average - 28.1)
• HQs of QS – London, UK | CEO – Jessica Turner | Founded in 1990

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299. Data sourced from the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal
(NCRP) revealed that a total of 5.5 lakh mobile numbers were found
involved in cyber-crime across India from January 1 to April 30 this
year, out of which 1.1 lakh mobile numbers were blocked. Haryana
Police topped the charts across the country in blocking cellphone
numbers allegedly involved in cyber fraud in the first four months of
this year. More than 1.1 lakh numbers were blocked in the state within 24 hours of receiving a complaint on 1930, the
national cybercrime helpline operated by Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C). Haryana was followed by Rajasthan,
Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat & Delhi. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• According to data from National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP):
• 5.5 lakh mobile numbers – found involved in cyber-crime across India from Jan 1 to April 30, 2024
• 1.1 lakh mobile numbers were blocked
• Haryana Police – topped in blocking highest mobile numbers involved in cyber fraud during this period
- Haryana was followed by Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat & Delhi
• 1930 – National Cybercrime Helpline (operated by I4C)

300. The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has released the “Second Advance Estimates of 2023-24 of Area
and Production of various Horticultural Crops” compiled on the basis of information received from States/ UTs and other
Governmental source agencies. The horticulture production in India in 2023-24 (Second Advance Estimates) is estimated to
be about 352.23 Million Tonnes, decrease of about 32.51 Lakh Tonnes (0.91%). Increase in production of Fruits, Honey,
Flowers, Plantation Crops, Spices and Aromatics & Medicinal Plants is seen over 2023-24 (Final Estimates) whereas decrease
in Vegetables. The horticulture production in India in 2023-24 (First Advance Estimates) was estimated at 355.25 Million
Tonnes. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• DA&FW – released “Second Advance Estimates of 2023-24 of Area and Production of various Horticultural Crops”
• Horticulture production Advance Estimates in India in FY24: Second – 352.23 MTs (First - 355.25 MTs)
• Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare: Arjun Munda | Constituency – Khunti, Jharkhand
MoS in Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare: Shobha Karandlaje & Kailash Choudhary

301. The number of High Net-worth Individuals (HNWI) in India increased by 12.2% in 2023 compared to 2022, bringing the
total number of HNWI population to 3.589 million, as per the Capgemini Research Institute’s “World Wealth Report 2024”.
The financial wealth of India’s HNWIs increased by 12.4% in 2023 to $1,445.7 billion. Among the best performers in the
APAC region were India and Australia, which recorded HNWI wealth growth of 12.4% and 7.9%, and HNWI population growth
of 12.2% and 7.8%, respectively. A resilient economy and robust performance of the equity markets drove wealth growth in
both of these countries. Asia-Pacific experienced 4.2% HNWI wealth growth and a 4.8% rise in the HNWI population. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• “World Wealth Report 2024” – released by Capgemini Research Institute (Paris, France)
• The number of HNWI in India increased by 12.2% in 2023, bringing the total number of HNWI population to 3.589 million
• The financial wealth of India’s HNWIs increased by 12.4% in 2023 to $1,445.7 billion
• Among the best performers in the APAC region were – India & Australia
• Asia-Pacific experienced 4.2% HNWI wealth growth and a 4.8% rise in the HNWI population

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302. According to the report titled “A World of Debt 2024: A Growing Burden
to Global Prosperity” released by the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD),
the level of public debt has not just reached a historic level but also threatens
countries’ development spending, particularly among developing and poor
countries. Global public debt (both domestic and external borrowing by
governments) reported a steep hike at $97 trillion in 2023, an increase of $5.6
trillion over 2022. Developing countries share 30% of the total global debt.
According to the Institute of International Finance, global debt (including
borrowings of households, businesses and governments) has reached $315
trillion in 2024. Of the total global debt, household debt stands at $59.1 trillion;
business debt at $164.5 trillion; and public debt (governments’ borrowing) at $91.4 trillion. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “A World of Debt 2024: A Growing Burden to Global Prosperity” report – released by UNCTAD
• As per the report:
- Global public debt reported a steep hike at $97 trillion in 2023 (an increase of $5.6 trillion over 2022)
- Developing countries share 30% of the total global debt
• As per the Institute of International Finance:
- Global debt (including borrowings of households, businesses & governments) reached $315 trillion in 2024
- Household debt - $59.1 trillion | Business debt - $164.5 trillion | Public debt - $91.4 trillion
• HQs of UNCTAD – Geneva, Switzerland | Secretary-General – Rebeca Grynspan | Established in – 1964

303. Visakhapatnam Port in Andhra Pradesh is the only Indian Port to be featured into
the Top 20 rankings in the 4th edition of “Container Port Performance Index 2023 (CPPI
2023)”, released by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence. Visakhapatnam
Port or Visakha Container Terminal Pvt Ltd, a wholly owned unit of J M Baxi Ports &
Logistics, was ranked 19 in the medium ports category, higher than Mundra Port which
ranked 27 in the large ports category. Other Indian ports in Top 50 are Pipavav Port
(Gujarat) at 41st place & Kamarajar Port (Tamil Nadu) at 47th place. Total 9 Indian ports have made it to the global top 100.
The Index is a comparable assessment of performance based on vessel time in port. Visakha Container Terminal Pvt Ltd runs
a 1.35 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs) capacity terminal at Visakhapatnam Port on the country’s eastern coast. The
Index covered ports that had a minimum of 24 valid port calls within the 12-month period of the study. China’s Yangshan
Port clinched the top spot for the second consecutive year, while Oman’s Port of Salalah retained the number two position,
followed by Port of Cartagena in Columbia at third position. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 4th edition of “Container Port Performance Index 2023 (CPPI 2023)” by = World Bank + S&P Global Market Intelligence
• Visakhapatnam Port (AP) – the only Indian Port to be featured into the Top 20 rankings (19th rank)
• Visakhapatnam Port or Visakha Container Terminal Pvt Ltd – a wholly owned unit of J M Baxi Ports & Logistics
• Other Indian ports among Top 50:
- 27th – Mundra Port (Gujarat) | 41st – Pipavav Port (Gujarat) | 47th – Kamarajar Port (Tamil Nadu)
• Total 9 Indian ports have made it to the global top 100
• Globally: 1st – Yangshan Port (China) | 2nd – Port of Salalah (Oman) | 3rd – Port of Cartagena (Columbia)
• The Index covered ports that had a minimum of 24 valid port calls within the 12-month period of the study

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304. India has slipped two places on the World Economic Forum’s
(WEF) “Global Gender Gap Index” to 129th place, while Iceland
retained its top position in the rankings. Within South Asia, India
was ranked 5th after Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan,
while Pakistan was ranked last. Iceland was followed by Finland,
Norway, New Zealand and Sweden in the top five. The U.K. was
ranked 14th, while the USA was at 43rd place. Globally, Sudan was
ranked last on the index of 146 countries, while Pakistan slipped
three places to 145th. India figured among the economies with the
lowest levels of economic parity, alongside Bangladesh, Sudan,
Iran, Pakistan, and Morocco. However, India showed the best
gender parity in terms of enrolment in secondary education. India
has closed 64.1% of its gender gap in 2024 and the decline of two
places from 127th last year mainly happened due to small declines
in ‘Educational Attainment’ and ‘Political Empowerment,’ parameters. The world has closed 68.5% of the gender gap, but
at the current pace it will take another 134 years to achieve full gender parity. The Global Gender Gap Index annually
benchmarks the current state and evolution of gender parity across 4 key dimensions: Economic Participation &
Opportunity, Educational Attainment, Health & Survival, and Political Empowerment. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Gender Gap Index” – released by World Economic Forum | India – 129th (from 127th in 2023)
• 1st – Iceland | 2nd – Finland | 3rd – Norway | 4th – New Zealand | 5th – Sweden | 146th (last) – Sudan & 145th – Pak
• In South Asia: India – 5th | After – Bangladesh, Sudan, Iran, Pakistan, & Morocco | Last – Pakistan
• Closing of gender gap in 2024: India – 64.1% | Globally – 68.5% (134 years to achieve full gender parity)
• HQs of WEF – Cologny, Switzerland | Exe. Chairman – Klaus Schwab | President – Borge Brende | Founded – 1971

305. Around 46% of rural and 53% of urban individuals in India availed of Ayush for the prevention or
treatment of ailments in the past year, according to findings of a survey released by the Ministry of
Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). Ayush refers to the 6 Indian systems of medicines
- Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homeopathy. Among systems of
Ayush, Ayurveda is the most commonly used system for treatment. The survey states that about 95%
of the rural population aged 15 years and above in India are aware of Ayush, whereas the number
stands at 96% for urban India. The findings are a part of the first exclusive all-India survey on Ayush
conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) from July 2022 to June 2023, as part of the
79th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• According to findings of a survey released by MoSPI:
• Around 46% of rural & 53% of urban individuals in India availed of Ayush for prevention or treatment of ailments in 2023
• 6 Indian systems of medicines: Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa & Homeopathy
• Ayurveda – most commonly used system for treatment among all systems of Ayush
• Population aged 15 years & above in India aware of Ayush: Rural – 95% | Urban – 96%
• MoS (I/C) in Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation: Rao Inderjit Singh | Constituency – Gurgaon, Haryana

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306. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is the most valuable Indian brand, ranked
46th globally, followed by HDFC Bank at 47th, Airtel at 73rd, and Infosys at 74th,
according to “Kantar BrandZ Most Valuable Global Brands” report. TCS’ brand
value grew by 7% in a year to $44.79 billion, HDFC Bank at $43.3 billion, Airtel
at $25.3 billion, while the brand value of Infosys is pegged at $24.68 billion. For
the third year running, Apple topped the list as the world’s most valuable
brand. Apple has become the first brand to cross $1 trillion in brand value, a
15% jump from last year. Google is 2nd on the list with a total brand value of
around $753.5 billion. Bill Gates-backed Microsoft occupies the 3rd position
and has a brand value of $712.9 billion. They are followed by Amazon ($576.6
billion) and McDonald’s ($221.9 billion) in 4th and 5th positions respectively. NVIDIA leapt 18 places and has the highest brand
value increase of 178% this time. It has been placed at the 6th spot with a total brand value of around $201.8 billion. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• “Kantar BrandZ Most Valuable Global Brands” report:
• Most valuable brands in India: 46th – TCS ($44.79 bn) | 47th – HDFC Bank | 73rd – Airtel | 74th – Infosys
• World’s most valuable brands: 1st – Apple ($1 tn) | 2nd – Google ($753.5 bn) | 3rd – Microsoft ($712.9 bn)
• Highest brand value increase – NVIDIA (178%)

307. Globally, 27% of children are living in severe child food poverty in early
childhood, which amounts to 181 million children under the age of 5, according to
the 2024 Child Nutrition Report titled “Child Food Poverty: Nutrition Deprivation
in Early Childhood” released by the UNICEF. Of the 181 million children, 65% of
affected children live in 20 countries (including India), with high numbers in South
Asia (around 64 million). 9 out of 10 children in the Gaza Strip, which has been
pounded by an Israeli offensive since last October, are suffering from severe food poverty, meaning that they are surviving
on two or fewer food groups per day. In Somalia, 63% of children are living in severe child food poverty. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Child Food Poverty: Nutrition Deprivation in Early Childhood” report – released by UNICEF
• Globally, 27% (181 million) of children (below 5 years) – living in severe child food poverty in early childhood
- 65% of them live in 20 countries (including India), with high numbers in South Asia (around 64 million)
• 9 out of 10 children in the Gaza Strip are suffering from severe food poverty
• In Somalia, 63% of children are living in severe child food poverty
• HQs of UNICEF – New York, US | Executive Director – Catherine Russell | Established in – 1946

308. According to 2024 edition of the “State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA)” report released by the Food and
Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), global fisheries and aquaculture production surged to 223.2 million
tonnes, a 4.4% increase from 2020. In terms of aquatic animal production, aquaculture surpassed capture fisheries for the
first time with 94.4 million tonnes or 51% of the world total. Global apparent consumption of aquatic animal foods reached
165 million tonnes in 2022. India is among the top 10 countries (China, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, the
Philippines, Republic of Korea, Norway, Egypt & Chile) that dominated aquaculture and produced over 89.8% of the total.
{Read more}

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Smart Points:
• 2024 edition of “State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA)” report – released by FAO
• Global fisheries & aquaculture production – surged to 223.2 million tonnes (4.4% increase from 2020)
• In terms of aquatic animal production – aquaculture surpassed capture fisheries for 94.4 million tonnes (51%)
• Global apparent consumption of aquatic animal foods in 2022 – 165 million tonnes
• Top 10 countries that dominated aquaculture & produced over 89.8% of total:
- China, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Republic of Korea, Norway, Egypt & Chile
• HQs of FAO – Rome, Italy | DG – QU Dongyu | Founded in – 1945

309. Households across the India’s rural and urban areas spent the highest share of
consumption expenditure on ‘beverages, refreshments and processed food’ among
food items in 2022-23, according to the “Household Consumption Expenditure Survey
(HCES) 2022-23” released by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
(MoSPI). HCES is conducted by the National Statistical Office (NSO) every 5 years. In
rural India, where food accounted for about 46% of the households’ consumption
spending, the contribution of ‘beverages, refreshments and processed food’ has been
the highest (9.62%), followed by milk and milk products (8.33%) and vegetables (5.38%). In urban India, the share of food in
average monthly per capita consumption expenditure (MPCE) in 2022-23 was about 39%. Urban India also recorded the
highest consumption spending on ‘beverages, refreshments and processed food’ with 10.64% share, followed by milk & milk
products at 7.22% and fruits and vegetables, each having a share of 3.8%. In rural areas among all major states, the
households of Haryana spent the maximum on ‘milk and milk products’ at 41.7% as a percentage of total expenditure on
food, while Kerala spent the most on ‘egg, fish & meat’ at 23.5%. The non-food spending in monthly per capita expenditure
in rural areas increased to 53.62% in 2022-23. In urban areas, the share of non-food items in total expenditure was even
higher than rural areas at 60.83% in 2022-23. Medical expenses, which accounted for 13.3% of the consumption expenditure
among non-food items in rural areas, were seen to be the highest in Kerala (17.9%). In urban India, West Bengal (15%) had
the highest medical expenditure. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022-23” – released by MoSPI
• Highest share of consumption expenditure by Indian households – beverages, refreshments & processed food in FY23
• HCES – is conducted in every 5 years by – National Statistical Office (NSO)
• Households’ consumption spending on food: Rural – 46% | Urban – 39%
- Beverages, refreshments & processed food: Rural – 9.62% | Urban – 10.64%
- Milk & milk products: Rural – 8.33% | Urban – 7.22%
- Vegetables: Rural – 5.38% | Urban – 3.8%
• Max spending on: ‘milk & milk products’ – Haryana (41.7%) | ‘egg, fish & meat’ – Kerala (23.5%)
• Non-food spending in monthly per capita expenditure increase in 2022-23: Rural – 53.62% | Urban – 60.83%
• Highest medical expenses: Rural – Kerala (17.9%) | Urban – West Bengal (15%)
- Medical expenses – accounted for 13.3% of consumption expenditure among non-food items
• HQs of NSO – New Delhi | Chairperson – Bimal Kumar Roy
• MoS (I/C) in Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation: Rao Inderjit Singh | Constituency – Gurgaon, Haryana

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310. 10 Indian startups including Pixxel, Niramai and Sarvam AI have made to the “Technology Pioneers 2024” list published
by the World Economic Forum (WEF). The list has total 100 leading tech startups which are focused on applying new
breakthroughs in AI to develop clean energy solutions, healthcare innovation and progress in biotech, space and
neurotechnology. Niramai is developing a novel AI-based test for detecting early-stage breast cancer, which is affordable,
portable and non-invasive. Pixxel is developing hyperspectral satellite imagery to capture geospatial data, while Sarvam AI
is building foundation AI models and platforms for their use with a focus on Indian languages and use cases. Other Indian
names like Amperehour, Cropin, Entri, and Hyderabad’s education technology startup, NxtWave, are making significant
strides in renewable energy and farm management solutions. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Technology Pioneers 2024” list – published by WEF
• 10 Indian startups including – Pixxel, Niramai, Sarvam AI, Amperehour, Cropin, NxtWave, & Entri – have made to this list
- Niramai – developing a novel AI-based test for detecting early-stage breast cancer
- Pixxel – developing hyperspectral satellite imagery to capture geospatial data
- Sarvam AI – building foundation AI models & platforms for their use with a focus on Indian languages & use cases
• HQs of WEF – Cologny, Switzerland | Exe. Chairman – Klaus Schwab | President – Borge Brende | Founded – 1971

311. Globally, investment in clean energy technologies will climb to $2 trillion in 2024, according to the International Energy
Agency’s report titled, “World Energy Investment Report 2024”. Two-thirds of the record $3 trillion invested in energy
sources in 2024 will be devoted to sectors such as renewables, electric vehicles, nuclear power, grids, storage and efficiency.
The remaining $1 trillion will go to coal, gas and oil. Solar power is leading power sector’s transformation, with investment
in the area set to reach $500 billion in 2024. Investment in new oil and gas supplies will increase by 7% this year to $570
billion. China will account for the largest share of clean energy investment, with around $675 billion in 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “World Energy Investment Report 2024” report – released by International Energy Agency
• As per the report:
- Investment in clean energy technologies will climb to $2 trillion globally (out of $3 trillion)
- $1 trillion will go to coal, gas & oil (out of $3 trillion)
- Solar power is leading power sector’s transformation, with investment in the area set to reach $500 billion in 2024
- Investment in new oil & gas supplies will increase by 7% this year to $570 billion
- China will account for the largest share of clean energy investment in 2024 (around $675 billion)
• HQs of IEA – Paris, France | Executive Director – Dr. Fatih Birol | Member countries – 30

312. Mumbai and Delhi were among the Top 5 global cities that
recorded an increase in their average annual house prices, while
Bengaluru witnessed a slight drop in prime residential or luxury
homes in the “Prime Global Cities Index January-March 2024”
published by Knight Frank. Mumbai, with a rise of 11.5% in the
index, recorded the 3rd highest year-on-year (YoY) growth in prime
residential prices in the January-March quarter among global cities. Delhi which witnessed a rise of 10.5% in house prices
during the quarter was at the 5th position. However, Bengaluru observed a decline in ranking from 16th place to 17th rank
even while it recorded a 4.8% YoY growth in residential prices. Manila was at the top with a rise of 26.2% and Tokyo came
second with a rise of 12.5%. While, Perth in Australia stood 4th with a rise of 11.1%. The rise in global prime residential price
index was recorded at 4.1% across the 44 markets in the 12-month period ending March 2024. Shishir Baijal is the Chairman
and MD of Knight Frank India. {Read more}

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313. The Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) has released an annual
“Global Peace Index 2024” that provides a comprehensive framework for
evaluating the peacefulness of nations. It assesses the level of
peacefulness in 163 countries and territories around the world. India is
ranked 116th with 2.319 score, up from 126th rank previous year. Iceland
topped the index with 1.112 score, followed by Ireland, Austria, New
Zealand, & Singapore. Iceland has maintained its position as the most
peaceful country for the 17th consecutive year. The Global Peace Index
(GPI) measures the state of peace across 3 key domains: Social safety and
security, Ongoing domestic and international conflict, and Militarisation. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Peace Index 2024” – released by Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP)
• India – 116th with 2.319 score (from 126th in 2023) | Top 5: Iceland, Ireland, Austria, New Zealand & Singapore
• Iceland – topped for 17th consecutive year
• 3 domains to measure the index: Social safety & security, Ongoing domestic & international conflict & Militarisation
• HQs of IEP – Sydney, Australia | Exe. Chairman – Stephen Killelea AM | Founded in – 2007

314. India is the world’s second largest source of nitrous oxide (N2O), a greenhouse gas that heats up the atmosphere far
more than carbon dioxide. The top five country emitters by volume of anthropogenic N2O emissions in 2020 were China
(16.7%), India (10.9%), the United States (5.7%), Brazil (5.3%), and Russia (4.6%). The major source of these emissions comes
from fertiliser usage, according to the global assessment of N2O emissions, “Global Nitrous Oxide Budget 2024”, published
in the journal Earth System Science Data. The concentration of atmospheric N2O reached 336 parts per billion in 2022 or
about 25% above the levels seen before the industrial age. In comparison, the concentration of carbon dioxide was 417
parts per million in 2022. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Nitrous Oxide Budget 2024” (global assessment of N2O emissions) – published in Earth System Science Data
• Top 5 N2O emissions emitters by volume in 2020:
- 1st – China (16.7%) | 2nd – India (10.9%) | 3rd – US (5.7%) | 4th – Brazil (5.3%) | 5th – Russia (4.6%)
• Major source of these emissions – Fertilizer usage
• Concentration of atmospheric gases in 2022: N2O – 336 parts per billion | CO2 – 417 parts per billion

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315. The “Environmental Performance Index of 2024” has positioned India at 176th spot with score of 27.6, a marginal
improvement from the EPI 2022 that placed India at the bottom (180th position) of the chart. Prepared by researchers at
Yale and Columbia universities, the EPI chronicles 180 nations’ performance on multiple green parameters. The four
countries that perform worse than India in the 2024 index are Myanmar, Laos, Pakistan and Vietnam. Estonia leads this
year’s rankings with a 40% drop in greenhouse gas emissions over the last decade. Estonia, with score of 75.3, is followed
by Luxembourg (75), Germany (74.6), Finland (73.7) & UK (72.7). The report shows that only 5 countries - Estonia, Finland,
Greece, Timor-Leste, and the United Kingdom - have cut their GHG emissions at the rate needed to reach net zero by 2050.
In South Asia, India is identified as the largest emitter of transboundary pollution. The EPI team transforms the raw
environmental data into indicators that place countries on a 0-100 scale from worst to best performance. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Environmental Performance Index of 2024” – prepared by researchers at Yale & Columbia universities
• India – 176th, scoring 27.6 (from 180th in 2022) | Countries worse than India – Myanmar, Laos, Pakistan & Vietnam
• Top 5: 1st – Estonia (75.3) | 2nd – Luxembourg (75) | 3rd – Germany (74.6) | 4th – Finland (73.7) | 5th – UK (72.7)
• Estonia, Finland, Greece, Timor-Leste & UK – have cut their GHG emissions at the rate needed to reach net zero by 2050
• India – identified as largest emitter of transboundary pollution in South Asia

316. The number of people forcibly displaced stood at a record 117.3 million as of the end of 2023, as per the report titled
“Global Trends Forced Displacement in 2023” released by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The UNHCR
estimates that forced displacement has continued to increase in the first 4 months of 2024, and that the number of those
displaced is likely to have exceeded 120 million by the end of April 2024. In Gaza, Israel’s bombardment and ground
campaign have caused around 1.7 million people - nearly 80% of the Palestinian enclave’s population - to become internally
displaced. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Trends Forced Displacement in 2023” – released by UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
• No. of people forcibly displaced by end of 2023 – 117.3 million
• No. of those displaced will exceed 120 million by the end of April 2024
• Israel’s bombardment & ground campaign – caused 1.7 mn people (80%) of Palestine in Gaza
• HQs of UNHCR – Geneva, Switzerland | Head – Filippo Grandi | Founded in – 1950

317. India has been ranked 63rd out of 120 countries on a “Global Energy Transition
Index 2024” published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) in association with
Accenture. Last year, India was ranked 67th. European nations dominated the top ranks
with Sweden topping the index, followed by Denmark, Finland, Switzerland and France
in the top 5. China was ranked 20th. In India, renewable energy and biomass comprise
42% of its power generation capacity, making it the 4th-largest renewables market
globally. India’s per capita emissions, at 1.7 tonnes of CO2, are already 60% lower than
the global average of 4.4 tonnes of CO2 per capita. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Energy Transition Index 2024” – published by World Economic Forum (WEF) & Accenture
• India – 63rd (from 67th in 2023) | 1st – Sweden | 2nd – Denmark | 3rd – Finland | 4th – Switzerland | 5th – France
• China – 20th
• India – 4th largest renewables market globally (RE & biomass comprise 42% of power generation capacity)

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318. Cricketer Virat Kohli has reclaimed the top position in brand value, now reaching
$227.9 million, surpassing Bollywood star Ranveer Singh, who holds the 2nd spot with
$203.1 million, according to Kroll’s “Celebrity Brand Valuation Report 2023: Brands,
Business, Bollywood”. Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan has claimed the 3rd position with a
brand value of $120.7 million. Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar has slipped to 4th place this year
with a brand value of $111.7 million, and Alia Bhatt has moved up to 5th place with a brand
value of $101.1 million. The report ranks India’s most influential celebrity brands by
assessing their brand values derived from endorsements and social media presence. The
combined brand value of the top 25 Indian celebrities reached $1.9 billion in 2023. The
top-three brands with the most digital platform advertisements are - Pepsi, endorsed by
Ranveer Singh; Livspace, endorsed by Anushka Sharma & Virat Kohli; and JioCinema, endorsed by Alia Bhatt, MS Dhoni, &
Sachin Tendulkar. The market size of the digital media segment is expected to reach $10.3 billion in 2025 from $6.8 billion
in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 14.7% over 2022-2025. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Celebrity Brand Valuation Report 2023: Brands, Business, Bollywood” – released by Kroll
• Top – Virat Kohli ($227.9 mn) | 2nd – Ranveer Singh ($203.1 mn) | 3rd – Shah Rukh Khan ($120.7 mn)
• 4th – Akshay Kumar ($111.7 mn) | 5th – Alia Bhatt ($101.1 mn)
• Combined brand value of top 25 Indian celebrities in 2023 – $1.9 billion
• Top 3 brands with most digital platform advertisements:
- Pepsi (endorsed by Ranveer Singh)
- Livspace (endorsed by Anushka Sharma & Virat Kohli)
- JioCinema (endorsed by Alia Bhatt, MS Dhoni & Sachin Tendulkar)
• Market size of digital media segment – expected to reach $10.3 billion in 2025 (CAGR of 14.7% over 2022-2025)

319. India contributes only 1% to the global antibacterial research and development (R&D) pipeline, according to the annual
report, titled “2023 Antibacterial Agents in Clinical and Preclinical Development: An Overview and Analysis” released by the
World Health Organization (WHO). The report was first introduced in 2017. The WHO highlighted that 84% of antibacterial
R&D is concentrated in high-income countries, with another 12% in upper-middle-income economies, and only 4% in lower-
middle-income countries. China and the Russian Federation contribute 3% and 2%, respectively, slightly outpacing India and
South Africa, each contributing 1%. The current pipeline includes 97 antibacterial agents, up from 80 in 2021, but only 12
are considered innovative, and 4 target WHO’s ‘critical’ priority pathogens. While the number of antibacterial agents in
clinical development has risen from 80 in 2021 to 97 in 2023. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2023 Antibacterial Agents in Clinical and Preclinical Development: An Overview and Analysis” – released by WHO
• India contributes only 1% to the global antibacterial R&D pipeline (China - 3%, Russia - 2%, South Africa - 1%)
• 84% of antibacterial R&D is concentrated in high-income countries, 12% in upper-middle-income economies, & only 4%
in lower-middle-income countries
• The current pipeline includes 97 antibacterial agents (up from 80 in 2021)

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320. According to data from the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA),
Visakhapatnam Port has emerged as the leading port dealing in marine products shipments
in the country by handling 3,14,199 tonnes in FY24 valued at ₹17,983.99 crore ($2,194
million). Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), which handled 2,40,253 tonnes valued at
₹6,395.70 crore ($779.49 million), was in the second position. Cochin Port was placed third,
handling 1,81,400 tonnes valued at ₹6,120 crore ($746.43 million). Chennai (1,01903
tonnes) and Kolkata (94,559 tonnes) ports made up the top five, with shipments valued at ₹4,655 crore and ₹4,452 crore,
respectively. India exported 17,81,602 tonnes of seafood worth ₹60,523.89 crore during FY24, which was an all-time high
volume. India exported marine products to 132 countries, with the US and China emerging as the major importers. Frozen
shrimp continued to be the major export item. Andhra Pradesh is the major shrimp producing region. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• As per data from the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA):
• Leading port dealing in marine products in India in FY24: Visakhapatnam Port (3,14,199 tonnes)
- 2nd – JNPA (2,40,253 tonnes) | 3rd – Cochin Port (1,81,400 tonnes)
- 4th – Chennai (1,01903 tonnes) | 5th – Kolkata (94,559 tonnes)
• Seafood exported by India in FY24 – 17,81,602 tonnes worth ₹60,523.89 Cr | Major export item – Frozen shrimp
• India exported marine products to – 132 countries | Major importers – US & China
• Major shrimp producing region in India – Andhra Pradesh
• HQs of MPEDA – Kochi, Kerala | Chairman – D. V. Swamy | Founded in – 1972

321. The highest number of complaints received by the National Commission for Women (NCW), till May 2024, has been
from Uttar Pradesh. Of the total 12,648 complaints received by the NCW till now in 2024, 6,492 were from Uttar Pradesh.
Delhi was a distant second with 1,119 complaints, followed by Maharashtra with 764 complaints. Category-wise, the highest
number of 3,567 complaints were received in the ‘right to dignity’ category that involves harassment other than domestic
violence, followed by 3,213 complaints of domestic violence and dowry harassment stood at 1,963. In 2023, a total of 28,811
complaints related to women were registered by the NCW. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Uttar Pradesh – made highest number of complaints to NCW till May 2024 (6,492 out of 12,648)
- 2nd – Delhi (1,119) | 3rd – Maharashtra (764)
• Highest number of complaints (Category-wise): 1st – Right to dignity (3,567) | 2nd – Domestic violence (3,213) | 3rd –
Dowry (1,963)
• NCW registered a total of 28,811 complaints related to women in 2023
• HQs of NCW – New Delhi | Chairperson – Rekha Sharma | Founded in – 1992

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322. The world is significantly behind the schedule in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United
Nations in 2015, according the 9th edition of the “Sustainable Development Report (SDR)” released by the UN Sustainable
Development Solutions Network (SDSN). These SDGs were intended to be achieved by 2030. As per the report, none of the
17 SDGs is on track to be achieved by 2030. Only 16% of SDG targets are progressing well, with the rest of 84% showing
limited progress or even regression. The situation is particularly concerning for Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Sustainable Cities and
Communities (SDG 11), Life Below Water (SDG 14), Life on Land (SDG 15), and Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG
16). The report introduced a new index of countries’ support for UN-based multilateralism. The index revealed a clear
correlation between a country’s commitment to global cooperation and its progress on SDGs. Barbados leads the list, with
the United States ranking last. Following Barbados in the top five are Antigua and Barbuda, Uruguay, Mauritius, and the
Maldives. As in previous years, European countries topped the ‘2024 SDG Index’. Finland is ranked first, followed by Sweden,
Denmark, Germany, and France. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 9th edition of “Sustainable Development Report (SDR)” – released by UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network
• World is significantly behind schedule in achieving SDGs, intended to be achieved by 2030 (set by UN in 2015)
• Only 16% of SDG targets are progressing well, while the rest 84% are showing limited progress or regression
• Particularly concerning situation for: Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Sustainable Cities & Communities (SDG 11), Life Below Water
(SDG 14), Life on Land (SDG 15) & Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16)
• This report introduced a new index of countries’ support for UN-based multilateralism:
- Top 5 – Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, Uruguay, Mauritius & the Maldives | Last – US
• Top 5 in ‘2024 SDG Index’ – Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany & France

323. With 172 nuclear weapons, India is now ahead of Pakistan in the ranking of
nuclear-armed countries across the world published by the Stockholm
International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). India’s nuclear arsenal has seen a
slight expansion, growing from 164 warheads in January 2023 to 172 warheads by
January 2024, placing it 6th among the world’s nuclear-armed states. Pakistan,
meanwhile, has recorded no increase in the number of warheads which stood at
170. China’s nuclear arsenal has increased significantly from 410 warheads in
January 2023 to 500 by January 2024. China stands 3rd after Russia (4380) and the
US (3708). France (290) and UK (225) stand on 4th & 5th positions. India is followed by Pakistan (170) and Israel (90) at 7th &
8th places. Approximately 2,100 of the deployed warheads are on high operational alert, primarily held by Russia and the
USA, with China believed to have joined this category for the first time. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Rankings of Nuclear-armed Countries across World – published by SIPRI
• India – 6th (172 warheads by Jan 2024) | 7th – Pakistan (170) | 8th – Israel (90)
• Top countries: 1st – Russia (4380) | 2nd – US (3708) | 3rd – China (500) | 4th – France (290) | 5th – UK (225)
• HQs of SIPRI – Stockholm, Sweden | Chair – Jan Eliasson

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324. India slipped 7 ranks to 15th in the World Investment Ranking in 2023 as foreign direct investment inflows fell 43% to
$28 billion, amid a global decline of 2%, according to a “World Investment Report 2024” released by the United Nations
Conference of Trade and Development (UNCTAD). India was ranked 8th last year, and attracted inflows worth $48 billion.
This year, the top 4 countries unchanged with the US attracting highest FDI at $311 billion, followed by China, Singapore and
Hong Kong. While, Brazil moved up to the 5th place. India ranked 2nd in international project deals securing 163 deals in 2023,
topped only by the US at 334. In terms of greenfield projects, India was ranked 4th with 1,058 projects, after the US, the UAE
and the UK. As per data released by the DPIIT, India’s FDI equity inflows dropped 3.5% between FY23 and FY24. Moreover,
Bangladesh, China, India, Singapore and Thailand released policies to support the banking industry in integrating sustainable
development considerations into operations, covering sustainable deposits, sustainable loans & green credits. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “World Investment Report 2024” – released by UNCTAD
• India slipped 7 ranks to 15th in the World Investment Ranking in 2023 (from 8th last year)
• India’s foreign direct investment inflows fell 43% to $28 billion (global decline - 2%)
• Top 5 countries with highest foreign direct investment inflows: US ($311 billion), China, Singapore, Hong Kong & Brazil
• India’s ranks in various parameters:
- 2nd in terms of international project deals
- 4th in terms of greenfield projects
• DPIIT: India’s FDI equity inflows dropped 3.5% between FY23 & FY24
• Bangladesh, China, India, Singapore & Thailand – released policies to support the banking industry in integrating
sustainable development considerations into operations
• HQs of UNCTAD – Geneva, Switzerland | Secretary-General – Rebeca Grynspan | Established in – 1964

325. The Hurun Research Institute and ASK Private Wealth have released the “ASK Private Wealth Hurun India Future
Unicorn Index 2024” that stated India is currently home to 67 unicorns, 46 gazelles, and 106 cheetahs, as against 68 unicorns,
51 gazelles, and 96 cheetahs in the 2023 index. There are 38 new entrants (7 gazelles & 31 Cheetahs) in this year’s list. While,
25 future Unicorns (5 Gazelles & 20 Cheetahs) were dropped from the list. Only 3 start-ups from the 2023 Index were
promoted to Unicorns, including Zepto, InCred Finance, and Porter. Porter has skipped Gazelle stage and directly entered
into Unicorn club. Peak XV partners, which has invested in 47 probable unicorns, is the most active investor in 2024 list.
India’s future unicorns are currently worth $58 billion, with an increase of 1.8% as compared to the last year. In 2024 index,
Bengaluru registered the highest number of unicorns at 46, followed by Delhi (29), Mumbai (19), Chennai (8) & Pune (4).
Maximum unicorns were registered in FinTech sector at 30, followed by SaaS (20), E-commerce (15), A.I. (11) & EdTech (11).
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Future Unicorn Index 2024” published by = Hurun Research Institute + ASK Private Wealth
• India is currently home to 67 unicorns, 46 gazelles, & 106 cheetahs (38 new entrants in 2024 list & 25 were dropped)
• Only 3 start-ups from the 2023 Index were promoted to Unicorns – Zepto, InCred Finance, & Porter
• Most active investor in 2024 list – Peak XV partners (invested in 47 probable unicorns)
• India’s future unicorns are currently worth $58 billion (increase of 1.8%)
• Bengaluru – registered the highest number of unicorns at 46 | Followed by – Delhi (29) & Mumbai (19)
• FinTech sector – registered the highest number of unicorns at 30 | Followed by – SaaS (20) & E-commerce (15)
• The index classified companies into 3 categories:
- Unicorns – those founded after 2000 & valued at least $1 billion

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326. About 40% of the elderly don’t have any source of income, reveals HelpAge India’s report titled “Aging in India:
Exploring Preparedness and Response to Care Challenges”. This fact was highlighted at an event held at the Social Work
department, Lucknow University and jointly organised by HelpAge India on the eve of ‘World Elder Abuse Awareness Day’
(June 15). The study was conducted in 20 Tier I and Tier II cities across 10 states. It surveyed 5,169 elderly and 1,333 primary
family members of the caregiver. The survey was conducted among SEC B and C categories (socio-economic classes).
Majority of elderly persons (79%) visited government hospitals/clinics/PHCs in the last one year. Nearly half (47%) of the
super senior citizens, i.e., above 80 years, who visited these government hospitals/clinics had no personal income.
Awareness of elderly health care facilities was low, only 15%. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Aging in India: Exploring Preparedness and Response to Care Challenges” – released by HelpAge India
• About 40% of the elderly don’t have any source of income
• The study was conducted in 20 Tier I & II cities across 10 states (surveyed 5,169 elderly & 1,333 family members)
• The survey was conducted among SEC B and C categories (socio-economic classes)

327. As per details available on the government Udyam registration portal, 46 million MSMEs were registered with the
MSME Ministry and reported 200 million jobs. India is home to approximately 63 million MSMEs, as reported by the MSME
Ministry’s FY23 annual report. This number is second only to China’s approximately 140 million micro and small enterprises.
Indian MSMEs contribute about 30% to the GDP. According to the UNCTAD, formal and informal MSMEs make up over 90%
of all companies worldwide, average of 70% of total employment and 50% of global GDP. World MSME Day is celebrated
annually on June 27, designated by the United Nations. In addition to World MSME Day, India also observes National Small
Industry Day annually on August 30. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India is home to approximately 63 million MSMEs (2nd only to China’s140 million)
• Udyam Portal: 46 million MSMEs were registered with the MSME Ministry & reported 200 million jobs
• Indian MSMEs contribute about 30% to the GDP
• UNCTAD: Formal & informal MSMEs make up over 90% of all companies worldwide, average of 70% of total employment
and 50% of global GDP
• World MSME Day – observed by UN on June 27 | National Small Industry Day – observed by India on August 30

328. In Brand Value’s “India 100 2024 Ranking”, Tata Group has
retained its position as India’s most valuable brand with a value of
$28.6 billion, reflecting a 9% increase from last year. Infosys holds
the 2nd position, while HDFC Group has made a significant leap to 3rd
place, driven by its monumental merger with HDFC Ltd. The LIC and
Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) stood at 4th & 5th positions. Taj, valued
at $545 million, maintains its position as India’s strongest brand, for
the 3rd consecutive year, with an impressive Brand Strength Index
(BSI) score of 92.9 out of 100 and a prestigious AAA+ rating for brand strength. The telecom sector has seen a staggering
61% growth in brand value, outpacing other industries. The banking sector also reported a 26% increase in brand value,
where HDFC Bank is followed by SBI & ICICI Bank as the 2nd & 3rd most valuable banks in India. Meanwhile, Indigo Airlines
became the first Indian airline brand to surpass the $1 billion mark, achieving a 26% increase in brand value. {Read more}

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329. Mumbai, India’s financial hub and the heart of Bollywood, retains its title as India’s
most expensive city for expats, according to the “2024 Cost of Living survey” released
by Mercer. Among top five most expensive Indian cities, Mumbai climbed 11 spots to
rank 136th, while Delhi made a four-spot rise to 164th. Chennai has slipped five places to
189th, Bengaluru came down six spots to 195th, and Hyderabad held steady at 202nd. In
Asia, Mumbai ranks as the 21st most expensive city. Globally, the top five most
expensive cities remain unchanged, with Hong Kong leading, followed by Singapore,
Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. The least expensive locations in the ranking include –
Nigeria’s Abuja (226th) & Lagos (225th), and Pakistan’s Islamabad (224th). {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “2024 Cost of Living survey” – released by Mercer
• Mumbai (136th) – India’s most expensive city for expats & Asia’s 21st most expensive city
• Other most expensive Indian cities: 164th – Delhi | 189th – Chennai | 195th – Bengaluru | 202nd – Hyderabad
• Top 5 most expensive cities globally – Hong Kong, Singapore, & Switzerland’s Zurich, Geneva, Basel
• Least expensive cities globally – 226th – Abuja (Nigeria) | 225th – Lagos (Nigeria) | 224th – Islamabad (Pakistan)

330. India is the 3rd-largest domestic airline market in the world, up from number
5 position a decade ago, according to the Official Airline Guide (OAG) report. The
data shows India’s domestic airline capacity doubling in a decade from 7.9 million
in April 2014 to 15.5 million in April 2024. In reaching the third slot, India has
replaced Brazil and Indonesia. The US (86.1 million) and China (67.8 million) are
holding the top two positions. India’s capacity growth rate of seats over a 10-year
average is the highest amongst the top five countries, growing at 6.9% annually,
followed by China (6.3%), US (2.4%), Indonesia (1.1%) and Brazil (-0.8%). India’s transition to low-cost carriers (LCCs) has
been the sharpest among the top five. In April 2024, LCCs accounted for 78.4% of Indian domestic capacity. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Official Airline Guide (OAG) report:
• India – 3rd-largest domestic airline market in the world (5th rank in 2014) | India replaced – Brazil & Indonesia
• 1st – US (86.1 million) | 2nd – China (67.8 million)
• India’s domestic airline capacity doubled to 15.5 million in April 2024
• Highest growth rate of seats over a 10-year average:
- 1st – India (6.9%) | 2nd – China (6.3%) | 3rd – US (2.4%) | 4th – Indonesia (1.1%) | 5th – Brazil (-0.8%)
• India recorded sharpest transition to low-cost carriers (LCCs) among top 5 countries
- LCCs accounted for 78.4% of Indian domestic capacity

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331. India is home to over 3,600 startups in the deeptech space, and ranks 6th in the global deeptech ecosystem, according
to the 2nd edition of Nasscom-Zinnov’s report, titled “India’s DeepTech Dawn: Forging Ahead”. Of the 3,600 deeptechs, over
480 deeptech startups were established in CY23 alone. Of these 480 startups, over 100 are Inventive DeepTech firms.
Notably, 74% of the deeptech startups established in 2023 have concentrated on AI. According to the CY23 report, Indian
deeptech startups witnessed a dip of 77% in funding compared to the last year and secured $850 million in investments.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• 2nd edition of “India’s DeepTech Dawn: Forging Ahead” report – released by Nasscom & Zinnov

• India ranks 6th in the global deeptech ecosystem, with over 3,600 startups in the deeptech space
• Of the 3,600, over 480 deeptech startups were established in CY23 alone (over 100 are Inventive DeepTech firms)
• 74% of the deeptech startups, established in 2023, have concentrated on AI
• Indian deeptech startups witnessed a dip of 77% in funding compared to the last year

332. Austrian city Vienna, for the third consecutive year, has been crowned the most liveable city in the world with a score
of 98.4, as per the “Global Liveability Index 2024” released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The EIU ranked 173
cities across the globe on a number of significant factors, including health care, culture and environment, stability,
infrastructure and education. Denmark’s Copenhagen retained its 2nd place position, while Switzerland’s Zurich moved up
to 3rd on the list. Australia’s Melbourne fell to 4th place, while Canadian city Calgary tied for 5th place, with Swiss city Geneva.
Over in Asia, Hong Kong saw the largest score improvement since last year, climbing from 61st place to 50th. Syria’s Damascus
is ranked as the least liveable in the world, with Libya’s Tripoli, Algeria’s Algiers and Nigeria’s Lagos ranking just above. None
of the Indian cities, however, could make it to the top 10 list. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Global Liveability Index 2024” – released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)
• Vienna (Austria) – most liveable city in world for 3rd consecutive year with a score of 98.4
- 2nd – Copenhagen (Denmark) | 3rd – Zurich (Switzerland)
- 4th – Melbourne (Australia) | 5th – Calgary (Canada) + Geneva (Switzerland)
• Least liveable: 173rd – Damascus (Syria) | 172nd – Tripoli (Libya) | 171st – Algiers (Algeria) | 170th – Lagos (Nigeria)
• Hong Kong (50th) – registered largest score improvement in Asia (from 61st in 2023)
• HQs of EIU – London, UK | MD – Robin Bew | Founded in – 1946

333. The agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors accounted for 18.2% of
the gross value added (GVA) at current prices in 2022-23, according to
the ‘Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied
Sectors 2024’ report. Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the leader in
India’s fishing and aquaculture sector, accounting for 40.9% of the total
share. This is followed by West Bengal (14.4%) & Odisha (4.9%). Rajasthan
leads in livestock output with 12.5% share, followed by Uttar Pradesh
(12.3%) & Tamil Nadu (9.1%). Uttar Pradesh dominates sugar crop
production, while Madhya Pradesh dominates in Pulses output. The
fishing and aquaculture sub-sector has seen significant growth, with output increasing from about Rs 80,000 crore in 2011-
12 to approximately Rs 1,95,000 crore in 2022-23. India ranks 2nd worldwide in arable land (155.37 million hectares), 3rd in
cereal production, and 2nd in the production of groundnut, fruits, vegetables, sugarcane, tea, and jute. India is the largest
producer of milk, the 2nd-largest in egg production, and 5th in meat production as per the latest available information from
2020. {Read more}

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Smart Points:
• ‘Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors 2024’ report
• Agriculture, forestry & fishing sectors – accounted for 18.2% of GVA at current prices in FY23
• Top states in fishing & aquaculture sector: 1st Andhra Pradesh (40.9%) | 2nd – West Bengal (14.4%) | Odisha (4.9%)
• Top states in livestock output: 1st – Rajasthan (12.5%) | 2nd – Uttar Pradesh (12.3%) | 3rd – Tamil Nadu (9.1%)
• Top state in sugar crop production – Uttar Pradesh | Top state in Pulses production – Madhya Pradesh
• Fishing & aquaculture sub-sector’s output increased to Rs 1,95,000 Cr in FY23 (from Rs 80,000 Cr in FY12)
• India’s rank worldwide in various sectors: 2nd – in Arable land | 1st – in Milk production | 3rd – in cereal production
- 2nd – in production of egg, groundnut, fruits, vegetables, sugarcane, tea & jute | 5th – in meat production

334. According to the 5th edition of “State of Global Air (SoGA) Report 2024”, air pollution
has become the second-leading risk factor for death across the world, second only to
blood pressure and is followed by excessive tobacco use. Air pollution accounted for 8.1
million deaths globally in 2021. Nearly 2,000 children under the age of 5 are dying due to
air pollution every day. The study, conducted by the US-based Health Effects Institute
(HEI) in partnership with UNICEF, also noted that it is not just the outdoor fine particulate
matter which is affecting our health but also the indoor air pollution. Exposure to air
pollution was linked to more than 7,00,000 deaths of children under the age of 5, in 2021,
second only to malnutrition. The study also found that a staggering 5,00,000 deaths of
children, mostly in Asia and Africa, were linked to household air pollution because of
cooking indoors with polluting fuels. PM2.5 particles have been attributed to more than 90% (7.8 million) of air pollution-
linked deaths across the world. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• 5th edition of “State of Global Air (SoGA) Report 2024” – conducted by Health Effects Institute (US) & UNICEF
• Air pollution – 2nd leading risk factor for death across world (8.1 million deaths globally in 2021)
- 1st – Blood Pressure | 3rd – Excessive tobacco use
• Exposure to air pollution – linked to 7 lakh+ deaths of children under 5 in 2021 (2nd) | 1st – malnutrition
• Household air pollution (due to cooking indoors) – linked to 5 lakh+ deaths of children (mostly in Asia & Africa)
• PM2.5 particles – attributed to more than 90% (7.8 million) of air pollution-linked deaths across the world
• HQs of UNICEF – New York, US | Executive Director – Catherine Russell | Established in – 1946

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Amount & Agreements
335. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned $2.6 billion in sovereign lending to India in 2023 to fund the
government’s priority agendas like job-creation, infrastructure-building, green growth and economic inclusiveness. It also
extended $23.53 million in technical assistance and $4.1 million in grants, apart from committing funds of over $1 billion for
private sector projects during 2023. Projects funded by ADB in India include the Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor
Development project, road connectivity projects in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, the expansion of the Delhi-Meerut rapid rail
transit corridor, horticulture development projects in Himachal Pradesh. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ADB – sanctioned $2.6 billion in sovereign lending to India in 2023
- Technical assistance – $23.53 million | Grants – $4.1 million | Private sector projects – $1 billion
• Aim: To fund Govt’s priority agendas like job-creation, infrastructure-building, green growth & economic inclusiveness
• HQs of ADB – Mandaluyong, Philippines | President – Masatsugu Asakawa | Members – 68

336 Developed countries provided and 126 obilized $115.9 billion in

climate finance for developing countries in 2022, exceeding the annual
goal of 100 billion for the first time, according to the “Climate Finance
Provided and Mobilised by Developed Countries in 2013-2022” report
released by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development (OECD). OECD is an intergovernmental 126obilized126on
with 38 member countries, founded in 1961 to stimulate economic
progress and consists mostly of high-income countries. Bilateral sources
contributed $41 billion and multilateral sources provided $50.6 billion in 2022. While, private finance 126obilized by public
climate finance reached $21.9 billion in 2022. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• “Climate Finance Provided and Mobilised by Developed Countries in 2013-2022” report – released by OECD
• As per the report:
- Developed countries provided & 126obilized $115.9 billion in climate finance for developing countries in 2022
- They exceeded the annual goal of 100 billion for the first time
- Bilateral sources contributed $41 billion & multilateral sources provided $50.6 billion in 2022
- Private finance 126obilized by public climate finance reached $21.9 billion in 2022
• HQs of OECD – Paris, France | Secretary-General – Mathias Cormann | Member countries – 38

337. The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new ‘Investment Round’ aiming to raise $7 billion of funds over
4 years to support countries to tackle challenges like climate change, displacement, poverty and inequality. The Investment
Round is the result of recommendations by the WHO Working Group on Sustainable Financing and was approved at the
154th Meeting of the WHO Executive Board in January 2024. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• WHO – launched a new ‘Investment Round’ to raise $7 billion of funds over 4 years
- To support countries to tackle challenges like climate change, displacement, poverty & inequality
• HQs of WHO – Geneva, Switzerland | DG – Tedros Adhanom | Member Countries – 194 | Founded in – 1948

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338. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $170 million (over Rs 1,418 crore) policy-based loan to improve India’s
health system preparedness and capacity to respond to future pandemics. The Strengthened and Measurable Actions for
Resilient and Transformative Health Systems will support the government’s ‘National Health Policy 2017’, which aims to
provide quality health care services to all. The programme will strengthen disease surveillance systems to effectively respond
to public health threats. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• ADB – approved a $170 million (over Rs 1,418 Cr) policy-based loan to improve India’s health system preparedness and
capacity to respond to future pandemics
• HQs of ADB – Mandaluyong, Philippines | President – Masatsugu Asakawa | Members – 68

339. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a $60 million nonconvertible debentures financing agreement, disbursing
$30 million to Aadhar Housing Finance Limited (AHFL) to provide housing loans to women and address the shortage of
financing in the low-income and affordable housing segment in India. Half of the funds will be deployed in Bihar,
Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. AHFL is a housing finance
company in India focused on the low-income housing segment, with loan sizes under Rs 1.5 million (around $17,976). {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• ADB – disbursed $30 million to AHFL, as part of a $60 million nonconvertible debentures financing agreement
• Aim: To provide housing loans to women & address shortage of financing in low-income & affordable housing segment
• Half funds will be deployed in – Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, MP, Odisha, Rajasthan, UP & West Bengal
• HQs of ADB – Mandaluyong, Philippines | President – Masatsugu Asakawa | Members – 68
• HQs of AHFL – Bengaluru, Karnataka | MD & CEO – Deo Shankar Tripathi | Established in – 2010

Ordinance, Bills & Acts

340. Rajya Sabha has passed the “Post Office Bill, 2023”, which repeals and replaces the 125-year-old “Post Office Act of
1898”. Ministry of Communications notified that the “Post Office Act, 2023” has come into force with effective from June
18, 2024. According to the government, the Bill will ensure the effective functioning of the Postal Department as a
messenger service and as a provider of banking facilities. Notably, Section 9 of the new Act allows the Centre to empower
any officer to “intercept, open or detain any item” in the interest of state security, friendly relations with foreign states,
public order, emergency, public safety, or contravention of other laws. This is similar to Sections 19, 25, and 26 of the 1898
Act. Moreover, the Act removes all penalties and offences under the 1898 Act. The Act has removed Section 4 of the 1898
Act, which allowed the Centre the exclusive privilege of conveying by post, from one place to another, all letters. The new
Act has a provision for the appointment of the Director General (DG) of Postal Services. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Ministry of Communications notified: “Post Office Act, 2023” has come into effect, replacing “Post Office Act of 1898”
• It will ensure effective functioning of Postal Department as a messenger service & as a provider of banking facilities
• Section 9 of the new Act allows Centre to empower any officer to “intercept, open or detain any item”
• The new Act removed all penalties & offences under 1898 Act

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341. Union Government has issued a Gazette Notification for enforcing sections 1, 2, 10 to 30, 42 to 44, 46, 47, 50 to 58, 61
and 62 of the “Telecommunications Act, 2023”. The ‘Telecommunications Act, 2023’ aims to amend and consolidate the law
relating to development, expansion and operation of telecommunication services and telecommunication networks;
assignment of spectrum and for matters connected therewith. The ‘Telecommunications Act, 2023’ also seeks to repeal
existing ‘Indian Telegraph Act, 1885’ and ‘Indian Wireless Telegraph Act, 1933’ owing to huge technical advancements in the
telecom sector and technologies. Guided by the principles of Samavesh (Inclusion), Suraksha (Security), Vriddhi (Growth),
and Tvarit (Responsiveness), the Act aims to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India). Commercial messages
sent without the user’s consent may lead to the relevant operator facing a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh and being banned from
providing services. The Act also allows individuals to have a maximum of 9 SIM cards in their name. The limit is being reduced
to 6 for residents of Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast. Using more SIM cards will invite Rs 50,000 for a first-time offence,
and Rs 2 lakh fine for subsequent violations. Fraudulently obtaining a SIM card, and using someone else’s identification
documents, has a penalty of up to 3 years imprisonment, a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh, or both. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Govt issued a Gazette Notification for enforcing various sections of the “Telecommunications Act, 2023”
• ‘Telecommunications Act, 2023’ repeals existing ‘Indian Telegraph Act, 1885’ & ‘Indian Wireless Telegraph Act, 1933’
• Act is guided by the principles of: Samavesh (Inclusion), Suraksha (Security), Vriddhi (Growth), & Tvarit (Responsiveness)
• Commercial messages sent without the user’s consent may lead to the relevant operator facing a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh
• The Act also allows individuals to have a maximum of 9 SIM cards in their name (6 for residents of J&K)
• Using more SIM cards will invite fines up to Rs 2 lakh
• Penalty for fraudulently obtaining a SIM card & using someone else’s identification documents – 3 years jail & Rs 50 lakh

MoUs, Collaborations & Partnerships

342. IIT Kanpur, in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has inaugurated “DRDO-
Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA CoE)” on its campus for interdisciplinary research in next-generation defence
technologies. Notably, DRDO will fund the projects and establish key technical facilities and modern infrastructure required
to enable and boost R&D programs under identified verticals. The DIA CoE at IIT Kanpur was jointly inaugurated by Dr Samir
V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman, and Prof Manindra Agarwal, Director of IIT Kanpur.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• IIT Kanpur + DRDO = inaugurated “DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA CoE)” at IIT’s campus
• Aim: Interdisciplinary research in next-generation defence technologies
• Director of IIT Kanpur – Manindra Agrawal
• HQs of DRDO – New Delhi | Chairman – Samir V. Kamat | Established in – 1958

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343. The Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) has signed an MoU with IIT Hyderabad to collaborate on research and
training. The MoU was signed by Director General of AFMS Lt Gen Daljit Singh, and Director of IIT Hyderabad Prof B S Murty.
The MoU aims to foster innovation and research in developing novel medical devices and addressing health issues specific
to soldiers serving in varied terrains. Key areas of collaboration discussed include drone-based patient transport,
telemedicine innovations, the application of Artificial Intelligence in the medical field, and advancements in nanotechnology.
{Read more}
Smart Points:
• AFMS + IIT Hyderabad = an MoU to collaborate on research & training
• Aim: To foster innovation & research in developing novel medical devices & addressing health issues specific to soldiers
• Director General of AFMS (DGAFMS) – Lieutenant General Daljit Singh
• Director of IIT Hyderabad – Budaraju Srinivasa Murty

344. Agri drone startup, Thanos Technologies, has signed a MoU with the Indian Farmers
Fertiliser Cooperative Ltd (IFFCO) to spray 10 lakh acres of farmland across 5 states - Telangana,
Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The startup will deploy 500 of its
drones by joining hands with other drone service providers such as Vayu Drone, Aerotics
Technologies and Electra Agri Green in the project that will have a business value of Rs 50 crore
for the firm and its service providers. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Thanos Technologies + IFFCO = an MoU to spray 10 lakh acres of farmland in 5 states (Telangana, AP, Gujarat, MP, TN)
• The startup will deploy 500 of its drones by joining hands with drone service providers
• HQs of IFFCO – New Delhi | Chairman – Dileep Sanghani | Established in – 1967
• HQs of Thanos Technologies – Hyderabad, Telangana | Co-Founder & CEO – Pradeep Palelli

345. Nokia has signed an agreement with the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV), a university under
the Ministry of Railways, for carrying out joint research related to 5G/6G communications in the
transportation and logistics sector. The collaboration will target air, land and sea transportation use
cases, as well as standards development, smart factory/ automation, and AI/GenAI labs. Ashwini
Vaishnaw is the Chancellor of Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Nokia + Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya = an agreement for carrying out joint research related to 5G/6G communications in
the transportation and logistics sector
• HQs of Nokia – Espoo, Finland | CEO – Pekka Lundmark
• Location of GSV – Vadodara, Gujarat | Chancellor – Ashwini Vaishnaw

346. CSC SPV and Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare have signed an MoU to convert 10,000 Farmer Producer
Organisations (FPOs) into Common Service Centres (CSCs). CSC SPV will enable them to provide the services that are
available on the Digital Seva Portal. With this initiative, more farmers who are associated with FPOs, will be able to avail the
benefits of CSC services. It will also help FPOs to become a nodal center for providing various services like Direct Benefit
Transfer (DBT), Interest Subsidy Scheme (ISS), Crop Insurance Scheme (PMFBY), and Fertilizer & Seed Inputs. Sanjay Rakesh
is the MD & CEO of CSC SPV. {Read more}

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347. The Bharat 6G Alliance has signed an MoU with 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G IA) and 6G
Flagship - Oulu University, Finland. This is in continuation of already concluded MoU with NextG Alliance of USA. These MoUs
with 6G IA and Oulu University will further enable development of secure and trusted telecommunication technology
including resilient supply chains. The Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA) is an initiative of Indian industry, academia, national research
institutions and standards organisations and its purpose is aligned with the Bharat 6G Mission of the government to design,
develop and deploy technology and innovations that provide an intelligent and secure solution for high-quality living
experience of citizens in India and across the world. N. G. Subramaniam is the Chair of B6GA. The Governing Board of the
6G-IA is composed of 16 Members and Dr. Colin Willcock is the Chairman. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• Bharat 6G Alliance (B6GA) – signed an MoU with 6G IA & 6G Flagship (Oulu University, Finland)
• Aim: To enable development of secure & trusted telecommunication technology including resilient supply chains
• Chair of B6GA – N. G. Subramaniam | Chair of 6G IA – Dr. Colin Willcock

348. Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), Indian Army,

and Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering & Research
(SAMEER), an autonomous R&D laboratory under Ministry of Electronics &
Information Technology (MeitY), have signed an MoU to advance collaboration
in ‘Next Generation Wireless Technologies for Indian Army’. The collaboration
between SAMEER and MCTE aims to enhance national security and
technological infrastructure. This initiative marks a significant milestone in
strengthening the Indian Army’s technological capabilities which is aligned
towards declared vision for 2024 as ‘Year of Technological Absorption for Indian Army’ by Chief of Army Staff. The MoU also
aims to establish an ‘Advanced Military Research and Incubation Centre’ at MCTE. This centre will focus on Advanced
Wireless Technologies for the Indian Army. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• MCTE (Indian Army) + SAMEER (MeitY) = an MoU to advance collaboration in ‘Next Generation Wireless Technologies
for Indian Army’
• The collaboration aims to enhance national security and technological infrastructure
• 2024 – ‘Year of Technological Absorption for Indian Army’
• Another aim of collaboration: To establish an ‘Advanced Military Research and Incubation Centre’ at MCTE
• Location of MCTE – Mhow, Madhya Pradesh | Location of SAMEER – Mumbai, Maharashtra

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349. India Affiliate of the Institute of Risk Management (IRM) has partnered with Sri Sri University (SSU) to establish India’s
first and East India’s only “Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management (ERM)”. The signing ceremony was conducted at
the Art of Living International Centre in Bangalore with the participation of global humanitarian, spiritual leader, and peace
envoy Gurudev Sri Sri Ravishankar, founder of SSU; Prof. Rajita Kulkarni, President of SSU; Hersh Shah, CEO of IRM India
Affiliate; and other dignitaries. This centre will provide students with access to IRM’s global resources and training, enabling
them to develop skills in risk-informed business leadership, entrepreneurship, and corporate management. It will also
address critical areas such as disaster risks, safety risks, cyber risk management, women and child safety risks and financial
risks. {Read more}
Smart Points:
• India Affiliate of IRM + Sri Sri University = to establish India’s first & East India’s only “Global Centre for Enterprise Risk

Management (ERM)”
• This centre will enable students to develop skills in risk-informed business leadership, entrepreneurship, and corporate
management
• Location of SSU – Cuttack, Odisha | Founder – Sri Sri Ravishankar | President – Prof. Rajita Kulkarni
• CEO of IRM India Affiliate – Hersh Shah

350. Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has signed an agreement with a Germany-based shipping
company, Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler und Reederei GmbH and Co. KG (Carsten Rehder), for the construction and delivery
of four multi-purpose cargo vessels. The contract is worth approximately $54 million and the order is to be executed in 33
months. The vessels will be 120 metres long and 17 metres wide and can carry 7,500 metric tonnes of cargo each. {Read
more}
Smart Points:
• GRSE Ltd + Carsten Rehder (Germany) = agreement for construction & delivery of 4 multi-purpose cargo vessels
• Worth – $54 million | Capacity of vessels – 7,500 metric tonnes of cargo each
• HQs of GRSE – Kolkata, India | Chairman & MD – P. R. Hari | Founded in – 1884

❖ Important Obituaries in June 2024:

• Maguni Charan Kuanr — a renowned Puppeteer (Padma Shri in 2023, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award)
• Asir Jawahar Thomas Johnsingh — Indian wildlife conservationist & biologist (Padma Shri, Distinguished Service
Award for Government from the Society for Conservation Biology in 2004, ABN AMRO Sanctuary Lifetime Wildlife
Service Award in 2005, Carl Zeiss Wildlife Conservation Award in 2004)
(He played a vital role in the establishment of Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserves in Tamil Nadu.)
• Ramoji Rao — Businessman, Media Proprietor & Film Producer
(He served as Head of Ramoji Film City, Eenadu newspaper & ETV Network.)
• Rajeev Taranath — Indian classical musician or Sarod maestro (Padma Shri in 2019, Central Sangeet Natak
Academy Award, Sangeet Vidwan Award, Chowdiah Award, Kannada Rajyotsava Award)
• Moosa Raza — Indian Civil Servant & Chief Secretary of J&K (Padma Bhushan in 2010)
(Chairman of the South Indian Educational Trust)
• Dr. Birubala Rabha — Anti-witch hunting crusader (Padma Shri in 2021, nominated for Nobel Peace Prize in 2005)

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(She was instrumental in enactment of the ‘Assam Witch Hunting Act, 2015’)
• Jerry West (USA) — a Basketball Player (3-time Hall of Fame selection)
• Murlidhar Chandrakant Bhandare — Former Governor of Odisha
(He also served as Chairman of UN Sub-Commission on Prevention of Discrimination & Protection of Minorities.)
• Srinivas Hedge — a Former ISRO Scientist & Mission Director of Chandrayaan-1
• C V Chandrasekhar — a renowned Bharatanatyam Dancer (Padma Bhushan in 2011, UP Sangeet Natak Akademi
Award in 1978, Gujarat Nrutya Natak Akademi Award in 1988 & Kalidas Samman in 2008)

Important Books & Authors

“Rajgan Purik” Mohammad Sadiq Hardassi
“Source Code: My Beginnings” memoir Bill Gates
“A Fly on the RBI Wall: An Insider’s View of the Central Bank” Alpana Killawala
“I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story?” Ravichandran Ashwin
“Viswasapoorvam” autobiography
A. P. Aboobacker Musliyar
(Released by - Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan)
“The Adventures of Ed-a-Mamma: Ed Finds A Home”, a children’s picture book Alia Bhatt

Important Days
Global Day of Parents
(Theme - “The Promise of Playful Parenting”)
World Milk Day
June 1
(Theme - “Celebrating the Vital Role Dairy Plays in Delivering Quality Nutrition to Nourish the
World”)
World Reef Awareness Day
International Sex Workers Day
10th Telangana Formation Day
June 2 (Telangana was carved out as a separate state through bifurcation of combined Andhra Pradesh in
2014.)
National Cancer Survivor’s Day 2024 (1st Sunday of June)
6th International Archives Week
June 3-9
(Theme - “#CyberArchives”)
World Bicycle Day
June 3
(Theme - “Promoting Health, Equity, and Sustainability through Cycling.”)
June 4 International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression
World Environment Day (hosted by Saudi Arabia in 2024)
June 5 (Theme - “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience.”)
International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (since 2018)
UN Russian Language Day (established by UNESCO in 2010)
(The day marks the 225th birth anniversary of Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin.)
June 6 World Pest Day (since 2017)
(Theme - “Global Solutions, Local Impact: Mapping Success in Pest Management”)
International Level Crossing Awareness Day

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UN World Food Safety Day (observed by WHO & FAO)
June 7
(Theme - “Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected”)
World Oceans Day
(Theme - “Awaken New Depths”)
June 8
World Brain Tumour Day
(Theme - “Brain Health and Prevention”)
World Accreditation Day
June 9 (Theme - “Accreditation: Empowering Tomorrow and Shaping the Future”)
76th International Archives Day
June 10 1st UN International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations
UN International Day of Play
June 11
International Lynx Day (Lynx are medium-sized wildcats)
World Day Against Child Labour
June 12 (Theme - “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour”)
Russia Day
International Albinism Awareness Day
June 13 (Theme - “10 years of IAAD: A Decade of Collective Progress”)
(Albinism is an inherited condition that leads to someone having very light skin, hair, & eyes.)
20th World Blood Donor Day (by WHO)
June 14
(Theme - “20 Years of Celebrating Giving: Thank You Blood Donors!”)
World Father’s Day
International Surfing Day
Global Wind Day
June 15 (Central Theme by MNRE - “Pawan–Urja: Powering the Future of India”)
UN World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (since 2012)
(Theme - “Spotlight on Older Persons in Emergencies”)
ASEAN Dengue Day (since 2011)
International Day of Family Remittances
June 16
(“Digital Remittances towards Financial Inclusion and Cost Reduction.”)
UN World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
(Theme - “United for Land. Our Legacy. Our Future.”)
June 17 International Day for Countering Hate Speech
World Crocodile Day
(India is home to 3 species of crocodiles - Mugger, Estuarine & Gharial)
Sustainable Gastronomy Day
Autistic Pride Day
June 18
(Theme - “Taking the Mask Off”)
International Picnic Day
International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict
(Theme - “Attacks against Health Care in Conflict-affected Areas: Impacts for Survivors of Conflict-
related Sexual Violence.”)
World Sickle Cell Awareness Day
June 19
(Theme - “Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally”)
29th National Reading Day (death anniversary of PN Panicker, a renowned teacher & educationist
from Kerala)
(PN Panicker is widely known as ‘Father of the Library and Literacy Movement’ in Kerala.)
June 20 World Refugee Day

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(Theme - “For a World Where Refugees Are Welcomed”)
World Music Day (aka ‘Fete de la Musique’ in French)
10th edition of International Day of Yoga (since 2015) | Main event - Srinagar, J & K
June 21 (Theme - “Yoga for Self and Society”)
International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice
(The day is marked as the ‘Day of the Summer Solstice’ in the northern hemisphere of the world.)
International Olympic Day
(Theme - “Let’s Move and Celebrate”)
June 23 UN International Widows Day
(Theme - “Accelerating the Achievements of Gender Equality”)
UN Public Service Day
International Day of Women in Diplomacy
(Theme - “Women’s Leadership in Multilateral Diplomacy”)
June 24
Passport Seva Divas
(The day marks the enactment of the Passports Act on 24 June, 1967.)
World Vitiligo Day (Vitiligo is a skin condition)
(Theme - “United by the Skin”)
June 25 Samvidhan Hatya Diwas (in remembrance of 1975 Emergency)
International Day of the Seafarer
(Theme - “#SafetyTipsAtSea”)
World Refrigeration Day
(Theme - “Temperature Matters”)
June 26 UN International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking
(Theme - “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”)
UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture
UN Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day (MSMEs Day) (since 2017)
(Theme - “Leveraging Power and Resilience of MSMEs to Accelerate Sustainable Development and
June 27 Eradicate Poverty in Times of Multiple Crises”)
World Microbiome Day
(Theme - “Feed Your Microbes”)
June 28 National Insurance Awareness Day
National Statistics Day (birth anniversary of Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, the ‘Father of Modern
Statistics in India’)
June 29
(Theme - “Use of Data for Decision Making”)
International Day of the Tropics
World Asteroid Day
June 30 UN International Day of Parliamentarism
World Social Media Day

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5. Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSEL), under Ministry of Education,

46. UNESCO has launched two new tools - “Greening Curriculum

Banking, Finance, Insurance & Economic Affairs

Science & Technology

188. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath has inaugurated a state-of-the-art Propellant

194. The scientists of Ahmedabad-based Physical Research Laboratory (PRL)

196. The “XRISM” (X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission), a collaborative

Appointments & Resignations

• Ministers of State (Independent Charge):

266. Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

Schemes & Initiatives

Meetings, Conferences and Summits

Ranks, Reports & Surveys

292. London-based Anish Kapoor, one of the most influential

336 Developed countries provided and 126 obilized $115.9 billion in

Ordinance, Bills & Acts

MoUs, Collaborations & Partnerships

348. Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), Indian Army,

❖ Important Obituaries in June 2024:

Important Books & Authors

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