Weekly Current Affairs (24th July to 30th July 2023) | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

Union Minister Shri Anurag Thakur Confers 8th and 9th Community Radio Awards

• First Prize: Radio Mind Tree, Ambala, Haryana. Programme: "Hope Jeene Ki Raah."
• Second Prize: Radio Hirakhand, Sambalpur, Odisha. Programme: "Adhar O Poshan Bigyan."
• Third Prize: Green Radio, Sabour, Bihar. Programme: "Poshan Shrinkhla."

Most Innovative Community Engagement Awards:

• First Prize: Radio SD, Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh. Programme: "Hizra in Between."
• Second Prize: Kabir Radio, Sant Kabir Nagar, Uttar Pradesh. Programme: "Selfie Le Le Re."
• Third Prize: Radio Mind Tree, Ambala, Haryana. Programme: "Book Bugs."

Promoting Local Culture Awards:

• First Prize: Voice of SOA, Cuttack, Odisha. Programme: "Asmita."
• Second Prize: Friends FM, Tripura, Agartala. Programme: "Revived a dying art: MASK & POT."
• Third Prize: Pantnagar Janvani, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. Programme: "Dadi Maa Ka Batua."

Sustainability Modern Awards:

• First Prize: Radio Hirakhand, Sambalpur, Odisha.
• Second Prize: Vayalaga Vanoli, Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
• Third Prize: VAGAD Radio "90.8", Banswara, Rajasthan.

Role of Community Radio Stations:
Community Radio Stations have played a crucial role in realizing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of Jan Bhagidari se Jan Andolan. Union Minister Anurag Thakur commended these stations for their contributions in keeping listeners informed during calamities and highlighted their significance in education, awareness generation, and problem-solving across the remotest corners of India.

Significance:
Community Radio Stations play a significant role in making people aware of calamities and also contribute to education, health, and awareness generation. During the Inaugural Session, the Union Minister emphasized the increasing popularity of Community Radio Stations and expressed the government's commitment to realizing Prime Minister Modi's vision of having a Community Radio Station in each district.

Government's Efforts:
The government has taken significant steps to support Community Radio Stations:

• The licensing time has been reduced from four years to six months.
• The number of processes involved has been reduced from thirteen to eight.
• The government plans to auction 808 channels in 284 cities during the 3rd e-auction, thereby expanding the reach of radio in India.

Amended Rules Relating to Retirement Benefits of IAS, IPS, IFOS Pensioners

• Empowerment of Central Government: The recent amendments to the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958, eliminate the dependency on state government references for taking action against retired officials. Previously, the central government required a reference from the respective state government if a pensioner was convicted. However, the amended rules now allow the central government to take action on its own if a pensioner is found guilty of grave misconduct or convicted of a serious crime.
• Definition of 'Grave Misconduct' and 'Serious Crime': The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) issued a notification on July 6, 2023, defining 'grave misconduct' as the communication or disclosure of any document or information mentioned in the Official Secrets Act. Additionally, a 'serious crime' includes any offence under the Official Secrets Act.
• Addressing Challenges in Taking Action Against Officers: The rationale behind these amendments was to address instances where state governments did not send references for action against retired officials, even after their conviction by courts of law. This lack of cooperation from state governments made it challenging for the central government to take appropriate action against the concerned officers, especially when dealing with All India Services officials.
• Final Decision on Withholding or Withdrawing Pension: As per the amended rules, the decision of the central government regarding withholding or withdrawing pension shall be considered final.
• Restrictions on Publication of Sensitive Information: The amended rules also introduce new provisions regarding the publication of sensitive information by officers who served in intelligence or security-related organizations. Such officers must seek prior clearance from the Head of the Organization before making any publication related to the domain of the organization, including any reference or information about personnel and their designations, as well as expertise or knowledge gained while working in that organization. Failure to adhere to this undertaking may result in severe action, including treating it as grave misconduct.

Notable News Highlights from India

2. Uttar Pradesh's Mukhya Mantri Khet Suraksha Yojana
The Agriculture Department of Uttar Pradesh is gearing up to implement the Mukhya Mantri Khet Suraksha Yojana. This initiative aims to uplift the welfare of farmers across the entire state, providing them with comprehensive support and protection.

3. Odisha's Mission Shakti Scooter Yojana
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik approved the Mission Shakti Scooter Yojana, a scheme designed to provide interest subvention on bank loans up to INR 1,00,000 to beneficiaries. This financial assistance enables them to purchase a scooter, enhancing their mobility and livelihood opportunities.

4. Rajasthan's Social Security Assurance for Gig Workers
The Rajasthan government presented the Rajasthan Platform Based Gig Workers Bill, 2023, becoming the first state in India to ensure social security assurance for gig workers. The bill establishes the Rajasthan Platform Based Gig Workers Welfare Board, enabling gig workers in the state to register with all the state's aggregators, ensuring their welfare and protection.

5. Nagaland Declared Lumpy Skin Disease Positive State
Nagaland has been officially declared a Lumpy Skin Disease Positive State after the detection of the disease in four districts. This declaration is made under The Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, aiming to control the spread and ensure the well-being of animals in the state.

6. Historic Birth Certificate for Transgender Person in Rajasthan
Noor Shekhawat made history by becoming the first transgender person in Rajasthan to be issued a birth certificate with the gender recorded as transgender. In her old birth certificate, her gender was marked as male. Shekhawat, who runs an NGO for the transgender community, received her new birth certificate from municipal and state government officials, furthering her aspirations to complete her graduation.

7. Bengaluru Joins World Cities Culture Forum
Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, has become the first Indian city to be part of the World Cities Culture Forum (WCCF). The WCCF is a global network of cities that share research and intelligence to explore the role of culture in future prosperity. With Bengaluru's inclusion, the forum now comprises 41 cities across six continents, including prominent cities like New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai.

8. Madhya Pradesh's Launch of MP State Esports Academy
Madhya Pradesh is all set to launch its first online gaming industry named "MP State Esports Academy." This initiative aims to provide young esports players with opportunities and platforms to advance to a professional level, encouraging the growth and recognition of esports in the state.

International Affairs: Recent Developments and Decisions

1. Unveiling of V.C Yeshwant Ghadge Sundial Memorial
The Commune of Montone in Italy, along with Italian military historians, jointly unveiled the "V.C Yeshwant Ghadge Sundial Memorial" in Montone, Perugia, Italy. This memorial stands as a tribute to the valor and sacrifices of Indian troops who fought in the Italian Campaign during the Second World War. The memorial commemorates the bravery and contributions of these soldiers in defending freedom and democracy.

2. India's Ban on Non-Basmati White Rice Exports
India, the world's top rice exporter, has implemented a ban on all exports of "non-basmati white rice" to stabilize domestic prices. However, the government will permit the export of white rice to other nations upon request, provided they fulfill their food security requirements and obtain formal approval from their respective governments.

3. Russia's Legislation Against LGBTQ+ Community
Russian President Vladimir Putin signed new legislation strictly prohibiting individuals from officially or medically changing their gender, further marginalizing the country's embattled LGBTQ+ population. This move has raised concerns about human rights and equality in Russia.

4. First Case of MERS-COV in UAE
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported the first case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-COV) in a 28-year-old male from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The identification of the case highlights the importance of continued vigilance in monitoring and responding to emerging health threats.

5. China's New Central Bank Governor
Pan Gongsheng was named China's central bank governor, succeeding Yi Gang. Pan, a deputy central bank governor and veteran of China's state-owned banking industry, takes charge of the central bank as part of the ruling Communist Party's once-a-decade change of power.

6. Bank of Israel Joins International Committee on Credit Reporting
The World Bank approved the inclusion of the Bank of Israel in the International Committee on Credit Reporting (ICCR). This development enhances global cooperation and knowledge exchange in the area of credit reporting.

7. UNESCO's Call to Prohibit Smartphones in Schools
UNESCO has urged for the prohibition of smartphones in schools, advocating for a more "human-centered vision" of education. This call emphasizes the need to create conducive learning environments that prioritize human interaction and well-being.

8. Cambodia's Leadership Transition
Cambodia's Prime Minister, Hun Sen, announced his decision to step down and appoint his eldest son, Hun Manet, as the new prime minister. Despite leaving the prime ministerial position, Hun Sen will continue to hold leadership roles in the ruling Cambodian People's Party and the National Assembly.

9. Antarctica's Low Sea Ice Levels
Antarctica's sea ice has reached a recorded low level of about 14.2 million sq. km, significantly below the normal extent for this time of year. This observation underscores the ongoing concerns about climate change and its impact on polar regions.

10. China's Stapled Visas Controversy
China's issuance of stapled visas to Indian citizens from Arunachal Pradesh has led to diplomatic tensions between the two countries. India's response to the stapled visas issued to its wushu players resulted in the withdrawal of its wushu contingent from the Summer World University Games in Chengdu.

11. Election of New IPCC Chair
James Ferguson 'Jim' Skea of the United Kingdom was elected as the new chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). His election marks an important step in addressing climate change issues globally.

Expansion of 'WhatsApp Se Wyapaar' Program

• The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) and Meta, the parent company of Facebook, have announced the expansion of their 'WhatsApp Se Wyapaar' program. 
• This initiative is designed to digitally train and upskill 10 million local traders in India using the WhatsApp Business App. 
• The collaboration aims to empower small enterprises across the country by providing them with the necessary digital skills and tools to enhance their businesses. 
• This expansion builds upon Meta's commitment to upskill one million traders on the WhatsApp Business App, as previously announced in June.

Enhancing Infrastructure in Bihar with ADB's Support

• The Indian government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have joined hands once again to enhance infrastructure in Bihar. 
• Through a $295-million loan, the project aims to upgrade approximately 265 km of state highways in Bihar. The project will focus on incorporating climate and disaster-resilient designs, as well as road safety measures. 
• By improving the state highways, this initiative will not only boost connectivity and transportation in Bihar but also strengthen the region's resilience to climate-related challenges and enhance road safety for commuters.

Banking/Economy/Business: Recent News

1. Sberbank Granted Permission to Set Up IT Unit in India
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted permission to Sberbank's branch in India to set up an IT unit in Bengaluru. This newly established IT office will serve as Sberbank's in-house Data Processing Center, indicating the bank's commitment to leveraging technology and data processing capabilities to enhance its operations and customer services in India.

2. RBI Announces Auction of Treasury Bills and SDLs
The RBI has announced the next auction of Treasury bills and state development loans (SDLs) with attractive yields for various maturities. The T-bill yields for three-month, six-month, and 364-day maturities have been set at 6.71%, 6.83%, and 6.86%, respectively. The auction will witness the participation of 11 states, including Punjab, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and others, providing an opportunity for investors to invest in these instruments and avail potentially attractive returns.

3. Algeria Applies to Join BRICS Group
Algeria's President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has announced the formal submission of an application to join the BRICS group of nations. The move is aimed at creating new economic prospects for Algeria, an oil and gas-rich nation in North Africa, by seeking to diversify its economy and strengthening ties with countries like China. Joining BRICS could offer Algeria access to a platform for cooperation and economic development with other emerging economies.

4. RBI Adds "NongHyup Bank" to Second Schedule
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has added "NongHyup Bank" from South Korea to the Second Schedule of the RBI Act, 1934. This significant move allows NongHyup Bank to enhance its presence and expand its financial endeavors in the Indian market. NongHyup Bank has been actively operating in India since 2016, and its inclusion in the Second Schedule opens up new opportunities for the bank to serve its customers and contribute to India's banking sector.

5. India's Foreign Exchange Reserves Surge
India's foreign exchange reserves have witnessed a substantial weekly surge, increasing by $12.74 billion to reach a total of $609.02 billion. This surge in foreign exchange reserves signifies a positive economic trend and reflects the country's efforts to bolster its foreign exchange holdings and maintain stability in the forex market.

6. IMF Revises India's GDP Growth Forecast
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India's GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year to 6.1%, up from the previous prediction of 5.9%. The upward revision is attributed to stronger domestic investments and reflects the momentum from stronger-than-expected growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 (FY23). This positive forecast indicates the resilience and potential of India's economy despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

7. Higher Interest Rate on Employees Provident Fund (EPF) Deposits Approved
The Union government has approved an increased interest rate of 8.15% on Employees Provident Fund (EPF) deposits for the financial year 2022-23. This decision benefits over six crore EPF subscribers and provides them with higher returns on their EPF deposits. The higher interest rate aims to support the financial well-being of EPF subscribers and promote long-term savings.

8. Canara Bank Tops in Lending to State-Owned Corporations and PSUs
Canara Bank has retained its position as the leading public sector bank in lending to state-owned corporations and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) for the fifth consecutive year. This achievement reflects Canara Bank's commitment to supporting the development and growth of state-owned enterprises in India.

9. Swiggy and HDFC Bank Launch Co-Branded Credit Card
Popular food delivery platform Swiggy has partnered with HDFC Bank to launch a co-branded credit card. This collaboration aims to provide Swiggy users with a credit card that offers benefits and rewards specifically tailored for food orders and online transactions on the Swiggy platform. The partnership aligns with the trend of e-commerce platforms teaming up with banks to introduce co-branded credit cards.

10. Jio BlackRock: A Joint Venture for Investment Solutions
Jio Financial Services Ltd (JFS) of the Reliance Industries Ltd Group and global asset manager BlackRock have formed a joint venture called "Jio BlackRock." This strategic partnership aims to provide millions of Indian investors with access to affordable and innovative investment solutions through technology-enabled platforms. The joint venture is expected to empower Indian investors to participate in the capital markets and make informed investment decisions.

11. Mahindra & Mahindra Acquires Stake in RBL Bank
Mahindra & Mahindra, a prominent Indian conglomerate, has acquired a 3.53% stake in RBL Bank for ₹417 crores. This investment is confirmed through a regulatory filing, and Mahindra & Mahindra has expressed its potential to make further investments in RBL Bank, subject to pricing, regulatory approvals, and required procedures. The company has clarified that it does not plan to exceed a stake of 9.9% in the bank.

12. Loan Write-Offs by Indian Banks
In the fiscal year ending March 2023, Indian banks have written off bad loans amounting to Rs 2.09 lakh crore, bringing the total loan write-off by the banking sector to Rs 10.57 lakh crore in the past five years. This information, disclosed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in response to a Right to Information (RTI) query, highlights the challenges faced by the banking sector in managing non-performing assets and ensuring financial stability.

13. RBI Permits 20 Banks to Open Special Rupee Vostro Accounts
The RBI has permitted 20 banks operating in India to open 92 Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVAs) with partner banks from 22 countries. This move enables exporters and importers from these nations to conduct trade transactions in domestic currencies, facilitating smoother and more efficient trade practices. The opening of SRVAs is expected to enhance India's trade relations with partner countries and streamline trade settlements.

14. India's Transformative Growth Trajectory
SBI Research economists project a transformative growth trajectory for India's economy, expecting it to reach $6 trillion by 2030. This optimistic outlook is driven by expectations of an 8.1% growth in the first quarter of FY24, pushing the overall growth rate to 6.5%. India's robust growth prospects are seen as a result of stronger domestic investments and positive growth momentum recorded in previous quarters.

15. Standard Chartered Projects India's Economy to Reach $6 Trillion by 2030
Standard Chartered's India research team projects India's economy to reach $6 trillion by 2030. This projection reflects optimism about the country's economic growth prospects and its potential to emerge as a major economic powerhouse in the coming years. The projected growth trajectory underscores the opportunities and potential for India's economic development in the next decade.

Appointments/Resignations

1. Justice Alok Aradhe Takes Oath as Chief Justice of Telangana High Court
Justice Alok Aradhe has been sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court at a ceremonial program held at Raj Bhavan in Hyderabad on 23rd July. The oath-taking ceremony was officiated by a dignitary, signifying the formal commencement of his tenure as the Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court.

2. Justice Ashish Jitendra Desai Sworn in as 38th Chief Justice of Kerala High Court
In a formal ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, Justice Ashish Jitendra Desai took the oath as the 38th Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court. The oath of office was administered by Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, marking the beginning of his tenure as the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court.

3. Lokesh M Assumes Charge as Noida Authority CEO
Lokesh M has assumed charge as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Noida Authority. In his first meeting with officials, he outlined his key priorities, which include focusing on industrial growth and implementing an improved public hearing system.

4. T V Narendran Reappointed as CEO & Managing Director of Tata Steel
T V Narendran has been reappointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Managing Director of Tata Steel for a term of five years, starting from September 19, 2023, until September 18, 2028. This decision was made based on the recommendation of the ‘Nomination and Remuneration Committee.’ The reappointment reaffirms Narendran's leadership position in the company.

5. R Seshasayee Appointed as Chairman of Asian Paints’ Board of Directors
R Seshasayee has been appointed as the Chairman of Asian Paints' board of directors, commencing from October 1, 2023, until January 22, 2027. He will succeed the current Chairman, Deepak Satwalekar, whose term is set to conclude on September 30, 2023.

6. Extension Granted to SK Mishra as Director of Enforcement (ED)
A three-judge bench led by Justice B R Gavai has granted an extension to the term of SK Mishra, the Director of the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), until September 15. This extension comes after previous extensions provided to him were deemed unlawful. The bench clarified that this final extension was made in the 'interest of the larger public.'

Sports News

1. Max Verstappen Wins Hungarian GP, Extends Lead in F1 Championship
Max Verstappen secured victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix at the Hungaroring, finishing with a comfortable 33.731 seconds lead over Lando Norris from McLaren. With this win, Verstappen's lead in the Formula 1 World Championship standings has expanded to a substantial 110 points, positioning him well to claim a second consecutive world championship. His teammate Sergio Perez also strengthened his position over third-place Fernando Alonso, who finished ninth in Hungary.

2. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty Win Men's Doubles Title at Korea Open
Indian badminton duo Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty secured their fourth championship of the year by emerging victorious in the men's doubles final at the Korea Open.

3. Sri Lankan Cricketer Lahiru Thirimanne Announces Retirement
Lahiru Thirimanne, the Sri Lankan top-order batter, has declared his retirement from international cricket after a career spanning 13 years. Thirimanne represented Sri Lanka in 44 Tests, 127 ODIs, and 26 T20Is since his debut in 2010.

4. Indian Golfer Shubhankar Sharma Achieves Historic Result at the Open
Indian golfer Shubhankar Sharma achieved a remarkable feat at the Open, securing the best-ever result by an Indian golfer at the Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Merseyside, England. He finished in a tied-eighth position alongside Cameron Young from the USA, just five strokes behind the leaders.

5. Pakistan A Cricket Team Wins ACC Men's Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2023
The Pakistan A cricket team emerged victorious in the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Men's Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2023 by defeating India A in the finals at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka. This marked Pakistan's second consecutive win in the tournament, having previously won in the 2019 finals against Bangladesh in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

6. Jonas Vingegaard Wins 110th Edition of Tour de France
Denmark's Jonas Vingegaard of the Jumbo-Visma team won the 110th edition of the Tour de France for the second consecutive year on the Champs-Elysees in Paris, France. The Tour de France is an annual men's multiple-stage bicycle race primarily held in France.

7. Four Retired Female Cricketers Included in BCCI Umpires' Panel
Nidhi Buley and Ritika Buley from Indore are among the four retired female cricketers who have been inducted into the BCCI umpires' panel with distinction. The BCCI conducted the exam for retired cricketers, and the Buley sisters made their way into the panel, with Nidhi having played a Test and ODI for India in 2006, and Ritika representing Madhya Pradesh in 31 First-Class games.

8. Aditya Samant Becomes India's 83rd Grandmaster
Aditya Samant from Maharashtra achieved the title of India's 83rd Grandmaster after securing his third GM norm during the Master Tournament (MTO) at the Biel International Chess Festival. He earned his first GM norm in August 2022 at the Abu Dhabi Masters and the second at the 3rd El Llobregat Open in December of the same year.

9. Handball Association of India (HAI) Granted Official Recognition by Union Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports:
The Handball Association of India (HAI) has been officially recognized by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports as the National Sports Federation (NSF) responsible for promoting and regulating handball within the country.

Important Days News

1. World Drowning Prevention Day - July 25
World Drowning Prevention Day is observed on July 25 each year to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of drowning and educate people about crucial methods to prevent such incidents. The objective is to highlight the importance of water safety and drowning prevention measures to protect families and communities from this preventable tragedy.

2. Kargil Vijay Diwas - July 26
Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated on July 26th every year to pay tribute to the bravery and valor of the Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country during the Kargil War in 1999. This day commemorates the victory of Operation Vijay, a significant military achievement over Pakistan during the Kargil War. India is celebrating the 24th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas in 2023, honoring the sacrifices of the soldiers who defended the nation's borders.

3. World Hepatitis Day - July 28
World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28 annually to raise global awareness about hepatitis and its prevention and management. This year's theme is "one life, one liver," emphasizing the importance of liver health and urging people to take action to prevent and control hepatitis.

4. World Nature Conservation Day - July 28
World Nature Conservation Day is celebrated on July 28 each year to raise awareness about the importance of conserving nature and protecting the environment. The theme for World Nature Conservation Day 2023 is "Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet," emphasizing the vital role of forests in supporting both human livelihoods and the health of the planet.

5. International Tiger Day - July 29
International Tiger Day is observed annually on July 29th to draw attention to the drastic decline in wild tiger populations and the need for their conservation. This day aims to create awareness about the importance of protecting these majestic creatures from extinction and promoting tiger conservation efforts worldwide.

6. International Friendship Day - July 30
International Friendship Day is celebrated on July 30th each year to express gratitude to friends for their companionship and support. This special day emphasizes the value of friendship and the positive impact it has on our lives.

7. World Day against Trafficking in Persons - July 30
World Day against Trafficking in Persons is observed on July 30th every year to raise awareness about human trafficking and its devastating impact on victims. The theme for this year is "Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind," urging governments, law enforcement, public services, and civil society to strengthen prevention, identification, and support for trafficking victims and end impunity.

Obituaries News of the Week

1. Brian Taber (1939 - 2023)
Former Australia and New South Wales wicketkeeper Brian Taber passed away at the age of 83. Taber played 16 Test matches for Australia between 1966 and 1970 and was known for his exceptional skills behind the stumps. He made his Test debut against South Africa in Johannesburg, where he impressed with seven catches and a stumping. Taber's contributions to Australian cricket will be remembered by fans and fellow players alike.

2. Shirish Kanekar (1943 - 2023)
Veteran Marathi writer and columnist Shirish Kanekar breathed his last in Mumbai, Maharashtra at the age of 80. Born on June 6, 1943, in Pune, Maharashtra, Kanekar's literary journey spanned several decades. He worked at prominent Marathi and English language publications, including Loksatta, Indian Express, Samana, and Free Press Journal. Kanekar was widely admired for his engaging newspaper columns on subjects like Cinema, Cricket, and Politics, leaving a lasting impact on readers and the world of Marathi literature. His loss is mourned by the literary community and his dedicated readers.