Aspirants Zone: Current Affairs February 2019

Showing posts with label Current Affairs February 2019. Show all posts

Sunday, March 3, 2019

Weekly CA Quiz: February 2019 4th week with PDF

Hello Aspirants.
We have chosen the best 85 questions from the Current Affairs of the Fourth Week of February (22 February - 28 February). Take the quiz and excel in your upcoming exams. Take the quiz to check your knowledge. To start the quiz, click on start quiz button below. To end the quiz, click on Quiz-Summary after the last question and then click on finish quiz. Weekly Current Affairs Quiz February 2019 4th Week

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Thursday, February 28, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 28th February, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 28 February 2019 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.

NATIONAL NEWS

PM Modi unveils 800-kg Astounding Bhagavad Gita at ISKCON temple in Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a giant Bhagavad Gita, running into 670 pages and weighing 800 kg, at the ISKCON temple in New Delhi. Dubbed the 'Astounding Bhagavad Gita', and measuring 2.8 m by 2 m, it is billed as the "largest principle sacred text ever to be printed".

With an artistic touch of 18 exquisite paintings and an innovative elegant layout, the book has been printed in Milan, Italy, on YUPO synthetic paper so as to make it untearable and waterproof.

16th edition of BioAsia held in Hyderabad

The 16th edition of BioAsia, an annual flagship International healthcare and technology convention of the Government of Telangana, organised in partnership with the Government of India, held at Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC).

It was inaugurated by the Governor of Telangana E.S.L Narasimhan. The theme of the conference was ‘Life Sciences 4.0 – Disrupt the Disruption’.

Union Minister Gowda inaugurates CIPET centre in Tripura

Union Minister D V Sadananda has inaugurated a centre of the Central Institute of Plastic Engineering and Technology (CIPET) in Tripura. The CIPET in Tripura would produce 1500 skilled workers per annum.

The Union Statistics and Programme Implementation Minister was present at the inauguration function of CIPET Centre for Skilling and Technical Support (CSTS) at Bodhjungnagar.

Pradhan inaugurates Dharmapada Samvaad-Skill Saathi Youth Conclave in Odisha

Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated Nua Odisha, Dharmapada Samvaad-Skill Saathi Youth Conclave in Bhubaneswar. The conclave mobilised over 2 lakh candidates who were counselled across 427 locations covering all blocks and urban local bodies, across 30 districts in the state.

The programme aims to create a mass movement around skill development in the state and inspire youth to make the most of various skill development opportunities in the country.

NID at Bhopal and Jorhat Inaugurated

The National Institute of Design has been inaugurated at Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh and Jorhat in Assam. The Union Minister for Commerce and Industries Suresh Prabhu inaugurated the Institutions. National Design Policy 2007 had recommended setting up design institutes on the lines of NID, Ahmedabad in other parts of India to promote design programs. Hence National Institute of Design is being established Andhra Pradesh (Amaravati), Assam (Jorhat), Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal) and Haryana (Kurukshetra).

NIDs will fulfil the requirement of designers in the country and expose them to employment opportunities, which will lead the country towards higher socio-economic growth.

Aviation Conclave held in New Delhi

The Ministry of Civil Aviation organised a conclave on the theme ''flying for all'' where more than 200 delegates including industry leaders and regulators deliberated on issues and opportunities in the sector. This Conclave (the Aviation Conclave 2019) is about the future of Indian aviation bringing together industry leaders, government and regulators for setting the tone and propelling us to realize our Vision-2040," Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said.

HRD Ministry launches SHREYAS to skill non-technical students

After launching schemes and initiatives to skill students in technical courses, the Human Resource Development (HRD) Ministry in collaboration with the National Skill Ministry and Labour and employment Ministry collaboratively launched SHREYAS- Scheme for Higher Education Youth for Apprenticeship and Skills.

The website, shreyas.ac.in, is operational and is already inviting applications from students from non-technical courses such as BA, BSc. & BCom.

WB Govt launches 'Banglar Shiksha' web portal to provide real-time data on schools

West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee inaugurated a web portal, which is set to provide real-time data on state-run and aided schools. "The portal, Banglar Shiksha (banglarshiksha.gov.in) will address many issues, including attendance of students and teachers.

The system will enable the headmaster and class teacher to access the academic performance of a student. Parents, too, can access the information by downloading the Banglar Shiksha app.

AYUSH-WHO Working Group Meeting on Benchmarks for Training in Yoga begins

A three-day Working Group Meeting, organised jointly by the Ministry of AYUSH and WHO, to review the WHO document “Benchmarks for Training in Yoga” began in New Delhi. 16 yoga experts will review the draft document of whom, 11 are from the US, UK, Canada, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Japan, Australia and Malaysia.

The meeting will discuss the challenges in training of Yoga, review and discuss the scope and structure of the working draft document, identify the type, scope and criteria of information/data that are further required, and look at the working procedure and time frame for further development of the document.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

Nayantara Sahgal launches her new Novel "The Fate Of Butterflies"

Veteran author Nayantara Sahgal unveiled her new novel "The Fate Of Butterflies" at a function attended by bibliophiles. The novel confronts the toxic dangers of "war, religious polarisation and authoritarian charisma-a dystopian future that is already upon the world".

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

PSU banks recover Rs 98,000 cr in first 3 quarters of FY19

Banking Secretary Rajeev Kumar said the PSU banks have recovered Rs 98,000 crore in the first three quarters of the current financial year. The provision coverage ratio (PCR) of the banks for bad loans have also risen to 70 per cent from 46 per cent after the asset quality review (AQR) last year. The PSU banks have recovered Rs 2.87 lakh crore since 2015.

IRCTC launches payment aggregator iPay

In a bid to promote digital transactions, the Indian Rail Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) launched its much awaited payment aggregator system 'IRCTC iPay'. The exclusive digital payment gateway will provide better digital experience and improved online digital payment convenience to rail passengers availing online travel-related services through the website.

With the launch of IRCTC iPay, the passengers will not need any third-party platforms. IRCTC iPay provides payment options like credit card, debit card, unified payment interface, international card.

BSA between India and Japan provides for India to access $75 billion

The Reserve Bank of India and Bank of Japan have signed an agreement for Bilateral Swap Arrangement (BSA) between the two countries. The BSA was negotiated between India and Japan during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Tokyo last year. It provides for India to access 75 billion in US dollars while the earlier BSA provided for 50 billion dollars.

India can access 75 billion dollars for its domestic currency, for the purpose of maintaining an appropriate level of balance of payments or short-term liquidity.

India's GDP growth projection lowered to 7% in 2018-19

India is estimated to grow at a slower pace of 7 per cent in 2018-19, down from the 7.2 per cent attained during the previous financial year. The growth in GDP during 2018-19 is estimated at 7 per cent as compared to the growth rate of 7.2 per cent in 2017-18.

Real gross domestic product (GDP) at constant (2011-12) prices in the year 2018-19 is likely to attain a level of Rs 141 lakh crore, as against the 'First Revised Estimates of GDP' for the year 2017-18 of Rs 131.80 lakh crore,' said the Second Advance Estimates of National Income released recently.

SPORTS

Aus to host 2021 IAAF World Cross Country C'ship

Australia will host the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Athletics Series event for the first time in 25 years, following the decision to award the 2021 World Cross Country Championships to Bathurst in New South Wales.

The event will be held at one of Australia's most famous sporting venues, Mount Panorama.

Deepak Singh bags gold at Makran Cup boxing

National champion Deepak Singh was the lone Indian boxer to notch up a gold, while five others claimed silver medals in the Makran Cup in Chabahar, Iran. He defeated Jaafar Naseri in the finals. Finishing second on the podium were P. Lalitha Prasad, Commonwealth Games silver-medallist Manish Kaushik, Duryodhan Singh Negi, Sanjeet and Commonwealth Games silver-medallist Satish Kumar.

APPOINTMENTS

Justice (Retd) Teji appointed chairman of Police Complaints Authority

Justice (Retd) P S Teji has been appointed as the chairman of the Police Complaints Authority set up to look into complaints against erring policemen in the city. The other three members of the authority include former bureaucrats Nutan Guha Biswas and P Kamraj and Advocate Tinu Bajwa.

The authority shall enquire into allegations of serious misconduct against police personnel, either on its own or on a complaint received from a victim.

IMPORTANT DAYS

World NGO Day

All the individuals and human rights activists celebrated World NGO Day 2019, an international calendar day which is annually observed on February 27. World NGO Day 2019 aims to inspire people to become more active and encourage to be involved within NGOs and both the public and private sector for the betterment of society.

On World NGO Day, individuals, social activists and enthusiasts share their knowledge and experiences. Through global meetings conducted on February 27, it aims to educate individuals worldwide on NGOs and their impact.

National Science Day

National Science Day is used to celebrate every year in India on the 28th February to provide the Respect to the Raman effect by the Indian physicist. Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman. He was provided with many awards and also honored by getting Nobel Prize in the Subject of Physics in 1930.

2019 National Science Day Theme is “Science for the People and People for the Science.”

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Wednesday, February 27, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 27th February, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 27 February 2019 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.

NATIONAL NEWS

PM Modi launches Khelo India Mobile App to promote fitness

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Khelo India Mobile App at the Youth Parliament Festival in New Delhi. Developed by the Sports Authority of India, the App helps create awareness about sports and fitness, especially among youngsters.

Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore was also present at the launch of the App which has been developed both in Hindi and English.

Commemorative notes to be released to mark Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary

To mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, a UAE-based company will globally release 12 bank notes of zero value, the first-ever limited edition commemorative series. The first two notes of the 12-part series, with just 5,000 pieces to be printed in each design, will go on sale at select outlets globally and online platforms while the remaining will be released in phases till October 2.

The special notes have been designed by Dubai-based Indian artist Akbar Saheb who is also the main illustrator for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's book "Mann Ki Baat".

Each note will feature memorable incidents from the personal and political life of Gandhi as a tribute to his legendary status, said Ramkumar Sarangapani, Numisbing Group founder and President of the International Bank Note Society, Dubai.

Smriti Irani inaugurates Titanwala Museum in Rajasthan's Bagru

Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani inaugurated the 'Titanwala Museum' in Bagru that showcases the Chhipa community's hand-block printing. The Union minister was accompanied by Jaipur MP Ramcharan Bohra who requested for setting up of a sewage treatment plant in Bagru.

She said the proposal of a sewage treatment plant will be considered once it is submitted to the ministry.

Visakhapatnam to host Beach Volleyball World Tour

Visakhapatnam will soon be playing host to the first-ever Federation International De Volleyball (FIVB), a Beach Volleyball World Tour that will be held at RK Beach from February 28 to March 3. The event will be witnessing participation of 56 leading teams; 28 each from the men's and women's categories across the world, informed President of Andhra Pradesh Volleyball Association and Visakhapatnam West MLA Ganababu.

This was the first time the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) has allotted the game to India.

Extra info.:
International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland

Assam CM Sonowal launches PRANAM Commission to protect parents of govt employees

Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched the PRANAM Commission, a panel set up to look after the issues concerning a Bill brought in for protection of parents of state government employees. The Parents Responsibility and Norms for Accountability and Monitoring (PRANAM) Bill, stated to be the first-of its-kind Bill in the country, is an effort to protect elderly parents of government employees in their times of need.

As per the Bill, if the PRANAM Commission gets a complaint that parents of a state government employee is being ignored, then 10 or 15 per cent of the employee's salary will be deducted by the government and paid to the parents or differently abled siblings.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

Venkaiah Naidu Launched the book ‘Quality, Accreditation & Ranking’ by Dr. H Chaturvedi

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu launched the book titled ‘Quality, Accreditation, and Ranking – A Silent Revolution in the Offing in Indian Higher Education’ edited by Education Promotion Society for India’s (EPSI) Alternate President Dr. H Chaturvedi in New Delhi.

The book launch function was organized by EPSI, BIMTECH and Bloomsbury Pvt Ltd.

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

RBI removes Allahabad Bank, Corporation Bank, Dhanlakshmi Bank from PCA framework

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said that Allahabad Bank, Corporation Bank and Dhanlaxmi Bank have been taken out of the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework. The Board for Financial Supervision (BFS) reviewed the performance of banks under PCA and noted that the government has infused fresh capital recently into various banks including some of the banks currently under the PCA framework.

The release noted that the two banks made the necessary disclosures to the Stock Exchange and after the infusion of capital, the CRAR, CET1, Net NPA and Leverage Ratios are no longer in breach of the PCA thresholds.

Thomas Cook India Group announces acquisition of Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI)

Thomas Cook India Group announced its acquisition of a 51% stake in Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI) at an enterprise value of $40.6 million (Rs 289 crore). Established in 2004, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging has offices in Singapore, Dubai, Mumbai, Orlando, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.

DEI focuses on imaging solutions for the attractions industry and has a network of over 120 partners. DEI is present at more than 250 venues spanning over 14 countries.

Mukesh Ambani first Indian to join top 10 richest list: Hurun Research

With a net worth of $54 billion, Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani has broken into the global top 10 richest billionaire list compiled by Hurun Research.

The Hurun Global Rich List 2019 is topped by Amazon chief Jeff Bezos for the second year in a row, while the senior Ambani is placed 8th with a network of Rs 3.83 trillion. Ambani is the only Asian among the top 10.

SPORTS

Suresh Raina became first Indian to score 8000 runs in T20s

Suresh Raina has become the first Indian batsman to cross 8000 runs in T20 cricket. Raina achieved this feat when he scored 12 runs in Uttar Pradesh’s 77-run victory over Puducherry in what was incidentally his 300th T20.

He is only the second Indian after MS Dhoni to have played that many matches in the shortest format of the game.

ISSF World Cup: Manu Bhaker, Saurabh Chaudhary win gold in 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team

Manu Bhaker and Saurabh Chaudhary clinched the gold medal in the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event at the ISSF World Cup in New Delhi. Ranxin Jiang and Bowen Zhang of China won silver while the Republic of Korea pair Minjung Kim and Daehun Park got the bronze.

Manu and Saurabh combined to shoot a total of 483.4 points in the final.The pair had earlier equalled Qualification World Record and also set a new Qualification World Record Junior by shooting 778 points.

Randeep Hooda wins silver at National Equestrian Championship

Actor Randeep Hooda won the silver medal at the National Equestrian Championship (NEC). On the work front, the "Sarbjit" actor was last seen on screen in "Baaghi 2". He will next be seen in "Dhaka".

Mehtab announces retirement from club football

Not winning the I-League and playing insufficient matches for India are the two regrets veteran midfielder Mehtab Hossain has as he announced that he will retire from club football after this season.

Mehtab, who plays for Mohun Bagan after plying his trade for arch-rivals East Bengal for almost a decade, announced his decision on the eve of their match against Indian Arrows.

Mehtab represented Kerala Blasters in the Indian Super League (ISL) for the first three seasons before playing for Jamshedpur FC during the last season.

APPOINTMENTS

Muhammadu Buhari Re-elected as Nigerian President

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has been re-elected for a second four-year term. The 76-year-old defeated his main rival, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, with a margin of nearly four million votes.

A former soldier, Mr Buhari led a military regime for 20 months in the 1980s and was first elected president in 2015, becoming the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent and win the presidency.

Extra info.:
Nigeria Capital: Abuja
Currency: Nigerian naira

AWARDS

IRCTC Rail Connect, Chhattisgarh's 'Khanij online' win National e-Governance Award

Railway's ticket booking mobile application and the Chhattisgarh government's 'Khanij online' are among 14 such IT projects that have been chosen for this year's National e-Governance Awards. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) Rail Connect mobile app was launched in January 2017 to facilitate the booking of train tickets in a faster and easier way and it was later re-designed to enhance its overall booking capacity.

National e-Governance Awards will be presented by Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Jitendra Singh. Another winner of the award is 'Khanij Online', portal of the Mineral Resources Department of the Chhattisgarh government. The core objective of this project is to develop integrated and effective management of mines and minerals systems in the state.

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Tuesday, February 26, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 26th February, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 26 February 2019 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.

NATIONAL NEWS

Health Minister inaugurates 4th Global Digital Health Partnership Summit

Health Minister JP Nadda inaugurated the 4th Global Digital Health Partnership Summit in New Delhi. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Nadda said, the government is committed to secure Universal Health Coverage for the underprivileged and deprived section of the society.

He also said, nearly 13 lakh poor people have availed the benefits of Ayushman Bharat scheme. The scheme is primarily dependent on maximising the use of digital tools for effective implementation and monitoring.

Indian passport improves its ranking on global index, jumps 10 ranks in 5 years

The ranking of Indian Passport in the previous 5 years has been tremendously improved. It continues to strengthen the nation's rank on the global index as more and more nations around the globe are offering visa-free entry and visa on arrivals to Indians.

The Passport Index of 2019, which ranks almost 199 countries in the world based on their Visa-Free Scores and their ranking according to the UNDP human development index, shows that Indian passport has steadily strengthened in a period of 5 years from rank 77 in 2015 to 67 in 2019. In the year 2018, it was 1 point higher with 68 ranks.

The UAE passport ranked No.1 in the index with it allowing hassle free travel to 167 countries

India 47th in 'Inclusive' Internet list: Facebook

India ranked 47th in the overall "Inclusive Internet Index 2019" score while Sweden topped the chart, followed by Singapore and the US, a Facebook-led study has revealed. According to the Inclusive Internet Index (3i) prepared by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) for Facebook, there are demonstrable benefits from comprehensive female e-inclusion policies, digital skills programmes and targets for women and girls to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The UK, Namibia and Ireland, followed by Austria, Chile and South Africa, are among the top performers of the year, all with female digital skills training plans.

Govt launches Rail Drishti Dashboard to keep people informed about ongoing Railway works

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal launched Rail Drishti Dashboard in New Delhi. The Dashboard has been launched to keep people informed about the work going on in the Railways across the country. Ministry of Railways will get suggestions and comments through the platform and will plan on future actions. People will get useful information from Rail Drishti through Railway WiFi facilities that are continuously expanding in the country.

Rail Land Development Authority and Dharavi Redevelopment Authority have reached an agreement under which Railway will lease surplus land of 45 acres to Dharavi Redevelopment Authority for 99 years. It will accelerate the redevelopment work in Dharavi and there will be a change in the lives of lakhs of people.

Govt approves construction of 560695 more houses

Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry has approved the construction of 560695 more affordable houses for the benefit of urban poor under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban). The approval was given in the 43rd meeting of the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee in New Delhi. The cumulative number of houses sanctioned under the scheme is now over 79 lakh.

The number of houses sanctioned for Uttar Pradesh is over one lakh 79 thousand, for Andhra Pradesh one lakh 10 thousand, Maharashtra over one lakh while Karnataka has been sanctioned over 48 thousand houses.

Odisha: DRDO test fires new Surface to Air missile

India successfully test fired a quick reaction surface to air missile (QRSAM) off the coast of Odisha. Two quick reaction surface missile were tested by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The missile is being developed by DRDO for the Indian Army.

In January this year, India achieved major success as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully test fired the next generation anti-radiation missile which can take on enemy radar stations from a distance of 100 kilometres.

The NGARM was fired from a Su-30 aircraft successfully at a radar station and it took out its target successfully.

Monkeys declared vermin in eleven districts of Himachal Pradesh

Monkeys have again been declared vermin for the next one year in 11 districts' 91 tehsils and sub-tehsils of Himachal Pradesh, state Forest Minister Govind Singh Thakur said in Shimla. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur had raised this matter time and again with the Centre urging that it is necessary to declare monkeys as a vermin species as the animals have been adversely affecting crops and causing harm to humans.

In 2016, monkeys were declared as vermin in 38 tehsils and sub-tehsils of 10 districts in Himachal Pradesh. The period of this notification was extended for one year on December 20, 2017.

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

Relief to e-wallets: RBI extends KYC compliance norms by six months

In a relief to e-wallet companies, the Reserve Bank of India extended by six months the deadline for compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) norms, for prepaid payment instrument (PPI) issuers. The earlier deadline was February 28.

PPIs are instruments that facilitate purchase of goods and services, including financial services and remittance facilities, against the value stored on such instruments.

SPORTS

Grandmaster Gupta wins Cannes International Open Chess

Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta won the Cannes International Open after taking an easy draw with Pier Luigi Basso of Italy in the ninth and final round that concluded recently. Earlier this year, Abhijeet had also tied for the first place at the Delhi International open in January.

The BPCL-officer will also gain some important rating points that will see him back in the 2600 rating club.

Rashid Khan 1st bowler in T20I history to pick 4 wickets in 4 balls

Leg-spinner Rashid Khan became the first bowler to bag four wickets off successive deliveries in Twenty20 Internationals. Rashid's impressive bowling performance in the third and final game also helped Afghanistan sweep the T20I series against Ireland in Dehradun.

Rashid became the seventh bowler in the T20I history to bag a hat-trick and in the process also completed his second five-wicket haul in the format.

Sri Lanka creates history, becomes first Asian Team to win Test Series in South Africa

Sri Lanka became the first Asian side in the world to beat South Africa in their home conditions. The Lankans completed a 2-0 sweep against the Proteas, bagging an 8-wicket win in the second Test at Port Elizabeth.

Before Sri Lanka, only Australia and England have managed to beat South Africa in a Test series at home.

Jayasuriya banned from all cricket for 2 years

Sanath Jayasuriya was banned from all cricket-related activities for two years after the former Sri Lanka skipper admitted to breaching Articles 2.4.6 and 2.4.7 of the International Cricket Council's (ICC) anti-corruption code. As a result of the admissions, he has accepted a sanction of a two-year period of ineligibility.

The conviction of Jayasuriya is the latest part of a much broader ICC ACU investigation into corruption in cricket in Sri Lanka.

APPOINTMENTS

NBT appoints Govind Prasad Sharma as Chairman

The National Book Trust (NBT) has appointed educationist and author Govind Prasad Sharma as its new Chairman. NBT, an autonomous organisation under the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development, was previously chaired by Baldeo Sharma since 2015.

Sharma also served as Vice Chairman of Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education.

AWARDS

President confers Gandhi Peace Prize

President Ramnath Kovind gave away the Gandhi Peace Prize for four years from 2015 to 2018. Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, got the award for 2015 for their contribution to rural development, education, development of natural resources.

For 2016, it has been jointly given to Akshaya Patra foundation for its contribution in providing mid-day meals to children and Sulabh International for improving the condition of sanitation and emancipation of manual scavengers.

Ekal Abhiyan Trust has won the award for 2017 for their contribution in providing education to rural and tribal children in remote areas, rural empowerment, gender, and social equality.

Goodwill Ambassador of the World Health Organisation for Leprosy Elimination Yohei Sasakawa has been honoured with Gandhi Peace Prize for 2018 for his role in leprosy eradication.

G.R. Karthikeyan gets Lifetime Achievement award

G.R. Karthikeyan, father of India’s first Formula One driver Narain Karthikeyan, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement award at the FMSCI annual awards function in Mumbai. Raghul Rangasamy was applauded as he walked up to receive the Upcoming Motorsport Person of the Year award for the Raymond Gautam Singhania Trophy.

FIA president Jean Todt was the chief guest and handed over the awards.

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Monday, February 25, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 25th February, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 25 February 2019 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.

NATIONAL NEWS

PM Modi inaugurates National War Memorial Near India Gate

Prime Minister Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India's National War Memorial adjoining the India Gate in New Delhi, nearly 60 years after it was mooted to honour the fallen soldiers after Independence. PM Modi paid his tribute to the brave soldiers, who lost their lives in Pulwama terror attack and all those bravehearts who have sacrificed their lives for protecting India.

Spread over 40 acres in the India Gate complex, the has been executed at a cost of Rs 176 crore and its design was selected through a global competition. The names of 25,942 battle casualties have been inscribed across 16 walls that consist of granite pieces bearing the name, rank and regiment of the fallen heroes.

Rising India Summit 2019 held in New Delhi

With the theme 'Beyond Politics: Defining National Priorities', News18, India's largest news network, is coming up with the second edition of its marquee thought-leadership initiative-News18 Rising India Summit 2019. The event will be held in New Delhi and the inaugural evening will be graced by the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi who will give the keynote address.

The summit this year, held on a monumental scale, will bring together people of eminence and exceptional achievements, from various walks of life, to celebrate India's successes and deliberate the future.

14th Agricultural Science Congress held in New Delhi

14th Agricultural Science Congress organised by the National Academy of Agricultural Science (NAAS) in association with the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and ICAR held in New Delhi on the theme "Innovations for Agricultural Transformation".

The Congress was attended by around 2000 delegates. Over 40 delegates from 17 countries- US, UK, Canada, Australia, France, Thailand, Mexico, Denmark, and Philippines etc participated in the assembly.

U'khand CM launches helpline for quick redressal of public complaints

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat launched a helpline at the IT Park in Dehradun for quick redressal of public complaints. People can call on the helpline number 1905 to lodge their complaints. The call centre set up for the purpose will be open from 8 am to 10 pm daily to receive people's complaints.

The performance of the government departments will also be rated through the mechanism which will not only facilitate quicker redressal of public complaints but also introduce a new work culture where officials will work with more accountability.

World Bank, UN, SIDBI launch Rs 300 crore Women’s Livelihood Bond

World Bank, UN Women, and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) have joined hands to launch a new social impact bonds exclusively for women, called Women’s Livelihood Bonds (WLBs), with an initial corpus of Rs 300 crore.

The proposed bond will enable individual women entrepreneurs in sectors like food processing, agriculture, services and small units to borrow around Rs 50,000 to Rs 3 lakh at an annual interest rate of around 13-14 per cent or less.

First in India: MP rolls out 100-day urban job scheme

The 100-day urban job guarantee scheme a first in the country and the brainchild of Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath is offering over 40 jobs, covering a broad spectrum from cattle grazer to accountant and photographer, as the government aims to cover as many beneficiaries as possible, regardless of their educational qualification. There is no minimum educational criteria and even the uneducated people can find work..

The government’s target is to cover at least six lakh youths a year in three phases, which means two lakh every four months. As per the arrangement, 90% of the stipend will be paid by the state government and 10% will be given by the municipal bodies.

Bihar 1st state to deploy dog squad to check liquor smuggling

Bihar has become the first state in the country to have raised a special dog squad to detect liquor consignment. As many as 20 liquor-tracker dogs which were imparted training for nine months in Hyderabad have been deployed in nine police ranges in the state.

They were trained at Hyderabad-based Integrated Intelligence Training Academy. Patna will witness deployment of 4 such dogs. Notably, Bihar had banned liquor in the state in 2016.

Kochi hosted 44th IAA global summit

International Advertising Association (IAA), the integrated association of advertising agencies and the media, will organise the 44th edition of its global summit at Grand Hyatt-Lulu Convention Centre, Kochi. The three-day summit will see the participation of dignitaries from various fields and industries all over the world.

Reliance Industries CMD Mukesh Ambani, Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan and spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will attend the summit. The theme of the 44th edition is 'brand dharma'.

The 80-year old IAA is headquartered in New York and has presence in 65 countries. This is for first time an Indian city is holding the IAA summit.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Ghani flags off first Afghan cargo to India through Chabahar port

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani flagged off the first Afghan cargo from western Nimroz province that will be exported to India through Chabahar Port in Iran which was inaugurated in 2017. Addressing the event, Ghani said that the opening of Chabahar route will increase Afghanistan's export from US $1 billion to US $2 billion in the next year.

The Chabahar port which provides an alternative route for trade between India and Afghanistan is located in Southeastern Iran, on the Gulf of Oman.

Sudan's president declares state of emergency

Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir has declared a national state of emergency, dismissed the federal government and sacked all state governors. In the address, Mr Bashir asked parliament to postpone constitutional amendments that would allow him to run for another term.

The demonstrations started over cuts to bread and fuel subsidies in December but later morphed into anger at Mr Bashir's 30-year rule.

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

BoB ties up with German KfW for USD 130m to refinance solar units

State-run Bank of Baroda has tied up with Germany's KfW Development Bank for funding of USD 113 million to refinance solar projects. The tie-up is part of an Indo-German Solar Energy Partnership signed in 2015.

The KfW, formerly KfW Bankengruppe (banking group), is a German government-owned development bank, based in Frankfurt.

Oil Marketing Companies to engage 10,000 women as grassroots energy ambassadors in Odisha

In Odisha, Oil Marketing Companies will engage more than 10,000 rural women as 'Ujjwala Didis' to act as grassroots energy ambassadors across the state to ensure sustainability of LPG use. Ujjwala Didis will act as a bridge between existing and prospective LPG consumers and the distributors in the state.

The state saw phenomenal growth in LPG households from 20 lakh in 2014 to almost 78 lakh in February, 2019.

GST on under-construction houses cut to 5%

The GST Council lowered the tax on under-construction residential properties to 5 per cent from 12 per cent to boost the realty sector. The new rates will be implemented from April 1. The council also reduced goods and services tax (GST) on affordable housing projects from 8 per cent to 1 per cent without input tax credit.

In metros houses with a carpet area up to 60 square metres, and in non-metros houses with a carpet area of up to 90 square metres will be classified as affordable housing. Properties worth Rs 45 lakh will be also be classified as affordable.

SPORTS

Chennai Spartans crowned champions of inaugural Pro Volleyball League

Chennai Spartans were crowned as the winners of the inaugural Pro Volleyball League as they beat Calicut Heroes in straight sets 3-0 in the final in Chennai. As a result of winning the first edition of the league, Chennai Spartans also qualify for the FIVB Asian Men's Club Volleyball Championship.

APPOINTMENTS

State Governor Ayala Appointed Sudan's Prime Minister

Mohamed Tahir Ayala, governor of Gezira state, was appointed Sudan’s prime minister. Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir said in November 2017 that he would support Ayala in the 2020 presidential election if he decided to run.

Extra info.:
Capital: Khartoum
Currency: Sudanese pound

AWARDS

Mahesh Elkunchwar bags META Lifetime Achievement Award

One of Indias most progressive playwrights, Mahesh Elkunchwar, will be conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award at the prestigious Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards (META) this year. Elkunchwar is critically acclaimed and widely known for having experimented with a wide range of drama and has been a powerful force in both Indian and Marathi theatre for over three decades.

OBITUARIES

Veteran Kannada writer Ko Channabasappa passes away

Veteran freedom fighter and noted Kannada writer Ko Channabasappa passed away in M S Ramaiah hospital in Bengaluru. He was 96. He was former Judge and had written more than 80 books. He was winner of Nadoja and Kannada Rajyotsava Awards.

Born in Kudligi in Ballari District he had participated in Quit India movement during his school days and had been jailed several time. He was in forefront during agitation for State's unification.

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Oscar Awards 2019 Announced: Complete List of Awards

The 91st Academy Awards, presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), honored the best films of 2018. The ceremony was held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. AMPAS presented Academy Awards (commonly referred to as Oscars) in 24 categories.

Oscars 2019 winners list:

BEST PICTURE – Green Book

ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE – Rami Malek, Bohemian Rhapsody

ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE – Olivia Colman, The Favourite

DIRECTING – Alfonso Cuaron, Roma

ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE – Mahershala Ali, Green Book

ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE – Regina King, If Beale Street Could Talk

WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY) – BlacKkKlansman

WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY) – Green Book

FILM EDITING – Bohemian Rhapsody, John Ottman

CINEMATOGRAPHY – Roma, Alfonso Cuaron

PRODUCTION DESIGN – Black Panther | Hannah Beachler (Production Design); Jay Hart (Set Decoration)

VISUAL EFFECTS – First Man | Paul Lambert, Ian Hunter, Tristan Myles and J.D. Schwalm

COSTUME DESIGN – Black Panther, Ruth Carter

MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING – Vice | Greg Cannom, Kate Biscoe and Patricia Dehaney

FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM – Roma | Mexico; Alfonso Cuarón

ANIMATED FEATURE FILM – Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE) – Black Panther, Ludwig Goransson

MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG) – “Shallow” | Music and Lyric by Lady Gaga, Mark Ronson, Anthony Rossomando and Andrew Wyatt

SOUND EDITING – Bohemian Rhapsody | John Warhurst and Nina Hartstone

SOUND MIXING – Bohemian Rhapsody | Paul Massey, Tim Cavagin and John Casali

SHORT FILM (ANIMATED) – Bao | Domee Shi and Becky Neiman-Cobb

SHORT FILM (LIVE ACTION) – Skin | Guy Nattiv and Jaime Ray Newman

DOCUMENTARY (FEATURE) – Free Solo | Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, Jimmy Chin, Evan Hayes and Shannon Dill

DOCUMENTARY (SHORT SUBJECT) – Period. End Of Sentence. | Rayka Zehtabchi and Melissa Berton

Click Here to Download the Complete List

Sunday, February 24, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 24th February, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 24 February 2019 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.

NATIONAL NEWS

Global Business Summit held in New Delhi

The Global Business Summit can be the Davos of the East, said Vineet Jain, Managing Director of the Times group in the welcome address for the Economic Times Global Business Summit 2019 in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Global Business summit in New Delhi.

Top Indian policy makers including, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, railways minister Piyush Goyal, commerce minister Suresh Prabhu and law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.

PM Modi unveils Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in Gorakhpur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme in Gorakhpur. PM-KISAN scheme, announced in the interim Budget, released earlier this month will provide Rs 6,000 per year to small and marginal farmer families having combined land holding/ownership of upto 2 hectares. The amount will be given in 3 installments of Rs 2,000 each.

The amount will be transferred directly to the bank account of the beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer. After launching the scheme, the Prime Minister also handed over certificates to select beneficiaries of the scheme.

GST on affordable housing properties reduced to 1 pc

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) on affordable housing properties without input tax credit (ITC) has been reduced to one per cent, while effective GST of 5 per cent shall be applicable without ITC on residential properties outside affordable segment, as was decided by the GST Council at its 33rd meeting. The new rate will be effective from April 1, 2019.

In metros, a flat of 60 square meter carpet area and costing Rs 45 lakh in the apartment will fall in the affordable housing category. In non-metros, the size will be 90 square meter carpet area and costing Rs 45 lakh.

Odisha launches boat ambulance

The Odisha government launched the boat ambulance service to help patients reach hospitals in remote areas cut off by rivers, at a cost of Rs 5.40 crore. The first boat ambulance was launched at Batighar in the Kendrapara district.

Six boat ambulances will add to the road fleet and will be part of the 108 ambulance service. Patients from the areas cut off by rivers need to wait long for transportation to the nearest hospital. They would use boats to cross water bodies to the be picked up by 108 or 102 ambulance.

TN becomes first state in mainland to get 2 Coast Guard dists

Necessitated by frequent issues pertaining to fishermen, Tamil Nadu became the first state in the country to get a second Coast Guard district headquarters - Thoothukudi.

The first district headquarters is Chennai. Inaugurated by state Governor Banwarilal Purohit, the Thoothukudi district headquarters has been set up with an aim to augment security mechanism on the eastern coast and the state in particular.

Chennai to host 'Science at Sabha'

The fourth edition of 'Science at the Sabha', organised by The Institute of Mathematical Sciences, will be held in Chennai. The programme is part of the institute's outreach programme to the common man. 'Science at Sabha' will be held at The Music Academy in Chennai.

The event-like feature talks on topics like "Traffic rules in neurons" by Sandhya Koushika, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai; "Untwisting the twisted matter" by Vijay Shenoy and "The whole is more than the sum of its parts" by Sitabhra Sinha, The Indian Institute of Mathematical Science, Chennai..

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Zimbabwe launches new, discounted currency RTGS Dollar

Zimbabwe’s central bank began trading a sharply discounted replacement currency, attempting to ease a cash crunch that has hobbled the economy and plunged millions deep into poverty. Zimbabwe adopted the dollar in 2009 but, as a chronic hard currency shortage worsened, introduced a parallel system of bond notes that it pegged at 1:1 to the U.S. currency.

Effectively reintroducing a national currency, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) said it would carry out a “managed float” of the surrogate, which fetches far less than a dollar on the black market. The bond notes and electronic dollars, locked in individuals’ accounts for months due to a lack of cash, will be merged into a separate currency called RTGS or real-time gross settlement dollars.

SPORTS

Saurabh wins gold at shooting World Cup

Indian shooter Saurabh Chaudhary won gold in the men's 10 metre air pistol category at the ISSF World Cup in New Delhi. In the final, the shooter created a new world record with a score of 245. This is the second gold for India in this tournament.

Apurvi Chandela had taken the first gold for India when she won the title in the women's 10m air rifle category.

APPOINTMENTS

Brij Bhushan Sharan elected as WFI President for third time

Member of Parliament Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been elected third time unopposed as the President of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). Election of the Office Bearers and Executive Committee Members of WFI for the next years term (2019-2023) were held in New Delhi at the Constitution Club of India.

Along with Brij Bhushan, I.D. Nanavati has been elected as the Senior Vice President, V.N. Prasood as the Secretary General and Satyapal Singh Deshwal as the Treasurer.

AWARDS

Manpreet Singh honoured with AHF's Player of the Year Award

The Asian Hockey Federation has honoured Indian skipper Manpreet Singh with the 2018 Player of the Year award. Women team's striker Lalremsiami has bagged the Rising Player of The Year prize.

Manpreet led the Indian team to an unbeaten streak at the Asian Champions Trophy in Muscat where the team was declared joint winners with Pakistan while Lalremsiami put up an impressive performance as a striker at the 2018 World Cup.

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Saturday, February 23, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 23rd February, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 23 February 2019 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.

NATIONAL NEWS

Regional Maritime Safety Conference 2019 held in Mumbai

Safeguarding the shores and promoting India-Asean trade along the sea route would be the theme for the country’s maiden ‘Regional Maritime-Safety Conference’ in Mumbai. The inaugural edition is being organised by the National Maritime Foundation (NMF) in coordination with the Ministry of Shipping and the Ministry of External Affairs.

National Conference on Logistics Policy held in New Delhi

The“National Conference on Logistics Policy: Context, Issues & The Way Forward”was held in New Delhi. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Suresh Prabhu, addressed the first stakeholder consultation on the draft logistics policy prepared by the Department of Logistics of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

He also launched the SAFAR Mobile App, on this occasion. The app is available in 8 languages.

Odisha cabinet approves 'Khushi' to provide free sanitary napkins

The Odisha cabinet approved Khushi scheme to provide free sanitary napkins to school girls across the state. The government has decided to spend Rs 466.08 crore in 5 years to improve menstrual hygiene among adolescent girl students of the state.

Under the scheme, the state will provide free sanitary napkins to 17.25 lakh girls studying in Classes 6 to 12 in government and government-aided schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawaharlal Navodaya Vidyalayas located in the state.

First Mega Food Park of Tripura inaugurated in Agartala

Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti inaugurated Sikaria Mega Food Park Pvt Ltd at Village Tulakona in Agartala. This is the 17th Mega Food Park in the country and first in the state of Tripura. The Mega Food Park has been set up in 50 acres of land at the cost of Rs. 87.45 crore.

The Ministry of Food Processing is implementing Mega Food Park Scheme to give a major boost to the food processing sector by adding value and reducing food wastage at each stage of the supply chain with a particular focus on perishables. The government of India provides financial assistance up to Rs. 50.00 Crore per Mega Food Park project.

Smriti Irani launches Integrated Large Scale Eri Farming in Arunachal Pradesh under NERTPS

Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani launched the Integrated Large Scale Eri Farming in Arunachal Pradesh under North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS) in Itanagar. Initially, the Project will cover five districts of the state, that are: Papumpare, East Kameng, Siang, East Siang and West Siang.

While launching the centrally funded Scheme for Eri silk Farming, Union Textiles Minister said that about one thousand acres land will be covered for Eri Farming in the chosen districts of the state. Government has decided to provide financial assistance to 4000 beneficiaries under NERTPS.

PV Sindhu becomes first woman to co-pilot Made-In-India Tejas

Ace shuttler PV Sindhu flew in Made-in-India Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas at the Aero India air show being held in Bengaluru. The combat jet's trainer version was piloted by Group Captain Siddharth Singh, while Sindhu was the co-pilot in the tandem-seater cockpit. Sindhu is the first woman to fly in a Tejas aircraft.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

World's largest bee spotted the first time since 1981

A team of researchers spotted the world's giant bee which is as big as a human thumb, in Indonesia for the first time since 1981. The team has spent years studying the bee and slogged around in humid Indonesia forests for days before stumbling upon one.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies this species as "vulnerable" due to mining and quarrying.

BANKING & FINANCE

RBI forms new NBFCs' category by merging 3 to ease operational flexibility

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has merged 3 categories of NBFCs- asset finance, loan companies and investment companies into one new category called NBFC-investment and credit company (NBFC-ICC) to ease operational flexibility of these institutions.

Also, the central bank has capped the investment limit of deposit-taking NBFC–ICC in any other company to 20 per cent of its owned fund. However, no limit has been assigned as to how much this category of NBFC can invest in its own subsidiary.

Merger of Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank with Bank of Baroda to be effective from April 1

Bank of Baroda said the merger of Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank with itself would be effective from April 1 as per the scheme of amalgamation approved by the government. Besides, the board of the bank fixed March 11, 2019, as record date for issuing and allotting equity shares of the Bank of Baroda to the Shareholders of Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank.

This scheme may be called the Amalgamation of Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank with Bank of Baroda Scheme, 2019. As per the Scheme of Amalgamation, shareholders of Vijaya Bank will get 402 equity shares of BoB for every 1,000 shares held. In case of Dena Bank, its shareholders will get 110 shares for every 1,000 shares of BoB.

Srei Equipment, Syndicate Bank to jointly provide equipment financing under co-lending arrangement

Srei Equipment Finance, a wholly owned subsidiary of Srei Infrastructure Finance, has tied up with state-owned Syndicate Bank to jointly provide financing for construction and farm equipment.

Under the arrangement, Syndicate Bank would leverage on its low-cost funds and co-lend equipment loans with Srei at a mutually agreed rate. The arrangement had been done under the aegis of Reserve Bank of India.

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

JioSaavn only Indian company to make it to '50 Most Innovative Companies' list

India-based global audio and music streaming service JioSaavn announced that it has secured the first rank India-wise and 28th rank globally in the 2019 list of "50 Most Innovative Companies". JioSaavn is the only Indian company that made it to the list, published by US-based business publication Fast Company.

The other domestic companies that ranked top on the India list of "Most Innovative Companies" include branded budget hotel marketplace OYO, biodegradable sanitary pad manufacturers Sathi and ride-hailing service Ola.

CBDT sets up panel to reduce litigation at appellate forums

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has constituted a six-member committee to recommend steps to reduce litigation before the appellate forums of Commissioner of Income Tax (Appeals) and the Income-Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT). The panel will have to submit its report within eight weeks.

The committee has been asked to give its recommendations for different income groups and separately for corporate and non-corporate assesses.

SPORTS

Apurvi wins gold at shooting World Cup

Apurvi Chandela won the first gold for India at the ISSF World Cup by finishing on top of the women's 10 metre Air Rifle category in New Delhi. She also set a new world record with 252.9 points on the way to the title. Apurvi, who had booked a quota place for the 2020 Olympics last year, thus bagged her third individual medal at a World Cup.

The Chinese took home both the silver and bronze medals. Zhao Ruozhu finished second while her compatriot Xu Hong had to settle for the third spot.

Australian woman cricketer sets Guinness World Record for highest catch

Australia Women wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy has set the Guinness World Record for the highest catch of a cricket ball. The 28-year-old broke the previous record (62 metre) by catching the ball released by a drone at 65.2 metre. She then caught the ball dropped from a distance of 72.3 metre before setting the new world record at 82.5 metre.

APPOINTMENTS

India's Mushtaque Ahmad elected as Vice-President of AHF

India's Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad and Asima Ali were elected as the Vice-President and Executive Committee member of the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) for a four-year term in Gifu, Japan. Mushtaque Ahmad is currently serving as the President of Hockey India, while Ali is the Vice-President of the national federation.

Besides Ali, Mushtaque Ahmad too have now become a member of the AHF executive board.

AWARDS

Divya Karnad first Indian woman to receive Future of Nature award for marine conservation

Dr Divya Karnad has become the second Indian and the first woman to receive the 'Global Future of Nature Award' for her work on marine conservation. The only other Indian to receive the award is Dr Charudutt Mishra. The award is given to three people each year and this year apart from Karnad, Olivier Nsengimana and Fernanda Abra also received it.

The 'Future For Nature Award' is a prestigious international award that celebrates tangible achievements in protecting wild animal and plant species.

OBITUARIES

Veteran Telugu filmmaker Kodi Ramakrishna passes away

Well-known Telugu filmmaker Kodi Ramakrishna, best known for directing memorable films such as "Ankusam","Ammoru" and "Arundhati" among others passed away in Hyderabad. Ramakrishna made his directorial debut with 1982 Telugu romantic comedy "Intlo Ramayya Veedhilo Krishnayya" with megastar Chiranjeevi.

Having predominantly directed films in Telugu, Ramakrishna also made films in Kannada and Tamil.

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Friday, February 22, 2019

Weekly CA Quiz: February 2019 3rd week with PDF

Hello Aspirants.
We have chosen the best 75 questions from the Current Affairs of the Third Week of February (15 February - 21 February). Take the quiz and excel in your upcoming exams. Take the quiz to check your knowledge. To start the quiz, click on start quiz button below. To end the quiz, click on Quiz-Summary after the last question and then click on finish quiz. Weekly Current Affairs Quiz February 2019 3rd Week

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Daily Current Affairs 22nd February, 2019

Daily Current Affairs 22 February 2019 for Banking/Insurance/SSC and other related exams.

NATIONAL NEWS

International Conference ENCO-2019 held in New Delhi

The International Conference and Exhibition on Energy and Environment – Challenges and Opportunities (ENCO-2019) held in New Delhi. The conference was inaugurated by the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind.

The 3 day conference aims to deliberate and identify the R&D needs to innovate new techniques, technologies and applications for clean, safe, symbiotic sustenance of society, environment, energy and industries in post-2020 era.

5th meeting of Island Development Agency in New Delhi

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh chaired the fifth meeting of the Island Development Agency (IDA). The meeting was called to review the progress mde towards the "Holistic development of islands" program. Bids for private sector participation in three tourism-based projects have already been invited by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration.

Moreover, the Ministry of Commerce has issued a notification extending tax incentives for investments made in manufacturing and service sector in islands of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep.

Saudi Arabia becomes 73rd country to join ISA

Saudi Arabia signed the framework agreement of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) becoming the 73rd country to join the India-led renewable energy organisation which now has a total of 122 members.

The signing of the agreement took place after a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Extra info.:
International Solar Alliance Headquarters: Gurugram

India decides to stop water to Pakistan

After withdrawing the most favoured nation (MFN) status and slamming a 200 per cent import duty, India decided to stop the flow of its share of water from the three eastern rivers -the Beas, Ravi and Sutlej to Pakistan. Construction of a dam had started at Shahpur-Kandi on Ravi river.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi the government has decided to stop our share of water, which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab. Moreover, the Ujh project will store India's share of water for use in J&K and the rest will flow from the second Ravi-Beas Link to provide water to other basin states.

Modi unveils Gandhi's bust at South Korean university

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the bust of Mahatma Gandhi in South Korea's premier Yonsei University and said the occasion assumes greater significance in light of Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary.

Modi is on a two-day state visit to South Korea where he will accept the Seoul Peace Prize and have business and political engagements. He will also address the India-Korea business symposium.

Extra info.:
South Korea Capital: Seoul Dialing
Currency: South Korean won

PM Inaugurates Two Cancer Hospitals in Varanasi

The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi during his visit at BHU in Varanasi recently inaugurated Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya Cancer Hospital and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital, Lahartara. These Hospitals will provide comprehensive treatment to the patients from UP, and nearby states of MP, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar.

Ram Naik, Governor of UP, Yogi Adityanath, CM of UP and other dignitaries were present on the occasion. PM also dedicated first New Bhabhatron with precision technology, to the nation.

UP CM launches Scheme for Adolescent girls

In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched Scheme for Adolescent girls. The scheme focuses on girls aged between 11 to 14 years who have left studies and will take steps for proper nutrition and special care for them. The state government also decided to observe Adolescent girls day on 8th of every month at Anganwadi centres across the state.

State Government will also launch Nutrition Campaign for the adolescent girls on 8th March. He said that education for girls till graduation is the government’s responsibility and state government is very sensitive in this matter.

Jharkhand CM launches Rs 100-crore Sweet Revolution scheme

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das launched the first phase of the Rs 100-crore Sweet Revolution Scheme under which 1,207 farmers will be given Rs 1 lakh for bee keeping. 1,207 farmers, after training, will be given Rs 1 lakh for bee keeping. Of the amount, Rs 80,000 is in the form of grant. Farmers can earn Rs 1.30 lakh every year by just investing Rs 20,000.

The Chief Minister announced that the Pradhanmantri Krishi Samman Yojna will be launched in Ranchi on February 24 under which Rs 2,000 will be deposited in the account of the farmers through direct transfer.

Kerala CM inaugurates India's first humanoid police robot

Embarking on the much-coveted road towards automation, India has launched its first humanoid robot cop in Kerala. Visitors to the Kerala Police Headquarters in the state capital will be greeted by the Robocop and will even direct you to where you need to go. The administration has decided to deploy the KP-Bot at the front office of the police headquarters.

Powered by Al along with a range of sensors gathering information of the surroundings, KP-bot can work alongside human beings seamlessly.

NITI Aayog Organized Conference on Future of Indian Banking

Niti Aayog vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar inaugurated a conference aimed at discussing the increase and elevate the discourse on the banking sector in India. The event will also help develop insights to inform the continued evolution of the Indian banking sector for optimally supporting the growing credit needs of the economy.

The event is expected to host 200 domestic and international participants, including policy makers, academicians, researchers, professionals, and students from various banks, universities and institutes.

Waste to Wonder Park inaugurated in Delhi

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new park which houses the replicas of seven wonders of the world at Sarai Kale Khan in New Delhi. The park, which is called the 'Waste to Wonder Park', was built by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC).

It is the first-of-its-kind tourist attraction in the world, with the replicas of the Taj Mahal, the Great Pyramid of Giza, Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Christ the Redeemer statue of Rio de Janeiro, Rome's Colosseum, and the Statute of Liberty which were opened for the public at the inauguration.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

PM Modi launches India Korea startup hub in Seoul

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched India Korea startup hub in Seoul. Delivering keynote address at India-Korea Business Symposium Mr Modi said India has emerged as a land of opportunity and no other large economy in the world is growing at over 7 per cent year after year. He said India is among Korea's top-10 trade partners. Their trade volume has reached 21.5 billion dollars for 2018.

Besides summit meeting with President Moon Jae-in, Prime Minister Modi will also have a number of engagements with the Korean leadership, businesses and Indian Community.

Month-long 'Festival of India' begins in Nepal

A month-long 'Festival of India' began in Kathmandu with the objective of familiarising the new generation of Nepal about the similarities between the Himalayan nation and India. The festival, organised by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Embassy of India, is being held in Kathmandu and other major cities of the country.

The festival began here with a musical drama on the life of Lord Buddha. Sanskrit conference, dance, food festival and other cultural programmes will also be held during the festival.

World's first AI female news anchor unveiled in China

Adding another feather to its tech savvy cap, China unveiled the world's first female AI news presenter. China's Xinhua News Agency and the search engine Shougou Company together collaborated in the development of the artificial intelligence anchor, called Xin Xiaomeng.

Xiaomeng will debut in March during the upcoming Two Sessions meetings, the annual Parliamentary meetings held in China.

Australian rat becomes first mammal to go extinct due to climate change

According to the Australian government, a small brown rat which lived on a tiny island off northern Australia is the world's first mammal known to have become extinct due to "human-induced climate change." The mammal, Bramble Cay melomys, which had not been seen for almost 10 years was initially pronounced extinct after "exhaustive" conservation efforts failed, a report by the University of Queensland in 2016 stated. That finding was confirmed by the Australian government.

Israel launches historic Moon mission

Israel successfully launched its first privately-funded Moon lander from Florida in the US, becoming only the fourth nation to make a landing on the lunar surface.The lander, Beresheet, atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, was launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

Beresheet, a $100 million project, was developed by Israel's non-profit SpaceIL and its partners.

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

Meituan-Dianping Named the World’s Most Innovative Company by Fast Company

Chinese on-demand service platform Meituan-Dianping overthrows Apple as the world’s most innovative company according to a recent ranking of American business magazine Fast Company. Fast Company published its annual 50 most innovative companies in the world for 2019.

The rankings are based on the “profound impact on both industry and culture” and “showcases a variety of ways to thrive in today’s volatile world.”

SPORTS

IOC suspends India from hosting Olympic-qualifying events

In a major setback for India, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) suspended all Indian applications to host future Olympic-related events until New Delhi guarantees in writing the entry of all participants.

The IOC measure comes after two Pakistani shooters were denied visas to compete in the ISSF Shooting World Cup, starting in New Delhi, which also resulted in scrapping of two of the 16 Tokyo Olympic quota places on offer in the marquee tournament..

Extra info.:
International Olympic Committee Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland

ISSF World Cup 2019 starts in Delhi

As the ISSF World Cup begins at the Karni Singh Shooting range in Delhi, Indian shooters will be targeting the Olympic quotas available at the prestigious event. 495 shooters from 58 countries will compete for a total of 16 quota places in eight events at the Rifle and Pistol World Cup.

Two Pakistani shooters, G M Bashir and Khalil Ahmed, were not issued visas in the wake of last week’s Pulwama terrorist attack.

Chris Gayle breaks Shahid Afridi's record for most sixes in international cricket

In the first ODI between West Indies and England, the big-hitting Gayle surpassed Shahid Afridi to put his name atop list of batsmen with most sixes in international cricket. The West Indies great achieved this feat in his 444th match while Afridi took 524 matches for 476 sixes.

By the time Gayle was done at the Kensington Oval, he had taken his tally to 488 international sixes. The 39-year-old has now smashed 287 sixes in ODIs, 103 sixes in T20Is and 98 maximums in the longest format of the game.

APPOINTMENTS

Puma signs Mary Kom as women's training ambassador

German sportswear brand Puma announced that it has appointed World Boxing Champion Mary Kom as its new brand ambassador. Kom, who won a record sixth World Boxing Championship in New Delhi in November last year, has signed a two-year deal with the brand.

With this, the boxer is now Puma India's new ambassador for their women’s training category and shall represent the brand in marketing campaigns in the country.

Justice Uma Nath Singh takes oath as First Lokayukta of Nagaland

The first Lok Ayukta of Nagaland, Justice Uma Nath Singh, took the oath of office. Nagaland Governor PB Acharya administered the oath to him at a function held at Raj Bhavan. Justice Uma Nath Singh was a former Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court.

He will hold the office for a term of five years or till he attains the age of 70 years whichever is earlier.

AWARDS

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conferred Seoul Peace Prize 2018 for 'economics, global peace'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the 2018 Seoul peace prize on his visit to South Korea. PM Modi was selected after candidates proposed over 1300 nominators from around the world. Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan was the recipient of the honour in 1999.

The Seoul Peace Prize was established in 1990 to commemorate the success of the 24th Olympic Games held in Seoul, an event in which 160 nations from across the world took part, creating harmony and friendship and a worldwide atmosphere of peace and reconciliation. The Seoul Peace Prize was established to crystallize the Korean people's yearning for peace on the Korean Peninsula and in the rest of the world.