16th July, 2024
Supreme Court CIC Autonomy, National Toll-Free Narcotics Helpline MANAS, Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference Civil Aviation, UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum, GCTC Cyber Security Conference, BRIC-THSTI SYNCHN 2024, PM Modi Infrastructure Projects Mumbai, Uttarakhand e-Swasthya Dham Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, European Nations Long-Range Ground-Launched Cruise Missiles, India UN Conference Afghanistan Doha, CITES Rosewood Trade Sustainability, Global Space Research Conference South Korea, Dubai 3D-Printed Electric Abra, Board Fund Responding to Loss Damage, Interest Equalisation Scheme, Jio Financial Services Core Investment Company, Bajaj Finserv AMC Savings+ Product, GST Exemption Indian Railways Dedicated Freight Corridor, Prince Harry Pat Tillman Honour Service, Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas June 25, World Youth Skills Day July 15, PUMA Indian Olympic Association Paris Olympics 2024, Robert Jerard Ravi CMD of BSNL
- Supreme Court Upholds Central Information Commission’s (CIC) Autonomy in Framing Regulations
- Launch of National Toll-Free Narcotics Helpline ‘MANAS’
- Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation in New Delhi
- UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2024 in New Delhi
- 3rd GCTC Cyber Security Conference in New Delhi
- BRIC-THSTI Hosts SYNCHN 2024 in Faridabad, Haryana
- PM Modi Launches Infrastructure Projects in Mumbai
- Integration of Uttarakhand’s e-Swasthya Dham Portal with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
- Four European Nations to Develop Long-Range Ground-Launched Cruise Missiles
- India Participates in UN-Led Conference on Afghanistan in Doha
- CITES Releases Comprehensive Report on Rosewood Trade Sustainability
- India Releases USD 2.5 Million to UNRWA for Palestinian Refugees
- Global Space Research Conference-24 Inaugurated in South Korea
- Dubai Launches World’s First 3D-Printed Electric Abra (Boat)
- Philippines Selected to Host the Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage
- Extension of Interest Equalisation Scheme for Exporters For July-August 2024
- Jio Financial Services Become a Core Investment Company (CIC)
- Bajaj Finserv AMC Launches “Savings+” Product for Retail Investors
- GST Exemption for Indian Railways’ Dedicated Freight Corridor
- Prince Harry Receives Pat Tillman Honour for Service
- “Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas” – June 25
- World Youth Skills Day – July 15
- PUMA Partners with Indian Olympic Association (IOA) for Paris Olympics 2024
- Robert Jerard Ravi Appointed CMD of BSNL, MTNL, and BBNL
Table of Content
National News
- Supreme Court Upholds Central Information Commission’s (CIC) Autonomy in Framing Regulations
- What:
- The Supreme Court has affirmed the Central Information Commission’s (CIC) authority to constitute benches and frame regulations under Section 12(4) of the RTI Act, 2005.
- Why:
- To ensure that CIC can perform its specialized tasks impartially and independently, free from external interference.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets - |
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o The Central Information Commission was constituted in 2005 under the Right to Information Act, 2005 to oversee the implementation of the Act, ensuring transparency in governance. o Section 12(4) of the RTI Act grants the CIC powers to regulate its procedures and manage its affairs effectively. |
- Launch of National Toll-Free Narcotics Helpline ‘MANAS’
- What:
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah will launch India’s first national toll-free telephonic helpline ‘MANAS’ (1933) and associated email for reporting narcotics crimes.
- Why:
- To provide a user-friendly platform for citizens to report drug-related crimes and seek assistance 24/7.
- Enhance coordination among central and state anti-narcotics agencies to combat drug trafficking and related offenses effectively.
- Tell me more:
- Helpline named MANAS (Madak Padarth Nisedh Asuchna Kendra) will be launched during the seventh apex-level meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD).
- Citizens can report drug trafficking, illegal sale, storage, manufacturing, and cultivation of narcotics via toll-free number 1933, email (info.ncbmanas@gov.in), and website (ncbmanas.gov.in).
- Confidentiality of informants guaranteed; actions will be initiated under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 based on verified information.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), established in 1986 under the Union Home Ministry, will oversee MANAS. o MANAS aims to support rehabilitation and counseling efforts alongside law enforcement actions. o NCORD was established in 2016 to improve coordination among anti-narcotics agencies, with a structured four-tier system implemented in 2019. |
- Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation in New Delhi
- What:
- India will host the second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation in New Delhi on September 11 and 12.
- Why:
- The conference aims to address the growth and sustainability of the aviation sector in the Asia Pacific region, focusing on accessibility and affordability while discussing India’s significant advancements in aviation.
- Tell me more:
- The conference, jointly organized by the Indian government and Asia and Pacific (APAC) Office of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), will highlight India’s role as the world’s fastest-growing aviation market.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The first Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation was held in Beijing in 2018. o India has seen substantial growth in its aviation sector, with annual passenger traffic projected to reach 250 million. o The Asia Pacific region accounted for over 33% of global flight departures in 2023. o India currently ranks as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally, with a rapid increase in the number of aircraft and airports over the past decade. o The APAC office is located in Bangkok, Thailand. ICAO Headquarters: Montreal, Canada. |
- UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2024 in New Delhi
- What:
- India has commenced the UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2024 as part of the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, focusing on youth engagement in heritage conservation.
- Why:
- The forum aims to enhance the expertise and skills of young professionals in safeguarding global cultural and natural heritage, emphasizing sustainable development and community involvement.
- Tell me more:
- Hosted by Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Institute of Archaeology, the forum runs from July 14 to 23, 2024, under the theme “World Heritage in the 21st Century: Building Capacities and Exploring Opportunities.”
- Activities include visits to World Heritage sites like Qutb Minar, Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, and Taj Mahal in Agra.
- The concluding Declaration of this forum will be presented to the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum serves as a global platform uniting young individuals and heritage experts to foster intercultural learning and exchange. o The Forum also focuses on mitigating climate change's impact on heritage sites, integrating innovative technologies in heritage promotion, and fostering sustainable tourism through youth entrepreneurship. |
- 3rd GCTC Cyber Security Conference in New Delhi
- What:
- India’s Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar addressed this Conference.
- Tell me more:
- Deputy Governor Michael Debabrata Patra of RBI projected India to potentially become the world’s second-largest economy by 2031 and the largest by 2060, surpassing earlier expectations.
- India achieved a milestone in the financial year 2023-24, reaching a GDP of USD 3.6 trillion.
- OECD forecasts suggest India could surpass the US to become the second-largest economy by 2048 in PPP terms.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The Global Counter Terrorism Council (GCTC) is a non-profit, non-partisan international think tank dedicated to addressing global terrorism issues. |
- BRIC-THSTI Hosts SYNCHN 2024 in Faridabad, Haryana
- What:
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), under the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), hosted SYNCHN 2024—an industry meet aimed at strengthening collaborations between academia and the biotechnology industry.
- Why:
- To advance biomanufacturing and translational research, promoting India as a global leader in bio-innovation and supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
- Translational research refers to the process of applying findings from basic science to improve human health and well-being.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) | Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) |
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The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, has consolidated its 13 Autonomous Institutions (AIs) into the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), established as a registered Society. | Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) an institute of Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India. |
BRIC aims to integrate research, training, and innovation programs across DBT institutions to foster collaborations and enhance translational impact. | THSTI, housed within the NCR Biotech Science Cluster in Faridabad, serves as a catalyst for translating fundamental discoveries into clinical research. It features core facilities including a Small Animal Facility, Data Management Center, Biorepository, and Bioassay Laboratory, supporting research initiatives across THSTI and the broader academic and industrial sectors. |
Source: PIB
State News
- PM Modi Launches Infrastructure Projects in Mumbai
- What:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple infrastructure projects in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
- Tell me more:
- Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel Project: Costing Rs 16,600 crore, this 11.8 km tunnel will shorten the Thane-Borivali commute and pass beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
- Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal: Spread over 32,600 sqm, it will serve as a hub for commodities and create local employment.
- Knowledge Nuggets:
- What:
- Integration of Uttarakhand’s e-Swasthya Dham Portal with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
- What:
- The Uttarakhand Government’s Department of Health and Family Welfare integrated the e-Swasthya Dham portal with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).
- Why:
- It aims to enhance healthcare services during the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage, ensuring pilgrims’ health monitoring and creating a digital health infrastructure.
- Tell me more:
- The eSwasthya Dham portal monitors health parameters of Char Dham Yatra pilgrims at Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath.
- Now, pilgrims can create their Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) within minutes via the portal.
- This integration will help in streamlining health record management and emergency interventions.
Source: ET
- What:
International News
- Four European Nations to Develop Long-Range Ground-Launched Cruise Missiles
- What:
- France, Germany, Italy, and Poland have signed a letter of intent to develop ground-launched cruise missiles with a range beyond 500 km.
- Why:
- This initiative aims to address the gap in European arsenals highlighted by Russia’s war in Ukraine.
- It is also intended to fill the gap until Europe has its own long-range missiles ready, as current deployments by the U.S. are seen as temporary solutions.
- Tell me more:
- European cruise missiles like Britain’s Storm Shadow, France’s Scalp, and Germany’s Taurus currently have ranges around 500 km.
- The new ground-based missile is aimed to have a range of 1,000 to 2,000 km.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty required the U.S. and the Soviet Union to eliminate all their nuclear and conventional ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 km. o The treaty led to the destruction of 2,692 short-, medium-, and intermediate-range missiles by June 1, 1991. o The U.S. alleged Russia’s non-compliance with the INF Treaty starting in 2014, leading to repeated allegations through 2018. o On Oct. 20, 2018, President Donald Trump announced the intention to terminate the INF Treaty. o The U.S. formally withdrew from the INF Treaty on Aug. 2, 2019. o Following the U.S. suspension, Russia also suspended its treaty obligations. o Europe’s endeavors to develop missiles with a range beyond 500 km reintroduces a category of weapons, which was banned under the INF Treaty until 2019. Although, the treaty has become in-operational after the exit of the US and Russia. |
- India Participates in UN-Led Conference on Afghanistan in Doha
- What:
- India is among the 25 countries participating in the third UN-led conference on Afghanistan in Doha. This meeting marks the first time that the Taliban are attending the talks.
- Why:
- The purpose of the conference is to find ways to improve the lives of the Afghan people under Taliban rule. India aims to address its humanitarian and security needs in Afghanistan without moving towards official recognition of the Taliban regime.
- Tell me more:
- Other participants include the European Union, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
- Foreign Minister S Jaishankar represented India at the SCO summit.
- India has invested over $3 billion in nearly 500 projects across Afghanistan, focusing on power, water supply, road connectivity, healthcare, education, and agriculture.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o Recently, the 24th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State (SCO Summit) was held on 04 July 2024 in Astana, under the presidency of Kazakhstan. o India’s priorities within the SCO are guided by Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a ‘SECURE’ SCO. o SECURE: Security, Economic cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environmental protection o Last year, India hosted the 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State on July 4, in a virtual format. |
- CITES Releases Comprehensive Report on Rosewood Trade Sustainability
- What:
- The 27th meeting of the CITES Plants Committee (PC27) in Geneva focuses on sustainable rosewood trade.
- CITES releases a detailed report to guide member countries on managing rosewood species trade.
- Why:
- Ensure international trade of rosewood does not threaten species survival.
- Non-Detriment Findings (NDFs) are crucial for balancing trade and biodiversity conservation efforts.
- Tell me more:
- This 27th meeting coincided with the opening of the 33rd meeting of the Animals Committee on 12 July 2024, featuring joint sessions of both committees on 12 and 13 July 2024.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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About CITES | About CITES Plants Committee |
CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) was established in 1973 and aims to regulate international trade in over 40,900 species. | The CITES Plants Committee was established at the 6th Conference of the Parties (CoP6) in Ottawa in 1987. |
The convention has 184 Parties (183 countries and the European Union), making it a key tool for wildlife conservation globally. | Its advisory role includes providing technical and scientific advice to the Parties, Standing Committee, and the extended CITES community. PC27 was scheduled to take place from 8 to 12 July 2024 in Geneva, Switzerland. |
CITES-listed species are essential for various everyday purposes, from food to fashion, and the convention ensures their trade is sustainable and legal. | PC27 was scheduled to take place from 8 to 12 July 2024 in Geneva, Switzerland. |
- India Releases USD 2.5 Million to UNRWA for Palestinian Refugees
- What:
- India releases USD 2.5 million to United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to support Palestinian refugees’ welfare through essential services like education, healthcare, relief, and social services.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The capital of Israel is Jerusalem, and its currency is the Israeli new shekel (NIS), also known as the Sheqel. o The capital city is East Jerusalem, with government administration being temporarily based in Ramallah. The accepted currencies in Palestine are Israeli shekels, Jordanian dinars, and US dollars. |
- Global Space Research Conference-24 Inaugurated in South Korea
- What:
- The 45th Scientific Assembly of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) commenced in Busan, South Korea.
- Why:
- To promote international collaboration and advance scientific research in space exploration and related fields.
- Tell me more:
- Hosted by the Korea Aero Space Administration (KASA), the conference gathered 3,000 participants including space scientists and industry officials from 60 countries.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o South Korea’s first time hosting the biennial COSPAR conference emphasizes its growing role in the global space research community. |
- Dubai Launches World’s First 3D-Printed Electric Abra (Boat)
- What:
- Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has initiated the trial operation of the world’s first electric abra (boat), manufactured using 3D printing technology.
- Tell me more:
- Developed by Al Seer Marine in Abu Dhabi, with collaboration from Mitsubishi, Siemens, Torqeedo, and Tasneef.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o UAE unveiled the world’s largest 3D-printed boat, securing a Guinness World Records title in November 2023. |
- Philippines Selected to Host the Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage
- What:
- The Philippines has been selected as the host country for the Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage.
- Why:
- This decision grants legal personality to the Board, facilitating negotiations for hosting arrangements with entities like the World Bank, operationalizing the financial intermediary fund, and establishing the Fund’s secretariat to aid vulnerable countries in recovering from climate impacts.
- Tell me more:
- The decision was made at the Board’s second meeting in Songdo, South Korea, marking a significant step towards operationalizing the Fund after its establishment at COP 28.
- The Fund aims to assist countries in recovering from climate change impacts and was officially launched at the UN Climate Change Conference in December 2023.
Source: UNFCCC
- What:
Banking and Economy
- Extension of Interest Equalisation Scheme for Exporters For July-August 2024
- What:
- The Indian government has extended the Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES) for exporters until August 31, 2024, with a cap of Rs 1.66 crore per Importer-Exporter Code (IEC).
- Why:
- Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES) is a government initiative aimed at reducing the cost of credit for exporters. Under this scheme, exporters receive interest rate subsidies on their export credits, both pre-shipment and post-shipment.
- The subsidy helps exporters access credit at lower interest rates. It will help Indian exporters to gain competitive edge in the global market.
- This support is particularly crucial for small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to compete effectively with global players.
- Tell me more:
- Scheme Details: The IES provides a 3% interest benefit on pre- and post-shipment rupee export credit to MSME manufacturer exporters.
- Period Covered: The extension period is from July 1, 2024, to August 31, 2024.
- Cap Limit: The interest equalization will be capped at Rs 1.66 crore per IEC during the extension period.
- It means that each IEC holder can benefit from the interest subsidy up to this monetary limit only. This cap will ensure that the government’s financial support is distributed among exporters while preventing excessive subsidization for any single entity.
- IEC Requirement: An Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) is a key business identification number, mandatory for export from India or import to India. No export or import shall be made by any person without obtaining an IEC unless specifically exempted.
Source: ET BS
- What:
- Jio Financial Services Become a Core Investment Company (CIC)
- What:
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the conversion of Jio Financial Services from a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) to a Core Investment Company (CIC).
- Why:
- In November 2023, Jio Financial Services submitted an application to the RBI to convert its status from an NBFC to a Core Investment Company.
- As a CIC, Jio Financial Services will manage investments in subsidiaries, enhancing operational clarity and investor value discovery.
- Tell me more:
- Jio Financial Services has been de-merged from the Reliance Industries Ltd.
- CICs like Jio Financial Services do not accept deposits and concentrate on investment activities rather than offering financial services directly.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o Jio Financial Services debuted on the stock exchanges on August 21, 2023. |
- Bajaj Finserv AMC Launches “Savings+” Product for Retail Investors
- What:
- Bajaj Finserv Asset Management has introduced Savings+, a new financial product.
- Why:
- The initiative aims to offer retail investors an alternative to traditional savings accounts with higher returns and liquidity, leveraging competitive interest rates and swift redemption options.
- Tell me more:
- Product Details: Savings+ allows investors to identify surplus cash in their savings accounts and invest it seamlessly in Bajaj Finserv AMC’s Liquid Fund and Overnight Fund.
- Return on Investment (RoI): Bajaj Finserv Liquid Fund delivered a return of 7.17% between July 2023 and June 2024.
- Liquidity: Investors benefit from T+1 day liquidity, with instant redemption options up to Rs 50,000 or 90% of the invested value, whichever is lower.
- Partnership: Bajaj Finserv AMC collaborated with Perfios to provide Account Aggregator services and personalized financial recommendations through their Personal Finance Management solution.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o An Account Aggregator (AA) is a regulated entity authorized by RBI (with an NBFC-AA license) that securely allows individuals to digitally access and share their financial information from one bank to another within the AA network. This entity aims to ensure that your data remains private and can only be shared with your consent. |
- GST Exemption for Indian Railways’ Dedicated Freight Corridor
- What:
- The Central Government is set to exempt the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd (DFCCIL) from the 18% GST on track access charges, starting from July 15, 2024.
- “Track access charges” refer to the remittances or fees paid by Indian Railways for accessing and using the infrastructure built and owned by DFCCIL (Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd).
- Why:
- To eliminate the financial burden on the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd (DFCCIL) and ensure seamless operations without the need for a new revenue model or freight rate hikes.
- Tell me more:
- The exemption from GST will help both DFCCIL and Indian Railways to become financial viable.
- What:
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o DFCCIL, a special-purpose vehicle of Indian Railways, was incorporated as a schedule A company under the Companies Act, 1956 in 2006. |
Awards
- Prince Harry Receives Pat Tillman Honour for Service
- What
- Prince Harry has been awarded the Pat Tillman Honour for Service.
- Why
- Prince Harry received the award for his significant contributions through the Invictus Games, a competition he founded in 2014 for wounded service members.
- Also, the award recognizes his efforts in promoting inclusivity for marginalized and suffering communities, showing resilience, positivity, and perseverance.
- Tell me more
- The Pat Tillman Honour for Service is given to individuals who exhibit outstanding dedication and service, particularly benefiting veterans and the broader community.
- Named after Pat Tillman, a former NFL player who enlisted in the U.S. Army and was killed in action, the award honors those who embody Tillman’s spirit of service and sacrifice.
Source: TOI
- What
Important Days
- “Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas” – June 25
- The Indian Government has decided to observe June 25 as “Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas” to commemorate the declaration of the Emergency in 1975.
- Date of Emergency: June 25, 1975
Source: IE
- World Youth Skills Day – July 15
- Theme of 2024: “Youth Skills for Peace and Development”
- The United Nations General Assembly declared 15 July as World Youth Skills Day in 2014.
Source: UN
Sports
- PUMA Partners with Indian Olympic Association (IOA) for Paris Olympics 2024
- What
- PUMA India has partnered with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) as the official footwear partner for the Indian contingent participating in the Paris Olympics 2024.
- The collaboration includes a major outdoor campaign titled “See the Game Like We Do.”
- Why
- The partnership aims to support Indian athletes by providing them with top-quality footwear and sports accessories. The campaign seeks to celebrate the achievements of Indian athletes and inspire young and aspiring sports enthusiasts in India.
- What
Knowledge Nuggets |
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• PUMA India's MD: Karthik Balagopalan • President of IOA: PT Usha |
Source: ET
Appointments
- Robert Jerard Ravi Appointed CMD of BSNL, MTNL, and BBNL
- What
- The government has appointed Robert Jerard Ravi as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Bharat Sanchar Nigam (BSNL), Mahanagar Telephone Nigam (MTNL), and Bharat Broadband Network (BBNL) for a period of six months.
- Tell me more
- Robert Jerard Ravi, a senior telecom department official, will hold the additional charge of CMD for BSNL, MTNL, and BBNL from July 15, 2024, to January 14, 2025. During this period, he will not receive any additional remuneration.
- What
Knowledge Nuggets |
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o The government has given three revival packages to BSNL. |
1st Package | 2nd Package | 3rd Package |
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Amount: Rs 69,000 crore Date of Announcement: October 2019 | Amount: Rs 1.64 trillion Date of Announcement: July 2022 | Amount: Rs 89,047 crore Date of Announcement: July 2023 |
About Anuj Jindal
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Anuj Jindal, the founder, is an ex-manager from SBI, with an M.Com from Delhi School of Economics. He also has a JRF in Commerce & Management and NET in HRM, along with more than 5 years of experience in the field of Education.
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