26th November, 2024

1. IAF signs MoA with IISc and FSID to Advance Science and Innovation
2. FAO Warns Global Hunger Soaring with 152 Million More Affected Since 2019
3. SBI unit to raise climate fund as Rs 2000 crore
4. ICRA: India’s GDP Growth Likely to Slip at 6.5% in Q2FY25, Retains 7% for FY25
5. Indian Musicians Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar Nominated at 67th Grammy Awards 2025
6. Abdulla Nigmatovich Aripov appointed as Uzbekistan’s Prime Minister for Third consecutive term
7. LDP Leader Shigeru Ishiba Re-elected as Japan’s PM
8. DRDO’s SSPL develops SiC Wafers and GaN HEMT based MMIC Technology
9. Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024: India beats China in the final
10. Spain’s Rafael Nadal retires from tennis after Davis Cup
11. Renowned Mridangam scholar Varadarao Kamalakara Rao Passed Away
12. World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Day 2024 – November 20
13. National Newborn Week 2024 – November 15 to 21
14. World Philosophy Day – November 21 2024
15. Bihar’s Sultanganj Railway Station Set to be Renamed as Ajgaibinath Dham
16. India’s Rise in the Times Higher Education (THE) Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2025
17. National Milk Day 2024
18. 14-Time Olympic Medalist Emma McKeon Bids Farewell
19. S&P Global Revises India’s GDP and Inflation Projections
20. Canara HSBC Life Unveils OmniGen AI to Transform Underwriting
21. Samvidhan Diwas 2024: Celebrating the 75th Constitution Day of India
22. 13-Year-Old Vaibhav Suryavanshi Makes History as IPL’s Youngest Signing
23. India’s Historic Victory Over Australia: Breaking a 47-Year Record
24. FSIB Recommends Binod Kumar as MD & CEO of Indian Bank
25. PNB Joins PCAF, Strengthens Climate Action Commitments
26. COP29 Climate Talks End with $300 Billion Pledge
27. Gyan-Kumbh 2024 Auroville’s Transformative Ideas Unveiled
28. Hemant Soren to Take Oath as Jharkhand CM on Nov 28
29. New Giant Radio Galaxy Discovered by MeerKAT
30. North-East United FC Clinches Governor’s Gold Cup Victory
31. Pankaj Tripathi Appointed Festival Ambassador for Arunachal Rang Mahotsav 2024
32. Reetika Hooda Strikes Gold at World Military Championships
33. Antonsen Triumphs at China Masters 2024
34. IndusInd Bank and UNICEF Join Forces for Climate Resilience in India
35. Navika Sagar Parikrama-II INSV Tarini Begins Second Leg of Global Voyage
36. RBI, Maldives Monetary Authority Pact to Enhance Trade with Local Currencies
37. PM Modi Graces Odisha Parba 2024 in Delhi
38. 116th Episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’: Inspiring Stories of Youth, Culture, and Environmental Conservation
39. Andhra Pradesh Government Abolishes Garbage Tax

National News

1. Lieutenant Governor Urges Promotion of Indian Languages in Education
   • What:
     • Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan emphasized the need to promote content creation in Indian languages during the ‘Gyan Kumbh’ national academic conclave at Pondicherry University.
   • Why:
     • The aim is to develop Indian languages as mediums for modern science, technology, education, and administration.
   • Tell me more:
     • The ‘Gyan Kumbh’ conclave is a three-day event focusing on academic discussions and educational reforms.
     • The Lt. Governor mentioned notable Indian personalities like Srinivasa Ramanujan, C.V. Raman, and A.P.J. Abdul Kalam as examples of achievers who should inspire students.
     • The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting plans to host the World Audio Visual and Entertainment summit in February next year to showcase talent in the media industry.
       Source: TH
2. Prime Minister Modi’s 116th Maan Ki Baat Episode
   • What:
     • Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the declining population of sparrows in India during the 116th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’.
     • He highlighted unique efforts being made to revive the sparrow population.
   • Tell me more:
     • PM Modi cited Chennai’s Kudugal Trust, which has trained children to build wooden houses for sparrows, resulting in the creation of 10,000 nests over four years.
     • An organization in Mysore, Karnataka, has launched a campaign called ‘Early Bird’ to educate children about birds and promote nature conservation.
     • The Prime Minister also mentioned the success of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, which has planted around 100 crore trees in five months.
       Source: HT

State News

1. Sultanganj Railway Station to be Renamed After Ajgaibinath Dham
   • What:
     • Sultanganj railway station in Bhagalpur, Bihar, will be renamed after the Hindu shrine Ajgaibinath Dham.
   • Why:
     • The renaming aims to honor the historical and cultural significance of Ajgaibinath Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
   • Tell me more:
     • Ajgaibinath Temple is located in Sultanganj and is known for its exquisite carvings and inscriptions.
     • The temple is situated on the banks of the river Ganga and attracts many devotees throughout the year.
       Source: ET
2. Odisha Parba Celebrates State’s Rich Heritage
   • What:
     • Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Odisha Parba 2024 celebrations at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi.
     • The event, organized by the Odia Samaj from November 22-24, highlighted Odisha’s vibrant cultural, social, and political heritage.
   • Tell me more:
     • The Paika Rebellion was recalled during the event, commemorated with a postage stamp and coin.
     • Odisha has seen a threefold increase in its budget over the past decade, with significant allocations for connectivity, health, and education.
     • The state aims to become a leading growth engine for India by its centenary in 2036.
       Source: IT TOI

3. Andhra Pradesh Government Abolishes Garbage Collection Tax
   • What:
     • The Andhra Pradesh government has decided to eliminate the garbage collection tax.
   • Why:
     • The aim is to address public grievances regarding the previous government’s imposition of the garbage tax without consulting citizens.
   • Tell me more:
     • The garbage collection tax was introduced in November 2021 and aimed to fund waste management services.
     • The current government has committed to repealing the tax as part of its electoral promise.
     • The previous administration did not increase municipal taxes during its tenure from 2014 to 2019.
       Source: TH

International News

1. COP29 Concludes with Climate Finance Commitments
   • What:
     • The 29th Conference of Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) concluded on November 24, 2024.
     • The conference resulted in a commitment to provide $300 billion in climate finance support for developing countries by 2035.
   • Why:
     • The aim is to enhance financial support for climate action in developing nations, addressing the urgent need for climate resilience and adaptation.
     • This commitment reflects a significant increase from the previous goal of $100 billion annually.
   • Tell me more:
     • The agreement states that public finance to developing countries will triple, with developed countries taking the lead.
     • There is a discrepancy between the official text and the UNFCCC statement regarding the nature of the funding, which includes loans and other sources.
     • Climate activists have expressed concerns that the funding figures may not adequately address the needs of developing countries.

Source: DTE

Banking and Economy

1. SBI Plans to Raise ₹20 Billion for Climate Fund
   • What:
     • SBI Ventures Ltd., a unit of the State Bank of India, plans to raise up to ₹20 billion (approximately $237 million) through its third climate fund.
   • Why:
     • The fund will focus on investing in small and mid-sized companies that are involved in recycling waste and reducing emissions.
   • Tell me more:
     • The funds will be raised from multilateral institutions after receiving approval from SBI Ventures’ board.

2. Canara HSBC Launches AI Solution for Underwriting
   • What:
     • Canara HSBC Life Insurance has introduced OmniGen AI, a new Generative AI-driven solution for underwriting.
   • Why:
     • The aim is to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve customer experiences in policy buying and claims settlement.
     • This solution is designed to improve the underwriting process by providing faster and more accurate decisions.
   • Tell me more:
     • OmniGen AI uses advanced algorithms to analyze various risk attributes, minimizing biases and errors in decision-making.
     • The solution automates the underwriting process, making it quicker and more consistent.
     • Sachin Dutta, COO of Canara HSBC Life Insurance, emphasized the importance of technology in improving risk assessment and customer service.

3. Punjab National Bank Joins Partnership for Carbon Accounting
   • What:
     • Punjab National Bank (PNB) has become a signatory to the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF).
   • Why:
     • Joining PCAF allows PNB to adopt international standards for measuring and disclosing greenhouse gas emissions linked to its lending and investment activities.
     • This aligns with the Reserve Bank of India’s framework on climate-related financial risk disclosures, which will require banks to report on climate risks starting from FY 2025-26.
   • Tell me more:
     • In the financial year 2023-24, PNB disclosed its financed emissions in its Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report using the PCAF Standard.
     • As a PCAF signatory, PNB gains access to technical support, industry training, and emission data specific to India.
     • PNB will participate in global working groups to improve greenhouse gas accounting standards and share knowledge with peers.

4. IndusInd Bank Partners with UNICEF for Climate Resilience
   • What:
     • IndusInd Bank has collaborated with UNICEF to enhance climate risk management and community resilience.
   • Why:
     • This partnership aims to support the ‘Disaster Resilient Communities and Climate Risk-Informed Efficient Administrative Systems’ program.
   • Tell me more:
     • It is part of IndusInd Bank’s Holistic Rural Development program focused on climate action in Aspirational Districts.
     • The program will be implemented in Dharashiv (Maharashtra), Begusarai (Bihar), Virudhunagar (Tamil Nadu), Baran (Rajasthan), and Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh).
     • Key actions include creating real-time monitoring systems, early warning systems, and advisory services to address climate risks like droughts and floods.
     • The collaboration is formalized through a Statement of Intent (SOI) between IndusInd Bank and UNICEF.

5. RBI and Maldives Monetary Authority Sign Currency Agreement
   • What:
     • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Maldives Monetary Authority signed an agreement to promote the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions.
   • Why:
     • This initiative aims to facilitate trade between India and the Maldives by enabling exporters and importers to settle payments in their respective currencies.
   • Tell me more:
     • The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das and Maldives Monetary Authority Governor Ahmed Munawar.
     • The framework will encourage the use of INR and MVR in current account transactions, permissible capital account transactions, and other agreed economic activities.
     • This collaboration is seen as a significant step in strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and the Maldives.
       Source: ET

Reports and Indices

1. Global Hunger Increases by 152 Million Since 2019
   • What:
     • The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that 152 million more people faced hunger in 2023 compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
     • This information was released in the FAO’s statistical yearbook.
   • Why:
     • The report highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 of Zero Hunger by 2030.
     • It emphasizes the need for urgent action to address food insecurity despite rising global food production.
   • Tell me more:
     • Hunger affected 9.1% of the global population in 2023, up from 7.5% in 2019.
     • The prevalence of undernourishment has remained high, particularly in Africa and Asia, with Asia home to 52% of the world’s undernourished people.
     • Although food production increased significantly, issues of access, affordability, and inequality continue to drive hunger.

2. KIIT-DU Achieves High Ranking in Interdisciplinary Science
   • What:
     • KIIT Deemed to be University (KIIT-DU) has secured the 4th position among Indian universities in the Times Higher Education (THE) Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2025.
     • The university is ranked 92nd globally in these inaugural rankings.
   • Why:
     • This ranking recognizes universities that excel in interdisciplinary scientific research, highlighting KIIT’s commitment to innovation and research.
   • Tell me more:
     • A total of 65 Indian universities were included in the rankings, with seven making it to the top 100.
     • Anna University is the top Indian institution, ranked 41st globally.
     • Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the founder of KIIT, praised the university’s faculty and researchers for their contributions to this success.

Source: TOI

GDP Forecasts

1. S&P Global Lowers India’s Economic Growth Forecast
   • What:
     • S&P Global Ratings has revised its economic growth estimates for India, projecting a GDP growth rate of 6.8% for the fiscal year 2024-25.
     • The agency has also lowered its growth forecasts for the following two years to 6.7% for FY26 and 6.8% for FY27.
   • Why:
     • The downward revision is attributed to high interest rates and a lower fiscal impulse, which are affecting urban demand.
   • Tell me more:
     • Despite the forecast reduction, S&P expects India’s economy to grow at 7% by FY28.
     • The report notes that while purchasing manager indices (PMIs) indicate expansion, other indicators show a temporary slowdown in growth momentum, particularly in the construction sector during the September quarter.
     • S&P retained its growth projection for China at 4.8% for 2024 but reduced next year’s forecast due to potential US trade tariffs.
       Source: Print

Defence News

1. DRDO Develops Indigenous Silicon Carbide and GaN Technology
   • What:
     • The Solid State Physics Laboratory, a DRDO laboratory, has successfully developed indigenous processes for manufacturing 4-inch diameter Silicon Carbide (SiC) wafers.
     • They have also fabricated Gallium Nitride (GaN) High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs) up to 150W and Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) up to 40W for applications up to X-band frequencies.
   • Why:
     • The development of GaN/SiC technology is crucial for next-generation applications in the defence, aerospace, and clean energy sectors.
     • This technology aims to improve efficiency, reduce size and weight, and enhance performance in various systems.
   • Tell me more:
     • The GaN/SiC technology will support future combat systems, RADARS, electronic warfare systems, and green energy solutions.
     • Indigenous GaN on SiC-based MMICs have been established at GAETEC in Hyderabad, catering to applications in strategic systems, space, aerospace, and 5G/satellite communications.
     • The advancement marks a significant step towards achieving self-reliance in semiconductor technology under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

2. INSV Tarini Sets Sail for New Zealand
   • What:
     • The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini departed from Fremantle, Australia for the second leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama-II expedition, heading to Lyttelton, New Zealand.
   • Why:
     • The expedition aims to complete a dual-handed circumnavigation of the globe by two women officers of the Indian Navy.
   • Tell me more:
     • It promotes gender equality and showcases India’s maritime capabilities and heritage.
     • This is the first time India has sent a women’s team to participate in such an expedition.
     • The journey will involve crossing Cape Leeuwin, the Great Australian Bight, Tasmania, and the South Island of New Zealand.
       Source: PIB

Science and Technology

1. IAF Signs MoA with IISc and FSID for R&D
   • What:
     • The Indian Air Force (IAF) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the Foundation for Science Innovation and Development (FSID).
   • Why:
     • The MoA aims to identify problem areas in maintenance and servicing of IAF equipment related to radar, aircraft, IT, and communication platforms.
   • Tell me more:
     • The MoA includes the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Digital Twin technologies for lifecycle management and productive maintenance.
     • The Ministry of Defence expects the collaboration to improve access to testing facilities for mutual benefit.
     • This partnership will also support academic interaction between IAF and IISc towards postgraduate programs.

Source: TH

Awards

1. Indian Musicians Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar Nominated for Grammys
   • What:
     • Indian musicians Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar received Grammy nominations for the 67th Grammy Awards.
     • Ricky Kej was nominated for his album “Break of Dawn” in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category, marking his fourth Grammy nomination.
   • Tell me more:
     • Anoushka Shankar was also nominated in the same category for her album “Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn.”
     • Other nominees in this category include “Warriors of Light” by Radhika Vekaria and “Triveni” by Chandrika Tandon, created with flautist Wouter Kellerman and cellist Eru Matsumoto.
     • The 2025 Grammy Awards are scheduled to take place on February 2, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Source: NOA

Important Days

1. India Celebrates 75th Constitution Day (Samvidhan Diwas) – November 26
   • What:
     • India commemorated the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution on November 26, 2024.
   • Why:
     • The day honors the formal adoption of the Indian Constitution by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949.
     • In 2015, the Government of India declared November 26 as Constitution Day to celebrate this historic event.
   • Tell me more:
     • The celebrations included a welcome speech by the Speaker of Lok Sabha, highlighting the vision of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the importance of fundamental rights.
     • A short film was shown that detailed the making of the Constitution and its significance in shaping India’s democracy.
     • The Vice-President emphasized the Constitution’s role in fostering national unity and called for adherence to both Fundamental Rights and Duties.
       Source: PIB
2. World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Day – November 20
   • Theme: Know Your Lung Function
     Source: IN

3. National Newborn Week 2024 – November 15 to 21
   • Theme: Safety, Quality and Nurturing care – Birth Right of Every Newborn
     Source: NHM
4. World Philosophy Day – November 21
   • Theme: Philosophy: bridging social gaps
     Source: UN

5. National Milk Day – November 26
   • The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Dr Verghese Kurien, the “Father of the White Revolution” in India.
     Source: IN

   
   

Sports

1. India Retains Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Title
   • What:
     • Indian women’s hockey team won the Asian Champions Trophy by defeating China 1-0 in the final at the Rajgir Sports Complex, Rajgir, Bihar.
   • Tell me more:
     • Deepika was named Player of the Tournament, finishing with a total of 11 goals throughout the competition.
     • The Bihar government announced a reward of ₹10 lakh for each player and ₹10 lakh for the chief coach, with ₹5 lakh for other support staff.
   • Knowledge Nuggets:
     • This marks India’s third title in the Asian Champions Trophy, previously winning in 2016 and 2023.
     • The Indian women’s team has now matched South Korea for the most titles in tournament history.
       Source: TH
2. Rafael Nadal’s Farewell at Davis Cup
   • Rafael Nadal played his last professional tennis match during the Davis Cup quarterfinals.
   • Nadal is a 22-time Grand Slam champion, with his last title won at the French Open in 2022.
     Source: NIE

   
   
3. Emma McKeon Retires from Competitive Swimming
   • What:
     • Emma McKeon, Australia’s most decorated Olympian, has announced her retirement from competitive swimming.
     • The 30-year-old swimmer confirmed her decision after competing in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
   • Tell me more:
     • McKeon made her Olympic debut at the Rio 2016 Games and won three relay medals and an individual bronze in her first appearance.
     • At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she achieved a remarkable haul of seven medals, including four golds, making her the most successful female swimmer at a single Olympics.
     • In Paris, she won gold in the women’s 4x100m freestyle relay, silver in the women’s 4x100m medley relay, and bronze in the mixed 4x100m medley relay.

4. Young Cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi Makes IPL History
   • What:
     • Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 13-year-old cricketer from Bihar, was signed by Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.1 crore during the IPL auction.
     • He became the youngest player ever to be signed in IPL history.
   • Tell me more:
     • Suryavanshi made his debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy just days before the auction, scoring 13 runs off six balls.
     • He recently became the youngest batter to score an international century in a Youth Test against Australia U-19, achieving this at just 13 years and 288 days old.
     • His century was scored off 62 balls, making it the fastest Youth Test hundred by an Indian.
     • Vaibhav made his Ranji Trophy debut at the age of 12, one of the youngest players to participate in this premier First-Class tournament.
       Source: IE

   
   
5. India Achieves Historic Test Victory Over Australia
   • What:
     • India won the opening Test match against Australia in Perth by 295 runs.
     • This victory is India’s largest win by runs on Australian soil in Test history.
   • Why:
     • The win serves as a significant morale booster for the Indian team after facing a 3-0 defeat against New Zealand in their previous series.
     • It highlights India’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
   • Tell me more:
     • Australia was set a target of 534 runs but was bowled out for 238 on the fourth day.
     • This match marks only India’s second Test victory in Perth, with the first being in 2008 at the WACA Ground.
     • The win is also India’s second-largest victory against Australia overall, following their 320-run win in Mohali in 2008.

6. NorthEast United FC Wins All India Governor’s Gold Cup
   • What:
     • NorthEast United FC won the 40th All India Governor’s Gold Cup international football tournament.
   • Why:
     • This victory marks NorthEast United’s first appearance in the tournament and highlights their strong performance.
   • Tell me more:
     • The match took place at the Paljor Stadium.

7. Reetika Hooda Wins Gold at World Military Championships
   • Reetika Hooda won the gold medal in the women’s 76kg category at the World Military Championships.
   • She became the second Indian woman to achieve this feat, following Jyoti Sihag, who won gold in the 55kg category.
     Source: TB

8. Anders Antonsen Wins at China Masters 2024
   • What:
     • Anders Antonsen won his match against Viktor Axelsen at the China Masters 2024.
   • Tell me more:
     • Anders Antonsen is a prominent Danish badminton player known for his competitive achievements.
     • Viktor Axelsen (Danish) is a double Olympic champion and one of the top players in the sport.
     • The China Masters is an important tournament in the badminton calendar, attracting top players from around the world.
       Source: OC

Appointments

1. Uzbekistan’s New PM
   • Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a presidential decree appointing Abdulla Aripov as the Central Asian country’s prime minister.
     Source: CN

2. Japan’s New PM
   • In Japan, the Leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Shigeru Ishiba was re-elected as the country’s Prime Minister.
     Source: NOA

   
   
3. FSIB Recommends Binod Kumar as MD of Indian Bank
   • What:
     • The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has recommended Binod Kumar for the position of Managing Director of Indian Bank.
     • Kumar is currently serving as the Executive Director of Punjab National Bank and will replace S L Jain, who is retiring next month.
   • Tell me more:
     • The final decision on the recommendation will be made by the appointments committee of the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
     • FSIB is responsible for selecting directors for state-owned banks and financial institutions in India.
     • The FSIB is headed by Bhanu Pratap Sharma, a former Secretary in the Department of Personnel and Training.
       Source: BS

4. Jharkhand’s New CM
   • Hemant Soren will take oath as new Jharkhand CM.
     Source: TH

   
   
5. Pankaj Tripathi Becomes Festival Ambassador for Arunachal Rang Mahotsav
   • What:
     • Actor Pankaj Tripathi has been appointed as the festival ambassador for the Arunachal Rang Mahotsav 2024.
     • The festival is an international theatre event celebrating the cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.
   • Tell me more:
     • The Arunachal Rang Mahotsav runs from November 24 to December 5, 2024.
     • Pankaj Tripathi expressed his honor in being associated with the festival, emphasizing his love for theatre as it was where he began his acting career.
     • The festival will focus on Arunachal’s oral folklore traditions, martial arts, and local performing arts, blending them with modern theatre practices.

Source: HT

Miscellaneous

1. Renowned Mridangam Scholar Varadarao Kamalakara Rao Passes Away
   • What:
     • Varadarao Kamalakara Rao, a famous Mridangam scholar, passed away in Rajahmundry at the age of 88.
     • He was honored with the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi Award during his lifetime.
   • Why:
     • Kamalakara Rao was celebrated for his contributions to Indian classical music and his mastery of the mridangam.
       Source: NOA

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