21st-22nd July, 2024

1. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) merged three of its training institutes into a single entity named the National Communications Academy (NCA).
2. The Supreme Court has agreed to examine the immunity granted to Governors from criminal prosecution under Article 361 of the Constitution, in light of a sexual harassment allegation against West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose.
3. A report reveals that nearly two-thirds of the funds allocated under the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) have been spent on dust management, with less than 1% used to address industrial air pollution.
4. Airbus has announced plans to establish its first assembly line for the H125 single-engine helicopter in India.
5. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
6. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has been upgraded from a Schedule B to a Schedule A Miniratna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) by the Ministry of Railways.
7. Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju inaugurated the Lok Samvardhan Parv in New Delhi, an event organized as part of the Union government’s 100-day action plan.
8. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the ‘Shramik Basera’ scheme to provide temporary accommodation for approximately 15,000 construction workers at a nominal rate of Rs 5 per day.
9. The Uttar Pradesh government has launched two major schemes — Upvan Yojana and Heritage Tree Adoption Scheme — aimed at increasing green cover and preserving the state’s cultural heritage.
10. The Meghalaya government has launched its own OTT platform, Hello Meghalaya, aimed at promoting local languages and engaging the youth.
11. The recent synchronized population estimation exercise across southern Indian states has revealed a significant decline in Kerala’s elephant count.
12. Central Bank of India partnered with non-banking financial company (NBFC) Arka Fincap to offer loans to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
13. ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL), an Indian company, acquired a stake in an Azerbaijan oilfield and an associated pipeline from Equinor, a Norwegian firm, for USD 60 million.
14. Captain Supreetha C.T., from Mysuru, is the first woman officer from the Corps of Army Air Defence to be deployed at Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.
15. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Rigoberta Menchú Tum has been awarded the Gandhi Mandela Award 2020 on the occasion of Nelson Mandela’s 106th birth anniversary (July 18, 2024).
16. Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC) and Indumathi Kathiresan (Odisha FC) have been awarded the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Player of the Year awards for male and female categories, respectively.
17. Ram Charan will be the guest of honor and receive the Ambassador for Indian Art and Culture award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM).
18. World Chess Day is celebrated on July 20th.
19. On July 20, 2024, the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) will issue six se-tenant postage stamps and three souvenir sheets to commemorate International Moon Day.
20. National Mango Day is celebrated annually on July 22nd.
21. India’s Kush Maini secured his first Formula 2 Sprint Race victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix after the initial winner, Richard Verschoor, was disqualified due to a technical infringement.
22. Indian tennis legends Leander Paes and Vijay Amritraj were inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
23. The Indian women’s cricket team is aiming to defend their title at the Women’s Asia Cup T20 2024 at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Sri Lanka.
24. Cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has been appointed the brand ambassador for MotoGP in India.
25. Deepa Malik, India’s first woman Paralympic medalist, appointed sub-regional representative for South Asia by the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC).
26. Manolo Marquez, currently managing FC Goa in the Indian Super League, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indian men’s football team by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
27. Kadambini Ganguly was one of the first Indian women to graduate and become a doctor. She was a pioneer in medicine.
28. Kamala Pujari, Padma Shri Awardee, Passes Away
29. “Power Within: The Leadership Legacy of Narendra Modi” Book on Modi’s Leadership

National News

1. DoT Institutes Merged into National Communications Academy
   • What
     • The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) merged three of its training institutes into a single entity named the National Communications Academy (NCA).
   • Why
     • The merger aims to improve efficiency and offer a more comprehensive approach to skill development in the communication sector.
   • Tell me more
     • The merged institutes are:
     • National Telecommunications Institute for Policy Research, Innovation and Training (NTIPRIT)
     • National Institute of Communication Finance (NICF)
     • Wireless Monitoring Training & Development Centre (WMTDC)
     • The NCA will have three campuses – one in Ghaziabad and two in Ghitorni.
     • The DoT Secretary will be the Chairperson, and the Additional Secretary (Telecom) will be the Vice-Chairperson of the NCA.
     • The NCA will have a governing council with members from Finance, Services, Technology, and a Wireless Advisor.
       Source: ET

2. Supreme Court to Examine Governors’ Immunity Under Article 361
   • What
     • The Supreme Court has agreed to examine the immunity granted to Governors from criminal prosecution under Article 361 of the Constitution, in light of a sexual harassment allegation against West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose.
   • Tell me more
     • Article 361 deals with the “Protection of President and Governors and Rajpramukhs”.
     • Article 361(1) states the President and Governors are not answerable to courts for official acts during their term.
     • Article 361(2) states that no criminal proceedings shall be instituted or continued against the President or a Governor during their term of office.
       Source: IE

3. NCAP Funds Primarily Used for Dust Management
   • What
     • A report reveals that nearly two-thirds of the funds allocated under the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) have been spent on dust management, with less than 1% used to address industrial air pollution.
   • Tell me more
     • The report, titled “National Clean Air Programme: An Agenda for Reform,” is by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE).
     • As of May 3, only 64% of the total Rs 10,566 crore allocated to 131 cities has been utilized.
     • Among the funds used, 0.61% was for industrial pollution, 12.63% for vehicular pollution, and 14.51% for biomass burning.
     • The report emphasizes that focusing on PM10 has diverted attention from PM2.5, which is more harmful and primarily emitted from combustion sources.

4. Airbus to Launch H125 Helicopter Assembly Line in India
   • What
     • Airbus has announced plans to establish its first assembly line for the H125 single-engine helicopter in India.
   • Why
     • The assembly line aims to support the Indian government’s “AatmaNirbhar Bharat” initiative, promoting self-reliance in manufacturing and reducing dependence on imported helicopters.
   • Tell me more
     • The first Made-in-India H125 helicopter is planned for rollout in 2026, in collaboration with Tata Group.
     • The Final Assembly Line (FAL) will produce EASA-certified H125 helicopters, ensuring quality and airworthiness with support from Airbus experts at the site.

5. India Hosts World Heritage Committee Meeting for the First Time
   • What
     • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
     • This is the first time India is hosting the World Heritage Committee meeting.
   • Why
     • The World Heritage Committee is responsible for managing World Heritage sites and deciding on new inscriptions.
     • Hosting the meeting signifies India’s growing importance in heritage preservation.
   • Tell me more
     • The meeting will discuss proposals for new World Heritage sites, reports on existing sites, and use of World Heritage Funds.
     • India has nominated “Moidams” — a mound-burial system of the Ahom dynasty in Assam for inscription on the World Heritage List.
     • An ‘Incredible India’ exhibition is also being set up to highlight India’s rich cultural heritage.

6. IRCTC Upgraded to Schedule A PSU
   • What
     • Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has been upgraded from a Schedule B to a Schedule A Miniratna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) by the Ministry of Railways.
   • Why
     • This upgrade recognizes IRCTC’s strong financial performance and contribution to the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors.

7. Lok Samvardhan Parv (Festival) Inaugurated in New Delhi
   • What
     • Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju inaugurated the Lok Samvardhan Parv in New Delhi, an event organized as part of the Union government’s 100-day action plan.
   • Why
     • The festival aims to showcase the schemes, programs, and achievements of the Ministry of Minority Affairs while promoting crafts, products, art, and India’s rich cultural traditions.
   • Tell me more
     • The Lok Samvardhan Parv will run from the 16th to the 31st of this month, providing a platform for various cultural displays and initiatives.
     • The Lok Samvardhan Parv is part of a broader 100-day action plan initiated by the Union government to enhance public awareness of government schemes.
       Source: NOA

   
   

State News

1. Gujarat Launches ‘Shramik Basera’ Scheme for Construction Workers
   • What
     • Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the ‘Shramik Basera’ scheme to provide temporary accommodation for approximately 15,000 construction workers at a nominal rate of Rs 5 per day.
     • The CM performed the ground-breaking ceremony for 17 dwelling structures in cities including Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Vadodara, and Rajkot.
   • Why
     • The scheme aims to enhance the standard of living for workers in the unorganised sector by offering essential services such as food, health, housing, and financial support.
   • Tell me more
     • The project will cost Rs 1,500 crore and is expected to benefit around 3 lakh construction workers over the next three years.
     • The CM also introduced a dedicated portal for the Shramik Basera scheme.
     • The accommodation will be available for a daily rent of Rs 5 per person.
     • The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve living conditions for construction workers in Gujarat.
       Source: ET

2. UP Govt Launches Green Initiatives to Boost Environment and Cultural Heritage
   • What
     • The Uttar Pradesh government has launched two major schemes — Upvan Yojana and Heritage Tree Adoption Scheme — aimed at increasing green cover and preserving the state’s cultural heritage.
   • Tell me more
     • The UP government provides saplings and cuttings for planting in parks, roads, and other areas.
     • An annual budget of Rs 70 crore has been allocated for the Upvan Yojna.
     • The Heritage Tree Adoption Scheme aims to nurture 948 heritage trees over 100 years old, belonging to 28 species.
     • These heritage trees are located in all 75 districts, with the highest number being 99 in Varanasi, followed by 53 in Prayagraj, 37 in Hardoi, 35 in Ghazipur, and 34 in Unnao.
     • The “Ped lagao-Ped bacho Jan Abhiyan-2024” will establish Virasat Vraksh Vatika in 11 districts to raise awareness about heritage trees.
       Source: Print

   
   
3. Meghalaya Launches First State-Owned OTT Platform
   • What
     • The Meghalaya government has launched its own OTT platform, Hello Meghalaya, aimed at promoting local languages and engaging the youth.
   • Why
     • To enable economic growth and provide a platform for local content creators, filmmakers, and musicians and monetize the passions of the youth and engage them in productive activities.
   • Tell me more
     • Hello Meghalaya offers a variety of content, including movies, music videos, and short films.
     • Filmmakers can receive up to Rs. 5 lakhs per film, with additional funding for acclaimed films.
     • Content creators earn Rs. 18,000 monthly for uploads, with extra funds based on views.
     • The platform will also stream key live events, such as local football matches and music festivals, to enhance accessibility for all residents.
     • Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma emphasized the platform’s role in preserving and promoting local languages and talents.

4. Kerala’s Elephant Population Declines in Recent Census
   • What
     • The recent synchronized population estimation exercise across southern Indian states has revealed a significant decline in Kerala’s elephant count.
   • Tell me more
     • Kerala’s elephant population has decreased from 1,920 recorded last year to 1,793, with a density of 0.19 per sq.km.
     • The Forest department attributes the decline to natural variation caused by elephant migration due to extreme climate conditions, including an unusually dry period early this year.
     • Anamudi Elephant Reserve recorded a 12% reduction in population, while Wayanad Elephant Reserve saw a significant 29% drop.
     • Periyar and Nilambur Elephant Reserves showed largely stable populations due to restricted movement along interstate borders and better habitat quality.
       Source: TH

Banking and Economy

1. Central Bank of India Partners with Arka Fincap for MSME Loans
   • What
     • Central Bank of India partnered with non-banking financial company (NBFC) Arka Fincap to offer loans to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

   • Why
     • This partnership aims to offer competitive MSME loans, expand Arka Fincap’s reach across India, and fill the credit gap for MSMEs.
   • Tell me more
     • Under the co-lending arrangement:
       • Arka will originate and process loan proposals for MSMEs based on jointly decided criteria.
       • Central Bank of India will hold 80% of the loan on its books.
       • Arka will service the loans throughout their lifecycle.
       • Competitive rates will be offered to MSMEs.
     • Arka Fincap aims to:
       • Grow its MSME loan portfolio to Rs. 5000 crore by FY25.
       • Increase its branch network to 45 by the end of FY25.

2. ONGC Videsh Acquires Stake in Azerbaijan Oilfield and Pipeline
   • What
     • ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL), an Indian company, acquired a stake in an Azerbaijan oilfield and an associated pipeline from Equinor, a Norwegian firm, for USD 60 million.
   • Why
     • This acquisition increases OVL’s stake in the oilfield and pipeline, potentially leading to higher oil and gas production for India.
   • Tell me more
     • OVL acquired a 0.615% stake in the Azeri Chirag Gunashli (ACG) oilfield and a 0.737% stake in the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline.
     • OVL already had a 2.31% stake in the ACG field and a 2.36% stake in the BTC pipeline.

Source: ET

Defence News

1. First Woman Army Air Defence Officer Deployed at Siachen Glacier
   • What
     • Captain Supreetha C.T., from Mysuru, is the first woman officer from the Corps of Army Air Defence to be deployed at Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.

Source: TH

Awards

1. Rigoberta Menchú Tum Receives Gandhi Mandela Award 2020
   • What
     • Nobel Peace Prize laureate Rigoberta Menchú Tum has been awarded the Gandhi Mandela Award 2020 on the occasion of Nelson Mandela’s 106th birth anniversary (July 18, 2024).
   • Why
     • The award is presented by the Gandhi Mandela Foundation to honor individuals who promote the values of Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, including community service, social development, peace, and harmony.
   • Tell me more
     • Rigoberta Menchú Tum is a Guatemalan human rights activist known for her lifelong advocacy for Indigenous rights.
     • She has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992 and the Princess of Asturias Award in 1998.

2. Lallianzuala Chhangte and Indumathi Kathiresan Win AIFF Awards
   • What
     • Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC) and Indumathi Kathiresan (Odisha FC) have been awarded the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Player of the Year awards for male and female categories, respectively.
   • Tell me more

3. Ram Charan Honored at Melbourne Film Festival
   • What
     • Ram Charan will be the guest of honor and receive the Ambassador for Indian Art and Culture award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM).
   • Tell me more
     • The 15th edition of IFFM will feature a retrospective of Ram Charan’s films.
     • The festival runs from August 15 to 25, 2024.

Source: TH

Important Days

1. World Chess Day – July 20
   • What
     • World Chess Day is celebrated on July 20th.

2. International Moon Day – July 20
   • What
     • On July 20, 2024, the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) will issue six se-tenant postage stamps and three souvenir sheets to commemorate International Moon Day.
   • Why
     • The day aims to honor the anniversary of the first human landing on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission and to promote awareness of sustainable lunar exploration efforts by national and international space programs.
   • Tell me more
     • The stamps will feature images from various lunar missions and will be available for purchase online at www.unstamps.org and at UN headquarters shops in New York, Geneva, and Vienna.
     • The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) is involved in promoting international cooperation for the peaceful use and exploration of space.

3. National Mango Day – July 22
   • What
     • National Mango Day is celebrated annually on July 22nd to honor the mango fruit.
   • Tell me more
     • The National Horticulture Board of India established the International Mango Festival in 1987.
       Source: N18

Sports

1. Kush Maini Wins Maiden Formula 2 Sprint Race
   • What
     • India’s Kush Maini secured his first Formula 2 Sprint Race victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix after the initial winner, Richard Verschoor, was disqualified due to a technical infringement.
   • Tell me more
     • Kush Maini is currently the sole Indian driver on the 2024 Formula 2 grid.
     • The Hungarian Grand Prix is part of the Formula 2 Championship, which features a series of races throughout the season.
       Source: ET
2. Leander Paes and Vijay Amritraj Inducted into International Tennis Hall of Fame
   • What
     • Indian tennis legends Leander Paes and Vijay Amritraj were inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
     • This is the first time Asian players have received this honor.
   • Why
     • The Hall of Fame recognizes remarkable achievements in tennis history.
     • Paes and Amritraj’s careers significantly impacted tennis in India and globally.
   • Tell me more
     • Leander Paes, a multiple Grand Slam champion in doubles, holds a bronze medal from the 1996 Olympics.
     • Vijay Amritraj, a former Wimbledon quarterfinalist, is credited for inspiring generations of Indian tennis players.

3. Women’s T20 Asia Cup in Sri Lanka (9th Edition)
   • What
     • The Indian women’s cricket team is aiming to defend their title at the Women’s Asia Cup T20 2024 at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Sri Lanka.
   • Tell me more
     • India won the 2022 edition.
     • India is the most successful team in the tournament’s history, winning seven out of eight editions.
     • Harmanpreet Kaur will captain the 15-member Indian squad with Smriti Mandhana as vice-captain.
       Source: Olympics.com

Appointments

1. Shikhar Dhawan Appointed Brand Ambassador for MotoGP in India
   • What
     • Cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has been appointed the brand ambassador for MotoGP in India.
   • Tell me more
     • The announcement coincides with Eurosport India acquiring broadcasting rights for MotoGP in India.
     • Dhawan will feature in the ‘Face Kar Race Kar’ campaign, highlighting the determination and resilience associated with MotoGP.
     • Yamaha is the title sponsor for MotoGP in India.

2. Deepa Malik Appointed Sub-Regional Representative for South Asia by Asian Paralympic Committee (APC)
   • What
     • Deepa Malik, India’s first woman Paralympic medalist, appointed sub-regional representative for South Asia by the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC).

3. Manolo Marquez Appointed Head Coach of Indian Football Team
   • What
     • Manolo Marquez, currently managing FC Goa in the Indian Super League, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indian men’s football team by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
   • Tell me more
     • AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey emphasized the collaboration between the AIFF and FC Goa to minimize any impact on both roles.
       Source: TOI

Miscellaneous

1. Kadambini Ganguly
   • What
     • A person named Dr. Bagchi is collecting signatures for a petition to the Chief Minister of West Bengal. The petition is about saving the house where Kadambini Ganguly used to live. The house is in bad condition and needs to be declared as a heritage building.
   • Why
     • The goal is to make sure that people remember Kadambini Ganguly’s important work in medicine and society. Her legacy should be protected for future generations.
   • Tell me more
     • Kadambini Ganguly was one of the first Indian women to graduate and become a doctor. She was a pioneer in medicine.
       Source: IE

2. Kamala Pujari, Padma Shri Awardee, Passes Away
   • What
     • Padma Shri awardee Kamala Pujari passed away at the age of 74.
   • Why
     • Kamala Pujari was recognized for her significant contributions to agriculture, particularly in promoting organic farming and preserving indigenous seeds, which had a lasting impact on sustainability and biodiversity.
   • Tell me more
     • Kamala Pujari was from Patraput village in Jeypore block and received the Padma Shri award in 2019 for her contributions to organic farming.
     • In 2002, she was honored with the Equator Initiative Award in Johannesburg, South Africa, for her efforts in preserving indigenous varieties of paddy.
       Source: TOI
3. “Power Within: The Leadership Legacy of Narendra Modi” Book on Modi’s Leadership
   • What
     • Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh received a book titled “Power Within: The Leadership Legacy of Narendra Modi,” written by Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, a noted intellectual and author.
   • Tell me more
     • Dr. R. Balasubramaniam is a former Rhodes Professor at Cornell University and currently serves as a member of the HR Capacity Building Commission in India.
       Source: PIB

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