National News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Historic Visit to Brunei
On September 3, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister since diplomatic ties were established in 1984. This visit highlights the growing importance of India-Brunei relations.
- Celebrating 40 Years of Diplomatic Relations: The visit coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Brunei, emphasizing the commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
- Alignment with India’s ‘Act East’ Policy: Both Brunei and Singapore are key members of ASEAN, playing vital roles in India’s ‘Act East’ Policy. Modi’s visit reinforces India’s strategic focus on deepening economic, cultural, and strategic ties with Southeast Asian nations.
Brunei:
- Capital: Bandar Seri Begawan
- Currency: Bruneian dollar
- Head of State: Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah
Star Health’s Introducing Braille Insurance Policies for the Visually Impaired
Star Health and Allied Insurance has launched an insurance policy in Braille, aiming to enhance accessibility for visually impaired individuals.
Target Audience:
- Individuals with 40% or more disability
- Those with physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments
Collaboration: Developed in partnership with the National Association of the Blind (NAB) to ensure it meets the needs of the visually impaired community.
Coverage:
- Essential medical treatments
- Support services for people with disabilities
- Comprehensive coverage previously less accessible to this community
Economic Context: Vision impairment results in an economic productivity loss of Rs 646 billion, highlighting the significance of inclusive initiatives.
Star health insurance:
- Founded: 2006
- Key people: Mr. Anand Roy
Banking news
POP Launches India’s First Multi-Brand Co-Branded Card with RuPay & Yes Bank
POP, a fintech startup founded by former Flipkart employees, has launched India’s first multi-brand co-branded credit card in partnership with RuPay and Yes Bank. The YEB BANK POP-CLUB RuPay credit card integrates leading brands like Zomato, Blinkit, Cult, Rapido, Cleartrip, and Pharmeasy, catering to key daily spending categories such as e-commerce, groceries, food and beverages, travel, and health and fitness.
Card Features and Benefits:
- POPcoins Rewards: Cardholders earn POPcoins on every transaction, with enhanced rewards for POP UPI transactions. The earning rates are:
- 10% POPcoins on online transactions
- 2% POPcoins on offline transactions
- Additional 5% POPcoins for POP UPI transactions
- Redemption: POPcoins can be redeemed within the POP app for products across categories like beauty, electronics, fashion, and home goods. They can also be used with partner brands.
Exclusive Joining Benefits:
- The card has no joining fee and offers a benefits package valued at ₹5,000, which includes:
- 500 bonus POPcoins
- Six-month Pharmeasy Plus membership
- ₹750 Cleartrip flight voucher
- ₹500 Cult voucher
- Three-month Zomato Gold membership
- Rapido ride pass
UPI and E-Commerce Integration:
- Following the launch of its UPI + e-commerce app platform in June 2024, POP has achieved over one million UPI transactions in just two months. The new credit card aims to build on this success, enhancing value for users by integrating with the RuPay network.
RuPay Overview:
- Introduction: Launched by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in 2012, RuPay is an Indian domestic card scheme.
- Objective: To provide a cost-effective payment solution and reduce reliance on international networks like Visa and MasterCard.
- Coverage: Supports debit, credit, and prepaid cards; widely accepted across ATMs, POS terminals, and online payments in India.
- Features: Offers lower transaction costs, enhanced security, and supports domestic and international transactions.
- Partnerships: Collaborates with various Indian banks and financial institutions and is expanding internationally.
- UPI Integration: Works seamlessly with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for digital transactions.
- Government Support: Backed by the Indian government to promote digital payments and financial inclusion.
Kotak General Insurance rebrands As Zurich Kotak General Insurance
Zurich Insurance Group has acquired a 70% stake in Kotak General Insurance for approximately US$670 million, reflecting the increasing appeal of India’s insurance market to global investors.
- Regulatory Approval: The deal, initially announced in November 2023, received all necessary regulatory approvals by June 2024, leading to the rebranding.
- Rebranding: Kotak Mahindra General Insurance has been renamed Zurich Kotak General Insurance Company (India) Limited. This change signifies a strategic partnership combining Zurich’s global insurance expertise with Kotak Mahindra Bank’s strong presence in India’s financial sector.
- FDI Policy: The acquisition leverages the Indian government’s 2021 policy shift, which raised the foreign direct investment limit in the insurance sector to 74%.
Kotak Mahindra bank:
- Headquarters: Mumbai
- Founder: Uday Kotak
- Founded: 21 November 1985
Award news
Women and Child Development Ministry Wins 2024 e-Governance Gold for Poshan Tracker
The Ministry of Women and Child Development has been awarded the National Award for e-Governance 2024 (Gold) for its innovative digital initiative, the Poshan Tracker. This tool is a key component of Mission Poshan 2.0, aimed at real-time monitoring of the growth of children aged 0-6 years. By using WHO growth charts, the Poshan Tracker captures essential anthropometric data such as height and weight, enabling Anganwadi Workers to identify and address nutritional issues promptly.
Poshan Tracker Initiative:
- The Poshan Tracker is an ICT-based system that ensures accurate and timely identification of growth-related issues in children.
- Growth Measuring Devices (GMD) are available at every Anganwadi Center (AWC) to facilitate precise data collection.
- The initiative has demonstrated significant impact, covering 8.9 crore children, with 8.57 crore measured within just one month, contributing to improved health outcomes.
Mission Poshan 2.0:
- Mission Poshan 2.0, with the Poshan Tracker at its core, focuses on early identification of health issues, nutritional assessment, and tracking developmental milestones.
- The initiative emphasizes targeted nutritional interventions to foster healthier futures for India’s youngest citizens.
Awareness Campaigns:
- Complementing the Poshan Tracker, campaigns like Poshan Maah (September) and Poshan Pakhwada (March) are conducted to raise awareness about nutrition.
- Since 2018, over 100 crore nutrition-centric activities have been reported under these campaigns, significantly amplifying the program’s impact on public health and nutrition.
The ministry of women and child development: Officeholder: Krishna Raj (Minister of State)
Appointment news
Ajay Ratra Joins Indian Cricket Selection Committee
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) made a significant announcement on Tuesday, reshaping the landscape of Indian cricket’s selection process. Former India wicketkeeper Ajay Ratra has been appointed as a selector for the men’s cricket team, marking a new era in the national team’s selection committee.
Ajay Ratra: A Profile
Playing Career Highlights
- Former India wicketkeeper-batsman
- Made his international debut in 2002
- Known for his solid wicketkeeping skills and useful contributions with the bat
BCCI:
- President: Roger Binny
- Headquarters: Mumbai
- Founded: December 1928
CDSL Secures SEBI Approval for Nehal Vora’s Appointment as MD & CEO
Central Depository Services (India) Limited (CDSL) has received approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for Nehal Vora to become the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO).
- SEBI’s Endorsement: The approval, granted on August 29, 2024, highlights SEBI’s confidence in Vora’s leadership and the integrity of CDSL’s appointment process.
- Significance: This appointment marks a significant step in CDSL’s corporate governance and strategic planning, reflecting its pivotal role in India’s financial infrastructure as a major depository.
Sports news
India’s Table Tennis Icon Sharath Kamal Named ITTF Foundation Ambassador
On the 11th day of the Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) season five at Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium, Sharath Kamal was named the first Indian ambassador of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Foundation. This significant recognition was announced in the presence of Princess Zeina Shaban of Jordan and Vita Dani, both board members of the ITTF Foundation.
- Distinguished Career: Sharath Kamal, a five-time Olympian and India’s male flag-bearer at the Paris Olympics, has had an illustrious career. He was elected to the ITTF’s Athlete’s Commission in November 2022 and holds the record for the most medals in table tennis at the Commonwealth Games, with 13 medals, including three golds and one silver from the 2022 Birmingham Games.
This appointment highlights his contributions to the sport and his growing influence in the global table tennis community.
Harvinder Singh’s Historic Paralympic Gold in Archery
Harvinder Singh has made Indian sports history by winning the country’s first-ever Paralympic gold medal in archery at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. This landmark victory comes three years after his bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, marking a significant milestone in Indian para-archery.
The Golden Moment:
- Event: Men’s Individual Recurve Open
- Venue: Invalides, Paris
- Opponent: Lukasz Ciszek (Poland)
- Result: 6-0 victory for Harvinder Singh
Final Match Breakdown:
- First Set: Harvinder took the lead with a score of 28-24.
- Second Set: He extended his lead to 4-0 with a perfect 10 on his third shot, despite Ciszek’s improved performance.
- Third Set: Harvinder showcased his precision with two consecutive 10s, while Ciszek faltered with a 7, securing Harvinder’s dominance in the match.
India’s Sachin Sarjerao Khilari Secured Silver Medal in the Men’s Shot Put F46 Event
Sachin Sarjerao Khilari clinched a silver medal in the men’s shot put F46 event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. This accomplishment adds to India’s growing medal tally and underscores the country’s emerging strength in para-athletics.
The Silver-Winning Performance:
- Record-Breaking Throw: Khilari, aged 34 and a world champion, set a new Asian record with a throw of 16.32 meters on his second attempt.
- Medal Standings:
- Gold: Greg Stewart (Canada) with a season-best throw of 16.38 meters
- Silver: Sachin Khilari (India) with 16.32 meters
- Bronze: Luka Bakovic (Croatia) with a personal best of 16.27 meters
Indian Competitors:
- Mohd Yasser: Eighth place with a throw of 14.21 meters
- Rohit Kumar: Ninth place with a throw of 14.10 meters
F46 Classification:
- Purpose: The F46 classification is designed for athletes with arm impairments, including those with above or below elbow amputations.
- Goal: Ensures fair competition among athletes with similar physical capabilities, providing a level playing field.
Kapil Parmar Secures India’s First Paralympic Judo Medal
Kapil Parmar won India’s first Paralympic medal in judo, securing bronze in the men’s 60kg (J1) category.
- Dominant Performance: At the Champs-de-mart arena, Parmar showcased exceptional skills, defeating Brazil’s Elielton de Oliveira with a decisive 10-0 score.
- Significance: This victory represents a landmark moment for Indian para-sports and highlights Parmar’s mastery in judo.
Agreement news
India and Singapore Sign Agreement on Semiconductor Partnership
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Singapore, India and Singapore signed multiple agreements, elevating their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership. The agreements focus on key areas such as semiconductors, healthcare, and digital economies, reflecting the importance of collaboration for regional peace and prosperity.
- Semiconductor Partnership MoU: This memorandum of understanding (MoU) aims to develop a robust semiconductor ecosystem in India, providing opportunities for Singaporean companies in the Indian market and supporting the growth of India’s semiconductor industry.
- Digital Cooperation MoU: The MoU enhances interoperability between the digital economies of India and Singapore. Key areas of cooperation include data protection, cybersecurity, and digital public infrastructure. This builds on existing initiatives like linking their real-time digital payment systems.
- Healthcare and Medical Research MoU: The agreement focuses on pandemic preparedness, disease surveillance, and the prevention of communicable diseases, fostering collaboration in healthcare and medical research.
- Education and Skill Development MoU: This MoU strengthens cooperation in vocational and technical training, furthering the partnership in skill development between the two nations.
Strategic and Historical Ties: Prime Minister Modi emphasized Singapore’s critical role in India’s Act East policy and noted the substantial progress in bilateral relations, including a three-fold increase in investments and satellite launches over the past decade. He also highlighted the deep cultural ties and historical connections, particularly the contributions of Subhash Chandra Bose and the Indian-origin community in Singapore.
Singapore: prime minister: Lawrence Wong Shyun
India and UAE Strengthen Audit Cooperation
In a significant move towards enhancing international cooperation in public sector auditing, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE Accountability Authority. This agreement marks a new chapter in the bilateral relations between India and the United Arab Emirates, focusing on strengthening their respective audit institutions and promoting good governance.
Event: Signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) and the UAE Accountability Authority
Date and Location: During a bilateral meeting
Key Participants:
- Girish Chandra Murmu: Comptroller and Auditor General of India
- Humaid Obaid Khalifa Obaid Abushibs: President of the UAE Accountability Authority
Objectives:
- Knowledge Exchange: Sharing expertise and experiences in public sector auditing.
- Capacity Building: Enhancing skills and capabilities of audit professionals.
- Best Practices: Exchanging and implementing effective auditing methodologies.
UAE:
- Capital: Abu Dhabi
- Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham
- Prime minister: Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
- President: Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
Books and author news
A Book Titled, From Oil to Lithium: Navigating the Future of Energy by Kuldeep Gupta
Kuldeep Gupta’s new book, “From Oil to Lithium: Navigating the Future of Energy”, offers an insightful exploration of the global energy transition through a compelling narrative. This work merges personal experience with critical examination of energy challenges, encouraging readers to rethink our approach to sustainable energy solutions.
Plot Summary: The central character, Karan, embarks on a transformative journey reflecting the broader shifts in the energy sector. Starting his career in the Oil & Gas industry, Karan is initially drawn to its historical importance and impact, notably its role during the World Wars. As he progresses in his career, Karan faces the environmental contradictions of the oil industry, prompting a shift in his perspective.
Themes:
- Historical Significance vs. Modern Challenges: The book contrasts the historical significance of oil with the current environmental and sustainability issues it faces.
- Personal Transformation: Karan’s evolving understanding mirrors the global shift from traditional fossil fuels to more sustainable energy sources like lithium.
- Inspiration for Change: Gupta uses Karan’s story to highlight the urgency of adopting sustainable energy practices and exploring alternatives.
Defence news
First Joint Commander’s Conference of Indian Armed Forces
On September 4-5, 2024, a significant event took place in the military landscape of India. The first Joint Commander’s Conference of the Armed Forces was held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, marking a new era in the coordination and integration of India’s military forces. This two-day conference, presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, brought together top military brass to discuss crucial issues facing the armed forces and to strategize on the future of India’s defense capabilities.
- Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
- Dates: September 4-5, 2024
- Presided Over By: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Key Attendees:
- General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff
- General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff
- Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff
- Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff
- Giridhar Aramane, Defence Secretary
Theme: “Sashakt aur Surakshit Bharat: Transforming Armed Forces” (Strong and Secure India: Transforming Armed Forces)
Purpose: To discuss key issues facing the armed forces and strategize on enhancing India’s defense capabilities and modernization.
Important days
Teacher’s Day 2024, Know History and Significance
- Celebration Date: September 5, 2024
- Honoree: Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the second President of India and a distinguished teacher
- Purpose: To honor and appreciate the invaluable contributions of teachers
Why September 5th?
- The date marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, born on September 5, 1888.
- When his students wished to celebrate his birthday, he suggested honoring all teachers instead, leading to the establishment of Teacher’s Day on this date.
Who Was Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?
- Birthplace: Tiruttani, Madras Presidency (now Tamil Nadu), India
- Education: Graduated with a Master’s degree in Philosophy from Madras Christian College in 1906
- Contribution: Noted philosopher, educator, and India’s second President
- Legacy: Advocated for the recognition of all teachers on his birthday
History of Teacher’s Day:
- First Celebration: Held in 1962, on Dr. Radhakrishnan’s 77th birthday, following his suggestion to honor all teachers.
Significance of Teacher’s Day:
- Acknowledgment: A day to appreciate and celebrate the crucial role of teachers in shaping students’ lives and contributing to society.
- Celebrations: Students and communities express gratitude through various activities and events.
Teacher’s Day is a reminder of the profound impact that educators have on shaping the future and guiding the younger generation, and it serves as an opportunity to show appreciation for their dedication and hard work.
