Daily Current Affairs June 22 & 23
Table of Contents
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June 22 & 23 | Daily Current Affairs 2024
Important Days – Daily Current Affairs June 22 & 23
1. When is International Widow’s Day observed annually?
A) 21 June
B) 22 June
C) 23 June
D) 24 June
E) 25 June
Answer: C) 23 June
Event and Location:
- Event: International Widow’s Day
- Date: 23 June annually
History:
- Established by the United Nations in 2011
- Recognized to raise awareness about the challenges faced by widows globally
- Emerged from the efforts of organizations like the Loomba Foundation, led by Raj Loomba
Significance:
- Highlights the social, economic, and legal issues faced by widows, particularly in developing countries
- Aims to promote gender equality and empower widows by advocating for their rights
- Provides a platform to generate public awareness, mobilize resources, and advocate for policy changes and programs that improve the lives of widows
- Aims to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusion and equity for widows
Celebration:
Activities:
- Various organizations, governments, activists, and communities use the day to advocate for policy changes and social programs
- Events, conferences, and campaigns are organized to raise awareness about widows’ rights and promote social inclusion
- Awareness campaigns and educational initiatives aim to promote greater understanding and compassion for widows
Important Terms Explained:
- International Widow’s Day: A United Nations-recognized day dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of widows and advocating for their rights and well-being.
- Loomba Foundation: An organization led by Raj Loomba that played a key role in establishing International Widow’s Day to highlight the challenges faced by widows.
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | International Widow’s Day |
Date | 23 June annually |
Established By | United Nations |
Established In | 2011 |
Significance | Raise awareness about the challenges faced by widows and advocate for their rights and well-being |
Primary Activities | Advocacy, events, campaigns, policy changes, educational initiatives |
Key Organizations Involved | United Nations, Loomba Foundation |
2. When is United Nations Public Service Day celebrated annually?
A) 21 June
B) 22 June
C) 23 June
D) 24 June
E) 25 June
Answer: C) 23 June
Event and Location:
- Event: United Nations Public Service Day
- Date: 23 June annually
- Theme for 2024: ‘Fostering Innovation amid Global Challenges: a Public Sector Perspective’
History:
- Designated by the United Nations General Assembly on December 20, 2002, through resolution A/RES/57/277
- Celebrated to honor the contributions of public servants globally
Significance:
- Recognizes the dedication and hard work of individuals in the public sector
- Highlights the core values of public service: integrity, accountability, transparency, and respect for diversity
- Inspires individuals, especially the youth, to consider careers in public service
Theme for 2024:
- Theme: ‘Fostering Innovation amid Global Challenges: a Public Sector Perspective’
- Focuses on the role of public sector innovation in addressing global challenges and driving meaningful change
Important Terms Explained:
- United Nations Public Service Day: An annual celebration on June 23rd to honor public servants and highlight the importance of public service in community growth and well-being.
- United Nations Public Service Awards: Awards established by the United Nations Economic and Social Council to recognize outstanding contributions in enhancing the role and visibility of public service.
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | United Nations Public Service Day |
Date | 23 June annually |
Established By | United Nations General Assembly |
Established In | 2002 |
Theme for 2024 | ‘Fostering Innovation amid Global Challenges: a Public Sector Perspective’ |
Significance | Honors public servants, promotes public service values, and inspires future public sector careers |
Primary Activities | Recognition of public servants, public service awards, and celebration of public service achievements |
Key Organizations Involved | United Nations General Assembly, United Nations Economic and Social Council |
Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs June 22 & 23
3. By what percentage did funds held by Indian individuals and firms in Swiss banks decline in 2023?
A) 50%
B) 60%
C) 70%
D) 80%
E) 90%
Answer: C) 70%
Event and Location:
- Event: Decline in funds held by Indian individuals and firms in Swiss banks
- Date: 2023
Details:
- Percentage Decline: 70%
- Amount in 2023: 1.04 billion Swiss Francs (approximately Rs 9,771 crore)
- Previous Year Amount: CHF 3.83 billion in 2021 (14-year high)
- Decline Cause: Sharp decrease in funds through bonds, securities, and other financial instruments, as well as customer deposit accounts and other bank branches in India.
Key Points:
- Total Liabilities in 2023: CHF 1,039.8 million
- Customer Deposits: CHF 310 million (down from CHF 394 million in 2022)
- Other Banks: CHF 427 million (down from CHF 1,110 million)
- Fiduciaries or Trusts: CHF 10 million (down from CHF 24 million)
- Other Financial Instruments: CHF 302 million (down from CHF 1,896 million)
- Historical Peak: Nearly 6.5 billion Swiss Francs in 2006
- BIS Statistics for 2023: Nearly 25% decline to USD 70.6 million (Rs 663 crore)
- Support from Swiss Authorities: Assets held by Indian residents in Switzerland should not be considered ‘black money’
Important Terms Explained:
- Swiss National Bank (SNB): The central bank of Switzerland that publishes annual data on funds held in Swiss banks.
- Bank for International Settlements (BIS): An international financial institution that compiles banking statistics, considered a reliable measure of deposits by Indian individuals in Swiss banks.
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | Decline in funds held by Indian individuals and firms in Swiss banks |
Percentage Decline | 70% |
Amount in 2023 | 1.04 billion Swiss Francs (approximately Rs 9,771 crore) |
Previous Year Amount | CHF 3.83 billion in 2021 (14-year high) |
Decline Cause | Decrease in bonds, securities, customer deposit accounts, and other financial instruments |
Total Liabilities in 2023 | CHF 1,039.8 million |
BIS Statistics for 2023 | Nearly 25% decline to USD 70.6 million (Rs 663 crore) |
Support from Swiss Authorities | Assets held by Indian residents in Switzerland should not be considered ‘black money’ |
Appointments – Daily Current Affairs June 22 & 23
4. Who has been appointed as the pro-tem Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha?
A) Virendra Kumar
B) Kiren Rijiju
C) Bhartruhari Mahtab
D) K. Suresh
E) Suresh Kodikunnil
Answer: C) Bhartruhari Mahtab
Event and Location:
- Event: Appointment of the pro-tem Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha
- Date: Days before the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha
Details:
- Appointed Pro-tem Speaker: Bhartruhari Mahtab
- Appointed By: President Droupadi Murmu under Article 95(1) of the Constitution
- Assisting MPs: Suresh Kodikunnil, Thalikkottai Rajuthevar Baalu, Radha Mohan Singh, Faggan Singh Kulaste, and Sudip Bandyopadhyay
- Political Background: Bhartruhari Mahtab recently switched from Biju Janata Dal (BJD) to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has been elected seven times from Cuttack (Odisha)
- Controversy: Congress claimed the appointment flouted the convention of appointing the senior-most MP, who is Kodikunnil Suresh (INC), now serving his eighth term.
Key Points:
- Role of Pro-tem Speaker: Administering oaths to new MPs until the election of the Speaker.
- Constitutional Basis: Article 95(1) of the Constitution.
- Political Reaction: Congress criticized the appointment, arguing it violated the convention of appointing the senior-most MP.
Important Terms Explained:
- Pro-tem Speaker: A temporary speaker appointed to perform duties such as administering oaths to new MPs until the election of a regular Speaker.
- Article 95(1) of the Constitution: Provides for the appointment of a member to perform the duties of the Speaker in the Lok Sabha until a Speaker is elected.
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | Appointment of the pro-tem Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha |
Appointed Pro-tem Speaker | Bhartruhari Mahtab |
Appointed By | President Droupadi Murmu under Article 95(1) of the Constitution |
Assisting MPs | Suresh Kodikunnil, Thalikkottai Rajuthevar Baalu, Radha Mohan Singh, Faggan Singh Kulaste, Sudip Bandyopadhyay |
Political Background | Recently switched from BJD to BJP; elected seven times from Cuttack (Odisha) |
Controversy | Congress claimed appointment violated convention of appointing senior-most MP, Kodikunnil Suresh |
Role of Pro-tem Speaker | Administering oaths to new MPs until election of regular Speaker |
Constitutional Basis | Article 95(1) of the Constitution |
5. What position did Manoj Jain assume at Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)?
A) Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
B) Chief Operating Officer (COO)
C) Chairman and Managing Director (CMD)
D) Director of Marketing
E) Director of Sales
Answer: C) Chairman and Managing Director (CMD)
Event and Location:
- Event: Manoj Jain assumes charge as Chairman and Managing Director of BEL
Details:
- Previous Roles:
- Director (R&D) since September 2022
- Director (Bangalore complex) from August 2023
- Director (HR) from November 2022 to May 2023
- Previous Position: Head of BEL’s electronic warfare & avionics strategic business unit at the Bangalore Complex
- Education: Gold medalist in electronics engineering from REC Jaipur (MNIT)
- Joining Year: 1991 as a probationary engineer
Key Points:
- Position Assumed: Chairman and Managing Director (CMD)
- Company: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
- Experience: Over three decades with BEL
- Previous Roles: Held multiple key roles including Director (R&D), Director (Bangalore complex), and Director (HR)
Important Terms Explained:
- BEL (Bharat Electronics Limited): A leading defence public sector undertaking in India, specializing in electronics for the Indian Armed Forces.
- CMD (Chairman and Managing Director): The top executive responsible for the overall management and operations of the company.
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | Manoj Jain assumes charge as CMD of BEL |
Previous Roles | Director (R&D), Director (Bangalore complex), Director (HR) |
Previous Position | Head of electronic warfare & avionics strategic business unit |
Education | Gold medalist in electronics engineering from REC Jaipur (MNIT) |
Joining Year | 1991 as a probationary engineer |
6. Who recently assumed charge as the Commandant of the Military Institute of Technology (MILIT), Pune?
A) Rear Adm Manoj Jain
B) Rear Adm Nelson D’Souza
C) Rear Adm Anil Chauhan
D) Rear Adm Nelson Pinto
E) Rear Adm Suresh Bhat
Answer: B) Rear Adm Nelson D’Souza
Event and Location:
- Event: Rear Admiral Nelson D’Souza assumes charge as Commandant of MILIT
- Date: June 21
Details:
- Previous Roles:
- Numerous key positions within the Indian Navy since his commissioning in March 1991
- Alumni of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, and Naval War College, Goa
- New Role: Commandant of Military Institute of Technology (MILIT), Pune
Mandates and Objectives:
- Focus Areas:
- Strengthening MILIT’s academic programs
- Promoting Jointness and Integration in training among tri-services
- Enhancing collaboration with the industry and academia in niche technologies
Institution Information:
- MILIT:
- One of India’s premier tri-services technical training institutes
- Focuses on nurturing highly skilled techno-warrior officers for future-ready armed forces
Key Points:
- Position Assumed: Commandant
- Institution: Military Institute of Technology (MILIT), Pune
- Experience: Various key positions in the Indian Navy since March 1991
- Education: Alumnus of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, and Naval War College, Goa
Important Terms Explained:
- MILIT (Military Institute of Technology): A premier institute in India providing technical training to officers of the Indian Armed Forces.
- Commandant: The head or commanding officer of a military training institute or academy.
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | Rear Adm Nelson D’Souza assumes charge as Commandant of MILIT |
Previous Roles | Key positions in the Indian Navy, Alumni of Defence Services Staff College and Naval War College |
Institution | Military Institute of Technology (MILIT), Pune |
Focus Areas | Strengthening academic programs, promoting Jointness and Integration, enhancing collaboration in niche technologies |
Experience | Commissioned in March 1991, served in various key positions within the Indian Navy |
7. What is the primary objective of the High-Level Committee of Experts constituted by the Ministry of Education?
A) To develop new educational curricula
B) To ensure transparent, smooth, and fair conduct of examinations
C) To improve teacher training programs
D) To establish new educational institutions
E) To promote international collaborations in education
Answer: B) To ensure transparent, smooth, and fair conduct of examinations
Event and Location:
- Event: Constitution of a High-Level Committee of Experts
- Date: June 22, 2024
Details:
- Purpose: The Ministry of Education constituted the committee to ensure transparent, smooth, and fair conduct of examinations through the National Testing Agency (NTA).
- Mandate: The committee is tasked with making recommendations on:
- Reforming the mechanism of the examination process
- Improving data security protocols
- Structuring and functioning of the National Testing Agency (NTA)
Committee Members:
- Chairman: Dr. K. Radhakrishnan – Former Chairman, ISRO and Chairman BoG, IIT Kanpur
- Members:
- Dr. Randeep Guleria – Former Director, AIIMS Delhi
- Prof. B J Rao – Vice Chancellor, Central University of Hyderabad
- Prof. Ramamurthy K – Professor Emeritus, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Madras
- Shri Pankaj Bansal – Co-Founder, People Strong and Board Member- Karmayogi Bharat
- Prof. Aditya Mittal – Dean Student Affairs, IIT Delhi
- Shri Govind Jaiswal – Joint Secretary, Ministry of Education, Govt. of India (Member Secretary)
Terms of Reference:
- Reform in Examination Process:
- Analyze and suggest improvements for the efficiency of the examination system
- Review and strengthen Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and protocols of NTA
- Improvement in Data Security Protocols:
- Evaluate and recommend enhancements for existing data security processes of NTA
- Examine and suggest improvements in security protocols related to paper-setting and other examination processes
- Structure and Functioning of NTA:
- Recommend changes to the organizational structure and functioning of NTA
- Assess and enhance the Grievance Redressal Mechanism of NTA
- Reporting: The committee is required to submit its report to the Ministry within two months from the date of issue of the order.
Important Terms Explained:
- National Testing Agency (NTA): An autonomous body responsible for conducting entrance examinations for higher educational institutions in India.
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Detailed, written instructions to achieve uniformity in the performance of specific functions.
- Data Security Protocols: Measures and procedures to protect data from unauthorized access, corruption, or theft.
Static GK Information:
Ministry of Education:
- Founded: 1947 (formerly Ministry of Human Resource Development)
- Minister: Dharmendra Pradhan
- Headquarters: Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi, India
National Testing Agency (NTA):
- Founded: 2017
- Chairman: Vineet Joshi (as of 2024)
- Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
Dr. K. Radhakrishnan:
- Notable Position: Former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Dr. Randeep Guleria: - Notable Position: Former Director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | Constitution of High-Level Committee of Experts |
Purpose | Ensure transparent, smooth, and fair conduct of examinations |
Mandate | Reform examination process, improve data security protocols, structure and function of NTA |
Chairman | Dr. K. Radhakrishnan |
Members | Dr. Randeep Guleria, Prof. B J Rao, Prof. Ramamurthy K, Shri Pankaj Bansal, Prof. Aditya Mittal, Shri Govind Jaiswal |
Reporting Time | Two months |
NTA Founded | 2017 |
NTA Chairman | Vineet Joshi (as of 2024) |
Ministry of Education Founded | 1947 |
Minister of Education | Dharmendra Pradhan (as of 2024) |
Headquarters of Ministry of Education | Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi, India |
International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs June 22 & 23
8. What is the primary purpose of the multi-purpose vessels being constructed by GRSE in collaboration with the German firm?
A) Transporting crude oil
B) Carrying large windmill blades and containers
C) Conducting naval patrol operations
D) Fishing and oceanographic research
E) Hosting luxury cruises
Answer: B) Carrying large windmill blades and containers
Event and Location:
- Event: GRSE signs a $45 million agreement with a German firm for four multi-purpose vessels
- Date: June 22, 2024
Details:
- Purpose: The primary purpose of these multi-purpose vessels is to carry large windmill blades and containers, ensuring they can handle bulk, general, and project cargoes effectively.
Key Highlights:
- Agreement and Execution:
- Agreement: GRSE Ltd. signed an agreement with Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler and Reederei GmbH & Co. KG from Germany.
- Value: The contract is valued at approximately $45 million.
- Timeline: The vessels will be constructed within 33 months, with an option for four additional ships.
- Specifications:
- Dimensions: The vessels will be 120 meters long and 17 meters wide, with a maximum draft of 6.75 meters.
- Capacity: Each vessel will have a carrying capacity of 7,500 metric tonnes.
- Design: Designed specifically to carry multiple large windmill blades on deck and containers on hatch covers.
- Significance and Export Push:
- Export Push: The agreement aligns with the government’s push for exporting defence products, which reached a record ₹21,000 crore.
- Past Exports: GRSE has previously exported offshore patrol vessels and fast patrol vessels to Mauritius and Seychelles, respectively.
- Contract Signing:
- Signatories: Shantanu Bose, Director (Shipbuilding) of GRSE, and Carsten Thomas Rehder, Managing Director of the German firm, signed the contract.
- Witnesses: Commodore PR Hari, Chairman & Managing Director of GRSE, and other colleagues attended the signing ceremony.
- Future Projects:
- Current Work: GRSE is currently working on six patrol boats and a TSH dredger for Bangladesh.
- Notable Deliveries: In 2023, GRSE delivered the MV Ma Lisha, a passenger-cum-cargo ferry, to Guyana.
Important Terms Explained:
- GRSE (Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd.):
- A premier shipbuilding company under the Ministry of Defence, India. It specializes in the construction of warships and other naval vessels.
- Multi-Purpose Vessel:
- A type of ship designed to transport a wide range of cargoes, including bulk, general, and project cargoes, making it versatile for various shipping needs.
Static GK Information:
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd. (GRSE):
- Founded: 1884
- Headquarters: Kolkata, India
- Chairman & Managing Director: Commodore PR Hari (Retd.)
- Key Achievements: Built over 790 platforms, including 109 warships, the highest by any Indian shipyard.
Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler and Reederei GmbH & Co. KG:
- Location: Hamburg, Germany
- Industry: Shipping and maritime logistics
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | GRSE signs $45 million agreement with German firm |
Date | June 22, 2024 |
Primary Purpose | Carrying large windmill blades and containers |
Agreement Value | $45 million |
Timeline | 33 months |
Vessel Specifications | 120m long, 17m wide, 6.75m draft, 7,500 metric tonnes capacity |
Signatories | Shantanu Bose (GRSE), Carsten Thomas Rehder (German firm) |
Significance | Supports government’s push for defence exports |
Current Projects | Six patrol boats and TSH dredger for Bangladesh |
Past Notable Deliveries | Offshore patrol vessel to Mauritius, fast patrol vessel to Seychelles, MV Ma Lisha to Guyana |
Static GK Information – GRSE | Founded: 1884; Headquarters: Kolkata, India; CMD: Commodore PR Hari (Retd.); 790 platforms built so far |
Static GK Information – German Firm | Location: Hamburg, Germany; Industry: Shipping and maritime logistics |
National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs June 22 & 23
9. What major decision was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the 53rd GST Council meeting?
A) Reduction of GST on all goods to 12%
B) Pan-India rollout of biometric-based Aadhaar authentication
C) Introduction of new GST rates on all products
D) Elimination of GST on all services
E) Increase in GST rates for luxury goods
Answer: B) Pan-India rollout of biometric-based Aadhaar authentication
Event and Location:
- Event: 53rd GST Council Meeting
- Date: June 21, 2024
Details:
- Announcement: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the pan-India rollout of biometric-based Aadhaar authentication.
- Purpose: This initiative aims to combat fraudulent input tax credit claims made through fake invoices.
- Pilot Project: The pilot was conducted in Gujarat and Puducherry, yielding positive results.
- Implementation: The rollout will be in a phased manner across India.
Additional Decisions Taken:
- GST on Solar Cookers: 12% GST will be prescribed on all solar cookers, whether they have a single or dual energy source.
- GST Exemptions for Indian Railways:
- Services provided by Indian Railways to the common man, such as sale of platform tickets, retiring rooms, waiting rooms, cloakroom services, and battery-operated car services, are exempted from GST.
- Intra-railway supplies are also exempted.
- Accommodation Services: Exempting accommodation services with a value of supply up to ₹20,000 per person per month for a minimum continuous period of 90 days.
- GST on Milk Cans: A uniform GST rate of 12% will be prescribed on all milk cans, regardless of the material (steel, iron, aluminum).
- GST on Carton Boxes: A uniform GST rate of 12% will be prescribed on all carton boxes and cases made of both corrugated and non-corrugated paper or paperboard.
- Significance: These decisions aim to benefit traders, MSMEs, and taxpayers by facilitating trade, easing the compliance burden, and providing relief in terms of compliance.
Important Terms Explained:
- Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication: A process that uses biometric data (fingerprints, iris scans) to verify the identity of individuals through their Aadhaar number, ensuring secure and accurate identification.
- Input Tax Credit (ITC): A mechanism under GST that allows businesses to claim credit for the tax paid on inputs used in the production or supply of goods and services.
Static GK Information:
Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council:
- Founded: 2016
- Chairperson: Union Finance Minister (Nirmala Sitharaman as of 2024)
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
Aadhaar:
- Launched: 2009
- Managed by: Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)
- Purpose: To provide a unique identity number to residents of India
Nirmala Sitharaman:
- Position: Union Finance Minister of India
- Assumed Office: May 2019
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | 53rd GST Council Meeting |
Date | June 21, 2024 |
Major Announcement | Pan-India rollout of biometric-based Aadhaar authentication |
Purpose | Combat fraudulent input tax credit claims through fake invoices |
Pilot Project Locations | Gujarat and Puducherry |
Other Key Decisions | – 12% GST on solar cookers – GST exemptions for Indian Railways services – Accommodation services exemption – Uniform GST rate on milk cans and carton boxes |
Finance Minister | Nirmala Sitharaman |
Significance of Decisions | Benefit traders, MSMEs, and taxpayers by easing compliance and facilitating trade |
10. What is the total cost approved by the Government of India for new transmission schemes to evacuate 4.5 GW of renewable energy power each from Rajasthan and Karnataka?
A) ₹10,000 crore
B) ₹12,241 crore
C) ₹1,354 crore
D) ₹13,595 crore
E) ₹15,000 crore
Answer: D) ₹13,595 crore
Event and Location:
- Event: Approval of new transmission schemes by the Government of India
- Date: June 22, 2024
Details:
- Purpose: To evacuate 9 GW of renewable energy (RE) power from Rajasthan and Karnataka
- Mode of Implementation: Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB)
Schemes Overview:
- Rajasthan Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Scheme:
- Power Evacuation Capacity: 4.5 GW
- Areas Covered: Fatehgarh, Barmer, and Nagaur (Merta) complexes
- Power Transfer To: Mainpuri Region, Fatehpur, and Orai in Uttar Pradesh
- Completion Period: Two years
- Cost: ₹12,241 crore
- Karnataka System Strengthening Scheme:
- Power Evacuation Capacity: 4.5 GW
- Areas Covered: Koppal and Gadag areas
- Completion Period: By June 2027
- Cost: ₹1,354 crore
- Total Cost: ₹13,595 crore
Key Points:
- Transmission Schemes Approved: For Rajasthan and Karnataka
- Total Power Evacuation: 9 GW (4.5 GW from each state)
- Completion Period: Two years for Rajasthan scheme, by June 2027 for Karnataka scheme
- Total Cost: ₹13,595 crore
Important Terms Explained:
- Inter State Transmission System (ISTS): A system of transmission lines and substations that facilitates the transfer of electricity between states in India.
- Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB): A procurement process where the project is awarded to the bidder who offers the lowest tariff.
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | Approval of new transmission schemes |
Purpose | Evacuation of 9 GW RE power |
States Covered | Rajasthan and Karnataka |
Total Cost | ₹13,595 crore |
Completion Period | Rajasthan: 2 years, Karnataka: by June 2027 |
Implementation Mode | Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) |
11. What is the primary focus of the MoU signed between SAMEER, MeitY, and MCTE?
A) Developing new missile technologies
B) Advancing wireless technologies for the Indian Army
C) Enhancing food supply chain logistics
D) Building naval submarines
E) Promoting tourism in India
Answer: B) Advancing wireless technologies for the Indian Army
Event and Location:
- Event: Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
- Date: June 22, 2024
Details:
- Parties Involved: Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), Indian Army; Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering & Research (SAMEER); Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY)
- Signatories: Lt Gen K H Gawas (MCTE), Dr P H Rao (SAMEER)
- Witnesses: Shri S K Marwaha (MeitY), Maj Gen C S Mann (Indian Army)
Objectives of the MoU:
- Joint Research and Development: Collaborative projects targeting deployable solutions in 5G, 6G, advanced cellular technologies, software-defined radios, cognitive radios, satellite communications, antenna design, free space optics, tropo-scatter communications, AI, quantum technologies, and military-specific chip design.
- Incubation Centre: Establishment of an ‘Advanced Military Research and Incubation Centre’ at MCTE to support the development of military-specific innovative solutions from conceptualization to large-scale production, involving MSMEs and start-ups.
- Knowledge Exchange and Training: Focus on knowledge exchange, training, and development aspects to enhance national security and technological infrastructure.
Significance:
- Technological Advancement: Strengthening the Indian Army’s technological capabilities, particularly in next-generation wireless technologies.
- National Security: Enhancing national security through advancements in defense and strategic sectors.
- Innovation and Collaboration: Promoting innovation and collaborative success between government R&D institutions and military educational bodies.
- Holistic Approach: Impacting telecommunications, emergency response, and public safety, demonstrating a commitment to a holistic approach to national security.
Important Terms Explained:
- SAMEER: Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering & Research, an autonomous R&D laboratory under MeitY, focusing on applied research in the field of microwave electronics and related technologies.
- MCTE: Military College of Telecommunication Engineering, a premier technical training institute of the Indian Army, specializing in communication, electronic warfare, and cyber operations.
- MeitY: Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India, responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to information technology, electronics, and the internet.
Static GK Information:
Indian Army:
- Founded: April 1, 1895
- Chief of Army Staff: General Manoj Pande
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
SAMEER:
- Founded: 1984
- Director General: Dr. P H Rao
- Headquarters: Mumbai, India
MeitY:
- Founded: 2016 (formerly Department of Electronics and Information Technology)
- Minister: Ashwini Vaishnaw
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | Signing of MoU for technological advancement |
Primary Focus | Advancing wireless technologies for the Indian Army |
Parties Involved | MCTE, SAMEER, MeitY |
Signatories | Lt Gen K H Gawas, Dr P H Rao |
Witnesses | Shri S K Marwaha, Maj Gen C S Mann |
Objectives | Joint R&D, Incubation Centre, Knowledge Exchange, Training |
Significance | Technological advancement, National security, Innovation and collaboration, Holistic approach |
Indian Army Founded | April 1, 1895 |
Chief of Army Staff | General Manoj Pande |
SAMEER Founded | 1984 |
Director General of SAMEER | Dr. P H Rao |
MeitY Founded | 2016 |
Minister of MeitY | Ashwini Vaishnaw |
MCTE Headquarters | Pune, India |
SAMEER Headquarters | Mumbai, India |
MeitY Headquarters | New Delhi, India |
12. Which key service provided by the Indian Railways has been exempted from GST as per the recommendations made during the 53rd GST Council meeting?
A) Freight transportation
B) Platform ticket sale
C) Luxury train services
D) Catering services
E) Ticket booking
Answer: B) Platform ticket sale
Event and Location:
- Event: 53rd GST Council Meeting
- Date: June 21, 2024
Details:
- Announcement: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced several changes in GST rates and exemptions during the 53rd GST Council meeting to ease compliance burdens and address taxpayer grievances.
Key Recommendations:
- Railway Services:
- Services provided by Indian Railways, such as platform ticket sale, retiring room facility, waiting rooms, cloakroom facilities, and battery-operated car services, are exempted from GST.
- Hostel Services:
- Exemption on hostel accommodation services outside educational institutions up to ₹20,000 per person per month, applicable only if the stay is up to 90 days.
- Interest on Penalties on Tax Notice:
- Waiver of interest on penalties for tax demand notices issued under Section 73 of the GST Act for fiscal years 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2019-20, provided the full tax amount is paid by March 31, 2025.
- Input Tax Credit (ITC):
- Extension for availing ITC on any invoice or debit note.
- GST on Carton Boxes:
- Reduction of GST on all types of carton boxes from 18% to 12%.
- GST Return Deadline:
- Extension of the deadline for furnishing returns from April 30 to June 30 for the fiscal year 2024-25 and subsequent years.
- Solar Cookers:
- Uniform GST rate of 12% recommended for solar cookers, whether single or dual energy source.
- Milk Cans:
- Uniform GST rate of 12% on all milk cans, regardless of their material (steel, iron, aluminum).
- Sprinklers:
- All types of sprinklers, including fire and water sprinklers, will attract a uniform GST rate of 12%.
- Significance: These decisions aim to benefit traders, MSMEs, and taxpayers by facilitating trade, easing the compliance burden, and providing relief in terms of compliance.
Important Terms Explained:
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): A comprehensive, multi-stage, destination-based tax that is levied on every value addition.
- Input Tax Credit (ITC): A mechanism under GST that allows businesses to claim credit for the tax paid on inputs used in the production or supply of goods and services.
- Section 73 of GST Act: Refers to the determination of tax not paid or short paid or erroneously refunded, or input tax credit wrongly availed or utilized for any reason other than fraud or any willful misstatement or suppression of facts.
Static GK Information:
Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council:
- Founded: 2016
- Chairperson: Union Finance Minister
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
Nirmala Sitharaman:
- Position: Union Finance Minister of India
- Assumed Office: May 2019
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | 53rd GST Council Meeting |
Date | June 21, 2024 |
Major Announcement | Pan-India rollout of biometric-based Aadhaar authentication |
Railway Services Exempted from GST | Platform ticket sale, retiring room facility, waiting rooms, cloakroom facilities, battery-operated car services |
Other Key Decisions | – Hostel accommodation exemption up to ₹20,000 per month for stays up to 90 days – Waiver of interest on penalties for tax demand notices for FY 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2019-20 – Reduction of GST on carton boxes to 12% |
GST on Solar Cookers | Uniform GST rate of 12% recommended for solar cookers (single or dual energy source) |
GST on Milk Cans | Uniform GST rate of 12% on all milk cans (steel, iron, aluminum) |
GST on Sprinklers | Uniform GST rate of 12% on all types of sprinklers, including fire and water sprinklers |
Finance Minister | Nirmala Sitharaman |
Significance of Decisions | Benefit traders, MSMEs, and taxpayers by easing compliance and facilitating trade |
13. What is the primary purpose of the newly notified Telecommunications Act set to be effective from June 26, 2024?
A) To replace the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885
B) To introduce 5G technology
C) To provide free internet services
D) To merge telecom companies
E) To eliminate telecom taxes
Answer: A) To replace the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885
Event and Location:
- Event: Notification of the new Telecommunications Act
- Date: June 22, 2024
- Effective Date: June 26, 2024
Details:
- Purpose: The new Telecommunications Act is designed to replace the 138-year-old Indian Telegraph Act of 1885 and introduce modern regulations to address contemporary challenges in the telecom sector.
Key Provisions:
- User Protection: Emphasis on safeguarding users from spam and malicious communications.
- Right of Way Reforms: Streamlining processes for telecom network roll-out.
- Optimal Spectrum Utilisation: Prefers auctioning spectrum but allows administrative allocation in specific cases for public interest, government functions, and technical or economic reasons.
- National Security: Allows the government to take temporary control of telecom services for national security purposes.
- Biometric Identification: Mandates the use of verifiable biometric identification (Aadhaar) for new SIMs/connections to enhance security.
- Digital Bharat Nidhi: Transformation of the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) into Digital Bharat Nidhi to support R&D and pilot projects.
- Spectrum Allocation: Administrative assignment of spectrum for certain telecommunications services, including satellite-based services and in-flight and maritime connectivity.
- Right of Way: Implementation of non-discriminatory and non-exclusive grants of right of way for telecom network roll-out.
- Common Ducts and Cable Corridors: Provides the central government with the power to establish these to facilitate telecom infrastructure.
- Significance: The Act aims to modernize India’s telecom regulations, ensuring efficient, secure, and user-friendly telecom services.
Important Terms Explained:
- Telecommunications Act: A set of regulations governing the telecom sector to ensure efficient service delivery, user protection, and optimal resource utilization.
- Indian Telegraph Act of 1885: The previous law regulating telecommunication in India, now replaced by the new Telecommunications Act.
- Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF): A fund aimed at extending telecom services to rural and underserved areas, now rebranded as Digital Bharat Nidhi for broader use.
Static GK Information:
Department of Telecommunications (DoT):
- Founded: 1985
- Secretary: Neeraj Mittal
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
Aadhaar:
- Launched: 2009
- Issued by: Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | Notification of the new Telecommunications Act |
Date | June 22, 2024 |
Effective Date | June 26, 2024 |
Purpose | Replace the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885 |
User Protection | Safeguard users from spam and malicious communications |
Right of Way Reforms | Streamline processes for telecom network roll-out |
Spectrum Utilisation | Prefer auctioning but allow administrative allocation in specific cases |
National Security | Government can take temporary control of telecom services |
Biometric Identification | Mandates verifiable biometric identification (Aadhaar) for new SIMs/connections |
Digital Bharat Nidhi | Transformation of USOF to support R&D and pilot projects |
Common Ducts and Cable Corridors | Government power to establish these to facilitate telecom infrastructure |
Secretary, DoT | Neeraj Mittal |
Aadhaar | Launched in 2009, issued by UIDAI |
Significance | Modernize telecom regulations, ensuring efficient, secure, and user-friendly telecom services. |
14. What is the primary feature of the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) launched at Delhi’s IGI Airport?
A) Free travel insurance for all passengers
B) Use of e-gates for pre-verified travellers
C) Discounted flight tickets for frequent travellers
D) Priority boarding for all international flights
E) Free lounge access for Indian passport holders
Answer: B) Use of e-gates for pre-verified travellers
Event and Location:
- Event: Launch of Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP)
- Date: June 22, 2024
Details:
- Purpose: To provide a faster, easier, and more secure travel experience for Indian passport holders and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders.
- Primary Feature: Pre-verified travellers can use e-gates to bypass regular immigration queues, facilitating a smoother journey.
Key Highlights:
- Launch and Inauguration:
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the FTI-TTP at Delhi Airport’s Terminal 3.
The programme includes dedicated counters for travellers.
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the FTI-TTP at Delhi Airport’s Terminal 3.
- E-Gates Installation:
- Terminal 3 has eight electronic gates (four for arrivals and four for departures) to reduce congestion.
- This is the first facility of its kind in India, designed for pre-verified travellers.
- Government Initiative:
- Developed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Civil Aviation, and Bureau of Immigration.
- Similar to the Global Entry Program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
- Application Process:
- Interested passengers can apply via the government website (www.ftittp.mha.gov.in).
Registration may take up to one month. - Passports must have at least six months of validity at the time of application.
- Membership of the programme will be co-terminus with passport validity.
- Interested passengers can apply via the government website (www.ftittp.mha.gov.in).
- Operational Details:
- The programme aims to enhance travel convenience and efficiency.
- Delhi Airport connects 80 domestic and 70 international destinations.
- Significant passenger traffic reported: 19.2 million in Q4 of FY24, with an overall FY24 figure of 73.7 million.
Important Terms Explained:
- Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP):
- A government initiative designed to expedite the immigration process for pre-verified Indian passport holders and OCI cardholders using electronic gates.
- E-Gates:
- Automated systems used to streamline the immigration process, allowing pre-verified travellers to bypass regular queues.
Static GK Information:
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI):
- Location: Delhi, India
- Opened: 1986
- Operated by: Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL)
- Key Figures: Connects 80 domestic and 70 international destinations.
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA):
- Established: 1947
- Current Minister: Amit Shah
- Headquarters: North Block, New Delhi, India
Tabular Summary:
Key Detail | Description |
Event | Launch of Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) |
Date | June 22, 2024 |
Primary Feature | Use of e-gates for pre-verified travellers |
Inauguration | Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Delhi Airport’s Terminal 3 |
E-Gates Installation | Eight electronic gates installed (four for arrivals, four for departures) |
Government Initiative | Developed by MHA, Ministry of Civil Aviation, and Bureau of Immigration |
Application Process | Via government website, takes up to one month, passport must have at least six months validity |
Operational Details | Enhances travel convenience and efficiency, significant passenger traffic figures |
Static GK Information – IGI Airport | Location: Delhi, India; Opened: 1986; Operated by: DIAL |
Static GK Information – MHA | Established: 1947; Current Minister: Amit Shah; Headquarters: North Block, New Delhi, India |
Over All Review
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