August 2024 Current Affairs MCQ Questions and Answers

Belgium-headquartered Society for Worldwide
Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT) has launched an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven pilot in partnership with Axis Bank to help combat payments
fraud occurring in cross-border payments. Along with
global banks, including BNY Mellon, Deutsche Bank, DNB,
HSBC, Intesa Sanpaolo and Standard Bank, the duo will
test the use of secure data collaboration and federated
learning technologies.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced the appointment of Spaniard Manolo Marquez as head
coach of the Indian men’s football team. Marquez is
currently the head coach of Indian Super League (ISL) side FC Goa.

Tata Group established India’s first semiconductor assembly and test facility in Assam, a significant step toward India’s goal of becoming a global semiconductor hub.

Retired Gujarat cadre IAS officer K. Kailashnathan was on August 7, 2024 sworn-in as the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. During his stint in Gujarat, Mr.
Kailashnathan had held key positions, including Additional Chief Secretary. He had worked very closely
with Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he was the
Chief Minister of Gujarat.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has announced
the procurement of all crops in the state at minimum
support price (MSP) and the waiving of Rs 133 crore in
outstanding canal water irrigation charges, as the BJP
launched its assembly election campaign in the state. After the ruling party suffered a setback in the Lok Sabha elections, Saini has announced several sops to reach out to various sections ahead of assembly polls due later this year.

Chotiwala in Rishikesh did not make it to TIME magazine’s ‘World’s Greatest Places of 2024,’ though other Indian locations such as Museum of Solutions, Manam Chocolate, and NAAR were featured.

Srinagar was honoured with the prestigious ‘Certificate of World Craft City,’ recognizing its rich tradition in craft and artistry.

NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) signed an agreement with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to help in the launch of the Munal satellite, a significant step for space collaboration between India and Nepal.

Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, MSME
has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU with
the Small Business Administration (SBA) of the
Government of the United States of America to promote Cooperation on Small and Medium-size Enterprises (SMEs).

TerraPay, a global payments infrastructure company based in London, has partnered with SWIFT to enable
financial institutions to transfer money directly to over 2.1 billion mobile wallets worldwide via SWIFT connectivity.

Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) has been
granted the distinguished Special Consultative Status by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC), recognizing the University’s substantial
contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In a significant step towards developing Indigenous technology, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) signed an agreement with the Indian Institute of
Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) and Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi (IIT Mandi), for the development of ‘Cell-Free’ 6G Access Points.

India’s first rice ATM, called ‘Annapurti,’ was launched in Odisha, ensuring the distribution of rice to the underprivileged through an automated process.

‘Tarang Shakti 2024,’ a multinational air exercise, will be hosted by India in Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan, focusing on regional defence cooperation.

The book titled “India@100: Envisioning Tomorrow’s Economic Powerhouse,” authored by K.V. Subramanian, lays out a vision for India’s economic growth by the centenary of its independence.

In a latest collaboration, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus Helicopters have formalised a contract to establish the H125 Final Assembly Line (FAL) in India. The FAL will be the first instance of the private sector setting up a helicopter assembly facility here in India,
which will be responsible for the production of Airbus’ best-selling H125 helicopter.

Six student welfare schemes were renamed by the Andhra Pradesh Education Department, with the aim of promoting the legacy of various educational reformers.

The PMAY-G scheme aims to provide housing to the rural poor with an allocated outlay of Rs. 3,06,137 crore for the period 2024-25 to 2028-29.

The government has issued operational guidelines for
implementation of ‘Model Solar Village’ component
under PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. A financial
outlay of Rs 800 crore has been allocated for this
component, providing Rs 1 crore per selected Model
Solar Village, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
(MNRE) said.

India’s gold industry, with the support of the World Gold Council (WGC), has established a self-regulatory
organisation ‘Indian Association for Gold Excellence and Standards (IAGES)’ in a bid to increase consumer confidence and restore trust, the WGC said.

Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera was appointed as the 22nd Director General of the Assam Rifles, the paramilitary force responsible for security in the North-East region.

UPL University of Sustainable Technology, an initiative by the UPL Group and the Space Application Centre (SAC) of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to
advance research and innovation in chemical sciences.

The Centre has introduced the Offshore Areas Mineral
Trust Rules, 2024, establishing the first-ever framework to oversee mineral exploration and production in India’s offshore areas. Under the new rules, holders of
production leases of offshore mines are required to contribute to the Trust by paying 10 per cent of their
royalty payments to the government.

CIL ASHIS is a CSR initiative by Coal India Limited that offers scholarships to children orphaned by the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting their educational needs.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman informed that the government is increasing the limit for MUDRA loans for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh for those who have availed the loans before and successfully repaid.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) committed a loan of $200 million to support solid waste management and sanitation improvements in 100 Indian cities.

In Shooting, India’s Sabeera Haris has bagged the bronze medal in women’s trap event at the International Shooting Sport Federation, ISSF Junior World Cup in Porpetto, Italy. Sabeera shot 29 out of 40 targets in the final. Carey Garrison of the US won the gold.

The Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana has been extended until the financial year 2028-29, focusing on the development of biofuels to enhance energy security and reduce carbon emissions.

BSF’s first-ever all-women mountaineering team set out for an expedition to Mt. Mukut East in Uttarakhand, showcasing the strength and capabilities of women in the armed forces.

AKTOCYTE is a nutraceutical developed by the Department of Atomic Energy and IDRS Labs to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients receiving radiotherapy.

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Chamber of Accounts, Republic of Uzbekistan, in
Tashkent. The agreement, inked by the two Supreme
Audit Institutions (SAIs), aims to enhance collaboration and exchange of expertise in the field of auditing between the two nations.

Manu Bhaker became the first Indian woman to secure multiple medals in a single edition of the Olympic Games, achieving this remarkable feat in shooting.

The proposed amendments to the Waqf Act have been a
topic of significant discussion, focusing on enhancing the transparency and accountability in managing Waqf properties. These properties, which are charitable endowments for religious or community purposes, play a crucial role in social welfare and communal harmony.
The amendments aim to address issues like
mismanagement and corruption, ensuring that these resources are used effectively for the intended purposes.

The ‘Parvat Prahaar’ military exercise was conducted in Ladakh, focusing on mountain warfare and enhancing the readiness of the Indian Army in the region.

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has awarded seven new projects to industries
under the Technology Development Fund scheme for various requirements of the Armed Forces and aerospace and defence sectors. Defence Ministry said these project sanctions are a testimony to the continuing endeavour of DRDO in nurturing Industries, especially MSMEs and start-ups, in defence and aerospace domains.

SEBI launched the chatbot named SEVA to provide investors with answers to their queries, facilitating an improved support system for individuals engaging with the market.

Indian Institute of Technology, Madras is the best education institution in the country for the sixth time since 2019, according to the overall ranking based on parameters identified and defined in the National
Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). In the 2024 rankings, released by Union Education Minister
Dharmendra Pradhan, IIT Madras also retained first
position in engineering for the ninth year since 2016.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is creating the ‘Trade Connect ePlatform,’ aimed at enhancing connectivity for exporters and MSMEs to stakeholders in the global market.

India has been selected to host the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup in the T20 format, following the country’s rich history of organising international cricket events.

Australia introduced the ‘Maitri Research and Cultural Partnerships Grants’ to foster collaboration in research and cultural projects with international partners.

The Indian government has allowed 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) via the automatic route for the MRO sector to attract foreign investment and improve the industry.

PMAY-U 2.0 aims to provide financial assistance to 1 crore urban poor and middle-class families for housing, promoting affordable housing across urban India.

The Reserve Bank of India has authorised banks to utilise ratings provided by Brickwork Ratings India Pvt. Ltd. for
loans up to Rs 250 crore. The central bank reviewed its October 2022 circular and decided to allow banks to use ratings from credit rating agencies to determine the risk weightage of their claims for capital adequacy, underspecified conditions.

India ranked as the eighth largest exporter of agricultural products in 2023, trailing behind countries like Brazil and the European Union.

IIT Guwahati developed the “LEAP” machine learning framework for Electronic Design Automation, marking a significant innovation in electronics and automation.

Nagasaki Day, observed annually on 09 August, is a
solemn occasion that marks the devastating atomic
bombing of Nagasaki, Japan, by the United States during
World War II in 1945. This tragic event followed the
bombing of Hiroshima just three days earlier, making it
the second and final time nuclear weapons have been
used in warfare to date.

The ‘Amrit Gyan Kosh’ Portal and ‘Faculty Development Portal’ were launched under the Mission Karmayogi Program, aimed at enhancing skills and knowledge in civil services.

Nagaland has been adjudged as the best state in Horticulture in the prestigious Agriculture Leadership
Awards 2024. The award was given to the state for its outstanding work in introducing innovative programmes and policies for horticulture development, which has
positively touched the lives of large number of farmers and the rural people in the State.

India should aim USD 500 billion in electronics
manufacturing by 2030, NITI Aayog said in a report. As of FY23, India’s electronics production stands at USD 101 billion. This comprises USD 86 billion in finished goods
production and USD 15 billion in components
manufacturing.

The Central Water Commission (CWC) won the GEEF Global WaterTech Award in recognition of its contributions in the ‘Water Department of the Year’ category.

India joined forces with Vietnam to establish the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat, showcasing the maritime legacy of both nations.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh released a Rs 100
commemorative coin to mark the birth centenary of
former five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Kalaignar M Karunanidhi in Chennai on August 18, 2024. In his address, the Raksha Mantri termed him as one of the most revered leaders of the country, a titan of Indian politics, an able administrator, an advocate for social justice, and a cultural stalwart.

Rapido, the bike-taxi service, achieved unicorn status, becoming the fourth company in 2024 to cross a $1 billion valuation.

Krishnan Venkat Subramanian has been appointed as the
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Federal Bank with effect from September 23, 2024. The current
MD Shyam Srinivasan will step down from the position after a 14 year stint at the top. The Reserve Bank of India
has approved Subramanian’s appointment.

T.V. Somanathan, a 1987 batch IAS officer of the Tamil
Nadu cadre, has been appointed as the Cabinet
Secretary, the highest bureaucratic position in the Indian government. His extensive experience includes serving as Joint Secretary and Additional Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, where he was involved in key policy
decisions. His appointment reflects the government’s
confidence in his capabilities to steer administrative
functions at the highest level.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation
(DRDO) on 13 August successfully test-fired the
indigenously-built Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided
Missile (MP-ATGM). The test was conducted at the
Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

The Hemant Soren government in Jharkhand introduced the Mukhyamantri Maiyaan Samman Yojana, which would provide financially support to eligible women in the state. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren is going to launch the initiative on August 16, 2024.

The unemployment rate in urban areas for individuals
aged 15 years and above was 6.6 per cent in April – June 2024 (Q1 FY25), remaining unchanged from the first quarter of FY24. As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey by ministry of statistics and programme implementation, India’s unemployment rate for the quarter ended on June 30 declined from Q4 FY24 when the rate stood at 6.7 per cent.

The Ministry of Education marked the fourth anniversary of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by organizing the Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam in New Delhi.

The United States of America accounts for the highest
share of Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) investing in
India during the fiscal year 2023-24, highlights a report
by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The report also added that as of March 31, 2024, the total number of registered FPIs in India reached 11,219.

The “Million Designers, Billion Dreams” initiative is part of the DAY-NRLM, which aims to support rural livelihoods by encouraging innovative design and skill development.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in July 2024 inaugurated India’s 500th Community Radio Station ‘Apna Radio 90.0 FM’ through video conferencing in Aizwal, Mizoram. In his address, Mr Vaishnaw said the initiative will bring a substantive change in the lives of people in the coverage area of Apna
Radio station.

The government has allocated Rs. 18,000 crore for the creation of 100 export-oriented horticulture clusters, aimed at boosting agricultural exports and rural income.

Indonesia accounts for 21% of the world’s mangroves, as noted in the 2024 report by the Global Mangrove Alliance, underscoring its significant contribution to mangrove ecosystems.

Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi veteran Yamini
Krishnamurthy died at the Apollo hospital in New Delhi
on August 3. She was 83. Ms. Krishnamurthy received the Padma Shri at the young age of 28 in 1968, Padma
Bhushan in 2001 and Padma Vibhushan in 2016. She was
also conferred the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in
1977.

On the eve of Independence Day 2024, India has increased its tally of Ramsar sites (Wetlands of
International Importance) to 85 from existing 82 by
designating three more wetlands as Ramsar Sites. The three new sites included are Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary and Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu and Tawa Reservoir in Madhya Pradesh.

Sixteen additional commodities, including food grains and vegetables, were added under the price monitoring system by the Department of Consumer Affairs to ensure fair pricing.

TechFini, a Mumbai-based fintech startup, has
completed certification from NPCI to facilitate UPI based payment solution to Banks, Financial Institutions and Fintech. The Fintech company has also been approved for UPI Unified Dispute and Issue Resolution (UDIR).

Pine Labs-owned Setu, an application programming
interface (API) infrastructure provider, introduced a
Unified Payments Interface (UPI)-focused payments
platform named ‘UPI-Setu’ for businesses and
developers in partnership with Axis Bank.

The e-Justice app was not part of the three newly launched apps, which include Nyaya Shruti, Nyaya Setu, and e-Sakshya, for the modernization of India’s judicial system.

The Ministry of Ayush and WHO signed an agreement to support the activities of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC), aimed at promoting traditional medicine globally.

Jakson Engineers Limited has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with the State Bank of India (SBI)
to promote solar energy adoption across India. This
collaboration, part of the SURYA SHAKTI SOLAR FINANCE initiative, aims to empower a broad range of consumers in commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors to embrace solar energy solutions

Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus will head Bangladesh’s interim government, overseeing the transition after Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.

The World Bank signed an agreement with India to fund the construction of the Green National Highway Corridors Project, which spans 781 km in four states.

The Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) for loans up to Rs. 3 lakh offers concessional interest rates to support farmers and agricultural activities.

The 2023 youth unemployment rate at 13 per cent, equivalent to 64.9 million people, represents a 15-year low and a fall from the pre-pandemic rate of 13.8 per cent in 2019. It is expected to fall further to 12.8 per cent this year and the next year according to a report released by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

Praveena Rai was appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX), one of the leading commodity exchanges in the country.

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
incorporated Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) as a wholly-owned subsidiary, hiving it off into a new entity known as NPCI-BHIM Services Ltd (NBSL). Former banker Lalitha Nataraj will head the new subsidiary as its chief
executive officer (CEO).

The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024 was introduced to update the Disaster Management Act, 2005, in response to evolving disaster preparedness needs.

International Friendship Day originated in the US in 1935.
The US Congress proposed it to honour friends and their
role in our lives. In 2011, the United Nations officially
recognised it and declared July 30 the International Day
of Friendship. However, in India, Friendship Day is
observed on the first Sunday of August. This year, it falls
on August 4

Rapido has become the latest homegrown startup to
achieve unicorn status after the ride-hailing platform
Rapido raised $120 million (about Rs 1,000 crore) in
primary capital from existing investor WestBridge Capital
at a post-money valuation of $1 billion, showed
regulatory filings.

India has assumed the Chair of the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC). As a representative of the Government of India, Rajendra Singh, a member, of the National Disaster Management Authority took over the Chair of ADPC from China for the year 2024-25 in Bangkok, Thailand.

The central government has extended the ‘Electric
Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024’ by two months, i.e.,
until September 30, said the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
A statement by the ministry also added that the total
outlay of the scheme has been enhanced to Rs 778 crore

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the National Narcotics Helpline ‘MANAS’ – 1933. Through the ‘MANAS’ (Madak Padarth Nisedh Asuchna Kendra) helpline, citizens can share information on drug trafficking, and connect with the Narcotics Control Bureau anonymously 24 hours a day to get advice on deaddiction and rehabilitation.

Robert Keith Rae was elected as the President of the UN’s ECOSOC, further strengthening the council’s global agenda on economic and social development.

The Ministry of External Affairs and ISRO’s commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) signed an agreement to grant assistance for the launching of the Nepal-built Munal satellite, according to an official statement. Munal
is an indigenous satellite developed in Nepal under the
aegis of the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology
(NAST).

India and Vietnam announced a new plan of action to boost their comprehensive strategic partnership, while concluding an agreement for Indian credit lines worth $300 million to strengthen the southeast Asian nation’s
maritime security

The board of India’s largest public sector lender State
Bank of India, approved a proposal for raising funds of up to Rs 25,000 crore via the issue of Tier 1 and Tier 2 bonds. The bonds will be Basel-lll compliant and SBI plans to raise the amount in INR/USD.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the
appointment of Salee Sukumaran Nair as the managing director and chief executive officer of Tamilnad
Mercantile Bank (TMB), for a period of three years. His
last assignment was as deputy managing director and chief credit officer of State Bank of India, until May 2024.

The ISRO Chandrayaan-3 team received the ‘Vigyan Team Award’ for their groundbreaking work in space exploration and technology.

Manoj Mittal has taken charge as Chairman and
Managing Director (CMD) of Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), following his
appointment by the Government of India. Prior to this, he was the managing director (MD) of Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI).

Zomato introduced ‘District,’ an app designed to diversify its offerings beyond just food delivery and quick commerce, aiming to serve a wider range of services.

Jiya Rai set a record by becoming the youngest and fastest female para swimmer to swim solo across the English Channel, showcasing her remarkable achievement.

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, veteran Left leader and
former West Bengal Chief Minister, died at his south
Kolkata residence. He was 80. Mr. Bhattacharjee, also a
former member of the CPM’s top decision-making body,
served as Bengal Chief Minister from 2000 to 2011,
succeeding Jyoti Basu in the top post.

Mauritius, once among the leading destinations for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) routing funds into India, has now slipped to the fifth position, behind Ireland, in terms of assets under custody (AUC) as of June 30. At the fourth position, Ireland boasted an AUC of Rs 4.41 trillion.

Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) Daljit Singh Chawdhary has taken over the additional charge of Director General, Border Security Force. Mr. Chawdhary is a senior IPS officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre. He assumed
the charge of DG SSB in January this year.

Three months after the position remained vacant, capital market regulator SEBI approved Praveena Rai’s
appointment as the Managing Director and CEO of Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd (MCX), the country’s largest commodity exchange.

C-Edge Technologies Ltd was targeted in a ransomware attack, according to recent information shared by NPCI, raising concerns about cybersecurity in the financial sector.

Analysts have pointed out that a more robust national
nutrition strategy could have been key to improving India’s performance in international sporting events, including the Olympics. Proper nutrition is critical for athletes’ development, strength, and endurance, which directly impacts their performance. The suggestion emphasizes the need for an integrated approach that includes not just training and infrastructure but also a
focus on athletes’ dietary needs from a young age.

India surpassed the 1,000 mark for deceased organ donors in a single year for the first time, as reported in NOTTO’s annual report for 2023-24.

The 14th India-Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue took
place in New Delhi on August 01, 2024. It was co-chaired
by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane and Deputy Minister of National Defence of Vietnam Senior
Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien.

The 24×7 Water Supply Project in Manimajra,
Chandigarh, was inaugurated by Union Home Minister
Amit Shah as part of the Smart City Mission. This project includes the installation of a 22-kilometer pipeline and advanced water management technology, such as smart meters and variable frequency drive pumps, to ensure consistent water supply. The initiative aims to significantly improve the quality of life for over 1 lakh residents by providing a reliable water source and
minimizing wastage.

Three potential bidders, Fairfax Financial Holdings,
Emirates NBD, and Kotak Mahindra Bank, have received the ‘fit & proper’ certificate from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for the acquisition of IDBI Bank. However, sources indicate that Kotak Mahindra Bank might not pursue the acquisition of IDBI Bank at this time.

The Indian Army has conducted a strategic military
exercise, ‘Parvat Prahaar’, in Ladakh, focusing on highaltitude warfare and operations. The ‘Parvat Prahaar’ (Mountain Strike) exercise emphasises mountainous and rugged terrains, such as those found in regions like Eastern Ladakh.

The National Remote Sensing Centre, in partnership with CIE-International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad, organised the “AI for Space Immersion Program” to promote innovation in space technologies.

IIT Madras has partnered with IDBI Bank for launching a cybersecurity lab ‘IDBI-IITM Secure Systems Lab’ (I2SSL) to develop and deploy security solutions in crucial sectors such as healthcare, fintech and aerospace, among others.

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) was awarded the first-ever order to demonstrate methanol firing in a Gas Turbine at the Kayamkulam CCPP, advancing sustainable energy solutions.

The Indian Coast Guard introduced ‘Suvidha Software Version 1.0’ to standardize and enhance its training procedures across platforms.

The ‘National Apprenticeship and Training Scheme 2.0’ portal was developed with the assistance of AICTE, aiming to support the apprenticeship program in India.

The scientists at CSIR-IGIB created a more precise genome-editing system, advancing beyond current CRISPR technologies, which have revolutionised genetic research.

August 14 is observed annually as Partition Horrors
Remembrance Day in India to commemorate those who
died or were displaced due to the nation’s partition.

The seventh edition of the Smart India Hackathon 2024 was organized by the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell (MIC) in collaboration with AICTE to promote technological innovation.

RBL Bank has introduced a new RuPay Credit Card,
integrating both Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and
National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) features. This
innovation makes RBL Bank the first private sector bank in India to offer these combined payment capabilities in a single card.

Former Union Health Secretary and 1983-batch IAS officer Preeti Sudan has been appointed as the
Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission
(UPSC). President Droupadi Murmu has approved the
appointment of Ms. Sudan.

The MoU between India and Saint Christopher & Nevis focuses on sports, fostering collaboration in athlete training, coach assistance, and sports science research.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has committed Rs 8.5 crores to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to support Indian athletes for the 2024
Paris Olympics. This substantial financial backing is a testament to the BCCI’s dedication to promoting and nurturing talent across all sports disciplines, extending its
support well beyond cricket.

National Institute for MSME (NI-MSME), an Organisation
of Ministry of MSME, Government of India, has been awarded with Accreditation Certificate. The team from Capacity Building Commission (CBC) & ICARE conducted On-site assessment and awarded the Certificate of Accreditation with the grading of UTKRISHT, a 3 Star Rating.

The Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) has received the best technology award for its pioneering work in the
field of horticultural sciences. Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan
presented the award during the 96th Foundation Day celebrations of the Indian Council of Agricultural
Research (ICAR) in New Delhi.

The government has approved the mixing of Lignin with petroleum-based bitumen up to 35%, which will improve road construction while being environmentally friendly.

The new HT basmati rice varieties contain the AcetoLactate Synthase (ALS) mutated gene, allowing the plants to tolerate herbicides, facilitating better weed management.

China has announced plans to build the world’s first Nuclear Power Plant powered by molten thorium salt, an innovative alternative energy source.

The World Bank will provide funding for Uttar Pradesh’s Rs 4,000 crore agriculture business and entrepreneurship project, aimed at improving rural income and supporting agri-business development.

India’s stronger-than-expected fiscal position could provide a further boost to its growth, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) announced while keeping the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth projection for the
current financial year (FY25) unchanged at 7 per cent.

The book “75 Great Revolutionaries of India” was authored by Bhim Singh, highlighting the contributions of prominent Indian revolutionaries.

Arka Fincap, part of the Kirloskar Group, announced a partnership with Central Bank of India to offer MSME loans. Under the co-lending arrangement, Arka will offer loans to MSMEs at competitive rates and further expand its reach across India.

The Union government has launched a unique digital
geospatial platform called Krishi-Decision Support
System (Krishi-DSS) that provides seamless access to
comprehensive all-India data. The platform is developed
jointly by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of Space.

The Neelakurinji shrub, known for its rare blooming pattern, was added to the IUCN Red List of threatened species, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.

NIIT Institute of Finance, Banking and Insurance (NIIT
IFBI), a subsidiary of NIIT, announced the launch of the
ACE Banker Program in collaboration with HDFC Bank. A key component of NIIT’s Talent Pipeline as a Service (TPaaS) initiative, this programme aims to recruit and train customer service professionals for HDFC Bank.

In July 2024, Brazil’s agriculture ministry declared an animal health emergency in the country’s southernmost
state of Rio Grande do Sul after a case of Newcastle disease was detected on a poultry farm. The last confirmed cases of Newcastle disease in Brazil occurred
in 2006 in subsistence birds in the states of Amazonas, Mato Grosso and Rio Grande do Sul.

The RBI has raised the upper limit for tax payments through UPI to Rs. 5 lakh, making it more convenient for individuals and businesses to settle taxes digitally.

IIT Madras topped the overall category in the NIRF 2024 rankings, maintaining its position as a leader in higher education and research in India.

Markets regulator SEBI has launched a chatbot, ‘SEVA’,
an Artificial Intelligence (AI) based conversation platform, for investors. The Beta version of chatbot SEVA (SEBI’s Virtual Assistant) includes features like citations for generated responses, speech-to-text and text-tospeech functionality for accessibility, and follow-up questions, among others.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate capital market
access for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) for fund raising.

Air India Express introduced ‘AIX Connect,’ a Virtual Interline platform that allows passengers to book flights with multiple airlines on a single ticket, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

INS Tabar took part in the Maritime Partnership Exercise between the Indian and German Navies, strengthening naval ties and collaboration between the two nations.

The Central Water Commission (CWC) developed the FloodWatch India mobile application, providing real-time updates on flood situations across the country.

L&T Finance Ltd. received the certificate of registration
as a non-banking financial company (investment and
credit company) from the Reserve Bank of India. The company’s consolidated net profit increased 29% yearon-year to Rs 685 crore for the quarter-ended June. This
is the highest-ever profit reported by the company.

Remdiesel developed the Kamaz-53949 Typhoon-K vehicle, which was demonstrated by the ITBP for enhancing defense mobility in tough terrains.

The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural
Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) announced the launch
of the initiative “Million Designers, Billion Dreams”
spearheaded by LEAP. This innovative program aims to
empower individuals across India with systems design
know-how to tackle complex societal challenges

The book “Jamsetji Tata: Powerful Learnings for Corporate Success” was co-authored by R. Gopalakrishnan and Harish Bhat, reflecting on Tata’s corporate strategies.

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has entered into
a tie-up with IDFC First Bank Ltd under corporate agency arrangement. This tie-up will facilitate more than 1 crore customers of IDFC First Bank to buy LIC policies online by
visiting the bank’s website, India’s largest life insurer said in a statement.

The launch of the Bhusanket Web Portal marks a major step towards disaster risk reduction. This web portal will facilitate the dissemination of relevant data and information on landslide hazards, initiating short-range
and medium-range landslide forecasting in the country.

Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, was honored with Fiji’s highest civilian award, recognizing her contributions to fostering relations between the two countries.

The proposed amendments to the Waqf Act have been a
topic of significant discussion, focusing on enhancing the  transparency and accountability in managing Waqf properties. These properties, which are charitable endowments for religious or community purposes, play a crucial role in social welfare and communal harmony.
The amendments aim to address issues like
mismanagement and corruption, ensuring that these resources are used effectively for the intended purposes.

Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, along with
Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian, launched Haj Application-2025 and the Jiyo Parsi Scheme Portal in New Delhi. Mr Rijiju requested eligible Parsi couples to avail themselves of the benefits of the scheme.

In July 2024, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated India’s first overseas Jan Aushadi Kendra in Mauritius, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between the two nations. Mauritius Prime Minister
Pravind Kumar Jugnauth was also present at the event.

An MoU was signed between the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Urban Development Department, the government of Rajasthan, and the Civil Aviation Department, for the development of Kota Greenfield Airport in Rajasthan, according to an official press release
issued by AAI.

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav launched Ideas4LiFE at IIT Delhi to invite ideas and innovations online related to
products and services, which induce behavioural changes
related to environment-friendly lifestyles.

The MITRA SHAKTI exercise was held between the Indian and Sri Lankan armies, enhancing mutual cooperation and strategic defense partnership.

The Jharkhand state government introduced the Mukhyamantri Maiyaan Samman Yojana to provide financial aid of Rs 1,000 per month to eligible women.

State-owned Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) said the company will invest Rs
290 crore in a 900 MW hydroelectric power project in Nepal. The Board of Directors of IREDA gave in-principal
approval for the equity investment at a meeting, the company said in a statement.

Mucherla was designated as the ‘fourth city’ in Telangana’s capital region, following the cities of Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and Cyberabad, as per the announcement by the state’s Chief Minister.

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Mr. Bhupender Yadav said that the Central Government has declared Adichunchanagiri in Karnataka and Choolannuar in Kerala as Peacock Sanctuary. The Minister said, several measures are being taken for the conservation of the national bird and the ministry has also set up breeding and conservation centers for peacocks.

World champion Noah Lyles roared to victory in 9.79sec
to claim gold in a dramatic men’s Olympic 100m final in
Paris. Lyles became the first American, male or female,
to win the event since Justin Gatlin won in the 2004
Athens Games.

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee was the former Chief Minister of West Bengal, known for his contributions to the state’s political and social landscape.

Ivory Coast joined the United Nations Water Convention, becoming the 10th African nation to do so. In 2024, at least three more African nations, which include Sierra Leone, Zambia and Zimbabwe, are in the final stages of accession and joining the convention.

A crater on the Moon’s South Pole was named after Lhamu Pasang Sherpa, honoring her contributions and recognition as a pioneer from Nepal.

The Clean Plant Programme will be implemented by the NHB in collaboration with ICAR, focusing on the development of disease-free, high-quality planting material for horticulture crops.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is seeking
to collaborate with the European Space Agency (ESA) on its recently announced Rapid Apophis Mission for Space Safety (Ramses), mission to track and study the Apophis asteroid that is slated to make a close encounter with the
Earth in 2029.

Bharti Enterprises announced its plan to buy a 24.5% stake in British Telecom Group Plc, expanding its global telecommunications presence.

India and Israel have joined hands for the establishment
of a new water technology centre at IIT-Madras, which is expected to serve as a “key contributor” to India’s efforts to achieve sustainable water supply for all. The Embassy of Israel in India in its statement termed the deal a “significant milestone” in the ongoing collaboration
between the two countries in the field of integrated
water resource management.

This initiative, “One DAE One Subscription,” enables Indian researchers, students, and engineers to access a broad range of research materials, both national and international.

The Jharkhand Chief Minister launched the ‘Upasthiti Portal’ to ensure real-time monitoring of attendance for health department employees, improving transparency and accountability.

Analysts have pointed out that a more robust national
nutrition strategy could have been key to improving India’s performance in international sporting events, including the Olympics. Proper nutrition is critical for athletes’ development, strength, and endurance, which directly impacts their performance. The suggestion emphasizes the need for an integrated approach that includes not just training and infrastructure but also a
focus on athletes’ dietary needs from a young age.

The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024 was introduced to replace the outdated Aircraft Act of 1934, modernizing civil aviation regulations in India.

After the inclusion of this new tiger reserve, Chhattisgarh will have a total of four tiger reserves, enhancing conservation efforts for India’s national animal.

The Rajasthan government will hold special camps to grant Indian citizenship to minority refugees from
Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh, Health Minister Gajendra Singh said. He was replying to supplementary questions on behalf of the home minister during
Question Hour in the Rajasthan Assembly.

Abhinav Bindra, an Olympic gold medallist, has been awarded the Olympic Order by the International Olympic
Committee (IOC) for his outstanding services to the Olympic Movement. The award ceremony will be held during the 142nd IOC Session in Paris on August 10, a day before the closing of the Olympics.

The Ideas4LiFE portal, developed with UNICEF YuWaah’s collaboration, aims to collect innovative ideas for promoting sustainable environmental practices and eco-friendly lifestyles.

In a latest move to facilitate higher payments through
UPI, the RBI proposes to increase the per transaction limit under the payment system from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. According to the RBI, the increased limit will further
ease tax payments by consumers through UPI.

Chandrayaan-3, whose success made India world’s first country to have landed near lunar South Pole, was awarded World Space Award by International Astronautical Federation. Besides India, only the US, Russia and China have achieved the milestone of soft
landing on the moon.

CCI approved the merger of Mangalore Chemicals & Fertilizers with Paradeep Phosphates Limited, a strategic move in the fertilizer industry.

With its tiger population plunging in recent years,
Chhattisgarh cleared a long-pending proposal to notify a
new tiger reserve – the third largest in the country. The
Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, which integrates an existing national park with a wildlife
sanctuary, is Chhattisgarh’s fourth reserve for the big
cats.

Nauru ratified the 1972 Convention aimed at preserving world cultural and natural heritage sites, joining global efforts for environmental and historical conservation.

Vistara has been named ‘Best Airline in India & South
Asia’ award for the fourth consecutive year and ‘Best
Airline Staff Service in India & South Asia’ award for the
sixth time in a row at the 2024 World Airline Awards by Skytrax.

India was the second country after the US in initiating and imposing anti-dumping duties among World Trade Organisation (WTO) members last year, Financial Express reported, citing WTO data. Despite increasing the use of non-tariff measures in 2023, India’s average tariffs fell to
17 per cent from 18.1 per cent in 2022.

SBI General Insurance Company Limited has entered into a bancassurance agreement with HSBC India. This SBI General Insurance Company Limited has entered into
a bancassurance agreement with HSBC India. This

Tata AIA Life Insurance (Tata AIA), one of India’s leading life insurance companies, has secured 6th position in the
Global Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) rankings for 2024. The Company achieved the largest number of
MDRT-qualified Life Insurance Advisors in India with2584 registered MDRTs.

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) at the CSIR – CRRI
Auditorium in New Delhi, India, celebrated its 73rd
Foundation Day on July 16, 2024. CSIR-CRRI is a major national laboratory that conducts research and development initiatives related to road and runway design, building, and maintenance.

NPCI launched the UPI One World wallet, catering to inbound travelers visiting India, allowing them to make payments easily using the UPI platform.

KIIT in Odisha received Special Consultative Status from the UN ECOSOC, acknowledging its contributions in the field of higher education and research.

Sundar Pichai was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by IIT Kharagpur in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of technology.

Adichunchanagiri is located in Karnataka, while Choolannuar is in Kerala. Both areas are now designated as Peacock Sanctuaries to protect this national bird.

Kamala Harris, during her presidential campaign, selected Tim Walz as her vice-presidential running mate for the upcoming elections.

Global star Ram Charan was announced as the Guest of Honour at the 15th edition of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). In addition to this, he will also be
awarded the Ambassador for Indian Art and Culture for his stellar contributions to Indian cinema.

India and the Maldives has signed an agreement on
introducing the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the island nation. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the digital payment system was signed between the National Payments Corporation of India and the Maldives’ economic development and trade ministry.

Shah Rukh Khan received the prestigious “Pardo alla Carriera” award at the 77th Locarno Film Festival for his remarkable contribution to cinema.

The state government of Gujarat plans to set up ‘GRIT,’ which stands for Gujarat State Institution for Transformation, similar to the NITI Aayog.

The PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana received a financial allocation of Rs. 800 crore, promoting solar energy adoption in rural areas to provide free electricity.

Curaçao became the sixth Associate Member of CARICOM, further strengthening its diplomatic and economic ties with Caribbean nations.

Periyar Tiger Reserve became the first to install a wind turbine, powering cameras and Wi-Fi connectivity to enhance monitoring and conservation efforts.

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a pivotal twoday Conference of Governors at the Rashtrapati Bhavan
in New Delhi on 02 August, focusing on issues crucial to
achieving national objectives. Addressing the conference, President Murmu said that the agenda for this conference included issues that were crucial in
achieving the national goals.

A new high efficacy malaria vaccine co-developed by the Serum Institute of India (SII) and the University of Oxford was officially rolled out in July 2024 when Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) in West Africa became the first country to begin administering R21/Matrix-M.

The Indian Army launched the ‘E-SeHAT’ module to deliver healthcare services to personnel and their families through structured video consultations.

‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’ is annually observed on August 14. This day was announced by the Prime Minister in 2021 to remember all those who lost their lives due to the partition of the nation and were uprooted from their origins.

Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
in New Delhi launched the National Apprenticeship and
Training Scheme 2.0 Portal (NATS 2.0) and disbursed
₹100 crore stipends to apprentices through the DBT
mode. These apprentices are undergoing training in
various sectors as IT/ITes, manufacturing, automobile, etc.

The 24×7 Water Supply Project in Manimajra,
Chandigarh, was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah as part of the Smart City Mission. This project includes the installation of a 22-kilometer pipeline and advanced water management technology, such as smart meters and variable frequency drive pumps, to ensure consistent water supply. The initiative aims to significantly improve the quality of life for over 1 lakh residents by providing a reliable water source and
minimizing wastage.

The ‘Har Ghar Har Grihini Yojana’ will provide gas cylinders to 50 lakh BPL families in Haryana at a subsidized price of Rs. 500, promoting affordable cooking gas access.

The Indian men’s hockey team came from a goal down to beat Spain 2-1 and win the bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics and gave a befitting farewell to veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh who played his last international match. Spain took the lead through captain Marc Miralles but India struck right back through a brace by skipper Harmanpreet Singh.

According to the Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute (SWFI), the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), India’s central banking institution, ranks 12th among the world’s central banks by total assets. These assets typically include foreign
exchange reserves, gold reserves, and government
bonds, among others.

India signed a Bilateral Customs Cooperation Arrangement with New Zealand to improve trade efficiency and foster stronger economic ties between the two countries.

Lieutenant Colonel Kabilan Sai Ashok became the youngest Olympic referee in boxing from India, officiating at the Paris Olympics 2024.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a loan of USD 240.5 million to finance rooftop solar systems in
India, aiding the government’s efforts to expand energy access through renewable energy. This financing will
support tranches 2 and 3 of the Multitranche Financing Facility (MFF) Solar Rooftop Investment Program, initially
approved by ADB in 2016.

State-owned Coal India Limited (CIL) and GAIL (India) Limited (GAIL) have entered into a joint venture
agreement to establish a Coal to Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG) plant in the Raniganj area of Eastern Coalfields Limited, West Bengal. The agreement was facilitated by the Ministry of Coal in collaboration with the Ministry of Power & Natural Gas.

T.V. Somanathan, a 1987 batch IAS officer of the Tamil
Nadu cadre, has been appointed as the Cabinet
Secretary, the highest bureaucratic position in the Indian government. His extensive experience includes serving as Joint Secretary and Additional Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office, where he was involved in key policy
decisions. His appointment reflects the government’s
confidence in his capabilities to steer administrative
functions at the highest level.

Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India,
has included 16 additional commodities under Price
Monitoring from 1st August, 2024, said Union Minister of
Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New
and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi,
while launching the Version 4.0 Price Monitoring System
(PMS) Mobile App.

Azista BST Aerospace Private Limited received authorization from IN-SPACe to build a ground station using UHF frequency bands in Hyderabad.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri
Amit Shah launched the e-Sakshya, Nyaya Setu, Nyaya
Shruti and e-Summon apps for the three new criminal
laws in Chandigarh. The Governor of Punjab and
Administrator of Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria,
and the Union Home Secretary were among the
dignitaries present on the occasion.

India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur in July 2024 achieved an elusive feat and leapfrogged former Australia skipper
Meg Lanning to become the second-highest run-getter in women’s T20Is. In Women’s T20Is, Harmanpreet has 3415 runs after playing 171 matches and 152 innings.
Meanwhile, Meg Lanning holds third place in the chart with 3405 runs in T20Is.

Element 116, known as Livermorium, was successfully created by the scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, marking another milestone in the discovery of superheavy elements.

HSBC Holdings Plc has appointed its Chief Financial Officer Georges Elhedery as its next CEO. Elhedery, 50, who becomes HSBC’s third chief executive in less than eight years, will replace outgoing head Noel Quinn from Sept. 2. While the 160-year-old lender did consider external candidates, it has traditionally appointed its CEO from within.

The Multinational Military Exercise KHAAN QUEST is
scheduled to be conducted from 27th July to 9th August 2024 at Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Last edition of Exercise KHAAN QUEST was conducted in Mongolia from 19th June to 2nd July 2023.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $200 million loan to expand metro rail corridors and improve
transport connectivity in Nagpur, India. The Nagpur Metro Urban Mobility Project will improve transport
connectivity within and to Nagpur’s new and growing urban areas.

India was elected as the Vice Chair of the Supply Chain Council under the IPEF, further strengthening its role in the regional economic initiative.

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) in July 2024 successfully flight-tested the PhaseII Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system demonstrating the indigenous capability to defend against ballistic
missiles of 5,000 km class.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, for the establishment of the ‘BIS Standardization Chair Professor’ in Bengaluru.

Karnataka Bank has partnered with ICICI Lombard General Insurance Co Ltd to offer enhanced insurance solutions and customer benefits to its patrons. A media statement said the offerings through this tie-up include
health insurance, motor insurance, travel insurance,
home insurance catering to the diverse insurance needs
of individuals and businesses alike.

Archaeologists at Göbekli Tepe, an ancient site in Turkey, have discovered the world’s oldest calendar, dating back nearly 13,000 years. Carvings on stone pillars reveal a sophisticated solar-lunar calendar, possibly created to track time and celestial events, including a comet strike around 10,850 BCE

BHEL received the LOI for setting up the 2×800 MW Koderma Phase-II Thermal Power Station, contributing to India’s energy infrastructure in Jharkhand.

The Indian government approved the development of eight National High-Speed Corridor projects, amounting to Rs. 50,655 crore, to improve national infrastructure.

Kunwar Natwar Singh served as India’s External Affairs
Minister during 2004-2005. He was instrumental in the
negotiations for the India-US civil nuclear deal in 2005.
Singh was also a member of the Indian Foreign Service
before joining the Congress Party.

Aditya Birla Group forays into branded jewellery retail
business with an investment of Rs 5000 crore under a
new brand name ‘Indriya’. The group plans to set up four stores in Delhi, Jaipur, and Indore. They also plan to expand to 11 cities in the next six months.

Shimla launched India’s first urban ropeway network, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and improve transportation within the city.

India’s first Integrated Agri-Export Facility will come up at
Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Mumbai to bolster the
country’s agricultural export and import capabilities.
Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has approved the project of Development of an Export-Import cum Domestic Agricultural CommodityBased Processing and Storage Facility on public private
partnership mode worth over 284 crore rupees.

Hockey India has retired jersey number 16 from the
national senior men’s team in honour of goalkeeper PR
Sreejesh. The sports body said that no player from the
senior team will wear jersey number 16. Sreejesh
recently announced his retirement from Hockey after a successful Paris Olympics.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation
(DRDO) has carried out a successful maiden flight test of Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB), GAURAV from the Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force on 13 August. Ministry of Defence in a statement said that the test was conducted off the coast of Odisha.

Parimal Nathwani authored the book “Call of the Gir,” which focuses on the conservation efforts in the Gir forest, home to Asiatic lions.

IIT Indore developed the Tribo-Electric Nanogenerator (TENG) footwear for the Indian armed forces, designed to harness energy through walking to power wearable devices.

Timor-Leste honoured President Droupadi Murmu with the Grand Collar of the Order, recognizing her efforts to strengthen bilateral relations.

10,000 young women performed the traditional Rouf dance at the ‘Kashur Riwaaj’ cultural festival, setting a world record for the largest folk dance gathering.

Chennai based Shriram Capital has received in-principle approval for its asset reconstruction company (ARC) from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Umesh Revankar, Executive Vice Chairman of Shriram Finance said. The company had submitted the application to the Reserve
Bank of India (RBI) in November 2023.

Nagaland became the first Indian state to adopt the
Disaster Risk Transfer Parametric Insurance Solution (DRTPS) after signing an MoU with SBI General Insurance. This agreement, effective for three years, aims to protect
critical infrastructure and reduce economic losses
resulting from extreme weather events.

Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus was on August 6, 2024 appointed as the head of Bangladesh’s interim
government by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, a
day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following deadly protests against her
government over a controversial quota system in jobs.

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Mr. Bhupender Yadav said that the Central Government has declared Adichunchanagiri in Karnataka and Choolannuar in Kerala as Peacock Sanctuary. In reply to a question regarding the death of peacocks in Delhi, he informed Lok Sabha that peacocks died due to heat
stroke and not by avian influenza.

Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, inaugurated the Network Operations Centre, along with Dr Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, Minister of State for Communications & Rural Development, at the Centre for Development of
Telematics (C-DOT) Delhi Campus.

Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Minister of Youth
Affairs and Sports of the Government of the Republic of India discussed the various areas of cooperation in sports matters with the Dr. Denzil Douglas Hon’ble Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Government of the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis. Both the sides signed an MoU on cooperation in sports matters.

The Indian cricket team was stunned by Sri Lanka in the
final of the Women’s Asia Cup T20 2024 as the hosts won the match in Dambulla by eight wickets. The Indian women’s cricket team won the Asia Cup seven times in
eight editions previously.

The Union government has granted its approval for the Parandur site to develop Chennai’s second airport, it informed Parliament. The approval was granted by the
Steering Committee on Greenfield Airports on July 9 following an application from the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited (TIDCO) for the
greenfield airport.

Business Wire India HDFC securities, the leading stock
broking company, and a wholly owned subsidiary of
HDFC Bank, announced a strategic tie-up with Vested
Finance, a popular US-based investment platform for
democratising global investing for Indians and NRIs.

Robert Rae, Canada’s Ambassador and Permanent
Representative to the UN, has been elected president of the UN’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for a 1- year term. As one of the UN’s 6 main bodies, ECOSOC is responsible for coordinating the work of the UN international development system.