Daily Current Affairs - Week 26, 2024 (24 Jun 2024 - 30 Jun 2024)
Generated by AllJobAlerts on 19 June 2026
Weekly Current Affairs
- Uttar Pradesh to establish worldâs first Asian King Vulture Conservation & Breeding Centre in Maharajganj.
- On June 24, the Kerala Assembly unanimously passed a resolution for the second time in a year, urging the Indian Central Government to change the state's name in the Constitution from "Kerala" to "Keralam."
Weekly Current Affairs
- Assam: The famous Ambubachi Mela has begun at Kamakhya Temple today; It will end by 26th of this month.
- International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed globally on June 26th, highlighting the importance of prevention and international cooperation.
- International MSME Day 2024 highlights the pivotal role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the global economy, emphasizing collaboration for a resilient future under the theme "Building a Stronger Future Together.
Weekly Current Affairs
- The Golden Thread' wins Best Documentary in international category with Golden Conch Award.
- IPBES was awarded the 2024 Blue Planet Prize for Environmental Leadership.
- Arundhati Roy wins PEN Pinter Prize amidst Indian prosecution threat.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Assam: The famous Ambubachi Mela has begun at Kamakhya Temple today; It will end by 26th of this month.Â
- Kozhikode in Kerala has been declared as Indiaâs first UNESCO âCity of Literatureâ, recognizing its rich literary heritage.
- India now ranks third in the global domestic airline market, doubling its capacity from 7.9 million to 15.5 million between April 2014 and April 2024, surpassing Brazil and Indonesia.
- The Iberian lynx has rebounded from 'endangered' status on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Speciesâ˘.
- India is hosting the 64th ISO Council Meeting from June 25th to June 27th, 2024.Â
- The 'Hunar' Indian Folk and Tribal Art Exhibition opens in Dubai.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Bhartruhari Mahtab appointed pro tem Speaker of Lok Sabha.
- Sanjaya Mariwala assumes office as President of the IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
- IPBES honored with 2024 Blue Planet Prize for exemplary environmental leadership.
- Centre appoints Atul Chaudhary as the new Secretary of TRAI.
- Girish Tanti of Suzlon Group elected as Chair of GWEC India, emphasizing his leadership in the wind energy sector.
- Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Deka has been granted a one-year extension until June 2025, recognizing his expertise in counter-terrorism and radicalization cases.
- Rahul Gandhi has been appointed as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha.
- Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani is set to be the next Vice Chief of Army Staff.
- Maharashtra Governor releases book 'Gateway to the Sea: Historic Ports and Docks of Mumbai Region' published by Publications Division and compiled by Maritime Mumbai Museum Society.
- BEL (Bharat Electronics Limited) appoints Manoj Jain as its new Chairman and Managing Director.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru have created a device that can increase or 'up-convert' the frequency of short infrared light into the visible range.
- Indian botanists discover two new plant species in bio-geographic hotspots: Dendrophthoe longensis in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Petrocosmea arunachalense in Arunachal Pradesh, underscoring India's diverse plant life and the importance of conservation efforts.
- Japan is on high alert due to a surge in cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection.
- Kalash Gupta, a Computer Science Engineering student at IIT Delhi, emerged victorious in the 10th season of the TCS CodeVita competition, outperforming more than 100,000 participants from 87 countries.
- China has become the first country to bring rocks from the far side of the moon.
- SSLV (Small Satellite Launch Vehicle) will conduct its first dedicated commercial mission in 2026, deploying Australia's largest locally-built satellite into orbit.
- SpaceX has secured an $843 million NASA contract to develop a US Deorbit Vehicle aimed at safely deorbiting the International Space Station (ISS) by targeting Point Nemo in the Pacific Ocean.
Weekly Current Affairs
- India's FDI inflows plummeted by 43% in 2023, dropping to the 15th position globally.
- The World Bank and the Department of Animal Husbandry conducted an avian influenza crisis drill.
- India ranked 176th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Environment Performance Index, highlighting severe environmental challenges.
Weekly Current Affairs
- India, UK, and China Collaborate to Develop Superhydrophobic Activated Carbon Catalyst for Cost-Effective Biodiesel Production.Â
- Paraguay becomes the 100th member of the International Solar Alliance.
- In a first, NASA's Webb Telescope captures jets of gas from newborn stars.
- S&P Global Ratings retains India's growth forecast for FY25 at 6.8%.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Rutuja Bhosale and Fangran Tian clinch ITF Womenâs World Tennis Tour in Tauste.
- Jyoti Surekha Vennam, Parneet Kaur, and Aditi Swami clinched gold in the compound team event at the Antalya Archery World Cup 2024.
- Anush Agarwalla has been selected by EFI to represent India in dressage at the Paris Olympics.
- Smriti Mandhana has become the first Indian woman player to score a century in consecutive ODIs.
- Hockey India announces 16-member squad for Paris Olympics 2024; Harmanpreet Singh appointed captain.
- In BWF US Open, Priyanshu and Malvika clinch victories in their respective singles matches.
- Anush Agarwalla selected by EFI to represent India in Dressage at Paris Olympics.
- Mohammad Wasim appointed head coach of Pakistan Womenâs Team for T20 Asia Cup.
- The Archery World Cup 2024 began in Shanghai.
- Max Verstappen secures his third consecutive victory at the 2024 Spanish Grand Prix, showcasing his dominance in the Formula 1 season.
- India concludes the World Table Tennis Contender tournament in Lagos with a total of nine medals, including three golds, highlighting a successful campaign.
Weekly Current Affairs
- Jaishankar inaugurated the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Sri Lanka to enhance maritime security cooperation between the two nations.
- Nine Indian ports feature in the global top 100 of the Container Port Performance Index 2023, highlighting their efficiency and operational excellence.
- Sony Pictures Networks India appoints Gaurav Banerjee as the new Managing Director and CEO.
- India's TB Elimination Efforts Recognized at the World Health Assembly in Geneva.
- CAG inaugurates its first museum in 164 years at the historic Chadwick House.
- Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the grant of 'Mini RATNA' status (Category-1) for Central Electronics Limited (CEL).
- The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched the "Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao" initiative from 1 July to 31 August 2024 to assist Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in preparing for the monsoon season by focusing on sanitation and cleanliness.
- Dr. Jitendra Singh launched the "One Week One Theme" (OWOT) campaign to spotlight Indiaâs scientific achievements.
- India will also launch e-medical visa facility for Bangladesh nationals and open a new consulate in Rangpur.
- Ministry of Coal launches Indiaâs first pilot project for Underground Coal Gasification in Jharkhand.
- Sri Sri University, Odisha, launches India's premier Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management, aiming to set new standards in risk management education and practice.
- New criminal laws are scheduled to come into effect on 1st July 2024, aiming to enhance accessibility and efficiency in the justice system for Indian citizens.
International MSME Day 2024: Celebrating the Backbone of Global Economies on June 27
- International MSME Day, observed annually on June 27, underscores the critical role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the global economy, with MSMEs contributing to half of the world's GDP.
- The theme for this year's celebration is "Building a Stronger Future Together," focusing on supporting MSMEs to advance the 2030 Agenda and achieve sustainable development goals, including poverty eradication and ensuring decent work for all.
Arundhati Roy Wins PEN Pinter Prize Amid Indian Prosecution Threat
- Arundhati Roy, known for her literary achievements including the Booker Prize, has been awarded the Pen Pinter Prize for 2024, acknowledging her significant contributions to literature and activism.
- The award comes at a critical juncture as Roy faces potential legal challenges, underscoring the importance of her work in advocating for social justice and freedom of expression.
- The Pen Pinter Prize not only celebrates Roy's literary prowess but also amplifies her voice in the ongoing global discourse on human rights and societal issues.
BEL appoints Manoj Jain as new Chairman and MD
- Manoj Jain has been appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director of BEL, a renowned defense electronics manufacturer in India. He has a distinguished career spanning over thirty years at BEL, starting as a probationary engineer in August 1991.
- Jain has held various significant roles at BEL, including Director (R&D) and Director (HR). He also served as the General Manager of the Electronic Warfare and Avionics Strategic Business Unit (SBU) at the Bangalore Complex before his recent appointment.
SpaceX Secures $843 Million NASA Contract to Deorbit ISS
- NASA awarded SpaceX the contract to develop a US Deorbit Vehicle to safely bring the ISS out of orbit by 2030, directing its reentry to Point Nemo in the Pacific Ocean.
- The ISS, operational since 2000 and weighing approximately 430,000 kilograms, will undergo a controlled deorbiting process to ensure a safe transition at the end of its operational life.
SSLV's first dedicated commercial launch to put Australia-built satellite into orbit in 2026
- Radhakrishnan Durairaj serves as the Chairman and Managing Director of NSIL, overseeing its operations and strategic initiatives in the space sector.
- Under his leadership, NSIL has achieved significant milestones such as launching Janus, a 10-kilogram nanosatellite, on the SSLV-D2 mission, and planning the first dedicated commercial mission, Space MAITRI, in 2026 to deploy Australia's largest locally-designed satellite, Optimus, into orbit.
India end World Table Tennis Contender tournament at Lagos with nine medals, including three golds
- The Indian contingent concluded their campaign at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Contender Lagos with a total of nine medals, comprising three golds, one silver, and five bronze medals.
- India's achievement includes notable performances across various categories, showcasing strength and consistency in international table tennis competition.
- The medal haul underscores India's rising prominence in global table tennis and highlights the success of the contingent in the WTT Contender event held in Lagos.
Max Verstappen Clinches Third Straight Win at 2024 Spanish Grand Prix
- Max Verstappen's victory at the 2024 Spanish Grand Prix marks his third consecutive win at this event and his fourth overall, with previous wins in 2016, 2022, and 2023.
- Lando Norris of McLaren claimed second place, and Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes finished third, rounding out the podium at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
New Criminal Laws Scheduled to Take Effect on 1st July 2024
- The new laws include Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, aiming to streamline the justice system and enhance accessibility for Indian citizens.
- Important provisions of these laws include online incident reporting, allowing FIR filing at any police station with free copies for victims, rights for arrested individuals to inform a chosen person, and expedited investigations for crimes against women and children.
- The government has collaborated with States and Union Territories to prepare for the laws' implementation through technological upgrades, capacity building, and awareness campaigns.
Sri Sri University, Odisha, Inaugurates India's Premier Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management
- The Institute of Risk Management (IRM) India Affiliate has granted Sri Sri University (SSU), Odisha, the license to establish Indiaâs inaugural Global Centre for Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), formalized at the Art of Living International Centre in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- The primary objective of the center is to enhance safety across East India through partnerships with local organizations and government bodies, focusing on disaster risks, safety measures, cyber risk management, women and child safety, and financial risks.
- SSU students gain access to IRMâs global resources and training programs, emphasizing risk-informed business leadership, entrepreneurship, and corporate management skills.Â
- The initiative aims to build a community of over 10,000 certified risk professionals, contributing to resilient and sustainable business practices globally.
Ministry of Coal initiates Indiaâs First Ever Pilot project for Underground Coal Gasification in Jharkhand
- India's first Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) pilot project launched in Kasta coal block, Jamtara District, Jharkhand, led by Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) with CMPDI Ranchi and Ergo Exergy Technologies Inc. (EETI).
- To convert in-situ coal into valuable gases (methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide) for producing synthetic natural gas, chemical feedstocks, fertilizers, and industrial products, transforming economically unviable coal resources through advanced gasification technologies.
- Enhances energy security, promotes sustainable development, and demonstrates innovative coal gasification technologies tailored to Indian geo-mining conditions, contributing to India's energy self-reliance and aligned with the Ministry of Coal's UCG policy framework.
S&P Global Ratings retains India's growth forecast for FY25 at 6.8%
- S&P Global Ratings has maintained India's GDP growth estimate for FY25 at 6.8%.Â
- This projection factors in high interest rates and reduced fiscal stimulus, suggesting a moderated growth outlook for non-agricultural sectors compared to previous years.
- The estimate reflects the impact of current economic conditions, including high interest rates and reduced government spending, which are expected to constrain demand in key non-agricultural sectors, affecting overall economic growth in the fiscal year.
Maharashtra Governor releases book 'Gateway to the Sea: Historic Ports and Docs of Mumbai Region' published by Publications Division and compiled by Maritime Mumbai Museum Society
- The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ramesh Bais released the book titled 'Gateway to the Sea: Historic Ports and Docs of Mumbai Region' at Raj Bhavan Mumbai on June 22, 2024 (Saturday).Â
- The book is published by Publications Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. The book consists of 18 articles by renowned authors compiled by the Maritime Mumbai Museum Society (MMMS).
- The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ramesh Bais felicitated MMMS and 17 writers and two editors on the occasion.
- He also encouraged the citizens of Mumbai to learn about their ancient maritime history.Â
- The book was also presented by the Publications Division in collaboration with the Asiatic Society in the Durbar Hall of Raj Bhavan. The invitees included historians and history enthusiasts.
Paraguay Joins as the 100th Member of the International Solar Alliance
- Paraguay has become the 100th full member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), joining the initiative aimed at promoting solar energy deployment globally.
- Launched in November 2015 during COP21 in Paris, the ISA aims to accelerate the adoption of solar energy worldwide to support climate action efforts.
- The International Solar Alliance is headquartered in Gurugram, India. Paraguay's ambassador to the ISA is H.E. Mr. Fleming Raul Duarte.
Hunar Indian Folk And Tribal Art Exhibition Opens In Dubai
- The Dubai Art Centre is hosting the "Hunar" exhibition, showcasing a captivating display of Indian folk and tribal art, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of these art forms.
- Visitors can explore various Indian artistic styles, including Aipan art from Uttarakhand, Madhubani art from Bihar, Warli art from Maharashtra, vibrant murals of Kerala, and intricate Muria art of Chhattisgarh.
- The "Hunar" exhibition offers a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts in Dubai to immerse themselves in the diverse world of Indian folk and tribal art, experiencing firsthand the cultural richness and artistic heritage of India.
In a first, NASA Webb Telescope captures jets of gas from newborn stars
- The telescope captured jets of gas from newborn stars for the first time. A mesmerising image of this phenomenon was shared on Instagram.
- NASA's James Webb Telescope which was launched in December 2021 has brought light to numerous intriguing findings.Â
- Recently, the telescope captured jets of gas from newborn stars for the first time. A mesmerising image of this phenomenon was shared on Instagram by the official handle of the space agency.
Archery World Cup 2024 Begins In Shanghai
- Indian archers, including Dhiraj Bommadevara who won two bronze medals and the women's compound team that secured a gold medal, excelled at Stage 3 of the Archery World Cup 2024 held in Antalya, Turkey from June 18-23.
- Antalya, Turkey served as the host city for the Archery World Cup 2024 Stage 3, underscoring its role in the global archery circuit for the year 2024 and providing a significant venue for international competition.
Mohammad Wasim Appointed Head Coach of Pakistan Womenâs Team for T20 Asia Cup
- Mohammad Wasim, former Pakistan men's chief selector and batter, was appointed as head coach of the Pakistan women's team for the Women's T20 Asia Cup 2024.Â
- Abdur Rehman will serve as spin bowling coach, and Junaid Khan as assistant coach.
- The ACC Women's T20 Asia Cup is scheduled to take place in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, from July 19 to 28, 2024.
Anush Agarwalla Selected By EFI To Represent India In Dressage At Paris Olympics
- Anush Agarwalla has been chosen to represent India in dressage at the Paris Olympics, marking India's first-ever entry in this event at the Olympics.
- Agarwalla was selected over Shruti Vora based on his superior performance, achieving an average score of 67.695% compared to Vora's 67.163%.
- Anush consistently met the Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER) four times since the qualification period began, while Shruti Vora achieved the required two MERs only recently.
In BWF US OPEN, Priyanshu And Malvika Win In Their Respective Singles
- On the second day of BWF US Open, Priyanshu Rajawat and Malvika Bansod secured victories in their respective singles fixtures.Â
- Rajawat moves to round-two Priyanshu Rajawat, seeded 8th, delivered a commanding performance in his first-round match against Czech Republicâs J Louda, triumphing with scores of 21-16, 21-18.
- Meanwhile, Ayush Shetty faced a formidable challenge from Singaporeâs J Teh. Despite levelling the match, the Indian eventually succumbed in a tight three-game, 21-18, 12-21, 12-21.
Paris Olympics 2024: Hockey India announces 16-member squad, Harmanpreet named captain
- Indian hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas and Nilakanta Sharma celebrate after winning the men's hockey final match against Japan at the 19th Asian Games to be held in Hangzhou, China in 2023.
- Harmanpreet Singh has been appointed as the captain of the Indian national men's hockey team for the upcoming Paris Olympics.
- Hockey India on Wednesday named a 16-member squad for next month's Paris Olympics, with Harmanpreet Singh named captain and Hardik Singh his deputy.
- Five players are playing for the first time in this team and some senior players from the last Olympics are also included.
Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani to be next Vice Chief of Army Staff
- Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani has been cleared by the government to become the next Vice Chief of Army Staff, succeeding Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi, who will assume the role of Chief of the Army Staff upon Gen Manoj Pande's retirement.
- Lt Gen Subramani's military career spans over 37 years, during which he has held significant commands, including leading operations in Assam and commanding a division in Northeast India.Â
- He has also served in various strategic and operational roles across different commands and headquarters.
- He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Military Academy, with additional qualifications from the Joint Services Command Staff College in the UK and the National Defence College in New Delhi.Â
- He holds a Master of Arts from Kingâs College, London, and an MPhil in Defence Studies from Madras University.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced grant of 'Mini RATNA' status (Category-1) for Central Electronics Limited (CEL)
- During its Golden Jubilee celebration, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that Central Electronics Limited (CEL) has been granted "Mini RATNA" status (Category-1) in recognition of its financial stability, profitability, and operational excellence over recent years.
- Celebrating 50 years of service, CEL has transformed from a loss-making PSU to a profitable one, with a commendable net profit of approximately Rs 58 crore and has paid dividends to the Government of India for three consecutive years.Â
- The celebration was graced by the Hon'ble Vice President of India, Shri. Jagdeep Dhankhar.
- CEL has made significant contributions in Defence, Railway, Security, Surveillance, and Solar energy sectors, promoting indigenous technologies.Â
- The company is set to diversify its product portfolio by rolling out production of Smart Boards, impacting smart education implementation in schools across the country.
Rahul Gandhi appointed leader of opposition in Lok Sabha
- Rahul Gandhi took his oath as a member of the 18th Lok Sabha on June 25, 2024, displaying a copy of the Constitution of India.Â
- He was appointed as the Leader of the Opposition, a decision confirmed by a letter from Congress to Pro-tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab.
- The appointment of Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of the Opposition was announced following a meeting of the I.N.D.I.A. bloc's floor leaders at Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge's residence.
China becomes first country to retrieve rocks from the moon's far side
- China's Chang'e 6 mission successfully retrieved samples from the far side of the moon, marking the first-ever return of materials from this region.Â
- This achievement highlights China's growing capabilities in space exploration.
- The samples collected from the lunar South Pole-Aitken Basin could provide valuable insights into lunar geology and history, potentially shedding light on the formation and evolution of the moon.
- They may also help solve mysteries regarding the differences between the moon's near side and far side.
- The mission underscores a new phase in the global space race, with China positioning itself as a significant player alongside the U.S. and other nations in establishing future lunar outposts.
JP Nadda Launches National STOP Diarrhoea Campaign 2024
- Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda launched the National STOP Diarrhoea Campaign 2024.
- He was joined by Smt. Anupriya Patel and Shri Jadhav Patraprao Ganpatrao, Union Ministers of State for Health and Family Welfare. The dignitaries also released IEC materials like logo, posters, radio spots and audio visuals for the campaign and distributed oral rehydration salts (ORS) and zinc tablets to children on the occasion.
- The goal behind the STOP Diarrhoea Campaign 2024 is to attain zero child deaths due to childhood diarrhoea.Â
- While the existing diarrhoea strategy entailed a 2-week campaign with pre-positioning of ORS to under-5 children and limited IEC, the new strategy involves a 2-month long campaign with pre-positioning of 2 ORS packets and zinc as a co-packaging to under-5 children.Â
- It will also involve extensive IEC through different platforms and collaboration across multiple sectors, including health, water and sanitation, education, and rural development.
India To Start E-Medical Visa Facility For Bangladesh Nationals; Open New Consulate In Rangpur
- India will start an e-medical visa facility for Bangladeshi nationals coming to India for medical treatment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced after a meeting between the two delegations in the national capital.
- India will open a new consulate in Rangpur, Bangladesh, to facilitate services for people in the northwest region of the country.
- The leaders of India and Bangladesh have initiated various agreements and projects, including trading in Indian Rupees, electricity exports from Nepal to Bangladesh via India, and cooperation on river management like the Ganga and Teesta rivers.
- Both countries have focused on enhancing connectivity through projects like the sixth rail link between Jakhoda and Agartala, and initiatives in digital connectivity and economic cooperation, including talks on Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
MoHUA launches Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao Initiative
- The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched the "Safai Apnao, Bimaari Bhagao" initiative, running from 1 July to 31 August 2024, to help Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) prepare for the monsoon season with a focus on sanitation and cleanliness.
- This initiative is a component of the âSTOP Diarrhoea Campaignâ by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, aimed at preventing diarrhoea through improved sanitation and cleanliness, particularly during the monsoon.
- The initiative involves organizing special cleanliness drives for waste collection and transportation, and ensuring the regular cleaning of community and public toilets, necessitating cooperation among various departments for effective implementation.
CAG inaugurates first museum in 164 Years at historic Chadwick House
- After 164 years, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has opened its first museum at Chadwick House in Shimla. CAG GC Murmu inaugurated the museum, highlighting its historical and educational significance.
- Chadwick House is notable for being the place where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during the 1946 Cabinet Mission meeting, aimed at transferring political power from the British to Indian leadership.Â
- Post-independence, it housed the first training school for Indian Audit and Accounts Service probationers in 1950.
- The museum showcases the evolution and milestones of India's federal audit heritage. Among the exhibits is Chanakya writing the Arthashastra, considered the first documented principles of accounting.
Smriti Mandhana becomes first Indian women's player to score century in consecutive ODIs
- Smriti Mandhana became the first Indian woman cricketer to score consecutive centuries in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) during a match against South Africa at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on June 19.
- On June 23, Smriti Mandhana set a new record for the most runs scored by an Indian woman in a bilateral ODI series, highlighting her consistency and prowess in international cricket.
- Smriti Mandhana has received several accolades, including the Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Award for the best female cricketer of the year by the ICC in 2018 and 2022.Â
- She also won the BCCI award for Best Womenâs International Cricketer in June 2018, underscoring her impact and recognition in the world of cricket.
IIT Delhi student wins worldâs largest coding competition
- Kalash Gupta, a Computer Science Engineering student at IIT Delhi, triumphed in the 10th season of the TCS CodeVita competition, defeating over 100,000 participants from 87 countries.
- The competition, recognized by Guinness World Records, highlights the programming skills of global talent, with Gupta standing out as the top performer.
- Gupta received commendation from IIT Delhi Director, Prof. Rangan Banerjee, for his outstanding achievement in this prestigious international coding contest.
Iberian lynx rebounds from 'endangered' status
- The IUCN has upgraded the conservation status of the Iberian lynx from "Endangered" to "Vulnerable," marking a remarkable recovery from near extinction due to sustained conservation efforts.
- From just 62 mature individuals in 2001, the Iberian lynx population has grown significantly to 648 individuals by 2022, with current estimates exceeding 2,000 individuals.Â
- This growth is attributed to measures such as habitat restoration, prey abundance management, and genetic diversity enhancement through breeding programs.
- Despite improvements, the Iberian lynx faces ongoing threats including potential fluctuations in the European rabbit population due to virus outbreaks, diseases from domestic cats, poaching, road kills, and habitat alterations linked to climate change.
India among worldâs worst five on green performance index
- India ranked 176th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Environment Performance Index, indicating significant environmental challenges.
- The country ranked 177th in air quality and 172nd in projected emissions by 2025, reflecting serious issues in these areas that require urgent action.
- India's heavy reliance on coal contributes to its poor environmental performance, resulting in high emissions and deteriorating air quality, which are major factors in its low ranking.
India's TB Elimination Efforts Recognized at the World Health Assembly in Geneva
- The Truenat rapid molecular diagnostic test for TB was recognized at the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva for its significant contribution to TB diagnostics.
- Truenat delivers test results in under an hour and is a portable device, making it essential for use in India's National TB Elimination Programme, especially in primary health centres and private laboratories.
- The World Health Assembly commended India's innovative approach to TB elimination, highlighting the crucial role of diagnostic tools like Truenat in the global fight against tuberculosis.
UP To Establish Worldâs First Asian King Vulture Conservation & Breeding Centre In Maharajganj
- Uttar Pradesh will establish the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre in Maharajganj, aimed at boosting the population of the critically endangered Asian king vultures, also known as red-headed vultures.
- The centre addresses the significant decline of Asian king vultures, listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) since 2007, primarily due to habitat loss and poisoning from the drug diclofenac.
- The facility will ensure the health and pairing of vultures, allowing them to breed. Once a female lays an egg, the vulture pair will be released into their natural environment to promote a sustainable population growth.
Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Deka Gets One Year Extension
- Tapan Kumar Deka, renowned for his expertise in counter-terrorism and radicalization cases, has been granted a one-year extension as the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) until June 2025.
- Deka is a 1988-batch IPS officer from the Himachal Pradesh cadre, bringing extensive experience to his role in overseeing India's domestic intelligence agency.
- The decision to extend Deka's tenure was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing continuity and leadership stability in crucial national security operations.
India, UK, and China Collaborate to Develop Superhydrophobic Activated Carbon Catalyst for Cost-Effective Biodiesel Production
- India, China, and the UK collaborated to develop a superhydrophobic activated carbon catalyst derived from biomass, aimed at reducing biodiesel production costs.
- The new catalyst significantly lowers biodiesel production costs to around 37 cents per litre, down from the previous âš100 per litre, making biodiesel more affordable and sustainable.
- This advancement marks a major step in making sustainable energy solutions more economically viable and accessible, potentially influencing global renewable energy adoption efforts.
India is hosting 64th ISO Council Meeting from 25th-27th June 2024
- India hosts the ISO Council Meeting in New Delhi, showcasing its prominence as the world's largest consumer and second largest producer of sugar.Â
- The meeting aims to foster international cooperation among over 30 countries to address critical issues in the sugar and biofuel sectors.
- A workshop titled âSugar and Biofuels â Emerging Vistasâ will be inaugurated by Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New & Renewable Energy.Â
- This event brings together over 200 delegates, including international experts and industry leaders, to discuss sustainability, global perspectives, and the role of farmers in biofuel production.
- Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Global Biofuel Alliance initiative, the meeting aims to strengthen international collaboration on sustainable biofuels.Â
- Discussions will focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions through ethanol production from sugarcane, highlighting Indiaâs technological advancements in biofuel production at the industrial tour in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh.
Kerala Assembly Passes Resolution Seeking To Rename State As Keralam
- On June 24, the Kerala Assembly unanimously passed a resolution for the second time in a year, requesting the Indian Central Government to change the state's name in the Constitution from "Kerala" to "Keralam."
- The resolution is led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, aiming to align the constitutional name with the Malayalam term "Keralam."
- The plan received unanimous support from the Kerala Assembly, reflecting a collective push to officially recognize the state's name as "Keralam."
Anush Agarwalla Selected By EFI To Represent India In Dressage At Paris Olympics
- Anush Agarwalla has been selected by the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) to represent the country in the dressage event at the Paris Olympics, marking India's first-ever entry in this Olympic discipline.
- Anush was chosen over Shruti Vora based on a thorough assessment of recent performances, achieving a higher average score of 67.695% compared to Shruti's 67.163%, and meeting the Minimum Eligibility Requirement (MER) four times.
- The EFI's criteria required a rider-horse combination to achieve a minimum of 67% twice between January 1, 2023, and June 24, 2024. Anush's consistent performance met these standards, leading to the unanimous decision by the Executive Council.
International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2024:
- The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed globally on June 26th each year.Â
- This day serves as a reminder of the global efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to address these challenges.
- The day aims to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse on individuals, families, and communities worldwide.
- The theme for 2024 is âThe evidence is clear: invest in prevention,â emphasizing evidence-based approaches to prevent drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
India rises to third in global domestic airline market
- India has become the third-largest domestic airline market globally, with domestic capacity doubling from 7.9 million in April 2014 to 15.5 million in April 2024, surpassing Brazil and Indonesia.
- India's domestic airline market has the highest growth rate among the top five markets at 6.9% annually, with low-cost carriers accounting for 78.4% of domestic capacity, the highest percentage among the top five markets.
- IndiGo's market share has surged from 32% to 62% over the past decade, driving domestic capacity growth at 13.9% annually. Despite their international expansion focus, IndiGo and Air India's narrow-bodied aircraft orders will enhance domestic capacity further.
Jaishankar unveils Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Sri Lanka
- India and Sri Lanka launched the MRCC on June 20 to strengthen maritime security cooperation, supported by a grant from New Delhi.
- The MRCC initiative underscores the strategic maritime security partnership between the two nations amidst regional geopolitical concerns over port developments and naval activities.
- The MRCC, with its main and sub-centres along Sri Lanka's coastline, aims to bolster coordination and response capabilities, reinforcing collaborative efforts in the Indian Ocean Region.
Japan is on high alert due to a surge in cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection
- There has been a sudden increase in cases of a rare but deadly human flesh-eating bacterial infection in Japan after COVID-19 restrictions were eased.
- The horrific condition, known as streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), can kill within 48 hours of infection.Â
- Data from the National Institute of Infectious Diseases shows that Japan has recorded nearly 1,000 cases this year alone, far more than last year.
Kozhikode in Kerala declared Indiaâs first UNESCO âCity of Literatureâ
- Keralaâs Minister for Local Self-Government, M.B. Rajesh, announced on June 23 that Kozhikode has been honored as Indiaâs first âCity of Literatureâ by UNESCO, celebrating its rich literary and cultural heritage.
- Kozhikode's designation acknowledges its role akin to Londonâs global cultural significance, with contributions from renowned writers, including two Jnanpith awardees, as well as notable cinema, music, and media establishments.
- Despite Kolkata's richer literary tradition, Kozhikode's achievement was attributed to effective planning and presentation by the city's Mayor and the Kerala Institute of Local Administration, showcasing Kozhikodeâs accomplishments convincingly to UNESCO.
Nine Indian Ports Shine In Global Top 100 Of Container Port Performance Index 2023
- Nine major ports of India were featured in the Global Top 100 in the Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) 2023, compiled by the World Bank and S&P Global Marketing Intelligence. This recognition highlights India's advancements in port efficiency and modernization efforts.
- India's achievement underscores the effectiveness of the Sagarmala programme, aimed at enhancing port infrastructure and operational efficiency. Improved turnaround times and container handling efficiencies have been pivotal in elevating these ports to global standards.
Sony Pictures Networks India appoints Gaurav Banerjee as new MD & CEO
- Sony Pictures Networks India has appointed Gaurav Banerjee, a former Disney executive, as its new Managing Director and CEO, effective from on or before August 26, pending regulatory approvals.
- He will succeed N. P. Singh, who transitions to Non-Executive Chairman after a 25-year tenure.
- Gaurav Banerjee holds a Masterâs degree in filmmaking and TV production from Jamia Millia Islamia University.Â
- He has a strong foundation in media, starting as a journalist and later serving in key roles at Star India, including head of content for Hindi entertainment and Disney+ Hotstar.
- Starting as an assistant producer and anchor at Aaj Tak, Banerjee's journey in media evolved through Star News, where he anchored prime-time news shows before transitioning to content strategy roles at Star India.
Suzlon's Girish Tanti elected as Chair of GWEC India
- Girish Tanti, Vice-Chairman of Suzlon Group, has been appointed as the Chairman of Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) India, highlighting his significant influence in the wind energy sector.
- Tanti's leadership is crucial in advancing India's wind energy objectives, aligning with government policies, and bolstering the nation's position in the global wind market.
- His role with both Suzlon Group and GWEC underscores his commitment to driving momentum and fostering dialogue within the industry, promoting sustainable energy initiatives.
Two bio-geographic hotspots in India yield two new plant species
- Indian botanists have identified two new plant species, Dendrophthoe longensis in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Petrocosmea arunachalense in Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting India's rich plant biodiversity and the need for continued conservation efforts.
- Discovered on Long Island in the Andamans, this hemiparasitic mistletoe family member thrives on mango trees and is crucial for the local ecosystem, despite being at risk from habitat loss and human activities.
- Found in a cave in West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh, this herbaceous plant from the Gesneriaceae family features distinctive white flowers with purple spots and thrives in damp, shaded environments, underscoring the importance of preserving its unique habitat.
World Bank, animal husbandry dept conduct avian influenza crisis drill
- The Avian Influenza Response Simulation Exercise in Bhopal on June 19-20, 2024, was a joint initiative by the Department of Animal Husbandry and the World Bank, focusing on improving outbreak readiness and response.
- The simulation emphasized addressing unusual Avian Influenza outbreaks in Kerala and explored global implications for non-poultry species, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies in diverse scenarios.
- Such exercises are vital for strengthening the preparedness and response mechanisms against infectious diseases, benefiting both animal and human health by promoting proactive measures and collaboration.
IPBES Honored with 2024 Blue Planet Prize for Exemplary Environmental Leadership
- IPBES has been awarded the prestigious Blue Planet Prize for its significant contributions to advancing biodiversity and ecosystem science, guiding global policies such as the SDGs and CBD, and influencing corporate sustainability strategies.
- The prize will be awarded in Tokyo, with events planned to celebrate IPBES's contributions to ecological economics and sustainability.
Rutuja Bhosale-Fangran Tian Clinch ITF Womenâs World Tennis Tour In Tauste
- Rutuja Bhosale of India and Fangran Tian of China won the ITF Womenâs World Tennis Tour in Tauste, Spain, defeating the 3rd seeds, Alana Parnaby (Australia) and Victoria Rodriguez (Mexico), with a straight sets victory of 6-2, 6-4.
- Managed by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the tour serves as an entry-level and mid-level platform for women's professional tennis, bridging the ITF Junior World Tennis Tour and the WTA Tour with approximately 500 tournaments held in 65 countries.
- Post the Russian invasion of Ukraine in March 2022, ITF policy changes allowed players from Belarus and Russia to compete without their national flags. The tour also supports emerging talent by reserving spots for Top-100 ranked ITF Juniors in $15,000 tournaments and aiming to reduce player costs for better financial accessibility.
The Golden Threadâ Awarded As Best Documentary In International Category With Golden Conch Award
- 'The Golden Thread' directed by Nishita Jain won the Best Documentary in the international category at the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival, presented by actress Poonam Dhillon.
- Edmond Ranson's 'Life In Loom' received the Best Short Film award in the 'India in Amrit Kaal' category, and Sreemoyi Singh won the Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari Award for Best Debut Director for her film âAnd, Towards Happy Alleysâ.
- In the National Competition, '6-A Akash Ganga' won Best Documentary, 'Salt' won Best Short Fiction, and 'Nirjara' won Best Animation. In the International Competition, 'Zima' from Poland won Best Animation, and 'Sour Milk' from Estonia won Best Short Fiction.
Assam: Famous Ambubachi Mela Begins At Kamakhya Temple
- In Assam, the famous Ambubachi Mela has begun today at the Kamakhya temple. This will conclude on the 26th of this month.Â
- Lakhs of devotees have gathered for the Ambubachi mela. The event celebrates the annual menstruation of the goddess Kamakhya, symbolising fertility and womanhood.Â
- During the festival, the gates of Kamakhya Temple will remain closed. The temple gates will reopen at 9:08 p.m. on the 25th of this month.Â
- The Kamrup Metro District administration has made elaborate arrangements for the devotees.
Bhartruhari Mahtab appointed pro tem Speaker of Lok Sabha
- President Droupadi Murmu has appointed Bhartruhari Mahtab, seven-term MP from Cuttack, as the pro-tem Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha.
- The senior most member of parliament is appointed as the Protem Speaker to perform the duties of the Speaker until a regular Speaker is elected. Bhartruhari Mahtab will fulfill this role for the 18th Lok Sabha.
Centre appoints Atul Chaudhary as new Trai secretary
- The government appointed Atul Kumar Chaudhary as a secretary of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai).
- Chaudhary, a 1989-batch Indian Telecommunication Services (ITS) officer, working as a deputy director general at the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
- He worked in various capacities in the personnel, human resource (HR), administration, licensing, vigilance divisions of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and DoT.
Sanjaya Mariwala Takes Over as President of the IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Sanjaya Mariwala has been appointed as the new President of the IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, succeeding Samir Somaiya.
- With over 40 years of experience, Sanjaya Mariwala is the Executive Chairman and MD of OmniActive Health Ltd. He has also made significant contributions to various industries, including Bombay Oil Industries Ltd, Kancor Ingredients, Auto Hangar, and VKL Spices.
IISc designs device to make infrared light visible, with diverse applications in defence and optical communications
- Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have fabricated a device to increase or up-convert the frequency of short infrared light to the visible range.
- This uptropic of light has diverse applications, especially in defense and optical communications. "The human eye can only see light at certain frequencies (called the visible spectrum), the lowest of which is red light. Infrared light, which we cannot see, has a lower frequency than red light.Â
- The findings, led by Associate Professor Varun Raghunathan, address and overcome the limitations of traditional infrared imaging technologies.
India sees 43% decline in FDI inflows in 2023, drops to 15th spot
- According to the UNCTAD report, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India declined by 43% in 2023 compared to 2022.Â
- Globally, overall FDI declined by 2% during the same period, with FDI inflows leading to a significant reduction in FDI inflows to countries such as China, France, Australia and the USA.
- The World Investment Report 2024 highlights several factors behind the decline in global FDI, including uncertain global growth prospects, economic fracturing trends, trade and geopolitical tensions, industrial policies, and supply chain diversification.Â
- According to UNCTAD's World Investment Report, the top ten FDI recipient countries in 2023 were led by the United States with $311 billion, followed by China with $163 billion, Singapore with $160 billion, and Hong Kong (China) with $113 billion. India is ranked 15th, receiving $28 billion in FDI.
Jyoti Surekha Vennam, Parneet Kaur, And Aditi Swami Clinched Gold In Compound Team Event At Antalya Archery World Cup 2024
- In archery, Indiaâs Jyoti Surekha Vennam, Parneet Kaur, and Aditi Swami have clinched gold in the compound team event at the Antalya Archery World Cup 2024 in Turkiye.Â
- The womenâs trio defeated Estonia 232â229 in the summit clash this afternoon. With this victory, the Indian team completed a clean sweep this season, bagging all three World Cup Stage Gold medals in the compound team event.Â
- Earlier, the Indian womenâs compound archery team, ranked world No. 1, defeated Italy at the World Cup 2024 Stage 1 in Shanghai.