1

2
 3

International: - includes banning of plastic

straws and silverware. This
significant move aligns with
New Zealand has taken a
the government’s ongoing
momentous step towards
campaign against single-use
reducing plastic waste by
plastics, which began in 2019
becoming the first country to
with the prohibition of thicker
implement a complete ban on
plastic shopping bags.
thin plastic bags.
New Zealand’s Fight Against
Plastic:

Since 2019, New Zealand has

been actively promoting
sustainable practices and
combatting plastic pollution.
New Zealand has taken a
The initial ban on thicker
momentous step towards
plastic shopping bags was a
reducing plastic waste by
significant step towards
becoming the first country to
reducing plastic waste and
implement a complete ban on
encouraging the use of
thin plastic bags commonly
reusable alternatives. Building
used in supermarkets for fruit
upon this success, the
and vegetable purchases.
government has now
Moreover, this move will
expanded the campaign to
extend beyond bags, as it also
 4

target additional single-use (SCO) during an India-hosted

plastics, including thin plastic virtual summit of the influential
bags, straws and silverware. grouping. Prime Minister
Narendra Modi congratulated
Prime Minister of New Zealand
is Chris Hipkins Iranian President Ebrahim
Raisi and the people of Iran
Rachel Brooking is the
on this significant occasion.
Minister for Oceans and
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Fisheries of New Zealand
congratulated Iranian President
Iran has officially become a
Ebrahim Raisi and the people
full member of the Shanghai
of Iran on Iran’s full
Cooperation Organisation
membership in the SCO. He
(SCO) during an India-hosted
also welcomed Belarus’ SCO
virtual summit of the
membership, as indicated by
influential grouping.
the signing of the
Memorandum of Obligations.

The Significance of SCO

Membership:

PM Modi highlighted the

growing interest of other
Iran has officially become a countries in joining the SCO,
full member of the Shanghai emphasizing the organization’s
Cooperation Organisation importance. The interest
 5

shown by nations to become Obligations by Belarus to

part of the SCO demonstrates achieve the status of an SCO
the organization’s relevance member state. Belarus is
and influence on regional and taking steps towards becoming
global affairs. a full member, further
expanding the SCO’s influence
India’s Role as the Summit
and reach.
Host:
Shanghai Cooperation
As the current chair of the
Organisation (SCO):
SCO, India hosted the summit.
Prime Minister Modi chaired Establishment: The SCO was
the virtual meeting, which founded in 2001 at a summit
included the participation of in Shanghai, China, by the
Chinese President Xi Jinping, presidents of Russia, China,
Russian President Vladimir the Kyrgyz Republic,
Putin, Pakistani Prime Minister Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and
Shehbaz Sharif, and other Uzbekistan.
leaders from SCO member
Membership Expansion: India
states.
and Pakistan became
Belarus’ Membership permanent members of the
Advancement: SCO in 2017, further

The declaration also noted the expanding the organization’s

reach and influence.
importance of the signing of
the Memorandum of
 6

Iran’s Full Membership: and counter-terrorism

During an India-hosted virtual operations among member
summit, Iran officially became states.
a full member of the SCO.
During India-EU Aviation
This move highlights Iran’s summit held at New Delhi,
strategic importance and its
India, the Director General of
commitment to cooperation
Civil Aviation (DGCA) has
within the organization. signed a MoU
Belarus’ Membership
Progress: The summit also
acknowledged the signing of
the Memorandum of
Obligations by Belarus, a step
towards achieving full
During India-EU Aviation
membership in the SCO.
summit held at New Delhi,
Belarus’ potential accession
India, the Director General of
further strengthens the
Civil Aviation (DGCA) has
organization.
signed a MoU with the
Regional Anti-Terrorist
European Union Aviation
Structure (RATS): RATS is a
Safety Agency (EASA) for
specialized body within the
cooperation in unmanned
SCO that coordinates and
aircraft and systems and
facilitates intelligence sharing
innovative air mobility.
 7

DGCA and EASA Deputy Ministers: V.K. Singh

Collaboration: Taiwan has announced its
In April, 2023 the European decision to open its third
Commission and the Ministry representative office in India,
of Civil Aviation of India jointly this time in Mumbai.
organized EU-India Aviation
Summit in New Delhi in which
Director General of Civil
Aviation and European Union
Aviation Safety Agency signed
on MoU for cooperation in
Taiwan has announced its
unmanned aircraft systems
decision to open its third
and innovative air mobility.
representative office in India,
The Directorate General of this time in Mumbai. The move
Civil Aviation (DGCA) is a comes after more than a
statutory body of the decade since Taiwan last
Government of India to expanded its presence in the
regulate civil aviation in India. country. The establishment of
It became a statutory body the Taiwan Economic and
under the Aircraft Cultural Center (TECC) in
(Amendment) Act, 2020. Mumbai aims to facilitate

Minister: Jyotiraditya Scindia, trade, investment, and provide

Minister of Civil Aviation various services to Taiwanese

 8

nationals and Indian thriving hub for Taiwanese

businesspeople and tourists. firms.
This development signifies a
Taiwan, officially the Republic
significant step toward
of China, is a country in East
enhancing economic linkages Asia. It is located at the
and strengthening relations
junction of the East and South
between India and Taiwan.
China Seas in the
Historical Background: northwestern Pacific Ocean,
with the People's Republic of
India and Taiwan do not
China to the northwest, Japan
maintain formal diplomatic ties
due to India’s adherence to to the northeast, and the
Philippines to the south.
the One-China policy.
However, in 1995, the two Capital: Taipei City
countries established the
Area: 36,197 km²
India-Taipei Association (ITA)
Currency: New Taiwan dollar
in Taiwan and the Taipei
Economic and Cultural Center President: Tsai Ing-wen

(TECC) in New Delhi, serving

as de facto embassies for both
The Security Council of U.N.
nations. In 2012, Taiwan
holded the first-ever meeting
further expanded its presence
on the potential threats of
by establishing the TECC in
Artificial Intelligence
Chennai, which became a
 9

Guterres provides briefing on

the AI which last month called
the alarm bells over the most
advanced form of AI
“deafening” and loudest from
its developers.
The Security Council of U.N.
holded the first-ever meeting The UN Chief Guterres
on the potential threats of revealed his plan to appoint a
Artificial Intelligence (AI) to scientific advisory board with
international peace and exertise in the AI sector. He
security, organised by the UK, also said that he would react
which sees tremendous favourably on the creating of
potential but also major risks new UN agency on AI with
about the use of Artificial some regulatory powers,
Intelligence (AI). similar to the International
Atomic Energy Agency.
The meeting was held on July
18 as the centrepiece of Some of the benefits
council’s presidency, stressed by Woodward:
announced by the UK • AI has the potential to
Ambassador Barbara help the UN Development
Woodward. programs.
International AI Experts and • Improve humanitarian aid
Secretary-General Antonio operation.
 10

• AI will assist in China recently launched it’s

peacekeeping operations. first open-source desktop
• AI will support conflict operating system (OS) named
prevention. as OpenKylin 1.0
• AI has the potential to
close the gap between
the developed and
developing countries.

The United Nations Security

Council (UNSC) is one of the
China recently launched it’s
six principal organs of the
first open-source desktop
United Nations (UN) and is
operating system (OS) named
charged with ensuring
as OpenKylin 1.0 to reduce its
international peace and
dependency on US technology
security, recommending the
and to create China’s
admission of new UN
independent software system.
members to the General
Assembly, and approving any The launch of OperKylin, an
changes to the UN Charter. open-source desktop system
marked the country’s latest
Formation: 24 October, 1945
effort in developing
Headquarters: New York, New
homegrown software which
York, United States
 11

reduces reliance on Western Technology Ministry and

Technologies. additional more than ten
software companies.
The OpenKylin system has
been developed with the About the OpenKyline:
contribution from various
OpenKyline 1.0 is an open-
companies and organizations.
source desktop software
Several Chinese Companies developed by group of
are currently working on Chinese companies which is
creating operating system that mainly headed by China
can replace Microsoft’s Electronic Corp.
Windows and Apple MacOS.
OpenKylin 1.0 is a Linux
One of these companies is
operating system created by a
Union Tech Software community of about 4,000
Technology Co. ltd. is in the
developers.
process of developing its own
OpenKylin users have access
operating system called ‘Unity’.
to the software’s line of code
The main supporter in
and can easily modify them as
launching this open-source they wish, unlike Microsoft and
desktop system OpenKylin is
Apple which keeps the working
the China Industrial Control
of windows and MacOS
System Emergency Response secret.
Team, which is overseen by
the industry and Information
 12

The launch of the OpenKylin to support the country’s IT

is considered to be the latest industrial chain.
effort in the development of
homgrown software.
Peru declared a state of
Homegrown software are
National emergency amid a
considered key to serving as
surge in patient suffering
a pillar for driving construction
from Guillain-Barre Syndrome
of new infrastructure and
(GBS) which is a neurological
boosting development of the
condition characterized
digital economy.

OpenKylin has benefits in the

various sectors as:

OpenKylin helps in improving

the domestic operating system
through iteration and
by an uncommon immune
upgrading.
system mistakenly attack on
OpenKylin ensures security in nervous system.
critical areas including,
Peruvian authorities declared a
government affairs,
90-day nation-wide sanitary
communications, energy and
emergency in response to the
transportation.
unusual increase in Guillain-
Openkylin will provide reliable Barre Syndrome cases.
fundamental software services
 13

The emergency measures are According to the National

also taken by the government Institute of Neurological
which encompasses the Disorders and Stroke (NIH),
procurement of intravenous Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a
immunoglobulin and human neurological condition
albumin as well as the characterized by an
implementation of specialized uncommon immune system
diagnostics for identifying the response that mistakenly
biological agents associated attacks on nervous system.
with the syndrome.
Guillain-Barre Syndrome can
Arrangements are also being manifest in various degrees of
made for air-assisted severity, ranging from mild
transportation of patients in cases with brief episodes of
critical or emergency weakness to more severe
conditions. instances of paralysis.

According to the official In GBS, symptoms may

document, at least 18 of the progress gradually over a span
country’s, 24 departments and of hours, days, or weeks
one constitutional province eventually rendering certain
have reported at least one muscles non-functional.
case of Guillain-Barre
Peru is a country in South
Syndrome. America that's home to a
Guillain-Barre Syndrome: section of Amazon rainforest
 14

and Machu Picchu, an ancient Edgars Rinkevics, the former

Incan city high in the Andes foreign minister of Latvia, has
mountains. been sworn in as the eleventh
president of Latvia since its
Capital and largest city: Lima
independence in 1991.
President: Dina Boluarte
Rinkevics, who openly
Prime Minister: Alberto announced his sexual
Otárola orientation as gay in 2014,
Official languages: Spanish becomes one of Europe’s few
LGBTQ+ heads of state.
Currency: Peruvian sol (PEN)
Known for his firm stance on
Edgars Rinkevics, the former
Russia and support for
foreign minister of Latvia, has
Ukraine, Rinkevics assumes
been sworn in as the
the presidency for a four-year
eleventh president of Latvia
term following the departure of
since its independence in
Egils Levits, the previous
1991
president who did not seek re-
election.

A Landmark for LGBTQ+

Representation:

Rinkevics proudly declared his

sexual orientation as gay on
Twitter in 2014, making him
 15

one of the few openly Bangladesh and India have

LGBTQ+ heads of state in initiated trade transactions in
Europe. Rinkevics’ presidency rupees, aiming to reduce
symbolizes progress in reliance on the US dollar and
LGBTQ+ representation and strengthen regional currency
acceptance in the region. and trade.
Attitudes towards sexual
minorities in Baltic nations and
eastern Europe have
historically been less tolerant
than in western Europe.
Rinkevics, having gained
popularity during his 12-year Bangladesh and India Launch
tenure as foreign minister, Trade Transactions in
brings his extensive diplomatic Rupees:
experience to the presidency. Bangladesh and India have
Latvia joined the European initiated trade transactions in
Union in: 2004 rupees, aiming to reduce
reliance on the US dollar and
Headquarters of the
strengthen regional currency
European Union: Brussels
and trade.
Prime Minister of Latvia:
This bilateral trade agreement
Krišjānis Kariņš
marks a significant milestone
 16

for Bangladesh, moving deficit. However, Governor

beyond the US dollar for trade Talukder emphasizes the
settlement with a foreign broader impact on exporters
country. and importers in both

Bangladesh Bank Governor countries.

Abdur Rouf Talukder describes Bangladesh, to the east of

the launch of trade settlement India on the Bay of Bengal, is
in rupees as the “first step in a South Asian country marked
a great journey.” by lush greenery and many
waterways.
The move signifies the growth
and economic cooperation Its Padma (Ganges), Meghna
between India and and Jamuna rivers create
Bangladesh, fostering mutual fertile plains, and travel by
benefits. boat is common.

According to official data, Capital: Dhaka

Bangladesh’s exports to India
Currency: Bangladeshi Taka
amount to USD 2 billion, while
Prime minister: Sheikh Hasina
imports from India are valued
at USD 13.69 billion.

Some economist’s express Israel’s parliament has given

skepticism about the approval to a bill that would

immediate benefits for limit the powers of the

Bangladesh due to the trade Supreme Court.

 17

The bill was passed with the

main aim to limit the Supreme
Court’s power to void the
decisions made by the
government, ministries and
elected officials by ruling them
Israel’s parliament has given unreasonable.
approval to a bill that would
Critics argue that such a law
limit the powers of the
can lead to corruption and
Supreme Court.
abuse of power.
The vote resulted in a 64 to
Proponents claim it will
56 majority in favour of the
facilitate effective governance
limits, with Prime Minister
by reducing court intervention.
Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right
Reactions and Concerns
governing coalition
about the Bill:
overpowering the opposition.
A video was released by
Anti-government protestors
Netanyahu to defend the bill,
were forcibly removed from the
claiming that it strengthens
building ahead of the vote
democracy without harming
which lead police complain
the court’s independence and
against them.
civil rights.
Objectives of the Bill:
 18

Opponents remained
unconvinced and continue to
voice their concerns.

Economic concerns were also

raised by the governor of bank
of Israel. UAE or United Arab Emirates
Israel, a Middle Eastern is participating with observer
country on the Mediterranean status in the plenary of the
Sea, is regarded by Jews, Asia/Pacific Group on Money
Christians and Muslims as the Laundering (APG), a Financial
biblical Holy Land. Its most Action Task Force-Style
sacred sites are in Jerusalem. regional body (FSRB), taking
place this week in Vancouver,
Capital: Jerusalem
Canada. The UAE is the first
Prime minister: Benjamin
Arab country to be granted
Netanyahu
observer status at the APG.
Official languages: Hebrew, The UAE has placed
Arabic international cooperation at the

UAE or United Arab Emirates heart of its strategy and plans

is participating with observer for countering money

status in the plenary of the laundering and the financing of

Asia/Pacific Group on Money terrorism. Observer status at

Laundering FSRB events is granted to

 19

countries that demonstrate an Money Laundering plenary is

active and collaborative also attended by key
approach to fighting financial international organisations
crime, which the UAE has such as the International
displayed through its Monetary Fund, World Bank,
participation in MENAFATF OECD, United Nations Office
and other multilateral on Drugs and Crime, the UN’s
organisations. Counter Terrorism Executive

About the Financial Action Directorate, the Asian

Development Bank,
Task Force-Style Regional
Commonwealth Secretariat,
Bodies (FSRBs):
Interpol, and the Egmont
Founded in 1997 and part of
Group of Financial Intelligence
the global network of similar
Units.
Financial Action Task Force-
UAE Capital: Abu Dhabi;
Style Regional Bodies
(FSRBs), the Asia/Pacific UAE Currency: United Arab
Group on Money Laundering is Emirates Dirham;
the largest in terms of
UAE Continent: Asia;
membership numbers and
UAE Prime minister:
geographical size.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al
In addition to observer Maktoum.
countries such as the UAE,
the Asia/Pacific Group on
 20

Jakarta, Indonesia – On the Indonesian Foreign Minister

sidelines of the 56th ASEAN Retno Marsudi, on behalf of
Foreign Ministers’ Meeting ASEAN, expressed her
(AMM) in Jakarta, Saudi appreciation to Saudi Arabia
Arabia has officially become for joining the treaty.
the 51st country to accede to
Welcoming Saudi Arabia to
the Treaty of Amity and
the ASEAN Family:
Cooperation
Foreign Minister Retno
Marsudi warmly welcomed
Saudi Arabia to the ASEAN
family, emphasizing the need
for all member countries to be
a positive force for peace,
stability, and prosperity in the
Jakarta, Indonesia – On the
Indo-Pacific region. The
sidelines of the 56th ASEAN
accession ceremony was
Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
witnessed by ASEAN Foreign
(AMM) in Jakarta, Saudi
Ministers and the ASEAN
Arabia has officially become
Secretary General.
the 51st country to accede to
the Treaty of Amity and Expanding the Reach of the

Cooperation (TAC). The TAC:

accession signing ceremony The signing of the TAC by

took place on July 12, and Saudi Arabia marks a
 21

significant milestone in making it the fifth-largest

expanding the reach
influence of the treaty beyond
ASEAN’s member countries.
Prior to Saudi Arabia, Ukraine
was the last country to accede
to the TAC in 2022. Notably,
Papua New Guinea was the
first country outside of ASEAN
and country in Asia, the second-
largest in the Arab world, and
the largest in West Asia and
the Middle East.
Capital: Riyadh
Currency: Saudi Riyal
King: Salman of Saudi Arabia

to accede to the TAC in 1989.

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to A private Chinese company

the TAC is expected to foster launched the World’s first
stronger ties between the methane-fuelled space rocket
Kingdom and ASEAN nations, into orbit named “Zhuque-2”.
contributing to regional peace,
stability, and cooperation in
the Indo-Pacific area.

Saudi Arabia, formally the

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a
country in West Asia. It covers
the bulk of the Arabian
A private Chinese company
Peninsula, and has a land
launched the World’s first
area of about 2150000 km²,
 22

methane-fuelled space rocket Zhuque-2 achieved the

into orbit named “Zhuque-2”. expected trajectory and
completed its flight according
The Zhuque-2 carrier rocket
to plan.
blasted off at 9:00A.M. (01:00
GMT) on 12th July from the About the Zhueque-2:
Jiuquan Satellite Launch
The Zhuque-2 is a Chinese
Centre in northwest China’s orbital class launching vehicle
Inner Mongolia Autonomous
developed by Landscape.
region and completed the flight
It is liquid-fuelled rocket
mission according to the
powered by liquid oxygen and
procedure.
liquid methane (methalox).
China’s Zhuque-2 has become
It is first methane-fuelled
the World’s first methane
rocket to reach orbit.
propelled rocket to
successfully fly into orbit. Zhuque-2 has a liftoff weight
of 216 metric tons and uses 4
This was Landscape’s second
TQ-12 methalox engines in the
attempt after a launch failed in
first stage with a thrust of 67
December.
metric tonnes.
This landmark achievement
The second stage utilizes one
signifies a paradigm shift in
optimized TQ-12 with a thrust
the race towards cleaner, safe
of 80 metric tonnes in
and reusable space travel
combination with an 8 metric
technology.
 23

tonnes thrust TQ-11 engine In a significant move, India

which acts as a vernier and Japan have solidified their
thruster. partnership by signing an
agreement to jointly develop
Zhuque-2 has a capability of
lifting 6,000 kg of payload into the semiconductor ecosystem.
The deal aims to bolster the
a 200 km low Earth orbit and
resilience of the global supply
4,000 kg of payload into a 500
km Sun-synchronous orbit. chain, particularly in the crucial
semiconductor industry. This
Zhuque-2 has also been
marks Japan as the second
launched on 14 December
Quad partner, after the United
2022 but it was a failure.
States, to join hands with India
In a significant move, India in this endeavor.
and Japan have solidified
Diverse Scope of
their partnership by signing
Cooperation:
an agreement to jointly
develop the semiconductor The memorandum signed by
Union Minister for Electronics
ecosystem
and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, and
Japan’s Minister of Economy,
Trade, and Industry, Yasutoshi
Nishimura, encompasses
various areas of collaboration.
 24

These include semiconductor significant talent growth across

design, manufacturing, multiple locations worldwide.
equipment research, and talent
Japan recognizes India’s
development.
complementary strengths and
The ultimate goal is to envisions a mutually beneficial
enhance the semiconductor partnership.
supply chain’s robustness and Transferring Key
ensure its reliability.
Technologies to India:
Japan’s Semiconductor
The collaboration between
Expertise: Japan and India holds
Japan’s prominence in the immense potential for India’s
semiconductor industry cannot semiconductor ambitions.
be understated. With
Japan boasts global leaders in
approximately 100
critical semiconductor
semiconductor manufacturing elements such as raw wafer
plants, it stands among the top
materials, chemicals, gases,
five countries with a robust
and lenses used in chip
semiconductor ecosystem. manufacturing equipment and
As the semiconductor industry display technologies.
is projected to grow from USD By transferring this valuable
650 billion to a staggering
knowledge and expertise to
USD 1 trillion, it necessitates
India, both nations hope to
 25

achieve a momentous first woman to serve as the

milestone in the semiconductor Chief of Naval Operations and
industry. member of Joint Chiefs of
Staffs.

Admiral Lisa Franchetti:

The nomination of Admiral
Lisa Franchetti served as Lisa Marie Franchetti is a
significant milestone in the United States Navy admiral
history of U.S. Navy, who serves as the 42nd Vice
becomes first woman to Chief of Naval Operations
serve as the Chief of Naval since September 2022 and
Operations and member of currently nominated as the first
Joint Chiefs of Staffs. woman to lead US Navy.

Franchetti previously served

as director for strategy, plans
and policies of the Joint Staff
from 2020 to 2022, the second
deputy chief of naval
operations for war-fighting
development in 2020 and
The nomination of Admiral commander of the United
Lisa Franchetti served as States Sixth Fleet from 2018
significant milestone in the to 2020. She was the second
history of U.S. Navy, becomes woman promoted to four-star
 26
admiral in the United States
Navy.
The United States Navy is the
maritime service branch of the
United States Armed Forces
and one of the eight uniformed
services of the United States.
Founded: 13 October 1775,
Pennsylvania, United States
Headquarters: The Pentagon
Colors: Blue and gold;
Chief of Naval Operations:
ADM Michael M. Gilday
The “V.C Yeshwant Ghadge
Sundial Memorial” was jointly
unveiled by the Commune of
Monotone in Italy and Italian
military historians at
Montone, Perugia, Italy.
“The “V.C Yeshwant Ghadge
Sundial Memorial” was jointly
unveiled by the Commune of
Monotone in Italy and Italian
military historians at Montone,
Perugia, Italy. This memorial
stands as a tribute to the valor
and sacrifices of the Indian
troops who fought in the Italian
Campaign during the Second
World War.
The memorial is dedicated in
honor of Naik Yeshwant
Ghadge, a recipient of the
Victoria Cross, who bravely
fought and laid down his life
during the intense battles in
 27

the heights of Upper Tiber prestigious honors earned by

Valley. Indian soldiers.

Memorial’s motto: However, this bravery came at

The memorial’s motto is a cost, as 23,722 Indian

soldiers were casualties,
“Omines Sub Eodem Sole”
including 5,782 who made the
which means “We all live
under the same sun” in ultimate sacrifice. Their
memory is honored and
English.
preserved in the 40
Indian Soldiers’ Heroic
Commonwealth War Graves
Contributions and Sacrifices
scattered throughout Italy.”
in the Italian Campaign of
Strengthening the Historical
World War II:
Bond between India and Italy:
During the Second World War,
The unveiling of the Yeshwant
the Italian Campaign
witnessed a significant Ghadge sundial memorial will
strengthen the special
contribution from Indian
historical bond between India
Soldiers, with over 50,000
serving in the 4th, 8th, and and Italy. As part of the
ceremony, a commemorative
10th Divisions. Their
postcard was also launched,
remarkable efforts led to the
awarding of 20 Victoria and the event was honored by
the presence of distinguished
Crosses, with six of these
guests from the Italian
 28

government, military, military strictly prohibits individuals

historians, and citizens. from officially or medically
changing their gender, further
Chief of the Defence Staff of
marginalizing Russia’s
Italy: Admiral Giuseppe Cavo
Dragone embattled LGBTQ+ population.

Comprehensive Ban on
Chief of Defence Staff of the
Indian Armed Forces: General Gender Changes and More:

Anil Chauhan The new legislation imposes a

comprehensive ban on various
aspects related to gender
Russian President Vladimir
changes.
Putin has signed a new
legislation that deals a It prohibits any medical
interventions aimed at altering
significant blow to the
a person’s sex and also bars
LGBTQ+ community in the
country. individuals from changing their
gender in official documents or
public records.

Only medical intervention to

treat congenital anomalies will
be allowed under the new law.

The act, passed unanimously Furthermore, the legislation

by both houses of parliament, goes beyond restricting gender
 29

changes and extends its Prime Minister: Mikhail

impact to marriages and family Mishustin
planning.

It annuls marriages in which Cambodia’s Prime Minister,

one of the partners has
Hun Sen recently announced
undergone a gender change,
his decision to step down and
and it outright prevents appoint his eldest son, Hun
transgender individuals from
Manet, as the new prime
becoming foster or adoptive
minister.
parents.

Russia or the Russian

Federation is a
transcontinental country
spanning Eastern Europe and
Northern Asia. It is the largest
country in the world by area,
Despite leaving the prime
its vast landmass stretching
ministerial position, Hun Sen
over the easternmost part of
will continue to hold leadership
Europe and the northernmost
roles as the head of the ruling
part of Asia.
Cambodian People’s Party and
Capital: Moscow as a member of the National

President: Vladimir Putin Assembly.

 30

Hun Manet, currently the Hun Sen’s Legacy in

deputy commander-in-chief of
the armed forces, will assume
the role of the new prime
minister on August 22,2023.
Hun Sen’s Political Journey
in Cambodia:
Hun Sen received
education at a Buddhist
monastery in Phnom Penh, the
capital of Cambodia. During
Cambodia:
Hun Sen’s 38-year tenure in
power is recognized for
achieving peace and elevating
Cambodia to a middle-income
status, enhancing healthcare,
education, and infrastructure.
his
Throughout his rule, he has
persistently strived to foster
national reconciliation.

the late 1960s, he became a Furthermore, he has not faced

member of the Communist any accusations of corruption
Party of Kampuchea, and in within his ranks, despite
1970, he joined the Khmer claims made over the years by
Rouge, a name given to opposition politicians, rights
members of the Communist groups, and environmental
Party of Kampuchea. He activists.
later took on the position of King of Cambodia: Norodom
Minister of Foreign Affairs after
Sihamoni
installation of a new
James Ferguson ‘Jim’ Skea
government by the
of the United Kingdom was
Vietnamese in 1979.
elected as the new chair of
 31

the Intergovernmental Panel established in 1988. It is a

on Climate Change (IPCC), in scientific organization
Nairobi, Kenya. responsible for assessing and
providing objective information
on climate change, its impacts,
and potential adaptation and
mitigation strategies.

The IPCC operates through

the collaboration of thousands
Skea beat his nearest rival, of scientists from around the
Thelma Krug of Brazil, in a world who volunteer to
run-off. He won 90 votes while contribute their expertise and
Krug won 69. Krug, an IPCC research. These scientists
vice-chair and former review and assess the latest
researcher at Brazil’s national scientific literature to produce
space institute, narrowly comprehensive assessment
missed a chance to be the first reports.
female chair of the IPCC. The IPCC’s assessment
Intergovernmental Panel on reports serve as a crucial
Climate Change (IPCC): basis for policymakers and
governments to make informed
The Intergovernmental Panel
decisions on climate-related
on Climate Change (IPCC) is
policies and actions. These
a United Nations body
 32

reports highlight the state of

climate science, potential risks,
and possible pathways to
address the challenges posed
by climate change.

Founded: 1988;

Founder: Bert Bolin;

Headquarters:Geneva,
Switzerland.
 33

National: - confirmed by a senior official

from KAPP.

Alongside the successful

India’s first indigenously
developed 700 MW nuclear launch of KAPP-3, various
commissioning activities are
power Plant:
currently underway at KAPP 4,
another domestically built 700
MW pressurized heavy water
reactor (PHWR) at the
Kakrapar site. Officials report
that KAPP 4 has achieved a
India’s first indigenously remarkable progress rate of
developed 700 MW nuclear 96.92 percent as of May.
power reactor at the Kakrapar
Expanding Nuclear Energy
Atomic Power Project (KAPP)
Infrastructure:
in Gujarat has successfully
commenced commercial The Nuclear Power

operations, marking a Corporation of India Limited

significant milestone in the (NPCIL) is spearheading the

country’s nuclear energy development of two 700 MW

sector. The reactor, known as PHWRs at Kakrapar, which is

KAPP-3, began operating at already home to two 220 MW

90 percent of its total power power plants. The NPCIL has

capacity on June 30, 2023, as ambitious plans to construct a

 34

total of sixteen 700 MW Prime Minister Narendra Modi

PHWRs across the country virtually inaugurated the Sai
and has received financial and Hira Global Convention
administrative sanction for the Centre in Puttaparthi, Andhra
initiative. Construction work is Pradesh.
currently underway at
Rawatbhata in Rajasthan
(RAPS 7 and 8) and
Gorakhpur in Haryana
(GHAVP 1 and 2) to establish
700 MW nuclear power plants.

Gujarat is a state along the The grand event witnessed the

western coast of India. Its presence of prominent
coastline of about 1,600 km is dignitaries and devotees from
the longest in the country, around the world. The
most of which lies on the Convention Centre,
Kathiawar peninsula. constructed by the Sri Sathya
Sai Central Trust, stands as a
Capital: Gandhinagar
testament to the vision of
Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai
promoting cultural exchange,
Patel
spirituality, and global
Governor: Acharya Devvrat harmony.

Founded: 1 May 1960

 35

A Symbol of ‘Kartavya Kaal’ comfortable accommodation

and India’s Journey Towards facilities. It provides an ideal
100 Years of Independence: setting for individuals seeking
spiritual solace and a space
The Prime Minister
emphasized that the next 25 for intellectual exchange. The
centre’s design harmoniously
years of India’s Independence
blends traditional spiritual
would be regarded as the
“Kartavya Kaal” (Era of aesthetics with contemporary

Duties). As the nation strives architecture, creating an

atmosphere of tranquility and
towards achieving 100 years
inspiration.
of independence, PM Modi
proclaimed that the ‘Amrit Andhra Pradesh is a state in
Kaal’ has been rechristened as the southern coastal region of
‘Kartavya Kaal.’ He reiterated India. It is the seventh-largest
the country’s commitment to state with an area of 162,970
fulfilling its duties and km².
responsibilities. Capital: Amaravati
Magnificent Facilities and
Chief minister: YS Jagan
Serene Environment: Mohan Reddy
The Sai Hira Global
Governor: S. Abdul Nazeer
Convention Centre features
Founded: 1 November 1956
magnificent meditation halls,
serene gardens, and
 36

The foundation stone-laying Development Association

ceremony of Shri Motibhai R. (DURDA), an entity of Dudh
Chaudhary Sagar Sainik Sagar Dair
School in Boriyavi village of
Increasing Opportunities:
Mehsana, Gujarat marked a
The academic year 2022-2023
significant milestone in the
witnessed the enrollment of 50
education sector.
students, comprising 46 boys
and 4 girls, in the prestigious
Sagar Sainik School. Building
upon this success, the school
has expanded its capacity for
the academic year 2023-2024.
The number of seats has been
This ground-breaking project,
increased to 80, with a
inaugurated virtually by Union
significant step toward
Home Minister Amit Shah, is
inclusivity being the
set to become the first Sainik
introduction of a 10 percent
School in India to be operated
reservation for girls. This move
by a cooperative organization.
not only promotes gender
With an estimated cost of Rs
equality but also opens doors
75 crore and spread across 11
for more aspiring young
acres of land, the school is
women to receive military
being managed by Dudh
Sagar Research and
 37

training and academic • Sainik Schools are

excellence. English medium
residential schools
Collaborative Government:
affiliated to: Central Board
The foundation stone-laying
of Secondary Education
ceremony also showcased the
(CBSE)
unified efforts of the state
• Sainik Schools prepare
government. Chief Minister
Cadets to join the:
Bhupendra Patel, Health
National Defence
Minister Rishikesh Patel,
Academy
Industries Minister Balwant
• Sainik Schools were
Singh Rajput, and Cooperation
started in: 1961
Minister Jagdish Panchal were
present at the ceremony,
emphasizing the government’s The DGFT (Directorate
commitment to providing General of Foreign Trade)
quality education and fostering has issued a notification
the growth of young individuals declaring that the import of
in Gujarat. Their presence and potatoes from Bhutan will
support demonstrate the continue without the need for
collaborative approach taken an import license until June
to ensure the success of Shri 30, 2024.
Motibhai R. Chaudhary Sagar
Sainik School.
 38

However, in light of recent

developments, the Ministry of
Commerce and Industry has
extended the period for
importing Potatoes from
Bhutan without any license.
This decision aims to maintain
The Ministry’s notification
a steady supply of potatoes
outlines the specific changes
while fostering bilateral trade
in the import policy for
relations between the two
Potatoes. According to the
countries. Additionally, the
amendment, the revised policy
DGFT has also facilitated the
now allows businesses to
import of fresh areca nut from
import Potatoes from Bhutan
Bhutan and outlined a
without an import license until
procedure for the allocation of
June 30, 2024. This extension
quota for the export of broken
provides clarity and eliminates
rice.
the need for additional
Background of the Import
documentation and
Policy:
requirements.
Under the previous import
Legal Framework and
policy, the import of Potatoes
Rationale:
from Bhutan was allowed
The amendment aligns with
freely without an import
the powers granted by the
license until June 30, 2023.
 39

Foreign Trade (Development &

Regulation) Act, 1992, and the
Foreign Trade Policy, 2023.
These regulations empower
the Ministry of Commerce and
Industry to modify and update
import policies to facilitate Research Affiliate
trade and ensure the smooth programme. This innovative
flow of imports. scheme aims to strengthen

Prime minister of Bhutan: NLU Delhi’s commitment to

Lotay Tshering collaboration and draw upon

the expertise and diverse
India’s largest potato-
perspectives of individuals
producing state: Uttar
without traditional law degrees.
Pradesh
By actively seeking
Minister of Commerce & partnerships outside the
Industry: Piyush Goyal university, NLU Delhi intends
National Law University to develop high-quality legal
(NLU), Delhi, has recently scholarship that encompasses
introduced a pioneering a broader range of
academic initiative called experiences and knowledge.
‘Eklavya

Benefits and Opportunities:

 40

NLU Delhi aims to narrow the and research facilities

divide between legal academia available at NLU Delhi.
and individuals involved in
Networking: Connect with a
diverse aspects of the law
diverse community of legal
beyond the University. By professionals, policymakers,
participating in the ‘Eklavya’
and researchers through
Research Affiliate programme,
seminars, conferences, and
individuals gain access to a workshops.
range of benefits and
Publication Opportunities:
opportunities, including:
Contribute to the development
Collaboration: Engage with of legal scholarship through
NLU Delhi’s faculty,
research papers, articles, and
researchers, and scholars to
publications.
foster interdisciplinary research
• Minister of Law &
collaborations.
Justice: Arjun Ram
Mentorship: Receive guidance Meghwal
and mentorship from
experienced academics and
legal experts affiliated with Shri Amit Shah, the Union

NLU Delhi. Home Minister and Minister

of Cooperation, officially
Resources: Access the
inaugurated the CRCS –
extensive library resources
 41

Sahara Refund Portal in New Trial Run Commences for

Delhi. Returning Rs. 5,000 Crore to
Investors:

The transparent process of

returning Rs. 5,000 crore to
investors commenced as a
trial run. Once the payment of
This user-friendly portal has Rs. 5,000 crore is successfully
been specifically designed to completed, further steps will
facilitate genuine depositors of be taken to appeal to the
Cooperative Societies of Supreme Court for the return
Sahara Group, including of funds to the remaining
Sahara Credit Cooperative investors.
Society Limited, Saharayan
The Union Home Minister and
Universal Multipurpose Society
Minister of Cooperation
Limited, Hamara India Credit
emphasized that this portal
Cooperative Society Limited,
enables the initial payment, up
and Stars Multipurpose
to Rs. 10,000, to be made to
Cooperative Society Limited,
one crore investors who had
to submit their claims
deposited Rs. 10,000 or more
conveniently.
in these cooperative societies.

The portal provides

comprehensive online data for
 42

applying, ensuring a
streamlined and efficient India has donated $1 million
process. Additionally, strict
to the United Nations to
provisions have been
support the promotion of the
implemented to prevent any Hindi language.
manipulation or injustice
towards genuine investors,
ensuring utmost fairness and
security throughout the
procedure. The portal is also
accessible through the Ministry
of Cooperation‘s website.
Melissa Fleming, the Global
Minister for Union Ministry of Communications under-
Cooperation: Amit Shah secretary-general, expressed

Sahara India Pariwar is an gratitude to

Indian conglomerate @IndiaUNNewYork and

headquartered in Lucknow, @ruchirakamboj for their

Uttar Pradesh, India. generous investment in the

@UNinHindi service, aimed at
Owner: Subrata Roy
delivering UN news and
Founder: Subrata Roy
stories to Hindi-speaking
Headquarters: Lucknow audiences in India and

Founded: 1978, Gorakhpur beyond.

 43

India’s Commitment to became the first Indian official

Promote Hindi at the UN: to address the UN in Hindi
when he served as the
India’s Permanent
external affairs minister.
Representative, Ruchira
Kamboj, presented the The Multilingual Nature of the
donation cheque and UN:
reaffirmed India’s commitment The United Nations initially
to promoting the use of Hindi
began with three widely
at the United Nations.
spoken languages: English,
She highlighted the efforts French, and Spanish, carried
made by the UN to over from its predecessor, the
mainstream and consolidate League of Nations, along with
news and multimedia content Russian and Chinese, the
in Hindi, which have been languages of the two
well-received both in India and permanent members. Arabic
among Hindi-speaking was later added as an official
populations in other countries. language in 1973.

Historical Significance of The United Nations, referred

Hindi at the UN: to informally as the UN, is an
intergovernmental organization
The introduction of Hindi at the
UN can be attributed to former whose stated purposes are to
maintain international peace
Prime Minister Atal Bihari
and security, develop friendly
Vajpayee, who, in 1977,
 44

relations among nations, an initiative spearheaded by

achieve international the Japanese Ministry of
cooperation, and serve as a Economy, Trade and Industry
centre for harmonizing the (METI) to promote sustainable
actions of nations. transition finance in Asian
countries. By becoming a part
Founded: 24 October 1945,
of this initiative, PFC will not
United States
only contribute India’s
Headquarters: New York,
perspective but also
United States
collaborate on devising policy
Secretary‑General: António considerations to facilitate
Guterres efficient energy transition

Power Finance Corporation financing.

Ltd (PFC) has achieved a Asia Transition Finance

milestone by becoming the Study Group (ATFSG):
first Indian participant in the
ATFSG was launched in
Asia Transition Finance
October 2021, by private
Study Group
financial institutions, with the
clear aim of presenting and
disseminating the concept of
Asian transition finance,
building upon the principles
outlined in the Asia Energy
 45

Transition Initiative (AETI). Nagaland’s first female Rajya

Japan’s Asia Energy Transition Sabha MP, achieved a
Initiative (AETI) has been historic feat as she took on
launched to help countries in the role of presiding over the
the Asia-Pacific region achieve Rajya Sabha
net-zero emissions.

Power Finance Corporation

Ltd. is an Indian central public
sector undertaking under the
ownership of the Ministry of
Power, Government of India.
Established in 1986, it is the This remarkable milestone in

financial backbone of Indian her political journey marks her

power sector. as the first woman from

Nagaland to assume this
Founded: July 1986
prestigious position.
Headquarters: New Delhi,
S. Phangnon Konyak:
India
Pioneering Politician from
Key people: Ravinder Singh Nagaland Making Historic
Dhillon, (Chairman & MD) Strides:

S. Phangnon Konyak, an
S Phangnon Konyak, a Indian politician hailing from
distinguished BJP leader and Nagaland, holds the position of
 46

State President of BJP Mahila Nationalist Democratic

Morcha in her region. In a Progressive Party, became the
historic moment, she earned first women candidates to be
the distinction of being the first elected in the state assembly
woman from Nagaland to election. This achievement
secure a seat as a Member of holds particular significance as
Parliament in the Rajya it marks the first time in 60
Sabha. years since Nagaland attained

In addition to being the first statehood that two women

candidates have been elected.
female Rajya Sabha MP in
April 2022, S. Phangnon Nagaland is a mountainous
Konyak achieved another state in northeast India,
groundbreaking milestone on bordering Myanmar. It's home
July 17, 2023, by becoming to diverse indigenous tribes,
the inaugural woman member with festivals and markets
to be appointed to the panel celebrating the different tribes'
of vice-chairpersons. culture. Its capital city of
Kohima suffered heavy fighting
Female Leaders from
in World War II,
Nagaland:
commemorated by memorials
Earlier this year on 7 March,
at the Kohima War Cemetery.
Salhoutuonuo Kruse and
Hekani Jakhalu, both Capital: Kohima

representing the ruling Chief minister: Neiphiu Rio

 47

Formation: 1 December 1963 The idea for the alliance

India has recently launched originated in July 2019, when

Prime Minister Modi called for
the International Big Cat
a coalition of global leaders to
Alliance (IBCA) with the aim
of conserving seven major join forces against poaching
and illegal wildlife trade in
big cat species on Earth.
Asia on Global Tiger Day. The
Inspired by the success of
Project Tiger establishment of the
International Big Cat Alliance
is a testament to the
commitment to this initiative’s
principles. According to Modi,
the alliance will play a vital
role in mobilizing financial and
technical resources to support
the entire ecosystem
which has contributed to India
associated with big cats,
being home to 70% of the
thereby ensuring their
world’s tigers, the IBCA will
conservation and protection.
focus on protecting and
conserving key big cat Aim of IBCA:

species, including Tiger, Lion, The alliance aims to reach out

Leopard, Snow Leopard, to 97 range countries covering
Puma, Jaguar, and Cheetah. the natural habitats. IBCA
 48

would further strengthen global between governments, NGOs,

cooperation and efforts to and the private sector to
conserve the wild denizens, create sustainable solutions for
especially the big cats. conservation.

Significance of big cat’s The launch of IBCA marks a

alliance: significant step towards the

The alliance seeks to bring conservation of these

magnificent animals, as their
together countries,
populations face
conservationists, and
unprecedented threats from
experts from around the world
to collaborate on conservation habitat loss, poaching, and
human-animal conflicts.
efforts for these seven big cat
species.

Through IBCA, India hopes to PM Modi during his visit in

share knowledge, expertise, Rajasthan launched a new
and best practices in type of Urea called “Urea
conserving these species with Gold” which is coated with
other countries that have sulphur that can help improve
significant big cat populations, the soil quality and reduce
such as Indonesia, Brazil, the expenses of the farmers.
and South Africa.

The alliance also aims to

facilitate collaborations
 49

and efficient than neem-coated

urea. Urea Gold will ensure
improved nitrogen use
efficiency, reduced
consumption and enhanced
crop quality.
PM Modi during his visit in
Sikar, Rajasthan states that Urea Gold is better than

the government will not allow other fertilizers:

the farmers to suffer due to Sulphur coated urea facilitates

the prices of Urea, farmers in a gradual release of nitrogen,
India will get a sack of urea thereby enhancing its
of Rs.226, it is available for availability and uptake by
about Rs.800 in Pakistan, for crops.
Rs.720 in Bangladesh and
The inclusion of humid acid in
Rs.2100 in China.
Urea Gold further increases its
Urea Gold: lifespan as a fertilizer.

Urea Gold is a new variety of This product not only

Urea that is coated with substitutes traditional urea
sulphur, which is expected to consumption but also reduces
address sulphur deficiencies in overall fertilizer usage.
the soil. Urea Gold which is
According to the report, 15kg
considered as “innovative
of Urea Gold provides
fertilizer” is more economical
 50

comparable benefits to 20kg of and to information regarding

conventional urea, making it a various government schemes.
more efficient and effective
choice for farmers.
The Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha
Other Pro-Farmer projects
Samagam 2023, graced by
launched in Rajasthan:
Prime Minister Narendra
PM Modi also released the Modi, witnessed the
14th instalment of PM-KISAN inauguration of the ULLAS
Scheme and inaugurated a
slew of projects in the poll-
bound state. He also launched
the onboarded 1,500 FPOs on
Open Network for Digital
Communication (ONDC). PM
Modi also dedicated 1.25 lakh Nav Bharat Saksharta
PM Kisan Samriddhi Kendras Karyakram at Bharat
(PMKSKs). PMKSKs are being Mandapam, Pragati Maidan,
developed to provide a one- New Delhi. The initiative,
stop solution for all farmers’ introduced by Union Minister
needs from information on Dharmendra Pradhan, aims to
agri-inputs to testing facilities revolutionize education and
for soil, seeds and fertilizers literacy in India by creating a
comprehensive learning
 51

ecosystem that bridges gaps and above who have missed

in basic literacy and critical life the opportunity to attend
skills. It coincided with the formal schooling. By reaching
third anniversary of NEP 2020. out to this demographic, the

ULLAS – Empowering program aims to extend

education and literacy to
Education and Literacy:
marginalized sections of
Comprehensive Learning
society.
Ecosystem: The ULLAS
Digital Gateway with DIKSHA
initiative aims to provide a
Portal: The ULLAS mobile app
comprehensive learning
ecosystem that caters to the serves as a digital gateway,
connecting learners with
needs of every individual. It
diverse educational resources
focuses on promoting
functional literacy, vocational through the DIKSHA portal of
NCERT. This ensures that
skills, and essential life skills,
learners have access to a
such as financial literacy, legal
literacy, and digital literacy. wide range of quality learning
materials.
Moreover, it empowers citizens
to actively participate in The Ministry of Education is
nation-building. a ministry of the Government
of India, responsible for the
Target Audience: The ULLAS
mobile application is primarily implementation of the National
Policy on Education.
designed for citizens aged 15
 52

Officeholders: Dharmendra on the average wealth of

Pradhan (Union Minister), MLAs, the percentage of
Rajkumar Ranjan Singh billionaire MLAs, and the
(Minister of State) representation of women in

Founded: 1985 state assemblies.

According to the ADR report,

Karnataka emerges as the
state with the highest the average assets of an MLA
in India stand at Rs 13.63
average assets per MLA and
crore. This figure represents
the highest number of
the collective wealth of MLAs
billionaire MLAs
across the country, indicating
a significant financial standing.

Among the analyzed states,

Karnataka tops the list with
223 MLAs having an average
wealth of Rs 64.39 crores.
While Uttar Pradesh lags
This substantial average asset
behind in both categories. The
value sets Karnataka apart
Association for Democratic
from other states.
Reforms (ADR) recently
conducted a comprehensive Tripura and West Bengal at

analysis of the assets of MLAs the Bottom of the List:

from various political parties in Tripura and West Bengal have

India. The report sheds light the lowest average assets per
 53

MLA. Tripura’s 59 MLAs Congress party, 33 (5 percent)

possess an average wealth of are billionaires, while 132 out
Rs 1.54 crores, while West of 134 winners are crorepatis
Bengal’s 293 MLAs have an (with assets over one crore)
average of Rs 2.80 crores. with an average declared
wealth of Rs 67.13 crore.
The ADR report highlights that
Similarly, out of the 1,356
88 (2 percent) out of 4,001
MLAs from various state MLAs affiliated with the BJP,

assemblies are billionaires. 24 (2 percent) are billionaires,

and 63 out of 66 winners are
Karnataka leads in this
crorepatis, with an average
category as well, with 32 (14
percent) out of its 223 MLAs wealth of Rs 44.36 crore.

being billionaires. Uttar Women Representation in

Pradesh, on the other hand, State Assemblies:
has only 1 (0.25 percent)
The ADR analysis found that
billionaire MLA out of 403
378 (9 percent) out of 4,001
analyzed. MLAs are women. Among
Congress and BJP with High states, Uttar Pradesh has the
Number of Crorepati MLAs: highest number of women
MLAs, with 48 (12 percent),
The report delves into the
followed by West Bengal with
wealth distribution among
political parties. Out of the 719 41 (14 percent), and Bihar
with 28 (12 percent).
MLAs analyzed from the
 54

Comparison with Previous

Years:

The report also compares the

current average assets of
MLAs with data from previous
years. It reveals a significant
increase in the average wealth
of MLAs over time, with the
average assets rising from Rs
34.59 crore in 2018 to Rs
64.39 crore in 2023.
 55

Appointments: - position him well to steer Audi

into a successful future.

Audi’s Challenges in Key

German luxury carmaker Audi
AG has announced the Markets:

appointment of Gernot Audi is struggling to keep up

Dollner as its new CEO. with rivals BMW and
Mercedes-Benz in terms of
software advancements and e-
mobility which has raised
doubts about the company’s
ability to uphold its famous
slogan, “Vorsprung durch
Dollner, currently heading
Technik” (progress through
Volkswagen Group’s Product
technology). Industry insiders
and Group Strategy, will
have voiced concerns about
succeed Markus Duesmann as
Audi’s software issues, which
Chairman of the Board of
have already led to the
Management. The move is
delayed launch of the electric
aimed at further strengthening
e-tron.
the company’s product
strategy and market position. Audi AG is a German

Dollner’s extensive experience automotive manufacturer of

and leadership qualities luxury vehicles headquartered

in Ingolstadt, Bavaria,
 56

Germany. As a subsidiary of This decision comes ahead of

its parent company, the the crucial 13th ministerial
Volkswagen Group, Audi conference of the WTO in
produces vehicles in nine 2024. Navnit’s extended term
production facilities worldwide. demonstrates India’s
commitment to promoting its
Parent organization:
key priorities on the global
Volkswagen Group
trade stage.
Founder: August Horch
Brajendra Navnit assumed
Founded: 16 July 1909,
office as India’s Ambassador
Zwickau, Germany
to the WTO in June 2020, with
Indian government his initial tenure scheduled to
announced the extension of end on June 28, 2023.
Brajendra Navnit’s tenure as However, the government’s
Ambassador and Permanent recent decision has extended
Representative of India to the his term until March 31, 2024
World Trade Organization which reflects the recognition
(WTO) by nine months. of his valuable contributions
and the need for continuity
during critical negotiations.The
Appointments Committee of
Cabinet (ACC) has also
approved the proposal of
 57

Department of Commerce for

extension in tenure of foreign
deputation of Brajendra Navnit.

• World Trade Organization

was founded on 1
January 1995 & is Mehta’s reappointment, along

headquartered at Geneva, with six other law officers, was

Switzerland. announced after their previous

• Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is terms in the Supreme Court

the Director General of concluded. The ACC’s

the World Trade decision reflects the

Organisation. government’s trust in their

• 13th Ministerial capabilities to handle the

Conference will take extensive legal matters faced

place in Abu Dhabi in by the country.

February 2024. Extension of Term for

Additional Solicitor Generals:

Tushar Mehta, the incumbent In addition to Tushar Mehta,

Solicitor General of India, has six other law officers have

been reappointed for a three- been granted extensions as

year term by the Additional Solicitor Generals

Appointments Committee of (ASGs) in the Supreme Court,

Cabinet. however their duration of

 58

terms are yet to be issued. and his reappointment

These ASGs include demonstrates the
Vikramjeet Banerjee, KM government’s satisfaction with
Nataraj, Balbir Singh, his performance during his
Suryaprakash V Raju, N tenure. The office of the
Venkatraman, and Aishwarya Solicitor General handles a
Bhati. The ACC’s decision to significant portion of the
extend their terms underscores central government’s litigation
the importance of their across the country, making it
expertise and contributions to a vital position in the legal
the defense of the system.
government’s interests in • Appointments Committee
complex legal matters.
of the Cabinet (ACC) was
Solicitor General’s Role: formed on January 26,
1950.
As the highest law officer in
• Union Minister for ACC is
the country after the Attorney
General, the Solicitor General Amit Shah.
• Narendra Modi is the
plays a crucial role in
Chairperson of ACC.
representing the government’s
interests in various legal • Solicitor General is the
second-highest law officer
matters. Tushar Mehta has
of the country.
been serving as the Solicitor
General since October 2018,
 59

• R. Venkataramani is the achieve its production targets

current Attorney General in the fiscal year 2022-23.
for India.
Formation of Coal India
Limited:

P M Prasad, who currently With dawn of the Indian

serves as the Chairman-cum- independence a greater need
Managing Director of Central for coal production was felt in
Coalfields Limited. the First Five Year Plan. In
1951 the Working Party for the
coal Industry was set up which
included representatives of
coal industry, labour unions
and government which
suggested the amalgamation
CCL has been appointed as
of small and fragmented
the Chairman-cum-Managing
producing units. Thus the idea
Director of Coal India Limited
for a nationalized unified coal
(CIL), a Schedule ‘A’ Central
sector was born. Integrated
Public Sector Enterprise
overall planning in coal mining
(CPSE). Prior to his new role,
is a post-independence
Prasad successfully led CCL,
phenomenon. National Coal
a subsidiary of Coal India,
Development Corporation was
located in Jharkhand, to
formed with 11 collieries with
 60

the task of exploring new Organization has been re-

coalfields and expediting elected as a Director General
development of new coal of United Nations Food and
mines. Agriculture Organization

Coal India Limited is an

Indian central public sector
undertaking under the
ownership of the Ministry of
Coal, Government of India. It
is headquartered at Kolkata. It
is the largest government- FAO held at FAO’s
owned-coal-producer in the headquarter, Rome began on
world. Saturday i.e. 1st July, 2023. In
this conference of FAO Qu-
CEO: Pramod Agrawal (1 Feb
Dongyu was re-elected as a
2020–)
Director General of United
Founder: Government of India
Nations Food and Agriculture
Director: Pramod Agrawal Organization (FAO).

Founded: November 1975 In 2019, Qu-Dongyu was

elected as the head of the UN
agency and he is the first
The 43rd session of
Chinese national to serve in
conference of United Nation
the position.
Food and Agriculture
 61

Since assuming office, Qu- • FAO is specialised

Dongyu had actively led the agency of United Nations.
FAO to address the challenges • Establishment: FAO is
in global food security and established 16 October,
contribute to the food and 1945.
agriculture development of all • Headquarter: Headquarter
countries, especially of FAO is situated at
developing countries. Rome, Italy.

His efforts have been • Parent Organization:

United Nation Economic
recognised by FAO member
and Social Council.
nations and re-elected him as
the Director General of the • FAO comprises of 195
members including 194
FAO by getting 168 votes out
countries and European
of 182 votes. Qu was re-
elected as Director General of Union.

FAO for the term of 4 years

commencing on August 1.

Food and Agricultural

State Bank of India, the
Organization (FAO) is an largest lender in the country,
international body which deals
has recently announced the
with food security, hunger and
appointment of Kameshwar
nutrition at global level. Rao Kodavanti
 62

extensive expertise in various

domains of banking and
financial operations over the
years. His diverse experience
positions him well to steer
SBI’s financial strategy and
contribute to the bank’s
as its Chief Financial Officer
continued growth and success.
as Charanjit Surinder Singh
Attra, the former CFO, State Bank of India is an
resigned from the post. Indian multinational public
Kodavanti, who has been sector bank and financial
associated with SBI since services statutory body
1991, brings a wealth of headquartered in Mumbai,
experience in banking, forex, Maharashtra.
finance, and accounting to his Managing directors: Challa
new role. Sreenivasulu Setty
Kameshwar Rao Kodavanti’s Founded: 1 July 1955
appointment as CFO of SBI
The Board of Control of
marks a significant milestone
Cricket (BCCI) has appointed
in his long and successful
Ajit Agarkar as the chairman
career within the banking
of the Senior Men’s Cricket
industry. Having joined SBI in
Selection Committee.
August 1991, he has garnered
 63

appointment of Ajit Agarkar

comes at a crucial juncture as
Team India is recovering from
the massive defeat in World
Test Championship Finals and
is preparing for the ICC World
Cup 2023 in October-
The decision was made by the
November.
Cricket Advisory Committee
(CAC), consisting of The former India all-rounder

Sulakshana Naik, Ashok represented the country in 26

Malhotra, and Jatin Paranjape. Tests, 191 ODIs, and four

After interviewing several T20Is, in addition to playing

applicants for the position the 110 first-class, 270 List A, and

CAC unanimously decided to 62 T20 matches. As a former

appoint Ajit Agarkar as the fast bowler, he was part of

chairman. India’s victorious squad in the

inaugural T20 World Cup held
Now committee consists:
in South Africa in 2007.
The Senior Men’s Selection
The Board of Control for
Committee now consists of Ajit
Cricket (BCCI) in India is the
Agarkar (Chairperson), Shiv
national governing body of
Sundar Das, Subroto
Cricket in India. Its
Banerjee, Salil Ankola, and
headquarters is situated at the
Sridharan Sharath. The
 64

Cricket centre in Churchgate, leader joins from JCPenney,

Mumbai. The BCCI is the where she has served as the
wealthiest governing body of managing director and
cricket in the world. member of the Board for

President: Roger Binny JCPenney in India.

Lloyds Banking Group:

Founded: December 1928
Lloyds Banking Group is a
British financial institution
Lloyds Banking Group, one of
formed through the acquisition
the leading UK-based
of HBOS by Lloyds TSB in
financial services groups has
2009. It is one of the UK’s
appointed Sirisha Voruganti
largest financial services
organisations, with 30 million
customers and 65,000
employees. Lloyds Bank was
founded in 1765 but the wider
Group’s heritage extends over
the chief executive officer and 320 years, dating back to the
managing director of its new founding of the Bank of
Lloyds Technology Centre, Scotland by the Parliament of
based in Hyderabad, India. Scotland in 1695.
Voruganti, a globally renowned
• Headquarters: Edinburgh,
technology and innovation
United Kingdom;
 65

• Chairman: Robin In his new role, Mishra will

Budenberg; lead the strategy and
• Founded: 19 January operations of FPSB India and
2009. champion the advancement of

The Financial Planning the financial planning

profession in India. With over
Standards Board (FPSB) of
20 years of experience, Mishra
India has appointed Krishan
Mishra as Chief Executive has held a variety of

Officer leadership positions including

Country Head-International
Business (India and South
Asia) of Becker Professional
Education, Head of North and
East India of Association of
Chartered Certified
Accountants, and Regional
CEO effective 1 August 2023.
Head (East) and Business
FPSB India is the Indian
Head-Channel Business at
subsidiary of FPSB, the global
HCL Infosystems.
standards-setting body for the
About the Financial Planning
financial planning profession
Standards Board:
and owner of the international
Certified Financial Planner The Financial Planning
(CFP) certification program. Standards Board (FPSB) is a
 66

global non-profit organization Vasudevan as executive

that sets and upholds director.
standards for the financial
planning profession. It serves
as an international authority on
professional standards, ethics,
and competency for financial
planners worldwide.
His appointment is effective
The primary mission of the
from July 03, 2023. The
FPSB is to benefit the global
Reserve Bank in a statement
public by establishing,
said Vasudevan will look after
promoting, and enforcing
Department of Currency
professional standards for
Management, Corporate
financial planning. It seeks to
Strategy and Budget
ensure that individuals and
Department (Areas other than
organizations providing
that of Budget & Funds) and
financial planning services
Enforcement Department. Prior
adhere to a consistent set of
to being promoted as
ethical principles and
executive director, Vasudevan
competency requirements.
was the Chief General
Manager-in-charge of the
The Reserve Bank of India Department of Payment and
(RBI) has appointed P. Settlement Systems.
 67

About the P. Vasudevan: Government of India. It is

Vasudevan holds a Bachelor’s responsible for the control,

issue and maintaining supply
Degree in Commerce and is a
of the Indian rupee.
Fellow of the Institute of Cost
Accountants of India. He has Headquarters: Mumbai,
a Master’s Degree in Finance Maharashtra
and Certifications in Established: 1 April 1935
Information Systems Audit
Ownership: Ministry of
(CISA), Information Security
Finance, Government of India
Management (CISM) and
Fintech (National University of Governor: Shaktikanta Das,

Singapore). He is a Certified IAS (Retd.)

Associate of the Indian Asics India Private Limited, a

Institute of Bankers (CAIIB) sports gear company, has
and an alumnus of the appointed actorress
Wharton School. Shraddha Kapoor as its new

The Reserve Bank of India, brand ambassador.

abbreviated as RBI, is India's

central bank and regulatory
body responsible for regulation
of the Indian banking system.
It is under the ownership of
Ministry of Finance,
 68

ASICS operates 88 stores in

India with an aim to provide
quality sportswear and
footwear to Indian consumers.
In absolute terms, celebrity
brand valuations accounted for
$1.6 billion in 2022 as
compared to $1.4 billion in

The company said it will focus 2021, as per a report by

on the theme of ‘Sound Mind, corporate investigation and

Sound Body’ and the actor will risk consulting firm Kroll titled

endorse the brand’s footwear Celebrity Brand Valuation.

and women’s sportswear According to one research

segment. The association will firm, the country’s footwear
also see ASICS India market saw a decline in the
strengthen its market presence pandemic years. It stood at
with a shared vision to ₹79,900 crore in FY19 but fell
promote a balanced and active to ₹53,300 crore in FY20, said
lifestyle while ensuring style Euromonitor. But according to
and comfort are not other industry estimates, the
compromised. global sneaker market was

About the ASICS: valued at $86.86 billion, and

has a CAGR of 6.8%. It will
 69

reach $139.8 billion by 2032. from the date he assumes

India’s sneaker market was charge, or until he reaches the
about $3.01 billion in 2023. age of 65, or until further
orders are issued, whichever
occurs earlier.
Telecom Secretary K
The International Financial
Rajaraman has been selected
by the government as the Services Centres Authority
(IFSCA) was formed in April
new chairperson of the
2020 through the enactment of
International Financial
the International Financial
Services Centres Authority.
Services Centres Authority
Act, 2019. Its headquarters is
situated in GIFT City,
Gandhinagar.

The IFSCA serves as a unified

regulatory body responsible for

Rajaraman will take over from the development and

Injeti Srinivas, who served as supervision of financial

the inaugural chairperson products, services, and

since 2020. According to a institutions within the

gazette notification, International Financial

Rajaraman’s appointment is Services Centre (IFSC) in

valid for three years starting India. Currently, GIFT IFSC is

 70

India’s first international OCA for 30 years until 2021

financial services center. when he was forced to step
Before the establishment of down after being found guilty
IFSCA, domestic financial of forgery in a court in Geneva
regulators such as RBI, SEBI, and sentenced to at least 13
PFRDA, and IRDAI regulated months in prison.
activities within the IFSC.
The OCA was founded in
Kuwait’s Sheikh Talal Fahad 1982 by his father Fahad Al-
Al Ahmad Al Sabah has been Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah,
elected as the new President who led it until 1990 when he
of the Olympic Council of was killed defending Dasman
Asia (OCA) following a vote Palace on the first day of the
overshadowed by allegations Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. The
of corruption. Olympic Council of Asia (OCA)
is a governing body of sports
in Asia, currently with 45-
member National Olympic
Committees. The current
President is Talal Fahad Al-
Ahmad Al-Sabah.

Sheikh Talal replaces his older In 1948, during the 1948

brother Sheikh Ahmad Al- Summer Olympics, Asian

Fahad Al-Sabah, who led the National Olympic Committees

 71

(NOCs) decided to organize introduce an education

the Asian Games, under the program for participating
auspices of Asian Games eSports athletes.
Federation. The following year
Headquarters: Kuwait City,
the Asian Games Federation Kuwait;
was organized. Decades later
President: Talal Fahad Al-
this would be reorganized and
Ahmad Al-Sabah;
the Olympic Council of Asia
(OCA) was established in New Membership: 45 National

Delhi on 16 November 1982. Olympic Committees;

The International Olympic Founded: 16 November 1982,

Committee recognized the New Delhi;
OCA within the same year.
Motto: Ever Onward.
The Olympic Council of Asia
SBI Cards & Payment
(OCA) together with the Asian
Services (SBI Card), the
Sports Federation (AESF)
country’s largest pure-play
announced a new campaign
credit card issuer, has
for the upcoming 2022 Asian
appointed Abhijit Chakravorty
Games. The campaign, ‘Road
as MD & CEO.
to Asian Games’ will be
officially organized by the
AESF and aims to bring the
Olympic spirit to eSports and
 72

Incumbent MD & CEO Rama

Mohan Rao Amara has
resigned owing to his transfer
to SBI. Amara will demit office
on August 11.

SBI Card Headquarters:

Gurugram, Haryana;

SBI Cards & Payment SBI Card Founded: October

Services (SBI Card), the 1998.

country’s largest pure-play

credit card issuer, has
The Cement Manufacturers’
appointed Abhijit Chakravorty
Association (CMA), the apex
as MD & CEO.
body of India’s large cement
Chakravorty, who is presently manufacturers, unanimously
a Deputy Managing Director at elected Neeraj Akhoury
SBI, will assume charge of his
new role on August 12, SBI
Card said in a filing with stock
exchanges. He has been
appointed as SBI Card’s
MD&CEO for two years.
 73

managing director of Shree established in 1946 with the

Cement, as President and objective of promoting the
Parth Jindal, managing growth and development of the
director of JSW Cement as Indian cement industry.
vice president. This election The CMA works to achieve
occurred at its Extraordinary
its objectives through a
General Meeting (EGM) held
variety of activities, including:
on 14th July 2023. Akhoury
Policy research and
takes over from K C Jhanwar,
analysis: The CMA
Managing Director of
undertakes policy research
UltraTech Cement Limited.
and analysis to identify and
Members unanimously
address the challenges facing
endorsed the election of the
the Indian cement industry.
president and vice president of
CMA expressing full Government relations: The

confidence in the newly CMA engages with the

elected leadership team. government to represent the

interests of the Indian cement
The Cement Manufacturers’
industry and to influence policy
Association (CMA) is the apex
decisions.
body of large cement plants in
India, representing almost 90% Industry standards: The CMA

of the total installed cement develops and promotes

capacity. CMA was industry standards for cement

and cement products.
 74

Training and education: The Joint Secretary, Department

CMA provides training and for Promotion of Industry and
education programs to its Internal Trade (DPIIT) who
members and to the wider had assumed this additional
cement industry. charge of MD & CEO ad-
interim in March 2023.
Research and
development: The CMA The Board of Invest India:
supports research and
The Board of Invest India is
development activities to
chaired by Shri Rajesh Kumar
improve the efficiency and
Singh, Secretary, DPIIT. Other
sustainability of the Indian members of the Board include
cement industry.
Shri P. K. Tripathi, Secretary
Ms. Nivruti Rai joined as the (Coordination), Cabinet
Managing Director & CEO of Secretariat; Ms. Arti
Invest India. Bhatnagar, Additional
Secretary & Financial Advisor,
DPIIT; Shri Md. Noor Rahman
Sheikh, Joint Secretary,
Ministry of External Affairs;
Shri Anand Mahindra,
Chairperson, Mahindra Group;
She has taken over the charge Shri Pankaj R. Patel,
from Ms. Manmeet K Nanda, Chairperson, Cadilla
 75

Healthcare; Shri Harshvardhan Government’s vision,

Neotia, Chairperson, Ambuja embodying high levels of
Neotia Group; Ms. Rekha M. transparency, ethics and
Menon, Chairperson & Senior corporate governance.
MD, Accenture; Ms. Debjani Manoj Yadava, a senior IPS
Ghosh, President, NASSCOM;
officer from the Haryana
and Shri Chandrajit Banerjee,
cadre, has been designated
Director General, CII. as the new Director General
About the Invest India: of the Railway Protection
Force (RPF), according to an
Invest India today is well
acknowledged by stakeholders order from the Personnel
Ministry.
for its tangible contributions
and instrumental role in
executing the Government’s
flagship initiatives including
Make in India, Startup India,
National Single Window
System, Project Monitoring
Group, and Prime Minister’s
Yadava, who belongs to the
Science, Technology and
1988 batch of the Indian
Innovation Advisory Council.
Police Service, will take over
Invest India leverages private
from Sanjay Chander, who is
sector expertise to execute
set to retire on July 31. The
 76

Appointments Committee of Parliament for "the better

the Cabinet (ACC) has protection and security of
approved Yadava’s railway property and
appointment as DG, RPF, until passenger area". It has the
his retirement on July 31, power to search, arrest,
2025. Enquiry, and prosecute
offenses committed under
Yadava, who was the Haryana
DGP from 2019-21, is the Railway Property (Unlawful

senior most IPS officer in the Possession) Act 1966, The

Railways Act, 1989 (amended
cadre and is on central
from time to time).
deputation at present as DG
(investigations), National Formed: 2 July, 1872
Human Rights Commission.
Constituting: RPF Act, 1957
Railway Protection Force
Headquarters: New Delhi,
(RPF) is an armed Force of
India
the Union under the
Minister: Ashwini Vaishnaw,
administrative and operational
Ministry of Railways (India)
control of Indian Railways,
Ministry of Railways,
Government of India Rakesh Pal has been
established by the Railway appointed as the 25th
Protection Force Act, 1957; Director General (DG) of the
enacted by the Indian Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
 77

Medal in 2018 for his

outstanding service.

The Indian Coast Guard is a

maritime law enforcement and
search and rescue agency of

He is an alumnus of the Indian India with jurisdiction over its

Naval Academy and joined the territorial waters including its

Indian Coast Guard in January contiguous zone and exclusive

1989. The Ministry of Defence economic zone. It was formally

states that he underwent established on 1 February

professional specialisation in 1977 by the Coast Guard Act,

Gunnery and Weapons 1978 of the Parliament of

Systems at Indian Naval India.

School Dronacharya, Kochi, Founded: 1 February, 1977

and completed an Electro-
Headquarters: New Delhi
Optics Fire Control Solution
course in the United Kingdom.
Sat Pal Bhanoo, who
Rakesh Pal holds the
currently serves as the
distinction of being the First
Additional Zonal Manager at
Gunner of ICG. He received
LIC of India’s Zonal Office in
the Tatrakshak Medal in 2013
Bhopal, has been appointed
and the President Tatrakshak
 78

as the new Managing managing directors on the LIC

Director of the company. board and assumed the
position on March 13, 2023.
Additionally, Siddhartha
Mohanty’s appointment as the
interim chairman of LIC was
also approved by the FSIB.

Life Insurance Corporation of

He will take charge from India is an Indian multinational

Siddhartha Mohanty, who has public sector life insurance

been appointed as chairman of company headquartered in

the firm in April,2023. Mumbai. It is India's largest

insurance company as well as
The Financial Services
the largest institutional investor
Institutions Bureau (FSIB),
with total assets under
which oversees the
management worth ₹45.7
appointment of directors in
trillion as of March 2023.
state-owned banks and
financial institutions, put Chairperson: Siddhartha

forward Sat Pal Bhanoo as the Mohanty

candidate for the Managing Founded: 1 September 1956

Director position at LIC.
Founder: Government of India
Previously, M. Jagannath had
Headquarters: Mumbai
been appointed as one of the
 79

current term ends in spring

Renowned scientist, clinician 2024. He will, however, remain

a member of the Board, hold
and researcher, S. Vincent
the position of Chairman
Rajkumar, has been
appointed as chairman-elect Emeritus and continue to
perform his current activities.
of the Board of Directors of
the International Myeloma The International Myeloma
Foundation (IMF). Foundation is an American
non-profit organization serving
patients with myeloma, a
cancer of plasma cells in the
bone marrow. The IMF also
provides support and
information for family
members, caregivers of
Dr. Rajkumar takes over from myeloma patients, physicians
the current chairman, Brian and nurses.
G.M. Durie, who is not seeking
Founded: 1990
re-election to the post. Dr.
Durie, the co-founder and Headquarters: California, USA

chairman of the Board of Motto: Improving Lives,

Directors for 33 years, has Finding The Cure
said that he will not seek re-
election as chairman when his
 80

Justice Alok Aradhe sworn in were present at the searing-in

as Chief Justice of Telangana ceremony of Justice Alok
High Court on 23rd July by Aradhe including K Kesava
governor Rao and Nama Nageswara
Tamilisai Soundararajan at Rao. TPCC President A
an event held at Raj Bhavan Revanth Reddy, public
in Hyderabad. representatives, bureaucrats
and other prominent members
of the judiciary attended the
event.

The Telangana High Court is

the High Court for the Indian
state of Telangana. Founded
by the 7th Nizam Mir Osman
Ali Khan, initially, it was set up
Justice Alok Aradhe as High Court of Hyderabad
succeeded Justice Ujjal for the then Princely State of
Bhuyan, who was elevated as Hyderabad Deccan and later
the judge of the Supreme renamed High Court of Andhra
Court. Pradesh, as it was set up on

Chief Minister K 5 November 1956 under the

Chandrasekhar Rao, and States Reorganisation Act,

some of his cabinet colleagues 1956.

 81

Established: 1 January, 2019 signifying the commencement

Jurisdiction: Telangana of his tenure.

He was previously a Judge of

Location: Hyderabad,
Telangana the Gujarat High Court and
served as the senior-most
Number of positions: 42
Judge of that court, also
{Permanent 32; Addl. 10}
temporarily performing the
duties of the office of Chief

In a formal ceremony held at Justice of Gujarat High Court.

Raj Bhavan, Justice Ashish His appointment as Chief

Jitendra Desai took the oath Justice of Kerala High Court
as the 38th Chief Justice of was recommended by the
the Kerala High Court. Supreme Court Collegium on
July 6, 2023, following the
elevation of the previous Chief
Justice SV Bhatt to the
Supreme Court.

Kerala is a state located in

southwestern India.

Kerala Governor Arif Bordered by the Arabian Sea

Mohammed Khan administered to the west and Karnataka and
the oath of office to the newly Tamil Nadu to the north and
appointed Chief Justice, east.
 82

Capital: Thiruvananthapuram as the new chief justice of

(Trivandrum); Major cities: Bombay High Court has been
Kochi, Kozhikode, Thrissur, officially notified by the
Kollam. Central Government, while

Official language: Malayalam; Justice Dhiraj Singh

English widely used for official

and educational purposes.

Known for rich cultural

heritage, with classical dance
forms like Kathakali and
Thakur has been appointed
Mohiniyattam.
as the chief justice of Andhra
Celebrates colorful festivals
Pradesh High Court.
like Onam, Vishu, and Thrissur
Justice Devendra Kumar
Pooram.
Upadhyaya will succeed the
Attracts tourists with hill
current Chief Justice of
stations like Munnar,
Bombay High Court, Justice
Wayanad, and Thekkady.
Nitin Madhukar Jamdar.
High literacy rate and strong
The High Court of Bombay is
emphasis on education.
the high court of the states of
Maharashtra and Goa in India,

The appointment of Justice and the union territory of

Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya Dadra and Nagar Haveli and

 83

Daman and Diu. It is seated Chairman, Deepak Satwalekar,

primarily at Mumbai, and is whose term is set to conclude
one of the oldest high courts on September 30 this year.
in India.
R Seshasayee, a Chartered
Founded: 14 August 1862, Accountant, embarked on his
Mumbai professional journey with

Currently: Devendra Kumar Hindustan Lever Ltd in 1971.

During his tenure at Ashok
Upadhyaya (29 July 2023)
Leyland Limited, he held
Number of positions: 94; (71
several significant roles,
permanent, 23 additional).
serving as the Managing
R Seshasayee has been Director from 1998 to 2011,
appointed as the Chairman of followed by Executive Vice
Asian Paints’ board of Chairman from 2011 to 2013,
directors from October 1, and subsequently as the Non-
2023, to January 22, 2027. Executive Vice Chairman from
2013 to 2016.

Asian Paints Ltd is an Indian

multinational paint company,
headquartered in Mumbai,
Maharashtra, India.

He will succeed the current

 84

Asian Paints is India's largest rich experience of over 30

paints company by market years in the education sector,
share. having served as a senior
professor of Information
Founded: 1 February, 1942
Systems at the National
Headquarters: Mumbai,
Institute of Technology (NIT),
Maharashtra.
Tiruchirappalli. Throughout his
The National Assessment career, he has held various
and Accreditation Council leadership positions, including
(NAAC) recently announced the Dean of Research and
the appointment of Prof Consultancy, and Director-in-
Ganesan Kannabiran as its Charge at NIT Trichy and NIT
new director. Puducherry.

National Assessment and

Accreditation Council is a
government organisation in
India that assesses and
accredits Higher Education
Institutions. It is an
autonomous body funded by
The appointment took place on
the University Grants
July 28, as per the official
Commission and
statement from NAAC. Prof
headquartered in Bangalore.
Kannabiran brings with him a
 85

Founded: 1994

Founder: Government of India

Headquarters: Bangalore,
India
 86

Sports: - successful raids. Initially,

within the first five minutes of
the match, India faced a deficit
In the final of the Asian
against Iran.
Kabaddi Championship 2023
Six teams: India, Iran, Japan,
held at the Dong-Eui Institute
Korea, Chinese Taipei and
of Technology Seokdang
Cultural Center in Busan. Hong Kong, participated in the
Asian Kabaddi Championships.
India won all five matches in
the league stage and topped
the points table. Iran came
second, only losing to India in
the league stage, and made
the final.
Republic of Korea, India
emerged victorious, defeating Asian Kabaddi Championship

Iran with a score of 42-32. is a standard style Kabaddi

This marked India’s eighth tournament. It was first held in

championship title in the past 1980. The 11th tournament

nine editions. Pawan was held in Republic of Korea

Sehrawat, the captain of the and won by India and secured

Indian team, played a crucial it's 8th medal.

role, delivering an impressive Founded: 1980

performance with ten
Region: Asia
 87

Number of teams: 10 2023: No mark, 83.52m,

Olympic gold medalist Neeraj 85.04m, No mark, 87.66m,

84.15m.
Chopra obtained the top spot
in Lausanne Diamond Athletissima (Diamond League
League 2023 with a best Lausanne) is annual athletics
throw of 87.66 m. meeting in Lausanne,
Switzerland. Previously one of
the five IAAF Super Grand
Prix events, it is now part of
the Diamond League.

The first edition was held on

8 July 1977 in the Stade
The star Indian player is Pierre de Coubertin. In 1986
coming back from a muscle the event was moved to the
injury he had sustained during Stade olympique de la
training. The injury forced Pontaise.
Chopra to withdraw from three
The UBS has been the main
events in the month of June
sponsor of Athletissima
namely FBK Games, Paavo
Lausanne since 1982.
Nurmi Games and the Ostrava
Date: June – July
Golden Spike.

Neeraj Chopra’s attempts at

Lausanne Diamond League
 88

According to reports, the associated with Team India for

popular fantasy gaming two and a half years.
platform Dream11 has
In March 2022, Byju’s
reportedly taken over as the
extended its jersey
main jersey sponsor for the sponsorship deal with the
Indian cricket team from July
Board of Control for Cricket in
2023 to March 2026.
India (BCCI) until the end of
2023 for a sum of $55 million.

Dream11 is an Indian fantasy

sports platform that allows
users to play fantasy cricket,
hockey, football, kabaddi,
handball, basketball, volleyball,
rugby, futsal, American football
Replacing Byju’s. The deal
and baseball. In April 2019,
was reportedly secured at a
Dream11 became the first
base price of Rs 358 crore.
Indian fantasy sport company
Byju’s had become the
to become a unicorn.
principal sponsor in 2019 after
the smartphone brand Oppo Founders: Harsh Jain, Bhavit
decided to transfer the Sheth
remaining period of its Founded: 2008
sponsorship term, having been
Headquarters: Mumbai
 89

Owners: Sporta Technologies she played for RCB, the all-

Pvt Ltd rounder took 6 wickets and
scored 62 runs.
Young spin bowler Shreyanka
Patil has made history by Speaking of the WCPL 2023,
becoming the first Indian the upcoming event promises
cricketer to be signed for the an exhilarating cricketing
Women’s Caribbean Premier experience, with an expanded
League (WCPL). schedule featuring seven
matches to be played in 11
days. The tournament will
witness the participation of
three teams, namely
the Barbados Royals, Guyana
Amazon Warriors, and
Interestingly, Patil is also the the Trinbago Knight Riders.
first Indian player to be offered Shreyanka’s inclusion in the
a contract in an overseas Guyana Amazon Warriors side
league before making her adds a new dimension to the
international debut. Shreyanka competition, capturing the
Patil made a name for herself attention and excitement of
when she was selected for Indian cricket enthusiasts.
Royal Challenger’s Bangalore
(RCB) in the inaugural edition
of the WPL. In the 7 matches
 90

The 132nd edition of the Venue and Duration:

Durand Cup, India’s oldest The 132nd edition of the
football tournament is
Durand Cup will be hosted in
scheduled to commence at
the football-crazed city of
Kolkata from 03 August to 03 Kolkata, known for its ardent
September 2023.
fan base and rich footballing
history. From August 3 to
September 3,2023, a total of
24 teams will compete for the
prestigious cup across four
venues – Guwahati and
Kokrajhar in Assam, Shillong
in Meghalaya and Kolkata in
The tournament’s Trophy West Bengal.
Tour, which was flagged off on
The Durand Cup holds a
June 30, 2023, marks a
prestigious position in the
significant milestone in the
realm of football, both
history of the Durand Cup.
nationally and globally.
With the participation of
Established in 1888 at
foreign teams after a hiatus of
Dagshai, Himachal Pradesh, it
27 years, the upcoming edition
is recognized as the world’s
is poised to be an
third oldest and Asia’s oldest
extraordinary spectacle for
football tournament. The
football enthusiasts.
 91

tournament derives its name president of the Basketball

from Mortimer Durand, the Federation of India (BFI).
Foreign Secretary in charge of
India during its inception.
Initially, the tournament was
exclusively meant for British
soldiers but was eventually
extended to include civilians,
highlighting the inclusive
nature of the event.
Aadhav garnered an
Durand Cup was established impressive 38 out of the 39
in: 1888 votes, defeating the incumbent
President of All India president, K Govindaraj.
Foootball Federation (AIFF) Kulvinder Singh Gill, a former
is: Mr Kalyan Chaubey player and the president of the
Madhya Pradesh Basketball
Association, was elected as
Aadhav Arjuna, the president
the secretary general.
of the Tamil Nadu Basketball
Association (TNBA), emerged The Basketball Federation of
victorious in the election held India (BFI) is the governing
at Nehru Stadium and body of basketball in India. It
secured the position of was founded in 1950 and is
 92

affiliated to FIBA Asia and the Universal Basketball Alliance

Indian Olympic Association. (UBA).

The history of basketball in 1934: First national basketball

India can be traced back to championships are held in
the early 1900s, when the New Delhi.
game was introduced by
1936: India becomes a
Christian missionaries and member of FIBA.
YMCAs. The first national
1950: Basketball Federation of
basketball championships were
India is founded.
held in 1934, and India
became a member of FIBA in 1970: India hosts the FIBA

1936. Asia Championship.

The BFI has been responsible 1982: India hosts the Asian

for the development and Games.

promotion of basketball in 2015: Universal Basketball

India. It organizes national and Alliance (UBA) is founded.
international tournaments, and
2017: UBA folds after four
provides training and support
seasons.
to players and coaches. The
2022: Elite Pro Basketball
BFI has also played a role in
League (EPBL) and the
the growth of the Indian
developmental Indian National
basketball league, the
 93

Basketball League (INBL) are displayed immense talent and

launched. ability to excel under pressure
and outclassed his opponent,
Li Shi Feng, with a score of
Lakshya Sen clinched the
21-18 and 22-20.
men’s singles title at the 58th
The victory at the Canada
Canada Open 2023.
Open 2023 represents
Lakshya Sen’s second BWF
Super 500 title. His previous
triumph came at the India
Open in January 2022, further
establishing his reputation as
one of India’s most promising

In an exhilarating final match, badminton players. Ranked

Sen defeated Li Shi Feng, the 19th in the world currently,

reigning All England champion, Sen’s consistent performance

in straight games. This and determination have

remarkable victory marks propelled him to achieve

Sen’s second BWF World Tour significant milestones in his

title and adds another career.

prestigious accolade to his President of Badminton World

growing list of Federation: Poul-Erik Høyer
accomplishments. Sen Larsen
 94

Headquarters of Badminton knowledge, skills, and hard

World Federation: Kuala work. With a total of four gold
Lumpur, Malaysia medals, India stood at the
pinnacle of success. This
In a remarkable achievement,
India has emerged as the resounding triumph marks the
first time that India has
overall winner at the 34th
achieved an all-gold
International Biology
Olympiad (IBO) held in Al performance at the IBO.

Ain. India and Singapore emerged

as the leading nations,
securing an impressive total of
four gold medals each. China,
Chinese Taipei, and the future
Olympic delegation claimed
the second position with three

The Indian student team gold medals. Notably, the UAE

clinched an unprecedented all- celebrated its inaugural

gold performance, securing the triumph in the International

top position on the medals Biology Olympiad, as Reem

tally for the first time. Rashid Alnaqbi, an Emirati

student, earned a well-
The Indian team’s outstanding
deserved bronze medal.
performance at the IBO 2023
reflects their exceptional Global Participation:
 95

The IBO 2023 witnessed the July, attracting a diverse

participation of 293 students participation of more than
from 76 countries, making it a 1200 athletes from 107
truly global event. Despite the nations.
stiff competition, India
emerged as the frontrunner,
showcasing the country’s
remarkable talent pool in the
field of biology. Singapore was
the only other country to
secure four gold medals,
highlighting India’s exceptional
performance.
Ajeet Singh displayed his
Host for International Biology exceptional prowess in the
Olympiad 2024: Kazakhstan finals of the Men’s javelin

Minister of Education in the throw F46 category, emerging

United Arab Emirates: Ahmad as the champion and claiming

Belhoul Al Falasi the gold medal. With a

remarkable throw measuring
65.41 meters, he secured the
The Charlety Stadium in
top spot in the competition.
Paris hosted the Para
Ajeet Singh’s outstanding
Athletics World
performance not only earned
Championships from 8 to 17
 96

him the championship title but Satwiksairaj Rankireddy,

also resulted in the breaking achieved the remarkable feat
of the previous record held by of setting a new Guinness
Chunliang Guo of China, world record for the fastest
whose throw measured 61.89 hit by a male player in
meters. badminton in the ongoing
Korea Open 2023.
India concluded its
participation in the 2023 World
Para Athletics Championships
held in Paris with an
exceptional achievement,
breaking records and securing
an impressive medal count.
They garnered three gold His smash reached an
medals, four silver medals, astonishing speed of 565
and three bronze medals, km/h, surpassing the decade-
setting a new benchmark. long record set in May 2013

Ajeet Singh hails from: Uttar by Malaysian player Tan Boon

Pradesh, India Heong, who had previously

recorded a speed of 493 km/h
Total medal won by India in
with his smash.
the 2023 World Para Athletics
Championships: 10 Satwik’s incredible smash
surpassed the top speed of
 97

372.6 km/h achieved by a triumph in the Super GM

Formula 1 car. The Guinness chess tournament 2023,
World Records officially scoring an impressive 6.5
verified Satwik’s smash, which points.
took place at the Yonex
factory gymnasium in Soka,
Saitama, Japan during the
Korea Open 2023, and it was
performed under controlled
conditions.
In the highly competitive Super
In the female category,
GM chess tournament 2023,
Malaysia’s Tan Pearly set the
the young Indian Grandmaster
Guinness world record for the
R Praggnanandhaa emerged
fastest female badminton hits
as the champion. He
with a remarkable speed of
impressively scored 6.5 points,
438 km/h (about 272 mph).
securing a clear first position
The host city for the ongoing in the 10-player event. After
Korea Open 2023 is: nine rounds of intense play, he
Yeosu,South Korea. finished one point ahead of M
Amin Tabatabaei (Iran) and
Russia’s Sanan Sjugirov.
R Praggnanandhaa, the 17-
year-old Indian Grandmaster, Praggnanandhaa’s

achieved a remarkable Achievements:

 98

In 2016, at the remarkable age concluded the tournament in

of 10, Praggnanandhaa 9th place.
achieved the title of the
R Praggnanandhaa hails from:
youngest international master
Telangana
in history.

On 20 February 2022, he
Anshuman Jhingran, a 18-
accomplished a significant feat
year-old open water swimmer
by becoming the third Indian
from Navi Mumbai, has
player (after Anand and
achieved a remarkable
Harikrishna) to defeat World
milestone by becoming the
Champion Magnus Carlsen in
youngest person ever to
any time format.
cross the North Channel.
In January 2023,
Praggnanandhaa participated
in the Tata Steel Chess
Masters 2023, where he
achieved a notable victory
over the 2800-rated
grandmaster Ding Liren. This
marked his first time defeating
such a highly-rated player in a
His extraordinary
classical game, and he
accomplishment, completed in
just 125 days, has earned him
 99

a coveted spot in the renowned as one of the most

esteemed Guinness World challenging Ocean Seven
Records. Swims.

Notably, his successful The Oceans Seven is a

crossing marks the 114th marathon swimming challenge
achievement of its kind since consisting of seven open water
1947. channel swims.

Anshuman’s outstanding feat Mihir Sen holds the distinction

has brought him well-deserved of being the first Indian to
global recognition and successfully swim across the
admiration from the English Channel,
international swimming accomplishing the feat from
community. Dover to Calais in a
remarkable time of 14 hours
The North Channel, situated
and 45 minutes, which ranks
between the northeastern
coast of Northern Ireland and as the fourth-best timing for
this challenging endeavor.
the southwestern coast of
Moreover, he holds a unique
Scotland, serves as a strait
that starts north of the Isle of and extraordinary record of
being the only individual to
Man, marking the end of the
have swum the oceans of all
Irish Sea. Flowing
northwestward into the Atlantic five continents within a single
year.
Ocean, this channel is
 100

First Indian to cross the North With this accomplishment,

Channel: Elvis Ali Hazarika Kohli joins an elite list of four
Indian players, including the
The Oceans Seven was
iconic Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul
devised in: 2008
Dravid, and MS Dhoni. Kohli’s
exceptional career includes
Indian cricketing legend Virat 274 ODIs, 115 T20Is, and 111
Kohli achieved a significant Test matches, showcasing his
milestone by becoming the immense contribution to Indian
10th cricketer in history to cricket. This historic
make 500 international achievement further solidifies
appearances. Virat Kohli’s status as one of
the game’s greatest players.

Tendulkar leads the list, which

is dominated by Asian batters,
with 664 appearances. Sri
Lankan legend Mahela
Jayawardene is the only other
He reached this remarkable
to make more than 600
feat during India’s second and
international matches.
final Test match against the
West Indies at the Queen’s
Park Oval in Port of Spain. Bollywood actor Shah Rukh
Khan has been appointed as
 101

the brand ambassador of ICC World Cup 2023 Schedule:

World Cup 2023. The schedule for the ICC
World Cup 2023 Schedule has
been released by ICC.
The 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket
World Cup will be held in
India from October 5 to
November 19, 2023. The
upcoming World Cup will

Bollywood superstar Shah feature a total of 10 teams.

Rukh Khan launched the India, as the host nation, has

World Cup 2023 campaign ‘It secured direct qualification,
takes one day’ in his iconic along with Afghanistan,
voiceover. The World Cup Australia, England,
2023 will be held in India from Bangladesh, New Zealand,
October 5 to November 19, Pakistan, and South Africa.
2023. India will start their These teams earned their
world cup campaign against spots through their
Australia on October 8 and the performance in the 2020-2023
Rohit Sharma led side will ICC Cricket World Cup Super
take on Pakistan at the League. The remaining two
Narendra Modi Stadium in teams will be determined
Ahmedabad on October 15. through the ongoing World
 102

Cup Qualifiers taking place in Llobregat Open in December

Zimbabwe. of the same year.

Aditya Samant, hailing from Grandmaster (GM): The

Maharashtra. achieved the Highest Title in Chess
title of India’s 83rd Awarded by FIDE:
Grandmaster
The title of Grandmaster (GM)
is bestowed upon chess
players by the world chess
organization FIDE. It is the
highest title attainable for a
chess player, second only to
the World Champion title. To
be awarded the Grandmaster
title, a player must achieve a
By obtaining his third GM
2500 FIDE classical (or
norm during the Master
‘standard’) rating and obtain
Tournament (MTO) at the Biel
three GM norms, as currently
International Chess Festival.
prescribed by FIDE.
His journey began with his first
The Biel Chess Festival 2023:
GM norm earned at the Abu
Dhabi Masters in August 2022, From 17th to 27th July, the

followed by securing his Biel Chess Festival 2023 took

second GM norm at the 3rd El place in Biel, Switzerland,

showcasing a 10-round Swiss
 103

tournament format. Competing

players had 100 minutes for
their initial 40 moves, followed
by 15 minutes for the
remaining part of the game,
alongside a 30-second
increment for each move right
from the beginning.

2023 FIDE World Champion:

Ding Liren
 104

Awards and Honours: - Michael Rosen has authored

Renowned children’s writer several acclaimed books,

including “You Can’t Catch
and performance poet,
Me” (1982), which received the
Michael Rosen, aged 77, has
been honored with the Signal Poetry Award. Another
notable work is “You Wait Till
esteemed PEN Pinter Prize
I Am Older Than You” (1996),
2023.
along with “Rover” (2007) and
“Fantastic Mr Dahl” (2012),
which explores the life and
writings of Roald Dahl. One of
his most beloved picture
books, “We’re Going on a
Bear Hunt” (1989), illustrated
by Helen Oxenbury, has
become a timeless tale of
This prestigious award is
triumphing over challenges.
bestowed upon a writer hailing
This book has achieved
from the United Kingdom,
remarkable success, selling
Ireland, or the Commonwealth,
over nine million copies
whose body of work fearlessly
worldwide and earning
uncovers and reveals truths
prestigious honors such as the
about the realities of modern-
Nestlé Smarties Book Prize.
day existence.
 105

PEN Pinter Prize 2023 is Indian football team

given to a writer from the UK, midfielder Lallianzuala
Ireland and the Chhangte was named the
Commonwealth whose work is AIFF
committed to a fearless
exposition of truth about
contemporary life. The prize is
shared with an international
writer of courage selected by
English PEN’s Writers at Risk
(All India Football Federation)
Committee in association with
Men’s Footballer of the Year
the winner. This half of the
for 2022-23 while Manisha
prize is awarded to someone
Kalyan won her second
who has been persecuted for
consecutive Women’s
speaking out about their
Footballer of the Year award.
beliefs. Some of the previous
The 26-year-old Lallianzuala
award-winning writers are
Chhangte beat Nandhakumar
Malorie Blackman (2022),
Sekar and Naorem Mahesh
Tsitsi Dangarembga (2021)
Singh of East Bengal to win
Hanif Kureishi (2010), Salman
the award.
Rushdie (2014), and Lemn
Meanwhile, Manisha Kalyan
Sissay (2019).
pipped Dalima Chhibber and
Ngangbam Sweety Devi to the
 106

AIFF Women’s Player of the AIFF Men’s Emerging

Year 2022-23 award. It was Footballer of the Year 2022-
her second Player of the 23: Akash Mishra
Honour in two seasons. The
AIFF Women’s Emerging
21-year-old Manisha Kalyan, Footballer of the Year 2022-
who won the 2020-21 AIFF
23: Shilji Shaji
Women’s Emerging Footballer
AIFF President: Kalyan
of the Year, currently plays as
Chaubey;
a forward for Apollon, a first
division football club in AIFF Founded: 23 June 1937;

Cyprus. Manisha Kalyan AIFF Headquarters: New

became only the third Indian Delhi;
female footballer to win the
AIFF affiliation: 1954;
individual award two or more
AIFF Parent organization:
times after Bala Devi (three)
South Asian Football
and Bembem Devi (two).
Federation.
AIFF Men’s Footballer of the
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Year 2022-23: Lallianzuala
has become the first Indian
Chhangte
Prime Minister to have been
AIFF Women’s Footballer of
conferred with the Grand
the Year 2022-23: Manisha
Cross of the Legion of
Kalyan
Honour.
 107

The Grand Cross of the

Legion of Honour given by
France is another in a series
of top international awards and
honours bestowed by various
countries on Prime Minister
Modi. Earlier, the French
France’s highest civilian and
President and First Lady
military honour, by French
Brigitte Macron hosted a
President Emmanuel Macron.
private dinner for Mr. Modi at
Mr. Modi received the honour
the Elysee Palace.
at the Elysee Palace here on,
Here are the list of
July 13, 2023, and joined the
international honours
ranks of other prominent world
received by PM Modi:
leaders such as the former
president of South Africa State Order of Ghazi Amir

Nelson Mandela, King Charles Amanullah Khan (Afghanistan,

– the then Prince of Wales, 2016): This is the highest

former Chancellor of Germany civilian award in Afghanistan.

Angela Merkel, Boutros Order of Abdulaziz Al Saud

Boutros-Ghali, former (Saudi Arabia, 2016): This is
Secretary General of the the highest honour awarded to
United Nations, among others. non-Muslim dignitaries.
 108

Grand Collar of the State of highest honour awarded to

Palestine (Palestine, 2018): foreign dignitaries.
PM Modi was awarded the
Legion of Merit by the US
highest honour of Palestine
Government (United States
which is awarded to foreign Armed Forces): This award
dignitaries.
was given to PM Modi in 2020
Order of Zayed (United Arab Order of the Druk Gyalpo
Emirates, 2019): This is the
(Bhutan, 2021): This is the
highest civilian award in the
highest civilian award in
United Arab Emirates.
Bhutan.
Order of St. Andrew the
Ebakl Award (Palau, 2023):
Apostle (Russia, 2019): This is
This is the highest civilian
the highest civilian award in award in Palau.
Russia.
Companion of the Order of
King Hamad Order of the Logohu (Fiji, 2023): This is a
Renaissance (Bahrain, 2019):
high honor awarded to
PM Modi received a top
individuals who have made
honour by the gulf country in significant contributions to Fiji.
2019.
Companion of the Order of Fiji
Order of the Distinguished (Fiji, 2023): This is a high
Rule of Nishan Izzuddin
honor awarded to individuals
(Maldives, 2019): This is the
 109

who have made significant the award in the near future.

contributions to Fiji. Prof. T. Pradeep’s exceptional
work revolves around
Order of the Nile (Egypt,
developing affordable and
2023): This is the highest
civilian award in Egypt. clean water solutions through
the use of advanced materials.
Prof. Thalappil Pradeep from
the Department of Chemistry His groundbreaking research
led to the discovery of
at the Indian Institute of
sustainable and cost-effective
Technology Madras has been
nanoscale materials that
honored with the prestigious.
effectively remove toxic
contaminants from water.
These technologies have been
successfully implemented as
drinking water solutions,
benefiting a remarkable 1.3
‘Eni Award,’ a highly
million people in India on a
regarded global recognition for
daily basis.
scientific research in the fields
Prof. Pradeep is a
of energy and environment.
distinguished researcher
Established in 2007, this is the
focusing on various aspects of
15th edition of the Eni Award.
materials and has received
The President of Italy is
numerous national accolades,
expected to present him with
 110

including the Shanti Swarup Energy Frontiers category

Bhatnagar Prize. His work is went to Matthew Rosseinsky
supported by state-of-the-art from the University of
scientific instruments that he Liverpool (UK). Meanwhile,
has personally developed. Prof. Pradeep received the
With an impressive portfolio of award for Advanced
550 papers and over 100 Environmental Solutions. The
patents, he has also played a prestigious prize includes a
key role in co-founding several gold medal, a citation, and a
successful companies. monetary component.

The Eni Awards are Its primary objective is to

presented in three distinct encourage groundbreaking
categories: Energy Transition, advancements in energy
Energy Frontiers, and efficiency, renewable energy,
Advanced Environmental decarbonization, and
Solutions. In the Energy environmental preservation. By
Transition category, Yu Huang doing so, it aims to inspire and
from the University of support the work of young
California (Los Angeles, USA), researchers in these critical
and Jeffrey R. Long from the fields. The award is sponsored
University of California by Eni, a global energy
(Berkeley, USA) were company with a significant
honored. The award for the
 111

presence and headquarters in investments in the film

Rome. industry. The event’s allure
would attract numerous
Gujarat will host the 69th
celebrities, filmmakers and
edition of Filmfare Awards in
2024, and a MoU has signed industry professionals, leading
to a surge in visitors,
between state government’s
benefiting various sectors and
tourism cooperation and
Worldwide Media. promoting Gujarat as a prime
film destination.

The Filmfare Awards are

annual awards that honour
artistic and technical
excellence in the Hindi-
language film industry of India.
To host the event and
The Filmfare ceremony is one
promote the state as a film
of the most famous film events
destination.
in India.
Hosting the prestigious
Presented by: Filmfare
Filmfare Awards in Gujarat
First awarded: March 21,
would be a significant
1954
opportunity for the state to
gain widespread recognition Last awarded: 27 April, 2023
and boost its economy through
increased tourism and
 112

Bollywood actor Kartik Moreover, as part of the

Aaryan will be honoured with celebration, the Indian Film
the Rising Global Superstar Festival of Melbourne will
of Indian Cinema award at showcase multiple screenings
the annual awards. of Kartik’s films including his
recent success ‘Satyaprem Ki
Katha’ and blockbuster ‘Bhool
Bhulaiyaa 2’, which emerged
as the biggest Hindi film of
2022.

Gala night of the 14th Indian The 14th Indian Film Festival
Film Festival of Melbourne on of Melbourne will take place
August 11. The award will be from August 11 to August 20,
presented by the Governor of 2023. The festival promises to
Victoria, recognising Kartik’s be a spectacular celebration of
remarkable achievements and Indian cinema and culture,
his significant impact on the offering over 100 films in 20
world of Indian cinema. The languages, discussions, and
festival celebrates the diversity events for film enthusiasts and
and richness of Indian cinema, the wider community.
showcasing the talent and
Highlights of the 14th IFFM:
creativity of Indian filmmakers
The opening night film will be
to a global audience.
Ghoomer, a Hindi-language
 113

film directed by R. Balki and

starring Abhishek Bachchan,
Saiyami Kher, and Shabana
Azmi.

The festival will also feature a

number of other high-profile The reason: publishers
films, including Jalsa, Sita thought her novel wasn’t
Ramam, and Rocketry: The “Australian” enough to be
Nambi Effect. successful in their local

The festival will host a number market. And now, Chandran

of special events, including a has been announced as the

Q&A with Kartik Aaryan, a winner of the 2023 Literary

workshop with Zoya Akhtar, Award for her novel ‘Chai

and an industry panel on the Time at Cinnamon Gardens’.

future of Indian cinema. Chandran’s award-winning

novel ‘Chai Time at Cinnamon
Gardens’ is a story about
Ten years ago, Sri Lankan-
family, memories, community,
origin Australian writer
race. It is an intergenerational
Shankari Chandran faced
epic that highlights Australia’s
difficulty in getting her debut
difficult and complex equation
book published.
with multiculturalism and the
traumas of post-colonialism. It
 114

also highlights how our stories Jessica Anderson, Tim Winton,

shape the people that we are among others.
today. This is Chandran’s third
novel.
Mumbai’s Byculla Railway
The Miles Franklin Literary
Station received UNESCO’s
Award is an annual prize
Asia Pacific Cultural Heritage
given to “a novel which is of Award on Monday i.e. 24th
the highest literary merit and
July which was declared in
presents Australian life in any
November 2022.
of its phases”. This year’s
judges for the award included:
Richard Neville- State Library
of NSW Mitchell librarian and
Chair; author Bernadette
Brennan; translator Mridula
Nath Chakraborty; critic James
UNESCO Award Recognition:
Ley; and poet Elfie Shiosaki.
The prestigious UNESCO Asia
The Miles Franklin Literary
Pacific Cultural Heritage award
Award is one of the
was received by Byculla
prestigious literary awards in
Railway Station located in
Australia. Previous winners of
Mumbai, this award was
the award include Thea Astley,
declared in November 2022,
highlighting the station’s
 115

significant contribution to Originally constructed as a

cultural heritage conservation. wooden structure, it was later
The recognition came after the rebuilt as stone structure in
station underwent extensive 1857.
restoration work, bringing it The station continued to
back to its original glory.
evolve over the years,
Byculla Railway Station is ultimately adopting its present
railway station on the Central form in June 1891.
line of the Mumbai Suburban
The historical significance of
Railway.
the station is intertwined with
It is considered to be one of the arrival of the first
the oldest railway station that locomotive in Mumbai in 1852.
is still in operation. With a The Maharashtra Government
history dating back 169 years,
will confer Tata group
the station stands as a
Chairman Ratan Tata with
testament to the rich heritage the first prestigious
of India’s railway system.
Maharashtra Udyog Ratna
Byculla Railway Station was
one of the original station
inaugurated when the
Bombay-Thane railway
commenced operations in
1953.
 116

Award this year, state telecommunications. He is also

industries minister Uday a strong advocate for
Samant announced in the corporate social responsibility
State Legislative Assembly. and has made significant
On the lines of Maharashtra contributions to the
Bhushan award, which is the development of India’s rural
state’s highest award, that is areas. The award of the
conferred to eminent people, ‘Udyog Ratna’ to Ratan Tata
the Maharashtra government, is a recognition of his
decided to initiate the outstanding achievements in
prestigious Udyog Ratna the industrial sector. It is also
Award from this year onward. a tribute to his dedication to
The first of the awards will be corporate social responsibility
given to industrialist Ratan and his commitment to the
Tata. development of India.

Ratan Tata is a respected About the Maharashtra

business leader who has been Udyog Ratna Award:
at the helm of the Tata Group
The ‘Udyog Ratna’ award is a
for over two decades. He is
state-level award given to
credited with transforming the individuals who have made
group into a global leader in a
outstanding contributions to
number of industries, including
the industrial sector of
automobiles, steel, and Maharashtra. Ratan Tata is
 117

being awarded the award for in 1983, aims to honor the

his contributions to the growth lasting legacy of Lokmanya
and development of the Tata Tilak. Shri Narendra Modi
Group, which is one of the became the 41st distinguished
largest conglomerates in India. individual to receive this
esteemed recognition.

The Lokmanya Tilak National The previous year saw the

presentation of the Lokmanya
Award was granted to the
Tilak National Award to Tessy
Prime Minister of India, Shri
Thomas, a renowned senior
Narendra Modi, in Pune,
Maharashtra. scientist often referred to as
India’s “missile woman.” Ms.
Thomas played a crucial role
as the project director for
Agni-4 and Agni-5 missile
systems, contributing
significantly to the nation’s
During a ceremony that defense capabilities.
commemorated the 103rd About Lokmanya Tilak
death anniversary of National Award:
Lokmanya Tilak. The
In 1983, the Tilak Smarak
prestigious award, instituted by
Mandir Trust established the
the Tilak Smarak Mandir Trust
Award as a tribute to the
 118

enduring legacy of Lokmanya

Tilak. This prestigious
recognition is bestowed upon
individuals who have
demonstrated exceptional
dedication to the advancement
and growth of the nation, with
contributions that are nothing
short of remarkable and
extraordinary. Each year, on
the 1st of August, coinciding
with Lokmanya Tilak’s death
anniversary..

Lokmanya Tilak National

Award was instituted in: 1983
 119

Banking: - Largest Lender in India: State

Bank of India (SBI) holds the
distinction of being the largest
State Bank of India, the
bank in India, both in terms of
country’s largest lender, has
assets and customer base. It
announced the appointment
plays a crucial role in the
of Kameshwar Rao Kodavanti
country’s banking sector and
as its Chief Financial Officer
contributes significantly to the
(CFO).
nation’s economic growth.

Extensive Branch Network:

SBI boasts an extensive
branch network, with over
22,000 branches spread
across India. This vast
presence allows the bank to
cater to a diverse customer
Kodavanti, who has been with
base and provide banking
the bank since 1991, assumed
services to both urban and
the position on July 1, 2023.
rural areas.
This article provides details
about Kodavanti’s appointment Diverse Range of Products

and his professional and Services: SBI offers a

background. wide array of financial

products and services to meet
State Bank of India:
 120

the diverse needs of its Centralised Information

customers. These include Management System (CIMS)
retail banking, corporate to revolutionize its data
banking, treasury operations, handling, analysis, and
wealth management, governance.
insurance, loans, and much
more.

Digital Transformation: SBI

has been at the forefront of
digital transformation in the
Indian banking industry. The
The system leverages
bank has embraced
advanced technology to
technology to enhance
manage big data, enabling
customer experience and
powerful data mining, text
convenience. It offers various
mining, visual analytics, and
digital channels and services
statistical analysis. Governor
such as internet banking,
Shaktikanta Das announced
mobile banking, and a robust
the launch during the 17th
online platform for seamless
Statistics Day Conference in
transactions.
Mumbai, highlighting the
system’s potential to transform

The Reserve Bank of India economic analysis,

(RBI) has introduced the supervision, monitoring, and

 121

enforcement across various • One should know that the

domains. currency notes have
fifteen languages
• The name of the first
engraved on them.
Governor at RBI was Sir
Osborne Smith. • The First Indian Governor
for the Reserve Bank of
• RBI’s first central office
India was C.D Deshmukh.
was located in Calcutta.
• RBI has a central board • The First Deputy Lady

of Directors of o manage Governor for the Reserve

Bank of India was K.J
or proposes new
Udeshi
decisions.
• There are a total of 21 • The Reserve Bank of
India’s logo was inspired
members in the ‘Board of
by the East India
Directors’ Committee.
• These directors are given Company Double Mohur.
• The emblem of RBI has
a four-year-long contract
a Panther & Palm tree on
by the Government of
India. it.
• The Reserve Bank of
• Manmohan Singh was the
India has one Governor
only Prime Minister who
also was the Governor of and four Deputy
Governors. The Reserve
the Reserve Bank of
Bank of India has four
India.
zonal offices. Each one is
 122

handled by one of the Jaipur, Mumbai, Mohali, and

Deputy Governors. New Delhi, Piramal Finance is
reinforcing its commitment to
providing financial services to
Piramal Finance, a leading
housing finance company, women across India.

has taken a significant step Kerala as the First Branch:

towards empowering women Kerala was selected as the
by opening its first all-women
location for the inaugural
branch called “Maitreyi” in
branch due to the state’s
Tripunithura, a suburban area
demographics and market
in Kochi. dynamics. Kerala stands out
with 50 percent of its
customers being women,
compared to the national
average of 20 percent.
Additionally, 70 percent of
customers in Kerala are self-
This strategic expansion employed, highlighting the
initiative aims to cater to the entrepreneurial spirit of the
unique needs of female state’s population. In contrast,
customers and tap into the the rest of the country
growing market potential. With comprises 40 percent salaried
plans to open branches in
 123

individuals and 60 percent

self-employed.

The Piramal Group is an

Indian multinational
conglomerate that has
presence across various
Customers can explore various
sectors such as healthcare, life
products and services such as
sciences, drug discovery,
bank deposits, loans, digital
financial services, alternative
products, and government
investment and real estate.
schemes through their mobile
Founded: 1984 phones and laptops.

Headquarters: Mumbai, India The Metaverse represents a

Key people: Ajay Piramal new phase of the internet,

(Chairperson, Managing transitioning from individual

Director & Chief Executive sites and apps to a persistent

Officer) 3D environment.

Seamless movement between

work and social platforms is
Punjab National Bank (PNB)
made possible, mimicking real-
has announced the launch of
world experiences.
PNB Metaverse, a virtual
branch that offers a unique PNB aims to leverage this

banking experience. technology to enhance

 124

customer engagement,
streamline customer Sberbank’s branch in India
acquisition, and deliver hyper-
has been granted permission
personalized experiences.
by the Reserve Bank of India
Punjab National Bank (PNB) (RBI) to set up an IT unit in
is an Indian public sector bank Bengaluru.
based in New Delhi. The bank
was founded in May 1893 and
is the second largest public
sector bank in India in terms
of its business volumes and
second largest in terms of its
network.
The newly established IT office
Founded: 19 May 1893 will serve as Sberbank’s in-
Founder: Dyal Singh Majithia; house Data Processing
Lala Lajpat Rai Center.

Headquarters: Dwarka, Delhi, Bengaluru: India’s Leading

India Scientific and Industrial
Center
Key people: K G
Ananthakrishnan (Non-Exe Bengaluru, India’s third largest
Chairman); Atul Kumar Goel city, is renowned as the
(MD & CEO)
 125

country’s foremost scientific In a remarkable achievement,

and industrial hub. Canara Bank has once again
emerged as the leading
With specializations in
public sector bank in lending
aerospace, engineering,
electronics industries, and IT to state-owned corporations
and Public Sector
product development, the city
Undertakings (PSUs) for the
has earned the title of “Silicon
Valley of India.” fifth consecutive year.

PJSC Sberbank stands as

Russia’s largest bank and a
prominent global financial
institution.

With nearly one-third of the

aggregate Russian banking The Finance Ministry, in

sector assets and a significant response to queries raised by

role as a key lender to the MP Velusamy P, disclosed

national economy, Sberbank’s that Canara Bank’s lending to

expansion in India further government-backed entities

solidifies its position in the reached an impressive

international financial ₹187,813 crore during the

landscape. fiscal year 2022-23 (FY23).

This amount represented an
11% increase compared to the
 126

previous fiscal, wherein the 1969. Outside India, the bank

bank disbursed ₹1,69,532 has offices in London, Dubai
crore to government entities. and New York.

Canara Bank’s Dominance in Headquarters: Bengaluru

Lending:
CEO: K. Satyanarayana Raju
Canara Bank’s commitment to (7 Feb 2023–)
supporting state-run public
Founder: Ammembal Subba
sector enterprises and
Rao Pai
corporations remains
Founded: 1 July 1906
unparalleled, accounting for
over 45% of the total lending
by all public sector banks. This Swiggy, a popular food
demonstrates the bank’s delivery platform, has
robust financial strength and collaborated with HDFC Bank
dedication to fulfilling the to launch a co-branded credit
financial needs of government- card.
backed entities.

Canara Bank is an Indian

public sector bank based in
Bangalore. Established in
1906 at Mangalore by
Ammembal Subba Rao Pai,
the bank was nationalized in
 127

This move follows the trend of

various ecommerce platforms
partnering with banks to
introduce similar credit cards.

The Swiggy-HDFC co-branded

credit card will be facilitated by
Mastercard’s payment network.
The primary aim of this
partnership is to enhance
customer retention and
increase the average order
value on the Swiggy platform
by providing enticing benefits
to cardholders.

Swiggy is an online food

ordering and delivery platform.
Founded in 2014, Swiggy is
headquartered in Bangalore
and operates in more than 500
Indian cities.

Founders: Sriharsha Majety

Key people: Sriharsha Majety

(CEO)
 128

Important Days: - role in society, and it is crucial

to acknowledge their selfless
dedication and commemorate
Every year on July 1st, India
this day as a means of
observes National Doctor’s
honoring their sacrifices.
Day to pay tribute to the
In India, National Doctors’ Day
esteemed Dr. Bidhan
Chandra Roy. was initially established on
July 1, 1991, as a tribute to
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, who
made significant contributions
to the medical field. This date
holds significance as it
coincides with both his birth
Who was not only a and death anniversaries.
renowned doctor but also a
Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (July
distinguished politician, a
1, 1882–July 1, 1962) was a
freedom fighter, and a
renowned physician, educator,
champion of education. While
freedom fighter, social worker,
soldiers protect borders,
and politician. He served as
doctors are regarded as
the chief minister of West
soldiers who combat diseases
Bengal for an impressive
and save the lives of countless
period of 14 years (1948–
individuals. They play a vital
1962). Recognizing his
 129

remarkable achievements, Dr. esteemed financial and

Roy was honored with the accounting organization. In its
prestigious Bharat Ratna, the 75th year of existence, the
highest civilian award in India, ICAI serves as the exclusive
on February 4, 1961. licensing and regulatory
authority for the accounting
profession and financial
National Chartered
auditing in India. All
Accountants Day, also known
accounting and finance
as CA Day, is observed on
organizations, including the
July 1 to commemorate the
National Financial Reporting
establishment of the Institute
Authority (NFRA), are
of Chartered Accountants of
obligated to adhere to the
India (ICAI).
accounting standards
guidelines issued by the ICAI.

History:

Chartered Accountants Day,

also known as CA Day, traces
its roots back to 1949 when

This significant day the Institute of Chartered

acknowledges the Accountants of India (ICAI)

contributions made by the was founded through an Act of

ICAI, India’s oldest and most Parliament in India. The ICAI,

 130

as a statutory body, holds the

responsibility of regulating the International Plastic Bag Free
Chartered Accountancy
Day is observed every year
profession in the country. This
on July 3rd to increase
significant day commemorates awareness about the
the formal establishment of the
detrimental effects of
ICAI, representing a major
disposable plastic bags on
milestone in the field of the environment.
accountancy in India. Prior to
the formation of the ICAI, the
accounting profession in India
lacked regulation. The creation
of the ICAI introduced a
structured framework for the
education, qualification, and
professional conduct of This day acts as a reminder

Chartered Accountants in the for individuals, communities,

nation. and businesses globally to

minimize their usage of plastic
Founded: 1 July 1949;
bags and explore more
Headquarters: New Delhi; sustainable alternatives.
President: Aniket Sunil Talati; People, environmental groups,
and organizations worldwide
Founder: Gopaldas P.
participate in diverse activities,
Kapadia.
 131

workshops, and campaigns to

educate the public about the
consequences of plastic bags
and encourage the adoption of
reusable bag options.
History:
World UFO Day, celebrated
annually on July 2, serves as
a platform for individuals
around the globe to delve
into the intriguing realm of

In 2008, Zero Waste Europe Unidentified Flying Objects

(UFOs).
initiated a campaign targeting
the issue of single-use plastic
bags, which took place on July
3rd. Subsequently, in 2015,
the European Union
introduced specific directives
to diminish the utilization of This day, initially observed on
single-use plastic bags. As June 24, aims to raise
time progressed, the awareness about UFOs, spark
movement gained significant conversations, and foster an
traction, leading numerous exchange of ideas regarding
countries to enforce bans on the existence of extraterrestrial
plastic bags. Presently, this life.
day has evolved into a global
event observed by numerous
countries worldwide. Origin of World UFO Day:
 132

World UFO Day traces its

roots back to two significant
events in the United States.
World Zoonoses Day is
The first event occurred on
observed annually on July
June 24, 1947, when pilot
6th to honor the
Kenneth Arnold reported
achievements of Louis
observing several unidentified
Pasteur, a renowned French
objects near Mount Rainier,
biologist.
Washington. Subsequently, on
July 2, 1952, radar operators
confirmed multiple UFO
sightings over Washington. To
avoid conflicts with other UFO-
related events, the official date
for World UFO Day was On this day in 1885, Pasteur
shifted to July 2, honoring this administered the inaugural
notable occurrence. rabies vaccine, marking a

First UFO was spotted on significant milestone in

June 24, 1947 in Washinton zoonotic disease prevention.

D.C.,US The observance of World

Zoonoses Day serves as a
Full form of UFO is
platform to raise awareness
Unidentified Flying Objects
about different zoonotic
 133

diseases and educate people Throughout history, numerous

about preventive measures. zoonotic diseases have
affected humans. A prominent
Zoonotic Disease:
recent example is the COVID-
Zoonotic diseases are
19 pandemic, which is
illnesses that can be
believed to have originated
transmitted from animals or
from a virus transmitted by
insects to humans. While
bats, according to the current
some infections may not harm
available and accepted
the animals, they can cause
information.
sickness in humans. These
diseases can range from The term “Zoonoses”
originates from Greek, where
minor, short-term ailments to
“Zoon” means animal and
severe, life-altering conditions.
It has been reported that “Noses” means sickness.
Humans have a longstanding
approximately 60% of human
relationship with animals,
infections originate from
animals or insects. whether it be for hunting or
keeping them as pets. In
Zoonotic diseases can be
earlier times, the spread of
caused by various sources,
epidemics and diseases was
including viruses, bacteria,
less frequent. However, with
fungi, or parasites that are
the population explosion and
capable of crossing from
increased connectivity among
animals or insects to humans.
 134

people, diseases and

epidemics now have the
potential to spread rapidly.
Many of the diseases we know
today initially started as
zoonotic diseases, such as The Ministry of Culture,
measles, smallpox, and government of India in
influenza. partnership with the
International Buddhist
Since 1885, World Zoonoses
Confederation (IBC) celebrated
Day has been observed
Dharma Chakra Day.
worldwide on July 6th. The
primary objective of this day is The President highlighted the
to raise awareness about the significance of embracing
risks associated with zoonotic sheel (morality), Sadachaar
diseases. (good conduct) and Pragya
(wisdom) to empower the
younger generation and make
At the Dharma Chakra Divas
a positive contribution to the
(3rd July), President of India
society.
highlighted the importance of
The contract for the
Buddha’s teachings and
construction of the India
called upon their attention to
International Centre for
take inspiration from them.
Buddhist Culture and Heritage
 135

in Lumbini, Nepal was Dharma Chakra Day is also

successfully awarded. observed on Guru Purnima.

Dharma Chakra also known Dharma Chakra Day is

as wheel of Dharma is a organized by the Ministry of
widespread symbol used in Culture in partnership with the
most of the Indian religion International Buddhist
which includes Hinduism, Federation (IBF).
Jainism and especially
Dharma Chakra Day in the
Buddhism. Dharma Chakra is
second important day for the
widely used to represent the
Buddhist after Buddha
Buddha’s dharma i.e. Purnima.
Buddha’s teachings and the
Dharma Chakra Day marks
universal moral order.
the beginning of the rainy
Dharma Chakra Day:
season.
Dharma Chakra Day is This day is called by different
celebrated to commemorate
names at different places i.e.
the Buddha’s first teaching
Asadha Purnima at India,
after attaining enlightenment. Esala Poya at Sri Lanka and
Dharma Chakra Day is Asanha Bucha at Thailand.
observed on the full moon day
of Asadha in the Indian Sun
calendar.
 136

World Population Day is

commemorated annually on
July 11th to raise awareness
and educate individuals about
the challenges
consequences associated
with global population growth.
World Population Day 2023
Theme:
According to United Nations,
and
the theme for this year’s World
Population Day is – Unleashing
the Power of gender equality:
Uplifting the voices of women
and girls to unlock our world’s
infinite possibilities.

History:

The United Nations

It serves as a reminder to
Development Programme’s
continuously work towards
Governing Council established
addressing these issues and
World Population Day in 1989,
improving the lives of
inspired by the Day of Five
everyone on the planet. The
Billion observed on July 11,
observance of World
1987. In 1990, the United
Population Day aims to
Nations General Assembly,
promote understanding and
through Resolution 45/216,
encourage collective efforts in
decided to continue
tackling the impacts of
celebrating World Population
population growth.
Day to raise awareness about
 137

population issues and their International Moon Day is an

interconnection with the annual day dedicated to the
environment and development. Earth’s one and only natural
satellite, the Moon.
The first World Population Day
was observed on July 11,
1990, in more than 90
countries. Since then,
numerous organizations,
institutions, and United Nations
Population Fund (UNFPA)
It’s held every year on the
country offices, in partnership
20th of July, which is the
with governments and civil
anniversary of the day on
society, have been marking
which astronauts Neil
this day to bring attention to
Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin
population-related concerns.
famously set foot on the Moon
United Nations Population in 1969. The Moon landing is
Fund, Headquarters: New still considered one of
York, New York, United humanity’s greatest
States; achievements, and so

United Nations Population International Moon Day is all

Fund, Founded: 1969; about commemorating the

Apollo 11 mission while
United Nations Population
Fund, Head: Natalia Kanem.
 138

teaching people about the Moon exploration and

Moon and astronomy. utilization.

International Moon Day: Every year on July 28th, the

The General Assembly world observes World

Hepatitis Day to raise global
declared International Moon
awareness about hepatitis.
Day, a United Nations-
designated international day to
be observed annually on 20
July, in its resolution 76/76 on
“International cooperation in
the peaceful uses of outer
space” in 2021.

International Moon Day marks The main objective of this

the anniversary of the first awareness drive is to address

landing by humans on the the concerning statistics, which

Moon as part of the Apollo 11 indicate that someone dies

lunar mission. from hepatitis or related

conditions every 30 seconds
The celebrations will also
worldwide. Therefore, it is
consider the achievements of
crucial to have precise
all States in the exploration of
information about the disease
the Moon and raise public
and take necessary actions.
awareness of sustainable
The campaigns and activities
 139

conducted on World Hepatitis individuals with hepatitis may

Day 2023 aim to educate not display any symptoms,
people about the disease and underscoring the significance
its various aspects. of awareness and early

Hepatitis virus has five detection.

commonly known strains: Type Hepatitis B is an infection of

A, B, C, D and E. All of them the liver caused by the
affect the liver but there are hepatitis B virus. The infection
some key differences in origin, can be acute (short and
transmission and severity of severe) or chronic (long term).
the disease. Hepatitis can be Hepatitis B can cause a
preventable with immunization chronic infection and puts
and manageable, but there is people at high risk of death
no cure at present. from cirrhosis and liver cancer.
It can spread through contact
While all types of hepatitis can
with infected body fluids like
result in liver disease, the
symptoms, transmission blood, saliva, vaginal fluids
and semen. It can also be
methods, and overall impact
passed from a mother to her
may differ. Common
manifestations include fatigue, baby.

stomach pain, fever, and in Theme of World Hepatitis

severe cases, liver failure and Day 2023:
brain damage. However, some
 140

World Hepatitis Day is organised World Hepatitis Day

observed each year on 28 July was observed. This happened
to raise awareness on viral after the World Health
hepatitis, and this year’s Assembly decided to
theme is ‘one life, one liver’. commemorate the birthday of
Each year, this day focuses on Baruch Samuel Blumberg. He
a specific theme to increase was the American physician
knowledge about the current who discovered Hepatitis B in
situation of hepatitis worldwide the 1960s.
and bring about positive
International Tiger Day has
changes. Various events such
been observed annually on
as campaigns, seminars, and July 29th since its inception
lectures are organized, inviting
in 2010 during the Saint
people from all over the world
Petersburg Tiger Summit.
to participate and learn more
about the disease.

History:

Initially observed on May 19,

World Hepatitis Day was
moved to July 28 in 2010. The
The main purpose of this day
World Hepatitis Alliance was
is to bring attention to the
founded in the year 2007, and
drastic decline in wild tiger
in 2008, the first community-
populations, which has pushed
 141

them to the edge of extinction. data is crucial in evaluating

By celebrating this occasion, the success of conservation
we aim to create awareness initiatives and identifying areas
about the crucial efforts of that require more attention and
tiger conservation. support.

Tiger Conservation Cultural and Symbolic

Awareness: International Tiger Significance: Tigers have
Day serves as a global deep cultural and symbolic
platform to spread awareness importance in many Asian
about the threats faced by countries. They are revered
tigers, including habitat loss, and considered symbols of
poaching, illegal wildlife trade, power, strength, and beauty.
and human-wildlife conflict. It International Tiger Day
emphasizes the importance of acknowledges the cultural
protecting and conserving significance of tigers while
tigers to ensure their survival promoting their conservation.
for future generations. International Tiger Day was
Tiger Population Monitoring: first celebrated in 2010 after it
The day allows conservation was found that 97% of all wild
organizations and tigers had disappeared in the
governments to share updates last century, with about only
on tiger population numbers 3,000 of them remaining. It’s
and conservation efforts. This not news that tigers are on the
 142

brink of extinction and Director General: Marco

International World Tiger Day Lambertini.
aims to halt the numbers from
worsening. Habitat loss,
Every year on July 30th,
climate change, hunting, and
people around the world
poaching are only some of the
celebrate International
factors that are responsible for
Friendship Day.
the decline in the tiger
population. Along with the
preservation of these species,
the day also aims to protect
and expand their habitats.
Many international
organizations such as the
Since 2011, this special day
WWF, the IFAW, and the
has been dedicated to
Smithsonian Institute also
expressing gratitude to our
observe International Tiger
friends for their companionship
Day.
and support. It’s a time to
World Wildlife Fund cherish the meaningful
Headquarters: Gland, friendships we have and
Switzerland; recognize how our friends

Founded: 29 April 1961; stand by us through life’s

journey.
 143

History: international organizations,

The International Day of and civil society groups to

organize events, activities, and
Friendship was established by
initiatives that contribute to
the UN General Assembly in
2011, with the core belief that promoting dialogue among
civilizations, solidarity, mutual
fostering friendship among
understanding, and
peoples, countries, cultures,
and individuals can serve as a reconciliation on a global

catalyst for peace efforts and scale.

foster unity between This initiative is built upon

communities. UNESCO’s proposal for a
Culture of Peace, defined by a
A key aspect of the resolution
set of values, attitudes, and
is the involvement of young
people, recognized as future behaviors that reject violence
and actively work to prevent
leaders, in community
conflicts by addressing their
activities that embrace diverse
cultures and promote root causes. The concept was
subsequently adopted by the
international understanding
UN General Assembly in
and respect for differences.
1997.
To commemorate the
International Day of
Friendship, the UN
encourages governments,
144
 145

Quiz: -
3. Which of the following
Government body has signed
a MoU with the European
International: -
Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) for cooperation in
1. Which of the following unmanned aircraft and
country becomes first to ban systems?
plastic produce bags?
a) HAL
a) Australia b) ISRO
b) France c) DGCA
c) Canada d) DRDO
d) New Zealand

4. Which of the following

2. Recently, which of the
country has announced to
following country becomes
Establish Representative
the full member of Shanghai
Office in Mumbai, Boosting
Cooperation Organisation
India-Taiwan Ties?
(SCO)?
a) Japan
a) Afghanistan
b) Taiwan
b) Iran
c) Philippines
c) Belarus
d) Singapore
d) Mongolia
 146

5. The U.N. Security Council 7. Which country have

have hosted the first meeting declared National Emergency
on the potential threats of due to spike in Guillain-Barre
Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Syndrome cases?
international peace and a) Peru
security, which country had
b) Chile
organised the meeting?
c) Brazil
a) France d) Bolivia
b) Germany
8. Who has been sworn in as
c) America
EU’s first openly gay
d) United Kingdom President?

a) Ksenia Solo
6. Which country has b) Mariss Jansons
launched its computer c) Edgars Rinkevics
operating system, named d)Aron Nimzowitsch
'OpenKylin'?

a) China 9. With which of the following

b) India neighbouring country, India
c) Russia has launch trade transactions
d) U.A.E in Rupees to reduce Dollar
dependence?

a) Nepal
 147

b) Sri Lanka 12. Which of the following

c) Maldives country becomes 51st country
d) Bangladesh to sign ASEAN’s Treaty of
Amity and Cooperation
10. Recently, which of the
following country's parliament (TAC)?

has approves bill that limits a) Egypt

Supreme Court power? b) Oman
c) Jordon
a) Syria
d) Saudi Arabia
b) Iran
c) Israel

d)Turkey 13. Which of the following

country has launched world’s

11. Which of the following first methane-fuelled space

country becomes first Arab rocket?

country to get observer status a) China

on Asian-Pacific Money b) Russia
Laundering? c) France

a) Qatar d) America

b) Oman
c) Saudi Arabia 14. Which country becomes
d) United Arab Emirates second Quad partner to sign
 148

semiconductor pact with

India? 17. Which of the following
a) Japan country has banned sex
b) Australia change and transgender
c) America marriages?
d) None of these
a) India
b) China
c) Russia
15. Who has become first
d) Nepal
woman (Admiral) to lead US
Navy?

a) Jennifer Aniston 18. Who is appointed as the

b) Lisa Franchetti new prime minister of
c) Oprah Winfrey Cambodia as Hun Sen
d) Emmanuelle Charpentier resigned after four decades?

16. Recently, which country a) Hun Manet

has honours Indian Army b) Rithy Panh
contribution in Second World c) Sen Manet
War? d) Norodom Sihamoni

a) Italy
b) France
19. Who is elected new
c) Japan chairman Intergovernmental
d) Germany
 149

Panel on Climate Change a) Uttar Pradesh

(IPCC)? b) Bihar
c) Andhra Pradesh
a) Qu Dongyu
d) Kerala
b) James Skea
c) Rafael Grossi
d) Kristalina Georgieva
22. Recently, who lays
foundation stone of the first
National: - cooperative-run Sainik
School?

20. In which state, the India’s a) PM Modi

first indigenous 700 MW b) Amit Shah

Nuclear reactor have started c) Piyush Goyal

commercial operation, d) Nitin Gadkari

recently? 23. From which of the

a) Rajasthan following country, India has

b) Gujarat permitted potato imports till

c) Haryana June 2024?

d) Maharashtra a) Nepal

21. In which of the following b) Bhutan

state, PM Modi has c) Srilanka

inaugurated Sai Hira Global d) Bangladesh

Convention Centre?
 150

24. Which of the following c) $3 million

research affiliate programme d) $4 million
is launched by National Law
University (NLU), Delhi, for
27. Which of the following
non-degree individuals?
Industry becomes first
a) Shishya
member from India to join
b) Eklavya Asia Transition Finance
c) Dronacharya
Study Group?
d) None of these
a) PFC
b) HAL
25. Recently, who has c) IOCL
Launched the ‘CRCS-Sahara d) NTPC
Refund Portal’?

a) Ashwini Vaishnaw 28. Who become the first

b) Anurag Thakur
woman MP from Nagaland to
c) Nitin Gadkari
preside over Rajya Sabha?
d) Amit Shah
a) Rano M. Shaiza
26. Recently, India has
b) Phangnon Konyak
donated how many million ($) c) Hekani Jakhalu
to promote Hindi at UN?
d) Salhoutuonuo Kruse
a) $1 million
b) $2 million
 151

29. Which country have b) ULLAS

launched international Big c) GYANAM
Cat Alliance for conserving 7 d) None of these
big cats?

a) India
32. Which state emerges as
b) Brazil
the state with the highest
c) Indonesia average assets per MLA and
d) South Africa
the highest number of
30. PM Modi during his visit billionaire MLAs?
in Rajasthan launched a new a) Uttar Pradesh
type of Urea which is coated
b) Karnataka
with sulphur, what's its
c) Andhra Pradesh
name? d) Maharashtra
a) Urea Silver
b) Urea Gold
33. Who has been appointed
c) Urea Platinum
as the new CEO of the
d) Urea Diamond
management board of Audi?
31. Recently, which mobile
a) Andy Jassy
application was launches by
b) Julie Sweet
Centre to promote basic
c) Doug McMillon
literacy?
d) Gernot Dollner
a) SAKSHAR
 152

34. Who has been appointed d) Ashok K. K. Meena

as India’s ambassador to
WTO for 9 months?
37. Who has been re-elected
a) Rudrendra Tandon as a Director General of
b) Gaurav Ahluwalia
United Nations Food and
c) Brajendra Navnit
Agriculture Organization
d) Pratham kataria (FAO)?
35. Who has been
a) Qu-Dongyu
reappointed as Solicitor
b) Wang Wei
General of India? c) Wang Chuanfu
a) Pradeep Kumar Rawat d) William Lei Ding
b) Suresh Reddy
c) Gopal Bagalay
38. Who has been appointed
d) Tushar Mehta
as the Chief Financial Officer
(CFO) of SBI?
36. Who has been appointed a) Amitabh Chaudhry
as the chairman and
b) Reshma Kewalramani
managing director of Coal
c) Laxman Narasimhan
India? d) Kameswar Rao Kodavanti
a) V. Krishnamurthy
b) P M Prasad
c) T K Manoj Kumar
 153

39. Who (Cricketer) has been b) Animesh Sinha

appointed chairman of Senior c) Ajeet Yadav
Men’s Selection Committee? d) CB Maurya

a) Sachin Tendulkar
b) Ajit Agarkar
42. Who has been appointed
c) Yuvraj Singh
as the new executive director
d) M.S. Dhoni of RBI?

a) P Vasudevan
40. Who has been appointed b) Aditya Jha
MD & CEO of Lloyds Banking c) K Shivan
Group’s Technology Centre in d) Ankit Kushwaha
India?

a) Priscilla Almodovar
43. Who has been appointed
b) Sirisha Voruganti as brand ambassador of
c) Carol B. Tomé
Asics?
d) Jane Fraser
a) Alia Bhatt
b) Katrina Kaif
41. Who has been appointed c) Shraddha Kapoor
as the CEO of Financial d) Kiara Advani
Planning Standards Board
(FPSB) of India?

a) Krishan Mishra
 154

44. Who has been appointed d) Deepak Giri

as New IFSCA Chairman by
Centre?
47. Who has been elected as
a) K Rajaraman President of Cement
b) Ramchandran Roy Manufacturers’ Association?
c) Dharmendra Nath
a) Nikhil Pant
d) None of these
b) Neeraj Akhoury
c) Shyam Bihari
45. Who has been elected as d) Ashok Maurya
the new President of the
Olympic Council of Asia
48. Who has been appointed
(OCA)?
as MD & CEO of Invest
a) Sheikh Talal India?
b) Tamim bin Hamad
a) Garima Pathak
c) Majid Al Futtaim
b) Nivruti Rai
d) Sultan bin Zayed
c) Nanshi Maurya
d) Ayushi Roy
46. Who has been appointed
as SBI Card’s CEO?
49. Who has been appointed
a) Ajeet Yadav as the DG of Railway
b) Abhijit Chakravorty Protection Force?
c) Anand Gupta
 155

a) Dilip Singh of International Myeloma

b) Manoj Yadava Foundation?
c) Ashotosh Rana
a) Supriyo Datta
d) Arvind Jadeda
b) Vijay Vazirani
c) Thomas Kailath

50. Who has been appointed d) S. Vincent Rajkumar

as 25th Director General of

Indian Coast Guard?
53. Who has been sworn in
a) Naveen Verma as the Chief Justice of the
b) Rakesh Pal Telangana High Court in
c) Vivek Roy Hyderabad?
d) Uttpal Pant
a) Pritinker Diwaker
51. Who has been appointed b) Ramesh Sinha
by the government as the c) Alok Aradhe
Managing Director of Life d) Dhiraj Singh Thakur
Insurance Corporation?

a) Ankitia Jha
54. Who took oath as the
b) Abhimanyu Ojha
Chief Justice of Kerala High
c) Sat Pal Bhanoo
Court?
d) Satyendra Nath Das
a) Devendra Kumar
52. Which Indian-origin doctor
Upadhyaya
is newly appointed chairman
b) Ashish Jitendra Desai
 156

c) Satish Chandra Sharma b) G. Kannabiran

d) None of these c) R.P. Singh

55. Who has been appointed d) Ravindra

as the Chief Justice of Sports: -

Bombay High Court?

a) Devendra Kumar
58. India won the Asian
b) Ajeet Sinha
Kabaddi Championship 2023
c) Animesh Bhat
title by defeating which of the
d) Akanksha Mishra
following country in the final?

a) Iran
56. Who has been appointed b) Japan
as the Chairman of Asian c) Korea
Paints' Board, effective from d) Hong Kong
October 1, 2023?

a) K Madhwan 59. Which Indian player won

b) Sanjay Rawat the Lausanne Diamond
c) R Seshasayee League 2023?
d) Abhinandan Roy
a) Yogeshwar Dutt
b) Abhinav Bindra
57. Who took over as the c) Neeraj Chopra
new director of NAAC? d) Lovlina Borgohain

a) Amrendra Shekhawat
 157

60. Which of the following b) Mumbai

company will now principal c) Kolkata
jersey sponsor of Indian d)Chennai
cricket team?

a) MyTeam11
63. Who has been elected as
b) Dream11
president of the Basketball
c) MPL-Mobile
Federation of India (BFI)?
d) None of these
a) Akanksha Rajpoot
b) Amitabh Dutt
61. Who is the first Indian
c) Nagarjuna Das
cricketer to be part of d) Aadhav Arjuna
Caribbean Premier League?

a) Smriti Mandhana
64. Who won the men’s
b) Priya Punia
singles title at the 58th
c) Mithali Raj
Canada Open 2023 in
d) Shreyanka Patil
Badminton World Federation
(BWF)?
62. Which of the following
a) Swapnil Pant
city is organising the 132nd
b) Lakshya Sen
edition of the Durand Cup c) Akshay Maurya
tournament? d) None of these
a) Delhi
 158

65. Which country have wins c) Vijay Deverakonda

34th International Biology d) Thaandavam Deiva
Olympiad? 68. Which Indian
a) China Grandmaster has won the
b) India Super Grandmaster Chess
c) Nepal Tournament in Hungary?
d) Singapore
a) Parimarjan Negi
b) R Praggnanandhaa
c) Gukesh Dommaraju
66. Who has been clinches
d) Abhimanyu Mishra
gold medal in Para Athletics
Championships 2023in Paris?

a) Ankit Roy 69. Who has become the

b) Abhinav Dubbey youngest person to cross the

c) Ajeet Singh North Channel?

d) Anand Gupta a) Elvis Ali Hazarika

b) Kevin Murphy
c) Tom Blower
67. Who has been ‘smashes’ d) Anshuman Jhingran
Guinness world record with
fastest badminton hit?
70. At which rank, Indian
a) Satwiksairaj Rankireddy
cricketing legend Virat Kohli
b) Nagarjuna Akkineni
achieved a significant
 159

milestone in cricket history to d)Koustav Chatterjee

make 500 international
appearances?

a) At 8th Position
Awards and Honours: -
b) At 9th Position
c) At 10th Position
73. Which British children’s
d) At 11th Position
writer has been awarded the
PEN Pinter Prize 2023?

71. Who has been appointed a) Michael Rosen

as the brand ambassador of b) Agatha Christie
ICC World Cup 2023? c) George Eliot

a) Akshay Kumar d) None of these

b) Salman Khan
c) Dipika Padukone
74. Who has won the AIFF
d) Shah Rukh Khan
Men's Footballer of the Year
award for 2022-23?

72. Who has become India's a) Sunil Chhetri

83rd Grandmaster in Beel b) Mehtab Singh
Chess Festival? c) Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

a) Sayantan Das d) Lallianzuala Chhangte

b) Vignesh N R
c) Aditya Samant
 160

75. Which country's highest c) Karnataka

award, the Grand Cross of d) Uttar Pradesh
the Legion of Honour, was
awarded to PM Modi?
78. Recently, who has been
a) Israel
honoured with the Rising
b) Germany
Global Superstar of Indian
c) France
Cinema Award?
d) UAE
a) Varun Dhawan
b) Kartik Aaryan
76. Which Indian professor c) Tiger Shroff
won the prestigious d) Ishaan Khatter
International Eni Award?

a) H.C. Verma
79. Who has won the Miles
b) Thalappil Pradeep
Franklin Literary Prize 2023?
c) Anand Kummar
d) All of the above a) Kiran Desai
b) Kamala Das
c) Shankari Chandran
77. Which state will host the d) Ismat Chughtai
69th edition of Filmfare
Awards in 2024?
80. Recently, which railway
a) Gujarat
station in Mumbai received
b) Maharashtra
 161

UNESCO's Asia Pacific d) Kolhapur

Cultural Heritage Award?

a) Kurla
83. Who is appointed as the
b) Byculla
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
c) Kalyan
of SBI?
d) Mansarovar
a) Laxman Narasimhan
b) Reshma Kewalramani
81. Who has been awarded c) Kameshwar Rao
the first 'Udyog Ratna' award Kodavanti
by the Government of d) None of the above
Maharashtra?

a) Anand Mahindra
84. Which Bank launches
b) Mukesh Ambani
centralised information
c) Gautam Adani
management system (CIMS)
d) Ratan Tata
for enhanced Data
Management?

82. In which city, PM Modi a) CBI

was conferred with Lokmanya b) BOI
Tilak National Award? c) RBI

a) Pune d)SBI
b) Mumbai
c) Nashik
 162

85. Piramal Finance has c) Bengaluru

opened its first all-women d) Gurugram
branch in which city?

a) Mohali 88. Which bank has topped

b) Kochi
the public sector banks for
c) Jaipur
the fifth consecutive year in
d) Mumbai lending to state PSUs and
corporations?

86. Which bank launched a) Axis Bank

Virtual Bench with immersive b) Canara Bank
3D experience in Metaverse? c) HDFC Bank

a) PNB d) Yes Bank

b) HDFC
c) ICICI 89. Swiggy launched co-
d) SBI
branded credit card with
87. The Reserve Bank of which bank?
India (RBI) has permitted
a) ICICI Bank
Sberbank's branch to set up
b) Indian Bank
an IT unit in which city of c) HDFC Bank
India?
d) Bank of India
a) Pune
b) Noida
 163

Important Days: - b) July 3

c) July 5
d) July 7
90. When is National Doctor's
Day celebrated in India?
93. When the World UFO Day
a) July 1st
was observed to bringing
b) July 2nd
together enthusiasts,
c) July 3rd
researchers, and curious
d) July 4th
individuals interested in
unidentified flying objects
91. When the Chartered (UFOs)?
Accountants Day is observed a) July 1st
in India? b) July 2nd
a) July 1 c) July 3rd
b) July 3 d) July 4th
c) July 5
d) July 7
94. When the World
Zoonoses Day is observed
92. When is International annually to honor the
Plastic Bag Free Day is achievements of Louis
observed every year? Pasteur, a renowned French
biologist?
a) July 1
 164

a) July 4th 97. When the International

b) July 6th Moon Day is observed,
c) July 8th dedicated to the Earth’s one
d) July 10th and only natural satellite, the
Moon?

a) 16th of July
95. When the Dharma Chakra
Day is celebrated to b) 18th of July
c) 20th of July
commemorate Buddha’s first
d) 22th of July
teaching?

a) July 1 98. When the World Hepatitis

Day is observed annually
b) July 3
with the primary aim of
c) July 5
d) July 7 spreading awareness about
hepatitis on a global scale?
96. When the World
Population Day is a) July 22th
b) July 24th
commemorated annually?
c) July 26th
a) July 9th
d) July 28th
b) July 11th
c) July 13th
d) July 15th 99. When the International
Tiger Day has been observed
annually?
 165

a) July 27th
b) July 28th
c) July 29th
d) July 30th

100. When the International

Friendship Day is celebrated?

a) July 26th
b) July 28th
c) July 30th
d) None of these
166
167