Current Affairs One - Liner : 20th August 2024

On 18th August 2024, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh released a ₹100 commemorative coin to mark the birth centenary of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. The event, held in Chennai, highlighted Karunanidhi’s contributions to social justice and development.

Union Minister JP Nadda inaugurated the ‘First Policy Makers’ Forum’ in New Delhi on August 20, 2024. This forum, organized by the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Ministry of External Affairs, aims to elevate India’s position in the global pharmaceutical sector.

In FY24, forty-three Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) reported a combined net profit of ₹7,796 crore, a 26% increase from ₹6,178 crore in FY23. This improvement has raised the possibility of some RRBs exploring capital market opportunities, such as initial public offerings (IPOs).
Punjab National Bank (PNB) has launched the PNB ANTAH DRISHTI Braille Debit Card for visually impaired customers. This RuPay card features Braille embossing, a rounded notch for easy orientation, and contrasting colors. It offers a daily ATM withdrawal limit of ₹25,000 and a PoS/eCommerce limit of ₹60,000. This initiative aims to enhance financial independence for visually impaired individuals.
RBL Bank has introduced the Vijay Fixed Deposits scheme. This special fixed deposit offers an interest rate of 8.1% per annum for regular deposits, 8.6% for senior citizens, and 8.85% for super senior citizens for a 500-day tenor. This scheme is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of India’s military personnel.
The Indian government has reduced the windfall tax on domestically produced crude oil to ₹2,100 per metric tonne from ₹4,600, effective August 17. Additionally, the windfall tax on diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) exports has been scrapped. This move aims to align domestic prices with international market rates and support the oil industry.

In 2023-24, FDI in India’s food processing sector fell by 30% to ₹5,037 crore, down from ₹7,194.13 crore the previous year. The government is working to attract more investment through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana and the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry.

Sumit Antil and Bhagyashree Jadhav have been named as India’s flag bearers for the Paris 2024 Paralympics opening ceremony. Sumit is a javelin thrower and reigning Paralympic champion, while Bhagyashree is a shot-putter who won silver at the Asian Para Games. India will have 84 athletes competing across 12 sports.

National Aerospace Laboratories has launched fully indigenous kamikaze drones with a 1,000 km range. These drones can carry an explosive payload of 25-40 kg and operate in GPS-denied environments using the Indian NAViC system. They are designed for precision strikes and can loiter over target areas for extended periods.

The Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme has been extended until September 30, 2024, to support exporters by refunding non-recoverable duties and taxes. The Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES), which provides interest subsidies to exporters, is also likely to be extended, though official confirmation is pending. These measures aim to boost exports and support the exporting community.

World Mosquito Day, observed on August 20th, commemorates Sir Ronald Ross’s discovery in 1897 that mosquitoes transmit malaria. The 2024 theme is “Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world,” highlighting the need for better access to malaria treatment and prevention.
Indian Akshay Urja Day, observed on August 20th, promotes awareness about renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power. Established in 2004 by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, it marks the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The 2024 theme, “Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future”.

Ashok Kumar Singh assumed the role of Director General of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) on August 19, 2024. His appointment is expected to bring new leadership and direction to the organization, which plays a crucial role in providing social security and health insurance to workers in India.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah released the book “Modi’s Governance Triumph: Reshaping India’s Path to Prosperity” by Tarun Chugh on August 17, 2024. The book highlights the significant achievements and policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, focusing on economic reforms, infrastructure development, and social welfare initiatives.

Maria Branyas Morera, the world’s oldest person, passed away on August 19, 2024, at the age of 117. She lived a remarkable life, witnessing significant historical events and changes over more than a century. Her longevity and resilience were an inspiration to many.

Questions:

1 Who is the author of the book “Modi’s Governance Triumph: Reshaping India’s Path to Prosperity”?

2 Who inaugurated the 'First Policy Makers' Forum' in New Delhi on August 20, 2024?