States News
Kerala Introduces Artificial Intelligence Learning in School Textbooks
In a pioneering move, the state of Kerala has introduced Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning in the Information & Communication Technology (ICT) textbook for Class 7 students. This initiative aims to familiarize over 4 lakh students with AI in the upcoming academic year, marking a significant step towards enhancing technological education in the state.
Appointments News
Badminton Star PV Sindhu Appointed Brand Ambassador for Tobacco Control
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, organized an event to observe World No Tobacco Day 2024. This year’s theme, “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference,” highlights the urgent need to shield youth from the detrimental influences of tobacco consumption. During the event, the Union Health Secretary, Shri Apurva Chandra, addressed the gathering through a video message, focusing on the devastating impact of tobacco use.
Banking News
Canara Bank to Dilute 14.50% Stake in Canara HSBC Life Insurance via IPO
Bengaluru-headquartered Canara Bank has approved initiating the process of diluting a 14.50% stake in its subsidiary, Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company, through an initial public offering (IPO). This move is pending approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Department of Financial Services (DFS). Currently, Canara Bank holds a 51% majority stake in the life insurance company, while HSBC Insurance (Asia Pacific) owns 26%, and Punjab National Bank holds the remaining 23%.
RBI Penalizes SBM Bank (India) With Rs 88.70 Lakh Fine
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a penalty of Rs 88.70 lakh on SBM Bank (India) for non-compliance with specific regulatory norms. This includes licensing conditions and directives related to the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS).
Economy News
India’s FY24 Fiscal Deficit Improves to 5.63% of GDP
India’s fiscal deficit for FY24 improved to 5.6% of GDP, better than the previous estimate of 5.8%, due to higher revenue realization and lower expenditure. In actual terms, the fiscal deficit was ₹16.53 lakh crore, or 5.63% of the GDP, which grew by 8.2% in 2023-24.
India’s Core Sector Growth Rises 6.2% in April
In April, India’s core sector, comprising coal, steel, cement, fertilizers, electricity, natural gas, refinery products, and crude oil, witnessed a notable 6.2% growth, reflecting positive momentum in key industries. This growth, driven by robust performances in sectors such as steel, electricity, and natural gas, contrasts with the 4.6% growth recorded in April 2023. However, it’s essential to note that March’s growth figures were revised upward to 6%, indicating a stronger trajectory than previously estimated.
Awards News
Indian-American Bruhat Soma Triumphs at Scripps National Spelling Bee
In a remarkable display of spelling prowess, Bruhat Soma, a 12-year-old Indian-American seventh-grader from Florida, has emerged victorious at the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee. Maintaining the dominance of the small ethnic community in this prestigious competition, Bruhat correctly spelled 29 words in the tiebreaker round, earning him more than $50,000 in cash and other prizes.
NIMHANS Honoured with Prestigious Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, India’s premier mental health institution, has been conferred the prestigious Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion for 2024 by the World Health Organization (WHO). This award recognizes individuals, institutions, and organizations that have demonstrated remarkable contributions to health promotion.
Sports News
England Cricketer Brydon Carse Slapped with Three-Month Ban
England’s fast-bowling allrounder Brydon Carse has been handed a three-month suspension from all forms of cricket after being found guilty of breaching betting regulations. The 28-year-old placed a staggering 303 bets on various cricket matches between 2017 and 2019, leading to charges being brought against him.
India Joins Newly Formed World Boxing Body
The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) has taken a significant step by agreeing to join the World Boxing (WB), a newly established governing body formed after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) refused to recognize the International Boxing Association (IBA). This move comes amidst the ongoing World Olympic qualifiers in Bangkok, where the BFI’s affiliation will be ratified by the WB executive board.
Important Days
World Milk Day 2024, Celebrating the Vital Role of Dairy
Every year on June 1, the world comes together to celebrate World Milk Day. This annual event, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, aims to bring the importance of milk as a global food to the forefront and promote dairy farming and the dairy industry. Since its inception in 2001, World Milk Day has gained global recognition, with various campaigns carried out to raise awareness about the nutritional value and significance of milk in a balanced diet.
Global Day of Parents 2024 Observed on 01st June
The Global Day of Parents, observed annually on 1 June, is a significant occasion that aims to raise international awareness about the importance of parenthood and promote the healthy development of children by their parents. Established by the United Nations General Assembly, this day serves as a reminder of the crucial role parents play in shaping the lives and well-being of their children.
