States News
Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor Boosts Industrial Growth
The Uttar Pradesh government has secured over 154 defence manufacturing deals worth Rs 25,000 crore, marking a significant stride in bolstering India’s defence production capabilities. These initiatives are part of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UPDIC), spanning Lucknow, Kanpur, Jhansi, Aligarh, Chitrakoot, and Agra districts.
International News
India-Taiwan Mutual Recognition Agreement for Organic Products
The India-Taiwan Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) for Organic Products, effective from July 8, 2024, aims to enhance trade by allowing certified organic products from each country to enter the other’s market. India’s Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Taiwan’s Agriculture and Food Agency are the respective implementing agencies for this landmark agreement.
Appointments News
Rajat Sharma Elected as NBDA President
In a significant development for the Indian media landscape, Rajat Sharma, the esteemed Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of India TV, has been unanimously elected as the President of the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA). This landmark decision was made during the NBDA’s board meeting held on July 9, 2024, marking a new chapter in the organization’s history.
Olympian PV Sindhu Joins Wellness Brand Hoop as Investor, Brand Ambassador
Olympic medalist and badminton sensation PV Sindhu has made a significant move in the business world by joining Hoop, a Gurugram-based wellness brand, as both an investor and brand ambassador. This announcement marks a new milestone in Sindhu’s career beyond the badminton court, showcasing her growing interest in entrepreneurship and brand building.
Lt Gen Shankar Narayan Takes Helm at Army Hospital (R & R)
The Armed Forces Medical Services witnessed a significant change in leadership as Lt Gen Shankar Narayan, NM, VSM, assumed the role of Commandant at the Army Hospital (Research & Referral), widely recognized as the apex hospital of the Indian Armed Forces. This appointment marks a new chapter in the hospital’s illustrious history and promises to bring fresh perspectives to military healthcare.
Banking News
Financial Inclusion Index Rises with Growth Across All Segments
The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Financial Inclusion Index (FI-Index), which measures the extent of financial inclusion across the country, rose to 64.2 in March 2024 from 60.1 in March 2023. This improvement reflects growth across all sub-indices, indicating a deepening of financial inclusion.
PSU Banks Pay ₹6,481 Crore Dividend to Govt for FY 2023-24
Four public sector banks, including Canara Bank, Indian Bank, Bank of India, and EXIM Bank, have collectively paid a dividend of ₹6,481 crore to the government for the financial year 2023-24. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman received dividend cheques from each bank’s managing directors and CEOs.
Economy News
India’s Economic Growth Highlights, June 2024
In June 2024, India’s economic landscape witnessed significant growth driven by robust performance in both manufacturing and services sectors. The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for manufacturing soared, accompanied by strong hiring activity, marking a 19-year high. Concurrently, the Eight Core Industries Index expanded by 6.5% year-on-year in the initial months of FY25, led by sectors like coal and electricity.
Business News
ICICI Prudential Launches India’s First Oil & Gas ETF
ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund has made a significant move in the Indian investment landscape by launching the ICICI Prudential Nifty Oil & Gas ETF. ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund has made a significant move in the Indian investment landscape by launching the ICICI Prudential Nifty Oil & Gas ETF. This pioneering product marks the introduction of India’s first exchange-traded fund (ETF) specifically focused on the oil and gas sector. The fund is designed to track the performance of the Nifty Oil & Gas TRI, an index that serves as a barometer for the listed companies operating within this crucial economic sector.
Science and Technology News
Europe’s Ariane 6 Rocket Launched After 4-Year Delay
Europe’s new Ariane 6 rocket successfully blasted off for the first time, restoring the continent’s independent access to space after a series of setbacks. Initially delayed for an hour by a small problem, the rocket lifted off from Kourou, French Guiana, releasing satellites into orbit. This launch marked a significant milestone for European space efforts, which had suffered from delays and loss of independent launch capabilities.
Important Days
World Population Day 2024: Know Date, History and Theme
As July 11th approaches, the world prepares to observe World Population Day, an annual event that has become increasingly significant in our rapidly changing global landscape. Established by the United Nations in 1989, this day serves as a crucial platform for raising awareness about pressing population issues that affect every corner of our planet. The theme for World Population Day 2024, “Leave no one behind, count everyone,” underscores a critical aspect of population dynamics and sustainable development.
Every year on July 10th, India celebrates National Fish Farmer’s Day
Every year on July 10th, India celebrates National Fish Farmer’s Day to honour the invaluable contributions of fish farmers, aquaculture professionals, and stakeholders in the fisheries sector. This day serves as a platform to recognize their efforts in ensuring a sustainable and thriving fishing industry, which plays a crucial role in India’s economy and food security.
International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica
In recognition of the enduring significance of the Srebrenica genocide, the UN General Assembly took a decisive step in May 2024. Through a resolution sponsored by Germany and Rwanda, July 11 was designated as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica.
Miscellaneous News
UNESCO Expands World Network of Biosphere Reserves
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has recently made a significant announcement, approving the designation of 11 new Biosphere Reserves across 11 countries. This expansion brings the total number of sites in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves to an impressive 759, spanning 136 countries worldwide. This development marks a crucial step forward in global efforts to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable development.
