National News
India Leads Global Maritime Discourse at IMO Council Session in London
India, represented by a high-level delegation led by Shri T.K. Ramachandaran, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has taken a prominent role in shaping international maritime policies at the 132nd session of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London. The session, which began on July 8, 2024, and continues until July 12, 2024, addresses critical issues and proposals for the future of global maritime operations.
International News
Vietnam Crowned Most Affordable Country for Expats in 2024 Study
In a comprehensive study conducted by InterNations in 2024, Vietnam has once again secured its position as the most affordable destination for expatriates. This marks the fourth consecutive year that the Southeast Asian nation has topped the list, solidifying its reputation as a prime location for those seeking an economical lifestyle abroad.
Ireland Surpasses Mauritius in Preferred FPI Destinations
As of June 30, 2024, Ireland has overtaken Mauritius to secure the fourth spot among preferred destinations for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) routing funds into India. Ireland boasts assets under custody (AUC) totaling Rs 4.41 trillion, slightly edging out Mauritius which recorded Rs 4.39 trillion. The shift highlights Ireland’s appeal, with a 26% increase in AUC in the first half of the year compared to Mauritius’ 11% uptick.
States News
Sarus Crane Population Thrives in Uttar Pradesh
The Forest Department of Uttar Pradesh has released its latest summer census figures for the state bird, the Sarus Crane. The report, unveiled on July 10, 2024, reveals a promising trend in the conservation efforts of this majestic species. The total population of Sarus Cranes in Uttar Pradesh has reached 19,918, marking an increase of 396 individuals compared to the previous year. This growth underscores the success of ongoing conservation efforts in the state.
Nagaland Crowned Best State in Horticulture: Agriculture Leadership Awards 2024
In a significant recognition of its efforts in agricultural development, Nagaland has been awarded the title of best state in horticulture at the prestigious Agriculture Leadership Awards 2024. This accolade highlights the state’s commitment to innovative agricultural practices and rural development.
Banking News
RBI Eases LRS Norms for Investment via GIFT IFSC
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has expanded the scope of remittances to International Financial Services Centres (IFSCs) under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS). This allows resident Indians to open fixed deposits in dollars at GIFT IFSC, facilitating various financial services and products as per the International Financial Services Centres Authority Act, 2019.
Kotak Mahindra Mutual Fund Launches BSE PSU Index Fund
Kotak Mahindra AMC has introduced the Kotak BSE PSU Index Fund, a passive equity scheme mirroring the BSE PSU Index comprising 56 PSU stocks. This fund aims to capitalize on the strong momentum in public sector undertaking (PSU) stocks, which have shown significant growth recently. Investors can participate in India’s economic trajectory through a cost-effective investment vehicle managed systematically by the fund.
PNB Launches ‘Safety Ring’ to Enhance Internet and Mobile Banking Security
In response to rising cyber fraud incidents, Punjab National Bank (PNB) has introduced the ‘Safety Ring’ security feature. This optional mechanism provides an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access, aimed at minimizing potential financial losses for users of its internet and mobile banking services.
Defence News
DRDO Seven New Projects Awarded to Industries Under Technology Development Fund Scheme
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has taken a significant step towards promoting self-reliance in the defense sector by awarding seven new projects to industries under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme. These projects aim to address various requirements of the Armed Forces and the aerospace & defense sectors, while simultaneously nurturing the growth of industries, particularly MSMEs and start-ups, in these domains.
Indian Air Force Participation in Exercise Pitch Black 2024
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has embarked on a significant international engagement by participating in Exercise Pitch Black 2024, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) at their Base Darwin, Australia. This biennial, multi-national exercise, scheduled from July 12 to August 2, 2024, represents a crucial platform for enhancing international military cooperation and showcasing air combat capabilities.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth Launches GAINS 2024 at GRSE
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth inaugurated the GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS 2024) at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) in Kolkata on July 10, 2024. This initiative aims to foster technological solutions for shipyard challenges and promote innovation through Indian start-ups.
Sports News
PUMA Partners with the Indian Olympic Association for Paris Olympics 2024
Sports brand PUMA India has announced a significant partnership with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), becoming the Official Footwear Partner for the Indian contingent at the Paris Olympics 2024. This collaboration marks a major step in supporting Indian athletes on the global stage and promoting sports excellence in the country.
Indian Badminton Players Triumph at 3rd BWF Saint-Denis Reunion Open 2024
The 3rd BWF Saint-Denis Reunion Open 2024, held from July 3 to 7 in Saint-Denis, the capital of the French overseas département of Réunion in the Western Indian Ocean, saw Indian badminton players dominate the tournament. They secured both the men’s and women’s singles titles, showcasing India’s growing prowess in international badminton.
Science and Technology News
WHO Introduces MeDevIS Platform for Medical Device Information
The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched MeDevIS (Medical Devices Information System), an online platform designed to be the first global open access clearing house for information on medical devices. It aims to support governments, regulators, and users in making informed decisions about the selection, procurement, and use of medical devices for diagnostics, testing, and treatment of various health conditions.
Important Days
International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms 2024
Recognizing the international concern surrounding sand and dust storms, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 12 July as the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms (A/RES/77/294). The impacts of sand and dust storms are felt in all regions of the world, affecting both developed and developing countries. At least 25 percent of global dust emissions originate from human activities, and in some areas, desert dust has doubled in the 20th century.
