21st November 2024 Current Affairs (Daily GK Update)

National News

HMJS Launches “Bhu-Neer” Portal for Groundwater Permits

Shri C.R. Paatil, the Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti, digitally launched the “Bhu-Neer” portal during the concluding ceremony of India Water Week 2024. The portal, developed by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), aims to improve groundwater regulation in India. The initiative aligns with the Government’s focus on transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in groundwater management.

Shivangi Desai Crowned Miss Charm India 2024

Shivangi Desai, a 22-year-old final-year law student at the Indian Law School (ILS) Pune, has made India proud by winning the prestigious Miss Charm India 2024 title. Representing India at Miss Charm 2024 in Vietnam this December, Shivangi’s journey showcases a blend of intellect, beauty, and resilience. From a young age, she has excelled in academics, pageantry, and cultural promotion, cementing her position as a role model for young aspirants.

Prasar Bharati Launches OTT Platform ‘Waves’

Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcaster, has launched its own OTT platform ‘Waves’ at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). With a diverse content library, it aims to deliver a mix of nostalgic classics and contemporary programming, making it a hub for family-friendly entertainment. The platform is available on Android and iOS, offering content in over 12 languages and spanning multiple genres such as infotainment, gaming, education, shopping, and live events. This launch marks a significant step toward realizing the Digital India vision, especially for rural audiences, by bridging the digital divide.

PM Modi Gifts Kolhapur’s Silofar Panchamrit Kalash to Nigerian President

Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with a Silofar Panchamrit Kalash, a stunning example of Kolhapur’s traditional metal craftsmanship, during his visit to Nigeria. This marks a significant diplomatic gesture, highlighting India’s rich cultural heritage and reinforcing the growing ties between India and Nigeria. The kalash, made of high-quality silver, features intricate engravings typical of Kolhapur’s renowned metalwork, with designs that include floral motifs, deities, and traditional patterns. This gift reflects both India’s artistic legacy and its commitment to cultural exchange with Africa.

State News

Justice D. Krishnakumar Takes Office as Chief Justice of Manipur HC

On November 20, 2024, the Central Government, via the Ministry of Law and Justice, notified the appointment of Justice D. Krishnakumar from the Madras High Court as the new Chief Justice of the High Court of Manipur. This decision follows the superannuation of Justice Siddharth Mridul, the current Chief Justice of Manipur HC. The appointment was made following recommendations by the Supreme Court Collegium, which emphasized Justice Krishnakumar’s legal acumen and integrity.

Telangana Pushes for EV Adoption with New Policy

In an effort to promote environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and reduce air pollution, the Telangana government unveiled its new Electric Vehicles (EV) Policy on November 17, 2024. Released by state transport minister Ponnam Prabhakar, the policy aims to curb pollution in Hyderabad and surrounding areas, ensuring the city avoids severe air quality issues similar to those faced by New Delhi. The policy includes several incentives and measures to encourage EV adoption across the state.

International News

Iraq Conducts First National Census in 40 Years

Iraq is conducting its first nationwide census since 1987, under Saddam Hussein’s regime, with a significant operation involving 120,000 researchers. This extensive demographic survey, scheduled over two days, will collect data from households across all 18 governorates of the country. To facilitate the process, the Ministry of Interior has imposed a two-day curfew. 

Japan and Wales to Partner with Nagaland for Hornbill Festival 2024

Japan has been announced as the official partner country for the 25th edition of Nagaland’s renowned Hornbill Festival, alongside Wales, which was confirmed earlier. This strategic partnership, forged through meetings between Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Japanese Embassy representatives, including Takashi Ariyoshi and Mayumi Tsubakimoto, marks a significant moment in the state’s cultural calendar.

Banking News

India Launches First AI Data Bank to Boost Security and Innovation

India has launched its first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Data Bank, a landmark initiative to foster innovation and enhance national security. Announced by Union Minister Jitendra Singh at the 7th ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024, this step is part of India’s broader strategy to leverage AI for economic growth and governance. The initiative aims to provide researchers, startups, and developers with access to high-quality datasets for creating scalable AI solutions, positioning AI as a key enabler for sectors such as healthcare, space exploration, and national security.

Bima Sugam: A Step Towards a Digital Insurance Ecosystem

The growing concern over mis-selling of insurance products by banks has prompted the introduction of the Bima Sugam platform, a digital initiative by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). IRDAI Chairman Debasish Panda, addressing the issue at SBI’s Annual Business & Economic Conclave, emphasized that banks should prioritize their core lending activities and ensure customers are not coerced into buying unsuitable insurance products. 

Ranks & Reports News

India Drops Two Spots in Global Climate Index

India has maintained its position as one of the top 10 performers in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025, despite slipping two spots compared to last year. The report highlights India’s commendable efforts in reducing per-capita emissions and its accelerated adoption of renewable energy. Published by Germanwatch, New Climate Institute, and Climate Action Network International, the CCPI assesses 63 countries and the European Union, which collectively contribute to 90% of global emissions.

Summits and Conferences News

UN Climate Change Conference COP 29 in Baku, November 2024

The 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP 29) will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November 2024. This pivotal event will address crucial issues such as the enhanced transparency framework, the collective quantified goal on finance, and the next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Important Days News

Celebrating Awaas Diwas 2024: 8th Anniversary of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G)

The Ministry of Rural Development commemorates Awaas Diwas 2024, marking the 8th anniversary of the flagship Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G). Launched on November 20, 2016, by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, this scheme has been pivotal in fulfilling the vision of “Housing for All.” The anniversary highlights the achievements, innovations, and continued commitment to transforming rural housing in India.

World Fisheries Day 2024: Date, Theme, History and Significance

World Fisheries Day is celebrated globally every year on November 21 to highlight the importance of sustainable fisheries, the protection of aquatic ecosystems, and the livelihoods of fishing communities. This day is significant in raising awareness about threats such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and illegal fishing practices. Additionally, it emphasizes empowering small-scale fishers, often among the most marginalized communities worldwide.

Awards News

Coal India Limited Honoured with Green World Environment Award 2024

Coal India Limited (CIL), under the aegis of the Ministry of Coal, has achieved a remarkable milestone by receiving the prestigious Green World Environment Award 2024 in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) category. Alongside this accolade, CIL was also honoured with the title of Green World Ambassador, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and social welfare. This award recognizes CIL’s exemplary efforts in balancing its industrial operations with significant social and environmental contributions.

PM Modi Receives Highest Honors from Guyana and Dominica

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred prestigious awards by Guyana and Dominica in recognition of his significant contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as his efforts in strengthening international ties, especially between India and these Caribbean nations. These awards highlight the deepening diplomatic relations and the global recognition of Modi’s leadership in global health, climate resilience, and development cooperation.

Sports News

India Defends Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Title with 1-0 Win Over China

India’s Women’s Hockey Team successfully defended their title at the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, defeating China 1-0 in the final. The victory marked India’s third ACT title, showcasing their dominance in the tournament’s history alongside South Korea. Deepika’s stunning reverse-hit goal in the 31st minute was the difference, securing India’s back-to-back championship win.

Nandan Kumar Jha Elected President of International Mind Sports Association (IMSA)

India’s Nandan Kumar Jha has been appointed as the new president of the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA), an organization dedicated to the governance and promotion of mind sports globally. This significant announcement was made during the IMSA’s annual general assembly held in Sao Paulo, Brazil. With a mission to integrate mind sports like chess, esports, and bridge into the mainstream sports community, Jha’s appointment marks a historic moment for India’s growing influence in the field of intellectual games.