Daily Current Affairs 08th July 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

National News

Judicial Commission Formed to Investigate Hathras Stampede

The Uttar Pradesh government has constituted a three-member judicial commission to investigate the stampede that occurred during a Satsang in Hathras on 3 July 2024, resulting in 121 fatalities. Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel issued the notification for this commission.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal Announces Concessions in Licensing Fees

In a significant move to boost entrepreneurship, Union Minister Piyush Goyal has announced an 80% reduction in licensing fees for women entrepreneurs and a 50% reduction for MSMEs under the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). This initiative aims to encourage greater participation from women and MSMEs in the petroleum and explosives sectors, balancing industry compliance with public safety.

States News

Jharkhand’s Mica Mines Declared Child Labour-Free by NCPCR

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) declared the mica mines of Jharkhand ‘child labour-free’ at an event in Koderma, Jharkhand. NCPCR chairperson Priyank Kanoongo announced this as the first-ever successful endeavor to cleanse a supply chain of child labour in mica mining.

International News

Masoud Pezeshkian Elected Iran President: Implications for India

Masoud Pezeshkian, a seasoned lawmaker and cardiac surgeon, has emerged victorious in Iran’s presidential election, defeating hardliner Saeed Jalili. Known for his support of both domestic and international reforms, Pezeshkian’s presidency signals a shift towards more pragmatic and reformist policies. However, the dynamics of Iranian politics, where hardliners still hold significant power and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei retains ultimate authority, will challenge Pezeshkian’s ability to implement his vision. Despite this, his win reflects a public desire for change after dissatisfaction with previous hardline policies.

Agreements News

Philippines and Japan Strengthen Security Ties with New Agreement

The Philippines and Japan have taken a big step in their security relationship. They signed a new deal that allows their military forces to enter each other’s countries more easily. This comes at a time when there are growing concerns in the Indo-Pacific region.

Appointments News

Elisa de Anda Madrazo Assumes FATF Presidency for 2024-2026

Elisa de Anda Madrazo of Mexico has assumed the presidency of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for a two-year term from July 2024 to June 2026. This transition marks a significant moment for the global financial watchdog, as Madrazo brings a fresh perspective aimed at strengthening efforts to combat financial crimes and terrorism financing.

Defence News

India Unveils Indigenous Light Tank ‘Zorawar’

India has unveiled the ‘Zorawar’ light tank, developed jointly by DRDO and Larsen & Toubro, aimed at bolstering military capabilities in high-altitude environments. Designed within a record two-year timeframe, the tank features advanced weaponry and protection systems, including a 105mm rifled cannon and composite modular armor. Named after General Zorawar Singh, the tank is slated for extensive trials before potential deployment in Ladakh, Sikkim, or Kashmir.

Business News

ADB and AHFL Partner to Expand Housing Loans for Low-Income Women

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has entered into a $60 million financing agreement with Aadhar Housing Finance Limited (AHFL) to provide housing loans to women in India. The initiative aims to address the shortage of financing in the low-income and affordable housing segment. Half of the funds will be deployed in Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

Summits and Conferences News

NATO Summit: Biden Hosts Historic Meeting with Strong Support for Ukraine

The NATO summit, hosted by President Joe Biden in Washington, DC from July 9 to 11, marks a pivotal moment for the alliance. It will include Sweden as a new member, highlighting NATO’s expansion and unity amidst global challenges. Biden aims to strengthen support for Ukraine, with announcements expected to bolster military, political, and financial aid. The summit, commemorating NATO’s 75th anniversary, underscores its role in Euro-Atlantic security and collective defense against evolving threats.

Sports News

Lewis Hamilton Wins the British Grand Prix 2024

Lewis Hamilton has won the British Grand Prix 2024. He became the first F1 driver to win on any track nine times and also extended his F1 record to 104 wins. His last came at the Saudi Arabian GP in December 2021 — the year he lost the title to Red Bull driver Verstappen. Red Bull’s triple world champion Max Verstappen finished 1.465 seconds behind, extending his overall lead to 84 points, and McLaren’s Lando Norris was third after being passed four laps from the end.

Schemes and Committees News

Ministry of Culture Initiates Project PARI for the 46th World Heritage Committee Meeting

India, a vibrant center of artistic expression, has a rich history of public art reflecting its cultural and spiritual diversity. Project PARI (Public Art of India), initiated by the Ministry of Culture and executed by Lalit Kala Akademi and the National Gallery of Modern Art, seeks to blend India’s millennia-old artistic heritage with modern themes and techniques.

Important Days

World Kiswahili Language Day 2024, Date, Theme, History and Significance

On July 7th, 2024, the world will come together to celebrate the 3rd World Kiswahili Language Day at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. This year’s theme, “Kiswahili: Education and Culture of Peace,” highlights the important role of this African language in promoting understanding and harmony across cultures.

Obituaries News

Jon Landau, Oscar-winning Producer, Passes Away at 63

Jon Landau, the Oscar-winning producer known for his collaborations with director James Cameron on blockbuster films like Titanic and the Avatar series, has died at the age of 63.