Daily Current Affairs 09th April 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

National News

Pune Celebrates Yoga Mahotsav Ahead of International Yoga Day

The ‘Yoga Mahotsav’ was held in Pune, Maharashtra, to mark the 75-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga. Organized by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga and the National Institute of Naturopathy, Ministry of Ayush, the event witnessed the overwhelming participation of thousands of people. The participants engaged in the practice of the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) starting at 6.00 AM on April 7th, showcasing the growing popularity of Yoga.

India Secures Second Overseas Port: Sittwe Agreement Approved by MEA

In a strategic move to bolster its maritime presence and enhance regional connectivity, India has gained operational control over the Sittwe Port in Myanmar, following approval from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The agreement allows India Ports Global (IPGL), a company fully owned by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, to manage the entire port on the Kaladan River, marking India’s second overseas port acquisition after Chabahar in Iran.

International News

111-Year-Old John Alfred Tinniswood Becomes World’s New Oldest Man

Guinness World Records (GWR) has shared a video of the world’s oldest living man, 111-year-old John Alfred Tinniswood, from England. In the video, Tinniswood reveals what he believes is the secret to his exceptional longevity and also offers a piece of advice for others.

China Surpasses India as Largest Importer of Russian Crude

China has surpassed India as the primary importer of Russian crude oil via sea routes, with China importing 1.82 million barrels per day (bpd) in March compared to India’s 1.36 million bpd. This shift is attributed to India’s slowdown in imports due to sanctions and rising prices.

Appoinments News

Centre Appoints Manoj Panda as New Finance Commission Member

The appointment of Manoj Panda fills a vacancy in the Sixteenth Finance Commission, allowing it to commence its duties. Panda, an esteemed economist and former director of the Institute of Economic Growth, joins as a full-time member.

Banking News

Mudra Loans Surge Past ₹5 Lakh Crore Mark in FY24

In FY24, small business loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) witnessed a record surge, crossing the ₹5 lakh crore milestone, as per recent government data. Disbursements totaled ₹5.20 lakh crore, a significant increase from ₹4.40 lakh crore in the previous fiscal year. Notably, nearly 70% of the beneficiaries of these loans are women.

RBI Survey: Consumer Confidence on the Rise

The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) recent survey conducted in March 2024 indicates a significant improvement in consumer confidence for the year ahead. The Future Expectations Index (FEI) rose by 2.1 points to reach 125.2, the highest level since mid-2019. This surge in optimism is attributed to households’ positive sentiments regarding the general economic situation, employment prospects, and discretionary spending.

RBI Takes Regulatory Actions Regarding NBFCs’ Registration

In a recent announcement, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has made significant regulatory decisions regarding the registration of non-banking finance companies (NBFCs). The RBI has cancelled the registration certificates of four NBFCs and has received voluntary surrender of licenses from 11 other entities for various reasons, including business exit, amalgamation, and non-requirement for registration as per specific criteria.

Appointments News

Centre Appoints Manoj Panda as New Finance Commission Member

The appointment of Manoj Panda fills a vacancy in the Sixteenth Finance Commission, allowing it to commence its duties. Panda, an esteemed economist and former director of the Institute of Economic Growth, joins as a full-time member.

Defence News

Tri-Service Planning Conference: Parivartan Chintan

The inaugural Tri-Service Planning Conference, dubbed ‘Parivartan Chintan,’ convened in New Delhi on April 8, 2024, orchestrated by the Ministry of Defence. This landmark event aimed to foster jointness and integration among the Indian Armed Forces, especially in light of ongoing efforts to establish unified theatre commands.

Indian Army Enhances Air Defence with Igla-S MANPADS

The Indian Army has bolstered its Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) capabilities with the acquisition of Igla-S Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) from Russia. This procurement, part of a larger deal for 120 launchers and 400 missiles, signifies a significant upgrade over outdated systems.

Awards News

Aleksei Navalny and Yulia Navalnaya Honoured with Freedom Prize

The late Russian dissident Aleksei Navalny and his wife, Yulia Navalnaya, will receive the Freedom Prize of the Media from a leading German forum, the Ludwig Erhard Summit. The award is presented annually to public figures who have made significant contributions to freedom of expression, dialogue, and democracy.

Science and Technology News

TASL Launches India’s First Privately-Built Sub-Metre Resolution Surveillance Satellite

Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), in collaboration with Satellogic, has successfully launched India’s inaugural private sector-built sub-metre resolution earth observation satellite, TSAT-1A. This significant milestone marks a new era in India’s space endeavors, offering enhanced surveillance capabilities to the country.

Obituaries News

Legendary Cinematographer Gangu Ramsay Passes Away at 83

Gangu Ramsay, the second-eldest son of FU Ramsay, passed away in Mumbai. He was 83 years old. Gangu Ramsay was a renowned cinematographer and filmmaker who was part of the iconic Ramsay Brothers banner. He contributed to over 50 iconic films under their production house.

Miscellaneous News

Gangaur Festival 2024: Date, Rituals, & Festival Significance

Gangaur is an important festival celebrated throughout Rajasthan, commemorating the union of Lord Shiva (Gan) and Goddess Parvati (Gauri). The term “Gan” refers to Lord Shiva, while “Gauri” or “Gaur” represents Goddess Parvati, Shiva’s heavenly consort. Gangaur symbolizes the happiness and auspiciousness of marriage, making it a significant celebration for the people of Rajasthan.

Briton, nicknamed ‘Hardest Geezer’, becomes first person to run length of Africa

British national Russ Cook, known as the “Hardest Geezer,” has successfully completed a challenging trek that took him over 352 days to finish. During his journey, he covered more than 10,000 miles, passed through 16 countries, and took over 19 million steps, all while raising money for charity. Mr. Cook departed from South Africa’s southernmost point on April 22, 2023, and faced various obstacles, including visa issues, health scares, and an armed robbery, but he persevered and reached Ras Angela, Tunisia’s most northerly point.

09th April CURRENT AFFAIRS 2024 | ALL EXAMS IMP. CURRENT AFFAIRS | ASHISH GAUTAM SIR

Check More GK Updates Here