Daily Current Affairs 16th August 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

National News

Union Jal Shakti Ministry Launches FloodWatch India 2.0 App

The Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C.R. Patil, has launched the 2.0 version of the ‘FloodWatch India’ mobile app, developed by the Central Water Commission (CWC). This upgraded app provides an enhanced and detailed overview of flood conditions across the country.

P.M Calls for Secular Civil Code in Independence Day Speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 15th August, stressed on the need to bring a ‘Secular Civil Code’ instead of using the term ‘Universal Civil Code’, hinting at the government’s intention to broad-base the policy and avoid friction on the contentious issue, both within the ruling NDA and outside. This is the first time that Modi has referred to the  Universal Civil Code (UCC) as ‘Secular Civil Code’, a move many within the BJP claim will leave the Opposition with no choice.

Kisan Ki Baat: Government Radio Program To Bridge Farm-Science Gap

The government is set to launch ‘Kisan Ki Baat’, a monthly radio programme aimed at bringing scientific knowledge to farmers, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced on August 15. This initiative seeks to modernise agricultural practices and empower farmers with cutting-edge scientific information.

PM Modi to Headline The ET World Leaders Forum

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will serve as the chief guest at the inaugural ET World Leaders Forum, scheduled for August 31 in New Delhi. The forum aims to address India’s role in global economic growth, innovation, and policy-making amidst a backdrop of global economic stagnation.

Centre Launches New AI-Based Surveillance System To Manage Pests

The Union Government on August 15,  launched the AI-based National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) that will help farmers to connect with agriculture scientists and experts on controlling pests using their phone.

International News

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida Resigning

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced on August 14, that he will be stepping down from the post next month, and will not contest in the upcoming vote to elect a new chief for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Kishida has been having a torrid time in office, his government has been battered by scandals, and his 20% approval rating indicates a disastrous erosion of public trust.

Germany Joins United Nations Command in South Korea as 18th Member State

Germany’s recent inclusion in the U.S.-led United Nations Command (UNC) in South Korea marks a significant expansion of the command’s member states, now totaling 18 nations. This move underscores Berlin’s commitment to global security, linking European stability to the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Banking News

RBL Bank Announces Vijay Fixed Deposits to Honor 78th Independence Day

RBL Bank has introduced a special “Vijay Fixed Deposits” scheme to commemorate India’s 78th Independence Day. The bank offers a 500-day fixed deposit tenor with highly competitive interest rates, providing an opportunity for customers to grow their savings while paying tribute to the nation’s brave soldiers.

Axis Bank and Visa Launch Exclusive ‘PRIMUS’ Credit Card for India’s Elite

Axis Bank, in partnership with Visa, has unveiled the ‘Primus’ credit card, an ultra-premium offering tailored exclusively for India’s ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). This invite-only card is designed to meet the discerning needs of the wealthy elite, offering unparalleled luxury, exclusivity, and personalized services. With a joining fee of Rs 5 lakh and an annual fee of Rs 3 lakh, the Primus card is positioned as a symbol of ultimate prestige.

Business News

L&T Finance Achieves NBFC-ICC Status from RBI

L&T Finance Ltd. has transitioned from an NBFC-Core Investment Company (NBFC-CIC) to a Non-Banking Financial Company (Investment and Credit Company) (NBFC-ICC) following the merger of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, including L&T Finance, L&T Infra Credit Ltd., and L&T Mutual Fund Trustee Ltd. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the certificate of registration on August 2. This change in registration is not expected to affect the company’s compliance with the NBFC-ICC guidelines.

Summits and Conferences News

India To Host Third Voice Of Global South Summit

India will host the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit on 17 August 2024. This unique initiative began as an extension of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas’, and is underpinned by India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Obituaries News

Father of Agni Missiles, Dr. Ram Narain Agarwal Passes Away

Dr. Ram Narain Agarwal, a renowned Indian scientist and the driving force behind India’s missile program, passed away on Thursday in Hyderabad at the age of 84. Known affectionately as the ‘Father of Agni Missiles‘, Dr. Agarwal’s contributions to India’s defence capabilities have been nothing short of revolutionary.

Death Anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Observed on August 16th

On August 16, India observes the death anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a distinguished statesman, poet, and visionary leader who profoundly influenced the country’s political landscape. Vajpayee, the 10th Prime Minister of India, is celebrated for his leadership and his ability to unite diverse ideologies while championing democratic principles.