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

Read the most important current affairs of 16 January 2024. Today Current Affairs covers the headlines on New Guatemala President, NACIN Campus in Andhra Pradesh, Ukraine Peace Summit, WEF Annual Meeting 2024.

Top 22 Current Affairs and News Headlines of 16 January 2024

National News

1.Indian President Inaugurated 5th Meghalaya Games

• On January 15, 2024, the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the 5th Edition of the Meghalaya Games in Tura, Meghalaya.
• The President particularly stressed the need to support and groom talent from tribal areas, recognizing their potential to become professional sportspersons.
• The 5th installment of the Meghalaya Games holds historical significance on multiple fronts. Notably, it marks the inaugural occasion of being hosted in Tura, a departure from its previous exclusive location in Shillong
• Additionally, this edition introduces traditional indigenous games into its lineup, and it is distinguished as the first instance where the inauguration is carried out by the President of India.

2.PM Modi to Inaugurate NACIN Campus in Andhra Pradesh

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the new campus of the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes & Narcotics (NACIN) at Palasamudram in Andhra Pradesh’s Sri Sathya Sai district. The event is scheduled for January 16, marking a significant development in the region’s educational infrastructure.
• NACIN, spread over 500 acres, is dedicated to capacity building in indirect taxation and narcotics control administration. This national-level, world-class training institute will train officials from the Indian Revenue Service (Custom & Indirect Taxes), central allied services, state governments, and partner nations.

International News

3.Reformist Arevalo Sworn in as Guatemala President

• Bernardo Arévalo was officially sworn in as the President of Guatemala on January 15, 2024, overcoming months of political challenges and efforts to derail his inauguration.
• Arevalo, a 65-year-old career diplomat and sociologist, is seen as a democracy advocate leading a progressive movement. His presidency is viewed as a watershed moment for Guatemala, aiming to reshape the political landscape and address deep-rooted issues.
• Arevalo aims to tackle domestic issues, including deep-rooted corruption. He will need to balance US demands to stem migration, a significant challenge given the record-high remittances vital to Guatemala’s economy.

4.Switzerland to Host Ukraine Peace Summit on Zelenskiy’s Request

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has secured Switzerland’s agreement to host a global peace summit aimed at resolving the conflict sparked by Russia’s incursion into Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022. Switzerland, known for its neutrality and past mediation roles, will facilitate talks to find a resolution.
• Zelenskiy, during a press conference in Bern alongside Swiss counterpart Viola Amherd, revealed that the peace summit’s participants are yet to be finalized. However, he emphasized the invitation to countries respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, hinting at inclusivity.

State News

5.Kerala Launches Operation AMRITH To Combat AMR

• The Kerala Drug Control Department has taken a proactive step to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through Operation Amrith (Antimicrobial Resistance Intervention For Total Health).
• This initiative aims to curb the overuse of antibiotics in the state by conducting surprise raids in pharmacies and detecting over-the-counter (OTC) sales of antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription.
• AMR, or antimicrobial resistance, refers to the ability of bacteria and microbes to resist the drugs used to inhibit or kill them. Recognized as a “silent pandemic,” AMR was associated with approximately 5 million deaths globally in 2019, with 1.3 million deaths directly attributed to it.

Defence News

6.Ex-Ayutthaya: India-Thailand First Naval Exercise Connects to Ayodhya

• In a historic move, the Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy (RTN) joined forces for the maiden bilateral exercise named ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’ in December 2023.
• ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’ translates to ‘The Invincible One,’ emphasizing the historical and cultural links between Ayodhya and Ayutthaya.
• This maritime collaboration, symbolizing the invincible spirit, holds profound significance as it connects the ancient cities of Ayodhya in India and Ayutthaya in Thailand.
• The Indian Naval ships Kulish and IN LCU 56 engaged in the inaugural edition, while His Thai Majesty’s Ship (HTMS) Prachuap Khiri Khan represented the Royal Thai Navy.

Banking News

7.Yes Bank Introduces Veefin’s SmartFin for Digital Supply Chain Finance

• In a strategic move to bolster support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Yes Bank has introduced SmartFin.
• SmartFin, is an advanced digital Supply Chain Finance (SCF) platform developed in collaboration with Veefin Solutions. The initiative reflects Yes Bank’s commitment to fostering innovation and enhancing its digital offerings, particularly in the realm of working capital efficiencies.
• SmartFin, powered by Veefin Solutions, presents an end-to-end digital SCF platform. According to Rajan, the platform’s digital offerings aim to enhance operational and financial efficiencies for all stakeholders involved in the supply chain.

Business News

8.Centre Introduces New Rules To Boost Ease Of Business In Green Energy Sector

• In a pivotal move for industry, especially in green energy, the government has introduced rules to expedite energy storage establishment and enhance energy security.
• The new rules specifically state that generating companies, those setting up captive generating plants, or consumers with a load exceeding a specified quantum can now establish dedicated transmission lines without obtaining a license.
• This quantum is set at not less than twenty-five Megawatts for Inter-State Transmission System and ten Megawatts for Intra-State Transmission System.

Economy News

9.Wholesale Price Index (WPI) Inflation Hits Nine-Month High at 0.73% in December 2023

• In December 2023, the Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation surged to a nine-month high of 0.73%, marking a significant rebound from the negative zone observed from April to October.
• This positive trajectory, a continuation from November’s 0.26%, was primarily driven by notable increases in food prices, according to a statement by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• The spike in WPI inflation is attributed to a sharp rise in prices of food articles, machinery & equipment, other manufacturing, other transport equipment, and computer, electronics & optical products.

10.Union Budget: A Historical Overview

• The Union Budget, as per Article 112 of the Indian Constitution, serves as the financial blueprint of the government, outlining estimated revenue and expenditure for the fiscal year spanning April 1 to March 31.
• The 2017-18 Union Budget marked a pivotal moment by shifting the presentation date to the first day of February, integrating the Railway Budget with the Union Budget.
• India’s inaugural budget was presented on April 7, 1860, during British colonial rule, by Finance Minister James Wilson. Post-independence, the first Union Budget was introduced on November 26, 1947, by Finance Minister Sir R.K. Shanmugham Chetty amid the challenges of partition.

Important Days News

11.National Startup Day 2024

• In a significant declaration in 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proclaimed January 16 as National Startup Day, marking a pivotal moment in India’s recognition and celebration of its burgeoning startup ecosystem.
• The day holds immense significance as it provides a dedicated platform to celebrate the triumphs of the startup community.
• It serves as an occasion for entrepreneurs to share insights, discuss innovations, and reflect on their journey. Moreover, National Startup Day emphasizes the critical role startups play in driving economic growth and job creation.

Ranks & Reports News

12.Over 24.8 Crore Indians Escape Multidimensional Poverty in 9 Years: NITI Aayog Report Reveals

• In a significant stride towards poverty alleviation, a recent NITI Aayog report reveals that 24.82 crore people in India have successfully moved out of multidimensional poverty from 2013-14 to 2022-23.
• The decline is remarkable, dropping from 29.17% to 11.28% during this period. The multidimensional poverty index assesses deprivations across health, education, and standard of living using 12 sustainable development goals-aligned indicators.
• At the state level, Uttar Pradesh takes the lead with 5.94 crore people escaping poverty, followed by Bihar at 3.77 crore and Madhya Pradesh at 2.30 crore. All 12 indicators, encompassing nutrition, mortality rates, education, and more, witnessed significant improvements.

Summits & Conferences News

13.WEF Annual Meeting 2024: Navigating Global Challenges with a ‘Back to Basics’ Approach

• The 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) kicked off on January 15, embracing a ‘back to basics’ ethos at the local Swiss Alpine School in Davos, lasting until January 19, 2024.
• Attended by over 100 governments, international organizations, forum partners, and diverse stakeholders, the focus is on fostering open dialogue among government, business, and civil society leaders.
• Addressing crises like the Middle East situation, the forum seeks strategies to identify areas for cooperation, ensuring mutual benefits amid global challenges.

Agreements News

14.India Secures Lithium Blocks in Argentina to Address ₹24,000 Crore Import Dependency

• In a significant development, India is poised to secure exploration and development rights for five lithium blocks in Argentina, marking its second international foray into critical minerals after a partnership with Australia in 2022.
• India has taken a crucial step towards reducing its ₹24,000 crore lithium import dependency, primarily sourced from China.
• Under the agreement, Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) gains Exploration and Exclusivity Rights for five lithium brine blocks located in Argentina, spanning approximately 15,703 hectares. The specific blocks include Cortadera-I, Cortadera-VII, Cortadera-VIII, Cateo-2022-01810132, and Cortadera-VI.

Appointments News

15.VICE ADMIRAL AN PRAMOD APPOINTED DIRECTOR GENERAL NAVAL OPERATIONS

• In a significant development, Vice Admiral AN Pramod assumed the pivotal role of Director General Naval Operations (DGNO) on January 15, 2024.
• A distinguished alumnus of the 38th Integrated Cadet Course at Naval Academy, Goa, Vice Admiral Pramod was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1990.
• The Vice Admiral boasts a CAT ‘A’ Sea King Air Operations Officer and Communication & Electronics Warfare Specialist background.
• His extensive career includes crucial afloat appointments such as Fleet Operations Officer, Western Fleet, and command roles for IN ships Abhay, Shardul, and Satpura. Notably, he commanded the Naval Air Station, Utkrosh, at Port Blair.

Awards News

16.US Air Force Officer Madison Marsh Becomes First Active-Duty Winner Of Miss America 2024

• Second Lt. Madison Marsh, an officer in the U.S. Air Force, was crowned Miss America, marking the first time an active-duty service member has clinched this prestigious title, as confirmed by the Air Force.
• Hailing from Colorado, the home of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Marsh proudly represented her state in the pageant. Her academic background is just as impressive, having graduated from the academy with a degree in physics.
• Since 2018, Marsh has been actively involved in raising awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research. She co-founded the Whitney Marsh Foundation with her father and sister in honor of her mother, who succumbed to the disease.

17.Deepa Bhandare Makes History As First Female To Receive VSI Award

• Deepa Bhandare, associated with Shri Datta Cooperative Sugar Factory (SSK) in Shirol taluka of Kolhapur, emerged as a trailblazer as she clinched the prestigious Best Environment Officer Award at the ceremony.
• The award, conferred by VSI Chairman Sharad Pawar, marks a historic moment as Bhandare becomes the only woman in the long and illustrious history of Maharashtra’s sugar industry to receive this accolade.
• Upon joining the sugar industry, one of Bhandare’s initial actions was a testament to her commitment to inclusivity. Recognizing the lack of facilities for women, she spearheaded the construction of a ladies’ washroom at the sugar mill.

18.Emmys Awards 2024 Winners

• The Emmy Awards 2024 ceremony showcased the best and brightest in television. With many shows vying for the top honours, the event was a testament to contemporary television’s diverse and dynamic nature.
• HBO’s “Succession” led the nominations, indicating the show’s significant impact on audiences and critics alike. This is the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards.
• Anthony Anderson, the veteran actor who spent several years as the star of ABC’s “black-ish,” scored several laughs and appreciative applause as he started his hosting gig at the 75th Emmy Awards.

Sports News

19.ICC Players of the Month for December 2023, Pat Cummins and Deepti Sharma

• The cricketing world witnessed outstanding performances in December 2023, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) duly recognized the brilliance of Australia’s Pat Cummins and India’s Deepti Sharma.
• Australia’s skipper, Pat Cummins, capped off a stellar year with the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for December. Cummins played a pivotal role in Australia’s Test series triumph against Pakistan, displaying exceptional leadership and bowling prowess.
• India’s Deepti Sharma made history by winning her maiden ICC Women’s Player of the Month award for December. Sharma’s exceptional performances across all three formats, especially against England and Australia, earned her this well-deserved recognition.

Obituaries News

20.Malayalam Music Director K J Joy Passes Away

• Malayalam music director K J Joy has passed away in Chennai. He was 77 years old. Joy, is known as the first ‘techno musician’ in the Malayalam film music world for his use of instruments like the keyboard in the 1970s.
• K J Joy, born in 1946 at Nellikunnu in the Thrissur district of Kerala made his debut in Malayalam cinema in 1975 and since then he has been the architect of many songs that captivated and enthralled people.
• Some of the over two hundred films he composed music for are Ivan Ende Priyaputran, Chandanachola, Aradhana, Snehayamuna, Mukkuvane Snehicha Bhootham, Lisa Madalasa, Sayujyam, Itha Oru Theeram and Karimpucha. He has also worked as an assistant in more than 500 films for various music directors.

Science & Technology News

21.I-STEM To Launch ‘Samavesha’ At IISc Bengaluru To Enhance Research Collaboration

• The Indian Science, Technology, and Engineering facilities Map, known as I-STEM, is set to embark on a groundbreaking initiative named ‘Samavesha.’
• This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Office of Principal Scientific Advisor, Government of India, aims to transform research collaboration in the country by facilitating easier access to scientific facilities and laboratories.
• The inauguration ceremony of ‘Samavesha’ is scheduled to take place at the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru. The project’s core objective is to optimize the utilization of research resources on a nationwide scale. In 2024, I-STEM plans to conduct approximately 50 ‘Samavesha’ events across India.

22.Oxford Scientists Initiates First Human Trials For Deadly Nipah Virus Vaccine

• In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom have commenced the first-in-human vaccine trials for the deadly Nipah virus.
• This initiative is a significant step forward in addressing the severe impact of the virus on various Asian countries, including India. The trials will be conducted on 51 individuals aged 18 to 55 and are led by the Oxford Vaccine Group.
• The experimental vaccine, named ChAdOx1 NipahB, aims to combat the Nipah virus, a highly lethal disease with a fatality rate of approximately 75%.

16 JANUARY CURRENT AFFAIRS 2024 | ALL EXAMS IMP. CURRENT AFFAIRS | ASHISH GAUTAM SIR

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