Daily Current Affairs 17th July 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

National News

UGC’s ASMITA Project: 22,000 Indian Language Books to Transform Higher Education

The Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC) unveiled an ambitious project aimed at enriching the landscape of Indian language literature in higher education. This groundbreaking initiative, known as ASMITA (Augmenting Study Materials in Indian Languages through Translation and Academic Writing), sets out to develop an impressive 22,000 books in Indian languages over the next five years.

Centre Reconstitutes NITI Aayog, Includes Union Ministers from NDA Allies

The Centre has reconstituted the NITI Aayog, the apex public policy think tank of the Union government, following changes in the council of ministers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains the chairperson, with economist Suman K Bery continuing as the vice-chairperson. The reconstituted NITI Aayog includes four full-time members and 15 Union Ministers, including those from BJP allies, serving as either ex-officio members or special invitees.

India’s Fifth Indigenisation List Boosts Domestic Defence Manufacturing

India has announced a fresh list of 346 military hardware items that will only be procured from state-run domestic manufacturers after a ban on their import kicks in under a staggered timeline. This is part of a broader initiative to boost domestic defence industries and reduce import dependence.

International News

Serum Institute Rolls Out New High Efficacy Malaria Vaccine In Africa

A new high-quality malaria vaccine developed by the Serum Institute of India and the University of Oxford is officially being rolled out in Africa. With this, Côte d’Ivoire has become the first country in West Africa to start administering R21/Matrix-M.

India Shines At 35th International Biology Olympiad 2024 In Kazakhstan

The Indian team, which participated at the 35th International Biology Olympiad (IBO) 2024 achieved remarkable success, with one student winning a GOLD medal and three students securing SILVER medals.

Paul Kagame Re-elected for Fourth Term as Rwandan President

President Paul Kagame has secured a decisive victory in Rwanda’s 2024 presidential election, capturing 99.15% of the votes, as reported by the National Electoral Commission. This marks his fourth consecutive term in office.

States News

Uttarakhand’s eSwasthya Dham Portal Integrates with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission

In a significant stride towards enhancing digital healthcare infrastructure, the Uttarakhand government has successfully integrated its eSwasthya Dham portal with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). This integration marks a crucial step in improving health monitoring and management for pilgrims undertaking the revered Char Dham Yatra, while also aligning with India’s broader digital health initiatives.

Sawan Begins With Harela Festival In Uttarakhand 2024

July 16, marks the official beginning of Sawan accompanied by the vibrant Harela festival celebrated across Uttarakhand. This traditional festival holds deep significance for the region’s agriculture and culture, symbolising prosperity and overall well-being.

Asia’s First Health Research “Pre-Clinical Network Facility” Inaugurated in Faridabad

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh recently inaugurated Asia’s inaugural health research-related “Pre-clinical Network Facility” at Faridabad’s Translational Health Science & Technology Institute (THSTI). This facility, selected by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), is notable as Asia’s first and the 9th globally to handle BSL3 pathogens.

Appointments News

Appointment of Manoj Saunik as MahaRERA Chairman

Former Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, Manoj Saunik, has been appointed as the next Chairman of the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA). He will succeed Ajoy Mehta, whose term ends in September 2024.

Supreme Court Gets 2 New Judges, First From Manipur

The Supreme Court now has two more judges after President Droupadi Murmu cleared the appointments of Justice N Kotiswar Singh and Justice R Mahadevan. The appointments were announced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal July 16.

Economy News

IMF Raises India’s GDP Forecast to 7% for 2024-25

In its latest World Economic Outlook, the IMF has increased India’s GDP growth forecast for the ongoing fiscal year to 7%, up by 20 basis points from earlier projections. This upward revision reflects improved consumption prospects, particularly in rural areas, supporting India’s economic trajectory. However, the IMF retained a slower growth rate of 6.5% for the following fiscal year.

Important Days

World Day for International Justice 2024, Promoting Global Accountability

Every year on July 17, the global community comes together to observe the World Day for International Justice. This significant day is dedicated to promoting international criminal justice and honouring the ongoing fight against impunity for the most serious crimes affecting the international community. As we approach July 17, 2024, it’s crucial to reflect on the importance of this day and its implications for global justice and peace.

Books and Authors News

Tim Walker’s “The Prisoner of Bhopal”: A Novel Commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy

Tim Walker, an award-winning designer-turned-author, has recently published a historical fiction novel titled “The Prisoner of Bhopal.” This book, aimed at young readers, commemorates the 40th anniversary of one of India’s most devastating industrial disasters – the Bhopal gas tragedy. Walker’s unique connection to the event and his storytelling prowess have combined to create a narrative that not only educates but also engages readers about this significant historical event.

Obituaries News

Subhash Dandekar, the Visionary Behind Camlin’s Success Passes Away at 86

The stationery industry in India lost a pioneer with the passing of Subhash Dandekar, the founder of the iconic brand Camlin. At the age of 86, Dandekar left behind a legacy that transformed the landscape of stationery and art supplies in the country. His vision and leadership not only built a household name but also contributed significantly to India’s industrial and social development.