Daily Current Affairs 21 August 2023, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

Read the most important current affairs of 21 August 2023. Today Current Affairs covers the headlines on GST Amendment Bills 2023, Border Roads Organisation, INS Vagir, Luna-25 Mission, Tulip Garden.

Top 17 Current Affairs and News Headlines of 21 August 2023

National News

1.President Droupadi Murmu Grants Assent to Central and Integrated GST Amendment Bills, 2023

• President Droupadi Murmu has officially granted her assent to two crucial pieces of legislation, namely the Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
• The Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, is designed to introduce amendments to the existing Central Goods and Services Tax Act of 2017. This bill encompasses adjustments to key definitions and provisions to better align with evolving technological and economic landscapes.
• The Integrated Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, is centered around refining the provisions of the Integrated Goods and Services Tax Act of 2017. This amendment focuses on a specific aspect related to online activities.

2.BRO Initiates Construction of World’s Highest Motorable Road in Eastern Ladakh

• The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has embarked on a groundbreaking project to construct the ‘Likaru-Mig La-Fukche’ road in the Demchok sector of Ladakh.
• This strategic road will establish the world’s highest motorable road, spanning an altitude of approximately 19,400 feet, surpassing the previous record held by Umling La Pass. The initiative was launched on India’s 77th Independence Day, signifying its significance for national security.
• Spanning a length of 64 kilometers, the ‘Likaru-Mig La-Fukche’ road will connect crucial military outposts in the sensitive Fukche sector. Of particular strategic importance, Fukche is situated a mere three kilometers away from the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC). The road’s construction is expected to bolster communication and accessibility to these remote military installations, thereby reinforcing national security.

State News

3.President Launches ‘My Bengal, Addiction-Free Bengal’ Campaign In Kolkata

• At an occasion held at the Raj Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu launched the ‘My Bengal, Addiction-Free Bengal‘ campaign, a vital undertaking organised by the Brahma Kumaris, aimed at tackling the prevalent issue of drug usage among the youth.
• Acknowledging the joint endeavors of both the central and state governments in confronting this concern, the president underscored the pressing need to urgently discover viable solutions to eradicate this threat from society.
• President Droupadi Murmu outlined a multi-faceted approach to tackling the issue of drug abuse, advocating for solutions that involve spiritual awakening, medical intervention, social unity, and determined political will. She emphasized that addiction often stems from mental stress and peer pressure, resulting in harmful consequences for both the individuals involved and their families.

Defence News

4.INS Vagir Sets New Record For Longest Scorpene Submarine Deployment

• The Indian Navy’s submarine, INS Vagir, has made history by achieving an impressive milestone – it now holds the record for the longest-ever deployment of any scorpene-class submarine.
• The submarine covered an astonishing distance of 7,000 kilometers on its journey to Australia to participate in joint military exercises, marking a significant moment for both naval prowess and international cooperation.
• INS Vagir’s expedition to Australia marks the first time an Indian scorpene-class submarine has ventured to Australian waters, signifying the growing collaboration between the Indian Navy and the Royal Australian Navy in enhancing maritime security and defense strategies.

Banking News

5.RBI’s Revised Guidelines for IDF-NBFCs to Boost Infrastructure Financing

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently introduced updated guidelines for Infrastructure Debt Fund-Non-Banking Financial Companies (IDF-NBFCs). These revisions aim to enhance the role of IDF-NBFCs in financing the infrastructure sector and to align the regulations governing infrastructure sector financing by Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
• Under the new guidelines, IDF-NBFCs are mandated to maintain a minimum Net Owned Fund (NOF) of Rs 300 crore. This measure ensures that these entities possess adequate financial strength to engage significantly in infrastructure financing.
• The revised norms stipulate a Capital-to-Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of at least 15%, with a minimum Tier 1 capital of 10%. This capital adequacy requirement safeguards the financial stability of IDF-NBFCs as they channel funds into infrastructure projects.

Awards News

6.Ratan Tata conferred with Maharashtra govt.’s ‘Udyog Ratna’ award

• Eminent industrialist Ratan Tata was conferred with the first ever ‘Udyog Ratna’ award instituted by the Maharashtra government. The award was presented to the 85-year-old chairman emeritus of Tata Sons by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Cheif Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar at the industrialist’s home in Colaba in south Mumbai.
• The Tata group operates in more than 100 countries across six continents. In 2021-22, the collective revenue of Tata companies stood at $128 billion. The honour comprised a shawl, a citation and a memento from the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC).
• The Udyog Ratna award is a prestigious award that recognizes the achievements of outstanding industrialists in Maharashtra. It is a testament to the contribution of these individuals to the economic development of the state.

Appointments News

7.BPCL announces Rahul Dravid as Brand Ambassador

• Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL) has announced cricketer Rahul Dravid as its new brand ambassador. He will endorse BPCL’s Pure for Sure initiative and range of MAK lubricants.
• Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) is an Indian public sector undertaking under the ownership of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas,Government of India. It operates three refineries in Bina, Kochi and Mumbai.
• BPCL is India’s second-largest government-owned downstream oil producer, whose operations are overseen by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. It was ranked 309th on the 2020 Fortune list of the world’s biggest Public sector undertakings in India, and 792nd on Forbes’s 2021 “Global 2000” list.

Schemes News

8.Jan Dhan Accounts Cross 50 Crore-Mark In Less Than 9 Years: Centre

• In an impressive achievement, the total number of Jan Dhan accounts in India has crossed the significant 50 crore mark within a span of fewer than 9 years. This successful initiative has brought about substantial changes in the nation’s financial landscape, according to an official statement from the finance ministry.
• Out of the total Jan Dhan accounts, an encouraging 56 percent are owned by women, indicating a remarkable step towards gender inclusivity in financial matters. Around 67 percent of these accounts have been opened in rural and semi-urban areas, showcasing the program’s widespread reach and positive impact in less urbanized regions.
• The cumulative deposits in these Jan Dhan accounts have surged beyond ₹2.03 lakh crore, underlining the financial engagement and empowerment of a significant portion of the population.  On average, the balance held in each Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) account amounts to ₹4,076, revealing a tangible impact on individuals’ savings and financial stability.

Sports News

9.FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023: Spain wins the title with 1-0 victory over England

• Spain secured their first ever Women’s World Cup title with a 1-0 win over England at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final in Sydney. The win marks a historic FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign for Spain who previously failed to make it past the Round of 16.
• Making it to the final after knockout wins over Switzerland, the Netherlands and Sweden, was already a first for Spain with the victory in the final cause for an even bigger celebration. Captain Olga Carmona smashed the decisive goal as Spain defeated England 1-0 to lift the FIFA Women’s World Cup title.

10.Mohit Kumar becomes U-20 World Champion in Men’s 61 kg Freestyle category

• Through a captivating display of skill and unwavering resolve, Mohit Kumar has made a permanent mark in the records of Indian wrestling. He has achieved the distinction of being the first Indian wrestler to attain the junior world championship title since 2019.
• In the final match, Mohit Kumar was trailing 0-6 against Russia’s Eldar Akhmaduninov. Through adeptly executed maneuvers, he garnered nine consecutive points, ultimately securing the coveted gold medal.
• Prior to Mohit’s victory, Deepak Punia had clinched the title in 2019, before making a transition to the senior circuit. Mohit’s accomplishment places him among an elite group of Indian wrestlers who have achieved this honor.

11.India’s Anahat Singh Clinches Gold In Asian Junior Squash Championships

• Anahat Singh secured the gold medal in the U-17 category of the prestigious Asian Junior Squash Individual Championships, a remarkable achievement that adds another jewel to her growing crown of accomplishments. The championship, held from August 16 to 20, showcased Anahat’s exceptional talent and determination as she emerged victorious on the court.
• The 15-year-old prodigy from India exhibited her prowess by defeating Hong Kong’s Ena Kwong with a resounding 3-1 victory in the finals. In the quarterfinals and semifinals, she showcased her skill and determination by overcoming Malaysian players Doyce Lee and Whitney Isabelle Wilson, respectively.
• Last year, Anahat made her mark in the Asian Junior Squash Individual Championships held in Thailand, where she secured her first gold medal in this prestigious event.

12.Priya Malik Wins Gold at U20 World Wrestling Championships In Jordan

• Indian wrestler Priya Malik has achieved a remarkable feat by securing the gold medal at the U20 World Wrestling Championships held in Jordan. This victory marks a significant milestone in her career.
• Competing in the 76 kg category, Priya Malik showcased her prowess on the mat. In the gold medal match, she triumphed over Germany’s Laura Kuehn with a resounding score of 5-0.
• Priya Malik’s victory makes her only the second Indian woman to attain a gold medal in the prestigious U20 World Wrestling Championships. She joins the ranks of Antim Panghal, another Indian wrestler who had previously secured a gold medal in the same competition.

Important Days News

13.Sadbhavana Diwas 2023: Date, History and Significance

• Sadbhavana Diwas, also known as Harmony Day, is an annual celebration observed on 20^th August in India. 20^th August 2023 marks the 79^th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
• This day commemorates the birthday of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, a visionary leader who championed the cause of national integration, peace and public harmony among the diverse population of India. The term “Sadbhavana” in English refers to “goodwill and bonafide”.
• Being the youngest Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi’s thought process was modern and different from others. He had the vision of a developed nation via many national as well as international projects that he pioneered. The main theme of Sadbhavana Diwas is to promote national integration and communal harmony among people of all religions and languages.

Science and Technology News

14.Russia’s Ambitions Luna-25 Mission Ends in Failure

• Russia’s eagerly anticipated lunar mission, the Luna-25, has suffered a significant setback as the spacecraft veered out of control and crashed onto the Moon surface.
• The failure is a poignant reminder of the unpredictable challenges inherent in space exploration, emphasizing that even the most advanced technology is susceptible to failure. This article delves into the details of the mission, the implications of its failure, and Russia’s unwavering commitment to lunar exploration.

Obituaries News

15.Adobe Co-Founder Dr. John Warnock Passes Away at 82

• Adobe co-founder Dr. John Warnock passed away at the age of 82.
• He founded the revolutionary software company Adobe with his partner, the now-late Dr. Charles Geschke, in 1982. Marva Warnock designed the company’s original logo, and Adobe released its first program, the desktop publishing software Adobe PostScript, two years later.
• Warnock served mostly as the company’s CEO until 2000 and was co-chairman of the board along with Geschke until 2017. Warnock remained on the company board of directors afterward. During Warnock’s tenure as its CEO, Adobe created industry-standard software for business, graphic design, photography, video editing, audio recording, and more.

Miscellaneous News

16.Srinagar’s Tulip Garden Enters Record Books With 1.5mn Flowers

• Nestled amidst the picturesque foothills of the Zabarwan range, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden has etched its name in the annals of the World Book of Records as Asia’s largest and most spectacular park of its kind.
• The garden, adorned with a enchanting variety of 1.5 million blooming flowers, stands as a living testament to the beauty and diversity of nature. The World Book President and CEO, Santosh Shukla, bestowed the esteemed certification upon Fayaz Sheikh, the Secretary of Floriculture, Gardens, and Parks.
• With an enchanting collection of 68 distinctive tulip varieties, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is a captivating tapestry of colors and shapes. Each tulip variety presents a unique personality, painting the landscape with hues that range from the most delicate pastels to the most vibrant and striking shades.

17.Granting of Geographical Indication (GI) Tag to Matti Banana Variety of Kanniyakumari District

• The Matti banana variety native to Kanniyakumari district has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. These bananas thrive uniquely in the district’s climate and soil, resulting in a larger-than-human finger-sized fruit with a sweet aroma and honey-like taste.
• Matti bananas are slightly larger-than-human finger-sized fruits with a sweet fragrance and honey-like taste that remains unmatched outside their native region. There are six distinct types of Matti bananas, each boasting unique qualities in terms of color, aroma, and flavor.
• Its hybrid variation is The Semmati Banana made by blending Matti and Red bananas. It possesses qualities that contribute to child growth and is also suitable for individuals with diabetes.

Important Current Affairs of 21st August 2023

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