Daily Current Affairs 22nd April 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

National News

PM Modi Graces 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav

On the auspicious occasion of Mahaveer Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event paid tribute to the 24th Tirthankar, Bhagwan Mahaveer, whose teachings of Ahimsa (Non-Violence), Satya (Truthfulness), Asteya (Non-Stealing), Brahmacharya (Chastity), and Aparigraha (Non-attachment) have illuminated the path of peaceful coexistence and universal brotherhood.

New Archaeological Discoveries Unveil Telangana’s Ancient Heritage

Archaeologists in Telangana have unearthed three remarkable sites, each offering distinct insights into the region’s ancient history. Among these discoveries are over 200 megalithic monuments nestled within dense forests, an exceptional Iron Age megalithic site displaying unique architectural styles, and two rock art sites revealing ancient artistic expressions. These findings not only illuminate Telangana’s past but also emphasize the necessity for continued exploration and preservation endeavors.

Lakshmana Tirtha River Dries Up Amidst Drought and Heat

The Lakshmana Tirtha River, renowned for its scenic beauty in the Kodagu District of Karnataka, has succumbed to severe drought and intense heat. Originating from the forests in Kutta, it extends about 180 km before merging into the Cauvery River. However, this year, the river has dried up entirely, exacerbating the water crisis in the region.

International News

North Korea Tests New Missiles: Increasing Tensions

In a recent announcement on April 20, 2024, North Korea revealed the testing of a new anti-aircraft Pyoljji-1-2 missile and a super large strategic cruise missile Hwasal-1 Ra-3 warhead in the West Sea of Korea. These tests, conducted on April 19, 2024, mark a significant escalation in tensions between North Korea, South Korea, and the United States.

Appointments News

Citroen India Ropes in MS Dhoni as Brand Ambassador

In a strategic move to enhance its brand presence and awareness in the Indian market, French carmaker Citroen has engaged cricketing legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni as its brand ambassador. The Stellantis Group company, which is a relatively new entrant in the competitive Indian passenger vehicle market, aims to find a firm footing and strengthen its brand identity through this association.

Banking News

HDFC Life Leadership Transition: Keki Mistry Appointed Chairman

In a significant move, banker Deepak S Parekh has resigned from his positions as chairman and non-executive director of HDFC Life Insurance, effective April 18, 2024. Following this, Keki Mistry, who has been associated with the company since December 2000, has been unanimously appointed as the new Chairman of HDFC Life Insurance. Mistry’s extensive experience and leadership within the organization make him a natural choice for this pivotal role.

Economy News

Record Direct Tax Collections Exceed Budget Estimates in FY 2023-24

In a significant development, provisional figures released by the Ministry of Finance reveal that net direct tax collections for the Financial Year (FY) 2023-24 have surpassed Union Budget Estimates by a substantial margin of Rs. 1.35 lakh crore, marking a remarkable increase of 7.40%. The provisional direct tax collections stand at Rs. 19.58 lakh crore, showcasing a robust growth of 17.70% compared to the preceding FY 2022-23.

Sports News

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen Claims Maiden Chinese Grand Prix Victory

In a display of sheer dominance, Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing claimed a resounding victory at the long-awaited Chinese Grand Prix, extending his lead in the 2024 World Championship. The Dutchman’s triumph marked the first Formula One race in China in five years, and he left no room for doubt, leading from start to finish.

Gukesh Etches Name in Chess History as Youngest Challenger

In a remarkable achievement, Indian chess prodigy Dommaraju Gukesh, aged just 17, has made history by winning the FIDE Candidates tournament, becoming the youngest-ever challenger in the history of the World Chess Championship. Not only that, but Gukesh is also the first teenager to win the prestigious tournament.

Awards News

Pavuluri Subba Rao Honoured with Aryabhatta Award for Astronautics Contribution

Pavuluri Subba Rao, the Founder, CEO, and Chairman of Ananth Technologies, has been conferred with the prestigious ‘Aryabhatta Award’ by the Aeronautical Society of India (ASI). This honour recognizes Rao’s “tremendous lifetime contribution to the promotion of astronautics in India.”

Defence News

Indian Navy Conducts ‘Poorvi Leher’ Mega Exercise to Test Maritime Preparedness

The Indian Navy conducted a mega exercise, ‘Poorvi Leher,’ along the East Coast to validate its procedures and assess its preparedness to meet maritime security challenges in the region. The extensive drill witnessed the participation of ships, submarines, aircraft, and special naval forces.

Science and Technology News

Clouded Tiger Cat: A New Species Discovered in Brazil’s Rainforests

In a remarkable discovery, scientists have identified a new species of wild cat thriving in the dense rainforests of Brazil. Dubbed the clouded tiger cat (Leopardus pardinoides), this feline marvel has captivated the hearts of animal enthusiasts and conservationists alike, sparking renewed efforts to safeguard the region’s rich biodiversity.

Important Days

International Mother Earth Day 2024, Date, History, Theme and Significance

On April 22nd, the world will unite to commemorate the 54th International Mother Earth Day. This annual event serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need to address the mounting environmental challenges threatening our planet, including rapidly rising pollution levels, deforestation, and global warming. This year’s theme, “Planet vs. Plastics,” aims to shed light on the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on human and environmental health.

20th April CURRENT AFFAIRS 2024 | ALL EXAMS IMP. CURRENT AFFAIRS | ASHISH GAUTAM SIR