Daily Current Affairs 23 January 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

Read the most important current affairs of 23 January 2024. Today Current Affairs covers the headlines on ‘Anuvadini’ App, Sunrise Scheme, Parakram Diwas 2024, WHO: Malaria-Free Certification.

Top 20 Current Affairs and News Headlines of 23 January 2024

National News

1.IICF To Build ‘Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah’ Mosque In Ayodhya

• In a significant development, the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) has announced the commencement of the construction of a grand mosque in Ayodhya, starting this May.
• The mosque, named “Masjid Muhammed bin Abdullah” after Prophet Muhammad, aims to foster unity and goodwill among people, transcending religious differences. The initiative comes on the same day as Prime Minister Narendra Modi presides over the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple.
• To finance the construction, the IICF is considering the establishment of a crowdfunding website. This approach reflects a broader outreach strategy, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds to contribute to the creation of a shared cultural space.

2.Central Government Launches ‘Anuvadini’ App for Multilingual Education

• In a significant move towards promoting multilingualism in education, the central government has introduced the ‘Anuvadini’ app, an Artificial Intelligence-based platform.
• The initiative aims to make study materials for all school and higher education courses available in digital form, specifically in Indian languages listed in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
• This step aligns with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing the importance of studying in one’s mother tongue.
• The University Grants Commission (UGC), All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE), and the Department of School Education have been instructed to ensure the availability of study materials in regional languages.

International News

3.Japan Becomes Fifth Country To Land On The Moon Successfully

• Japan has marked a significant achievement in space exploration by becoming the fifth country to successfully soft-land a spacecraft on the Moon.
• The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) touched down near the Shioli crater, south of the lunar equator, utilizing precision technology that allowed it to land closer to its target site than any previous mission.
• SLIM’s primary goal was to achieve an unprecedented landing accuracy of 100 meters, a significant improvement from previous missions
• Telemetry data confirmed that SLIM landed in its designated area after a four-month journey from the Tanegashima Space Centre.

4.Cabo Verde Achieves Malaria-Free Certification by WHO

• In a recent announcement, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially certified Cabo Verde as a malaria-free country.
• This accomplishment positions Cabo Verde alongside Mauritius and Algeria as the third nation in the WHO African region to achieve malaria-free status.
• Cabo Verde’s certification adds to the list of 43 countries and 1 territory globally that have been recognized as ‘malaria-free’ by the WHO. Notable instances in the South East Asian region include the Maldives (2015) and Sri Lanka (2016), while India awaits such certification.

Defence News

5.India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR Begins In Himachal Pradesh

• The 11th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR has kicked off at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh.
• Scheduled to take place from 22nd January to 3rd February 2024, this annual event has become a crucial platform for fostering collaboration and enhancing the capabilities of both nations’ special forces.
• The primary aim of the exercise is to facilitate the exchange of experiences and best practices in Counter-Terrorism and Special Forces Operations.
• Focusing on Built-up Area and Mountainous Terrain operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, the exercise aims to refine and strengthen the skills of the participating special forces units. Emphasis will be placed on developing advanced techniques of insertion and extraction, critical for success in diverse and challenging terrains.

Economy News

6.Capital Budget and Revenue Budget

• In the realm of government financial planning, two crucial components are the Capital Budget and the Revenue Budget.
• The Capital Budget involves transactions that directly influence the government’s assets and liabilities. This budget encompasses both capital receipts and capital expenditures.
• In contrast, the Revenue Budget comprises items that do not affect the government’s assets and liabilities. It deals with day-to-day operational finances without altering the overall financial standing of the government.
• Key differences are:
  

  Revenue Budget	Capital Budget
  Revenue receipts are earned through taxes and non-taxes.	Capital receipts lead to a decrease in assets or an increase in liabilities.
  Revenue expenditure covers day-to-day operational expenses.	Capital expenditure influences the creation or reduction of liabilities.
  No impact on government assets and liabilities.	Assets, like infrastructure projects, are part of capital expenditure.

7.Switzerland-India Free Trade Agreement Concluded After 16-Year Negotiation Saga

• In a historic breakthrough, Switzerland and India have finally sealed a free-trade agreement (FTA) following a marathon 16-year negotiation period.
• The announcement came from Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin, who, after attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, swiftly headed to India for crucial discussions with his counterpart, Piyush Goyal.
• The protracted negotiations signify a landmark achievement in diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. The FTA holds immense promise for fostering stronger ties and economic collaboration.

Banking News

8.YES BANK Achieves Milestone as First Indian Bank on RXIL’s ITFS Platform

• In a groundbreaking move, YES BANK has become the inaugural Indian bank to execute an export finance transaction on RXIL Global IFSC Limited’s International Trade Financing Services Platform (ITFS). The collaboration marks a significant stride in digitization and cross-border business for YES BANK.
• The platform, registered under the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), offers a digital avenue for arranging credit through Factoring, Forfaiting, and other trade financing services at competitive rates with swift processing. This historic transaction is the first of its kind on the ITFS platform in conjunction with any bank in India.

Business News

9.AIIB Invests $58.4 Million in India’s Largest Renewable Energy InvIT

• The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has infused INR 4.86 billion (about USD 58.4 million) into Sustainable Energy Infra Trust (SEIT), India’s largest Renewable Energy Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT).
• SEIT, supported by Mahindra Susten Private Limited and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, boasts eight operational solar power assets with a combined capacity of 1.54 gigawatts-peak spread across India.
• The investment in SEIT provides sponsors with a significant avenue to monetize investments in revenue-generating infrastructure assets, supporting the development of new renewable energy projects.

Important Days News

10.Parakram Diwas 2024

• Parakram Diwas, observed on January 23rd, 2024, marks the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle.
• This day is celebrated to honour his indomitable spirit and invaluable contribution to India’s independence. This year nation observe the 127th edition of Parakram Diwas 2024.
• Parakram Diwas 2024 is a national event celebrated annually in India since 2021. It commemorates Netaji’s birth anniversary and is a tribute to his brave legacy. The day serves as a reminder of the courage and determination of one of India’s most revered freedom fighters.

Schemes News

11.PM Modi Launches Sunrise Scheme To Install Solar Panels In 10 Million Households

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a historic day after presiding over the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at harnessing solar energy.
• The initiative, named ‘Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana,’ seeks to propel India towards self-reliance in the energy sector while benefitting the common citizens.
• The initiative is poised to empower households across India by enabling them to generate their electricity through rooftop solar systems.
• By installing solar panels on one crore houses, the government aims to alleviate the financial burden on the poor and middle class while fostering sustainability and self-sufficiency in the energy domain.

Awards News

12.UP Govt to Honour Dr. Ritu and Naveen with ‘UP Gaurav Samman’

• Yogi government of Uttar Pradesh has announced the prestigious ‘UP Gaurav Samman’ award for two distinguished personalities – eminent scientist Dr. Ritu and renowned entrepreneur Naveen.
• Dr. Ritu is set to receive this honor for her significant contributions to scientific research and innovation. With a career spanning several years, Dr. Ritu has been at the forefront of scientific discovery, specializing in areas that have had a profound impact on society.
• Naveen, a name synonymous with entrepreneurial success, has transformed the landscape of business with his innovative ideas and leadership skills. Starting from humble beginnings, Naveen has built a business empire that not only generates substantial economic value but also creates numerous job opportunities.

13.BCCI Awards 2023, Shubman Gill & Ravi Shastri to be honoured

• The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to honour the exemplary performances in Indian cricket at the NAMAN Awards ceremony in Hyderabad.
• This prestigious event, held for the first time since 2019, celebrates the achievements of Indian cricketers in the preceding year.
• Shubman Gill is slated to receive the Cricketer of the Year award, acknowledging his extraordinary performance in 2023. Gill played 48 matches during the year, amassing an impressive 2,154 runs.
• Ravi Shastri, a former all-rounder and head coach of the Indian cricket team, will be honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Shastri’s illustrious career includes representing India in 80 Tests and 150 One Day Internationals (ODIs), scoring over 3,000 runs in both formats and taking 280 wickets.

Sports News

14.Madrid to host Spanish F1 GP from 2026

• Madrid is set to become the new host city for the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix starting from 2026. This marks a significant shift in the Spanish Grand Prix’s location, as Barcelona has been the event’s home since 1991.
• The transition will see Madrid hosting the Grand Prix for 10 years, from 2026 to 2035, introducing a brand-new circuit to the world of Formula 1​​​.
• The new circuit in Madrid, designed around the IFEMA exhibition centre, will feature a mix of street and non-street sections, spanning 5.47 kilometres with 20 corners.
• It promises a thrilling and challenging experience for the drivers, with a qualifying lap time projected at 1 minute and 32 seconds. This innovative circuit layout is currently pending FIA homologation and final design specifications​​​.

15.Raiza Dhillon, Gurjoat Khangura Clinch Skeet Mixed Team Bronze Medal

• The Indian shooting duo Raiza Dhillon and Gurjoat Singh Khangura clinched the bronze medal in the mixed skeet team event at the Asian Shotgun Championships 2024 in Kuwait City.
• The event marked a triumphant conclusion for India, securing a total of one gold, three silvers, and four bronze medals on the closing day.
• The gold medal in the mixed skeet team event was claimed by the People’s Republic of China, defeating Kazakhstan with a score of 45-43. Additionally, Bahrain secured the second bronze medal by triumphing over Qatar with a close score of 39-38.

16.Tai Tzu Ying Clinches Victory In India Open 2024 Women’s Singles

• In the Olympic year, badminton enthusiasts witnessed an extraordinary performance by Chinese Taipei’s legendary player, Tai Tzu Ying.
• After facing a Malaysian Open final loss, Tai Tzu Ying bounced back with determination, securing victory in the India Open 2024 women’s singles title. Tai Tzu Ying stands tall with her 32nd title – the India Open 2024.
• With a string of accomplishments, including three All-England Open victories, Tai Tzu Ying remains a formidable force in the badminton world. Her decision to retire after the 2024 season adds an emotional touch to her recent success at the India Open.

17.Khelo India Youth Games 2024

• The Khelo India Youth Games 2024 has kicked off in Tamil Nadu, showcasing the nation’s young sporting talent in a celebration of skill, determination, and sportsmanship.
• Hosted in four vibrant cities – Chennai, Madurai, Trichy, and Coimbatore – the games are a testament to India’s commitment to nurturing sports at the grassroots level. The Khelo India Youth Games 2024 is not just a platform for athletic competition but also a celebration of India’s diverse and rich sporting culture.
• As of the latest updates, Tamil Nadu leads the medal table with six gold medals. Maharashtra follows closely in second place with four gold medals. This year’s event is marked by intense competition and high spirits among the athletes. Get the full Khelo India Youth Games 2024 medal tally.

18.ICC announced the Men’s and Women’s T20I Teams of the Year for 2023

• The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the Men’s and Women’s T20I Teams of the Year for 2023, recognizing exceptional performances in the shortest format of the game. The selection highlights players who have excelled with the bat, ball, or as all-rounders throughout the calendar year.
• The Men’s T20I Team of the Year 2023 is a blend of emerging stars and established talents from across the globe. It features players from India, England, the West Indies, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Uganda, and Ireland.
• The Women’s T20I Team of the Year 2023 also features a mix of established and emerging players from various cricketing nations. The team is characterized by its blend of youthful exuberance and experienced campaigners. The presence of players from non-traditional cricketing nations like Uganda is a testament to the growing global reach of T20 cricket.

Books & Authors News

19.Amit Shah Unveils ‘Assam’s Braveheart Lachit Barphukan’ Book In Delhi

• Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, released the book ‘Assam’s Braveheart Lachit Barphukan’ in Guwahati, Assam.
• In his address, Shri Amit Shah highlighted the remarkable story of Lachit Barphukan, who fought against bigotry and power-hungry forces in the Northeast.
• He likened Lachit Borphukan to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj of Eastern India, emphasizing the significance of his role in India’s freedom struggle.
• Shri Shah underlined the importance of the Battle of Saraighat, stating that if Lachit had not emerged victorious, Assam might have become a part of Bangladesh. He credited Lachit for halting invasions from Khilji to Aurangzeb, safeguarding Assam and contributing to the region’s integration with India.

Miscellaneous News

20.Kachchhi Kharek Gem from Kutch Receives GI Tag

• Kachchhi Kharek, the indigenous date variety from the arid region of Kutch in Gujarat, has recently been awarded the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
• This accolade recognizes Kachchhi Kharek as the second fruit from Gujarat, after the Gir Kesar mango, to be distinguished with such an honour.
• The GI tag is a form of intellectual property that identifies a product as originating from a specific geographic location. It is characterized by qualities, reputation, or attributes unique to that area. This tag not only protects and promotes products associated with a particular region but also prevents unauthorized use of the name​.

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

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