Table of Contents
National News
Launch of Bharat Chana Dal Phase II by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi
Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi has launched the retail phase of Bharat Chana Dal Phase II in Delhi-NCR, marking a significant step in the government’s commitment to provide essential food items at affordable prices. This initiative includes flagging off mobile vans from NCCF, NAFED, and Kendriya Bhandar to facilitate the distribution of pulses during the festive season.
Banking News
HDFC Life’s Commitment to DEI: A Dual Recognition Triumph
HDFC Life, a prominent player in India’s insurance sector, has earned dual accolades for its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) by Avtar and Seramount. Recognised among the Best Companies for Women in India (BCWI) and as ‘Exemplars of Inclusion’ in the Most Inclusive Companies Index (MICI), HDFC Life stands out for its supportive ecosystem not only for women but also for people with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community, and diverse cultural backgrounds. This recognition reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to create an environment that fosters equality and empowers all employees.
Important Days News
World Polio Day 2024: Date, History, Theme, and Significance
World Polio Day is observed annually on October 24 across the globe to raise awareness about the crippling disease, poliomyelitis, or polio. The day underscores global efforts to eradicate the disease and ensure a polio-free world for future generations. Poliovirus, the cause of polio, is a life-threatening virus that can lead to paralysis and, in severe cases, death. There are three types of wild polioviruses: Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1), Wild Poliovirus Type 2 (WPV2), and Wild Poliovirus Type 3 (WPV3).
International Day of Diplomats 2024: Honoring the Unsung Guardians of Global Peace
The International Day of Diplomats, celebrated annually on October 24, shines a spotlight on the critical role that diplomats play in shaping international relations, promoting peace, and fostering cooperation among nations. Diplomats work tirelessly behind the scenes, often in complex and challenging environments, to resolve conflicts, negotiate trade agreements, and bridge cultural divides. This day serves as an opportunity to appreciate their contributions to global diplomacy, peacebuilding, and the facilitation of dialogue across borders.
Commemoration of Sardar Patel’s 150th Birth Anniversary
The government will celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel with a nationwide program spanning two years, from 2024 to 2026. Announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on October 23, 2024, the initiative aims to honor Patel’s monumental contributions to India, particularly his vision in establishing one of the world’s most robust democracies and his pivotal role in unifying the nation from Kashmir to Lakshadweep. This commemoration not only recognizes Patel’s historical significance but also reinforces the current government’s commitment to national unity.
State News
Shillong Tops Travel Destinations for Indian Travellers in 2025
Shillong has emerged as the most popular destination for Indian travellers in 2025, as revealed by Skyscanner’s “Travel Trends Report” released on Wednesday. Meghalaya’s capital topped the list, surpassing Baku (Azerbaijan) and Langkawi (Malaysia), showing a strong interest among Indians for unique and immersive experiences. The report indicates that 66% of Indians plan to travel more in the coming year.
Delhi Government Establishes Special Courts for People with Disabilities
In a significant move towards inclusivity, the Delhi government, led by Chief Minister Atishi, has approved the establishment of special courts dedicated to people with disabilities. This initiative aims to provide fair and swift justice by designing court environments that cater specifically to the needs of individuals with disabilities. Atishi described this as a “historic step” that underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable judicial processes for all citizens.
Defence News
63rd ITBP Raising Day 2024: Celebrating the Guardians of the Himalayas
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), one of India’s five Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), celebrates its Raising Day on October 24 every year. The ITBP Raising Day commemorates the founding of this elite paramilitary force, which was raised in the aftermath of the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The force is entrusted with the security of the India-China border in the Himalayas and plays a critical role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
New Missile Testing Range Approved in Andhra Pradesh
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of a new missile testing range in Nagayalanka, Andhra Pradesh. This initiative aims to bolster India’s defense capabilities, particularly for testing tactical missile systems. The new facility will focus on surface-to-air missiles, anti-tank missiles, and other advanced projects under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Appointments News
Prabhakar Raghavan, IIT-Madras Alumnus Appointed as Google’s Chief Technologist
Prabhakar Raghavan, an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-Madras), has been appointed as Google’s Chief Technologist. He was previously the Senior Vice President at Google, responsible for overseeing a broad spectrum of products including Google Search, Assistant, Geo, Ads, Commerce, and Payments. His new role marks a significant shift in Google’s leadership, especially as the company undergoes core business restructuring.
JP Morgan Chase India Appoints Pranav Chawda as New CEO
Pranav Chawda has been appointed as the new chief executive officer (CEO) of JP Morgan Chase India for a term of three years. Previously heading the commercial banking unit of the US-based JP Morgan, Chawda’s appointment comes after receiving the necessary approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). His leadership is expected to drive the bank’s growth and strategic initiatives in the Indian market.
Awards News
Actor Darasing Khurana Wins Mahatma Gandhi Leadership Award in UK
Indian actor and philanthropist Darasing Khurana, 32, has been honored with the prestigious Mahatma Gandhi Leadership Award for his impactful work in raising awareness about mental health issues, particularly in his role as the ‘Commonwealth Year of Youth Champion.
Urmila Chaudhary Honored with Global Anti-Racism Championship Award 2024
Urmila Chaudhary, a prominent social campaigner from Nepal, has been honored with the prestigious Global Anti-Racism Championship Award 2024. The award was presented by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a ceremony held at the Department of State in Washington, D.C..
Celebrating Dedication: Adarsh Karmayogi Awards by Mines Ministry
The Mission Karmayogi National Program is a program that seeks to transition the Civil Services from a ‘Rule-Based’ to a ‘Role-Based’ approach, prioritizing a citizen-centric governance model. On October 19, 2024, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the National Learning Week, also known as Karmayogi Saptah (कर्मयोगी सप्ताह), which will run from October 19 to October 25.
Science and Technology News
New Snake Species in Himalayas Named After Leonardo DiCaprio
A team of scientists has discovered a new species of snake in the Western Himalayas, naming it Anguiculus dicaprioi in honor of Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio, recognizing his significant contributions to wildlife conservation.
Summits and Conferences News
2024 BRICS Summit: Expanding Cooperation and New Milestones
The 2024 BRICS Summit, held in Kazan, Russia, from October 22-24, marks a significant turning point for the group as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE join its ranks following their inclusion at the 2023 summit. The event centers around the theme, “Strengthening Multilateralism for Fair Global Development and Security,” with key discussions on alternative global payment systems, dedollarization, and enhanced cooperation. The summit witnessed the adoption of the BRICS Kazan Declaration, endorsing UN reforms and investigating cross-border financial solutions to reduce reliance on the US dollar.
IFFI 2024 Honors Australia’s Rich Film Legacy
The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is proud to announce Australia as the “Country of Focus” for the 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), scheduled to take place in Goa from November 20 to 28, 2024. This special recognition celebrates Australia’s dynamic contributions to the global film industry, showcasing its rich storytelling traditions, vibrant cinema culture, and innovative cinematic techniques.
India’s Linguistic Heritage Celebrated at Pravasi Parichay 2024 in Riyadh
The 2024 edition of the Embassy’s flagship diaspora engagement event, Pravasi Parichay, was inaugurated by Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, the Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia, at the Embassy Auditorium in Riyadh. This week-long cultural celebration kicked off with a specially curated event titled “Classical Languages of India,” designed to showcase the country’s rich linguistic diversity.
Sports News
Kagiso Rabada, Fastest to 300 Test Wickets by Balls Bowled
Kagiso Rabada has etched his name in cricket history by becoming the fastest bowler to reach 300 Test wickets based on balls bowled, achieving the milestone in just 11,817 deliveries. The South African pace sensation is now among the greats, surpassing legends like Waqar Younis (12,602 balls) and Dale Steyn (12,605 balls).
Zimbabwe Sets Record For Highest T20I Total
Zimbabwe’s cricket team etched their name in history by posting a record-breaking total of 344/4 in a T20 International, led by Sikandar Raza’s unbeaten 133 off just 43 balls. His explosive innings, featuring 15 sixes, helped Zimbabwe achieve this landmark in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B match against Gambia.
This score surpassed the previous highest total of 314/3 set by Nepal against Mongolia in 2023, solidifying Zimbabwe’s dominance in the T20 format.
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