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SBI Clerk Mains Exam PDF 2024
Table of Contents
BANKING & FINANCIAL AWARENESS .................................................................................................................................................. 9
CURRENT RATES........................................................................................................................................................ 9
SMALL SAVING SCHEMES INTEREST RATE ........................................................................................................... 9
INDIA’S GROWTH PREDICTION ............................................................................................................................ 10
RBI IN NEWS ............................................................................................................................................................. 13
SBI IN NEWS .............................................................................................................................................................. 20
MOU SIGNED BY BANKS.......................................................................................................................................... 21
SEBI RELATED NEWS .............................................................................................................................................. 21
OTHERS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 23
FUNDS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 30
INSURANCE ............................................................................................................................................................... 38
ECONOMY ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 41
BUSINESS ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
NATIONAL AFFAIRS ................................................................................................................................................................................... 42
CABINET APPROVALS ............................................................................................................................................. 42
PM’s LAUNCHES/INAUGURATIONS ...................................................................................................................... 46
LAUNCHES/INAUGURATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 47
FIRST IN INDIA ......................................................................................................................................................... 55
LONGEST, LARGEST, HIGHEST .............................................................................................................................. 57
GOVERNMENT SCHEMES ........................................................................................................................................ 57
OTHERS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 58
Interim Budget 2024-25 ......................................................................................................................................................................... 70
Overview of FinMin’s 'The Indian Economy- A Review January 2024' ......................................................................... 75
IMPORTANT ONE LINER ......................................................................................................................................... 77
TARGET ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 78
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 79
VISITS ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 83
INDIAN VISITS .......................................................................................................................................................... 83
FOREIGN VISIT ......................................................................................................................................................... 86
COMMITTEES................................................................................................................................................................................................. 88
COMMITTEES FORMED........................................................................................................................................... 88
MEETING ................................................................................................................................................................... 89
SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE................................................................................................................................................... 90

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MOU’s & AGREEMENTS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 92

MOU'S WITH OTHER COUNTRY ............................................................................................................................ 92
MOU’S WITH STATE ................................................................................................................................................ 94
MOU’S BETWEEN ORGANIZATIONS ..................................................................................................................... 95
INDEX...............................................................................................................................................................................................................101
RANKING ................................................................................................................................................................. 101
STATE/CITY WISE RANKING ........................................................................................................................... 101
INTERNATIONAL RANKING ............................................................................................................................. 102
REPORT ................................................................................................................................................................... 106
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNS ................................................................................................................................................................111
APPOINTMENTS..................................................................................................................................................... 111
NATIONAL ........................................................................................................................................................... 111
INTERNATIONAL ............................................................................................................................................... 125
BRAND AMBASSADOR .......................................................................................................................................... 132
RESIGNATION ......................................................................................................................................................... 134
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS .................................................................................................................................................................134
AWARDS .................................................................................................................................................................. 134
RECOGNITIONS ...................................................................................................................................................... 147
ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS .................................................................................................................................................................150
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ......................................................................................................................................................................162
SATELLITES ............................................................................................................................................................ 162
NEW INITIATIVE/INNOVATION .......................................................................................................................... 164
DEFENCE ........................................................................................................................................................................................................169
EXERCISES ............................................................................................................................................................... 169
MISSILES .................................................................................................................................................................. 173
COMMISSION/DECOMMISSION ........................................................................................................................... 174
IMPORTANT DEFENCE EVENTS .......................................................................................................................... 175
SPORTS ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................178
APPOINTMENTS IN SPORTS ................................................................................................................................ 178
RETIREMENT .......................................................................................................................................................... 179
TENNIS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 179
CRICKET .................................................................................................................................................................. 181
BADMINTON ........................................................................................................................................................... 182
CHESS ....................................................................................................................................................................... 183
GRAND PRIX ........................................................................................................................................................... 184
OTHER SPORTS ...................................................................................................................................................... 185

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OBITUARY .....................................................................................................................................................................................................189
NATIONAL ............................................................................................................................................................... 189
INTERNATIONAL ................................................................................................................................................... 192
BOOKS & AUTHORS .................................................................................................................................................................................196
IMPORTANT DAYS ....................................................................................................................................................................................198
NATIONAL OBSERVANCE ..................................................................................................................................... 198
INTERNATIONAL OBSERVANCE .......................................................................................................................... 208
APPS & WEB PORTAL .............................................................................................................................................................................219
BANKING ................................................................................................................................................................. 219
OTHERS ................................................................................................................................................................... 219

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BANKING & FINANCIAL AWARENESS

CURRENT RATES
Policy Bi- Bi-
rates monthly monthly
Monetary Monetary
Policy Policy
October December
2023 2023
(FY24) (FY24)
Repo Rate 6.50% 6.50%
Reverse 3.35% 3.35%
Repo Rate
Marginal 6.75% 6.75%
Standing
Facility
(MSF)
Standing 6.25% 6.25%
Deposit
Facility
(SDF) Rate
Bank Rate 6.75% 6.75%
Cash 4.50% 4.50%
Reserve
Ratio
(CRR)
Statutory 18.00% 18.00%
Liquidity
Ratio (SLR)
* Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will be held 6 times for a financial year as per RBI rules.
SMALL SAVING SCHEMES INTEREST RATE

The Minister of Finance under GOI revised the interest rate for the Four quarters on small saving schemes. It
will be revised three months once.
Instruments Rate of Compounding
interest (from Frequency*
October 2023
to December
2023)
Post Office Savings Account 4.0% Annually
1 Year Time Deposit 6.9% Quarterly

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5 Year Recurring Deposit Scheme 6.7% Quarterly
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme 8.2% Quarterly and paid
Monthly Income Account 7.4% Monthly and paid
National Savings Certificate (VIII Issue) 7.7% Annually
Public Provident Fund Scheme 7.1% Annually
Kisan Vikas Patra 7.5% (will Annually

mature in 115
months)
Sukanya Samriddhi Account Scheme 8.0% Annually
INDIA’S GROWTH PREDICTION

Organization Year Predictions & Points to be Noted
FEBRUARY 2024
International 2024 The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released its 'January 2024
Monetary Fund (IMF) World Economic Outlook update-Moderating Inflation and Steady
Growth Open Path to Soft Landing' stating India's expected Gross
Domestic Product (GDP) to grow by 6.7% in 2023, stating a 40 basis
point increase from the 6.3% forecast made in October 2023.
For 2024 & 2025, India’s GDP growth is seen steady at 6.5%.
The IMF forecasted global growth of 3.1% in 2023 and 2024, and
it also changes the global growth to 3.2% in 2025.
Growth in Asia region is expected to decline from an estimated
5.4% in 2023 to 5.2% in 2024 and it will be 4.8% in 2025.
Fitch Ratings FY25 Fitch Ratings estimates that India’s fiscal deficit for financial year
2024-2025 (FY25) to reach 5.4% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP),
which is above the budget target of 5.1%. Real GDP growth of 6.5%
is expected in FY25, reflecting the positive impact of sustained capex
investments.
CRISIL CRISIL According to the CRISIL (formerly Credit Rating Information
Services of India Limited) report titled “Indian Economy: Capital as
Growth Driver”, the Indian economy is expected to grow at an
average rate of 6.7% per year between fiscals 2024 and 2031. This is
slightly higher than the pre-pandemic decadal average of 6.6%.
After a robust 7.3% growth in fiscal year 2023, CRISIL projects a
moderation to 6.4% in fiscal year 2024, attributing it to cyclical
factors.

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Organization for FY 2024-25 The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development
Economic Co- (OECD) Economic Outlook, Interim Report February 2024 titled
operation and “Strengthening the Foundations for Growth” has raised India's
Development (OECD) Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for FY 2024-25 to
6.2%, up from the November 2023 estimate of 6.1%. For 2025-
26(FY26), the OECD maintains India's growth forecast at 6.5%.
JANUARY 2024
Department of FY24 The “Half-Yearly Economic Review 2023-24-November 2023”
Economic Affairs released by the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of
(DEA) Finance, mentioned that India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
grew by 7.7% in the first half (H1) of financial year 2023-2024
(FY24).
With this, India is expected to achieve a growth rate of over
6.5% in FY24. India’s real GDP grew by a 7.6% on a year-on-
year (YoY) basis in 2nd quarter (Q2) of FY24.
United Nations 2024 According to the United Nations Department of Economic & Social
Department of Affairs (UN-DESA) released World Economic Situation and
Economic & Social Prospects (WESP) 2024 report projecting India's economic growth
Affairs (UN-DESA)
to reach 6.2% in 2024 which is slightly lower than the 6.3% estimate
for 2023.
India's GDP is estimated to reach 6.6% in 2025.
South Asia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to
increase by 5.2% in 2024. It grew by an estimated 5.3% in 2023.
It forecasts a slowdown in global economic growth from 2.7%
in 2023 to 2.4% in 2024 with short-term risks and structural
vulnerabilities.
PHD Chamber of 2024-2025 According to a PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI)
Commerce and report, India's Gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to surpass
Industry (PHDCCI) USD 4 trillion in 2024-2025 and reach USD 5 trillion by 2026-2027.
It also projected India's GDP to reach USD 7 trillion by 2030, as
India is committed to attaining the status of a developed
economy by 2047 under the initiative of ‘Viksit Bharat’.
Reserve Bank of India 3rd quarter According to an article titled 'State of the Economy' in the Reserve
(RBI) of 2023-2024 Bank of India (RBI)'s monthly bulletin i.e.'RBI Bulletin – January
(Q3FY24) 2024', RBI's economic activity index (EAI) has nowcast India’s Gross
Domestic Product (GDP) growth for 3rd quarter of 2023-2024
(Q3FY24)(October 2023 - December 2023) at 7%.
This is higher than the real GDP growth projection of 6.5% for
Q3FY24 in the December 2023 Monetary Policy Statement.
DECEMBER 2023
Organization for 2023-24 According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and
Economic Development (OECD) Economic Outlook November 2023 titled
Cooperation and ‘Restoring growth’, the real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of
Development (OECD) India is expected to be at 6.3% in financial year (FY) 2023-24.
The report also pointed out that the economy will slow down to
6.1% in FY25 due to adverse weather-related events and the
weakening international outlook.
This will facilitate the convergence of headline inflation toward
4.2%, enabling the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to reduce
interest rates from mid-2024, reaching 5.5% by the end of 2025.

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National Statistical Quarter (Q2) National Statistical Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and
Office (NSO) of 2023-24 Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the estimates of
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the July-September Quarter (Q2)
of 2023-24 (Q2FY24), both at Constant (2011-12) and Current
Prices.
India’s Real GDP or GDP at Constant (2011-12) Prices in Q2FY24
is projected to grow at 7.6% as compared to 6.2% in Q2FY23. It
is estimated to attain a level of Rs 41.74 lakh crore in Q2FY24 as
against Rs 38.78 lakh crore in the Q2FY23.
Nominal GDP or GDP at Current Prices in Q2FY24 is estimated at
9.1% as compared to 17.2% in Q2FY23.
State Bank of India FY24 State Bank of India (SBI) through its Research ‘Ecowrap‘ report has
(SBI) raised its forecast for India’s GDP growth for FY24 to 7% from 6.7%,
citing robust Q2FY24 growth at 7.6%, driven by a 13.9% surge in
manufacturing and a 13.3% rise in construction.
Confederation of FY24 Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has projected the India’s
Indian Industry (CII) Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to grow at 6.8 % in Financial Year
2023-24 (FY24) supported by infrastructure development and
promotion of ease of doing business.
The projected economic growth is higher than earlier projection
of 6.5-6.7% which was made in June 2023. CII also projected that
the growth will further accelerate to 7% in FY25.
ICRA Limited FY24 ICRA Limited (formerly Investment Information and Credit Rating
Agency of India Limited) has upgraded its Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) growth forecast for India for the fiscal year 2023-24 (FY24) to
6.5% from the earlier estimate of 6.2%.
The revises forecast is still lower than the Reserve Bank of India
(RBI)’s GDP growth forecast of 7% for FY24.
NOVEMBER 2023
International 2024 The ‘World Economic Outlook: Navigating Global Divergences’
Monetary report released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in
Fund (IMF) October 2023, projected the global economic growth to slow down
from 3.5% in 2022 to 3% in 2023 and 2.9% in 2024.
This is one of the lowest growth rates in decades and well below
the historical average of 3.8% recorded between 2000 & 2019.
According to the report, the global inflation is expected to
decrease from 8.7% in 2022 to 6.9% in 2023 and 5.8% in 2024.
OCTOBER 2023
World Bank (WB) FY23/24 According to India Development Update (IDU) October 2023
released by World Bank (WB), India’s Gross Domestic Products
(GDP) growth for the Financial Year 2023-24 (FY23/24) is retained
at 6.3% and for FY24/25 the growth rate will be at 6.4%.
India was one of the fastest-growing major economies in
FY22/23 at the rate of 7.2%. India’s growth rate was the 2nd
highest among G20 countries.
However, service sector activity is projected to remain strong
with growth of 7.4%, and investment growth is expected to stay
robust at 8.9%.
Fiscal consolidation is expected to continue in FY23/24, with the
central government fiscal deficit projected to decline from 6.4%
to 5.9% of GDP.

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The report states that India’s headline inflation is expected to

average 5.9% in FY23/24. IDU April 2023 projected India’s
headline inflation to decline to an average of 5.2% in FY23/24.
Controller General of FY24 According to Controller General of Accounts (CGA), India's fiscal
Accounts (CGA) deficit for the tenure April to August of the financial year 2023-24
(FY24) is at Rs 6.42 trillion.
This is 36% of the full-year target of Rs 17.87 trillion.
In the same period of FY2022-23, the fiscal deficit was Rs 5.42
trillion, or 32.6% of the FY23 target Rs16.61 trillion.
International 2023 According to World Economic Outlook (WEO), October 2023 -
Monetary Fund (IMF) Navigating Global Divergences‘ the International Monetary Fund
(IMF) has raised India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth
forecast to 6.3% in 2023 from July 2023 estimate of 6.1% due to
7.8% growth during the June quarter.
India will also grow at 6.3% in 2024 while remaining the world’s
fastest growing major economy in 2023 and 2024.
The IMF’s 2023 growth forecast for India is same as the World
Bank’s (WB) projection in its India Development Update (IDU)
October 2023.
Federation of Indian FY2023-24 According to Economic Outlook Survey released by Federation of
Chambers of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), India’s annual
Commerce & Industry median Gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate for the financial
(FICCI) year 2023-24 (FY2023-24) is projected at 6.3% with a minimum and
maximum growth estimate of 6% and 6.6%, respectively.
The median forecast for Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based
inflation in 2023-24 is 5.5%, with a minimum and maximum
range of 5.3% and 5.7%, respectively.
CPI inflation rate will remain above the Reserve Bank of India
(RBI)'s target level of 4±2 for Q3 & Q4 of FY 23-24.
RBI IN NEWS
FEBRUARY 2024
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised the eligibility norms for the inclusion of Urban Co-
operative Banks (UCBs) in the Second Schedule to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934. These
instructions are issued under clause (a) of sub-section (6) of section 42 of the RBI Act, 1934.
UCBs must maintain a Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of at least 3% higher than the
minimum requirement for their tier to enhance capital strength and resilience to risks.
RBI has issued Guidelines on import of gold by Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) holders under the India-United
Arab Emirates (UAE) Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) as notified by the
International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA).
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI)’s 6th Bi-monthly Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) met on on 6th, 7th
and 8th February 2024 and decided to retain the repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) at
6.50%.
For the 6th consecutive time, repo rate was retained at 6.5% to maintain a tight surveillance on inflation.
Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation or retail inflation is projected at 5.4% for FY24 (2023-24), with
FY24’s Q4 at 5%.
Category Rate
Policy Repo Rate 6.50%
Fixed Reverse Repo Rate 3.35%
Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) Rate 6.25%
Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) Rate 6.75%

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Bank Rate 6.75%

Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) 4.50%
Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) 18%
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in exercise of powers conferred by Section 35B of the Banking
Regulation (BR) Act, 1949, has increased the remuneration ceiling of Non Executive Directors (NEDs) of banks
from Rs 20 lakh per annum to Rs 30 lakh with immediate effect.
RBI has permitted the branches of Indian banks in GIFT–IFSC (Gujarat International Finance Tec-
City International Financial Services Centre) to act as a Trading Member/Trading and Clearing Member
(TM/TCM) of India International Bullion Exchange IFSC Ltd (IIBX).
It also allowed the Indian banks authorized to import gold or silver to act as Special Category Client (SCC)
of IIBX .
JANUARY 2024
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the report titled “Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in
India” (2022-2023).
Small Finance Banks (SFBs) has the widest gap of remuneration between top executives and average
employee
RBI Data on Variable Pay (VP) for different banks in India: For Private Sector Banks (PVBs), share of
variable pay in total remuneration increased from 31 % (at March-end 2021) to 39 % (at March-end 2022).
RBI flagged the interconnectedness of Small Finance Banks (SFBs) with Co-operative Banks
The RBI revealed that grievances related to loans and advances, deposits increased exponentially to 60%,
70% respectively at the Reserve Bank of Ombudsman.
RBI report showed that the total number of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in India increased by 3.5%
in FY22. White-label ATMs accounted for the maximum number of ATMs.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) extended the deadline for implementation of Instructions regarding
Penal Charges in Loan Accounts by three months i.e. from January 1, 2024 to April 1, 2024, as a part of fair
lending practices.
In this regard, all Regulated Entities (REs) must implement the new penal charges instructions for fresh
loans from April 1, 2024.
In case of existing loans, the transition to the new regime should be ensured by the next review/renewal
date on or after April 1, 2024, but no later than June 30, 2024.
RBI (Reserve Bank of India) has released the half-yearly publication of the Financial Stability Report
2023 (September 2023), which assesses risks to financial stability and the resilience of the Indian financial
system.
None of the Top 100 Borrower Accounts in the NPA Category for Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) RBI
Report Finds Debt Fund AUM (Asset Under Management) of Rs.1.7- lakh Crore in Stress Bank’s Capital
Adequacy Ratio to Fall 71 bps on Higher Risk Weight.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the report titled “Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in
India” (2022-2023).
Small Finance Banks (SFBs) has the widest gap of remuneration between top executives and average
employee
RBI Data on Variable Pay (VP) for different banks in India: For Private Sector Banks (PVBs), share of
variable pay in total remuneration increased from 31 % (at March-end 2021) to 39 % (at March-end 2022).
RBI flagged the interconnectedness of Small Finance Banks (SFBs) with Co-operative Banks
The RBI revealed that grievances related to loans and advances, deposits increased exponentially to 60%,
70% respectively at Reserve Bank of Ombudsman.
RBI report showed that total number of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in India increased by 3.5% in
FY22. White-label ATM accounted maximum number of ATMs.
Tata Group’s digital payments arm, Tata Communications Payment Solutions Limited (Tata Pay), has
received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to act as a Payment Aggregator (PA).

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The Groww (financial services platform)-backed identity verification startup, DigiO, also has received PA
licence from RBI.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued Master Direction – RBI (Commercial Paper and Non-Convertible
Debentures of original or initial maturity upto one year) Directions, 2024 which will come into effect from
April 01, 2024.
CPs and NCDs must be issued and held in dematerialized form with a Securities and Exchange Board of
India (SEBI) registered depository.
The minimum denomination for CPs and NCDs is Rs 5 lakh, with multiples of Rs 5 lakh thereafter.
CPs have a tenor between seven days and one year, while NCDs have a tenor between ninety days and one
year.
Primary issuances of CPs and NCDs, involving both fund payment to the issuer and issuance to investors,
must be settled within T+4 working days from the deal date.
RBI issued the Master Direction - Reserve Bank of India (Internal Ombudsman for Regulated Entities)
Directions, 2023, as per which the regulated entities (REs) and their Internal Ombudsmen (IOs) should
communicate a final decision to customers within 30 days of receiving a complaint.
If IO/DIO tenure is fixed, it should not be less than 3 years and also should not exceed 5 years, with no
eligibility for reappointment or extension in the same RE.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) increased the minimum capital requirement for Small Finance Banks
(SFBs) from Rs 100 crore to Rs 200 crore, and permitted Payments Banks to upgrade as SFBs.
Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) transitioning to Small Finance Banks (SFBs) need an initial net worth of
Rs 100 crore, to be increased to Rs 200 crore within five years.
Payments Banks, eligible as per guidelines, can apply for SFB conversion after five years of operation.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI)’s report titled ‘Finances of Panchayati Raj Institutions’ states that
Panchayats has to boost their efforts to increase their own revenues (which includes tax and non tax revenue)
and improve their governance towards sustainable growth.
According to the report, the own revenues of the panchayats accounts for only 1.1% of their total revenue.
The report has been prepared in the Division of Local Finances (DLF) of the Department of Economic
and Policy Research (DEPR).
DECEMBER 2023
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Bank of England (BoE) signed a MoU for cooperation and
information exchange regarding the Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL). The MoU establishes a
framework for the BoE to rely on the RBI’s regulatory and supervisory activities.
RBI in exercise of powers under the provisions of Section 11(3) of FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management
Act), 1999 has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 10,000 on Bank of America, N.A. for violation of RBI’s
instructions on reporting requirements under Liberalised Remittance Scheme of FEMA, 1999.
RBI approved the promoter of CSB Bank to retain a 26% stake in the lender. This is higher than the 15%
stake that RBI had previously advised.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI)’s 5th Bi-monthly Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), held from 6th to 8th
December 2023, has decided to retain the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF)
unchanged at 6.50% for 5th consecutive time.
RBI has kept India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth 7% in FY24 (2023-24) with Q3 at 6.5%, and
Q4 at 6%.
RBI has increased the cap on e-mandates for recurring online transactions to Rs 1 lakh per transaction from
the current Rs.15,000.
RBI raises UPI transaction limit for hospitals, educational institutions to Rs.5 lakh. Click here for more
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its annual report titled “State Finances: A Study of Budgets of
2023-24” under the theme “Revenue Dynamics and Fiscal Capacity of Indian States”.
The report states that the improvement achieved in State finances in 2021-22 was sustained in 2022-23,
with the combined States’ gross fiscal deficit (GFD) stood at 2.8% of gross domestic product (GDP).

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The report provides data on and analysis of the fiscal position of State governments in India during 2021-
22 (FY22-Actuals), 2022-23 (FY23-revised estimates/provisional accounts) and 2023-24 (FY24-Budget
Estimates). Click here for more detail
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the annual Survey on International Trade in Banking Services
(ITBS), 2022-23 which provides insights into cross-border banking activities of 14 Indian banks and 44
foreign banks’ branches/subsidiaries in India.
Indian banks expanded their global presence through the subsidiaries route, with an increase in employee
strength for foreign branches (0.5%) and subsidiaries (6.2%) in 2022-23.
Indian banks increased their overseas presence through the subsidiaries route to 417 during 2022-23 from
399 in FY22.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has lifted the ban on Razorpay Software Private Limited and Cashfree
Payments India Private Limited to act as a payment aggregator (PAs) and gave final authorization to them
along with 4 other firms to onboard new merchants onto their platform for processing online payments.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released the report titled “State Finances: A Study of Budgets of 2023-
2024”, As per the report, the Gross Fiscal Deficit (GFD) of states fell from 4.1% of GDP (Gross Domestic
Product) (2020-21) to 2.8 %( 2022-23).
RBI has allowed card-on-file tokenistation (CoFT) through issuer banks or institutions, card networks.
RBI developed Dynamic Stochastic General Equilbrium(DSGE) model has projected GDP growth for India at
6.0% for FY25(2024-25) and retail inflation for India will be moderated at 4.8% for FY2025.
RBI has introduced new norms in order to curb “evergreening” of loans by lenders through Alternate
Investment Funds(AIFs).
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted a 1-year extension, until 21st December 2024, for Bajaj Finance
Limited(BFL)’s co-branded credit card partnership with Mumbai(Maharashtra) based RBL Bank Limited.
Note: RBI granted 1 year extension against the 2 years sought by Bajaj Finance.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has given its nod for the reverse merger of IDFC Limited and IDFC
Financial Holding Company (IDFC FHCL) with its banking subsidiary IDFC First Bank Limited. As part of the
composite scheme of amalgamation, IDFC FHCL would first merge with IDFC and then IDFC into IDFC First
Bank Ltd.
RBI has notified RBI (Government Securities Lending/GSL) Directions, 2023 in exercise of the powers
conferred under section 45W of the RBI Act, 1934 read with section 45U of the Act and of all the powers
enabling it in this behalf w.e.f. December 27, 2023.
These are applicable to all GSL transactions, undertaken in Over-the-Counter (OTC) markets.
RBI released the list of Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) in which State Bank of India
(SBI), HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank continued to be identified as D-SIBS. However, SBI and HDFC Bank will need
to maintain higher capital from April 1, 2025.
The additional common equity Tier 1 (CET-1) as a percentage of Risk Weighted Assets (RWAs) requirement
for SBI will be 0.80%, and for HDFC Bank, it will be 0.40%.
Note: The RBI has moved SBI from bucket 3 to bucket 4 and HDFC Bank from bucket 1 to bucket 2. This
means they will have to meet the above mentioned higher additional CET 1 requirements. Upto March 31,
2025, the D-SIB surcharge applicable to SBI and HDFC Bank is 0.60% and 0.20%, respectively.
RBI has given its approval to ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company Limited (I-Pru AMC) and
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company Limited (I-Pru Life) to acquire aggregate holding of up to 9.95%
of the paid-up share capital or voting rights in RBL Bank Limited, IDFC FIRST Bank Limited, Equitas Small
Finance Bank (SFB), Federal Bank, and IndusInd Bank Limited.
RBI has revised the Payments Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF) scheme and extended the
deadline by two years, i.e., upto December 31, 2025.
PIDF scheme was introduced by RBI in 2021 for a period of 3 years (until December 2023). The scheme
aims to encourage deployment of payment acceptance infrastructure such as physical Point of Sale (PoS)
terminals, Quick Response (QR) codes by adding 30 lakh touch points every year.
RBI has cancelled the banking license of The Botad Peoples Co-operative Bank Ltd., Botad, Gujarat but
granted the non-banking institution licence. It also cancelled the license of Adarsh Mahila Nagari Sahakari Bank
Maryadit, Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

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NOVEMBER 2023
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) increased the minimum amount for offering Non-Callable Term
Deposits (TDs) from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 1 crore with immediate effect, allowing all customers to prematurely
withdraw money from Fixed Deposit (FD) of up to Rs 1 crore.
This mandate will cover all commercial banks and co-operative banks.
This means all domestic TDs accepted from individuals for amounts of Rs 1 crore and below will have a
premature-withdrawal-facility.
These instructions will be applicable for Non-Resident (External) Rupee (NRE) Deposit / Ordinary Non-
Resident (NRO) Deposits.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved ICICI Bank‘s request to make ICICI Securities a wholly-owned
subsidiary.
Following this, ICICI Securities will be delisted and become a wholly-owned subsidiary of its parent
company, ICICI Bank.
ICICI Securities has four lines of business: Broking, Distribution of financial products, Wealth management,
and Investment banking.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued the Regulation of Payment Aggregator – Cross Border (PA-
CB). RBI has decided to include all entities facilitating cross-border payment transactions for import and export
of goods and services under the direct regulation of the RBI.
The entities including Authorised Dealer (AD) banks, PAs and PAs-CB shall comply with these instructions.
All non-banks which provide PA-CB services must apply for authorization from the RBI by April 30, 2024.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed monetary penalties on the following entities:
Punjab National Bank (PNB): Rs 72 lakh penalty
Federal Bank: Rs 30 lakh penalty
Kosamattam Finance Limited: Rs 13.38 lakh penalty
Mercedes-Benz Financial Services: Rs 10 lakh penalty
L&T Finance Limited: Rs 2.50 crore penalty
The Shaktikanta Das, Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI), released the 1st flagship publication of
the Centre for Advanced Financial Research and Learning (CAFRAL) titled ‘India Finance Report 2023 (IFR
2023)‘.
The report stated that India’s fintech sector could replace traditional banking in the near future.
The theme of the report is ‘Connecting the Last Mile: Non-Banking Financial Companies in India’.
CAFRAL, promoted by RBI, is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2011 to promote research and
learning in banking and finance.
PayGlocal, a cross-border payments platform, receives in-principle approval from RBI for Payment
Aggregator (PA) license.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) exercise of its powers under section 45L(1)(b) of the RBI Act, 1934 barred
Bajaj Finance Limited from sanctioning and disbursing loans under its two lending products viz. eCOM and
Bajaj Insta EMI Card, with immediate effect.
The reason behind this action is the non-adherence of Digital lending guidelines of RBI by the company,
specifically by not providing Key Fact Statements to borrowers for two lending products.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted approval for the appointment of Isha Ambani, Anshuman
Thakur, and Hitesh Kumar Sethia as Directors of Jio Financial Services Limited, a Non-Banking Financial
Company (NBFC) backed by Reliance Industries Limited (RIL).
RBI Strengthens Regulations on Consumer Lending, Mandates Higher Capital Buffers for Banks and NBFCs
RBI increased the risk weights on credit card exposures by 25% points to 150% and 125% for banks and
NBFCs, respectively.
RBI Allows Banks to Open Current Accounts for Export Proceeds Alongside Special Rupee Vostro Accounts
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted authorization to Authorized Dealer Category – I (AD Category
– I) banks to open additional current accounts for export proceeds, supplementing the existing special
rupee vostro accounts.

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Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in exercise of the powers conferred under Section 36 AAA read with section
56 of the Banking Regulation (BR) Act, 1949 (As Applicable to Co-operative Societies), has superseded the
board of directors of Abhyudaya Cooperative Bank Limited for 12 months (1 year) amid poor governance
standards of the latter.
In this regard, RBI appointed Satya Prakash Pathak, former Chief General Manager of State Bank of India
(SBI), as the administrator of the bank.
RBI has imposed a monetary penalty on three banks viz. Citibank N.A. (Rs 5 crore), Bank of Baroda/BOB (Rs
4.34 crore) and Indian Overseas Bank/IOB (Rs 1 crore) for non-compliance with some of its Directions.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has updated its 'alert list' of unauthorised forex trading platforms by
adding 19 more entities, taking the total to 75.
These entities are neither authorised to deal in forex under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA),
1999 nor to operate electronic trading platform (ETP) for forex transactions under the Electronic Trading
Platforms (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2018.
OCTOBER 2023
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the merger of North East Small Finance Bank Limited
(NESFBL) and Bengaluru (Karnataka) based fintech startup slice (previously known as Slicepay).
Following this merger, slice will become the 1st fintech firm to transform into a Small Finance Bank
(SFB).All slice entities, including its Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) licence, have been merged
with the combined banking entity.
Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH) and the Digital India Bhashini Division
(DIBD/Bhashini) collaborated to explore and develop innovative solutions that foster linguistic inclusivity in
the financial services sector.
This collaboration is with respect to the memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which was signed during
the Global Fintech Fest(GFF) held in Mumbai, Maharashtra in September 2023.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has constituted a 9-member external Working Group chaired by Prof. R.
Narayanaswamy to suggest Expected Credit Loss (ECL) framework for provisioning by banks. R
Narayanaswamy is a retired Indian accountant and former Professor of Indian Institute of Management (IIM)
Bangalore, Bengaluru, Karnataka.
RBI released a discussion paper in January 2023 proposing a new framework for provisioning for credit
risk, called ‘Discussion Paper on Expected Loss (EL)-based Approach for loan loss provisioning by
banks’,which states that banks will have to set aside provisions based on their assessment of the expected
losses on their loans, rather than waiting until the loans actually default.
RBI has appointed Muneesh Kapur as Executive Director (ED) with effect from October 3, 2023.As executive
director, Muneesh Kapur will monitor the Department of Economic and Policy Research.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that it will apply strict supervisory norms under the
Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework to government-owned Non-Banking Financial Companies
(NBFCs) starting from October 2024. This move has significant implications for these government-owned
NBFCs.
RBI has decided to extend the PCA framework to all deposit taking government NBFCs and non-deposit
taking government NBFCs in middle, upper and top Layers (excluding base layer) with effect from October
1, 2024. Based on the audited financials of the NBFC as of March 31,2024, or subsequent dates.
The Reserve Bank of India, under section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, has ordered Bank of
Baroda to immediately suspend the process of adding more customers to the 'bob World' mobile
application.
RBI's Monetary Policy Report: Bank Credit Composition Shows Significant Transformation Over
Time

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Composition of Bank outstanding Credit Mar-23 Mar-13

Personal/Retail loans 32.10% 18%
Services 28.40% 24%
Industry 26.20% 46%
Agriculture 13.30% 12%
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the Certificate of Registration (CoR) Chennai, Tamil Nadu
(TN) based Ind Bank Housing Ltd, a Housing Finance Company (HFC) w.e.f. September 21, 2023.
In this regard, it cannot transact the business of Housing Finance Institution and a Non-Banking Financial
Institution (NBFC).
This decision has been taken by RBI in exercise of its powers conferred on it under Section 29A (6) of the
NHB Act, 1987
Note: Set up in 1991, Ind Bank Housing Ltd’s major shareholders were Indian Bank and HUDCO (Housing
and Urban Development Corporation Ltd) with 51% and 25% stake, respectively.
RBI imposes Rs 5.39 crore penalty on Paytm Payments Bank.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) initiated a pilot program for the wholesale segment namely ‘Digital
Rupee-Wholesale (e₹-W)’ of its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) in the interbank call money
market. Click Here to read about CBDC
State Bank of India(SBI), Bank of Baroda(BoB), Union Bank of India(UBI), HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak
Mahindra Bank, Yes Bank, IDFC First Bank and HSBC were part of the wholesale CBDC in government
securities pilot program.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduced the second edition of its global hackathon, “HARBINGER
2023 – Innovation for Transformation”. This event was announced on February 14, 2023. Theme: Inclusive
Digital Services.
The hackathon received 154 proposals submitted by teams from both India and 28 participating
teams/entities from countries such as Australia, Canada, Germany, Singapore, Sweden, the United Kingdom,
and the United States of America.
RBI initiated its inaugural global hackathon, titled “HARBINGER 2021 – Innovation for Transformation,”
with the theme ‘Smarter Digital Payments’ in 2021.Click here for more detail…
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in consultation with the Government of India (GoI), has expanded the range
of products offered through RBI Retail Direct portal by allowing retail investors to subscribe to Floating Rate
Savings Bonds, 2020 (Taxable)- FRSB 2020 (T).
The subscription of bonds will be in the form of cash (up to Rs 20,000 only)/drafts/cheques or any
electronic mode.
The Prime Minister (PM) of India Narendra Modi launched the RBI-Retail Direct Scheme on November 12,
2021.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently published a new set of guidelines called the "Master Direction
– Reserve Bank of India [Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC)– Scale Based Regulation(SBR)] Directions,
2023".
It replaces the Non-Banking Financial Company–Non-Systemically Important Non-Deposit taking (Reserve
Bank) Directions, 2016, and the Non-Banking Financial Company–Systemically Important Non-Deposit
taking Company and Deposit taking Company (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2016.
Under this regulatory framework, NBFCs are categorized into 4 layers based on their size, activities, and
perceived risk:
NBFCs-Base Layer (NBFCs-BL) includes Non-deposit taking NBFCs with assets below Rs 1,000
crore.
NBFCs-Middle Layer (NBFCs-ML) includes All deposit-taking NBFCs (NBFCs-D), regardless of their
asset size, Non-deposit taking NBFCs with assets equal to or exceeding Rs 1,000 crore
NBFCs-Upper Layer (NBFCs-UL)
NBFCs-Top Layer (NBFC-TL) The Top Layer should remain vacant.

AC Exam PDF
SBI IN NEWS
FEBRUARY 2024
NIL
JANUARY 2024
SBI Economic Research Department (ERD) released a report titled ‘SBI Research: Debunking K-shaped
recovery‘ which stated that individual income inequality in India has declined during 2013–2014(FY14) to
2021–2022(FY22).
The Gini coefficient of taxable income, which captured income inequality, dropped from 0.472 to 0.402
during this period.
36.3% taxpayers moved to higher income groups, leading to a 21.3% income increase.
Top 2.5% taxpayers’ share dropped from 2.81% to 2.28% (2014–2021).
Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) and State Bank of India (SBI) have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) to provide loans to rural Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
SBI launched Svyam Siddha, a specialised financial product developed exclusively for women Self-Help
Groups (SHGs). Its main purpose is to provide access of financial assistance up to Rs 5 lakh to women
entrepreneurs.
Training Toolkit Package was launched to encourage SHG women entrepreneurs to get access to formal
financial assistance in form of loans. It is developed in collaboration with International Finance Corporation
(IFC) under World Bank aided National Rural Economic Transformation Project (NRETP).
The State Bank of India (SBI) launched a special Fixed Deposit (FD) scheme named SBI Green Rupee
Term Deposit (SGRTD), to mobilise funds for environment-friendly projects and initiatives. The SGRTD
scheme is open to Resident individuals, Non-individuals, and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
The SGRTD scheme offers 3 distinct tenors: 1,111 days, 1,777 days, and 2,222 days. It is initially available
through SBI's branch network.
DECEMBER 2023
The State Bank of India's (SBI) Economic Research Department (ERD) released a report titled 'Women
Empowerment & Ladli Behna_Dec23' which states that women voters in India will surpass male voters from
the 2029 General Election onwards.
In 2029, the total voter turnout is expected to be 73 crores of which women voters will be at 37 crores,
which will be higher than the registered men voters at 36 crore.
The report projects that the total voter turnout in the 2024 general election will be around 68 crores of
which 33 crore (49%) will be women.
ERD projects that in 2047 (probable election year 2049), women voter turnout should increase to 55% and
men voter turnout might decrease to 45%.
NOVEMBER 2023
SBI Cards and Payment Services Limited(SBI Card), in collaboration with Reliance Retail Limited(RRL),
has launched a co-branded credit card called the ‘Reliance SBI Card’ which aims to provide a world-class
customer experience.
The card comes in two variants namely Reliance SBI Card and Reliance SBI Card PRIME.
Reliance SBI Card, made using recycled plastic, is powered by RuPay contactless technology.
Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited, a leading non-banking financial company (NBFC) in
India, has entered into a Co-Lending Model(CLM) partnership with the State Bank of India (SBI) to provide to
affordable and personalized financing solutions to empower Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSME) sectors
across India.
OCTOBER 2023
NIL

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MOU SIGNED BY BANKS

FEBRUARY 2024
NIL
JANUARY 2024
The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) and Indian Overseas Bank (IOB)
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a platform for co-lending and loan syndication for
a wide range of renewable energy projects across India.
DECEMBER 2023
Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Limited (Ujjivan SFB) has partnered with Water.org, a global nonprofit
organization dedicated to providing clean water and sanitation, to offer accessible financing solutions for water
and sanitation solutions.
Ujjivan SFB will offer loans of about Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 1,00,000 to existing as well as new customers to enable
them to construct and renovate water and sanitation facilities.
Federal Bank Limited and NCDEX e-Markets Limited (NeML) signed an MoU to strengthen the
integration of e-procurement and e-auction systems.This partnership will facilitate an advanced e-
procurement solution and streamline e-procurement and e-auction systems for Central and State Government
organizations.
NOVEMBER 2023
NIL
OCTOBER 2023
Warehousing Development Regulatory Authority (WDRA) signed Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with the Bank of India (BoI) to fund against e-NWRs (electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipt). The
MoU also aims to provide information to depositors about the benefits, besides doing further outreach
activities to improve agricultural pledge finance in India.
The MoU was signed in the presence of T.K Manoj Kumar, Chairperson, WDRA, Rajneesh Karnatak,
Managing director (MD) cum Chief Executive Officer (CEO), BoI.
The WDRA is a Statutory Authority under the Department of Food and Public Distribution(DFPD) of the
Ministry of Consumer Affairs Food and Public Distribution.
SEBI RELATED NEWS

FEBRUARY 2024
Ahmedabad (Gujarat)-based real estate developer Shivalik Group has received regulatory approval from
the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for its inaugural fund- Shivalik Investment Fund as a
Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF).
The fund aims to raise Rs.300 crore through private placement including Rs.150 Crore Green Shoe Option.
JANUARY 2024
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) notified that Investors will be allowed to freeze or
block their trading account any suspicious activity is detected. The framework for the same will be laid down
by stock brokerages on or before 1st April 2024 and will be implemented from 1st July 2024.
This information was SEBI is provided in its exercise of powers conferred under Section 11(1) of SEBI Act,
1992 read with Regulation 30 of SEBI (Stock Brokers) Regulations,
1992, to protect the interests of investors in securities and to promote the development of securities
markets.
The framework will be developed by the Brokers’ Industry Standards Forum (ISF) under the aegis of stock
exchanges, and in consultation with SEBI. Stock Exchanges shall also put in place an appropriate reporting

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requirement by Trading Members to enforce the above system. A compliance report to this effect shall be
submitted to SEBI by Stock Exchanges latest by August 31, 2024.
The Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Madhabi Puri Buch, has launched
two unique multi-lingual initiatives namely Multi-Lingual CAS and CDSL Buddy Sahayta 24x7 Chatbot for
Central Depository Services (India) Limited (CDSL).
Multi-Lingual CAS: The investors can generate their Consolidated Account Statement (CAS) of the
securities held in CDSL in any of the 23 Indian languages. The initiative is named Apka CAS – Apki Zubaani.
CDSL Buddy Sahayta 24x7 Chatbot: The chatbot offers round-the-clock assistance to the investor in four
languages.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the timeline for market rumor
verification for the 2nd time.
The deadlines were extended to June 1, 2024 from February 1, 2024 for the top 100 companies and to
December 31, 2024 from August 1, 2024 for the top 250 companies.
DECEMBER 2023
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the timeline of linking of SEBI
Complaint Redressal (SCORES) platform with the Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) Portal from 4th December
2023 to 1st April 2024.The circular was issued under Section 11(1) of the Securities and Exchange Board of
India Act, 1992.
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has allowed Stock Brokers (SBs) and Clearing Members
(CMs) to park client funds in Mutual Fund Overnight Schemes (MFOS). Currently, they invest only in risk-free
government securities.
This follows the revision in framework for upstreaming of clients’ funds to clearing corporations by SBs
and CMs which was issued in June 2023.
SEBI suspended the registration of Religare Commodities, a brokerage firm, for its alleged involvement in
illegal paired contracts on the National Spot Exchange Ltd (NSEL).
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) extended the deadline to add nominees for Demat
Accounts (Dematerialisation Account) and mutual fund portfolios to June 30, 2024. Earlier the deadline was
December 31, 2023.
Depository Participants, Asset Management Companies (AMCs), and Registrar and Transfer Agents (RTA)
will regularly remind holders via email and SMS (Short Message Service) to comply with the nomination
requirement.
SEBI notified a procedure for public issuance of Zero Coupon Zero Principal (ZCZP) Instruments by a
Not-for-Profit Organization (NPO) and listing of such instruments on the Social Stock Exchange (SSE).
SEBI has also allowed stock brokers to settle Client’s Funds lying with Trading Member (TM) on Saturdays
i.e. one more day is provided. Now, stock brokers can settle the running account of clients' funds on the first
Friday or Saturday of the quarter or month at the choice of the clients.
NOVEMBER 2023
Intending to streamline the dissemination of relevant information to investors, the Securities and
Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has unveiled a new format for the Scheme Information Documents (SIDs) of
Asset Management Company (AMC).
The new norms are suggested by the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and recommended by the
Mutual Fund Advisory Committee (MFAC).
The new format will come into force from April 1, 2024.
Madhabi Puri Buch, the Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has officially
launched the Investor Risk Reduction Access (IRRA) platform at the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
The IRRA platform, initiated by Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) under SEBI's guidance.
SEBI Eases Regulations for Holders of Physical Securities Without PAN and KYC Detail

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The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the capital markets regulator, announced the
elimination of the requirement to freeze folios lacking PAN, KYC details, and nominations for all holders of
physical securities.
SEBI Grants Approval to Unifi Capital for the Launch of Mutual Fund Business
Portfolio management firm Unifi Capital announced that it has received in-principle approval from the
capital markets regulator, SEBI, to establish a mutual fund house.
SEBI Board introduces flexibility for Social Stock Exchange(SSE) in order to give boost to fund raising by
Not for Profit Organisation (NPOs) on the SSE.
SEBI reduces minimum issue size from Rs1 crore to Rs 50 Lakh for public issuance of Zero Coupon Zero
Principal (ZCZP) instruments.
SEBI has further approved to reduce minimum application size from Rs 2 Lakh to Rs10000 for public
issuance of ZCZP by NPO on social stock exchange. It will help to expand participation of subscribers
including Retail.
SEBI Board approved a regulatory framework for index providers to introduce transparency and
accountability in the functioning of the securities market.
SEBI approved amendments to SEBI (Real Estate Investment Trusts) Regulations, 2014.
SEBI with the objective of protecting the interests of investors in Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs)
approved an amendment to SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012.
SEBI plans to introduce same day (T+0) settlement by March 2024 and Instantaneous settlement 2025.
Click here to read full news…
OCTOBER 2023
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) extended the deadline for adding nominees to demat
accounts and submitting PAN and KYC details for physical security holders until December 31, 2023.SEBI also
extended the nomination deadline specifically for mutual fund unit holders until January 1, 2024.
Russian State-owned Sberbank has become the first Russian bank to register with the Securities and
Exchange Board of India (SEBI) as a foreign portfolio investor (FPI) for a Category I FPI license.
Foreign portfolio investment (FPI) involves an investor purchasing foreign financial assets to access
equities, bonds, derivatives, mutual funds, and guaranteed investment certificates among others.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has empanelled 12 entities, including Ernst & Young
LLP (EY), KPMG Assurance and Consulting Services LLP, to provide digital forensic services to its search team
for onsite data acquisition during search and seizure operations. This empanelment will be valid for 2 years.
OTHERS
FEBRUARY 2024
The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) was formally launched at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. For this
purpose, NPCI International Payments (NIPL), the international arm of the National Payments Corporation of
India (NPCI), partnered with Lyra Network, a French e-commerce and proximity payment platform, to facilitate
the acceptance of UPI payments in Europe.
Federal Bank has launched National Common Mobility Card (NCMC)-integrated debit cards which will
enable its RuPay Debit Card holders to use their debit cards for offline payments at NCMC-enabled terminals at
metro stations, buses, etc. Through this, the payment will be made just by tapping the card on the card reader.
State Bank of India (SBI) in collaboration with Boston, United States of America (USA) based Flywire
Corporation, a global payments enablement and software company, aims to simplify cross-border education
payments for Indian students pursuing studies abroad.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted final approval to two fintech startups namely Juspay
Technologies Private Limited(Juspay) and Decfin Tech Private Limited (Decfin) and a Software-as-a-
Service(SaaS) provider Zoho Payment Technologies Private Limited (Zoho) to act as a Payment
Aggregator (PA).

AC Exam PDF
The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has received approval (No Objection
Letter) from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to set up its wholly-owned subsidiary in the International
Financial Services Centre (IFSC) situated in GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) in Gujarat.
The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) in partnership with Google Cloud Platform
(GCP) aims to offer financial support and technological resources to fast-growing climate technology firms.
HSBC will be funding about USD 1 billion to climate tech companies selected by Google through its Google
Cloud Ready-Sustainability (GCR-Sustainability) programme by 2030.
The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has unveiled the CRISIL’s impact assessment
report of the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) namely 'Prabhaav'.
As of November 30, 2023, 129 Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) were sanctioned out of FFS across
various segments. Investments of approximately 4 times the drawn amount, totalling Rs 17,534 crore,
have been made in 938 startups, showcasing a significant multiplier effect of FFS.Click here to read full
News
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister (PM) of India, along with Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth and Sri
Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, virtually launched India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in
Mauritius and Sri Lanka.
The Unified Payments Interface, an instant real-time payment system that was launched by the National
Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in 2016 to facilitate inter-bank transactions through mobile phones.
Mauritius(African nation) becomes the first country outside Asia to issue cards using RuPay technology
which empowers the MauCAS card scheme of Mauritius to enable the banks to issue RuPay cards
domestically.
Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), a public sector bank, celebrated its 88th Foundation day on 10th February
2024 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. IOB launched various new products and announced the opening of 88 new
branches across India.
IOB launched 3 new RuPay credit card variants: IOB RuPay Classic, IOB RuPay Platinum, and IOB RuPay
Select.
IOB also launched Freedom Current Account and Saving Account (CASA) variant.
IOB also also introduced Green Deposit Scheme under Retail Term Deposits to promote Green Finance
Eco System in India.
JANUARY 2024
Bandhan Bank Limited has launched a new scheme called ‘Inspire’ programme designed to cater to the
specific needs and aspirations of senior citizens. It offers plans that focus on financial security, healthcare, and
convenience of old age people.
Eligibility: Individuals residing in India of age 60 years and above.
Monthly Average Balance (MAB) should be Rs.1 lakh for Premium Savings Account and Rs.25,000 for
Advantage Savings Account.
Bank of India (BoI), a Public Sector Bank (PSB), has launched a Super Special Fixed Deposit (FD) scheme
with a specified maturity period of 175 days, commencing from January 1st, 2024.
The scheme offers a interest rate of 7.50% per annum for deposits ranging from Rs 2 crore to less than Rs
50 crore.
LEO1 (formerly known as Financepeer), an Edu-fintech startup, in collaboration with NSDL Payments
Bank Limited (NPBL), the wholly-owned subsidiary of National Securities Depository Ltd (NSDL), has
launched ‘LEO 1 Card’ which is India’s first numberless Prepaid ID card with MasterCard as a network partner.
The Bank of Baroda (BoB), one of a public sector bank, has launched the National Common Mobility Card
(NCMC) RuPay Reloadable Prepaid Card in alignment with the ‘One Nation, One Card’ initiative.
HDFC Bank Limited has executed transactions via the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)’s
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments app as a part of the ‘UPI for secondary market’ facility.
Bajaj Finserv Limited has launched a Credit Pass, a first-of-its-kind subscription in India, that enables its
customers to get real-time access to their credit dashboard to track and monitor credit health.
The credit pass is powered by TransUnion CIBIL Limited (formerly Credit Information Bureau (India)
Limited), a credit information company (CIC) operating in India.

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AU Small Finance Bank (SFB) Limited in partnership with United States of America (USA) based
Mastercard has launched ‘Mastercard Platinum Debit Card’ designed for Corporate Salary Customers. The card
was introduced under the theme #Swipe&Save.
The World Bank (WB) has raised funds by issuing bonds in three different currencies namely Canadian
dollars (CAD), Australian dollars (AUD), and United States Dollars (USD) to support the financing of green and
social projects, programs and activities in the member countries.
5-year AUD Sustainable Development Bond - AUD 2 billion
7-Year USD Sustainable Development Bond - USD 5 billion
5-year CAD Sustainable Development Bond - CAD 1.4 billion
Zerodha Fund House announced the launch of India’s 1st Growth Liquid Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) -
Zerodha Nifty 1D Rate Liquid ETF, that offer a Growth Net Asset Value (NAV). The new scheme follows Nifty
1D Rate Index, which measures the returns generated by market participants lending in the overnight market,
as its benchmark.
The fund is expected to be listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)
exchanges by the 24th January 2024.
Indian Bank in partnership with firms namely FPL Technologies Private Limited, Visa & National
Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched the ‘Indian Bank One co-branded credit card’ to offer
customized features to Indian consumers.
The co-branded card will be issued by Indian Bank and managed by FPL Technologies. The metal credit
card is powered by Visa and RuPay contactless technology.
Power Finance Corporation (PFC), a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) has received
approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to establish a wholly-owned finance company at the
International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT-City), Gujarat.
ICICI Bank Canada, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ICICI Bank Limited, launched its mobile banking
application, “Money2India (Canada)”. The app enables customers of any bank to instantly transfer money to
any bank in India without opening an account with ICICI Bank Canada.
With this launch, ICICI Bank Canada enters into the remittance market of Canada.
User can transfer up to CAD (Canadian Dollar) 30,000 in a single transaction with a confirmed exchange
rate.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Google India Digital Services (P)
limited (Google Pay India) and NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to expand the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) globally.
This MoU has three main goals viz. Expand UPI payments for Indian travelers globally, facilitate the
establishment of UPI-like systems in other countries, and simplify cross-border remittances using UPI
infrastructure.
IndusInd Bank Limited, in collaboration with EazyDiner, has launched the 'EazyDiner IndusInd Bank
Platinum Credit Card,' offering a unique and enhanced dining experience with no joining fees, making it
accessible to all.
Note: Gurugram (Haryana) based EazyDiner is India’s leading food discovery, table reservation, and
restaurant payment platform.
Bank of Baroda (BoB), one of India's leading public sector banks launched a special retail short-term
deposit scheme named Bob 360 Term Deposit Scheme.
The scheme offers higher interest rates for Domestic Term Deposits to Residents/Non-Resident Ordinary
(NRO) and Resident Senior Citizens for 360 days. It offers a high rate of interest of up to 7.60% per annum
(for 360 days), which includes 0.50% per annum for senior citizens.
DBS Bank India Limited announced collaboration with StartupTN, a nodal agency of Tamil Nadu (TN)
Government, to foster entrepreneurship in TN.
This partnership will engage with over 1,000 early-stage startups in TN through StartupTN's eight regional
hubs in metros. The partnership focuses on startups in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

AC Exam PDF
Yes Bank Limited, has became the first Indian bank to execute an export finance transaction on the
International Trade Financing Services Platform (ITFS) of RXIL Global IFSC Limited (RXIL Global), a subsidiary
of Receivables Exchange of India Limited (RXIL).
Yes Bank Limited also launched SmartFin, an end-to-end digital supply chain finance (SCF) platform
powered by Mumbai (Maharashtra)- based Veefin Solutions Limited (Veefin) to cater to the financial needs
of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The Ministry of Finance, Government of India (GoI) has expanded the scope of financial services offered
at India's 1st International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT
City) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Notified 4 additional services - Financial crime compliance, taxation, accounting, and bookkeeping - as a
part of financial services.
Zomato Payments Private Limited (ZPPL) has been granted a certificate of authorisation from the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as an 'Online Payment Aggregator (PA)' with effect from 24th January
2024.
BOB Financial Solutions Limited, the wholly-owned card company of Bank of Baroda (BoB), has been
rebranded as 'BOBCARD Limited', with the tagline "Credit Reimagined".
The new logo called ‘Baroda Sun’ was also unveiled for the ‘BOBCARD Limited’. The logo comprises dual ‘B’
letterforms that hold the rays of the rising sun.
DECEMBER 2023
Bank of Baroda (BOB), a leading public sector bank (PSB), has launched the BOB Parivar Account for
Savings and Current Accounts which groups all the bank accounts belonging to members of a single family
under One Family.
The accounts under the BOB Parivar Account will be operated independently by the primary account
holder.
HDFC Bank Limited in partnership with Tata Neu launched the co-branded credit card “Tata Neu HDFC
Bank credit card” powered by RuPay/Visa.
The credit card is available in 2 variants:
Tata Neu Infinity HDFC Bank Credit Card
Tata Neu plus HDFC Bank Credit Card
SBI Card has joined the credit card category of Bharat BillPay. The integration of the SBI Card into Bharat
BillPay was made by NPCI Bharat BillPay (NBBL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Payments
Corporation of India (NPCI),
Bank of India (BOI), a leading public sector bank in India, has launched an exclusive Saving Bank (SB)
Account named Nari Shakti Savings Account, specifically designed for women aged 18 and above who have an
independent source of income.
This account offers benefits and features designed to empower women financially and promote their well-
being.
IDFC First Bank Limited, in collaboration with MasterCard, has launched “FIRST SWYP credit card”,
designed exclusively for Gen Z generation.
The card, powered by Mastercard, aims to provide various lifestyle requirements of the youth, focused on
affordability, convenience, and increased customer engagement.
IDFC FIRST bank has introduced “IDFC FIRST Bank digital RuPay credit card”, powered for UPI (Unified
Payments Interface). This is a digital credit card on the Rupay network.
Canara Bank, a public sector bank in India launched new products and services for customers on
its 118th Founder’s Day (19 November).
These include Corporate ai1, Whatsapp Banking Channel, and Canara Unified Payments Interface (UPI) 123
Pay.
Bandhan Bank Limited has received authorisation from Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to distribute
pensions through Electronic Pension Payment Order (e-PPOs) on behalf of the Ministry of Railways (MoR).
The authorisation is in line with the mandate of the Ministry of Finance (MoF), MoR and RBI.

AC Exam PDF
LIC Cards Services Limited (LIC CSL), IDFC FIRST Bank Limited and Mastercard has collaborated to launch
“LIC IDFC FIRST Credit Cards”, a co-branded credit card to meet the dynamic financial needs of India. The card
is available in two variants: LIC Classic Credit Card and LIC Select Credit Card.
Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur(IIT-K) in Uttar
Pradesh(UP), has launched “Kotak School of Sustainability (KSS)”, India’s first fully integrated school of
sustainability, at IIT-K Campus. KSS is funded by KMBL through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
programme ‘Kotak Karma’.
The Government of India (GoI), under Notification No.4(6)-B(W&M)/2023 dated December 8, 2023,
announces the opening of Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) 2023-24 (Series III) for subscription during the period
December 18-22, 2023 with Settlement date December 28, 2023.
Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL) in collaboration with IndianOil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has
launched a co-branded credit card called ‘Indian Oil Kotak Credit Card’. The fuel card is powered by Rupay
contactless technology.
Paycraft Solutions Pvt. Ltd., launched One Nation Corporate Card in partnership with NSDL Payments
Bank and the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It will be offered to the Indian customers pan-
India from June end 2024.
Bandhan Bank Limited has gained authorisation to collect revenue on electronic-Government Receipt
Accounting System (e-GRAS) from the Government of Assam.
Assam e-GRAS (https://assamegras.gov.in) is an online system that facilitates creation of eChallan and
online payment by citizens anywhere, anytime. Through Assam e-GRAS portal, people can pay to 70
departments for their services.
Axis Bank Limited has partnered with the American Express Company and launched the “Axis Bank
Privilege Credit Card” on the American Express network. Under this partnership, Axis bank customers will
benefit with the local and global benefits of the American Express network.
Eligibility: The applicant should be a resident of India aged between 18 to 70 with a net annual income of
Rs 6 lakhs or more.
HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited (HDFC life) and NKGSB Co-operative bank Limited, a leading
multi-state scheduled co-operative bank, have entered into a Corporate Agency tie-up to enable the customers
of the bank to avail the products of HDFC Life.
IndusInd Bank Limited has launched India’s first Corporate Credit Card ‘The eSvarna Card’ on RuPay
network as part of a Corporate Liability program.
With this launch, IndusInd Bank became the first entity in India to integrate Unified Payments Interface
(UPI) functionality with a Corporate Credit Card.
The eSvarna Card is a Europay, Mastercard and Visa (EMV) chip based contactless Commercial Credit Card
which can be used at all RuPay accepting merchant establishments across the globe.
Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) announced a new suite of products and services during Maha Parivartan
Diwas on December 19, 2023 to improve the banking experience.
The products and services were launched across diverse platforms like Mobile Banking, Internet Banking,
WhatsApp Banking, Credit Card Services, and a spectrum of Digital Products.
NOVEMBER 2023
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, India (HSBC India), in association with the
National E-Governance Services Limited (NeSL), has introduced the electronic-Bank Guarantees (e-BGs)
services to digitize trade finance.
With this, HSBC India became the first Foreign Bank in India to offer e-BGs.
e-BG is a digital equivalent of a traditional paper-based Bank Guarantee.
The process is made simple by introducing electronic stamping (E-stamping) and electronic signing (E-
signing).
AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) along with a travel platform ixigo (Le Travenues Technology Limited)
announced the launch of their premium ixigo-AU co-branded credit card which aims to enhance the travel
experiences of modern travelers in semi-urban regions.
The card is a first-of-its-kind value proposition across all travel verticals such as flights, trains, buses &
hotels.

AC Exam PDF
IndusInd Bank Ltd launched the ‘IndusInd Bank Platinum RuPay Credit Card’ in collaboration with the
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), enabling customers to make payments through the RuPay
network using Point of Sale (POS) devices and e-commerce websites.
According to data from the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), Maharashtra emerged as the
leader in mutual fund investments in India during July-September Quarter-Fiscal Year 2024(Q2FY24) with a
substantial equity asset of Rs 7.47 lakh crore out of the industry's total equity asset of Rs 25.85 lakh crore.
It is followed by Gujarat and Karnataka holding equity assets of Rs 2.21 lakh crore and Rs 1.99 lakh crore
respectively.
They have surpassed Delhi (ranked 4th), whose equity asset dropped to Rs 1.94 lakh crore.
Punjab National Bank (PNB) launched two PNB Digital Gold Loan schemes namely PNB Gold Loan for
the retail segment and PNB Swarnim for the agriculture segment.
The schemes aim to provide customers with hassle-free access to credit to meet their personal and
agricultural needs by using gold jewellery as collateral for the loan.
IndusInd Bank Limited has partnered with Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) to promote Digital Rupee
(e₹), the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).The collaboration
aims to promote cashless transactions at IGL Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Stations in Delhi National Capital
Region (NCR).
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has directed all Third Party Application Providers
(TPAP) and Payment Service Provider (PSP) banks to deactivate all Unified Payments Interface (UPI) IDs that
have remained inactive for a period of one year or more.
This measure is to be implemented by December 31, 2023.
OCTOBER 2023
HDFC Pension Management Company Limited has launched a first-of-its-kind ‘National Pension System
(NPS) Preference Index’ on the occasion of 2nd edition of NPS Diwas which was observed on 1st October
2023.HDFC Pension also released NPS Preference Index Study which is the industry first spotlight on NPS.
HDFC Pension Management Company Limited, a subsidiary of HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited is one
of the Pension Fund Managers (PFM’s) appointed by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority
(PFRDA) in India to manage funds for the National Pension System (NPS).
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) raised Rs.1,040.50 crore by issuing
India’s first ‘AAA’ rated Indian Rupee-denominated Social Bonds at a coupon rate of 7.63%.
NABARD issued bonds privately to eligible institutional investors, which were listed on the Bombay Stock
Exchange (BSE) on September 29, 2023.
Nabard-issued bonds have been rated AAA rating by Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited
(CRISIL) and Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency (ICRA).
Outlook Group in collaboration with IDFC FIRST Bank launched a retirement planning event “Outlook
Money 40After40” to spread awareness and create conversations around retirement planning.
"40After40" is a two-day event and expo, which will be held at Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai,
Maharashtra on 23rd and 24th January, 2024.
IndusInd Bank Limited launched INDIE, a customer centric digital mobile banking application(app), to
empower customers with an all-in-one digital financial solution.
This hyper-personalized financial super-app utilises the advanced analytics to provide personalized
insights to its customers.
Axis Bank Limited has launched its digital banking proposition called 'open by Axis Bank' in its latest
advertising campaign ‘Open 2023’.
The Open 2023 campaign highlights the top 15 features of the bank’s digital offerings.
The launch of 'open by Axis Bank' is a fulfilment of Axis bank’s vision to build Axis 2.0 as a digital bank
within the bank to offer a personalized, intuitive, and hassle-free digital banking experience.

AC Exam PDF
Axis Bank Limited and Social Worth Technologies Private Limited (Fibe) (formerly known as
EarlySalary) have partnered to launch India’s first-ever numberless credit card called Fibe Axis Bank Credit
Card.
The card, powered by Rupay, also allows the customer to link this credit card to Unified Payments Interface
(UPI).
The 2nd edition of annual Indian Space Conclave (ISC 2023) was held at Manekshaw Centre in New
Delhi, Delhi. The conclave was organized by Indian Space Association (ISpA).
It was co-hosted by Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), an autonomous
agency in the Department of Space (DOS).
The theme of ISC 2023 is 'Bhumandal se Brahaman Tak' (From Earth to the Entire Universe)'.
ISpA & GIFAS signed MoU to Boost Space Industry Capabilities in France & India
Deloitte, Nasscom & ISpA Launched “Exploring opportunities for Indian downstream spacetech” report
India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has signed an agreement with Small Industries Development Bank of
India (SIDBI) to extend financial and other support services to MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) in
rural and remote areas.
SIDBI provides credit to small businesses, while IPPB provides banking transaction services.
Both entities also announced a hackathon for innovation in financial services in rural areas and also a
Swavalamban Challenge Fund to promote rural livelihood enterprises.
ICICI Bank Limited has launched a new feature called iFinance, which allows customers-retail and sole
proprietors, to get a consolidated view of their savings and current accounts across banks in a single place. This
facility is also extended to customers of other banks.
The Department of public Enterprise (DPE) under the Ministry of Finance have been granted Navratna
status to two Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) namely Ircon International Limited (IRCON) and RITES
Limited (RITES) under the Ministry of Railways(MoR).
IRCON International Limited is a specialized construction company that covers the entire range of
construction activities and services in the infrastructure sector. It is now the 15th company to be granted
Navratna status.
RITES Limited which is a multidisciplinary engineering and consultancy organization is the 16th Navratna
amongst CPSEs.
National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and operating under the Ministry of Skill Development
& Entrepreneurship (MSDE), partnered with Coca-Cola India to launch the Super Power Retailer Program
under the Skill India Mission.
This will empower the retailer community in the states of Odisha and Uttar Pradesh (UP). The program is
being piloted in Odisha.
Amazon Pay India Private Limited (APIPL) in partnership with National Payments Corporation of
India (NPCI) has introduced the option of Equated Monthly Instalment (EMI) on RuPay credit cards in Amazon
Pay.
The service will be available across eight prominent issuing banks.
Google has partnered with the Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment (FACE) to take down
illegal digital lending apps on Play Store in India.
This partnership was announced during the 9th annual Google for India (2023) event held on 19th October
2023 in New Delhi, Delhi. FACE is an industry association and self-regulatory organization for digital
lenders.
HDFC Bank has developed ‘XpressWay,’ a digital banking platform that offers a range of financial
products and services, providing customers with a fast and convenient banking experience.
NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited (NBBP) has partnered with Axis Bank to launch its services under the
Business-to-Business (B2B) category to provide businesses value-added services like flexible invoice
presentation, complaint management, Management Information System(MIS), etc.
NBBP’s B2B Category Payments went live for the first time on e MyJio app for Arzooo, a B2B Retail Tech
platform, with Axis Bank as the Biller Operating Unit (BOU).
With the first B2B Category payment,
MyJio became the 1st app to go live with the B2B Category Payments.

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Arzooo became the first biller in this category with support from Jio Payments Bank.
Axis Bank became the first BOU enabling B2B payments.
Zerodha Fund House(ZFH), a joint venture between Zerodha Broking Limited and smallcase Technologies
Private Limited, launched its maiden mutual fund schemes Zerodha Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund and
Zerodha ELSS Tax Saver Nifty LargeMidcap 250 Index Fund.
Both schemes are open-ended, passive, index-equity mutual fund schemes.NFO is a singular investment
solution to invest in the top 250 companies.
Reserve Bank of India(RBI) has granted in-principle authorization to MobiKwik’s payment gateway arm
Zaakpay to operate as an online payment aggregator (PA).
This will enable Zaakpay to onboard new merchants onto its platform for processing online payments and
scale the number of merchants associated with the startup.
Payment Aggregators(PAs): PAs are entities that facilitate e-commerce sites and merchants to accept
various payment instruments from the customers.
Bank of Baroda(BoB) launched a lifetime zero-balance savings account called the Bob LITE Savings
Account as a part of “BOB Ke Sang Tyohaar Ki Umang” festive campaign.
The Bob LITE Savings Account comes with a lifetime-free RuPay Platinum debit card (subject to
maintaining a quarterly average balance(QAB)).
RBL Bank, formerly known as Ratnakar Bank, has launched the GO Savings Account, a zero-balance
digital banking product. The account has a subscription-based model means it will replace minimum balance
requirement, thus, finishing the hassle of maintaining a minimum balance.
AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) Limited launched its first Green Fixed Deposit (FD) namely Planet First
– AU Green Fixed Deposit with an interest rate of up to 8.50%. This launch represents bank's commitment
towards climate action, and allows customers to contribute to sustainability by dedicating proceeds to green
projects.
The Green FD was launched on 25th October 2023, last Wednesday of October, which is celebrated as the
Sustainability Day.
Escrowpay, a leading digital escrow platform, has secured India’s 1st digital escrow regulatory fintech
authorisation from International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), Gujarat International Finance
Tec-City (GIFT City), Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
IndusInd Bank Limited has announced a strategic collaboration with Viamericas Corporation to offer
digital inward remittance services to Non Resident Indians (NRIs) in the United States of America (USA).
This collaboration will enable NRIs to send money to their beneficiaries in India through IndusInd Bank's
digital remittance platform Indus Fast Remit(IFR).
FUNDS
Funded By Amount Highlights
FEBRUARY 2024
India USD 32.895 million India contributed USD 32.895 million
(approximately Rs. 273 Crore) to the
United Nations (UN) Regular Budget (RB)
for 2024 and earned its spot in the
“Honour Roll of the UN for 2024”.
Honour Roll is a list of UN that have
paid their mandatory financial
support in full to the UN’s RB within
30 days of issuance of a payment note
from the UN.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Rs 9,013.72 crore The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
has provided Rs 9,013.72 crore to the
Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank)
after the bank invoked Government of

AC Exam PDF
India (GoI) guarantees on decade-old

loans extended to some African countries.
These loans were classified as "doubtful
debts” in Financial Year(FY) 2023-24.
The Department of Economic Affairs
(DEA) under the Ministry of Finance
(MoF) has supported Lines of Credit
(LOCs) to foreign countries under the
Indian Development and Economic
Assistance Scheme (IDEAS).
HDFC Bank USD 300 million HDFC Bank Limited has raised USD 300
million through its first-ever sustainable
finance bond issue as a part of its overall
raise of USD 750 million through
Regulation S Bonds.
JANUARY 2024
International Bank for Reconstruction Great British Pound 1.5 The World Bank (WB) arm International
and Development (IBRD) billion Bank for Reconstruction and
Development (IBRD) has priced a 5-year
Sustainable Development Bond in Great
British Pound sterling (GBP) to raise GBP
1.5 billion from investors, contributing to
finance sustainable development
initiatives in World Bank member
countries.
State Bank of India (SBI) USD 250 million State Bank of India (SBI), the largest
public sector bank in India, has raised
USD 250 million by issuing 5-year green
bonds (also known as green notes) which
will mature on 29th December 2028 to
fund green projects which are in line with
SBI’s Environmental, Social and
Governance (ESG) Financing framework.
SBI has successfully raised USD 1 Billion
through Syndicated Social Loan to cater to
the domestic ESG financing market.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) USD 3 billion The Asian Development Bank (ADB) sells
a dual-tranche global benchmark bond
valued at USD 3 billion with a maturity of
3 years and at USD 2 billion with a
maturity of 10 years to raise USD 5 Billion
to promote social and economic
development across its member countries
in Asia and the Pacific region.
State Bank of India(SBI) USD 300 million State Bank of India(SBI) is raising around
USD 300 million through medium-term
notes to garner resources for lending
international customers.

AC Exam PDF
SBI raised USD 600 million through senior

unsecured fixed rate notes having
maturity of 5 years at a coupon of 5%.
World Bank USD 100 million World Bank launched 7-year USD 100
million principal-protected Plastic Waste
Reduction-Linked Bond to support the
World Bank's sustainable development
activities globally. The bond's focus is on
preventing plastic waste leakage into
nature and oceans. Citi served as the Lead
Manager for this bond.
DECEMBER 2023
Asian Development Bank (ADB) has
approved a USD 200 Million loan for
Uttarakhand Climate Resilient Power
System Development Project to improve
the quality, efficiency, and reliability of
power supply, and aiding the state in
achieving 24×7 power to its residents and
transitioning to the use of clean energy.
The Japan Fund for Prosperous and
Resilient Asia and the Pacific, financed
by the Government of Japan through
ADB, will also provide USD 2 million
grant to support livelihood
enhancement, training, and
awareness-raising activities of this
project.
ADB has unveiled a new initiative to
address climate and disaster risks in
the crucial Hindu Kush Himalaya
region, a vital water source
supporting over a billion people
Asian Development Bank (ADB) USD 200 Million across Asia.
The Government of India (GoI) and Asian
Development Bank (ADB) signed a USD
175 million loan to improve the
connectivity and resilience of roads in
Madhya Pradesh (MP).
This project will enhance connectivity
in the state road network across 14
districts in MP.
ADB will enhance Madhya Pradesh
Road Development Corporation
Limited(MPRDC) by upgradation of
500 km of roads to two-lane, with
Asian Development Bank (ADB) USD 175 million climate-resilient design, innovative

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safety features and facilities catering

to elderly, women, children, and
people with disabilities.
REC Limited(formerly Rural
Electrification Corporation Limited), a
Maharatna Central Public Sector
Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of
Power (MoP), has signed a 200 million
Euro (approximately Rs. 1,795 crore) loan
agreement with KfW Development Bank,
Germany, to reform Distribution
Companies (DISCOMs) in India.
The agreement is in line with the
Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme
(RDSS), which was launched in 2022
REC Limited 200 million Euro under MoP.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved
a USD 250 million policy-based loan to
develop industrial corridors in India
aligning with the National Industrial
Corridor Development Program (NICDP).
ADB approved USD 200 million loan
to improve solid waste management
and sanitation in Indian cities.
ADB will also provide an
additional USD 3.15 million Technical
Assistance (TA) grant from its Urban
Resilience Trust Fund, Republic of
Korea e-Asia and Knowledge
Partnership Fund, and the Sanitation
Financing Partnership Trust Fund.
ADB announced plans to launch the
Climate Action Catalyst Fund (CACF)
on January 1, 2024. It is a first-of-its-
kind carbon fund under the Paris
Asian Development Bank USD 250 million Agreement.
The State Bank of India (SBI) has signed a
70 million Euro (approximately Rs 636
crore) Line of Credit (LoC) with KfW
Development Bank, Germany, to support
solar photovoltaic (PV) projects in India.
The agreement was signed at the
International Financial Services
Centres (IFSC) Gujarat International
Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) Branch of
State Bank of India 70 million Euro SBI in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Government of India (GoI) and Asian
37 billion Japanese Yen Development Bank (ADB) have signed an
Asian Development Bank (ADB) (USD 250 million) loan agreement for a 37 Billion Japanese

AC Exam PDF
Yen (USD 250 million) loan to continue

financing the construction of the 82-
kilometre Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid
Transit System (RRTS) corridor.
U GRO Capital Limited, a non-banking
financial company (NBFC), raised USD 30
million (around Rs 250 crore) through
Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs) from
FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial
USD 30 million (around development bank, based in the Hague,
U GRO Capital Limited Rs 250 crore) the Netherlands.
The Japan International Cooperation
Agency (JICA) signed loan agreements
with the Government of India (GoI) in
Delhi to offer Japanese Official
Development Assistance (ODA) loans
totalling 415,301 million yen for the
following two projects:
Project for the Construction of
Mumbai -Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail
(V) (loan amount: 400,000 million
yen)
Program for Japan-India Cooperative
Actions towards Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) in India
(Phase 2) (loan amount: 15,301
Japan International Cooperation Agency 415,301 million yen million yen)
The World Bank (WB) has approved a
loan of USD 300 million to the Ministry of
Finance (MoF), Government of
India(GoI), for the project ‘Tamil Nadu
Climate Resilient Urban Development
Program (TNCRUDP)’.
World Bank approved USD 100
million for the project ‘Sikkim:
Integrated Service Provision and
Innovation for Reviving
Economies (INSPIRES)’
Operation to support Sikkim’s
efforts to train, upskill, and
provide jobs for 300,500 women
and youth in high-growth and
World Bank USD 300 million priority sectors.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) and The
Government of India (GoI) signed a loan
agreement of USD 100 million for the
project “India : Tripura Urban and
Tourism Development Project” which
aims to improve urban services and
tourism facilities in the northeastern state
Asian Development Bank (ADB) USD 100 million of Tripura.

AC Exam PDF
This is the first urban project in India

that has been prepared with Project
Readiness Financing(PRF).
Small Industries Development Bank of
India (SIDBI) has granted Rs. 12.45 crores
to ETO Motors Private Limited to deploy
300 Electric 3-Wheelers (E3W) in
Small Industries Development Bank of Hyderabad(Telangana) and New Delhi
India (SIDBI) Rs. 12.45 crores (Delhi), under Mission 50K-EV4ECO.
NOVEMBER 2023
Indian government signed a USD 400
million policy-based loan agreement with
the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to
support its sub-programme 2 of the
Sustainable Urban Development and
Service Delivery Programme.
This program is India’s urban reform
agenda to create high-quality urban
infrastructure, improve service delivery,
and promote efficient governance
Asian Development Bank USD 400 million systems.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and
Greenway Grameen Infra Private Limited
have signed a USD 6.5 million senior
secured loan agreement for the Greenway
Carbon Credits Gender Finance
Project.The financing also includes a USD
3.25 million first-loss liquidity reserve
from the Climate Innovation and
Development Fund (CIDF).
The project aims to facilitate the
production and distribution of 1
million subsidized Greenway Jumbo
Asian Development Bank (ADB) and
Greenway Grameen Infra Private Stoves to rural households in Madhya
Limited USD 6.5 million Pradesh and Odisha.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved
a loan package of USD500 million for
Maharashtra Tertiary Care and Medical
Education Sector Development Program
which envisages to improve access to
quality and affordable tertiary health care
and medical education in Maharashtra.
Mumbai, Maharashtra based L&T
Finance Limited(LFT), a Non-Banking
Financial Company (NBFC) and a
subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro
Asian Development Bank (ADB) USD 500 million Limited (L&T),signed a USD125

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million financing pact with ADB to

support financing in rural and peri-
urban areas of India, especially for
women borrowers.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has

approved USD 170 Million loan for the
modernization of water supply services in
Kochi, Kerala.
Project includes upgrading five water
treatment plants (325 Million Litres Per
Day/MLD)) and constructing a new one
(190 MLD).
Asian Development Bank (ADB) USD 170 Million
OCTOBER 2023
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
announced the approval of capital
management reforms that are set to
release approximately USD($)100 billion
in fresh funding capacity over the next
decades for financing projects in Asia-
Pacific region.
This funding is intended to tackle
significant Asian challenges, notably
climate change.
These reforms were implemented by
updating the ADB’s Capital Adequacy
Asian Development Bank (ADB) USD($)100 billion Framework (CAF).
The National Investment and
Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL) has
entered into a collaboration with the
Japan Bank for International Cooperation
(JBIC) to launch its first bi-lateral fund
called India-Japan Fund (IJF) of Rs 49
billion (USD 600 million).
The Fund was established by NIIF
Limited (NIIFL), a collaborative
investment platform for international
Rs 49 billion (USD 600 and Indian investors. The fund is
Japan Bank for International Cooperation million). anchored by the Government of India
(JBIC) and JBIC.
approved a USD 200 million loan to
strengthen flood and riverbank erosion
risk management along the 650-kilometer
(km) long main stem of the
Asian Development Bank (ADB) USD 200 million Brahmaputra River in Assam, India.

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The Project activities will be led,

managed, and coordinated by the Flood
and River Erosion Management Agency of
the Assam Government.
The Water Resources Department of the
Government of Assam will implement the
works and the Assam Agroforestry
Development Board will use nature-based
solutions.
Mahindra Last Mile Mobility (MLMML), a
subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.
(M&M) received the first installment of
investment of Rs.300 crore from the
International Finance Corporation (IFC)
for its Electric Vehicle (EV) division. This
investment is IFC’s first in an EV maker in
India.
With this transaction, MLMML has
ceased to be a wholly owned
subsidiary of Mahindra with effect
from 9th October 2023, while it
continues to be a subsidiary of the
International Finance Corporation (IFC) Rs.300 crore company.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) has
approved a loan worth USD 181 million to
build quality infrastructure and services
in the peri-urban areas of Ahmedabad,
Gujarat to control urban sprawl.
Ahmedabad Peri-urban Livability
Improvement Project was created
with an aim to provide basic
infrastructure in these growth
centres.
Ahmedabad Peri-urban Livability
Improvement Project is funded by
Asian Development Bank (ADB) USD 181 million Asian Development Bank(ADB).
The United States(U.S.) International
Development Finance Corporation (DFC)
has offered an External Commercial
Borrowing (ECB) loan of USD 30
million to the Dalmia Polypro Industries
Private Ltd to fund the establishment of
greenfield recycling facility in Nashik,
Maharashtra.
The new plant is well-positioned to
meet the growing demand for
International Development Finance premium recycled plastic,
Corporation (DFC) USD 30 million including food-grade materials, so

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contributing to the realisation of a

circular plastic waste value chain.
approved a USD 175 million loan for
‘India : Enhancing Connectivity and
Resilience of the Madhya Pradesh Road
Network Project’. The project aims to
upgrade about 500 kilometers of state
highways and major district roads to a
standard two-lane feature in Madhya
Pradesh(MP).
ADB is partnering with Madhya
Pradesh Road Development
Corporation Limited (MPRDC), to
build the capacity of MPRDC in
climate change adaptation and
mitigation, disaster resilience, and
Asian Development Bank USD 175 million road safety.
INSURANCE
FEBRUARY 2024
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has issued guidelines mandating
general and health insurance companies to cover Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa
and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) treatments in their health insurance policies with effect from 1st April 2024.
The circular was issued in terms of Section 14(2)(b) of the IRDA Act,1999. For this purpose, the Ministry of
Ayush(MoA) constituted a ‘Core Group of Experts for the Insurance Sector’ in 2023.
Thrissur (Kerala) based ESAF Small Finance Bank(SFB) announced a bancassurance partnership with
Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance Company Limited to offer life insurance products to a wider range of customers,
particularly those in underserved communities.
Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) launched “LIC Index Plus”, a unit-linked, regular premium,
individual life insurance plan. The plan offers a combination of life insurance coverage and savings throughout
the policy's duration.
JANUARY 2024
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has removed the requirement of
case-to-case approval for investment in Infrastructure Debt Funds Non-Banking Financial Companies (IDF -
NBFCs) by insurance companies.
This is in line with the updated regulations for IDF-NBFCs provided by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
effective from August 2023.
Bengaluru (Karnataka)-based Narayana Health Insurance Limited (Narayana One Health), a subsidiary
of Narayana Hrudayalaya Limited, has received a license from the Insurance Regulatory and Development
Authority of India (IRDAI) to operate independently as a health insurance company.
Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has launched a new individual, savings, deferred annuity
(pension) plan ‘Jeevan Dhara-2 plan 872’. The policyholder gets two options namely ‘Regular Premium’ and
‘Single Premium’ to pay their premium.
SBI Life Insurance Company Limited (SBI Life) has launched two new products ‘SBI Life - Saral Swadhan
Supreme’ and ‘SBI Life - Smart Swadhan Supreme’.

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SBI Life - Saral Swadhan Supreme: A person with minimum age of 18 years and maximum (max) age of 50
years can enroll for the insurance product. And 65 years would be the max age for its maturity.
SBI Life - Smart Swadhan Supreme: A person with minimum age of 18 years and max age of 60 years can
enroll for the insurance product. And 75 years would be the max age for its maturity.
Max Life Insurance Company Ltd. (Max Life) launched “Max Life Smart Wealth Advantage Guarantee Plan”
(SWAG Pension Plan), that offers customers to tailor their policies, choosing from a range of annuity options
according to their unique requirements. SWAG Pension Plan is a non-linked, non-participating
individual/group general annuity savings plan.
Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company Limited has launched ‘iSelect Guaranteed Future Plus’, a Non-
Linked, Non-Participating, Individual Savings Life Insurance Plan.
The policy offers four different plans namely Endowment Option, Regular Income Option, Early Income
Option and Long Term Income with Return of Premium Option.
DECEMBER 2023
The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has launched Jeevan Utsav plan, a Non-Linked, Non-
Participating, Individual, Savings, Whole Life Insurance plan, which provides insurance coverage for the entire
lifetime of the insured individual. The plan is available in two payout options namely
Regular income benefits: 10% of the basic sum assured chosen by the policyholder will be paid at the end
of each policy year (starting after 3 to 6 years).
Flexi income benefits: 10% of the basic sum assured payable can be accumulated and withdrawn later.
Canara HSBC Life Insurance introduced the Alpha Wealth plan to provide extensive financial security
for policyholders and their families. The plan encourages long-term savings, with loyalty additions and wealth
boosters enhancing the attractiveness of the plan.
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance limited have entered a bancassurance partnership Ujjivan Small Finance
Bank (SFB) Limited for the distribution of life insurance product.
Under this partnership, Ujjivan SFB's 700+ branches across 26 states and Union Territories will offer the
entire suite of ICICI Prudential Life’s customer-friendly protection, long-term savings, and retirement
products to its customers.
Karur Vysya Bank Limited (KVB) signed a Corporate Agency (CA) arrangement with HDFC Life
Insurance Company Limited to empanel HDFC Life as an additional bancassurance partner of KVB for the life
insurance category.
The collaboration is aligned with the goal of ‘Insurance for all by 2047’ set by thex, Insurance Regulatory
and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).
Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance (ABSLI) Limited, the life insurance subsidiary of Aditya Birla Capital
Limited (ABCL) and IDFC First Bank Limited have entered into a bancassurance partnership to offer
insurance solutions to the bank’s customers.
The partnership aims to offer ABSLI’s insurance products through the extensive distribution network of
IDFC First Bank.
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) is all set to launch the first of its
kind affordable insurance product covering risks against life, health, and property namely 'Bima Vistaar' in the
first quarter of 2024-2025 i.e. Q1FY25.
Bima Vistaar is a part of Insurance Trinity which also includes Bima Sugam, a one-stop digital platform; and
Bima Vahak, a women-led field distribution force.
According to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)’s Annual Report
2022-23, the overall insurance penetration in India reduced from 4.2% in 2021-22 to 4% in 2022-23.
Life insurance penetration has reduced marginally from 3.2% in 2021-22 to 3% in 2022-23 while non-
insurance penetration remained unchanged at 1%.
A total of 2.84 crore policies were sold during the fiscal year 2022-2023 (FY23). Of this, 97.38 lakh were
sold to women.
Premium income of life insurance companies rose by 12.98% to Rs 7.83 lakh crore in FY23 while the
premium income of general insurers increased by 16.4 per cent to Rs 2.57 lakh crore.

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NOVEMBER 2023
IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (IndiaFirst Life) has become the 1st life insurance company
in India to receive Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT-City)’s International Financial Services Centre
(IFSC) Registration.The IFSC Unit of IndiaFirst will soon commence operations.
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has formed a task force under
the Chairmanship of Meena Kumari, Executive Director (Life) of IRDAI, to review the existing
bancassurance framework.
The task force was formed in response to concerns about mis-selling/forced selling of insurance policies
through the bancassurance channel. The taskforce is asked to submit these recommendations within 31st
December 2023.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) accepted the first insurance surety bond as bid
security for the Toll Operate Transfer (TOT) Bundle 14 bid. The bond was issued at a rate of 0.25% and did not
require any margin money.
This will be the first time this instrument is being utilized as a Bank Guarantee (BG) in the road
infrastructure sector for monetization of bids.
The NHAI collaborated with the Highway Operators Association of India (HOAI), SBI General Insurance, and
AON India Insurance for this initiative.
On the occasion of Bima Lokpal Day 2023(11th November 2023), Insurance Ombudsman announced
that it has disposed of over 92.28% of the complaints received from the insured during Financial year 2022-
23(FY23).
Insurance Ombudsman has settled 51,625 out of 55,946 received complaints across all 17 Insurance
Ombudsman Offices.
Kolkata office in West Bengal, resolved 100% of complaints in the FY23. All 3,027 complaints were Tata
AIG General Insurance Company Limited has launched its new health insurance plan, Health Supercharge to
provide comprehensive coverage for individuals and families residing in Tier I to Tier IV locations.
It offers 2 plan options namely Value Plan and Geo Plan,based on the geographical location.
resolved.
OCTOBER 2023
Star Health and Allied Insurance introduced surrogacy cover and oocyte donor cover to its women-
centric policy namely Star Women Care Insurance Policy at no extra charge for policyholders.
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has mandated all general
insurers with motor insurance business to provide an inbuilt feature in the Third Party policy (TP) to cover to
employees travelling in an employer’s vehicle (including paid driver, if applicable) under IMT. 29 of the Indian
Motor Tariff 2002.
The compulsory cover of IMT-29 should be provided as an in-built coverage under the Compulsory Motor
Third Party(TP) Liability Section of Private Car Package/ Bundled Policies and under standalone policies
insuring Compulsory Motor Third Party Liability.
This inclusion will address the demand in assisted reproduction treatment, and extending health insurance
coverage to surrogate mothers and oocyte donors.
HDFC ERGO General Insurance launched Optima Secure, a health insurance policy that offers four times
the coverage at no extra cost. The policy covers medical expenses incurred within India and comes with an
optional global health cover.
Health insurance is a financial arrangement that provides coverage for medical expenses and healthcare
services.

AC Exam PDF
ECONOMY
FEBRUARY 2024
NIL
JANUARY 2024
India has become the world's fourth-largest stock market by market capitalization with the combined
value of shares listed on Indian exchanges reaching USD 4.33 trillion.
India has thereby surpassed Hong Kong whose combined value of shares is USD 4.29 trillion. The top three
stock markets are the United States of America (USA), China, and Japan respectively.
DECEMBER 2023
The Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance (MoF), granted one-time exemption (in
the public interest) to Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) to achieve 25% Minimum Public Shareholding
(MPS) within 10 years from the date of listing, till May 2032.
NOVEMBER 2023
NIL
OCTOBER 2023
NIL
BUSINESS
FEBRUARY 2024
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) and Rolls-Royce Plc signed a Frame and
Individual License agreement for the license production and localisation of the Motoren- und Turbinen-Union
(MTU) International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Tier II compliant Series 4000 marine engines to power
government ships.
Rolls-Royce Entered 7-year Deal with Azad Engineering for Complex Military Aero-Engine Components
JANUARY 2024
NIL
DECEMBER 2023
The Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), has received
multiple orders worth Rs. 3,915 crores for the supply of various defense equipment. It received an order worth
Rs 580 crore from the Indian Army for supplying an artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) of radars.
Adani Global Limited has formed a joint venture “Sirius Digitech International Limited (Sirius JV)” with
United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based Sirius International Holding Limited (Sirius) to deploy Artificial Intelligence
(AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and Secured Blockchain Products for industrial applications.
Sirius will own 51% of the Sirius JV, while Adani will own 49%.
Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) became the 1st Indian company to chemically recycle plastic waste-
based pyrolysis oil into International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC)-Plus certified Circular
Polymers.
RIL's Jamnagar (Gujarat) refinery became the 1st refinery to get the ISCC-Plus certification, validating its
capability to produce Circular Polymers through chemical recycling.
NOVEMBER 2023
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and GAIL (India) Limited, India’s leading

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natural gas company, have signed a 15-year agreement worth Rs 63,000 crore to supply propane to GAIL’s
Propane Dehydrogenation and Polypropylene (PDH-PP) Plant project in Usar, Maharashtra.
GAIL’s upcoming Usar-based PHD-PP plant represents India's 1st PDH plant, which is likely to launch
operations in 2025.
Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) added nine Indian stocks to its MSCI Global Standard Index
w.e.f. November 30, 2023.
Additions on MSCI India Index: IndusInd Bank, Suzlon Energy Limited, One 97 Communications (Paytm),
Persistent Systems, APL Apollo Tubes, Polycab India, Macrotech Developers,Tata Motors A (Tata Motors
DVR), and Tata Communications.
As a part of its 8th Foundation Day (16th November 2023), Telangana government led incubator,
Technology Hub (T-Hub) unveiled two flagship initiatives: T-Bridge and T-Scale, aimed at further propelling
the growth and success of Indian startups.
Blue Dart Express Limited (Blue Dart) has partnered with India Post to introduce an automated digital
parcel lockers service at selected post offices across India.With this, Blue dart aims to offer an additional
delivery method to its customers. This partnership with India post will enable consignees to conveniently
retrieve their shipments from digital parcel lockers.
OCTOBER 2023
The board of Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), a public sector Enterprise under the Maharatna
category approved joint ventures with EverEnviro Resource Management Pvt Ltd and GPS Renewables Pvt Ltd
for setting up compressed biogas (CBG) plants.
The two joint ventures will be formed with IOCL or one of its subsidiaries and the two partner companies
will have an equal stake of 50 % each in the newly formed joint ventures.
Neyveli Lignite Corporation(NLC) India Limited incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary NLC India
Green Energy Limited (NIGEL) to focus on Renewable energy initiatives. NLC’s green arm NIGEL is expected to
establish Renewable energy projects to the capacity of 5 Gigawatt (GW) by 2030.
NATIONAL AFFAIRS
CABINET APPROVALS
FEBRUARY 2024
On February 1, 2024, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi approved the
following schemes and initiatives:
The Union Cabinet Chaired by PM Modi approved the continuation of the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure
Development Fund (AHIDF) to be implemented under the Infrastructure Development Fund (IDF) for three
years till 2025-26 with an outlay of Rs 29,610.25 crore.
The Union Cabinet chaired by the PM approved the extension of the Scheme of sugar subsidy for AAY
families distributed through the PDS for two more years till 31 March 2026.
The Union Cabinet chaired by the PM approved the extension of the Scheme for Rebate of State and Central
Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) for two years till 31st March 2026 for export of Apparel/Garments and Made-
ups.
The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi has given its approval for the determination of the Marketing
Margin on the supply of domestic gas to Fertilizer (Urea) Units from May 1, 2009, to November 17, 2015.
The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi has approved the signing and ratification of the Bilateral Investment
Treaty between the GoI and the Government of the UAE. Click here to read full News
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi approved the following schemes and
initiatives on 8th February 2024
The cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), a Central Sector
sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

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The Cabinet approved the extension of the Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) for the next
three years up to 2025-26 within the approved fund of Rs 7522.48 crore and budgetary support of Rs
939.48 crore.
The Cabinet has approved the auction in eight spectrum bands for mobile phone services at a base price of
Rs 96,317 crore to improve the quality of telecom services and coverage for consumers.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by PM Modi has approved six railway projects
worth Rs. 12,343 crores with 100% funding from the Central Government. Click here to read full News
JANUARY 2024
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has approved the following
proposals on 5th January 2024,
Cabinet approves overarching scheme “PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)” of the Ministry of Earth Sciences
Cabinet approves MoU between ISRO and MRIC concerning cooperation on the development of a Joint Small
Satellite
Cabinet approves signing of a MoU between USAID/India for supporting Indian Railways to achieve Mission
Net Zero Carbon Emission
Cabinet approves Ayodhya Airport as an International Airport & naming it as “Maharishi Valmiki
International Airport, Ayodhyadham”
Cabinet approves signing of Memorandum of Understanding between India and Guyana on cooperation in
the hydrocarbon sector.
Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister (PM) of India, Narendra Modi, has approved the following
proposals:
The Union Cabinet has approved the creation of three posts at the level of Joint Secretary i.e. two posts of
Joint Secretary and one post of Economic Adviser for the 16th Finance Commission
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and the European Commission on Working
Arrangements on Semiconductors Ecosystems
MoU between India and Kenya on sharing successful Digital Solutions implemented at Population Scale for
Digital Transformation.
Memorandum of Intent (MoI) between India and Netherlands on cooperation in the field of Medical
Products Regulation.
MoU between India and Ecuador on cooperation in the field of Medical Products Regulation.
Equity investment by South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) and Coal
India Limited (CIL).Click here to read full News
On January 24, 2024, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi approved the
following schemes and incentives:
Approved the Rs 8,500 crore scheme for the promotion of Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects.
Approved signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Oman on cooperation in
the field of Information Technology (IT).
Cabinet Approves MoU Between India and Oman on Cooperation in the Field of IT
Cabinet Resolution on Pran Pratishtha at Shri Ram Temple, Ayodhya Dham
CCEA Approved equity investment by CIL to set up Coal-to-SNG project & Coal-to-AN project
The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approved the proposal of the signing of a protocol for the
establishment of a Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) between the Department of Commerce,
the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) of the Republic of India, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
of the Dominican Republic.
Approved the protocol to establish a Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) between India and the
Dominican Republic. Click here to read full News

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DECEMBER 2023
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi,
approved the following:
Reservation norms for jute packaging materials for jute year 2023-24 under JPM (Jute Packaging Material)
Act, 1987.
Allocation of Rs.2500 crore continuation of interest Equalisation Scheme on Pre and Post shipment Rupee
Export credit till 30.06.2024.
Rates of interest Equalisation
Rate of interest
S.No. Category of Exporters
Equalisation
Manufacturer and Merchant

1 Exporters exporting products 2%
listed in the 410 tariff lines
MSME exporters of all tariff
2 3%
lines
The union cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the following proposals on 15th
December 2023
Approves declaration of Surat Airport (Gujarat) as an International Airport.
Approves MoU signed between India and Tanzania on Cooperation in the field of sharing successful Digital
Solutions.
Approves MoC signed between India and Saudi Arabia on cooperation in the field of Digitization and
Electronic Manufacturing.
Approves draft MoU between USA, India to enhance innovation ecosystems through innovation handshake.
Approves MoU between India,Italy on Cooperation in the field of Industrial Property Rights.
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi approved the following proposals on
27th December 2023.
Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) for Copra for the 2024 season.
Project for the improvement and widening of the Khowai-Harina road covering a total length of 134.913
kms in Tripura.
Construction of a New 4556 meter-long, 6-Lane High Level/ Extra Dosed Cable-stayed Bridge across the
River Ganga connecting Patna and Saran, in Bihar.
Migration and Mobility Agreement between India and Italy
Opening of the Consulate General of India in Auckland, New Zealand
MoU between Prasar Bharati and Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), Malaysia. Click here to read full News
NOVEMBER 2023
NIL
OCTOBER 2023
Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has given its approval to the
following proposals which were detailed by Union Minister, Anurag Singh Thakur, Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting (MIB) during a press conference in New Delhi, Delhi:
Inclusion of Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project of Uttarakhand under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee
Yojana-Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (PMKSY-AIBP). The total outlay of the project is
estimated at Rs 2,584.10 crore.
Nutrient Based Subsidy(NBS) rates for RABI Season, 2023-24 on Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers.
Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India and Japan on Japan-India Semiconductor Supply Chain
Partnership….Click here for more detail…

AC Exam PDF
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has given its approval for multiple
initiatives and they are as follows
Cabinet approves Revised Cost of completion of balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project in Bihar &
Jharkhand
Cabinet approves setting up of Sammakka Sarakka Central Tribal University
Cabinet approves Terms of Reference to Krishna Water Dispute Tribunal-II under Inter State River Water
Disputes (ISRWD) Act, 1956
Centre notifies establishment of National Turmeric Board
In a significant development, the Union Cabinet, presided over by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi,
Approved an amendment to the Second Schedule of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation)
Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) for specifying royalty rates for three critical and strategic minerals: Lithium,
Niobium, and Rare Earth Elements (REEs).
Approved an establishment of autonomous organization known as "Mera Yuva Bharat" (MY Bharat).
Cabinet approves Memorandum of Understanding between India and France on cooperation in the field of
Digital Technologies.
Cabinet approves an MoU between India and Papua New Guinea, Trinidad and Tobago for Digital
Transformation.
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the following proposals on
18 October, 2023
Information & Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur announced that the Cabinet Committee on Economic
Affairs (CCEA) has approved project on Green Energy Corridor (GEC) Phase-II – Inter-State Transmission
System (ISTS) for the 13 GW renewable energy project in Ladakh.
The Union Cabinet has granted approval for an increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all
mandated Rabi Crops in the Marketing Season 2024-25.
MSP 2023- MSP 2024- Increase in Margin over cost

S.No Crops 24 25 MSP (%)
1 Wheat 2125 2275 150 102
2 Barley 1735 1850 115 60
3 Gram 5335 5440 105 60
Lentil
4 (Masur) 6000 6425 425 89
Rapeseed
&
5 Mustard 5450 5650 200 98
6 Safflower 5650 5800 150 52
The Union Cabinet has granted a Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) equivalent to 78 days’ worth of
wages for the financial year 2022-2023. The Government has approved a total PLB payout of Rs 1968.87
crore to benefit 11,07,346 railway employees.
The Union Cabinet has given its approval to release an additional installment of Dearness Allowance (DA)
for Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners, w.e.f. July 1, 2023.
This installment reflects a 4% increase over the existing rate.

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PM’s LAUNCHES/INAUGURATIONS
FEBRUARY 2024
NIL
JANUARY 2024
The Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi participated in the Pran Pratishtha (consecration
/Establishing the Life Force) ceremony of Shri Ramlalla idol in the newly built Shri Ram Janmbhoomi
Mandir(temple) in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh(UP).
The Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir was designed by celebrated architect Chandrakant B Sompura, 81, and his
son Ashish, 51 in the Māru-Gurjara architecture of Nagara style, a type of Hindu temple architecture found
primarily in northern India. It is constructed by Larsen and Toubro (L&T). Click here to read full news
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi launched “Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana”, a government scheme
to provide Rooftop Solar (RTS) power systems to 1 crore households.
The scheme will support India to achieve the target of 40 Gigawatt (GW) rooftop solar capacity. It will be
provided to the eligible projects as per the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) Guidelines, and
incentives to DISCOMs.
Prime Minister (PM) of India Narendra Modi launched development projects worth more than Rs
19,100 crore in Bulandshahr district in western Uttar Pradesh (UP) for several important sectors like rail,
road, oil and gas and urban development & Housing.
The 'Integrated Industrial Township at Greater Noida' (IITGN), developed under Pradhan Mantri (PM) Gati
Shakti - National Master Plan for Multi-modal Connectivity, was inaugurated.
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple
developmental projects worth Rs 7,500 crore in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh (MP). The development projects will
benefit the significant tribal population of the region.
He also dedicated the ‘Nal Jal Yojna’ to 50 Gram Panchayats of Jhabua which will provide tap water to about
11 thousand households.
PM Narendra Modi announced the launch of ‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’, to encourage people to
install solar panels on their rooftops for free electricity.
DECEMBER 2023
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi inaugurated the 1st Indian Art, Architecture, and Design Biennale
2023 (IAADB’23), which is being organized by the Ministry of Culture from 9th to 15th December 2023 at Red
Fort in New Delhi, Delhi.
During the program, the PM inaugurated the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design’ and the student
Biennale- Samunnati. He also launched a Commemorative Stamp. Click here for more detail.
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated and addressed the InFinity Forum 2.0, the 2 nd
Edition International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA)’s flagship financial technology event, held at
the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
The 2 edition of InFinity Forum is organised as a precursor event to Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024.
nd
Theme: ‘GIFT-IFSC: Nerve Centre for New Age Global Financial Services’.
Organiser: IFSCA under the aegis of Government of India and GIFT City.
International partner: Bloomberg
Domestic Partners: Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI); Invest India; Institute
of Chartered Accountants of India(ICAI) and Institute of Company Secretaries of India(ICSI).
Knowledge Partner: Boston Consulting Group.
NOVEMBER 2023
On 31st October 2023, on the occasion of National Unity Day 2023, Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi
launched the ‘Mera Yuva Bharat’ (MY Bharat) platform for the youth of India during the program held in
Kartavya Path in New Delhi, Delhi.

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The MY Bharat platform encourages youth participation in nation-building efforts, fostering a sense of
responsibility and engagement.
The program marked the culmination of the “Meri Maati Mera Desh” campaign’s Amrit Kalash Yatra.
MY Bharat is an autonomous body under the Department of Youth Affairs, Ministry of Youth Affairs and
Sports (MoYAS), Government of India (GoI).
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister (PM) of India and Sheikh Hasina, PM of Bangladesh, jointly inaugurated
three Indian–assisted development projects via video conferencing.
These 3 projects in the rail and power sector aims to strengthen connectivity and energy security in India
and Bangladesh.
The 3 projects are:
Rail Link between Tripura’s Nischintapur and Gangasagar in Bangladesh
Khulna –Mongla Port Rail Line
Launched Unit-II of the Maitree Super Thermal Power Plant
Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi inaugurated the 2nd edition of World Food India (WFI 2023), the
biennial Mega Food Event, on November 3, 2023, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.The event
held from November 3-5, 2023 was organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industry(MoFPI).
PM Modi also inaugurated Food Street as part of World Food India 2023.
Mascot: MillInd, a probot/foor processing robot, is the Mascot for WFI 2023.
PM Modi highlighted the impressive foreign direct investment (FDI) of Rs.50,000 crore attracted by India’s
food processing sector in past nine years.
During WFI 2023, Global and domestic investors have committed an investment of Rs 33,129 crore in
India’s food processing sector……Click here for more detail………
OCTOBER 2023
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi launched ‘Sankalp Saptaah’, a unique week-long programme for
Aspirational Blocks of India, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Delhi.
He also launched the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) Portal and inaugurated the exhibition
showcased on the occasion. ‘Sankalp Saptaah’ is linked to the effective implementation of the ABP.
Prime Minister (PM), Narendra Modi inaugurated the 17 Kilometer (Km) priority section of the Delhi-
Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) Corridor at Sahibabad RapidX Station in
Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh (UP).
He also flagged off the ‘Namo Bharat’ RapidX train, connecting Sahibabad to Duhai Depot (UP), which
marks India’s first RRTS. Additionally, 2 stretches of the east-west corridor of Bengaluru Metro were
dedicated to the public.
The entire 82.15 km RRTS corridor is projected to be fully operational by June 2025.
Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS Corridor is 17 Km priority section of Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut connects
Sahibabad to Duhai Depot.
This route features essential stations at Ghaziabad, Guldhar, and Duhai in UP.
It is being developed at a cost of more than Rs 30,000 crore and aims to reduce the travel time between
Delhi and Meerut to less than an hour.
The corridor is set to pass through key urban centers: Ghaziabad, Muradnagar, and Modinagar in UP.
Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi virtually launched the 511 Pramod Mahajan Grameen Kaushalya
Vikas Kendras (PMGKVKs) established across 34 rural districts of Maharashtra through video conferencing.
These PMGKVKs will conduct skill development training programs across various sectors to provide
employment opportunities to rural youth.
LAUNCHES/INAUGURATIONS
FEBRUARY 2024
Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Shri Bhupender Yadav released
the report on the Status of Snow leopards in India during the National Board for Wildlife meeting held in
New Delhi, Delhi.

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The Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) Program is a first-ever scientific study that
reported the population of snow leopards.
The exercise reported 718 snow leopards in India. It was conducted from 2019 to 2023.
The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is the National Coordinator for this exercise that was carried out with
the help of all snow leopard range states and two conservation partners- the Nature Conservation
Foundation, Mysuru (Karnataka), and WWF (World Wildlife Fund)-India.
The Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education (MoE) released the All-India Survey
on Higher Education (AISHE) 2021-22.
This marks the 12th edition of AISHE and the 2nd survey done through web Data Capture Format (DCF)
format.
In 2021-22, GER in Higher Education for the age group 18-23 years in India increased to 28.4 from 27.3 in
2020-21 and 23.7 in the base year 2014-15.
The States/UTs with the highest Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) are Chandigarh (64.8), Puducherry (61.5),
Delhi (49), Tamil Nadu (TN) (47), Himachal Pradesh (43.1), Uttarakhand (41.8), Kerala (41.3) and
Telangana (40).
As per the survey, Uttar Pradesh (UP) has become the state with the highest number of colleges in India. the
number of colleges in UP increased from 8,114 to 8,375 in 2021-22.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) launched two
digital modules namely the Maritime Single Window (MSW) module and the Mercantile Maritime Department
(MMD) module within the SagarSetu (National Logistics Portal (NLP) -Marine) platform to transform and
modernize Indian ports.
During the event, ‘Swachhta Pakhwada’ awards were presented to MoPSW organizations to recognise
their outstanding contributions towards cleanliness and sanitation initiatives.
First - The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI)
Second - Indian Maritime University (IMU) of Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN)
Third - Visakhapatnam Port of Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh)
The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) released the guidelines of the “Scheme of Pilot
Projects on Use of Green Hydrogen in the Shipping Sector” under the National Green Hydrogen
Mission(NGHM).
On 2nd February 2024, MNRE released guidelines of the “scheme for pilot projects on the use of Green
Hydrogen in the steel sector” under NGHM.
Note: Under the NGHM, MNRE will undertake pilot projects in the shipping sector and steel sector to
replace fossil fuels and fossil fuel-based feedstock with Green Hydrogen and its derivatives (like green
ammonia, green methanol).
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has instituted a new medal named
‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ by merging four existing medals
Union Home Minister's Special Operation Medal
Union Home Minister's Medal for Excellence in Investigation
Asadharan Assuchana Kushalata Padak
Union Home Minister's Awards for Meritorious Service in Forensic Science
Union Minister of State(MoS) Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology(MeitY) launched the "Digital India FutureLABS” at Indraprastha Institute of Information
Technology-Delhi (IIIT-Delhi), New Delhi, Delhi
Digital India futureLABS will be coordinated by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing(C-
DAC).
Union Minister Arjun Munda, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) launched Sandbox
for Agricultural and Rural Security, Technology and Insurance (SARTHI) Portal to offer a range of insurance
products including Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana(PMFBY).
He also launched the Krishi Rakshak portal and helpline number (14447) to enable farmers in India to file
their grievances.
Union Minister also launched the Learning Management System (LMS) Platform for the farming community
under the PMFBY.

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Note: SARTHI was launched in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
India.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Ministry of Education(MoE) launched the EdCIL Vidyanjali
Scholarship Programme in New Delhi, Delhi.
The Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme is to help students join higher education after secondary education
and also provide financial assistance for higher education to the economically marginalised and
meritorious students from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV)
The programme is implemented by Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL), Mini Ratna Category-1
Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)
The Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoH&FW) launched
AIIMS-SBI Smart Payment Card to provide hassle-free payments for treatment at the All India Institute of
Medical Sciences (AIIMS).
Initially the card is launched for AIIMS, New Delhi. Its services will be extended across all the AIIMS in
India in future. The validity of the card is 5 years with effect from the date of issue.
During the event, SBI and AIIMS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the implementation of
the AIIMS-SBI SMART Payment card. This card is regarded as the “One AIIMS, One Card”.
JANUARY 2024
S Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) and chairperson of the
Executive committee of Education and Research Network (ERNET), India, launched integrated web portal of
ERNET India for educational institutes in India.
The portal was created using open-source software and advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence
(AI) and Machine Learning (ML).
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), launched 2 portals
namely the refreshed Portal for Affordable Credit and Interest Subvention Access (PAiSA Portal) Dashboard;
and the Prime Minister Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Mission Monitoring Portal during
the inauguration of a seminar on ‘Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) for Street Vendors.
These portals will provide real-time progress updates on the mission and scheme, fostering transparency
and accountability.
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, inaugurated “PRASADAM”, India’s
1st Healthy & Hygienic Food Street, at Neelkanth Van, Mahakal Lok, in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (MP).
Union Minister also launched the official website for the Healthy & Hygienic Food Street initiative and also
launched the Mannhit app, an initiative facilitating screening for mental health.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications (MoC), has
mandated Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and Wireless Personal Area Network/Wireless Local Area Network
(WPAN/WLAN) registration to all entities engaged in these businesses.
The registration process must be completed by March 31, 2024, through the SaralSanchar portal
Ministry of Tourism (MoT) in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change
(MoEF&CC) has launched the fifth training program under the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme in
Chilika Lake, a Ramsar Site in Odisha on 6th January 2024.
Under this initiative, two training programmes of 15 days each namely the Alternative Livelihood program
(ALP), and the Paryatan Navik Certificate (PNC) will be conducted.
MoEF&CC launched the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme for development of local community
members around different Ramsar sites to strengthen nature tourism at these sites and provide alternative
livelihood to the local community.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) notified the revised Pharma manufacturing rules
under Schedule M guidelines of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, in the Gazette of India to ensure robust
quality control for pharma and biopharmaceutical products.
The revised Schedule M has been notified as rules to ensure 'Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and
Requirements of Premises, Plant and Equipment for Pharmaceutical Products.'

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The medium and small manufacturers including those with an annual turnover of less than Rs. 250 crores
will have to implement the revised rules within 12 months from the date of publication;
Large manufacturers with an annual turnover of over Rs. 250 crores will be given 6 months to implement
the changes.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched the ‘New Solar Power Scheme’ with an
outlay of Rs 515 crore for electrification in habitations and villages of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups
(PVTG).
The scheme was launched under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN)
programme.
The scheme launched for the tenure expanding from Financial Year 2023-24 (FY24) to Financial Year 2025-
26 (FY26).
Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), Hardeep Singh Puri, has inaugurated the first
pilot state-of-the-art technology project to make jet fuel from Alcohol in Praj Industries Limited Research
and Development (R&D) unit in Pune, Maharashtra.
This project will produce sustainable biological aviation fuel (SAF).
DECEMBER 2023
Union Minister, Pralhad Joshi, Ministry of Coal and Mines, Government of India (GoI) launched the
auction process of 20 critical mineral blocks, which is estimated to be worth around Rs.45000 crore. The 20
blocks on sale are across various states, including Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Jharkhand,
and Bihar. This includes the lithium reserves in the Jammu and Kashmir(J&K).
This is a part of India’s efforts to strengthen the critical mineral supply chain for energy transition and to
achieve its net-zero target by 2070.
The Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) released the ‘National
Compilation on Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2023’ whose assessment was carried out
jointly by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and States/UTs for taking suitable interventions by various
stake-holders.
CGWB works under the aegis of Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation,
MoJS.
Total Annual Ground Water Recharge: 449.08 billion Cubic Meters (BCM).
Annual Extractable Ground Water Resources: 407.21 BCM.
Annual Ground Water Extraction: 241.34 BCM.
Average stage of Ground Water Extraction: 59.26%.
The Union Minister of State (MoS), MoPR, Kapil Moreshwar Patil launched the Geographic Information
System (GIS) application “Gram Manchitra” to encourage technology driven spatial planning by the Gram
Panchayat.
This newly launched app will be aided by MoPR’s previously launched mActionSoft application, which will
enhance the platform by integrating geo-tagged data from assets, providing a detailed view of Gram
Panchayat projects.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has launched the Indian Forest and
Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS) to encourage sustainable forest management and agroforestry in India by
offering voluntary third-party certification.
IFWCS is governed by the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Council (IFWCC) and operated by the
Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM) in Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) as the designated Scheme
Operating Agency (SOA).
The National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB) under the Quality Council of India will
be responsible for conducting independent audits through accredited CBs (Certification Bodies), to assess
the adherence of various organisations is aligned with the standards of the IFWS scheme.

AC Exam PDF
Union Minister Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) launched
‘DigiELV’, an authorised End of Life Vehicle (ELV) Certificate of Deposit (CD) Trading Platform, and
Automotive Circularity Orchestrator by Meta Materials Circular Markets (MMCM) in New Delhi, Delhi.
The launch event was organised by MMCM in collaboration with the Material Recycling Association of India
(MRAI) and Policy Times Chamber of Commerce (PTCC). DigiELV, developed by MMCM and authorized by
the MoRTH, offers a platform for the users to lawfully trade CD.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and
Homoeopathy (AYUSH) has released a commemorative postal stamp to mark the first foundation day of the
All-India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa which was inaugurated on 11th December 2022.
Union Minister Narayan Rane, Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MoMSME), launched
three sub-schemes under the aegis of the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) programme.
The 3 sub schemes are:
MSME Green Investment and Financing for Transformation Scheme (MSME GIFT Scheme).
MSE Scheme for Promotion and Investment in Circular Economy (MSE SPICE Scheme).
MSE Scheme on Online Dispute Resolution for Delayed Payments (MSE ODR scheme).
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), virtually
launched MedTech Mitra, a strategic initiative to empower MedTech innovators and advance healthcare
solutions.
It is a collaborative initiative of the NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India); Indian
Council of Medical Research (ICMR); and Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).
Union Minister Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways(MoRTH) announced
that the Government of India plans to introduce a Global Positioning System (GPS)-based toll collection
system to replace the existing highway toll-collection booths entirely.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will begin implementing this new system by March 2024.
Union Minister Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and Ministry of Cooperation (MoC), has
released a commemorative Postal Stamp to mark 50th year of Pandit Jasraj Motiram’s music festival ‘Pandit
Motiram Pandit Maniram Sangeet Samaroha’ in New Delhi, Delhi.
About Pandit Jasraj Motiram: Pandit Jasraj is an Indian classical vocalist, belonging to the Mewati gharana
(a musical apprenticeship tribe of Hindustani classical music). He was a recipient of the Padma Shri (1975),
Padma Bhushan (1990) and Padma Vibhushan (2000) in the field of art.
Jagdeep Dhankhar, Vice-President (VP) of India, launched the new logo of the Institute of Chartered
Accountants of India (ICAI) during the 1st ever Global Professional Accountants Convention.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal, Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), announced that the
government has extended the benefits of the Scheme for Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products
(RoDTEP) to e-commerce exports through courier and postal services.
The Union Minister also released the "E-Commerce Exports Handbook for MSMEs(Micro, Small, and
Medium Enterprises)" prepared by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in New Delhi, Delhi.
During the event, DGFT and Shiprocket, an E-Commerce enabler, signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) to support new and first-time exporters, especially from MSMEs, in leveraging E-Commerce for
international trade.
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC)
launched the National Transit Pass System (NTPS), envisioned as a One National One Pass system, will enable
seamless transportation of timber, bamboo, and other forest produce across India.
Union Minister also flagged off the special Pan Indian vehicles carrying forest produce to create awareness
abou the applicability and ease of using NTPS.

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NOVEMBER 2023
Union Minister Raj Kumar Singh, Ministry of Power, has unveiled two new programs of Energy
Efficiency Services Limited (EESL): National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP) and the Energy Efficient
Fans Programme (EEFP), during the event held in New Delhi, Delhi.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) flagged off the
maiden voyage of the vessel "Costa Serena", the India’s 1st International Cruise Liner at an event held in
Mumbai, Maharashtra.
This launch symbolises the dawn of a new era in cruising and tourism in India.
This initiative aligns with the Government of India's "Dekho Apna Desh" initiative to the middle class to
prefer domestic tourism over international tourism.
The Costa Serena was constructed by Fincantieri (Shipbuilding company) at its Sestri Ponente shipyard in
Genoa, Italy and was inaugurated in Marseille, France.
The Costa Serena is the tenth vessel to join the 17-ship fleet of Costa Crociere (Costa Cruises).
Bhupendra Patel, the Chief Minister (CM) of Gujarat, unveiled the crest of the Indian Naval Ship (INS)
Surat, indigenous under-construction, guided missile destroyer of Project 15B, at the ceremony conducted
under the aegis of Western Naval Command by Gujarat Naval Area, in Surat, Gujarat.
This is the 1st capital warship to be named after the city of Gujarat and this is also the first time that
unveiling of the crest of a warship is held in the city, it has been named after.
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) launched ‘Jal Diwali - Water for Women, Women for
Water’ awareness campaign under Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT),
flagship scheme of MoHUA, in partnership with National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM).
Jal Diwali, the first phase of the Water for Women, Women for Water campaign, will be held from 7th to
9th November 2023.
Odisha Urban Academy is the knowledge partner of this campaign
The first Global Conference on Cooperation in Enforcement Matters (GCCEM) was held in New Delhi,
Delhi from 30th October to 1st November 2023. The conference was inaugurated by Union Minister Nirmala
Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance (MoF).
The theme of 1st GCCEM was 'It takes a Network to fight a Network'.
The conference was organised by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), under Central Board of
Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) in consultation with World Customs Organisation (WCO), Brussels in
Belgium.
Launch of phase IV of 'Operation Sesha' to curb the illegal trade of Timber, including Red Sanders.
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Labour, and Employment (MoLE), virtually inaugurated
the 71st Foundation Day of the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) at Bharat Mandapam, New
Delhi, Delhi.
The Bhavishya Nidhi Awards 2023 was presented during the 71st EPFO Foundation Day. The award
recognises the offices and establishments for their contributions and performance.List of Awardees of
Bhavishya Nidhi Awards 2023
During this event, Rameshwar Teli, MoS. MoLE, inaugurated an exhibition named “Amrit Kaal – Behtar
Kal“, displaying the 71 years of EPFO history including the chatbot and revamped MIS 3.0;
He also unveiled the 2nd edition of the State Profile Booklet 2023.
Union Minister Amit Shah, Ministry of Cooperation launched the 'Bharat Organics' brand of National
Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL), a newly established cooperative body to promote organic produce.
The brand was launched during the one-day National Symposium on 'Promoting Organic Products through
Cooperatives’ organised by NCOL, in New Delhi, Delhi.
Union Minister Amit Shah also launched the NCOL's logo, website, brochure, and membership certificates to
5 cooperative societies.
6 organic products under “Bharat Organics” brand was launched during th event. The 6 products are, tur
dal, chana dal, sugar, rajma, basmati rice, and Sonamasoori rice.

AC Exam PDF
The Ministry of Coal has amended the SHAKTI (Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala (Coal)
Transparently in India) Policy, which allows power plants, including private generators without Power
Purchase Agreements (PPAs), to be granted coal linkage for a minimum of three months to a maximum of one
year.
The Ministry of Coal introduced the Coal Linkage Policy known as Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating
Koyala (Coal) Transparently in India (SHAKTI) in 2017 for the allocation of coal among thermal power
plants transparently and objectively.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has approved the Digital Advertisement Policy,
2023 to enable and empower the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), the advertising wing of the
Government of India (GoI) that operates under the MIB, to conduct campaigns in the Digital Media Space.
This policy highlights CBC’s mission to disseminate information and create awareness about various
schemes, programs, and policies of the GoI.
Acknowledging the transforming media landscape, the policy aligns with the increasing digitisation of
media consumption.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education(MoE) and Ministry of Skill Development
and Entrepreneurship(MSDE) co-chaired the 1st Australia India Education and Skill Council (AIESC) meeting
with Australian Ministers- Jason Clare, Education Minister and Brendan O’Connor, Skills & Training Minister.
During the 1st AIESC meeting, 5 Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged between Indian
and Australian Higher education institutions (HEIs).
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan met Australian Education Minister Jason Clare and both
countries agreed to increase research collaborations in priority areas including mines and minerals and
critical minerals.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Australian Education Minister Jason Clare announced
the opening of two Australian Universities campuses of Wollongong and Deakin University in GIFT
City(Gujarat International Finance Tec-City), Gandhinagar (Gujarat)…Click here for more detail….
Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities(DEPwD), under
the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), has announced a 1% interest rate rebate for divyang
(Persons with Disabilities- PwDs) who receive financial support through the National Divyangjan Finance and
Development Corporation (NDFDC).
The National Biofuels Coordination Committee (NBCC), chaired by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri,
Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoP&NG) announced a phased-wise mandatory blending of
Compressed Biogas (CBG) in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Piped Natural Gas (PNG). The CBG Blending
Obligation (CBO) will promote the production and consumption of CBG in India.
CBO Implementations:
The CBO will be implemented in phases, with voluntary participation until the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024–2025,
followed by mandatory blending obligation from FY 2025–2026.
The initial mandatory blending percentages are set at 1%, 3%, and 4% of total CNG/PNG consumption for
FYs 2025-26, 2026-27, and 2027-28 respectively. From 2028-29 onwards, the CBO will increase to 5%.
The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with M/s Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL),
Haridwar, Uttarakhand for the procurement and manufacturing of 16 Upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount
(SRGM) along with associated equipment/accessories for Indian Navy (IN) under Buy (Indian) category at a
total cost of Rs 2956.89 crore.
Union Minister Smriti Zubin Irani, Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD), has launched
the Anganwadi Protocol for Divyang (disabled) Children in an event held in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi,
Delhi.
The protocol provides guideline for Anganwadi workers to track and help children with disabilities upto
the age of 6.
The protocol is an important commitment under the Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi program of Mission Saksham
Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0.

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OCTOBER 2023
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Ministry of Education(MoE) and the Ministry of Skill
Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), launched the Bharatiya Bhasha Utsav and inaugurated the two-
day Technology & Bharatiya Bhasha summit in New Delhi, Delhi.
The 2-day summit, held from 30th September to 1st October 2023, was organised as a part of the 75-day
Bharatiya Bhasha Utsav that commenced on 28 September 2023 and will conclude on 11th December 2023.
An exhibition was also set up to showcase Bharatiya Bhasha technology products, and their applications by
the industries, government organizations, and start-ups.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched several digital initiatives of the Defence Accounts
Department (DAD) during its 276th annual day celebrations at Delhi Cantonment (Cantt), Delhi. The newly
launched digital initiatives include,
An integrated defence finance dashboard for the Ministry of Defence (MoD) ‘SARANSH’ (Summary of
Accounts, Budget and Expenditure for Raksha Mantralaya), BISWAS (Bill Information and Work Analysis
System), e-Raksha Awaas.
The Defence Minister also distributed the Raksha Mantri Awards for Excellence for the year 2023 during
the event.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal, Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoCI), launched a new initiative for
issuing system-based automatic ‘Status Holder’ certificates under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023.The
initiative was launched during the meeting with Export Promotion Councils.
At present, there are around 14 Export Promotion Councils under the administrative control of the
Department of Commerce.
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) inaugurated new
facilities at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru, Karnataka and
launched the new logo of Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States (Tele MANAS)
These events happened on 31st World Mental Health Day which was observed on 10th October 2023.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) launched 2 new initiatives, Green
Credit Program (GCP) and the Ecomark Scheme to encourage sustainable practices rooted in tradition and
conservation and promote the ideas of ‘LiFE’ – ‘Lifestyle for Environment’ movement.
The MoEF&CC have made a set of rules called “Green Credit Rules, 2023” in exercise of the powers
conferred by section 3, section 6 and section 25 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (29 of 1986).
The scheme under the Ecomark Certification Rules, 2023, enables labelling of products with minimal
environmental impact, and encouraging consumers and manufacturers to choose eco-friendly options.
Union Minister Raj Kumar (RK) Singh for Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), and Ministry
of Power launched a new Electric Vehicle (EV)-Ready India Dashboard (evreadyindia.org) from New Delhi,
Delhi. It has been developed by policy and industry experts at think-tank OMI Foundation based in New Delhi,
Delhi.
EV-Ready India Dashboard is the only dashboard in India that compiles sales data across all (34) Vahan
states and Union Territories and Telangana.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Ministry of Education(MoE), launched a web portal ‘Apna
Chandrayaan’ for school students in New Delhi, Delhi. The web portal was developed by the National Council
of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).
He also launched 10 special modules offering a comprehensive perspective on the Indian Space Research
Organisation’s (ISRO) Chandrayaan-3 mission for students.
The portal features activity-based support material such as interactive quizzes, puzzles for school students
in Foundational, Preparatory, Middle, and Secondary level on Mission Chandrayaan-3.
Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defence (MoD), inaugurated the first edition
of Indian Military Heritage Festival (2023) at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, Delhi.
The festival, organized by the United Service Institution of India (USI) – Centre for Military History &
Conflict Studies (CMHCS), was held from 21st to 22nd October 2023.

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During the festival, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched the Project Udbhav to promote the
indigenous discourse through the integration of ancient strategic acumen into the military domain.
Project Udbhav is a joint collaboration of Indian Army (IA) and USI.
The initiative aims to integrate age-old wisdom with contemporary military pedagogy.
Union Minister Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) launched the logo, website, and brochure of
the newly established National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL).The launch was made during the National
Symposium on Cooperative Exports organised by NCEL in New Delhi, Delhi.
FIRST IN INDIA
FEBRUARY 2024
Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Uttarakhand Bill, 2024 which
aims to govern and regulate laws related to marriage, divorce, land, property and inheritance for all citizens,
irrespective of their religion.
The bill will now be sent to the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, for her assent after which it will
become a law. With this, Uttarakhand will become the first Indian state to get a common law.
JANUARY 2024
Uttar Pradesh (UP) is set to build India’s first Artificial intelligence (AI) city in Lucknow to promote AI
ecosystem.
U.P. Electronics Corporation Limited, the nodal agency of the project, has issued an Expression of Interest
(EoI) inviting real estate developers to build and operate the AI city.
Punjab has become the first state in India to map all 784 accident black spots on the mobile application
“Mappls”, a navigation system developed by C. E. Info Systems Limited (MapmyIndia).
Punjab Police collaborated with MapmyIndia for real-time traffic updates and alerts on the Mappls App
about Black and Blind spots.
Haldia Petrochemicals Limited (HPL) has become the first International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) / International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 27001:2022 certified
petrochemical organisation in India.
The certification was awarded by the United Kingdom (UK) based certification body, British Standards
Institution (BSI) in a ceremony held in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).
The Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Maharashtra has been designated as India's first Dark Sky Park and
Asia’s fifth park for protecting the night sky and preventing light pollution, making the place ideal for
astronomy enthusiasts.
The two flagship programs namely “Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Intelligent Internet of Things (IIoT)
Sensors” and India’s first Graphene Centre “India Innovation Centre for Graphene (IICG)” were launched by S
Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in Kochi, Kerala.
IICG is funded by MeitY, Government of India (GoI), State Government of Kerala and Tata Steel Limited, in
association with various industries.
CoRover Private Limited (CoRover.ai) launched India's 1st indigenous Generative AI (GenAI) Large
Language Model (LLM) called BharatGPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformers). This is the only Indian
Indigenous GenAI platform available across channels in 14+ Indian languages, with generative Video, Voice &
Text.
BharatGPT is integrated for voice modality in more than 14 Indian languages and 22 languages for text
modality, in partnership with BHASHINI (BHASHa INterface for India), a National Language Translation
Mission (NLTM) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
DECEMBER 2023
According to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Ministry of Railways (MoR), India’s first bullet train
terminal is built at the Sabarmati Multimodal transport hub in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

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The bullet train is being constructed with technical and financial support from the Government of Japan.
KPIT Technologies unveiled India’s first Sodium (Na)-Ion battery technology which was developed in
collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra.
KPIT is the first company in India and the fourth in the world to possess a proven technology solution for
sodium-ion battery storage.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) has launched ‘1st Indian Winter
Expedition to Arctic’ to expand the India’s scientific activities to other critical and core Arctic realms, in New
Delhi, Delhi.
The expedition is facilitated under Polar Science and Cryosphere Research (PACER) scheme of MoES,
through the aegis of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Goa.
NOVEMBER 2023
Swedish defence company Saab AB has become the first foreign company to get Government of India
(GoI)’s approval for 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in defence sector.
The FDI proposal is valued at around Rs 500 crore. With this, Saab is set to establish a facility to
manufacture Carl-Gustaf M4 rocket launchers in India.
The facility will support the production of the Carl-Gustaf M4 for the Indian Armed Forces as well as
components for users of the system around the world.
SAAB FFV India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Saab was Incorporated in 2022.
Manoj Ahuja, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) launched Krishi 24/7,
India's first AI (Artificial Intelligence)-powered solution for automated agricultural news monitoring and
analysis.
It is developed by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW), MoA&FW in
collaboration with Mumbai, Maharashtra-based Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence
(Wadhwani AI) with support from Google.org.
India's first Telecom Centre of Excellence (CoE) will be established at the Indian Institute of Technology
(IIT) Roorkee campus in Saharanpur, in Uttar Pradesh (UP). The UP Government will fund around Rs.30 crore
for its establishment.
The center will focus on connecting 5G technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop innovative
devices and technologies and will also prepare a base for the launch of 6G technologies.
OCTOBER 2023
The 23-kilometer long Healthway Cycling Track, India’s first solar-roofed cycling track, was inaugurated
in Hyderabad, Telangana, by the state municipal administration and Urban Development Minister K. T. Rama
Rao.
Around 16,000 solar panels have been installed to generate 16 megawatts (MW) of power, which can
power 32,000 streetlights or illuminate 800 kilometers of city streets.
The Indian Army (Siachen Warriors) in collaboration with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has
installed the first-ever BSNL Base Transceiver Station (BTS) on the world’s highest battlefield, ‘Siachen
Glacier’ in Ladakh.
The tower was inaugurated on 6th October 2023 and will provide mobile communication services to
soldiers at an altitude of over 15,500 feet.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the National Standard Body of India, has approved IS17017
(Part 2 / Sec 7): 2023, India’s first-ever indigenously developed Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current
(DC) Combined Charging connector standard for Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs).
It is also the world’s 1st charging standard that combines AC and DC charging for small EVs, such as electric
scooters, motorcycles, three-wheelers, and quadricycles, and is designed and engineered in India.
The new standard is based on Ather Energy’s charging connector.
India‘s first Nano Di-Ammonia Phosphate (DAP–Liquid) plant was inaugurated by the Union Minister
Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) at Kalol in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. It was set up by Indian Farmers
Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) at a cost of Rs 300 crore.

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The development of plant is on the lines of Aatmnirbhar Bharat vision of Prime Minister (PM) Narendra
Modi.
This is the second IFFCO plant in Gujarat. In May 2022, PM inaugurated IFFCO’s world’s first Nano Urea
Liquid in Kalol.
General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), virtually inaugurated the Indian Army’s
1st Vertical Wind Tunnel (VWT) at the Special Forces Training School (SFTS) at Bakloh, Himachal
Pradesh (HP) to train the special forces and refine the Combat Freefall (CFF) skills of armed forces personnel.
The state-of-the-art wind tunnel provides a controlled environment for military trainees. It enhances the
Combat Free Fall (CFF) skills of armed forces personnel.
Kerala has become the first state in India to have hallmarking centers in all of its 14 districts. This was
achieved after the inauguration of a hallmarking center in Adimali, Idukki district, Kerala.
The hallmarking system is administered by the BIS, which is the National Standard Body of India
established under ‘Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act 2016’.
Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number is a six digit Alphanumeric code, Intoduced in 2021
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) launched India’s
1st Reference Gasoline and Diesel Fuels produced by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).
With this launch, India joined the elite group of nations with domestic production of ‘Reference’ Petrol and
Diesel and IOCL becomes the 4th refiner in the world to produce ‘reference’ grade petrol and diesel.
LONGEST, LARGEST, HIGHEST

FEBRUARY 2024
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JANUARY 2024
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DECEMBER 2023
The world's largest and most advanced nuclear fusion reactor, Japan Torus-60 Super Advanced (JT-
60SA) started its operations in Naka, Japan. The reactor is a joint initiative between the European Union (EU)
and Japan.
JT-60SA reactor is a six-storey-high machine which is constructed as per Broader Approach (BA)
Agreement. The agreement was signed between the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) and
Japan in 2007.
NOVEMBER 2023
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OCTOBER 2023
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GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
FEBRUARY 2024
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JANUARY 2024
The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) extended the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for
Automobile and Auto Components by one year, with partial amendments.
This amended incentive scheme will be applicable for five consecutive financial years, starting from 2023-
24 (FY24) and ending in 2027-28 (FY28).

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Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has become the first Union Territory (UT) in India to implement the Pradhan
Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana (PMVY). The training programme for the 1st batch of 30 trainees (Viswakarmas)
in 'darzi craft' under PMVY was inaugurated at Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Shopian, J&K.
PM Vishwakarma Yojana (PMVY) is a Central Sector Scheme (CSS) launched by the Ministry of Micro, Small
and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) in September 2023. The tagline of the scheme is ‘Samman Samarthya
Samridhi’.
DECEMBER 2023
NIL
NOVEMBER 2023
Prime Minister(PM) Narendra Modi announced the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna
Yojana(PMGKAY) for another five years while addressing an election rally at Durg in Chhattisgarh.The scheme
which was supposed to be ended by December 2023 will be ending in 2028.
The scheme was initially rolled out in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
PMGKAY is operated by the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Ministry of Consumer
Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
OCTOBER 2023
Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhuyday Yojana (PM- AJAY) is a merged scheme of Centrally
Sponsored Scheme implemented since 2021-2022 with an aim to reduce poverty of the Scheduled Caste (SC)
community. The 3 scheme were,
Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY)
Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Castes Sub Plan ( SCA to SCSP)
Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana(BJRCY).
The scheme is implemented through the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment under the
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment(MoSJ&E).
The Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) - UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik i.e. let the country’s common
man fly) Scheme which focuses on improving unserved air routes in underserved regions of India, completes
6th year in 2023.
The RCS-UDAN scheme was launched as part of the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016 by the
Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) on October 21, 2016, with a 10-year vision
The first RCS-UDAN flight was inaugurated by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on 27th April 2017,
connecting Shimla(Himachal Pradesh) to Delhi.
OTHERS
FEBRUARY 2024
Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu(TN) for inclusion in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO)World Heritage list for 2024-25 under the category of ‘Cultural Sites’.
The 12 components under this nomination are forts of Salher, Shivneri, Lohagad, Khanderi, Raigad, Rajgad,
Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra and Gingee Fort in Tamil
Nadu.
Chenab river was diverted through the diversion tunnels at Drabshalla in Kishtwar district, in Jammu
and Kashmir (J&K). This is a major milestone of the 850-MegaWatt (MW) Ratle Hydro Electric Project on the
Chenab River in Kishtwar which is scheduled to be commissioned in May 2026.
President Droupadi Murmu appointed 4 members (3 full-time members and a part-time member) to
the 16th Finance Commission (FC), a constitutional body responsible for recommending the distribution of
federal taxes among states.
Ajay Narayan Jha, Former Secretary of the Department of Expenditure and Former Member of 15th FC;
Annie George Mathew, Former Special Secretary of the Department of Expenditure;
Niranjan Rajadhyaksha, Executive Director of policy consultancy firm, Artha Global.

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Soumya Kanti Ghosh, Group Chief Economic Adviser at the State Bank of India (SBI).
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
announced that 5 wetlands from India (3 from Karnataka and 2 from Tamil Nadu-TN) were designated as
RAMSAR Sites – Wetlands of International importance. With this addition, the total number of RAMSAR sites in
India has increased from 75 to 80.
Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve; Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve; and Aghanashini Estuary in
Karnataka; and
Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary; and Longwood Shola Reserve Forest in TN.
Ajay Bhatt, Minister of State (MoS), Ministry of Defence honoured the best marching contingents and
tableaux awards for the Republic Day (R-Day) Parade 2024. The awards were announced based on 2 separate
results, one by a panel of judges and the other through an online public vote conducted by the MyGov platform.
A total of 25 tableaux - 16 States and Union Territories (UTs) and 9 Ministries/Departments participated in
the 75th R-Day Parade 2024 at Kartavya Path.
The Delhi Police Women’s Marching Contingent won the award in Best Marching Contingent among
CAPF/other auxiliary forces Category by a panel of judges. It was led by 2019-batch Indian Police Service
(IPS) officer Shweta K Sugathan.
Rajputana Rifles Regimental Marching Contingent won the People’s Choice award for the Best Marching
Contingent among the 3 services.
The Ministry of Culture Tableau on ‘Bharat: Mother of Democracy’ won the Best Tableau
(Ministries/Departments) by the panel of judges. Click here to read full News
The Governor of Tamil Nadu (TN) Ravindra Narayana Ravi, has declared the Reserve forest areas of
Anthiyur taluk of Erode district as Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary with effect from 30th January 2024.
This becomes the 18th Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) of TN
The 4th edition of the Rüsoma Orange Festival 2024 was held under the theme “Organic Orange” from
24th to 25th January 2024 in Rüsoma village near Kohima, in Nagaland. The Orange Festival is also known as
Shühuo Nyi, and it originated in 2020.
The Indian Navy has declared 2024 as the 'Year of Naval Civilians' with a focus on enhancing
administration, efficiency, and the well-being of its civilian workforce. The major focus areas identified for
implementation in 2024 include maximising administrative efficiency; digital initiatives; generic and specific
training programs; and welfare activities.
According to the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework(IIRF)’s Top Master of Business
Administration (MBA) Colleges in India - 2024, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad
(Gujarat), has topped among the Top Government MBA colleges in India.
In the 2024 MBA Colleges ranking, Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI), Jamshedpur (Jharkhand), has
topped among the Top Private MBA colleges in India. Click here to view full ranking list
Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) launched a new Satellite Data
Acquisition and Processing Facility and unveiled a special postal stamp “INCOIS My Stamp” as a part of its
INCOIS Foundation Day - Silver Jubilee (25 years) celebration held in Hyderabad, Telangana.
INCOIS, a unit of Earth System Science Organisation (ESSO), was established as an autonomous body in
1999 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-Madras) in Tamil Nadu (TN) has joined hands with
Munitions India Limited (MIL) to develop India's first 155mm smart ammunition, on the lines of
indigenization in the defense sector.
The smart ammunition will be guided by the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) satellites,
formerly known as the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS).
The headquarters of the Confederation of International Tea Smallholders (CITS) will shift from China to
India.
The decision was taken during the 25th session of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
Intergovernmental Group on Tea (IGG/Tea) held at Guwahati, Assam for the 1st time from 31 January-2
February 2024.
India took over as the Chair of the FAO IGG/Tea from the United Kingdom (UK) for the next 2 years (2024-
2026) and the session was presided over by Saurav Pahari, Deputy Chairman of Tea Board India.

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Sri Lanka will host the next IGG session after 2 years in 2026.
The Chief Minister (CM) of Telangana, Anumula Revanth Reddy in his 1st cabinet meeting decided to
replace the prefix code of vehicle registration from TS to TG, proposed to adopt a new state emblem, and a
redesigned Telangana Talli (mother) statue.
The Cabinet also approved ‘Jaya Jaya he Telangana, Janani Jaya ketanam’, as Telangana's official song
written by Ande Sri.
Ministry of Education (MoE) launched APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry)
through the Common Service Centres (CSCs) in remote villages of India. APAAR, conceptualized under the
National Education Policy (NEP 2020), aims for ‘One Nation, One Student ID’.
The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
(MoSPI) released its 21st quarterly Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) bulletin for October-December 2023
(Q3FY24).
As per it, India's urban unemployment rate (UR) in Current Weekly Status (CWS) terms for persons aged 15
years and above declined to 6.5% during Q3FY24 which is the lowest level in over 4 years. It was 6.6% in
Q2FY24, and 7.2% in Q3FY23.
At all India level, Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in CWS increased to 49.9% (Q3FY24) from 48.2%
in Q3FY2
The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) under the Ministry of
Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions has unveiled the National e-Governance Service Delivery
Assessment (NeSDA) Way Forward Annual Report 2023.
A saturation level of 76% of Mandatory e-services has been achieved by States/UTs i.e., 1,528 out of 2,016
(56*36 States/UTs), an increase from 69% under NeSDA 2021.
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) provides the maximum (1117) number of e-Services, across States/UTs.
J&K, Kerala, Assam, and Odisha provide 100% of their services through their identified Single Unified
Service Delivery Portal i.e., e-UNNAT (Electronic -Unified Integrated Accessible Transparent), e-Sevanam,
Sewa Setu, and Odisha One, respectively. Click here to read full News
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to procure
11 Shakti Electronic Warfare Systems (EWS) along with associated equipment / accessories for the Indian Navy
(IN) at a cost of Rs 2,167.47 crore.
It also received additional orders worth Rs.114.59 crore to develop Very low frequency receivers (HD VLF),
etc.
The EWS will be designed and developed by Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL) Hyderabad,
Telangana, is a laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has revised the National Film Awards regulations
and made significant changes, including renaming awards, merging categories, and increasing prize money. The
changes were made based on the recommendation of the Committee for Rationalization of Film Awards.
The change will come into effect in the upcoming 70th edition of the National Film Awards (2022), whose
entries closed on January 30th, 2024.
The ‘Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director’ has been renamed ‘Best Debut Film of a
Director’. The award includes a Swarna Kamal and cash award of Rs 3 lakh which will be presented to the
director of the film.
The ‘Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration’ has been clubbed with ‘Best Film on
Social Issues’ and ‘Best Film on Environment Conservation/Preservation’. The newly formed award is
named ‘Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social, and Environmental Values’.
The awards are categorised into four sections. They are Feature films, non- features films, Best writing on
cinema, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award(Lifetime Achievement Award). Click here to read full News
NITI Aayog(National Institution for Transforming India) launched the Greening and Restoration of
Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW) initiative, which includes GRWO report and portal at NITI Aayog
headquarters in New Delhi, Delhi.
The GROW-Suitability Mapping portal on Bhuvan (https://bhuvan-app1.nrsc.gov.in/asi_portal/) will allow
universal access to state and district-level data.

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JANUARY 2024
Uttar Pradesh (UP) has ranked first for the third consecutive year in recording the highest entries
(1,56,22,514 entries) on the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) platform.
With 35,04,828 entries Madhya Pradesh (MP) secured second position and Bihar is in third place with
16,65,107 entries.
Lam Dong Province in Vietnam and the Leh region of Ladakh, India officially launched a cultural exchange
and tourism cooperation initiative with the theme “Ladakh Unveiled” in Da Lat, Vietnam.
Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), the Research and Development (R&D) wing of
the Ministry of Defence (MoD), annually celebrates its Foundation Day or Raising Day on 1 January. DRDO,
formed in 1958, celebrated its 66th foundation day on 1st January 2024.
DRDO Chairman also launched the Quantity-Distance Software developed by Pune (Maharashtra)-based
lab, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), to automate the siting of explosives and related
buildings.
DRDO received Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) worth around Rs. 1,42,000 crores for the induction of
several DRDO-developed systems.
Gujarat has been recognised as the 'petro capital' of India, due to the presence of the Reliance Industry
Limited’s Jamnagar refinery and ONGC Petro Additions Limited (OPaL)’s state-of-the-art petrochemical
complex at Dahej in Bharuch district.
OPaL is one of South Asia's single largest petrochemical complexes. It is a joint venture (JV) between the Oil
and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), the Gas Authority of India (GAIL) & Gujarat State Petroleum
Corporation Limited (GSPC).
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has approved a five months extension for
employers for uploading wage details of higher pension options online i.e. till 31st May, 2024 from 31st
December 2023.
President of India Droupadi Murmu gave assent to two bills including The Chief Election Commissioner
and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, and The
Press and Registration of Periodicals (PRP) Bill, 2023
The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service
and Term of Office) Bill, 2023
The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023 replaces the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867
Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN) based Geographical Indications Registry has awarded the Geographical
Indication (GI) tag to 3 indigenous products from Arunachal Pradesh (AR) namely Adi Kekir (ginger),
Handmade Carpet (by Tibetan settlers), and Wancho Wooden Craft.
With the addition of 3 new GI products, Arunachal Pradesh now has a total of 8 GI products.
The Government of West Bengal (WB) declared Poila Baisakh, the Bengali New Year, as the State Day and
Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's 1905 ode to Bengal, "Banglar Mati, Banglar Jal" (The soil of Bengal, the
water of Bengal) as the State Song.
Poila Baisakh is celebrated on the first day of the Baisakh month, the first month of the Bengali calendar
year which usually falls on the 14th or 15th of April.
The Chandubi festival is an annual 5-day festival held from the first day of the New Year along the
Chandubi lake (64 km away from Guwahati city), Assam.
The 14th edition of Chandubi Festival was held from 1st to 5th january 2024. This festival celebrates the
cultural heritage of Assam's tribal communities such as Rabhas, Garos, Gorkhas, etc that live near the
Chandubi Lake.
The Geographical Indications Registry under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal
Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Chennai, has recently awarded geographical indication
(GI) tags to 3 handloom sarees of West Bengal, namely Tangail, Korial and Garad received geographical
indication (GI) tags under the goods of Textiles.

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The Geographical Indications Registry also awarded GI tags to 7 distinct products of Odisha. These
include two local foods, three agricultural products and one each for Textile and Handicraft products
viz. Lanjia Saura painting, Dungaria Kondh embroidered shawl, Gajapati Date Palm, Dhenkanal Magji,
Mayurbhanj Kai Chutney, Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal and Koraput Kalajeera Rice.
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi,
cleared the appointment of 7 civil servants to key posts abroad to represent India in foreign missions and
captive posts within the Government of India (GoI) across various multilateral bodies.
Vikas Sheel: Executive Director (ED) of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Manila (Philippines) for 3
years.
Senthil Pandian: Ambassador/Permanent Representative (PR) at the Permanent Mission of India (PMI) to
the Geneva (Switzerland)-based World Trade Organisation (WTO) for 3 years.
M Balaji: Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India, Brussels (Belgium) for 3 years.
Parveen Kumar: Adviser to the ED of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Washington DC, the United
States of America (USA).
Smita Sarangi: Adviser to the ED of the ADB, Manila for 3 years.
Kalyan Revella: Counsellor (Economic) at the Embassy of India in Beijing, China for 3 years.
Tanu Singh: First Secretary of the PMI to the WTO (Geneva) for 3 years.
Chief Minister (CM) of Gujarat, Bhupendrabhai Patel has inaugurated the International Kite Festival
2024 at Sabarmati Riverfront, Vallabh Sadan in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The festival will be held from 7th to 14th
January 2024 in Ahmedabad.
The Indian Army has officially declared 2024 as the "Year of Technology Absorption", symbolising a
dedicated commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies, fostering development, and promoting
innovation.
The objective is to transform the Indian Army into a modern and agile force, with a strong emphasis on
indigenization.
Note: The year 2023 was declared as the “Year of Transformation.”
The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) launched the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative to
discourage user behavior of using a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or linking multiple FASTags to a
particular vehicle.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), celebrated its
150th Foundation Day commemorating 150 years of its establishment and service to the nation.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar Released the theme song of IMD. He also Launched the Souvenir on
Evolution of IMD and its services since 1875.
VP also released and launched the following
Indigenously developed Decision Support System (DSS) called Weather Analysis and Forecast
Enabling System (WAFES), inspired by Pancha Mahabhuta i.e. Water, Air, Fire, Earth and Sky.
Panchayat Mausam Seva Portal for farmers developed by IMD, MoES, Ministry of Panchayati Raj
(MoPR), and Green Alert Mausam Sewa.
IMD launched MAUSAM, an integrated GIS based mobile app.
IMD launched the National Framework of Climate Services (NFCS) to control losses due to climate
hazards and extreme weather events.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) released the Third Advance Estimate of
Area and Production of Various Horticultural Crops for 2022–23.
The estimation of total horticulture production for 2022–23 is 355.25 million tonnes, which is about 8.07
million tonnes more (an increase of 2.32%) than 2021–22 (final).
The total area of horticulture also increased marginally in 2022–23 (the third advance estimate) to 28.34
million hectares from 28.04 million hectares in the 2021–22 (final) estimates.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released six special commemorative postage stamps dedicated to the
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) and also revealed a book with stamps issued by
various countries portraying Lord Ram.
The commemorative collection comprises six distinct stamps, including depictions of the Ram
Janmabhoomi Temple, Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman, Jatayu, Kevatraj, and Ma Shabri.

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The 9th edition of the Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival (PPHF) was celebrated at Seijosa in the Pakke-
Kessang district of Arunachal Pradesh (AR) from January 18th to 20th, 2024.
It was held under the theme “Domutoh Domutoh, Paga hum Domutoh,” meaning ‘Let Our Hornbills Remain’
in the Nyishi language.
India has been elected as the 1st Vice-Chair of Sub-Committee on Fisheries Management (SCFM) of the
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Committee on Fisheries (COFI).
Elections to the Bureau of the SCFM was held during the 1st session of the Sub-Committee held from 15th
to 18th January 2024 at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.
The bureau includes Chairman of the Sub-Committee, the First Vice-Chairman and 5 other Vice-Chairmen,
all elected for a 2-year term.
The Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education (MoE) has released the
'Guidelines for Regulation of Coaching Center 2024’ which prohibits Coaching centres from enrolling
students below the age of 16.
Coaching center must maintain an updated website with details on tutor qualifications, courses, duration,
hostel facilities, fees, easy exit and refund policies, and student success statistics.
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) has received the approval from the Ministry of
Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) to establish a wholly-owned subsidiary company for green energy and
gas business. The approval was received on 5th December 2023.
The proposed name of the subsidiary is “ONGC Green Limited” subject to the approval of the Ministry of
Corporate Affairs (MoCA).
During the ONGC Board Meeting held on 23rd January 2024, the board granted in-principle approval for
formation of a Joint Venture Company (JVC) either directly by ONGC or through its Affiliate/Subsidiary with
NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) a wholly owned subsidiary of NTPC Limited. The JVC will be engaged in
the business of Offshore Wind Energy and other Renewal Energy.
The 9th edition of India International Science Festival (IISF 2023) was held from 17th to 20th January
2024 at Faridabad, Haryana. The festival aims to celebrate the achievements of India in the frontier areas of
science and technology.
IISF 2023 is held under the central theme – ‘Science and Technology Public Outreach in Amrit Kaal’.
India's ACME Group (aka ACME Cleantech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. ) and Japan's IHI Corporation signed a term
sheet agreement to supply 0.4 Million Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MMTPA) of green ammonia from Odisha on
long term basis.
This agreement is a crucial move in lowering global greenhouse gas emissions, set to offset 54 million tons
of Carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent over its lifecycle.
Union Minister Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) inaugurated and addressed the 5th
International and 44th All India Criminology Conference at National Forensic Science University (NFSU) at
Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Union Minister also inaugurated the Centre of Excellence in Digital Forensics at NFSU to
support capacity building and investigation.
Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya M Scindia inaugurated Asia's Largest Aviation Expo-Wings
India 2024 at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad, Telangana from 18th to 21st January 2024. The theme for
the show was "Connecting India to the World in Amrit Kaal: Setting the Stage for India Civil Aviation
@2047.”
India’s First Indigenously Designed and Manufactured Aircraft Seat Launched at Wings India 2024
AIR INDIA EXPRESS Unveils New Aircraft with Kalamkari-Inspired Tail Pattern at Wings India 2024
Airbus Partners With CSIR-IIP to Drive Indigenous Sustainable Aviation Fuel Development
Akasa Air signs MoU with Noida International Airport. Click here to read full News
India celebrated its 75th Republic Day (R-Day) on 26th January 2024. The republic day events and parade
were held at the newly-renovated and renamed Kartavya Path (previously known as Rajpath) in New Delhi,
Delhi.
The Republic day of India marks and celebrates the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect
on January 26, 1950.

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President of India Droupadi Murmu unfurled India's National Flag accompanied by Major Saumya Shukla
ASC , it was followed by the National Anthem and a 21-gun salute from indigenous 105-mm Indian Field
Guns
Theme of R-Day 2024: 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) and 'Bharat- Loktantra ki Matruka' (Bharat - The
Mother of Democracy)
To mark the 75th Republic Day celebration, Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defence Rs 75
commemorative silver coin, and a postage stamp of 75th Republic Day Celebrations. It is minted by Indian
Government Mint, Mumbai in Maharashtra.
President of France Emmanuel Macron was the chief guest for Republic Day 2024.
DECEMBER 2023
According to Quarterly Bulletin Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) (July to September 2023), released
by National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI),
unemployment rate (UR) in urban areas fell from 7.2% in July –September 2022 to 6.6% in July – September
2023 for persons of age 15 years and above.
The report indicates that in urban areas, the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) in the current weekly
status (CWS) increased to 49.3% in the July to September quarter of 2023, up from 47.9% in the
corresponding period in 2022.
The 54 edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) was held in Goa from 20 to 28th
th
November 2023.
The 54 IFFI was jointly organized by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) under the
th
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) along with the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG),
Government of Goa. Anurag Thakur, Union Minister, MIB, inaugurated the VFX and Tech Pavilion as part of
the 54th IFFI in Goa.
Renowned Indian actress, Padma Shri Awardee Madhuri Dixit was honoured with the Special Recognition
to Bhartiya Cinema award for her outstanding contributions to the Indian film industry.
American Actor Michael Douglas was honoured with the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award of the
Year (2023).
Indian Panorama, the main component of IFFI, showcased 25 feature films and 20 non-feature films at the
54th IFFI held in Goa. Click here for more detail
18 products of Uttarakhand including 12 agricultural goods, 4 Handi-craft goods, 1 food-stuff and 1
manufactured goods received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Uttarakhand has become the 1 state in the country to get the highest number of 18 GI tags in a single
st
day. With these 18 new products, the total number of GI products in Uttarakhand has become 27.
18 New GI products of Uttarakhand:
S.no GI Product Goods
1 Uttarakhand Chaulai (Ramdana) (Fox tail Millet) Agriculture
2 Uttarakhand Jhangora
3 Uttarakhand Lal Chawal (Red Rice)
4 Uttarakhand Mandua
5 Almora Lakhori Mirchi
6 Uttarakhand Berinag Tea
7 Ramnagar Nainital Litchi

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8 Ramgarh Nainital Aadu (Peach)
9 Uttarakhand Malta Fruit
10 Uttarakhand Pahari Toor Dal
11 Uttarakhand Gahat(Horse gram)
12 Uttarakhand Kala Bhat
13 Uttarakhand Bichhu Buti (Nettle) Fabrics Handi Crafts
14 Kumaoni Rangwali Pichhoda Products
15 Chamoli Wooden Ramman Mask
16 Uttarakhand Likhai (wood carving)
17 Uttarakhand Buransh Sharbat Food Stuffs
18 Nainital Mombatti (Candle) Manufactured Goods

The Government of India (GoI) has approved the first urban flood mitigation project of Rs. 561.29 crore
for the ‘Integrated Urban Flood Management Activities for Chennai Basin Project’ under the National Disaster
Mitigation Fund (NDMF), which also includes central assistance of Rs. 500 crores.
Government of India has directed the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to release in advance, the central
share of the 2nd installment of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), amounting to Rs 493.60 crore to
Andhra Pradesh and Rs 450 crore to Tamil Nadu due to the impact of Cyclone Michaung.
The 24th edition of the Hornbill Festival, referred as ‘Festival of Festivals’ is annually from 1st to 10th
December in Nagaland to encourage inter-tribal interaction and to preserve, protect and revive the
uniqueness and richness of the Naga heritage.
The festival was inaugurated with the Traditional Gong by Governor of Nagaland La Ganesan and Chief
Minister (CM) Neiphiu Rio, the hosts of the festival.
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce
and Industry (MoCI), collaborates with the World Bank (WB) to improve India’s logistics efficiency.The
collaboration was held during DPIIT meeting with World Bank Team in New Delhi, Delhi which was chaired by
Special Secretary (Logistics), DPIIT, Sumita Dawra.
World Bank funded National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP) and Indian Agricultural
Research Project New Delhi, Modern Agricultural Science Technology Center for Climate Adapted
Agriculture and Water Management has been launched at Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth (MPKV)
(Agriculture University), Rahuri in Ahmednagar district , Maharashtra.
As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme
Implementation (MoSPI), the Unemployment Rate (UR) for graduates aged 15 and above declined to 13.4% in
2022-2023 (July 2022 and June 2023) from 14.9% in July 2021-June 2022.
Chandigarh and Delhi had the lowest URs for graduates, at 5.6% and 5.7% respectively.
While, the highest unemployment is in Andaman & Nicobar Island at 33%, followed by Ladakh at 26.5%
and Andhra Pradesh (AP) at 24%.
Government of India reconstituted the National Startup Advisory Council (NSAC) upon the completion of
its 2-year term. Following the reconstitution, Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has nominated 31
non-official members to represent various stakeholders of the startup eco-system.

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Note: The term of the non-official members of NSAC shall be 2 years or until further orders. Click here for
the complete list of nominated members
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister (PM) of India and Haitham Bin Tarik, the Sultan of Oman adopted the
joint Vision document titled ‘A Partnership for the Future’ for strengthening bilateral cooperation in diverse
areas and to scale up the partnership between India and Oman.
This joint vision underscores a shared vision, aligning the strategic goals of Oman Vision 2040, Oman’s
national development blueprint, with India’s development objectives under ‘Amrit Kaal’.
3rd Tranche of OIJIF Announced between OIA and SBI to Strengthen Economic Ties of India and Oman
Several Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) and agreements were also signed during his visit.
Click here to read full News
Tansen Samaroh 2023, The 99th edition of the annual World Music Festival, is being held in Gwalior,
Madhya Pradesh (MP) from 22 to 28 December 2023.
The festival also includes the presentation of the Rashtriya Tansen Samman Award, to individuals who have
made significant contributions to Hindustani classical music.
Tansen Samaroh 2023 is organized jointly by Ustad Alauddin Khan Kala Evam Sangeet Academy and the
Department of Culture, Government of MP near the tomb of Tansen and various venues across Gwalior.
The President of India Droupadi Murmu gave assent to three new criminal bills: Bharatiya Nyaya
(Second) Sanhita (BNS2), 2023; Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita(BNSS2), 2023; and Bharatiya
Sakshya (Second) Adhiniyam, 2023.
The three new criminal bills will replace the British-colonial era laws: the Indian Penal Code(IPC), 1860;
the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1973 and the Indian Evidence Act(IEA), 1872 respectively.
She also gave assent to the Telecommunications Bill, 2023 and Post Office Bill, 2023. Click here to read
full News
Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), an open e-commerce platform, announced two Separate
partnership with Google and Meta(formerly known as Facebook).
ONDC and Google has partnered to enable metro ticket booking through its mapping app - Google map.
ONDC and Meta has partnered to expand its outreach to small businesses through Whatsapp.
Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited (Jio), a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), has collaborated
with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra, to develop the
'BharatGPT(Generative Pre-Trained Transformer)' program.
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Assam in collaboration with the Government of Assam had
hosted a career progression session for meritorious students of Assam to help them to pursue Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects in their higher education as part of Assam’s
flagship programme ‘Arohan’.
According to recent data from the National Stock Exchange (NSE), Maharashtra tops the list of states
with the highest number of registered investors. Maharashtra registered a growth of 16.9% with over 1.48
crore registered investors.
Uttar Pradesh (UP), with 89.47 lakh investors, has surpassed Gujarat (76.68 lakh) and secured the 2nd
position on the list. At present, India is ranked 4th in the world in terms of market capitalisation, following
the United States of America (USA), China and Japan.
The Department of Economic Affairs-DEA (Budget Division), Ministry of Finance released the interest
rates for Small Savings Schemes applicable in the January-March 2024 quarter (Q4FY24) i.e. from January
1, 2024 to March 31, 2024.
As per it, the interest rate on the Sukanya Samriddhi Account Scheme (SSAS) increased by 20 basis points
from 8% to 8.2% for Q424.
The interest rate on three-year time deposits also increased by 10 basis points from 7% to 7.1%.
The interest rates for all other small savings schemes will remain unchanged from the rates offer ed in
Q3FY24 (October-December 2023).

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NOVEMBER 2023
The 7th Edition of India Mobile Congress (IMC 2023), Asia’s largest telecom, media, and technology
forum, was held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Delhi, from 27th to 29th October 2023.
The theme of the IMC 2023 was ‘Global Digital Innovation’. The congress was virtually inaugurated by
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on 27th October 2023.
PM Modi Inaugurates 100 ‘5G Use Case Labs’ at IMC 2023, Including Five in Andhra Pradesh
Reliance Jio Launches India’s First Satellite-Based Gigabit Broadband Service, “JioSpaceFiber”
Sunil Bharti Mittal announces satellite communication breakthrough for India at IMC 2023
HFCL Unveils 1728-Intermittently Bonded Ribbon (IBR) Cables at IMC 2023
India hosted the 6th Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) at Bharat Mandapam, in New
Delhi, Delhi.
Union Minister Raj Kumar Singh (RK Singh) Ministry of Power (MOP) and Ministry of New & Renewable
Energy(MNRE), President of ISA presided over the 6th Assembly of ISA. During the 6th Assembly, ISA
released 3 flagship reports to provide insights into the current state of solar energy, providing updates on
Solar Technology, Solar Market and Solar Investments.
India, ISA to Contribute USD 35 Million to Global Solar Facility.
The 6th Assembly of ISA has decided to increase the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for solar projects across its
member countries to 35% from the existing 10%.
Chile has officially joined the ISA as its 95th member. Chile Ambassador Juan Angulo handed over the
Instrument of ISA ratification to Abhishek Singh, Joint Secretary (Economic Diplomacy) in the Ministry of
External Affairs Click here for more detail…….
Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), under the Ministry of Finance, notified 7 changes in Senior
Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS), a government-sponsored savings instrument for individuals aged 60 years or
employees aged 55 years or more but less than 60 years.
Extended Time for Investing Retirement Benefits: The government has provided 3 months to invest in SCSS
for individuals aged above 55 but below 60. At present, the investment must be made within 1 month of
receipt of retirement benefits.
Deduction on premature withdrawal: 1% of the deposit will be deducted if the account is closed before the
expiry of 1 year of the investment.
Maximum Deposit Amount: The maximum deposit limit for SCSS has been enhanced to Rs 30 lakh from Rs
15 lakh with effective from 1st April 2023.
Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission of Kerala was selected for the global list of Case Studies of United
Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). UNWTO’s recognition will further inspire Kerala’s RT mission
to promote eco-friendly tourism.
Apart from Kerala's RT Mission, Maharashtra’s Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve project is the only other
Indian case study to be featured in this UNWTO list.
The Survey of India (SoI), the National Survey and Mapping Organization of India, and Genesys
International, an Indian mapping company that provides Geospatial solutions, have formed a strategic
partnership to create a three-dimensional (3D) digital twin-mapping programme in India.
With this partnership, Genesys thus becomes the 1st company to have a public-private agreement with SoI
for digital twinning.
The partnership is in line with India’s National Geospatial Policy 2022, promoting Atmanirbhar Bharat
(self-reliant India) in geospatial data production and usage.
OCTOBER 2023
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) issued a notification amending the Cable Television
Network (CTN) Rules of 1994. Moreover, a new provision has been added, enabling Cable Operators to share
infrastructure with Broadband Service providers.
This amendment introduces a formal procedure for the renewal of registrations for Multi-System Operators
(MSOs). This significant change updates the rules which previously only allowed for fresh registrations.

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MSOs will be required to submit their registration or renewal applications online through Broadcast Seva
Portal of MIB.
As per the notification issued by the Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, President Droupadi
Murmu has granted assent to the Women’s Reservation Bill 2023, which mandates a 33% reservation (one-
third of total seats) for women in the Lok Sabha, State Legislative assemblies, and National Capital Territory
(NCT) of Delhi. This historic decision was officially approved by the President on September 28, 2023.
Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairperson, Jagdeep Dhankhar on September 28 signed the women’s
reservation Bill as passed by Parliament before it was presented to President Droupadi Murmu for her
assent.
Following the President’s assent, this Bill will be recognized as the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act.
The Women’s Reservation Bill 2023, officially titled as The Constitution (128th Amendment) Bill, 2023 and
commonly referred to as Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, has been introduced in the Indian Parliament.
Click here for more detail…
The National Health Authority (NHA) hosted the two-day Arogya Manthan event on September 25th and
26th, 2023, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The event saw the anniversary celebrations of 5 Years of Ayushman
Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and 2 Years of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
(ABDM).
Dwar Ayushman (ADA 3.0) and ‘Ayushman Bhav’ campaign launched by Hon’ble President of India….Click
here for Top-Performing States/UT for AB PM-JAY and ABDM at Arogya Manthan 2023..
According to Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE)’s Consumer Pyramids Household Survey,
India’s unemployment rate fell to a 12-month low of 7.1% in September 2023 from 8.1% in August 2023
despite the poor monsoon.
In rural areas, the overall unemployment rate dropped from 7.11% in August 2023 to 6.20% in September
2023.
In urban areas, the overall unemployment rate decreased from 10.09% in August to 8.94% in September.
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi released four Books revolving around the success of India’s Group
20 (G20) presidency at the G20 University Connect Finale programme held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi,
Delhi.
These 4 books are available on the G20 India website and on its application in e-book format.
The Grand Success of G20 Bharat Presidency: Visionary Leadership, Inclusive Approach.
G20 University Connect Programme: Engaging Young Mind.
India’s G20 Presidency: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth, One family, One Future.
Showcasing Indian Culture at G20.
The Geographical Indications Registry, operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in
Chennai, has recently awarded geographical indication (GI) tags to a collective of 8 distinct products. Among
these, 3 originate from Arunachal Pradesh, 1 from Tamil Nadu, 2 from Jammu and Kashmir, 1 from Odisha, and
1 from Goa.
State GI Product Goods
Arunachal Pradesh Yak Churpi Food Stuffs
Arunachal Pradesh Khaw Tai” (Khamti Rice) Agriculture
Arunachal Pradesh Arunachal Pradesh Tangsa Textile Product Textiles
Tamil Nadu Udangudi Panangkarupatti Food Stuffs

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Basohli Pashmina Woolen Products Textiles
Jammu and Kashmir (J & K) Udhampur Kaladi Food Stuffs
Odisha Kendrapara Rasabali Food Stuffs
Goa Goa Cashew (Kaju Or Caju) Agriculture

REC Limited (formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) launched SUGAM REC, a mobile app
for its current and future investors in REC’s 54EC Capital Gain Tax Exemption Bonds.
REC Limited is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Power
SUGAM REC offers the ability to view complete details of their investment in REC 54EC Bonds, including
the investment amount, interest rate, and maturity date.
Rajasthan Chief Minister (CM), Ashok Gehlot, announced the formation of 3 new districts: Malpura,
Sujangarh, and Kuchaman City in Rajasthan during the Gau Seva Sammelan in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
The decision to establish these new districts was based on both public demand and recommendations
provided by a high-level committee.
With the addition of the 3 districts, the total number of districts in Rajasthan has now reached 53.
Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defence (MoD), launched Swavlamban 2023 (Swavlamban
2.0), the 2nd edition of the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) seminar, in
New Delhi, Delhi.
The 2-day seminar was held from 4th to 5th October 2023. During the seminar 5th Positive Indigenisation
List (5th PIL) of the Department of Military Affairs (DMA), MoD comprising 98 items was released.
Defence minister launched the 76 challenges for the industry under the 10th Defence India Start-up
Challenges (DISC 10) and DISC 10 PRIME of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX).
He also launched the Indian Navy’s updated Indigenisation Roadmap ‘Swavlamban 2.0’.
During the seminar, the Defence Minister also launched Two India-United States Defence Acceleration
Ecosystem (INDUS X) challenges under ‘INDUS-X Mutual Promotion of Advanced Collaborative
Technologies’ (IMPACT) finalised by iDEX and the United States Department of Defense (US DoD).
The Indian navy unveiled the Autonomous Weaponized Boat Swarms and the Autonomous Vessel
Underwater (AUV) during the Swavlamban 2.0
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) with the Olympic Museum along with Reliance Foundation
signed a new cooperation agreement to expand and promote the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP)
in India.
The agreement was signed by IOC President Thomas Bach and Nita Ambani, IOC Member in India and
Reliance Foundation Founder Chairperson, during a visit to the Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RFYC)
football academy in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) notified the amendment of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, which will be
called as “Aircraft (First Amendment) Rules, 2023”.
Under this amendment, following the revision of Rule 39C, the validity of the Airline Transport Pilot License
(ATPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL) holders has been increased from 5 years to 10 years
The Amendment to Aircraft Rules, 1937 introduces key changes under Rule 66, addressing concerns related
to the display of “false lights” in the vicinity of an aerodrome. Click here for more detail
India is set to host “Bharat Tex 2024”, the world’s largest Textile event from 26th to 29th February
2024 at Bharat Mandapam & Yashobhoomi in New Delhi, Delhi.
The event will be organised by a Consortium of Textile Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) with the support
of the Ministry of Textiles.

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This expo is the embodiment of India’s 5F vision – Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign.
Union Textiles Minister Piyush Goyal launched the Kasturi Cotton Bharat website
(https://kasturicotton.texprocil.org/), a digital platform for necessary information and updates on this
initiative.
According to the State Bank of India (SBI) research paper titled “PM SVANidhi: Strengthening the
Country’s Social Fabric by Empowering Grassroot Market Mavericks” 75% of the beneficiaries of the PM
SVANidhi scheme are from the non-general category.
The research was carried out by Soumya Kanti Ghosh, the Group Chief Economic Advisor of SBI.
Pradhan Mantri Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidh), is a micro-credit scheme launched by
the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in 2020.
The All-India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) celebrated its 6th Foundation day on 20th October 2023 at
AIIA campus, New Delhi, Delhi. A new molecular biology lab for advance research at AIIA; a Manuscript Unit
and Center of Excellence (CoE) Dakshya were launched during the event.
AIIA has signed six Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with well-known six institutions such as
Hindustan Salt Limited, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Heartfulness Institute.
AYUSH Minister Sarbananda Sonowal unveiled the statue of the Ayurveda practitioner late Padma
Vibhushan Awardee Vaidya Brihaspati Dev Triguna at the Vaidya Brihaspati Dev Triguna Auditorium in
AIIA.
High-Level Committee (HLC) on One Nation, One Election (ONOE) under the chairmanship of Former
President Ram Nath Kovind held its 2nd meeting in New Delhi, Delhi on 25th October 2023. The website
developed for the “One Nation, One Election” was launched at the meeting.
This will act as a repository of all relevant information on the ONOE proposal.
The One Nation, One Election is a proposal to hold simultaneous elections to the Lower House of Parliament
(Lok Sabha) and State Assemblies.
HLC was constituted by the Government of India in September 2023.
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) under the Ministry of Finance issued a
notification stating that GST (Goods and Services Tax) will be levied on guarantees provided by corporations
to their subsidiaries prospectively. The corporate guarantee would be taxable from the date of the notification.
As per the notification, GST at 18% will be levied on 1% of the total amount guaranteed by the parent
company or the actual consideration, whichever is higher.
GST rates on “Food preparation of millet flour in powder form, containing at least 70% millets by weight”
0%when sold in non-pre-packaged and unlabelled form. And 5% when sold in pre-packaged and labelled
form.
Reduction of GST on molasses from 28% to 5%.
The GST on Job work services for processing of barley into malt has been reduced to from 18% to 5%.
Click here to read full News…
Interim Budget 2024-25
What is the Budget?
It is an Annual Financial statement of the estimated receipts and expenditure of the Government in a
Financial Year (which begins on 1st April of the current year and ends on 31st March of the following
year). Every year, the Finance Minister of India presents the Union Budget.
Union Budget 2024-25
On February 1, 2024, the Budget session was held in Parliament under the chairmanship of Lok Sabha
Speaker Om Birla, in which the Union Finance Minister (FM) Nirmala Sitharaman presented the
Interim Budget/Vote on Account of India for 2025-2024.

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This said to be India’s 4 paperless budget, it replaced the traditional ‘Bahi-Khata’ with a Made-in-
th
India tablet wrapped in a red-coloured cover with a national emblem emblazoned on it.
It was the 6 and 1 interim budget of the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA)
th st
Government second term (from 2019-2024). This was also the 6 Budget presentation of Nirmala
th
Sitharaman since 2019.
Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Interim
Union Budget 2024-25 in Parliament with the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and Sabka
Vishwas’ and the whole of nation approach of “Sabka Prayas”.
The 2024 Union Budget goal was “Viksit Bharat” by 2047 (Developed India @2047)
Vision: Prosperous Bharat in harmony with nature, modern infrastructure, and opportunities for all.
Vote on account:
Vote on account is the process where an outgoing government seeks interim permission from the
Parliament to withdraw funds from the Consolidated Fund of India and spend money on expenditures
and crucial government schemes for a few months until a new government is formed after the
elections. As defined by Article 116 of the Indian Constitution, vote on account is a grant in advance
for the Central government to meet short-term expenditure, generally lasting for a few months till the
new financial year starts.
Finance Minister Speech
Nirmala Sitharaman has presented interim budget 2024 for 58 minutes in Parliament and became her
shortest Budget speech.Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to match the record of former
Prime Minister Morarji Desai as she presents her 6 Union Budget in February 2024.
th
India’s Fiscal Position
i.Nominal GDP for BE 2024-25 has been projected at 3,27,71,808 crore assuming 10.5 % growth
over the estimated Nominal GDP of `2,96,57,745 crore as per the First Advance Estimates of FY 2023-
24.
ii.No changes are anticipated in taxation, and the current direct and indirect tax rates, along with
import duties, are proposed to be maintained.
iii. In the interim budget for FY25 presented in parliament, the central government plans to borrow ₹14.13
trillion from the bond markets to fund its fiscal deficit in 2024-25.
Budget 2024-25 (Rs crore)
Item Revised Estimates Budget Estimates % change (RE

(RE) 2023-24 (Rs (BE) 2024-25 (Rs 2023-24 to BE
crore) crore) 2024-25)
Total Receipts (other 27,55,713 30,80,274 +11.8%

than borrowings)

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Revenue Receipts 26,99,713 30,01,275 +11.2%
Capital Receipts 56,000 79,000 +41.1%
Total Receipts 44,90,486 47,65,769 +6.1%

(including
borrowings)
Total Expenditure 44,90,486 cr 47,65,768 cr +6.1%
Revenue 35,40,239 36,54,657 +3.2%

Expenditure
Capital Expenditure 9,50,246 cr 11,11,111 cr +16.9%
Fiscal Deficit (as % of 5.8% (17,34,773) 5.1% (16,85,494) -2.8%

GDP)
Revenue Deficit (as 2.8 % (8,40,527) 2.0% (6,53,383) -22.3%

% of GDP)
Primary Deficit (as 2.3% (6,79,346) 1.5% (4,95,054) -27.1%

% of GDP)
Budgetary Allocations to Ministries:
In 2024-25, Ministry of Defence has the highest allocation in 2024-25, at Rs 6,21,541 crore. It
accounts for 13% of the total budgeted expenditure of the central government.
Other ministries with high allocation include: (i) Road Transport and Highways (5.8% of total
expenditure), (ii) Railways (5.4%), and (iii) Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution
(4.5%).
The Agriculture Ministry got the lowest amount at ₹1.27 lakh crore.
Department of Economic Affairs (Ministry of Finance): R. 70,449 crore has been allocated to a new
item of expenditure ‘New Schemes’ (details not available). This accounts for about 84% of the
Department’s total allocation. The entire allocation is for capital expenditure.
Budgetary Allocations to Schemes:
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) has the highest
allocation in 2024-25 at Rs 86,000 crore. This amount is the same as the revised estimate for 2023-24.
In 2023-24, allocation on the scheme is estimated to increase by 43% over the budget estimate.
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) has the second highest allocation in 2024-25 at Rs
80,671 crore, an increase of 49.1% over the revised estimate of 2023-24.
The Jal Jeevan Mission(JJM) has the third highest allocation in 2024-25 at Rs 70,163 crore, an
increase of 0.2% over the revised estimate of 2023-24.

AC Exam PDF
Part A
Roadmap to Viksit Bharat” by 2047 (Developed India @2047)
Social Justice
‘Garib’ (Poor), ‘Mahilayen’ (Women), ‘Yuva’ (Youth) and ‘Annadata’ (Farmers) are the four-pillars of
the Viksit Bharat Budget 2024.
Empowerment of women (Nari Sakthi)
30 crore Mudra Yojana loans have been given to women entrepreneurs.

Female enrolment in higher education increased by 28 per cent in 10 years.
‘Garib Kalyan, Desh ka Kalyan’ (Below Poverty Line)
Government assisted 25 crore people out of multi-dimensional poverty in last 10 years.

Direct Benefit Transfer(DBT) of Rs. 34 lakh crore using Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
accounts led to savings of Rs. 2.7 lakh crore for the Government.
Welfare of Annadata (Farmers)
Under PM-KISAN SAMMAN Yojana, direct financial assistance is provided to 11.8 crore farmers,
including marginal and small farmers.
Crop insurance is given to 4 crore farmers under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).
Electronic National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) integrated 1361 mandis, providing services to
1.8 crore farmers with trading volume of Rs. 3 lakh crore.
Development of Youth
1.4 crore youth trained under Skill India Mission.

A large number of new institutions of higher learning, namely 7 IITs, 16 IIITs, 7 IIMs, 15 AIIMS and
390 universities have been set up.
43 crore loans sanctioned under PM Mudra Yojana to Youths.
Increase in PM ScHools for Rising India (PM SHRI) Budget Allocation.
Strategy for Amrit Kaal
Sustainable Development
Green Energy - Commitment to meet ‘Net Zero’ by 2070
Coal gasification and liquefaction capacity of 100 MT to be set up by 2030.
Rooftop solarization and muft Bijli

The 'Rooftop Solarisation and Muft Bijli'(Free Electricity) initiative, in pursuit of 'net-zero' emissions by
2070.
1 crore households to obtain 300 units free electricity every month through rooftop solarization.
Each household is expected to save Rs.15000 to Rs.18000 annually.
Ayushman Bharat

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Healthcare cover under Ayushman Bharat scheme to be extended to all Accredited Social Health Activist
(ASHA) workers, Anganwadi Workers and Helpers. The Ayushman Bharat, India's primary universal
health scheme, experienced a year-on-year outlay increase of 10 percent, reaching ₹7,500 crore.
Research and Innovation for catalyzing growth, employment and development
A corpus of Rs.1 lakh crore to be established with 50-year interest free loan to provide long-term
financing or refinancing with long tenors and low or nil interest rates.
A new scheme to be launched for strengthening deep-tech technologies for defence purposes and
expediting ‘atmanirbharta’.
Note*- 50-year interest-free loan: A loan suggests that the funds are provided with the expectation of
repayment. However, in this case, the loan comes with a unique feature of being interest-free, meaning
that the borrower is not required to pay any interest on the borrowed amount.
Infrastructure
Capital expenditure outlay for Infrastructure development and employment generation to be increased
by 11.1 per cent to Rs.11,11,111 crore, that will be 3.4 per cent of the GDP.
Railways
3 major economic railway corridor programmes identified under the PM Gati Shakti to be implemented
to improve logistics efficiency and reduce cost
Energy, mineral and cement corridors

Port connectivity corridors
High traffic density corridors
Forty thousand normal rail bogies to be converted to Vande Bharat standards.

Investments
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflow during 2014-23 of USD 596 billion was twice of the inflow
during 2005-14.
FINANCIAL AID TO MALDIVES, BHUTAN, & NEPAL
India will reduce financial assistance to the Maldives by 22%, with the majority share of aid directed towards
Bhutan and Nepal.
i.For the fiscal year 2024-25, India has brought
down the developmental assistance to INR 600 crore. Despite the reduction, the
Maldives remains the third-highest recipient of foreign aid from the Indian
government.
ii.Bhutan and Nepal are the leading recipients of
government grants, with Bhutan receiving INR 2068.56 crore and Nepal getting
INR 700 crore for developmental assistance.
Divestment target for FY25 set to Rs 50,000 cr
In the interim budget for 2024-25, the government has set a disinvestment target of Rs
50,000 crore, an increase from the revised estimate of Rs 30,000 crore in the
current financial year(FY24).
Reforms in the States for ‘Viksit Bharat’
A provision of Rs.75,000 crore rupees as 50-year interest free loan is proposed to support milestone-
linked reforms by the State Governments.
Part B
Direct taxes
FM proposes to retain same tax rates for direct taxes
Direct tax collection tripled, return filers increased to 2.4 times, in the last 10 years

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Government to improve tax payer services
Outstanding direct tax demands upto Rs 25000 pertaining to the period upto FY 2009-10
withdrawn
Outstanding direct tax demands upto Rs 10000 for financial years 2010-11 to 2014-15
withdrawn. This will benefit one crore tax payers
Tax benefits to Start-Ups, investments made by Sovereign wealth funds or pension funds extended to
31.03.2025
Tax exemption on certain income of International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) units extended by a
year to 31.03.2025 from 31.03.2024
Overview of FinMin’s 'The Indian Economy- A Review January 2024'

On January 30, 2024, the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of
Finance (FinMin) released a report 'The Indian Economy- A Review January 2024. '
This review is not a substitute for the traditional Economic Survey of India (ESI); it is being presented
ahead of the upcoming elections in India to ensure that the budget process is not disrupted.
It provides critical insights into India’s last decade (last 10 years) economic performance and
future prospects.
This report is prepared by the office of 18 Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) to the Government of
th
India (GoI) Venkatramanan Anantha Nageswaran.
Note: The official ESI prepared by DEA will come before the Full Union Budget in July 2024 after the
General Elections.
The Highlights:
i.India became the 5th largest with a GDP of USD 3.7 trillion (estimated FY24), and aims to reach a
USD 5 trillion economy by FY28 , with a potential to achieve USD 7 trillion by 2030.
In FY25, real GDP growth will likely be closer to 7%.
ii.India is now the world's 3 largest fintech economy, after the United States of America (USA) and
rd
the United Kingdom (UK). India also surpassed Hong Kong to secure 4th position in global stock
markets.
The top five stock markets in the world are as follows: the United States (US) with USD 50.86
trillion market cap, followed by China (USD8.44 trillion), Japan (USD 6.36 trillion), India (USD
4.33 trillion), and then Hong Kong (USD 4.29 trillion).
iii.Union government rapidly increased infrastructure, boosting public sector capital investment from
Rs 5.6 lakh crore (FY15) to Rs 18.6 lakh crore (FY24), a 3.3X increase.
Highlights from Chapter 1:
i.India's stable macroeconomics and finance support a 7.3% growth in FY24, with inflation expected
to decrease. This marks the third consecutive year of over 7% growth.
It was 9.1% in FY22 and 7.2% in FY23.
ii.There is Decline in urban unemployment rate to 6.6% Since May 2023, over 55% of new EPFO
subscribers are in the 18-25 age group
iii.In higher education, the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for girls rose to 27.9% in 2020 from
12.7% in FY10.
The total enrolment in higher education grew from 3.4 crore students in 2014 to 4.1 crore in 2023.

AC Exam PDF
Female GER in senior secondary education has more than doubled from 24.5% in FY05 to 58.2%
in FY22.
iv.The number of Universities increased from 723 in 2014 to 1,113 in 2023.
Highlights from Chapter 2
i.Manufacturing's share in total Gross Value Added (GVA) increased from 17.2% (FY14) to 17.7%
(FY24) due to Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes.
ii.Despite challenges, Construction sector's GVA share recovered to 8.7% in FY24 from 8.8% (FY14).
iii.Services' share in total GVA rose from 51.1% (FY14) to 54.6% (FY24).
iv.Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) share in GDP at current prices increased from
58.4% (FY12) to 60.8% (FY24).
v.Non-food bank credit saw its highest growth at 15% in FY23 in the last ten years.
vi.Infrastructure sector bank credit CAGR of 4.2% between FY19 and FY24 (Nov 17, 2023).
vii.Public sector capital expenditure increased from Rs 5.6 lakh crore (FY15) to Rs 18.6 lakh crore
(FY24).
Agriculture:
i.Agriculture sector grew at an average annual rate of 3.7% (FY15-FY23) compared to 3.4% (FY05-
FY14).
It grew at 4% in FY23 compared to FY22.
ii.Total food grains production for FY23 reached 329.7 million tonnes, a 14.1 million-tonne increase
from FY22.
Industry:
i.Industrial growth accelerated to 7.1% per annum from FY15 to FY19, up from 5.5% in FY10 to FY14.
Digital Infrastructure
i.UPI transactions surged from Rs 0.07 lakh crore (FY17) to Rs 143.4 lakh crore (FY24, Apr-Dec 2023).
India kept Food Inflation lower than many Large Economies

In FY24 (April-Dec), average retail inflation eased to 5.5%, driven by declining core inflation to a 49-
month low of 3.8% in December 2023. Overall, retail inflation is stable within the 2 to 6 percent
notified tolerance band. India has effectively managed food inflation at moderate levels, surpassing
many large economies amid the global challenge of persistent food inflation.
Welfare:
Union government's social services expenditure grew at a 5.9% CAGR, and capital expenditure at
8.1% CAGR from FY12 to FY23, indicating asset creation.
Social sector expenditure (Centre and States combined) increases to Rs. 21.3 lakh crore in FY23
(BE) from Rs. 9.1 lakh crore in FY16.
In FY23 (BE), the combined government expenditure on health reached 2.1% of GDP, rising from
2.2% in FY22 (RE) against 1.6% in FY21.
Health:
i.As of January 17, 2024, there are 30.3 crore Ayushman Bharat cards issued.
ii.As of November 3, 2023, 10,000 Janaushadhi Kendras selling medicines at 50-90% cheaper rates
across India.

AC Exam PDF
iii.There is 16% decline in TB (Tuberculosis) incidence (2015-2022) with an 18% reduction in

mortality.
iv.The National Family Health Survey data for 2019-21 shows a consistent rise in access
to electricity, drinking water, sanitation, clean fuel, etc. National health accounts data shows a
consistent decline in out-of-pocket health expenditure from 62.6 percent of total health expenditure
(THE) in FY15 to 47.1 per cent of THE in FY20.
Women-led Development:
i.The Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) rises from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 37% in
2022–23; initiatives like Skill India, Start-Up India, and Stand-Up India promote women’s involvement
ii.There is improvement in the sex ratio at birth from 918 in 2014-15 to 933 in 2022- 23, and
reduction in maternal mortality rate from 130/lakh live births in 2014-16 to 97/lakh live births in
2018-20.
iii.The stunting in children has reduced from 38.4% to 35.5%, wasting has reduced from 21% to
19.3%, and underweight prevalence has reduced from 35.8 %to 32.1%.
Employment:
i.Unemployment rate decreased from 6% (2017-18) to 3.2% (2022-23), benefiting both male and
female workers in rural and urban areas.
ii.LFPR rose from 49.8% to 57.9% during the same period, driven by increased rural female LFPR.
iii.Youth unemployment rate dropped from 17.8% (2017-18) to 10% (2022-23).
Youth LFPR expanded from 38.2% to 44.5% over the same period.
iv.States with a larger share of the young population, such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya
Pradesh, led the decline in youth unemployment rate.
India’s External Sector:

i.India's exports have surged, hitting record highs since FY22, with merchandise exports up by over
50% and services exports by 120% in the last decade (FY13-FY23).
ii.FY23 witnessed the highest-ever merchandise export, reaching USD 451.1 billion.
iii.Despite global shocks, India's merchandise trade balance significantly improved, narrowing from a
deficit of USD 189.2 billion (April-November 2022) to USD 166.4 billion (April-November 2023).
iv.Service exports exhibited a 7.1% CAGR from FY12 to FY23.
v.Cumulative Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India during FY15-FY23 was USD 596.5 billion,
constituting 2.5% of the cumulative GDP of USD 23.8 trillion in the same period, with a 28% CAGR.
Climate Action:
i.India has surpassed the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for non-fossil fuel-installed
electricity capacity, reaching 43.9% in November 2023, up from 32.3% in 2014 and 30.4% in 2004.
ii.The installed non-fossil fuel capacity has more than doubled in the last nine years, rising from 80.3
GW in March 2014 to 187.06 GW in November 2023, a significant increase of 106.76 GW compared to
46.2 GW between 2004-2014.
iii.India's solar energy capacity has surged over 25 times, growing from 2.63 GW in March 2014 to
72.3 GW in November 2023.
IMPORTANT ONE LINER

FEBRUARY 2024
Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) launched its ticketing services on Open Network for Digital
Commerce (ONDC) network and became India’s first metro rail service to join ONDC. Yaary became the first
seller-side technology partner for CMRL.

AC Exam PDF
The quality standards for 5 spices namely small cardamom, turmeric, juniper berry, allpice, and star
anise were finalised at the 7th session of the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH7) held in
Kochi, Kerala. CCSCH7, hosted by the Government of India, was held from 29th January to 2nd February 2024.
JANUARY 2024
The Himalayan Wolf (Canis lupus; Subspecies: chanco), a crucial lupine predator in the Himalayas, is
classified as 'Vulnerable' under criteria C2a(ii) on the global International Union for Conservation of Nature
(IUCN) Red List. This is the 1st time the Himalayan wolf has been assessed by the IUCN and the assessment
was done on 27 June 2023.
Kachchhi Kharek or Kutchi dates, the indigenous dates variety of Kutch in Gujarat got a geographical
indication (GI) tag from the Chennai (Tamil Nadu) based Geographical Indication Registry under the
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Kachchhi Kharek is registered under the goods type of ‘Agriculture’.
DECEMBER 2023
The world’s first portable hospital, the ‘Aarogya Maitri Aid Cube,‘ which can be set up within one hour of
arriving at the emergency site to treat the injured, was unveiled in Gurugram, Haryana, designed indigenously
under Project BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri).
The United Nations (UN) has declared the year 2024 as the International Year of Camelids (IYC 2024) to
raise awareness of the economic and cultural significance of camelids in protecting ecosystems, conserving
biodiversity, assuring food security, and adapting to climate change.
Camelids are members of the family “Camelidae”, the only currently living family in the suborder
Tylopoda.
Dromedary camels, Bactrian camels, wild Bactrian camels, llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos are the 7
distinct members of this Camelids.
NOVEMBER 2023
The Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.), a thorny shrub or small tree in the Union Territory (UT) of
Ladakh received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag under “Agriculture” goods category. This becomes the
4th GI product of Ladakh.
Kishtwar Saffron brand, which is cultivated and harvested in the Kishtwar Region of the Union
Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the GI
Registry under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and
Industry.
OCTOBER 2023
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India (GoI) launched 'Operation Ajay', a
repatriation operation, to bring back Indian citizens from Israel amid the ongoing 2023 Israel–Hamas War.
Bollywood Actor Rajkummar Rao was named as the ‘National Icon’ for voter awareness and education
by the Election Commission of India(ECI) for a period of 3 years.
TARGET
The Government of India (GoI) advanced its target to achieve 20 percent ethanol blending in petrol from
2030 to 2025-26.
While addressing the Global CBG (Compressed BioGas) Conference of the Indian Federation of Green
Energy (IFGE) – CBG Producers Forum, Union Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri, Ministry of Petroleum and
Natural Gas (MoP&NG) stated regarding GoI’s initiative to increase the usage of biofuels in the energy and
transportation sectors via National Policy on Biofuels, 2018.

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The GoI has set a target to increase the share of gas in the energy mix up to 15 per cent in 2030 to make
India a Gas based economy.
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
FEBRUARY 2024
The Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) of Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Asian Development Bank
(ADB) has signed a USD 200 million loan agreement (Ordinary Operations) for the ‘Climate Resilient
Brahmaputra Integrated Flood and Riverbank Erosion Risk Management(FRERM) Project in Assam’.
India and Russia signed a protocol to amend the 2008 intergovernmental agreement focusing on
cooperation in constructing additional nuclear reactors at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP)
site and new Russia-designed nuclear power plants at new sites in India.
The KKNPP in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu(TN) is a joint initiative of India and Russia. This is a flagship project
of bilateral technological and energy cooperation.
JANUARY 2024
Five countries namely Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have
joined BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) bloc as their membership came into force from
January 1, 2024.
With the induction of new members, BRICS’ membership count increased to 10 from 5.
The act of inducting new members into the bloc was decided in the 15th BRICS summit under the
chairmanship of South Africa in August 2023.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Food Price Index (FFPI) December
2023 stood at 118.5 points, 1.8 points (1.5%) lower than November 2023 level (120.3) and 13.3 points (10.1%)
lower than December 2022 level (130.4).
For 2023, FFPI stood at 124.0 points, 19.7 points (13.7%) lower than the average value in 2022.
December 2023’s FAO Cereal Price Index increased by 1.8 points (1.5%) from November 2023 level but
24.2 points (16.6%) lower than December 2022 level (147.3).
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has nominated three Indian cities viz.
Indore and Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh (MP) and Udaipur in Rajasthan for the Wetland City
Accreditation (WCA) scheme under the Ramsar Convention.
These are the 1st three Indian cities to be nominated for WCA.
The WCA is a voluntary accreditation system established by the Ramsar Convention during the Conference
of the Contracting Parties (COP) 12, 2015
The World Health Organization (WHO) launched the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11),
Traditional Medicine (TM) Chapter Module 2 at the event held in India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, Delhi. ICD
11 TM module 2 includes data and terminology related to diseases based on Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani (ASU)
Systems.
The Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) in
collaboration with WHO has prepared a classification of diseases used in ASU systems under the TM-2
module of the ICD-11 series.
Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) signed an agreement with Argentina's state-owned enterprise
Catamarca Minera y Energética Sociedad del Estado (CAMYEN SE) at Catamarca, Argentina to explore and
develop 5 lithium brine blocks.
The agreement is worth about Rs. 200 crores and is the 1st-ever lithium exploration and mining project by
a Government of India-owned enterprise.
The 5 lithium brine blocks are namely Cortadera-I, Cortadera-VII, Cortadera-VIII, Cateo-2022-01810132,
and Cortadera-VI.
The NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers'
Welfare (MoA&FW), and United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) jointly launched the
' Investment Forum for Advancing Climate Resilient Agrifood Systems in India'.

AC Exam PDF
DECEMBER 2023
The Tax Inspectors Without Borders (TIWB), a joint initiative between the United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP) and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) launched a
program in Saint Lucia to strengthen its tax administration.
India, chosen as the Partner Administration, will provide Tax Experts for this 12-18 month program. This is
the 7th TIWB program for which India has supported by providing Tax Experts.
The 18th session of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s
Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage(ICH) was held from 5th
to 8th December 2023 in Kasane, Republic of Botswana.
The session was chaired by H.E. Mr Mustaq Moorad, Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of the Republic
of Botswana to UNESCO.
The session inscribed 55 new cultural practices, including India’s Garba Dance, to its Intangible
Cultural Heritage (ICH) List, in response to nominations submitted by 72 countries.
The newly inscribed 55 cultural practices include,
6 practices on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.
45 practices on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
4 on the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices. Click here to read full news
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognised Noma, also known as cancrum oris or
gangrenous stomatitis, as a neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). With the inclusion of noma, WHO’s NTD list
now has 21 diseases or groups of diseases.
ACG Associated Capsules Pvt. Ltd. (ACG Capsules), a pharmaceuticals contract manufacturer, in
Pithampur, Madhya Paradesh (MP), has joined the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Lighthouse
Network (GLN) as “Factory Lighthouse”.
Lighthouses from India:
4 Indian Companies (including ACG Capsules) are featured among the 2023 cohort.
The other 3 Indian companies are:
Renew Power Ventures Pvt Ltd (Ratlam, MP) as Factory Lighthouse
Schneider Electric India (Hyderabad, Telangana) as Sustainability Lighthouse
Hindustan Unilever (Sonepat factory in Haryana) as E2E Lighthouse
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) released the updated IUCN Red List of
Threatened Species during the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP 28) of the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) at Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The updated IUCN list includes 157,190 species, of which 44,016 are threatened with extinction.
Species Change in Status
Lake Turkana robber (Brycinus
Least Concern to Vulnerable
ferox)
Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) Least Concern to Near Threatened
Green turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Endangered to extinction
Central South Pacific
Green turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Vulnerable to extinction
East Pacific
Scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx
Extinct in the Wild to Endangered
dammah)
saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica), Critically Endangered to Near Threatened.
Big-leaf mahogany (Swietenia
Vulnerable to Endangered
macrophylla)
The World Bank has set up a task force to study the recommendations to strengthen multilateral
development banks (MDBs) made by an Independent Experts Group (IEG) constituted during India's G20
(Group 20) chairmanship.
The Independent Expert Group (IEG) was appointed under the India G20 Presidency to provide
recommendations for strengthening (MDBs)and has two co-convenors: Professor Emeritus of Harvard
University Lawrence Summers and former Chairperson of the 15th Finance Commission NK Singh.

AC Exam PDF
India’s coking coal imports are at a five-year high during the April-November period (11 months) of
fiscal year 2023-24(FY24) at 38.14 million tonnes (mt). On a year-over-year (y-o-y) basis, this represents a
slight increase compared to the 38.12 mt imported during the same period in FY23.
Australia is the dominant supplier for India, accounting for over 60% of shipments. Over the past 5 years,
Australia’s market share has decreased from 75%.
As of October 2023, the United States of America (USA) is the 2nd largest supplier of coking coal to India.
Russia is the 3rd largest supplier replacing countries such as Canada and Mozambique.
The Republic of Angola announced its decision to withdraw from OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum
Exporting Countries), with effect from January 2024, after disagreements regarding the OPEC’s production
targets. Angola has been a member of OPEC since 2007.
The 8th edition of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs (CoC) (2023) hosted by
the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) was held in Bangkok, Thailand from 19–22 December 2023.
The 8th Conclave marks the transition of IONS Chairmanship from France (2021-23) to Thailand (2023-
2025).
Note: India is scheduled to take over the Chair of IONS (2025-27) during the 9th CoC, which planned to be
conducted in India in late 2025.
NOVEMBER 2023
According to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)’s first data dashboard,
around 30.51 million hectares (Ha) of healthy land in India were degraded from 2015 to 2019.Around 9.45% of
India’s landmass was degraded as of 2019. This was 4.42% in 2015.
India’s total degraded land is equivalent to the size of 43 million football pitches.
According to the UNCCD Data, between 2015 & 2019, the world lost at least 100 million ha of healthy and
productive land every year.
Adaptation Gap Report (AGR) 2023: Underfinanced. Underprepared – Inadequate investment and
planning on climate adaptation leaves world exposed, released by United Nations Environment Programme
(UNEP), reveals a concerning slowdown in the climate adaptation efforts globally.
The report states that the climate adaptation finance flows from public multilateral like the World Bank and
bilateral sources to the developing nations declined by 15% to around USD 21 billion in 2021.
At present, the estimated global adaptation finance gap (difference between needs and actual financial
flows) is USD 194-366 billion per year.
Note: The report was released in anticipation of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) climate talks in
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), scheduled to be held from 30 November to 12 December 2023.
India became the Chair of International Sugar Organisation (ISO), apex international body on sugar and
relating products, for 2024. This was announced during the 63rd council meeting of ISO in London, United
Kingdom (UK).
Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution in the Ministry of Consumer Affairs,
Food & Public Distribution attended the meeting.
Ethanol blending percentage in India has increased from 5% in 2019-20 to 12% in Ethanol Supply Year
(ESY) 2022–23 (December 2022–October 2023).
Angkor Wat of Cambodia has become the Eighth Wonder of the World by surpassing Italy's Pompeii. The
recognition of the Eighth Wonder is an informal one bestowed upon noteworthy new structures, projects, or
designs.
Angkor Wat is an Ancient Temple Complex located in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
It was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II over a time span of 30 years.
Angkor Wat is one of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World
Heritage sites. It was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1992.
The Indian Mission to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in collaboration with Ministry of
Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) organised the ASEAN-India Millet Festival 2023 from 22nd to
26th November 2023 , in Indonesia.
Millet Festival is a part of United Nation(UN)’s International Year of Millets 2023 (IYM 2023) celebrations.

AC Exam PDF
OCTOBER 2023
A Social Security Agreement (SSA) was signed between India and Argentina to ensure professionals and
workers retain benefits and contributions made toward social security, promoting easier mobility between
countries.
This SSA covers Indian laws on old age, survivor’s pension and permanent, total disability pension for
employed persons, and includes Argentina’s contributory benefits under their Social Security System.
The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) was held at the United Nations (UN)
Headquarters in New York City, USA, from September 18 to September 26, 2023.
The world leaders, Heads of State and Governments, foreign ministers, diplomats, and representatives from
member states, often called as the ‘Oscars of Diplomacy‘, attended the annual high-level week.
India, US, Israel & UAE launch new I2U2 website & private enterprise partnership on UNGA sidelines
India, Japan agrees to strengthen economic cooperation including high-speed railway project
UN India on LOI with Bill and Melinda Gate Foundation
Click here to read full new
India has been re-elected as President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development
(AIBD) General Conference (GC) for the 3rd successive term. Previously India served as President of AIBD GC
in 2018-2021 and 2021 to 2023.
India is set to lead the international organisation and will leverage itself as the broadcasting and media hub
across the Asia Pacific.
Mayank Kumar Agrawal, Director General, Doordarshan is the president of AIBD GC.
European Union (EU) lawmakers approved new standards for companies issuing “green” bonds to help
investors by enabling them to distinguish truly sustainable companies from those engaged in greenwashing or
misleading climate-friendly claims.
These standards introduce the “European Green Bond” label, representing a first-of-its-kind global
initiative.
Europe has emerged as a global leader in the issuance of green bonds, representing over 50% of the total
volume in 2021, issuance is still only 3% to 3.5% of the overall bond market.
Sri Lanka took over as Chair of Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) for the period 2023 to 2025 during
the 23rd Council of Ministers’ (COM) meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) held in Colombo, Sri
Lanka on 11 October 2023.
Sri Lanka took over from the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, the current Chair of IORA (2021 to 2023). Sri
Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry will chair the Council, the highest decision-making body of the IORA.
India assumed the Vice–Chair role of IORA for 2023–25. India is set to take over the chairship of IORA
during 2025-27.
The 23rd COM Meeting of IORA was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka hosted by the Government of Sri Lanka. The
meeting was held under the theme “Strengthening Regional Architecture: Reinforcing Indian Ocean
Identity”.
The COM adopted the Colombo Communique and the ‘IORA Vision 2030 and Beyond’, among other IORA
related documents.
India, Sri Lanka launch logo celebrating 75 Years of diplomatic ties.
Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Climate Week 2023, took place from 8-12 October in Riyadh,
Saudi Arabia. It is the 2nd of four Regional Climate Weeks held in 2023 and the event hosted by the
government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. MENA Climate Week is particularly significant as it precedes
COP28, the UN Climate Change Conference scheduled to take place in Dubai on November 2023.
It is organized by key international organizations, including the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change (UNFCCC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP), and the World Bank.
India, Saudi Arabia sign MoU in the fields of Electrical Interconnections, Green and Clean Hydrogen and
Supply Chains.
The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) announced the
launch of the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Company. click here for more detail

AC Exam PDF
According to the “International Migration Outlook: 2023” published by the Organisation for Economic
Co-operation and Development (OECD), for the 2nd consecutive year, India has retained its position as the
top country of origin for new migrants to the member countries of OECD in 2021.
China is ranked 2nd with 227,000 new migrants followed by Romania (215,000); Ukraine (189,000); and
Germany (119,000).
Competition Commission of India (CCI) secures membership in the International Competition Network
(ICN) Steering Group at the 22nd Annual Conference of the ICN, hosted by the Spanish National Markets and
Competition Commission (CNMC) in Barcelona, Spain from 18th to 20th October 2023. This is the 1st time that
CCI has become a member of the ICN’s apex body, a Steering Group and the membership is for 2 years.
India and the European Union(EU) conducted their first joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Guinea on
24th October 2023. The exercise was designed to uphold the United Nations Convention on the Law of the
Sea (UNCLOS).
The exercise involved the Indian Navy's Offshore Patrol Vessel Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sumedha
Ships of 3 EU member states(Italy, France and Spain) also participated the exercise. They are:
Italian Ship Foscari - Italian Navy
French Ship(FS) Ventôse - French Navy
Spanish Ship Tornado - Spanish Navy.
United Nations (UN) Secretary-General (SG) António Guterres revealed the formation of a 39-
member High-Level Multistakeholder Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in New York, the United
The list featured 3 Indian technology experts namely Amandeep Singh Gill, UN SG’s Envoy on Technology(since
2022); Nazneen Rajani, Lead Researcher at Hugging Face; and Sharad Sharma, Co-founder of iSPIRT
Foundation.
VISITS
INDIAN VISITS
FEBRUARY 2024
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi visited Odisha and Assam on 3rd February to 4th February, 2024
and laid the foundation stone and inaugurated several projects.
During his visit to Odisha on 3rd February,2024, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for
various infrastructure projects worth over Rs 68,000 crore in Sambalpur, Odisha.
PM Modi laid the foundation stone of 1st phase of Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLCIL)
Talabira Thermal Power Project.
PM Modi inaugurated 412 km- long Dhamra-Angul Pipeline section of the Jagdishpur-Haldia and Bokaro-
Dhamra (JHBDPL) pipeline project. Click here to read full News
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi visited Goa and inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for
various projects worth over Rs 1330 crores during the Viksit Bharat-Viksit Goa 2047 programme.
PM Modi virtually inaugurated the permanent campus of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Goa in
Cuncolim, South Goa, Goa.
PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the 2nd edition of India Energy Week(IEW 2024) in Goa.
PM inaugurated and dedicated to the nation, a new campus of the National Institute of Watersports in Goa.
PM inaugurated a 100 TPD (Tonnes Per Day) Integrated Waste Management Facility in South Goa. Click
here to read full News
JANUARY 2024
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi visited Tamil Nadu (TN), Lakshadweep and Kerala from 2nd to 3rd
January 2024.
PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth more than Rs
20,000 crores in the Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) district of Tamil Nadu.

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PM inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth Rs 1150 crore at
Kavaratti Island in Lakshadweep on 3rd January 2024.
PM Modi held a mega roadshow in Thrissur during his visit to Kerala. He also addressed the Bharatiya
Janata Party’s women’s conference “Sthree Shakti Modikkoppam” held at Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur,
Kerala.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh for the inauguration and launch of
various initiatives and events as follows:
PM Laid the Foundation Stone of Development Projects Worth Over Rs 15,700 Crore in Ayodhya and other
parts of Uttar Pradesh
PM Inaugurated Redeveloped Ayodhya Railway Station, Flags off Two Amrit Bharat and Six Vande Bharat
Trains.
The Amrit Bharat Express runs from Darbhanga-Ayodhya - Anand Vihar Terminal, and Malda Town - Sir M.
Visvesvaraya Terminus (Bengaluru, Karnataka)
PM Inaugurated Maharishi Valmiki International Airport
Ram Idol Carved by Sculptor Arun Yogiraj Selected for Ayodhya's Ram Temple.
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi was on an official visit to Maharashtra on January 12, 2024.
During his visit, PM Modi inaugurated Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu in Navi Mumbai,
Maharashtra. This 21.8 km long 6-lane bridge becomes the longest bridge and the longest sea bridge in
India.
PM Modi inaugurated Bharat Ratnam which is a Mega Common Facilitation Center (CFC) for the gems and
jewellery sector at Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone- Special Economic Zone (SEEPZ- SEZ) in
Mumbai.
PM Modi launched the Nari Shakti Doot mobile application. The app is the brainchild of Aditi Thakre,
Minister for Women and Child Development, Maharashtra.
PM Modi launched Namo Mahila Shashaktikaran Abhiyan to boost women empowerment in Maharashtra
by providing skill development training and exposure to entrepreneurship development.
PM Modi inaugurated the 27th National Youth Festival organised as a part of the National Youth Day 2024
(12th January 2024) in Nashik, Maharashtra.
Prime Minister(PM) Shri Narendra Modi Visited Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu on 19th
January 2024 and inaugurated various projects including
8 AMRUT Projects Worth Around Rs. 2,000 Crores in Solapur, Maharashtra
PM inaugurated the new State-of-the-art Boeing India Engineering & Technology Centre (BIETC) campus in
Bengaluru, Karnataka with an investment of Rs. 1600 crore on 43-acre of land.
PM Modi was the Chief Guest for the opening ceremony of the 6th Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2023
held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This is the first time that Khelo India Youth
Games are being held in South India.
Mascot for the games is Veera Mangai inspired by Rani Velu Nachiyar who waged a war against British
colonial rule Click here to read full News
DECEMBER 2023
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi visited Surat, Gujarat and Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh(UP) from 17th
to 18th December 2023. During his 2 day visit, he inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for several
development projects in both Gujarat and UP.
PM Modi inaugurated the state-of-the-art New Integrated Terminal Building (NITB) of Surat International
Airport in Surat, Gujarat.
PM Modi inaugurated the Surat Diamond Bourse(SDB), the World’s largest and most modern centre for
international diamond and jewellery business.
PM Modi inaugurated the 2nd phase of Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2023 at Namo Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
PM Modi laid the foundation stone and dedicated various development projects worth Rs 19,150 crore in
Varanasi, UP.
PM Modi inaugurated Swarved Mahamandir, the world’s largest meditation centre in Umaraha, Varanasi,
Uttar Pradesh.

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NOVEMBER 2023
Prime Minister (PM) of India, Narendra Modi inaugurated and dedicated various development projects
worth around Rs7500 crore in Shirdi, Maharashtra on 26th October, 2023.He also inaugurated the 37th
National Games which were scheduled to hold in Panaji, Goa.
PM launched “Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana”
PM Modi Dedicates Left Bank Canal Network of Nilwande Dam
Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister of Finance, was on a three-day official visit to Sri Lanka from 1st to
3rd November 2023.
During her visit,
Addressed the ‘NAAM 200’ organised to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the arrival of India-
origin Tamils (IOTs) to Sri Lanka.
She inaugurated two State Bank of India (SBI) branches in Sri Lanka.
Addressed the India-Sri Lanka Business Summit at Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Union Finance Minister of India witnessed the exchange of the Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) for Solar Electrification of Religious Places in Sri Lanka. India will allocate Rs 82.40 crores
out of the Government of India (GoI) grant assistance of Rs 107.47 crore for the promotion of
Buddhist sites.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education (MoE) and Ministry of Skill Development
and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) made 3-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from November 1-3, 2023.
The primary objective of the visit was to reinforce both nations’ educational and skill development systems,
ensuring mutual benefits and growth.
India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have expanded their educational cooperation by signing a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation) International has signed an agreement with We One, a
subsidiary of DP World, a Dubai-based multinational logistics company to support the skill development
and employment opportunities for the front-line workforce.
NSDC and EFS Facilities Services Group, a UAE-based Facilities Management Firm, have entered into a MoU
to facilitate Skilled International Workforce Mobility (IWM) for Indian nationals, with a specific emphasis
on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries…Click here for more detail…
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi paid a 2-day visit to Jharkhand from 15th to 16th November 2023.
During his visit, PM Modi participated in the event organised to mark Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, 2023 in Khunti,
Jharkhand.
Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, also known as Tribal Pride Day, is annually observed across India on 15th
November to commemorate the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, an iconic freedom fighter.
PM Modi laid the foundation stone for development projects worth Rs 7,200 crores in various sectors like
rail, road, education, coal, petroleum, and natural gas. These projects aim to enhance infrastructure and
services in Jharkhand.
During the 3rd Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, PM Modi digitally released the 15th instalment of the Pradhan
Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme.
PM Modi launched two significant initiatives, namely the ‘Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra‘ and the ‘PM Janjati
Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN)’ from Jharkhand….Click here for more detail…
Droupadi Murmu, President of India, was on an official visit to Odisha and Andhra Pradesh (AP) from
November 20 to 22, 2023. During her visit,
She inaugurated the New Eklavya Model Residential School(EMRS) at Kuliana, Odisha.
She flagged off three new trains from Badampahar Railway Station.
She launched the Education Campaign “New Education for New India” of Brahma Kumaris in Odisha.
Attended Convocation of Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology, Odisha & Sri Sathya Sai Institute, AP.
OCTOBER 2023
Prime Minister (PM) of India Narendra Modi visited Madhya Pradesh (MP) and Rajasthan.

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In Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, He laid the foundation stone and dedicated various development projects worth
about Rs 7000 crore.
In Gwalior, MP, He laid the foundation stone and dedicated multiple development initiatives worth around
Rs 19,260 crores.
PM Modi Inaugurates Atal Bihari Training Center - India's 1st High-Tech Training Center for Divyangjan
Sports
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Telangana on the 1st and 3rd of October 2023.
He laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple developmental projects worth more
than Rs 13,500 crore in Mahbubnagar, Telangana.
On 3rd October 2023, he laid the foundation stone and dedicated various development projects worth Rs
8000 crores in Nizamabad, Telangana.
PM Modi visited Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and launched multiple development projects on October 5,
2023.PM Dedicates and Lays Foundation for Rs 5000 Crore Projects in Rajasthan. PM Inaugurates and Lays
Foundation for Development Projects Worth Over Rs 12,600 Crore Madhya Pradesh.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple projects in
Jodhpur, Rajasthan, with a total estimated value of around Rs 5000 crores. These projects span various
sectors, including healthcare, education, transportation, and infrastructure. Prime Minister performed the
‘bhoomi poojan’ for the ‘Veerangana Rani Durgavati Smarak aur Udyaan’ in Jabalpur to mark the 500th birth
anniversary of Veerangana Rani Durgavati, a commemorative coin and stamp were released.
The Prime Minister inaugurated more than 1000 houses constructed under the Light House Project in
Indore, part of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U)…Click here more detail…
FOREIGN VISIT
FEBRUARY 2024
Emmanuel Macron, President of France, paid a State Visit to India as the Chief Guest for the 75th
Republic Day of India at the invitation of Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India.
His two-day visit from 25th to 26th January 2024 marks his 2nd state visit to India. He arrived in Jaipur,
Rajasthan on 25th January 2024.
This is also the 6th visit by a French leader as Guest of honour for India’s Republic Day.
PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron adopted the Roadmap for Defence Industrial Partnership
for collaboration in co-design, co-development and co-production of military hardware and space
cooperation.
Airbus & TATA Advanced Systems Limited Signed MoU to set up 1st private FAL for Helicopter
India and France agreed to intensify cooperation in Southwest Indian Ocean region. Click here to read full
News
JANUARY 2024
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar was on a 5-day visit to Russia from 25-29 December 2023 as
a part of the ongoing high-level exchanges between India and Russia.
EAM Signed Documents on Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plants
India and Russia Sign Protocol on Consultations for the Next Four Years to make progress in economic
cooperation, energy trade, connectivity, military-technical cooperation, and people-to-people exchange.
Union Minister Subrahmanyam (S.) Jaishankar, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) was on an official
visit to Iran to hold discussions on bilateral, regional and global issues with Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian,
Foreign Minister of Iran in Tehran.

AC Exam PDF
India and Iran signs agreement on development of Chabahar Port, it will valid for 10 years and will be
automatically extended.
India also announced its decision to include Persian (Farsi) under the New Education Policy (NEP), 2020 of
India. With this, it will become 9th classical language of India.
DECEMBER 2023
The President of the Republic of Kenya, William Samoei Ruto was on an official visit to India from
December 4 to 6, 2023 at the invitation of the President of India. This marks Ruto’s 1st visit to India as
President representing Kenya.
India announced USD 250 million Line of Credit (LOC) to Kenya to modernize its agri-sector.
India and Kenya have signed 5 MoUs in various sectors such as: sports, education, culture and digital
solutions.
India and Kenya unveiled a blueprint on” Joint Vision Statement on Maritime Cooperation in the Indian
Ocean Region- BAHARI (Ocean in Swahili)”.
NOVEMBER 2023
Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public
Distribution and Textiles was on Four-day official visit to San Francisco,United States (U.S) from November
13-16, 2023.
His visit includes various official engagements of Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and Asia-Pacific
Economic Cooperation (APEC).
The MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) was signed between India and The U.S. during the roundtable
titled “Decoding the “Innovation Handshake:U.S.-India Entrepreneurship Partnership” in San
Francisco ,U.S.
IPEF Supply Chain Agreement signed by 14 IPEF Partner Countries
The U.S. hosted the 30th APEC Leaders’ Summit which held in San Francisco. Apart from 21-member
countries of APEC, India attended the summit as Guest Economy. Piyush Goyal. Minister of Commerce and
Industry represented India at the summit.
OCTOBER 2023
From October 9-12, 2023, India’s Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defence (MoD) was on an
official visit to Rome, Italy and Paris, France.
India-Italy signed agreement on Defence cooperation
On October 11, 2023, Union Minister Rajnath Singh conducted the 5th Annual Defence Dialogue with
French Minister of Armed Forces Mr Sebastien Lecornu in Paris.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania visited India from October 8-10, 2023. She was accompanied
by a high-level delegation including the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Hon. January
Makamba (MP).
The two countries inked six agreements providing for cooperation in the digital domain, culture, sports,
maritime industries and white shipping information sharing.
The Reserve Bank of India has allowed authorized banks to open Special Rupee Vostro Accounts (SRVA) for
correspondent banks of Tanzania to facilitate transactions in local currencies (i.e., Indian Rupee and
Tanzanian Shilling).
Tanzania’s President Hassan Granted Honorary Doctorate by JNU, the First Woman to Receive This Honour.
click here for more detail

AC Exam PDF
COMMITTEES
COMMITTEES FORMED
Name of the Committee Head Facts about the Committee
FEBRUARY 2024
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JANUARY 2024
Ministry of New & Renewable - The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy
Energy (MNRE)’s Dispute (MNRE) has set up a 3-member Dispute
Resolution Committee (DRC) Resolution Committee (DRC) to resolve
"unforeseen disputes" between Renewable
Energy (solar and wind) Power developers,
Engineering, Procurement, and Construction
(EPC) contractors, and Renewable Energy
Implementing Agencies (REIAs).
Members of the committee: Rajesh
Bhushan, Former Health Secretary; M F
Farooqui, Former Telecom Secretary; and
Kumar Alok, Former Chief Secretary of
Tripura.
Ministry of Heavy Industries Hanif Qureshi The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has
(MHI)’s committee constituted a committee to examine the
demand for including more components in
the Production Linked Incentive (PLI)
Scheme for Automobile and Auto Component
Industry (PLI-AUTO).
Chairman- Hanif Qureshi, Additional
Secretary in MHI
Advisor- Industry veteran Pawan Goenka,
former Managing Director(MD) of
Mahindra & Mahindra(M&M).
The government of India (GoI)’s Rajiv Gauba The government of India (GoI) has formed a
high-level Committee high-level Committee to examine
administrative measures aimed at protecting
the interests of the most disadvantaged
groups within the Scheduled Caste (SC), like
Madigas.
The committee was constituted under the
direction of Prime Minister(PM)
Narendra Modi, with Rajiv Gauba, the
Cabinet Secretary as its Chairman.
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AC Exam PDF
MEETING
FEBRUARY 2024
Giridhar Aramane, Secretary, Ministry of Defence (MoD), India and Dr Mohammed Bin Naseer Bin Ali Al
Zaabi, Secretary-General, MoD, Oman co-chaired the 12th Joint Military Cooperation Committee (JMCC)
meeting held in Muscat, Oman on 31st January 2024.
India and Oman signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the procurement of Defence
Material and Equipment which will provide a framework for new areas of defence collaboration.
The 193rd Meeting of Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) was held in New Delhi, Delhi under
the chairmanship of Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoLE), and
Chairman of ESIC.
During the meeting, ESIC approved the proposal to provide Medical Benefit for insured superannuating
workers leaving the ESI Scheme due to exceeding the wage ceiling, if the worker was under insurable
employment for at least 5 years before superannuation/voluntary retirement.
During the meeting, Union Minister also released the book on HR (Human Resource) Norms of the ESIC.
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NOVEMBER 2023
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) under the Department of Defence Production (DDP),
Ministry of Defence (MoD), Government of India and the United States Department of Defence (USDoD),
Government of the United States of America(USA) organized the 1st India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem
(INDUS X) Investors Meet on 8 November 2023 in New Delhi, Delhi.
The first-ever INDUS-X Investors Event generated the interest of investors in the start-ups and Micro, Small,
and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in the defense sector.
5th edition of 'Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue 2023” (IPRD-2023)was held from November 15-17, 2023,
the three-day annual apex-level regional strategic dialogue of the Indian Navy (IN), was held in New Delhi ,
Delhi, with the theme ‘Geopolitical Impacts upon Indo-Pacific Maritime Trade and Connectivity’.
IPRD-2023 Saw Signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by National Maritime Foundation (NMF)
The Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar released a book entitled ‘Building Partnerships – India and
International Cooperation for Maritime Security’ published by NMF.
Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman released an edited volume entitled ‘Maritime Perspectives: Maritime
Security Dynamics in the Indo-Pacific: Strategies and Trends’ published by NMF.
OCTOBER 2023
The fourth and last gathering of G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) during
India’s presidency occurred in Marrakech, Morocco, from October 12 to 13, 2023.
This meeting coincided with the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World
Bank Group (WBG).
G20 FMCBGs adopt Communiqué at fourth and final G20 FMCBG meeting under Indian G20 Presidency.
G20 FMCBG Communique Embraces G20 Independent Expert Group (IEG) Report on Multilateral
Development Banks (MDBs) Strengthening.
FMCBG adopted a roadmap proposed in the Synthesis Paper, designating it as the G20 Roadmap on Crypto
Assets.

AC Exam PDF
SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE

FEBRUARY 2024
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JANUARY 2024
The Gujarat government signed 41,299 Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) for investment
intentions on the 10th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS) 2024, with a value of Rs. 26.33 lakh
crore, at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar, Gujarat from January 10th to 12th, 2024.
The theme of this year’s summit is ‘Gateway to the Future’
Launched commemorative Coin of Rs 20, to honour the first Vibrant Gujarat-2024 Summit of Amrit Kaal.A
Commemorative Stamp marking the successful completion of 20 years of the vibrant Gujarat Global
Summit.Click here to read full news
Union Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) led the Indian
delegation at the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Heads of State and Government Summit held in Speke
Resort Convention Center, Munyonyo in Kampala, Uganda, on 19-20 January 2024.
During the summit, Uganda assumed the NAM chairmanship for 2024-2027. Uganda took over the
leadership from Azerbaijan (2019-2023).
President of Uganda Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was elected as the chair of the 19th NAM Summit and took
over from H.E Ilham Aliyev, the President of Azerbaijan.
V.Muraleedharan, Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs represented India and addressed at the
Plenary session of the Group of 77 +China (G-77+China) Third South Summit, held in Kampala, Uganda on 21-
23 January 2024. He emphasised the pivotal role of the Global South as the world's "future growth engine."
The theme of (G-77+China) Third South Summit was, "Leaving No One Behind." The third South Summit
was hosted by the Republic of Uganda, under the Chairmanship of H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
For the year 2024, the Republic of Uganda holds the Chairmanship of the G-77 in New York, United States of
America (USA). Cuba held the chairmanship of the G-77 in 2023.
The 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum(WEF), also known as “Davos Summit 2024” was
held at Swiss Alpine School, Davos in Switzerland from 15th to 19th January 2024. The theme of 2024 summit
is “Rebuilding Trust.
India in partnership with WEF launched the “Global Good Alliance for Gender Equity and Equality”.
Union Minister Smriti Irani announced the establishment of the Business 20 (B20) Global Institute. This
is in line with efforts towards India’s commitment during G20 summit held in New Delhi, Delhi in 2023.
Dinesh, President of CII and Charanjit Banerjee, DG of CII launched “CII India Business Hub” in Davos,
Switzerland. this will act as forum to facilitate discussions on the growth of the Indian economy. Click here
to read full News
DECEMBER 2023
The 28th edition of Conference of Parties (COP) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) held in Dubai, UAE (United Arabs of Emirates). The annual climate summit was held from November
30, 2023 to December12, 2023.
Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and UAE Special Envoy for Climate
Changes served as President of COP28.
As per the 18th annual report card on the state of the Global Carbon Budget 2023 by the Global Carbon
Project (GCP), the Global emissions of fossil carbon dioxide (CO₂) will increase by 1.1% in 2023.
WMO (World Meteorological Organisation) released the provisional state of the Global Climate Report at
the 28th COP meeting in Dubai, UAE.
COP28 Approves “Loss and Damage” Fund worth USD 260 Million.
UAE Unveils World’s largest single-site Solar Power Plant.

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7th edition of Yearbook of Global Climate Action released at UNFCCC COP28 in Dubai, UAE. Click here for
more detail (Part 1) and Part 2.
NOVEMBER 2023
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs organized 16th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference &
Exhibition 2023 in collaboration with the Institute of Urban Transport (India) and with the support of Delhi
Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. The event took place at the Manekshaw Centre, Parade Road, Delhi Cantt, New
Delhi, Delhi.
Inaugurated by: Shri Hardeep Singh Puri. (Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs and Petroleum and Natural
Gas)
Theme: Integrated and Resilient Urban Transport
Awards were presented to state/city authorities for their outstanding urban transport projects in various
categories…Click here for more detail….
The United Kingdom (UK) Government hosted the world’s 1st global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Safety
Summit at Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire (UK) on November 1-2, 2023. This 2-day summit brought
together Ministers and representatives from various countries, including the UK, the United States of America
(USA), India, among others.
The Summit also witnessed the signing of the Bletchley Declaration by 28 countries and the launching of
the world’s 1st AI Safety Institute.
During the AI Safety Summit 2023, UK Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak launched the world’s 1st AI Safety
Institute in the UK to examine, evaluate, and test new types of AI.
The Government of West Bengal organized the 7 edition of Bengal Global Business Summit which was
th
held from November21 to 22, 2023 in Kolkata, West Bengal. During the 7th edition of Bengal Global Business
summit, Mamta Bannerjee (Chief Minister, West Bengal) announced that West Bengal attracted investment
worth Rs3.76 Lakh crore which includes signing of 188 MoUs and Letter of Intent (LoI) in different sectors.
Reliance Industries pledge to invest Rs20000 crore in West Bengal.
Sanjiv Puri (Chairman, ITC) launched the ITCMAARS (Metamarket for Advanced Agriculture and Rural
Services) app at the Bengal Global Business Summit in Kolkata, West Bengal.
National Stock Exchange (NSE) signed a MoU with the Government of West Bengal in Kolkata, West Bengal.
World Trade Centre (WTC)-NDITA has signed a MoU with the World Trade Centres of Mumbai, Bengaluru,
Chennai, Kochi and Noida at the Urban Infrastructure Session at Bengal Global Business Summit 2023.
Department of Transport, West Bengal signed a MoU with Uber to launch Uber Shuttle bus services.
West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation (WBIDC) has signed a MoU with Amazon India at the 7th
edition of Bengal Global Business Summit…Click here for more detail….
OCTOBER 2023
The 9th Group20 (G20) Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit (P20) was held at the India International
Convention and Expo Centre (IICC) – Yashobhoomi at Dwarka, New Delhi, Delhi from 13th to 14th October
2023.
This was the first P20 summit hosted by India in cooperation with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).
The theme of the forum was ‘Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future’. The theme was inspired
from the ancient Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ which means ‘The World is one Family’.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the 3rd edition of the Global Maritime India
Summit (GMIS) 2023 held form October 17 to 19, 2023 at the MMRDA Grounds in Mumbai.
During the event, the Prime Minister unveiled “Amrit Kaal Vision 2047—blueprint for Indian Maritime blue
economy.” This visionary blueprint sets the stage for various maritime projects worth over Rs 23,000
crores.
Hosted by: Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways and draws participants from over 70 countries.
Organisers
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
Indian Ports Association
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)

AC Exam PDF
PM Modi laid the foundation for multiple projects, aiming to unlock ₹80 lakh crores of investment for
maritime sector development.
The GMIS 2023 saw the signing of 360 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with investment
commitments totaling ₹8.35 lakh crores. Additionally, there were announcements of investible projects
worth ₹1.68 lakh crores
The summit’s inaugural day witnessed the laying of the foundation stones for 21 projects worth INR18,800
crores.
These projects include:
The Haridaspur-Paradip Rail Line, a project worth Rs 3,200 crore, aimed at reducing congestion and
benefiting the people of Kendrapara.
The fifth oil berth at the Marine Oil Terminal in Jawahar Dweep, a project worth Rs 1,046 crore,
designed to improve ship turnaround time and accommodate larger vessels.
The development of a special economic zone at the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) with a
value of Rs 565 crore. With an additional investment of Rs 4,000 crore, the project is expected to
create 57,000 direct jobs.
DP World, a global logistics operator, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) signed a significant
MoU valued at ₹20,000 crore and is intended for the development of the Vadhvan port, a highly anticipated
project located north of Mumbai along the Arabian coast.
MOU’s & AGREEMENTS

MOU'S WITH OTHER COUNTRY
MoU between Field
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India and United Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made a two day visit to the United
Kingdom (UK) Kingdom (U.K) on 9 & 10 January 2024 and held the bilateral meeting with his
British Counterpart Grant Shapps. The visit also saw signing of LoA and MoU by
both the countries.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between India and
U.K. on conduct of bilateral international cadet exchange programme.
Letter of Arrangement was signed between Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO), India and Defence Science and
Technology Laboratory (DSTL), U.K. on defence collaboration in
Research and Development (R&D).
India and Denmark Denmark has launched “Green Fuels Alliance India” (GFAI), an initiative to
boost collaborative efforts between India and Denmark in the sustainable
energy solutions sector, at the Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet (GIM) 2024,
Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
The initiative will play a pivotal role in advancing the green fuels sector
which includes green hydrogen by fostering innovation, collaboration, and
partnerships between Danish industries and their counterparts in India.

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India has set the target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2070. Denmark
has topped the global Climate Performance Index (2024) and is on the
path to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
India & Cuba MeitY signed an MoU with the Ministry of Communications of the Republic of
Cuba, to foster cooperation in the field of sharing successful digital solutions
implemented at a population scale for digital transformation.
The MoU focuses on promoting digital transformation (INDIA STACK)
through Capacity Building Programs, Exchange of Best Practices, and
other collaborative activities to mutually benefit the digital ecosystems
of India and Cuba.
DECEMBER 2023
China and Egypt China and Egypt have signed two cooperation documents in space exploration
to boost deep space exploration, spacecraft development and construction of
space infrastructure. The 2 documents were,
A MoU between the government of China and Egypt on space cooperation
and peaceful use of outer space.
A cooperation agreement between the China National Space Administration
(CNSA) and the Egyptian Space Agency (EGSA) on the International Lunar
Research Station (ILRS).
NOVEMBER 2023
India & France Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) under
the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of
India, and Ministry of Public Sector Transformation & the Civil Service of the
French Republic have signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) for Cooperation in the field
of Public Administration and Administrative Reforms for 3 years.
India and Netherlands India and Netherlands signed a Memorandum of Intent (MoI) for cooperation
on medical product regulation and enhance the quality of medical products and
health care services for both the nations, at the Hague, Netherlands.
The MoI was signed during the meeting between Bhagwant Khuba, Minister
of State (MoS), Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers (MoC&F) of India and
Ernst Kuipers, Minister of Health, Welfare and Sports of Netherlands.
During his visit, Bhagwant Khuba, MoS, MoC&F led Indian delegation to
participate in the 2nd World Local Production Forum (WLPF 2023) held in
the Hague, from 6th to 8th November 2023.
India and Italy Dr. S Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) has signed two
agreements with the Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign
Affairs Antonio Tajani to boost youth mobility & cultural exchange during his
two-day visit to Italy on 2nd-3rd November 2023.
Signed Agreements:
The Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement to enable seamless
movement of workers, students and professionals.
The Executive Programme on Cultural Cooperation (EPCC) agreement
for the period 2023-27.
OCTOBER 2023
India and Dominican India and Dominican Republic have signed two Memorandum of
Republic Understandings (MoUs) in ocean sciences and medical product regulation.
The 2 MoUs were signed between,

AC Exam PDF
Central Drug Control Organization of India (CDSCO) and the General

Directorate of Medicines, Food, and Health Products of the Dominican
Republic (DIGEMAPS).
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, National Institute of
Oceanography of India (CSIR-NIO) and the National Authority for Maritime
Affairs of the Dominican Republic (ANAMAR).
United Arab Emirates The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India have signed an MoU during the 11th
(UAE) and India India-UAE high-level joint task force on investments in Abu Dhabi, the capital of
United Arab Emirates (UAE). India and the UAE have signed an MoU in seven
areas such as supply chain resilience, renewable energy and energy efficiency,
health and life sciences, space systems, AI, Industry 4.0 and advanced
technologies, as well as standardisation and metrology.
These MoUs align with the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic
Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which aims to strengthen the UAE’s role as
a trade and logistics hub.
NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) and Al Etihad Payments (AEP)
entered into an agreement to implement a Domestic Card Scheme (DCS) in
the UAE.
The 11th High-Level Joint Task Force Meeting between the UAE and India
focused on reviewing the progress made on the CEPA and discussed various
aspects of bilateral economic cooperation.
MOU’S WITH STATE

State MoU with Field/Purpose
FEBRUARY 2024
Karnataka govern Wistron Corporation The Karnataka government and Taiwan-based Wistron
ment Corporation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
to set up a 1st-of-its-kind laptop manufacturing plant near
Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Maharashtra Google The Maharashtra government signed a Memorandum of
government Understanding (MoU) with search engine giant Google to
utilise innovative and scalable Artificial Intelligence (AI)-led
solutions across sectors including agriculture, healthcare,
education, etc.
This is the First ever collaboration in India, an MoU for AI
CoE, powered by Google.
Google renamed its free version of the generative AI
chatbot Bard as Gemini and launched Gemini Advanced,
the subscription tier of its powerful AI model. Gemini
Advanced is a premium service (with Ultra) that uses the
most powerful version of the Gemini model.
JANUARY 2024
Gujarat Power Finance PFC has signed an MoU worth Rs 25,000 crore with the
Corporation Limited Government of Gujarat in Gandhinagar to provide financial
(PFC) backing for power generation, transmission, and distribution
projects.
Madhya Pradesh Ministry of Jal Shakti Madhya Pradesh (MP), Rajasthan, and Ministry of Jal Shakti
(MP), Rajasthan, (MoJS) (MoJS), Government of India (GoI) has signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) for implementation of the “Modified

AC Exam PDF
PKC-ERCP” (Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal with Eastern

Rajasthan Canal Project) Link Project.
The Chambal River flows through three different states:
Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
The Parbati River originates from the Vindhyanchal ranges
near Astha in the Sehore district of MP.
The River Kalisindh is a principal tributary of the Chambal. It
originates near Bagli village in the Dewas district of M.P. and
joins the river Chambal in the Kota district of Rajasthan.
DECEMBER 2023
Gujarat Housing and Urban The HUDCO, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding
Development (MoU) with Government of Gujarat to invest up to Rs 14,500
Corporation Limited crore to boost the overall development of Gujarat by financing
(HUDCO) various housing and urban infrastructure projects.
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MOU’S BETWEEN ORGANIZATIONS

Organization MoU with Field/Purpose
FEBRUARY 2024
National Rural BRAC International National Rural Livelihood Promotion Society (NRLPS), an
Livelihood autonomous body under the Ministry of Rural Development
Promotion Society (MoRD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
(NRLPS) BRAC International, for the inclusion of the poorest of the poor
under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural
Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)
Warehousing Punjab & Sind Bank Warehousing Development Regulatory Authority (WDRA) has
Development (PSB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Punjab
Regulatory & Sind Bank (PSB) to facilitate low-interest rate loans to
farmers and traders.
Authority (WDRA)
The MoU aims to raise awareness and encourage funding
against electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (e-
NWRs) to improve agricultural pledge finance in India. As
per the MoU, PSB will offer low-interest loans against e-
NWRs with no requirement for collateral.
Farmers can avail loans of up to Rs 75 lakh, while
borrowers from other categories can access loans of up to
Rs 5 crore under the agriculture sector.
JANUARY 2024
REC Limited Rail Vikas Nigam REC Limited (formerly Rural Electrification Corporation
Limited (RVNL) Limited) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) to finance up to Rs 35,000
crore for multi-modal infrastructure projects to be executed
by RVNL over the next 5 years.

AC Exam PDF
These projects will include multi-modal logistics hub projects,

rail infrastructure projects, and road, port, and metro projects
where RVNL is venturing into.
National Highways National Remote NHAI signed an MoU with the NRSC, one of the primary
Authority of India Sensing Centre centres of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), for
(NHAI) (NRSC) 3 years to develop and report a “Green Cover Index” for the
vast National Highways network in India.
Quality Council of Khadi and Village The Quality Council of India (QCI) and the Khadi and Village
India (QCI) Industries Industries Commission (KVIC) signed an MoU at Kochrab
Commission (KVIC Ashram in Ahmedabad (Gujarat) to improve the quality of
Khadi products, introduce Made-in-India label for khadi, and
empower khadi artisans.
Indian Railways Confederation of IR and CII have signed the MoU to reduce energy and water
(IR) Indian Industry (CII) consumption and lowering greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The MoU been renewed for the 3rd consecutive time since
2016.
This renewed MoU with CII-Green Business Centre (GBC) aims
to achieve IR’s target of Net Zero Carbon Emission by 2030.
Coal India Limited National Skill Coal India Limited (CIL) and the National Skill Development
(CIL) Development Corporation (NSDC) have signed a Memorandum of
Corporation (NSDC) Understanding (MoU) to establish Multi Skill Development
Institutes (MSDIs) in each subsidiary companies of CIL.
Note: CIL is a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking (PSU)
under the Ministry of Coal and NSDC is a not-for-profit
public limited company set up by the Ministry of Finance
as Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
CIL signed a MoU with EdCIL (India) Limited to digitise
education in 11 districts of Jharkhand. The MoU was signed as
a part of CIL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Indian Coast Guard Steel Authority of ICG and the SAIL have signed an MoU to enhance the
(ICG) India Limited (SAIL) Indigenous Content (IC) in the ship of ICG in New Delhi, Delhi.
As per the MoU, SAIL will supply indigenous marine-grade
steel to Indian shipyards, for ICG Ships.
India Post Hindustan Zinc India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) and Hindustan Zinc Limited
Payments Bank Limited (HZL) (HZL) have signed an MoU to transform the financial
(IPPB) landscape of rural Rajasthan.
The MoU aims to provide financial inclusion services to
the beneficiaries of HZL’s Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR) activities.
Note: IPPB is a 100% government owned entity under the
Department of Posts, Ministry of Communication (MoC). HZL
is a subsidiary of Vedanta Limited
NITI Aayog World Food NITI Aayog and WFP launched a compendium featuring the
Programme (WFP) field stories showcasing the use of millets in Asian and African
countries, including India, in New Delhi, Delhi.
The launch also marks the successful completion of
Mapping and Exchange of Good Practices (MEGP)
Initiative for Millets Mainstreaming in Asia and Africa.

AC Exam PDF
Note: MEGP, started in July 2022, is a joint initiative of NITI

Aayog and WFP.
National Farmers’ Wadhwani A tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed
Welfare Foundation between the National Farmers’ Welfare Programme
Programme Implementation Society (NFWPIS), IndiaAI under Digital India
Implementation Corporation(DIC), and the Wadhwani Foundation to
Society (NFWPIS), accelerate the Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven
IndiaAI transformation in the agriculture sector.
Deendayal Lady Irwin College, Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood
Antyodaya Yojana University of Delhi Mission (DAY-NRLM), the Ministry of Rural Development
– National Rural (MoRD), and Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi in New
Livelihood Mission Delhi, Delhi renewed a 5-year Memorandum of Understanding
(DAY-NRLM) (MoU) for ROSHNI – Centre of Women Collectives led Social
Action (CWCSA).
The partnership aims to strengthen nutrition, gender equity,
and livelihoods for women. It is technically and financially
supported by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
India.
REC Limited National Investment REC Limited (formerly Rural Electrification Corporation
and Infrastructure Limited) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
Fund Limited (NIIFL) with the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited
(NIIFL) to boost renewable energy and infrastructure
financing in India.
Under this MoU, REC and NIIFL will work together on funding
solutions for renewable energy and large-scale infrastructure
projects in India.
DECEMBER 2023
Innovations for M/S Agnit Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)-Defence Innovation
Defence Excellence Semiconductors Organisation (DIO), the flagship initiative of the Ministry of
(iDEX)-Defence Private Limited Defence (MoD), signed its 300th contract with Bengaluru
Innovation (Karnataka) based M/S Agnit Semiconductors Private Limited
Organisation (DIO) in New Delhi, Delhi.
The agreement focuses on developing advanced Gallium
Nitride (GaN) Semiconductors which is essential for next-
generation wireless transmitters in defence applications.
The contract aims to utilise indigenous GaN technology to
design, develop and manufacture GaN components for defence
in India.
Kerala Startup Business Finland Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) and Business Finland have
Mission (KSUM) signed an MoU to boost the startup ecosystems in India and
Finland.
A KSUM volunteer exchanged the MoU with Business
Finland Senior Director Laura Lindeman, during the Slush
2023 held in Helsinki, Finland, from 30th November 2023
to 1st December 2023.
Asian United Nations The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has signed a
Infrastructure Development Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United
Programme (UNDP) Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to promote

AC Exam PDF
Investment Bank sustainable infrastructure development and address

(AIIB) development challenges in Asia and beyond.
The MoU recognises the shared objectives of AIIB and
UNDP in supporting national climate goals and the 2030
Agenda through financing sustainable development
initiatives in common members of operations.
Ministry of Bharat Electronics MoD signed a 10-year contract worth Rs 5,336.25 crore with
Defence (MoD) Limited (BEL) BEL to procure electronic fuzes for the Indian Army (IA).
Electronic Fuzes will be manufactured by the BEL at its
Pune, Maharashtra and upcoming Nagpur Plant,
Maharashtra.
Ministry of Rural JioMart The MoRD has signed a Memorandum of Understanding
Development (MoU) with ecommerce platform ‘JioMart’ to empower the
(MoRD) rural Self-Help Group (SHG) artisans.
The partnership paves a way for SHGs of
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana (DAY)-NRLM to on-boarded
as sellers onto JioMart.
National Bank for Asian Development NABARD and ADB have launched an initiative to facilitate
Agriculture and Bank (ADB) climate action in India’s Agriculture, Natural Resources, and
Rural Rural Development (ANR) sector.
Development Under this initiative, NABARD collaborates with the Bill
(NABARD) and Melinda Gates Foundation to establish a Technical
Support Unit (TSU) to address climate change challenges,
focusing on agriculture and rural livelihood sectors in
India.
Adani Green Solar Energy Adani Green Energy (AGEL) signed a Power Purchase
Energy (AGEL) Corporation of India Agreement (PPA) with the Solar Energy Corporation of India
(SECI) (SECI) to supply 1,799 MW (Mega Watt) of solar power. The
final PPA to supply 1,799 MW solar power was inked for a
period of 25 years.
With this PPA, AGEL completes the power off-take tie-up
for the 8,000 MW manufacturing-linked solar tender
awarded to it by SECI in June 2020. This set a record for
being the world’s largest solar tender.
NOVEMBER 2023
Election Ministry of To develop an institutional framework to formally incorporate
Commission of Education (MoE) electoral literacy into the school and college education system.
India This MoU will extend ECI's flagship Systematic Voters’
Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) in schools
and colleges.
Under the MoU, National Council of Educational Research and
Training (NCERT) will include content on electoral literacy in
school textbooks and advise state education boards to follow
the same.
Deendayal Small Industries To promote women-led enterprises in India.
Antyodaya Yojana Development Bank The MoU is set to span 2 years.
– National Rural of India (SIDBI) Under this MoU, the expertise of DAY-NRLM and SIDBI will be
Livelihood Mission utilised to develop a transformative initiative to promote
(DAY-NRLM) women-led enterprises among experienced members of Self-
Help Groups (SHGs).

AC Exam PDF
Indian Institute of Indian Institute of To empower and prepare the youth of UP for the aerospace
Skills (IIS) Kanpur Technology (IIT) and defence sector, particularly to support the Defence
(Uttar Pradesh- Kanpur; Hindustan Industrial Corridor in UP.
UP) Aeronautics Limited
(HAL); and Dassault
Aircraft Services
India Private Limited
(DASI)
Indian Institute of Lean Campus IICA signed a MoU with Lean Campus Startups (Trust) and
Corporate Affairs Startups (Trust) and Mumbai, Maharashtra based WEICI India in Manesar,
(IICA) Mumbai, Gurugram, Haryana, to empower corporate and women
entrepreneurs through various training programmes.
Maharashtra based
IICA in partnership with Lean Campus Startups & WEICI India
Women aims to empower both corporate and women entrepreneurs,
Entrepreneurs augmenting their knowledge, skills, and competencies in the
International effective establishment and management of a diverse
Chambers of India workforce.
(WEICI India)
World Health Ministry of Ayush The WHO and the Ministry of Ayush (Ayurveda, Yoga,
Organization Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) signed a
(WHO) Traditional and Complementary Medicine 'Project
Collaboration Agreement (PCA)' during an event organized in
Geneva, Switzerland.
Under this partnership, WHO will prepare Traditional
Medicine Global Strategy 2025-34 with the support of the
Ministry of Ayush.
1st phase of the PCA, 2023-28, will prove to be a milestone
in the global development of Traditional and
Complementary Medical System.
National Institute National Book Trust National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with
for the (NBT) and Daisy Visual Disabilities/(Divyangjan)-NIEPVD signed MoUs with
Empowerment of Forum of India (DFI) New Delhi, Delhi based National Book Trust (NBT) and Daisy
Persons with Forum of India (DFI) to promote inclusivity.
Visual The MoU with NBT aims to establish a Universal Design
Disabilities/(Divya Center for Reading in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
ngjan)-NIEPVD The MoU with DFI aims to create and disseminate
accessible books through Sugamya Pustakalaya, an online
library designed for persons with print disabilities in
India.
Department of International Society The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE),
Social Justice and for Krishna Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), and the
Empowerment Consciousness International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON)
(DoSJE) (ISKCON) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Nasha
Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) to synergize efforts in
combating drug abuse and building a healthier, addiction-free
nation.
The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment is the
Nodal agency for Drug Demand Reduction.

AC Exam PDF
World Bank (WB) Global Fund to Fight A new MoU was signed between the World Bank (WB) and the
AIDS (Acquired Global Fund to Fight AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency
Immune Deficiency Syndrome), Tuberculosis (TB), and Malaria (the Global Fund)
to improve their collaboration on climate change’s impact on
Syndrome),
health.
Tuberculosis (TB), Aim: To support more efficient, effective, and sustainable
and Malaria (the financing to improve health outcomes in the face of
Global Fund) climate change.
HSBC India & UK Export Finance Tie Up for 100 mn Pound
Financing Program
The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation
Limited, India (HSBC India) have signed a Letter of Intent
(LoI) with UK Export Finance (UKEF), the United Kingdom
(UK)’s export credit agency, to establish a financing
programme of up to 100 million pounds.
This programme will support Indian Micro, Small and
Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and corporates for
financing their imports from UK.
National Institute Energy and The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and
of Disaster Resources Institute The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) signed a
Management (TERI) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on
(NIDM) Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).
The MOU will formalize a strategic partnership, fostering
research, capacity building, and training to enhance
Research Initiatives.
India European Union A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between
(EU) the European Union (EU) and India to strengthen
semiconductor supply chains and jointly pursue innovation.
Share semiconductor ecosystem experiences, best
practices, and information.
Identify collaboration opportunities in research,
development, and innovation.
OCTOBER 2023
Department for Gati Shakti The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
Promotion of Vishwavidyalaya (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and
Industry and (GSV), Gujarat the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV), Gujarat based central
university, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding
Internal Trade
(MoU) to advance Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti (PMGS) National
(DPIIT) Master Plan (NMP).
The MoU aims to advance India’s infrastructure and
logistics sectors.
Under this MoU, GSV will be the nodal agency across India
to design, develop and deliver courses and curriculum
related to PMGS NMP and National Logistics Policy (NLP)
at various centre’s in different States.
World Anti-Doping World Health MoU singed for four-year to enables experts from both global
Agency (WADA) Organisation (WHO) organizations to work together and exchange information
concerning areas where the realms of anti-doping and public
health intersect.
The MoU was signed in Geneva, Switzerland, between
WADA president Witold Banka and WHO Director-General
Tedros Ghebreyesus.

AC Exam PDF
Automotive Indian Institute of For establishing a Common Engineering Facility Center (CEFC)
Research Technology (IIT) titled “Digital Twin Center for Emerging Automotive Systems”
Association of Guwahati (Assam) in the Hub and Spoke model. This CEFC was established under
India (ARAI) the Capital Goods Scheme Phase II of the Ministry of Heavy
Industries (MHI) by ARAI in collaboration with industry
partner Micelio Mobility Private Limited.
IBM IndiaAI – Digital IBM(International Business Machines Corporation) signed 3

India Corporation, Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with 3 entities under
India Semiconductor the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
Mission (ISM), and (MeitY) to advance and accelerate innovation in Artificial
Centre for intelligence (AI), Semiconductor, and quantum technology in
Development of India.
Advanced The 3 MoUs were signed with IndiaAI – Digital India
Computing (C-DAC). Corporation, India Semiconductor Mission (ISM),
and Centre for Development of Advanced
Computing (C-DAC).
INDEX
RANKING
STATE/CITY WISE RANKING
Index/Survey Name Released by State or City in the rank
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NOVEMBER 2023
State Food Safety Index(SFSI Food Safety and According to the 5th edition of State Food Safety
2022-2023) Standards Authority of Index (SFSI 2022-2023) by Food Safety and
India (FSSAI) Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), with the
inclusion of a new parameter (Improvement in
SFSI Rank) in the 2023 index, 19 out of 20 large
states recorded a drop in their 2023 scores from
2019.
The Index was released by Union Health
Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on World Food
Safety Day 2023
Ranking & Score:
Score(2022- Score(2018-
Rank State/UT 23) 19)
Top 3 Large States
1 Kerala 63 66

AC Exam PDF
2 Punjab 57.5 47
3 Tamil Nadu 56.5 72
Top 3 Small States
1 Goa 51 75
2 Manipur 40 47
3 Sikkim 39.5 31
Top 3 Union Territories
Jammu and
1 Kashmir 59.5 64
2 Delhi 49.5 57
3 Chandigarh 45 64
OCTOBER 2023
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INTERNATIONAL RANKING
Index /Survey Name Released By Ranks of India & Top 3 Ranks
FEBRUARY 2024
2023 Corruption Perceptions Transparency The Transparency International released its 2023
Index (CPI) International Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) in which India
ranked 93 out of 180 countries with an overall score of
39. India’s score was 40 in 2022 with 85th rank.
The CPI 2023 was topped by Denmark with a score
of 90. It is followed by Finland with a score of 87 and
New Zealand with a score of 85.
India’s score and Rank is shared by Kazakhstan,
Lesotho, and Maldives.
Brand Guardianship Index (BGI) Brand Financ Mukesh Ambani, Chairman, and Managing Director
2024 (CMD) of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), has been
ranked 1st among all Indians and 2nd globally in the
Brand Guardianship Index (BGI) 2024 compiled by
Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation firm.
Brand Finance's survey gave Mukesh Ambani a BGI
score of 80.3.
Huateng Ma, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) of Chinese internet
giant Tencent Holdings recognised as the world’s
leading CEO in the 2024 BGI, for his guardianship of
the WeChat brand with a BGI score of 81.6.
NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang ranked 3rd globally
followed by Apple Inc‘s Tim Cook (4th), and TATA
Sons‘ Natarajan Chandrasekaran (5th).
JANUARY 2024
Henley Passport Index 2024 Henley According to the Henley Passport Index 2024 Global
Ranking, Indian passport is ranked 80th by providing

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visa-free or visas on arrival access to 62 countries. India

shares the 80th rank with Uzbekistan.
Previously in 2023, India was ranked 83rd and
provided visa free entry to 58 countries.
The top spot is grabbed by 6 countries: France,
Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain with citizens
enjoying visa-free access to 194 travel destinations.
MSCI Emerging Markets (EM) - India has secured a 2nd rank in the MSCI Emerging
index Markets (EM) index by surpassing Taiwan. The first spot
is grabbed by China.
Top 5 countries in MSCI EM Index (8 Jan ‘24) – China
(26.6), India (17.1), Taiwan (15.8), South Korea (12.6),
and Brazil (5.7).
2024 Military Strength Ranking Global According to the 2024 Military Strength Ranking
Firepower(GF released by Global Firepower(GFP), India is ranked as
P) the 4th most powerful military in the world.
The United States of America (USA) tops the list
followed by Russia and China in the 2nd and 3rd place
respectively.
DECEMBER 2023
World Digital Competitiveness International India Ranks 49th in the International Institute for
Ranking (WDCR) 2023 Institute for Management Development (IMD)’s 7th edition of World
Management Digital Competitiveness Ranking (WDCR) 2023. The
Development report measures the capacity and readiness of 64
(IMD) economies based on three broad categories which are:
Knowledge, Technology and Future readiness.
The U.S.A reclaimed its top position (Rank 1) which
performs well in all three categories – Knowledge,
Technology and Future Readiness.
Top five performing countries in the WDCR
Report
Rank Name of the Country
1st U.S.A(United States of America)
2nd Netherlands
3rd Singapore
4th Denmark
5th Switzerland
49th India
QS World University Rankings: Quacquarelli According to the QS World University Rankings:
Sustainability 2024 Symonds(QS) Sustainability 2024, the 2nd edition of the list published
by Quacquarelli Symonds(QS), a global higher education
analyst, the University of Delhi (DU), ranked 220th
(globally), has topped among the 56 Indian Universities
featured on the list.
DU is ranked 30th among Asian Universities.
The University of Toronto, Canada, has topped the
list as the world’s most sustainable University
followed by the University of California (UCB),

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Berkeley, the United States of America(USA) at 2nd

and the University of Manchester, the United
Kingdom (UK) at 3rd place.
The Worlds Largest Life Insurers, S&P Global According to S&P Global Market Intelligence’s new
2023 Market ranking “The Worlds Largest Life Insurers, 2023” based
Intelligence on life and accident & health reserves, Life Insurance
Corporation of India (LIC) has been named the 4th
largest insurer in the world.
LIC’s reserves stood at USD 503.7 billion in the fiscal
year 2023 (FY23) – April 2022 to March 2023.
The 2023 ranking is topped by Germany’s Allianz
SE with a reserve of USD 750.2 billion followed by
China Life Insurance Company Ltd, China(USD
616.90 billion) and Nippon Life Insurance
Company, Japan (USD 536.80 Billion).
Quality of Living City Ranking Mercer According to Mercer’s Quality of Living City Ranking
2023 2023, Hyderabad (Telangana); Pune(Maharashtra)
and Bengaluru(Karnataka) ranked 153rd, 154th and
156th respectively, have emerged as the top three Best
cities in India in terms of living standard.
For the 6th time, Hyderabad has emerged as
the Best Indian city.
Vienna(Austria) has topped the list for the 11th
consecutive year and retained its title as
the Best City offering the highest quality of life in
the world.
Vienna is followed by Zurich(Switzerland), and
Auckland(New Zealand) in the 2nd and 3rd ranks.
NOVEMBER 2023
Edelgive Hurun India Philanthropy Hurun Shiv Nadar (78) of HCL Technologies retained the title of
List 2023 Research ‘India’s Most Generous‘for the 3rd consecutive year as
Institute and he donated Rs 2,042 crore during the FY2022-23.
Azim Premji, founder chairman of Wipro, is
EdelGive
ranked 2nd, as he donated Rs 1,774 crore and
Foundation Mukesh Ambani, Chairman & Managing Director
of Reliance Industries limited (RIL), is ranked
3rd with a donation of Rs 376 crore.
Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, became
the youngest philanthropist on the list as he
donated Rs 110 crore during FY22-23.
There are 7 women in the list led by Rohini
Nilekani, founder of Rohini Nilekani
Philanthropies, is the most generous woman
philanthropist as she donated Rs 170 crore
during the year.
World University Ranking: Asia QS 148 Indian universities which is 30 more than the last
2024 (Quacquarelli edition. With this, India now holds the highest
Symonds) representation in Asia’s higher education system,
surpassing China (133) and Japan (96).India has 118
universities in 2023 ranking.

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This is the 16 edition of the QS World University

th
Ranking in this category.

Peking University, Beijing, China has retained the 1st
position in the QS Asia Ranking 2024, while, Indian
Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB) in Mumbai,
Maharashtra grabbed the top spot in India with 40th
position in the Asia Ranking.
Top 5 in QS World University Rankings: Asia 2024
Ran
k University
1 Peking University (China)
2 The University of Hong Kong
3 National University of Singapore (NUS)
4 (Singapore)
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
4 Tsinghua University(China)
Inclusiveness Index Othering and India was ranked 117th out of 129 countries with an
Belonging overall score of 49.24.
Institute (OBI) India was ranked 129th in religion inclusiveness,
at California 121st in gender, 108th in disability, 87th in race,
University, 40th in the general population, and 39th in LGBTQ+
United States (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or
of questioning, Intersex, Asexual).
America(USA) The index was topped by New Zealand for the
second consecutive year with an overall score of
82.08.
It is followed by 2nd place at Portugal (77.6), and the
Netherlands (76.98) in the 3rd place.
OCTOBER 2023
16th edition of the Global World The WIPO, an agency of the United Nations, published
Innovation Index (2023) Intellectual the 16th edition of the Global Innovation Index (2023).
Property India retains 40th rank among 132 economies. While
Organization Switzerland secured the top spot in the rankings, with
(WIPO) Sweden and the United States of America (USA)
following closely.
Notably, India has made significant progress,
climbing 26 places from its 2013 ranking when it
stood at 66th place. India was at 81st place in 2015.
NITI Aayog, in partnership with Confederation of
Indian Industry (CII) and WIPO, has hosted the
virtual India Launch of Global Innovation Index (GII)
on September 29, 2023.

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Speedtest Global Index (August Ookla According to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index (August
2023 edition) 2023 edition), India is ranked 47th among 145 countries
with median download speed of 50.21 Mbps(Megabits
per second). India has moved up 72 places, from 119th
place in 2022 to the 47th position in 2023.
The list is topped by United Arab Emirates (UAE)
with the median download speeds of 210.89 Mbps.
Qatar and Kuwait stands at second and third rank
with the download speed of 192.71Mbps and
153.86Mbps respectively.
Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023 - India ranks 111th out of the 125 countries with a score
of 28.7 in Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023. India
slipped 4 positions as compared to previous GHI
ranking.
In 2022, India ranked 107 out of 121 countries. In
2021, it was placed at 101 out of 116 countries.
In GHI 2023, 20 countries with 2023 GHI scores of
less than 5 are not assigned individual ranks, They
are collectively ranked 1–20. These 20 countries are:
Belarus, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Chile, China, Croatia,
Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Kuwait, Latvia,
Lithuania, Moldova, Montenegro, North
Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia,
Türkiye, United Arab Emirates(UAE), and Uruguay.
It is jointly published by the international
humanitarian organisation Concern Worldwide and
Germany-based Wel thungerhilfe with the aim to
trigger action to reduce hunger around the world.
The ranks of India’s neighbouring countries are
Pakistan (102th), Bangladesh (81st), Nepal (69th),
and Sri Lanka (60th).
Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) Standard & According to Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data
Poor (S&P) of Standard & Poor (S&P) Global Market
Global Market Intelligence, India will become Asia’s second-largest
Intelligence economy by 2030 with a Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) of USD 7.3 trillion. India will also become the
world’s third-largest economy.PMI also forecasted
that India’s GDP will grow at 6.2-6.3% in the
financial year 2023-24 (FY23-24).
United States of America (USA) is the world’s largest
economy with a GDP of USD 25.5 trillion.
This is followed by China, Japan, and Germany in
second, third, and fourth respectively (largest
economy) with a GDP of USD 18 Trillion, USD 4.2
trillion, and USD 4 trillion respectively.
REPORT
FEBRUARY 2024
NIL

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JANUARY 2024
According to a report titled MSMEs: Unleashing the Engines of Economic Prosperity, prepared by CBRE
India Research, Maharashtra has accounted for the highest share (17%) of Micro, Small, and Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs) in India followed by Tamil Nadu (TN) (10%) and Uttar Pradesh (UP) (9%).
The report was unveiled during the CREDAI National New India Summit 2024 (5th edition) held in
Varanasi, UP from 7th to 9th January 2024.
CBRE India Research is the knowledge partner of the New India Summit 2024.
The World Bank (WB) has released its 'January, 2024 Global Economic Prospects' (GEP) report
projecting a third consecutive year of slowdown for global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth with a
decrease to 2.4% in 2024. It was 2.6% in 2023, 3% in 2022 and 6.2% in 2021.
The WB has kept India’s GDP growth forecast unchanged at 6.3% for FY 2023-24 and 6.4% for FY 2024-
25 driven by robust investment and services. It will edge up to 6.5% in FY26.
Growth in South Asian Region (SAR) is expected to edge slightly lower to a still-robust 5.6% in 2024,
before firming to 5.9% in 2025. The report forecasts 2025 global growth slightly higher at 2.7%.
The Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI), working under the aegis of Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA),
released a report title 'Engendering Land Ports in India', which highlights LPAI’s target to make all land
ports gender friendly in the next 3 years.
The study aims for gender-inclusive framework for cross-border trade and tourism through land ports in
India. Land Ports are also known as Integrated Check Posts (IPCs).
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has released a report titled “World Employment and
Social Outlook: Trends 2024”.
The report projected slight increase in the global unemployment rate to 5.2% in year 2024 as compared
to 5.1% in year 2023.
The report predicted that the number of unemployed individuals will increase by 2 million at global level in
2024.
The National Institution for Transforming India’s (NITI Aayog) discussion paper on the National
Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), ‘National Multidimensional Poverty: A Progress Review -2023,’ has
reduced India’s Multidimensional poverty from 29.17% (2013-14) to 11.28% (2022-23), with about 24.82
crore individuals emerged from poverty during this transformative period.
At the State level, Uttar Pradesh leads the list with 5.94 crore people escaping poverty, followed by Bihar at
3.77 crore and Madhya Pradesh at 2.30 crore.
As per the 18th "Global 500 2024" annual report by Brand Finance, Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani-
led Reliance Jio continues to be India's top and strongest brand, ranked 17th among the world's strongest
brands in 2024, with a brand strength index (BSI) of 88.9 out of 100.
Globally, WeChat topped the list with a 94.3 BSI followed by YouTube (92.7), and Google (92.5) in the 2nd
and 3rd positions respectively in the strongest brands of 2024.
The other Indian brands featured in the list are Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), ranked 23rd followed
by the State Bank of India (SBI) ranked 24th. Both held the same BSI of 88.3.
DECEMBER 2023
Ahead of World AIDS Day 2023 (1 December 2023), the Joint United Nations Programme on Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) (UNAIDS) released the
World AIDS Day Report 2023, titled “Let Communities Lead”.
The report states that AIDS can be ended as a public health threat by 2030, if only frontline communities
get full support from governments and donors.
The 2023 theme of World AIDS Day is “Let Communities Lead”.
According to a Government report titled ‘The Third National Communication to the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change’, India reduced its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) emission
intensity by 33% between 2005 and 2019. This was 11 years ahead of the target.

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India’s average rate of emission reduction increased from 1.5% annually during 2014 – 2016 to 3%
annually from 2016 – 2019. This is the fastest recorded rate of reduction so far across any country.
Swedish think-tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has released the report
titled “World’s Top 100 Arms Producing Companies 2022”. SIPRI Top 100 listing includes the 100
companies with the largest arms revenue during the year covered.
For the 1st time, three Indian Public Sector Units (PSUs) : Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) – 41st,
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) – 63rd and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) – 89th are listed in
the Top 100 arms producing companies.
Top Three Global Companies (2022) in the List are:
Rank Company Country
Lockheed
United
1st Martin
States
Corporation
Raytheon United
2nd
Technologies States
Northrop
United
3rd Grumman
States
Corporation
According to ‘Global Credit Outlook 2024: New Risks, New Playbook’ released by S&P Global Market
Intelligence, India is set to become the third-largest economy in the world by 2030 and it is projected to be the
fastest-growing major economy in the next 3 years.
At present, India is the fifth largest economy in the world.
The top five economy along with their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) are as follows (according to the
ranking):
United States of America (USA) - USD 26,954 Billion
China - USD 17,786 Billion
Germany - USD 4,430 Billion
Japan - USD 4,231 Billion
India - USD 3,730 Billion
As per the 2023 World Malaria Report by the World Health Organization (WHO), India constituted 66%
of malaria cases in the WHO's South-East Asia region in 2022. Despite an overall decrease of 11.9% in
estimated cases between 2021 and 2022 in the region, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand recorded
an increase in cases.
Notably, India and Indonesia accounted for about 94% of all malaria deaths in the South-East Asia region in
2022.
Around 249 million malaria cases have been reported around the world (in 85 malaria endemic countries
and areas) which exceeded the pre-pandemic count of 233 million in 2019.
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has released its annual report titled “Crime in India –
2022”. The report shows that a total of 58,24,946 cognisable crimes which includes 35,61,379 Indian Penal
Code(IPC) crimes and 22,63,567 Special & Local laws(SLL) crimes were registered in 2022.
This (2022) is the 70th edition of Crime in India, the annual report published by NCRB.
It shows a decline of 4.5% in registration of cases compared to 2021.
The crime rate registered per lakh population has declined from 445.9 in 2021 to 422.2 in 2022.
Kerala, Puducherry and West Bengal have witnessed the highest charge sheeting rates under IPC crimes.

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According to the NCRB report, Kolkata (West Bengal) emerged as the safest city in India for the 3rd
consecutive year among major metropolis. Click here for more detail
Tracxn Technologies Ltd., a leading global market intelligence platform, released its ‘Tracxn Geo
Annual Report: India Tech 2023,’ which reveals a notable 73% decline in funding for the Indian tech
startup ecosystem in 2023, compared to USD 25 billion in 2022, making it the lowest-funded year in the last 5
years.
India, with total funding of USD 7 billion (till 5 December 2023), has slipped from 4th place (in 2022 and
2021) to 5th place among the highest-funded geographies globally in the 3rd Quarter (Q3) of 2023.
The top 4 highest-funded countries are the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK),
China, and France respectively.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations(UN) launched a digital report on the
5th edition of Asia and the Pacific- Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition 2023: Statistics and
Trends'.
As per it, 74.1% of Indians were unable to afford a healthy diet in 2021. In 2020, it was 76.2%.
It is an annual report published by FAO’s Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP).
The Logistics Division of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under
the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has launched a report titled "Logistics Cost in India: Assessment
and Long-Term Framework'' in New Delhi, Delhi.
The Report was prepared by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), along with Asian
Development Bank (ADB) experts and task force members.
India’s logistic costs ranged between 7.8% and 8.9% during 2021-22, down from 8.7-9.9% during 2011-12.
Also, the logistics cost was reduced from 8.3-9.4% to 7.8-8.8% during 2014-15 to 2016-17 due to a faster
growth in nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) than in logistic costs.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) launched the report titled “Global Status Reports on Road Safety
2023”, which shows that the annual number of road traffic deaths across the world has slightly decreased to
1.19 million from 1.25 million, marking a 5% decrease in 10 years between 2010 and 2021.
In India, the total number of road traffic fatalities went up from 1.34 lakh in 2010 to 1.54 lakh in 2021, and
India’s share in global road fatalities also increased from 11% to 13%.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) report titled ‘Coal 2023-Analysis and forecast to
2026‘, Indian coal demand is expected to rise by 3.5% annually to 1397 million tonnes (Mt) til 2026. In 2023,
the coal demand in India is estimated to have increased by 8% or 98 Mt.
Note: The Coal Report is an annual publication of IEA which was first launched in 2011.
According to World Bank(WB)’s Migration and Development Brief 39 titled ‘Leveraging Diaspora Finances
for Private Capital Mobilization’, India is considered a top remittance recipient with an estimated inward
remittance flow of USD 125 Billion.
Mexico stands at the second position with an estimated recipient value of USD 67 billion followed by China
as third with USD 50 billion.
Top Five Remittance Recipients:
Estimated Remittance
Rank Country
Value (USD)
1 India 125 Billion

2 Mexico 67 Billion
3 China 50 Billion
4 Philippines 40 Billion
5 Egypt 24 Billion
Union Minister Piyush Goyal, Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) released the 5th LEADS
(Logistics Ease Across Different States) 2023 Survey Report in New Delhi, Delhi.

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Categories Achievers Fast Movers Aspirers

Bihar,
Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh,
Landlocked
Telangana, Uttar Rajasthan, Himachal
States
Pradesh Uttarakhand Pradesh,
Jharkhand
Andhra Pradesh,
Kerala, Goa, Odisha, West
Coastal States Gujarat, Karnataka,
Maharashtra Bengal
Tamil Nadu
Manipur,
North-Eastern Assam, Sikkim, Arunachal
Meghalaya,
Region Tripura Pradesh, Nagaland
Mizoram
Andaman & Daman & Diu/
Nicobar, Dadra & Nagar
UTs Chandigarh, Delhi
Lakshadweep, Haveli, Jammu &
Puducherry Kashmir, Ladakh
According to the 11th edition of the India skills Report (ISR) titled 'India Skills Report 2024: Impact of
Artificial Intelligence on Skills, Work, Mobility' released on 20th December 2023, Kerala have emerged as the
most preferred State to work for both male and female employable talent.
The report has been prepared by Wheebox, a talent assessment agency.
Overall employability in India has increased to 51.25% among surveyed youth with the necessary skills.
In terms of large talent availability, States with the highest concentration of highly employable youth
are Haryana, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh (AP), Uttar Pradesh (UP), Kerala, and Telangana.
Telangana has the highest concentration of employable talent in the age group of 18-21 with 85.45%
followed by Kerala with 74.93%.
According to “India's Crypto Portfolio 2023”, the annual investor report of CoinSwitch, India's largest
crypto trading platform, Delhi tops India’s crypto adoption (measured in terms of value invested) in 2023.
Delhi accounted for 8.8% of total crypto investment followed by Bengaluru(Karnataka) with 8.3% and
Mumbai(Maharashtra) with 5.2%.
Bitcoin, the most prominent crypto, is up by more than 150% year on year, compared to December 2022.
NOVEMBER 2023
According to “Road Accidents in India-2022”, the annual report published by the Ministry of Road
Transport and Highways (MoRTH). The States and Union Territories (UTs) of India reported a total of 4,61,312
road accidents during 2022.
Tamil Nadu (TN) tops the list of States in Number of Accidents for the 5th consecutive year. TN has
reported 64,105 (13.9%) accidents in 2022.
TN is followed by Madhya Pradesh with 54,432 (11.8%), Kerala with 43,910 (9.5%) accidents, Uttar
Pradesh with 41,746 (9.1%) and Karnataka with 39,762 (8.6%).
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released its “2024 Asia-Pacific Human
Development Report: Making Our Future: New Directions for Human Development in Asia and the
Pacific” stating India among the top countries with high income and highest wealth inequality, despite rapid
economic growth.
Income Growth: Between 2000 and 2022, India’s per capita income increased from USD 442 to USD 2,389.
Poverty Reduction: From 2004 to 2019, poverty rates (based on USD 2.15 per day) dropped from 40% to
10%.
Multidimensional Poverty: India’s population in multidimensional poverty decreased from 25% to 15%
between 2015-16 and 2019-21.
Persistent Poverty: Despite progress, poverty remains concentrated in states housing 45% of the
population but 62% of the poor.

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Vulnerable Groups: Women, informal workers, and inter-state migrants are at risk of falling back into
poverty.
Gender Disparity: Women constitute only 23% of the labor force, with growing income disparity despite
rapid economic growth.
According to “Progress Toward Measles Elimination- Worldwide, 2000–2022”, a new report released by
the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States (US) Centres for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), around 11 lakh children in India missed their Measles-containing-vaccine first-dose (MCV1) in 2022.
Globally, India is featured among the top 10 countries with the highest number of children who missed
their 1st dose.
As per the 14th edition of Emissions Gap Report 2023:Broken Record: Temperatures hit new highs, yet
world fails to cut emissions (again), released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) the world
must reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 28-42% by 2030 to limit warming to 2°C and 1.5°C,
respectively.
The report warns that if countries fail to reduce GHG emissions, then global temperatures will be increased
by 2.5 to 2.9 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Under current policies, global warming is projected to reach 3 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels
by 2100.
OCTOBER 2023
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) released a report titled ‘The Impact of
Disasters on Agriculture and Food Security 2023-Avoiding and reducing losses through investment in
resilience‘ which is the first–ever global estimation of the impact of disasters on agricultural production
focused on crops and livestock.
As per the report, the Global aggregated losses for the past 30 years (1991-2021) due to disasters events
amounts to USD 3.8 trillion, corresponding to about USD 123 billion per year.
The report has been prepared and jointly produced by the Statistics Division (ESS) and the Office of
Emergencies and Resilience (OER) of FAO.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released a report, World Energy Outlook 2023, which
presents a vision of substantial changes in global energy system by 2030.
The report highlights India’s growing electricity demand, with annual growth of around 5%, making it
third-largest electricity consumer globally by 2050, after China and the United States. China is the largest
electricity consumer in the world.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has predicted that 18% of the electricity generated in India will be
from solar sources by 2030, which set to be 6% increase in 2023.
The IEA’s World Energy Outlook-2023 report predicts a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions from India’s
industry and a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions per kilometer driven by passenger cars by 2030.
IEA predicts that India’s capacity may exceed 70 gigawatts (GW) annually by 2027.
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNS

APPOINTMENTS
NATIONAL
Name Appointed As Entity/Place Points to Be Noted
FEBRUARY 2024
Anil Kumar Lahoti Chairman Telecom Regulatory Appointment Committee of the
Authority of India Cabinet (ACC) has approved the
(TRAI) appointment of former railway
board chairman and chief
executive officer(CEO) Anil

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Kumar Lahoti as the

9th Chairman of the Telecom
Regulatory Authority of India
(TRAI) for 3 years or until the
age of 65 years.
He will succeed PD Vaghela,
who retired from the post on
30th September 2023. The
post has been vacant for
around 4 months.
Harun Rashid Khan Part-Time Chairman AU Small Finance Bank AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB)
Limited has appointed the former
Deputy Governor of the Reserve
Bank of India (RBI) & its Non-
Executive Independent
Director, Harun Rashid Khan (HR
Khan) as its Part-Time Chairman
with effect from 30th January
2024.
He has succeeded Raj Vikash
Verma whose tenure as Part
Time Chairman &
Independent Director of the
Bank cessed on 29th January
2024.
Champai Soren Chief Minister Jharkhand Champai Soren (67), leader of the
Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)
party, was sworn in as the Chief
Minister (CM) of Jharkhand.
Jharkhand Governor C. P.
Radhakrishnan administered the
oath of office and secrecy at the
Raj Bhavan complex in Ranchi,
Jharkhand. Champai Soren
succeeded Hemant Soren (JMM
party), who resigned from the
post on 31st January 2024.
Ravi Kumar Jha Managing Director LIC Mutual Fund Asset LIC Mutual Fund Asset
(MD) and Chief Management Ltd(LIC Management Ltd(LIC AMC), the
Executive Officer AMC) investment manager of LIC
(CEO) Mutual Fund (LICMF), has
appointed Ravi Kumar Jha as its
Managing Director (MD) and
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
with effect from 31st January
2024.

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Apurva Chandra Secretary Ministry of Health and Apurva Chandra, Secretary of the
Family Welfare Ministry of Information and
(MoH&FW) Broadcasting (MIB), has been
appointed as the Secretary of the
Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare (MoH&FW).
Sanjay Jaju was appointed as
the New Secretary of MIB
succeeding Apurva Chandra.
Rajiv Mani, an Indian Legal
Service (ILS) officer, has been
given additional charge as the
Secretary of the Legislative
Department under the
Ministry of Law and Justice
(MoL&J) for 2 years
JANUARY 2024
Arvind Panagariya Chairman 16th Finance The Government of India, has
Commission of India constituted the 16th Finance
Commission of India with Dr
Arvind Panagariya, former Vice-
Chairman (VC), NITI Aayog
(National Institution for
Transforming India) (2015 to
2017) as Chairman.
Ritvik Ranjanam
Pandey, Joint Secretary
(Revenue), Ministry of
Finance, was appointed as the
Secretary to the Commission.
The Chairman and other
members of the Commission
will hold the post from date on
which they assume office up to
the date of submission of
Report or 31st October 2025.
Shashi Kumar President All India Rubber Shashi Kumar Singh, Director of
Singh Industries Association Osaka Rubber Private Limited,
(AIRIA) was elected as the President of
AIRIA (2023-24), the apex body
for rubber industries in India.
He will succeed Ramesh
Kejriwal, who served as the
President of AIRIA from 2022-
23.
P Santhosh Managing Director National Asset P Santhosh, Chief General
(MD) and Chief Reconstruction of India Manager (CGM) of Canara Bank,
Executive Officer Limited (NARCL) has been appointed (on
(CEO) deputation) as Managing Director
(MD) and Chief Executive Officer

AC Exam PDF
(CEO) of National Asset

Reconstruction of India Limited
(NARCL) with effect from 5th
January 2024.
He succeeds Natarajan Sundar,
MD & CEO of NARCL (from
2022), who resigned from the
post.
Ravindra Kumar Chairman and Power Grid Corporation Ravindra Kumar Tyagi assumed
Tyagi Managing Director of India Limited charge as Chairman and
(CMD) Managing Director (CMD) of
Power Grid Corporation of India
Limited (POWERGRID) with
effect from 1 January 2024.
Before this, he was serving as
Director (Operations) of
POWERGRID.
He succeeded
Kandikuppa Sreekant, who
was superannuated on 31
December 2023. He has been
the CMD of POWERGRID since
August 2019.
Sanjiv Aggarwal Managing Director National Investment and Sanjiv Aggarwal, Partner (Energy
(MD) & Chief Executive Infrastructure Fund Infrastructure), Actis, was
officer (CEO) Limited (NIIFL) appointed as the Managing
Director (MD) & Chief Executive
officer (CEO) of National
Investment and Infrastructure
Fund Limited (NIIFL), with effect
from February 2024.
He will succeed Rajiv Dhar,
who has been serving as
interim MD and CEO of NIIFL
since May 2023.
Note: NIIF is a collaborative
investment platform for
international and Indian
investors, anchored by the
Government of India (GoI).
Michael Deputy Governor Reserve Bank of India Appointments Committee of the
Debabrata Patra (RBI) Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime
Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has
approved the reappointment of
Michael Debabrata Patra as
Deputy Governor of the Reserve
Bank of India (RBI) for the
second time.

AC Exam PDF
His tenure was extended by

one year with effect from 15th
January 2024 or until further
orders, whichever is earlier.
Praveen Managing Director DCB Bank Limited The Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Achuthan Kutty (MD) and Chief has approved the appointment of
Executive Officer Praveen Achuthan Kutty as the
(CEO) MD and CEO of DCB Bank Limited
(formerly known as Development
Credit Bank) for 3 years with
effect from April 29, 2024.
He will succeed Murali M
Natrajan, the incumbent MD
and CEO of DCB bank, whose
tenure is set to end on 28th
April 2024.
Daljit Singh Director General (DG) Sashastra Seema Bal The Appointments Committee of
Chaudhary (SSB) the Cabinet (ACC) has approved
the appointment of Indian Police
Service (IPS) officer Daljit Singh
Chaudhary as the Director
General (DG) of Sashastra Seema
Bal (SSB) with effect from the
date of joining till 30th November
2025(the date of his
superannuation).
He succeeds Rashmi Shukla,
who served as the DG of SSB
from March 2023 to January
2024.
Nitish Kumar Chief Minister (CM) Bihar Janata Dal (United) (JD-U)
President Nitish Kumar took oath
as the Chief Minister (CM) of
Bihar for the 9th time after he
joined hands with the Bharatiya
Janata Party (BJP)-led National
Democratic Alliance (NDA) and
its partners to form a new
government in Bihar.
He was administered the oath of
office by Bihar Governor
Rajendra Arlekar at Raj Bhavan,
Patna (Bihar). Along with him,
Samrat Chaudhury, and Vijay
Kumar Sinha took oath as Deputy
CMs.
DECEMBER 2023
Chandra Shekhar Managing Director Bandhan Bank The board of Bandhan Bank
Ghosh (MD) and Chief Limited approved the re-
Executive Officer appointment of Chandra Shekhar
Ghosh as the Managing Director
(CEO)
(MD) and Chief Executive Officer

AC Exam PDF
(CEO) of the Bandhan Bank, for 3

years.
The re-appointment is
subject to the approval of the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
and the shareholders of the
bank.
If approved by RBI, the re-
appointment would be
effective from July 10, 2024.
Anumula Revanth Chief Minister Telangana Anumula Revanth Reddy,
Reddy President of Telangana Pradesh
Congress Committee (TPCC),
sworn in as the Chief Minister
(CM) of Telangana.
He became the 1st Congress
CM of Telangana and the 2nd
CM of the State since its
formation in 2014.
Mallu Bhatti Vikaramarka,
Former Leader of Opposition
in Telangana Legislative
Assembly, took oath as the
Deputy CM of Telangana.
Lalduhoma Chief Minister Mizoram Lalduhoma (74), Leader of the
Zoram People’s Movement
(ZPM), was sworn in as the 6th
Chief minister (CM) of Mizoram.
He is also the oldest person to
become the CM of Mizoram.
Mizoram Governor Hari Babu
Kambhampati administered
the oath of office and secrecy
at the Raj Bhavan complex in
Aizwal, Mizoram.
In 2023 Mizoram Assembly
Election, Baryl
Vanneihsangi(32) from
Aizawl South-III constituency
became the youngest woman
Member of Legislative
Assembly (MLA) of Mizoram.
Union Minister of Additional charge as Ministry of Agriculture Droupadi Murmu, President of
Tribal Affairs Arjun the Union Minister & Farmers Welfare India, as advised by the Prime
Munda (MoA&FW) Minister (PM) Narendra Modi,
gave additional charge to 4 Union
Ministers.
Union Minister Arjun Munda,
Ministry of Tribal Affairs
(MoTA), has been given
additional charge as the
Union Minister for the

AC Exam PDF
Ministry of Agriculture &

Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW).
Details of the other
appointment:
Sushri Shobha Karandlaje,
Minister of State(MoS) for
MoA&FW was given
additional charge of MoS in
Ministry of Food Processing
Industries (MoFPI).
Rajeev Chandrasekhar, MoS
for Ministry of Skill
Development and
Entrepreneurship (MSDE)
and Ministry of Electronics
and Information Technology
(MeitY) was given additional
charge as the MoS of Ministry
of Jal Shakti (MoJS).
Bharti Pravin Pawar, MoS of
Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare (MoH&FW) was
given additional charge as the
MoS in MoTA.
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Mohan Yadav Chief Minister Madhya Pradesh Mohan Yadav, the Bharatiya
Janata Party (BJP) legislature
party leader was sworn in as the
19th Chief minister (CM) of
Madhya Pradesh (MP).
BJP legislators Rajendra
Shukla and Jagdish Devda
were sworn in as the Deputy
Chief Ministers.
Mohan Yadav replaced
Shivraj Singh Chouhan who
served as the CM of MP for a
record 4 terms of more than
16 years and 5 months in
office.
Vishnu Deo Sai Chief Minister Chhattisgarh Vishnu Deo Sai of Bharatiya
Janata Party (BJP) was sworn in
as the 4th Chief minister (CM) of
Chhattisgarh.
BJP legislators Vijay Sharma
and Arun Sao were sworn in
as the Deputy Chief Ministers.
Vishnu Deo Sai became the
first tribal chief minister of
Chhattisgarh.
Vishnu Deo Sai replaced
Bhupesh Baghel (Congress)
who served as the CM of

AC Exam PDF
Chhattisgarh from 2018 to

2023.
Bhajan Lal Sharma Chief Minister (CM) Rajasthan Bhajan Lal Sharma of the
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a
1st-time Member of the
Legislative Assembly (MLA)
elected from the Sanganer
Constituency, sworn in as the
14th Chief minister (CM) of
Rajasthan. Rajasthan Governor
Kalraj Mishra administered oath
of office and secrecy to Bhajan Lal
Sharma in the event held in
Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Bhajan Lal Sharma replaced
Indian National Congress
(INC) leader Ashok Gehlot,
who served as the CM of
Rajasthan for 3 terms from
1998-2003, 2008-2013, and
2018-2023.
Divya Kumari and Prem
Chand Bairwa were sworn in
as the Deputy CMs of
Rajasthan during the event.
Pramod Agrawal Chairman BSE Limited The Securities and Exchange
Board of India (SEBI) has
approved the appointment of
Pramod Agrawal as the Chairman
of the BSE Limited (formerly
Bombay Stock Exchange) with
effect from 17th January 2024.
He will be replacing Subhash
Sheoratan Mundra (SS
Mundra), the current
Chairman of BSE, whose
tenure is set to expire on 16th
January 2024.
Atanu Chakraborty Part-Time Non- Reserve Bank of India The Board of Directors of HDFC
Executive Chairman Bank Limited has recommended
and Independent the re-appointment of Atanu
Director of the Bank Chakraborty as the Part-Time
Non-Executive Chairman and
Independent Director of the Bank
to the Reserve Bank of India
(RBI) for a second term of 3 years
with effect from 5th May 2024 to
4th May 2027.
Chandra Part-time Chairman Kotak Mahindra Bank Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has
Shekhar Rajan (C S Limited approved the appointment of
Rajan) Chandra Shekhar Rajan (C S
Rajan) as the Part-time Chairman
of Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited

AC Exam PDF
(KMBL) for two years with effect

from 1st January 2024.
He will be
replacing incumbent Non-
Executive Independent Part-
time Chairman, Prakash Apte
who is set to retire on 31st
December 2023.
Nina Singh 1st woman Director Central Industrial Nina Singh was appointed as the
General (DG) Security Force (CISF) 1st woman Director General (DG)
of the Central Industrial Security
Force (CISF). She will hold the
post till her superannuation on
July 31, 2024. she was holding
the additional charge of DG of
CISF from August 2023 following
the superannuation of Sheel
Vardhan Singh, who held the
position from November 2021 to
August 2023.
Anish Dayal Singh, DG of
Indo-Tibetan Border Police
(ITBP) was appointed as the
full-time DG of the Central
Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
till his superannuation on 31
December 2024. He was
holding the additional DG,
CRPF charge following S L
Thaosen's retirement on 30
November 2023.
Rahul Rasgotra succeeded
Anish Dayal Singh and will be
the new DG of ITBP till the
date of his superannuation on
30 September 2025.
Vivek Srivastava was
appointed as DG of the Fire
Service, Civil Defence, and
Home Guards till the date of
his superannuation on 30
June 2025.
NOVEMBER 2023
A S Rajeev Managing Director Bank of Maharashtra The Appointments Committee of
(MD) & Chief Executive (BoM) the Cabinet (ACC) has extended
Officer (CEO) the tenure of A S
Rajeev, Managing Director (MD)
& Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of
Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) for 6
months till his superannuation.
He has been serving as the MD &

AC Exam PDF
CEO of BoM since December

2018.
Matam Venkata Managing Director Central Bank of India The ACC has also extended the
Rao(M V Rao) (MD) & Chief Executive (CBI) tenure of Matam Venkata Rao(M
Officer (CEO) V Rao), MD & CEO of Central
Bank of India (CBI) till 31st July
2025.
MV Rao has been serving as the
MD & CEO of CBI since March
2021.
Heeralal Samariya Chief Information Central Information He becomes the first Dalit Indian
Commissioner (Chief Commission (CIC) Administrative Service (IAS)
IC) officer to hold the post.
Draupadi Murmu, President
of India, administered the
oath of office at the function
at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New
Delhi, Delhi.
He succeeds Yashvardhan
Kumar Sinha, whose tenure
as chief of CIC ended on 3rd
October 2023.
Pankaj Tripathi Safety Ambassador UPI (Unified Payments The National Payments
Interface) Corporation of India (NPCI) has
appointed Bollywood actor
Pankaj Tripathi as its 'UPI
(Unified Payments Interface)
Safety Ambassador' to strengthen
safety awareness and security on
digital payment platforms.
In 2022, he was named the
'National Icon' of the Election
Commission of India (ECI) for his
significant contribution to
creating voter awareness.
Ashok Vaswani Director, Managing Kotak Mahindra Bank Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited
Director (MD) & Chief (KMBL) has appointed Ashok
Executive Officer Vaswani as a Director, Managing
(CEO), and Key Director (MD) & Chief Executive
Managerial Personnel Officer (CEO), and Key
Managerial Personnel of the
Bank, for 3 years, with effect from
January 1, 2024.
The appointment received
approval from the Reserve
Bank of India (RBI) in
October 2023.
He will succeed Dipak Gupta,
whose term as the MD & CEO,
and Key Managerial

AC Exam PDF
Personnel of KMBL ends on

December 31, 2023.
Vinay M Tonse Managing Director State Bank of India (SBI) Appointments Committee of the
(MD) Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime
Minister (PM) Narendra Modi,
has approved the appointment of
Vinay M Tonse as the Managing
Director (MD) of State Bank of
India (SBI) for two years till
November 2025.
Prior to this appointment,
Vinay Tonse was serving as
the Deputy MD (Corporate
Account Group) of SBI
Vinay M Tonse was
recommended to the post by
Financial Services
Institutions Bureau (FSIB) in
September 2023. The post
(MD of SBI) fell vacant in June
2023 after the appointment
of Swaminathan Janakiraman
as Deputy Governor of the
Reserve Bank of India(RBI).
Girish Chandra Vice-Chair United Nations (UN) Girish Chandra Murmu, the
Murmu Panel of External Comptroller and Auditor General
Auditors for 2024. (CAG) of India, was elected as the
Vice-Chair of the United Nations
(UN) Panel of External Auditors
for 2024.
The Panel has elected Pierre
Moscovici, First President of
Cour des comptes, French
Republic, as its Chair for
2024.
Girish Chandra Murmu, a
1985 batch Indian
Administrative Service (IAS)
officer of Gujarat cadre, has
been serving as the CAG of
India since 8th August 2020.
Anish Shah President-elect Federation of Indian Dr. Anish Shah, Managing
Chambers of Commerce Director (MD) and Chief
and Industry (FICCI) Executive Officer (CEO) of the
Mahindra Group, named as the
President-elect of Federation of
Indian Chambers of Commerce
and Industry (FICCI) for 2023-
2024.

AC Exam PDF
He will succed Subhrakant

Panda, the incumbent
President of FICCI after the
96th Annual General Meeting
which is set to be held in
December 8-9 2023 in New
Delhi, Delhi.
Rajat Kumar Jain Part-time Chairman Fino Payment Bank Reserve Bank of India (RBI ) has
approved the appointment of
Rajat Kumar Jain as the Part-time
Chairman of Fino Payment Bank
(Fino Bank) with effect from 24th
November 2023, until 1st
November 2025.
He is currently serving as an
Independent Director in Fino
bank.
OCTOBER 2023
Amit Agrawal Chief Executive Officer Unique Identification The Appointments Committee of
(CEO) Authority of India the Cabinet (ACC) has approved
(UIDAI) the extension of Amit Agrawal ‘s
tenure as the Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) of the Unique
Identification Authority of India
(UIDAI) for a period of one year
starting from November 2, 2023
up to November 2, 2024, or until
further orders, whichever is
earlier.
Amit Agrawal assumed
charge as the CEO of UIDAI in
June 2023 following the
retirement of Saurabh Garg.
Nitin Gupta Chairman Central Board of Direct The Appointments Committee of
Taxes (CBDT) the Cabinet (ACC) has approved
the re-appointment of Nitin
Gupta as the chairman of the
Central Board of Direct Taxes
(CBDT) for a tenure of 9-month
with effect from 1st October
2023.
He was re-appointment on a
contract basis till 30th June
2024, or until further orders,
whichever is earlier, in
relaxation of the recruitment
rules, on usual terms and
conditions applicable to re-

AC Exam PDF
employed central
government officers.
Dinesh Kumar Chairman State Bank of India (SBI) The Appointments Committee of
Khara the Cabinet (ACC) has extended
the tenure of the Chairman of the
State Bank of India (SBI) Dinesh
Kumar Khara till 28th August
2024 or till he attains the age of
63 years, or until further orders,
whichever is earlier.
ACC has also extended the
tenure of Ashwini Kumar
Tewari as the Managing
Director (MD) of SBI for 2
years beyond January 27,
2024.
Navneet Munot Chairman Association of Mutual Navneet Munot, Managing
Funds in India (AMFI) Director (MD) and Chief
Executive Officer (CEO) of HDFC
Asset Management Co. Ltd (AMC),
has been elected as the Chairman
of Association of Mutual Funds in
India (AMFI).
He will take charge as
chairman on 16th October
2023, succeeding A
Balasubramanian, MD & CEO
of Aditya Birla Sun Life Asset
Management Co. Ltd.Anthony
Heredia, MD, and CEO of
Mahindra Manulife Mutual
Fund, was elected as Vice
Chairman of AMFI.
Raghubar Das Governor Odisha Droupadi Murmu, President of
India, has appointed former Chief
Minister(CM) of
Jharkhand, Raghubar Das(68
years old), as the 26th Governor
of Odisha
Raghubar Das will succeed
Ganeshi Lal who has been serving
as the Governor of Odisha since
2018.
Indra Sena Reddy Governor Tripura Indra Sena Reddy Nallu
Nallu appointed as as 20th Governor of
Tripura with effect from the date
they assume charge & will
succeed Satyadeo Narain Arya

AC Exam PDF
who has been serving as the

Governor of Tripura since 2021.
Ashok Vaswani Managing Director Kotak Mahindra Bank He was appointed for a period
(MD) and Chief of 3 years by RBI. The
Executive Officer appointment is with effect from
(CEO) the date of taking charge, which
shall not be later than January 1,
2024.
Ashok Vaswani will
replace Uday Kotak who
stepped down from the
post in September
2023. He resigned 4
months ahead of the end
of his current tenure,
which is December 31,
2023.
Ashok Vaswani will
succeed Dipak Gupta, the
Joint MD of KMB, who is
serving as the interim MD
& CEO of KMB until
December 31, 2023.
Ashok Vaswani is
currently the president of
Pagaya Technologies Ltd,
the United States of
America (US)-Israel
Artificial intelligence (AI)
fintech firm.
Leon J. Topalian Chairman World Steel Leon J. Topalian, President and
Association(worldsteel) Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of
Nucor Corporation (the United
States of America-USA), was
elected as the 45th Chairman of
the World Steel
Association(worldsteel), the
international industry association
for the iron and steel sector.
India’s Thachat
Viswanath(TV) Narendran,
CEO & Managing
Director(MD) of Tata Steel
Limited and Choi Jeong-Woo,
CEO of POSCO Holdings were
elected as the Vice Chairman
of Worldsteel. Choi Jeong-
Woo served as the 44th
Chairman of the WorldSteel.

AC Exam PDF
INTERNATIONAL
PRESIDENTS OF INTERNATIONAL COUNTRIES
Name Country Points to be noted
FEBRUARY 2024
Nangolo Mbumba Namibia Nangolo Mbumba, former Vice President of the Republic of
Namibia, took oath as the interim President of Namibia after
the death of incumbent President Hage Geingob on 4th
February 2024. Nangolo Mbumba will hold the post until the
2024 election.
Nayib Armando Bukele El Salvador Nayib Armando Bukele Ortez(42-year-old), President of El
Ortez Salvador, won the general elections 2024 and was re-elected
to the post for the 2nd consecutive term.
He became the first Salvadorian president to win a 2nd
consecutive term since 1983. He will take charge as the
President of El Salvador in June 2024 and serve till 2029.
Alexander Stubb Finland Finland's former Prime Minister (PM) Alexander Stubb of the
National Coalition Party (NCP) won the run-off presidential
election, securing 51.6% of the vote, and became the 13th
President of Finland.
Alexander Stubb will replace incumbent President Sauli
Niinisto, who is required to step down after serving 2 six-
year terms since 2012
JANUARY 2024
Félix-Antoine Democratic Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the leader of Union for
Tshisekedi Tshilombo Republic of Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) party, was re-elected
Congo as the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
for the 2nd term.
He is set to sworn in as the President of Congo on 20th
January 2024.
William Lai Ching-te Taiwan William Lai Ching-te (64 years) of Democratic Progressive
Party (DPP) won the Taiwan Presidential election with
40.05% of the vote and has been elected as the President of
Taiwan.
William Lai Ching-te has been serving as the Vice
President of Taiwan since 2020.
He will succeed Tsai Ing-Wen, the current and the first female
president of Taiwan.
César Bernardo Arévalo Guatemala César Bernardo Arévalo de León, an anti-corruption leader,
de León was sworn in as President of Guatemala. He is the leader of
the social democratic Movimiento Semilla Party.
Bernardo Arévalo succeeded Alejandro Giammattei, a leader
of the right-wing party Vamos.
Azali Assoumani Union of Azali Assoumani has been re-elected as the President of the
Comoros Union of Comoros for a fourth 5 year term.
He won the 2024 Comorian Presidential Election with
62.97% of the total votes. Azali Assoumani has been
serving as the President of Comoros since 1999.
This marks his 3rd consecutive term and he will rule
until 2029.
DECEMBER 2023

AC Exam PDF
Abdel Fattah Saeed Egypt Incumbent Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Saeed Hussein
Hussein Khalil El-Sisi Khalil El-Sisi secures 3rd term as Egypt's president, after
winning the 2024 Presidential Elections with 89.6% of the
vote. He is Egypt's 8th president, who has been in office since
2014.
He was 1st elected as president in mid-2014, then re-
elected in 2018 for the 2nd term.
NOVEMBER 2023
Javier Milei Argentina Javier Milei of Libertarian Party was elected as the new
president of Argentina. He will succeed the current Argentina
President Alberto Fernández after assuming office on
December 10, 2023.
Javier Milei is an economist and former television
personality with little political experience.
He is also regarded as 'Chainsaw Man' because of his
unique style of campaign by using chainsaw as symbol
which represents its intention to shred unnecessary
spending by up to 15% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Andry Rajoelina Madagascar Incumber President of Madagascar Andry Rajoelina, leader of
Young Malagasies Determined (Tanora Malagasy Vonona,
TGV) party, was re-elected as the President of
Madagascar for 3rd term.
Previously, he has served as the President of Madagascar
from 2009 to 2014 and from 2019 to 2023. He became
the youngest president in the Madagascar’s history.
OCTOBER 2023
Mohamed Muizzu Maldives Mohamed Muizzu of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM)
was elected as the New President of Maldives. He is set to be
sworn in on 17th November 2023.He defeated the incumbent
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (2018 to 2023) of the
Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) by securing 54% of the
votes.
Daniel Noboa Ecuador Daniel Noboa, a 35-year-old businessman and a member of
National Democratic Action, won the 2023 General Election
of Ecuador defeating Luisa González of the Citizen Revolution
Movement.With this victory, Daniel Noboa becomes the
Youngest ever President elect of Ecuador.
Daniel Noboa is taking over as President after Guillermo
Lasso and will continue in this role until May 2025, which
is when the current term ends.
PRIME MINISTER’S OF INTERNATIONAL COUNTRIES

Name Country Points to be noted
FEBRUARY 2024
Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak Yemen The Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) of Yemen
appointed Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak as Yemen's new
Prime Minister (PM) He replaces Dr. Maeen Abdulmalik
Saeed who served as PM of Yemen from October 2018 to
February 2024.

AC Exam PDF
Prior to the appointment, Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak has

been serving as the Minister for Foreign Affairs and
Expatriates of Yemen since 2020. The outgoing PM
Dr. Maeen Abdulmalik Saeed will assume the role of an
Advisor to the Chairman of the PLC.
Olzhas Bektenov Kazakhstan Kazakhstan’s president Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has
appointed Olzhas Bektenov(43 years) of Amanat party as the
new Prime Minister (PM) of Kazakhstan. Olzhas Bektenov is
the youngest PM in Kazakhstan's history. The appointment
comes after the dismissal of Alikhan Smailov’s government
which was in power since January 2022.
JANUARY 2024
Succes Masra Republic of Succes Masra, president of ‘The Transformers’ party and
Chad former opposition leader, was appointed as the Prime
Minister (PM) of the Republic of Chad by transitional
government under the presidentship of
General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno following a referendum.
Succes Masra will replace Saleh Kebzabo who resigned from
the post in December 2023.
Sheikh Mohammed Sabah Kuwait Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad Al-Jaber al-Sabah, Emir of Kuwait,
al-Salem al-Sabah has appointed Sheikh Mohammed Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah as
the Prime Minister (PM) of Kuwait and has been tasked to
form a new cabinet.
He succeeds Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, the
son of late Emir Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who has
been serving as the PM of Kuwait since 2022.
Sheikh Hasina Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, President of Awami League and incumbent
Prime Minister of Bangladesh has been re-elected as the PM
for the 5th term.
This also marks’s her 4th consecutive term as PM of
Bangladesh. With this win, Sheikh Hasina retains her title as
world's longest-serving female head of state.
Tshering Tobgay Bhutan Bhutan's former Prime Minister (PM) Tshering Tobgay,
President of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), is set to
become PM of Bhutan for 2nd term.
He served as PM for the 1st time from 2013 to 2018. Tshering
Tobgay will succeed Lotay Tshering, who served as the PM of
Bhutan from 2018 to 2023.
DECEMBER 2023
Donald Tusk Poland Donald Tusk, leader of Civic Coalition, was elected as the
Prime Minister (PM) of Poland by winning a vote of
confidence in parliament on 11th December 2023.
He takes oath as PM at the presidential palace by Poland’s
President Andrzej Duda.
Geraldo João Martins Guinea-Bissau The President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro
Sissoco Embalo issued the decree reappointing Geraldo João
Martins as Prime Minister(PM) to the Government of Guinea-
Bissau.

AC Exam PDF
He was initially appointed as PM in August 2023 after

winning the legislative elections conducted in June 2023.
NOVEMBER 2023
Pedro Sánchez Spain Pedro Sánchez of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party
(Spanish acronym: PSOE) was re-elected as the Prime
Minister (PM) of Spain, officially President of the Government
of Spain.
He was elected for the 2nd term with a majority in the
Spanish parliament.
He has been serving as the Acting PM of Spain since 25th
July 2023.
Luc Frieden Luxembourg Luc Frieden (60), a member of the Christian Social People's
Party (CSV), sworn in as the 23rd Prime Minister (PM) of
Luxembourg.
He succeeds Xavier Bettel of Liberal Democratic Party
(DP), who served as PM of Luxembourg from 2013 to
2023.
Outgoing PM Xavier Bettel was appointed as deputy PM
and foreign minister.
OCTOBER 2023
Christopher Luxon New Zealand Christopher Luxon has been elected as the 42nd Prime
Minister (PM) of New Zealand. He belongs to (and the leader
of) central-right National Party of New Zealand.
He will succeed Labour Party’s Chris Hipkins who was
appointed the 41st PM of New Zealand in January 2023.
Zuzana Čaputová Slovakia Zuzana Čaputová, President of Slovakia, formally appointed
Robert Fico as the Prime Minister (PM) of Slovakia.
He will succeed Ľudovít Ódor who has been serving as
the Interim PM of Slovakia since 15 May 2023 after the
resignation of Eduard Heger as PM.
This is the 3rd time Robert Fico will serve as the PM of
Slovakia, after having served from 2006 to 2010 and from
2012 to 2018.
OTHER INTERNATIONAL APPOINTMENTS

Name Appointed as Entity/place Points to be noted
FEBRUARY 2024
Sultan Ibrahim King Malaysia His Royal Highness (HRH) Sultan
ibni Almarhum Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan
Sultan Iskandar Iskandar (Sultan Ibrahim), the Ruler of
the southern Malaysian state of Johor,
was sworn in as the 17th King of
Malaysia, also known as Yang di-
Pertuan Agong (YDPA) XVII, on 31st
January 2024.
He will be serving as the king for a
term of 5 years (till 2029).

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He succeeded Al-Sultan Abdullah

ibni Sultan Ahmad Shah (16th
King), Ruler of Pahang state, who
served as the 16th King since 2019.
Mio Oka Director for India Asian Development The Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Bank (ADB) has appointed Mio Oka as its new
Country Director for India. Mio Oka
will take over from the incumbent
Takeo Konishi who has been elevated
as ADB Director General for South Asia.
Nawaf Salam President International Court Justice Nawaf Salam from Lebanon was
of Justice (ICJ) elected as the President of the
International Court of Justice (ICJ), the
principal judicial organ of the United
Nations(UN), for 3 years with effect
from 6th February 2024. Nawaf Salam
succeeds Judge Joan E Donoghue from
the United States of America(USA) who
served as president of ICJ from 2021 to
2024.
Justice Julia Sebutinde from
Uganda was elected as the Vice
President(VP) of ICJ for 3 years
with effect from 6th February
2024. She succeeds Kirill Gevorgian
(Russian Federation), who served
as VP of ICJ from 2021-2024.
JANUARY 2024
Nadia Calviño President European Nadia Calviño Santamaría, a Spanish
Santamaría Investment Bank economist and civil servant, took over
(EIB) as the 8th President of the European
Investment Bank (EIB), the lending
arm of the European Union (EU).
With this appointment, she became
the first woman President of EIB.
She succeeds Werner Hoyer of
Germany, who held the post since
2012.
Raghuram Iyer Chief Executive Officer Indian Olympic The Indian Olympic Association (IOA)
(CEO) Association (IOA) appointed Raghuram Iyer as the its
Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Previously, he has served as the
CEO of Indian Premier League
(IPL) teams such as Rajasthan
Royals, Lucknow Super Giants and
Rising Pune Supergiant.
Prior to this appointment, the
functions of the CEO at IOA were
managed by Kalyan Chaubey, the joint
secretary of the IOA and the President
of the All-India Football Federation
(AIFF).
Frederik André King Denmark Frederik André Henrik Christian
Henrik Christian (Frederik X) (55 years), Crown Prince
of Denmark, was proclaimed as the

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new king of Denmark by it’s Prime

Minister (PM) Mette Frederiksen. King
Frederik X takes throne after the
abdication of his mother Queen
Margrethe II at Christiansborg Palace
on 14 January 2024.
DECEMBER 2023
Sheikh Meshal Al- Emir Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-
Ahmad Al-Jaber Sabah officially assumed the role of
Al-Sabah Emir of Kuwait, taking the
constitutional oath in a ceremony held
before the Kuwaiti National Assembly.
He became the 17th ruler of Kuwait,
the oil-rich Gulf state.
He succeeded the late Emir Sheikh
Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah,
who passed away at the age of 86
on 16 December 2023. He served
as the Emir of Kuwait for 3 years
(2020-2023).
NOVEMBER 2023
Sarang Deo Member World Health Professor Sarang Deo, Professor of
Organization Operations Management at the Indian
(WHO)’s Strategic School of Business (ISB) has been
and Technical appointed as a member of the Strategic
Advisory Group and Technical Advisory Group (STAG)
(STAG) for for Tuberculosis (TB) by the World
Tuberculosis (TB) Health Organization (WHO).
He will be a part of a 15-member
expert group responsible for
independently evaluating the WHO’s
efforts in eradicating TB.
Saima Wazed Regional Director World Health Saima Wazed, the candidate of
Organisation (WHO) Bangladesh, was nominated as the
South-East Asia Regional Director of the World Health
Organisation (WHO) South-East Asia
Region (SEAR)
Region (SEAR), one of the 6 WHO
Regions.
Saima Wazed, the daughter of
Bangladesh Prime Minister(PM)
Sheikh Hasina, won the election
with 8 votes(including Bangladesh
and India).
Following the appointment, She
will succeed the incumbent
Regional director Dr. Poonam
Khetrapal Singh (since 2014) from
India on 1st February 2024.
Surendra Kumar Member United Nations (UN) Senior Indian diplomat Surendra
Adhana Advisory Committee Kumar Adhana was re-elected as a
on Administrative member of the United Nations (UN)
Advisory Committee on Administrative

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and Budgetary and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ) for

Questions (ACABQ) a three-year term, 2024–26, beginning
on 1st January 2024.
He has been a member of ACABQ, a
subsidiary organ of the United
Nations General Assembly (UNGA),
since November 2022.
OCTOBER 2023
Kumar New Chair Marylebone Cricket The MCC has appointed former Sri
Chokshanada Club (MCC) ’s World Lankan Cricket Captain Kumar
Sangakkara Cricket Committee Chokshanada Sangakkara as the new
(WCC) Chair of MCC’s WCC.
He will succeed former England
captain Mike Gatting, who has held
the post since 2017. Former
England Cricketer Mark Charles
Jefford Nicholas will serve as the
new President of MCC.As of Oct
2023 ,Kumar Sangakkara is
currently the Director of Cricket
and the Head Coach of the
Rajasthan Royals in the Indian
Premier League (IPL).
Arindam Bagchi Next United Nations (UN) Arindam Bagchi, Additional Secretary
Ambassador/Permane and other [External Publicity (XP)] and
nt Representative of international Spokesperson of the Ministry of
India organisations External Affairs (MEA) has been
appointed the next
Ambassador/Permanent
Representative of India to the United
Nations (UN) and other international
organisations in Geneva, Switzerland.
Arindam Bagchi is set to take over
the post from Indra Mani Pandey,
the incumbent Indian envoy to the
UN in Geneva.
Sultan Ibrahim King Malaysia His Royal Highness (HRH) Sultan
ibni Almarhum Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan
Sultan Iskandar Iskandar, the Ruler of the southern
Malaysian state of Johor, was elected as
the 17th King of Malaysia, also known
as Yang di-Pertuan Agong (YDPA) XVII,
for a term of 5 years, which will begin
on 31st January 2024.
He was elected by the
Conference of Rulers during its 263rd
(Special) meeting held at the National
Palace(Istana Negara) in Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia.
He will replace incumbent
Sovereign Al-Sultan Abdullah ibni

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Sultan Ahmad Shah, Ruler of Pahang

state, who has been serving as the 16th
King since 2019. His tenure is set to
end on 30th January 2024.
BRAND AMBASSADOR
Name Entity/Organization Points to be Noted
FEBRUARY 2024
Ranveer Singh BoAt Indian Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh was appointed
as a brand ambassador for the audio and wearable
brand BoAt by Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Imagine
Marketing Limited.
Vinícius Junior Education for All United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO), appointed Brazilian
footballer Vinicius José Paixão de Oliveira Junior
(Vinícius Junior) as the Goodwill Ambassador for
Education for All. Vinícius Junior becomes the 2nd
Brazilian football player, after Pelé, to be appointed as
the UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador.
Narendra Kumar Fit India Movement Narendra Kumar Yadav, Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
Yadav 2009 batch officer, has been the first civil servant to be
appointed as a brand ambassador for the Fit India
Movement.
Fit India Movement was launched by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 to make fitness an
integral part of everyone’s daily lives. The
movement aims to bring about behavioural
changes and move towards a more physically
active lifestyle.
JANUARY 2024
NIL
DECEMBER 2023
Suresh Kumar Raina Youth Voter Awareness Election Commission of India (ECI) appointed Former
Ambassador for Union (Retired) Indian cricketer Suresh Kumar Raina as the
Territory (UT) Jammu & Youth Voter Awareness Ambassador for Union
Territory (UT) Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), to create
Kashmir (J&K)
awareness among the youngsters to participate in the
electoral process for higher voter turnout.
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of J&K, Pandurang K Pole
presented a letter of his appointment on 1st December,
2023.
Smriti Mandhana PNB MetLife PNB MetLife appointed India’s Star Cricketer Smriti
Mandhana its ambassador
Smriti Mandhana, Vice-Captain of Indian Women’s
Cricket team has been appointed as the brand
ambassador of PNB MetLife India Insurance Company
Limited for their campaign “Karo Bade Sapno Ki
Tayyari”.
Deepika Padukone Bisleri Bisleri International Private Limited, leading Indian
bottled water company, has roped in Deepika

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Padukone, a bollywood actress and producer as its

first ever global brand ambassador.
Deepika Padukone Hyundai Motor India Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), a wholly-owned
Limited subsidiary of South Korea-based Hyundai Motor
Company (HMC), has roped in Deepika Padukone, a
Bollywood actress and producer as its brand
ambassador.
NOVEMBER 2023
Prannoy Haseena Sunil Federal Bank Federal Bank Limited has signed a partnership with
Kumar Indian Shuttler Prannoy Haseena Sunil Kumar (HS
Prannoy) (31) for an exclusive collaboration.
Under this annual partnership, Federal Bank will
be the exclusive banking partner.
The partnership aims to promote the Bank’s
strategy to invest in various adjacent domains to
enhance its brand’s influence.
Mamata Banerjee West Bengal Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister (CM) of West Bengal
(WB) named former Indian cricketer and Padma Shir
Awardee Sourav Ganguly as the “Brand Ambassador of
Bengal” and handed over the Appointment letter.
Prior to this appointment, renowned Bollywood
Actor Shah Rukh Khan has been serving as the
brand ambassador of Bengal since 2012.
OCTOBER 2023
Captain Bana Singh Ambassador for the “War The Directorate of Rural Sanitation, Union Territory of
Against Waste Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) has nominated Param Vir
Chakra (PVC) Awardee Captain Bana Singh as the
ambassador for the “War Against Waste”, initiative to
takle sanitation challenges in rural areas of J&K.
It was announced during the Swachhata Hi Seva
(SHS 2023) campaign.
The “War Against Waste” campaign attempts to
resolve waste management and environmental
conservation challenges in rural J&K.
Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS 2023) campaign was
celebrated from 15th September to 2nd October
2023 under the joint aegis of the Department of
Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) and the
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
Sachin Tendulkar International Cricket Former Indian cricket Player Sachin Tendulkar was
Council (ICC) Men's named as the 'Global Ambassador' for the
Cricket One Day International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's Cricket One
Day International (ODI) World Cup 2023.
International (ODI) World
Sachin unveils the World Cup trophy before the
Cup 2023. inaugural match between England and New
Zealand on 5th October 2023.
Other ambassadors of ICC ODI World Cup 2023:
It includes Suresh Raina(India), Mithali Raj (India),
Vivian Richards(West Indies), AB de Villiers( South
Africa), Eoin Morgan(England), Aaron
Finch(Australia), Muttiah Muralitharan(Sri Lanka),
Ross Taylor(New Zealand) and Mohammad
Hafeez(Pakistan).

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Mohammed Shami Puma India Puma India has roped in Indian right-arm fast bowler
Ahmed fast bowler Mohammed Shami Ahmed as its brand
ambassador.
As part of this partnership, Shami will promote
Puma’s shoes, clothing, and accessories through
various activities and campaigns.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni State Bank of India (SBI) State Bank of India (SBI) has roped in former Indian
(MS Dhoni) Cricketer and former Captain of Indian Men’s cricket
team Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MS Dhoni) as its official
brand ambassador
RESIGNATION
Name Resigned as Imp points to be Noted
FEBRUARY 2024
NIL
JANUARY 2024
NIL
DECEMBER 2023
NIL
NOVEMBER 2023
NIL
OCTOBER 2023
NIL
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

AWARDS
FEBRUARY 2024
Union Minister, Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defence (MoD) honoured Dr Bina Modi, Chairperson of Modi
Enterprises, KK Modi Group, with the “Outstanding Business Woman of the Year - 2023' Award. The award
recognised her contributions to the industry.
Former Deputy Prime Minister and Veteran Leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Lal Krishna (LK)
Advani will be conferred with Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India. He will be the 50th recipient
of the Bharat Ratna award since its inception in 1954.
Gurugram (Haryana) based REC Limited (formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) was
awarded with the Best Green Bond - Corporate Award at The Asset Triple A Awards for Sustainable Finance
2024. REC was honoured for the issuance of Green Bonds worth USD 750 million in April 2023.
The 66th Annual Grammy Awards (Grammy 2024) was held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los
Angeles, California, the United States of America(USA) on 4th February 2024.
Taylor Swift won the Grammy 2024 - Album of the Year for her album Midnights and became the first ever
artist to win “Album of the Year” four times. she also won the award under “Best Pop Vocal Album”
category.
Victoria Monét won the Best New Artist at the 2024 Grammys
Zakir Hussain’s Shakti band won Best Global Music Album for 'This Moment':
The band Shakti, led by Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain and featuring vocalist Shankar Mahadevan,
percussionist V Selvaganesh, violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan and John McLaughlin, has won the Best Global
Music Album award for their latest release 'This Moment'.

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Nima Sarikhani of the United Kingdom(UK) won the 2023 Wildlife Photographer of the Year 59 People's
Choice Award by the Natural History Museum, London(UK).
Nima Sarikhani won this award for his photo of a polar bear sleeping peacefully on a small iceberg.
The award contest is annually organised by the Natural History Museum and it was originally founded in
1965 by British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Wildlife Magazine.
President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Indian sprinter Pilavullakandy
Thekkeyparambil Usha (P.T. Usha) was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award with Gold
Medal by Sports Journalists’ Federation of India (SJFI) in an event held at the National Sports Club of India
(NSCI), New Delhi, Delhi.
Government of India (GoI) announced that two former Prime Ministers(PMs), Chaudhary Charan
Singh and PV Narasimha Rao, and father of India’s ‘green revolution’ Dr MS Swaminathan will be awarded
Bharat Ratna in 2024.
With this, the total number of Bharat Ratna recipients in 2024 becomes five. This is the highest number of
Bharat Ratnas awarded in a year since its inception in 1954.
Note: In January 2024, GoI announced Bharat Ratna for Former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna (LK)
Advani and Former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur (posthumously).Click here to read full News
JANUARY 2024
Indian cricketer Virat Kohli won the Pubity Sport Men’s Athlete of the Year 2023 Award by defeating
Argentine footballer Lionel Messi in the final clash of the online poll in which Kohli got 78 percent out of the
total votes while Messi got remaining 22 percent.
Spanish footballer Aitana bonmati (76%) wins Pubity female Athlete of The Year 2023 Award by defeating
American tennis player Coco Gauff (24%).
The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MoYAS) announced the winners of ‘Rashtriya Khel Protsahan
Puruskar’ 2023 which recognises the corporate entities and individuals for outstanding contribution in the
area of sports promotion and development.
Winners of 2023 Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar:
The 2023 award was announced under 2 categories:
Category Winners
Identification and Jain Deemed to be

nurturing of budding / University,
young talent Bengaluru, Karnataka
Encouragement to
Odisha Mining
sports through
Corporate Limited
Corporate Social
Responsibility
Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Barack Obama, former President of the United States of America (USA) (2009-2017), won the 75th
Creative Arts Emmy Award under the Outstanding Narrator category for his Netflix documentary series title
Working: What We Do All Day “The Middle”.
81st edition of Golden Globe Awards (2024) held on 8th January, 2024 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly
Hills, California, United States of America (U.S.A.).
Five-time Oscar nominee Christopher Nolan’s film “Oppenheimer” steals the entire spotlight at 81st
Golden Globe Awards by securing 5 awards in coveted categories such as: Best Film in Drama, Best Actor in
Drama, Best Supporting Actor and for best original score by Ludwig Goranson.
Greta Gerwig’s film Barbie became the 1st film to win “Cinematic and Box Office Achievement” at Golden
Globes.

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Cillian Murphy won the Golden Globe for best male actor in Drama for his role as the father of the atomic
bomb ”J. Robert Oppenheimer”. Lily Gladstone won best female actor in Drama for Martin Scorsese’s
Killers of the Flower Moon. Click Here to read full news
Bengali writer and novelist, Shirshendhu Mukhopadhyay (87), has been honoured with the
Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar 2023 by the Rashtrakavi Kuvempu Trust.
The award recognises the litterateurs who had contributed to any language recognised by the constitution
of India. The award includes a cash award of Rs 5 lakh, a silver medal and a citation.
Droupadi Murmu, President of India, honoured the Four winners of Tenzing Norgay National Adventure
Award (TNNAA) 2022 during the Sports and Adventure Award 2023 event held in Rashtrapati Bhavan, New
Delhi, Delhi.
Winners of TNNAA 2022:
S.No Winner Name Category State
1 Late Ms. Savita Kanswal (Posthumous) Land Adventure Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
2 Tulsi Chaitanya Mothukuri Water Adventure Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
3 Anshu Kumar Tiwari Air Adventure Gopalganj, Bihar
4 Praveen Singh Lifetime Achievement Kangra, Himachal Pradesh
Gianni Infantino, President of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), received the
Award for International Sports Personality for 2023 at the 12th annual Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Creative Sports Awards held in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Droupadi Murmu, President of India, presented the Swachh Survekshan(Cleanliness Survey) Awards
2023 at the ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) at Bharat Mandapam,
New Delhi, Delhi.
Surat (Gujarat) and Indore (Madhya Pradesh/MP) were jointly recognised as the cleanest city in India
under category of cities with a population more than 1 lakh. Indore has ranked No 1 in All India Clean city
for the 6th Consecutive time.
President Murmu also launched the Swachh Survekshan(SS) 2023 dashboard during the event.
Overall, Winners:
Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023
Category Rank Winner
All India Clean City 1 Surat (Gujarat) & Indore (MP)
(Population > 1 lakh) 3 Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra)
All India Clean City 1 Sasvad(Maharashtra)
(Population < 1 lakh) 2 Patan(Chhattisgarh)
3 Lonavala(Pune, Maharashtra)
Click here for the complete list of 2023 Swachh Survekshan Awardees
On the occasion of 8th National Startup Day 2024 i.e. on January 16, 2024, the results of the 4th edition
of 'States’ Startup Ranking 2022- On support to Startup Ecosystems of States and Union Territories' & 4th
'National Startup Awards (NSA) 2023- Celebrating Achievers Ahead of the Curve' were declared by Startup
India, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
(MoCI) during an event at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Delhi.
In the State’s Startup Ranking 2022, Gujarat, Karnataka Kerala, and Tamil Nadu (TN) emerged as the
best-performing States in Category A (Population above 1 Cr) for developing startup ecosystems for

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budding entrepreneurs while Himachal Pradesh is emerged as the best performer in Category B
(Population below 1 Cr).
List of States’ Startup Ranking 2022 Results:
Category Category A Category B
Best Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu
Performers (TN) Himachal Pradesh (HP)
Top Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, and
Performers Telangana Arunachal Pradesh (AR) and Meghalaya
Andhra Pradesh (AP), Assam, Madhya
Pradesh (MP), Uttar Pradesh (UP), and
Leader Uttarakhand Goa, Manipur, and Tripura
Aspiring
Leader Bihar and Haryana Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Nagaland
Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman
Emerging Chhattisgarh, Delhi, and Jammu and Kashmir and Diu, Ladakh, Mizoram, Puducherry, and
Ecosystems (J&K) Sikkim
National Startup Awards 2023
The winning startups will get Rs 10 Lakh
NSA was launched in 2020 by DPIIT. Click here to read full News
The Best FIFA (International Federation of Association Football) Football Awards ceremony 2023 was
held in London (United Kingdom) on 15th January 2024.
Lionel Messi (Argentina) won the Best FIFA Men’s Player 2023 Award, while
Aitana Bonmati (Spain) won the Best FIFA Women’s Player 2023 Award. This marks Messi’s eighth
individual FIFA award, including in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2022, and 2023.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) announced the recipients of the Pradhan
Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) for the year 2024.
The 2024 awardees include 9 boys and 10 girls, from 18 States and Union Territories (UTs) including 2
Aspirational Districts.
PMRBP earlier known as the National Child Award is India's highest honour for children, awarded annually
by the MoWCD. The award is annually presented to children aged 5-18 from India for their exceptional
abilities and outstanding achievements in 7 fields - Bravery; Sports; Social Service; Science & Technology;
Environment; Arts & Culture; and Innovation.
Shubman Gill won the best men’s international cricketer (Polly Umrigar Award) of 2022-23 in the Board
of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Awards (Naman Awards) 2024 held in Hyderabad, Telangana.
Deepti Sharma won the best women’s international cricketer of 2022-23.
BCCI Awards for the past four seasons (2019-20, 2020-21, 2021-22, and 2022-23) were awarded jointly at
the 2024 Awards ceremony.
Former India all-rounder and coach Ravi Shastri and former Indian wicket-keeper batsman Farokh
Engineer were awarded the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.
Ravichandran Ashwin won the Dilip Sardesai Award for finishing as the highest wicket-taker in Test cricket
– 2022-23. Click here to view full list of Winners of BCCI Awards
Droupadi Murmu, President of India, awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, to
Former Bihar Chief Minister (CM) and Socialist Leader Karpoori Thakur (posthumously). He becomes the 49th
recipient of Bharat Ratna, and the 15th to be accorded posthumously.
Union Minister Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) released a commemorative coin of
denomination Rs 100 and a postage stamp featuring Karpoori Thaku at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, Delhi.
Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar released a book titled ‘Rajkiya Samaroh’ at a state function
held at the Bihar Assembly premises in Patna, Bihar.

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The City of London Corporation honoured Ajit Mishra, an India-born Lawyer in the United Kingdom
(UK) with the "Freedom of the City of London" Award for his contribution to strengthening the business
partnership between the City of London and India.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has announced the Padma Awards for 2024. Emmanuel Macron,
President of France was the chief guest on the 75th Republic Day of India.
Padma Awards 2024:
Droupadi Murmu, the President of India has approved the conferment of 132 Padma Awards for 2024.
The official list released comprises 5 Padma Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan, and 110 Padma Shri
awards, which include 2 duo cases (in a duo case, the award is counted as one).
The list also comprises 8 persons from the category of Foreigners/ NRI/ PIO/OCI and 9 Posthumous
awardees.
A total of six foreigners were included in the list of winners of the Padma Awards for the year 2024.
Among 6 foreign nationals, 4 people are from France, one from Taiwan and Papua New Guinea each.
List of Padma Awards 2024
The 69th Hyundai Filmfare Awards (Filmfare Awards 2024) was held in Gujarat International Finance Tec-
City (GIFT City) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat from 27th to 28th January 2024.
Vidhu Vinod Chopra's directorial venture “12th Fail” won 5 awards at the 69th Filmfare Awards 2024,
including Best Film and Best Director.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Animal” movie also won 5 awards including Best Actor In A Leading Role (Male)
and Best Music Album.
Indian Film Director and Editor David Dhawan was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award
2024 for his immense contributions to Indian cinema. Click here to read full news
Droupadi Murmu, President of India, presented the Best Electoral Practices Awards 2023 during the
event organised by Election Commission of India(ECI) as a part of the 14th National Voters Day (NVD 2023) on
25th January 2024 in New Delhi, Delhi.
A total 16 awards were presented during the event. These include 13 individuals for ECI’s Best Electoral
Practices Awards; and 3 Organization for ECI Media Awards.
During the event, ECI also launches the logo and tagline “Chunav ka Parv, Desh ka Garv” (Festival of
Elections, Pride of the Nation) of the multi-media campaign for Voter Education and Awareness for the
forthcoming Parliamentary (lok sabha) elections 2024. Click here to read full News
DECEMBER 2023
Dr V R Lalithambika, a distinguished scientist at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was
honoured with “Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur”, the highest civilian award of France, for her contributions in
promoting space cooperation between India and France.
She becomes the 2nd ISRO scientist to receive the award. Previously, A S Kiran Kumar, former chairman of
ISRO received the award in 2019.
Eminent Indian author and translator, Dr Arshia Sattar, was honoured with “Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et
des Lettres” (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters), a prestigious honor from the French Government.
Safeena Husain, the founder and board member of Educate Girls, was awarded the WISE Prize for
Education 2023 by the Qatar Foundation at the 11th edition of the World Innovation Summit for Education
(WISE) Summit held on 28th -29th November 2023.
Safeena Husain became the first Indian woman to receive the WISE Prize for Education, and she received
the WISE Prize medal along with USD 500,000 prize money.
Safeena Husain has been awarded the NITI Aayog Women Transforming India Award(2017), and the
NDTV-L’Oréal Paris Women of Worth Award(2016).
The Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) under Ministry of Labour & Employment
(MoL&E) was awarded Vision Zero 2023 Award by International Social Security Association (ISSA) at the
23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work, held in Sydney, Australia from 27th to 30th November,
2023.
The World Congress was co-organised by the International Labour Organization (ILO), SafeWork New
South Wales (NSW) and ISSA. The theme of the event was “Shaping Change: Collaborating for a healthier
and safer world of work”.

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Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Ministry of Education (MoE) honored the 65 outstanding district
and block education officers across India with the National Awards for Innovations and Good Practices in
Educational Administration for the years 2020-21 & 2021-22.
The awards for district and block-level education officers were instituted by the NIEPA in 2014.
The NIEPA was established by the erstwhile Ministry of Human Resource Development (MoHRD), now
MoE, Government of India. It became a deemed-to-be university in 2006.
Kabir Bedi, a renowned Indian actor, was honoured with “Officer Order of Merit of the Italian Republic”
(Ufficiale Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana), the one of the most prestigious Italian civilian award, for
his contributions in promoting better relations between India and Italy.
The Scroll of Honour was signed by Italian President Sergio Mattarella and counter-signed by Italian Prime
Minister (PM) Giorgia Meloni.
Tiriyani Block of Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district, Telangana secured the first position in the
National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog’s inaugural delta rankings of Aspirational Blocks
Programme (ABP) for the first Quarter of 2023-2024.
The Kaushambi block of Kaushambi District in Uttar Pradesh secured second position.
Zone Rank Block District State
West
1 (hilly and north-
First Amri Karbi A Assam
eastern states as
nglong
well as islands)
Second Ngopa Saitual Mizoram
Uttar
First Harraiya Basti
2(North Indian Pradesh
states) Ghazipu Uttar
Second Viron
r Pradesh
First Maski Raichur Karnataka
3(southern states) Adilaba
Second Naranur Telangana
d
Gadchir Maharasht
First Sironcha
4(western Indian oli ra
states) Gadchir Maharasht
Second Aheri
oli ra
Madhya
First Tirla Dhar
5(Central Indian Pradesh
states) Barwan Madhya
Second Pat
i Pradesh
First Andar Siwan Bihar
6(Eastern India)
Second Ramgarh Dumka Jharkhand
The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development for 2023 has been jointly awarded
to Daniel Barenboim, an Argentine-Israeli classical pianist and conductor, and Ali Abu Awwad, Palestinian
peace activist, for their efforts towards a non-violent resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Indira Gandhi Prize has been conferred every year since 1986 by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. It
consists of a monetary award of Rs 25 lakh along with a citation.
Sukrita Paul Kumar, Indian Poet, critic and Translator, was honoured with the 6th Rabindranath
Tagore Literary Prize (2023) for her book titled “Salt & Pepper: Selected Poems” published by Paperwall
Publishing.
Indian-American economist, Abhijit Banerjee, the 2018 Nobel Prize laureate (Economics), received the
Tagore Prize for Social Achievement 2023.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the national space agency of India based in Bengaluru,
Karnataka won the 2023 Leif Erikson Lunar Prize for its Chandrayaan-3 mission, the 1st spacecraft to
softland near Moon’s south pole. Click Here to read about Chandrayaan-3 Mission

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The Exploration Museum in Husavik, Iceland announced the winners of the 9th edition of the Leif Erikson
Awards.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s 2023 Asia-Pacific
Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation, also known as Heritage Awards, were awarded to a total of 12
projects from India(6), China(5), Nepal(1).
Rambagh Gate and Ramparts in Punjab(India), has won the “Award of Excellence”, the highest honour of
UNESCO heritage awards.
Karnikara Mandapam, Kunnamangalam Bhagawati Temple, Kerala, India have won the 2 awards. It was
recognised with Special Recognition for Sustainable Development category and Award of Distinction.
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) announced the National Sports Awards 2023 which will be
conferred on 42 sportspersons, coaches and entities under 5 categories on 9th January 2024 by the President of
India, Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, Delhi.
Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2023 will be given to the Badminton duo Chirag Chandrashekhar
Shetty and Rankireddy Satwik Sai Raj.
Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar (Punjab) won the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy
2023 for the record 25th time.
Arjuna Awards for outstanding performance in Sports and Games 2023 will be awarded to 26 Awardees.
Dronacharya Award for Outstanding Coaches in Sports and Games 2023 will be awarded to 8 Awardees.
Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement in Sports and Games 2023 will be awarded to 3 Awardees.
The 18th edition of the NASSCOM- Data Security Council of India (DSCI) Annual Information Security
Summit (AISS), a 3-day event, was held from 19th to 21st December 2023 at the Leela Ambience Hotel,
Gurugram, Haryana.
During the summit, the 13th edition of the DSCI Excellence Awards (2023) was presented to recognise
organizations and individuals for their work in the fields of cybersecurity and privacy. Click here for the
complete list of winners
The Sahitya Akademi announced the winners of the Sahitya Akademi Awards 2023, the annual award
that recognizes literary works in 24 Indian languages (including English). The winners of the Sahitya Akademi
Awards 2023 include 9 books of poetry, 6 Novels, 5 short stories, 3 Essays, and 1 Literary Study.
The Award is in the form of a casket containing an engraved copper plaque, a shawl, and a cash prize of Rs.
1 lakh.
The awards recognize the works under various categories such as poetry, short stories, Novels,
Play/Drama, Literary criticism, Autobiography essays, Collections of articles, and Literary History.Click
here to read full News
NOVEMBER 2023
The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) honoured Nita Ambani, founder and Chairperson of
Reliance Foundation, with the 2023 Global Leadership Award for Philanthropy and Corporate Social
Responsibility (CSR). John Chambers, Chairman of USISPF, presented the award to Nita Ambani at the award
ceremony held in New Delhi, Delhi.
Nita Ambani received the award for her contribution towards women empowerment, supporting
education, promoting Indian arts & culture (on a global platform) and developing sports in India.
The 67th edition of the Ballon d’Or 2023 was held on 30th October 2023 at the Théâtre du Châtelet, Paris,
France.
Argentina’s Lionel Andrés Messi (Lionel Messi), who plays as a forward for Inter Miami CF has won the
Ballon d’Or award or Golden Ball Award for the record 8th time.
Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí Conca (Aitana Bonmati) has won the Ballon d’Or (Women) award or Ballon d’Or
Féminin Award.
India-born author Nandini Das, based in the United Kingdom (UK), has been named the winner of the
11th British Academy Book Prize for Global Cultural Understanding (2023), for her debut book titled “Courting
India: England, Mughal India and the Origins of Empire”.
The book is described as the origin story of Britain and India through the story of the arrival of Sir Thomas
Roe, first English ambassador in India, in the early 17th century.
The British Academy Book Prize, formerly known as the Nayef Al-Rodhan Prize, was established in 2013.
This is a leading international non-fiction prize.

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The All-India Football Federation (AIFF) has won the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President’s
Recognition Bronze Award for grassroots football. AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey received the award at the
AFC Annual Awards 2022 in Doha, Qatar.
AFC President Recognition Awards for Grassroots Football ‘Gold’ won by Football Australia.
AFC President Recognition Awards for Grassroots Football ‘Silver’ won by the Guam Football Association.
The Software engineer-turned-social worker Deenanath Rajput (33) from Jagdalpur, Bastar,
Chhattisgarh has won the second edition of Rohini Nayyar prize 2023 for an Outstanding Contribution to
Rural Development.
The award was presented by Nand Kishore (NK) Singh who is the Chairman of the Fifteenth Finance
Commission.
Responsible Tourism Partnership and International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) announced
the 8 winners of the Global Responsible Tourism Award 2023, which includes Kerala Responsible Tourism
(RT) Mission (Kerala) and Soar Excursions, Ahmedabad (Gujarat) from India.
Kerala RT mission won the award under Best for local sourcing, craft and food category for promoting
sustainable and women-inclusive initiatives.
Soar Excursions won the award under Best for meaningful connections category.
Indian solar-powered tech venture Science for Society Techno Services Private Limited (S4S
Technologies) and a global soil carbon marketplace ‘Boomitra’ founded by an Indian-American are two
among the five winners of 2023 Earthshot Prize (3rd Edition).
S4S Technologies won in the ‘Build A Waste-Free World’ category whereas Boomitra won in the ‘Fix Our
Climate’ category.
The winners’ list was announced by William, Prince of Wales, at the awards ceremony which was held in
Singapore.
Winners Category Country
Acción Andina Protect and Restore Nature The Andes Mountains, South America
GRST Clean Our Air Hong Kong, China
WildAid Marine Program Revive Our Oceans Global
S4S Technologies Build A Waste-Free World India
Boomitra Fix Our Climate Global
India's first ever dedicated award show for Indian Forest Service Officers, the Eco Warrior Awards
2023, was held in New Delhi, Delhi to honour exceptional individuals and initiatives that have made significant
contributions to environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
Eco Warrior Awards 2023 was organised jointly by Indian Masterminds and Indian Forest Service
Association, and the awards were sponsored by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) - a
Maharatna company in oil and gas sector; Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL - Maharatna); and Okinawa
- Ye E Sahi Hai.
The awards were given in the following 5 categories:
Wildlife Conservation: Dr. Mohan Ram for his work in wildlife conservation in Gir Forest, Gujarat
Wildlife Protection: Ritesh Sarothiya, Regional Deputy Director, Northern Region (NR), Wildlife
Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), Headquarters, MoEF&CC, Delhi
Forest Protection: Vasu Kanojia, DFO, North Seoni, Madhya Pradesh (MP).
Best Use of Technology for Conservation: Biswajit Mishra, currently serving as Chief Conservator
of Forest (CCF), (CTI), in Bengaluru
Award for Community Connect: Millo Tassar, Conservator of Forests in Arunachal Pradesh.

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Indian-born British-American author Salman Rushdie received the first-ever “Lifetime Disturbing the
Peace Award” presented by the Vaclav Havel Center in Manhattan, New York, United States of America (USA).
He has authored many novels and book of stories including Midnight’s Children which was awarded the
Booker Prize in 1981.
The 15th Edition of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Healthcare
Excellence Awards was held in New Delhi, Delhi.
The award is given to recognize and felicitate organizations and individuals for their outstanding
contributions to the Indian healthcare sector.
The General Award is given in five different categories to recognize excellence in the healthcare sector.
Excellence in Patient Service Delivery
Excellence in Patient Safety & Care
Excellence in Community Engagement
Digital Transformation Initiative of the Year
Training & Skill Development Initiative of the Year Click here for more detail….
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) awarded the 2023 Olympic Cup to the Taekwondo
Humanitarian Foundation (THF) in recognition of its long-term commitment to empowering refugee athletes
and refugees worldwide through taekwondo.
Thomas Bach, IOC President, presented the Olympic Cup to World Taekwondo President Chungwon Choue
in a ceremony at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland.
The Taekwondo statue was unveiled in the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland to commemorate the
World Taekwondo’s Golden Jubilee year.
Asian Power Magazine presented the 19th Asian Power Awards, 3rd Asian Oil & Gas Awards, and
inaugural Asian Water Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on November 2023.
GAIL India Limited won the ‘Innovation Award – India’ for reduction in LNG Shipping cost & emissions
through Ship-to-Ship (STS) transfer of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) with backhauling.
It also won ‘Midstream Project of the Year – India’ for the installation of the first floating Compressed
Natural Gas (CNG) station at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (UP).
The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development 2022 was jointly awarded to the New
Delhi, Delhi headquartered Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the New Delhi based Trained Nurses
Association of India (TNAI) as representatives of the COVID-19 warriors in India.
The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced the winners of the 51st
International Emmy® Awards (2023) in New York City, United States of America(USA).
Indian Comedian and actor Vir Das won the Emmy under the Comedy category for his Netflix stand-up
special show “Vir Das: Landing”. With this, he became the first Indian Comedian to win the Emmy Award.
Ektaa R. Kapoor, Co-Founder of Balaji Telefilms was honoured with the International Emmy Directorate
Award for her contribution to the world of arts and entertainment. She became the first Indian Woman
Filmmaker to win the Directorate Award. Click here to read full news
Fire Bird, originally written in Tamil as “Aalanda Patchi” by renowned Tamil Writer Perumal Murugan
won the 2023 JCB Prize for Literature. The book was translated into English by Janani Kannan and was
published by Penguin Random House India.
Fire Bird is the 5th translated work to win JCB Prize for Literature.
The Ministry of Steel presented the National Metallurgist Award (NMA) 2022 to recognise the
excellence and contribution of Metallurgists in the Iron & Steel Sector during the NMA 2022 ceremony.
The NMA 2022 awards were conferred to 5 distinguished metallurgists in 4 categories.
The 4 categories are: Lifetime Achievement Award; National Metallurgist Award; Award for Research and
Development (R&D) in Iron and Steel Sector and Young Metallurgist Award(sub categories – Metal Science
and Environment).

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Awardees of NMA 2022:
Category Winner
Lifetime Achievement Award Dr Kamachi Mudali Uthandi
National Metallurgist Award Dr Debashish Bhattacharjee
Award for R&D in Iron and Steel Sector Dr Rameshwar Sah
Young Metallurgist Award Dr Niloy Kundu (Metal Science)
Agilan Muthumanickam (Environment)
Irish author Paul Lynch won 2023 Booker Prize for his novel; ‘Prophet Song’ published by Oneworld. He
was awarded by Shehan Karunatilaka, the 2022 winner, during a ceremony held at Old Billingsgate, London in
the United Kingdom (UK). He received 50,000 Pound sterling and the Iris Trophy for his award-winning novel.
Abdullahi Mire, a former refugee from Somalia has been named the 2023 United Nations High
Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Nansen Refugee Award’s Global Laureate for championing the right to
education while putting 100,000 books in the hands of displaced children and youth in Kenya.
OCTOBER 2023
President of India, Droupadi Murmu presented the National Service Scheme Awards for the year 2021-
2022 at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, Delhi. The award was given to 52 persons to recognize their
outstanding contributions towards voluntary community social services.
The awards included 3 categories namely Universities/+ 2 Council (2 Awards); NSS units and their
Programme Officers (10 NSS Units + 10 Programme Officers); and NSS volunteers (30 Awards). Click here
for more detail
The Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) Ramanujan Prize for 2023
will be awarded to Ruixiang Zhang of China, Assistant Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, the
United States of America (USA) for his contribution to Mathematics from analytic number theory,
combinatorics, Euclidean harmonic analysis to geometry.
The Prize will be conferred at the International Conference on Number Theory, which will be held from 20
to 22 December 2023 at SASTRA University in Kumbakonam (birthplace of Ramanujan) of Thanjavur
district, Tamil Nadu.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the winners of the inaugural IOC Climate Action
Awards, which recognise athletes, International Federations (IFs), and National Olympic Committees (NOCs)

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for their efforts to combat climate change. IOC Climate Action Awards 2023 were awarded under 3 categories:
sustainable travel, innovation, and athlete advocacy.
The IOC Climate Action Awards was introduced in November 2022, with the goal of highlighting how sport
can play an essential part in addressing the climate issue.
The 2023 awards are supported by Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partners Airbnb, Deloitte and
Procter & Gamble (P&G) Click here for more detail
Nobel Prize 2023 Winner list
Name of Awards Award Winner Field Points to be noted
2023 Nobel Prize for Katalin Karikó Medicine For their discovery
Physiology or Medicine concerning nucleoside base
of Hungary modifications that enabled
and Drew the development of effective
mRNA vaccines against
Weissman of COVID-19.
the United
States of
America(USA)
2023 Nobel Prize in Anne L’Huillie Physics For experimental methods
Physics that generate attosecond
r of France, pulses of light for the study
Pierre Agostini of of electron dynamics in
France and matter.
The Nobel Prize in
Ferenc Krausz Physics is awarded by
of Hungary the Royal Swedish
Academy of Sciences,
Stockholm, Sweden.
Anne L’Huillier is the
fifth woman to receive
the Nobel Prize in
Physics.
2023 Nobel Prize in Alexei I. Chemistry For the discovery and

Chemistry synthesis of quantum dots.
Ekimov The Nobel Prize in
(Russia), Louis Chemistry was
awarded by the Royal
E. Brus United Swedish Academy of
States of Sciences, Stockholm,
Sweden.
America Quantum dots are
(USA), and semiconducting
crystals in nanometer
Moungi G. size, their main
Bawendi property is that
depending upon their
(France)
size they change their
colours.
Quantum dots are used
in illuminating
computer monitors and
television screens
based on Quantum-dot

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Light-Emitting Diodes
(QLED) technology.
2023 Nobel Prize in Jon Olav Fosse Literature For his innovative plays
Literature and prose which give voice
of Norway to the unsayable”. Fosse is
the 4th Norwegian writer
to win the Nobel Prize in
Literature.
The Nobel Prize in
Literature is awarded
by the Royal Swedish
Stockholm, Sweden.
Fosse writes in
Nynorsk, one of the two
official written
versions of the
Norwegian language,
the other being
Bokmaal.
2023 Nobel Peace Prize Narges Mohammadi Peace For her fight
from Iran
against the
oppression of
women in Iran and
her fight to
promote human
rights and
freedom for all”.
With this win, she
became the 2nd Iranian
woman to win the
Nobel Peace Prize after
Shirin Ebadi (also the
first Muslim woman)
who won the award in
2003.
2023 Nobel Economics Professor Claudia Economics For her research
Prize Goldin of Harvard
University, Cambridge, contributions to
Massachusetts, the
United States of the understanding
America (USA) of women’s roles
and outcomes in
the labour market.
The Prize in Economic
Sciences is awarded by
the Royal Swedish

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Stockholm, Sweden
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das was awarded the “Best Central Bank Award
2023” for being ranked ‘A+’ in the Global Finance Central Banker Report Cards 2023 during the 30th annual
World’s Best Banks Awards ceremony held at Marakesh, Morocco.
Thomas J. Jordan, the Governor of Swiss National Bank (SNB) and Nguyen Thi Hong, the Governor of State
Bank of Vietnam (SBV) were also rated A+ in Central Banker Report Cards 2023.
American actor and producer Michael Douglas will be honoured with the Satyajit Ray Lifetime
Achievement Award at the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) to be held in Goa from 20th to 28th
November, 2023.
The announcement was made by Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur, Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting (MIB). He has received several awards including 2 Academy Awards (Oscars) and a
Primetime Emmy Award.
Roberta Metsola, President of European Parliament named Jina Mahsa Amini and Iranian women
protest movement as the winners of Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought 2023 (Sakharov Prize), the
European Union’s (EU) top human rights prize.
Narges Mohammadi, Iranian women’s rights campaigner and the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, will
be conferred with the Harmony Foundation’s Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice 2023.
The announcement was by Abraham Mathai, the founder-chairman of Harmony Foundation, a Mumbai
(Maharashtra)-based Non-governmental Organisation NGO.
The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjay Yeshwant (DY) Chandrachud has been felicitated with the
‘2022 Center on the Legal Profession(CLP) Award for Global Leadership’ by The Harvard Law School
Center of Harvard University, Massachusetts, United States of America(USA).
He was announced as the recipient of the award in December 2022 & he was awarded in recognition of
his lifetime service to the legal profession in India and around the world.
The Center on the Legal Profession Award for Global Leadership is the highest professional
distinction of Harvard Law School.
Dana Remus who is the Former White House Counsel is announced as the recipient of the award for the
year 2023.
Subra Suresh and Ashok Gadgil, with National Medal of Science (9) and National Medal of Technology
and Innovation (12), the USA’s highest Award for Science and Technology.
Subra Suresh, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Brown University, was honoured with National Medal
of Science.
Ashok Gadgil, University of California, Berkeley, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), was
honoured with National Medal of Technology and Innovation.
The Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoP&PW) hosted the Anubhav Awards 2023
Ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on October 23
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized various administrative initiatives that have been put in place, ensuring the
timely disbursement of pensionary benefits to retiring employees.These initiatives include: Pre-Retirement
Counselling workshops,Anubhav Awards,and Pension Adalat.
After evaluation, 4 individuals from 8 different ministries, departments, and organizations were honored
with Anubhav Awards, and 9 jury certificates were also awarded for the first time to foster broader
participation.
UST, a leading digital transformation solutions company, has been recognized by the 2023 Mahatma
Awards for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Excellence in Community Initiatives, for sustainable and
impactful contributions to CSR in areas such as education, health, livelihood, environment, and disaster relief.
UST's impactful CSR initiative, the Adopt-a-School program, has significantly influenced the lives of more
than 32,000 students across India and Mexico.

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RECOGNITIONS
FEBRUARY 2024
NIL
JANUARY 2024
NIL
DECEMBER 2023
The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, conferred the President’s Colour (represented by a flag) to
the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) at Pune, Maharashtra. To commemorate the AFMC’s platinum
jubilee year, the President released a commemorative coin (Rs.75), a special cover, and a stamp to mark the
occasion.
The president’s colour, also known as “Rashtrapati ka Nishaan,” is the highest honour bestowed upon a
military unit for its exemplary service, courage, and discipline.
President Droupadi Murmu also inaugurated the Armed Forces Centre for Computational Medicine,
‘Prajna’.
Radhakishan Shivkishan Damani, the founder of Avenue Supermarts Limited (DMart) topped the first
edition of ‘India’s Top 200 Self-made Entrepreneurs of the Millennia 2023’ released by First Private (Private
Banking by IDFC First Bank Limited) and Hurun India, with the value of Rs.2.38 lakh crore.
He is followed by Binny Bansal and Sachin Bansal (founders of Flipkart India Private Limited) with an
equity value of Rs.1.19 lakh crore.
Deepinder Goyal, the founder of Zomato Media Private Limited, is ranked third with a net worth of Rs
86,835 crore. click here for more detail
The Forbes Asia’s 2023 Heroes of Philanthropy list, the 17th edition of the annual unranked list,
features 3 Indians: Kushal Pal Singh (K.P. Singh), Chairman Emeritus of DLF Limited; Nandan Nilekani, co-
founder and Chairman of Infosys; and Nikhil Kamath, Co-founder and Chief Financial Officer, Zerodha.
The list features a total of 15 philanthropists from the Asia-Pacific region.
The Oxford University Press (OUP) has named ‘Rizz’, a colloquial noun defined as style, charm, or
attractiveness; the ability to attract a romantic or sexual partner, as its word of the year for 2023. It is mainly
used by the younger generation.
Indian Researchers Dr Akshata Krishnamurthy has became the first indian citizen (woman) to operate
the rover (Perseverance) on Mars and also the first Indian citizen to collect sample from the Mars to bring back
to Earth.
The 20th annual ranking of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women (2023) features a total of 4 Indian
women. Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of Finance and Corporate Affairs is ranked 32nd on the
list.
The other 3 Indians are Roshni Nadar Malhotra (rank 60), Chairperson of HCLTech; Soma Mondal (rank
70), former Chairperson of Steel Authority of India Limited(SAIL) and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw(rank
76), Founder and Executive Chairperson of Biocon India Private Limited.
Ursula vonder Leyen, the President of the European Commission, European Union (EU) topped the list for
the second consecutive year.
TIME, the news magazine based in the United States of America (USA), has named the American singer-
songwriter Taylor Alison Swift as its 2023 Person of the Year and became the 1st person to be recognised for
her achievements in the arts.
Lionel Andrés Messi, Captain of Argentina’s national football team, has been named Time magazine’s
Athlete of the Year for 2023.
An American entrepreneur Sam Altman, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and co-founder of OpenAI, has
been named Time Magazine’s CEO of The Year 2023.
American actor and singer, Alex Eugene Newell, was named TIME’s 2023 Breakthrough of the Year.

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The Cambridge dictionary has chosen “hallucinate” – a verb as its Word of the Year for 2023. This
decision is in recognition of the new meaning the word has acquired in the context of artificial intelligence (AI)
algorithms.
The traditional definition of “hallucinate” refers to the experience of seeing, hearing, or feeling things that
are not there.
All 3 Indian Armed Forces officers, who underwent the Command & Staff course No 17 at the Defense
Services Command & Staff College (DSCSC) in Sapugaskanda, Sri Lanka, were honoured with the “Golden Owl”
for outstanding performance.
The 3 Indian Officers were:
Major Rohit from the Indian Army.
Lieutenant Commander Sunnay Sharma from the Indian Navy
Wing Commander S Mahajan from the Indian Air Force
Mumbai (Maharashtra) based Hurun India launched the inaugural edition of Hurun India Top 100
Under 30 List (2023), which features 100 Indian entrepreneurs of age 30 or younger (sorted by age).
Kaivalya Vohra(21) and Aadit Palicha(22) the co-founders of Zepto, a grocery delivery platform, were
the youngest entrepreneurs on the 2023 list.
Devanshi Kejriwal(27), Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer (CPO) of Skillmatics is the youngest
woman entrepreneur on the list.
Bhutan Government honoured Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh(India), Regional Director of the World Health
Organisation (WHO) South-East Asia, with Bhutan’s National Order of Merit (NOM) Gold Medal for her
significant contribution to public healthcare services to Bhutan.
Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the Druk Gyalpo(dragon king) of Bhutan presented the award during
the celebration of 116th National Day of Bhutan(17th December 2023) in Thimphu, Bhutan.
Indian Naval Ship (INS) Shivaji, Indian Navy’s premier marine engineering training institute, has
received the original 'Vir Chakra' medal, which was awarded to Late Vice Admiral (VAdm) Benoy Roy
Chowdhury for his gallant actions during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
NOVEMBER 2023
On the occasion of World Cities Day (31 October 2023), 55 cities joined the United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Creative Cities Network (UCCN). The list featured 2 Indian Cities
namely Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh) and Kozhikode (Kerala).
Gwalior has been designated as the UNESCO ‘City of Music’ and Kozhikode as the UNESCO ‘City of
Literature’.
The newly recognised cities highlight their dedication to integrating culture and creativity into their
developmental frameworks.
Collins Dictionary, a printed and online English dictionary published by HarperCollins in Glasgow,
Scotland, has named “AI” abbreviation for Artificial Intelligence, as the “Word of the Year 2023”. ‘AI’, the
uncountable noun, describes ‘the modelling of human mental functions by computer programs’.
Lexicographers (a person who compiles dictionaries) of Collins Dictionary stated that the use of the term
“AI” has increased and dominated the conversations of 2023.
The word of the year is chosen from the spoken material from radio, TV and everyday conversations.
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has announced its 2023 Champions of the
Earth, the United Nations(UN)’s highest environmental honour to recognise individuals, groups, and
organizations whose actions have a transformative impact on the environment.
2023 Laureates:
Category 2023 Laureates
Josefina Belmonte Mayor of
Policy Leadership Quezon City (Philippines)
Inspiration and Ellen MacArthur Foundation
Action (United Kingdom)
Blue Circle (China)

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Entrepreneurial
Vision José Manuel Moller (Chile)
Council for Scientific and
Science and Industrial Research (CSIR)
Innovation (South Africa)
Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag and former Indian women’s cricket team captain Diana Fram
Edulji , along with Sri Lanka’s Aravinda de Silva, were inducted into the International Cricket Council’s (ICC)
Hall of Fame for the year 2023.Diana Fram Edulji is the first Indian woman cricketer inducted into the ICC Hall
of Fame.
The three legends are to be presented with a commemorative ICC Cricket Hall of Fame cap during the ICC
Men’s Cricket World Cup semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai (Maharashtra) on 15th November
2023.
Miss Sheynnis Alondra Palacios Cornejo (23) from Nicaragua was crowned Miss Universe at the
72nd Miss Universe Beauty Pageant 2023 in San Salvador, Republic of El Salvador. She is the first women
from Nicaragua to win Miss Universe crown.
The first runner-up was Miss Anntonia Porsild of Thailand, and the second runner-up was Miss Moraya
Wilson of Australia.
Miss India Shweta Sharda made it to the top 20 but didn't reach the top 10 (evening gown round).
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) released the 11th edition of the list of BBC 100 Women 2023
which includes four Indian women viz. Actress Dia Mirza, Cricketer Harmanpreet Kaur, Photographer Arati
Kumar-Rao, and Tibetan Buddhist nun Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo.It is list of 100 inspiring and influential women
from around the world for 2023.
Harmanpreet Kaur and Dia Mirza are named under the Entertainment & Sport category while Jetsunma
Tenzin Palmo is acknowledged under the category of Culture and education.
In 2023, for the first time, this BBC 100 Women list specifically highlights ‘Climate pioneers’ a group of
women leading the battle against the climate crisis. This includes Indian photographer Arati Kumar-Rao.
The list is organized into categories like Culture and Education; Entertainment and Sport; Politics and
Advocacy; and Science, Health, and Tech.Click here for more detail
United States of America (USA) dictionary publisher Merriam-Webster announced that the Word of the
Year for 2023 is “Authentic”. According to Merriam-Webster, Authentic is defined as “not false or imitation”
and “true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character”.
OCTOBER 2023
The renowned author and philanthropist Sudha Murty, chairperson of the Infosys Foundation, became
the first woman to be honoured the Global Indian Award by the Canada India Foundation(CIF) at Indo-
Canadian gala event held in Toronto, Canada. The award is presented to her by Indian High Commissioner to
Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma.
The government of India honoured her with Padma Shri (the 4th highest civilian award) in 2006 and
Padma Bhushan (the third highest civilian award) in 2023 for Social Work.
“360 One Wealth Hurun India Rich List 2023”, the 12th–anniversary edition of Hurun India Rich List
released in association with 360 One Wealth, is topped by Mukesh Ambani(66), Chairman of Reliance
Industries limited(RIL). Mukesh Ambani has regained the title as India’s richest man with a wealth of Rs
8,08,700 crore.
Gautam Adani(61), Chairman of the Adani Group, is ranked 2nd with a wealth of Rs 474800 crore. In 2022
Adani topped the list, he was ahead of Ambani by a wealth gap of Rs 3 lakh crore.
With a wealth of Rs 2,78,500 crore, Cyrus Poonawalla (82) retained the 3rd position in the list.
The youngest on the list is 20-year-old Zepto Founder Kaivalya Vohra.
Radha Vembu(50), product manager of Zoho, overtakes Falguni Nayar (60) of Nykaa to become the richest
self-made Indian woman with a net worth of Rs 36,000 crore.

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Mukesh Ambani, the Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries Ltd. topped the Forbes
India’s 100 Richest 2023 List with USD 92 Billion. Mukesh Ambani regains the ‘Richest Indian’ title after he
slipped to second spot in 2022.
With a net worth of USD 68 Billion, Gautam Adani of Adani Enterprises slipped to the second rank from the
first in 2022 and Shiv Nadar of HCL Technologies ranked 3rd with a net worth of USD 29.3 Billion.
Savitri Jindal of the O.P. Jindal Group is India’s richest woman with a net worth of USD 24 billion.
NTPC Limited, formerly known as National Thermal Power Corporation ranked 261st out of the top 700
companies in the Forbes “World’s Best Employers 2023” list and it is the only Indian Public Sector
Undertaking (PSU) featured in the list.
The Dhordo village in Kutch district of Gujarat, India named in the 3rd edition of Best Tourism Villages
2023 list released by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
While, Madla village from Madhya Pradesh’s Panna district has been picked for the UNWTO’s Best Tourism
Villages Upgrade Programme.
Udhampur Military Station in the Indian Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) bagged the
‘Best Green Military Station‘award.
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has been awarded the ISAR Honours 2023, 6th
edition of ISAR Honours, by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) working
group on International Standards for Accounting and Reporting (ISAR).
The award was presented during the 8th World Investment Forum (WIF) held from October 16-20, 2023 in
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on the theme ‘Investing in Sustainable Development’.
The award acknowledged ICAI’s initiative of Sustainability Reporting Standards Board (SRSB) which
received the highest score in 2023 ISAR HONORS session among 70 initiatives from around the world.
ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

ACQUISITION BETWEEN AMOUNT KEY POINTS
FEBRUARY 2024
Various companies approved by CCI - The Competition Commission of India
(CCI) has approved the following on
30th January 2024.
Subscription of Compulsorily
Convertible Preference shares of
API Holdings Ltd by Goldman
Sachs Schemes.
API Holdings Ltd by MacRitchie.
Approval for Naspers Ventures to
Invest in API
API Holdings Ltd by CDPQ
6th February 2024.
Acquisition of certain
shareholding of Shadowfax
Technologies Private
Limited(SFX) by NewQuest Asia

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Fund IV (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.(TPG

NQ).
Acquisition of 70% stake in Kotak
Mahindra General Insurance
Company Limited by Zurich
Insurance Company Ltd
Acquisition of 100% shareholding
of Interise Investment Managers
Limited by the CIPH, AIL – II. and
Ontario Inc.
HDFC Bank Limited & six banks - HDFC Bank Limited, India’s largest
namely - Axis Bank Limited, private lender, has received approval
Suryoday Small Finance Bank from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
to acquire up to 9.5% stake each in six
Limited, ICICI Bank Limited,
banks namely - Axis Bank Limited,
Bandhan Bank Limited, YES Bank Suryoday Small Finance Bank Limited,
Limited and IndusInd Bank ICICI Bank Limited, Bandhan Bank
Limited. Limited, YES Bank Limited and
IndusInd Bank Limited.
Bandhan Financial Holdings - Bandhan Financial Holdings Limited
Limited (BFHL) & Aegon Life (BFHL) has received the final approval
Insurance Company from Insurance Regulatory and
Development Authority of India
(IRDAI) to acquire the 100% paid up
share capital of Aegon Life Insurance
Company. Aegon Life Insurance is a
joint venture (JV) of Aegon NV and
Bennett, Coleman & Company Limited
(BCCL), the owner and publisher of
The Economic Times.
Axis Bank Limited has received
approval from IRDAI to infuse the
capital of Rs 1,612 crore in Max
Life Insurance Company Limited,
the subsidiary of Max Financial
Services Limited (MFSL).
Life Insurance Corporation of India Life Insurance Corporation of India
(LIC) & SBI Cards & Payments (LIC) has increased its paid-up share
Services Limited in SBI Cards & Payments Services
Limited to 5.02% from 4.99%.
About SBI Cards & Payments Services
Limited:
SBI Cards & Payments Services
Limited is a Joint Venture(JV) between
the State Bank of India (SBI) and
Carlyle Group.
Japan’s Mizuho Bank Limited & Rs.1200 crore Japan’s Mizuho Bank Limited (a
Kisetsu Saison Finance (India) subsidiary of Mizuho Financial Group,
Private Limited Inc.) and a subsidiary of Mizuho Bank
is set to invest upto Rs.1200 crore in
Bengaluru (Karnataka) based Kisetsu
Saison Finance (India) Private Limited
by acquiring about 15% of their paid-
up share capital.

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13th February 2024.
CCI has approved the Karachi
(Pakistan) based Matrix Pharma
Private Limited (Acquirer) to
acquire 100% paid-up share
capital in Hyderabad (Telangana)
based Tianish Laboratories
Private Limited (Target).
CCI has approved Ahmedabad
(Gujarat) based Adani Power
Limited (APL) and Gurugram
(Haryana) based Dickey
Alternative Investment Trust
(DAIT) to jointly acquire 100%
paid-up share capital in Chennai
(Tamil Nadu) - based Coastal
Energen Private Limited (CEPL).
JANUARY 2024
GVK Power & Punjab State Power - The Competition Commission of India
Corporation Ltd (CCI) has approved the proposed
acquisition of 100% shareholding of
GVK Power (Goindwal Sahib) Limited
by Punjab State Power Corporation
Ltd (PSPCL).
Punjab has become the first state
government to purchase a private
thermal plant.
Signet Excipients Private Limited - The Competition Commission of
(Signet) & IMCD India Private India (CCI) has approved the
Limited (IMCD India) acquisition of the remaining 30%
paid-up share capital in Mumbai
(Maharashtra) based Signet
Excipients Private Limited (Signet)
by Mumbai-based IMCD India
Private Limited (IMCD India).
Life Insurance Corporation of India - The Board of Directors of Life
(LIC) & National Housing Bank Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)
(NHB) approved the proposal to acquire up
to 10% equity stake in a company
promoted by the National Housing
Bank (NHB).
The investment in the NHB
promoted company would focus on
residential mortgage-backed
securities (RMBS).
Shriram LI Holdings Private - The Competition Commission of India
Limited (SLIH) & Shriram Life (CCI) has approved the proposed
Insurance Company Limited (SLIC) amalgamation of Shriram LI Holdings
Private Limited (SLIH) with Shriram
Life Insurance Company Limited
(SLIC).

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The CCI has approved the

proposed amalgamation of
Shriram GI Holdings Private
Limited (SGIH) with Shriram
General Insurance Company
Limited (SGIC).
Culver Max Entertainment Private - Culver Max Entertainment Private
Limited (CME) & Zee Entertainment Limited (CME), formerly known as
Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) Sony Pictures Networks India Private
Limited (SPNI) has officially
terminated its USD 10 Billion merger
agreement with Zee Entertainment
Enterprises Limited (ZEEL).
23rd January 2024.
Acquisition of around 38% of the
paid-up share capital of M G Motor
India Private Limited (Target), a
wholly-owned subsidiary of
Shanghai(China) based SAIC
Motor, by JSW Ventures Singapore
Pte. Limited(Acquirer).
Acquisition of 100% equity share
capital of Wistron Infocomm
Manufacturing (India) Private
Limited (Target) from SMS
Infocomm (Singapore) Private
Limited and Wistron Hong Kong
Limited by Tata Electronics
Private Limited.
Merger of Bengaluru (Karnataka)
based Fincare Small Finance Bank
Limited (Fincare SFB) and Jaipur
(Rajasthan) AU Small Finance
Bank Limited (AU SFB) with AU
being the merged entity.
Acquisition of shareholding in
Religare Enterprises Limited (Target)
by Puran Associates Private Limited,
M.B. Finmart Private Limited, and VIC
Enterprises Private Limited, Milky
Investment and Trading Company.
Life Insurance Corporation of India - Life Insurance Corporation of India
(LIC) & Housing Development (LIC) has got the Reserve Bank of
Finance Corporation (HDFC) Bank. India (RBI)’s approval to raise its
stake up to 9.99% in the Housing
Development Finance Corporation
(HDFC) Bank.
DECEMBER 2023
Atlas 2022 Holdings Limited and - The Competition Commission of India
Vodafone Group Plc (Vodafone) (CCI) approves the proposed
acquisition by Atlas 2022 Holdings

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Limited to increase its voting

rights/shareholding in Vodafone
Group Plc (Vodafone) from 14.6% to
less than 25% through a series of on-
market and/or off-market
transactions.
CCI approved the acquisition of
shareholding of Delanord Investments
Limited (Delanord) by Abu Dhabi
Ports Company PJSC (Abu Dhabi Ports
Company).
SBI Mutual Fund and Karur Vysya - SBI Mutual Fund (SBI MF) received
Bank Ltd approval from the Reserve Bank of
India (RBI) for acquiring aggregate
holding of up to 9.99% of the paid-up
share capital or voting rights of Karur
Vysya Bank Ltd (KVB).
SBI MF has received regulatory
approval, pursuant to Regulation
30 of the Securities and Exchange
Board of India (SEBI) (Listing
Obligations and Disclosure
Requirements) Regulations, 2015.
About KVB: MD & CEO– B Ramesh
Babu, Headquarters– Karur, Tamil
Nadu.
State Bank of India and Jio - State Bank of India’s (SBI)
Payments Bank Limited shareholding in Jio Payments Bank
Limited reduced to 23% in Financial
Year2022-23 (FY23) from 30% that
SBI maintained since the inception of
Jio Payments Bank.
With shareholding less than 25%,
SBI will not be able to restrict
special resolutions in the payment
bank.
State Bank of India (SBI) and SBI Rs. 229.52 crore The Executive Committee of the
Pension Funds Private Limited Central Board (ECCB) of State Bank of
(SBIPFPL) India (SBI) has approved SBI to
acquire an additional 20% stake in SBI
Pension Funds Private Limited
(SBIPFPL) for a cash consideration of
Rs. 229.52 crore.
After the acquisition, SBI will own
80% of the stake in SBIPFPL
whereas the remaining 20% of the
stake will be owned by SBI Funds
Management Limited.
Ircon International Limited - The government of India has
(IRCON) proposed to sell 8% stake in Ircon

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International Limited (IRCON), a

Navratna Central Public Sector
Unit (CPSU) under the Ministry of
Railways (MoR), through an offer for
sale (OFS).
Ambuja Cements Limited (ACL) and Rs 5,185 crore Adani Group-owned Ambuja Cements
Sanghi Industries Limited (SIL) Limited (ACL) completed the
acquisition of Gujarat-based Sanghi
Industries Limited (SIL) at an
enterprise value of Rs 5,185 crore by
holding a controlling stake of 54.51%.
The deal offers low-cost debottle
necking, with total clinker
capacity of 6.6 MTPA, cement
capacity of 6.1 MTPA and 1 billion
tonnes of limestone reserves to
Adani Group.
SIL also offers potential for green
power generation, reaching up to
45%, incorporating an additional
12 MegaWatt (MW) Waste Heat
Recovery Systems (WHRS) and 30
MW of Solar/Wind power.
Life Insurance Corporation of India - Mumbai (Maharashtra) based Life
(LIC) and HDFC Asset Management Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)
Company (AMC) has reduced its shareholding in HDFC
Asset Management Company (AMC)
Limited from 9.046% to 6.953% of the
paid-up capital.
LIC’s shareholding in HDFC AMC
has reduced from 1,93,11,744 to
1,48,44,466 Equity Shares.
Niva Bupa Health Insurance - CCI has given its approval to acquire
Company Limited by Temasek- the stakes in Niva Bupa Health
controlled entity and Motilal Insurance Company Limited by
Oswal(MO) Alternate Investment Temasek-controlled entity and MO
Advisors Private Limited Alternate Investment Advisors Private
Limited
Temasek invested in Niva Bupa
Health Insurance through its
investment arm V-Sciences
Investments Pte Ltd.
SBI Mutual Fund and Karur Vysya - SBI Mutual Fund (MF) has acquired
Bank 1.5% of paid-up equity share capital in
Karur Vysya Bank (KVB) Limited
through open market transactions.
SBI Mutual Fund (MF) purchased a
total of 1.2 crore shares of KVB for

AC Exam PDF
Rs 194.4 crore with the average

price per share being Rs 162.
In November 2023, the Reserve
Bank of India (RBI) granted its
approval to SBI MF to acquire an
aggregate holding of up to 9.99%
in KVB.
Bain Capital and Axis Bank Rs 3737 crore Bain Capital, an American Private
Equity (PE) firm, has sold 1.08%
stake or 33.38 million shares worth Rs
3737 crore in Axis Bank in a block
trade.
The shares were sold by 3 affiliate
firms of Bain Capital: BC Asia
Investments VII, BC Asia
Investments III and Integral
Investments South Asia IV at Rs
1119.7 apiece.
Life Insurance Corporation of India - Headquartered in Mumbai
(LIC) (Maharashtra), Life Insurance
Corporation of India (LIC) has
reduced its percentage of the paid-up
capital in Dixon Technologies (India)
Limited to 3% from 5.012% through
open market operations.
CCI approves various companies - The Competition Commission of India
(CCI) approved the following:
i.Proposal to acquire certain
business undertakings of Ind Swift
Laboratories Limited(ISLL) and
Essix Biosciences Limited(Essix)
by Synthimed Labs Private
Limited(Synthimed).
ii.Proposal to acquire majority
shareholding of Glenmark Life
Sciences Limited(GLS) by Nirma
Limited.
iii.Amalgamation of a list of
companies and demerger of Real
Estate Business Undertaking of
India Land Hotels Mumbai Private
Limited into Indiabulls
Pharmacare Limited
(CCI) has approved the acquisition of
controlling stakes in Reliance Capital
Limited (RCL) by IndusInd
International Holdings Limited (IIHL),
IIHL BFSI (India) Limited (IIHL BFSI),
and Aasia Enterprises LLP (Aasia).
CCI approved the acquisition of a
9.99 % equity stake in Dilip

AC Exam PDF
Buildcon Limited (DBL) by Alpha

Alternatives Holdings Pvt Ltd
(AAHPL) and its other entities.
The Competition Commission of
India (CCI) has approved the
proposal made by Kolkata (West
Bengal) based PCBL
Limited (formerly known as
Phillips Carbon Black Limited) to
acquire 100% paid-up share
capital in Pune-based Aquapharm
Chemicals Private Limited (ACPL).
Life Insurance Corporation of India - Life Insurance Corporation of India
(LIC) and Bharat Heavy Electricals (LIC) reduced its shareholding in
Limited (BHEL) Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
(BHEL) from 11.701% to 9.617%
through open market operation
(OMO).
LIC sold its BHEL shares at an
average price of Rs 79.58 through
secondary market between June
2019 and December 2023.
NOVEMBER 2023
AU Small Finance Bank (SFB) - The board of AU Small Finance Bank
Limited and Fincare Small Finance (SFB) Limited and Fincare Small
Bank (SFB) Finance Bank (SFB) Limited has
approved an all-stock merger of AU
SFB and Fincare SFB under Section
44A of the Banking Regulation Act,
1949.
AU SFB will acquire Fincare SFB in
an all-stock transaction valued at
Rs 4,411 crore.
The merger is subject to approval
by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
and the Competition Commission
of India (CCI).
India Business Excellence Fund - Competition Commission of India
(IBEF) – IV(Acquirer) and SK (CCI) has approved the minority
Finance Limited investment by India Business
Excellence Fund (IBEF) –
IV(Acquirer), a private equity fund of
Motilal Oswal Alternates (MO
Alternates), in SK Finance Limited
(Target), a Non-Banking Financial
Company (NBFC) registered with
Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

AC Exam PDF
IBEF – IV is a Category II Alternative

Investment Fund (AIF) registered
with the Securities and Exchange
Board of India (SEBI).
Kotak Mahindra Bank and Kotak - Kotak Mahindra Bank and Kotak
Mahindra General Insurance Mahindra General Insurance Company
Company have entered into definitive
agreements with Zurich Insurance
Company Ltd, whereby Zurich will
invest approximately Rs 4,051 crore
to acquire a 51% stake in Kotak
General Insurance.
The acquisition is subject to the
regulatory approvals from the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the
Insurance Regulatory and
Development Authority of India
(IRDAI), and the Competition
Commission of India (CCI).
Bharti AXA Life Insurance Company - Acquisition of 49% shareholding of
Limited (BALIC) by Bharti Life Bharti AXA Life Insurance Company
Ventures Private Limited (BLVPL) Limited (BALIC) by Bharti Life
Ventures Private Limited (BLVPL)
from AXA India Holdings (AXA) taking
its total shareholding in BALIC to
100% and acquisition of BALIC’s sole
control.
Acquisition of 48.54%
shareholding of Bharti
Management Services Limited
(BMSL) by Bharti Enterprises
Limited (BEL) from Societe
Beaujon (a subsidiary of AXA)
taking its total shareholding in
BMSL to 100% and acquisition of
BMSL’s sole control.
CCI has approved the acquisition
of 20.51% equity shares of Indo
Rama Synthetics (India) Limited
(IRSL) by Aloke Lohia from
Brookgrange Investment Limited
and transfer of 20.51% equity
shares of IRSL to Urmila Lohia by
Aloke Lohia.
Jaiprakash Associates Limited (JAL) - Jaiprakash Associates Limited (JAL)
and associated trusts and ICICI and associated trusts are set to
Bank transfer 7.71% equity or over 18.93
crore shares to ICICI Bank as part of a
settlement agreement between the
JAL and the bank, amid loan
repayment default.
The move is part of JAL’s efforts to
reduce its debt with the bank.

AC Exam PDF
The 7.71% stake is worth Rs 366

crore at the current market price.
JAL failed to repay a loan worth Rs
4,258 crore, comprising a
principal sum of Rs 1,733 crore
and an interest of Rs 2,525 crore.
Niva Bupa Health Insurance - The Competition Commission of India
Company and Bupa Singapore (CCI) approved the acquisition of an
Holdings. additional stake in Niva Bupa Health
Insurance Company by Bupa
Singapore Holdings.
The Proposed transaction is
approved under the green channel
route, adhering to Regulation 5A
and Schedule III of CCI (Procedure
in regard to the transaction of
business relating to combinations)
Regulations, 2011.
Acquirer- Bupa Singapore
Holdings Pte. Ltd. (Bupa
Singapore).
Target- Niva Bupa Health
Insurance Company Limited (Niva
Bupa).
OCTOBER 2023
International Finance Corporation - International Finance Corporation
(IFC) & Federal Bank Limited (IFC) has received approval from
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to acquire
upto 9.7% of the paid-up share capital
or voting rights of the Federal Bank
Limited (subject to the conditions
specified therein).
The approval has been granted by
RBI with reference to the
application made by IFC. IFC
currently holds a 1.34% of the
paid-up share capital or voting
rights in the bank.
Tata Group & HSBC through AI - Tata Group owned Air India
Fleet Services Limited (AIFS) successfully acquired India’s first
Airbus A350-900 aircraft by way of
finance lease transaction with HSBC
through AI Fleet Services Limited
(AIFS).
Air India is the India’s first
scheduled carrier to have acquired
an aircraft from an entity
registered in GIFT City.
AI Fleet Services Limited (AIFS) is
a 100% subsidiary of Air India,
and a Gujarat International
Finance Tec-City (GIFT City)
International Financial Services

AC Exam PDF
Centre (IFSC)-registered finance

company.
(CCI) approved the following
acquisitions on 3rd October 2023,
Acquisition of certain stake of
Lenskart Solutions Private Limited
by Kedaara Capital Fund III LLP
Acquisition of majority stake in
Indira IVF by Zonnebaars and
amalgamation of Spaceway
Wellness into Indira IVF
Acquisition of 100% shareholding
of Lanco Amarkantak Power
Limited by PFC Projects Limited,
REC Limited, SJVN Limited and
Damodar Valley Corporation.
SBI Funds Management Limited - SBI Funds Management Limited
(SBIFML) & IndusInd Bank Limited (SBIFML) has received the Reserve
Bank of India (RBI)‘s approval to
acquire up to a 9.99% paid-up share
capital in IndusInd Bank Limited. This
acquisition will allow the company to
also hold 9.99% voting rights in the
bank.
The holding of SBIFML in IndusInd
Bank should not exceed 9.99 % of
the paid-up share capital or voting
rights of the Bank at all times.
Hitachi Astemo Limited (HAL) - The Competition Commission of India
(CCI) has approved the following
acquisition involving Hitachi Astemo
Limited (HAL), a Japanese public
limited company that manufactures
auto parts for automobiles and two-
wheeled motor vehicles in India.HAL
was formed in 2021 by the merger of
four Hitachi Automotive companies.
Bharti Group - Bharti Group, through its holding
company Bharti Life Ventures Private
Limited (BLVPL) has entered into a
binding agreement with its Joint
Venture (JV) partner AXA to acquire
its 49% of stake in Bharti AXA Life
Insurance.
Through this acquisition, BLVPL
will own 100% stake in the Bharti
AXA Life Insurance.
The transaction is expected to be
completed by December 2023,
subject to regulatory approvals.

AC Exam PDF
IDFC Limited (IDFCL) & IDFC FIRST - Competition Commission of India

Bank. (CCI) has approved the Scheme of
Amalgamation of IDFCL with IDFC
FIRST Bank.
The approval was granted under
the Green Channel Route, which is
a fast-track route for mergers and
acquisitions that are unlikely to
have any adverse impact on
competition. IDFCL is a
development finance Institution
(DFI) and the parent company of
IDFC FIRST Bank.
Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB) & Rs 537 crore Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB) got
Sonata Finance Private Limited approval from the Reserve Bank of
(SFPL) India (RBI) to acquire 100% of the
issued and paid-up capital in Lucknow
(Uttar Pradesh) based Sonata Finance
Private Limited (SFPL) for Rs 537
crore.
Sonata Finance will act as a
wholly-owned business
correspondent (BC) subsidiary of
KMB after the completion of the
transaction.
Sonata Finance, established in
2006, is a Microfinance company
registered as Non-Banking
Finance Company (NBFC)-
Microfinance institutions(MFI)
(Non-Deposit taking).
Sonata Finance has a network of
502 branches across India.
Renault S.A. (Renault) & Nissan - The Competition Commission of India
Motor Co. Ltd. (CCI) has approved the re-balancing of
(Nissan)(Rebalancing). the existing cross-shareholdings
between Renault S.A. (Renault) and
Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.
(Nissan)(Rebalancing).
This also relates to the changes to
the shareholding of 2 of their
joint ventures(JV) Renault
Nissan Automotive India
Private Limited (RNAIPL) and
Renault Nissan Technology &
Business Centre India Private
Limited (RNTBCI) in India.

AC Exam PDF
YES Bank Limited J.C. Flowers Asset YES Bank Limited had acquired
Reconstruction Private additional shares of J.C. Flowers Asset
Limited (“JC Flowers ARC”) Reconstruction Private Limited (“JC
Flowers ARC”) to reinstate its equity
share capital proportion to 9.9% in
accordance with share subscription
and purchase agreement.
This represents the acquisition of
24,643,558 equity shares of JC
Flowers ARC at Rs 29.68 per
share.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SATELLITES
NAME OF THE SATELLITE LAUNCHED BY PURPOSE
FEBRUARY 2024
NIL
JANUARY 2024
XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Indian Space Research Indian Space Research Organisation
Satellite) Organisation (ISRO) (ISRO) launched XPoSat (X-ray
Polarimeter Satellite), India’s 1st
dedicated polarimetry mission
onboard the Polar Satellite Launch
Vehicle (PSLV)-C58 from Satish
Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota,
Andhra Pradesh (AP).
PSLV-C58 has launched XPOSAT
Satellite into an Eastward low
inclination orbit.
It was PSLV-C58’s 60th mission
and lifted a mass of 260 ton. It
should be noted that this launch
was by PSLV-DL variant. It was
PSLV-DL’s 4th mission.
The satellite is expected to
operate for at least 5 years.
GSAT-20 NewSpace India Limited NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the
commercial arm of the Indian Space
Research Organisation (ISRO), is set to
launch GSAT-20 (renamed GSAT-N2),
a Ka-band high throughput satellite
(HTS), onboard the Falcon-9 rocket of
Space Exploration Technologies
Corporation (SpaceX) in the 2nd
quarter of 2024.
This will be ISRO’s first
partnership with SpaceX to launch
the satellites.

AC Exam PDF
Einstein Probe (EP) Chinese Academy of The Chinese Academy of Sciences

Sciences (CAS) (CAS) launched the lotus-shaped
astronomical satellite Einstein Probe
(EP) to observe violent cosmic
phenomena on a Chang Zheng (Long
March) 2C carrier rocket from the
Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in
southwest Sichuan Province of China.
Einstein Probe is a collaboration
led by CAS with the European
Space Agency (ESA) and the Max
Planck Institute for
Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE),
Germany.
Sorayya satellite Iran’s Islamic Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard
Revolutionary Guard Corps Corps (IRGC) has launched
(IRGC) Sorayya satellite using a three-stage
solid-fuel Qaem 100 satellite carrier,
developed by IRGC Aerospace Force.
Iran for the very first time launched a
satellite to a height of about 750-
kilometre (460 miles) above the
earth's surface.
Mahda, Keyhan-2 and Hatef-1. Iran Iran simultaneously launched 3
satellites for the 1st time using the 2-
stage, liquid-fueled Simorgh (Phoenix)
Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV)
developed by the Ministry of Defence.
The satellites were launched from the
Imam Khomeini Spaceport in Semnan
province, Iran into Low Earth Orbit
(LEO). The 3 satellites incldues a
larger satellite named Mahda and two
nanosatellites, Keyhan-2 and Hatef-1.
DECEMBER 2023
MisrSat-2 China National Space China National Space Agency (CNSA)
Agency launched the MisrSat-2 or
Aiji Yaogan Weixing Erhao (Aiji 2)
satellite with a Long March-2C carrier
rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite
Launch Center in northwest China.
MisrSat-2, the optical remote sensing
satellite, was jointly developed by the
Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) and
CNSA.
X-ray polarimeter satellite (XPoSat) ISRO ISRO is set to launch India’s first X-
ray polarimeter
satellite (XPoSat) to investigate
the polarisation of intense
astronomical X-ray sources.
NOVEMBER 2023
NIL

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OCTOBER 2023
KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2 Amazon.com, Inc.(AMZN.O) Amazon.com, Inc.(AMZN.O) has
launched the first two prototype
satellites KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2
to low Earth orbit (LEO) at the height
of 500 kilometers (311 miles) as part
of “Protoflight” mission of Project
Kuiper.
The satellite was launched by
United Launch Alliance’s (ULA)
Atlas V rocket from Space Launch
Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral
Space Force Station, Florida,
United States of America (USA).
Project Kuiper satellite system is a
network of satellites in LEO. The
Kuiper System will operate at
altitudes between 590 and 630
kilometers (roughly 367 to 391
miles).
NEW INITIATIVE/INNOVATION
FEBRUARY 2024
An indigenously-developed 'Green Propulsion System' developed under the Technology Development
Fund (TDF) scheme of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully
demonstrated 'in-orbit' functionality on a payload launched by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C-58
mission. Green Propulsion System is performed under the RUDRA 0.3 HPGP Payload.
The United States(US) Department of State has approved the sale of 31 MQ-9B Armed Drones and other
related equipments to India.
The estimated cost of the deal is around USD 3.99 billion (Rs 33060 crore). MQ-9B, manufactured by the
USA-based General Atomics Aeronautical, has 2 variants - Sky Guardian and Sea Guardian.
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation's (CASC) Jielong-3, or Smart Dragon-3 rocket,
successfully launched nine satellites into the Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO), off the coast of Yangjiang in
southern Guangdong province, China.
Jielong-3, or Smart Dragon-3 (SD-3) is a small, powerful, and solid-propellant rocket developed by the
China Rocket Co. Ltd., affiliated with the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT).
A team of researchers from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) have identified a
potential "super-Earth" called ‘TOI-715 b’ by using the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). The
exoplanet is located 137 light-years away from Earth.
The Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) has partnered with the Indian Space
Research Organisation (ISRO) for the second phase of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA)-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) research programme.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) launched “PACE” – the Plankton, Aerosol,
Cloud, ocean Ecosystem, an Earth-observing satellite to study the ocean health, air quality, and the effects of
Climate change.
The PACE onboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket was launched to a sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) from Space
Launch Complex (SLC) 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, the United States of America
(USA).

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JANUARY 2024
SpaceX’s Falcon 9 launched the 21 Starlink satellites, including its first six "direct-to-cell" satellites, to
Low-Earth orbit (LEO) from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in
California, the United States of America (USA).
Direct to cell satellites aims to provide seamless global access to text, call, and browse across all-terrain and
location coverage without changing hardware or firmware.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully performed the crucial manoeuvre (final
manoeuvre) of injecting the Aditya-L1 spacecraft, India’s first space-based observatory-class solar probe to
study the Sun, into the halo orbit around Lagrangian point 1 (L1).
Aditya L1 has travelled around 3.7 million kilometers in 126 days to reach L1.
This marks the transition of Aditya L1 mission from cruise phase to orbit phase.
After a flight duration of 63 minutes and 20 seconds, Aditya L1 was successfully injected into an elliptical
orbit of 235x19500 km around the Earth.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has tested a 100-watt(W) class Polymer Electrolyte
Membrane Fuel Cell based Power System (FCPS) to assess its operation in space and to collect data to facilitate
the design of systems for future missions.
The test was carried out in ISRO’s orbital platform, PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-3 (POEM3) which
was launched onboard Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C58 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in
Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh on 1st January 2024.
ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) has tested 10 Ampere Hour (Ah) Silicon (Si)–Graphite
anode based High Energy Density Lithium (Li)-ion cells through the POEM3 experiment to assess the anode’s
capability to survive and perform in the space environment.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) launched five payloads to soft land on the
Moon’s surface aboard Peregrine Mission One (PM1) (TO2-AB).
The mission was launched through United Launch Alliance (ULA)’s Vulcan Centaur Launch Vehicle (VC2S)
from Cape Canaveral, Florida, United States of America (USA).
This is the first launch of NASA under the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) Initiative.
PM1 is the first commercial mission of Astrobotic Technology to land on another planetary body.
The Indian Navy received Drishti 10 Starliner (also known as Elbit Hermes 900), the 1st
indigenously manufactured Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV),
manufactured at the Adani Defence and Aerospace (ADA) facility in Hyderabad, Telangana.
The Drishti 10 drones were produced by Adani Group in partnership with Israel's Elbit Systems. In 2023,
Ministry of Defence (MoD) and ADA signed a contract to supply four MALE drones for Indian Army and
Navy (2 each).
OrienSpace, a Chinese space startup firm has launched its maiden rocket Gravity-1(Yinli-1) from Defu-
15002 the mobile sea platform off the coast of Haiyang (Yellow Sea) in the eastern Shandong province of China.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the
New Generation AKASH (AKASH-NG) missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur off the coast of
Odisha.
Akash Weapon System is indigenously designed and developed by the DRDO and produced by defense
public sector units and other industries.
The Indian Army has indigenously developed an end-to-end secure mobile ecosystem called SAMBHAV
(Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version) to enhance national defence capabilities. It was developed in
collaboration with the National Centres of Excellence from academia and industry.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully developed ‘Distress Alert Transmitter -
Second Generation’ (DAT-SG) for the fishermen at sea to send emergency messages from fishing boats. DAT-
SG transmits distress messages(24x7) via communication satellite to the Indian Mission Control Centre
(INMCC) in Bengaluru.

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Space Exploration Technologies Corporation’s (SpaceX) Falcon 9 rocket launched Axiom Space’s Axiom
Mission 3 (Ax-3) to the International Space Station (ISS) from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at National
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, The United States of
America(USA).
The mission carried the Türkiye's 1st astronaut, Alper Gezeravcı, along with crew members representing
Spain, Italy and Sweden aboard the SpaceX’s Dragon ‘Freedom’ spacecraft.
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the Japanese national air and space agency,
successfully landed Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) within 330 feet (100 meters) of its target
site on the rim of Shioli Crater. With this Japan became the 5th nation to soft land on lunar surface after the
United States of America (USA), Russia, China, and India.
The SLIM probe nicknamed “Moon Sniper” was launched onboard the H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 47 (H-IIA
F47) on 7th September 2023 from JAXA Tanegashima Space Center, Kagoshima, Japan. SLIM was launched
along with X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM).
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Lockheed Martin, a global aerospace and
defense company unveiled the X-59 quiet Supersonic Jet, a one-of-a-kind experimental aircraft known as the
'Son of Concorde'.
X-59 Supersonic Jet was revealed at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California, United
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully deployed the 6-metre long magnetometer
boom on the Aditya-L1 satellite in Halo orbit at the Lagrange point L-1 on 11th January 2024.
The carbon fiber-reinforced polymer-made boom serves as a connector between the magnetometer and the
spacecraft, and it is used to remove the magnetometer from the immediate vicinity of the spacecraft to
minimize magnetic effects from the spacecraft.
DECEMBER 2023
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Ministry of Railways, announced that the Indian Railways will install
‘Gajraj System’, an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based surveillance system, covering 700-kilometer (km) track
across India to reduce elephant deaths on railway tracks.
700 km of rail network across Assam, West Bengal, Odisha, Kerala, Jharkhand, Chattisgarh, and Tamil Nadu
will be covered under this system.
The implementation of this system will cost around Rs 181 Crore.
India's space regulator Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has
unveiled a seed fund scheme to offer financial assistance of up to Rs 1 crore each to start-ups operating in the
areas of Urban Development and Disaster Management by using space technology.
The scheme was launched in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)'s National
Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) to provide opportunities to companies that leverage space technology for
societal benefit.
The Propulsion Module (PM) of Chandrayaan-3 by the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO)
retreats from an orbit around the moon to an orbit around Earth.
Google launched its largest and most capable multimodal Artificial intelligence (AI) model, ‘Gemini’,
which comes in three sizes: Gemini Ultra, Gemini Pro, and Gemini Nano.
Variants of Gemini:
Gemini Ultra: The largest and most capable model for highly complex tasks
Gemini Pro: The best model for scaling across a wide range of tasks
Gemini Nano: The most efficient model for on-device tasks
China-based private space technology firm, LandSpace Technology Corporation, successfully launched
the Zhuque-2 Y-3, the world’s first liquid oxygen-methane powered launch vehicle, carrying 3 satellites, from
the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, Inner Mongolia region, China.
With this, LandSpace became the World’s first company to launch satellites using a rocket fueled by
Methane and liquid oxygen.

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The 3 satellites: Honghu satellite, Tianyi 33 satellite and Honghu-2 satellite, were launched into the
predetermined orbit.
China-based Beijing Interstellar Glory Space Technology Ltd., also known as iSpace, has launched
“Hyperbola-2”, With this, iSpace completed China’s first reusable launch vehicle test.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) launched OSIRIS-APEX (Origins, Spectral
Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security – Apophis Explorer) to study the asteroid Apophis and
take advantage of the asteroid’s 2029 flyby of Earth.
Asteroid 99942 Apophis is named for the demon serpent “Apophis” of the ancient Egyptian mythology,
which personifies evil and chaos. It is also known as “God of Chaos”.
Russia’s Roscosmos and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) have agreed to
extend their partnership in space exploration by continuing cross-flights, involving crews of various
nationalities to travel on a single spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS) until 2025.
NOVEMBER 2023
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has launched a two-stage Black Brant 9
sounding rocket as part of Integral Field Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Experiment (INFUSE) mission from the
White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, United States of America (USA).
The mission aims to study the Cygnus Loop, a 20,000-year-old supernova remnant located 2,600 light-years
away from Earth.
Ashok Leyland becomes the first Indian Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to unveil an in-house
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) engine named as ‘AVTR 1922’ .
Ashok Leyland has delivered first batch of 12 LNG-powered haulage trucks to Mahanagar Gas Limited in
Hosur, Tamil Nadu (TN).
The AVTR 1922 is a customizable engine powered by a 6-cylinder H-series ‘Hino’ engine.
Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Science & Technology
(MoST) launched the software application Department of Science and Technology (DST), “Dashboard”, for real-
time, prompt and effective Parliament business.
The MoS also laid the Foundation Stone of the new Auditorium-cum-Guest House Complex in the premises
of the “Technology Bhavan” which is the headquarters of DST.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of Communications (MoC) has
granted the requisite licenses to Jio Satellite Communications Limited and Bharti Enterprises-owned Eutelsat
OneWeb.
DoT allocated Internet Service Provider (ISP)-A and a Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) licence to
OneWeb and ISP license to Jio.
Indian Navy (IN) launched the Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge, LSAM 10 (Yard 78), the 4th vessel
in the 08 x MCA Barge project, at Guttenadeevi, East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh(AP).
The barge was built by the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise (MSME) Shipyard, M/s SECON Engineering
Projects Pvt Ltd (SEPPL), Visakhapatnam (AP).
OCTOBER 2023
Union Minister of State (MoS) Dr Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions,
launched the Intelligent Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS) 2.0 Public Grievance portal and Automated
Analysis in Tree Dashboard portal of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances
(DARPG).
He also launched the Swachhata Special Campaign 3.0 and released the Precedent Book (e-book) prepared
by DARPG.
He also launched the Swachhata Special Campaign 3.0 w.e.f. October 2, 2023 i.e. on the occasion of Birth
Anniversary of Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, till 31st October, 2023.

AC Exam PDF
The first private suborbital European rocket MIURA 1 SN1 was launched by Spanish space company PLD
Space. The reusable rocket was launched from El Arenosillo Experimentation Centre (CEDEA) of Spanish
National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA) in Huelva, Spain.
With this launch, Spain has now joined the elite club of nations that can launch rockets into space.
Spain has become the tenth country to reach space. Other nine countries are Russia, the United States of
America (USA), France, Japan, China, India, Israel, Iran and North Korea.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has launched a Psyche Spacecraft to an
interplanetary transfer orbit by using SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Launch Complex 39a (LC-39a) at
NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United States of America (USA).
This is NASA’s first mission to study an asteroid that has more metal than rock or ice.
After escaping Earth’s gravity, Psyche Spacecraft will use solar electric propulsion to accomplish its six-year
journey to the asteroid called ‘Psyche’ which is orbiting the Sun between Mars and Jupiter.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched Gaganyaan’s first flight Test Vehicle
Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh(AP).
“In-flight Abort Demonstration of Crew Escape System (CES)” at Mach number 1.2 with the newly
developed Test Vehicle followed by Crew Module(CM) separation & safe recovery.
Mission Objective: Test all the systems of the Test Vehicle to make sure they are working properly.
Test the CES to make sure it can safely separate the Crew Module from the Test Vehicle in the event of an
emergency.
Test the CM’s ability to fly and land safely at higher altitudes.
About TV-D1 is a low cost liquid propelled single stage rocket which is developed specifically for test
missions.
TV-D1 uses a modified VIKAS(VIKram Ambalal Sarabhai) engine with CM and CES mounted at its
fore end.
Navigation of the rocket is taken care by Mini Advanced inertial navigation system (INS) augmented
by Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (NavIC)/ Global Positioning System (GPS)
The Crew Escape System (CES) is a system that can be used to safely evacuate the crew of a spacecraft in
the event of an emergency.
It consists of five types of quick-acting solid motors, which are used to generate the thrust needed
to separate the spacecraft from the launch vehicle and propel it to a safe distance.
The Crew Module (CM) is the part of a spacecraft that houses the crew and their life support systems.
The chamber’s pressure will be maintained at the pressure of earth surface.
The Crew Module contains all the systems needed to descend the module and safely bringing it back
to Earth.
This includes parachutes, recovery aids, and pyrotechnic devices.
The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), along with the Acquisition Technology & Logistics
Agency (ATLA), which comes under the Ministry of Defense of Japan, has successfully test-fired a medium-
caliber maritime electromagnetic railgun from an offshore platform.
With this, Japan became the first country in the world to successfully test-fire a maritime railgun from an
offshore platform.
Pakistan Army successfully conducted a training launch of the Ghauri Weapon System, a medium-range,
road-mobile, ballistic missile system indigenously developed by Pakistan, to test the operational and technical
readiness of Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC).
The launch was witnessed by Lieutenant General Muhammad Shahbaz Khan Commander ASFC, senior
officers from the strategic forces, scientists, and engineers of the strategic organisation.
China’s Chinese Manned Space Agency (CMSA) has launched its 30th flight mission Shenzhou 17 (also
known as “Divine Vessel”) along with three astronauts to the Tiangong Space Station.
The spacecraft lifted off atop a Long March-2F Y17 carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center
in northwest China.
This is the sixth manned mission of China to its space station since 2021. The crew is led by former air force
pilot Tang Hongbo (48).

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Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited unveiled ‘Vikram-I’ orbital space launch vehicle at the newly
inaugurated its headquarters 'The MAX-Q Campus' located at the GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park in South
Hyderabad, Telangana.
The event was attend by Union Minister of State(MoS) Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Science & Technology
(MoST) who also unveiled simulation of Vikram 1.The Vikram-I rocket is capable of carrying a load of up to
480 Kilograms (kg).
DEFENCE
EXERCISES
Name of the Participating Venue KeyPoints
Exercise Countries
FEBRUARY 2024
NIL
JANUARY 2024
Desert Cyclone India-United Mahajan, Desert Cyclone 2024, the 1st edition of the India-
2024 Arab Emirates Rajasthan United Arab Emirates (UAE) joint military
(UAE) exercise, commenced in Mahajan, Rajasthan on
2nd January 2024. The 2-week-long Exercise will
conclude on 15th January 2024.
“Desert Eagle”, the first-ever India-UAE Joint
Air Forces exercise took place in September
2008 at the Al-Dhafra base in Abu Dhabi,
UAE.
Exercise Sea India, USA, Guam, United The Indian Navy's (IN) P8I aircraft participate in
Dragon 24 Australia, States of America the on-going 4th edition of the anti-submarine
Japan, Canada, (USA) warfare (ASW) ‘Exercise Sea Dragon 24’ from
and the January 10th to January 22nd, 2024, held at
Republic of Anderson Air Force Base in Guam, United States
Korea (South of America (USA).
Korea). Sea Dragon is an annual, multinational ASW
exercise for Long Range Maritime
Reconnaissance (MR) ASW aircraft
conducted by the US Navy.
Exercise Indian & Chennai, Tamil The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Japan Coast
Sahyog Kaijin Japan Nadu Guard (JCG) conducted a 5-day annual joint
exercise, 'Sahyog Kaijin,' off the coast of Chennai,
Tamil Nadu from 8–12 January 2024. This marks
the 20th edition joint exercise between the
Japanese and Indian Coast Guards since its
institution in 2000.
Note: The 19th Sahyog-Kaijin joint exercise
was conducted off the Chennai coast on
January 2020.
Ex-Ayutthaya Indian Navy - The Indian Navy (IN) and Royal Thai Navy (RTN)
(IN) and Royal conducted a maiden bilateral exercise, named
Thai Navy 'Ex-Ayutthaya' from 20th to 23rd December

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2023. The 36th edition of India-Thailand

Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT) was also
conducted along with the Exercise Ayutthaya.
Exercise Khanjar India and Bakloh, Himachal “Exercise Khanjar 2024”, the 11th edition of
2024 Kyrgyzstan Pradesh India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise,
commenced on 22nd January 2024 at Special
Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal
Pradesh (HP).
The first edition of Ex Khanjar was held in
2011 in Nahan, Himachal Pradesh. The 10th
edition of Exercise (Ex Khanjar 2023) was
held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan from 6th to 18th
March 2023.
Exercise Cyclone II India and Anshas, Egypt “Exercise Cyclone II”, the 2nd edition of the
Egypt India-Egypt Joint Special Forces Exercise,
commenced on 22nd January 2024 in Anshas,
Egypt.
Cyclone is an annual exercise held
alternatively in India and Egypt.
The first edition of the exercise was held in
January 2023 in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
Exercise Desert Indian Air Al Dhafra air base Exercise Desert Knight, a Trilateral Air Force
Knight Force (IAF), in the UAE. Exercise, was conducted between the Indian Air
United Arab Force (IAF) along with the French Air and Space
Emirates Force (FASF) and the United Arab Emirates
(UAE) Air (UAE) Air Force on 23rd January 2024.
Force and
French Air
and Space
Force
SADA TANSEEQ India-Saudi Mahajan, The inaugural edition of the India-Saudi Arabia
Arabia Rajasthan joint military exercise, "SADA TANSEEQ", started
on 29 January 2024 at Mahajan, Rajasthan, and
will run until 10 February 2024.
The exercise involves significant
participation from both the Royal Saudi Land
Forces and the Indian Army.
The primary aim of 'SADA TANSEEQ' is to
provide intensive training to troops from
both nations in executing Joint Operations
within Semi Desert terrain under Chapter VII
of the United Nations (UN) Charter.
DECEMBER 2023
VINBAX-2023 India and Hanoi, Vietnam VINBAX-2023, the 4th edition of Joint Military
Vietnam Exercise is being held between India and
Vietnam in Hanoi, Vietnam from 11th to 21st
December 2023.
Aim: To foster collaborative partnership,
inter-operability and share best practices
between the India and Vietnam under

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Chapter VII of United Nations (UN) Charter

on Peace Keeping Operations.
Astrashakti-2023 - Andhra Pradesh Exercise Astrashakti-2023, took place at the Air
Force Station Suryalanka in Andhra Pradesh
(AP).
During this the Indian Air Force (IAF)
showcased the abilities of Akash weapon
system (AWS), and also successfully
test fired Surface to Air Missile for Assured
Retaliation (SAMAR) air defence missile
system.
During the exercise, AWS which is a Short
Range Surface to Air Missile (SRSAM) Air
Defence System neutralized four targets
simultaneously in a single firing unit.
NOVEMBER 2023
Exercise KAZIND- India and Otar, Kazakhstan Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF)
2023 Kazakhstan participates in the Joint Military ‘Exercise
KAZIND-2023’ at Otar, Kazakhstan. The 7th
edition of the KAZIND, an annual bilateral
exercise between India and Kazakhstan, is being
held from 30th October till 11th November
2023.
The 2023 exercise was upgraded as a Bi-
service Exercise with the inclusion of the Air
Force along with the Army, about 30 Air
Force personnel from both sides will take
part in the current edition of the exercise.
BONGOSAGAR 23 India and Northern Bay of The 4th edition of the Bilateral Exercise
Bangladesh Bengal between the Indian Navy (IN) and Bangladesh
Navy (BN), BONGOSAGAR 23, and the 5th
edition of Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) by the
two navies was conducted from 7th to 9th
November 20233 in the Northern Bay of Bengal.
Regular bilateral exercises and coordinated
patrols have strengthened mutual
understanding and cooperation between
the two navies.
The Bongo Sagar exercise was first
conducted in 2019 while the 1st edition of
IN-BN CORPAT was held in 2018.
MITRA SHAKTI- India and Sri Pune, MITRA SHAKTI-2023, the 9th edition of the joint
2023 Lanka Maharashtra military exercise between the armed forces of
India and Sri Lanka, commenced on 16th
November 2023 at the Foreign Training Node in
Aundh, Pune, Maharashtra.
The 14-day exercise is set to conclude on 29
November 2023.
Objective: To promote close relations
between armies of both countries and
enhance interoperability and sharing of best
practices in Counter-Insurgency and
Counter-Terrorism (CI-CT) operations.

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Vajra Prahar 2023 India - United Umroi, The 14th edition of the India - United States of
States Meghalaya America (USA) Joint Special Forces exercise,
Vajra Prahar 2023, commenced at the Joint
Training Node in Umroi Cantonment, located in
Ri Bhoi district of the north eastern state of
Meghalaya.
Exercise Vajra Prahar is an annual exercise
between India and the US to share the best
practices and experiences in areas such as
joint mission planning and operational
tactics.
AUSTRAHIND-23 India and Perth, Australia The Indian Armed Forces takes part in the 2nd
Australia edition of the Joint Military Exercise with
Australian Army in “AUSTRAHIND-23,” it is
being held from November 22nd to December
6th, 2023, in Perth, Australia.
Exercise “AUSTRAHIND” is an annual
exercise that will be held alternatively in
India and Australia.
The 1st edition of the “AUSTRAHIND’ was
held in 2022 in Mahajan Field Firing Ranges
(MFFR) in Mahajan, Rajasthan.
Surya Kiran XVII India and Pithoragarh, Surya Kiran XVII, the 17th Edition of the Indo-
Nepal Uttarakhand Nepal joint training Exercise began at
Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.
The exercise between Indian Army and
Nepal Army will be conducted from 24th
November to 7th December 2023.
The exercise is conducted alternatively in
India and Nepal.Surya Kiran XVI, 16th
edition of the exercise was held at Saljhandi,
Nepal in December 2022.
OCTOBER 2023
SAMPRITI-XI 2023 India and Umroi, Exercise SAMPRITI-XI 2023, an annual joint
Bangladesh Meghalaya military exercise between India and Bangladesh
is held in Umroi, Meghalaya, for 14 days from
3rd October to 16th October 2023
This is the 11th edition of the Exercise,
which strengthens India-Bangladesh
defence cooperation by promoting stronger
bilateral connections, cultural
understanding, and reciprocal benefits from
shared experiences.
Humanitarian - Goa To address the challenges posed by climate
Assistance and change in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the
Disaster Relief Indian armed forces conduct HADR operations
as part of India’s Security And Growth for All in
(HADR) Exercise
the Region (SAGAR) initiative.
(AJHE) – The first edition of the exercise was held in
CHAKRAVAT 2023 2015 and it has been conducted by the
Indian Army, Indian Navy (IN), and Indian
Air Force (IAF) in rotation since 2016.

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Security - Kakinada, Andhra The Security Exercise Prasthan 2023 was

Exercise Prasthan Pradesh (AP) carried out by Commodore Rajneesh Sharma
2023 Naval Officer-in-Charge (NOIC), Andhra Pradesh
under the aegis of Eastern Naval Command,
Indian Navy (IN) in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh
(AP).
The exercise was conducted on the Rig
ship Platinum Explorer of ONGC (Oil and
Natural Gas Corporation) and RG Fixed
Oil Platform of Vedanta Ltd.
Harimau Shakti India and Meghalaya Exercise Harimau Shakti 2023, the two-week
2023 Malaysia Indo-Malaysia joint military exercise between
the Indian Army (IA) and the Malaysian Army,
commenced at the Umroi cantonment, located
in Ri Bhoi district of the northeastern state of
Meghalaya. The exercise is scheduled till
November 5, 2023.
The last edition of the exercise, Harimau
Shakti 2022, was conducted in Pulai,
Kluang, Malaysia in November 2022.
AUSTRAHIND-23 - Perth, Australia The Indian Armed Forces takes part in the 2nd
edition of the Joint Military Exercise with
Australian Army in “AUSTRAHIND-23,” it is
being held from November 22nd to December
6th, 2023, in Perth, Australia.
Exercise “AUSTRAHIND” is an annual
exercise that will be held alternatively in
India and Australia.
The 1st edition of the “AUSTRAHIND’ was
held in 2022 in Mahajan Field Firing Ranges
(MFFR) in Mahajan, Rajasthan.
MISSILES
Name of the Missile Testing Location Other Key facts
FEBRUARY 2024
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JANUARY 2024
Extended-Range BrahMos - Indian Navy (IN), in collaboration with
supersonic cruise missile BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL),
(BrahMos ER) test-fired an extended-range BrahMos
supersonic cruise missile (BrahMos ER) on
24th January 2024. BAPL is a joint venture (JV)
between Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya (NPO
Mash) and India’s Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO).
DECEMBER 2023
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AC Exam PDF
NOVEMBER 2023
long-range surface-to-air - India’s Defense Research and Development
missile (LR-SAM) system Organisation (DRDO) is set to develop a long-
range surface-to-air missile (LR-SAM) system,
similar to that of Israel’s Iron Dome defence
system.
This system developed under “Project
Kusha” will equip India with a robust air
defence system which will detect and
neutralise incoming threats.
DRDO is the defence Research and
Development (R&D) wing under the
Ministry of Defence (MoD), Government of
India.
OCTOBER 2023
BrahMos supersonic cruise Bay of Bengal. Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully tested the air
missile. launch version of BrahMos supersonic cruise
missile.
The missile was launched from a Sukhoi Su-
30 Modernizirovannyi Kommercheskiy Indi
ski (MKI) fighter jet in an airbase in Bay of
Bengal.
This is a long-range version of supersonic
weapon system with a range of about
1500km.
The BrahMos missile can be launched from a
range of platforms, including fighter jets,
submarines, ships, and land-based systems.
It is developed
by BrahMos Aerospace which is a joint
venture between Russia’s NPO
Mashinostroyeniya (NPO Mash) and India’s
Defence Research and Development
Organisation (DRDO).
COMMISSION/DECOMMISSION
FEBRUARY 2024
The Indian Navy (IN) commissioned the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sandhayak (Yard 3025), the first of four
Survey Vessel Large (SVL) ships, at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, in the presence of
Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defence (MoD), and Indian Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar.
The contract for building four SVL ships was signed between the MoD and Garden Reach Shipbuilders &
Engineers Limited (GRSE).
JANUARY 2024
Three Indian Navy Ships (INS) namely INS Cheetah, INS Guldar and INS Kumbhir were decommissioned
simultaneously during a ceremony conducted at Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar (A&N).
All three ships rendered nearly 40 years of glorious service to India and built at Gdynia Shipyard, Poland;
They belonged to the Polnocny class Landing Ships.

AC Exam PDF
The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Nirupak, an indigenously designed and built hydrographic survey ship, was
decommissioned at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh (AP).
INS Nirupak, the 3rd ship of the Sandhayak class, was launched on June 1981 at Garden Reach Shipbuilders
& Engineers Ltd (GRSE) in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).
DECEMBER 2023
The Indian Navy commissioned the Fast Attack Craft, Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tarmugli at the Naval
Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh (AP). VAdm Sandeep Naithani, Chief of Materiel was the Chief
Guest for the commissioning ceremony.
The vessel was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, Kolkata, West Bengal in 2001.
The Indian Navy (IN) commissioned the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Imphal(Yard 12706), a Stealth Guided
Missile Destroyer, at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, Maharashtra in the presence of Union Minister Rajnath Singh,
Ministry of Defence (MoD).
It is the third of four Project 15B ‘Visakhapatnam’ class destroyers designed by the IN’s Warship Design
Bureau (WDB) and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai.
The first two destroyers of Project 15B i.e. INS Visakhapatnam and INS Mormugao were commissioned in
2021 and 2022 respectively.
NOVEMBER 2023
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OCTOBER 2023
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IMPORTANT DEFENCE EVENTS

FEBRUARY 2024
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted four flight trials
of the High-Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) ABHYAS at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur,
Odisha. ABHYAS, designed by DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), provides a realistic
threat scenario for weapon system practice.
The 2nd edition of the World Defence Show (WDS 2024) was held at Riyadh International Convention &
Exhibition Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 4th to 8th February 2024.
WDS 2024 was organised by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), the regulator, enabler,
licensor for the military industry in Saudi Arabia. The Theme of WDS 2024 is “Equipped for Tomorrow”.
Pune (Maharashtra)- based Munitions India Limited (MIL), Defence Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under
the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract worth USD 225 million for the supply of artillery
ammunition to Saudi Arabia.
BrahMos Pavilion at WDS 2024: India’s Rising Prowess in Defence Diplomacy
Ajay Bhatt, MoS, MoD visited Riyadh to lead the Indian delegation at WDS 2024.
Tri-Service Women Officers Represented Indian Armed Forces at WDS 2024
JANUARY 2024
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has inked 2 contracts worth Rs 802 crore for indigenous military
equipment.
The 1st contract, worth Rs 473 crore, was inked with M/s Jupiter Wagons Limited for the procurement of
697 Bogie Open Military (BOM) wagons.
The 2nd contract, worth Rs 329.87 crore, was signed with M/s BEML Limited (Formerly Bharat Earth
Movers Limited) for the procurement of 56 Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment (MMME) Mark II.
The Minister of State (MoS) Ajay Bhatt, Ministry of Defence (MoD) flagged off the indigenously
developed and manufactured Astra Missiles for supply to the Indian Air Force (IAF). The flag off ceremony was
held at Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)’s Kanchanbagh Unit in Hyderabad, Telangana.

AC Exam PDF
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract worth Rs. 1070 crore with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders
Limited (MDL – functioning under MoD) for the acquisition of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) for the Indian
Coast Guard (ICG).
The contract was made under the Buy Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured (IDDM)
category. All the FPVs will be delivered in sixty-three months to ICG.
DECEMBER 2023
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) launched the first three ships of the 8 Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow
Water Crafts (ASW SWC) project namely Indian Naval Ship (INS) Mahe, INS Malvan, and INS Mangrol at its
Kochi Yard in Kerala for the Indian Navy (IN).
The 3rd Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 17 (Yard 127) has been delivered to
IN.
The 3rd Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 17 (Yard 127) has been delivered to
IN in the presence of Shankar Mukharjee, INAS (Indian Naval Armament Service), AGM Naval Armament
Depot (NAD), Karanja in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata (West Bengal) has delivered Indian Naval Ship
(INS) Sandhayak (Yard 3025), the first of four Survey Vessel (Large) (SVL) ships to the Indian Navy (IN) on
4th December 2023.
The contract for building four SVL ships was signed between the Ministry of Defense (MoD) and GRSE on 30
October 2018. Other three Survey Vessel (Large) (SVL) are Nirdeshak (Yard 3026), Ikshak (Yard 3027) and
Sanshodhak (Yard 3028)
The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has approved the purchase of 70,000 semi-automatic assault
rifles for the Indian Army (IA) at a cost of Rs 800 crore, during a high-level MoD meeting. They will be bought
from the United States (US) based Sig Sauer Inc.
India has been using Sig Sauer rifles since 2019 when it bought 72,400 SiG 716 rifles of 7.62 x
51mm caliber viz. 66,400 for IA, 4,000 for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and 2,000 for the Indian Navy (IN).
Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract worth Rs.588.68 crore with Telecommunications
Consultants India Limited (TCIL), Ministry of Communications (MoC), to acquire the Digital Coast Guard
(DCG) project under the Buy (Indian) category.
This contract in line with Government of India’s strategic vision for Digital Armed Forces will contribute to
the efforts to achieve ‘Atmanirbharta’ in defence.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has approved the Rs 2,800 crore proposal to purchase about 6,400
rockets for Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) systems, for boosting the Indian Army's capabilities.
MoD's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the proposal for the acquisition of 2 variants of these
rockets, known as Area Denial Munition Type 2 and Type-3.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully carried out a flight trial of an
indigenous high-speed tailless flying-wing stealth Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) from the Aeronautical Test
Range, Chitradurga, Karnataka.
The FWTD has been developed for India's secret unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) programme
called ‘Ghatak’.
FWTD was designed and developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a premier
DRDO laboratory located in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract worth Rs.1614.89 crore with Mazagon Dockyard
Shipbuilders Limited (MDL - functioning under MoD) for the procurement of six Next Generation Offshore
Patrol Vessels (NGOPVS) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
Ministry of Defence (MoD) entered a contract with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) worth Rs 488.25 crore
for the repair and maintenance of equipment and systems onboard naval vessels.
Pakistan Military conducted a successful flight test of the indigenously developed guided Multi-Launch
Rocket System (MLRS) 'Fatah-II', which is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, a sophisticated navigation
system, and a unique flight trajectory.

AC Exam PDF
The Indian Navy (IN) has introduced a new design for the Admirals' Epaulettes, drawn from the Naval
Ensign and features elements inspired by the Rajmudra of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The new design incorporates several symbolic elements such as the Golden Navy Button, Octagon, Indian
Sword, and Telescope.
The redesigned Epaulettes have been unveiled for the ranks of Admiral, Vice Admiral, and Rear Admiral, the
top 3 positions in the naval forces.
The Indian Navy (IN) inducted the Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge, LSAM 10 (Yard 78), the 4th
Barge of the 08 x MCA Barge project at Naval Dockyards in Mumbai, Maharashtra for the Naval Armament
Depot (NAD), Karanja, Mumbai.
The barge was built by the SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd (SEPPL), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
for the IN. The 1st Barge of series LSAM 7 (Yard 75) was delivered to IN on 18th July 2023.
Giridhar Aramane, Defence Secretary, Ministry of Defence (MoD), inaugurated a new state-of-the-art
design and test facility at Aero Engine Research and Development Centre (AERDC) of Hindustan Aeronautics
Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Note: AERDC, established in the 1960s, is the only design house that has developed test beds for engines of
both Western and Russian origin.
Kolkata (West Bengal) based The Shalimar Works (1980) Limited has delivered the seventh 250 Men
Ferry Craft ‘Manjula’ (Yard 786) to the Indian Navy (IN).
Manjula (Yard 786) Ferry Craft was built under the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Ministry of Defence
(MoD) with all major and auxiliary equipment or systems sourced from indigenous manufacturers.
NOVEMBER 2023
Ilyushin (IL)-38 Sea Dragon (SD) long-range maritime patrol aircraft of the Indian Navy (IN) was
decommissioned after 46 years of service to the nation, at INS Hansa at Dabolim, Goa.
The Indian Navy has placed an order for eight P-8I aircraft in 2009 and the first aircraft entered service in
2013. An additional four were ordered in 2016 and were all delivered by December 2021, bringing the total
to 12 aircraft.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has phased out another Mig-21 fighter squadron, No. 4 squadron, known as
‘OORIALS’, based in Uttarlai, Rajasthan. The squadron will be re-equipping it with Sukhoi-30 MKI (SU-
30MKI) aircraft.
The Indian Army conducted the inaugural test firing of 70 mm rockets and 20 mm turret guns of its
Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand in both day and night conditions.
It was carried out by the 1st LCH squadron from the Air Force station in Likabali in Arunachal Pradesh.
The Prachand is India’s first indigenous multi-role class combat helicopter, developed by Hindustan
Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It received operational clearance in 2017.
The Spear Corps (the aviation unit of the Indian Army) successfully test fired the New Generation
Rocket and Turret ammunition from the first Indigenous Attack Helicopter Rudra.
The Rudra is a weaponised version of the Advanced Light Dhruv helicopter of 5.8 Ton class powered by
two Shakti Engines.
It was designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to meet the requirements of Indian
Army and Indian Air Force (IAF).
Russia has signed a contract to supply and produce hand-held anti-aircraft missile Igla-S Man-Portable
Air Defence System (MANPADS) to India.Igla-S is designed to counter low-flying aircraft and helicopters.
It has a range of 500meters to 6000 meters and can go upto the altitude ranging from 10meters to 3500
meters.
Indian Navy (IN) launched ‘Amini‘, the 4th in a series of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water
Crafts (ASW-SWC), at shipbuilding facility of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) in Kattupalli, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is
built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE).
The launch ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral (VAdm) Sandeep Naithani, Chief of Materiel, IN.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in cooperation with the Indian Navy (IN)
successfully tested the indigenously designed & developed Guided Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Short Range (NASM-
SR) from IN’s Seaking 42B Maritime Helicopter.

AC Exam PDF
It is a helicopter-fired missile capable of destroying small boats or Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) at a
maximum range of 55 kilometers while traveling at 0.8 Mach (slower than the speed of sound).
It is the first indigenous air-launched anti-ship missile system developed for the Indian Navy and is India's
version of the Harpoon Anti-Ship Missile.
OCTOBER 2023
The Indian Air Force (IAF) inducted the first of six new Dornier Do-228, 19-seater aircraft,
manufactured Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of
Defence (MoD).
The Dornier-228 aircraft is a multifunctional, lightweight transport aircraft which can perform functions
from utility and commuter transport to maritime surveillance.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)(Kochi, Kerala)
for mid-life upgrade and re-powering of the advanced guided missile frigate Indian Naval Ship (INS) Beas (F37)
at a cost of Rs 313.42 crore.
INS Beas is the first Brahmaputra Class Frigate to be re-powered from steam to diesel propulsion.
Yard 12706 (Imphal), the third Stealth Destroyer of Project 15B Class Guided Missile Destroyer build at
the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) was delivered to the Indian Navy(IN).
The ship was designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB).
SPORTS
APPOINTMENTS IN SPORTS
NAME APPOINTED AS ASSOCIATION Points to be Noted
FEBRUARY 2024
Jay Shah President Asian Cricket Jay Shah, Secretary of the
Council (ACC) Board of Control for Cricket in
India (BCCI), was reappointed
as the President of the Asian
Cricket Council (ACC) for the
3rd consecutive term.
Initially, He took charge as
President of ACC in
January 2021 succeeding
Nazmul Hassan, President
of Bangladesh Cricket
Board (BCB).
JANUARY 2024
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DECEMBER 2023
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NOVEMBER 2023
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OCTOBER 2023
NIL

AC Exam PDF
RETIREMENT
Name of the Person Sport, they belong to/ Country Points to be Noted
FEBRUARY 2024
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JANUARY 2024
David Warner cricket Australian batsman David Warner
announced his retirement from one-day
international (ODI) cricket and test
cricket during his last test match against
Pakistan, held from 3-6 January 2024 in
Sydney, Australia.
David Warner holds the record for
Australia's second-highest run scorer
across all three formats (ODI, T20I
and Test) with 18,612 runs, behind
Ricky Ponting (27,483 runs).
DECEMBER 2023
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NOVEMBER 2023
Meghann Moira Lanning Australia Meghann Moira Lanning (Meg Lanning),
(Meg Lanning) Captain of Australian women’s cricket
team announced retirement from
international cricket at the age of 31.
Singapore born Meg Lanning made her
international debut in 2010 and played
241 matches for Australia. Meg Lanning,
nicknamed “Megastar”.She holds the
record of winning most ICC tournaments
as a captain in Cricket.
OCTOBER 2023
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TENNIS
FEBRUARY 2024
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JANUARY 2024
The German tennis team won the United Cup 2024 title by defeating Poland 2-1 in the finals held at the
Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney, Australia. The second edition of the United Cup was held from 29th December
2023 - 7th January 2024 in Perth and Sydney, Australia.
Germany'sAlexander Zverev (6th in the ATP ranking) defeated Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz (9th ranked) in the
men’s singles finals.
In the women's singles finals, Poland’s Iga Swiatek(1st in WTA ranking) defeated Angelique Kerber
(Germany).
In the mixed doubles event, Alexander Zverev and Laura Siegemund (Germany) defeated Hubert Hurkacz
and Iga Swiatek (Poland) in the finals.
Australian Open 2024, the 112th edition of the Australian Open, the 56th in the Open Era, and the first
major/Grand Slam of the year 2024 was held from 14-28 January 2024.

AC Exam PDF
Jannik Sinner of Italy won the men’s singles title, while Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus won the women’s
singles title at the Australian Open (AO) 2024 held at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, Australia.
India’s Rohan Machanda Bopanna became the oldest man (at 43 years and 329 days) to win a Grand Slam
after he and his partner Matthew Ebden (Australia) won the men’s doubles title at the Australian Open.
Elise Mertens and Hsieh Su-wei won the women’s doubles title by defeating Lyudmyla Kichenok and Jelena
Ostapenko in the finals.
Hsieh Su-wei and Jan Zielinski won the mixed doubles title by defeating Desirae Krawczyk and Neal Skupski
in the finals.
Prithvi Sekhar won the singles title by defeating Gabor Mathe of Hungary at the Australian Open 2024 Deaf
or Hard of Hearing (DHoH) Championships.
DECEMBER 2023
Indian tennis legends Leander Paes; Indian sports commentator and promoter Vijay Amritraj; and
British sports journalist and writer Richard Evans were inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame as
a part of the class of 2024.
Leander Paes was selected under Player Category and Vijay Amritraj and Richard Evans were selected
under Contributer Cateogry.
Paes and Amritraj have become the 1st two Indians to receive the honours and the 1st Asian men to be
selected in their respective categories.
Note: With this, India has become the 28th nation represented in the Hall of Fame.
Novak Djokovic, a Serbian tennis player, has been named men’s International Tennis Federation (ITF)
World Champion 2023 for the eighth time in his career.
Aryna Sabalenka, a Belarusian tennis player, has been named as the women’s ITF World Champion for the
first time for her consistent performance in the 2023 season.
Winners of ITF World Champion Awards 2023:
Category Player
Men’s Singles Novak Djokovic
Women’s Singles Aryna Sabalenka
Rajeev Ram and Joe
Men’s Doubles
Salisbury
Storm Hunter & Elise
Women’s Doubles
Mertens
Polish Tennis Player Iga Świątek(22 years old) has topped the Forbes’ annual list World’s Highest-Paid
Female Athletes 2023, with a total earning of USD 23.9 million (on-field USD 9.9 million; off-field USD 14
million) in 2023.
Indian Badminton player Pusarla Venkata Sindhu (PV Sindhu) is tied with American Gymnast Simone Biles
in 16th position with a total earning of USD 7.1 million (on-field USD 0.1 million; off-field USD 7 million).
Sindhu is the only Indian and the only badminton player featured on the list.
Top 5 World Highest-Paid Female Athletes 2023 by Forbes:
Earnings
Rank Name Nationality Sport (in USD)
1 Iga Świątek Poland Tennis 23.9 million
2 Eileen Gu China Freestyle skiing 22.1 million
3 Coco Gauff United States of America (USA) Tennis 21.7 million
4 Emma Raducanu United Kingdom (UK) Tennis 15.2 million
5 Naomi Osaka Japan Tennis 15 million
P.V. Sindhu India Badminton
16 Simone Biles USA Gymnastics 7.1 million

AC Exam PDF
NOVEMBER 2023
Italian tennis team captained by Filippo Volandri, won the Davis Cup 2023 by defeating Australian team
captained by Lleyton Hewitt in the finals held in Palacio de Deportes Jose Maria Martin Carpena in Malaga,
Spain. This marks Italy’s 2nd Davis Cup title. Previously, Italy won the title in 1976.
2023 Davis Cup is the 111th edition of the tournament. The event was named Davis Cup after Dwight
Davis’s trophy, which was designed by William Durgin and crafted by Rowland Rhodes.
OCTOBER 2023
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CRICKET
FEBRUARY 2024
The Australian Under-19 (U19) cricket team won the International Cricket Council (ICC) U19 Men’s
Cricket World Cup (CWC) 2024 title defeating India in the finals held in Willowmoore Park stadium in Benoni,
South Africa.
The 15th edition of U19 Men’s CWC held from 19th January to 11th February 2024 was hosted by South
Africa.
JANUARY 2024
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced TATA Group as the title sponsor for the
Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2024 to 2028, extending their partnership for a 5-year term.
TATA Group is also the title sponsor of the Women’s Premier League, the biggest women’s T20 league in
the world.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the winners of the ICC Awards 2023, India’s Virat
Kohli has won the ICC Men’s One Day International (ODI) Cricketer of the Year 2023, and Suryakumar Yadav
has won the ICC Men's Twenty20 International (T20I) Cricketer of the Year 2023. Click here to read full news
Category Winner Country
Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year Pat Cummins Australia
ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year 2023 Usman Khawaja Australia
ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2023 Virat Kohli India
ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year 2023 Suryakumar Yadav India
DECEMBER 2023
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the retirement of the former Indian
cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s (MS Dhoni) iconic jersey number “7” to honour his achievements in Indian
cricket.
About the Retirement of Jersey Number: MS Dhoni becomes the second Indian to be given this honour after
Sachin Tendulkar, whose jersey number “10” retired in 2017.
The Haryana men’s cricket team captained by Ashok Menaria won the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2023-24 by
defeating the Rajasthan men’s cricket team led by Deepak Hooda in the finals held in the Saurashtra Cricket
Association Stadium in Rajkot (Gujarat).
The 21st edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy was held from 23rd November to 16th December 2023, with 38
teams competing in a total of 135 matches.
This marks the first-ever Vijay Hazare Trophy win for the Haryana team, which beat Rajasthan by 30 runs
in the finals.
NOVEMBER 2023
The Punjab cricket team won its maiden domestic Twenty20 (T20) IDFC First Bank Syed Mushtaq Ali
Trophy (SMAT) 2023-2024 title by defeating the Baroda team in the final held in Inderjit Singh Bindra
Stadium in Mohali, Punjab.

AC Exam PDF
Abhishek Sharma (Punjab) has received the Player of the series award for scoring 485 runs and taking 2
wickets.
IDFC First Bank secured the title sponsorship rights for all BCCI matches, domestic and international, for
the next three years. The bank will pay Rs 4.2 crore per match for the sponsorship.
The Australian Men’s cricket team led by Pat Cummins won the 13th edition of the International Cricket
Council (ICC) Men's One Day International (ODI) Cricket World Cup (CWC) 2023 by defeating Rohit Sharma led
India in the finals held in Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 was hosted by India across 10 venues from 5th October to 19th
November 2023.
Virat Kohli also broke Tendulkar's (49 centuries) record of the most number of centuries in ODI matches,
while Kohli scored his 50th century against New Zealand in the semi-final.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced a "stop clock" in men’s One Day International
(ODI) and Twenty20 International (T20I) cricket matches to regulate the time taken between overs.
The bowling teams in men's ODIs and T20Is will be imposed a five-run penalty if the bowler fails to bowl
the next over within 60 seconds after the completion of the previous over for the third time in an innings.
The Stop Clock will be introduced on a trial basis from December 2023 to April 2024.
OCTOBER 2023
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BADMINTON
FEBRUARY 2024
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JANUARY 2024
Indian badminton pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won the silver medal(Runners-up) in
the men’s doubles of Yonex-Sunrise India Open 2024 held from 16th-21st January 2024 in K. D. Jadhav Indoor
Stadium in New Delhi, Delhi.
In the finals of the men’s doubles, the Indian pair lost to South Korean pair Kang Min Hyuk and Seo Seung
Jae (Gold medallists).
India Open 2024 winners:
Men’s singles: Shi Yu Qi (China)
Women’s singles: Tai Tzu Ying (Chinese Taipei)
Men’s doubles: Kang Min Hyuk - Seo Seung Jae (South Korea)
Women’s doubles: Mayu Matsumoto - Wakana Nagahara (Japan)
Mixed doubles:Dechapol Puavaranukroh - Sapsiree Taerattanachai (Thailand)
DECEMBER 2023
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NOVEMBER 2023
The Indian badminton duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty settled for 2nd place in the
men’s doubles of Li Ning China Masters 2023 held in Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium, Shenzhen, China from 21st to
26th November 2023.
India duo lost the finals against the World No. 1 pair of Liang Wei Keng and Wang Chang of China.

AC Exam PDF
OCTOBER 2023
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CHESS
FEBRUARY 2024
Grandmaster (GM)Wei Yi of China won his first master title by defeating GM Gukesh D of India in the
finals of the 86th edition of the Tata Steel Chess Tournament (2024) held from 12-28 January 2024 in Wijk aan
Zee, The Netherlands.
GM Leon Luke Mendonca (India) won the Challengers title by defeating International Master (IM) Divya
Deshmukh (India) in the final round.
GM Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa became India’s No. 1 chess player after he defeated reigning world
champion GM Ding Liren(China) in the fourth round of the Tata Steel Chess Tournament 2024 (Masters).
India has officially handed over the Chess Olympiad torch to Hungary, which is set to host the 45th
edition of the Chess Olympiad 2024 from 10th to 23rd September 2024 in Budapest, Hungary. The torch
handover ceremony also kicked off the 100th anniversary celebration of FIDE, which was established in 1924.
JANUARY 2024
Norwegian Grandmaster (GM) and World No.1, Magnus Carlsen won 2023 International Chess
Federation (FIDE) World Rapid Chess title (Men) held at Samarkand, Uzbekistan from 26 December to 28
December 2023. This title marks Magnus Carlsen’s 5th World Rapid Chess Championship title.
Russian chess player Anastasia Bodnaruk (neutral Fide flag) won the 2023 FIDE World Rapid Chess
Women’s title by defeating Indian Chess Grandmaster, Koneru Humpy in a tiebreaker match to secure first
place.
Top 3 Men Medalist
Name of the
Rank Country Medal
Player
Gold
1 Magnus Carlsen Norway Medal and
Trophy
Vladimir Siver
2 Slovenia
Fedoseev Medal
Bronze
3 Yu Yangyi China
Medal
Top 3 Women Medalist
Name of the
Rank Country Medal
Player
Russia
Anastasia Gold Medal
1 (FIDE
Bodnaruk and Trophy
flag)
2 Koneru Humpy India Silver Medal
3 Lei Tingjie China Bronze Medal
Norwegian Grandmaster and World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen won the title at the 2023 World
Blitz Chess Championships (open tournament) held at the Samarkand Congress Center, Samarkand,
Uzbekistan from 29th to 30th December 2023.
Daniil Dubov, and Russia’s Vladislav Artemiev finished 2nd and 3rd in the Open Blitz tournament.
Russia’s Valentina Gunina won the title in the Women’s Blitz tournament. The former World Champion
Alexandra Kosteniuk of Switzerland finished 2nd, and China's Zhu Jiner finished 3rd third.

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DECEMBER 2023
Indian Chess player Vaishali Rameshbabu (22 years old), has become India’s 84th Grandmaster (GM) by
crossing the 2500 Elo live ratings during the ongoing 4th edition of the Llobregat Open Chess Tournament
(Llobregat Open 2023) from 30th November 2023 to 8th December 2023 in Barcelona, Spain.
She is the third Indian female, after Koneru Humpy (2002) and Harika Dronavalli (2011), to get the GM title.
Vaishali and her brother Praggnanandhaa became the world’s first sister-brother pair to be GrandMasters.
Indian chess players Kiyana Parihar (Under -8 Girls) and Harsh Suresh (U-16 Open) won gold medals
(Standard - category) in the Asian Youth Chess Championships 2023 held at Al Ain City of Abu Dhabi in the
United Arab Emirates (UAE) from December 12 to 22, 2023.
Grandmaster (GM) Gukesh Dommaraju (India) won the inaugural Chennai Grand Masters 2023 title, which
was held at Chennai (Tamil Nadu) from 15th to 21st December 2023.Indian chess players GM Arjun Erigaisi
and GM Pentala Harikrishna secured second and third positions, respectively.
NOVEMBER 2023
The Indian Grandmaster (GM) Vidit Santosh Gujrathi won the 3rd edition of Federation Internationale des
Echecs(FIDE) Grand Swiss 2023 title held from the 23rd of October to the 6th of November 2023 in the Villa
Marina, Douglas, Isle of Man.
International Master (IM)Vaishali Rameshbabu won the 2nd edition of FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss 2023 title.
FIDE Grand Swiss – Medal Winners:
Player Medals
GM Vidit Santosh Gujrathi (India) Gold
GM Hikaru Nakamura(United
Silver
States)
GM Andrey Esipenko(Played
Bronze
under FIDE flag)
FIDE Women’s Grand Swiss – Medal Winners:
Player Medals
IM Vaishali Rameshbabu(India) Gold
GM Anna Muzychuk (Ukraine) Silver
GM Tan Zhongyi(China) Bronze
OCTOBER 2023
The GrandMaster (GM) Nodirbek Yakubboev (Uzbekistan) won the Qatar Masters Open 2023
Title held at Lusail Sports Arena, Qatar from 10th to 21th October 2023. GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov
(Uzbekistan) secured second place while GM S L Narayanan (India) secured third place in the Qatar Masters
Open 2023.
International Master (IM) Vaishali Rameshbabu (India) secured the women’s champion title while IM Divya
Deshmukh (India) and Woman International Master (WIM) Alua Nurmanova (Kazakhstan) secured second
and third highest ranks among women players.
GRAND PRIX
FEBRUARY 2024
NIL
JANUARY 2024
NIL
DECEMBER 2023
NIL

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NOVEMBER 2023
NIL
OCTOBER 2023
Max Verstappen, the Belgian- Dutch driver of Red Bull added his name to the list of Formula One (F1)
triple champions.
Max Verstappen achieved this feat by securing 2nd place in Qatar Grand Prix 2023 sprint race, Australian
driver of McLaren Oscar Piastri won the Sprint race.
Later on, Max Verstappen won the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix main race event, followed by Australian driver of
McLaren, Oscar Piastri and British driver of McLaren, Lando Norris.
Max Verstappen, the Belgian-Dutch driver of Red Bull won the Formula 1 (F1) United States Grand Prix
2023 held at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, The United States of America (USA) from 20- 22
October 2023.
This marks Max Verstappen’s 50th career win in the F1 and he joins Lewis Hamilton (103), Michael
Schumacher(91)(Germany), Sebastian Vettel(53) )(Germany) and Alain Prost (51)(France) in the 50-win
club.
This also marks Verstappen’s 15th win out of 17 races of the 2023 season, in this 15 he won 11 races in a
row.
In the US Grand Prix, Verstappen broke his previous record for the most points scored in a season with 466
points in the F1 driver standings in 2023 (he scored 454 in 2022).
This victory also marks Verstappen’s third consecutive US Grand Prix title win(2021, 2022 and 2023).
Winners of US Grand Prix 2023:
Position Driver Team
1 Max Verstappen Red Bull
2 Lando Norris McLaren
3 Carlos Sainz Ferrari
OTHER SPORTS
FEBRUARY 2024
The 6th edition of Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2023 hosted by Tamil Nadu was held from 19th to
31st January 2024. Maharashtra topped the medal tally of KIYG 2023 with 158 medals (57 gold, 48 silver, 53
bronze) and won the overall championship trophy.
Tamil Nadu and Haryana were ranked 2nd and 3rd, respectively, with 98 medals (38 gold, 21 silver, and 39
bronze) and 103 medals (35 gold, 22 silver, and 46 bronze).
KIYG 2023 Medal Tally:
Rank States/UT Gold Silver Bronze Total
1 Maharashtra 57 48 53 158
2 Tamil Nadu 38 21 39 98
3 Haryana 35 22 46 103
4 Delhi 13 18 25 56
5 Rajasthan 13 17 17 47
The Indian women’s hockey team finished as runner-up (Silver Medal) at the Fédération Internationale
de Hockey(FIH) Hockey 5s Women’s World Cup 2024 after losing to the Netherlands in the final.
The inaugural edition of the FIH Hockey 5s Women’s World Cup was held from 24-27 January 2024 in
Muscat, Oman.

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The Netherlands men’s hockey team won the FIH Hockey 5s men’s World Cup 2024 title (Gold) by defeating
Malaysia (Silver) in the finals.
The inaugural edition of the FIH Hockey 5s men’s World Cup was held from 28-31 January 2024 in Muscat,
Oman.
Former Indian shooter and India’s first individual Olympic gold medal winner (Beijing Olympics - 2008),
Abhinav Bindra has been selected as a torchbearer to take part in the Paris 2024 Olympic Torch Relay.
Assam Chief Minister(CM) Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the Logo, Anthem, Mascot, Jersey, and Torch
of the 4th edition of the Khelo India University Games(KIUG 2023) in an event held at the Karmabir Nabin
Chandra Bordoloi Indoor Stadium in Guwahati, Assam.
Note: The Mascot of the KIUG 2023 is ‘Ashtalakshmi’, a butterfly. KIUG 2023 is set to be held from 19th -
29th February 2024.
The Ministry of Education (MoE) has partnered with Fédération Internationale de Football Affiliation
(FIFA) to promote football in schools across India by integrating football-related activities into the education
system.
The program is supported by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and implemented by the Sports
Authority of India (SAI). The partnership aims to distribute 11 lakh footballs across India in a phased
manner.
Indian Olympian Neeraj Chopra was awarded the Sportstar of the Year (Male) award at the 2024
Sportstar Aces Awards held at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
The 2024 Arjuna Awardee Sheetal Devi (para-archer) won the Sportstar Aces Award for the Sportstar of the
Year (female). She also won the Moment of the year award.
The 6th edition of the Sportstar Aces awards were awarded in 24 categories which includes 5 Popular
Choice and 16 Jury Awards.
The 2024 Australian Open men’s doubles champion and 2024 Padma Shri awardee Rohan Bopanna was
awarded the ‘Ace of Aces award’. Click here to read full News
JANUARY 2024
The Indian contingent won 8 medals (1 Gold, 3 Silver, and 4 Bronze) in the Asian Shotgun
Championships 2024 held at the Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Olympic Shooting Complex in Kuwait City, Kuwait
from 12-22 January 2024.
India ranked fifth in the medal tally with 8 medals while China secured first position with 13 medals (5
Gold, 6 Silver, and 2 Bronze).
India’s only gold medal at the Asian Shotgun Championships 2024 won by the women’s skeet team
comprising Ganemat Sekhon, Maheshwari Chauhan, and Raiza Dhillon.
Fourth edition of the 2024 Indian Super Cup (also known as the 2024 Kalinga Super Cup) final football
match was held between East Bengal FC and Odisha FC at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
DECEMBER 2023
Indian shooter Anish Bhanwala won the bronze medal in the Men’s 25m rapid fire pistol event at the
International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup Final Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun 2023 held in Lusail
Shooting Range in Doha, Qatar held from 18th to 26th November 2023.
This was India’s 1st medal in the men’s 25m rapid fire pistol event in the ISSF World Cup Final history.
India ranks 13th, along with Czechia; Great Britain; Latvia & the United States of America (USA), in the
medal tally with 1 bronze.
India’s Antim Panghal, Georgios Kougioumtsidis (Greece), and Hasrat Jafarov(Azerbaijan) have been
named as United World Wrestling’s (UWW) Rising Stars of the Year 2023 in Women’s Wrestling, Freestyle, and
Greco-Roman respectively.
Winners of UWW Awards 2023:
Award Player Category
Antim Panghal(India) Women’s Wrestling
Rising Stars of the
Year 2023 GeorgiosKougioumtsidis
Freestyle
(Greece)

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Hasrat Jafarov
Greco-Roman
(Azerbaijan)
Iszmail Muszukajev
Breakout Freestyle
(Hungary)
Performances of the
Bose Tosun (Türkiye) Women’s Wrestling
Year 2023
Gabriel Rosillo (Cuba) Greco-Roman
Haryana topped the medal tally with 105 medals (40 gold, 39 silver, and 26 bronze) in the inaugural
edition of the Khelo India Para Games 2023 held in New Delhi, Delhi from 10th - 17th December 2023.
Uttar Pradesh finished second in the medals table with 62 medals (25 gold, 23 silver, and 14 bronze) while
Tamil Nadu finished third with 42 medals (20 gold, 8 silver, and 14 bronze).
Mascot: ‘Ujjwala’, a sparrow, reminds strength comes in many forms and the human spirit is unbreakable.
Indian men’s hockey team midfielder Hardik Singh and Indian women’s hockey team captain Savita
Punia won the FIH men’s Player of the Year and the FIH Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award respectively at
the 2023 International Hockey Federation’s (FIH) annual Hockey Star Awards.
Award Player
Hardik Singh (India) Men’s Player of the Year
Xan de Waard (the
Women’s Player of the Year
Netherlands)
Pirmin Blaak (the
Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year
Netherlands)
Savita Punia (India) Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year
Gaspard Xavier (France) Men’s Rising Star of the Year
Teresa Lima (Spain) Women’s Rising Star of the Year
André Henning (Germany) Coach of the Year (Male)
Alyson Annan (China) Coach of the Year (Female)

Ben Göntgen (Germany) Umpire of the Year (Male)
Ayanna McClean (Trinidad
Umpire of the Year (Female)
and Tobago)
Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports(MoYAS) unveiled the official
logo, jersey, and theme song of the 6th Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG 2024) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
The mascot of 6th KIYG named “Veera Mangai” and the ceremonial torch named “Thamizh” were also
unveiled during the event. The mascot “Veera Mangai” is the replica of the legendary freedom fighter Tamil
queen ‘Velu Nachiyar’.
NOVEMBER 2023
The Indian contingent finished 5th position in the medal tally with 111 medals (29 gold, 31 silver, and
51 bronze) in the Hangzhou Asian Para Games 2022 held in Hangzhou, China from 22nd to 28th October 2023.
The 4th edition of the Asian Para Games (2022) marks India’s record for the highest medal tally so far
surpassing the previous record medal tally of 72 medals (15 gold, 24 silver, and 33 bronze) in the 2018
Asian Para Games in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Mascot – The “Divine Bird” named ‘Feifei’ is the mascot.
Rank Country Gold Silver Bronze Total
1 China 214 167 140 521
2 Islamic Republic of Iran 44 46 41 131

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3 Japan 42 49 59 150
4 Republic of Korea 30 33 40 103
5 India 29 31 51 111
Indian women’s hockey team won the Jharkhand Women's Asian Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023 title
by defeating Japan 4-0 in the final held in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
The 7th edition of the Women's Asian Champions Trophy was held in Marang Gomke Jaypal Singh Mundha
AstroTurf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand, from 27th October to 5th November 2023.
China won the bronze medal by defeating South Korea in the Bronze medal match.
Maharashtra Finished top in the medal tally with 228 medals (80 gold, 69 silver, and 79 bronze) in the
37th edition of the National Games held in Goa from October 26th to November 9th, 2023.
Maharashtra won the Raja Bhalindra Singh Trophy for the overall championship in the National Games
2023, and it is also the first time Maharashtra has topped the medal tally since 1994.
Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) finished in second place with 126 medals while Haryana finished in
third place with 192 medals.
Beach football, roll ball, golf, sepaktakraw, sqay martial arts, kalliyarapattu, pencak silat, Yachtin gand
taekwondo were added to the 37th National games.
Mascot – MOGA ,It means “Love” in the Konkani language and it symbolises the beating heart of every
athlete, coach, and sports enthusiast.
Theme/Motto– “Get Set Goa”.
Official Sponsor: Paytm and Official Hydration Partner- Bisleri…Click here for full detail…
Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur, Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports, announced the first-ever
Khelo India Para Games 2023, it will be held in New Delhi, Delhi from December 10 to 17, 2023. The Khelo
India Para Games is organised to develop para sports and to identify talented para-athletes.
OCTOBER 2023
India finished Fourth in the medal tally of the Hangzhou Asian Games 2022 with 107 medals (28 gold,
38 silver and 41 bronze).
The People's Republic of China secured the top position in the medal tally, followed by Japan and South
Korea (Republic of Korea).
India won the highest number of medals in the Shooting event with 22 medals (7 Gold, 9 Silver, and 6
Bronze).
It was followed by Athletics 29 medals (6 Gold,14 Silver, and 9 Bronze) and Archery 9 medals (5 Gold, 2
Silver, and 2 Bronze).
Compound archers Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Ojas Deotale won the most gold medals (three each) for
India in the Hangzhou Asian Games 2022.
Click here for more detail
The 141st Session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) was hosted by India from October 15-
17, 2023, in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The IOC's Executive Board met during the session.The 141st session of IOC
was inaugurated by the Prime Minister (PM) of India Narendra Modi.
This is the 2nd IOC Session hosted by India after 40 years. India hosted the 86th IOC session in New Delhi,
Delhi in 1983.
IOC has suspended the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) for violating the Olympic charter after it
incorporated sports bodies from 4 territories annexed from Ukraine as its member.
It approved the proposal of Los Angeles 2028 Organising Committee of Olympics and Paralympic Games for
the inclusion of 5 additional sports including Cricket (T20-Twenty20), Softball/Baseball, flag football,
lacrosse (sixes) and squash.
IOC awarded the following four personalities or IOC members with Olympic Orders acknowledging their
outstanding contribution to sport and Olympism. click here for more detail

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OBITUARY
NATIONAL
Name of the person Field Birth Place Points to be noted
who passed away
FEBRUARY 2024
Harmohan Dhawan Former Union Fatehjung, Harmohan Dhawan, Former Union
Minister, and Campbelpur Minister, and Member of Parliament (MP)
Member of district in from Chandigarh, passed away at the age of
Punjab, British
Parliament (MP) 83 in Mohali, Punjab.
India (now
Attock,
Pakistan).
Nitya Anand Doctor Layallpur, West Padma Shri Awardee Dr Nitya Anand, the
Punjab (now in developer of India's 1st oral contraceptive
Pakistan) pill 'Saheli' passed away at the age of 99 in
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh(UP).
He was a renowned Medicinal Chemist
and Scientist. He was honoured with the
Padma Shri for Medicine in 2012.
Sadhu Meher Actor-Director Boudh, Odisha Renowned Odia actor-director and Padma
Shri Awardee Sadhu Meher passed away in
Mumbai, Maharashtra at the age of 84. He
was born on January 1, 1940, in Boudh
district of Odisha. He was also a writer and
producer.
In 1974, he won the National Award for
Best Actor for his performance in Shyam
Benegal’s debut film Ankur (The
Seedling). He was the 1st Odia Actor to
be honoured with National Award. He
was awarded the Padma Shri for Art in
2017.
Mir Mohammad Poet - Mir Mohammad Farooq Nazki, a Prominent
Farooq Nazki broadcaster, poet, and Sahitya Akademi
awardee, passed away at the age of 83 at
Katra in the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu
and Kashmir (J&K).
In 1995, he was honoured with the
Sahitya Akademi award in Kashmiri
language for his poetry book “Naar
Hatun Kazal Wanas” (Fire in the
Eyelashes).
UshaKiran Khan Writer Darbhanga, Padma Shri Awardee and renowned Hindi
Bihar and Maithili writer UshaKiran Khan passed
away at the age of 78 in Patna, Bihar. She
was born on 24th October 1945 at
Laheriasarai in the Darbhanga district of
Bihar.
She was honoured with the Padma Shri
in the field of literature and education in
2015. She was also a recipient of the
Sahitya Akademi Award in 2011 for her

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Maithili novel ‘Bhamati’, written in 2010,

and published by Samayik Prakashan.
Ishwar Chander Verma Specialist in - The renowned specialist in genetic medicine
genetic medicine and Padma Shri recipient Ishwar Chander
Verma (I.C. Verma) passed away. He was
born on 25th December 1936. In 2023,
I.C.Verma was conferred with the Padma
Shri (the fourth-highest civilian honour) in
the field of Medicine.
He was mentioned in the Limca Book of
Records 2003 as a pioneer in genetics in
India.
He also received the BC Roy National
Award in 1983, the Indian Council of
Medical Research (ICMR) award, the
National Academy of Medical Sciences
(NAMS) award, etc
JANUARY 2024
Ved Prakash Nanda Indian American Gujranwala, Padma Bhushan Awardee Professor Ved
academic and a Punjab, British Prakash Nanda, an Indian American
expert on India (now in academic and a expert on international law,
Pakistan).
international law passed away in Denver, Colorado, the United
Note: Prof Ved Prakash Nanda was
honoured with Padma Bhushan (literature
and education) in 2018.
Prabha Atre Hindustani - Prabha Atre, a Hindustani classical vocalist,
classical vocalist who received all 3 Padma Awards from the
government of India passed away in Pune,
Maharashtra at the age of 92.
She was one of the senior-most, and
leading female vocalists in India
representing the Kirana Gharaanaa of
Hindustani classical music.
She was honoured with the Padma Shri
in 1990; Padma Bhushan in 2002; and
Padma Vibhushan in 2022 for Arts.
Her first book `Swaramayee' which is a
compilation of many of her articles on music
and has bagged the Maharashtra State Govt.
Award in 1989.
Munawwar Rana Urdu poet Raebareli, Uttar Renowned Urdu poet Munawwar Rana
Pradesh (UP) passed away at the age of 71 in Lucknow,
Uttar Pradesh (UP).
He was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award
in 2014 for his poetry book ‘Shahdaba’.
However, he returned the award due to
political reasons in 2015. He was also
awarded the Gyanpeeth Award in 2014.
Rana Talwar 1st Indian and - Veteran banker Gurvirendra Singh Talwar
Asian to lead a (Rana Talwar), the 1st Indian and Asian to
global bank, lead a global bank, Standard Chartered Bank
(SCB) Plc, passed away at the age of 76. He

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Standard was born in 1948. He began his career with

Chartered Bank Citibank India in 1969 and started heading
(SCB) Plc the retail businesses of Citibank across Asia-
Pacific, the Middle East, and then Europe and
North America. He also served as the
chairman of Centurion Bank, which later
merged with the Bank of Punjab and became
known as Centurion Bank of Punjab (CBoP).
DECEMBER 2023
V. Mohini Giri Former Chair of Lucknow, Uttar Padma Bhushan awardee Dr. V. Mohini Giri,
the National Pradesh an Indian women's rights activist and the
Commission for former Chair of the National Commission for
Women (NCW) passed away at the age of 86.
Women (NCW)
She was born on 15 January 1938, in
Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh).
She received the Rosalie Wolf Memorial
Award from the International Network
for the Prevention of Elder Abuse
(INPEA) in 2014, for a lifetime of
demonstrated dedication in the service
of “elder abuse.”
She was honoured with the Padma
Bhushan in 2007 for Social Work.
NOVEMBER 2023
Dhruba Narayan Former Cooch Behar He served as Chairman of SBI from 1985 to
Ghosh (DN Ghosh) Chairman (12th) (West Bengal) 1989; Philips India Limited from 1989-99;
of the State Bank Larsen & Toubro(L&T) from 1991-92.
He was the founder-chairman of the
of India (SBI)
credit rating agency ICRA Limited
(formerly Investment Information and
Credit Rating Agency of India Limited).
Padmanabha Former Mumbai, Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya (PB
Balakrishna Acharya Governor of Maharashtra Acharya or PB), former Governor of
Nagaland Nagaland (July 2014 – July 2019) and
Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader,
passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra, at the
age of 92.
He was born on 8th October 1931, in
Udupi, Karnataka.
Brijinder Nath Art historian Sargodha (now He was the recipient of the Padma Shri
Goswamy in Punjab Award (1998) and the Padma Bhushan
province of Award (2008) in the field of literature and
Pakistan). Education.
Subrahmanyam Venkit Former Reserve Bank of Subrahmanyam Venkitaramanan or S.

aramanan Governor India (RBI) Venkitaramanan, the former (18th)
Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
passed away at the age of 92 in Chennai,
Tamil Nadu.
S. Venkitaramanan joined the Indian
Administrative Service (IAS) (Tamil
Nadu cadre) in 1954 and served in

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several key positions in both the state

and central government.
He served as Finance Secretary in the
Ministry of Finance. He also served as
Adviser on economic affairs at the Prime
Minister’s Office under the premiership
of Rajiv Gandhi.
OCTOBER 2023
Manohar Singh Gill Padma Undivided Padma Vibhushan Awardee and the 11th
(MS Gill) Vibhushan Punjab Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India,
Awardee and the Dr. Manohar Singh Gill (MS Gill), passed
11th Chief away in New Delhi, Delhi at the age of 87.
Election MS Gill was a 1958 batch of the Indian
Commissioner Administrative Service (IAS) officer of
Punjab cadre.
(CEC) of India
MS Gill was awarded the Padma
Vibhushan in 2000 for his exceptional
and distinguished services as a civil
servant.
Babanrao Dhakne Former Union Akola, Babanrao Dhakne, Former Union Minister
Minister and Ahmednagar in and senior politician, passed away in
senior politician Maharashtra Ahmednagar, Maharashtra at the age of 86.
He served as the Union State Minister in
the Ministry of Energy (1990 to 1991)
under the premiership of Chandra
Shekhar (8th Prime Minister of India -
1990 to 1991)
INTERNATIONAL
Name of the Field Birth Place Points to be noted
person who
passed away
FEBRUARY 2024
Navarre Scott Poet Oklahoma, USA Navarre Scott Momaday, a Pulitzer
Momaday Prize-winning storyteller, poet,
educator and folklorist, passed away in
New Mexico, United States of America
(USA).
His novel “House Made of Dawn,”
published in 1968 by
HarperCollins, won the Pulitzer
Prize in fiction for the year 1969.
He was named an ‘Artist for Peace’
by UNESCO in 2004. He also
received awards such as the first
Lifetime Achievement Award from
the Native Writers Circle of the
Americas (1992), the Dayton
Literary Peace Prize (2019).

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Sebastián Piñera Former president of Santiago, Chile Sebastián Piñera Echenique, the two-
Echenique Chile time former president of Chile and
Chilean businessman, has passed away
by drowning in Lake Ranco in Chile
after a helicopter crash.
Sebastián Piñera served his first
tenure as President of Chile from
2010 to 2014. He was again made
President of Chile from 2018 to
2022.
He was the first conservative
politician to be elected as
president after the end of military
rule in Chile. He belongs to a
political party called Coalición por
el Cambio (Coalition for Change),
founded in 2009.
JANUARY 2024
Mário Jorge Footballer Maceio, Brazil. Former Brazilian Football player,
Lobo Zagallo coach and Manager Mário Jorge Lobo
Zagallo,who won 4 World Cup titles,
passed away at the age of 92 in Rio de
Janeiro, Brazil. Mario Zagallo,
nicknamed ‘Old Wolf’ & “The
Professor”, was born on August 9,
1931, in Maceio, Brazil.
Mario Zagallo’s World Cup
records:
He was a part of the Brazilian
Football team that won Four
Federation Internationale de
Football Association (FIFA)
World Cup titles.
He won two World Cups (1958
- Sweden and 1962 - Chile) as a
player, one as a Head
coach/Manager (1970 –
Mexico) and one as an
assistant coach (1994 - the
United States of America/USA)
for Brazil.
He was the first person to win
the World Cup as both a player
and a manager.
In 1992 Zagallo received the FIFA
Order of Merit, the highest honor
awarded by FIFA, for his contributions
to football.
Franz Footballer Munich, Germany Former German football player and
Beckenbauer manager Franz Beckenbauer, who won
Two World Cup titles, passed away at
the age of 78 in Salzburg, Austria.
He was nicknamed "Der Kaiser"
(“The Emperor”), who invented a
new style of play as a central

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defensive sweeper role or ‘libero’,

where he found the most success.
He captained the West Germany
national team which won the
Federation Internationale de Football
Association (FIFA) World Cup in 1974
held in Munich, Germany. He was the
Manager of the West Germany Football
team that won the World Cup 1990
held in Italy.
Norman Jewison Director Toronto, Ontario, Renowned Canadian director and
Canada. producer Norman Jewison Passed
away at the age of 97 in Los Angeles,
the United States of America (USA).
He won the Irving G. Thalberg
Memorial Award 1998 at the 71st
Academy Awards (Oscar). In 2003,
Canada honoured him with the
Governor General’s Performing
Arts Award.
He received a Lifetime Achievement
Award from the Directors Guild of
America in 2010.
Luigi 'Gigi' Riva Footballer - Italian national football team's all-time
leading goalscorer Luigi 'Gigi' Riva
passed away at the age of 79 in
Cagliari, Sardinia (Italy). He earned the
nickname of Rombo di Tuono (Roar of
Thunder) for his physical strength,
heading ability, and powerful left-
footed shot.
He was part of the Italian national
team that was a runner-up in the
Fédération internationale de football
association (FIFA)World Cup in 1970
(Host - Mexico) (winner- Brazil). He
was also part of the Italy team that
won the Union of European Football
Associations (UEFA) European
Championship in 1968 (Rome).
DECEMBER 2023
Robert Merton Economist Brooklyn, New York, American Economist Robert Merton
Solow the United States of Solow, who won the 1987 Nobel Prize
America in economics has passed away at the
age of 99.
In 1987, he won the Nobel Prize in
Economic Sciences for his
contributions to the theory of
economic growth.
Jacques Delors 8th President of the Paris, France French Politician Jacques Delors, who
European served as the President of the
Commission European Commission (EC) from 1985

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to 1995, passed away at the age of 98

in Paris, France.
He served as the 8th President of
the European Commission from
1985 to 1995 for three terms,
longer than any other holder of the
office.
NOVEMBER 2023
Dame Antonia Author, Critic, and Yorkshire, England, UK. Booker Prize-winning British Author,
Susan Byatt Poet Critic, and Poet Dame Antonia Susan
Byatt, known most as AS Byatt passed
away at the age of 87 in London, the
United Kingdom (UK).
Awards and Honours:
Her most successful book,
Possession: A Romance (1990),
won the Booker Prize for Fiction in
1990 and the Irish Times
International Fiction Prize.
She was honoured as the
Commander of the Order of the
British Empire (CBE) in 1990 and
the Damehood of the Order of the
British Empire (DBE) in 1999.
OCTOBER 2023
Martti Ahtisaari President of Finland Viipuri (now Vyborg, Nobel Peace Laureate, Martti Ahtisaari,
Russia), Finland who served as the 10th President of
Finland (1994 to 2000), passed away
at the age of 86 in Helsinki, Finland.
In 2008, Martti Ahtisaari was
awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for
his important efforts, on several
continents and over more than
three decades, to resolve
international conflicts.
Louise Elisabeth Poet & Essayist New York, USA. Louise Elisabeth Glück, an acclaimed
Glück Jewish-American poet & essayist and
Nobel laureate (Literature 2020),
passed away at the age of 80 in
Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United
Li Keqiang China China's Anhui province. Li Keqiang, a Chinese economist and

politician who served as the Premier
of People's Republic of China (2013-
2023), passed away at the age of 68 in
Shanghai, China.
In 2013, he became the Premier of
the State Council for the 1st term,
and in 2018, he was re-elected as
premier for a 2nd five-year term.

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BOOKS & AUTHORS

Book Name Author Other Information
FEBRUARY 2024
Transforming HARYANA: 9 Kuldip Chand Agnihotri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Vice President
Incredible Years of Haryana (VP) of India, released the book titled
Government “Transforming HARYANA: 9
Incredible Years of Haryana
Government” edited by Kuldip Chand
Agnihotri, Former Vice-Chancellor,
Central University of Himachal
Pradesh, Dharamshala, Himachal
Pradesh. The book was published by
OakBridge Publishing Private Limited.
JANUARY 2024
Modi Energising A Green Edited- RK Pachnanda, former The Union Minister Bhupender Yadav,
Future chairman of the Haryana Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Electricity Regulatory Climate Change (MoEF&CC) unveiled
Commission, Bibek Debroy, a book titled “Modi Energising A
chairman of the Economic Green Future”, published by Pentagon
Advisory Council to the Prime Press in association with Dr. Shyama
Minister (PM), Anirban Ganguly, Prasad Mookerjee Research
and Uttam Kumar Sinha Foundation.
Panchayats Free From - Union Minister Giriraj Singh, Ministry
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) released a
- A Handbook for Elected handbook titled “Panchayats Free
Representatives From Gender-Based Violence (GBV) -
A Handbook for Elected
Representatives” during the virtual
inauguration of the one-day National
Workshop on Role of Panchayati Raj
Institutions in Addressing Gender-
Based Violence (GBV) in New Delhi,
Delhi.
Fertilising the Future: Bharat's Union Minister Mansukh Jagdeep Dhankhar, Vice President
March Towards Fertilizer Self- Mandaviya, Ministry of Health (VP) of India, has released a new book
Sufficiency and Family Welfare (MoH&FW) titled 'Fertilising the Future: Bharat's
and Ministry of Chemicals and March Towards Fertilizer Self-
Fertilizers (MoC&F) Sufficiency’ authored by Union
Minister Mansukh Mandaviya,
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
(MoH&FW) and Ministry of Chemicals
and Fertilizers (MoC&F).
The Hindi version of the book is titled
'Urvarak-Atmanirbharta ki Raah’. The

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book is published by Rupa

Publications India.
DECEMBER 2023
Resilient India: How Modi Edited and compiled by Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister
Transformed India’s Disaster Bluekraft Digital Foundation (CM) of Uttarakhand, released a new
Management Paradigm and Modi Story. book titled “Resilient India: How Modi
Transformed India’s Disaster
Management Paradigm” at the 6th
World Congress on Disaster
Management in Dehradun,
Uttarakhand.
The book is edited and compiled
by Bluekraft Digital Foundation
and Modi Story.
It is published by Rupa
Publications India.
Collected Works of Pandit - Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi,
Madan Mohan Malaviya launched the 1st series of 11 volumes
of “Collected Works of Pandit Madan
Mohan Malaviya”, at the event held in
Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, Delhi.
The event was organised on the
occasion of the 162nd birth
anniversary of Mahamana Pandit
Madan Mohan Malaviya, the
founder of Banaras Hindu
University (BHU).
Breaking the Mould: Reimagining Raghuram Rajan & Rohit Lamba Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
India's Economic Future Governor Raghuram Rajan in
collaboration with Economist Rohit
Lamba authored a new book, titled
"Breaking the Mould: Reimagining
India's Economic Future," that
explores strategies for accelerating
India's economic development.
The book was published by
Penguin Random House India.
Introduction to Finite Element Edited by S Somanath, Chairman The book titled "Introduction to Finite
Analysis - A Textbook for of ISRO, and Dr. Unnikrishnan Element Analysis - A Textbook for
Engineering Students Nair S, Director of VSSC Engineering Students" released by the
Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO)’s Vikram Sarabhai Space
Centre (VSSC) offers insights into the
fundamentals of Finite Element
Analysis (FEA) method and how
FEAST (Finite Element Analysis of
Structures) software can be used for
solving real-world problems.
The book was edited by S
Somanath, Chairman of ISRO,
and Dr. Unnikrishnan Nair S,

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Director of VSSC-
Thiruvananthapuram(Kerala), and
written by finite element analysis
experts of VSSC. The book was
published by Springer
Publications.
NOVEMBER 2023
Pranab, My Father: A Daughter Sharmishtha Mukherjee A book titled “Pranab, My Father: A
Remembers Daughter Remembers”, a biography of
Pranab Mukherjee, former (13th)
President of India, penned by his
daughter Sharmishtha Mukherjee.
The book, published by Rupa
Publications India, is set to be
released on 11th December 2023, the
88th birth anniversary of Pranab
Mukherjee.
OCTOBER 2023
Breaking the Mould: Reimagining Raghuram Rajan Raghuram Rajan, Former Governor of
India’s Economic Future the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and
Economist Rohit Lamba has authored
a new book titled “Breaking the
Mould: Reimagining India’s Economic
Future".
The book published by
Penguin Business, an imprint of
Penguin Random House India (PRHI),
is set to be released in December
2023.
NIL
IMPORTANT DAYS
NATIONAL OBSERVANCE
Observed Day Other information
date/week
FEBRUARY 2024
February 1 Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Day Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Day is annually observed
across India on 1st February to mark the Raising
Day of ICG, India’s maritime armed force operating
under the Ministry of Defence. 1st February 2024
marks the observance of the 48th Raising Day of
ICG.
February 10 National Deworming Day The National Deworming Day (NDD) is organised
biannually in all states and Union Territories (UTs)
across India to eradicate intestinal worms also
referred to as Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH),
among children of age 1-19 years. The 1st round is
conducted in February and the 2nd round is
conducted in August.
In 2024, the first round of NDD is observed on
February 10, 2024, with a mop-up day (MUD)

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followed by the next day of NDD or on which

the state government decides. NDD was first
observed on 10th February 2015.
February 12 National Productivity Day National Productivity Day or National Productivity
Council Foundation Day is annually observed
across India on 12th February to mark the
foundation day of the National Productivity
Council of India (NPC) and raise awareness of
productivity, efficiency, and innovation.
National Productivity Day is celebrated as part
of National Productivity Week, which is
observed annually from 12th to 18th February.
The theme for National Productivity Week
2024 is ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI)-
Productivity Engine for Economic Growth’.
JANUARY 2024
January 9 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), also known as Non-
Resident Indian (NRI) Day, is celebrated on 9
January to recognise the remarkable contributions
and accomplishments of the Overseas Indian
community (Indian diaspora) across the world to
the development of India.
PBD Convention is the flagship event of the
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of
India (GoI).
January 11 - 17 National Road Safety Week National Road Safety Week is annually observed
across India from 11–17 January to raise
awareness about the importance of road safety
and highlight the significance of road safety
measures to prevent and reduce road accidents
and save lives.
2024 marks the observance of the 35th
National Road Safety Week. The first-ever
National Road Safety Week was observed by
the MoRTH in 1989.
The annual observance is led by the Ministry of
Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to
promote road safety practices.
National Road Safety Month (RSM) was introduced
by the MoRTH to sensitize citizens and road users
about the severity of the challenges of road safety.
In 2024 the National RSM will be observed from
the 15th January to 14th February 2024.
January 12 National Youth Day National Youth Day is annually celebrated across
India on 12 January to commemorate the birth
anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, a Hindu
spiritual leader, Philosopher, and social reformer
in India, who played a crucial role in shaping
modern India. The day is also known as
Vivekananda Jayanti.
12 January 2024 marks the 161st birth
anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. The first-ever

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National Youth Day was observed on 12 January

1985.
January 14 Armed Forces Veterans' Day Armed Forces Veterans' Day is annually celebrated
across India on 14 January to honour and
recognise the service of Field Marshal
Kodandera Madappa Cariappa, the 1st Indian
Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C) of the Indian Armed
Forces, who retired from the military on 14
January 1953 and led Indian forces to victory in
the 1947 war.
The Armed Forces Veterans' Day was first
celebrated in 2017. 14 January 2024 marks the 8th
Armed Forces Veterans' Day observance.
January 15 Indian Army Day Indian Army Day is annually observed across India
on 15 January to honour and salute the brave
soldiers of the Indian Army who fought at borders
and sacrificed their lives to safeguard the nation
from the attack of enemies.
The Day also known as Bhartiya Sena Diwas,
recognises the achievements of the 1st
Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C) of the Indian
Army General (later Field Marshal) Kodandera
Madappa (KM) Cariappa.
15 January 2024 marks the observance of the 76th
Indian Army Day. The Indian Army will observe
the year 2024 as the 'Year of Technology
Absorption.'
January 19 National Disaster Response National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Raising
Force (NDRF) Raising Day Day is annually observed across India on 19
January to commemorate the establishment of the
NDRF, a distinguished, unique Force across India
functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
19 January marks the observance of the 19th
NDRF Raising Day.
January 23 Parakram Diwas Parakram Diwas, is annually observed across India
on 23 January to commemorate the birth
anniversary of one of the prominent independence
fighters of India, Subhash Chandra Bose, popularly
called Netaji.
23 January 2024 marks the 127th birth
anniversary of Subhash Chandra Bose. The 1st
ever Parakram Diwas was celebrated on 23
January 2021.
January 25 National Voters' Day (NVD) National Voters' Day (NVD) is annually celebrated
across India on 25th January to create electoral
awareness amongst citizens and encourage them
to participate in the electoral process and to
promote voter registration, particularly among the
youth. The day also marks the foundation day of
the Election Commission of India (ECI).

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25th January 2024 marks the observance of

14th National Voters’ Day and also marks the
celebration of 75 years of service of ECI.
The theme of NVD 2024 is “Nothing Like
Voting, I Vote For Sure”, a continuation of the
2023 theme.
January 30 Martyrs’ Day Martyrs’ Day, also known as Sarvodaya Day or
Shaheed Diwas, is annually observed across India
on January 30 to commemorate those who
sacrificed their lives in the line of duty to the
nation.
The day also marks the death anniversary of
Mahatma Gandhi, who was considered the
“Father of the Nation”. 30th January 2024
marks the 76th death anniversary of Mahatma
Gandhi.
DECEMBER 2023
December 2 National Pollution Control Day National Pollution Control Day or National
Pollution Prevention Day is annually observed
across India on 2 December in the memory of
those who lost their lives in the disastrous 1984
Bhopal Gas Tragedy.
The Day also aims to raise awareness of the
management and control of industrial hazards
and avoid pollution caused by industrial
processes or human negligence.
2 December 2023 marks the 39th Anniversary
of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy.
Bhopal Gas Tragedy was India’s first major
industrial disaster that took place on the
intervening night of December 2 and 3, 1984, in
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (MP).
December 4 Indian Navy Day Indian Navy Day is annually observed across India
on December 4th to recognise the role and
achievements of the Indian Navy in ensuring the
safety of the nation.
The day also commemorates the Operation
Trident, Indian Navy’s offensive operation
conducted during the Indo-Pakistan war in
1971.
Operation Trident was an offensive operation
launched by the Indian Navy on the night of 4–5
December 1971 on Pakistan’s naval headquarters
(PNHQ) (port city) of Karachi.
December 8 Submarine Day Indian Navy annually observes Submarine Day on
8 December to commemorate the induction of the
Indian Navy's 1st submarine, the erstwhile Indian
Naval Ship (INS) Kalvari (a Soviet Foxtrot Class
submarine) on 08 December 1967.

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8 December 2023 marks the observance of the

56th Submarine Day.
The Indian Navy submarine arm was born on 8
December 1967, with the commissioning of INS
Kalvari, the 1st Scorpene class submarine in India
under the command of Commander K.S.
Subramanian at Riga in Latvia, the erstwhile Union
Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) in 1967.
December 14 National Energy Conservation National Energy Conservation Day is annually
Day observed across India on 14 December to raise
awareness about the importance of conserving
energy and to promote sustainable energy
practices.
The day also aims to showcase the
achievements of India in energy efficiency and
conservation.
The National Energy Conservation Day is
annually organised by the Bureau of Energy
Efficiency (BEE), under the Ministry of Power,
Government of India (GoI).
The National Energy Conservation Day was 1st
observed on December 14, 1991. BEE under
the guidance of MoP will observe National
Energy Conservation Week from 14 to 20
December 2023 throughout India.
December 16 Vijay Diwas Vijay Diwas, or Victory Day(Bijoy Dibos), is
annually observed across India and Bangladesh on
16 December to celebrate the historic victory of
Indian armed forces against Pakistan in the 1971
Indo-Pak war (India - Pakistan War of 1971).
The Day also pays tributes to the martyrs of
both India and Bangladesh, who lost their lives
on the line during the war. 16 December 2023
marks the celebration of the 53rd Vijay Diwas.
December 22 National Mathematics Day National Mathematics Day (NMD) is annually
celebrated across India on 22 December to
commemorate the birth anniversary of the Indian
mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, who was
born on 22 December 1887 in Erode, Madras
Presidency, British India (now Tamil Nadu, India)
22 December 2023 marks the 136th birth
anniversary of Srinivasa Ramanujan. The first-
ever NMD was observed on 22 December
2012, the 125th birth anniversary of Srinivasa
Ramanujan.
December 23 National Farmer's Day National Farmer's Day, also known as Kisan Diwas,
is annually observed across India on 23rd
December to highlight the significance of farmers’
contribution to the overall social and economic
development of India.
The day also marks the birth anniversary of
Chaudhary Charan Singh, a champion of the

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Indian farmers’ community, who served as the

5th Prime Minister (PM) of India from 1979 to
1980.
23rd December 2023 marks the 121st birth
anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh.
The 1st Kisan Diwas (National Farmer's Day)
was observed on 23 December 2001.
December 24 National Consumer Rights Day National Consumer Rights Day, also known as
Bharatiya Grahak Diwas or National Consumer
Day, is annually observed across India on 24
December to raise awareness of consumer rights
and responsibilities.
The day commemorates the enactment of the
Consumer Protection Act (CPA) of 1986, which
received the assent of the President of India on
24 December 1986.
The 1st National Consumer Rights Day was
observed on 24 December 1986.
December 25 Good Governance Day Good Governance Day, also known as
Sushasan Diwas in Hindi, is annually observed
across India on 25th December to mark the birth
anniversary of the former(10th) Prime Minister
(PM) Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
The day also aims to create awareness of
accountability and administration of
government among the people.
25th December 2023 marks the 10th Good
Governance Day and 99th birth
anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The
third Good Governance Week (Sushasan
Saptah) was observed from 19-25
December 2023.
December 26 Veer Bal Diwas Veer Bal Diwas is annually observed across India
on 26 December to pay honour and tribute to the
sacrifices of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and
Sahibzada Fateh Singh, the 3rd and 4th son(Chhote
Sahibzadas) of Guru Gobind Singh, 10th and last
Sikh Guru.
26 December 2023 marks the 2nd observance
of Veer Bal Diwas. The first Veer Bal Diwas was
observed on 26th December 2022.
On 9 January 2022, on occasion of the Prakash
Purab (birth anniversary) of Guru Gobind
Singh, PM Narendra Modi declared that
December 26 would be observed as ‘Veer Bal
Diwas’ to mark the martyrdom of the
Chhote Sahibzadas.
NOVEMBER 2023

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November 9 National Legal Services Day 09th November 2023 marks the 29th National
Legal Services Day.
The theme of National Legal Services Day 2023
is ‘Access to Justice for All: Empowering
the Marginalised through Legal Awareness’.
The first ever NLSD was celebrated on 09th
November 1995.
November 10 National Ayurveda Day The day aligns with Dhanvantari Jayanti, to
honour Lord Dhanvantari, the God of
Ayurveda, and coincides with Dhanteras,
seeking blessings for robust health.
The National Ayurveda Day 2023 falls on 10
November 2023 and marks the observance of
the 8th National Ayurveda Day.
The focal theme for Ayurveda Day 2023 is,
“Ayurveda for One Health”.
“Dhanteras” is made up of 2 words “Dhan” which
means wealth and “Teras” which means “13”.
November 11 National Education Day To mark the birth anniversary of ‘Bharat Ratna’
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first education
minister of independent India. His immense
contribution to the field of education in India is
recognised by celebrating his birthday as National
Education Day across India.
This day serves to raise awareness about the
fundamental right to education and
underscore its supreme importance.
November 12 Public Service Broadcasting To commemorate the first and only visit of
Day Mahatma Gandhi to the studio of the then All India
Radio (AIR) (now Akashvani) in Delhi, in 1947.
To commemorate 50 years of this visit of
Mahatma Gandhi to AIR, a function was
organised at AIR premises on 12th November
1997.
Later in 2001, the day, “12th November”, was
declared Public Service Broadcasting Day.
November 14 Children’s Day Children’s Day also known as Bal Divas is annually
observed across India on November 14 to honour
the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Jawaharlal
Nehru, India’s 1st Prime Minister, who was known
for his love and affection for children.
The day aims to emphasise the significance of
nurturing and celebrating the vibrant spirit of
the younger generation.
14 November 2023 marks the 134th birth
anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
In 1955, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first
Prime Minister, was awarded the Bharat Ratna
by then-President Rajendra Prasad.

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November 16 National Press Day National Press Day is annually observed across
India on 16th November to commemorate the day
on which the Press Council of India (PCI) started
its function as the moral watchdog to ensure that
the press maintains high standards and is not
fettered by any form of influence or threats.
The day celebrate the importance of a free and
responsible press in a democratic society.
The day also recognises the role of Press as the
4th pillar of democracy.
The theme for National Press Day 2023 is
“Media in the Era of Artificial Intelligence”.
According to Reporters Without Borders
(Reporters sans frontières – RSF)’s 21th World
Press Freedom Index (WPFI 2023), India is
ranked 161st out of 180 countries with a score
of 36.62.
November 17 National Epilepsy Day National Epilepsy Day is annually observed across
India on 17 November to spread awareness and
educate people about Epilepsy, a neurological
disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, and
its impact on individuals, families, and
communities who are affected by this disease.
The day serves as a platform to eliminate
myths and misconceptions surrounding
epilepsy while creating awareness about its
symptoms and management.
November 19 National Integration Day National Integration Day, also known as Quami
Ekta Divas, is observed annually on November 19
across India to mark the birth anniversary of
India’s First Female Prime Minister (PM), Indira
Priyadarshini Gandhi, popularly known as Indira
Gandhi.
19th November 2023 marks the 106th birth
anniversary of Indira Gandhi. The first ever
National Integration Day was observed on
19th November 2013.
The Day marks the beginning of National
Integration Week (Qaumi Ekta Week) which is
observed from November 19 to 25 every year.
November 26 National Constitution Day National Constitution Day also known as
'Samvidhan Divas', is annually observed across
India on 26 November to commemorate the
adoption of the Constitution of India by the
Constituent Assembly of India on 26th November
1949.
The Ministry of Social Justice and
Empowerment (MoSJ&E) is the Nodal Ministry
for the celebration of Constitution Day.

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26 November 2023 marks the 74th

Anniversary of adopting the Constitution of
India. The first-ever Constitution Day was
observed on 26 November 2015.
November 26 National Milk Day National Milk Day is annually observed across
India on 26th November to commemorate the
birth anniversary of Dr Verghese Kurien, the
Father of the White Revolution in India.
The day is annually organised by the
Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying,
under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal
Husbandry & Dairying.
26th November 2023 marks the observance of
10th National Milk Day and 102nd birth
anniversary of Verghese Kurein. the 1st
National Milk Day was observed on 26th
November 2014.
On the occasion of National Milk Day 2023,
Union Minister Parshottam Rupala, Ministry of
Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
released the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics
2023 (milk, egg, meat and wool production
2022-23)in Guwahati, Assam.
The National Gopal Ratna Awards 2023, one of
the highest National Awards in the field of
livestock and dairy sector, has been conferred
during the National Milk Day event. Click here
to read full news
November 26 National Cadet Corps (NCC) The National Cadet Corps (NCC), the largest
uniformed youth organisation in the world
annually celebrates its raising day on the 4th
Sunday of November, underscoring the NCC's
commitment to shaping youth with core values
such as discipline, leadership, and unwavering
patriotism.
The 26 November 2023 marks the observance
of NCC's 75th Raising Day. This day is
traditionally celebrated as the “NCC day”.
The 74th Raising Day was observed on 27
November 2022 and the 76th Raising Day will
be observed on 24 November 2024.
OCTOBER 2023
October 8 Indian Air Force Day Indian Air Force (IAF) Day is annually observed
across India on October 8 to commemorate the
establishment of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in
1932.8th October 2023 marks the celebration of
the 91st Anniversary of the Indian Air Force.
The Indian Air Force is also known as
Bharatiya Vayu Sena.
The theme of Indian Air Force Day 2023 is ‘IAF
– Airpower Beyond Boundaries’.

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October 10 Current Good Manufacturing The inaugural National Current Good

Practices Day Manufacturing Practices(cGMP) Day was
celebrated across India on 10th October 2023.
The day aims to create awareness about the
critical role of cGMP in the pharmaceutical
industry, ensuring the quality and safety of
medicinal products.
The theme of National cGMP Day 2023 is
“cGMP: Transforming Healthcare”.
10th October 2023 marks the first ever
National cGMP day.
October 16 Raising Day of National National Security Guard (NSG) annually celebrate
Security Guard its Raising Day on 16th October to mark the
establishment of NSG (also known as Black Cats)
on 16th October 1984.
16th October 2023 marks the observance of
39th Raising Day of NSG.
It is a Federal Contingency Deployment Force
for combating terrorist activities in any part of
India.
It operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs
(MHA) with the motto 'Sarvatra, Sarvottam,
Suraksha'.
October 21 Police Commemoration Police Commemoration Day (Police Martyrs Day)
Day (Police Martyrs Day) is annually observed across India on 21
October to pay homage to, and appreciate the
incredible dedication of all the Police personnel
who were killed on duty.
The day commemorates the sacrifices of 10
brave Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
policemen, who sacrificed their lives while
defending our borders
with China in 1959 at Hot Springs in Aksai
Chin, Ladakh.
October 30 to Vigilance Awareness Week Vigilance Awareness Week 2023 - October 30 to
November 5 2023 November 05
Vigilance Awareness Week is annually
observed across India during the week in
which the birth anniversary of Sardar
Vallabhbhai Patel (31st October) falls.
The week is observed by the Central Vigilance
Commission (CVC) to promote integrity,
transparency, and ethical practices,
emphasising the crucial role of vigilance in
preventing corruption and ensuring
accountability within organizations.
Vigilance Awareness Week 2023 is observed
from 30th October to 5th November 2023. The
2023 theme of Vigilance Awareness Week is,
“Say no to corruption; commit to the Nation.”

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INTERNATIONAL OBSERVANCE
Observed Day Other information
date/week
FEBRUARY 2024
February 2 World Wetlands Day The United Nations (UN) World Wetlands Day is
annually observed across the globe on 2 February
to raise awareness about the vital role of wetlands,
a critically important ecosystem for people and the
planet.
The 2024 theme of World Wetlands Day is,
‘Wetlands and Human Wellbeing.’ The 1st ever
UN-recognised World Wetlands Day was
observed on 2 February 2022.
February 10 World Pulses Day The United Nations (UN) World Pulses Day (WPD)
is annually observed across the globe on 10
February to recognise the significance of pulse
crops like chickpeas, dry beans, and lentils as a
global food.
The theme of WPD 2024 is: "Pulses:
Nourishing Soils and People."
The day was established following the
successful implementation of International
Year of Pulses (IYP) in 2016 by FAO. The 1st
ever WPD was observed on 10 February 2019.
February 11 International Day of Women The United Nations (UN)’s International Day of
and Girls in Science (IDWGIS) Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS) is annually
observed across the globe on 11 February to
promote full and equal access to and participation
of women and girls in the fields of Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
(STEM).
The theme of IDWGIS 2024 is “Women and
Girls in Science Leadership: A New Era for
Sustainability”
11 February 2024 marks the observance of
the 9th International Day of Women and Girls in
Science. The 1st ever IDWGIS was observed on 11
February 2016.
February 11 World Unani Day World Unani Day is annually observed across the
globe on 11 February to commemorate the birth
anniversary of social reformer and renowned
Unani scholar Mohammad Ajmal Khan better
known as Hakim Ajmal Khan, widely regarded as
the pioneer of Unani medicine in India.
The theme of Unani Day 2024 is, "Unani
Medicine for One Earth, One Health." The 1st
ever World Unani Day was observed on 11
February 2017 at the Central Research
Institute of Unani Medicine (CRIUM) in
Hyderabad, Telangana.
February 12 International Darwin Day International Darwin Day is annually observed
across the globe on 12 February to commemorate
the birth anniversary of Charles Robert Darwin, a

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19th-century British Naturalist, Geologist who was

credited with “The Theory of Evolution by Natural
Selection”.
The day recognises Darwin's contributions to
science and promotes scientific development.
February 12 International Epilepsy Day International Epilepsy Day is annually observed
across the globe on the 2nd Monday in February to
raise awareness about epilepsy, a neurological
disorder, its condition, diagnosis, and treatment.
International Epilepsy Day 2024 is observed on 12
February 2024. The 2024 theme of International
Epilepsy Day is, “Milestones on My Epilepsy
Journey.”
International Epilepsy Day 2023 was observed
on 13 February 2023; In 2025, it will be
observed on 10 February 2025. The 1st ever
International Epilepsy Day was observed in
2015.
February 13 World Radio Day The United Nations (UN) World Radio Day (WRD)
is annually observed across the globe on 13
February to celebrate Radio as a powerful and
low-cost medium and to promote its role in
fostering international collaboration among
broadcasters.
13 February 2024 marks the observance of the
13th WRD. The theme of World Radio Day
2024 is “Radio: A century informing,
entertaining and educating”.
JANUARY 2024
January 4 World Braille Day The United Nations (UN) World Braille Day is
annually observed across the globe on 4 January to
raise awareness about the significance of Braille as
a communication medium for people who are
blind or partially sighted.
The Day commemorates the birth anniversary
of Louis Braille, a 19th-century French
educator, who invented the Braille script for
the blind and visually impaired in 1824
4 January 2024 marks the observance of the
6th World Braille Day and the 215th birth
anniversary of Louis Braille.
January 8 Earth's Rotation Day Earth's Rotation Day is annually observed across
the globe on 8 January to highlight the significance
of Earth's rotational motion.
It commemorates the anniversary of the
scientific demonstration of Earth's rotation by
the French physicist Léon Foucault in 1851.
Earth's Rotation Day 2024 observed on 8th
January 2024 commemorates 173rd
anniversary of Léon Foucault‘s demonstration.

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January 24 International Day of Education The United Nations (UN) International Day of
(IDE) Education (IDE) is annually observed across the
globe on 24 January to celebrate the role of
education in peace and development.
The 2024 theme of IDE is, "Learning for
Lasting Peace."
24 January 2024 marks the 6th observance of
the International Day of Education. The 1st
ever International Day of Education was
celebrated on 24 January 2019
January 26 International Day of Clean The first-ever United Nations (UN) International
Energy Day of Clean Energy was globally observed on 26
January 2024 to create awareness and mobilise
action towards a fair and inclusive transition to
clean energy for the benefit of people and the
planet.
26 January is also the founding date of the
International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA),
26 January 2024 marks the 15th anniversary of
IRENA.
January 28 World Leprosy Day (WLD) World Leprosy Day (WLD) is annually observed
across the globe on the last Sunday of January to
celebrate people who have experienced leprosy,
also known as Hansen’s disease, and to promote
the dignity of people affected by the disease.
World Leprosy Day 2024 observed on 28th
January 2024 marks the 71st observance of the
day. The 2024 theme of WLD is, “Beat
Leprosy.”
DECEMBER 2023
December 1 World Acquired Immune United Nations (UN)’s World Acquired Immune
Deficiency Syndrome Day Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Day is annually
observed across the globe on 1 December to raise
awareness about AIDS and to unite people across
the globe to show support for people living with
AIDS and affected by Human Immunodeficiency
Viruses (HIV).
1 December 2023, marks the 35th anniversary
of World AIDS Day,
The theme of World AIDS Day 2023 is, “Let
Communities Lead.”
The red ribbon has become an internationally
recognized symbol of solidarity and support
for people living with HIV and for AIDS
awareness.
December 3 International Day of Persons The United Nations (UN) International Day of
with Disabilities Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is annually
observed across the globe on 3 December to
promote an understanding of disability issues and

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mobilise support for the dignity, rights, and well-

being of persons with disabilities.
IDPD also seeks to increase awareness about
the situation of persons with disabilities in
every aspect of political, social, economic, and
cultural life.
The 2023 theme of IDPD is, “United in action to
rescue and achieve the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) for, with, and by
persons with disabilities “.
December 4 International Day of Banks The United Nations (UN)’s International Day of
Banks is annually observed across the globe on
December 4 to recognise the vital role of banking
systems in the Member States in contributing to
the improvement of the standard of living.4th
December 2023 marks the observance of the 4th
International Day of Banks.
The Addis Ababa Action Agenda (AAAA) is a
global framework for financing sustainable
development.
The UN Principles for Responsible Banking
(PRB), launched in 2019, collaborates with the
banking community to accelerate a positive
global transition for people and the planet.
December 5 World Soil Day The United Nations (UN)’s World Soil
Day (WSD) is annually observed across the globe
on 5th December to create awareness about the
importance of healthy soil and to advocate the
sustainable management of soil resources.
The theme of WSD 2023 is “Soil and water, a
source of life”. 5th December 2023 marks the
observance of 10th WSD. The first ever WSD
was observed on 5th December 2014.
December 5 to 8 United Nations Conference on The United Nations Conference on Trade and
Trade and Development Development (UNCTAD) eWeek, previously known
(UNCTAD) eWeek as UNCTAD eCommerce Week, is a global forum on
development and the digital economy.
UNCTAD eWeek 2023 is being observed from
4th to 8th December 2023 at the International
Conference Center of Geneva (CICG) in Geneva,
Switzerland.
The theme of UNCTAD eWeek 2023
is "Shaping the future of the digital economy."
December 7 United Nations (UN) The United Nations (UN) International Civil
International Civil Aviation Aviation Day is annually observed across the globe
Day on 7 December to create awareness about the
importance of international civil aviation and its

AC Exam PDF
role in the social and economic development of a

country.
The 2023 theme of International Civil Aviation
Day is “Advancing Innovation for Global
Aviation Development”.
December 7 Armed Forces Flag Day Armed Forces Flag Day (AFFD) is annually
observed across the globe on 7 December to
honour the martyrs, men, and women in the armed
forces who bravely fought and continue to fight on
the borders to safeguard the country's honour.
A committee was set up on 28 August 1949
under the then Defence Minister Baldev Singh.
The committee recommended observing Flag
Day annually on December 7.
The 1st Armed Forces Flag Day was observed
on 7 December 1949.
December 8 South Asian Association for The South Asian Association for Regional
Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Cooperation (SAARC) Charter Day is annually
Charter Day observed on December 8 to mark the adoption of
the SAARC Charter on 8th December 1985 in
Dhaka, Bangladesh.
8th December 2023 marks the observance of
the 39th SAARC Charter Day.
SAARC is an economic and political
organization of 8 countries in South Asia:
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,
Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka…Click
here for detailed article
December 11 International Mountain Day The United Nations (UN) International Mountain
Day is annually observed across the globe on 11
December to create awareness about the
importance of mountains to life.
The theme of International Mountain Day 2023
is “Restoring Mountain Ecosystems”.
The day highlights the opportunities and
constraints in mountain development and
builds partnerships that will bring positive
change to mountain peoples and environments
around the world.
UNGA adopted the resolution A/RES/77/172,
proclaimed a Global framework for the 5 Years
of Action for the Development of Mountain
Regions 2023–2027.
December 18 International Migrants Day United Nations (UN)’s International Migrants Day
is annually observed across the globe on 18th
December to create awareness about the
important contribution of migrants while
highlighting the challenges they face.
18th December 2023 marks the observance of
23rd International Migrants Day.

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The theme of International Migrants Day 2023

is ‘Act Today‘.
December 21 World Basketball Day The first-ever United Nations (UN) World
Basketball Day was observed across the globe on
21 December 2023 to recognise the pivotal role of
sports (including sports for disabled persons),
especially basketball, in fostering human rights,
peace, development, gender equality, and the
empowerment of women and girls.
Basketball has become the 1st team sport to be
honoured with an UN-recognised international
day.
On 21st December 1891, Basketball was
played for the first time at the International
YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association)
Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts,
the United States of America (USA). Basketball
was developed by Dr. James Naismith, a
Canadian physical education instructor.
December 27 International Day of Epidemic The United Nations (UN)’s International Day of
Preparedness Epidemic Preparedness is annually observed
across the globe on 27th December to highlight the
significance of the prevention of, preparedness for,
and partnership against epidemics.
27 December 2023 marks the observance of
the 4th International Day of Epidemic
Preparedness. The first International Day of
Epidemic Preparedness was observed on 27
December 2020.
NOVEMBER 2023
November 3 International Day for The United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Biosphere Reserve (BR) Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s International
Day for Biosphere Reserve (BR) or World
Biosphere Reserve Day is annually observed
across the globe on 3 November to raise
awareness of the importance of biosphere
reserves and to promote their conservation and
sustainable use.
The first-ever International Day for BR was
observed on 3 November 2022. 3 November
2023 marks the 2nd observance of
International Day for BR.
November 5 World Tsunami Awareness The United Nations (UN) World Tsunami
Day Awareness Day (WTAD) is annually observed
across the globe on 5 November to raise
consciousness about reducing the risks created by
Tsunami, the giant waves, and improving
community preparedness.
The UN Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
facilitates the observance of World Tsunami
Awareness Day in collaboration with the rest
of the UN system.
The first WTAD was observed on 5 November
2016.

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The theme of WTAD 2023 is “Fighting

Inequality for a Resilient Future”.
November 8 World Urbanism Day World Urbanism Day(WUD), also known as World
Town Planning Day(WTPD), is annually observed
across the globe on 8th November to recognise
and promote the role of thorough planning in
creating livable communities.
The theme for World Town Planning Day 2023
is "Learn Globally, Apply Locally".
November 14 World Diabetes Day The United Nations (UN) World Diabetes Day
(WDD) is annually observed across the globe on
14 November to raise awareness about the impact
of diabetes on the health of people.
WDD also aims to highlight the opportunities
to strengthen the prevention, diagnosis, and
treatment of diabetes. WDD is the world’s
largest diabetes awareness campaign, annually
focusing on a dedicated theme that runs for
one or more years.
The theme for WDD 2021-23 is “Access to
Diabetes Care“.
The slogan for the 2023 campaign is: “Know
your risk, Know your response.”
November 17 International Students’ Day International Students’ Day is annually observed
across the globe on November 17 to celebrate
multiculturalism, diversity, and teamwork among
students.
The day aims to guarantee that every kid in the
world has access to education.
The observance marks the anniversary of the
events held after the Nazi invasion of Charles
University in Prague (Czech Republic), in 1939.
November 19 World Toilet Day The United Nations (UN) World Toilet Day is
annually observed across the globe on 19
November to raise awareness about 3.5 billion
people without access to safe sanitation and to
encourage action to address the global sanitation
crisis.
The global campaign theme of World Toilet
Day 2023 is, “Accelerating Change”.
Every year, the theme of World Toilet Day is
chosen by UN-Water, the UN’s coordination
mechanism on water and sanitation.
The hummingbird is the symbol of World
Toilet Day 2023, because a toilet is small but
mighty, just like a hummingbird.
November 20 World Children’s Day The United Nations' (UN) Universal Children's Day
or World Children’s Day is annually observed
across the globe on 20 November to promote
international togetherness, and awareness among
children worldwide, and improve children's
welfare.
The 2023 campaign Theme of World Children’s
Day is, "For every child, every right." World

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Children’s Day is the United Nations Children's

Fund (UNICEF)'s annual day of action for
children, by children.
November 21 World Fisheries Day World Fisheries Day is annually observed across
the globe on 21st November to demonstrate
solidarity with the members of the fisher
community, fish farmers and concerned
stakeholders across the world.
21st November 2023 marks the 26th World
Fisheries Day. The first ever World Fisheries
Day was observed on 21st November 1998.
The theme for World Fisheries Day 2023 is
"Celebrating the Wealth of Fisheries and
Aquaculture."
November 26 World Sustainable Transport The first-ever United Nations (UN) World
Day Sustainable Transport Day was observed on 26
November 2023 to recognise the pivotal role of
safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable
transport systems for all.
The observance is led by UN Department of
Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), in
collaboration with the UN regional economic
commissions. The resolution was initiated by
Turkmenistan.
November 29 International Day of Solidarity

The United Nations (UN) International Day of
with the Palestinian People Solidarity with the Palestinian People is annually
observed across the globe on 29 November to
provide an opportunity for the international
community to show its support for the Palestinian
people, who are still striving for fundamental
rights.
The first International Day of Solidarity with
the Palestinian People was observed in 1978.
OCTOBER 2023
October 2 International Day of Non- The United Nations (UN)’s International Day of
Violence Non-Violence is annually observed across the
globe on 2nd October to celebrate the birthday of
Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian
Independence movement and pioneer of the
philosophy and strategy of non-violence.
In India, October 2, 2023, marks the 154th
Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the
17th International Day of Non-Violence,
observed as Gandhi Jayanti.
October 4 to 10 World Space Week The United Nations (UN) World Space Week
(WSW) is annually observed across the globe from
4th to 10th October to celebrate the contributions
of space science and technology to the betterment
of the human condition.
The theme for World Space Week 2023 is
“Space and Entrepreneurship”.
The first-ever WSW was observed from 4th to
10th October 2000.

AC Exam PDF
Why October 4 to 10?

October 4, 1957: Launch of the first human-
made Earth satellite, Sputnik 1, thus opening
the way for space exploration.
October 10, 1967: The signing of the “Magna
Carta of Space”, also known as the Treaty on
Principles Governing the Activities of States in
the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer
Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial
Bodies.
October 5 World Teachers' Day The United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO)'s World Teachers'
Day (WTD) is annually observed across the globe
on 5 October to recognise the important role that
teachers play in education around the world.
The 2023 theme of WTD is, "The teachers we
need for the education we want: The global
imperative to reverse the teacher shortage".
WTD is co-convened in partnership with the
International Labour Organization (ILO),
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and
Education International (EI).
The first ever World Teachers’ Day was
observed on 5th October 1994.
October 7 World Cotton Day The United Nations (UN)’s World Cotton Day
(WCD) is annually observed across the globe on
7th October to highlight the role of cotton in
creating jobs and maintaining economic stability in
cotton-producing countries, particularly in least-
developed countries (LDCs).
7th October 2023 marks the observance of the
5th World Cotton Day.
The theme of World Cotton Day 2023 is
“Making cotton fair and sustainable for all,
from farm to fashion”.
The first World Cotton Day was observed on
7th October 2019 and hosted by World Trade
Organization (WTO) in Geneva, Switzerland
October 8 World Hydrogen and Fuel Cell World Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day (H2FC Day) is
Day annually observed on October 8 to recognise the
importance of the chemical element, Hydrogen,
and its role in the transition towards a cleaner and
more equitable energy future.
The day aimed at promoting awareness and
understanding of hydrogen as a clean and
sustainable energy source, along with the
versatile technology of fuel cells.
On October 7, 2023, the eve of World H2FC
Day, the Government of India (GoI) organised
an event in New Delhi, Delhi to explore the
potential of hydrogen as a green and
sustainable energy.

AC Exam PDF
October 9 World Post Day The United Nations (UN) World Post Day is
annually observed across the globe on 9 October
to mark the anniversary of the establishment of
the Universal Postal Union’s (UPU) in 1874 in
Bern, Switzerland.
The day aims to bring awareness about the
role of the postal sector in everyday lives of
people and businesses, as well as its
contribution to global social and economic
development.
The theme of World Post Day 2023 observed
on 9th October 2023 is “Together for trust:
Collaborating for a safe and connected future”.
October 10 World Mental Health Day World Mental Health Day (WMHD) is annually
observed across the globe on 10 October to raise
awareness of mental health issues around the
world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental
health.
WMHD is a global health campaign that aims to
encourage people around the world to support
the cause and establish a healthy environment
in all aspects of life to support mental health.
The green ribbon is the international symbol of
mental health awareness.
According to WFMH, the theme of the World
Mental Health Day Global Campaign 2023 is
“Mental health is a universal human right.”
October 11 International Day of the Girl The United Nations (UN) International Day of the
Child Girl Child (IDGC) is annually observed across the
globe on 11 October to focus attention on the need
to address the challenges girls face and to promote
girls’ empowerment and the fulfillment of their
human rights.
The theme of IDGC 2023 observed on 11th
October 2023 is “Invest in Girls’ Rights: Our
Leadership, Our Well-being”.
The theme emphasises the need for the global
community to go beyond making
commitments and invest boldly in the action
needed to empower girls, safeguard their
rights, and enhance their well-being.
October 14 World Migratory Bird Day The United Nations (UN)-backed biannual
campaign World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) is
celebrated across the globe on 2 peak days of a
year, 2nd Saturday of May (In the spring) and
October (in the fall).
WMBD 2023 falls on the 13th of May and the
14th of October 2023.

AC Exam PDF
The theme/Campaign Slogan of WMBD 2023

is, "Water: Sustaining Bird Life".
October 14 World Standards Day To educate consumers, policymakers, and
businesses about the value of standardisation.
The day is observed by the members of the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC),
International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) and International
Telecommunication Union (ITU)
The theme of World Standards Day 2023
is “Shared Vision for a Better World –
Standards for Sustainable Development
Goals(SDG)”.
October 23 World Snow Leopard Day World Snow Leopard Day, also known
as International Snow Leopard Day, is annually
observed across the globe on 23 October to raise
awareness about the conservation and protection
of Snow Leopard, one of the world’s most elusive
and endangered big cats, and their natural habitat.
The Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) are
listed as Vulnerable by the International
Union for Conservation of Nature
(IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.
October 24 United Nations (UN) Day The United Nations (UN) Day is annually observed
across the globe on 24 October to mark the
anniversary of the day on which the UN Charter
entered into force in 1945. 24 October 2023 marks
the 78th Anniversary of the foundation of the UN.
The UN Day Concert 2023, held under the
theme “The Frontlines of Climate Action”, was
sponsored by the Permanent Mission of the
Kingdom of Tonga to the United Nations with
support from PVBLIC Foundation’s Family
Offices for Sustainable Development (FOSD).
The name ‘United Nations‘ was suggested by
Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 32nd President of
the USA…Click here for more detail….
October 24 World Polio Day World Polio Day is annually observed across the
world on 24th October to highlight the importance
of the efforts to eradicate poliomyelitis (polio), the
infectious disease that commonly affects children
aged under 5.24th October 2023 marks the 22nd
observance of World Polio Day.
World Polio Day was established by Rotary
International (RI) to commemorate the birth
anniversary of Jonas Salk, an American
virologist who developed the first successful

AC Exam PDF
polio vaccines. Oral polio vaccine (OPV) and

Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV).
South-East Asia Region of the World Health
Organization (WHO) including India was
certified polio-free by the Regional
Certification Commission (RCC) in 2014.
October 29 International Day of Care and The United Nations (UN)’s first-ever International
Support Day of Care and Support was observed across the
globe on 29 October 2023 to emphasise the
importance of caregiving, recognize the
contributions of caregivers, and advocate for
policies and initiatives that support and enhance
care in all its forms.
According to ILO, the global care workforce
comprises 249 million women and 132 million
men.
Women perform 76.2% of the total amount of
unpaid care work, 3.2 times more time than
men.
APPS & WEB PORTAL

BANKING
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OTHERS
FEBRUARY 2024
Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Chairman of the Digital Communications Commission and Secretary of the
Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of Communications (MoC), launched the
“Bharat 5G Portal- an integrated portal” during the ‘Bharat Telecom 2024 - An Exclusive International Business
Expo.’
Note: India has the 2nd largest telecom network in the world.
As part of the portal’s initiatives, DoT issued a call for 6G Research and Development (R&D) proposals on
the integrated portal, accelerating research in 6G ecosystem development.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, Ministry of Coal (MoC), has launched a web portal called C- CARES to
digitise the records and work processes of the Coal Mines Provident Fund Organisation (CMPFO).

AC Exam PDF
The portal was developed and designed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), a
Research and development (R&D) organization under the Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology (MeitY). The project was awarded to C-DAC in March 2023.
The Quality Council of India (QCI) and Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) jointly introduced the
DigiReady Certification (DRC) portal in a step towards fostering digital inclusion in the Micro, Small, and
Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.
QCI in coordination with ONDC aims to assess and certify the digital readiness of MSME entities. DRC is an
online self-assessment tool for Digital Readiness developed by QCI.
Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India (GoI) launched ‘Science for
Women: A Technology and Innovation (SWATI) Portal (https://swati.nipgr.ac.in/), India’s 1st-of-its-kind
interactive online portal on Indian women in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics &
Medicine).
SWATI portal was developed, hosted and maintained by the National Institute of Plant Genome Research
(NIPGR).
JANUARY 2024
Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister (CM) of Kerala, launched the K-SMART (Kerala Solutions for Managing
Administrative Reformation and Transformation) software/mobile application, in an event held in Kochi,
Kerala.
K-SMART is a unified platform to provide digital access to the services provided by the local self-
government bodies across Kerala. The app was developed by the Information Kerala Mission (IKM), an
autonomous body under the Local Self-Government Department (LSGD), Government of Kerala.
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), under the Directorate General of Health
Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW), launched the National Single Window System
(NSWS) Portal to streamline, import, clinical investigations, and testing of medical devices.
The site is designed and developed by Invest India, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and
Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), through Tata Consultancy Service
(TCS) for CDSCO.
The National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) project has introduced a
mobile app ‘Report Fish Disease’ (RFD) to track and monitor fish diseases across India.
The app has been developed by ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research)-NBFGR(National Bureau of
Fish Genetic Resources) in Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh)under the NSPAAD, funded under Pradhan Mantri
Matsya Sampada Yojana(PMMSY) by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry
and Dairying (MoFAH&D), Government of India.
The Union Minister of State (MoS)(Independent Charge) Rao Inderjit Singh, Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has launched the MPLADS e-SAKSHI Mobile Application (app) in New
Delhi, Delhi.
The Government of India (GoI) aims to make study materials available for all courses under school and
higher education digitally in all 22 languages listed in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution through
Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based ‘Anuvadini’ mobile application.
These books are available on the electronic - Knowledge Unleashed in Multiple Bharatiya Languages (e-
Kumbh) portal.
Shailesh Kumar Singh, Secretary of Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), has launched the
“SARATHI” mobile application(app) for Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission
(DAY-NRLM) at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, Delhi.
The app was developed in collaboration with Bengaluru (Karnataka) based The/Nudge Institute. It is
embedded in the LokOS system.
DECEMBER 2023
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, Ministry of Mines (MoM), launched the National Geoscience Data
Repository (NGDR) Portal (https://geodataindia.gov.in/login), and the Roadshow on Critical Minerals in New
Delhi, Delhi.

AC Exam PDF
Ministry of Textiles (MoT) has unveiled the ‘Paat-Mitro’ mobile application(app) to provide important
information about Minimum Support Price (MSP) and agronomy to jute farmers. The app was developed by
Jute Corporation of India Limited (JCI), a central public sector undertaking (CPSU) under MoT.
NOVEMBER 2023
The Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) National Institute of Pathology (NIP) in New Delhi, Delhi
launched “DISHA” – DIagnostic Services in Healthcare: Availability & Geo-mapping of Laboratory services in
India portal (www.icmrdisha.in) to assist the public to identify and locate nearest diagnostic health facilities.
ICMR-NIP is gathering data on diagnostic public healthcare facilities and creating a user-friendly online
map to access suitable laboratory facilities.
OCTOBER 2023
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ensure nothing is missed.
Example: In 'Important Days' topics the International

Organisations publish their reports and Rankings in the evenings, to
make sure every data is covered, we delay the topics to the next day
Candidates appearing for Competitive Exams. Kindly Share the

General Awareness questions, which asked in their respective
exams to “gaanalysis.ac@gmail.com”
GA Questions Asked in Exams
 Affairscloud’s Self Analysis for General Awareness Section

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AC Exam PDF

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SBI Clerk Mains Exam PDF 2024

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MOU’s & AGREEMENTS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 92

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BANKING & FINANCIAL AWARENESS

SMALL SAVING SCHEMES INTEREST RATE

Post Office Savings Account 4.0% Annually

1 Year Time Deposit 6.9% Quarterly

2 Year Time Deposit 7.0% Quarterly

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3 Year Time Deposit 7.0% Quarterly

5 Year Time Deposit 7.5% Quarterly

5 Year Recurring Deposit Scheme 6.7% Quarterly

Senior Citizen Savings Scheme 8.2% Quarterly and paid

Monthly Income Account 7.4% Monthly and paid

National Savings Certificate (VIII Issue) 7.7% Annually

Public Provident Fund Scheme 7.1% Annually

Kisan Vikas Patra 7.5% (will Annually

INDIA’S GROWTH PREDICTION

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The report states that India’s headline inflation is expected to

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Bank Rate 6.75%

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Composition of Bank outstanding Credit Mar-23 Mar-13

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MOU SIGNED BY BANKS

SEBI RELATED NEWS

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India (GoI) guarantees on decade-old

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SBI raised USD 600 million through senior

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safety features and facilities catering

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Yen (USD 250 million) loan to continue

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This is the first urban project in India

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million financing pact with ADB to

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has

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The Project activities will be led,

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