Showing posts with label #general knowledge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #general knowledge. Show all posts

Saturday, 16 April 2022

PM Modi Dedicates K. K. Patel Super Speciality Hospital in Bhuj

16 April 2022
-------------------------------

PM Modi Dedicates K. K. Patel Super Speciality Hospital in Bhuj

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dedicated to the nation, a 200-bed KK Patel Super Speciality Hospital in Bhuj in the Kutch district of Gujarat, via video-conferencing. This hospital has been built by Shree Kutchi Leva Patel Samaj, Bhuj and is the first charitable super speciality hospital in the Kutch region.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

It will guarantee quality medical treatment for the people of Kutch including lakhs of soldiers, par military personnel and traders. This initiative is in line with the policy of the Central government to set up at least one medical college in every district of the country so that India gets a record number of doctors in the next 10 years.

(e-NAM) National Agriculture Market Completed 6 years

16 April 2022
-------------------------------

(e-NAM) National Agriculture Market Completed 6 years

e-NAM marks the sixth anniversary of the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM), a pan-India electronic trade network. To ease online trade of agricultural commodities, the flagship programme incorporates physical wholesale mandis and markets from several States and Union Territories. The Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium is implementing e-NAM, which was launched on April 14th in 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is completely funded by the Central Government.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

What is eNAM?

The National Agriculture Market (eNAM) is a pan-India electronic trading system that connects the existing APMC mandis to form a unified national agricultural commodities market. Under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare of the Government of India, the Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC) is the key agency for implementing eNAM.

VISION

To enhance agricultural marketing uniformity by streamlining procedures across linked marketplaces, eliminating information asymmetry between buyers and sellers, and encouraging real-time price discovery based on actual demand and supply.

MISSION

Farmers can sell their produce through an online competitive and transparent price discovery method on the e-nam platform, which encourages greater marketing prospects for them. Farmers are free to register and sell their produce on the e-nam site. A total of 1000 mandis from 18 states and three union territories have joined the e-nam platform, with over one crore 72 lakh farmers benefiting.

Integration of APMCs across the country via a shared online market platform to improve pan-India commerce in agriculture commodities, allowing for better price discovery through a transparent auction procedure based on product quality and quick online payment.

Odisha CM unveils logo of 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup

16 April 2022
-------------------------------

Odisha CM unveils logo of 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has unveiled the logo of the 2023 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup at the Kalinga stadium in the capital Bhubaneswar. To be held in the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, the prestigious quadrennial tournament is scheduled from January 13 to 29.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

Hockey India and its official partner Odisha will host the marquee event for the second consecutive time in the country after 2018. The 15th edition of the showpiece will be staged in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, where the country’s largest hockey stadium is being constructed.

128th Foundation Day of Punjab National Bank

16 April 2022
-------------------------------

128th Foundation Day of Punjab National Bank

Punjab National Bank, India’s second-largest bank has celebrated its 128th Foundation Day on April 12, 2022. On the occasion of foundation day, MD & CEO of PNB, Atul Kumar Goel has launched a cardless cash withdrawal service and a virtual debit card for its customers. Bank also launched various services on its mobile app named PNB One for safe banking transactions.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

PNB was established by the great freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai, proudly known as Sher-e-Punjab (Lion of Punjab) in 1894 as the First Swadeshi Bank after being influenced by the swadeshi movement.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Punjab National Bank (PNB) Founded: 1894;
  • Punjab National Bank (PNB) Headquarters: New Delhi;
  • Punjab National Bank (PNB) MD & CEO: Atul Kumar Goel;
  • Punjab National Bank (PNB) Tagline: The Name You Can Bank Upon.

16th April Daily Current Affairs 2022: Today GK Updates for Bank Exam

16 April 2022
-------------------------------

16th April Daily Current Affairs 2022: Today GK Updates for Bank Exam

Daily GK updates are incorporated with the important news that made the current affairs headlines for banking or other competitive exams. Daily GK Update is the complete bag of the important news that is held all day long. One should have complete knowledge about banking terms, current affairs news, etc. So, here is the GK update of the 16th April 2022 to help you prepare the Current affairs part. After reading this section, you can successfully attempt Current Affairs Quiz.

Here is the Daily GK Update of the 16th April March 2022 covering the following news headlines: World Voice Day 2022, Save the Elephant Day, National basketball championship, 2023 Men's Hockey World Cup, E-National Agriculture Market.

Top 12 Daily GK Updates: National & International News 

Here is providing below the top 12 important Daily General Knowledge 2022 updates with national & international news.

National News

1. PM Modi Dedicates K. K. Patel Super Speciality Hospital in Bhuj  

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dedicated to the nation, a 200-bed KK Patel Super Speciality Hospital in Bhuj in the Kutch district of Gujarat, via video-conferencing.
  • This hospital has been built by Shree Kutchi Leva Patel Samaj, Bhuj and is the first charitable super speciality hospital in the Kutch region. It will guarantee quality medical treatment for the people of Kutch including lakhs of soldiers, par military personnel and traders.
  • This initiative is in line with the policy of the Central government to set up at least one medical college in every district of the country so that India gets a record number of doctors in the next 10 years.

International News

2. Israel successfully tests ‘Iron Beam’ new laser-based air defence system 

  • Israel successfully tested a new laser missile-defence system ‘Iron Beam‘ which can destroy any airborne object including drones.
  • Iron Beam is the world’s first energy-based weapons system that uses a laser beam to shoot down incoming UAVs, rockets, mortars, long-range missiles, anti-tank missiles etc.
  • The Iron Beam which is developed by the Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is using a directed-energy weapon system and can go a long way in providing aerial defence.

Iron Beam: How it works

  • Iron Beam works on a fibre laser system to destroy any airborne object.
  • Iron Dome defense system has been a great success, with a 90% interception rate against incoming rocket fire.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Israel Capital: Jerusalem;
  • Israel President: Isaac Herzog;
  • Israel Prime minister: Naftali Bennett;
  • Israel Currency: Israeli Shekel.

Bankings News

3. 128th Foundation Day of Punjab National Bank

  • Punjab National Bank, India’s second-largest bank has celebrated its 128th Foundation Day on April 12, 2022.
  • On the occasion of foundation day, MD & CEO of PNB, Atul Kumar Goel has launched a cardless cash withdrawal service and a virtual debit card for its customers.
  • Bank also launched various services on its mobile app named PNB One for safe banking transactions.
  • PNB was established by the great freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai, proudly known as Sher-e-Punjab (Lion of Punjab) in 1894 as the First Swadeshi Bank after being influenced by the swadeshi movement.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Punjab National Bank (PNB) Founded: 1894;
  • Punjab National Bank (PNB) Headquarters: New Delhi;
  • Punjab National Bank (PNB) MD & CEO: Atul Kumar Goel;
  • Punjab National Bank (PNB) Tagline: The Name You Can Bank Upon.

4. Fino Payments Bank to buy 12.19% stake in Paysprint Pvt Ltd

  • Fino Payments Bank announced that its board of directors has approved a 12.19 percent minority strategic investment in New Delhi-based fintech Paysprint Pvt Ltd. Fino Payments Bank is making its first strategic investment since becoming public. This is in addition to the bank's Fino 2.0 projects, which include many internal programmes aimed at creating a digital ecosystem for its customers.
  • Paysprint, a profitable fintech, is a fast-growing financial technology firm that provides next-generation application programming interfaces (APIs) in banking, payments, travel, lending, insurance, and investment, among other fields.
  • Paysprint's co-founder and CEO, S Anand, said the fintech company is excited to collaborate with Fino Payments Bank and combine technical knowledge to develop innovative banking products and solutions that will increase consumer acceptance.
  • Paysprint completed its first full year of operations in FY22, with an annual GMV of Rs 5,500 crore.

Awards News

5. Prabhat Patnaik named for Malcolm Adiseshiah Award 2022

  • Well-known Indian economist and political commentator, Prabhat Patnaik has been selected for the Malcolm Adiseshiah Award 2022.
  • The award is annually given by the Malcolm and Elizabeth Adiseshiah Trust to an outstanding social scientist selected from nominations received by a specially constituted national jury.
  • The award includes a citation and prize money of Rs 2 lakh. Dr Patnaik has taught at the Centre for Economic Studies and Planning in the School of Social Sciences at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi and was the Vice Chairman of the Kerala State Planning Board.

Schemes News

6. (e-NAM) National Agriculture Market Completed 6 years

  • e-NAM marks the sixth anniversary of the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM), a pan-India electronic trade network. To ease online trade of agricultural commodities, the flagship programme incorporates physical wholesale mandis and markets from several States and Union Territories.
  • The Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium is implementing e-NAM, which was launched on April 14th in 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is completely funded by the Central Government.
  • The National Agriculture Market (eNAM) is a pan-India electronic trading system that connects the existing APMC mandis to form a unified national agricultural commodities market. Under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare of the Government of India, the Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC) is the key agency for implementing eNAM.

Sports News

7. Odisha CM unveils logo of 2023 Men's Hockey World Cup

  • Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has unveiled the logo of the 2023 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup at the Kalinga stadium in the capital Bhubaneswar. To be held in the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, the prestigious quadrennial tournament is scheduled from January 13 to 29.
  • Hockey India and its official partner Odisha will host the marquee event for the second consecutive time in the country after 2018. The 15th edition of the showpiece will be staged in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, where the country’s largest hockey stadium is being constructed.

8. Tamil Nadu beat Punjab in National basketball championship final

  • Tamil Nadu defeated defending champion Punjab 87-69 in the final to win the men's title in the 71st Senior National Basketball Championship. The formidable Indian Railways team won the women's title, beating Telangana 131-82 in convincing fashion, riding on Poonam Chaturvedi's 26 points.
  • In the men's summit clash, Tamil Nadu pulled ahead after a slow start when Punjab kept pace and never looked back. At half-time, the host had widened the lead to 17 with a 50-33 scoreline. An Aravind with 26 points and M Arvind Kumar (21) were in the fine nick for the home team as they stamped their authority against their arch-rival.

Science and Technology News

9. IIT Guwahati collaborated with NTPC to develop energy-efficient tech to capture CO2

  • The Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, has teamed up with the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) to design and construct a highly energy-efficient CO2 collection system from power plants.
  • A research team led by Prof. Bishnupada Mandal, Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Guwahati, developed this indigenous technique, which could be copyrighted soon.
  • The oil, natural gas, and biogas industries, as well as petroleum refineries, will benefit from the project's outputs.
  • It also has the potential to save India money in terms of foreign exchange.
  • This project will also assist and strengthen the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its research and education.
  • The pilot plant has been relocated to NTPC's NETRA site following the successful completion of test investigations.

Important Days

10. Save the Elephant Day 2022: 16 April

  • Save the Elephant Day is celebrated on April 16 every year to raise awareness about the dangers elephants face and the various difficulties they have to overcome to live.
  • Save The Elephant Day aims to change this alarming trend by educating people about elephants and the plights they face, encouraging everyone to do their bit and helping save them from extinction.
  • The Day is established by the Thailand-based Elephant Reintroduction Foundation, to spread awareness among the general people about the significance and consequences of their actions, or inactions on the future of elephants. According to WWF data, at present, the population of Pachyderms in India is around 20,000 to 25,000.
  • Elephants are known as the most enormous land animal and a surprisingly gentle giants in the animal kingdom. Emotional, intelligent and beautiful in the wild, sadly elephant populations have been rapidly decreasing due to various threats, perhaps most significantly poaching.

11. World Voice Day 2022 celebrates on 16 April

  • World Voice Day (WVD) is celebrated globally on April 16 every year. The day is observed to demonstrate the enormous importance of the voice in the daily lives of all people. The Day is a global annual event dedicated to recognizing the boundless limits of the human voice.
  • The mission is to share the excitement of the voice phenomenon with people, scientists, and other funding bodies. This year, the theme of the World Voice Day campaign is ‘Lift your voice’.
  • The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) has put forward the motto of the campaign to highlight how maintaining a good quality of voice can improve communication skills.
  • The celebration of World Voice Day was initiated by a group of vocal care professionals in Brazil.
  • In 1999, the Brazilian Society of Laryngology and Voice under the chairmanship of Dr Nedio Steffen first celebrated the day as Brazilian Voice Day on 16 April. The day was also observed in Portugal and Argentina.

Miscellaneous News

12. Puducherry LG inaugurated Beach Festival I Sea PONDY-2022

  • In the presence of Chief Minister N. RangasamyLieutenant Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan opened the Puducherry first-ever Beach Festival I Sea PONDY-2022.
  • Gandhi Beach, Pondy Marina, and Sandunes of Paradise Beach in Puducherry will host the festival for four days.
  • During the festival, there will be a variety of cultural events and competitions.
  • Pondicherry (or Puducherry) was a French colonial settlement in India until 1954 and is currently a Union Territory town bordering the Tamil Nadu state in the southeast.
  • The French Quarter, with its tree-lined avenues, mustard-coloured colonial mansions, and stylish stores, preserves the city's French heritage.
  • Along the Bay of Bengal, a beachfront promenade passes various statues, including a 4m-high Gandhi Memorial.

Important Takeaways for all Competitive Exams:

  • Puducherry Chief Minister: N. Rangaswamy;
  • Puducherry LG: Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan.

All the Best BA’ians for the Bank exam!

Tamil Nadu beat Punjab in National basketball championship final

16 April 2022
-------------------------------

Tamil Nadu beat Punjab in National basketball championship final

Tamil Nadu defeated defending champion Punjab 87-69 in the final to win the men’s title in the 71st Senior National Basketball Championship. The formidable Indian Railways team won the women’s title, beating Telangana 131-82 in convincing fashion, riding on Poonam Chaturvedi’s 26 points.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

In the men’s summit clash, Tamil Nadu pulled ahead after a slow start when Punjab kept pace and never looked back. At half-time, the host had widened the lead to 17 with a 50-33 scoreline. An Aravind with 26 points and M Arvind Kumar (21) were in the fine nick for the home team as they stamped their authority against their arch-rival.

Tuesday, 12 April 2022

National Safe Motherhood Day 2022

12 April 2022
-------------------------------

National Safe Motherhood Day 2022

In India, the National Safe Motherhood Day is observed every year on April 11 to raise awareness about adequate access to care for women during pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal services. National Safe Motherhood Day is an initiative of the White Ribbon Alliance India (WRAI), to enforce that women must have availability and adequate access to care during pregnancy childbirth and postnatal services. The day also marks the birth anniversary of Kasturba Gandhi, the wife of the father of the Nation Mohan Das Karam Chand Gandhi.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

History of the day:

In 2003, upon the initiative of the White Ribbon Alliance, the Government of India declared the national safe motherhood day to be held on April 11. 2022 marks the 19th anniversary of the day. The first observation was held in 2003. India is the first country in the world to officially declare National Safe Motherhood Day.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • White Ribbon Alliance India was launched in 1999.

Sunday, 3 April 2022

Chandrapur district of Maharashtra records third hottest place in the world

02 April 2022
-------------------------------

Chandrapur district of Maharashtra records third hottest place in the world

According to the El Dorado weather website, Chandrapur was the third hottest city in the world, with a maximum temperature of 43.2 degrees Celsius. According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Nagpur was also the hottest city in Vidarbha, with a maximum temperature of 41.6 degrees Celsius, followed by Akola.

As per the El Dorado Weather, Kayes city of Mali is the hottest place on earth with 44.4 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, Segou of Mali is second in the list with 43.8 degrees Celsius whereas Chandrapur is third in the list.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

Key Points:

  • The highest temperature in Nagpur has also surpassed 40 degrees. On Wednesday, the city’s maximum temperature was 41.1 degrees Celsius, about three degrees above usual.
  • According to the projection from the Met Department, the city’s highest temperature will reach 42 degrees Celsius this week.
  • There is currently no heatwave warning in effect for the city.
  • On April 2, heatwaves are forecast in Chandrapur and Yavatmal.
  • Citizens have been advised to exercise caution and keep as indoors as possible.

Find More Miscellaneous News Here
Chandrapur district of Maharashtra records third hottest place in the world_50.1

Meghalaya would be hosting 83rd National Table Tennis Championship 2022

02 April 2022
-------------------------------

Meghalaya would be hosting 83rd National Table Tennis Championship 2022

Meghalaya is geared up to host the 83rd National Table Tennis Championship 2022, which will take place at the SAI Indoor Training Centre, NEHU in Shillong from April 18 to 25. This is the second time the Northeast has hosted the world’s largest table tennis tournament.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

Key Points:

  • During a press conference, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma stated that the tournament is one of the largest sports events that the state has hosted to date, among others.
  • The State is expecting around 650 people to attend, with 450 of them being players and the rest being coaches and support personnel. He went on to say that the state is expecting a variety of officers from several states, including Haryana’s Deputy Chief Minister.
  • This tournament is being hosted in honour of the State’s 50th anniversary of statehood, he said, adding that the cost of hosting the tournament is projected to be 1.5 crore rupees, with a total of 10 players from the State scheduled to compete.

Find More Sports News Here

Meghalaya would be hosting 83rd National Table Tennis Championship 2022_50.1

Friday, 1 April 2022

01st April Daily Current Affairs 2022: Today GK Updates for Bank Exam

01st April Daily Current Affairs 2022: Today GK Updates for Bank Exam

Daily GK updates are incorporated with the important news that made the current affairs headlines for banking or other competitive exams. Daily GK Update is the complete bag of the important news that is held all day long. One should have complete knowledge about banking terms, current affairs news, etc. So, here is the GK update of the 01st April 2022 to help you prepare the Current affairs part. After reading this section, you can successfully attempt Current Affairs Quiz.

Here is the Daily GK Update of the 01st April March 2022 covering the following news headlines: Odisha Day or Utkal Divas, Startups Founders Hub, VARUNA -2022, Sports Digital Experience Centre, Payments Council of India.

Top 16 Daily GK Updates: National & International News 

Here is providing below the top 16 important Daily General Knowledge 2022 updates with national & international news.

National News

1. Cabinet approves increase in Dearness Allowance/Dearness Relief by 3% to 34% 

  • The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has approved a hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners by 3 per cent to 34%, over the existing rate of 31% of the Basic Pay/Pension.
  • The hike announced will be effective from January 1, 2022, to compensate for the price rise. The combined impact on the exchequer on account of both Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief would be Rs. 9,544.50 crore per annum.
  • This increase is in accordance with the accepted formula, based on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission. The hike will benefit about 47.68 lakh Central Government employees and 68.62 lakh, pensioners.

2. NV Ramana, the Chief Justice, launches a software named FASTER 

  • Chief Justice of India NV Ramana unveiled the 'Fast and Secured Transmission of Electronic Records' (FASTER), a digital platform that allows the supreme court to send interim orders, stay orders, and bail orders to the appropriate authorities via a secure electronic channel.
  • The online introduction of the FASTER programme was attended by CJI Ramana, Justices AM Khanwilkar, DY Chandrachud, and Hemant Gupta, as well as Chief Justices and Judges of High Courts.
  • The initiative 'FASTER' was initiated when a bench led by CJI Ramana took suo motu notice of delays in convicts' release even after they had been granted bail, citing reasons such as non-receipt or non-verification of legal orders.
  • The Registry, in partnership with the NIC, created the FASTER system on a war footing, according to a Supreme Court press release.

States News

3. The government of Karnataka has introduced the Vinaya Samarasya initiative 

  • The Basavaraj Bommai government announced the Vinaya Samarasya Yojana as a public awareness campaign against caste prejudice in the state's gramme panchayats. It will be formally launched on April 14, the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
  • The initiative was named after Vinay, a three-year-old Dalit kid who strayed into a temple in Miyapur hamlet in Karnataka's Koppal district to seek shelter from the rain in September 2021. His family has faced even greater hostility since being fined Rs 25,000 by village elders.
  • The area's 1,500 members, largely from the Ganiga group, had intensified their persecution of the Dalit family in the meantime, forcing Vinay's family to leave the village and abandon possessions, including agricultural land.

4. Maharashtra launches scheme to offer personal loans for prisoners

  • The Maharashtra government has introduced a scheme that allows prisoners to obtain personal loans from banks of up to Rs. 50,000 to help their families improve their living conditions and meet expenses related to their legal matters. It will be a first of its kind initiative in our country.
  • The Maharashtra State Co-operative Bank would provide loans up to 50,000 under the scheme at a 7% interest rate. The scheme would be implemented in Yerawada Central Jail in Pune, Maharashtra, on a pilot basis. This type of loan is called a “khavti” loan, and benefits approximately 1,055 prisoners.
  • Under the scheme, the loan facility will be decided on the basis of the prisoner, prisoner's loan limit, duration of punishment, possible relief from it, age, estimated annual working day and minimum daily income. The loan will not require a guarantor. There will be no need for a guarantor. It will be disbursed on a personal bond. The bank will decide the amount based on earnings, skill, daily wages.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams: 

  • Maharashtra Capital: Mumbai;
  • Maharashtra Governor: Bhagat Singh Koshyari;
  • Maharashtra Chief minister: Uddhav Thackeray.

Appointments News

5. Vishwas Patel re-elected as chairman of Payments Council of India 

  • Vishwas Patel has been re-elected as the Chairman of Payments Council of India (PCI) for the second time in 2022, previously he was elected as a Chairman of PCI in the year 2018. In 2013, he served as Co-Chairman of PCI.
  • PCI is a payment ecosystem industry body and is a part of the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI). PCI aims to promote a cashless transaction society and vision to grow digital payment in India.
  • The Payments Council of India works to promote the growth of the Indian payment industry and promote a cashless economy in the country. It works with other important financial and banking Institutions and Organisations to turn India into a ‘cashless society.
  • This industry body for digital operators in the country is said to be in its final stages of submitting its independent application to become a self-regulatory organisation (SRO) for digital payments, under the mandate of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
  • PCI functions in line with the Digital India Initiative and closely works with the financial regulators of the country.

Agreements News

6. Manipur govt tie-up with Samsung to start Sports Digital Experience Centre

  • The state government of Manipur has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Samsung Data System India Pvt Ltd and Abhitech IT Solutions Pvt Ltd for setting up a world-class "Sports Digital Experience Centre" as a domain of Manipur Olympian Park and Khuman Lampak Sports Complex.
  • The MoU was exchanged in the presence of chief minister N Biren Singh at the cabinet hall of the Chief Minister's Secretariat.
  • With the setting up of the Digital Experience Centre, various achievements of Olympians from Manipur will be digitally displayed making the public aware about their achievements.
  • Such initiatives will help in improving and enhancing the performance of sporting talents through the latest technologies like sports analytics, virtual reality and mixed reality among others, he maintained, adding that it will also motivate younger generations to opt for sports as a career.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Manipur Capital: Imphal; Governor: La. Ganesan.

Banking News

7. Central Bank of India partnered with Kwik.ID to ​digitize customer onboarding 

  • Central Bank of India partnered with ID to implement digital Know Your Customer (KYC), video KYC and eKYC for its network across India. The aim of the partnership is to bring seamless onboarding and provide efficient digital facilities to customers across India.
  • ID is India’s fastest and first-ever AI-based fully compliant Video KYC solution and a flagship product by Think360.ai. It has the target to digitize 10 million customers’ onboarding annually and streamline its end-to-end processes.
  • Central Bank of India had an eight-month-long gruelling evaluation process on technology and product experience followed by a reverse auction commercial round for this selection.
  • This partnership will support the bank in driving its digital transformation agenda and supporting digital finance initiatives championed by the government.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Central Bank of India Founded: 21 December 1911;
  • Central Bank of India Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra;
  • Central Bank of India MD & CEO: Matam Venkata Rao;
  • Central Bank of India Tagline: ‘Central’ to you since 1911.

8. RBI extended the deadline for banks to utilise lockable cassettes in ATMs by a year

  • The Reserve Bank of India has delayed the deadline for banks to use lockable cassettes in their ATMs that can be swapped during cash replenishment by a year, till March 31, 2023.
  • The decision was made after the RBI received representations from various banks and the Indian Banks' Association noting the difficulty in achieving the deadline, according to a notification released yesterday.
  • It has instructed the banks to establish an internal roadmap that has been approved by the Board in order to meet the extended deadline and submit a quarterly status report, and it has requested the banks' boards to monitor progress to assure compliance.

Business News

9. Google Pay, Pine Labs tieup to offer ‘Tap to Pay’ for UPI users

  • Google Pay has launched ‘Tap to Pay for UPI’, new functionality to bring the seamless convenience of Tap to Pay to Unified Payments Interface (UPI). The initiative has been launched in collaboration with Pine Labs.
  • To complete a payment, all a user will need to do is tap their phone on the POS terminal and authenticate the payment from their phone, using their UPI PIN, making the process virtually instantaneous, as compared to scanning a QR code or entering the UPI-linked mobile number.
  • The functionality will be available to any UPI user who wants to use their NFC-enabled Android smartphone to transact using any Pine Labs Android POS terminal across the country. This was piloted with Reliance Retail and will now be available at other large merchants such as Future Retail and Starbucks.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Google CEO: Sundar Pichai;
  • Google Founded: 4 September 1998;
  • Google Headquarters: Mountain View, California, United States.

10. HDFC ERGO launched “VAULT” digital customer engagement and rewards program

  • HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company has launched its VAULT program. It is India’s first industry-based digital customer engagement and rewards program. This program is an experiment to test a new idea under the Regulatory Sandbox of IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India).
  • The testing period will be till 14th May 2022 and further continuance of the product beyond the testing period will be subject to IRDAI approval.
  • VAULT program is a customer engagement-based membership program. Under the program, eligible customers will be incentivized by way of reward points on meeting the specified criteria or actions.
  • Maximum customer enrolments under this program will be 10,000. This reward program will cover Optima Restore health insurance customers.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams: 

  • HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company CEO: Ritesh Kumar;
  • HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Headquarters: Mumbai;
  • HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Founded: 2002.

Economy News

11. GoI keeps interest rates on Small Savings Schemes unchanged for Q1 (April-June 2022)

  • The Ministry of Finance has decided to keep the interest rates unchanged on small savings schemes or post office schemes for the Quarter -1 of FY2022-23 (April-June 2022). The interest rates on the various instruments for April-June 2022 range from 4.0 per cent to 7.6 per cent.
  • It must be noted that the Government notifies the Interest rates for small savings schemes on a quarterly basis. This is the eighth consecutive quarter when the interest rates on small savings instruments remained unchanged.

Interest Rates for Quarter-1 (April-June) of 2022-23 are listed below:

Small Savings InstrumentsInterest Rate For Apr-June 2022Compounding frequency
Savings deposit4.0%Annually
One-year time deposit5.5%Quarterly
Two-year time deposit5.5%Quarterly
Three-year time deposit5.5%Quarterly
Five-year time deposit6.7%Quarterly
Five-year recurring deposit5.8%Quarterly
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme7.4%Quarterly and Paid
Monthly Income Account6.6%Monthly and Paid
National Savings Certificate6.8%Annually
Public Provident Fund Scheme7.1%Annually
Kisan Vikas Patra6.9%Annually
Sukanya Samriddhi Account Scheme7.6%Annually

Defence News

12. 20th India-France Bilateral Naval Exercise ‘VARUNA -2022’ kicks-off

  • The 20th edition of the Bilateral Naval Exercise between the Indian Navy and French Navy named ‘VARUNA’ is being conducted in the Arabian Sea from March 30 to April 03, 2022.
  • The Bilateral Naval Exercises between the two Navies is being held since 1993 and the exercise was christened as ‘VARUNA’ in 2001. Various ships, submarines, maritime patrol aircraft, fighter aircraft and helicopters of the two navies will be participating in the VARUNA-2022 exercise.
  • VARUNA series of exercises continue to provide both the navies opportunities to learn from each other’s best practices. The exercise has been a principal driver for operational-level interactions between the two navies and has underscored the shared commitment of both nations to security, safety and freedom of the global maritime commons.

13. Two battalions of the Dogra regiment were presented with the President's Colours by the army chief

  • During an amazing Color Presentation Parade held at the Dogra Regimental Centre, Faizabad (UP), General MM Naravane, Chief of the Army Staff, gave the prestigious President's Colours to two battalions of the Dogra Regiment, namely 20 DOGRA and 21 DOGRA.
  • General NC Vij (retd), former COAS and Honorary Colonel of The Dogra Regiment, Army Commanders of Southern Command and Central Command, as well as a large number of active and retired people, were present at the Color Presentation Parade.
  • Following the parade, the Army Chief praised the Dogra Regiment's long traditions in all aspects of military life, including operations, training, and sports.
  • The COAS also praised the newly raised units for their outstanding performance in such a short period of time, and wished all ranks well in their efforts to serve the country with pride.

Science and Technology News

14. Microsoft launches ‘Startups Founders Hub’ platform

  • Microsoft launched a new digital and inclusive platform for startup founders in India. The platform called as ‘Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub’ in India, will support startup founders in India at every stage of their startup journey.
  • This platform will offer over USD 300,000 worth of benefits and credits to startups, including free access to the technology, tools, and resources from the tech giant and partners. The initiative will help the Startups to gain mentorship and skilling opportunities with industry experts and Microsoft Learn.
  • Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub was created following extensive research and conversations with hundreds of founders who explicitly shared their need for access to a digital ecosystem that promotes opportunities and democratises innovation regardless of background, location, progress, or passions.
  • Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub is designed specifically for early-stage startups to lower the barriers of business creation, act as a catalyst for entrepreneurship and innovation, and contribute to easing the journey from an idea to a unicorn.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Microsoft CEO and Chairman: Satya Nadella;
  • Microsoft Headquarters: Redmond, Washington, United States.

Sports News

15. Adidas Unveils Official Al Rihla FIFA World Cup Ball for Qatar 2022

  • Al Rihla – the Official Match Ball for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has been revealed by Adidas. It is Adidas' 14th World Cup ball, and it is designed to accommodate the fastest game speeds possible, since it flies quicker in flight than any other World Cup ball.
  • Al Rihla provides the highest level of precision and reliability on the field of play, having been designed from the inside out utilising data from extensive testing in Adidas labs, wind tunnels, and on-pitch.
  • The ball was also created with the environment in mind, with all components carefully considered, and Al Rihla being the first World Cup ball to be constructed entirely of water-based inks and glues.

Important Days

16. Odisha Day or Utkal Divas is celebrated on 1st April 2022

  • Utkal Divas or Utakala Dibasha or Odisha Day is celebrated on April 1st every year to remember the formation of the Odisha state after a struggle to be recognised as an independent state. The state was originally called Orissa but the Lok Sabha passed the Orissa Bill, and Constitution Bill (113rd amendment), in March 2011 to rename it Odisha.
  • History beckons that the present-day Odisha used to form a major portion of the ancient Kalinga. The region witnessed the epic “Kalinga War” led by King Ashoka who invaded and conquered the region in 260 BC. Later, the state was invaded and taken over by the Mughals till the British took over the administrative powers of the region and divided it into small units in 1803.
  • After decades of struggle under the leadership of Odisha’s eminent leaders, the new province came into existence on the 1st of April 1936. The state saw another facelift, now in terms of its name being changed from Orissa to Odisha.
  • The earlier capital city of Odisha was Cuttack whereas the current capital city is Bhubaneswar. In terms of tribal population, Odisha is the 3rd state in the country. Various rulers ruled the state. More than 31% of the state has been covered with forests. On 9 November 2010, the Parliament of India renamed Orissa as Odisha. Oriya language was also retitled as Odia.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Odisha Capital: Bhubaneswar;
  • Odisha Governor: Ganeshi Lal;
  • Odisha Chief Minister: Naveen Patnaik.

Adidas Unveils Official Al Rihla FIFA World Cup Ball for Qatar 2022

Adidas Unveils Official Al Rihla FIFA World Cup Ball for Qatar 2022

Al Rihla – the Official Match Ball for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has been revealed by Adidas. It is Adidas’ 14th World Cup ball, and it is designed to accommodate the fastest game speeds possible, since it flies quicker in flight than any other World Cup ball.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

KEY POINTS:

  • Al Rihla provides the highest level of precision and reliability on the field of play, having been designed from the inside out utilising data from extensive testing in Adidas labs, wind tunnels, and on-pitch.
  • The ball was also created with the environment in mind, with all components carefully considered, and Al Rihla being the first World Cup ball to be constructed entirely of water-based inks and glues.

The game’s ever-increasing pace is reflected in the strong, vibrant colour and visuals placed on a pearlescent background, with speed revealing the spectrum of colour to excite players and fans from grassroots to elite levels throughout the world.

World Autism Awareness Day Observed on 2nd April 2022

02 April 2022
-------------------------------

World Autism Awareness Day Observed on 2nd April 2022

World Autism Awareness Day is observed annually on 2nd April by the member states of the United Nations. The day is observed to raise awareness among its citizens about people with Autism Spectrum Disorder throughout the world. World Autism Awareness Day is organized by the UN Department of Global Communications and UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, with the support of civil society partners including the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, the Global Autism Project and the Specialisterne Foundation.

Buy Prime Test Series for all Banking, SSC, Insurance & other exams

The theme of the day:

The theme for ‘World Autism Awareness Day 2022’ is “Inclusive Quality Education for All”. Access to education that was made easy for years, especially for autistic persons was disrupted after 2020 with the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

History of the day:

The United Nations General Assembly designated a resolution (A/RES/62/139). The council passed ‘World Autism Awareness Day’ on November 1, 2007, and adopted it on December 18, 2007. The purpose was to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of autistic people. The very first World Autism Day was observed in the year 2008 on April 2. World Autism Day is one of only seven official health-specific UN Days.

What is Autism?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication. Autism is a development disorder. The disorder is characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication which may also include restricted and repetitive behaviour. The signs of Autism are often noticed by the parents of the child during the first three years. These signs develop gradually.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • World Autism Organisation: 1998;
  • World Autism Organisation President: Dr Samira Al Saad;
  • World Autism Organisation Founded: Luxembourg.

Tuesday, 22 March 2022

22nd March Daily Current Affairs 2022: Today GK Updates for Bank Exam

22 March 2022
-------------------------------

22nd March Daily Current Affairs 2022: Today GK Updates for Bank Exam

Daily GK updates are incorporated with the important news that made the current affairs headlines for banking or other competitive exams. Daily GK Update is the complete bag of the important news that is held all day long. One should have complete knowledge about banking terms, current affairs news, etc. So, here is the GK update of the 22nd March  2022 to help you prepare the Current affairs part. After reading this section, you can successfully attempt Current Affairs Quiz.

Here is the Daily GK Update of the 22nd March 2022 covering the following news headlines: World Poetry Day, World Down Syndrome Day, World Water Day, BNP Paribas Open Tournament 2022, Indian Super League, LAMITIYE-2022.

Top 14 Daily GK Updates: National & International News 

Here is providing below the top 14 important Daily General Knowledge 2022 updates with national & international news.

International News

1. Serdar Berdymukhamedov elected as President of Turkmenistan 

  • Serdar Berdimuhamedow has been sworn in as the President of Turkmenistan. Berdimuhamedow succeeds his father and former president Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, who became president in 2006 and served till 2022.
  • It must be noted that the presidential elections in Turkmenistan are held every seven years. Serdar Berdymukhamedov, secured 72.97 per cent of the votes election to lead the gas-rich country.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Turkmenistan Capital: Ashgabat;
  • Turkmenistan Currency: Turkmenistani manat.

States News

2. West Bengal celebrated ‘Dol Utsav’ or ‘Dol Jatra’

  • West Bengal celebrated the ‘Dol Utsav’ or ‘Dol Jatra’, the festival of colours, marking the onset of the spring season. The festival is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha and celebrated on full moon day.
  • It also marks the last festival of the year as per the Bengali calendar. In the Eastern region of India, the festival of spring is celebrated as Dol Jatra, Dol Purnima, Dol Utsav, and Basanta Utsav.
  • The majestic festival is celebrated by throwing ‘gulaal’ or ‘aabir’ on others and by singing and dancing in cultural programs.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • West Bengal Capital: Kolkata;
  • West Bengal Governor: Jagdeep Dhankhar;
  • West Bengal Chief minister: Mamata Banerjee.

3. N Biren Singh takes oath as Chief Minister of Manipur for 2nd term 

  • Senior BJP leader N Biren Singh took the oath as Chief Minister of Manipur for a second consecutive five-year term on March 21, 2022. The ruling BJP party contested all 60 seats in the Manipur Assembly election in 2022 and won 32 seats.
  • Nongthombam (N) Biren Singh started his career as a footballer, then turned to journalism, before joining politics.
  • In the recently held Assembly polls, the BJP won an absolute majority by winning 32 seats in the 60-member House.
  • Moreover, the Janata Dal (United), the NPF, the newly formed Kuki People’s Alliance (KPA) and two Independent MLAs have extended their unconditional support to the saffron party. The JD(U) won six seats, NPF won five and the KPA won two seats.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Manipur Capital: Imphal; Governor: La. Ganesan.

Appointments News

4. Indian Economist Jayati Ghosh named as member of UN’s Advisory Board

  • United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres has announced the appointment of Indian development economist Jayati Ghosh as a member of the UN’s newly established Advisory Board on Effective Multilateralism.
  • The 12-member high-level advisory board on effective multilateralism will be co-chaired by former Liberian president and Nobel laureate Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and former Swedish prime minister Stefan Lofven.
  • Jayati Ghosh is a Professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She was previously a professor of economics and chairperson of the Centre for Economic Studies and Planning, School of Social Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University. She is also a member of the UN’s high-level Advisory Board on Economic and Social Affairs.

Banking News

5. HDFC Bank to launch “SmartHub Vyapar programme” & ‘AutoFirst’ app 

  • HDFC Bank has announced to launch the “SmartHub Vyapar programme” & ‘AutoFirst’ app the following two initiatives/application to give a digital push to small business loans.
  • The financial institution has onboarded over 2.7 million retailers and is buying 100 thousand retailers each month. HDFC Bank has plans to onboard 20 million retailers in three years. More than half of the newly onboarded retailers solely function by means of the app platform.
  • ‘AutoFirst’ application: The financial institution now clocks not less than ₹1,000 crores in service provider loans each month and is wanting to triple the run fee. HDFC Bank can even launch a utility ‘AutoFirst’ that may provide totally automated auto loans.
  • SmartHub Vyapar programme: The SmartHub Vyapar programme for retailers will probably be launched quickly. It is an app that bundles all cost platforms – playing cards, UPI, QR code, faucet pay and SMS-based funds.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • HDFC Bank Headquarters: Mumbai;
  • HDFC Bank Founded: August 1994;
  • HDFC Bank CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan;
  • HDFC Bank Chairman: Atanu Chakraborty.

Awards News

6. Francis Kéré becomes first African to win Pritzker Prize 2022

  • Architect, educator and social activist Francis kéré has been announced as the 2022 laureate of the Pritzker architecture prize 2022, the award often referred to as architecture’s highest honour. He was born in the small village of gando in Burkina Faso, kéré is the first black architect to win the coveted award.
  • Established by the Hyatt Foundation in 1979, the Pritzker architecture prize is bestowed on architects whose built work demonstrates a combination of talent, vision, and commitment. in 2021, the award went to French architects Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal while in 2020 saw Shelley McNamara and Yvonne Farrell of Grafton architects were honoured.

Defence News

7. 5th in the series of Offshore Patrol Vessels “ICGS Saksham” commissioned

  • Defence Secretary of India, Dr Ajay Kumar has commissioned the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Saksham. The fifth in the series of 105-metre Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) class, at Goa.
  • The first four of the five ICGS which have already been commissioned in 2020 are ICGS Sachet (1st); ICGS Sujeet (2nd); ICGS Sarthak (3rd); and ICGS Sajag (4th) in 2021.
  • Goa Shipyard Limited designed and built the 105-meter OPV, which is equipped with advanced technology, navigation and communication systems, sensors, and machinery.
  • The ship will be based in Kochi once it joins the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) force. Ship will be used extensively for surveillance in Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and other missions mandated by the Coast Guard charter.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Formed: August 18, 1978;
  • Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Headquarters: New Delhi;
  • Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Director-General: Virender Singh Pathania;
  • Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Motto: Vayam Rakṣāmaḥ (We protect).

8. 9th India-Seychelles Joint Military Exercise ‘LAMITIYE-2022’ begins

  • The 9th edition of the Joint Military Exercise ‘LAMITIYE-2022’ between the Indian Army and Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) was held from March 22 to 31, 2022 at Seychelles Defence Academy (SDA), Seychelles. The Indian Army contingent will be represented by the 2/3 GORKHA RIFLES group (PIRKANTHI Battalion).
  • Exercise LAMITIYE is a biennial training event, been conducted in Seychelles since 2001. The objective of this joint training exercise is to build and promote bilateral military relations, sharing experiences gained during various operations; exchanging skills and good practices between both armies.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Seychelles Capital: Victoria;
  • Seychelles President: Wavel Ramkalawan;
  • Seychelles Continent: Africa.

Sports News

9. Indian Super League: Hyderabad FC wins maiden trophy

  • Hyderabad FC has clinched their maiden Indian Super League title after defeating Kerala Blasters in the penalty shoot-out in the summit clash. Goalkeeper Laxmikant Kattimani made three stunning saves.
  • Hyderabad beat Kerala 3-1 in the shoot-out after the match ended 1-1 in the regulation and extra time. For Hyderabad, Joao Victor, Khassa Camara and Halicharan Narzary scored while only Ayush Adhikari found the target in the shoot-out as Kerala suffered heartbreak for the third time in the finals.

10. BNP Paribas Open Tournament 2022

  • The 2022 BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament, also known as the 2022 Indian Wells Masters, was held from March 07 to 20, 2022 at Indian Wells, California, US.
  • The BNP Paribas Open is the largest two-week combined event outside of the four Grand Slams and the most-attended WTA 1000 and ATP World Tour Masters 1000 tennis tournament in the world.

Here is the list of winners given below:

CategoryWinner
Women’s singlesIga Świątek (Poland)
Men’s SinglesTaylor Fritz (United States)
Women’s DoublesXu Yifan / Yang Zhaoxuan
Men’s DoublesJohn Isner / Jack Sock

Books and Authors News

11. Autobiography of former cricketer G.R. Viswanath titled “Wrist Assured: An Autobiography”

  • Former Indian cricket captain Gundappa Ranganatha Vishwanath has penned his autobiography titled “Wrist Assured: An Autobiography”, co-authored by senior journalist R Kaushik.
  • The book traces the cricketing journey of Gundappa Vishwanath who played Test Cricket for India between 1969 and 1986, making 91 appearances and scoring more than 6000 runs.
  • Former Indian cricketers Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar released the book at the ceremony held on the first day of the 2nd day/night Test between India and Sri Lanka in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Important Days

12. 22nd March celebrates globally as World Water Day

  • World Water Day is celebrated globally on 22nd March every year. The day aims to highlight the importance of freshwater. It is used to advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
  • This 2022, the focus is groundwater, an invisible resource with an impact visible everywhere. Relevant issues include water scarcity, water pollution, inadequate water supply, lack of sanitation, and the impacts of climate change that are looked upon on this day.
  • The World Water Day theme 2022 is “Groundwater, Making the Invisible Visible”. Groundwater is a crucial resource that provides almost half of all drinkable water across the world.
  • The idea for this international day goes back to 1992, the year in which the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro took place.
  • That same year, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution by which 22 March of each year was declared World Day for Water, to be observed starting in 1993.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • Secretary-General of the United Nations: Antonio Guterres.
  • The United Nations officially came into existence on 24 October 1945.

15. World Down Syndrome Day 2022: "Inclusion Means"

  • World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is observed every year on 21 March. It is a global campaign that is observed annually to spread awareness about Down Syndrome. The Day is commemorated as a global initiative to increase awareness about hereditary disorders.
  • An individual with Down Syndrome has an extra chromosome. The theme of World Down Syndrome Day this year is “Inclusion Means”. It calls for making efforts to include people with down syndrome in all matters of life and not discriminate against them.
  • The first World Down Syndrome Day was observed in 2006. Then the Brazilian Federation of Associations of Down Syndrome worked with Down Syndrome International and its members to launch an extensive campaign to generate international support. In November 2011, the General Assembly adopted a resolution by consensus to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day every year. The next month it declared March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day.

14. World Poetry Day observed globally on 21st March

  • On 21st March, World Poetry Day is celebrated every year to recognise the unique ability of poetry to capture the creative spirit of the human mind. World Poetry Day celebrates one of humanity’s most treasured forms of cultural and linguistic expression and identity.
  • The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) adopted this day during UNESCO’s 30th session in Paris in 1999 with the aim of supporting linguistic diversity through poetic expression and increasing the opportunity for endangered languages to be heard.
  • Some countries also celebrate World Poetry Day on October 15 to mark the birthday of Virgil, a Roman poet who is famous for his epic Aeneid.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • World Poetry Day Headquarters: Paris, France;
  • World Poetry Day Director-General: Audrey Azoulay;
  • World Poetry Day Founded: 16 November 1945, London, United Kingdom.

Monday, 21 February 2022

Here are the latest developments on the Russia-Ukraine crisis:

New Delhi: 

Efforts to prevent a Russian invasion of Ukraine were dealt a serious blow when Russia recognised the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine. In response, the US announced financial sanctions against the rebel territories.

Here are the latest developments on the Russia-Ukraine crisis:
  1. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed mutual aid and friendship agreements with rebel leaders in the Kremlin today. "I believe it is necessary to take a long-overdue decision, to immediately recognise the independence and sovereignty of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic," he said.
  2. The West had repeatedly warned Russia against recognising Ukraine's rebels. But Russia's latest decrees effectively bury a fragile peace agreement regulating the conflict.
  3. The United States has announced financial sanctions against rebel territories freshly recognised by Russia in eastern Ukraine. "I have signed an Executive Order to deny Russia the chance to profit from its blatant violations of international law. We are continuing to closely consult with Allies and partners, including Ukraine, on next steps," President Joe Biden said while signing the executive order.
  4. French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned Russia's move and urged the European Union to impose fresh sanctions on Moscow.
  5. The Russian forces are stationed just a few kilometres away from the Ukrainian border, along with fighter jets, tanks, helicopters and heavy weaponry. All this points to Russia's intention of starting a full-scale war in the region, the West has claimed.
  6. Russia claims the build-up of forces has always been for military exercises and that it poses no threat to Ukraine or any other nation.
  7. The United Nations Security Council is holding an emergency meeting today at the request of Ukraine, the US, 5 European nations and Mexico.
  8. UN chief Antonio Guterres said that they were greatly concerned by Russia's decision on the status of certain areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine. "We remain fully supportive of the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine, within internationally recognized borders," he posted on Twitter.
  9. Tensions spiked in recent days after an outbreak of heavy shellfire on Ukraine's eastern frontline with the separatists and a series of reported incidents on the border with Russia.
  10. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy accused Russia of wrecking peace efforts and ruled out making any territorial concessions in an address to the nation today.