ONE LINER NEW SEPTEMBER 2024

• HyImpulse, a German company, achieved this feat by fueling the rocket with paraffin
and liquid oxygen. This innovative approach not only reduces satellite transport costs
but also contributes to Germany's space industry advancement and provides Europe
with a more environmentally sustainable fuel option like liquid oxygen for space
exploration.
• Cyclone Hidaya is forecasted to hit the coast of Tanzania near Dar es Salaam, bringing
heavy rain and strong winds to regions like Tanga, Morogoro, and the islands of
Unguja and Pemba. This severe storm, named after the Arabic word for "Guidance,"
poses a potential threat to Tanzania's coastal areas, necessitating preparations and
precautions to mitigate the impact of the cyclone and ensure the safety of the affected
regions.
• TCS, along with Tejas Networks and government-owned ITI, has secured orders worth
approximately Rs 19,000 crore from BSNL for deploying its indigenous 4G network
across India. This initiative is part of BSNL's plan to enhance its services and upgrade
its network infrastructure to support advanced technologies like 5G in the future.
• International No Diet Day is celebrated on May 6 every year. It was first observed in
the United Kingdom in 1992 by Mary Evans to promote body acceptance, diversity,
and respect for all body shapes and sizes.
• Salam Bin Razzaq, who passed away at 83, was a renowned Urdu literature , writer
and translator. He was known for his short stories in Urdu and Hindi, with notable
collections like 'Shikasta Buton Ke Darmiyan.' He received several awards for his
 contributions to Urdu literature, including the Sahitya Akademi Award and the Ghalib
Award.
• Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor has taken charge as the AOC-in-C of Training Command
in the Indian Air Force. He brings extensive flying experience since his commission in
December 1986, including qualifications as a Flying Instructor and Fighter Combat
Leader.
• The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) marked its 65th Raising Day, emphasizing its
significant role in constructing infrastructure like the Shinkun La Tunnel, the world's
highest tunnel in progress. Operating under the Ministry of Defence, BRO is renowned
for its work in challenging terrains and disaster relief efforts.
• The Hindu triumphed at the 6th International Newspaper Design Competition, winning
awards like 'Best of Show' and 'Gold in Best of Sports Page' for its feature on Neeraj
Chopra's athletic prowess.
• Mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa, who has climbed Mount Everest a record 29 times,
hails from Nepal. His latest ascent adds to his illustrious career, inspiring climbers
globally and highlighting Nepal's rich mountaineering heritage.
• The International Day of Plant Health is observed annually on May 12 to highlight the
importance of protecting plant health. This global initiative aims to prevent hunger,
promote economic development, and safeguard biodiversity, aligning with sustainable
agricultural practices and food safety measures.
• The Indian Army is set to induct the Drishti-10 drone (Hermes-900) to bolster its
surveillance capabilities along the Pakistan border. This induction aligns with India's
'Make in India' initiative in Defence and involves strategic positioning at the Bathinda
base in Punjab, emphasizing indigenous manufacturing and technology development.
• India is collaborating with Oman on shark and ray research in the Arabian Sea. This
joint initiative aims to enhance understanding, conservation efforts, and capacity
building in elasmobranch research, focusing on the Arabian Sea region. The
collaboration includes workshops, knowledge sharing, and research activities led by
experts from both countries.
• Kawasaki disease primarily affects the heart, causing inflammation of the blood
vessels, especially the coronary arteries. This condition is characterized by a high fever
and can lead to serious complications if left untreated, emphasizing the importance of
early diagnosis and treatment.
• Hinduja Group's IIHL has received approval from IRDAI to acquire Reliance Capital's
insurance arms, comprising Reliance General Insurance and Reliance Nippon Life
Insurance. This acquisition is part of a substantial resolution plan worth Rs 9,650
crore. The IRDAI approval, obtained on May 10, 2024, is a crucial regulatory
milestone, paving the way for the transfer of Reliance Capital's insurance businesses to
IIHL and reinforcing the acquisition process.
• International Nurses Day is observed on May 12 every year to commemorate Florence
Nightingale's birth anniversary, recognizing the invaluable contributions of nurses
globally.
• The World Migration Report 2024 highlights climate change as a major driver of
internal displacement, with more than 216 million people projected to move within
their countries by 2050.
• The 5th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) meeting between India and Bhutan was held in
Ladakh. This meeting focused on various bilateral issues, including trade
infrastructure development, customs processes, and capacity building, highlighting the
strategic importance of Ladakh in enhancing connectivity and trade relations between
the two countries.
• Dileep Sanghani has been elected as the Chairman of IFFCO during its 15th RGB
elections for the Board of Directors. His leadership marks a significant milestone in
cooperative governance, reflecting the fair and transparent manner in which the
elections were conducted.
• Surjit Patar, who recently passed away, was primarily known as a poet and writer in
the literary world. His contributions to Punjabi literature, recognized with accolades
like the Padma Shri and Sahitya Akademi Award, highlight his significant impact on
promoting and preserving the Punjabi language and culture.
• N Chandrasekaran, the chairman of Tata Sons, is poised to become the chairman of
Tata Electronics, showcasing Tata Group's commitment to its semiconductor business.
His appointment reflects strategic leadership in steering the conglomerate's
semiconductor push, attracting top talent like Randhir Thakur and Srinivas Satya to
drive Tata Electronics' growth in the semiconductor industry.
• Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd signed an MoU with the Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship (MSDE) for the 'Drone Didi' Pilot Project, aimed at empowering
women in agriculture through drone technology.
• SAIL-Bhilai is setting up Chhattisgarh's first 15-Mw floating solar plant in the state
itself, specifically in the Maroda-1 reservoir located in Durg district. This initiative
highlights the state's commitment to renewable energy and sustainability, showcasing
BSP's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly practices in
Chhattisgarh.
• Magnus Carlsen, the World No. 1 in chess, represented Norway in the 2024 Superbet
Rapid & Blitz Poland tournament, where he staged an incredible comeback to clinch
victory despite initially trailing behind GM Wei Yi. This win showcased Carlsen's
exceptional skills and determination on the chessboard.
• NASA is collaborating with the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on
the X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) satellite, demonstrating their
commitment to advancing X-ray astronomy despite encountering an instrument issue.
• The World Bank report emphasizes the requirement of an annual $260 billion
investment to halve agrifood emissions by 2030 and achieve Net Zero by 2050.
• Vietnam has urged the United States administration to reclassify its status from "non-
market economy" to "market economy." This reclassification would bring relief to
Vietnam by potentially reducing high taxes on imports from Southeast Asian nations.
• NASA unveiled its ambitious plan to construct the first lunar railway system, known
as FLOAT (Flexible Levitation on a Track), designed to revolutionize payload
transport on the Moon.
• The United Nations General Assembly unanimously proclaimed May 25 as World
Football Day, marking a significant milestone in the global celebration of the sport.
 This decision coincided with the 100th anniversary of the first international football
tournament, emphasizing football's role in promoting peace, development, and unity
among nations.
• India and Iran signed a significant 10-year bilateral contract to enhance operations at
the Chabahar Port, highlighting India's strategic interests in strengthening trade links
with Central Asia and parts of Europe.
• Japan made history by winning its first Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Trophy title after
defeating Pakistan in a penalty shootout. This victory marked a significant milestone
for the Japanese men's hockey team in the prestigious tournament held in Malaysia.
• Aman Sehrawat made history by becoming the first Indian male wrestler to secure a
quota place for the 2024 Paris Olympics. He achieved this milestone in the men’s 57kg
freestyle category at the World Wrestling Olympic Qualifiers in Istanbul, Turkiye,
defeating Chongsong Han of Korea in the semi-final.
• India's retail inflation eased to an 11-month low of 4.83% in April, as reported by
government data. This figure falls within the Reserve Bank of India's tolerance band of
2-6%. While the overall inflation moderated, the food basket's inflation remained
elevated at 8.7%, reflecting varying trends across different sectors in India's economy.
• Google Arts & Culture partnered with India's Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers
Welfare to launch the "Millets: Seeds of Change" exhibition, highlighting the
historical and nutritional significance of millets. This collaboration aims to showcase
the evolution of millets from ancient staples to modern superfoods, emphasizing their
importance in addressing global food security challenges and promoting cultural
preservation through digital platforms.
• State Bank of India (SBI) became the first bank to become a Trading cum Clearing
(TCM) Member at India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX). This allows SBI's
IFSC Banking Unit (IBU) to trade on the IIBX platform and act as a trading member
and clearing member for importing gold through the bullion exchange, enhancing
transparency and efficiency in India's Bullion Market.
• According to data from the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), China emerged
as India's largest trading partner in FY23-24, surpassing the United States.
• Hanooman, a GenAI platform, supports 98 languages. This platform aims to expand to
200 million users in its first year and has established partnerships with various
organizations to support AI startups and facilitate tech translations across multiple
sectors like healthcare, governance, finance, and education.
• TCS announced the establishment of its Global AI Centre of Excellence in Paris,
France, highlighting the company's commitment to the French market and global AI
landscape. This move showcases TCS's focus on leveraging France's talent pool and
fostering collaboration with global AI experts to drive innovation and development in
advanced AI technologies.
• Hero MotoCorp, India's leading two-wheeler manufacturer, has partnered with the
Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to enhance digital accessibility for two-
wheeler parts and accessories.
• The Australian Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth accused
India of child labour in a recent report. This accusation comes in the context of
ongoing negotiations between India and Australia for a trade agreement, highlighting
the importance of labour rights in international trade discussions.
• HDFC Bank launched Pixel Play, the first virtual credit card in India in partnership
with Visa. This innovative card offers personalized benefits and seamless digital
management through the PayZapp mobile app, setting a new standard for banking
experiences in the country.
• Public sector banks collectively earned a cumulative profit exceeding ₹1.4 lakh crore
in the financial year ending March 2024, showcasing a notable increase from the
previous fiscal year's earnings.
• Moody's predicts a 6.6% expansion for the Indian economy in FY25, reflecting their
assessment of economic conditions and growth prospects. This forecast is expected to
drive strong credit demand, particularly benefiting Non-Banking Financial Companies
(NBFCs) despite challenges posed by rising funding costs.
• The International Day of Families is observed on May 15th every year. This day is
dedicated to recognizing the importance of families in society, promoting awareness
about family issues, and fostering support and unity among families globally.
• P Shyaamnikhil from Tamil Nadu achieved the prestigious title of Grandmaster (GM),
becoming India's 85th Chess Grandmaster. His journey to this achievement involved
securing the third and final GM norm at the 2024 Dubai Police Masters Chess
Tournament after years of dedicated pursuit and impressive performances in
international chess competitions.
• Sebi has extended the deadline for LIC to meet the minimum public shareholding
requirement to May 16, 2027. The target set by Sebi is for LIC to achieve a 10%
public shareholding. As of March 31, 2024, LIC's public shareholding stands at 3.5%,
necessitating substantial divestment to comply with this regulatory requirement.
• The International Day of Light was established by UNESCO to highlight the
significance of light and light-based technologies in various aspects of life. Celebrated
annually on May 16, it commemorates the first successful operation of the laser by
Theodore Maiman in 1960.
• The Transplantation of Human Organs & Tissues Act (THOTA) was enacted in India
in 1994 to regulate organ transplantation and prevent commercial trading of organs,
ensuring that donations are based on altruism and close relationships between donors
and recipients.
• PhonePe has partnered with LankaPay to enable UPI payments in Sri Lanka, allowing
users to transact at LankaPay QR merchants. This initiative aims to provide a familiar
and secure payment method for Indian tourists and business travellers, enhancing their
convenience while travelling in Sri Lanka.
• The Indian Air Force tested the BHISHM portable hospital in Agra, which is part of
"Project BHISHM." This initiative aims to provide rapid and comprehensive medical
aid during emergencies. The portable hospital includes modern technologies and can
be set up quickly, emphasizing swift response and extensive care for up to 200
casualties.
• OpenAI introduced GPT-4o, their latest large language model, as their fastest and
most powerful AI model to date. GPT-4o is designed to enhance human-computer
interactions by integrating text, audio, and image inputs, demonstrating significant
advancements in processing speed, efficiency, and multimodal capabilities.
• Sunil Chhetri, India’s most decorated footballer, has announced his retirement from
international football. His final match will be the FIFA World Cup Qualifier against
Kuwait in Kolkata on June 6. Chhetri’s career began in 2002 with Mohun Bagan and
included stints in the USA and Portugal before returning to play for top Indian clubs
like Bengaluru FC.
• David Salvagnini has been appointed as NASA’s Chief Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Officer, in addition to his role as Chief Data Officer. His appointment underscores
NASA’s commitment to the responsible use of AI technology in its missions and
research projects, aligning with President Biden’s directive on AI development and
use.
• Ruskin Bond, an eminent English author known for his extensive body of work
including over 300 short stories, essays, and novels, was awarded the prestigious
Sahitya Akademi Fellowship.
• The International Day of Living Together in Peace is celebrated annually on May 16.
This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly to promote peace,
unity, and solidarity worldwide.
• Sikkim Statehood Day is celebrated on May 16th to commemorate the day in 1975
when Sikkim became the 22nd state of India. This historic event marked the end of the
monarchy and the full integration of Sikkim into the Indian Union.
• The Indian Pavilion at the World Hydrogen Summit 2024 in Rotterdam, Netherlands,
highlighted India's progress in green hydrogen initiatives, including the National
Green Hydrogen Mission and efforts to promote a sustainable hydrogen ecosystem.
• The Eco-Friendly Water Treatment Solution was developed by the Indian Institute of
Petroleum & Energy (IIPE) in Visakhapatnam. This innovative technology utilizes a
Surface Modification Technique of Membrane to treat muddy river water efficiently
while promoting environmental protection and sustainability.
• The recent study highlights that Red Colobus Monkeys, a rare and endangered
population, are primarily found in various regions of Africa. These monkeys play a
crucial role in the forest ecosystem and are facing threats to their survival, putting
them at risk of extinction.
• World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is observed on May 17 each
year, celebrating the transformative impact of telecommunication and information
technology on global connectivity.
• DP World inaugurated its largest free trade warehouse zone in Chennai, showcasing
Tamil Nadu's industrial prowess and strategic connectivity. This underscores
Chennai's significance in India's economic landscape and DP World's commitment to
fostering economic growth in the region.
• Industry experts predict that India's internet economy will reach $1 trillion by 2030,
driven primarily by the booming e-commerce sector expected to grow from $60 billion
in FY2023 to $325 billion.
• Nayara Energy intends to invest Rs 600 crore in establishing ethanol manufacturing
plants in Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. This initiative aligns with the
government's target of achieving 20% ethanol blending by FY26, showcasing the
company's commitment to sustainable energy practices.
• A.Y.V. Krishna and N. Venu Gopal, both senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers,
have been appointed as additional directors in the Central Bureau of Investigation
(CBI). Their appointments signify the government's commitment to strengthening the
investigative capabilities of the CBI.
• Japan has partnered with the United States to develop interceptors for hypersonic
missiles by the 2030s. This collaboration underscores both countries' efforts to
enhance their defence capabilities in response to regional tensions, particularly with
China and North Korea.
• Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, commonly known as M&M, is gearing up to invest
₹26,000 crore in its automotive business over the next three years. This investment
will focus on developing new vehicles and enhancing production capacity, reflecting
the company's ambitious growth plans.
• The United Nations revised India's 2024 economic growth projection upwards to
6.9%, indicating a robust expansion driven by strong public investment and private
consumption.
• The NASA PREFIRE polar mission, designed to improve climate models and address
climate change, is slated for launch from New Zealand. The mission aims to measure
heat loss from Earth's polar regions, using twin satellites equipped with infrared
spectrometers.
• Binit Roy secured the Bronze at the CITI Para Swimming World Series, earning
recognition from Tripura CM Manik Saha. Excelling in the 100-meter freestyle event,
Roy's achievement marks a significant milestone in para-swimming.
• Venezuela, situated on the northern coast of South America, became the first country
globally to lose all its glaciers. By 2011, five of Venezuela's glaciers had disappeared,
leaving only the Humboldt Glacier in the Sierra Nevada National Park. Despite efforts,
even this glacier, also known as La Corona, has significantly diminished over time.
• China is leading the construction of the High Energy Photon Source (HEPS),
positioning itself among a select group of nations capable of producing some of the
brightest X-rays globally.
• International Museum Day is celebrated annually on May 18th, providing a global
platform since 1977 to emphasize the crucial role of museums in preserving cultural
heritage. This day underscores the significance of museums in education and research,
highlighting their contribution to lifelong learning and the advancement of knowledge.
• The Indian Army established a high-altitude tank repair facility in Ladakh, near the
China border, at altitudes exceeding 14,500 feet. Positioned in Nyoma and the DBO
Sector, these facilities cater to over 500 tanks and infantry combat vehicles, ensuring
operational readiness in extreme conditions with temperatures dropping to as low as -
40°C.
• The UAE introduced the 10-year Blue Residency visa, aimed at individuals making
notable contributions to environmental protection. This initiative, launched by Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid, expands upon previous visa schemes like the Golden Visas
for diverse talents introduced in 2019 and the Green Visas for skilled workers
introduced in 2022.
• The annual UK-India Strategic Dialogue in London focused on reaffirming
commitment to a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA), indicating the UK
as the counterpart in negotiations.
• Zoho, an Indian software firm headquartered in Tamil Nadu, is planning a significant
$700 million investment in chipmaking. Seeking incentives from the Government of
India, Zoho aims to manufacture compound semiconductors with specialized
commercial applications, utilizing alternatives to silicon.
• The Igla-S VSHORAD systems are set to be delivered to the Indian Army, showcasing
a technology transfer agreement between Indian and Russian defence entities. This
underscores Russia's role as the supplier of defence systems, enhancing India's air
defence capabilities.
• The world's tallest competitive swimming pool was inaugurated in Bhutan, located at
an elevation of 2,400 meters. This initiative aligns with the program launched by the
Global Body of Swimming in 2019, aiming to enhance accessibility to aquatic
facilities in various countries and regions.
• Moldova signed an agreement with India on visa exemption for diplomatic and official
passports, allowing passport holders from both countries to travel without a visa. This
agreement was signed between Pawan Kapoor, Secretary, MEA, and Anna Taban,
Ambassador of Moldova, enhancing diplomatic relations between the two nations.
• According to the Center for World University Rankings, IIM Ahmedabad secured the
top position among Indian higher education institutions, ranking 410th globally. This
ranking included 64 other universities from India in the Global 2000 list, with
institutions like IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, and IISc Bengaluru also making notable
rankings.
• National Endangered Species Day is observed annually on May 17. This day serves as
a reminder to take action to protect and conserve endangered species, highlighting the
importance of biodiversity conservation efforts globally.
• Idashisha Nongrang has been appointed as the first woman and tribal lady to become
the Director General of Police (DGP) in Meghalaya. She broke barriers by taking
 office on May 20, 2024, and her appointment follows a stellar background in civil
defence and as SP, East Khasi Hills.
• National Dengue Day is observed on May 16 every year to raise awareness about
dengue fever, a viral disease spread by infected mosquitoes.
• The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) revealed that the urban unemployment rate
in India for individuals aged 15 years and above declined to 6.7% in the January-
March 2024 period. This indicates a slight improvement in the urban employment
scenario compared to the same period the previous year.
• The Sela Tunnel, located in Arunachal Pradesh, has been acknowledged as India's
highest tunnel by the International Book of Honour. This tunnel, spanning 2.598
kilometres and situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet on the Tezpur-Tawang Road, was
inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the world's longest twin-lane tunnel
on March 9.
• The special Rs 250 commemorative coin was released to celebrate the 250th
anniversary of Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL). MDL, established as a dry dock in
1774, has evolved into a premier naval shipyard, constructing warships, submarines,
and other vessels for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
• Vinay Firake has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Wipro's
Asia Pacific, India, Middle East, and Africa (APMEA) strategic market unit (SMU).
• The Tripura Cricket Association announced the inauguration of Tripura's first
international cricket stadium in Narsingarh, located in the West Tripura district by
February 2025.
• UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the First-Class Medal
of Independence to Jose Aguero Avila, Ambassador of the Republic of Paraguay to the
UAE, on the occasion of the end of his tenure as ambassador to the country.
• Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has become the first in India to achieve the
prestigious Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWL) accolade.
• Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services obtains IRDAI's corporate agency license,
expanding its offerings to include insurance products.
• The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed Australia as the hosts for the
AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026. The continental football governing body made this
announcement after the AFC Executive Committee ratified the recommendations of
the AFC Women’s Football Committee at its meeting in Bangkok, Thailand.
• Klaus Schwab, founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum
(WEF), will transition from his current role to become chairman of the board of
trustees by January next year, according to an emailed statement from the Geneva-
based institution.
• Leading smartwatch and connected lifestyle brand, Noise, has announced the
acquisition of the AI-powered women’s wellness platform SocialBoat. This strategic
move is part of Noise’s broader strategy to advance innovation in smart rings,
particularly its flagship wearable, the Luna Ring.
• HSBC and State Bank of India (SBI) have made strategic investments in CCIL IFSC
Limited, acquiring 6.125% stakes each, valued at ₹6.125 crore each. This move is
aimed at bolstering their presence within Gujarat International Finance Tec (GIFT)
City, India’s premier international financial services center.
• HDFC Bank divests its entire 3.20% stake in Protean eGov Technologies for Rs 150
crore, while Nippon India Mutual Fund acquires a 3.16% stake for Rs 148 crore.
• Michael Hofmann is credited as the translator of "Kairos" and shares the International
Booker Prize with Jenny Erpenbeck for their collaborative work.
• Israel issued warnings directed at Spain regarding the recognition of Palestine as a
state, adding to the diplomatic tensions amidst the escalating violence in Gaza.
• The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has launched the "Let's Move India"
campaign in collaboration with the Reliance Foundation and the Abhinav Bindra
Foundation.
• The Atacama Observatory (TAO) is situated on the summit of Cerro Chajnantor in the
Antofagasta Region of Chile.
• With 741 runs from 15 games, RCB's Virat Kohli holds the Orange Cap in IPL 2024.
• Mission ISHAN aims to consolidate India's currently fragmented airspace
management system into a single, unified system. This consolidation is intended to
improve coordination, efficiency, and capacity handling in air traffic management.
• China, the largest crude steel producer, experienced a 7.2% decline in steel production
in April 2024, producing 85.9 million tonnes compared to its production in April 2023.
• Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has made history as the first airport in India
to achieve the prestigious recognition of zero waste to landfill (ZWL), awarded by the
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII-ITC) Centre of Excellence for Sustainable
Development.
• The recent increase in the population of Gangetic dolphins, with over 4000 individuals
now in the Gangetic River basin, primarily in Uttar Pradesh's Chambal River, suggests
that the river's pollution levels are declining. This indicates that conservation efforts by
the government are proving effective.
• The sharp decline in net FDI flows into India in FY24, reaching the lowest level since
2007, was primarily due to higher repatriation of capital and increased investments by
Indian companies overseas. These factors significantly reduced the net FDI to $10.58
billion from $27.98 billion in the previous fiscal year.
• The primary objective of the Simulation Centre of Excellence (CoE) inaugurated by
LTTS for Airbus is to unify and standardize processes across Airbus’s European
business units and aircraft programs. This aims to streamline efficiency and enhance
productivity in aircraft structural simulation activities.
• The Karnataka government has mandated a 33% reservation for women in outsourced
government jobs. This policy is intended to promote gender equality in the workplace
and applies to jobs lasting more than 45 days and involving over 20 employees.
• New York clinches the top spot in the Oxford Economics’ Global Cities Index. It is
followed by London, San Jose, Tokyo, and Paris.
• The theme of the 10th World Water Forum was "Water for Shared Prosperity." This
theme reflects the focus of the forum on addressing water-related challenges to
promote prosperity and well-being globally.
• The global trend in crude steel production in April 2024, according to the World Steel
Association, was a 5.0% decrease from April 2023. This decline affected several major
steel-producing countries, including China, Japan, the United States, and Russia.
• According to the United Nations, there are currently 17 non-self-governing territories
left in the world. These territories are the focus of the International Week of Solidarity
with the Peoples of Non-Self-Governing Territories.
• The University of Tokyo inaugurated the Atacama Observatory (TAO) in Chile's
Antofagasta Region, situated at an elevation of 5,640 meters above sea level. This
observatory has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the highest
observatory globally. Led by Professor Yuzuru Yoshii, TAO aims to delve into cosmic
mysteries such as dark energy and primordial stars, benefitting from its high-altitude
location and advanced technological infrastructure.
• Swiggy collaborated with "SHIELD" to enhance its fraud prevention capabilities
within its Delivery Partner ecosystem. This partnership leverages SHIELD's device-
first risk AI platform to minimize promo abuse and fraudulent activities, allowing
Swiggy to focus resources on genuine users and improve overall platform integrity.
• The world's first fully biodegradable pen, named the NOTE pen, was launched in India
by Saurabh H Mehta from New Delhi. Featuring a recycled paper refill, non-toxic ink,
and options of metal, paper, or bamboo exteriors, this innovation aims to address the
significant issue of plastic waste generated by billions of discarded ballpoint pens
annually.
• The AK-203 assault rifles were delivered to the Indian Army from an Indo-Russian
joint venture. Despite previous delays attributed to various factors, including the war
in Ukraine and payment issues, the delivery marks progress in defence self-reliance
and underscores the strong defence partnership between India and Russia.
• Ed Dwight, America’s 1st Black astronaut candidate, made history by travelling to
space at the age of 90 aboard a Blue Origin rocket, 60 years after he was initially
considered for NASA’s astronaut corps. This milestone marked a significant moment
in both space exploration and racial history.
• Jyoti Atre, aged 55, from Bhopal, achieved the feat of becoming the oldest Indian
woman to summit Mount Everest. She reached an altitude of 8,848.86 meters on her
second attempt after weather conditions disrupted her 2023 climb at 8,160 meters.
Jyoti Atre surpassed the previous record held by Sangeeta Bahl, who scaled Everest on
May 19, 2018, at the age of 53.
• World Turtle Day is celebrated annually on May 23 to promote awareness about the
conservation of turtles and tortoises. It was initiated by American Tortoise Rescue in
2000 to educate people about the ecological importance of these creatures and the need
for their protection. Activities such as adopting turtles or tortoises, donating to
conservation efforts, or volunteering at rescue centres are encouraged to mark this day.
• Sirbaz Khan, a notable Pakistani mountaineer, scaled Mount Everest without
supplementary oxygen, marking him as the second Pakistani to achieve this feat. Khan
aims to become the first Pakistani to conquer all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters.
• Australia and Uzbekistan have been selected as hosts for the 2026 and 2029 AFC
Women’s Asian Cups, respectively. This decision underscores the increasing
significance of women's football in Asia. While Australia will be hosting the event for
the second time, Uzbekistan will become the first Central Asian nation to host the
tournament.
• Nishad Kumar and Preethi Pal secured medals at the World Para Athletics
Championships held in Kobe, Japan. Kumar won a silver medal in the T47 high jump
category, while Preethi Pal secured a bronze medal in the women's T35 200m final.
• Atomic clocks, which are highly precise timekeeping devices utilizing the resonance
frequencies of atoms, were invented in 1955 by Louise Essen. These clocks are
renowned for their accuracy, losing approximately one second every 100 million
years, and play a crucial role in modern scientific and technological applications,
including global navigation systems and telecommunications. The invention marked a
significant advancement in timekeeping technology, paving the way for enhanced
precision in various fields reliant on accurate time measurement.
• The MotoGP Bharat event from 2025 until 2029 will be hosted in Noida, Uttar
Pradesh. Noida has been chosen as the venue for this prestigious international
motorsport event, following its postponement from 2024 due to weather conditions.
 This event aims to boost the profile of motorcycle racing in India and is expected to
attract enthusiasts from across the country and beyond.
• The Canadian House of Commons recently passed a motion supporting Tibetan Self-
Determination, emphasizing Tibetans' rights to choose their own policies and spiritual
leaders amidst concerns over China's cultural assimilation policies.
• The World Bank has retained India's growth forecast at 6.6% for FY25 in its latest
biannual Global Economic Prospects report. This projection underscores India's
position as the fastest-growing major economy globally. The forecast reflects a steady
pace of economic expansion, supported by factors such as recovery in agricultural
production, declining inflation, robust investment sentiment, and anticipated
improvements in external demand.
• The Japan-India Maritime Exercise JIMEX-24 is currently being held in Yokosuka,
Japan. Yokosuka is hosting the 8th edition of this bilateral naval exercise, which aims
to strengthen naval cooperation and interoperability between the Indian Navy and the
Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF). The exercise includes both harbour and
sea phases, focusing on enhancing operational interactions and promoting maritime
security in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Lt General Upendra Dwivedi has been appointed as the next Chief of the Army Staff
(COAS), succeeding General Rajesh Kumar. With over 39 years of distinguished
service, Lt General Dwivedi has held several key positions including Northern Army
Commander and Director General (DG) infantry.
• The World Day Against Child Labour is observed globally on June 12 each year. This
day aims to raise awareness and mobilize efforts to eliminate child labour worldwide.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) initiated this observance to highlight the
importance of protecting children from exploitation and ensuring their right to a
childhood free from labour.
• India has been chosen as the host country for the 2025 FIH Hockey Men’s Junior
World Cup, marking a significant milestone as the tournament expands to include 24
teams for the first time.
• N. Chandrababu Naidu has been sworn in for his fourth term as the Chief Minister of
Andhra Pradesh. He previously served as Chief Minister during two terms of the
 undivided Andhra Pradesh and was also the first Chief Minister of the newly
bifurcated Andhra Pradesh from 2014 to 2019.
• Priyanka Jarkiholi made history by becoming the youngest tribal woman to win a Lok
Sabha seat from an unreserved constituency in Karnataka. She achieved this milestone
by securing victory in the Chikkodi constituency, defeating the incumbent MP
Annasaheb Jolle. Priyanka's win is notable for breaking barriers and highlighting her
political prowess within the state's electoral landscape.
• Inder Pal Singh Bindra, an officer of the Indian Revenue Service, has been appointed
as the Secretary of the Competition Commission of India (CCI). He succeeds
Anupama Anand and is expected to serve a three-year term in this role. The CCI,
established to enforce the Competition Act, of 2002, plays a crucial role in ensuring
fair competition and preventing practices detrimental to market competition in India.
• Bank of India has acquired a 6.125% stake in Clearing Corporation of India Ltd.
(IFSC) for ₹6.125 crore. This strategic move aims to strengthen the bank's presence in
GIFT City IFSC, aligning with its goal to enhance operations and contribute to the
financial ecosystem. The acquisition underscores Bank of India's commitment to
expanding its footprint and influence within the global financial hub at GIFT City.
• Prem Singh Tamang, the leader of Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM), was sworn in as
the Chief Minister of Sikkim for the second consecutive term on June 10.
Administered by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok,
the oath ceremony included 11 other Ministers from the SKM party.
• The International Day of Play 2024 was celebrated worldwide on June 11. This day
signifies the significance of play in nurturing creativity, resilience, and social skills,
particularly among children. It also emphasizes the recognition of play as a
fundamental right according to international standards, promoting its benefits across
communities and cultures.
• India has set its sights on managing the Mongla Port in Bangladesh as part of its
strategy to expand overseas port operations and enhance regional connectivity. This
move aims to counter China's influence in the region and strengthen India's
commercial and security interests, similar to its endeavours at Chabahar in Iran and
Sittwe in Myanmar.
• Punjab National Bank (PNB) is expanding its global presence by establishing a
representative office in Dubai. This strategic move aims to strengthen PNB's
international footprint and is part of its broader strategy to increase profitability
through portfolio expansion and revenue diversification.
• GAIL, India's premier natural gas company is set to establish India’s largest Ethane
Cracker Project with a capacity of 1500 KTA kilotons per annum in Madhya Pradesh
(MP) specifically in Ashta Sehore district.
• Visakhapatnam Port achieved the 19th position in the Container Port Performance
Index 2023, surpassing Mundra Port. Managed by J M Baxi Ports & Logistics, the
port's efficiency in vessel time and operational metrics contributed to its high ranking.
• Nepal's House of Representatives recently approved the proposal to ratify the
framework agreement for International Solar Alliance (ISA) membership. This
decision reflects Nepal's commitment to harnessing solar power as a clean energy
source to support its national development goals and combat climate change.
• The 112th session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) took place in Geneva,
Switzerland. This conference, organized by the International Labour Organization
(ILO), convenes annually to discuss and set international labour standards, aiming to
promote social justice and economic welfare globally.
• Max Verstappen, driving for Red Bull, clinched his third consecutive victory at the
Canadian Grand Prix 2024. Held at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in Montreal, Canada,
this win marked Verstappen's 60th Formula 1 victory and highlighted his dominance
in the 2024 F1 season, where he secured six wins out of nine races so far.
• The state of Rajasthan, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, has
committed Rs 100 crore towards the development of the Maharana Pratap Tourist
Circuit.
• Sumit Nagpal clinched the Heilbronn Neckarcup 2024 ATP Challenger Tennis
tournament in Germany, marking his sixth ATP Challenger title. His victory over
Alexander Ritschard of Switzerland in a competitive final affirmed Nagpal's status as
India's top-ranked men's singles player.
• Peru and Slovakia signed NASA's Artemis Accords, becoming the 41st and 42nd
countries respectively to join the U.S.-led agreement on the safe exploration of space.
• World Accreditation Day is observed globally on June 09 each year. This annual
event, established by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International
Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC), aims to raise awareness about the
importance of accreditation in various aspects of our lives, including consumer
protection, societal well-being, business operations, and government regulations.
• The Thermal Infra-Red (TIR) payload for the TRISHNA mission is provided by the
French space agency CNES. This payload, along with another payload developed by
ISRO, will contribute to the study of surface temperature and heat radiation, enhancing
our understanding of natural resource assessment and climate impacts on Earth.
• IIT Kanpur has partnered with the Centre of Excellence for UAVs and DFI to
introduce the UDAAN initiative, a drone startup acceleration program. This
collaborative effort aims to support emerging drone ventures by providing them with
access to resources such as state-of-the-art facilities, mentorship, financial assistance,
and tailored business development guidance, fostering rapid growth in the drone
industry.
• Carlos Alcaraz won the men's singles final, defeating Alexander Zverev in a thrilling
five-set battle. In the women's singles final, Iga Swiatek emerged victorious, defeating
Jasmine Paolini with a resounding scoreline of 6-2, 6-1.
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) received the 'Best Conduct of
Business Regulator' award in the Asia-Pacific region from The Asian Banker.
• Tanzania has been excluded by the European Commission (EC) from a conservation
grant under its NaturAfrica initiative due to documented human rights abuses
associated with the forced eviction of Maasai communities from the Ngorongoro
Conservation Area and Loliondo.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased the threshold for bulk fixed deposits
from Rs 2 crore to Rs 3 crore. This adjustment aims to refine liquidity management
and align deposit classifications with current economic needs.
• Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, has announced his intention to release his
memoir titled "Source Code: My Beginnings" on February 4, 2025.
• Magnus Carlsen, the reigning World No. 1 in chess, secured his sixth title at the
Norway Chess Tournament. In a thrilling final round, Carlsen defeated Fabiano
Caruana in an intense Armageddon match, showcasing his dominance in the world of
chess and etching his name further into chess history.
• International Archives Day is commemorated annually on June 09. This day serves to
highlight the significance of records and archives in preserving our collective memory
and shaping our present and future.
• Raj Priy Singh, a 2010-batch Indian Forest Service (IFoS) officer, has been appointed
as the Director of the Department of Rural Development under the Ministry of Rural
Development.
• The Netherlands became India's third-largest export destination in 2023-24, following
the US and UAE. Despite a slight decline in India's overall merchandise shipments, the
trade surplus with the Netherlands increased significantly, reaching USD 17.4 billion
in the last fiscal year, up from USD 13 billion in 2022-23.
• South Korea has officially launched its space agency, the Korea Aerospace
Administration (KASA), to lead policy and industrial development in its aerospace
sector.
• Adani Ports, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Ports Group and East Harbour
Terminals Ltd has secured a 30 year concession agreement to operate and manage
Container Terminal 2 at the Dar es Salaam Port in Tanzania.
• The All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) has launched the Bank Clinic
initiative to provide guidance and assistance to bank customers with grievance
redressal in accordance with RBI guidelines on retail banking.
• The two bird sanctuaries, Nagi and Nakti, from Bihar, were added to the Ramsar Sites
list, marking a significant addition to India's wetlands of international importance.
• DP Manu clinched the gold medal in the javelin throw at the Taiwan Athletics Open
2024 with a remarkable effort of 81.58 meters. Meanwhile, Nithya Ramraj secured the
silver medal in the women's 100-meter hurdles event with a timing of 13.23 seconds.
• The discovery of the blue-colored ant species, Paraparatrechina Neela, was made in
the biodiverse region of Siang Valley. This valley is situated within the state of
Arunachal Pradesh, known for its rich biodiversity.
• PV Sindhu, the renowned Indian badminton player, has been appointed as the brand
ambassador for Tobacco Control by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare,
Government of India.
• The 18th International Film Festival, with a record submission of 1018 films from 38
countries, will primarily be held in Mumbai from June 15th to June 21st, 2024.
• Sarabjot Singh made history by securing India’s first medal at the ISSF World Cup in
Munich, winning the gold medal in the men’s 10-meter air pistol event with an
impressive performance.
• The Chang’e-7 mission, set for 2026, aims to search for water ice at the moon’s South
Pole, a region believed to hold significant water reserves in the form of ice.
• India is the world’s second largest source of nitrous oxide (N2O), a greenhouse gas
that heats up the atmosphere far more than carbon dioxide. Nearly 11% of such global
man-made emissions in 2020 were from India, topped only by China at 16%.
• Hungary unveiled the 700-metre pedestrian ‘Bridge of National Unity’, connecting
two nearby hills in the eastern Hungarian city of Satoraljaujhely.
• World Oceans Day 2024 was observed on June 8, emphasizing the critical importance
of our oceans in sustaining life on Earth. This annual event, designated by the United
Nations General Assembly, aims to raise awareness about ocean conservation and the
profound connection between humans and marine ecosystems.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched HaRBInger 2024, its third global
hackathon, to develop innovative tech solutions to combat financial fraud in real time.