Daily Current Affairs 16th August 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

National News

Union Jal Shakti Ministry Launches FloodWatch India 2.0 App

The Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C.R. Patil, has introduced the 2.0 version of the ‘FloodWatch India’ mobile app. This app, developed by the Central Water Commission (CWC), offers a more detailed and enhanced overview of flood conditions across the country.

P.M Calls for Secular Civil Code in Independence Day Speech

On August 15th, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for a ‘Secular Civil Code’ instead of the term ‘Universal Civil Code’. This move aims to broaden the policy and reduce friction on this contentious issue, both within the ruling NDA and outside. This is the first time Modi has referred to the Universal Civil Code (UCC) as ‘Secular Civil Code’, a strategy that many within the BJP believe will leave the Opposition with no choice.

Kisan Ki Baat: Government Radio Program To Bridge Farm-Science Gap

The government is launching ‘Kisan Ki Baat’, a monthly radio program aimed at bringing scientific knowledge to farmers. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced this on August 15th. The initiative seeks to modernize agricultural practices and empower farmers with the latest scientific information.

PM Modi to Headline The ET World Leaders Forum

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the chief guest at the inaugural ET World Leaders Forum, scheduled for August 31st in New Delhi. The forum will discuss India’s role in global economic growth, innovation, and policy-making amidst global economic challenges.

Centre Launches New AI-Based Surveillance System To Manage Pests

On August 15th, the Union Government launched the AI-based National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS). This system will help farmers connect with agricultural scientists and experts to control pests using their phones.

International News

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida Resigning

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced on August 14th that he will step down next month and will not contest in the upcoming vote to elect a new chief for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Kishida’s tenure has been marred by scandals, and his approval rating has plummeted to 20%, indicating a significant loss of public trust.

Germany Joins United Nations Command in South Korea as 18th Member State

Germany has joined the U.S.-led United Nations Command (UNC) in South Korea, becoming the 18th member state. This move highlights Berlin’s commitment to global security and links European stability to the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Banking News

RBL Bank Announces Vijay Fixed Deposits to Honor 78th Independence Day

RBL Bank has introduced a special “Vijay Fixed Deposits” scheme to commemorate India’s 78th Independence Day. The scheme offers a 500-day fixed deposit tenor with highly competitive interest rates, providing customers an opportunity to grow their savings while honoring the nation’s brave soldiers.

Axis Bank and Visa Launch Exclusive ‘PRIMUS’ Credit Card for India’s Elite

Axis Bank, in partnership with Visa, has launched the ‘Primus’ credit card, an ultra-premium offering for India’s ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). This invite-only card is designed to meet the needs of the wealthy elite, offering luxury, exclusivity, and personalized services. The card has a joining fee of Rs 5 lakh and an annual fee of Rs 3 lakh, making it a symbol of ultimate prestige.

Business News

L&T Finance Achieves NBFC-ICC Status from RBI

L&T Finance Ltd. has transitioned from an NBFC-Core Investment Company (NBFC-CIC) to a Non-Banking Financial Company (Investment and Credit Company) (NBFC-ICC) after merging its wholly-owned subsidiaries, including L&T Finance, L&T Infra Credit Ltd., and L&T Mutual Fund Trustee Ltd. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the certificate of registration on August 2nd. This change is not expected to affect the company’s compliance with NBFC-ICC guidelines.

Summits and Conferences News

India To Host Third Voice Of Global South Summit

India will host the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit on August 17th, 2024. This initiative is an extension of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas’ and is based on India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Obituaries News

Father of Agni Missiles, Dr. Ram Narain Agarwal Passes Away

Dr. Ram Narain Agarwal, a renowned Indian scientist and the driving force behind India’s missile program, passed away on Thursday in Hyderabad at the age of 84. Known as the ‘Father of Agni Missiles’, Dr. Agarwal’s contributions to India’s defense capabilities have been revolutionary.

Death Anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Observed on August 16th

On August 16th, India observes the death anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a distinguished statesman, poet, and visionary leader who profoundly influenced the country’s political landscape. Vajpayee, the 10th Prime Minister of India, is celebrated for his leadership and his ability to unite diverse ideologies while championing democratic principles.