Daily Current Affairs 29th August 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

National News

PM chairs 44th PRAGATI Interaction

On August 28, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 44th edition of PRAGATI, a platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation involving both Centre and State governments. This was the first meeting in his third term.

India’s 2nd Nuclear Missile Submarine Commissioned by Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to commission India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, INS Arighat (S-3), in Visakhapatnam. This submarine, equipped with 750-km range K-15 nuclear ballistic missiles, will enhance India’s nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Cabinet Approves Setting Up of 12 Industrial Smart Cities In 10 States

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved 12 new projects under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP). With an investment of Rs. 28,602 crore, this initiative aims to create a network of industrial nodes and cities, boosting economic growth and global competitiveness.

International News

Typhoon Shanshan Makes Landfall On Japan’s Kyushu Island

Typhoon Shanshan hit Japan’s southwestern main island of Kyushu on August 29, causing heavy rain and strong winds. At least 40 people were injured, and the Japan Meteorological Agency has urged residents to stay alert for natural disasters. Public transport was disrupted, and some homes lost power.

Iran Appoints Fatemeh Mohajerani As First Female Government Spokesperson

For the first time, Iran has appointed a woman, Fatemeh Mohajerani, as the government spokesperson. This decision was made by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

States News

Uttar Pradesh Digital Media Policy: Influencer Incentives and Scheme Promotion

The Uttar Pradesh government has launched the Digital Media Policy, 2024, which offers incentives to social media influencers to promote state initiatives and schemes. This policy aims to increase the visibility of government projects and create job opportunities.

Pakistani Christian Becomes First Goan to Obtain Indian Citizenship Under CAA

On August 28, 2024, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant granted Indian citizenship to Joseph Francis Pereira, a 78-year-old Pakistani Christian, under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). This is the first instance of a Goan receiving citizenship through this amendment.

Appointments News

Satish Kumar Appointed as Railway Board Chairman and CEO

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved Satish Kumar as the new Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board, marking a significant change in the leadership of Indian Railways.

Vice Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar Takes Over as Director General Project Seabird

On August 28, 2024, Vice Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar took over as the Director General of Project Seabird, succeeding Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti. He will oversee India’s largest defense infrastructure project at the Karwar Naval Base.

Subhasri Appointed MD & CEO Of Shriram Capital

Shriram Capital has appointed Subhasri as its new Managing Director and CEO, effective from September 1. Subhasri has been with the company since 1991 and previously served as Joint Managing Director.

Banking News

ESAF Small Finance Bank Launches Inori RuPay Platinum Credit Card

ESAF Small Finance Bank, in collaboration with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has launched the Inori RuPay Platinum Credit Card. This card offers exclusive benefits and privileges to its holders.

Summits and Conferences News

2nd Meeting of Joint Russian-Indian Commission

The second meeting of the Joint Russian-Indian Commission on Cooperation in the Field of Emergency Management was held on August 28, 2024, in Moscow, Russia. The Indian delegation was led by Shri Nityanand Rai, Minister of State for Home Affairs.

Sports News

England’s Dawid Malan Retires from International Cricket

Dawid Malan, a former top-ranked T20 batter, has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 36. Malan has scored centuries for England in all formats and leaves behind a legacy of significant achievements.

Karthik Venkataraman Clinches Second Indian National Title

Karthik Venkataraman won the 61st edition of the Indian National Championship with 9/11 points. This is his second national title, having previously won in 2022. Surya Ganguly and Neelash Saha finished second and third, respectively, on tiebreaks.

Important Days

International Day against Nuclear Tests 2024 Observed on 29th August

The world observes the International Day Against Nuclear Tests on August 29 each year. This day highlights the devastating effects of nuclear weapons testing and the need for a world free from nuclear threats. Over 2,000 nuclear tests have been conducted since 1945, causing environmental damage and human suffering.

National Sports Day 2024, Date, Significance and History

India celebrates National Sports Day on August 29 each year to honor the spirit of sports in the country. This day also commemorates the legacy of Major Dhyan Chand, India’s legendary hockey player. The theme for 2024 has not been announced yet, but last year’s theme was “Sports are an enabler to an inclusive and fit society.”