Daily Current Affairs 17th July 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

National News

UGC’s ASMITA Project: 22,000 Indian Language Books to Transform Higher Education

The Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC) have launched an ambitious project called ASMITA (Augmenting Study Materials in Indian Languages through Translation and Academic Writing). This initiative aims to create 22,000 books in Indian languages over the next five years to enrich higher education.

Centre Reconstitutes NITI Aayog, Includes Union Ministers from NDA Allies

The Centre has restructured the NITI Aayog, the top public policy think tank of the Union government, after changes in the council of ministers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains the chairperson, and economist Suman K Bery continues as the vice-chairperson. The reconstituted NITI Aayog now includes four full-time members and 15 Union Ministers, including those from BJP allies, serving as either ex-officio members or special invitees.

India’s Fifth Indigenisation List Boosts Domestic Defence Manufacturing

India has released a new list of 346 military hardware items that will only be procured from state-run domestic manufacturers. This move is part of a broader effort to boost domestic defence industries and reduce reliance on imports.

International News

Serum Institute Rolls Out New High Efficacy Malaria Vaccine In Africa

The Serum Institute of India and the University of Oxford have developed a new high-quality malaria vaccine, which is now being rolled out in Africa. Côte d’Ivoire is the first country in West Africa to start administering the R21/Matrix-M vaccine.

India Shines At 35th International Biology Olympiad 2024 In Kazakhstan

The Indian team achieved remarkable success at the 35th International Biology Olympiad (IBO) 2024 in Kazakhstan. One student won a GOLD medal, and three students secured SILVER medals.

Paul Kagame Re-elected for Fourth Term as Rwandan President

President Paul Kagame has won Rwanda’s 2024 presidential election with 99.15% of the votes, as reported by the National Electoral Commission. This marks his fourth consecutive term in office.

States News

Uttarakhand’s eSwasthya Dham Portal Integrates with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission

The Uttarakhand government has integrated its eSwasthya Dham portal with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). This integration aims to improve health monitoring and management for pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra and aligns with India’s broader digital health initiatives.

Sawan Begins With Harela Festival In Uttarakhand 2024

July 16 marks the beginning of Sawan, celebrated with the vibrant Harela festival across Uttarakhand. This traditional festival is significant for the region’s agriculture and culture, symbolizing prosperity and well-being.

Asia’s First Health Research “Pre-Clinical Network Facility” Inaugurated in Faridabad

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated Asia’s first health research-related “Pre-clinical Network Facility” at Faridabad’s Translational Health Science & Technology Institute (THSTI). This facility is notable as Asia’s first and the 9th globally to handle BSL3 pathogens.

Appointments News

Appointment of Manoj Saunik as MahaRERA Chairman

Manoj Saunik, the former Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, has been appointed as the next Chairman of the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA). He will succeed Ajoy Mehta, whose term ends in September 2024.

Supreme Court Gets 2 New Judges, First From Manipur

The Supreme Court has two new judges after President Droupadi Murmu approved the appointments of Justice N Kotiswar Singh and Justice R Mahadevan. The appointments were announced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on July 16.

Economy News

IMF Raises India’s GDP Forecast to 7% for 2024-25

The IMF has increased India’s GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year to 7%, up by 20 basis points from earlier projections. This revision reflects improved consumption prospects, especially in rural areas. However, the IMF retained a slower growth rate of 6.5% for the following fiscal year.

Important Days

World Day for International Justice 2024, Promoting Global Accountability

Every year on July 17, the global community observes the World Day for International Justice. This day promotes international criminal justice and the fight against impunity for serious crimes affecting the international community. As we approach July 17, 2024, it’s important to reflect on the significance of this day for global justice and peace.

Books and Authors News

Tim Walker’s “The Prisoner of Bhopal”: A Novel Commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy

Tim Walker, an award-winning designer-turned-author, has published a historical fiction novel titled “The Prisoner of Bhopal.” This book, aimed at young readers, commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Bhopal gas tragedy, one of India’s most devastating industrial disasters.

Obituaries News

Subhash Dandekar, the Visionary Behind Camlin’s Success Passes Away at 86

Subhash Dandekar, the founder of the iconic brand Camlin, has passed away at the age of 86. Dandekar’s vision and leadership transformed the landscape of stationery and art supplies in India, leaving behind a significant legacy in the industry.