Daily Current Affairs of 13th January 2024 in English

Introduction:

Daily Current Affairs of 13th January 2024, witnessed a series of significant events across various domains, ranging from infrastructure development to geopolitical concerns, cultural celebrations, and scientific discoveries. Here's an in-depth look at the noteworthy occurrences of the day.

Top Current Affairs and News Headlines – January 13, 2024

National News

Excitement in Andhra Pradesh as ONGC Strikes Oil Near Kakinada Coastline

In a major breakthrough for India's energy sector, the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has discovered fresh oil in the Krishna-Godavari Basin. This discovery, near Kakinada's coastline in the Bay of Bengal, is anticipated to contribute 7% to India's total crude oil production by mid-2024, according to Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.

Maharashtra's Conservation Efforts: A New Haven for Wildlife in Atpadi

Maharashtra government has declared the establishment of the Atpadi Conservation Reserve in Sangli district. This reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna, aims to protect the habitats of wolves, jackals, deer, and other species. The move is seen as a significant step in preserving wildlife corridors and biodiversity.

Rajasthan's Cultural Extravaganza: International Camel Festival in Bikaner

The vibrant streets of Bikaner, Rajasthan, came alive with the three-day International Camel Festival. Adorned camels, traditional attire, and mesmerizing folk performances marked the event. The Heritage Walk, starting from Rampuriya Haveli, showcased the rich local culture, making it a memorable cultural fiesta.

NDB's Generosity: $500 Million Loan for Gujarat's Infrastructure

The New Development Bank (NDB) from Shanghai has pledged a generous $500 million loan for Gujarat's infrastructure development. The funds will be utilized for the Mukhayamantri Gram Sadak Yojana, focusing on the construction of 1,200 kilometers of roads. The collaboration also includes knowledge-sharing for environmentally conscious road development.

Defence News

DRDO's Triumph: Successful Flight Test of Akash-NG Missile

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a significant milestone with the successful flight test of the Akash-NG missile. The missile demonstrated its capability to intercept high-speed unmanned aerial targets at very low altitudes. This achievement underlines India's advancements in missile technology.

Indian Army Embraces Technology: 2024 Declared the "Year of Technology Absorption"

In a move towards modernization, the Indian Army has declared 2024 as the "Year of Technology Absorption." With a focus on transformative change, Project SAMBHAV, a secure, network-agnostic mobile ecosystem, is set to revolutionize communication. The army's emphasis on 4G connectivity and infrastructure improvements reflects a commitment to staying technologically ahead.

Bilateral Cooperation: Indian and Japanese Coast Guards Conduct 'Sahyog Kaijin' Joint Exercise

The Indian and Japanese Coast Guards collaborated in the successful 'Sahyog Kaijin' joint exercise off the coast of Chennai. This exercise, part of the longstanding collaboration between the two countries, aimed to enhance interoperability in maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, and pollution response at sea.

Economy News

FDI Dynamics: India's Outward FDI Sees a Dip to $2.25 Billion in December 2023

India witnessed a notable decline in outward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), dropping to $2.25 billion in December 2023, according to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data. The decrease in equity and debt commitments highlights shifting dynamics in India's global investment scenario.

Inflation Insights: India's Retail Inflation Reaches 4-Month High at 5.69% in December

India's headline retail inflation reached a four-month high at 5.69% in December. Despite exceeding expectations, the figures provide relief to policymakers ahead of crucial decisions. Core inflation, excluding food and fuel, dipped to 3.9%, offering insights into the complex economic landscape.

Banking News

RBI's Vigilance: Penalizing Banks for Violations

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed monetary penalties on Dhanlaxmi Bank, Punjab and Sind Bank, and ESAF Small Finance Bank for various violations. The penalties reflect RBI's commitment to maintaining the integrity of banking processes and ensuring due diligence.

SBI's Green Initiative: Launch of Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD)

State Bank of India (SBI) launched the Green Rupee Term Deposit (SGRTD), a special fixed deposit scheme dedicated to supporting environmentally-friendly projects. This initiative aligns with SBI's commitment to fostering a green finance ecosystem in India.

NPCI's Cross-Border Innovation: UPI-PayNow Linkage for India-Singapore Remittances

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) introduced the UPI-PayNow linkage, enabling direct remittances between India and Singapore. This collaboration aims to enhance financial inclusion and convenience in cross-border transactions, showcasing the potential for global fintech cooperation.

RBI Deputy Governor's Tenure Extension: Michael Patra Gets Another Year

The Indian government approved the one-year extension of Michael Debabrata Patra as the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). This extension recognizes Patra's leadership and expertise in crucial departments within the RBI.

Business News

Tata's Strategic Move: Acquisition of Capital Foods for ₹5,100 Crore

Tata Consumer Products Ltd (TCPL) announced plans to acquire a 100% stake in Capital Foods for ₹5,100 crore. This strategic move aims to diversify TCPL's product offerings, tapping into high-margin segments within the packaged foods sector.

Schemes News

Congress' Jobless Aid Initiative: 'Yuva Nidhi' Scheme in Shivamogga, Karnataka

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah unveiled the 'Yuva Nidhi' scheme, Congress party's fifth poll guarantee. This scheme aims to provide unemployment assistance to graduates and diploma holders, showcasing the government's commitment to addressing youth unemployment.

Ranks & Reports News

Swachh Survekshan Success: Hyderabad Ranks 9th Cleanest, Siddipet Tops in South India

Hyderabad achieved a significant milestone by securing the ninth position in cleanliness among cities with a population exceeding one lakh. Siddipet, in Telangana, clinched the national award for being the cleanest city in South India within the 50,000-1 lakh population category.

Awards News

NICMAR's Green Recognition: Platinum Certification Under IGBC Green Campus Rating

The National Institute of Construction Management and Research (NICMAR) in Hyderabad received the prestigious Platinum certification from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) under its Green Campus Rating program. This recognition highlights NICMAR's commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

Mountaineer's Posthumous Honor: Savita Kanswal Receives Tenzing Norgay Award

Savita Kanswal, the first Indian woman mountaineer to conquer both Mount Everest and Mount Makalu within 16 days, received the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award posthumously. Her remarkable achievements and untimely demise mark a poignant chapter in India's mountaineering history.

Appointments News

Leadership in Information Services: Manish Jain Appointed as Experian India's Country Managing Director

Experian, a global leader in information services, appointed Manish Jain as the Country Managing Director for its operations in India. With an extensive career in financial services and technology, Jain brings valuable leadership experience to his new role.

Agreements News

IIT Madras' Global Outreach: New Campus in Kandy, Sri Lanka

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is set to establish a new campus in Kandy, Sri Lanka, as announced in the Budget 2024 by Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremasinghe. This initiative aims to enhance local higher education opportunities, fostering educational collaboration between India and Sri Lanka.

Bilateral Security Commitment: Ukraine and Britain Sign Historic Security Agreement in Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak signed an unprecedented security agreement in Kyiv. This strategic commitment holds immense importance for Ukraine's security and signifies a strong alliance with the United Kingdom.

Sports News

Cricketing Milestone: Tim Southee Takes 150 Wickets in T20 Internationals

New Zealand's veteran pace bowler Tim Southee created history by becoming the first bowler to take 150 wickets in T20 Internationals. His impressive performance contributed to New Zealand's 46-run win over Pakistan in Auckland.

Science & Technology News

Space Exploration Achievement: Mitsubishi Heavy Launches H-IIA Rocket Carrying Japan’s Spy Satellite

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries achieved a significant milestone in space exploration with the successful launch of an H-IIA rocket carrying Japan’s Information-Gathering Satellite “Optical-8”. This accomplishment further solidifies Japan's capabilities in satellite technology.

Miscellaneous News

Cultural and Spiritual Gathering: Ganga Sagar Mela 2024 - India’s Second Largest Fair

The Ganga Sagar Mela, held annually in Sagardwip, West Bengal, takes center stage as the second most popular fair in India. Celebrated during Makar Sankranti, this sacred gathering witnesses pilgrims immersing themselves in the holy waters of the Ganga River, adding to the festive and spiritual atmosphere.