11 August 2023 Current Affairs – The Day’s Top News | GKSERIES

Current Affairs is the most important area in all competitive exams. But the difficulty level is very high. That’s why; many aspirants get confused, how to select Current Affairs for Preparation of Competitive Examination? In this Post, Daily Current Affairs 11 August 2023, we have tried to cover each and every point and also included all important facts from National/ International news that are useful for upcoming competitive examinations such as UPSC, SSC, Railway, State Govt. etc.

So, here is the Top News of the Day for 11 August 2023 to help you prepare the Latest Current Affairs part. After reading this section, you can successfully attempt Current Affairs Quiz.

Current Affairs for Competitive Exam – 11 August 2023

World Steelpan Day 2023: Date, Significance and History

World Steelpan Day 2023, Introduction

A key move is expected on July 24th, as the United Nations prepares to adopt a draught resolution. This resolution will establish August 11th as World Steelpan Day, which will be observed annually on the UN calendar. Let’s delve into the fascinating history and cultural importance of the steelpan, an instrument that emerged from the heart of Trinidad and Tobago.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

On August 11th, the world will resonate with the joyful notes of the steelpan, echoing the vibrant history of Trinidad and Tobago. World Steelpan Day is an homage to the resilient spirit of cultural diversity and sustainable development, as well as a celebration of music.

World Steelpan Day 2023, Origins and Evolution:

August 11th, now known as World Steelpan Day, has its roots in Trinidad and Tobago’s history. When French planters arrived in the 1700s, they brought the carnival tradition with them. Enslaved individuals, seeking to express their own festivities, created a unique festival. In the 1930s, the steel pan was born, crafted from everyday metal objects like car parts, oil drums, and biscuit tins. Skilled hands meticulously hammered dents into these objects, transforming them into instruments that produced different notes based on size and placement. Despite attempts to ban it by the British government, this instrument, born from industrial waste, has become an iconic symbol of Trinidadian culture.

World Steelpan Day 2023, The Vibrant Steelpan:

The steelpan, sometimes known as a steel drum or just “pan,” is a musical marvel from Trinidad and Tobago. It is played by musicians with straight sticks tipped with several types of rubber, each providing a unique sound. Some artists employ four pansticks, two in each hand, a tradition that emerged from the islands’ early 20th-century Carnival percussion groups.

World Steelpan Day 2023, Steelpan and Sustainable Development:

The steelpan carries profound cultural and historical significance, aligning harmoniously with the principles of sustainable development. As we work towards the 2030 Agenda’s Sustainable Development Goals, the steelpan serves as a beacon of cultural diversity and enrichment. Its application spans sectors such as tourism, culture, education, and even STEM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics), contributing to a well-rounded and holistic approach to development.

World Steelpan Day 2023, Embracing Inclusivity and Empowerment:

Recognizing the steelpan’s ability to foster inclusive societies, thriving communities, and a robust creative economy, its positive impacts on mental health, gender equality, and youth empowerment shine through. Hence, the General Assembly has taken the decision to designate August 11th as World Steelpan Day.

World Steelpan Day 2023, Join the Celebration

The global community is invited to partake in the observance of World Steelpan Day through engaging activities. These endeavors aim to raise awareness about the steelpan’s rich cultural heritage and its profound ties to sustainable development. As we celebrate the melodious legacy of the steelpan, we embrace unity, creativity, and progress.

World Elephant Day 2023: Date, Significance and History

World Elephant Day, observed globally on August 12, is a significant event dedicated to raising awareness about the pressing challenges faced by elephants and advocating for their protection and conservation. This commemoration provides an important platform for raising awareness of concerns like as habitat degradation, ivory poaching, human-elephant conflicts, and the critical need for increased conservation efforts. This occasion aims to promote the importance of safeguarding these magnificent creatures for future generations and to encourage actions that contribute to their welfare and survival. It’s a day to appreciate the vital role elephants play in maintaining ecosystems, as well as to support organizations and initiatives that work towards their preservation. From date to history here is everything you need to know about this day.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Significance of World Elephant Day

World Elephant Day plays a crucial role in uniting groups and individuals worldwide to address the threats elephants encounter. Its open vision allows many organisations and individuals to start campaigns under its banner, fostering collaboration across borders and beliefs. By providing a collective global voice, this initiative empowers individuals, policymakers, legislators, and governments to develop and support conservation solutions, ensuring a secure future for elephants, animals, and their habitats.

History of World Elephant Day

In 2012, Patricia Sims, a Canadian, and the Elephant Reintroduction Foundation of Thailand, led by HM Queen Sirikit, established World Elephant Day. Patricia Sims has been overseeing this initiative ever since. Collaborating with 100 elephant conservation organizations globally, World Elephant Day has touched the lives of countless people worldwide. The widespread participation in this day underscores the deep concern and determination of individuals to contribute towards elephant conservation.

Joining Forces for Elephant Welfare

World Elephant Day provides a global stage for addressing the challenges threatening elephants. By joining hands under this banner, individuals and organizations come together to protect these majestic creatures. We can ensure that future generations continue to marvel at the beauty and significance of elephants while protecting their habitats and well-being via concerted effort.

India is committed to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027

Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Health & Family Welfare Minister, made the announcement to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis by 2027 during the launch of the second phase of the Annual Nationwide Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign. With a focal point on 81 districts spread across nine endemic states, including Assam and Uttar Pradesh, this second phase marks a significant step forward in the battle against the crippling disease.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Minister Mandaviya emphasized the comprehensive approach of “Whole of Government” and “Whole of Society” to combat Lymphatic Filariasis effectively. He stressed the necessity for a collaborative endeavor that encompasses not just the government but also every segment of society.

Medicine Consumption with Precision

Minister Mandaviya recommened the consumption of medicine diligently in order to ensure the MDA initiative’s effectiveness. He suggested that healthcare professionals should supervise the administration of medication. This strategy ensures proper dosage and adherence, maximising the treatment’s impact and hastening India’s journey towards filariasis-free status.

Localizing Awareness

To ensure that the initiative’s impact reaches far and wide, it’s crucial to conduct awareness campaigns at the local level – making sure that information about Lymphatic Filariasis and its prevention methods is spread within villages and panchayats. This localized strategy aims to create a shared understanding of the disease and inspire active engagement in its eradication.

A Dual Endeavor: Launching National Guidelines for Dengue and Chikungunya Management

The event witnessed not only a renewed commitment to Lymphatic Filariasis eradication but also a proactive step in combating other vector-borne diseases. Minister Mandaviya unveiled the 2023 National Guidelines for Clinical Management of Dengue and Chikungunya Fever. This dual focus on multiple disease control strategies showcases India’s comprehensive approach towards safeguarding public health.

1.5 Billion Dollar Earned By BCCI FROM 2017-2021

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has emerged as a financial powerhouse in the world of cricket, recording significant earnings and amassing substantial profits over a five-year period from 2017-18 to 2021-22.

In a glimpse into the financial details of the BCCI, it was revealed that the cricket governing body earned a surplus of approximately $1.5 billion during the five-year span leading up to the fiscal year 2021-22.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Recent Year’s Earnings and Expenditure Breakdown

The BCCI reported $919 million in revenue and $370 million in costs for the fiscal year ended March 2022. The resulting surplus for this year amounted to a noteworthy $549 million. The fiscal year 2021-22 was a notable milestone for the BCCI among the five years under consideration. The reported surplus of $549 million was the highest recorded during this period.

BCCI’s Influence in Global Cricket

The BCCI’s commanding financial prowess has positioned it as a key player in the global cricket landscape. With earnings reaching an impressive $3.3 billion over the five-year timeframe, coupled with expenditures of $1.8 billion, the BCCI’s dominance extends beyond the field, shaping the dynamics of international cricket.

Future Revenue Streams and Milestones

Looking ahead, the BCCI’s financial trajectory remains promising. The cricket board is projected to garner an approximate annual revenue of $230 million from 2024 to 2027. This significant sum amounts for 38.5 percent of the International Cricket Council’s annual earnings, confirming the BCCI’s financial significance on a global scale.

Record-Breaking Media Rights Deal

The BCCI’s financial achievements extend beyond the traditional realm of cricketing activities. In a landmark move, the board secured an unprecedented media rights deal for the Indian Premier League 20-20 tournament, fetching an astonishing $6.2 billion. This monumental deal highlights the immense commercial appeal of Indian cricket and its ability to captivate audiences on a grand scale.

Anticipated Windfall: Media Rights for International and Domestic Matches

Adding to its growing list of financial triumphs, the BCCI has recently initiated a tender process for the media rights of its international and domestic matches. This strategic move is expected to yield another substantial windfall, further solidifying the BCCI’s position as a financial powerhouse in the realm of cricket.

Finally, the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s incredible financial trajectory from 2017-18 to 2021-22 demonstrates its unrivalled financial intelligence and strategic prowess. As the BCCI continues to set new benchmarks in cricket’s financial landscape, its influence on the sport’s global dynamics remains undeniable.

About Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is the authorised body in charge of cricket in India. Its headquarters are in Churchgate, Mumbai, at the Cricket Centre. Recognized as the most affluent cricket regulatory body globally, the BCCI assumes diverse roles, encompassing the coordination and planning of matches for the nation’s cricket squads.

Established in December 1928, the BCCI operates as an independent and private entity. It operates autonomously, existing outside the jurisdiction of the National Sports Federation of India. The Government of India maintains minimal regulatory involvement with the BCCI, allowing the organization considerable autonomy in its operations.

Key Points for Competitive Examinations

• Current and 36th President of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI): Roger Binny

First Female Train Driver in India

In a field traditionally reserved for men, Surekha Shankar Yadav joined the Indian railway as a first lady loco pilot, shattering stereotypes and making history. Her journey as India’s first female train driver represents bravery, determination, and a steadfast commitment to break through barriers.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Early Life and Education

Birth date: 2^nd September 1965

Birth place: Satara, Maharashtra

Surekha Yadav pursued her initial schooling at Saint Paul Convent High School. After completing her school education, she undertook vocational training and earned a Diploma in Electrical Engineering from the Government Polytechnic at Karad, Maharashtra. Her aspirations for higher education shifted when she joined the Indian Railways.

Early Career of First Female Loco Pilot

Surekha Yadav’s journey began in 1987, when she was chosen by the Railway Recruitment Board in Mumbai. She joined the Central Railway as a trainee assistant driver in 1986, undergoing rigorous training at the Kalyan Training School for six months. In 1989, her hard work earned her the position of regular assistant driver.

From Goods to Greatness

Surekha’s dedication led her to steer various types of trains. She piloted her first local goods train, numbered L-50, where she oversaw engine conditions, signals and related tasks. Her determination propelled her through the ranks, and she became a full-fledged goods train driver in 1998. In 2010, she took on the challenging role of a train driver on the Western Ghat railway line.

 Landmark Achievements

Surekha’s legacy lives on as she drove an all-women crewed train from Mumbai to Lucknow in 2021. She continued to defy expectations by becoming the first woman to operate the semi-high-speed “Vande Bharat Express” in 2023.

Inspiration for gender equality

Surekha’s journey echoed a transformative shift towards gender equality in unconventional domains. Her triumph underscored the importance of equal opportunities, regardless of gender and inspired countless women to break barriers. Her devotion motivated aspiring female locomotive drivers, and by 2011, 50 women locomotive drivers had been inspired to join the ranks of suburban and cargo train operators.

Legacy of leadership

Surekha Yadav’s influence extended beyond her professional achievements. As a role model and advocate of gender equality, she demonstrated the potential for women in male-dominated sector.

List of Awards/ Honors presented to India’s First Lady Train Driver

Here is the list of awards/ honors presented to India’s first lady train driver, Surekha Yadav.

Number Of Elephants Goes Up By 346 From Last Count, Touches 6,395 In Karnataka

According to the Asian Elephant Population and Demography 2023 report, the state of Karnataka has seen a significant growth in elephant population. The number of elephants in Karnataka has surged from an estimated 6,049 in 2017 to an impressive 6,395, making it the highest elephant-populated region in the country. The report was introduced ahead of the approaching World Elephant Day on August 12, with the aim of raising awareness about the critical need to conserve and safeguard these animals.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Collaborative Census Effort

This census, conducted from May 17 to 19, involved neighbouring states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Goa. The aim of this census was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the elephant population and their distribution across the region.

A History of Fluctuations

The elephant population in Karnataka has experienced fluctuations over the past few years. In 2010, there were 5,740 elephants in the state, which increased to 6,072 in 2012. This positive trend, however, has taken a tiny dip, with the numbers falling to 6,049 in 2017. The recent report, however, brings encouraging news with a notable increase of 346 elephants. This achievement marks a cumulative rise of 655 elephants in the state since 2010.

Distribution and Density

• The synchronised census encompassed 23 forest divisions in Karnataka, providing important information about the distribution and density of the elephant population.
• The report reveals that the state boasts an average elephant density of 0.34 per square kilometer.
• Notably, the Bandipur Tiger Reserve leads the pack in terms of elephant density, with 1,116 elephants living at a density of 0.96 per square kilometre.
• The Nagarahole Tiger Reserve closely follows with 831 elephants and a density of 0.93.
• The (Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple) BRT Tiger Reserve, home to 619 elephants, maintains a density of 0.69, while the MM Hills Wildlife Sanctuary houses 706 elephants but has a lower density of 0.60.
• These variations in density highlight the diverse habitats that support Karnataka’s growing elephant population.

Expert Involvement and Census Scope

The elephant population estimation exercise was conducted with the technical expertise of Prof. R. Sukumar from the prestigious Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. More than 3,400 personnel from around the state participated in this exercise. Their collaborative efforts were critical in guaranteeing the accuracy and dependability of the population estimates.

Airtel Payments Bank Launched India’s 1st Eco-Friendly Debit Card

India’s first payment bank, Airtel Payment Bank also became the first Indian Bank to launch an eco-friendly debit card for its new and existing customers with a savings bank account. In contrast to standard PVC cards, the debit cards will be made of recycle-Poly Vinyl Chloride (r-PVC), a certified eco-friendly material. The introduction coincides with the Bank’s dedication to sustainability and its drive to advocate for environmentally conscious practices within the financial industry.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Environmental Impact

• Each production batch of 50,000 cards results in a 350 kg decrease in carbon emissions when compared to typical PVC cards commonly used in the market.
• The production of r-PVC cards will lead to a 43% reduction in hydrocarbon consumption, playing a role in curbing petroleum usage during the manufacturing process.
• With each batch of r-PVC cards contributing to the conservation of an 6.6 million litres of water.

About new Debit cards

Airtel Payments Bank debit card comes in two variants(under Classic variant)

i. Personalised Classic Card: Availed through the Airtel Thanks mobile application.
ii. Insta Classic Card: Availed at selected neighbourhood banking points (by the close of the current quarter).

Note: The cards also provide rewards such as up to INR 10,000 in e-commerce perks and complimentary One Dines experiences in major cities across India.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams: 

• Airtel Payment Bank  MD & Chief Executive Officer: Anubrata Biswas;
• Airtel Payment Bank  Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi;
• Airtel Payment Bank  Established: 2017.

SBI Life’s Appointment of Amit Jhingran as MD & CEO Receives IRDAI Approval

Amit Jhingran has been appointed as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SBI Life Insurance Company Limited by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). Amit Jhingran has over three decades of experience in the insurance sector and serves as the Assistant General Manager of the Hyderabad Circle. He started with SBI Life in 1991 as a probationary officer and has been with the company ever since. Amit Jhingran was also the CEO of SBI in Chicago.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

About the SBI Life Insurance Company Limited

SBI Life Insurance Company Limited is a prominent and reputable insurance company operating in India. Established to provide a range of insurance products and services, SBI Life is a joint venture between the State Bank of India (SBI) and BNP Paribas Cardif. With a strong foundation and backing from these reputable entities, SBI Life aims to secure the financial well-being of its customers and their families.

The company offers a diverse portfolio of insurance solutions, catering to various life stages and needs. These encompass term insurance, endowment plans, savings plans, retirement plans, and more. SBI Life is committed to providing financial security, savings, and investment possibilities that enable people to plan for a safe and prosperous future.

Driven by a commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation, SBI Life employs cutting-edge technology and customer-centric approaches to enhance its services. The company’s extensive network of branches and distribution channels ensures that its products and support are accessible to a wide range of customers across India.

SBI Life Insurance Company Limited embodies values of trust, transparency, and reliability, making it a preferred choice for individuals seeking comprehensive and dependable insurance solutions to safeguard their and their loved ones’ financial interests.

SBI Life Q1 profits

The company’s net profit increased 45 percent year on year in the June quarter. In Q1FY24, the company’s net profit was Rs 381 crore. Its net premium rose 19 per cent year-on-year from Rs 11,036 crore to Rs 13,104 crore. The insurer stated that it registered 18 per cent growth in individual new business premium at Rs 4,060 crore, while overall new business premium jumped 11 per cent to Rs 6,210 crore.

Current RBI Governor of India, Know His Name

An overview of Shaktikant Das’s role as RBI Governor

Shaktikant Das, the current RBI Governor, assumed the position of the 25^th Governor of RBI in December 2018. Shaktikant Das, a seasoned Indian Administrative Service (IAS) official, brought to his job a varied variety of administrative and economic experiences, making his tenure crucial for the Indian financial landscape.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Shaktikant Das: Governor of the Year 2023

Shaktikant Das was also honored with the title of ‘Governor of the Year’ for 2023 by Central Banking in London for his contribution to safeguarding the Indian economy amidst several global economic turmoils, and he has been acknowledged for his policy measures in dealing with inflation. Das became the second Central Bank Governor to receive the prize, following Raghuram Rajan, who received it in 2015.

Pivotal role

One of the defining aspects of Shaktikant Das’ tenure was his response to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the economy reeling from the pandemic’s effects, Shaktikant Das and the RBI took swift and comprehensive actions. To cushion the economic shock and ensure financial stability, these steps included enacting monetary policies, regulatory adjustments, and liquidity improvement programmes.

Technological advancements

Recognizing the evolving landscapes of the financial sector, Das emphasized the importance of technological integration. He actively promoted digital payments and explored avenues for the introduction of a central bank digital currency (CBDC). These efforts of Das aimed to modernise the financial system and enhanced financial inclusion for all segments of society.

Tehmasp Printer appointed as CEO for International Gemological Institute

International Gemological Institute (IGI), a Blackstone portfolio company, has appointed Tehmasp Printer as Global CEO of IGI, effective October 1, 2023.

He would replace current CEO Roland Lorie, who will step down after spending nearly five decades. Tehmasp Printer has more than 30 years of experience in managing and leading businesses. He has been with IGI for 24 years, most recently as Managing Director of IGI India.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Roland Lorie, current CEO, said: “Selecting Tehmasp as the new leader of IGI was effortless – he has been with IGI for more than two decades and knows the business inside and out. He brings a commitment to excellence and innovation that can help propel the company into its new chapter. On behalf of my family, we are incredibly proud of the stellar reputation, teams, and trust that we’ve built over the last 50 years. I feel it’s the perfect time to pass on the baton to new leadership, and my best wishes are with Tehmasp.”

Fifteen Eco-Parks constructed in five years by Coal/Lignite PSUs

The Minister of Coal, Pralhad Joshi informed in Lok Sabha, Coal/Lignite PSUs have established 15 Eco-parks during the last 5 years.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

No fund has been allocated by the Government for Eco-parks. It was developed by Coal/Lignite PSUs for recreational purposes of nearby localities and no revenue earned from these Eco-parks is spent on the development of the mining areas. Kenapara Eco-Park, SECL, Chhattisgarh is run and maintained by local SHGs to promote mine tourism.

 Eco-parks were developed by Coal/Lignite PSUs for recreational purpose of nearby localities and no revenue earned from these Eco-parks is spent on development of the mining areas. However, Kenapara Eco-Park, SECL, Chhattisgarh is run and maintained by local Self-Help Groups to promote mine tourism. These Self-Help Groups are also earning revenues from floating restaurant, pisciculture and boating facilities of the Kenapara Eco-park for their livelihood.

Reserve Bank of India keeps key interest rate unchanged for third time

According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Policy, released in August 2023, the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously decided to keep the repo rate unchanged at 6.5 percent.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Other Highlights:

The standing deposit facility (SDF) rate remains at 6.25%.

The marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 6.75%.

RBI has revised the CPI inflation target for the current fiscal to 5.4%.

Projected real GDP growth for 2023-24: 6.5%:

RBI said it will come out with a framework allowing borrowers to switch to fixed interest rate from floating interest rate. The move will provide relief to borrowers of home, auto and other loans. Reserve Bank Governor said, under the framework, to be put in place shortly, the lenders will have to clearly communicate with the borrowers about tenor and EMI. He said, the supervisory reviews undertaken by the Reserve Bank and the feedback and references from members of public have revealed several instances of unreasonable elongation of tenor of floating rate loans by lenders without proper consent and communication to the borrowers. 

India Defence Ministry to replace Microsoft OS with Maya

The Union Ministry of Defense has informed that the ministry would install a secure operating system (OS), indigenously developed, named Maya OS.

This OS would replace the existing OS, ‘Microsoft Windows’.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

About Maya OS:

It is based on open-source Ubuntu software. It would shield against cyber threats, offering a familiar interface while boosting security. It uses Chakravyuh, a protective feature inspired by ancient Indian defence tactics.