12 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 12 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 12 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 – 12 August 2023
International Youth Day 2023: Date, Significance, and History
Date of Observance – International Youth Day 2023: Every year, on the 12th of August, the global community comes together to celebrate International Youth Day. This annual event is recognised by the United Nations (UN) as a dedicated day of awareness and action to address pressing challenges impacting the world’s youth population.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
Significance of International Youth Day
The significance of International Youth Day, observed annually on August 12, transcends mere symbolism. This event provides an opportunity to recognise and honour the innate qualities of youth, recognising their capacity to affect the fate of nations and the entire globe. Simultaneously, the day serves as a poignant reminder of the hurdles that young individuals face. It emphasizes concerted efforts to alleviate these challenges.
The contributions of young people resonate across diverse domains, from catalyzing community development to championing environmental preservation and actively participating in a spectrum of social projects. International Youth Day also casts a spotlight on the hardships experienced by youth across the globe. Many children lack access to fundamental education, grapple with hunger, and endure the shackles of poverty, thereby impeding their holistic growth.
In this context, securing a promising future for these budding individuals hinges on immediate action. International Youth Day extends a clarion call to individuals worldwide, urging them to unite under the banner of the United Nations and collaborate towards the attainment of its Sustainable Development Goals.
In conclusion, International Youth Day, commemorated each year on August 12th, is a tribute to worldwide devotion, highlighting both the youth’s untapped potential and the numerous obstacles they face. It exemplifies the unity required to surmount these challenges, fostering a world where the burgeoning generation can flourish and contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future.
Historical Origins of International Youth Day
The roots of International Youth Day can be traced back to 1965 when the United Nations General Assembly initiated a deliberate focus on the younger generation. By endorsing the Declaration on the Promotion among Youth of the Ideals of Peace, Mutual Respect, and Understanding between Peoples, the UN marked the inception of its commitment to empowering youth. This effort involved allocating time and resources to nurture emerging leaders and equip them to meet the evolving needs of the global community.
The pivotal moment arrived on December 17, 1999, when the UN General Assembly formally embraced a recommendation put forth by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth. This marked the birth of International Youth Day. The inaugural celebration took place on August 12, 2000, and since then, the day has been harnessed as a tool for education, youth engagement in politics, and effective resource management to tackle global challenges.
Renowned nuclear physicist Bikash Sinha passes away
Renowned nuclear physicist Bikash Sinha has passed away at the age of 78, was suffering from old age-related ailments. A recipient of Padma Shri in 2001 and Padma Bhusan in 2010, he was the former director of the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics and Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre. Sinha specialised in nuclear physics, high energy physics, Quark Gluon Plasma, and cosmology of the early cosmos. For the first time, he led an Indian team to engage in tests at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research in Geneva. Sinha had lived in England for around 12 years and after coming back to India he joined the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in 1976. In 1987 he was appointed the director of the Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre. He held the concurrent charge as director of the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics till 2009.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
Life, education and career
Bikash Sinha was born on 16 June 1945 in Kandi, Murshidabad. Sinha studied Physics for his bachelor’s degree at Presidency College, Kolkata from 1961 to 1964, graduating with high honors. He then proceeded to King’s College, Cambridge, for higher studies in his subject.[10] He was the recipient of S.N. Bose Birth Centenary Award of the Indian Science Congress Association in 1994. After returning from England, Sinha joined the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in Mumbai as Director of the Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre in 1976.
He was a fellow of the prestigious Indian National Science Academy as recognition of his outstanding research in Physics (1989). Sinha was also a Fellow of National Academy of Sciences, Allahabad (1993) and the Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore (2004).
Sinha was the chairman of board of governors, National Institute of Technology, Durgapur (NIT Duragpur). He was nominated as a member of the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister from 27 January 2005. He has been re-elected for the second time as a member of the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister from December 2009.
Canada starts accepting PTE scores for Student Direct Stream applications
In a significant development for international students aspiring to study in Canada, the country’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially sanctioned the use of Pearson’s PTE Academic test as an English language proficiency assessment.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
PTE Academic Gains Approval from IRCC: A Milestone in Language Proficiency Testing
The IRCC made a historic judgement earlier this year when it approved Pearson’s PTE Academic test as a credible measure of English language competency. This move acknowledges the rigorous standards and accuracy of the PTE Academic assessment, further enhancing the credibility and global recognition of this language proficiency test.
Students who have taken the PTE Academic test before August 10 are eligible to benefit from this new directive. As long as these scores are submitted within the stipulated expiry period set by the IRCC, they can be used for Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications.
The Scope of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and its Expansion
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a simplified study permit application method meant to speed up the visa application process for students from specific countries. This efficient process is available to students from Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam.
Prior to the inclusion of the PTE Academic test, IRCC exclusively accepted the CELPIP and IELTS General Training tests as proof of English proficiency for candidates applying under the economic class.
Eligibility Criteria for the Student Direct Stream (SDS)
To avail the benefits of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) application process, aspiring students need to fulfill certain prerequisites, which include:
- Possession of a college acceptance letter.
- Residence outside of Canada at the time of application.
- Evidence of payment of tuition fees for the first year of study.
- Possession of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth Canadian $10,000.
- Submission of a medical examination report.
- Furnishing English proficiency test results.
- Providing the latest educational transcripts.
PTE Academic’s Global Acceptance and Implications
PTE Academic is already accepted for all visa applications by the governments of the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, demonstrating its international recognition.
Furthermore, PTE Academic is accepted by a large number of educational institutions globally. It is recognised by all universities in Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland, as well as by 99 percent of universities in the United Kingdom. In Canada, PTE Academic holds acceptance from over 90 per cent of universities, reinforcing its status as a credible and valuable assessment tool for English language proficiency.
‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ Bike Rally Flagged-off On Independence Day 2023
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has flagged off the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ motorcycle rally at Pragati Maidan in Delhi. The ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign is set to take place nationally from August 13 to 15 as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) effort. The campaign’s goal is to encourage people to proudly display the national flag at their homes.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
After the flag-off, the bike rally will reach the India Gate circle. The rally will then move in a circle around the India Gate complex, crossing the Kartavya Path and will culminate at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium. AKAM is an ongoing celebration to commemorate 75 glorious years of a progressive independent India. This initiative by the Government of India aims to bring in focus on the freedom struggle, and the milestones this nation has achieved.
In this nationwide effort, an appeal is made to all Sikkim residents to participate in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign by raising the national flag at their homes, offices, and other locations from August 13 to 15.
About the “Har Ghar Tiranga” campaign
The “Har Ghar Tiranga” campaign is a part of the government’s efforts to promote nationalism and patriotism among the people of India. The campaign has been launched in all states and union territories of India. The government has also urged schools, colleges, and other educational institutions to participate in the campaign.
The “Har Ghar Tiranga” campaign is a good initiative to promote patriotism among the people of India. It is a simple way to show our love for our country and to celebrate our independence. I urge everyone to participate in the campaign and hoist the flag at their homes on Independence Day.
Gujarat launches ‘Sinh Suchna’ app for tracking lions
Introduction of ‘Sinh Suchna’ App:
To celebrate World Lion Day, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel of Gujarat introduced a new mobile application called ‘Sinh Suchna’. The event, hosted in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, is an important step forward in modern animal conservation, allowing both the state’s forest agency and the general people to efficiently monitor lion movements.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
Empowering Real-Time Tracking:
The ‘Sinh Suchna’ app empowers individuals to directly report lion sightings to the forest department. This innovative approach facilitates real-time tracking and swift conflict resolution. During the launch, CM Patel highlighted the app’s importance in bolstering public involvement in wildlife conservation.
Plans for a New Lion Safari Park:
In addition to the app, plans are underway for a new lion safari park near Naliya-Mandvi village in the Una taluka of the Gir-Somnath district. This effort intends to relieve pressure on the Gir National Park in Sasan-Gir, which has seen a surge in tourist numbers. The intended result is a positive impact on both the region’s ecology and its magnificent lion inhabitants.
Unveiling of ‘Lion Anthem’ and Books:
The event was also marked by the unveiling of a ‘Lion Anthem’ and the release of two books celebrating Gujarat’s natural heritage. These booklets, titled “The King of the Jungle – The Asiatic Lions of Gir” and “Hu Gujarat no Sinh,” pay homage to the state’s rich biodiversity.
Prime Minister Modi’s Support:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support on World Lion Day, underlining the significance of lion conservation and India’s pride in being home to the Asiatic Lions.
Gujarat’s Lion Population and ‘Project Lion’:
The lion population in Gujarat has now grown to 674, spanning an area of 30,000 square kilometers. Last year, Gir attracted around 800,000 tourists. CM Patel highlighted the Central government’s dedication to lion preservation through ‘Project Lion,’ which has been allocated a budget of Rs 2,900 crore. This ambitious project encompasses the establishment of a breeding center, an isolation facility, and enhanced medical care for lions. CCTV cameras, radio collars, and drones are among the advanced technical tools that will be used to aid in monitoring and conservation activities.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
- Gujarat Capital: Gandhinagar;
- Gujarat Chief minister: Bhupendrabhai Patel;
- Gujarat Governor: Acharya Devvrat.
Sebi halves listing timeline to 3 days post IPO closure
The Securities and Exchange Board of India reduced the timeline for listing of securities after the closing of an initial public offering to three days from the present requirement of six working days.
This will be an option for IPOs opening after September 1, 2023, and will be mandatory for public issues opening after December 1, 2023. The regulator said reduction in timelines for listing and trading of shares will benefit both issuers and investors.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
Issuers will have faster access to the capital raised thereby enhancing the ease of doing business, and the investors will have opportunity for having early credit and liquidity of their investments.
Sebi said the Registrar to an issue should undertake third-party verification of the applications by matching the PAN available in the demat account with the PAN available in the bank account of the applicant.
New Amravati Station Becomes Central Railway’s Third ‘Pink Station’
Central Railway has inaugurated the New Amravati station as the 1st “Pink Station” on the Bhusaval Division and the 3rd station on Central Railway to be fully managed by an all-women staff.
The examples are set by Matunga station in the Mumbai division and Ajni station in the Nagpur division.
Railway has a staff strength of 12 women employees including 4 Deputy Station Superintendents, 4 Pointswomen, 3 Railway Protection Personnel and 1 Ticket Booking Agent.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
Dynamic Operations and Dedicated Professionalism: The New Amravati Station’s All-Women Team
Amidst a daily influx of around 380 passengers and the constant movement of 10 trains, the New Amravati station emerges as a vibrant center of bustling activity. Handling the intricacies associated with overseeing a station of such scale, the all-women team at New Amravati showcases unwavering commitment and a commendable display of professionalism.
Central Railway’s Pioneering Legacy: Promoting Gender Equality and Historical Milestones
Central Railway has consistently led the way in ensuring equitable opportunities for its female workforce. It proudly holds the accolade of being the inaugural zone within the Indian Railways to establish an all-women managed station, with Matunga Station on the Mumbai Division being the first, succeeded by Ajni Station on the Nagpur Division.
Headquartered in Mumbai at the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Central Railway also boasts the historic achievement of operating India’s first passenger railway line, inaugurated on 16 April 1853, linking Mumbai to Thane.
India’s first AU bank to provide 24×7 video banking service.
AU Small Finance Bank Limited (AU Bank), has become the first financial services provider in India to launch a 24×7 live video banking service in August 2023.
Aims: To provide a virtual platform where customers can communicate with a video banker in real time via video calls, like video conferencing.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
Objectives: To extend the reach of banking services to areas with limited infrastructure and resources, offering a convenient and personalized banking experience.
Breaking Ground in Customer-Centric Services
AU Small Finance Bank has etched its name in history as the first financial services provider in India to present a 24×7 live video banking solution. Through this cutting-edge platform, customers gain unparalleled access to live video interactions with dedicated bankers at any hour, on any day. This leap in technology empowers not only tech-savvy millennials but also newcomers to banking, busy professionals, and senior citizens, delivering a personalized and hassle-free banking experience.
Air India gets a makeover with a new logo
Air India unveiled its mega brand makeover and new logo, which signifies “limitless possibilities” in August 2023.
AI’s new logo ‘The Vista’ includes a modern design with golden, red and purple colours.
It is inspired by the peak of the gold window frame, signifying limitless possibilities, progressiveness, and the airline’s bold, confident outlook for the future. It represents the spirit of a bold new India, marking a significant turning point in its Vihaan.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
What’s Air India’s new logo?
On Thursday, Air India unveiled its new brand identity and aircraft livery with a fresh colour palette – deep red, aubergine and gold with a chakra-inspired pattern and a new custom-made ‘Air India Sans’ font. Travellers will begin to see the new logo and design starting in December this year when the airline’s first Airbus 350 enters the fleet.
While red has been AI’s colour, aubergine is derived from Vistara, which is going to be absorbed into Air India.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un replaces its Chief of General Staff, Pak Su
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has replaced his military’s top general and called for increased weapons production, expansion of military drills, and preparations for the possibility of war, the country’s state media KCNA has reported.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
He set a target for the expansion of weapons production capacity. He has instructed the military to be prepared in case of war and also directed to conduct drills with country’s latest weapons and equipment. Pak Su Il served as the top commander of its conventional troops.
Russia launched its lunar lander after almost 5 decades
Russia launched its first lunar landing mission on August 11 2023 after almost 5 decades.
A Soyuz 2.1v rocket carrying the Luna-25 craft will blast off from the Vostochny cosmodrome targeted to the south polar region of the Moon.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
Aims: To study composition of the polar regolith, and to study the plasma and dust components of the lunar polar exosphere.
According to the Russia’s space chief Yuri Borisov the spacecraft is expected to reach the lunar world on Aug 21 2023.
Airtel Payments Bank Launched India’s 1st Eco-Friendly Debit Card
Airtel Payments Bank has become the first Indian bank to launch an eco-friendly debit card for its new and existing customers with a savings bank account in Aug 2023.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023
The debit cards will be made from certified eco-friendly r-PVC (recycled polyvinyl chloride) material, which is environmentally safe.
Producing the r-PVC cards will lead to a 43 percent reduction in hydrocarbon usage, effectively decreasing petroleum consumption during the manufacturing process.