18 February 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 18 February 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 18 February 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 – 18 February 2023

World Pangolin Day 2023 observed on February 18^th

World Pangolin Day 2023: The third Saturday in February, which occurs on February 18 this year, is designated as World Pangolin Day. It is a day to remember and celebrate pangolins, raise awareness, and fight against global pangolin capture in Africa and Asia. This year’s Pangolin Day will be its 12th edition.  An estimated one million of these magnificent creatures have been and continue to be harvested from the wild in African and Asian nations to meet the enormous demand for their scale, skin, blood, and even foetuses, which are believed to have multiple purposes in fashion, traditional medicine, and cookery.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

World Pangolin Day 2023: Significance

World Pangolin Day gives us a chance to raise awareness about these remarkable animals and the dangers they face. By getting involved, we can help protect pangolins by donating to conservation efforts, learning more about their habitats, and advocating for better protection policies. Let’s use this World Pangolin Day as a way to come together in support of these amazing creatures!

What is a Pangolin?

The only member of the family Manidae and a member of the order Pholidota, the pangolin is a mammal.Pangolins are typically covered in tough scales made of keratin, which protect them from predators. They are found in tropical regions of Africa and Asia.

Pangolins are nocturnal animals that spend most of their time in trees, eating ants and termites. They have long tongues that they use to lick up their prey. They are also proficient swimmers. When threatened, pangolins can curl up into a tight ball, protecting their scales and vulnerable body parts.

Some facts about Pangolin:

• Pangolins are the only mammal to be covered in scales.
• To protect themselves, they curl into balls like hedgehogs.
• Their name comes from the Malay word ‘pengguling’ meaning ‘something that rolls up’.
• They are the most smuggled mammal in the world because people want their meat and scales.
• A pangolin’s tongue can be longer than its body when fully extended is can be 40 cm long!

Taliban claim attack on police in Pakistan’s Karachi, two dead

Taliban claim attack on police in Pakistan’s Karachi, two dead: In the midst of gunfire and grenade explosions that shook the centre of Karachi on Friday, militants launched a bold attack on the police headquarters of Pakistan’s largest city, according to officials. Two of the attackers were killed and at least one security official wounded, said Ghulam Nabi Memon, police chief for the southern Sindh province where Karachi is located.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

In a brief statement, the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. Karachi police chief Javed Alam Odho confirmed that an attack was ongoing and said police and paramilitary troops were responding. Earlier, TV footage showed officers surrounding the city’s central police station.

Residents said they also heard the sound of explosions amid the clashes. According to Pakistan’s Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan, the attack involved five to six militants who tried to break into the police headquarters while throwing hand grenades.

Sharjeel Memon, the Sindh province’s spokesman, said the attackers had been surrounded although shooting and fighting were still underway. Pakistan has witnessed a surge in militant attacks since November when Pakistani Taliban ended a monthslong cease-fire with the government.

Pakistan’s outlawed Tehrik-e-Taliban are a separate group but are allies of the Taliban in Afghanistan, who seized power there more than a year ago as US and NATO troops withdrew. The Taliban takeover in Afghanistan emboldened Pakistani militants, whose top leaders and fighters are hiding across the border.

Kollam district won Swaraj Trophy 2021-22 for Best District Panchayat

Swaraj Trophy 2021-22: The Kollam district panchayat has been awarded the Swaraj Trophy as the State’s top district panchayat for the financial year 2021–2022. The Kannur district panchayat stood second in the rankings. Kollam district, is one of 14 districts of the state of Kerala, India. The district is blessed with a long coastline, a significant Laccadive Sea seaport, and an inland lake, making it a representative sample of Kerala’s natural features. The district has many water bodies.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

Other winners list:

The Thiruvananthapuram Corporation bagged the trophy for the best corporation. The Mulanthuruthy grama panchayat won the award for the best grama panchayat in the State and Pappinissery and Marangattupilly grama panchayats won the second and third places. Perumpadappu received the prize for the best block panchayat, with Kodakara and Nedumangad taking second and third, respectively.

The finest municipality title went to Tirurangadi, with Wadakkanchery and Sulthan Bathery taking second and third, respectively. The Kallikkad grama panchayat in Thiruvananthapuram won the Mahatma award for the best implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). The Kollam Corporation won the Mahatma Ayyankali award for the implementation of the Ayyankali Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme (AUEGS). Wadakkanchery and Vaikom won the award for municipalities.

BEL to Manufacture Israel’s LORA Ballistic Missile for Indian Tri-Services.

BEL to Manufacture Israel’s LORA Ballistic Missile for Indian Tri-Services.: National Defense For the domestic production and supply of the Long-Range Artillery Weapon System (LORA) for the Indian Tri-services, PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This state-of-the-art strategic weapon system will be manufactured by BEL, as the prime contractor, based on the workshare arrangement with IAI.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

BEL to Manufacture Israel’s LORA Ballistic Missile for Indian Tri-Services- Key Points

• The MoU was signed at the ongoing Aero India 2023 and it is an outcome of the growing partnership between India and Israel in the field of high-technology strategic defense systems.
• It is in line with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative for major weapon systems.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed that India is set to spend 75% of defense capital outlay on procurement from domestic firms.
• The LORA system, created by IAI’s “MALAM” division, is a sea-to-ground and ground-to-ground weapon system that includes a long-range ballistic missile, a special launcher, a command-and-control system, and a ground/marine support system.The LORA system provides ballistic assault capabilities for multiple ranges with a precision level of 10 meters CEP (circular error probable).

Bharat Electronics Ltd About

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is an Indian Government-owned aerospace and defense electronics company. It primarily manufactures advanced electronic products for ground and aerospace applications. BEL is one of nine PSUs under the Ministry of Defence of India. It has been granted Navratna status by the Government of India.

Indian football legend Tulsidas Balaram passes away at 86

Indian football legend Tulsidas Balaram passes away at 86: One of the best players in the country and a part of the golden age of Indian football (1951–1962), Tulsidas Balaram passed dead. He was 86. He played in two Olympics in 1956 and 1960 and reached the pinnacle of Asian football when India, under the guidance of legendary coach Syed Abdul Rahim, won the Asian Games gold in Jakarta, beating South Korea 2-1 in 1962. Balaram scored 131 goals, including 14 for India, across seven seasons.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

Balaram earned a name for himself playing football for the East Bengal of Kolkata, where he also served as team captain in 1961–1962. He was one of the best players of the golden age of Indian football of the 1950s and 1960s. His playing position was as a center forward or as a left winger. In 1962, he received Arjuna Award from the Government of India. He received the “Banga Vibhushan” honour from the West Bengal government in 2013.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar Unveiled Bust of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Fiji

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar Unveiled Bust of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Fiji: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s bust was inaugurated in Suva’s India House by Foreign Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who also spoke with a sizable crowd of people from the diaspora. S. Jaishankar informed that he was privileged to unveil a bust of Sardar Patel at the India House in Suva, Fiji. All Indians are still inspired by his vision of a stronger, more united country.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

Addressing the Indian Diaspora in Fiji, Jaishankar stated that the Indian community has achieved its milestones and is today an enormous asset to India, the country where they live, and to the world.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar Unveiled Bust of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Fiji- Key Points

• In his speech to the locals in Suva, Fiji, Foreign Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that research into the Indo-Pacific region reveals Fiji to be a significant partner with whom India has a long-standing and established relationship.
• Jaishankar, who is in Fiji from 15th to 17th February attended the 12th World Hindi Conference and held bilateral meetings with Fiji’s leadership during his first day-long visit to Suva on February 16.
• Jaishankar visited Ratu Williame Katonivere, the President of Fiji, at the State House and jointly launched the Government of India-funded project for the solarization of the Pacific Heads of State Residence in Suva with the Fijian President.
• The project is the inaugural pilot of the Solar Head of State initiative launched by the Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF) in Fiji and funded by the India-UN Development Partnership Fund.
• He had meetings with the Prime Minister of Fiji Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka and senior members of the Fijian cabinet including the three Deputy Prime Ministers, Ministers for Home Affairs, Health, Education, Multi-ethnic Affairs, and Sugar.
• During the bilateral meeting with the PM, both leaders took stock of the bilateral relations and discussed ways and means to further strengthen the development partnership between India and Fiji in a number of fields, such as information technology, agriculture, health, and capacity building.
• EAM, Ministers of State V Muraleedharan, and MPs attending the 12th World Hindi Conference also visited the Siva Subramanya Kovil in Nadi.
• During his visit to Suva, EAM inaugurated the renovated Girmit Gallery in the Fiji Museum, which has been supported by the Government of India under bilateral grant-in-aid. The Gallery showcases the journey of the Girmits (Indian indentured laborers) in Fiji.
• A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on visa exemption for holders of diplomatic and official passports was signed by India and Fiji. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka witnessed the MoU exchange.

Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar to be new Vice Chief of Army

Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar to be new Vice Chief of Army: The current Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen B S Raju will assume command as Commander of the South Western Army, Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar has been chosen as the new Vice Chief of Army Staff. Lt Gen Kumar has been promoted as Army Commander and appointed as the new Vice Chief of Army Staff. He is serving as the Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Strategy) in the Army Headquarters at present.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

Lt Gen Kumar is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla. He was commissioned into 1 Assam Regiment in June 1985. He has commanded the 59 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion, an Infantry Brigade, and an Infantry Division on the Line of Control. Moreover, Lt Gen Kumar oversaw the incredibly active White Knight Corps. He has held the posts of Additional Director General Military Intelligence and Director General Military Intelligence at the Army headquarters.

Other Important Appointments

• The 14 Corps, situated in Leh and responsible for maintaining security along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in the Ladakh sector, has been given Lt Gen Rashim Bali as its commander.
• Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, the current commander of the 14 Corps, will become the new Chief of Staff of Udhampur headquartered Northern Command.
• Lt Gen NSR Subramani, currently the Chief of Staff at the headquarters of the Northern Command in Udhampur, has been promoted to the rank of Army Commander and appointed as the next Central Army Commander.

Notably: Lt Gen Kumar, Lt Gen Raju and Lt Gen Subramani will assume their new responsibilities on March 1.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

• Indian Army Headquarters: New Delhi;
• Indian Army Founded: 1 April 1895, India;
• General Manoj Pande is the current Chief of Army Staff

Spanish Government Passed Law Providing ‘Menstrual Leave’ First Time in Europe

Spanish Government Passed Law Providing ‘Menstrual Leave’ First Time in Europe: For the first time in any European nation, the Spanish government approved a historic law offering paid medical leave to women experiencing severe menstruation pain. These leave facilities are available in a handful of countries including Japan, Indonesia, and Zambia. Equality Minister Irene Montero informed that it is a historic day of progress in feminist rights.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

Equality Minister Irene Montero noted that the move would be a step towards addressing a health problem that has been largely swept under the carpet. Equality Minister Irene Montero informed that periods will no longer be taboo. No more going to work in pain, no more taking pills before arriving at work, and having to hide the fact that they are in pain that makes us unable to work.

Montero made that observation after the law’s initial cabinet approval in May 2022. The menstrual leave law was part of a broader mandate that also bolsters access to abortion services in public hospitals. The new legislation also abolishes a condition put in place by a previous conservative administration in 2015 and permits adolescents aged 16 and 17 to obtain an abortion without parental consent.

While the legislation passed smoothly under Spain’s left-wing government, it has created divisions among both politicians and unions. One of Spain’s largest unions, the CCOO, hailed the action as a significant “legislative advance” to acknowledge a problem that had previously been “ignored.” Meanwhile, the country’s other main union warned that it could stigmatize women in the workplace and indirectly hinder their “access to the labor market”. UGT’s stance has also been echoed by the opposition right-wing Popular Party (PP).

Nearly 500 employees sacked by Google parent Alphabet in India

Employees sacked by Google parent Alphabet in India: Alphabet, the parent firm of Google, has let go of over 500 workers in India who worked in the legal, sales, marketing, and other areas. According to sources speaking to Business Insider India, the fired workers were locked out of their work systems at about 9:20 p.m. on 16th Feb and informed by personal email.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

Job Cut by Google India: Key Points

• The job cuts at Google India were anticipated in light of the company’s January 12,000 layoffs, which represented 6% of its whole workforce.
• Although Google did not specifically state how many employees in India would be affected, approximately 500 of the positions Google said in January would be eliminated are in India.
• As part of their assistance strategies for the affected personnel, Google India reportedly claimed that severance benefits will be “personal and based on parameters like term of service” in an internal memo seen by Business Insider India.
• The remaining bonuses for 2022 as well as accrued but unused vacation time will also be given to the affected employees in addition to this.
• The business added that, among other things, it will help with healthcare insurance and job placement services.

Google joins Major Tech Companies in Job Cut

Google is the latest major tech company to announce job cuts. The other companies are Twitter, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and Meta, all of which have recently cut thousands of positions. Meanwhile, according to a layoff tracker, 379 IT businesses have already announced 1,07,930 job cuts for 2023.

Google no more the Company for Job Security

Employees at Google India are feeling uncertain since, according to sources speaking to Business Insider India, the business has warned them that non-performance will be dealt with. But more than that, staff members who talked with Business Insider India claimed that Google could have hired better to prevent this disaster in the first place.

UNDP’s Don’t Choose Extinction climate campaign wins two Anthem Awards

UNDP’s Don’t Choose Extinction climate campaign wins two Anthem Awards: A campaign ‘Don’t Choose Extinction’, launched by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) has won Gold and Silver in two different categories at the 2nd Annual Anthem Awards.

This was announced by The International Academy of Digital Arts & Science (IADAS), which was launched by the Webby Awards in 2021. The Awards are intended to celebrate mission-driven work and the social impact of individuals, corporations and organizations. Its goal is to define a new benchmark for impactful work that inspires others to take action in their communities.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

This campaign won Gold in Sustainability, Environment & Climate – Non-Profit Campaign Category, while Silver in Sustainability, Environment & Climate – Global Awareness Campaign Category.

About UNDP 

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries and territories, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. 

About The Anthem Awards  

Launched in 2021 by The Webby Awards, The Anthem Awards honors the purpose & mission-driven work of people, companies and organizations worldwide. By amplifying the voices that spark global change, we’re defining a new benchmark for impactful work that inspires others to take action in their own communities. The Anthem Awards honors work across seven core causes: Diversity; Equity & Inclusion; Education; Art & Culture; Health; Human & Civil Rights; Humanitarian Action & Services; Responsible Technology; and Sustainability, Environment & Climate. Founded in partnership with the Ad Council, Born This Way Foundation, Feeding America, Glaad, Mozilla, NAACP, NRDC, WWF, and XQ.  

About The Webby Awards

Hailed as the “Internet’s highest honor” by The New York Times, The Webby Awards is the leading international awards organization honoring excellence on the Internet, including Websites; Video; Advertising, Media & PR; Apps, Mobile, and Voice; Social; Podcasts; and Games. Established in 1996, The Webby Awards received more than 13,500 entries from all 50 states and 70 countries worldwide this year. The Webby Awards are presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS). Sponsors and Partners of The Webby Awards include Verizon, WP Engine, YouGov, Brandlive, Canva, NAACP, KPMG, Fast Company, Wall Street Journal, MediaPost, Podcast Movement, and AIGA. 

RBI makes changes in NEFT, RTGS for daily reporting of foreign remittances

RBI makes changes in NEFT, RTGS for daily reporting of foreign remittances: With the Home Ministry mandating SBI to report all details of overseas donors, including the purpose of remittances on a daily basis, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday made necessary changes in NEFT and RTGS systems for Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) related transactions.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

Under the FCRA, foreign contributions must be received only in the “FCRA account” of State Bank of India (SBI), New Delhi Main Branch (NDMB). The contributions to the FCRA account are received directly from foreign banks through SWIFT and from Indian intermediary banks through NEFT and RTGS systems.

In a circular, the RBI said in terms of extant requirements of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the donor details such as name, address, country of origin, amount, currency, and purpose of remittance are required to be captured in such transactions and SBI is required to report the same to MHA on daily basis. RBI has asked banks to incorporate necessary changes in their core banking/ middleware solutions to capture the requisite details while forwarding the foreign donations through NEFT and RTGS systems to SBI.

National level Hackathon ‘KAVACH-2023’ launched

National level Hackathon ‘KAVACH-2023’ launched: To advance India’s cyber-preparedness, KAVACH-2023, a national level hackathon was launched in New delhi to identify innovative ideas and technological solutions for addressing the cyber security and cybercrime challenges of the 21st century.

February 2023 Current Affairs Quiz

While addressing media, Dr. T G Sitharam, Chairman, All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), said that KAVACH-2023 is a unique kind of national hackathon jointly conducted by Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell, AICTE; Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D, MHA) and Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C, MHA) to identify innovative ideas and technological solutions for addressing the cyber security and cybercrime challenges of the 21st century faced by our Law Enforcement Agencies and common citizens. A 36-hour long event participated by youth from educational institutions and registered start-ups.

Chairman, AICTE: T G Sitharam