21 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 21 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 21 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 – 21 August 2023

Russia’s Ambitions Luna-25 Mission Ends in Failure

Luna-25 Mission Ends in Failure

The Luna-25 spacecraft went out of control and crashed onto the Moon’s surface, delaying Russia’s much anticipated lunar expedition. The failure is a poignant reminder of the unpredictable challenges inherent in space exploration, emphasizing that even the most advanced technology is susceptible to failure. This article dives into the mission’s specifics, the consequences of its failure, and Russia’s unshakable dedication to lunar exploration.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

The Luna-25 Mission: A Vision of Lunar Exploration

The Luna-25 mission was an ambitious undertaking by Russia, aimed at landing a spacecraft on the Moon’s south pole. This region piqued scientists’ interest due to its potential to hold water ice, a valuable resource for future lunar exploration. Beyond its scientific objectives, the Luna-25 also served as a preliminary step towards more advanced lunar missions, setting the stage for future missions that would gather and return lunar soil samples to Earth.

Luna-25 Mission Crash and Investigation: Unraveling the Failure

Regrettably, the Luna-25 mission took an unexpected turn as the spacecraft lost control and crashed onto the lunar surface shortly after a critical maneuver. The precise reasons behind this failure remain shrouded in uncertainty, prompting Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos, to launch a comprehensive investigation. The incident underscores the intricate complexities of space exploration and highlights the need for meticulous planning and thorough risk assessment.

A Look Back: Russia’s Lunar Exploration History

The last successful landing of a Russian spacecraft on the Moon took place in 1976, indicating a significant gap in the country’s lunar exploration endeavours. The Luna-25’s failure brings this historical context into sharper focus, underscoring the formidable challenges that lunar missions entail. Despite this extended hiatus, Russia has exhibited resilience and determination in its pursuit of lunar exploration.

The Road Ahead: Continued Commitment to Lunar Exploration

Despite the disappointing outcome of the Luna-25 mission, Russia remains undeterred in its commitment to lunar exploration. The country’s space agency is poised to launch the Luna-26 and Luna-27 missions in the coming years. These missions are poised to leverage the lessons gleaned from the Luna-25’s failure and propel Russia’s lunar exploration program forward. This steadfast approach indicates Russia’s determination to learn from its mistakes and to ultimately achieve success in its lunar aspirations.

Conclusion: A Lesson in Perseverance

The Luna-25 mission’s failure serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent unpredictability of space exploration. As Russia grapples with the disappointment of this setback, it is also a testament to the spirit of resilience and determination that defines the field of space exploration. With a renewed commitment and a steadfast resolve, Russia is poised to rebound from this setback, draw valuable insights, and continue its journey towards unlocking the mysteries of the Moon.

ICC Unveils Male and Female Mascots For Cricket World Cup 2023

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has enthusiastically introduced a captivating pair of brand mascots for the upcoming World Cups. These mascots, unveiled at an event in Gurugram, India, in the presence of U19 World Cup Champions’ captains Yash Dhull and Shafali Verma, embody the unity and spirit that cricket promotes worldwide. The mascots, a male and a female, represent gender equality and diversity and come from the Crictoverse, a distant cricket paradise.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Notably: The male and female mascots from the Crictoverse symbolize unique traits that stand for gender equality and diversity. The ICC has also opened a name competition for the mascots, which will run until August 27 and will allow fans to leave their imprint on the World Cup.

ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Female Mascot 

The female character possesses a turbo-powered arm that hurls fireballs at incredible speeds. Her remarkable precision astonishes even the most daring batters. With unmatched reflexes, fierce flexibility, and unwavering determination, she embodies an exceptional fast bowling prowess. She stands ready to make an impression, wearing a belt decorated with six cricket orbs, each tactically prepared for game-changing tactics.

ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Male Mascot 

The male character emanates a captivating blend of icy coolness and explosive batting skills. Every shot he takes, whether it’s a cunning finesse or a powerful six, carries an electrifying force that captivates audiences. His electromagnetic bat and versatile array of shots amplify the excitement, igniting the field and thrilling the crowd with each stroke.

PR Seshadri appointed new MD & CEO of South Indian Bank

The Reserve Bank of India has accepted PR Seshadri’s appointment as Managing Director and CEO of South Indian Bank for a three-year term beginning October 1, 2023.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Professional Background

• PR Seshadri is an accomplished banker with experiences spanning multiple businesses, functional lines and geographies. He has significant experiences in enterprise level management and in the management of all key commercial banking business lines and he has substantial experience in successfully managing investors, boards and regulatory relationships in multiple geographies.
• PR Seshadri is a respected business leader with a proven track record of building and leading large teams to execute and deliver complex business objectives. He demonstrated his ability in creating new businesses as well as in problem solving. He is successful in scaling businesses – both existing and new – taking advantage of new technologies and new market opportunities.

Eductional Background

He holds Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the Delhi College of Engineering and a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore. PR Seshadri has served as, amongst other positions as, Managing Director & CEO of The Karur Vysya Bank Limited (KVB), Managing Director & Regional Sales and Distribution Head, Citibank N.A., Asia Pacific, Singapore, Managing Director & Regional Head of Lending, Businesses, Citibank N.A., Asia Pacific, Singapore, Managing Director CitiFinancial Consumer Finance India Limited (CCFIL), India, Marketing Director, Citibank N.A, India Branches, Head of Structured Finance & Managing Director, CFRSIL & Integration Manager – Associates India Limited, Head of Banking Collections, Citibank N.A, India, Head of Automobile Finance -Northern India, Head of Community Banking, Northern India, and Mortgage Business, Head – Southern India, Citi India.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams: 

• South Indian Bank Headquarters: Thrissur
• South Indian Bank Founded: 25 January 1929

World Athletics Championships 2023: Schedule, Venue, Team & Result

The World Athletics Championships 2023 is the Budapest, Hungary from 19 to 27 August. This is the first time that Hungary has hosted the event, which is the world’s most prestigious track and field competition. The championships will be held at the National Athletics Centre, which is located on Margaret Island in the heart of Budapest. The stadium has a capacity of 38,000 and has been renovated in recent years to meet the standards required for hosting a major international event.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Over 2,000 athletes from over 200 countries are expected to compete in the championships. The events will include track and field disciplines such as running, jumping, and throwing, as well as road running and race walking. The championships are expected to be a major sporting event for Hungary and Budapest. The city is already gearing up for the event, with new hotels and infrastructure being built to accommodate the influx of visitors. The 2023 World Athletics Championships are sure to be a spectacle, and will be a showcase for the best track and field athletes in the world.

World Athletics Championships 2023: Schedule

World Athletics Championships 2023, Day 1 – 19 August 2023

World Athletics Championships 2023, Day 2 – 20 August 2023

World Athletics Championships 2023, Day 3 – 21 August 2023

World Athletics Championships 2023, Day 4 – 22 August 2023

World Athletics Championships 2023, Day 5 – 23 August 2023

World Athletics Championships 2023, Day 6 – 24 August 2023

World Athletics Championships 2023, Day 7 – 25 August 2023

World Athletics Championships 2023, Day 8 – 26 August 2023

World Athletics Championships 2023, Day 9 – 27 August 2023

World Senior Citizen Day 2023: Date, Significance and History

Every year on August 21, World Senior Citizen Day is observed to raise awareness of the contributions of older individuals to society. In India, a senior citizen means any person who has attained the age of sixty years or above. In a more general sense, senior citizens are elderly people, especially those who have retired. This day is celebrated to recognise the wisdom, knowledge, and accomplishments of older individuals while raising awareness about the issues they face and advocating for their well-being.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

World Senior Citizen Day 2023: Significance

The significance of World Senior Citizen Day is twofold. First, it is a day to honor the contributions of senior citizens to society. Senior citizens have made significant contributions in all areas of life, from raising families and building businesses to serving in the military and leading governments. They have also passed on their wisdom and knowledge to younger generations, helping to shape the world we live in today.

Second, World Senior Citizen Day is a day to raise awareness about the issues faced by senior citizens. As the population ages, the number of senior citizens is increasing. This is putting a strain on resources, such as healthcare and housing. Senior citizens are also more likely to be victims of crime and abuse. World Senior Citizen Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about these issues and to advocate for policies that will improve the lives of senior citizens.

Here are some ways to celebrate World Senior Citizen Day:

• Visit a senior citizen center or nursing home and spend time with the residents.
• Volunteer your time to an organization that helps senior citizens.
• Donate to a charity that supports senior citizens.
• Learn more about the issues faced by senior citizens and advocate for policies that will improve their lives.

Here are some of the challenges faced by senior citizens:

• Healthcare: Senior citizens are more likely to have chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer. They are also more likely to need long-term care, such as nursing home care.
• Financial security: Many senior citizens have limited financial resources. They may have retired on a fixed income that is not enough to cover their expenses.
• Loneliness and isolation: As people age, they may lose friends and family members. They may also become more isolated from society.
• Ageism: Ageism is discrimination against people based on their age. Senior citizens may experience ageism in employment, housing, and healthcare.

World Senior Citizen Day 2023: History and Origin

The origins of World Senior Citizen Day can be traced back to the efforts of the former President of the United States, Ronald Reagan. In 1988, President Reagan issued a proclamation declaring August 21st as National Senior Citizens Day in the United States. The day was intended to honour the senior citizens in the country for their achievements and contributions, while also highlighting the importance of programs and policies that support their well-being.

Over time, the observance of World Senior Citizen Day extended beyond the United States, evolving into a global celebration. People around the world recognize the invaluable role that senior citizens play in society, from preserving cultural heritage to offering guidance to younger generations. This recognition led to the establishment of World Senior Citizen Day as an international observance.

Srinagar’s Tulip Garden Enters Record Books With 1.5mn Flowers

Nestled amidst the picturesque foothills of the Zabarwan range, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden has etched its name in the annals of the World Book of Records as Asia’s largest and most spectacular park of its kind. The garden, adorned with a enchanting variety of 1.5 million blooming flowers, stands as a living testament to the beauty and diversity of nature.

Santosh Shukla, President and CEO of World Book, awarded the prestigious certification to Fayaz Sheikh, Secretary of Floriculture, Gardens, and Parks.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

A Blossoming Marvel

With an enchanting collection of 68 distinctive tulip varieties, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is a captivating tapestry of colors and shapes. Each tulip variety presents a unique personality, painting the landscape with hues that range from the most delicate pastels to the most vibrant and striking shades. The garden’s expertly maintained collection exemplifies horticulturists’ and botanists’ arduous efforts to cultivate a dazzling array of nature’s beauties.

Celebrating a Visionary

The story of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is intertwined with the visionary aspirations of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad. In 2006, he conceptualized a haven of natural beauty that would showcase the vibrant and diverse flora of the region. Over the course of less than two years, the garden was methodically set out with perseverance and a strong appreciation for nature’s artistry. The endeavor brought together hundreds of dedicated laborers and gardeners who toiled passionately to transform Azad’s dream into a living reality.

A Symphony of Colors

As the garden’s collection unfolds across its sprawling landscape, visitors are treated to a symphony of colors that awaken the senses and touch the heart. From the tranquil whites and soft pinks that evoke a sense of serenity to the fiery reds and passionate purples that ignite the imagination, the garden offers an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary.

The total number of Jan Dhan accounts crossed the 50 crore mark.

Out of the total 50 crore accounts, 56 per cent of accounts belong to women and 67 per cent of accounts have been opened in Rural and Semi-urban areas.

The total deposits in these accounts are above Rs 2.03 lakh crore. Around 34 crore RuPay cards have been issued with these accounts free of cost. The average balance in Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) accounts is Rs 4,076. More than 5.5 crore of these accounts received Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana:

It was launched on 28th August 2014. It was launched to provide universal access to banking facilities to people. It is also known as National Mission for Financial Inclusion.

Under this scheme, Rupay Debit card and Accident Insurance Cover of Rs.1 lakh (enhanced to Rs2 lakhs to new PMJDY accounts opened after 28.8.2018) is provided to account holders. An overdraft facility of up to Rs 10,000 is provided to eligible account holders.

World Mosquito Day 2023: 20 August

Every year on 20 August, World Mosquito Day is observed. It is observed to commemorate the discovery made by Sir Ronald Ross in 1897. In 1897, Sir Ronald Ross discovered that the malaria parasite is transmitted to humans by Anopheles mosquitoes.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

World Mosquito Day is organized annually by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Today, mosquito-borne diseases kill more than one million people and infect 700 million people each year, which is about one in ten people. In 2023, more than three million dengue cases and more than 1,500 dengue-related deaths have been reported so far globally.

Argentina, Peru, and Bangladesh have experienced the largest outbreaks of dengue in their history, while Paraguay has seen a sharp rise in chikungunya cases.

Moody’s retains India’s rating at Baa3.

Rating agency Moody’s has affirmed the Baa3 rating on India and has maintained a ‘stable’ outlook on the Indian economy.

On August 18, Moody’s said in a statement, India’s long-term local and foreign-currency issued ratings and local-currency senior unsecured ratings remain at Baa3, while other short-term local-currency ratings are at P-3. India’s economy has the potential to grow rapidly by international standards, although potential growth has moderated over the last 7-10 years.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the Indian economy is expected to grow at a rate of 6.5% in the financial year 2023-24. According to official data shared by the National Statistical Office, India’s gross domestic product or GDP grew by 6.1% in the fourth quarter of the financial year 2022-23, as against a growth of 4.4% in the previous October-December quarter.

In the fiscal year 2022-23, the economy grew at 7.2%, higher than the central bank’s estimate of 7%. However, the pace of growth was slower than the 9.1% recorded in FY2012. Moody’s said the country’s financial sector continues to strengthen, with economic and contingent liability risks significantly reduced, which had previously been a downgrade pressure.

Priya Malik wins gold at U20 World Wrestling Championships in Jordan

Indian wrestler Priya Malik achieved a remarkable feat by bagging the gold medal at the ongoing U20 World Wrestling Championships in Jordan.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

An Overview of the News

The win makes Priya Malik only the second Indian woman to earn a gold medal in this prestigious competition. Competing in the 76 kg category, Priya showed her prowess by defeating Germany’s Laura Kuehn with a decisive score of 5-0 in the gold medal match.

Her achievement is particularly significant as she joins Antim Panghal, who had previously won a gold medal in the same competition. Priya Malik’s success has contributed to India’s outstanding performance at the U20 World Wrestling Championships under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).

This win is the second time that India has earned two gold medals in the same championship. The last time this happened was in 2001.

Bronze medal of athlete Arju

Along with Priya’s win, another Indian wrestler named Arju, who is part of the Khelo India initiative, showcased her skills in the 68 kg category. Arju’s achievement includes winning the bronze medal after defeating Turkey’s Elif Kurt in the bronze medal match.

Impressive medal tally for India

The country’s medal tally totaled twelve medals: four gold, two silver, and six bronze.

List of Indian medal winners in U20 World Wrestling Championships 2023:

Gold Medals:

• Mohit Kumar – Achieved gold in Men’s freestyle 61kg category.
• Priya Malik – Secured gold in the Women’s 76kg category.
• Antim Panghal – Earned gold in Women’s 53kg category.
• Savita – Clinched gold in the Women’s 62kg category.

Silver Medals:

• Sagar Jaglan – Attained silver in the Men’s freestyle 79kg category.
• Antim – Secured silver in Women’s 65kg category.

Bronze Medals:

• Jaideep – secured a bronze medal in the Men’s freestyle 74kg category.
• Deepak Chahal – Earned a bronze medal in the Men’s freestyle 97kg category.
• Rajat Ruhal – Achieved a bronze medal in Men’s freestyle 125kg category.
• Arju – Clinched a bronze medal in the Women’s 68kg category.
• Reena – Attained a bronze medal in the Women’s 57kg category.
• Harshita Mor – secured a bronze medal in the Women’s 72kg category.

Mohit Kumar, representing India, emerged victorious in the men’s 61 kg freestyle category

An Overview of the News

Defeated Eldar Akhmadudinov of Russia by a score of 9-8 in a tight final match. The Championship was organized in Amman City, Jordan.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Fourth Indian Junior World Champion:

Mohit Kumar joins the ranks of Indian Junior World Champions. He is the fourth Indian freestyle wrestler to receive this honor after Palwinder Cheema, Ramesh Kumar (2001) and Deepak Punia (2019).

Other Medal Winners:

Jaideep won the bronze medal in the 74 kg category, defeating Zakshilik Ruslanovich Batashov of Kyrgyzstan in the decider. Sagar Jaglan won the silver medal in the freestyle 79 kg category. Deepak Chahal earned a bronze medal in the freestyle 97 kg category.

Trinidad And Tobago inks pact for sharing Indian Technology Stack

India and Trinidad and Tobago have recently entered into a significant partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to share the renowned INDIA STACK technology.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

This collection of open APIs and digital public goods, pioneered by India, is designed to enhance identity, data, and payment services on a large scale.

This move reflects India’s commitment to aiding the digital transformation of nations through collaboration and technology sharing.

Modi Cabinet approves ‘PM-eBus Sewa’ for augmenting city bus operations

The union cabinet approved ‘PM-eBus Sewa’ for augmenting city bus operations under which 10,000 e-buses will be deployed across cities in the country.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

Aim: To improve public transport in cities and is also in line with India’s objectives concerning climate change.

Rs 57,613 crores will be spent on this project and around 10,000 new electric buses will be provided across the country. Under this scheme, priority will be given to cities not having organized bus services.

Matti banana variety granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag

The Matti banana variety, native to Kanniyakumari district was recently granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 2023

There are six known types of the Matti banana and they are indigenous to Kanniyakumari. They are known as ‘Baby Banana’ which flourishes mainly in Kalkulam and Vilavancode taluks.

Its low total soluble solids content (TSSC) recommends it as a baby food. This GI tag is valid for 10 years following which it can be renewed.