23 June 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 23 June 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 23 June 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 – 23 June 2023

Alibaba Named Eddie Wu As New CEO

Alibaba Group Holding, a Chinese e-commerce giant that has faced difficulty in regaining market share and growth following the Covid-19 outbreak, is changing leadership. Daniel Zhang, the chief executive who has been with the company for eight years, will be replaced by Joseph Tsai, the executive vice chairman, who will assume the role of chairman of the board. Eddie Wu, the chairman of Alibaba’s core Taobao and Tmall online commerce units, will take over as CEO of the company, which has a market capitalization of $240 billion.

Overview of the news

The unexpected departure of Daniel Zhang from Alibaba follows the company’s announcement of a restructuring plan aimed at enhancing growth and establishing independent leaders for various business sectors such as cloud computing, logistics, and international commerce. Zhang had recently described his plan for this reform. However, the date coincided with Alibaba reporting its third consecutive quarter of sales growth in the single digits. This fueled fears that a recovery in Chinese consumer spending might take longer than anticipated.

Zhang will retain his position as the head of Alibaba’s cloud business. He assumed leadership in 2015, having gained recognition as one of the key figures behind Alibaba’s “new retail” strategy, which aimed to merge online and physical retail and expand the company’s influence into various sectors including malls and supermarkets. As Alibaba’s growth soared, Zhang was appointed chairman a few years later, and the company even reached the status of being China’s most valuable corporation at one point.

In 2020, regulatory actions were taken against Jack Ma and his company, Ant Group Co., following disagreements with regulators. Subsequently, the Chinese government initiated a crackdown on the private technology sector, and Alibaba was accused of engaging in monopolistic practices. As a result, the company faced significant scrutiny and was eventually subjected to a record-breaking fine for the alleged violations.

About the Alibaba

Alibaba is a prominent Chinese multinational conglomerate specializing in e-commerce, technology, and various other sectors. Alibaba, founded in 1999 by Jack Ma and a group of entrepreneurs, has evolved to become one of the world’s largest and most prominent corporations.

The company’s operations include online marketplaces, cloud computing services, digital payment platforms, logistics and supply chain management, entertainment, and media ventures. Its flagship platforms, such as Taobao, Tmall, and Alibaba.com, facilitate online retail transactions between businesses and consumers. These platforms have played a significant role in shaping China’s e-commerce landscape and have gained international recognition as well.

Pakistan Bans Holi To Save Islamic Identity

Introduction

Pakistan has recently implemented a ban on the celebration of Holi and other Hindu festivals across educational institutions in the country. The decision was made to protect what the government considers to be the eroding Islamic identity of the nation. The ban was ordered by the Higher Education Commission in Islamabad in response to the viral spread of a video on social media showing students at an Islamabad institution celebrating Holi.

Video of Holi Celebration Sparks Concern

The video, captioned “Holi celebrations in Quaid-I-Azam University Islamabad, Pakistan. Biggest Holi celebration in Pakistan,” showcased hundreds of students dancing and enjoying the festival on the university campus. Mehran Students’ Council organised the event. The Higher Education Commission expressed its sadness at witnessing activities that it believes are disconnected from the country’s socio-cultural values and detrimental to its Islamic identity.

Concerns about Pakistan’s Image and Societal Values

The notice issued by the Higher Education Commission highlighted the concern surrounding the Holi celebration and its negative impact on Pakistan’s image. It emphasized the need for a measured approach to cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity that respects all faiths and creeds while maintaining the country’s identity. The commission expressed the importance of raising awareness among students about the ulterior motives of those who exploit them for personal gain, rather than promoting genuine critical thinking and inclusivity.

Prudent Distance and Focus on Academic Pursuits

The notice advised higher educational institutions to distance themselves from activities deemed incompatible with Pakistan’s identity. It urged universities to prioritise academic pursuits, intellectual discussions, and cognitive learning among students and professors. While acknowledging the value of extra-curricular activities and rational discourse, the commission urged a cautious approach to ensure that they align with the country’s societal values.

About Pakistan

• Shehbaz Sharif is the prime minister of Pakistan
• It is the world’s fifth-most populous country
• It is the world’s second-largest Muslim population, just behind Indonesia

International Widows’ Day 2023: Date, Theme, Significance and History

International Widows’ Day 2023

International Widows Day, commemorated on June 23, attempts to raise awareness about the difficult circumstances experienced by numerous widows, many of whom are impoverished. In addition to financial difficulties, widows worldwide encounter discrimination and are often denied their rightful inheritance after the death of their husbands. When they are responsible for sustaining their children, the road to self-sufficiency becomes even more difficult. As we approach International Widows Day 2023, it is critical to grasp the day’s historical context, meaning, and relevance.

International Widows Day 2023 Theme

The United Nations proposes new themes each year to raise attention to the issues that widows face in today’s global society. The reported subject for International Widows Day in 2023 is “Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality.” All official events arranged by the United Nations will revolve around this theme, aiming to highlight the role of innovative solutions and technological advancements in promoting gender equality.

International Widows Day Significance

International Widows Day not only raises awareness but also serves as a platform for advocating the daily challenges faced by widows. It emphasizes the significance of establishing new opportunities, policies, and support systems to ensure their survival. The day highlights the need for a secure environment for widows within the global society and emphasizes empowering women with the necessary resources to maintain their independence and self-sufficiency.

Observing this special day can involve participating in various campaigns, addressing the issue on a global scale, and increasing awareness among the general public. Individuals can contribute by donating or volunteering for initiatives that aim to improve the lives of widows.

International Widows Day History

The Loomba Foundation launched the first International Widows Day in 2005. The date of June 23 was chosen since it was the date on which the founder’s mother, Shrimati Pushpa Wati Loomba, became a widow in 1954. The foundation chose the same date to raise awareness about the condition of widows worldwide who face poverty and hardship.

This day brings attention to the social stigma and economic challenges faced by countless women after the loss of their spouses. However, it took the concerted efforts of The Loomba Foundation, leading a vigorous five-year campaign, to gain recognition from the United Nations General Assembly. In 2010, the United Nations officially adopted International Widows Day to elevate its significance on a global scale.

World’s Largest Ramayan Temple In Bihar To Be Completed By 2025

Introduction

The construction of the world’s largest temple, the Virat Ramayan temple, commenced on June 20 in Bihar’s east Champaran district. The temple, led by Acharya Kishor Kunal, Chairman of Shree Mahavir Asthan Nyas Samiti, is expected to dwarf the under-construction Ram Lala temple in Ayodhya.

Temple Specifications

• The Virat Ramayan temple will be 3.67 lakh square feet in size, with a 270-foot-tall main structure and a 198-foot-tall secondary structure.
• Additionally, there are four more structures designed with heights of 180 feet each.
• The temple itself will be 280 feet long and 540 feet wide, making it larger in size than the Ayodhya temple, which is 360 feet long and 235 feet wide.

Temple Complex

There will be 22 temples dedicated to Shaiva and Vaishnav gods and goddesses on the temple grounds. The site, encompassing 120 acres of land, will be developed as Janki Nagar, featuring an ashram, gurukul (educational institution), dharamshala (guesthouse), and other facilities.

Materials Used

The construction of the temple will involve the usage of 250 tons of Mahabalipuram granite. This granite will be utilized to create a Shivling (a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva) as well as a Sahastra Shivling (a thousand lingams), which has not been constructed in the country since the 8th century.

Important takeaways for competitive exams

• The estimated cost of the temple’s construction is ₹500 crore.
• ‘Ramayan temple’ in Bihar will be taller than current largest temple Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia which was built in the 12th-century
• It is a three-storeyed structure with a housing space for 20,000 people

Rajnath singh inaugurates integrated simulator complex ‘Dhruv’

Introduction

Mr. Raksha Mantri On 21 June, 2023, Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Integrated Simulator Complex (ISC) ‘Dhruv’ at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi. The ISC ‘Dhruv’ houses advanced, indigenous simulators designed to enhance practical training in the Indian Navy. This cutting-edge facility will help both Indian Navy troops and trainees from friendly nations by providing real-time experience in navigation, fleet operations, and naval tactics.

Cutting-Edge Simulators in ‘Dhruv’

The ISC ‘Dhruv’ features a range of modern simulators aimed at enhancing practical training for naval personnel. These simulators will enable trainees to gain hands-on expertise in various aspects of naval operations. The Multi-Station Handling Simulator (MSSHS), Air Direction and Helicopter Control Simulator (ADHCS), and Astronavigation Dome were among the simulators on display at the opening.

Advanced Ship Handling Simulators for Export

The ISC ‘Dhruv’ also boasts Ship Handling Simulators produced by (Applied Research International) ARI Pvt Ltd, New Delhi. These simulators have gained recognition on a global scale, as they have been exported to 18 countries. The export of these highly superior simulators not only indicates India’s self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) in military production, but also demonstrates the country’s future as a major participant in defence exports.

Astronavigation Dome: A First in the Indian Navy

The Astronavigation Dome, developed by Infovision Technologies Pvt Ltd, is a unique addition to the Indian Navy’s training infrastructure. This dome provides specialised instruction in astronavigation, an essential ability for naval personnel. Its introduction showcases the Indian Navy’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies and methodologies to strengthen its capabilities.

Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Export Potential

The development of these indigenous simulators within the ISC ‘Dhruv’ reflects the spirit of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative. These cutting-edge simulators, designed and manufactured within the country, not only meet the Indian Navy’s training needs but also hold tremendous potential for defense exports. ARI Pvt Ltd’s Ship Handling Simulators have already achieved substantial momentum in the international market, demonstrating India’s prowess in defence technology.

About defence ministry

• It is charged with coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions of the government relating directly to national security and the Indian Armed Forces.
• It establishes the policy framework for the Armed Forces to carry out their responsibilities in the context of national defence.
• Union minister of defence ministry is Rajnath Singh and it is headquartered in New Delhi.

About Applied Research International

• ARI is a global leader in the design and development of complex simulation systems for training, screening, feasibility research, and process development.
• CEO & Managing Director of ARI is Mr. Shravan Rewari.

Asia Cup 2023 Schedule, Date, Venue & Teams

Asia Cup 2023 Schedule, Date, Venue & Teams

The Asia Cup 2023 will be contested in Pakistan from August 31 to September 17, 2023. The competition will consist of 50-over ODI matches played at international quality grounds. The 2023 Edition will feature two groups, with two teams from each group qualifying for the Super Four stage. The top two teams from the Super Four stage will then face off in the final.

Schedule for the Asia Cup 2023

The following are the venues for the Asia Cup 2023

In 2023, Pakistan and Sri Lanka will host the Asia Cup cricket event. Keep an eye on this space for venue updates.

Asia Cup 2023 Groups

Board of Control for Cricket in India Secretary Jay Sah confirmed that India and Pakistan are in the same group for ODI Asia Cup 2023.

Group 1:

Group 2:

Eminent poet Acharya Gopi to be conferred with first prof. Jayashankar award

Eminent poet Acharya Gopi to be conferred with first Prof. Jayashankar Award

Acharya N. Gopi, a renowned poet, literary critic, and recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award, has been chosen as the recipient of the Prof. Kothapalli Jayashankar Award. Bharat Jagruthi, a cultural organisation and an extension of Bharat Rashtra Samithi, bestows this distinguished prize. According to Bharat Jagruthi, the award ceremony will take place on June 21 at the Telangana Saraswatha Parishath in Abids. The prize was established earlier this year to commemorate literary giants on an annual basis.

Acharya Gopi, a prolific writer, has written an astonishing 56 novels in a variety of subjects. His literary works include 26 poetry collections, 7 essay collections, 5 translations, and 3 research volumes. These writings have not only been translated into several Indian languages but also into foreign languages such as German, Persian, Russian, and others.

In addition to his literary contributions, Acharya Gopi has held significant academic positions. He served as the Vice-Chancellor of Telugu University and also acted as the in-charge Vice-Chancellor of Kakatiya and Dravida Universities in the past. Born on June 25, 1948, in Bhongir, a town in the old Nalgonda region, he attended Osmania University for his higher education in literature.

About Prof. Kothapalli Jayashankar

• Prof. Kothapalli Jayashankar, also known as Professor Jayashankar, was an eminent Indian academic and social activist. He was a key figure in the Telangana Movement, which sought to form a separate state for the region. Prof. Jayashankar actively advocated for Telangana’s statehood as early as 1952.
• One of his significant contributions was raising awareness about the socio-political issues faced by Telangana and advocating for its distinct identity. He shed light on the historical, cultural, and economic characteristics that distinguished Telangana from the rest of Andhra Pradesh, the bigger state to which it was formerly tied, through his vast research and writings.
• Prof. Jayashankar’s expertise and dedication made him a key figure in the Telangana Movement. He passionately advocated for the rights and aspirations of the people of Telangana, highlighting their unique linguistic and cultural heritage. His tireless efforts in articulating the grievances of the region helped galvanize public support and propel the movement forward.
• Apart from his involvement in the socio-political sphere, Prof. Jayashankar had an illustrious academic career. He served as the Vice-Chancellor of Kakatiya University, contributing to the development of higher education in the region. Despite his administrative duties, he remained an ardent activist, working tirelessly for the cause of the Separate Telangana Movement.
• Prof. Kothapalli Jayashankar’s contributions to the Telangana Movement and his dedication to the cause of a separate state made him a revered figure among the people of Telangana. His unwavering commitment to social justice and regional identity left a lasting impact on the state’s history.

Hasmukh Adhia Appointed Chairman, Gift City

Hasmukh Adhia, a senior retired bureaucrat and former Union Finance Secretary & Revenue Secretary, has been named as the Chairman of GIFT City Ltd. This organisation is in charge of the creation of Gujarat International Finance-Tec City in Gandhinagar, India’s first smart city. Hasmukh Adhia succeeds Sudhir Mankad, the former Gujarat chief secretary, as Chairman.

In addition to his role as Chairman of GIFT City, Hasmukh Adhia has been appointed as Director and Chairman of the boards of Gujarat Alkalies & Chemicals Ltd (GACL) and Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd (GMDC), both state public sector undertakings. According to regulatory filings, these appointments, which take effect immediately, are for non-executive chairman posts.

About the Hasmukh Adhia

Adhia, a Gujarat cadre IAS officer of the 1981 batch, currently serves as an advisor to the Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. He was a member of the panel created by the Gujarat government to recommend steps for the state’s post-Covid economic resurgence. Except for those in strategic sectors, the panel proposed divestment of state-owned enterprises (PSUs).

At present Adhia is a non-executive Chairman of Bank of Baroda, and also the Chancellor of Central University of Gujarat. He serves as a member of the Board of Governors of the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore. He also serves as Vice-President in Gujarat Energy Research and Management Institute (GERMI) and Pandit Deendayal Energy University, Gandhinagar.

About the GIFT City

• GIFT City, or Gujarat International Finance Tec-City, is a central business district under construction in Gandhinagar district in Gujarat, India. It is India’s first operational greenfield smart city and international financial services centre, which was pitched as a greenfield project by the Gujarat government.
• The name “GIFT” is an acronym that stands for “Gujarat International Finance Tec-City”. The word “Gujarat” refers to the state where the city is located, which is located in western India. The term “international” denotes that the city intends to be a worldwide centre for financial and business services, drawing enterprises and investors from all over the world. “Finance” highlights the primary focus of the development, which is to create a world-class financial center. “Tec-City” stands for “Technology-based SEZ” (Special Economic Zone).
• GIFT City is located on the banks of the Sabarmati River, between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. The city is spread over an area of 15.5 square kilometers and is divided into two zones: the International Financial Services Center (IFSC) and the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA).

Here are some of the key features of GIFT City

It is a greenfield smart city, built on the foundation of sustainability. It offers a number of tax and regulatory incentives to financial institutions. It has excellent connectivity to the rest of India. It is expected to become a major financial hub in India and a global player in the financial services industry.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams: 

• Gujarat Governor: Shri Acharya Dev Vrat;
• Gujarat CM: Shri Bhupendra Patel.

Petteri Orpo Elected As New PM Of Finland

Finland’s parliament elected conservative Petteri Orpo as prime minister at the head of a four-party coalition. Parliament voted in favor of Orpo, who won the April elections.

He was formally appointed as prime minister by President Sauli Niinisto. He took over from Sanna Marin, whose Social Democrats finished third behind Orpo’s National Coalition Party and the Finns Party. The new coalition is made up of the smaller Swedish People’s Party and Christian Democrats.

Retired Allahabad HC Judge Umesh Kumar Appointed Chairman Of DERC

Former Allahabad High Court judge Umesh Kumar was appointed the chairman of the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC), by the President of India.

President Droupadi Murmu has exercised the powers conferred by Section 45(b) of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, read with sub-section 2 of Section 84 of the Electricity Act, 2003.

He served as the justice of Allahabad High Court till July 2022.