5 October 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 5 October 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.

India Participates In The 5th Meeting Of Moscow Format

In a significant diplomatic gathering held in the Russian City of Kazan, representatives from various countries convened for the fifth meeting of the Moscow Format Consultation on Afghanistan.

The primary focus of this high-level meeting was to discuss the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, with an emphasis on regional security and the integration of Afghanistan into border regional economic processes.

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was a collective call on the Taliban to establish a government system that is “truly inclusive” and represents the interests of all key ethnopolitical groups within the country. Additionally, the participants urged the Taliban to intensify their efforts in counter-terrorism and anti-drug activities.

Jammu And Kashmir’s Renowned Pashmina Craft Receives GI Tag

Basohli Pashmina, an age-old traditional craft originating from the picturesque district of Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir, has recently earned the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition not only celebrates the exceptional craftsmanship of the artisans but also protects the authenticity and uniqueness of this artisanal heritage.

A Legacy of Softness and Finesse

Basohli Pashmina is renowned for its exceptional softness, fineness, and feather-like weight. Crafted by skilled artisans using traditional hand-spinning techniques, this exquisite fabric has been a symbol of luxury and elegance for over a century. Its hallmark is its remarkable ability to provide warmth without adding bulk, making it an ideal choice for cold climates and discerning fashion enthusiasts.

Exceptional Qualities of Basohli Pashmina

Insulating Properties: Basohli Pashmina is prized for its remarkable insulating properties. Despite its lightweight nature, it provides unparalleled warmth, making it the perfect companion for chilly winters.

Extended Life: The durability of Basohli Pashmina is legendary. With proper care, these hand-spun creations can last for generations, becoming cherished heirlooms that tell stories of craftsmanship and tradition.

Uniqueness: Every piece of Basohli Pashmina is unique, bearing the signature of the artisan who crafted it. This uniqueness adds to its allure and makes it a valuable addition to any wardrobe.

A Range of Pashmina Products

While Basohli Pashmina shawls are the most renowned products, this craft extends its charm to a variety of items, including:

Shawls for Both Men and Women: Basohli Pashmina shawls are not limited to any gender; they are a symbol of timeless elegance for both men and women.

Mufflers: Perfect for adding a touch of sophistication and warmth to any attire, Basohli Pashmina mufflers are versatile and stylish.

Blankets: The insulating properties of Basohli Pashmina are put to excellent use in blankets, offering a cozy cocoon during cold nights.

Basketry: Some artisans have extended their creativity to craft unique baskets using Basohli Pashmina, showcasing the versatility of this craft beyond clothing.

Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: A Testament to Authenticity

The Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a coveted recognition that establishes the origin, uniqueness, and authenticity of a product from a specific geographical area. In the case of Basohli Pashmina, this GI tag is not just a symbol; it’s a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of the artisans who have honed their skills through generations.

Collaborative Milestone Achievement

The Department of Industries and Commerce, in collaboration with NABARD Jammu and Human Welfare Association, Varanasi, played a pivotal role in securing the GI tag for Basohli Pashmina. This achievement was the result of concerted efforts to preserve and promote this craft, recognizing its cultural significance and economic potential.

J&K Lt Governor Flags Off CRPF Women Bike Expedition ‘Yashasvini’ From Srinagar

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) kick-started an all-female bikers’ expedition rally named ‘Yashasvini‘ from Srinagar to Gujarat on Tuesday. The rally, an ode to women empowerment, was flagged off from the iconic Ghanta Ghar near the city center of Lal Chowk in Srinagar.

This all-female cross-country bike rally is not just an ordinary road trip; it’s a testament to determination and strength. Covering a staggering distance of 2134 kilometers, the rally will traverse through 40 districts, spanning across 15 states and Union Territories.

During this incredible journey, the three teams from Srinagar, Shillong, and Kanyakumari will engage with various target groups as part of the “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” initiative. They will interact with school children and college girls, women self-help groups, cadets of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and anganwadi workers to inspire and empower women across diverse age groups and backgrounds.

World Bank Retains India’s FY24 GDP Growth at 6.3% Amidst Challenges

Despite substantial external challenges, India’s economy remains robust, prompting the World Bank to maintain its growth forecast for the fiscal year 2023-24 at 6.3%. This decision reflects India’s remarkable resilience within a demanding global environment.

Pillars of India’s Economic Strength

India’s economic resilience is underpinned by key factors, including strong domestic demand, significant public infrastructure investments, and a strengthening financial sector. Notably, bank credit growth has surged to 15.8% in the first quarter of FY23/24, indicating a healthy financial environment.

Global Challenges and Economic Outlook

India does face challenges due to ongoing global headwinds, including sluggish demand, elevated interest rates, and geopolitical tensions. The World Bank anticipates these challenges to persist and potentially intensify due to factors such as high global interest rates, geopolitical conflicts, and subdued global demand. Consequently, global economic growth is expected to slow down over the medium term.

Strategies for Future Growth

Auguste Tano Kouame, the World Bank’s Country Director in India, emphasized the need for stimulating private investments through public spending. Creating favorable conditions for India to leverage global opportunities is crucial for achieving higher growth in the future.

Inflation Challenges and Expectations

Rising inflation, primarily attributed to adverse weather conditions, has posed challenges. Food prices, including essentials like wheat and rice, surged, leading to a spike in headline inflation, reaching 7.8% in July. The World Bank expects inflation to gradually decrease as food prices normalize and government measures enhance the supply of essential commodities. This normalization is expected to support private investment conditions.

Positive Outlook for Foreign Direct Investment

The report highlighted a positive outlook for foreign direct investment in India. As global value chains continue to rebalance, India is likely to experience an expansion in foreign direct investment, further strengthening its economic landscape.

IAF To Stop Flying MiG-21 By 2025: Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari

Amidst its ongoing efforts to modernize and replace its aging Russian-origin aircraft, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced plans to retire its iconic MiG-21 fighter jets and replace them with the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A.

The Air Chief Marshal confirmed that the MiG-21 fighter aircraft would cease operations by 2025, with the LCA Mark 1A being the replacement of choice. The MiG-21 has been a stalwart of the Indian Air Force for over six decades.

During the press conference, it was announced that the legendary MiG-21 would participate in what might be its final flypast anywhere in the world. The aircraft has played a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s airspace and has been instrumental in various missions and operations.

World Animal Welfare Day 2023: Theme, History, and Significance

World Animal Day, also known as World Animal Welfare Day, is a global initiative celebrated annually on October 4th. This day serves as an International Day of Action, advocating for the rights and welfare of animals. The choice of this date coincides with the feast day of Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. This event unites animal lovers worldwide, raising awareness and fostering a sense of responsibility towards the well-being of animals.

Theme for World Animal Day 2023: “Great or Small, Love Them All”

The theme for World Animal Day 2023, “Great or Small, Love Them All,” emphasizes the importance of acknowledging animals as sentient beings. It underscores the need to elevate global animal care standards and advocates for animal rights universally.

History of World Animal Day

The concept of World Animal Day was initiated by Heinrich Zimmerman, a prominent writer and publisher, in 1925. The inaugural celebration took place in Berlin, Germany, drawing a significant crowd of over 5,000 attendees. In 1931, during the International Animal Protection Congress in Florence, Italy, October 4th was officially declared as World Animal Day. This historical decision marked the global recognition of this event, emphasizing its significance in animal welfare advocacy.

Significance of World Animal Day 2023

1. Global Participation: World Animal Day brings together passionate animal lovers from various corners of the world. People engage in diverse activities to promote animal protection and conservation efforts.

2. Awareness and Education: The day serves as a platform to educate individuals about the need to improve animal treatment and welfare standards globally. It fosters awareness against animal cruelty, neglect, and unfair treatment, encouraging informed action.

3. Advocacy Against Animal Cruelty: World Animal Day empowers individuals to advocate against animal cruelty and injustice. It inspires collective action, reminding us of the power of unity in protecting animals from harm.

4. Celebrating Positive Impact: It’s a celebration of the positive impact individuals can make. By joining forces, people can commit to safeguarding animals, ensuring their well-being for future generations.

5. Preserving Animals for the Future: World Animal Day serves as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to protect and care for animals. By preserving their habitats, advocating for their rights, and ensuring ethical treatment, we contribute to a better world for animals and humans alike.

India And Bangladesh Annual Joint Military Exercise “SAMPRITI” Begins

India and Bangladesh commenced the 11th edition of their annual joint military exercise, SAMPRITI, in Umroi, Meghalaya. SAMPRITI-XI involves the participation of 170 personnel from the Bangladesh contingent, led by Brigadier General Mohammed Mafizul Islam Rashed, Commander of the 52 Bangladesh Infantry Brigade.

Since its inception in Jorhat, Assam, in 2009, SAMPRITI has successfully conducted ten editions until 2022. SAMPRITI-XI, spanning 14 days, engages approximately 350 personnel from both sides, emphasizing the significance of enhancing interoperability, sharing tactical drills, and promoting best practices.

The history of SAMPRITI dates back to 2009, when it was first established as a platform for joint military exercises between India and Bangladesh. Over the past decade, this initiative has witnessed substantial growth, becoming a symbol of the strong defence ties between the two nations.

PayU Elevates Anirban Mukherjee As Global CEO

Anirban Mukherjee, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PayU India, has been promoted to the role of global CEO of PayU. Anirban Mukherjee will be taking over from Laurent Le Moal, who has decided to step back from the day-to-day operational management of the business. However, Le Moal will continue to be involved with Prosus and PayU in an advisory capacity.

In his new role as Global CEO, Anirban Mukherjee will be entrusted with the overall business operations of PayU on a global scale. His reporting line will directly lead to Ervin Tu, the interim CEO of Prosus and Naspers, the parent company of PayU. This move signifies a pivotal moment in PayU’s journey as it gears up to shape the future of the global digital payments industry.

PayU India claims to serve over 450,000 merchants, work with more than 70 large banks through its paytech platform called Wibmo and provide credit facilities to over 2 million customers in India. The company’s business in India continues to grow and it plays a vital role in the country’s dynamic fintech sector.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Inaugurates Tourist Facilities in Nathdwara

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated several key projects in Nathdwara, Rajasthan, which included the ‘tourist facilities at Nathdwara.’ These projects were funded by the Ministry of Tourism as part of the Krishna circuit of the Swadesh Darshan scheme.

Significant Funding Allocated:

The Ministry of Tourism allocated a substantial budget of Rs. 23.59 Crore for the development of tourism facilities in Nathdwara. Notably, a tourism interpretation cum cultural center was developed at a cost of Rs. 13.43 Crore.

Interpretation Center Highlights:

The interpretation center is a standout feature of the project. It serves as an informative hub about Shrinathji (Lord Krishna) and Shri Vallabhacharyaji, the revered devotee and founder of Pushtimarg, a major branch of the Vaishnava sect. At this center, tourists can delve into various aspects of Shrinathji’s life, including his journey from Goverdhan to Nathdwara, divine acts, worship rituals, adornment, appearances, festivals, and related customs. High-quality graphics and visual media enhance the learning experience.

Comprehensive Development:

The Nathdwara project encompasses more than just the interpretation center. It includes the development of parking facilities, landscaping, and last-mile connectivity to enhance the overall experience for tourists and pilgrims visiting this sacred place.

Expansion of the Tourism Circuit:

In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that the facilities developed at Nathdwara are part of an extensive tourism circuit. This circuit includes Govind ji mandir in Jaipur, Khatushyam mandir in Sikar, and Nathdwara in Rajsamand. This initiative is expected to significantly elevate Rajasthan’s pride and boost the state’s tourism industry.

ICC Names Sachin Tendulkar As ‘Global Ambassador’ for ODI World Cup 2023

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made an exciting announcement on Tuesday, designating the legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar as the ‘Global Ambassador‘ for the highly anticipated Cricket World Cup 2023. This prestigious event is scheduled to kick off tomorrow in the vibrant city of Ahmedabad, India.

A Living Legend Takes the Center Stage

Sachin Tendulkar, who has etched his name into the annals of cricket history, holds the record for participating in six 50-over World Cups. His association with this global cricketing spectacle goes back decades, from being a ball boy in 1987 to donning the Indian jersey in numerous editions. Sachin’s legacy and his passion for the game make him the perfect choice to unveil the World Cup trophy before the inaugural match.

Opening the Tournament in Style

The Cricket World Cup 2023 will officially commence with a grand ceremony before the first match between England and New Zealand. Sachin Tendulkar’s presence on this occasion will undoubtedly add a touch of cricketing magic, marking the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling tournament.

A Star-Studded Ambassadorial Lineup

In addition to Sachin Tendulkar, the ICC has assembled an impressive group of cricketing legends to serve as ambassadors for the World Cup 2023. This eclectic mix includes West Indies’ icon Vivian Richards, South Africa’s cricketing maestro AB de Villiers, England’s World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan, Australia’s formidable Aaron Finch, Sri Lanka’s spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan, New Zealand’s stalwart Ross Taylor, India’s charismatic Suresh Raina, former captain Mithali Raj, and Pakistan’s versatile all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez.

The Countdown Begins

The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is all set to kick off on October 5, with defending champions England facing off against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Over the course of the tournament, 48 matches will be played across 10 venues, building up to the grand finale on November 19 in the world’s largest cricket stadium. As the cricketing world converges in India for this spectacle, fans can’t wait to witness the magic unfold on the field. Sachin Tendulkar’s role as the ‘Global Ambassador’ will undoubtedly add to the fervor and excitement surrounding this prestigious event.

ICC Names Sachin Tendulkar As ‘Global Ambassador’ For ODI World Cup 2023

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made an exciting announcement on Tuesday, designating the legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar as the ‘Global Ambassador‘ for the highly anticipated Cricket World Cup 2023. This prestigious event is scheduled to kick off tomorrow in the vibrant city of Ahmedabad, India.

Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for participating in six 50-over World Cups. His association with this global cricketing spectacle goes back decades, from being a ball boy in 1987 to donning the Indian jersey in numerous editions. Sachin’s legacy and his passion for the game make him the perfect choice to unveil the World Cup trophy before the inaugural match.

The Cricket World Cup 2023 will officially commence with a grand ceremony before the first match between England and New Zealand. Sachin Tendulkar’s presence on this occasion will undoubtedly add a touch of cricketing magic, marking the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling tournament.

IAF To Stop Flying MiG-21 By 2025: Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari

Amidst its ongoing efforts to modernize and replace its aging Russian-origin aircraft, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced plans to retire its iconic MiG-21 fighter jets and replace them with the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A. Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari made this significant revelation during a press conference held in Delhi ahead of the Air Force Day celebrations scheduled for October 8th in Prayagraj.

The Transition from MiG-21 to LCA Mark 1A

Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari disclosed that the IAF had signed a contract for 83 LCA Mark 1A aircraft, which will be supplemented with an additional 97 units, bringing the total to 180 LCA Mark 1As. This move marks a crucial step towards retiring the aging MiG-21 squadrons from active service. The Air Chief Marshal confirmed that the MiG-21 fighter aircraft would cease operations by 2025, with the LCA Mark 1A being the replacement of choice.

Phased Replacement

The IAF’s plan involves a phased approach to replace the MiG-21 squadrons with the LCA Mark 1A. According to Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari, the process has already begun, with the second squadron set to be decommissioned shortly, and the third one expected to follow next year. The induction of the LCA Mark 1A will serve as a vital bridge to fill the operational gap left by the outgoing MiG-21s.

The Legacy of MiG-21

The MiG-21 has been a stalwart of the Indian Air Force for over six decades. During the press conference, it was announced that the legendary MiG-21 would participate in what might be its final flypast anywhere in the world. The aircraft has played a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s airspace and has been instrumental in various missions and operations.

Safety Concerns and Modernization

While the MiG-21 has had a long and illustrious service history, it has also faced safety concerns, with several accidents occurring in recent years. The decision to retire the MiG-21s and replace them with the LCA Mark 1A is not only a move towards modernization but also a step towards enhancing the safety of the IAF’s fleet.

Celebrating the 91st Anniversary of the IAF

The Indian Air Force is set to celebrate its 91st anniversary on October 8th, with the theme “IAF – Airpower Beyond Boundaries.” This year’s air display will be held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, where the IAF will showcase the diversity of its air assets. The event will feature over 120 aircraft of various types, from heritage planes like the Tigermoth and Harvard to newly inducted aircraft like the C-295. Furthermore, the IAF plans to engage over 20,000 school children in witnessing the air display, promoting an outreach to young minds and inspiring future aviators.

Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2023 awarded to Moungi G. Bawendi, Louis E. Brus and Alexei I. Ekimov

Moungi G. Bawendi, Louis E. Brus and Alexei I. Ekimov “for the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots”. The Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2023 rewards the discovery and development of quantum dots, nanoparticles so tiny that their size determines their properties. These smallest components of nanotechnology now spread their light from televisions and LED lamps, and can also guide surgeons when they remove tumour tissue, among many other things. The Nobel Prize amount for 2023 is set at Swedish kronor (SEK) 11.0 million per full Nobel Prize.

Everyone who studies chemistry learns that an element’s properties are governed by how many electrons it has. However, when matter shrinks to nano-dimensions quantum phenomena arise; these are governed by the size of the matter. The Nobel Laureates in Chemistry 2023 have succeeded in producing particles so small that their properties are determined by quantum phenomena. The particles, which are called quantum dots, are now of great importance in nanotechnology.

What is Quantum dots?

Quantum dots now illuminate computer monitors and television screens based on QLED technology. They also add nuance to the light of some LED lamps, and biochemists and doctors use them to map biological tissue.

Quantum dots are thus bringing the greatest benefit to humankind. Researchers believe that in the future they could contribute to flexible electronics, tiny sensors, thinner solar cells and encrypted quantum communication – so we have just started exploring the potential of these tiny particles.

About the Moungi G. Bawendi, Louis E. Brus and Alexei I. Ekimov 

• Moungi G. Bawendi

Moungi G. Bawendi, born 1961 in Paris, France. PhD 1988 from University of Chicago, IL, USA. Professor at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA, USA.

• Louis E. Brus

Louis E. Brus, born 1943 in Cleveland, OH, USA. PhD 1969 from Columbia University, New York, NY, USA. Professor at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.

• Alexei I. Ekimov

Alexei I. Ekimov, born 1945 in the former USSR. PhD 1974 from Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute, Saint Petersburg, Russia. Formerly Chief Scientist at Nanocrystals Technology Inc., New York, NY, USA.

About the Nobel Prize in Chemistry

The Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded 114 times to 191 Nobel Prize laureates between 1901 and 2022. Frederick Sanger and Barry Sharpless have both been awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry twice. This means that a total of 189 individuals have received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Click on the links to get more information.

The Nobel Prize medal in chemistry was designed by Swedish sculptor and engraver Erik Lindberg and represents Nature in the form of a goddess resembling Isis, emerging from the clouds and holding in her arms a cornucopia. The veil which covers her cold and austere face is held up by the Genius of Science.

Youngest chemistry laureate

To date, the youngest Nobel Prize laureate in chemistry is Frédéric Joliot, who was 35 years old when he was awarded the chemistry prize in 1935, together with his wife, Irène Joliot-Curie.

Oldest chemistry laureate

The oldest Nobel Prize laureate in chemistry to date is John B. Goodenough, who was 97 years old when he was awarded the chemistry prize in 2019. He is also the oldest laureate to be awarded in all prize categories.

Asian Games 2023, Neeraj Chopra wins Gold in Javelin Throw

India celebrated a remarkable 1-2 finish in the Men’s Javelin Throw competition at the Asian Games 2023, held at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Park Main Stadium in the People’s Republic of China. Neeraj Chopra secured the gold medal, while Kishore Kumar Jena clinched the silver, showcasing their exceptional talent on the grand continental stage.

Neeraj Chopra’s Triumph:

Season’s Best of 88.88m

• Neeraj Chopra, the reigning champion, delivered an outstanding performance by achieving a season’s best throw of 88.88 meters.
• This remarkable feat not only secured the gold medal for him but also marked his second consecutive gold at the Asian Games, following his victory in Jakarta 2018.

Kishore Kumar Jena’s Spectacular Performance:

Surpassing Personal Best

• Kishore Kumar Jena, a rising star in Indian javelin throwing, displayed exceptional skills throughout the competition.
• He briefly led Neeraj Chopra and registered an impressive 86.77 meters with his third throw, surpassing his previous personal best of 84.77 meters, set at the Budapest world championships earlier in the year.
• Further improving his mark to 87.54 meters with his fourth throw, Kishore Kumar Jena secured the silver medal in Hangzhou.

Olympic Qualification:

Breaking the Qualification Standards

• Kishore Kumar Jena’s exceptional performance not only earned him a silver medal but also saw him break the men’s javelin throw qualification standards for the Paris 2024 Olympics, which were set at 85.50 meters.
• This achievement reflects his potential to represent India on the world stage at the upcoming Olympic Games

Japan’s Roderick Genki Dean Takes Bronze:

Bronze Medal Achievement

• Japan’s Roderick Genki Dean showcased his talent by securing the bronze medal with a throw of 82.68 meters in his fifth attempt.
• While he was unable to match the throws of Neeraj Chopra and Kishore Kumar Jena, his performance earned him a place on the podium.

Asian Games 2023 javelin throw: Results for men