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 April 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 April 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 April 2023
FAO Report on The Status of Women in Agrifood Systems
The Status of Women in Agrifood Systems: FAO Report: This report is the first of its sort since the State of Food and Agriculture (SOFA) 2010-11 report on women in agriculture. It was produced by FAO’s Inclusive Rural Transformation and Gender Equality Division (ESP). It offers a comprehensive overview of the situation of women working in agri-food systems, including aspects from production to distribution and consumption, surpassing the scope of agriculture alone.
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
FAO Report on The Status of Women in Agrifood Systems: Key Points
- Agricultural and food systems provide considerable employment opportunities for both men and women worldwide, employing 36% of working women and 38% of working men.
- However, there has been a decline of about 10% in employment in primary agricultural production since 2005, which has affected both genders.
- In this sector, women are more likely to work part-time or in precarious roles, and there is a 24% gender discrepancy in land production between farms managed by men and women of equal size.
- In the fisheries and aquaculture primary sector, 21% of all workers are women, and almost half of all workers in the entire aquatic value chain (including pre- and post-harvest) are women.
- Women rely more on agrifood systems for their livelihoods than men in many countries, with 66% of women’s employment in sub-Saharan Africa and 71% in southern Asia being in this sector.
- The gender wage gap is also prevalent, with women in wage employment in agriculture earning 82 cents for every dollar that men earn.
- Women have less ownership and secure tenure rights over agricultural land than men in most countries reporting on Sustainable Development Goal Indicator 5.a.1.
FAO Report on The Status of Women in Agrifood Systems: Status of Gender Equality
- Gender equality has improved in recent years, with the gender gap in access to mobile internet and bank accounts closing in low- and middle-income nations.
- However, the gap in food insecurity between men and women has widened, with 22% of women losing their jobs in the off-farm segment of agrifood systems during the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to only 2% of men.
- Closing the gender gap in farm productivity and the wage gap in agrifood-system employment might boost global GDP by 1% (or about USD 1 trillion) while reducing global food insecurity by 2%, benefiting 45 million people.
- Empowering women in small-scale production could also significantly increase the incomes and resilience of millions of people. A review of 13 agricultural development projects showed mixed impacts on women’s empowerment. These projects aimed to increase income and nutritional outcomes through interventions in crops, livestock, and nutrition.
Inaugural Session Of Global Buddhist Summit to be addressed by PM in Delhi
Global Buddhist Summit to be addressed by PM: On April 20, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a speech at the opening session of the Global Buddhist Summit, which is being organized by the Ministry of Culture and the International Buddhist Confederation for two days. The summit’s goal is to bring together senior Buddhist figures and scholars from around the world to discuss Buddhist and global challenges and produce policy solutions to address them together.
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Inaugural Session Of Global Buddhist Summit: key Points
- The PMO has stated that the summit will explore how the essential principles of Buddha Dhamma can inspire and direct people in today’s world.
- The event will bring together eminent scholars, Sangha leaders, and Dharma practitioners from around the world to discuss major global concerns and develop solutions based on the universal ideals of Buddha Dhamma.
- The summit aims to engage global leaders and scholars of the Buddhist Dhamma to address Buddhist and universal concerns and formulate collective policy solutions.
- The discussion will go into how the essential values of Buddha Dhamma can inspire and guide contemporary situations.
- The PMO stated that the summit will bring together distinguished scholars, Sangha leaders, and Dharma practitioners from all over the world to discuss pressing global issues and seek answers from the universal values of Buddha Dhamma.
Inaugural Session Of Global Buddhist Summit: Keynote Speaker
According to the report, the event will feature two keynote speakers: Professor Robert Thurman, a renowned expert on Tibetan Buddhism from the United States, and His Holiness Thich Tri Quang, the Deputy Patriarch of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. According to the article, Professor Thurman will get the coveted Padma Shri Award in 2020 for his efforts to revive India’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Inaugural Session Of Global Buddhist Summit: Topics of Summit
There will be talks conducted on four different topics which are Buddha Dhamma and Peace, Buddha Dhamma in relation to environmental crisis, health and sustainability, the conservation of the Nalanda Buddhist Tradition, and Buddha Dhamma Pilgrimage, Living Heritage, and Buddha Relics. These discussions aim to provide a strong foundation for India’s long-standing cultural connections with countries in South, Southeast, and East Asia.
Cuba’s Parliament ratifies President Díaz-Canel for new term
Cuba’s Parliament ratifies President Díaz-Canel for new term: Cuba’s National Assembly has confirmed President Miguel Díaz-Canel for a new five-year term, as the country grapples with a severe economic crisis. More than 400 representatives elected in March and taking office on Wednesday, April 19, made the decision to maintain continuity in leadership.
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
More About The Cuban Parliament ratifies President Díaz-Canel:
The assembly then voted to elect the government’s leadership, with Díaz-Canel receiving 459 out of 462 votes. Vice President Salvador Valdés Mesa was ratified as well, with 439 votes. The decision to maintain the current leadership is seen as an effort to provide stability amid the economic challenges facing the country.
President Miguel Díaz-Canel’s New Term:
President Miguel Díaz-Canel faces significant challenges in his new term, including a severe economic recession due to the COVID-19 pandemic, high inflation caused by financial policy decisions, and stringent sanctions imposed by the U.S. Moreover, he must address the growing dissatisfaction among many Cubans, evident in the record numbers of emigration to the U.S. and other countries.
To tackle these issues, Díaz-Canel’s team plans to prioritize food production, boosting exports, and developing the socialist-state enterprise immediately.
National Civil Services Day 2023 celebrates on 21st April
National Civil Services Day 2023: In India, April 21 is observed as National government Service Day to recognise and acknowledge the critical role that government servants play in the growth and betterment of the country. This day offers a chance to express gratitude towards the contributions made by civil servants to society. The prime minister of the country presents awards of excellence on this occasion, to encourage civil servants to continue their efforts towards serving the public effectively. Civil Services Day is an opportunity for civil officials to rededicate themselves to the cause of citizens and renew their pledges and work excellence.
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
National Civil Service Day 2023: Theme
The theme of this year’s Civil Service Day is very apt- Viksit Bharat (विकसित भारत) aimed at ‘Empowering Citizens and Reaching the Last Mile’. The theme emphasises the government’s determination and steadfast commitment to establishing a more equitable and prosperous India for all of its citizens through inclusive growth.
National Civil Service Day 2023: Significance
National Civil Service Day is a time to appreciate the hard work and loyalty of civil servants towards serving the country. It is a day to acknowledge their relentless endeavors in executing policies and initiatives that have a constructive influence on the community. Furthermore, it is a chance to value their contribution in upholding law and order, advocating for social equity and fostering good governance.
National Civil Service Day: History
The first National Civil Service Day was held on April 21, 2006, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. This particular date was chosen to honour the occasion in 1947 when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first home minister of independent India, addressed Administrative Services Officers’ probationers. During his motivational speech, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel recognised civil servants as the “steel frame of India.” National Civil Service Day serves as a platform to appreciate the exceptional services rendered by government workers in the country. On this day, the administration also recognises the accomplishments of experienced public officials and presents medals to persons who have made significant contributions to the nation’s progress.
Andhra Pradesh CM lays foundation stone for Mulapeta port
Andhra Pradesh CM lays foundation stone for Mulapeta port: The Mulapeta greenfield port in Srikakulam district was initiated by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy. The port is scheduled to cost Rs 4,362 crore and would be completed in two years. In addition to the port, the Chief Minister also laid the foundation for a fishing harbor in Budagatlapalem, a life irrigation project that will span from the Gotta barrage to the Hira Mandalam reservoir, and the continuation of work on the Mahendra Tanaya river.
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Significance of this development:
Speaking at a public meeting held in Naupada village, the Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed his pride in the four development projects, stating that they would bring about a significant transformation in the Srikakulam district. He emphasised that the district benefits from a 193-kilometer-long coastline, which accounts for a sizable chunk of the state’s overall coastline of 974 kilometres.
Reddy’s emphasis on the importance of the coastline underscores the potential for the region to become a major hub for maritime activities, including trade and commerce, fishing, and tourism. The development of the Mulapeta greenfield port and the fishing harbor in Budagatlapalem is expected to significantly boost the local economy and create employment opportunities for the people in the district.
The irrigation project and the Mahendra Tanaya river project are aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and mitigating the adverse effects of flooding in the region. The Chief Minister’s comments at the public meeting reflect the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable development in the state, which can lead to long-term economic growth and social well-being.
Sonam Wangchuk conferred with Prestigious Santokbaa Humanitarian Award
Sonam Wangchuk conferred with Prestigious Santokbaa Humanitarian Award: Sonam Wangchuk, a distinguished engineer, innovator, educationist, and sustainable development reformist, has been honored with the prestigious Santokbaa Humanitarian Award. Shree Ramkrishna Exports (SRK), a premier corporation in diamond making and exports, and its philanthropic arm, Shree Ramkrishna Knowledge Foundation (SRKKF), founded the award. Wangchuk is the Founder-Director of Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL).
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
The Santokbaa Humanitarian Award was established in memory of Late Santokbaa Dholakia, the mother of Govind Dholakia, the Founder Chairman of SRK and SRKKF. The award ceremony took place on April 10, 2023, which is the death anniversary of Santokbaa. The award was presented to Sonam Wangchuk at Hotel Zen in Ladakh during the ceremony. Former Tata Sons chairman Ratan Tata, Nobel Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi, space scientist and former ISRO chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar, and philanthropist and Infosys Foundation Chairperson Sudha Murty are among the previous award recipients.
About the Sonam Wangchuk:
Sonam Wangchuk is the creator of the Ice Stupa technique, which involves the creation of artificial glaciers that store winter water in the form of cone-shaped ice heaps. This technique has been instrumental in addressing the water scarcity issue in Ladakh. Apart from this, he is also involved in tackling other environmental challenges. His efforts have significantly improved the lives of people in Ladakh, making him an inspiration for individuals who aspire to make a positive impact on the world. The SECMOL campus, which he designed, runs entirely on solar power and does not use any fossil fuels for heating, lighting, or cooking.
Nagaland gets approval from NMC for setting up its first medical college
Nagaland gets approval from NMC for setting up its first medical college: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has approved the establishment of the Nagaland Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, which will be the first medical college in the northeastern state since its independence 60 years ago in 1963.
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Nagaland’s first medical college:
Health and Family Welfare Minister P. Paiwang Konyak announced the NMC’s decision to set up the medical college in Kohima, stating that the academic session of the institute will commence from 2023-24.
The medical college will have 100 seats for MBBS students, and this landmark achievement is projected to considerably help the state’s healthcare industry by expanding medical education possibilities and improving healthcare services.
About The Medical College:
- The state government will send the acceptance letter to MARB to enable the issuance of the Letter of Permission for the academic year 2023-24.
- Formal classes of the medical college are expected to begin by June-July this year, according to Health and Family Welfare Commissioner and Secretary Y. Kikheto Sema.
- Of the 100 MBBS seats, 85 would be allocated for Nagaland residents, with the remaining 15 seats open to aspirants from other states.
Sebi introduces ASBA-like facility for secondary market trading in India
Sebi’s ASBA Facility: Empowering Indian Investors in the Secondary Market: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), India’s principal securities market regulator, has traditionally prioritised empowering investors and supporting fair practises in the country’s securities market. The Application Supported by Blocked Amount (ASBA) tool for secondary market trading is one of its most recent efforts that has received a lot of attention. ASBA is a payment mechanism that allows investors to block their funds in their savings accounts instead of transferring the money to the broker’s account during IPO subscriptions. This ensures the safety of investor funds and streamlines the process of applying for shares in an IPO, with a reduction in the time taken for refunds and providing greater liquidity to investors.
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Real-time Settlement: How ASBA-like Facility Can Change Indian Secondary Market Trading
The ASBA facility can also be applied to secondary market trading, which could result in a real-time settlement process. While placing an order, investors can use this strategy to block funds in their accounts. The money will be blocked once the order is completed until the shares are credited to the demat account. This approach can offer several benefits for investors, such as transparency, enhanced control over their funds, and interest earnings on their blocked funds until the time of the actual debit.
Challenges of Implementing ASBA-like Facility in Indian Secondary Market Trading
However, the implementation of the ASBA-like facility in secondary market trading would require significant changes in the current infrastructure. The current system of brokers and depositories would need to be upgraded to support real-time settlement, and it would require substantial investments in technology and training. The decision is also likely to affect brokers as it may result in a reduction in float earnings or the client’s funds held in the pooled account. To compensate for the loss, brokers may charge higher transaction costs.
Benefits of ASBA-like Facility for Indian Investors
Despite the challenges, the ASBA-like facility can align the Indian secondary market trading with the global best practices, enhancing the credibility of the Indian market. It would deepen and widen the investor base in India’s stock market, which would be a significant achievement in itself. Investors and brokers can opt for the ASBA-like facility for secondary market transactions, and Sebi has approved the broad framework for its implementation, which is expected to lower working capital requirements for the members.
Finally, the ASBA-like facility for secondary market trading has the potential to be a game changer for Indian investors, insuring the protection of their funds and expediting the entire stock trading process. Although its implementation requires significant upgrades in the current infrastructure and changes in the legal framework, the benefits of aligning the Indian market with global best practices cannot be ignored.
India’s RBI Open to Softening Stance on Deal with European Regulators
India’s RBI considers softening stance on market infrastructure deal: According to reports, India’s central bank is likely to soften its stance on signing a market infrastructure agreement with European authorities if the latter abandon their demand to scrutinise and penalise Indian intermediaries such as the Clearing Corporation of India (CCIL). The RBI and European banks held a meeting in March, which marked the beginning of lengthy discussions about the de-recognition of CCIL by foreign regulators. Credit Suisse, BNP Paribas, Societe Generale, and Deutsche Bank, which operate in India, will be the most affected by the outcome of the negotiations.
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
RBI more receptive to signing new MoU with overseas regulators
In recent meetings, the RBI officials were more willing to sign a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) with overseas regulators if their demand to inspect and audit the CCIL’s books and potentially levy penalties is softened or circumvented in a way that preserves sovereign regulatory rights. A source familiar with the matter said that the RBI was more receptive to the MoU than in previous meetings, where it had categorically refused to consider any such agreement. The RBI is open to exploring potential solutions.
De-recognition of CCIL would hamper European banks’ trading operations
If the CCIL loses its recognition, it will affect the trading operations of several continental European banks that conduct their operations in India. These banks act as custodians of foreign investment flows. Some new regulations are expected to be introduced in Europe, such as the latest version of the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR), which could lead to a diluted version of the demand for CCIL’s inspection and audit. While continuing to do business with Indian clearinghouses, European banks would be obliged to pay a hefty capital penalty.
European regulations may change before October 2024 extension deadline
In February, German and French financial supervisory authorities granted an extension until October 2024 to their banks, who had earlier been given an April 30, 2023 deadline by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA). Reports suggest that while European banks can continue doing business with Indian clearing houses, such as the CCIL, they may face a penal capital charge. The ESMA had de-recognized six Indian clearinghouses, including CCIL, in October 2022, which triggered the current impasse. The RBI has not yet responded to an email seeking comment on this matter.
Indian Army and Tezpur University sign MoU on Chinese language training for army personnel
Indian Army and Tezpur University sign MoU on Chinese language training for army personnel: The Indian Army and Tezpur University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on April 19, 2023, to provide Chinese language instruction to Indian Army personnel. The course will be 16 weeks long and will be taught at Tezpur University. The signing of the MoU was done by HQ 4 Corps on behalf of the Indian Army and the registrar of Tezpur University in the presence of the Vice Chancellor, Prof SN Singh.
April 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Significance of the Chinese language training:
The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Army and Tezpur University on April 19, 2023 for educating army soldiers in the Chinese language will strengthen the Indian Army’s in-house Mandarin capability. The course, which will be conducted at Tezpur University and last for 16 weeks, will empower army personnel to effectively engage with their Chinese counterparts, whenever required.
Improved Chinese language skills among army troops will allow them to properly convey their viewpoints. This, in turn, will facilitate better communication and comprehension of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army’s position on their actions, during events like commander-level talks, flag meetings, joint exercises, and border personnel meetings.
About Tezpur University:
Tezpur University, a central university established in 1994 by an act of parliament, has highly qualified faculty who teach foreign languages, including Chinese, making it one of the pioneers in the North East in this field.
