General Awareness for Bank Mains Exams 2023 -23rd August

1. India Introduces Innovative Autonomous Underwater Vehicle ‘Neerakshi’ for Mine Detection

India has taken a significant step towards enhancing maritime security by launching an autonomous underwater vehicle called ‘Neerakshi’ designed for mine detection. This cutting-edge vehicle marks a remarkable collaboration between Kolkata-based warship maker Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd and the MSME entity AEPL.

Neerakshi, which translates to “Eyes in the Water,” holds immense potential as a game-changing technology for underwater mine detection. The vehicle’s launch represents a historic moment, as it is the first of its kind in the country. The collaborative efforts of GRSE and AEPL have resulted in an innovative solution that promises to revolutionize underwater security and mine detection capabilities.

The autonomous underwater vehicle is poised to undergo rigorous user trials conducted by the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and Army. These trials will play a pivotal role in evaluating the vehicle’s performance and effectiveness in real-world scenarios. Once the trials are successfully completed, Neerakshi is expected to be commercially deployed to enhance maritime security and safeguard crucial waterways.

2. Rajasthan Government’s Bold Move Towards Improved Governance

In a significant development aimed at improving governance and decentralizing administrative functions, the Rajasthan Government has approved a proposal to create 19 new districts and establish three new divisions. This strategic decision is poised to address the challenges posed by the existing administrative structure and ensure more effective governance.

Rajasthan currently comprises 50 districts and 10 divisions, following the state government’s decision to create these new administrative units. The move is expected to enhance administrative efficiency, empower local authorities, and foster more inclusive development across the state. The proposal for creating new districts and divisions was formulated by a high-level committee headed by retired IAS officer Ram Lubhaya, reflecting a comprehensive approach to administrative reforms.

3. Tribute to Kargil War Heroes: “Kargil: Ek Yatri Ki Jubani” Book Release

Ajay Bhatt, Minister of State (MoS) in the Ministry of Defence (MoD), unveiled a poignant book titled “Kargil: Ek Yatri Ki Jubani” (Hindi Edition) authored by Rishi Raj. The book release event took place at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi, Delhi, and paid a heartfelt tribute to the valiant soldiers who laid down their lives in the Kargil War.

Published by Prabhat Prakashan, the book serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers during the Kargil War. It encapsulates the stories and experiences of the 527 soldiers who displayed unparalleled courage and dedication in defense of the nation. “Kargil: Ek Yatri Ki Jubani” serves as a narrative that immortalizes the sacrifices of these heroes and ensures that their legacy lives on.

4. Virat Kohli Joins Cricketing Elite with 500 International Appearances

Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has achieved a momentous feat by becoming the 10th cricketer in history to participate in 500 international matches. This landmark achievement places Kohli in an exclusive league of players who have contributed significantly to the sport’s global legacy.

Virat Kohli’s remarkable journey has encompassed a total of 274 One Day Internationals (ODIs), 115 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), and 111 Test matches. This extensive participation underscores his unwavering dedication to the game and his consistent contributions to the Indian cricket team’s success. Kohli’s achievement is a testament to his exceptional skills and enduring commitment to excellence.

5. Punjab National Bank Leads the Way with Remarkable Profit Growth

The public sector banks (PSBs) have demonstrated a commendable performance by collectively registering a robust profit of over Rs 34,774 crore during the first quarter of June 2023. Among these banks, Punjab National Bank stands out with an extraordinary achievement, having recorded a remarkable 307 percent increase in profit.

Punjab National Bank’s profit soared from Rs 308 crore to Rs 1,255 crore, showcasing an impressive growth trajectory. This exceptional performance highlights the bank’s resilience, strategic approach, and ability to adapt to dynamic financial landscapes. The collective profit figures reported by the 12 state-owned banks further emphasize the positive direction of the banking sector.

6. Honoring the Legacy of Atal Bihari Vajpayee on His Death Anniversary

On the solemn occasion of the 16th of August, the nation pays tribute to the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Renowned for his commitment to good governance, economic reforms, and foreign policy initiatives, Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s contributions continue to inspire generations.

As the country observes his death anniversary, leaders from diverse political backgrounds gather at the ‘Sadaiv Atal’ memorial in Delhi to honor the memory of this visionary leader. Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s legacy remains etched in the annals of India’s history, serving as a guiding light for the nation’s progress.

7. DGFT’s Decision to Postpone Import Restrictions for Laptops and Tablets

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has announced a significant decision to defer the implementation of licensing requirements for the import of laptops, tablets, and personal computers in India. The postponement extends until the 1st of November, 2023, providing stakeholders with additional time to adapt to the regulatory changes.

The move to impose import restrictions on these electronic devices stems from security concerns and the government’s commitment to promoting domestic manufacturing. By extending the implementation date, the DGFT aims to ensure a smooth transition for businesses and consumers while facilitating compliance with the new regulations.

8. Innovative ‘SuSwagatam’ Portal Enhances Access to Justice

In a progressive stride towards modernizing access to justice, Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y Chandrachud unveiled the ‘SuSwagatam’ portal. Designed as a user-friendly mobile application, the portal empowers litigants and visitors with the convenience of a QR code-enabled ePass, streamlining their entry to the Supreme Court.

The ‘SuSwagatam’ portal marks a transformative initiative that enhances the efficiency of access management at the Supreme Court. With its innovative features, including the QR code-enabled ePass and digital exit credential, the portal reflects the judiciary’s commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of all stakeholders.

9. Celebrating Global Youth on International Youth Day

Every year on the 12th of August, the international community comes together to celebrate International Youth Day. This annual observance, initiated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1965, serves as a dedicated platform to address the challenges, aspirations, and contributions of the world’s youth.

International Youth Day underscores the significance of investing in the younger generation and empowering them to become catalysts for positive change. It serves as a reminder of the youth’s potential to drive progress across diverse sectors, shape policies, and shape a better future for all.

10. RBI’s Forward-Looking Initiatives to Transform UPI Landscape

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unveiled a series of strategic announcements that are set to redefine the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and UPI Lite landscape. A key highlight of these announcements