Daily Current Affairs Highlights - 9, 10, and 11 Sept 2023

The period of 9th to 11th September 2023 has witnessed significant developments in various sectors including national and international affairs, banking and finance, economy and business, and more. Here, we bring you a comprehensive roundup of the current affairs from 9, 10 and 11 September 2023. Let's dive in to stay informed!

National Affairs

Indian Railways’ GSV Vadodara and Airbus Collaborate to Boost India’s Aviation Sector

On September 7, 2023, a significant collaboration was forged between the Indian Railways' Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) Vadodara, situated in Gujarat, and Airbus, a prominent European multinational aerospace corporation. This partnership, marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to elevate India's aviation sector to new heights. The MoU was signed in the presence of notable figures including Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and the CEO of the Railway Board, Ms. Jaya Varma Sinha.

International Affairs

Gender Equality Progress: A Snapshot 2023

A recent report by the United Nations (UN) titled "Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals: The gender snapshot 2023" paints a grim picture of the global progress towards achieving gender equality, a goal outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 5. The report, a collaborative effort between UN Women and the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), highlights the persistent biases against women in various spheres including health, education, and employment. It offers a detailed analysis of gender equality progress across all 17 SDGs, shedding light on the existing gaps and recent setbacks in the journey towards achieving gender equality by 2030. Read the full report here.

Banking & Finance

Highlights of the 4th Edition of Global Fintech Fest 2023

The Global Fintech Fest 2023, a grand event jointly organized by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the Payments Council of India (PCI), and the Fintech Convergence Council (FCC), witnessed participation from over 100 countries, featuring 800 speakers and attracting 50,000 delegates. The event, themed "Global collaboration for a responsible financial ecosystem: Inclusive, Resilient, Sustainable", took place at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Innovations and Launches

• HSBC India launched the "ONDC in a box", becoming the first foreign bank in India to introduce an ONDC-enabled proposition. This initiative was unveiled during the Global Fintech Fest 2023.
• Union Bank of India introduced two new debit card variants, specifically catering to women and High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs), becoming the first public sector bank to do so.
• AU Small Finance Bank expanded its offerings with the launch of the Zenith+ Metal Credit Card, a premium product offering a range of benefits including global travel perks and entertainment options. Know more about the card here.

Economy & Business

Google Cloud & CERT-In Collaborate to Train Government Officials in Cybersecurity

In a significant move to bolster the cybersecurity landscape in India, Google Cloud Platform has joined forces with the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), operating under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). This partnership aims to equip around 1000 government officials with cyber defense best practices, including the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and conducting cybersecurity AI hackathons. Additionally, Google Cloud will offer 100,000 scholarships for Google cybersecurity certificates, fostering a pool of individuals proficient in cybersecurity skills.

Cleartrip & Axis Bank Partnership to Benefit Credit Card Holders

Cleartrip, a subsidiary of Flipkart India, has partnered with Axis Bank to introduce a novel proposition that offers travel benefits to both existing and new cardholders who book through Cleartrip. This collaboration is set to benefit nearly 12.5 million customers, enhancing their travel experiences with added perks and benefits.

Awards & Recognitions

India Climbs the Ladder in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Countries 2023

In the 8th edition of the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Countries Rankings 2023, India has improved its standing, securing the 30th position with an overall score of 40.8, a step up from its 31st rank in 2022. Switzerland continues to lead the list, followed by Canada and Sweden. Notably, India showcased an impressive performance in the 'Movers' category, clinching the 5th spot.

Swachh Vayu Survekshan 2023: Cities Leading in Clean Air Initiatives

The Swachh Vayu Survekshan 2023, an initiative under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, recognized cities excelling in maintaining clean air quality. Indore, Amravati, and Parwanoo topped their respective categories, receiving accolades and awards for their efforts in promoting cleaner air.

Appointments & Resignations

MoEF&CC Institutes New Panel to Address Environmental Issues

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has established a new permanent Central Empowered Committee (CEC), replacing the previous ad-hoc committee. This statutory body will now oversee environmental issues, with the Government of India having full control over its constitution. This development comes in the wake of the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

Acquisitions & Mergers

CCI Approves Stake Acquisition in RHI Magnesita NV

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has given the green light for the acquisition of up to a 29.9% stake in RHI Magnesita NV by Ignite Luxembourg Holdings S.à r.l. This significant business move does not involve the direct purchase of shares in RHI Magnesita India Limited (RHIM India), but it leads to an indirect acquisition, expanding the influence of Ignite Luxembourg, a subsidiary of the US-based Rhône Capital LLC, in the Indian market.

Science & Technology

Indian Air Force Tests Indigenous Military Combat Parachute System

In a stride towards self-reliance, the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully tested an indigenously developed Military Combat Parachute System. This initiative, spearheaded by the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), a lab under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), marks a significant milestone in India's defence sector, showcasing the nation's capabilities in developing state-of-the-art military equipment.

Important Days

International Literacy Day 2023

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) marked the International Literacy Day (ILD) on 8th September 2023, emphasizing the critical role of literacy in fostering sustainable and peaceful societies. The theme for this year, 'Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies', resonates with the global efforts to enhance literacy rates and promote education as a fundamental human right. UNESCO also announced the winners of the prestigious International Literacy Prizes during the event, celebrating efforts in advancing literacy globally.

World Physical Therapy Day 2023

Also observed on 8th September, the World Physical Therapy Day 2023 aimed to raise awareness about the vital role of physical therapy in enhancing the health and well-being of individuals worldwide. This year's theme, "Arthritis and the Role of Physiotherapists", highlighted the various forms of inflammatory arthritis and the significant role physiotherapists play in managing these conditions, promoting mobility and overall health.

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Current Affairs Quiz - 9, 10, and 11 September 2023