Current Affairs Blog Article: November 18, 2023

Introduction

Staying updated with the latest happenings around the world is crucial for everyone, especially for those preparing for competitive exams or keen on global events. Today, we delve into the significant current affairs of November 18, 2023, covering a wide range of topics from national achievements to global recognitions. Let's explore these updates in detail.

National News

Solar-Powered ‘Ramayana’ Vessels in Ayodhya

• Innovation Meets Tradition: Ayodhya is set to witness the launch of two solar-powered ‘mini-cruise’ ships on the Saryu River, aligning with the inauguration of the Ram Temple.
• Sustainable Tourism: These vessels represent a blend of cultural heritage and modern sustainable technology, offering a unique experience to visitors.

India's Leap in Patent Grants

• Record-Breaking Achievement: India has granted a historic number of 41,010 patents in the fiscal year 2023-24, as announced by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
• Global Recognition: This achievement reflects the growing innovative spirit among Indian youth, marking an 11-year streak of growth in patent applications.

State News

Kochi in Condé Nast’s Travel List

• Global Recognition: Kochi has been listed among the best places to visit in Asia in 2024 by Condé Nast Traveller.
• Eco-Friendly Initiatives: The city is known for its commitment to sustainable practices, including the world’s first fully solar-powered airport.

Economy News

4. India’s E-Commerce Export Growth

• Impressive Forecast: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) predicts a surge in India’s e-commerce exports, potentially reaching $200 billion in 6-7 years.
• Market Potential: This growth is attributed to the diversity of products and the adaptability of Indian entrepreneurs.

Important Days

World Day for Child Sexual Exploitation Prevention

• Global Initiative: November 18 is marked as the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence.
• Collective Efforts: This day emphasizes the need for global action to protect children and promote healing.

Summits & Conferences

2nd Voice of Global South Summit

• International Dialogue: The summit, hosted by India, provided a platform for countries to discuss global challenges and strategies for a progressive world order.
• Theme: The theme was “Together for Everyone’s Growth with Everyone’s Trust.”

Ranks & Reports

BofA Survey on Market Preferences

• Market Insights: Japan and India are the most favored markets in the Asia Pacific, as per the Bank of America survey.
• Contrasting Views: Thailand, China, and Australia are seen as less attractive markets.

India’s Position in Global Unicorn Rankings

• Impressive Standing: India ranks third globally with 72 unicorn companies.
• Leading the Race: The U.S. and China lead the list with 668 and 172 unicorns, respectively.

Banking News

New Leadership at Kotak Mahindra Bank

• Key Appointment: Ashok Vaswani is appointed as the Managing Director & CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank.
• Strategic Transition: This marks a significant leadership change in the bank.

More Important Days

World Prematurity Day 2023

• Global Awareness: Observed on November 17, this day focuses on the challenges faced by premature babies and their families.
• Theme: The theme for 2023 is “Small actions, big impact: Immediate skin-to-skin care for every baby everywhere.”

Appointments

NITI Aayog's New Distinguished Fellows

• Expert Inclusions: NITI Aayog appoints four new Distinguished Fellows, bringing diverse expertise to address national challenges.
• Notable Appointees: The appointees include experts from finance, urban transport, technology, and law.

New Chief of SPG

• Crucial Role: Alok Sharma, an IPS officer, is appointed as the director of the Special Protection Group (SPG).
• Security Leadership: He takes over the elite unit responsible for the Prime Minister’s security.

Sports News

Virat Kohli’s Wax Statue

• Celebrating a Sports Icon: A wax statue of cricketer Virat Kohli will be installed at the Jaipur Wax Museum.
• Artistic Tribute: The statue aims to offer a lifelike representation of the cricket star.

Obituaries

Passing of Art Historian B.N. Goswamy

• Loss of a Luminary: Renowned art historian B.N. Goswamy passed away at 90.
• Legacy: He was known for his work on Pahari paintings and was honored with the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan.

Renowned Novelist A.S. Byatt’s Demise

• Literary World Mourns: A.S. Byatt, the Booker Prize-winning British novelist, passed away at 87.
• Notable Works: Her novel “Possession: A Romance” is particularly celebrated.

Miscellaneous

Cyclone ‘Midhili’ Hits Bangladesh

• Weather Alert: The cyclonic storm ‘Midhili’ made landfall on Bangladesh’s coast, causing widespread concern.
• Precautionary Measures: Authorities have issued alerts and are taking necessary steps to mitigate the impact.

Now take the following current affairs quiz to test your knowledge

Current affairs quiz - 18 November 2023