Daily Current Affairs 14th & 15th April 2024

National News

Newsweek Cover Features Prime Minister Narendra Modi

• For the first time since Indira Gandhi, an Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has been featured on the cover of Newsweek.
• In an extensive interview, Modi discussed several critical issues, including relations with China, economic policy changes, the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Quad coalition, and India’s democratic values.

India’s Humanitarian Aid to Nepal with Ambulances and School Buses

• India has shown a commitment to support Nepal by donating 35 ambulances and 66 school buses to help enhance the healthcare and education sectors there.
• The gifting ceremony was conducted by the Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, and Nepal’s Finance Minister, Barshaman Pun.

International News

Complexities in the Israel-Iran Conflict Outlined

• The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran is depicted not just as a battle between two countries but as a reflection of the historical and ideological battles involving deep state dynamics and Islamist movements in the Middle East.

Appointments News

New Leadership Roles in Indian Government and Judiciary

• Anurag Kumar, a seasoned IPS officer, has been appointed as the Joint Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, reflecting the government’s trust in his abilities.
• Vandita Kaul has been named Secretary of the Department of Posts, taking over from Vineet Pandey. She brings extensive experience from her prior role in the Postal Services Board.
• Justice Aniruddha Bose is set to lead the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal as its new director, an announcement made by Supreme Court Chief Justice DY Chandrachud.

Agreements News

Revisions Made to the India-Mauritius Tax Agreement

• A recent update to the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement between India and Mauritius introduces a principal purpose test to prevent tax evasion and scrutinize past foreign investments through Mauritius.

Banking News

Service Charges Introduced by India Post Payments Bank

• The India Post Payments Bank will now charge for transactions made through the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System starting from mid-June 2022, aiming to facilitate secure online transactions.

Business News

Coal Production Goals for 2025 Set by Indian Government

• India’s government has set a production target of 170 million tonnes of coal for fiscal year 2025, following a review meeting with representatives from 74 coal mines.

Books and Authors News

Salman Rushdie to Release Memoir on Survival and Free Speech

• British-American author Salman Rushdie will publish a memoir titled “Knife”, which explores his resilience following an attack at a public event in 2022, highlighting his dedication to free speech.

Defence News

Advancements in India’s Defense Technology

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation and the Indian Army have successfully tested the Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile system, marking a significant achievement in India’s defense self-reliance.
• The Indian Air Force played a crucial role in Operation Meghdoot to control the Siachen Glacier area in 1984, showcasing their strategic capabilities in high-altitude conditions.

Ranks and Reports News

India Highlighted in Global Plastic Waste Mismanagement Report

• A report by EA Earth Action places India among the leading countries contributing to global mismanaged plastic waste, despite having a low per capita waste production.

Awards News

Avantika Vandanapu Receives Harvard’s South Asian Person of the Year Award

• Indian-American actress Avantika Vandanapu has been named South Asian Person of the Year by Harvard University for her contributions to the arts and for promoting South Asian representation.

Summits and Conferences News

US Hosts First Trilateral Summit with Japan and Philippines

• President Joe Biden led the first-ever trilateral summit at the White House with leaders from Japan and the Philippines, focusing on regional security issues amid disputes with China.

Important Days

Celebrations for World Quantum Day 2024 in India

• India celebrated World Quantum Day to highlight its advancements and aspirations in quantum science and technology, following the launch of the National Quantum Mission.

Recognition of Sikh Heritage on International Turban Day 2024

• International Turban Day was observed to honor the cultural and religious significance of the turban in Sikhism and promote intercultural understanding.

Sports News

Rashmi Kumari Clinches 12th National Women’s Carrom Title

• Rashmi Kumari has won her 12th National Carrom Championship, continuing her dominance in the sport with a strong performance against K Nagajothi.

Obituaries News

Australian Cricket Loses Former Leader Jack Clarke

• The Australian cricket community mourns the loss of Jack Clarke, former chair of Cricket Australia, who passed away at 70 in Adelaide, remembered for his influential leadership in the sport.