Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | January 2024

Table of Content
Awards and Honours Current Affairs ................................................................................................. 3
Banking Current Affairs.................................................................................................................... 12
Books and Authors Current Affairs .................................................................................................. 15
Business and Economy Current Affairs ............................................................................................ 18
Defence Current Affairs ................................................................................................................... 22
Government Schemes and Policies Current Affairs ......................................................................... 28
Days and Events Current Affairs ...................................................................................................... 32
International Current Affairs ............................................................................................................. 37
MoU and Agreements Current Affairs ............................................................................................. 44
National Current Affairs ................................................................................................................... 53
Appointments Current Affairs .......................................................................................................... 76
Obituaries Current Affairs ................................................................................................................ 86
Science and Technology Current Affairs .......................................................................................... 88
Sports Current Affairs Current Affairs ............................................................................................. 94
Summits and Conferences Current Affairs ..................................................................................... 105
Reports and Indices Current Affairs ............................................................................................... 109

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 Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | January 2024

Awards and Honours Current Affairs

Ministry of Culture’s Tableau at 1st spot at Republic Day Parade 2024
• IGNCA's Ministry of Culture tableau secured 1st prize at the Republic Day Celebration Parade
2024.
• Theme 'India: Mother of Democracy'
• The tableau showcased a blend of tradition and innovation, incorporating the anamorphic
technique to highlight Bharat's heritage.
• This achievement reflected the Ministry of Culture's commitment to preserving and celebrating
India's diverse cultural legacy.
69th Filmfare Awards 2024 announced:
• Best Film (Popular) - 12th Fail
• Best Film (Critics) - Joram
• Best Director - Vidhu Vinod Chopra (12th Fail)
• Best Actor In A Leading Role - Ranbir Kapoor (Animal)
• Best Actor (Critics) - Vikrant Massey (12th Fail)
• Best Actor In A Leading Role (Female) - Alia Bhatt
• Best Actress Critics - Rani Mukerji
• Best Lyrics - Amitabh Bhattacharya
• Best Music Album - Animal
NCC Directorate Maharashtra wins prestigious PM’s Banner
• NCC Directorate Maharashtra contingent secures the prestigious Prime Minister’s Banner at the
Republic Day Camp 2024, marking a remarkable hat-trick win.
• The Maharashtra Directorate contingent, comprised of 122 Cadets, earns the Champions Trophy
and the Prime Minister’s Banner for standing first overall at RDC-2024.
Veteran Singer Usha Uthup honoured with Padma Bhushan Award
• Usha Uthup honored with Padma Bhushan for her contributions to music.
• She expressed gratitude to God, government, and country for the recognition.
• She acknowledged support from family, friends, musicians, technicians, and media.
• Actor, politician Mithun Chakraborty and Pyarelal Sharma of music duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal, have
also been awarded Padma Bhushan.
Padma Awards 2024
• The government has revealed the Padma Awards for the year 2024, including five Padma
Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan, and 110 Padma Shri Awards.
• Former Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, actor K Chiranjeevi, actress Vyjayantimala Bali, and
Bharat Natyam dancer Padma Subrahmanyam are among the Padma Vibhushan awardees.
Social activist Bindeshwar Pathak has posthumously received the Padma Vibhushan.
Padma Awards 2024

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 Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | January 2024

• Notable Padma Bhushan awardees included M Fathima Beevi, Tamil actor Vijaykanth
(posthumously), Mithun Chakraborty, Usha Uthup, industrialist Sitaram Jindal, composer Pyarelal
Sharma, and Foxconn Chairman Young Liu.
• The awards also recognize 34 unsung heroes, including India's first woman elephant mahout
Parbati Baruah, tribal environmentalist Chami Murmu, and social worker Sangthankima.
Squadron Leader Nikita Malhotra awarded Vayu Sena Medal
• On the occasion of the 75th Republic Day, Squadron Leader Nikita Malhotra of the Indian Air
Force (IAF) was honored with the Vayu Sena Medal for Gallantry.
• She played a crucial role as the pilot of a Dornier aircraft in the Tangail formation during the
flypast over Kartavya Path.
• The 75th Republic Day parade, themed around 'Viksit Bharat' and 'Bharat-Loktantra ki Matruka,'
Preesha Chakraborty, earns spot in 'World’s Brightest' students list
• Preesha Chakraborty, a nine-year-old Indian-American student from Fremont, California, makes
it to the "world’s brightest” students list by the prestigious Johns Hopkins Centre for Talented
Youth
• Preesha's inclusion in the list is based on her performance in above-grade-level tests, including
the SAT, ACT, and School and College Ability Test, surpassing over 16,000 students of 90
countries.
IIT Guwahati scholar wins 'Best Product Design' at Vishwakarma Awards
• IIT Guwahati PhD scholar receives "Best Product Design" award at Vishwakarma Awards 2023 for
developing R-SAM-PRO, an IoT-enabled water quality monitoring device.
• The device stands out for its affordability compared to existing water monitoring tools, integrating
IoT technology for enhanced functionality.
• The device combines multiple sensors and AI readiness.
Two BSF personnel received President’s Medal for Gallantry
• Two posthumous recipients of the President’s Medal for Gallantry are BSF personnel Sanwala
Ram Vishnoi and Shishupal Singh, for their peacekeeping roles in Congo in 2022.
• Among 277 Gallantry Awards, majority are for personnel from Left Wing Extremism areas, Jammu
and Kashmir region, and other areas for gallant actions.
Ajit Mishra received prestigious 'Freedom Of The City Of London' Award
• India-born lawyer Ajit Mishra has received the "Freedom of the City of London” Award for his
significant contributions to legal and public life.
• As the Founder and Chair of the UK India Legal Partnership, Mishra was honored with the award
on January 23.
• Mishra, having over 20 years of professional experience, is recognized for leading M&A and
commercial transactions between India and the UK
Jeevan Raksha Padak series of awards 2023:

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• GoI honored 31 people with the Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards 2023, including three
posthumous awards.
• The awards include Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak, Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak, and Jeevan
Raksha Padak.
• Master Anthony Vanmawia, Ms Melody Lalremruati of Mizoram and Sooraj R of Central Reserve
Police Force are the 3 awardees posthumously honoured with Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak.
Gallantry/Service Medals to be delivered on the Republic Day- 2024
• 1132 personnel from Police, Fire Service, Home Guard & Civil Defence, and Correctional Service
received Gallantry/Service Medals.
• The newly structured awards are: President’s Medal for Gallantry, Medal for Gallantry, President's
Medal for Distinguished Service & Medal for Meritorious Service.
• President’s Medal for Gallantry went to 2 individuals.
• Medal for Gallantry went to 275 individuals.
Veer Gatha 3.0 winners felicitated in New Delhi
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan honored 'Super-
100' school students, the Veer Gatha 3.0 winners.
• They emphasized children's role in achieving India's target of becoming developed by 2047.
• Project Veer Gatha 3rd edition, run by the Defence and Education Ministries, reached a
noteworthy 1.36 crore students, aiming to inspire them about the Armed Forces.
President Murmu presented Best Electoral Practices Awards for 2023
• The Election Commission celebrated the 14th National Voters' Day, promoting 'Nothing Like
Voting, I Vote For Sure' as its theme.
• The President presented Best Electoral Practices Awards 2023 to officials for their exceptional
conduct during elections in New Delhi.
• Awards were granted to significant contributors like government departments and media
organizations for boosting voter awareness.
Former Bihar CM Karpoori Thakur honored with Bharat Ratna posthumously
• The Government of India announces the posthumous awarding of the Bharat Ratna, the highest
civilian honor, to former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur.
• Karpoori Thakur, born in January 1924, served as Bihar's Chief Minister twice and was known for
his unwavering commitment to social justice and the upliftment of the underprivileged.
Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award
• Ravi Shastri, key figure in India's historic Gabba Test win, receives Col CK Nayudu Lifetime
Achievement Award.
• Former India wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer also honored in the glittering ceremony by BCCI.
• The accolade recognizes Shastri's versatile career, including being part of India's World Cup-
winning squad in 1983 and earning Player of the Series in the 1985 World Series.

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Documentary 'To Kill a Tiger' earns best feature nomination at Oscars

• Nisha Pahuja's 'To Kill a Tiger,' set in an Indian village, nominated for Best Documentary Feature
at the 2024 Academy Awards.
• The film revolves around Ranjit's relentless pursuit of justice for his daughter's abduction and
assault.
• Premiered at TIFF 2022, it won the Amplify Voices Award; faces competition from four other
documentaries at the 96th annual Oscars.
Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2024:
• The Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2024 awarded the 60 Parachute Field
Hospital in Uttar Pradesh, recognizing its exceptional service in disaster management.
• These prestigious awards are instituted by the Government of India.
• The awards celebrate the selfless contributions and dedication of individuals and organizations
toward managing disasters.
BCCI awards
• Shubman Gill, the dynamic Indian opener, is set to receive the Cricketer of the Year title at the
prestigious BCCI awards.
• Former Indian head coach, Ravi Shastri, will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at
the BCCI Awards in Hyderabad.
• The BCCI awards, held for the first time since 2019, recognize outstanding contributions to Indian
cricket.
Bengaluru and Delhi airports clinch 'Best Airport of the Year' award.
• Bengaluru and IGI Delhi airports were jointly awarded 'Best Airport of the Year' at the Wings India
Awards 2024.
• Bengaluru's airport additionally receives the '25 MPPA Traffic Award' for handling over 25 million
passengers annually.
• Skyways Air Services wins Best Cargo Services Award at the Wings India Awards 2024.
Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024.
• The awards are given in seven categories for Bravery, Art & Culture, Environment, Innovation,
Science & Technology, Social Service and Sports that deserve national recognition.
• 19 children have been selected from all regions of the country
• Winners: Aaditya Vijay Bramhane (Bravery), Anushka Pathak (Art & Culture), Suhani Chauhan
(Innovation), Avnish Tiwari (Social Service) and others.
SCOPE Award 2024: SJVN, PFC, BHEL, NLC, REC, and RailTel won award.
• SJVN: Excellence Award (Inst. Category II) & Meritorious Award for CSR.
• Power Finance Corp.: SCOPE Excellence (Inst. Category-I) & Best Managed Bank.
• BHEL: Awarded in R&D, Tech. Development, and Digitilization.
• NLC India: Eminence Award for Digital Transformation.

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• REC Limited: Excellence Award in Special Institutional Category (Digitalization).

• RailTel: Award in Institutional Excellence.
Djokovic named Balkan athlete of the year for a record eighth time.
• Djokovic clinches record eighth Balkan Athlete of the Year, surpassing NBA's Nikola Jokic.
• The 36-year-old tennis legend earned the accolade after winning three Grand Slam titles in 2023,
totaling 24 in his career.
• The annual poll, celebrating its 50th anniversary, saw participation from 58 athletes, with Serbian
basketball player Alexandar Vezenkov securing the third spot.
REC Limited received prestigious ICAI award for FY 2022-23.
• ICAI Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting, 'Financial Services Sector.'
• Rigorous assessment of accounting practices, disclosure policies, adherence to standards, and
statutory guidelines.
• Golden Peacock Award for risk management, Best Central PSU Award at Dun & Bradstreet PSU
Awards 2023.
Former CJI Ranjan Gogoi to receive 'Assam Baibhav Award'.
• Assam government to confer Assam Baibhav award, the state’s highest civilian honor, to ex-Chief
Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi.
• Gogoi credited for playing a crucial role in the establishment of the Ram temple in Ayodhya
through the landmark Supreme Court judgment during his tenure as CJI.
• While athlete Hima Das will be awarded the 'Assam Saurav Samman'.
The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024
• The ceremony, was held in London.
• Men’s Player of the Year: Lionel Messi
• Women’s Player of the Year: Aitana Bonmati
• Men’s Coach of the Year: Pep Guardiola
• Women’s Coach of the Year: Sarina Wiegman
• Men’s and Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Ederson and Mary Earps
• FIFA Puskas Award: Guilherme Madruga
• Men's world XI: Six Manchester City players included.
REC Limited received prestigious ICAI award for financial reporting.
• REC Limited secures the esteemed ‘Plaque’ under the 'Financial Services Sector (Other than
Banking and Insurance)' category at the ICAI Awards for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
• The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) acknowledges REC Limited's excellence in
financial reporting for the year 2022-23.
• The award reflects REC's standing in the industry as a financial entity.
Critics Choice Awards 2024: Oppenheimer took top prizes

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• Oppenheimer movie bagged awards in Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor, Best
Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Visual Effects, Best Score, and Best Acting Ensemble
categories.
• Margot Robbie's fantasy comedy film Barbie with 6 wins including Best Comedy & Best Original
Song.
• Best Actor- Paul Giamatti (The Holdovers)
• Best Actress- Emma Stone (Poor Things)
Madison Marsh, 22-year-old US Air Force officer won Miss America title
• Madison Marsh, a 22-year-old active-duty US Air Force officer, claimed the Miss America 2024
title, becoming the first in her position to win.
• Besides her military credentials, Marsh is also a master's student at Harvard Kennedy School's
public policy program.
• Ellie Breaux of Texas was named first runner-up in the beauty pageant held in Orlando, Florida.
Vekoli's CMD Manoj Kumar honored with IMMA Lifetime Achievement Award.
• Manoj Kumar, CMD & Executive Director of Western Coalfields Limited (Vekoli), received the
prestigious "IMMA Lifetime Achievement Award."
• The award was presented during the National Seminar on "Green Mining Initiatives: Indian Mineral
Industry Perspective" at Hotel Tuli International, Nagpur.
• Kumar, in his leadership role, has significantly contributed to advancements in coal production.
ANUBHAV Awards Scheme 2024: honoring retired officials'.
• Central Government employees urged to share experiences on ANUBHAV portal by March 31,
2024, for ANUBHAV Awards, recognizing their role in administrative history.
• Department of Pension and Pensioners Welfare conducts sessions and engages
Ministries/Departments to encourage timely submissions and broader participation.
• ANUBHAV Awardees to showcase their experiences in a national forum
First woman to win best environment officer award in sugar industry.
• Deepa Bhandare makes history by becoming the first woman in the long legacy of the sugar
industry to win the Best Environment Officer Award, conferred by Vasantdada Sugar Institute
Chairman Sharad Pawar.
• Associated with Shri Datta Cooperative Sugar Factory in Shirol taluka of Kolhapur, Bhandare's
achievement stands out in a predominantly male-dominated industry.
First Indian woman, Divyakriti Singh, won Arjuna Award.
• Jaipur's Divyakriti Singh becomes the first Indian woman to receive the prestigious Arjuna Award
in Equestrian.
• The award brings regional recognition to Rajasthan, with Singh as the sole representative to
receive the Award this year.
• Singh has won an Asian Games medal in Equestrian and ranks 1st in Asia and 14th globally in the
International Equestrian Federation's Global Dressage Rankings.

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Sheetal Devi, the world’s first armless woman archer won Arjuna Award.
• Arjuna Awardee Sheetal Devi is a para-archer from Jammu and Kashmir.
• She emerged as the first armless woman to clinch a Para World Archery Championships medal
in 2023. She defeated Singapore’s Alim Nur Syahidah 144-142 in the gold medal-deciding fixture.
• Sheetal scripted history at the Para Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, China, by winning three
medals — two gold and one silver.
Shirshendu Mukyopadhyaya honored with Kuvempu Rashtriya Puraskar 2023.
• Mukyopadhyaya, known for his diverse literary contributions, has authored approximately 90
books, covering stories, novels, travelogues, and children's stories.
• The national award, instituted in memory of late Kannada poet Kuvempu, includes a cash prize
of ₹5 lakh, a silver medal, and a citation.
• The writer has brought new sensibilities to Bengali literature.
Obama, Mulaney, Burnett Triumph at 75th Creative Arts Emmy Awards.
• Barack Obama secured his second Emmy for best narrator in the Netflix series "Working: What
We Do All Day."
• John Mulaney claimed his third Emmy for outstanding writing on his Netflix standup special, "Baby
J."
• Comedy legend Carol Burnett received her seventh Emmy for NBC's "Carol Burnett: 90 Years of
Laughter + Love."
Chirag Shetty, Satwiksairaj bagged Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award
• Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Indian shuttlers, secured the esteemed Major Dhyan
Chand Khel Ratna Award, a first for any Indian badminton duo.
• Their historic success includes a gold medal from the Hangzhou Asian Games and ranking at the
top of the BWF Rankings.
• The pair now targets an Olympic medal in Paris, having nearly confirmed their qualification as
world No.2.
President Droupadi Murmu presented Dronacharya Award 2023:
• Dronacharya Award (Regular Category) for Outstanding Coaches:
o Lalit Kumar (Wrestling)
o RB Ramesh (Chess)
o Mahaveer Prasad Saini (Para Athletics)
o Shivendra Singh (Hockey)
o Ganesh Prabhakar Devrukhkar (Mallakhamb)
• Dronacharya Award (Lifetime Category) for Outstanding Coaches:
o Jaskirat Singh Grewal (Golf)
o Bhaskaran E (Kabaddi)
o Jayanta Kumar Pushilal (Table Tennis)

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Golden Globes 2024 Highlights

• Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer dominates Golden Globes with wins in multiple categories.
• Cillian Murphy named Best Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama for Oppenheimer.
• Robert Downey Jr. awarded Best Supporting Actor for Oppenheimer.
• Barbie wins the first-ever award for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement.
SVAMITVA Scheme won Best Innovation Award at Indian School of Business
• The SVAMITVA Scheme won the Best Innovation Award for the Innovation Sandbox presentation
during Public Policy Dialogues–2024 at the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad.
• The scheme showcases digital transformations in land governance, achieving the generation of
property cards for all inhabited villages in specific states and territories.
Ministry of Sports unveiled 'Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar'.
• Odisha Mining Corporate Limited was honored for Encouragement to Sports via Corporate Social
Responsibility.
• Jain Deemed to be University, Bengaluru, recognized for identifying and nurturing budding sports
talent.
• The awards ceremony is to take place at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 9th January, with President
Droupadi Murmu presenting the honors.
Indian Missions received ODOP award in New York, Vancouver and Nicosia
• The Consulate General of India in Vancouver, New York, and the High Commission of India in
Cyprus were awarded National One District One Product Awards for promoting Indian artisans
and their craftsmanship globally.
• The One District One Product (ODOP) program aims to stimulate socio-economic growth by
promoting a unique product from each district to boost local industry and exports.
Actress Rupika Grover crowned Mrs. India One in a Million 2023
• Rupika Grover, a 55-year-old model and actress from Jammu, became the eldest winner of the
Mrs. India One in a Million 2023.
• Holding a legal background, Rupika has actively advocated for women's rights and animal
welfare and has also starred alongside Bollywood legends.
• Rupika also clinched several sub-titles such as "Bold and Beautiful Classic," "Fit Classic," and
"Talented Classic."
WNS recognized as a ‘Leader’ in Insurance by ISG
• WNS (Holdings) Limited, a global Business Process Management provider, has been recognized
as a Leader in the 2023 ISG Provider Lens™ Insurance BPO Services Quadrant Report.
• The company earned its leader status through innovative digital-first solutions, deep domain
knowledge, advanced analytics, and strategic platform partnerships.
Professor B R Kamboj honoured with M S Swaminathan Award

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• Vice Chancellor of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Prof. B.R. Kamboj,
received the prestigious M.S. Swaminathan Award for his exceptional contributions to agronomy.
• The award ceremony took place at the International Conference on 'One Health One World,' held
at Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural University at Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh.
DLF: Best Sustainable Developer at PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards
• DLF Cyber City Developers scored the title of Best Sustainable Developer at the 4th PropertyGuru
Asia Property Awards (India), also earning recognitions in ESG, Sustainable Design, and
Construction.
• Supreme Universal and Raiaskaran also received awards, winning Special Recognition for Luxury
Development and Landmark Office Design respectively, while S. Raheja Realty won for
Redevelopment.

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Banking Current Affairs

RBI imposes Rs 75,000 penalty on Jila Sahakari Kendriya Bank Maryadit
• Reserve Bank of India imposed Rs 75,000 penalty on Jila Sahakari Kendriya Bank Maryadit in
Madhya Pradesh.
• Penalty for contravention of provisions of Banking Regulation Act and 'Depositor Education and
Awareness Fund Scheme, 2014'.
• Penalty based on deficiency in regulatory compliance, not intended to invalidate transactions
with customers.
Yes Bank: 1st Indian bank conducted export finance transaction on ITFS
• Yes Bank has become the 1st Indian bank to execute an export finance transaction on the
International Trade Financing Services Platform of RXIL Global IFSC Limited.
• This strategic partnership allows arranging credit for exporters and importers from Indian and
global institutions through Factoring, Forfaiting, and other trade financing services at competitive
pricing.
ICICI Bank Canada introduced 'Money2India (Canada)' mobile app.
• Seamless 24/7 money transfers from any Canadian bank to India, no ICICI Bank Canada account
required.
• User-friendly interface for instant transfers, supporting Visa/Mastercard debit cards with a high
transaction limit of CAD 30,000.
• Advanced security features, including two-factor authentication, ensure the safety of digital
transactions.
DLabs at ISB introduces 'Build for Billions' startup accelerator.
• DLabs at ISB introduces 'Build for Billions' startup accelerator in collaboration with RBI Innovation
Hub and Union Bank of India.
• The program aims to address financial challenges for gig workers, migrant workers, and various
informal sector workers.
• 50-day, equity-free accelerator providing mentorship, capacity building, resources, networking,
and a piloting opportunity with Union Bank.
Yes Bank partners with Veefin to launch SmartFin for digital supply.
• Yes Bank unveils SmartFin, a digital Supply Chain Finance platform in collaboration with Veefin
Solutions.
• Emphasizes a strategic move to bolster support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises
(MSMEs).
• Ajay Rajan, Country Head at Yes Bank, highlights the commitment to innovation and digital
offerings, especially in working capital management.
Yes Bank deployed Veefin’s SmartFin supply chain finance solution

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• Yes Bank has launched SmartFin, a comprehensive digital supply chain finance (SCF) platform, in
collaboration with Veefin Solutions, aiming to support MSMEs and drive working capital
efficiencies.
• Ajay Rajan of Yes Bank stated that SmartFin's end-to-end digital offerings will augment the bank's
digital capabilities, delivering operational & financial efficiencies for stakeholders.
SBI unveils green rupee term deposit to boost eco-friendly initiatives
• State Bank of India launches SGRTD, a special fixed deposit scheme, to gather funds for
environmentally-friendly projects.
• Eligible for residents, non-individuals, and NRIs, SGRTD offers flexible tenors of 1111 days, 1777 days,
and 2222 days.
• SGRTD allows pre-mature withdrawal, follows standard maturity guidelines, and offers loan
facility with applicable TDS.
RBI imposed penalties on Dhanlaxmi, Punjab and Sind, and ESAF Banks.
• Dhanlaxmi Bank (Rs 1.20 Cr) penalized for exceeding loan limits on gold ornaments
• Punjab and Sind Bank (Rs 1 Cr) faces penalties for sanctioning a term loan without due diligence
and misusing budgetary resources.
• ESAF Bank (Rs 29.55 Lakh) charged for allowing additional savings accounts for Basic Savings
Bank Deposit account holders and failing to close accounts within stipulated time.
Major UPI apps enabled for real-time remittances from Singapore.
• Indians can now receive remittances from Singapore directly into their bank accounts in real-
time, thanks to the groundbreaking UPI-PayNow linkage announced by the NPCI.
• Major UPI and bank apps, including SBI, Axis, ICICI, BHIM, PhonePe, and Paytm, are enabled for
this service.
• The UPI-PayNow linkage is a game-changer, facilitating instant, secure, and cost-effective
remittances
IndusInd Bank introduced the ‘Samman RuPay Credit Card’
• IndusInd Bank introduced the “IndusInd Bank Samman RuPay Credit Card", equipped with UPI
functionality, in partnership with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
• This card comes with a myriad of benefits, such as cashback on various expenses, complimentary
movie tickets, zero fees on cash advances, and exemptions from surcharges on IRCTC
transactions and fuel purchases.
SBI raises $250 million through green bonds
• State Bank of India, the largest lender, successfully raises $250 million via green bonds.
• The bonds, part of SBI’s $10 billion medium-term note program, will mature on December 29, 2028.
• Proceeds to be allocated for eligible green projects, aligning with SBI's Environmental, Social, and
Governance (ESG) framework.
Canara Bank to launch Data Analytics center in Bengaluru

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• Canara Bank will be creating a dedicated cybersecurity wing aiming to prevent online fraud and
enhance customer security.
• The bank's new initiative leverages AI technologies in predicting loan defaults, improving
customer experience, and identifying transactional anomalies.
• Digital transactions have significantly increased which symbolizes the need for security against
cyber-attacks.

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Books and Authors Current Affairs

'Ek Samandar, Mere Andar' book written by Sanjeev Joshi.
• BrahMos Aerospace Deputy CEO Sanjeev Joshi's 'Ek Samandar, Mere Andar' is a 75 poetic
creation.
• Sanjeev Joshi explores a diverse range of topics, including emotions, experiences, and reflections
on life in and beyond the realm of defense.
• The book launch gathered eminent figures including NSA Ajit Doval, General Anil Chauhan, and
Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt.
Romesh Bhattacharji authored "KASHMIR: Travels in Paradise on Earth"
• HarperCollins announced the publication of the book "KASHMIR: Travels in Paradise on Earth",
authored by Romesh Bhattacharji.
• The book is set to release on February 5, 2024, and will be available in paperback format.
• Written by an experienced trekker, the book offers detailed insights into the topography and
geography of Kashmir, capturing its pristine beauty before the onset of militancy.
Smita Das Jain co-authored Intl. Bestseller, "Cracking the Rich Code"
• Executive and Life Coach Smita Das Jain has contributed a chapter to the internationally
renowned book, "Cracking the Rich Code: Vol 12", endorsed by Tony Robbins.
• In “Destiny by Design: The Empower Yourself Blueprint to Success," Smita chronicles her journey
from corporate ambiguity to coaching excellence and provides practical strategies for success.
Amit Shah launches book 'Assam's Braveheart Lachit Barphukan'
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveils the book "Assam's Braveheart Lachit Barphukan" by Arup
Kumar Dutta in Guwahati.
• Shah commends PM Modi's efforts for a vibrant Northeast, emphasizing inclusiveness and
resolving disputes through accords.
• The book, published in English and translated into 24 Indian languages, aims to promote the
national hero Lachit Barphukan's legacy.
Conversations with Aurangzeb translated in english by Nandini Krishna.
• Tamil literary Charu Nivedita's novel, "Conversations with Aurangzeb," is translated into English
by Nandini Krishnan.
• It involves a writer attempting to conduct seances with the spirit of Shah Jahan but takes an
unexpected turn when Aurangzeb hijacks the narrative.
• "Conversations with Aurangzeb" is praised for its genre-bending approach, using humor and the
complexities of power.
Jagdeep Dhankhar unveils 'Fertilising the Future': Bharat's Fertilizer
• Vice President Dhankhar releases 'Fertilising the Future' by Chemicals and Fertilizers Minister Dr.
Mansukh Mandaviya
• Book outlines India's path to fertilizer self-sufficiency under PM Narendra Modi's leadership

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• Dr. Mandaviya expresses gratitude for the unveiling of the book documenting revolutionary
changes in the sector
Book: “An Uncommon Love: The Early Life of Sudha and Narayana Murthy”.
• Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's latest book, "An Uncommon Love: The Early Life of Sudha and
Narayana Murthy," provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of Sudha and Narayana Murthy,
renowned co-founders of Infosys.
• The biography delves into the couple's shared love for literature, especially works by Kannadiga
writers.
Sharmistha Mukherjee presents 'Pranab My Father' book to PM Modi.
• Sharmistha Mukherjee, daughter of former President Pranab Mukherjee, meets PM Modi in New
Delhi, presenting the book 'Pranab My Father: A Daughter Remembers.'
• PM Modi expresses delight, recalling memorable interactions with Pranab Babu.
• He praises the book for reflecting the greatness, wisdom, and intellectual depth of the late former
President.
M.J. Akbar and Natwar Singh launch "Gandhi: A Life in Three Campaign".
• M.J. Akbar and K. Natwar Singh unveil latest book, "Gandhi: A Life in Three Campaigns," at an
event hosted by Nripendra Misra, Chairman of the Executive Council of the Prime Minister’s
Museum and Library Society.
• The book provides a detailed exploration of Gandhi's life, particularly highlighting three pivotal
mass campaigns he led: Non-Cooperation Movement, Salt Satyagraha, Quit India.
Jaya Jaitly’s new book advocates overhaul of Graphic Design Education.
• Jaya Jaitly's book focuses on design thinking and the need for an overhaul of graphic design
education in India.
• Titled "Inspirations for Graphic Design from India," the book suggests recognizing indigenous
sources for design education.
• Jaitly emphasizes the limitations of existing teaching methods, describing them as soulless and
geared towards the printing industry.
Bhupender Yadav launched book 'Modi: Energising a Green Future'.
• Union Minister Bhupender Singh Yadav unveiled the book "Modi: Energising a Green Future" in
Delhi.
• Published by Pentagon Press in collaboration with Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee Research
Foundation.
• The book features insights from distinguished decision-makers and experts, analyzing PM Modi's
environmental leadership and India's green initiatives.
MM Naravane's book revealed insights on China Border Crisis.
• Gen MM Naravane's upcoming book, "Four Stars to Destiny," provide undisclosed details of high-
level decision-making during the 2020 China border crisis.

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 Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | January 2024

• The book includes insights on communications with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the
PLA mobilization at Rechin La pass in Eastern Ladakh.
• Gen Naravane recalled the operational response decided during the LAC standoff with China.
PM Modi received book on Srirangam Temple during Tiruchi visit
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented the coffee table book, "Srirangam - The
Resplendent Kingdom of Rangaraja," by BJP State President K. Annamalai during his visit to
Tiruchi on January 2, 2024.
• Published by The Hindu Group, this 454-page book features information and rare archival
photographs about Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, offering insights into its architecture, and
tradition.
Kerala Governor launched: "Ram Mandir Rashtra Mandir Ak Sajhi Virasat"
• Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan launched the book, "Ram Mandir Rashtra Mandir Ak Sajhi
Virast," at Rang Bhawan Auditorium, Delhi.
• Governor Khan underscored the importance of unifying messages in a divided world faced with
nuclear threats, the significance of Lord Ram for character building in future generations,
reinforcing Lord Ram's eternal relevance to Indian culture and ethos.

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 Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | January 2024

Business and Economy Current Affairs

IMF upgraded India's GDP growth estimate to 6.7% for FY 2023-24
• India remains the fastest-growing economy among major economies, with a GDP expansion of
7.2% in FY23.
• IMF raised India's GDP growth estimate for the current financial year to 6.7%, up from 6.3%.
• The medium-term GDP growth forecast for India increased to 6.5% for 2025 and 2026.
• Strong public investment and positive labor market outcomes are cited as contributing factors.
GDP to grow 7%-plus, touch $5 tn in 3 years: says Finance Ministry
• The Ministry of Finance brought a report titled ‘The Indian economy — A review’
• The Indian economy is likely to grow at over 7 per cent in the coming years and is expected to
become the third-largest economy in the world in the next three years, with a GDP of $5 trillion.
• The increasing domestic demand along with supply-side measures such as investment in
infrastructure are major reasons.
Ola launches e-Bike taxi service in Delhi & Hyderabad
• Ola Mobility has launched its new e-bike taxi service in Delhi and Hyderabad. The company will
deploy 10,000 electric scooters in both cities in the coming months.
• Ola launched its e-bike taxi service in Bangalore on a pilot basis in September 2023. Within 3
months, company saw a 40% market expansion, with over 1.75 million rides.
• Ola has set up 200 charging stations in Bangalore.
Zomato received the nod from the RBI for online payment aggregator.
• RBI grants final approval to Zomato on January 24 to operate as online payment aggregators.
• The latest additions bring the total count to 11 entities authorized by the regulator for online
aggregation services in India.
• Zomato emphasizes leveraging financial service licenses to enhance offerings within its
ecosystem, rather than entering fintech as a standalone player.
Zydus Lifesciences secured USFDA approval for generic medicine
• Zydus Lifesciences receives approval from the USFDA to market Lacosamide Tablets, a generic
anti-epileptic medication.
• Lacosamide is used to treat partial-onset seizures and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures.
• The medication will be manufactured at Zydus Lifesciences' formulation manufacturing facility in
Moraiya, Ahmedabad.
AI startup Krutrim became India's first unicorn in 2024
• Bhavish Aggarwal's startup Krutrim raised $50 million in funding.
• It achieved $1 billion valuation, becoming India's first AI unicorn.
• Krutrim launched just a month ago as a large language AI model.
• Krutrim, which means “artificial" in Sanskrit, is also in the process of developing data centers
across the country, aiming to create a supercomputer ecosystem for AI development in India

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 Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | January 2024

Bank of Baroda raises Rs 5,000 Crore via 10-year infrastructure bonds.

• Bank of Baroda, a state-owned lender, has announced the successful raising of Rs 5,000 crore
through the issuance of 10-year infrastructure bonds at a coupon rate of 7.57 percent.
• The bank received a robust response with a total of 128 bids amounting to Rs 14,950 crore against
the targeted issue size of Rs 5,000 crore.
WhatsApp channels surpasses 500 million monthly active users
• Mark Zuckerberg revealed that WhatsApp Channels has achieved a remarkable milestone,
crossing 500 million monthly active users within the first 7 weeks of its launch.
• WhatsApp Channels introduces a new way for users to receive information from individuals,
organizations, and teams they follow on the platform.
• The platform has also launched its official WhatsApp Channel
AIIB: India’s largest Renewable Energy Infrastructure Investment Trust
• The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank has invested INR4.86 billion in India's largest renewable
energy Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT), Sustainable Energy Infra Trust (SEIT).
• AIIB is promoting InvITs as an infrastructure asset class in India, supporting increased private
capital mobilization for green infrastructure and aiding in the achievement of Net Zero targets.
LIC unveiled 'Jeevan Dhara II' deferred annuity plan.
• LIC Chairman Siddhartha Mohanty introduces Jeevan Dhara II, a non-participating deferred
annuity plan.
• The plan offers 11 diverse annuity options catering to individual financial preferences and goals
with a flexible entry age of 20 years.
• Loan facility available during or after deferment, particularly under annuity options with a return
of premium/purchase price.
NSE retains position as the world's largest exchange in 2023.
• National Stock Exchange (NSE) Maintains Global Derivative Exchange Dominance for Fifth
Consecutive Year in 2023
• Ranked 3rd globally in the equity segment by the number of trades, reinforcing its significant
presence.
• NSE Group, comprising NSE and NSE International Exchange, reaffirms its top position based on
statistics from Futures Industry Association (FIA).
LIC surpassed SBI to become most valuable PSU, market cap ₹5.8 Lakh Cr
• Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) achieves a milestone by surpassing State Bank of India
(SBI) in market capitalization
• LIC's share price rises over 2%, reaching 52-week highs of ₹919.45, pushing market cap beyond
₹5.8 Lakh Crore
• Article explores LIC's impressive comeback, journey since listing, and factors contributing to its
remarkable revival

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 Current Affairs Monthly Capsule | January 2024

Ambani surpassed $100 Billion, became Asia's wealthiest man

• Mukesh Ambani's fortune crosses $100 billion, reclaiming the top spot in Asia.
• A 22% surge in Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) shares, driven by strong quarterly profits,
contributes to Ambani's $2.8 billion net worth gain in 24 hours.
• In a week, Ambani overtakes Gautam Adani, who briefly held the title, showcasing the dynamic
shifts in wealth among India's business magnates.
Zerodha fund house introduced India's First Growth Liquid ETF.
• The ETF mirrors the Nifty 1D Rate Index, focusing on returns from overnight market lending,
primarily investing in TREPS on the CCIL platform.
• A seasoned financial professional oversees the fund, which carries relatively low credit and
interest rate risk
• Zerodha aims to attract retail investors, offering growth NAV and taxation only upon ETF sale.
Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet 2024: attracts ₹6.6 lakh crore.
• Tata Power has decided to capital expenditure of ₹50,000 crore to ₹60,000 crore
• First Solar has decided to increase its existing $700 million investment to nearly $1 billion.
• Hyundai announced an additional ₹6,000 crore investment in addition to ₹20,000 crore
• Vietnamese EV VinFast will set up a plant in Tuticorin with an investment of $2 billion.
• Saint-Gobain - ₹3,400 crore
India exported products worth over 60 lakh crore in FY 2022-23
• India's total exports exceeded 60 lakh crore in the 2022-2023 financial year, said Commerce and
Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
• Goyal emphasized high-quality standards to drive India towards becoming a developed nation
and revealed that 4.5 lakh articles are hallmarked daily across over 340 districts.
• He highlighted that toy imports have dropped by 52% compared to 2014.
Indian economy to grow at 7.3 percent in this year, NSO report
• The National Statistical Office predicted that India's economy will grow by a strong 7.3% in the
Financial Year 2023-24, building on last year's growth rate of 7.2%.
• The construction sector is projected to experience double-digit growth of 10.7%, with all sectors
estimated to grow over 6%, barring Agriculture and Allied areas at 1.8%.
Adani regained title of Asia's Richest Person, surpassed Ambani.
• Adani's resurgence in wealth is attributed to significant growth in the shares of his company,
fueled by a favorable verdict from the Supreme Court regarding the Adani-Hindenburg
controversy.
• As of January 5, Gautam Adani holds the title of richest person, with a net worth of $97.6 billion,
surpassing Mukesh Ambani, who is now second in the Bloomberg Index with a net worth of $97
billion.
Adani investment in Telangana, for Data Centre and Aerospace Park.

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