26 July Current Affairs 2023 refers to the latest news and events happening around the world and are relevant to our daily lives. Staying updated with the 26 July Current Affairs 2023 is essential for students who are preparing for exams, especially competitive exams, as it forms an important part of the syllabus. The importance of the 26 July Current Affairs 2023 lies in its ability to help students enhance their general knowledge, improve their reading and comprehension skills, and develop their critical thinking abilities. 26 July Current Affairs 2023 also provides students with insights into various issues such as politics, economics, and social issues that are important for their overall development as informed citizens. Regularly reading and analyzing the 26 July Current Affairs 2023 not only helps students ace their exams but also prepares them for their future roles as responsible and well-informed citizens of society.
CSIR-IIIM Jammu’s Landmark Cannabis Research Project: Spearheaded by PM Narendra Modi
The Cannabis Research Project is a groundbreaking initiative undertaken by CSIR-IIIM Jammu in partnership with the Canadian firm ‘IndusScan,’ championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The project aims to explore the medicinal potential of cannabis to benefit humanity, particularly in aiding patients with neuropathies, cancer, and epilepsy. This collaboration holds immense significance for India, as it seeks to establish domestic medicine production capabilities and foster self-reliance in the pharmaceutical sector. By advancing medical cannabis applications and research, CSIR-IIIM aims to solidify its position as a pioneering research institute, contributing to revolutionary advancements in the global medical field. Read the complete article here
International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem or Mangrove Day 2023
The International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem or Mangrove Day is celebrated each year on July 26th. Its main goal is to raise awareness worldwide about the importance of mangrove ecosystems, which are unique, valuable, and fragile environments. This special day also aims to promote sustainable practices in the management, protection, and use of these ecosystems.
Mangroves are trees and shrubs that grow in the intertidal zone of tropical and subtropical coastal areas. They are tolerant of high salinity, tidal flooding, and low oxygen levels.
Mangroves are coastal habitats comprised of salt-tolerant trees and plants that grow in tropical and subtropical regions. They play a crucial role in the environment by acting as natural barriers against coastal erosion and storm surges, providing habitats for various marine species, and supporting the livelihoods of local communities. Their conservation is vital for maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity. Read the complete article here
A Showcase of Aquatic Excellence: The 2023 World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan
The 2023 World Aquatics Championships are currently taking place in Fukuoka, Japan, where athletes from all over the world are competing in swimming, diving, and artistic swimming events. The championships have already seen remarkable performances, with several world records being broken and impressive victories achieved by top swimmers.
China has emerged as the dominant force in the competition, leading the medal standings with an impressive number of gold medals. Australia and Japan are also performing well and securing significant positions in the medal table.
As the swimming events conclude, the excitement continues with the highly anticipated diving and artistic swimming competitions. Divers will showcase their precision and grace from springboards and platforms, while artistic swimmers will mesmerize audiences with their beautifully choreographed routines.
The 2023 World Aquatics Championships have been an exceptional celebration of aquatic excellence, and with the diving and artistic swimming events yet to come, fans can look forward to more breathtaking moments and impressive displays of talent from athletes worldwide. Read the complete article here
CERT-In Cautions Internet Users Against Ransomware ‘Akira’ Attack
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a warning about a new internet ransomware virus named ‘Akira.’ This malicious software is designed to steal sensitive personal information from users and encrypt their data, making it inaccessible to the victims. The attackers then demand a ransom in exchange for unlocking the encrypted data and restoring access.
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) is a nodal agency under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) of the Government of India. It was established in 2004 to deal with cybersecurity threats and incidents. Read the complete article here
Tata Steel Reappoints TV Narendran as MD and CEO for 5 years
Thachat Viswanath Narendran has been given the opportunity to continue serving as the Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of Tata Steel for another five years, beginning from September 19, 2023, until September 18, 2028. The decision to reappoint him was taken following the suggestion of the ‘Nomination and Remuneration Committee.’ This reappointment reflects the company’s confidence in Narendran’s leadership and vision to lead Tata Steel in the coming years.
T.V. Narendran is an accomplished business executive who started his journey at Tata Steel in 1988. Over the years, he demonstrated remarkable dedication and leadership, rising through the ranks to become a C-level executive in the organization. Currently, he holds the prestigious positions of global CEO and Managing Director at Tata Steel, a renowned steel producer on a global scale. Read the complete article here
National Coal Index (NCI) Declined by 33.8%, Hints at Sufficient Coal Supply
In May 2023, the National Coal Index (NCI) showed a notable decrease of 33.8% compared to May 2022, dropping to 157.7 points from the previous 238.3 points. This decline in the index indicates a substantial supply of coal in the market, ensuring sufficient availability to meet the rising demand for coal.
The National Coal Index (NCI) is a price index that is used to track the price of coal in India. It is compiled by the Ministry of Coal and is based on the prices of coal that are traded in the e-auctions that are conducted by Coal India Limited (CIL). Read the complete article here
ISRO’s PSLV-C56 to Launch with Six Co-passenger Satellites on 30th July
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is preparing for a significant mission called PSLV-C56, scheduled for launch on 30th July. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C56) will be used for this mission, which will carry multiple satellites into space. One of the primary satellites on this mission is Singapore’s DS-SAR satellite, weighing 3600 kg.
The DS-SAR satellite is a joint venture between DSTA, representing the Singaporean government, and ST Engineering. It is equipped with a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). This advanced technology allows the DS-SAR satellite to provide high-resolution imaging day and night, regardless of weather conditions.
The significance of the DS-SAR satellite lies in its ability to fulfill the satellite imagery requirements of various Singaporean government agencies. Additionally, ST Engineering will utilize the satellite to offer geospatial services and imagery to commercial customers.
Alongside the DS-SAR satellite, the PSLV-C56 will also carry six co-passenger satellites with diverse functions and applications. These satellites are VELOX-AM, Atmospheric Coupling and Dynamics Explorer (ARCADE), SCOOB-II, NuLIoN by NuSpace, Galassia-2, and ORB-12 STRIDER.
This mission is another milestone in ISRO’s space exploration efforts, demonstrating their commitment to advancing space technology and fostering international collaboration. The inclusion of various satellites with different purposes reflects ISRO’s versatility in addressing diverse applications in the field of space exploration. Read the complete article here
RBI to Withdraw ₹2000 Denomination Banknotes from Circulation
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to withdraw the ₹2000 denomination banknotes from circulation. These banknotes were introduced on November 10, 2016, following the demonetization of ₹500 and ₹1000 banknotes. The decision was taken to address the currency requirements of the economy at that time.
Recently, Union Minister of State for Finance, Shri Pankaj Chaudhary, confirmed this decision in response to a question in Rajya Sabha. The withdrawal comes as approximately 89% of the ₹2000 notes issued before March 2017 have nearly reached the end of their useful life, which is typically around 4-5 years. Additionally, a pan-India survey conducted by RBI indicated a decline in the preference for ₹2000 denomination banknotes in day-to-day transactions.
The withdrawal is in line with RBI’s “Clean Note Policy,” which aims to maintain the quality and efficiency of currency in circulation. It ensures that currency notes are fit for use and avoids any disruption to economic activities due to deteriorating banknotes. With the decline in the usage of ₹2000 denomination notes and to ensure an adequate supply of currency in various denominations, RBI has taken this strategic step to efficiently manage the circulation of banknotes in the country. Read the complete article here
Australia’s Largest Bilateral Military Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023 Begins
Australia and the United States have begun their biggest bilateral military exercise, Exercise Talisman Sabre, with an opening ceremony held onboard HMAS Canberra. This is the tenth edition of the exercise, and it marks a significant milestone as it is the largest in terms of its geographical area and the number of participating partners. Over the next two weeks, 13 nations will join in high-end multi-domain warfighting exercises, covering various domains such as sea, land, air, cyber, and space. The exercise aims to enhance military cooperation, interoperability, and readiness among the participating countries, fostering greater regional security and stability. Read the complete article here
Government Sanctions Higher Interest Rate on Employees Provident Fund Deposits for FY 2022-23
In the financial year 2022-23, the Union government granted approval for an increased interest rate of 8.15% on Employees Provident Fund (EPF) deposits. This decision comes after the EPFO trustees ratified the proposal to raise the interest rates, which had been at a four-decade low of 8.10% in the previous fiscal year. The higher interest rate is expected to benefit over six crore EPF subscribers, and the amount will be credited to their accounts soon. The decision to increase the interest rate was made in consideration of the EPFO’s financial position and its ability to provide better returns to its members while maintaining a favorable investment credit profile. The EPF is a crucial social security scheme designed to promote retirement savings and provide financial security to salaried employees in India. Read the complete article here
Ladakh Gets First Women Police Station in Kargil
The establishment of Ladakh’s first-ever women police station is a historic moment for the Union Territory. This important initiative is focused on empowering women and ensuring their safety and security within the region. The newly inaugurated police station, located in Kargil, is a significant step towards addressing crimes against women. The inauguration of the women police station reflects the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and protecting women’s rights. It signifies a positive step towards creating a more inclusive and secure society, where women can feel empowered and protected. Read the complete article here
China’s Central Bank Governor Appointment: Pan Gongsheng Takes the Helm
Certainly! Pan Gongsheng’s appointment as the central bank governor of China is a highly significant move during the once-a-decade transition of power within the ruling Communist Party. As a seasoned veteran of China’s state-owned banking sector and with a wealth of experience in central banking, he is well-equipped to lead the country’s financial sector through economic challenges and foster continued growth.
One noteworthy aspect of his appointment is that it consolidates both the governor and Communist Party secretary positions at the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) under one person for the first time since 2018. This consolidation is expected to streamline decision-making processes and enhance efficiency at the top level of the central bank.
Additionally, Pan Gongsheng has actively engaged with global leaders and attended meetings with visiting central bankers from various countries, showcasing China’s commitment to maintaining ties and cooperation in the global financial landscape.
With his extensive expertise and leadership acumen, Pan Gongsheng’s new role as central bank governor is crucial in ensuring policy continuity, navigating economic uncertainties, and fostering confidence in China’s financial policies. His experience and background make him a key figure in charting the course for the country’s economy amid challenges and uncertainties. Read the complete article here
