“IMPORTANT DAY”

World Wetlands Day 2024

On February 2, 2024, the world comes together to celebrate World Wetlands Day, emphasizing the undeniable importance of wetlands to both the environment and human wellbeing. Wetlands, with their diverse ecosystems ranging from freshwater to marine environments, including swamps, marshes, and mangroves, play a pivotal role in the lives of countless species, including humans. This day serves as a critical reminder to raise awareness and take action towards the conservation of our planet’s vital wetlands.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day 2024

Every year on February 2nd, the world marks Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day, dedicated to shedding light on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune disease that significantly impacts the lives of millions globally. This observance aims to raise awareness, encourage early diagnosis and treatment, and provide support to those affected by RA. With women being disproportionately affected, understanding this disease’s nuances is crucial for all.

World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024, 1-7 February

Every year, from February 1st to 7th, the world commemorates World Interfaith Harmony Week (WIHW), a time dedicated to fostering mutual understanding, peace, and harmony among people of different faiths. Instituted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2010, this week-long observance highlights the crucial role of interfaith dialogue in building a culture of peace and nonviolence.

“AWARD”

Best Republic Day tableaux: Odisha wins 1st prize

Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt gave away the best marching contingents and tableaux awards for the Republic Day Parade. He announced separate results – one by a panel of judges and other through an online public vote conducted by MyGov and congratulated all the winners. Three panels of judges were appointed for assessing the performance of Marching Contingents from three Services, Marching Contingents from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF)/other auxiliary forces and tableaux from various States/Union Territories and Ministries/Departments.

“APPOINTMENT”

AU Small Finance Bank Appoints HR Khan as Non-Executive Chairman

AU Small Finance Bank announced the appointment of Harun Rashid Khan, former deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as its Non-Executive Chairman. The appointment, effective January 30, 2024, received approval from the Board of Directors, RBI, and shareholders. Harun Rashid Khan’s tenure begins on January 30, 2024. Approval obtained from the Nomination & Remuneration Committee and the Board of Directors.

Champai Soren to be next Jharkhand CM

Hemant Soren has resigned as Jharkhand’s Chief Minister while the ruling JMM-led coalition proposed the name of senior leader and State Transport Minister Champai Soren as the new Chief Minister. Hemant Soren tendered his resignation to Governor CP Radhakrishnan at the Raj Bhavan after about seven hours of questioning by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case linked to a land scam. Champai Soren was unanimously elected as the JMM Legislature Party leader by the ruling alliance in the State.

ACC approves Sanjay Mudaliar as ED of Bank of Baroda

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the Department of Financial Services (DFS) proposal to post Sanjay Vinayak Mudaliar as Executive Director at Bank of Baroda. Mudaliar is currently the Executive Director at Indian Overseas Bank. Mudaliar will serve his new post from the day he assumes charge for the remainder of his term, i.e. up to Dec 31, 2025. Simultaneously, ACC has approved the DFS proposal to post Joydeep Dutta Roy, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda, as Executive Director in the Indian Overseas Bank.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Surat Airport Attains International Airport Status

Surat Airport, situated in Gujarat, has officially received recognition as an International Airport from the Indian government, a significant development overseen by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This strategic decision underscores Surat’s increasing economic potential and aims to enhance global connectivity, aligning with the city’s status as a thriving hub for the diamond and textile industries. By elevating Surat Airport to international status, the government aims to boost economic growth, attract foreign investment, and strengthen diplomatic ties with other nations.