“IMPORTANT DAYS”

World Refugee Day 2024

Every year on June 20th, the world comes together to observe World Refugee Day. This day is dedicated to the millions of people who have been forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution, or natural disasters. It serves as a powerful reminder of their plight and a call to action to support and welcome refugees into our communities. World Refugee Day has its roots in Africa, where it was first established in 1970 to honor refugee rights defined by the United Nations (UN) in 1951. Recognizing the global refugee crisis, the UN General Assembly later took a more worldwide approach in 2000, designating June 20th as World Refugee Day.

The Theme: “Everyone is Welcome”

The theme for World Refugee Day 2024 is “Everyone is Welcome.” This theme highlights the need for global unity and inclusion in supporting refugees. It envisions a world where refugees are actively embraced, offered assistance, and given the opportunity to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.

World Sickle Cell Day 2024

The United Nations General Assembly recognized sickle cell disease as a public health issue and designated 19 June as World Sickle Cell Day in December 2008. The day aims to raise awareness about the disease, promote early detection, and encourage preventive measures for patient relief. Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects the red blood cells. In this condition, the red blood cells become sickle-shaped, hindering their smooth movement and oxygen transportation throughout the body.

World Sickle Cell Day-Theme for 2024

The theme for the 2024 World Sickle Cell Day is “Hope through progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally.”

“SPORTS”

Neeraj Chopra Shines at Paavo Nurmi Games 2024

Indian javelin star Neeraj Chopra added another feather to his cap by clinching the gold medal in the men’s javelin throw event at the Paavo Nurmi Games 2024 in Turku, Finland. The Paavo Nurmi Games is a prestigious World Athletics Continental Tour (Gold level) event, and Neeraj’s victory further solidifies his position as a dominant force in the sport.

“DEFENCE”

Indian Army Launches First Skin Bank for Advanced Care of Personnel and Families

The Indian Army on June 18, announced the opening of a state-of-the-art skin bank facility at the Army Hospital (Research & Referral). The facility offers the latest modern treatment for severe burn injuries received by armed forces personnel and their families. This will be the first of its kind to be established within the Armed Forces Medical Services to cater to the three kinds of patients the Army hospitals see: injuries from domestic fire accidents, electrical incidents, and kerosene warmers jawans and officers use to keep themselves warm at high altitudes.

 “APPOINTMENTS”

Ashwani Kumar Appointed MCD Commissioner

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has appointed IAS officer Ashwani Kumar as the Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) with immediate effect. Ashwani Kumar Belongs  to the 1992-batch of the Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram-Union Territory (AGMUT) cadre, he will succeed Gyanesh Bharti, who was transferred to the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development as the Additional Secretary in March.

Paytm Appoints Rajeev Agarwal as Non-Executive Independent Director

In a recent development, Paytm has named Rajeev Krishnamuralilal Agarwal, former whole-time director of SEBI, as its non-executive independent director for a five-year term. This change comes alongside the resignation of Neeraj Arora, who cited pre-occupation and personal commitments. Neeraj Arora, known for his pivotal role in negotiating WhatsApp’s merger with Facebook, resigned as Paytm’s non-executive independent director on June 17, 2024. This marks his second departure from the company’s board, having previously rejoined before its IPO.

 “NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Nvidia Becomes World’s Most Valuable Company

Nvidia, the startup at the centre of the artificial intelligence boom, has become the world’s most valuable company, knocking Microsoft off the top spot. Nvidia’s market capitalisation hit $3.335 trillion on June 18, as shares of the chipmaker rose by 3.5 percent to $135.58. Nvidia Corporation is an American multinational corporation and technology company headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and incorporated in Delaware.

Thailand Passes Marriage Equality Bill, A First in Southeast Asia

Thailand will become the first nation in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage after the kingdom’s Senate approved a marriage equality bill on June 18, with supporters calling it a “monumental step forward for LGBTQ+ rights.” The Senate voted overwhelmingly in favor of passing the bill following a final reading, with 130 senators voting in favor. Only four members opposed the bill. The bill still requires endorsement from the king before marriage equality can become reality in Thailand, but this process is considered a formality. The law will then come into effect 120 days after it is published in the royal gazette.