1 Second two-plus-two ministerial talks between India and Australia held in New Delhi
The second two plus two ministerial level talks between India and Australia were held in New Delhi . Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar co-chaired it along with Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong . In the talks, the ministers discussed strengthening relations between the two countries in various fields. These include defense and security, trade and investment, critical minerals, energy, climate change, science and technology, space science, education and deepening people-to-people ties between the two countries.
2 Right-wing leader Javier Miley elected new President of Argentina
Right-wing leader Javier Miley has been elected the new President of Argentina . In his first address as president-elect, he said Argentina’s situation was dire. He promised to make major changes after assuming the presidency. Javier Miley said that the reconstruction of Argentina begins today. It is known that Argentina is the country with the third largest economy in Latin America, which is struggling with the problem of inflation, increasing recession and increasing poverty. According to Argentina’s electoral authority, in the presidential election, Javier Miley received 55.8 percent of the votes and Economy Minister Sergio Massa received 44.2 percent of the votes.
3 Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Luke Frieden on assuming the post of Prime Minister of Luxembourg
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Luke Frieden on assuming the post of Prime Minister of Luxembourg . Luxembourg’s centre-right Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) emerged as the winner in the 19 November 2023 general election, while Prime Minister Xavier Bettel’s ruling liberal coalition failed to win an outright majority. Luxembourg is a small country in Western Europe . It shares borders with Belgium, France and Germany.
4 The deadline for the Friendship Exchange Agreement between Fukuoka city of Japan and Delhi was extended for three years.
The deadline for the Friendship Exchange Agreement between Fukuoka city of Japan and Delhi has been extended for three years . This decision was taken during an agreement between Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Fukuoka Prefecture Vice Governor Aki Omagari . The deadline for the agreement will now continue till March 31, 2026 . According to this, cooperation will be continued in the areas of environment, culture, tourism, heritage, education and movement of youth to each other’s cities. On the occasion of signing the agreement, the Chief Minister said that Fukuoka and Delhi have been cooperating with each other since 2007. He said that it is a matter of great pleasure that this agreement has been extended for three more years.
5 Haryana: Chief Minister Manohar Lal inaugurated the campus of Shri Vishwakarma Kaushal University in Dudhaula village of Palwal.
Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal inaugurated the newly constructed campus of Shri Vishwakarma Skill University at Dudhaula village in Palwal district . On this occasion, the Chief Minister emphasized the significant impact of India’s youth globally through skill development, in which Haryana is playing an important role in this area. Highlighting this achievement, he said that the country’s first skill university has been established in Palwal district, which has brought pride to the region. He also mentioned the success of the University in securing better placements and paving the way for local youth to achieve self-reliance, self-employment opportunities through skill development. The Chief Minister said that a grant of Rs 1000 crore has been sanctioned by the government for the development of the university, the objective of which is to connect the youth of the state with skill development.
6 In view of Constitution Day, Constitution quiz and online reading competition of Preamble started.
In order to celebrate the Constitution Day, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs has invited citizens to participate in the Constitution Quiz and online reading competition of the Preamble . The Ministry has launched two web portals to ensure maximum participation of people. People can visit the websites- readpreamble.nic.in and constitutionquiz.nic.in . You can read the Preamble of the Constitution and get a certificate of participation in the competition. The Ministry has said that the Preamble can be read in all the 22 national languages of India. Constitution Day is celebrated every year on 26 November . It was passed by the Constituent Assembly on the same day. The day is celebrated to reaffirm the constitutional values and honor the contributions of its framers.
7 World’s first vaccine for Chikungunya approved
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States approved the world’s first vaccine for chikungunya . European vaccine manufacturer Valneva has created a breakthrough vaccine called Ixchiq that represents a major advance in protection against chikungunya virus (CHIKV) . It is given as a single dose through injection into the muscle. It contains a live, weakened version of the chikungunya virus, potentially causing similar symptoms of the disease in vaccine recipients. Individuals who are at higher risk of becoming infected with the virus and who are 18 years of age or older can receive the vaccine. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease that was first identified in 1952 during an outbreak in southern Tanzania . It is a ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus belonging to the Alphavirus genus of the Togaviridae family .
8 US and Philippines sign nuclear technology deal to boost energy independence
The US and the Philippines signed a landmark agreement allowing Washington to export nuclear technology and materials to Manila. This agreement is an important step in supporting the Philippines’ exploration of nuclear energy to enhance decarbonization and energy independence. The deal enables the US to share equipment and materials as the Philippines develops small modular reactors and other civil nuclear energy infrastructure.
9 Reservoirs in southern India facing declining water levels: Report
A recent report from the Central Water Commission highlights growing concerns as water levels in reservoirs across southern Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, continue to decline . There is a huge decline in the reserves of collective storage capacity of 53.334 billion cubic meters, which is an alarm bell for the sector. CWC’s monitoring of 42 reservoirs in the southern states reveals a disturbing trend. In September 2023, water reserves stood at 48% of total storage capacity, which fell to 46% in October and fell further to 44% in November. This is in sharp contrast to last year when water reserves were at 87% around this time.
10 Miss Universe 2023: Shanice Palacio of Nicaragua
Shanice Palacio, 23 , from Nicaragua won the coveted title of Miss Universe 2023 , making history as the first Nicaraguan woman to win the crown . Shanice Palacio, a TV host and model , impressed the judges in the final round by highlighting the limitless possibilities of women by expressing her admiration for 18th-century British philosopher Mary Wollstonecraft . She dedicated her win to aspiring girls and emphasized on dreaming big with determination, perseverance and passion. Palacios, an experienced pageant contestant, previously won Miss Teen Nicaragua 2016 and Miss World Nicaragua 2020. Thailand’s Antonia Porslid earned the honor of first runner-up, while Australia’s Moray Wilson was crowned second runner-up. The vibrant and culturally rich representation of India was led by Chandigarh- born Shweta Sharda , who made the country proud by securing a place among the top 20 finalists.
11 ‘United Service Institution of India’ is organizing the annual United Nations Forum on ‘International Humanitarian Law and Peacekeeping’ 2023 in New Delhi
‘ United Service Institution of India (USI), the country’s oldest think-tank established in 1870 for research and discussion on national security and military matters, is organizing its annual UN Forum 2023 in New Delhi from November 21 to 22, 2023. Is. This forum on ‘ International Humanitarian Law and Peacekeeping ‘ is being organized in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations Centre. The Forum will include practical perspectives presented by academics and practitioners who have direct experience of addressing the challenges of peacekeeping. Senior officials of the Indian Armed Forces and the Ministry of External Affairs will deliver keynote addresses in this forum.
12 Colorful inauguration of 54th International Film Festival of India in Goa
The 54th International Film Festival of India begins in Goa . The inaugural ceremony was held at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Bambolim . Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Singh Thakur inaugurated the 9-day event. This year’s festival opened with the British film ‘ Catching Dust ‘. Shri Anurag Singh Thakur said on the occasion that the Indian media and entertainment industry, with an annual growth rate of 20 per cent, is considered to be the fifth largest and most globalized industry in the world .
13 Increase in incentive amount for foreign film production in India announced
In an important announcement at IFFI by Union Minister Shri Anurag Singh Thakur , the incentive amount for foreign film productions has been increased from 30 percent to 40 percent . The incentive for foreign film production in the country today stands at 40 per cent of the spend with an increased limit of Rs 30 crore (over US$3.5 million) and an additional 5 per cent bonus for significant Indian content (sic). The move will further accelerate India’s efforts to attract medium and big budget international film projects to the country. An incentive scheme for the production of foreign films was announced by India at Cannes last year, offering reimbursement of up to 30 per cent of the expenditure incurred on film production in the country, limited to Rs 2.5 crore. .
14 Madhuri Dixit honored at 54th IFFI ‘for making a special mark in Indian cinema’
Renowned actress, Madhuri Dixit was honored with the ‘ For Making a Distinction in Indian Cinema ‘ award at the 5th International Film Festival of India. With an illustrious career spanning an extraordinary four decades, Madhuri Dixit has left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry. Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Anurag Singh Thakur , Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan and Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Pramod Sawant announced the award at the inaugural ceremony of the 54th IFFI held in Panaji, Goa .
Commissioning of 15 Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge Boat LSAM 10 (Yard 78)
Launch of the fourth barge barge ‘ Missile cum Ammunition Barge, LSAM 10 (Yard 78) ‘ of 08 x Missile cum Ammunition Project built by M/s Secon Engineering Projects Private Limited (SEPPL) of MSME Shipyard, Visakhapatnam for the Indian Navy on 20 November 2023. from Guttenadevi, East Godavari in Andhra Pradesh (discharge point of M/s SEPPL). Commodore Shanmugam Sabesan, CRO (East) presided over this distinguished ceremony. The contract for the construction of 08 x Missile cum Ammunition Barge boats was signed on 19 February 2021 between the Ministry of Defense and M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt. Ltd., Visakhapatnam.
16 Best Places to Visit in Kochi, 2024
Kochi , a vibrant city in the Indian state of Kerala , has earned a coveted spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s list of the best places to visit in Asia in 2024. This recognition highlights the city’s unique charm and resurgence in tourism driven by sustainable practices. Kochi’s inclusion in the prestigious list of Condé Nast Traveler is a testament to the city’s attractiveness as a tourist destination. From sustainable airport operations to responsible tourism initiatives, Kochi is evolving into a cultural and environmental gem in India. This recognition symbolizes the city’s commitment to providing an enriching experience for travelers while adopting eco-friendly methods and preserving its cultural heritage.
RBI approval to 17 new directors of Jio Financial Services
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of key individuals as directors of Jio Financial Services , a significant development in the leadership structure of the company. The central bank approval, given on November 15 , underlines the strategic importance of these appointments in shaping the future path of Jio Financial Services . Isha Ambani , a leading business personality and a key player in the success of Reliance Retail , has been appointed as one of the directors. The name of Anshuman Thakur, a graduate in Economics and MBA from IIM-Ahmedabad, is also included in the board. The leadership team is further strengthened with the appointment of Hitesh Kumar Sethia as Managing Director and CEO of RSIL ( Reliance Strategic Investments Limited ).
18 Indian team announced for five 20-20 match series with Australia, Suryakumar Yadav will be the captain.
The Indian team has been announced for the five-match Twenty20 cricket series with Australia starting from November 23 in Visakhapatnam . Suryakumar Yadav has been made the captain of this series . Ruturaj Gaikwad will be the vice-captain in the first three matches , while Shreyas Iyer will join the team as vice-captain in the fourth and fifth Twenty20 matches. The team includes Ishan Kishan, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Verma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma -wicketkeeper, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shivam Dubey, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, and Mukesh Kumar.
19 Indonesian Masters: Gaganjit Bhullar wins 11th Asian Tour title at 2023 golf tournament
India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar has won his 11th Asian Tour title at the Indonesian Masters 2023 golf tournament . Gaganjit Bhullar’s first title of the year at the Royal Jakarta Golf Club . He won his last title in Indonesia Open last year. He was tied for third at 18-under behind last week’s Hong Kong Open winner Ben Campbell of New Zealand. Asian Games silver medalist Gaganjeet Bhullar started the golf competition with eight birdies on the first day and leads the leaderboard by two strokes. The win moved Bhullar to eighth place in the final International Series qualifying standings and fourth place on the Asian Tour. He was ranked 46th in the International Series Order of Merit ahead of the start of the Indonesian Masters: 2023.
20 World Children’s Day: 20 November
World Children’s Day is celebrated on 20 November to promote the feeling of solidarity among children . Children’s Day is celebrated on 14 November in India . To commemorate the day, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has worked on campaigns to bridge the digital divide in education among children in the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic. Campaigns were also launched for the safety and well-being of children. World Children’s Day was first celebrated by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on December 14, 1954 . November 20 is important because on this day in 1959 , the UNGA adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child. On 20 November 1989, the UNGA also adopted the “Convention on the Rights of the Child”. Thus, UNGA had decided to observe this day on 20 November globally to call on countries to promote children’s rights, support children’s well-being and international solidarity.
21 World Toilet Day: 19 November
World Toilet Day is celebrated every year on 19 November to raise awareness on the importance of toilets and sanitation in our daily lives . This day is important because no one can imagine life without a permanent toilet. Approximately 3.6 billion people worldwide do not have a proper toilet. Due to lack of toilets, people remain deprived of cleanliness, which later causes many diseases.
22 Former RBI Governor S Venkataramanan passes away
Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor S Venkataramanan passed away on November 18. He was 92 years old. Venkataramanan was a member of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and served as Finance Secretary and later advisor to the Government of Karnataka before assuming the role of Reserve Bank Governor. Venkataramanan worked in RBI between December 1990 and December 1992 . RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das praised him as an ‘outstanding personality’ and ‘public servant’ and recalled his immense contribution during the crisis.