Today's Current Affairs 15th April 2024

INTERNATIONAL

"The Complex Dynamics Driving the Israel-Iran Conflict"

• "The ongoing confrontation between Israel and Iran transcends a simple interstate conflict, embodying a nuanced interaction of power dynamics and ideological discord arising from a deeper struggle-the collision between the 'Deep State' and Islamist factions in the Middle East. Originating in the early 20th century, this conflict has been molded by pivotal historical events, evolving power dynamics, and profound ideological disparities, significantly influencing the historical trajectory of the Middle East." 

NATIONAL

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi Makes History with Newsweek Cover Feature"

• "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on track to create a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian Prime Minister since Indira Gandhi to be featured on the cover of Newsweek. In an extensive interview, PM Modi delved into a wide range of subjects, including China, economic reforms, the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Quad alliance, and the significance of democracy in India."

 "India Extends Support to Nepal with Ambulance and School Bus Donations"

• In a gesture of solidarity and support, India has donated 35 ambulances and 66 school buses to various organizations in Nepal, bolstering infrastructure in the crucial sectors of health and education. Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, officiated the handover ceremony alongside Finance Minister Barshaman Pun.

 APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

"Senior IPS Officer Anurag Kumar Assumes Role as Joint Director of CBI"

• "In a notable development within India's law enforcement domain, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has endorsed the appointment of senior IPS officer Anurag Kumar as the Joint Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This decision, effective immediately, reflects the government's trust in Kumar's leadership and capabilities to fulfill this pivotal role."

IMPORTANT DAYS

Pohela Boishakh 

• The first day of the Bengali calendar is called Poila Boishakh, often referred to as Bangla Noboborsho. It is observed on April 14 in Bangladesh and April 15 in the Indian states of West Bengal, Tripura, Jharkhand, and Assam (Barak Valley), according to the lunisolar calendar. The Bengali business class begins its fiscal year on this day as well.
• About West Bengal :
• Founded: 1947
• Area: 88,752 km²
• Chief minister: Mamata Banerjee
• Capital: Kolkata

 AWARDS & RECOGNITION

"Harvard Honors Avantika Vandanapu as South Asian Person of the Year"

• In a remarkable achievement, Indian-American actress Avantika Vandanapu, best known for her role as Karen Shetty in the 2024 musical comedy “Mean Girls,” has been honored with the prestigious “South Asian Person of the Year” award by Harvard University. This accolade recognizes Vandanapu’s outstanding contributions to the arts and her role in promoting South Asian representation in global media.

BANKING AND ECONOMY

"IPPB Rolls Out Service Charges for AePS Transactions"

• India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has implemented service charges for Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) transactions, effective from June 15, 2022. AePS is a bank-led model allowing online financial transactions at Point of Sale (PoS) terminals through Aadhaar authentication, enabling various banking services.

"RBI Rejects Two More Applications for Small Finance Bank Establishment"  

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has rejected two more applications for setting up small finance banks: Dvara Kshetriya Gramin Financial Services Private Limited and Tally Solutions Private Limited.

Dvara Kshetriya Gramin Financial Services applied for a small bank licence in April 2021 whereas Tally Solutions had applied in August 2021.

About RBI:

Established: 1 April 1935

Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Governor: Shaktikanta Das