Current Affairs is the most important area in all competitive exams. But the difficulty level is very high. That’s why; many aspirants get confused, how to select Current Affairs for Preparation of Competitive Examination? In this Post, Daily Current Affairs 19&20 March 2023, we have tried to cover each and every point and also included all important facts from National/ International news that are useful for upcoming competitive examinations such as UPSC, SSC, Railway, State Govt. etc.
So, here is the Top News of the Day for 19&20 March 2023 to help you prepare the Latest Current Affairs part. After reading this section, you can successfully attempt Current Affairs Quiz.
Current Affairs for Competitive Exam – 19&20 March 2023
International Day of Happiness 2023 celebrates on 20 March
International Day of Happiness 2023 celebrates on 20 March: The International Day of Happiness is an annual celebration that occurs on March 20. International Day of Happiness’s purpose is to emphasize the importance of happiness and the overall well-being of individuals. The United Nations initiated this event in 2013, following Bhutan’s advocacy for national happiness. Observing the International Day of Happiness prompts us to realize that happiness has a significant impact on our longevity and productivity. One way to mark the occasion is by sharing warm greetings and quotes with loved ones, inspiring them to embrace happiness.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
International Day of Happiness 2023: Theme
The theme of International Day of Happiness for this year has been kept as “Be Mindful, Be Grateful, Be Kind.”
International Day of Happiness: Significance
- International Day of Happiness Recognizes the importance of happiness: The day emphasizes the significance of happiness as a universal goal and a fundamental human right.
- Promotes well-being: It highlights the importance of mental and physical well-being and encourages individuals to take steps to improve their happiness.
- Raises awareness: The International Day of Happiness raises awareness about the benefits of happiness and the impact it has on individuals, communities, and nations.
- Advocates for public policy: International Day of Happiness recognizes the importance of happiness and well-being in public policy objectives and encourages governments to prioritize policies that promote happiness.
- Inspires positive action: The International Day of Happiness inspires individuals and organizations to take positive action towards promoting happiness, whether it is through acts of kindness, community service, or personal well-being practices.
- Encourages reflection: The International Day of Happiness prompts individuals to reflect on their own happiness and well-being and identify areas where they can make positive changes to improve their quality of life.
International Day of Happiness: History
On July 12, 2012, the United Nations General Assembly announced March 20 as the International Day of Happiness through its resolution 66/281. The resolution acknowledged the universality of happiness and well-being as crucial goals and recognized their importance in public policy objectives. The first celebration of the International Day of Happiness event took place in 2013 and has since served as a means of acknowledging the significance of happiness in the lives of people worldwide.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
- President of the 77th Session of the UN General Assembly: H.E. Csaba Kőrösi;
- UN General Assembly Headquarters: New York, United States.
Luxor Selects Virat Kohli as Brand Ambassador
Luxor Selects Virat Kohli as Brand Ambassador: Luxor Writing Instruments Pvt Ltd, a stationery manufacturer, has appointed renowned cricketer Virat Kohli as its latest brand ambassador. Kohli is widely regarded as one of the best cricketers of all time, having set numerous records throughout his career. He will represent Luxor’s stationery products and help the company increase its appeal among young writers, thereby enhancing its position as a prominent writing instrument provider in the country.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Luxor has announced a collaboration with Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli, who will serve as the brand ambassador for the company. The objective of this partnership is to enhance the appeal of Luxor’s stationery brand, specifically among the youth market, and establish Luxor as a leading writing instrument brand in India.
Luxor, an Indian stationery brand, has teamed up with Germany’s Schneider Pen to introduce a high-end range of creative writing instruments in India. This partnership between Luxor and Schneider Pen is expected to increase the appeal of the stationery brand, especially among the younger generation, and consolidate its position as a major supplier of high-performance writing tools in India.
History of Luxor International Private Limited
Luxor International Private Limited, a well-known Indian stationery manufacturer, was founded in 1963. The company produces a variety of writing instruments under its own brand name, including popular products such as Pilot, Parker, and Waterman. Its headquarters are located in Noida, India.
FSIB suggests Ashwani Kumar name as MD and CEO of UCO Bank
FSIB suggests Ashwani Kumar name as MD and CEO of UCO Bank: The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has suggested that Ashwani Kumar, an executive director at Indian Bank, be appointed as the managing director of UCO Bank. Kumar has previously held positions at several other public sector banks, including Bank of Baroda, Corporation Bank, Oriental Bank of Commerce, and Punjab National Bank (PNB). The FSIB interviewed 11 candidates from various PSBs for the role of MD & CEO. The final decision on the appointment will be made by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
The FSIB is led by Bhanu Pratap Sharma, the former secretary of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), along with Animesh Chauhan, former chairman and MD of Oriental Bank of Commerce, Deepak Singhal, a former executive director at the Reserve Bank of India, and Shailendra Bhandari, the former MD of ING Vysya Bank.
About Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB):
- The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) is a government body set up under the Department of Financial Services by the Central Government in 2022.
- It replaced the Banks Board Bureau (BBB).
- The FSIB aims to identify manpower capabilities and ensure proper selection of talent for senior positions at financial institutions owned by the government.
- The board is entrusted with making recommendations for full-time appointments of directors and non-executive chairman of state-run financial services/public sector organizations and on other matters relating to personnel management in the institution.
- It comprises of ex-officio members from the government other than regulatory bodies and experts from the respective fields.
- The Secretariat of the Bureau currently comprises of Secretary and four officers.
- The functions of FSIB include advising the Government on matters relating to appointments, transfer or extension of term of office, and termination of services of the said directors, advising the Government on the desired management structure at the Board level for Public Sector Banks, Public Financial Institutions, and Public Sector Insurers, advising government for performance appraisal system and code of conduct and ethics for the directors, ensuring suitable training and development programmes for management in PSBs, FIs, and PSIs, and helping institutions develop business strategy and raising capital plan.
World Oral Health Day 2023 observed on 20th March
World Oral Health Day 2023: World Oral Health Day is observed globally every year on March 20, with the primary objective of increasing awareness about the significance of oral health. The Oral Health day aims to encourage individuals to adopt good oral hygiene practices, take care of their teeth, and learn ways to prevent dental problems. According to a report by the WHO Global Oral Health, approximately 75% of the world’s population suffer from permanent teeth caries, while 514 million children experience caries in primary teeth.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
World Oral Health Day 2023: Theme
The World Dental Federation (FDI) launches a campaign for World Oral Health Day every year with a specific theme. The theme for 2023 is ‘Be Proud of Your Mouth,’ which is the same theme used for the past three years. The campaign was launched by the FDI in 2021.
World Oral Health Day 2023: Significance
The main goal of World Oral Health Day is to increase awareness among those who are affected by or deal with oral diseases. Unhealthy oral hygiene is believed to have negative effects on one’s overall health, including emotional, social, mental, and physical health. The day aims to educate people on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, as it can help prevent various diseases such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. It is worth noting that poor dental health can also be a contributing factor to severe health issues such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, strokes, and breathing problems.
World Oral Health Day: History
World Oral Health Day was first observed on September 12, 2007, as World Oral Health Awareness Day, initiated by FDI World Dental Federation. However, in 2013, the FDI in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) established March 20 as the official date for World Oral Health Day.
The purpose of the day is to raise awareness about the importance of oral health and to promote good oral hygiene practices. The FDI and the WHO recognized that oral health is often neglected, and many people do not realize the significant impact that it has on their overall health and well-being.
Since its establishment, World Oral Health Day has been celebrated annually in more than 100 countries worldwide. The day has helped to increase awareness of the importance of oral health and encouraged individuals to adopt healthy oral hygiene practices. The FDI and the WHO continue to work together to promote oral health and improve access to oral healthcare services globally.
Snakes in the Ganga: Breaking India 2.0 authored by Shri Rajiv Malhotra and Mrs. Vijaya Viswanathan
Snakes in the Ganga: Breaking India 2.0 authored by Shri Rajiv Malhotra and Mrs. Vijaya Viswanathan– The book “Snakes In the Ganga: Breaking India 2.0” authored by Shri Rajiv Malhotra and Mrs. Vijaya Viswanathan has received considerable recognition in India. It sheds light on the various threats to India’s national security from the United States, which is not typically perceived as a major risk by the average Indian. While many Indians tend to view the primary threats to national security as coming from Pakistan, China, terrorism, illegal migration from Bangladesh, left-wing extremism, and Islamic radicalization, the book suggests that the US also poses a significant danger to India’s security.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
The authors highlight that certain US media outlets, intellectuals, universities, and political parties are promoting an agenda of creating chaos in India by sowing division based on caste. Despite being a democratic country, the US is accused of perpetuating activities that threaten India’s unity and integrity. Overall, the book serves as a warning about the potential risks to India’s national security from unexpected sources.
Rajiv Malhotra’s first book, “On Artificial Intelligence and Future of Power,” received a positive reception. In his second book, “Breaking India 1.0,” published in 2014, he outlined various threats to India posed by hostile forces in the United States. Despite his warnings, these dangers were not effectively countered. In his latest book, Malhotra discusses how these threats have become even more perilous for India, as their nature and potential to undermine India’s unity and stability have significantly increased since his last book. The author suggests that the US may pose a serious threat to India’s security, and his latest book serves as a warning about the dangers that India may face in the future.
Nepal, India agree to formulate modality to supply electricity to Indian states via Bihar
Nepal, India agree to formulate modality to supply electricity to Indian states via Bihar : Nepal and India have agreed to formulate a modality to supply electricity from Nepal to multiple states of India through central transmission line via Bihar grid.
An overview of the news
The 14th meeting of the Nepal-India Power Exchange Committee concluded on March 17 in New Delhi. It was decided in the meeting to work out modalities for export of power from Nepal to various states of India via Bihar within a month. Kulman Ghising, Executive Director, Nepal Electricity Authority, and Ashok Kumar Rajput, Power System Member, Central Electricity Authority of India, agreed to finalize the modalities within a month. The agreement has ensured the additional market for the sale of surplus electricity during the rainy season.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Under the power exchange agreement in the meeting, the price of electricity per unit has been fixed at Rs 11.54 for the financial year 2022-23. Kataiya (Bihar)-Kushaha (Nepal) and Raxaul-Parawanipur 132-KV transmission line are connected with Bihar. Nepal imports power from India when needed through the Power Exchange Agreement and competition with the Mahakali Treaty.
Power is being imported into Nepal through the Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur cross-border 400 KV double circuit transmission line and other transmission lines. The Nepal Electricity Authority has been importing electricity from India’s Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand as per the electricity exchange agreement. Only Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are connected to Nepal through 132 KV transmission lines.
International Criminal Court issues arrest warrant against Vladimir Putin for war crimes in Ukraine
International Criminal Court issues arrest warrant against Vladimir Putin for war crimes in Ukraine : The International Criminal Court on 17 March issued an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin on charges of war crimes.
An overview of the news
The move mandates 123 member states to arrest Putin and transfer him to The Hague for trial if he steps onto their territory. It was immediately rejected by Moscow while Ukraine on the other hand welcomed the decision.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Why did the International Criminal Court issue the warrants?
The International Criminal Court says Putin committed war crimes in Ukraine. He is responsible for the crime of kidnapping and deportation of Ukrainian children. According to the court, these crimes were allegedly committed from 24 February 2022 on Ukrainian-occupied territory. The court also issued a warrant for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s commissioner for children’s rights.
International Criminal Court (ICC)
It was set up in July 2002 under the Rome treaty of 1998. It is the only permanent court to prosecute persons for crimes against humanity, genocide, war crimes and crimes of agression. At present 123 countries are its members. The United States, China, and Israel are not its members.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
The court’s jurisdiction extends to offences that occurred after July 1, 2002, that were committed either in a state that has ratified the agreement or by a national of such a state or the case which was referred to it by the United Nations Security Council.
The Headquarters of ICC: The Hague, Netherlands
ICC is different from the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
ICJ is a United Nations court which hears disputes involving the member states of the United Nations.
Sagar Parikrama Phase-IV begin in Karnataka
Sagar Parikrama Phase-IV begin in Karnataka : The fourth phase of Sagar Parikrama began on March 18 covering three coastal districts of Karnataka.
An overview of the news
According to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the fourth phase of the Sagar Parikrama program took place from March 18-19. It covered three districts Uttara Kannada, Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts of Karnataka.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Purushottam Rupala and concerned state ministers and stakeholders were present at the event. During the event, progressive fishermen were awarded certificates/acknowledgements related to Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), KCC and State Scheme.
Sagar Parikrama Phase-I
It was started on March 5, 2022 from Mandvi, Gujarat to Okha-Dwarka, and concluded at Porbandar on 6 March covering 3 locations. The programme was a huge success, with more than 5,000 people physically attending the event.
Sagar Parikrama Phase-II
It was held on September 23-25 2022 and covered seven locations.
Sagar Parikrama Phase-III
Phase-III was held on February 18-21 2022 and covered coastal districts of Gujarat and Maharashtra.
About Sagar Parikrama
It is a maritime evolutionary journey tour to be organized in all coastal states/UTs through sea route to show solidarity with all fishermen, fish farmers and concerned stakeholders. It aims to address the issues of fishermen and other stakeholders and facilitate their economic upliftment through various fisheries schemes and programs like PMMSY.
Rohan Bopanna becomes oldest tennis player to win ATP Masters 1000 title
Rohan Bopanna becomes oldest tennis player to win ATP Masters 1000 title : India’s Rohan Bopanna becomes the oldest tennis player to win an ATP Masters 1000 title.
An overview of the news
Rohan Bopanna, 43, and Matthew Ebden, 35, defeated Wesley Koolhof of the Netherlands and Neil Skupski of Britain 6-3, 2-6, 10-8 in the final in California, United States. Before Bopanna, Canadian Daniel Nestor was the oldest player to win an ATP Masters 1000 title after he clinched the 2015 Cincinnati Masters at the age of 42.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Bopanna has so far won 24 ATP titles, including five ATP Masters 1000 titles. It was his second title this year after winning the Qatar Open with Ebden last month. Earlier in the Indian Wells semi-finals, the unseeded pair of Bopanna-Ebden defeated defending champions John Isner and Jack Sock of USA 7(8)-6(6), 7(7)-6(2) in the hard court event. Bopanna, a former world No. 3 in men’s doubles, was 15th in the ATP doubles rankings ahead of the tournament. The Indian Wells Masters win lifted him to 11th in the live doubles tennis rankings.
Jharkhand govt launches job portal to ensure 75% local quota in pvt sector
Jharkhand govt launches job portal to ensure 75% local quota in pvt sector : The Jharkhand government on 17 March launched ‘Jharniyojan’ portal where all private establishments have to register themselves.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
An overview of the news
Its objective is to fulfill the state government’s promise of ensuring 75 percent employment to local candidates in the private sector of the state. The portal will act as a platform for employers to share information related to occupations and manpower and for candidates looking for jobs.
Employers using the portal will have to comply with the ‘Jharkhand State Employment of Local Candidates in Private Sector Act, 2021’. Local companies and employers are expected to voluntarily comply and provide employment opportunities to local youth/women. Jharkhand State Employment of Local Candidates in Private Sector Act, 2021. It was passed with the objective to provide employment opportunities to the unemployed youth of the state at the local level.
In 2022, the rules related to the implementation of the Act were notified. As per the Act, 75% of jobs in the private sector with a salary of up to Rs 40,000 will be reserved for “locals” in the state.
It is applicable to all establishments which are in the private sector and where 10 or more persons are employed. In case local companies face problems in getting skilled manpower locally, a provision has been made under the Act to provide necessary training to eligible youth. Central or state government undertakings will not be covered under the Act. However, the provisions of the Act shall apply to all organizations outsourcing services to Central Government or State Government establishments/undertakings.
Flu cases rising in India, Two suspected H3N2 deaths
Flu cases rising in India, Two suspected H3N2 deaths : The Union Health Ministry has confirmed one death each in Haryana and Karnataka due to H3N2 subtype of flu virus in March.
An overview of the news
Figures from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program show that at least nine people died of the flu in January.
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
What is the H3N2 virus?
Influenza virus, which causes the infectious disease called flu, is of four different types – A, B, C and D. Influenza A is classified into different subtypes and one of them is H3N2. Influenza A is an RNA virus. It is classified into subtypes based on the type of two proteins found on its surface. Influenza D virus is found in cattle and pigs.
According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), H3N2 caused the flu pandemic of 1968, which caused the death of about one million people worldwide and about 100,000 in the US alone.
Symptoms of H3N2
Symptoms are similar to that of any other flu. Cough, fever, body ache and headache, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, and extreme fatigue are common symptoms. In some cases, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are also seen.
Transmission
H3N2 influenza is highly contagious and can spread from person to person when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. It can also spread by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching someone’s mouth or nose. People at higher risk of complications from the flu include pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and people with underlying medical conditions.
Treatment
Getting proper rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and using pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever are all parts of H3N2 influenza treatment. Doctors may also recommend antiviral drugs like oseltamivir and zanamivir if a patient has severe symptoms.
Digit Insurance launches three new health plans
Digit Insurance launches three new health plans : The Go Digit General Insurance has announced three new plans under the Digit Health Insurance policy. The three plans—Digit Double Wallet, Digit Infinity Wallet, and Digit Global Treatment
March 2023 Current Affairs Quiz
Aim: To meet Indians’ newly evolved health insurance demands following the pandemic
Under the Infinity Wallet and Worldwide Treatment plan for every claim-free year, the policyholders can earn 50% of the sum insured as a cumulative bonus of up to 100% of the SI.
