Current Affairs September 2023
September 2023 was filled with significant events across various fields, including sports, education, and international relations. India made notable achievements in sports, particularly at the Asian Games, and there were important developments in science, politics, and the arts. This comprehensive overview covers the key happenings of the month, providing a detailed account of each event.
30th September
India’s Medals at the Asian Games 2023
India has achieved 34 medals so far at the Asian Games 2023 held in Hangzhou, China, comprising eight gold, 13 silver, and 13 bronze. The country currently stands at the 4th position on the scoreboard, showcasing a strong performance across various sports disciplines.
ICC Announces Mascots for Cricket World Cup 2023
The ICC introduced the official mascots for the Cricket World Cup 2023 after a fan vote. 'Blaze,' a female mascot known for her rapid bowling pace, and 'Tonk,' a male mascot with a calm demeanor and exceptional batting skills, were unveiled. These mascots are expected to add excitement and engagement to the upcoming tournament.
28th September
Passing of MS Swaminathan
Renowned agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, often referred to as the "Father of India’s Green Revolution," passed away at the age of 98 in Chennai. His contributions to agriculture transformed India’s food security and agricultural practices.
World University Rankings 2024 Released
The Times Higher Education released the World University Rankings 2024. The University of Oxford retained its top position for the eighth consecutive year, followed by Stanford University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, and the University of Cambridge.
27th September
India’s Entry for the Oscars
The Malayalam film 2018: Everyone Is A Hero, a survival drama about the floods in Kerala, was selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars. Directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, the film highlights the resilience and heroism of the people during the natural disaster.
Medals in Shooting at the Asian Games
India's Sift Kaur Samra and Ashi Chouksey secured gold and bronze medals, respectively, in the women's 50m rifle 3P individual final at the Asian Games in Hangzhou. This victory marked India's ninth medal in shooting at the event and its fifth overall gold medal.
World Tourism Day
World Tourism Day was observed, focusing on the theme of fostering sustainable tourism practices and promoting cultural and environmental preservation through responsible travel.
26th September
Waheeda Rehman Conferred Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Veteran actress Waheeda Rehman was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing her significant contributions to Indian cinema over several decades.
India’s First Gold in Equestrian at Asian Games
The Indian Dressage Team won their first gold medal in equestrian at the Asian Games, marking a historic achievement after 41 years.
25th September
Historic Win in Men's 10m Air Rifle at Asian Games
The Indian men's 10m air rifle team, comprising Rudrankksh Patil, Divyansh Panwar, and Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, clinched the gold medal at the Asian Games. Their aggregate score of 1893.7 in the qualification round set a new world record.
India Women’s Cricket Team Wins Gold
The India women's cricket team secured a gold medal at the Asian Games by defeating Sri Lanka by 19 runs in the final match, adding another achievement to India's sports accolades.
World Pharmacist Day
World Pharmacist Day was celebrated, emphasizing the vital role of pharmacists in healthcare and the importance of their contributions to community health and wellness.
23rd September
19th Asian Games Kickoff
The 19th Asian Games commenced in Hangzhou, China. India's men's hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh and ace boxer Lovlina Borgohain led the Indian contingent during the opening ceremony.
India Tops ICC Rankings
Following a 5-wicket win against Australia, India achieved the top ranking in all three cricket formats: Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, demonstrating their dominance in the sport.
20th September
Women’s Reservation Bill Passed in Parliament
The Indian Parliament passed the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, which seeks to reserve one-third of the total seats in the Lok Sabha and State legislative assemblies for women, marking a significant step towards gender equality in politics.
Visa Services Suspension in Canada
India temporarily suspended visa services in Canada, including e-visas, amid escalating diplomatic tensions.
19th September
New Parliament Building Designated
The newly constructed Parliament Building in India was designated as the official Parliament House. The old Parliament House has been renamed Samvidhan Sadan.
Women’s Reservation Bill Introduced
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal introduced the Women's Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha, named the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. This bill aims to enhance women's representation in legislative bodies.
Hoysala Temples Inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List
The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, including three temples in Karnataka, were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, becoming India’s 42nd UNESCO World Heritage Site.
18th September
Special Session of Parliament
A special session of the Indian Parliament commenced, addressing significant legislative and national issues.
Shantiniketan Added to the UNESCO World Heritage List
Shantiniketan, established by Maharshi Debendranath Tagore, was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee in Saudi Arabia.
AFC Champions League Begins
The Asian Football Confederation Champions League started, with Mumbai City FC facing Iran’s Nassaji Mazandaran in Pune.
Elavenil Valarivan Wins Gold at ISSF World Cup
Indian shooter Elavenil Valarivan secured the gold medal in the women’s 10m air rifle event at the ISSF World Cup 2023 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
17th September
Launch of PM Vishwakarma Scheme
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the PM Vishwakarma scheme at the International Convention and Expo Centre, Yashobhoomi, in New Delhi, aimed at empowering traditional artisans and craftsmen.
Inauguration of YashoBhoomi
The first phase of the International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC), YashoBhoomi, was inaugurated in Delhi's Dwarka. YashoBhoomi is set to be one of the world’s largest MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities.
Neeraj Chopra’s Performance at Diamond League
Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra finished second in the men’s event at the Diamond League Final in Eugene, Oregon, USA, with a best throw of 83.80 meters.
India Wins Asia Cup 2023
India defeated Sri Lanka in a one-sided final to win the Asia Cup for the 8th time. Mohammed Siraj's exceptional bowling performance helped bowl out Sri Lanka for just 50 runs.
16th September
UK and Tata Steel Investment in Wales
The United Kingdom and Tata Steel announced a joint investment of 1.25 billion pounds for the country's largest steelworks in Wales, aiming to modernize and sustain the steel industry.
Nipah Virus Outbreak in Kerala
Kerala took precautionary measures to contain the spread of the Nipah virus, which resulted in the closure of some schools, offices, and public transport after two deaths were reported.
10th September
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Agreement
A historic agreement for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor was finalized by the U.S., India, Saudi Arabia, UAE, France, Germany, Italy, and the EU. The corridor will include a railway, ship-rail transit network, and road transport routes.
18th G20 Summit Concludes
The 18th G20 Summit concluded in New Delhi, with India handing over the presidency to Brazil. Key discussions included global economic stability and sustainable development.
India’s First Solar Mission Aditya L1
India’s first solar mission, Aditya L1, successfully performed its third earth-bound maneuver. The mission aims to study the solar corona and its impact on space weather.
Coco Gauff Wins US Open 2023
Coco Gauff defeated Aryna Sabalenka in the final of the US Open 2023, securing her maiden Grand Slam women’s singles title in a thrilling match.
9th September
G20 Leaders' Summit Begins
The 18th G20 Leaders' Summit began in New Delhi, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The summit focused on global economic recovery and climate action.
African Union Joins G20
The African Union was welcomed as a permanent member of the G20, marking a significant step towards inclusive global governance.
Earthquake in Morocco
A powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck central Morocco, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 820 lives and numerous injuries.
US Open Men's Doubles Final
In the US Open men’s doubles final, Rohan Bopanna and Matthew Ebden were defeated by Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury.
8th September
US President Joe Biden Arrives for G20 Summit
US President Joe Biden arrived in Delhi for the G20 Leaders Summit. He held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi and participated in key discussions.
Global Leaders Gather for G20 Summit
Several global leaders, including UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, arrived in New Delhi for the G20 Summit.
Bypoll Results in Six States
In the seven seats bypolls held across six states, the BJP won three seats, while the opposition INDIA bloc secured four seats.
6th September
PM Modi Attends ASEAN-India Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the ASEAN-India Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia, discussing economic and strategic cooperation.
Janmashtami Celebrations
The festival of Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, was celebrated with great devotion across India.
5th September
Teachers' Day Celebrations
Teachers' Day was celebrated in India, with President Droupadi Murmu conferring the National Teachers’ Award to 75 educators for their outstanding contributions to education.
43rd ASEAN Summit Commences
The 43rd ASEAN Summit began in Jakarta, Indonesia, under the leadership of President Joko Widodo, focusing on regional cooperation and economic development.
3rd September
Mohun Bagan Wins Durand Cup
Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated East Bengal to win their 17th Durand Cup title at Salt Lake Stadium, setting a record in the tournament’s history.
Passing of Heath Streak
Former Zimbabwe cricket captain Heath Streak passed away at the age of 49. He was a celebrated cricketer who represented Zimbabwe in numerous international matches.
India Wins Men’s Hockey 5s Asia Cup
India won the inaugural Men’s Hockey 5s Asia Cup in Salalah, Oman, defeating Pakistan in a penalty shootout. This victory also qualified India for the FIH Men’s Hockey5s World Cup 2024.
2nd September
Arrest of Jet Airways Founder Naresh Goyal
Naresh Goyal, founder of Jet Airways, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case involving Canara Bank.
Launch of India’s First Solar Space Observatory
India’s first solar space observatory, Aditya-L1, was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The mission aims to study various aspects of the sun.
Tharman Shanmugaratnam Wins Singapore Presidential Election
Indian-origin economist Tharman Shanmugaratnam won the presidential election in Singapore, marking a significant political development.
1st September
Neeraj Chopra’s Performance in Zurich
World champion Neeraj Chopra finished second in the Zurich leg of the Diamond League 2023 with a best throw of 85.71 meters.
Committee for “One Nation One Election”
The Indian government set up a committee under former president Ram Nath Kovind to explore the feasibility of “One Nation One Election” legislation, a significant move towards electoral reforms.
Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Operational
India’s first indigenously developed 700 MW nuclear power plant in Gujarat’s Kakrapar commenced full-capacity operations.
Ramon Magsaysay Award for R. Ravi Kannan
Dr. R. Ravi Kannan, a surgical oncologist, received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for his contributions to cancer treatment in Assam, emphasizing pro-poor healthcare.
R Madhavan Appointed FTII President
Actor R. Madhavan was appointed as the President of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and Chairman of its governing council.
Launch of Indian Naval Warship Mahendragiri
India launched its naval warship Mahendragiri in Mumbai, showcasing advancements in naval design and capabilities.
FAQs
What are the highlights of India’s performance at the Asian Games 2023? India has secured 34 medals, including eight gold, 13 silver, and 13 bronze, placing 4th on the medal tally.
Who are the mascots for the Cricket World Cup 2023? The ICC mascots for the Cricket World Cup 2023 are 'Blaze,' a female mascot known for her fast bowling, and 'Tonk,' a male mascot recognized for his batting prowess.
What is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor? The corridor is a significant project involving rail, ship-rail transit, and road transport routes connecting India, the Gulf region, and Europe to enhance economic and logistical connectivity.
What is the significance of the Women’s Reservation Bill passed by the Indian Parliament? The bill reserves one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and State legislative assemblies for women, promoting gender equality in political representation.
Who won the US Open 2023 Women’s Singles title? Coco Gauff won her maiden Grand Slam women’s singles title by defeating Aryna Sabalenka in the US Open 2023 final.
What is the new designation for the old Indian Parliament House? The old Parliament House has been renamed Samvidhan Sadan, while the new building has been designated as the Parliament House of India.
Conclusion
September 2023 was a month marked by significant achievements and developments across various sectors. From India's commendable performance at the Asian Games to groundbreaking agreements and cultural milestones, the events of this month highlight the dynamic nature of current affairs. Staying informed about such events is crucial for understanding global trends and national progress.
