Meta launches “Threads”

• Meta, the company behind Instagram, has recently launched a fresh social media platform named Threads.
• Seizing the opportunity presented by Twitter's uncertain future under billionaire owner Elon Musk, Meta seeks to benefit from the situation.
• Threads can now be accessed in over 100 countries via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Chandrayaan-3 to be Launched on July 14

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced that Chandrayaan-3, India's lunar mission, is scheduled for launch on July 14 at 2:35 P.M. from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
• Chandrayaan-3 serves as a successor to Chandrayaan-2, aiming to showcase complete proficiency in secure lunar surface landing and exploration through roving.

Elena Introduces India’s First NavIC 

• A Bengaluru-based company, Elena Geo Systems, has introduced India's inaugural handheld navigation device that utilizes the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (NavIC).
• The primary objective of this device is to offer accurate guidance for a range of infrastructure ventures including railways, land surveying, telecommunications, and hydrocarbon exploration.

Highlights from the 67^th TAAI Conference

• On July 6, the 67^th convention of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) was held in Colombo, for three days.
• This gathering facilitated the coming together of travel industry experts from India and Sri Lanka, creating a platform for valuable business prospects and promoting collaboration within the field.

RBI appoints P Vasudevan as New Executive Director

• P. Vasudevan has been appointed as an executive director by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), with his role becoming effective from July 3, 2023.
• Vasudevan will be responsible for overseeing the Department of Currency Management, Corporate Strategy and Budget Department (excluding Budget & Funds), and the Enforcement Department.

PNB Launches Virtual Branch in the Metaverse with Immersive 3D Experience

• PNB, the state-owned Punjab National Bank, has revealed the introduction of PNB Metaverse, a virtual branch that offers a distinctive banking experience to both existing and new customers.
• This innovative platform allows customers to explore a wide range of products and services provided by the bank, including bank deposits, retail/MSME loans, digital offerings, tailored options for women and senior citizens, 'Do It Yourself' tools, and government flagship schemes.
• PNB has developed the Bank's Metaverse Branch, granting privileged customers access to an exclusive virtual environment accessible from the convenience of their homes or offices via mobile phones and laptops.