Current Affairs - November 8, 2023 Current Affairs

The southern hemisphere accounts for more than 95% of the recent decline in global water availability. This is according to a study published in the journal Nature Communications in 2023. The study found that the decline in water availability in the southern hemisphere is being driven by a combination of factors, including climate change, population growth, and land use changes.

India's National Coal Index (NCI) saw a notable increase of 3.83 points in September, the first rise since April 2023, influenced by temporary global coal price fluctuations.

India's cotton production for 2023-2024 is anticipated to decline by 6%, attributed to factors like pink bollworm infestation and inadequate monsoon rains, as estimated by the Committee on Cotton Production and Consumption.

World Radiography Day is observed on 8th November annually, marking the discovery of X-radiation by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895 and emphasizing the crucial role of radiographers in modern healthcare.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal launched the 'Bharat' Atta initiative, aiming to provide affordable wheat flour, aligning with the government's commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring essential commodities remain affordable for consumers.

Chile joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as its 95th member, demonstrating a significant commitment to global efforts in promoting solar energy. Ambassador Juan Angulo of Chile handed over the ISA ratification during a meeting in New Delhi.

The 6th consulate recently opened in Seattle, Washington, showcasing the strengthening economic and cultural ties between India and the United States, especially in a major hub for technology and innovation.

The legal proceedings and sentencing of eight former Indian Navy officers to death took place in Qatar, where concerns about the fairness of the judicial system have been raised. In the case of the eight former Indian Navy officers, they were sentenced to death by the Court of First Instance. They have the right to appeal this decision to the Court of Appeal. If their appeal is unsuccessful, they can then appeal to the Court of Cassation.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the number of stubble-burning incidents in the three states has decreased by 56% in the first 45 days of the current harvesting season (September to November) compared to the same period last year.

According to the McKinsey Health Institute report, Turkey tops the list of countries with the highest overall percentage of positive holistic health scores (78%). This is followed by India (76%), China (75%), and Brazil (74%). Japan has the lowest overall percentage of positive holistic health scores (25%).

The Klyuchevskaya Sopka Volcano erupted in Kamchatka, Russia, forcing school closures. This marked its third eruption in 2023, with ash reaching 13 km into the sky.

The recently discovered Cnemaspis Rashidi, known as Rashid's dwarf gecko, was found in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India, particularly at the Kottamalai estate near Rajapalayam. It is the smallest among the genus and is approximately two inches long from its snout to vent. It was found at an altitude of 1,245 meters at the Kottamalai estate near Rajapalayam. It has a combination of beautiful colour patterns of yellow, white, and black adorning its back, making it stand out among its gecko relatives.

Apolinaris D'Souza, a renowned Konkani singer, lyricist, and composer, was awarded the 19th 'Kalakar Puraskar' for their significant contributions to Konkani music. The award ceremony took place on November 5, 2023, during a public event held at Kalaangann, Mangaluru.

Axis Bank has collaborated with IRMA to establish the Axis Bank Chair, aiming to promote financial inclusion and literacy in India, contributing to equitable and sustainable transformation.

Hitesh Kumar S. Makwana, an IAS official from the Tamil Nadu cadre, has been appointed as the Surveyor General of India, reinforcing the Central Government's commitment to efficient governance and administrative leadership.