Current Affairs - December 29, 2023 Current Affairs

Jacques Delors, the former European Commission chief, is acknowledged as the Founding Father of the EU’s Single Currency Project. His significant contributions include the completion of the integrated single market, the introduction of the euro, and the development of a common foreign and security policy.

Nina Singh has been appointed as the first woman Director General of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), marking a historic milestone in the traditionally male-dominated realm of security forces. This decision is part of a broader reshaping of leadership within India’s security apparatus.

The Indian government is contemplating selling rice under the 'Bharat' brand as part of a strategic effort to stabilize retail prices, particularly in response to challenges faced by existing schemes like the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS).

Para-military forces have transitioned to the 'Sandes App,' an open-source messaging platform developed by NIC. The app ensures end-to-end encryption and privacy, serving as a secure communication platform within paramilitary organizations.

Tata Power successfully secured the Bikaner-III Neemrana-II Transmission project through the Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding process. This project, essential for evacuating 7.7 GW of renewable energy, is estimated to cost ₹1,544 crore, with a targeted commissioning period of 24 months from the date of the project SPV transfer.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated UP's first intra-district helicopter service in Bateshwar, a historical village located 65 km from Agra city. This initiative, operating on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, aims to enhance tourism and infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh.

According to data from the Health Ministry, women play a significant role in the success of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri — Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), contributing to about 49% of the total Ayushman cards created. This underscores the substantial participation and impact of women in availing of healthcare benefits under the scheme.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) recently signed its second Free Trade Agreement (FTA) this year with South Korea, emphasizing the bloc's dedication to strengthening investment connections and diversifying its economic portfolio.

The book, which explores the complexities of the Babri Masjid Ram Mandir issue, was written by Madhav Godbole. He delves into the missed opportunities for resolution and highlights the need for a solution that aligns with modern values and equity.

Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited formalized a strategic collaboration with the Government of Gujarat through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This initiative includes a substantial investment of Rs 500 crore, aimed at boosting the growth of the regional food industry in Gujarat.

The XPoSat mission, a groundbreaking venture into polarimetry by ISRO, is set to launch on January 1, 2024. This date marks India's debut in the field of polarimetry, essential for studying celestial sources emitting X-rays.

ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company Ltd (ICICI AMC) received approval from the Reserve Bank of India for acquiring up to a 9.95% stake in the Federal Bank. Additionally, ICICI AMC holds stakes in RBL Bank and Equitas Small Finance Bank, marking a significant move in the banking and financial sector.

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is taking the lead in a Rs 2,500 crore funding round for Mahindra-OTPP’s Green InvIT, along with participation from Dutch pension fund APG and World Bank's IFC.

Telangana's Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu inaugurated the Praja Palana program, a significant initiative by the Telangana government focused on understanding and addressing the needs of citizens at the grassroots level.

The foundation stone for the Interdisciplinary Centre for Energy Research (ICER) building was laid in Bengaluru, with a project value of Rs. 60.74 Crores. The ICER project aims to focus on renewable energy, green hydrogen, clean coal, and sustainable technologies.