Current Affairs - January 12, 2024 Current Affairs

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has been a crucial financial contributor to the Atal Setu project, Mumbai, covering 80% of the total cost. This support underscores the collaborative efforts between India and Japan in enhancing infrastructure, with the remaining project cost shared by the state and central governments.

The airstrikes by the US and UK were in retaliation to the escalating attacks by Iran-backed Huthi rebels on shipping in the Red Sea. The airstrikes aimed to address the security concerns arising from the rebels' actions, which posed a threat to the crucial international sea route.

Yakshagana, an elaborate dance-drama of South India, is most strongly associated with the state of Karnataka. The art form features elaborate costumes, makeup, and masks, with traditional performances held in the open air by all-male troupes sponsored by Hindu temples.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) of India has introduced "Mulya Pravah 2.0" as a significant directive to promote ethical practices in higher education, addressing challenges such as favouritism, sexual harassment, and gender discrimination.

The ANUBHAV Awards Scheme is initiated by the Department of Pension and Pensioners Welfare (DoPPW) as an innovative platform to acknowledge the contributions made by retired officials to nation-building during their tenure in government service.

National Youth Day is observed annually on January 12 in India to honour the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda and reflect on his teachings and contributions.

National Road Safety Week in India is observed annually from January 11 to 17. This week-long initiative, in its 35th year in 2024, plays a crucial role in promoting awareness about responsible driving, pedestrian safety, and the enhancement of road infrastructure.

Sheel Vardhan Singh, previously the Director General of CISF, has transitioned to become a member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), as per a personnel ministry order.

The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP) in West Bengal, also known as Darjeeling Zoo, has received international recognition from WAZA for its successful Conservation Breeding Programme (CBC) for snow leopards, showcasing its commitment to wildlife conservation.

Rear Admiral Upal Kundu, a distinguished alumnus of the Indian Naval Academy, has recently taken charge as the Chief of Staff at the Southern Naval Command (SNC), bringing significant experience and expertise, particularly in anti-submarine warfare (ASW).

Aman Sehrawat, a rising wrestling star from India, clinched a gold medal in the 57 kg men's singles wrestling event at the 2024 Zagreb Open. His remarkable victory came by overpowering China's Zou Wanhao 10-0 in the final, showcasing technical superiority and solidifying his status in the wrestling arena.

China initiated the Einstein Probe mission, deploying a lotus-shaped satellite from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in southwest China’s Sichuan Province. The satellite aims to observe mysterious transient phenomena in the universe, showcasing China's advancements in space exploration.

Simmtech, a South Korean company, is set to invest Rs 1,250 crore in establishing a semiconductor manufacturing plant in Sanand, Gujarat. This initiative aims to significantly strengthen the semiconductor ecosystem in the state, as revealed during the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav.

Indore and Surat jointly secured the cleanest city title at the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023, with Indore winning the accolade for the seventh time. The prestigious ceremony by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs recognized 13 distinguished awardees for their cleanliness efforts.