Current Affairs - January 18, 2024 Current Affairs

China Betavolt has introduced a revolutionary nuclear battery, challenging norms with its miniaturized atomic energy. The battery, designed to provide 50 years of maintenance-free power generation, integrates 63 isotopes into a coin-sized module and has versatile applications in aerospace, AI equipment, medical devices, and more. With safety measures and addressing radiation concerns, Betavolt aims to redefine the possibilities of nuclear technology.

The Employee's Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) decided to exclude Aadhaar as proof of date of birth for correction and updates starting January 16, 2024. This action complies with the directive from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and aligns with the Aadhaar Act, 2016, which does not recognize Aadhaar as a valid proof of date of birth.

The historic sighting of the rare Tibetan Brown Bear in the high altitudes of North Sikkim is a remarkable achievement for India's wildlife conservation. Joint efforts by the Sikkim Forest Department and WWF-India led to this discovery, highlighting the ecological richness of Sikkim and adding to the country's diverse mammal population.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) achieved a significant milestone by being rated the second most valuable IT services brand globally in the 2024 Global 500 IT Services Ranking by Brand Finance. With a brand value surge to $19.2 billion, TCS demonstrates industry leadership, innovation commitment, and global recognition. Accenture holds the top position as the world's most valuable IT services brand, with a brand value of USD 40.5 billion.

L&T (Larsen & Toubro) Construction's railways strategic business group has successfully secured a substantial contract for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project. The contract, valued between ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 crore, involves the construction of 508 km of electrification works. This strategic win reinforces L&T's position in the infrastructure sector.

The Government of India, under the New Education Policy, has decided to include Farsi (Persian) as one of the nine classical languages, emphasizing cultural ties and connections between Iran and India.

Union Minister Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia inaugurated Wings India 2024, Asia's largest aviation expo, at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad. This event signifies a major milestone in the Indian aviation sector, showcasing its growth and future potential.

Union Fisheries Minister Parshottam Rupala inaugurated the artificial reef project in Vizhinjam, Kerala, with the aim of doubling the income of fishermen, enhancing fish stocks, and contributing to the economic well-being of the local fishing community.

NHAI's 'One Vehicle, One FASTag' initiative is strategically designed to prevent the prevalent practice of using a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or linking multiple FASTags to a specific vehicle. The aim is to ensure individual accountability and efficient toll collection at Toll Plazas.

The advanced 'Distress Alert Transmitter' (DAT-SG) by ISRO is a crucial tool for fishermen at sea, allowing them to send emergency messages and receive real-time acknowledgements, thereby revolutionizing maritime safety. With over 20,000 units currently in use, the DAT-SG has proven to be a reliable and effective tool for fishermen in distress.

IIT Madras and Altair collaboratively launched the eMobility Simulation Lab, situated in the Department of Engineering Design at IIT Madras. Supported by Altair's financial backing, the lab is equipped with state-of-the-art products and tools, fostering advanced research and training in eMobility domains.

Varanasi has achieved the milestone of being the first city in India to develop a 3D urban spatial digital twin, utilizing advanced LiDAR technology to create a comprehensive digital map covering 160 square kilometres. The digital twin integrates with the Kashi Integrated Command and Control Centre for enhanced operational efficiency.

Foxconn, in collaboration with HCL Group, is establishing a chip packaging and testing facility in India. The partnership involves a $37.2 million investment by Foxconn Hon Hai Technology India Mega Development for a 40% stake, while the remaining stake is held by HCL Group.

The MPLADS e-SAKSHI Mobile Application, known as e-Sakshi, is designed to facilitate transparent monitoring of the fund flow under the Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) for the year 2023. The SAKSHI portal enables centralized and state agencies, district authorities, and MPs to monitor MPLADS progress, fund status, and work details, contributing to increased transparency.

Yogesh Singh excelled in the Asia Olympic Qualifiers in Jakarta, securing individual gold in the men's 25m centre fire pistol and leading the Indian team to victory in the team category. His exceptional marksmanship and leadership contributed significantly to India's success in the shooting competition.

Rear Admiral Shantanu Jha has assumed the role of Chief Staff Officer (Operations) at the Eastern Naval Command. He is a recipient of the Nausena Medal and previously served as a Commodore in (Strategy, Concepts & Transformation) at Naval Headquarters. His diverse background includes a Master's degree in Defence Studies and experience as a Naval Attaché.

Vice President Dhankhar inaugurated the 12th General Assembly of the Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace in New Delhi, emphasizing Buddha's wisdom as a transformative roadmap for inner peace, compassion, and non-violence amidst universal challenges.

The 9th edition of the Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival (PPHF) is set to take place at Seijosa in the Pakke Kessang district of Arunachal Pradesh from January 18-20, 2024. Initiated in 2015, the festival aims to celebrate the Nyishi tribal group's significant role in conserving hornbills within the Pakke Tiger Reserve (PTR). The event focuses on recognizing the Nyishi tribe's contributions to hornbill conservation, generating alternative sources of income for the region, and raising awareness about PTR and its wonders across India.

Sue Redfern from England is set to become the first ICC-appointed female neutral umpire, marking a significant stride toward gender inclusivity in cricket officiating. This historic moment is scheduled to take place during the upcoming WT20I between Australia and South Africa.

Chhattisgarh has introduced the Mahtari Vandana Yojana 2024, providing monthly economic assistance of ₹1000 to women, with a total annual aid of ₹12,000, aimed at empowering them through financial support.