Current Affairs - February 1, 2024 Current Affairs

The Annual Mass Drug Administration Campaign in Uttar Pradesh aims to eliminate filariasis from the state by 2027, with a focused effort in 17 filariasis-endemic districts through door-to-door visits to administer preventive medication.

India and Oman signed an MoU during the 12th India-Oman Joint Military Cooperation Committee meeting, strengthening defence cooperation and outlining the framework for collaboration in the procurement of Defense Materials and Equipment.

Havildar Preeti Rajak, a skilled trap shooter in the Indian Army, made history by becoming the first female Subedar, showcasing her exceptional talent and marking a significant milestone for women in the armed forces.

INS Sandhayak, commissioned on February 3 in Visakhapatnam, plays a pivotal role in India's naval capabilities, specifically in the domain of Naval Mapping and Surveillance. This vessel is instrumental in enhancing the Indian Navy's presence in the Indian Ocean Region, contributing to maritime security. The commissioning ceremony, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other dignitaries, marks a momentous occasion for the Navy's strategic advancements in surveillance and mapping capabilities.

India's core sector, a significant economic indicator, witnessed a substantial decline in output growth, reaching a 14-month low of 3.8% in December 2023. This marked a notable drop from the previous month's 7.9%. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry attributed this decline to a high base and a slowdown in six key sectors. Among these sectors, only fertilizers (5.8%) and cement (1.3%) experienced an acceleration in output during December. This slowdown reflects challenges and fluctuations in India's industrial and economic landscape.

Surat Airport in Gujarat has been officially declared an 'International Airport' by the Government of India, following the recent inauguration of its new terminal building by the Prime Minister, constructed for Rs 353 crore.

The death of a king penguin in the Antarctic is suspected to be caused by the highly contagious H5N1 avian influenza virus, posing concerns about its potential impact on remote penguin populations.

Tamil Nadu has secured a record by attaining the highest number of Ramsar sites in India, with the recent addition of the Longwood Shola Reserve Forest and the Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary. This accomplishment underscores the state's commitment to biodiversity preservation.

The Union Cabinet approved a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to enhance bilateral economic engagement, covering areas such as manufacturing and foreign direct investment (FDI).

IIT Indore has obtained approval for its Ujjain satellite campus, a significant development supported by Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities and promote regional development.

Maharashtra emerged as the leading state in the Khelo India Youth Games 2024 held in Tamil Nadu, securing the highest total medals, including 57 gold, 48 silver, and 53 bronze. This victory marked Maharashtra's fourth title in the KIYG.

The Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk in Delhi, symbolizing the end of Republic Day festivities, occurs on January 29, featuring captivating Indian military music and paying tribute to India's military heritage.

Indian Coast Guard Day is celebrated annually on February 1st to honour the dedication and service of the personnel safeguarding the country's maritime interests.

The interim Indian Coast Guard was established on 1st February 1977, with its formal inauguration as an independent armed force occurring on 18th August 1978 with the enactment of the Coast Guard Act 1978.

Champai Soren has been declared as the next Chief Minister of Jharkhand, succeeding Hemant Soren, marking a significant development in the state's political landscape.