Current Affairs - February 17, 2024 Current Affairs

India plans to introduce satellite-based tolling on the Mysuru-Bengaluru Expressway, aiming to enhance traffic flow and simplify toll payment processes. This modernization initiative reflects the government's commitment to leveraging technology to improve transportation infrastructure.

The United Nations' Global Tourism Resilience Day was celebrated for the first time on February 17, 2023, signifying its inauguration as a day to recognize and fortify the resilience of the tourism sector globally.

The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) introduced 'Amritbaal', a Non-Linked, Non-Participating, Individual, Savings, Life Insurance plan. This product, tailored for children, aims to address their financial needs, particularly for education and other significant expenses, marking LIC's commitment to offering comprehensive financial solutions for diverse demographics.

The Bagchi Sri Shankara Cancer Centre and Research Institute (BSCCRI) was inaugurated in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. This initiative aims to provide advanced cancer treatment facilities, emphasizing the state's commitment to comprehensive healthcare services for its citizens.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) is collaborating with Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) to establish the first Green Hydrogen plant at Cochin Airport, renowned as the world's first solar-powered airport. This initiative underscores efforts towards sustainable aviation and environmental conservation.

The Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT Roorkee), partnered with Engineers India Limited (EIL) to enhance innovation and research in green technologies. This collaboration aims to focus on key research areas such as CO2 conversion for emissions reduction and economic opportunities under the leadership of Prof KK Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee.

Visakhapatnam is the strategic port city chosen to host the 12th edition of the MILAN naval exercise from February 19 to 27. This exercise aims to promote cooperation and strategic dialogue among naval forces from over 50 countries, emphasizing the theme of enhancing global maritime security.

The Quad alliance, comprising the United States, Australia, India, and Japan, is a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. It focuses on various areas such as security, economic development, and geopolitical stability. The alliance seeks to uphold a rules-based order and promote peace and prosperity in the region.

Lebanese Judge Nawaf Salam was elected as the new president of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for a three-year term, succeeding US Judge Joan Donoghue. This appointment highlights Salam's distinguished career path and his significant role within the field of international law.

Himachal Pradesh claimed the top spot as India's most welcoming region in the 12th Annual Traveller Review Awards 2024 by Booking.com. This recognition underscores the region's hospitality and appeals to travellers, as evidenced by positive customer reviews on the platform.

The Indian Coast Guard ship 'Varaha' made a port call in Mozambique, specifically in Maputo. This visit highlights India's strategic deployment in East Africa and emphasizes professional engagements in areas such as Marine Pollution Response and maritime Search and Rescue.

City Union Bank, under the leadership of Dr N Kamakodi, earned seven awards at the 19th Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations in 2023. These awards recognize the bank's outstanding performance across various technological domains, showcasing its commitment to innovation and excellence in banking services.

India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Digital Cooperation with Colombia. This MoU aims to facilitate the sharing of India's open-sourced Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs) with a focus on India Stack Solutions, contributing to digital transformation efforts in Colombia.

The INSAT-3DS satellite, launched by ISRO, serves the primary purpose of weather forecasting and environmental monitoring. It represents a significant advancement in meteorological capabilities, enabling enhanced weather predictions and environmental observations to support various sectors and communities.

Greece recently legalized same-sex marriage and granted equal parental rights to same-sex couples, marking a significant milestone in the country's legal and societal landscape. This landmark decision reflects Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' commitment to equality and eliminating discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.