Current Affairs - March 8, 2024 Current Affairs

Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar introduced the ChipIN Centre, a pioneering facility aimed at transforming semiconductor design in India. This centre, introduced in Kerala, focuses on advancing semiconductor technologies, offering cutting-edge tools and resources to empower innovation in the field nationwide.

The Uttar Poorva Transformative Industrialization Scheme, 2024 (UNNATI – 2024) is led by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, as approved by the Union Cabinet under the leadership of the Prime Minister. This scheme aims to boost industrial growth in the North East region, contributing to economic development and employment generation.

The NAMASTE Scheme aims to ensure the safety and dignity of sanitation workers by banning manual sewer cleaning. With measures such as health insurance, safety training, and equipment subsidies, it prioritizes the well-being of sanitation workers, recognizing their crucial role in maintaining community health and hygiene.

Manish Prasad has been appointed as the new president and managing director for the Indian Subcontinent region by SAP, succeeding Kulmeet Bawa. With over two decades of experience, Prasad is a technology veteran and a seasoned business leader at SAP, known for delivering strategic outcomes across various industries.

NLC India Limited (NLCIL) has secured a 600 MW Solar Power Project tender at GSECL Khavda Solar Park through competitive bidding, with its green energy subsidiary, NIGEL, entrusted with project development responsibilities. NIGEL has signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) for this project.

Panama has officially joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as its 97th member, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable energy. This milestone reflects Panama's dedication to leveraging solar energy and collaborating with other nations within the ISA framework to promote renewable energy initiatives globally.

Bengaluru has been selected to pioneer India's driverless metro train system. The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is implementing this project, utilizing advanced technologies like Communication-based Train Control (CBTC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration to ensure safe and efficient operations along the Yellow Line.

The Indian Consulate in Dubai has introduced the Life Protection Plan (LPP) insurance package for Indian blue-collar workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This plan aims to provide financial benefits to the families of workers in case of natural or accidental deaths while working in the UAE.

Bank Indonesia (BI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to promote the utilization of local currencies, namely the Indian Rupee (INR) and Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), for cross-border transactions.

The 'Bharat-Shakti' exercise by the Indian Armed Forces will be conducted in Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan. This mega exercise will showcase the combined capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force at Asia's largest field firing range located in Jaisalmer.

Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOC) is poised to manufacture fuel for Formula One racing in India, expanding its specialized fuel portfolio to cater to the high-performance requirements of motorsports. This initiative introduces 'Storm' petrol, tailored for adrenaline-pumping Formula One (F1) racing and the Asian region motorcycle road racing championship.

India observes Jan Aushadhi Diwas on March 7 every year. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the benefits and importance of generic medicines, emphasizing the role of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) in making healthcare affordable and accessible to all.

The Union Cabinet has sanctioned a significant 4% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for central government employees and pensioners. This hike, effective from January 1, 2024, raises the DA and DR from 46% to 50% of the basic pay/pension, benefitting over 10 million employees and 6.79 million pensioners.

Sweden recently made a historic shift by formally joining NATO, departing from its longstanding stance of neutrality. This strategic move, prompted by concerns over Russian aggression following the invasion of Ukraine, marks a significant departure from Sweden's traditional approach to military alliances.

The Prime Minister introduced the mission 'Wed in India' during a rally in Srinagar, urging people to choose India, particularly Jammu and Kashmir, as their wedding destination. This initiative aims to boost tourism, foster economic growth, and showcase the cultural richness of India globally.