Current Affairs - March 17, 2024 Current Affairs

Space One, a Tokyo-based startup, recently experienced a setback as their first privately developed rocket exploded after takeoff. Despite this setback, Space One aims to increase its launch frequency significantly in the coming years, showcasing its ambitions in the aerospace industry.

The Odisha government's decision to grant an extra 10 days of casual leave to women government employees is a progressive step towards promoting gender equality and supporting women's well-being in the workplace. This initiative acknowledges the specific needs of women, such as addressing health issues or family responsibilities, by providing them with additional flexibility and time off.

The International Day of Action for Rivers is observed annually on March 14th. In 2024, the theme is "Water for All," highlighting the importance of clean water accessibility as a fundamental right for all individuals.

India is poised to restart the manufacturing of Penicillin G in 2024 after a hiatus of three decades. This resurgence is attributed to the government's Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, aiming to revitalize domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing.

The National Para Badminton Championship will be held in Jamshedpur at Mohan Ahuja Stadium. Organized jointly by the Badminton Association of India and Tata Steel, the event will witness over 300 para-athletes from across India competing.

The Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela, a national-level agricultural science fair, is being hosted for the first time in Simdega, Jharkhand. This event aims to promote modern agricultural techniques and entrepreneurship among farmers, with participation from over 40 agricultural scientists.

The Karnataka Government has announced a ban on harmful colouring agents in popular food items such as cotton candy and Gobi Manchurian. The ban targets Rhodamine B in cotton candy and imposes restrictions on Tartrazine usage in Gobi Manchurian, aiming to enhance food safety standards.

Asif Ali Zardari was sworn in as Pakistan's 14th President, replacing Dr Arif Alvi. The oath was administered by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the Presidential Palace. Zardari, aged 68, is associated with the Pakistan Peoples Party.

World Plumbing Day is celebrated annually on March 11th. It was initiated by the World Plumbing Council to recognize the importance of plumbing in societal health and amenity, with global events organized to promote safe plumbing practices.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) signed the Rs 8073 crore deal with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for supplying 34 ALH Dhruv helicopters. This agreement signifies HAL's role in manufacturing and supplying advanced aerospace equipment for the Army and Coast Guard, enhancing India's defence capabilities.

The Geological Survey of India unveiled the Stratigraphic Column of the Cuddapah Supergroup in Andhra Pradesh, specifically in the Vajrakarur Diamond Processing Camp, Anantapur district.

The new scorpion species, named Euscorpiops Krachan, was discovered in Thailand. It belongs to the subgenus Euscopiops and was found in the Krachan National Park, leading to its name.

The 'India-Bangladesh Tourism Fair' was organized in Dhaka. The event, conducted by the High Commission in collaboration with IBCCI and BOTOA, aimed to promote tourism between India and Bangladesh, fostering cultural and economic ties.

Uttarakhand has become the first state in independent India to implement a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Act, ensuring equal rights for women in matters of property and inheritance while excluding tribals from its scope.

India's position as the world's leading arms importer indicates its substantial investment in defence capabilities and strategic partnerships with global suppliers. This designation highlights India's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces and address security challenges, underscoring its role as a key player in the international defence arena.