Current Affairs - June 15, 2024 Current Affairs

Egypt and Bahrain have partnered with China to jointly develop a hyperspectral camera for the Chang’e-7 lunar mission. This camera will be instrumental in imaging and analyzing lunar surface materials, particularly in the Moon’s polar regions. It is designed to provide high-quality hyperspectral data that can support various scientific endeavours such as environmental monitoring, natural resource surveys, and climate change studies. This collaboration marks an important step in lunar exploration for both Egypt and Bahrain, aiming to deepen their space partnership with China and enhance their capabilities in space science and technology.

Divya Deshmukh, an 18-year-old International Master from Nagpur, India, emerged victorious in the 2024 FIDE Under-20 Girl’s World Chess Championship. She achieved this feat by remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament and securing a decisive win in her final match, garnering an impressive 10 out of 11 points. Deshmukh's accomplishment adds her name to the list of esteemed Indian women chess players who have excelled on the international stage, showcasing her strategic prowess and determination in competitive chess. Kazybek Nogerbek from Kazakhstan claimed the men’s title in the same championship, highlighting the global diversity and talent at the FIDE U-20 World Chess Championship 2024.

Alpana Killawala authored the book "A Fly on the RBI Wall: An Insider’s View of the Central Bank". The book offers insights into her 25-year journey at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the institution's transformation during her tenure. It provides a candid account of her experiences, including navigating crises and reforms, and sheds light on the RBI's communication strategies and its role in India's economic reforms.

'Divya Drishti' is an AI-based tool developed by a woman-led start-up that integrates facial recognition with gait analysis to create a robust authentication system. This innovative approach enhances identification accuracy and reliability, minimizing risks associated with false positives or identity fraud. The tool has versatile applications across sectors such as defence, law enforcement, and corporate environments, developed under the technical guidance of DRDO's Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (CAIR) in Bengaluru.

Ravichandran Ashwin, an accomplished off-spinner in international cricket, is scheduled to release his autobiography 'I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story' on June 10, 2024. Co-authored with Sidharth Monga, the book provides a deep dive into Ashwin’s life and experiences before he emerged as a prominent cricketer. It covers his journey from childhood, highlighting personal struggles, family support, and pivotal moments that shaped his career. Ashwin’s autobiography aims to inspire readers, especially budding cricketers, by offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of a cricketing legend who has made significant contributions to the sport globally.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is observed globally on June 15th each year. This day aims to raise awareness about the mistreatment of older individuals worldwide, highlighting various forms of abuse and promoting their rights and well-being. The theme for WEAAD 2024 focuses on addressing the challenges faced by older persons during emergencies, emphasizing the need for protective measures and support systems.

Shruti Vora made history as the first Indian to win the three-star Grand Prix event in the FEI Dressage World Cup held in Lipica, Slovenia. Riding her horse Magnanimous, Vora achieved a score of 67.761 points, surpassing Moldova’s Tatiana Antonenco. This victory not only highlights Vora’s exceptional skills in equestrian sports but also marks a significant milestone for Indian representation in international dressage competitions. Her previous appearances in prestigious events like the Dressage World Championship and the Asian Games underscore her dedication and success in the sport.

The Mahakali River, also known as the Kali River, serves as the international boundary between India and Nepal. It is a crucial geographic feature that delineates the boundary between these two neighbouring countries, reflecting their historical and political relationship. As one of the rivers originating from Nepal and flowing into India, the Mahakali River plays a significant role in the hydrology and geopolitical context of the region, contributing to both countries' natural borders and water resource management.

The India-IORA Cruise Tourism Conference concluded in New Delhi on June 14. The conference brought together officials and experts from member states of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) to discuss and foster cooperation in cruise, coastal, and marine tourism across the region. New Delhi hosted the event, which aimed to enhance collaboration and strategic partnerships among stakeholders involved in promoting tourism within the Indian Ocean Rim.

Global Wind Day is observed annually on June 15th to promote the use and benefits of wind energy as a clean and renewable power source worldwide. This day aims to raise awareness about the potential of wind power in mitigating climate change and reducing carbon emissions. Celebrated since 2007, Global Wind Day encourages governments, organizations, and communities to embrace wind energy solutions for sustainable development. In India, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has set ambitious targets to increase renewable energy capacities, including wind power, to achieve significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and move towards a Net Zero future by 2070.

The National Institute of Indian Medical Heritage (NIIMH), designated as a WHO Collaborating Centre for traditional medicine research, is situated in Hyderabad. This recognition underscores Hyderabad's role in advancing research in Ayush and digital initiatives related to traditional medicine.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated the intra-State air service 'PM Shri Paryatan Vayu Seva' from Raja Bhoj International Airport in Bhopal on June 13. This service, operated by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) in partnership with Jet Serve Aviation Private Limited, aims to boost tourism by connecting eight cities within the state. The initiative includes flights to destinations such as Jabalpur, Gwalior, Indore, and Khajuraho, with plans to expand based on public response, using twin-engine aircraft initially designed to accommodate six passengers each.