Current Affairs - July 2, 2024 Current Affairs

Air India is setting up South Asia's largest flight training school in Amravati, Maharashtra, with an investment exceeding ₹200 crore. This initiative, in partnership with Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC), aims to train 180 commercial pilots annually using modern infrastructure and optimal weather conditions, contributing significantly to India's aviation self-reliance and catering to the airline's pilot requirements amidst its fleet expansion plans.

Project Nexus is a collaborative effort between RBI, BIS, and central banks of ASEAN countries to enhance the efficiency, speed, and cost-effectiveness of retail cross-border payments. Scheduled to launch by 2026, this initiative will integrate domestic fast payment systems across Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and India, marking a significant advancement in international payment systems.

The Simla Agreement, signed on 2nd July 1972, was a significant diplomatic effort between India and Pakistan following the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. It aimed to establish peace, normalise relations, and resolve conflicts through bilateral negotiations, particularly focusing on issues like Kashmir and the Line of Control (LoC). Despite its limitations and subsequent developments such as nuclearisation, the agreement remains a foundational document in the context of Indo-Pakistani relations and South Asian geopolitics.

Maharashtra launched the 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin' scheme, aimed at empowering women aged 21 to 60 with a monthly financial support of ₹1,500 starting from July 2024. Inspired by Madhya Pradesh's 'Ladli Behna' scheme, this initiative reflects the state government's commitment to enhancing women's welfare and development.

The Bangladesh Navy signed a contract with India’s Garden Reach Shipbuilding and Engineers (GRSE) for an 800-ton Ocean Going Tug. This agreement was finalized during the visit of India’s Chief of Naval Staff to Bangladesh, highlighting the collaborative efforts in naval technology and maritime capabilities between the two countries.

World UFO Day is celebrated annually on July 2. Originally, it was observed on June 24 to commemorate a significant UFO sighting in 1947 by Kenneth Arnold. However, the date was later changed to July 2 to coincide with the anniversary of the Roswell incident, another famous UFO event in 1947. This day encourages people worldwide to ponder the existence of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and contemplate the possibility of extraterrestrial life beyond Earth.

Viswanathan Anand, the former world chess champion from India, clinched the 2024 Leon Masters Chess Championship for an unprecedented 10th time by defeating Jaime Santos Latasa in the final with a score of 3-1. Anand's consistent performance throughout the years underscores his mastery and enduring success in the world of chess.

National Postal Worker Day is celebrated annually on July 1st. This day recognizes the dedication and contributions of postal service workers, including clerks, drivers, and delivery partners, who play a crucial role in maintaining communication and connection within communities. Established in 1997, it honours their efforts and acknowledges the challenges they encounter while fulfilling their responsibilities.

The State Bank of India (SBI) introduced "MSME Sahaj," an innovative online loan solution designed specifically for MSMEs. This platform allows MSMEs to obtain loans up to ₹1 lakh against their GST-registered sales invoices within 15 minutes, leveraging automated processing and data-driven credit assessments through SBI's digital platform Yono. The initiative aims to enhance cash flow for micro SME units efficiently.

Hul Kranti Diwas is celebrated on June 30 every year in Jharkhand to honour the 1855 independence movement led by tribal heroes Sidho, Kanho, Chand, and Bhairav, among others. This day marks a significant event in India's freedom struggle, where more than 50,000 tribals from 400 villages in Jharkhand revolted against British rule.

World Sports Journalists Day is celebrated annually on July 2. This day honours sports journalists worldwide for their dedication to reporting sports news and stories. It was established by the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) to recognize the contributions of sports journalists, encourage new talent in the field, and promote awareness about sports globally. The date, July 2, holds historical significance as it marks the formation of AIPS during the Summer Olympics in Paris.

Bhupinder Singh Rawat, known for his speed and agility as a winger, played football professionally until his passing on June 29, 2024, after a brief illness. He represented India in the 1969 Merdeka Cup and played for Delhi Garrison, Gorkha Brigade, and Mafatlal domestically. His nickname "Scooter" highlights his ability to swiftly navigate through opposing defenses.