Current Affairs - August 15, 2024 Current Affairs

In Telangana’s Sangareddy district, farmers from various regions are successfully using bio-fertilisers for cotton cultivation. In the village of Peddapur, these farmers have seen their cotton crops benefit from bio-fertilisers, resulting in healthier and more abundant growth without the need for chemical pesticides. This sustainable approach has garnered attention, leading farmers across the region to seek out Peddapur for these natural products. The positive outcomes of using bio-fertilisers highlight the potential for increased yields and healthier crops in the future of cotton farming in Telangana and other states.

India recently named three significant underwater structures in the Indian Ocean: Ashoka, Chandragupta, and Kalpataru. This naming process reflects India's growing involvement in marine science and its commitment to oceanographic research. The proposal for these names received approval from international bodies such as the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC). This initiative highlights India's strategic role in exploring and understanding the Indian Ocean, underscoring its active participation in global marine research.

In Cooch Behar, West Bengal, Azizul Rahman has innovatively powered a traditional Ghani oil press with an e-rickshaw known as Toto, replacing oxen. This move showcases how traditional methods can evolve to meet contemporary needs while preserving their essence. The e-rickshaw, equipped with a 30-horsepower electric engine, has reduced operational costs and attracted public interest for its purity and cost-effectiveness. It also highlights the potential for sustainable agricultural practices that combine modern technology with traditional crafts.

Punjab National Bank (PNB) recently introduced the PNB ANTAH DRISHTI Braille Debit Card, specifically designed for visually impaired individuals. This card, part of the RuPay network, supports contactless transactions, enhancing accessibility for its users. Established in 1894, PNB is a major public sector bank in India, headquartered in New Delhi. The introduction of this Braille Debit Card reflects PNB’s commitment to inclusivity and improving financial services for all customers.

In Kashmir, the excitement for Independence Day is in the air due to the numerous 'Tiranga' rallies organized by the Union Territory administration as part of the Centre’s 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign. These rallies are part of the Centre’s 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, aimed at promoting national pride through such displays of patriotism. They include the lighting of tricolours at various historic landmarks, reflecting the significance of the tricolour in the region's culture and heritage. Security measures are heightened to ensure a peaceful celebration, with key figures like IG Srinagar Sector CRPF leading the events. The festive atmosphere is further enriched by the lighting of tricolours at historical landmarks, symbolizing freedom and unity across diverse communities in Jammu and Kashmir.

Matrix Cellular has launched India’s first eSIM services, offering a seamless travel experience with no need for physical SIM cards. This eSIM, a software-based system embedded in devices, allows for easy activation of various cellular plans, reducing costs and simplifying connectivity for travellers. The global eSIM market is expected to reach 268 million users by 2028, driven by cost-effective international travel plans. Matrix Cellular aims to lead this market with its extensive global coverage and customer-focused plans, including unlimited data and 1GB of free international data on select plans.

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification for exceeding weight limits at the Paris Olympics 2024 sparked controversy and led to her appeal for a shared silver medal. Phogat, competing in the 50kg Freestyle category, was disqualified for exceeding the 50kg weight limit. She received a 10% reduction in her score and was subsequently disqualified for the violation. Her appeal for a shared silver medal at the Paris Olympics 2024 following her 50kg freestyle disqualification for exceeding weight limits was dismissed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), citing no grounds for a change in the original decision. This incident underscores the strict regulations and potential impact of weight infractions on athletes' careers and raises concerns about the fairness of such rules in international sports competitions.

Air India has partnered with Arrivia, enhancing its Flying Returns loyalty program, allowing members to earn Reward Points on cruise vacations with over 40 major cruise lines. Members earn points for spending on cruise bookings through flyingreturnsicruise.com, offering a wide range of cruise experiences. This collaboration aims to provide a seamless travel experience and reward points to customers who book cruises through Air India, further strengthening the airline's loyalty program.

A 13-year-old Chinese girl, Lei Muzi, performed a historic Bharatanatyam "Arangetram" in China at the Indian Embassy. Her debut was attended by Indian diplomats and a large crowd of fans, including the first Indian ambassador to China, marking a milestone in the spread of India's ancient dance form among Chinese audiences. Lei Muzi is the only Chinese person to have been trained in Bharatanatyam and has been practising it for six years at a school affiliated with Bharatanatyam expert Raja Ravi Varma. Her performance in China signifies the growing interest and appreciation of Indian dance forms in China, particularly in the realm of classical arts and cultural exchange.

Paul Kagame was sworn in for a fourth term as Rwanda's President after winning an overwhelming 99% of the vote in the recent election. The ceremony took place at Kigali's Amahoro Stadium and was attended by various African leaders. Kagame, who has been in power since 2000, ran for reelection under the Rwandan Patriotic Front banner and secured his position following a 2015 constitutional amendment that allowed him to extend his presidency. His leadership continues to shape Rwanda's political landscape.

Vinay Mohan Kwatra has taken over as India's Ambassador to the US, following Taranjit Singh Sandhu. Kwatra is a seasoned Indian diplomat who previously served as the 34th Foreign Secretary of India from May 2022 to July 2024. His extensive diplomatic experience includes serving as the Ambassador of India to France and Nepal. This new appointment highlights his significant role in representing India in key international relations, particularly with the United States.

China has recently test-flown its largest civilian cargo drone, developed by Sichuan Tengden Sci-tech Innovation Co., with a 2-ton payload. This significant development is part of China's broader strategy to establish a $279 billion low-altitude economy by 2030. The drone, larger than a Cessna 172, underscores China's advancements in autonomous aerial vehicle technology, demonstrating the country's leading role in the global drone industry and its commitment to enhancing its capabilities in this field.

In recognition of the extraordinary courage and dedication displayed during anti-terror operations, President Droupadi Murmu posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra to Colonel Manpreet Singh and Deputy Superintendent of Police Himayun Muzzammil Bhat. These awards honour their selfless acts of bravery in the line of duty, with the Kirti Chakra specifically highlighting their ultimate sacrifice. Major Aashish Dhonchak and Sepoy Pardeep Singh were awarded the Shaurya Chakra for their contributions to the same operations. This recognition highlights significant contributions to counter-terror efforts and serves as an inspiring testament to the sacrifices made by these servicemen.

T.V. Somanathan, a 1987-batch IAS officer from Tamil Nadu, has been appointed as India's new Cabinet Secretary, succeeding Rajiv Gauba. He will officially start his two-year term on August 30, 2024. Prior to this appointment, Somanathan has served in several high-profile roles, including Finance Secretary, and has contributed significantly to fiscal policies and transparency. His background includes a PhD in Economics, and he is proficient in multiple languages, reflecting his extensive expertise and qualifications.

The World Health Organization has declared mpox a global public health emergency after an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, spreading to several African countries including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. This marks the second global health emergency announcement in two years for mpox, highlighting its potential for rapid spread through close contact and causing flu-like symptoms with rare fatalities, particularly among immunocompromised individuals. This declaration aims to mobilize research and international cooperation to contain the disease and prevent further spread, underscoring the need for a comprehensive response to emerging infectious threats.

The Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering & Research (SAMEER), an R&D institute under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), transferred its Microwave-Based Brix Measurement System technology to Toshniwal Hyvac Pvt. Ltd. and Sir Automation Industries. This technology enables precise, real-time measurement of sugar concentration during production, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in sugar mills. The transfer agreement will facilitate large-scale manufacturing of this innovative system, which also has potential applications in other industries like dairy, brewery, and fruit juices.

India finished 71st in the medal tally at the Paris Olympics 2024, marking a decline from its 48th place in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Despite winning six medals, including one silver and five bronze, the nation faced numerous challenges and near misses. This drop has led to discussions about improving sports infrastructure and talent identification in India, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to enhance the performance of Indian athletes on the global stage.

Euler Motors inaugurated its new manufacturing facility in Palwal, Haryana, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion plans. This 5 lakh sq. ft. plant, with an investment of Rs 100 crore, can produce up to 36,000 electric three-wheelers annually. It serves as Euler Motors’ national manufacturing hub, aiming to increase its vehicle production capacity and meet the rising demand for electric vehicles. The facility aligns with the “Make in India” initiative, showcasing Euler Motors' commitment to technological innovation, environmental stewardship, and gender diversity in its workforce.

The width-to-length ratio of the Indian national flag, also known as the Tiranga, is set at 2:3 by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This ratio is strictly maintained to ensure uniformity and respect across all sizes of the flag, which symbolizes the unity and pride of the nation. The flag features three horizontal stripes in saffron, white, and green, with the Ashoka Chakra at the centre, each element carrying deep symbolic meaning reflecting India's heritage and values.

Natwar Singh, who passed away at the age of 95, served as India’s External Affairs Minister from 2004 to 2005 during the UPA-I government led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. A distinguished career diplomat and Congress MP, he was also recognized for his contributions to diplomacy and foreign policy, earning the Padma Bhushan in 1984. In addition to his political career, he was a prolific author and served as the ambassador to Pakistan, further solidifying his legacy in Indian foreign affairs.