Current Affairs - September 9, 2024 Current Affairs

Indian Railways introduced a helmet camera system in North Bengal to enhance safety and prevent train accidents. This live monitoring system enables railway workers to detect and address mechanical issues in real-time, ensuring safer train operations. Initially deployed in the Maldah Division, it aims to extend across other regions. The helmet cameras can capture detailed images and videos, allowing for proactive responses to potential hazards and demonstrating Indian Railways' commitment to improving passenger safety through technological advancements.

The Delhi government has implemented a complete ban on the production, sale, and use of firecrackers to address air pollution, particularly during the winter season. This measure, effective until January 1, 2025, is part of a broader 'Winter Action Plan' designed to reduce pollution levels and promote eco-friendly practices. The ban is intended to mitigate the harmful effects of firecrackers on air quality and public health, encouraging more sustainable methods of celebration.

Odisha inaugurated its first silicon carbide facility, established by RIR Power Electronics with an investment of Rs 620 crore. This facility will focus on semiconductor production and create over 500 jobs, emphasizing research and development. Collaboration with IIT Bhubaneswar will further enhance innovation in power electronics, supporting India’s drive for self-reliance in this critical sector.

The Adani Group, in partnership with Israel’s Tower Semiconductor, will invest $10 billion in a semiconductor plant in Maharashtra, India. This significant project is part of India's efforts to boost domestic chip production and establish itself as a global hub for semiconductors. The plant aims to produce 40,000 wafers initially, contributing to India's growing semiconductor market, which is projected to reach $63 billion by 2026.

The 5th Observance of the UN International Day to Protect Education from Attack is scheduled for September 9, 2024, in Doha, Qatar. This event, established through a UN General Assembly resolution, is aimed at raising awareness about the need to protect education in conflict zones. Led by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the day brings global attention to the importance of safeguarding education against attacks and various barriers faced by students in conflict-affected areas.

The first India-GCC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, which is a significant step towards enhancing cooperation between India and the Gulf nations, will take place in Riyadh. This historic event will focus on strengthening partnerships in trade, investment, and energy sectors. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s participation underlines the importance of this engagement, making Riyadh the chosen venue for this diplomatic milestone.

Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear corporation, plans to deploy a 0.5-megawatt nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2036. This project aims to address power challenges on the Moon, particularly during its extended nights when solar energy is insufficient. The reactor is part of Rosatom's broader strategy for sustained lunar exploration and potential international cooperation, with interest noted from both China and India. The initiative is expected to play a crucial role in supporting future lunar bases and exploration activities.

A new species of jumping spider, named Carrhotus piperus, was discovered in the lower Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu. The discovery adds to the biodiversity of the region, bringing the total number of Carrhotus species in India to 10. This significant finding occurred during a 2016 survey in Thadiyankudisai, Dindigul, and was led by researchers John Caleb T.D. and M. Sampathkumar, emphasizing the ecological richness of Tamil Nadu's landscape.

Uttar Pradesh, under the leadership of CM Yogi Adityanath, is hosting Semicon India 2024 from September 11-13 at India Expo Mart in Greater Noida. The event is designed to promote India's semiconductor sector and draw global investments. It will run concurrently with Electronica India and Productronica India, offering a significant platform for the electronics and semiconductor industries in the country.

Tuhin Kanta Pandey, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, has been appointed as the new Finance Secretary of India. He succeeds TV Somanathan, who has taken over as the Cabinet Secretary. Before his new appointment, Mr. Pandey served as the secretary of the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM). His extensive experience in public asset management and governance makes him well-suited for this crucial role in India’s financial administration.

The State Bank of India (SBI) Foundation has launched the third edition of its Asha Scholarship Program, aimed at providing financial support to 10,000 talented students from underprivileged backgrounds. The scholarship program offers amounts ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 20 lakh, helping students from Class 6 to postgraduate levels achieve their educational goals. This initiative reflects SBI's commitment to fostering educational opportunities for disadvantaged students across India.

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) signed a Rs 26,000-crore contract with the Ministry of Defence for the production of 240 AL-31FP aero engines for the Su-30MKI aircraft. This contract, part of the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, aims to increase the indigenous content to 63% and enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force's Su-30 fleet. The engines will be produced at HAL's Koraput division.