Current Affairs - September 12, 2024 Current Affairs

Tamil Nadu has allocated ₹500 crore for the rejuvenation of 5,000 minor irrigation tanks, aiming to enhance water storage for agricultural purposes. The project is co-funded by the State Budget and the State Finance Commission, with each contributing ₹250 crore. The initiative, overseen by the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department, is crucial for improving water resources in a state that has over 22,000 minor irrigation tanks and nearly 70,000 ponds, playing a vital role in sustaining agriculture.

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) has entered into a landmark agreement with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) to enhance cooperation in the nuclear sector. This agreement aims to foster collaboration in key areas such as supply chain management, human resource development, nuclear consultancy, and future investments. The signing of this agreement marks a significant milestone in the nuclear cooperation between the UAE and India, opening up new avenues for mutual growth and development.

The Union Cabinet has approved ‘Mission Mausam’ with a ₹2,000 crore investment aimed at enhancing weather forecasting and management in India. This mission, led by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, focuses on improving weather prediction accuracy using advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. Implemented by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and related agencies, it will integrate cutting-edge radar and satellite technologies to address challenges such as the unpredictable rainfall events recently witnessed, ensuring more reliable and precise weather forecasts for the future.

National Forest Martyrs Day is observed every year on September 11 in India to honour the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives protecting the nation’s forests, wildlife, and biodiversity. This day commemorates the tragic Khejarli massacre of 1730, in which Amrita Devi Bishnoi and 363 members of her community sacrificed their lives to protect sacred Khejri trees. This observance emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation and the sacrifices made by forest protectors throughout history.

Maharashtra is set to establish a Tribal University in Nashik to promote the education and development of tribal students. The university will offer education from Kindergarten to Post-graduation, with 80% of the seats reserved for tribal students. The governor of Maharashtra, who holds the power to establish universities under the Maharashtra University Act 1984, announced the foundation of this institution, aimed at providing quality education to improve opportunities for tribal communities.

Palestine has secured a significant diplomatic victory by being seated among member states at the 79th UN General Assembly session. Despite not being a full UN member, Palestine's participation was supported by a majority of member states, with 143 votes in favour. This move has been met with opposition from Israel, which argues that UN privileges should only be reserved for sovereign states. This development highlights the ongoing efforts by Palestine to gain international recognition and participate in global forums.

Tamil Nadu has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Caterpillar to expand equipment manufacturing in the districts of Thiruvallur and Krishnagiri. This agreement is part of the state's broader initiative to boost industrial investments, with other major companies such as Jabil, Rockwell, and Ohmium also committing substantial investments. Collaborations with global tech giants like Google further highlight Tamil Nadu's increasing role as a key player in India's industrial and technological landscape.

Madhya Pradesh is the first state in India to provide AYUSH services in all 328 of its urban primary health centres. The state is also working on expanding these services to rural areas. Additionally, Madhya Pradesh ranks third in the number of AYUSH doctors in tribal regions, followed by Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The state has shown significant improvement in its healthcare infrastructure, with a marked increase in sub-health and community health centres since 2005.

EVFY opened its first fast-charging station in Gurgaon, marking a significant step in its expansion plans for the Indian market. Located in Sector 73, this station features a 150 kW fast charger and is designed to support a range of electric vehicles, from two-wheelers to buses. The company's goal is to establish 100 such stations by 2025, reflecting its commitment to catering to the growing demand for electric vehicles in India. This initiative includes future plans for ultra-fast chargers and a dedicated app to enhance user convenience.

Bob Bryan led the U.S. men's Davis Cup team to a 3-0 victory over Chile in their Group Stage opener, marking a return to the competition after 16 years. This win is part of the Davis Cup 2024 campaign, where Bryan's team, which includes Reilly Opelka and Brandon Nakashima, aims to advance through Group C and reach the finals in Malaga, Spain. Bryan's leadership and the team's strong performance highlight their determination to reclaim the prestigious title, last won in 2007.

The Nagaland government approved the extension of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) to three districts: Chumoukedima, Niuland, and Dimapur. This measure introduces new regulations for residents and visitors, where some groups are exempted from the ILP, while others, particularly under Category III, will require it. The ILP system helps control movement into specific regions, and improvements in the digital application system are expected to make the process more efficient.