Current Affairs - September 24, 2024 Current Affairs

India’s first CO2-to-Methanol pilot plant, with a capacity of 1.4 Tons Per Day (TPD), is being established in Pune, Maharashtra. This pioneering project is designed to demonstrate CO2 capture and utilization technologies, crucial for India's journey towards net-zero carbon emissions. The collaboration between IIT Delhi and Thermax Ltd. aims to develop innovative solutions to convert CO2 emissions from diverse industrial sources into methanol. Supported by the Department of Science and Technology, this initiative aligns with India's broader goals of energy self-reliance and sustainable development.

India is set to establish its first national security semiconductor fabrication plant in collaboration with the United States. The project, named 'Shakti', will produce military-grade chips and components for telecommunications, focusing on advanced sensing, communication, and power electronics. This initiative marks a crucial step in strengthening India-U.S. relations and aims to enhance the semiconductor supply chain, a strategic move for India's technological and defence capabilities.

The Battle of Haifa, a significant military engagement during World War I, took place in 1918. Indian soldiers from the British Indian Army played a crucial role in achieving a decisive victory against Ottoman and German forces, marking the liberation of Haifa. This event is commemorated as Haifa Day, reflecting the historic contribution of Indian troops. The victory strengthened India’s legacy in military history and is celebrated as a symbol of courage and strategic success.

The Maharashtra government has approved the renaming of Pune Airport to "Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj Airport" to honour the revered saint's contributions to Bhagwat Dharma. Sant Tukaram was born in Lohgaon, near the airport, and this decision aligns with the sentiments of local villagers and the Warkari community. The renaming reflects a tribute to Sant Tukaram’s legacy and cultural significance, enhancing the airport's connection to the region's spiritual heritage.

Harini Amarasuriya has made history by being sworn in as Sri Lanka’s new Prime Minister, marking a significant milestone as the first woman to assume this role since Sirimavo Bandaranaike in 2000. Known for her activism and contributions to social justice and education, Amarasuriya's appointment reflects a commitment to progressive leadership and reform within the National People’s Power party. She is the third woman to serve in this capacity in Sri Lanka, and her responsibilities include key portfolios such as Justice, Education, and Health, underscoring her influential position in the government.

Sakshi Malik, born in Rohtak, Haryana, made history as the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in wrestling at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Competing in the 58 kg freestyle category, she secured a bronze medal, marking a monumental achievement for Indian sports. Her victory broke societal barriers and inspired many young women to take up wrestling. Sakshi's journey, from her early training to her international successes, showcases her dedication and resilience.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has been honoured with the 2024 UN Inter-Agency Task Force Award for its significant efforts in preventing and controlling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving mental health. This recognition highlights ICMR's contribution to public health through initiatives such as establishing national centres for Assistive Health Technology, promoting sustainable health products, and conducting the world's largest assistive technology survey. This award underscores the organization's ongoing efforts to tackle NCDs on a global scale.

The 25th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards will be hosted in Jaipur from March 7 to March 9, 2025. The event will celebrate its silver jubilee and will include the introduction of the IIFA Digital Awards, which will honour achievements in digital entertainment, films, and OTT content. Jaipur was selected as the host city following a memorandum of understanding between the Rajasthan Tourism Department and IIFA, making it the centre of attention for this prestigious event.

India is set to expand its diplomatic presence in the United States with the opening of two new consulates in Boston and Los Angeles. This announcement was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address to the Indian diaspora in Long Island, New York. This move strengthens India's relationship with the U.S. and underscores the importance of the Indian community, which Modi referred to as "Rashtradoots." The opening of these consulates reflects India's growing diplomatic and economic engagement with the United States.

KVS Manian took over as the Managing Director and CEO of Federal Bank on September 23, 2024, succeeding Shyam Srinivasan. Manian comes with over 25 years of experience at Kotak Mahindra Bank, where he played a significant role in the bank's growth and transformation into one of India’s leading private-sector banks. His leadership experience and strong financial background position him well to lead the Federal Bank in the future.

Pratyasa Ray, an emerging talent in swimming, hails from Odisha and has been selected for the prestigious 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024 in recognition of her outstanding achievements in the sport. Her remarkable track record includes winning multiple gold medals at the Odisha State Swimming Championships and earning accolades at national and international competitions. This recognition highlights not only her individual talent but also Odisha's growing prominence in the sporting arena, making it a proud moment for the state's sporting community.

Alok Ranjan, a 1991-batch IPS officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the Director of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). He will serve until June 2026, succeeding Vivek Gogia. In parallel, Amit Garg, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Andhra Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the head of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA). Amit Garg will hold this position until his retirement in 2027. Both appointments reflect the government’s strategic placement of experienced officers in critical leadership roles within India’s policing and law enforcement institutions.

Rhea Singha, a 19-year-old model from Gujarat, won the title of Miss Universe India 2024 in Jaipur, triumphing over 51 other candidates. This victory not only highlights her modeling prowess but also positions her as India’s representative at the upcoming global Miss Universe competition in Mexico. Rhea expressed immense gratitude during her winning speech, acknowledging the hard work and inspiration drawn from previous winners. Her achievement emphasizes the growing recognition of Indian beauty and talent on an international platform, making her a significant figure in the realm of beauty pageants.

Russia and China are collaborating on joint naval and air drills in the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk, which also includes a joint maritime patrol in the Pacific. These exercises aim to enhance cooperation between the two countries' militaries, focusing on practical actions for defending maritime communications and protecting areas of economic activity in the region. This partnership demonstrates a strategic alliance between Russia and China, particularly in the context of regional security and military preparedness in the Pacific area.

Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, a Senegalese finance expert, has been appointed as the first director of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, which aims to assist countries affected by climate disasters. His appointment comes as the fund, which was created under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), prepares to utilize the $800 million pledged for this cause. This fund is significant for developing nations that have long advocated for support against climate impacts. Diong's leadership is expected to facilitate the distribution of funds, emphasizing the urgent need for financial backing ahead of future climate summits.

Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo was elected as the new president of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) during a General Body meeting in September 2024. He won the election against V.K. Dhall by a margin of 36-21 votes, marking the end of Raninder Singh’s tenure, who had held the position since 2010. This election was conducted under the supervision of Retired Chief Justice Anil Dev Singh, ensuring a fair and transparent process. Kalikesh's leadership marks a new era for the NRAI.