Current Affairs - October 4, 2024 Current Affairs

Kerala inaugurated India's first supercapacitor manufacturing facility at Keltron Component Complex, developed in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The plant aims to produce 2,000 supercapacitors daily, generating ₹22 crore annually, and is part of the state's plan to invest ₹1,000 crore in the electronics sector. This initiative solidifies Kerala's position as a manufacturing hub, particularly in the electronics industry. The facility will manufacture high-quality, indigenously made supercapacitors for applications ranging from electric vehicles to space missions.

India, Nepal, and Bangladesh have signed a trilateral power trade agreement that allows Nepal to export 40 MW of electricity to Bangladesh via India's grid, utilizing the Dhalkebar-Muzaffarpur transmission line. The agreement not only facilitates the export of electricity but also involves plans for the Sunkoshi-3 hydropower project and a study for developing a new cross-border transmission line, further strengthening regional energy cooperation.

Adani Group has formed a partnership with Google to supply renewable energy from its solar-wind hybrid project located in Khavda, Gujarat, starting in 2025. This collaboration is a significant step towards supporting Google’s ambitious goal of achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy and aims to reduce emissions. By leveraging Adani's extensive renewable energy capabilities, the partnership not only furthers Google’s sustainability objectives but also aligns with the broader initiative of decarbonization in industrial sectors. The partnership emphasizes the importance of collaboration in tackling climate change and promoting clean energy solutions.

Assam has been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags for eight traditional products, including distinctive rice beer variants deeply rooted in Bodo culture. The GI tags recognize the cultural heritage and traditional knowledge of the Bodo community. Products like Bodo Jou Gwran, with its high alcohol content and traditional brewing methods, have gained national and international recognition. This milestone preserves Assam's cultural identity and promotes its unique products, contributing to the state's economic growth and cultural preservation. The GI tags also safeguard the intellectual property rights of local artisans and brewers.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a $162 million loan to support sustainable tourism in Himachal Pradesh. The funds will be used to upgrade infrastructure and heritage sites such as Naggar Castle and cultural centers, alongside the construction of a convention center in Kangra. This initiative aims to enhance tourism in the region while focusing on environmentally friendly solutions and accessibility improvements. ADB's contribution is significant in promoting eco-friendly tourism and local development.

Indian shooter Khushi secured a bronze medal in the women's 50m rifle 3 positions (3P) event at the ISSF Junior World Championship in Lima, Peru. Khushi's achievement contributed to India's impressive medal tally of 15, comprising 10 gold, 1 silver, and 4 bronze medals. Her score of 447.3 placed her behind Norway's Caroline Lund and Synnoeve Berg, who took silver and gold, respectively. This victory underscores India's growing presence in international shooting competitions and highlights Khushi's potential for future success.

The third 25T Bollard Pull Tug, Ashva, was launched by Cmde Ajay Yadav at Titagarh Rail Systems Limited in Kolkata, bolstering India's "Make in India" initiative and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" vision. This tug will enhance the Indian Navy's capabilities in assisting ships and submarines with berthing, maneuvering, and firefighting, while also supporting search and rescue operations. The Ashva is one of six 25T BP Tugs contracted to be built by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited. Its launch underscores India's commitment to strengthening its naval operational readiness.

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), has created a joint venture named BEL IAI AeroSystems Private Ltd. This venture is focused on providing long-term product support for the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) systems used by India's defense forces. The collaboration highlights the ongoing partnership between the two companies and aims to enhance India's defense capabilities, aligning with the government's initiative of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India). The MRSAM system plays a critical role in countering aerial threats for various branches of the Indian armed forces.

India joined the International Energy Efficiency Hub in July 2024, becoming one of the 16 countries participating in the global initiative. The Union Cabinet approved India's participation by signing a letter of intent, underscoring the country's dedication to sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Other member countries include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the US, and the United Kingdom. This move supports India's efforts to combat climate change and promote eco-friendly practices.

Prime Minister's inaugurated GAIL’s first Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) plant in Ranchi, Jharkhand, on Swachh Bharat Diwas 2024. This ₹26 crore facility processes 150 tonnes of Municipal Solid Waste daily to produce 5 tonnes of CBG. The plant will help reduce CO2 emissions, replace natural gas, and generate jobs, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic development in the region.

The Union Cabinet recently approved classical language status for five languages: Marathi, Bengali, Pali, Prakrit, and Assamese. This addition increases the total number of classical languages in India to 11. Classical languages hold significant cultural and historical importance, and the recognition brings them special status for preservation and promotion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the ‘Lal Tipara Gaushala’ with a Bio-CNG plant in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, during Swachhta Diwas celebrations. This modern gaushala is the first of its kind in India, producing three tonnes of Bio-CNG per day using 100 tonnes of cow dung. The project was developed in collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and aims to promote sustainable energy and organic farming through the production of natural gas and high-quality manure.

Claudia Sheinbaum made history as Mexico’s first female president, succeeding outgoing president Andrés Manuel López Obrador. Her rise to leadership is a significant milestone, reflecting Mexico’s progress in gender equality in politics. Previously serving as the first female mayor of Mexico City, Sheinbaum’s presidency continues the progressive agenda of the Morena party, emphasizing social justice and political reform.

World Animal Day is observed globally on October 4th every year, coinciding with the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. This meaningful date honors his profound compassion for all living creatures, inspiring animal welfare advocates worldwide. The annual celebration raises awareness about critical animal rights, welfare, and conservation issues, emphasizing our shared responsibility towards the planet's diverse species. In 2024, the theme "The World Is Their Home Too" highlights the importance of coexistence and animals' inherent right to a secure environment.