Current Affairs - October 9, 2024 Current Affairs

The MACE Observatory, inaugurated by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), is situated in Hanle, Ladakh. It is Asia's largest and the world's highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, constructed indigenously by BARC. This advanced telescope is crucial for cosmic-ray research and the study of high-energy gamma rays, helping to unlock deeper insights into the universe's most energetic events. Additionally, the observatory contributes to both scientific progress and the socio-economic development of the Ladakh region.

INS Nirdeshak is the second of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships commissioned by the Indian Navy for deep water hydrographic mapping. It was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and designed per the Indian Register of Shipping classification rules for high safety and performance standards. The ship measures 110 meters long, has a displacement of approximately 3,400 tons, and is equipped with advanced hydrographic equipment, including autonomous underwater vehicles and remotely operated vehicles. Its primary role is to conduct coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys, and it can also participate in low-intensity combat and function as a hospital ship.

INS Talwar arrived in Simon's Town, South Africa, to participate in the IBSAMAR VIII naval exercise, a trilateral collaboration between the navies of India, Brazil, and South Africa. These exercises are aimed at improving interoperability and strengthening the cohesion between the participating navies. INS Talwar, commissioned in 2003, is part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet, stationed in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command. The ship's captain during this exercise was Jithu George.

Mumbai has been chosen to host the World Pickleball Championship Series, marking India's debut in hosting this prestigious event. The championship, organized by the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), will bring together approximately 650 players from 6-7 countries, including Australia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Poland, and Singapore. The event will take place from November 12-17, 2024, and is expected to promote pickleball's growing popularity in India. AIPA President Arvind Prabhoo and Pickleball Global's founder Jan Papi are key figures behind this initiative.

Bangladesh's interim government has established a nine-member Constitution Reform Commission, led by Bangladeshi-American professor Ali Riaz, to review and propose reforms within 90 days. The commission aims to create a more representative and democratic framework, strengthening governance in the judiciary and electoral systems for free and fair elections. This move follows Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and is part of broader reforms announced by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, covering judiciary, police, electoral system, public administration, and anti-corruption sectors.

India has signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to enhance investor confidence, foster stronger economic ties, and provide a stable investment environment. This treaty reduces the arbitration period for foreign investors from five years to three years and extends protections to shares and bonds, broadening the scope of investments covered. The UAE is India's seventh-largest source of foreign investment and has pledged to invest $75 billion in India's infrastructure development sector.

Hurricane Milton is a powerful Category 5 storm with winds reaching 165 mph, threatening the Florida coast and prompting mandatory evacuations in the Tampa Bay area. The National Hurricane Center warns of severe storm surges, heavy rainfall, and potential tornadoes. With over 5.9 million people affected by evacuation orders, authorities urge residents to take immediate action to ensure their safety. The storm's intensity and potential impact have raised concerns about climate change's role in increasing hurricane frequency and severity.

Ahmedabad University has established The Climate Institute to address pressing climate-related issues, particularly in the Global South. The institute operates across three key verticals: Energy and Climate Change, Cities and Settlements, and Air and Water. Under the leadership of Founding Executive Director Dr. Balaji Srinivasan and Academic Director Professor Minal Pathak, The Climate Institute aims to advance climate, energy, and environmental education, research, and impact. This initiative underscores Ahmedabad University's commitment to tackling critical environmental challenges.

The Union Health Ministry has doubled the monthly nutrition support for TB patients from ₹500 to ₹1,000 under the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY). This initiative aims to support TB patients' nutritional requirements during their treatment. The increase in financial support reflects the government's commitment to eliminating TB by 2025, ahead of the global 2030 target set by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). India faces a significant health crisis due to TB, with approximately 480,000 deaths annually. The Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana plays a crucial role in addressing this issue.

The Ustad Allauddin Khan Festival is held in Maihar, Madhya Pradesh, to commemorate the life and legacy of renowned musician Ustad Allauddin Khan. This three-day event celebrates Indian classical music, particularly the Maihar gharana, which Khan helped establish. The festival is organized jointly by the Madhya Pradesh Culture Department, Ustad Allauddin Khan Music and Art Academy, and Maihar District Administration. Madhya Pradesh is known for its rich cultural heritage, and this festival is one of the many events that showcase its vibrant music and art scene.

World Post Day is celebrated annually on October 9 to commemorate the establishment of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1874. This global event aims to raise awareness about the vital role of postal services in people's lives, promoting global communication, economic growth, and community connections. Since its declaration in 1969, countries worldwide have actively participated in World Post Day celebrations, recognizing the significance of postal services in disaster relief, e-commerce, and bridging the digital divide. The day serves as an opportunity for national postal services to engage with the public and highlight their contributions.

World Mental Health Day is observed annually on October 10, as initiated by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) in 1992. This global observance aims to raise awareness about mental health issues, mobilize efforts in support of mental health care, and promote discussions among stakeholders. The day highlights the importance of addressing mental health concerns worldwide, with a specific theme each year, such as "Mental Health at Work" in 2024, emphasizing the critical connection between mental well-being and the workplace.