Current Affairs - October 11, 2024 Current Affairs

According to the NABARD survey, the average monthly income of rural households rose significantly by over 57%, from ₹8,059 in 2016-17 to ₹12,698 in 2021-22. This increase reflects improvements in various economic activities and livelihoods in rural areas. In addition to rising incomes, monthly expenditures also increased from over ₹6,600 to over ₹11,200, indicating that households are spending more as their income rises. Along with increased savings and enhanced pension coverage, this data highlights the positive economic trends in rural India.

IIT Delhi has partnered with the International Energy Agency (IEA) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at accelerating clean energy transitions. The collaboration focuses on innovation in energy technology to reduce emissions and support the transition to cleaner energy sources. This MoU will encourage policy analysis, and the exchange of information on energy technology trends, and foster cooperation, especially in emerging and developing economies. This partnership highlights IIT Delhi’s active role in advancing sustainable energy initiatives globally.

India has achieved a significant milestone in public health by eliminating trachoma, a chronic eye disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) certification recognizes India's decades-long efforts, starting with a control project in 1963 and intensifying with the SAFE strategy. This strategy focuses on Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement. As a result, trachoma prevalence drastically decreased from 4% in 2005 to 0.008% in 2018. India joins Nepal and Myanmar in achieving this feat, demonstrating its commitment to combating infectious diseases and promoting eye health.

Bihar is setting up its second tiger reserve in Kaimur district, as approved by the central government. The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary will be upgraded to a tiger reserve to alleviate the pressure on the existing Valmiki Tiger Reserve, which currently houses 54 tigers. This move aims to provide a larger habitat for tigers and promote biodiversity in the region. Kaimur's vast forests, covering 1,134 square km, offer suitable terrain for the reserve, boasting the highest green cover in Bihar at 34%.

Himachal Pradesh is embracing Karnataka's successful skill development initiatives to boost employability and secure international job placements for its residents. With Karnataka's guidance, Himachal Pradesh aims to establish similar upskilling programs, leveraging the state's expertise in this area. This strategic collaboration is spearheaded by Rajesh Kumar Dharmani, Himachal Pradesh's minister for town planning, housing, and technical education. The state has already made significant strides in skill development, targeting around 1 lakh youth during 2018-2022 through Himachal Pradesh Kaushal Vikas Nigam (HPKVN).

Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, hails from Spain. With an impressive record of 22 Grand Slam championships and 92 ATP singles titles, Nadal has left an indelible mark on the sport. His illustrious career includes 36 Masters titles and an Olympic gold medal, culminating in the prestigious Career Golden Slam in singles. As Nadal prepares for his farewell tournament at the Davis Cup finals in Malaga, Spain, his legacy continues to inspire tennis enthusiasts worldwide, solidifying his status as a Spanish sports icon.

Han Kang, a renowned South Korean author, has been honoured with the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature for her exceptional literary contributions. Her works are characterized by intense poetic prose, exploring historical traumas and the vulnerability of human existence. This prestigious recognition includes an award of 11 million Swedish kronor ($1 million) and a medal, to be formally presented on December 10. Han Kang's achievement brings international recognition to South Korea's thriving literary scene, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and literary talent.

The Indian Institute of Skills (IIS) in Mumbai was inaugurated by Prime Minister to develop an industry-ready workforce for Industry 4.0. This initiative aims to enhance India's skill capital by providing training in cutting-edge technologies like mechatronics, artificial intelligence, data analytics, industrial automation, and robotics. Established through a collaboration between the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Tata IIS, this institute is poised to play a significant role in shaping India's future workforce. Alongside the IIS, PM's also inaugurated the Vidya Samiksha Kendra in Maharashtra to improve education governance and outcomes.

Manoj Kumar Dubey has taken the reins as Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of IRFC Limited for a five-year tenure. With a strong educational background as an alumnus of Hindu College and the Indian School of Mines, Dubey brings extensive expertise in finance and railway administration. His notable achievements include implementing significant digital and financial reforms in Indian Railways. Prior to this appointment, Dubey served as Director (Finance) & CFO of CONCOR, showcasing his capabilities in strategic financial management.

Anil Kumar Gupta has been appointed as a Member (Planning) of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) Board. With 35 years of experience in airport infrastructure development, Gupta has overseen significant projects like the modernization of Kolkata and Jaipur Airports. In his previous roles, he served as Executive Director in both Land Management & Business Development and the Regional Connectivity Scheme, making him a key figure in India's airport modernization efforts. His new role emphasizes his expertise in planning and infrastructure development.