Current Affairs - October 21, 2024 Current Affairs

M.K. Ranjitsinh, a renowned conservationist from India, authored the book "Mountain Mammals of the World," published by Penguin Random House. With a career spanning decades, Ranjitsinh has been instrumental in shaping India’s wildlife conservation efforts, including his role in Project Tiger and protecting endangered species like the barasingha. His book offers a comprehensive guide to 62 species and 78 subspecies of large mammals found in some of the world's most remote mountain ranges. Through his literary work, he shares scientific insights, personal stories, and stunning visuals from his conservation journey.

World Iodine Deficiency Day, also known as Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day, is observed annually on October 21. This day aims to raise awareness about the importance of iodine in maintaining good health and highlight the adverse consequences of iodine deficiency, a persistent global public health issue. Iodine plays a crucial role in human health, particularly in thyroid hormone production, metabolism regulation, and fetal and infant development. Foods rich in iodine include fish, dairy, and grains, while iodized salt remains the most effective prevention method on a population level.

Nikita Porwal from Madhya Pradesh was crowned Femina Miss India World 2024, earning the opportunity to represent India at the Miss World pageant. The prestigious event, which marked its 60th edition, also saw Rekha Pandey from Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Aayushi Dholakia from Gujarat named as the 1st and 2nd runners-up, respectively. The event featured a celebrity jury that included Sangeeta Bijlani, Anees Bazmee, and Madhur Bhandarkar, further adding to the glamour of the occasion.

Rithvik Choudhary Bollipalli and Arjun Khade made history by capturing their first ATP 250 title at the Almaty Open men's doubles. The Indian duo displayed remarkable resilience, overcoming Colombia's Nicolas Barrientos and Tunisia's Skander Mansouri 3-6, 7-6, 14-12 in a thrilling final. This victory marks a significant milestone for Indian tennis, highlighting the emerging talent in the country's doubles circuit. Bollipalli and Khade's triumph is expected to inspire a new generation of Indian tennis players, paving the way for future successes on the international stage.

Vedanta has announced an investment of over ₹1 lakh crore in Rajasthan, targeting sectors such as zinc, oil and gas, and renewable energy. Hindustan Zinc will contribute ₹30,000 crore to double its zinc production capacity and build a fertilizer plant, while Cairn Oil & Gas will invest ₹35,000 crore to boost oil and gas production. This investment is expected to generate around 200,000 jobs and foster the growth of over 500 downstream industries, marking a significant boost to the state's economy.

India conducted the bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr with Oman, aiming to enhance maritime cooperation and improve operational interoperability. The Indian Navy's INS Trikand and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft participated alongside the Royal Navy of Oman's vessel Al Seeb. Held off the coast of Goa from 13 to 18 October, the exercise featured activities like gun firings, anti-aircraft drills, and replenishment manoeuvres, further strengthening strategic ties between the two nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

In August 2024, the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) reported a 9% year-on-year growth in employment opportunities, highlighting the expanding job market in India. EPFO added 18.53 lakh net members during this period, with 9.30 lakh new enrollments, including 2.53 lakh female members. These numbers reflect a steady increase in employment, especially when compared to previous months such as July, June, and May. The growth rate underscores the positive impact of EPFO's efforts to improve job accessibility across sectors.

Prabowo Subianto, a former special forces commander, has become the 8th President of Indonesia after winning the February 14 election with nearly 60% of the vote. He is focusing on policies such as providing free meals for schoolchildren, reflecting his commitment to improving social welfare. Indonesia, the world's third-largest democracy and the most populous Muslim-majority nation, is now led by the 73-year-old leader.

Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar has been appointed as the Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), becoming the 9th individual to hold this significant position. Her appointment reflects the government's commitment to promoting women's rights and addressing issues pertinent to women in India. With a tenure effective immediately for three years or until she reaches 65, Rahatkar previously served as the Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women. During her prior role, she led several initiatives, including support programs for acid attack survivors and helplines for women, showcasing her dedication to women's empowerment.

Abhyuday Jindal, the Managing Director of Jindal Stainless, has been appointed as the president of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC). Under his leadership, the ICC aims to drive India's economic growth and promote sustainable business practices. His vision includes helping India achieve a USD 35 trillion economy by 2047. The ICC, headquartered in Calcutta and established in 1925, plays a key role in shaping India's business landscape.

The Indian Army's Sudarshan Chakra Corps is currently conducting "Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI" at the Babina Field Firing Ranges near Jhansi. This massive exercise, involving 1,800 soldiers, 210 armoured vehicles, and aircraft, aims to enhance the Army's combat capabilities by integrating advanced technologies. Scheduled to conclude on October 22, 2024, Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI is a significant step towards modernizing India's military might. By leveraging niche and emerging technologies, the Army seeks to bolster its readiness for future warfare scenarios.