Current Affairs - October 23, 2024 Current Affairs

The Odisha government has taken a significant step towards supporting women's health and well-being by introducing one day of paid menstrual leave per month. This policy provides women employees with 12 additional casual leave days annually, bringing their total to 27 days. Announced by Deputy CM Pravati Parida on Independence Day, this initiative aims to promote inclusivity and support women in the workforce. This move demonstrates Odisha's commitment to addressing the needs of its female employees and setting a positive example for other states to follow.

Egypt achieved a significant milestone in public health by being declared malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2024. This certification underscores Egypt's successful efforts in eliminating malaria, making it the fifth African nation and third in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to achieve this status. Following Morocco's certification in 2010, Egypt joins an elite group of 44 countries and one territory recognized by the WHO for eradicating malaria. This accomplishment demonstrates Egypt's commitment to combating infectious diseases and improving the health and well-being of its citizens.

Karnataka secured the top spot at the 24th National Para-Swimming Championship 2024, accumulating 392 points. Maharashtra closely followed with 378 points, while Rajasthan finished third with 248 points. The championship saw talented swimmers from various states excel in different categories. Karnataka's victory was bolstered by Sharanya's triumph in the Women's Senior title, demonstrating the state's strong presence in para-swimming. This win underscores Karnataka's commitment to promoting inclusive sports and nurturing talented para-athletes. The championship highlights the growing competitiveness and excellence in Indian para-swimming.

Assam launched Mission Basundhara 3.0, an initiative aimed at empowering indigenous communities by providing them with formal land rights. The launch event took place at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati, presided over by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the Assam government to secure land rights for indigenous populations, following the success of earlier missions that had already benefited many individuals. The mission reflects the state's dedication to enhancing security and recognition of indigenous land holdings after 75 years of independence.

SAIL, the largest government-owned steel producer in India, was recognized with SHRM HR Excellence Awards for ‘Inclusion, Equity & Diversity’ and ‘Managing the Distributed Workforce’ at the SHRM India Annual Conference 2024. Incorporated in 1973 and headquartered in New Delhi, SAIL is a 'Maharatna' company, with a turnover exceeding ₹1 lakh crore. These awards highlight SAIL's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce while efficiently managing its widespread operations.

The Kartarpur Corridor agreement, originally signed in 2019, has been extended by India and Pakistan until 2029. This agreement allows Indian pilgrims to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan, fostering cross-border religious connectivity despite the two countries' tense relations. While India requested the removal of the $20 service fee charged to pilgrims, no consensus was reached on this matter during the renewal of the agreement.

Israel joined the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as its 69th member, following approval by the ADB Board of Governors through Resolution No. 414. This membership expansion highlights ADB's growing global presence and cooperation. Headquartered in Manila, Philippines, ADB aims to promote economic growth and development in Asia through financing and technical assistance. Israel's membership is expected to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing, contributing to regional development and economic integration. This move also underscores ADB's commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth across its member countries.

Luong Cuong was elected as Vietnam's President with 91.67% of the vote during the 8th session of the National Assembly, replacing To Lam. Cuong, who began his military career in 1975 and achieved the rank of Major General by 2006, has held significant roles, including Chief of the General Department of Politics in the Vietnam People’s Army. He is expected to serve as President until 2026, taking on key responsibilities assigned by the party and the state.

The Indian government initially reduced the export tax on parboiled rice from 20% to 10% before revoking it entirely to boost exports. This reduction aimed to enhance India's competitiveness in the global market, particularly against major rice-exporting countries like Pakistan, Thailand, and Vietnam. By eliminating the tax, India seeks to capitalize on surging inventories and a predicted bumper crop, increasing rice shipments and strengthening its position in the international rice trade. This move reflects the government's efforts to promote economic growth and support the agricultural sector.

United Nations Day is celebrated every year on October 24, marking the anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter in 1945. This day serves as a global celebration of the UN’s mission to promote peace, security, human rights, and development worldwide. The observance encourages countries and institutions to engage in events that reinforce the values and objectives of the UN, highlighting its crucial role in addressing global challenges and fostering international cooperation. In 2024, the day will continue to remind the world of the significance of multilateralism and global solidarity.

Colombia hosts the pivotal United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16), convening representatives from nearly 200 countries to tackle the pressing issue of biodiversity loss. This global gathering focuses on implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, signed by 196 nations. COP16 aims to accelerate progress through National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans, ultimately seeking to reverse the loss of nature. By hosting COP16, Colombia demonstrates its commitment to environmental leadership and multilateral cooperation, fostering international collaboration to protect the world's biodiversity.

Visakhapatnam, a strategic port city on India's eastern coast, hosted the launch of the country's fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), S4*. This significant development enhances India's naval capabilities and contributes to its nuclear deterrence. The S4* boasts advanced features, including the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile with a 3,500 km range. The Indian Navy's expanding submarine fleet, including INS Arihant and INS Arighaat, strengthens India's maritime presence and underscores its commitment to national security. Visakhapatnam's Ship Building Centre plays a vital role in India's naval modernization efforts.

Harmanpreet Kaur, the Indian women's cricket team captain, made her mark in the Women's T20 World Cup 2024 by becoming the sole Indian representative in the Team of the Tournament. Her impressive performance included two fifties, earning her recognition as the fourth-highest scorer in the tournament. This achievement underscores her exceptional skill and contribution to Indian cricket. The Team of the Tournament features international cricket stars, highlighting Kaur's stature among the world's best players. Her inclusion is a testament to her outstanding performance in the tournament.

World Development Information Day is observed annually on October 24, coinciding with United Nations Day. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1972, this day aims to raise global awareness about development issues and promote international cooperation for sustainable development. By commemorating this day, the international community emphasizes the importance of mobilizing public opinion and leveraging information and communication technologies (ICTs) to address global inequalities and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The date highlights the interconnectedness of development challenges and the need for collective action.

Australia takes centre stage as the "Country of Focus" at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), showcasing seven Australian films that highlight Indigenous and contemporary narratives. This prestigious recognition follows the signing of an Audio Visual Co-production Treaty between India and Australia, aimed at fostering joint film productions. The treaty provides incentives for filmmakers, promoting cross-cultural collaboration and exchange. By spotlighting Australian cinema, IFFI strengthens cultural ties between the two nations, offering a platform for Australian storytellers to reach a global audience. This partnership is expected to boost bilateral cooperation in the film industry.