Current Affairs - November 11, 2024 Current Affairs

The Russian Business Centre was inaugurated in New Delhi, marking a significant step towards strengthening economic cooperation between India and Russia. The centre, established by the Russian Embassy in India, provides a platform for businesses to collaborate through co-working spaces, events, and business missions. Additionally, it offers analytical support to facilitate informed decision-making. The inauguration, attended by Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov and Sergey Cheremin, underscores the commitment to fostering bilateral trade and investment between the two nations. This initiative is expected to boost economic ties and create new opportunities for Indian and Russian businesses.

Karnataka witnessed a significant boost to its MSME sector with the inauguration of six new SIDBI branches and four Nari Shakti Branches by the Union Bank of India. This initiative, launched by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, aims to enhance access to financial services and promote MSME growth in the region. The SIDBI branches will provide credit facilities and support, while the Nari Shakti Branches will empower women entrepreneurs. Additionally, SIDBI's MoU with Peenya Industries Association will further strengthen MSME support in Karnataka, fostering economic development and job creation.

Bengaluru, Karnataka, has been chosen as the location for the BIMSTEC Energy Centre, following the signing of a Host Country Agreement between India and BIMSTEC. This initiative aims to strengthen energy cooperation among BIMSTEC member states, promoting energy security and sustainable development in the Bay of Bengal region. The centre will foster inter-grid connectivity, regional connectivity, and collaboration on energy issues. The agreement was formalized by MEA Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumder and BIMSTEC Secretary General Indramani Pandey, marking a significant step in India's engagement with BIMSTEC and its commitment to regional cooperation.

Bhutan is embarking on an ambitious project to build the 'Gelephu Mindfulness City' (GMC), spanning over 2,500 sq km. This initiative aims to promote economic growth, wellness, and sustainability, aligning with Bhutan's Gross National Happiness philosophy. The GMC will feature eco-tourism, green spaces, wellness centres, and businesses in finance, healthcare, and technology. To fund infrastructure, green energy, and connectivity, Bhutan is launching a $100 million bond. This innovative approach is expected to attract investment, create jobs, and showcase Bhutan's unique blend of tradition and modernity, setting a global example for sustainable development.

Canada reported its first-ever presumptive human case of H5 bird flu in British Columbia, marking a significant development in the country's efforts to monitor and manage the spread of avian diseases. A teenager tested positive for avian influenza caused by the H5 influenza virus, and health authorities are investigating the source of exposure, believed to be an animal or bird. Public health officials are taking measures to track potential contacts, provide necessary care, and prevent further cases. This rare event has prompted a coordinated response from Canadian health authorities to ensure public safety.

Kunal Dalal, Managing Director of JBCN Education, received the prestigious Education Leader of the Year award at the Education World India School Ranking Awards 2024-2025. This recognition acknowledges his visionary leadership in the education sector. Under his guidance, JBCN Education also secured the title of India’s Most Respected Education Brand for the second consecutive year, highlighting the institution's dedication to innovative and holistic education. Dalal's leadership has been instrumental in shaping the educational landscape, earning him this esteemed honour.

National Education Day is celebrated annually on November 11 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India's first Education Minister. This day highlights the significance of education in national development and growth. In 2008, the Government of India declared November 11 as National Education Day, with the first celebrations launched by President Pratibha Patil. The day also underscores the importance of initiatives like the Right to Education Act and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to provide free and quality education to all children, thereby shaping the country's future.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna took oath as the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 11, 2024, succeeding Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. His six-month tenure will conclude on May 13, 2025. Justice Khanna has a notable legacy of landmark judgments, including striking down the electoral bonds scheme, upholding the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir, and validating the use of Electronic Voting Machines in elections. His appointment was recommended by Justice Chandrachud and officially notified by the Centre on October 24, 2024. President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath to Justice Khanna at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Harinder Singh Sodhi, known as 'Billy' in the polo community, was a distinguished former Indian polo player who passed away at the age of 86. He was a recipient of the Arjuna Award and reached a career handicap of plus-five, a significant achievement in the sport of polo. His contributions and skills earned him a prominent place in Indian sports history, particularly within the polo community, where he is fondly remembered for his impact on the game.

MOSart Labs has partnered with IIT Bhubaneswar to offer a Professional Diploma Program in Semiconductor Technology and Chip Design, focusing on VLSI specializations such as analog and digital design. This collaboration aims to enhance the skills of students in the field of large-scale integration, which involves creating integrated circuits with millions or billions of MOS transistors on a single chip. The program is designed to bridge the industry-academia gap and produce skilled professionals in chip design and semiconductor technology. IIT Bhubaneswar's expertise in the field complements MOSart Labs' industry experience.

Canada's decision to discontinue its Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program aims to address pressing housing and resource challenges. The program, introduced in 2018, provided expedited study permit applications for international students from 14 countries, including India and China. By ending the SDS program, Canada seeks to strengthen program integrity, ensure equal access for all students, and alleviate pressures on local resources. This move may impact the influx of international students in Canadian educational institutions and influence future policy decisions regarding international student enrollment.

India gifted two Fast Interceptor Crafts to Mozambique, bolstering its maritime security capabilities, particularly in combating terrorism and insurgency in the Cabo Delgado province. This gesture demonstrates India's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Mozambique and promoting regional security. The FICs, equipped with advanced features like machine guns and bullet-resistant cabins, will enhance Mozambique's ability to patrol its coastal waters and protect its maritime interests. This cooperation underscores the growing partnership between India and Mozambique in areas of defence and security.

The World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week is annually observed from 18 to 24 November. This global initiative aims to raise awareness about the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, which occurs when pathogens become resistant to antimicrobial agents, making infections challenging to treat. The week-long campaign encourages education, advocacy, and immediate action to combat AMR. The theme for 2024, "Educate. Advocate. Act now," emphasizes the urgency and importance of collective efforts to address this critical public health issue. By observing this week, individuals and organizations can contribute to mitigating the risks associated with AMR.