Current Affairs - November 12, 2024 Current Affairs

Tata Power has taken a significant step towards promoting renewable energy by partnering with Noida International Airport. This collaboration involves a substantial investment of Rs 550 crore, enabling the supply of 10.8 MW of wind power and the development of 13 MW onsite solar power capacity. Tata Power's expertise will ensure the airport's energy needs are met sustainably. Additionally, the company will develop critical utilities and provide operation and maintenance services for 25 years, demonstrating its commitment to long-term sustainability and energy efficiency. This partnership sets a precedent for eco-friendly infrastructure development in India.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) took a significant step in enhancing its pilot training capabilities with the inauguration of the C-295 Full Motion Simulator at Air Force Station Agra. This advanced simulator enables realistic mission training, including airlift, para-dropping, and medical evacuation, thereby improving operational readiness and flight safety. The inauguration, led by Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, marks a crucial milestone in India's efforts to strengthen its military aviation capabilities. Additionally, this development supports the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative by promoting indigenous aircraft production through the private sector.

Hindalco, a leading aluminium producer, has achieved a remarkable milestone by securing the top position in the 2024 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment. With an impressive score of 87 points, Hindalco demonstrates excellence in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors. The company's commitment to sustainability is evident through its climate strategy, effective waste management, and employee development initiatives. Notably, Hindalco has reduced specific greenhouse gas emissions by 19.54% and recycled 85% of operational waste. As part of the Aditya Birla Group, established in 1958, Hindalco continues to set benchmarks for sustainable practices in the aluminium industry.

Rajasthan is poised for significant economic growth, following the state government's signing of MoUs worth Rs 63,463 crore in the Mines and Petroleum sector during the 'Rising Rajasthan' Pre Summit. This strategic move aims to bolster industrial investment and economic development. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma is actively promoting the state's favourable investment environment, encouraging participation in the upcoming Rising Rajasthan Summit. With its rich mineral reserves and proactive government initiatives, Rajasthan is emerging as a prime destination for investors. The state's commitment to creating a suitable ecosystem for investors is expected to drive growth and prosperity.

Uma Mahesh, a 20-year-old shooter, achieved remarkable success by clinching the gold medal in the 10m Air Rifle men's team event at the FISU World University Championship held in New Delhi. This victory adds to his impressive record, which includes two ISSF World Cup gold medals and an Asian Championship gold. His achievement showcases his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport, earning recognition and pride for his country. Uma Mahesh's training under Neha Chavan and affiliation with Gagan Narang's Gun for Glory Academy undoubtedly contributed to his success.

The 7th Annual High-Level Meeting between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) took place in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on November 11, 2024. Led by Director General S. Paramesh for the ICG and Rear Admiral YR Serasinghe for the SLCG, the meeting focused on enhancing regional maritime security. Key discussion areas included combating drug trafficking, managing marine pollution, ensuring marine safety, and improving rescue operations. This annual meeting strengthens mutual cooperation, aiming to address shared maritime challenges and promote secure, clean, and safe oceans in the region.

IIT Madras has partnered with ISRO to create a cutting-edge research centre focused on 'Fluid and Thermal Sciences', receiving Rs 1.84 Crore in seed funding. This collaboration aims to advance research in critical areas for space exploration, including thermal management, combustion instability, and cryo-tank thermodynamics. The Centre of Excellence will facilitate industry-academia interaction, fostering innovation between ISRO scientists and IIT Madras faculty. By addressing spacecraft and launch vehicle thermal challenges, this partnership will significantly contribute to India's space research and development endeavours, enhancing the country's position in the global space landscape.

Uttarakhand, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, proudly celebrates Igas Bagwal, a vibrant festival deeply rooted in local customs and traditions. Observed 11 days after Diwali, Igas Bagwal symbolizes the essence of Uttarakhand's folk heritage, uniting communities through shared festivities and traditional practices. The festival holds immense significance in the Garhwal region, marking the end of Lord Vishnu's four-month rest period and signifying auspicious beginnings. Igas Bagwal's origins are intertwined with mythological and historical stories, including the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya and Madhav Singh Bhandari's victory over Tibet.

The 5th National EMRS Cultural & Literary Fest and Kala Utsav - 2024 is scheduled to take place in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, hosted by the Odisha Model Tribal Educational Society. This prestigious event will be held at Shiksha ‘O’ Anusandhan, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of tribal communities. The festival's theme, "A Tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda & Tribal Freedom Fighters," commemorates Birsa Munda's 150th birth anniversary, highlighting his significant contributions to India's freedom struggle. This event aims to promote tribal culture, literature, and arts, fostering unity and appreciation among participants and attendees.

Tayyab Ikram was re-elected as President of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for a 4-year term during the 49th FIH Statutory Congress held in Muscat, Oman. Ikram initially assumed this role in 2022 after Narinder Batra’s resignation. As the only candidate following the nomination process, he continues to lead the organization, which is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland. The FIH, founded in 1924 in Paris, oversees global hockey administration, promoting the sport and organizing international tournaments.

IIT Ropar has made a significant breakthrough in knee rehabilitation technology by developing a patented, mechanical Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) machine. This innovative device operates using a piston-pulley system, eliminating the need for electricity and making it portable, cost-effective, and ideal for rural areas. Unlike traditional motorized CPM machines, this mechanical device offers an affordable off-grid solution for post-surgical therapy, enhancing accessibility and convenience for patients undergoing knee rehabilitation. This technological advancement has the potential to transform rehabilitation practices, especially in resource-constrained settings.

World Pneumonia Day is observed annually on November 12, aiming to raise awareness about pneumonia, a life-threatening yet preventable and treatable respiratory illness. This global observance day focuses on vulnerable populations, such as children under five and the elderly. Through coordinated efforts, World Pneumonia Day promotes preventive measures, and better treatment options, and strives to reduce pneumonia-related mortality. The 2024 theme, "Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia in Its Tracks," emphasizes respiratory health, timely detection, and effective treatment. This awareness campaign advocates for early intervention, education, and accessible healthcare.

Uttar Pradesh took a significant leap towards sustainable transportation with the launch of its first double-decker electric bus by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. This eco-friendly initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion and pollution in urban areas while providing affordable and efficient transportation solutions. The bus service will operate on heritage routes and cater to general passenger needs, showcasing the state government's commitment to environmental conservation and modernization of public transport. The launch event featured discounted fares for women passengers and marked a significant step towards integrating modern technology into everyday commuting.