Current Affairs - December 5, 2024 Current Affairs

Amazon has launched the Nova Foundation Models, branded as "Amazon Nova," marking a major advancement in generative AI. These models are designed to handle multimodal inputs, including text, images, and videos, enabling enhanced capabilities in multimedia content creation, document analysis, and video understanding. Nova models are cost-effective and faster, with variants like Nova Micro, Lite, Pro, and an upcoming Nova Premier version. This innovation places Amazon as a competitive player in the AI space alongside industry leaders like OpenAI, Meta, and Adobe.

The United States approved a $1.17 billion deal under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program to enhance the Indian Navy's capabilities. This agreement includes advanced communication systems, sensors, and logistical support for the Sikorsky MH-60R helicopters, which are critical for anti-submarine warfare and surface combat operations. This defence partnership strengthens India's strategic position in the Indian Ocean Region, addressing challenges posed by regional adversaries. The MH-60R helicopters, equipped with Mk 54 torpedoes and Hellfire missiles, also modernize India's fleet, replacing the ageing Sea King helicopters.

French Prime Minister Michel Barnier's government was removed through a no-confidence vote, marking it as the shortest-serving administration in the history of the French Fifth Republic. The vote was initiated by far-left and far-right opposition parties in response to Barnier’s use of special powers to pass budget measures. This political crisis highlights concerns about France’s political stability and its increasing budget deficit, underscoring challenges in governance.

The 63rd Annual ISAM Conference is being organized by the Indian Society of Aerospace Medicine at the Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Bengaluru, from December 5-7, 2024. Bengaluru was chosen for its significance as a centre for aerospace research and innovation in India. The event focuses on promoting interdisciplinary collaboration in aerospace and space medicine.

The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY), launched in February 2024, aims to revolutionize rooftop solar adoption in India. The scheme targets 10 lakh installations by March 2025 and a milestone of 1 crore installations by March 2027. With robust infrastructure, vendor support, and simplified consumer processes, states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh are leading in implementation. Integration with DISCOMs, financing options, and streamlined application systems have accelerated growth, making the 2027 target achievable.

International Volunteer Day is observed annually on December 5. Established by the United Nations in 1985, the day celebrates the contributions of volunteers worldwide. The 2024 theme, "Diverse volunteers, stronger communities," emphasizes the vital role of volunteerism in fostering community resilience and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also encourages governments and organizations to recognize and support volunteer efforts to address global challenges effectively.

Morgan Stanley has adjusted its forecast for India’s GDP growth for FY25 to 6.3%, down from an earlier projection of 6.7%. This revision follows a slowdown in Q2 FY25, where growth fell to 5.4%, the lowest since March 2023, due to weak private consumption and industrial performance. Despite these challenges, the services sector showed resilience, growing by 7.1%. The recovery in the second half of FY25 is expected to be supported by government spending, rural demand improvement, and easing financial conditions. This aligns with Morgan Stanley’s expectation of an average 6.6% growth during the latter half of FY25.

India and Kuwait signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) aimed at enhancing bilateral ties. The JCC will include new Joint Working Groups in areas such as trade, investment, education, and technology, while also overseeing existing groups focusing on hydrocarbons, health, and consular matters. This collaboration signifies a strengthening of relations between India and Kuwait, a key partner in the Gulf region.

India will host the $2 million International Golf Series opener at the DLF Golf and Country Club, Gurugram, from January 30 to February 2, 2025. This event marks the first of 10 tournaments on the 2025 schedule, featuring top players from the LIV Golf League and Asian Tour. Launched in 2022, the International Series provides a pathway for exceptional performers to qualify for the prestigious LIV Golf League. This tournament highlights India's growing presence in the global golfing arena.

Adani Defence delivered its second Drishti-10 Starliner surveillance drone to the Indian Navy, marking a major advancement in India’s maritime security and self-reliance in defence technology. Manufactured at Adani’s Hyderabad facility, the Drishti-10 drone boasts 36-hour endurance, advanced ISR capabilities, and satellite communication-based operations. Certified with NATO's STANAG 4671 for airworthiness, it operates in all weather conditions and diverse airspaces. Its deployment enhances maritime surveillance, supports anti-piracy operations, and fortifies India’s defence capabilities along strategic fronts, reflecting Adani Defence’s rapid progress in delivering indigenous UAV solutions.

India will debut in the FIFA World Cup 2024, held in Riyadh from December 9-12. The country will be represented by players across console and mobile formats, including Chinmay Sahoo, Ibrahim Gulrez, Saksham Rattan, and Danial Shakeel Patel. The tournament uses advanced gaming platforms such as eFootball 2025 on PC and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, marking a significant step for India's growing esports landscape.

The 16th GRIHA Summit 2024, themed "Accelerating Climate Action in the Built Environment," is being held in New Delhi. This event emphasizes sustainable urban development and climate resilience, focusing on innovative strategies to address challenges like heat reduction, energy efficiency, and carbon emission control. With global decarbonization targets for 2030 and 2050 in focus, the summit brings together experts to advance climate action in construction and infrastructure.

India secured its fifth Men’s Junior Asia Cup title by defeating Pakistan 5-3 in the final held in Muscat, Oman. This victory marks India's third consecutive win in the tournament, following successes in 2015 and 2023. Star player Araijeet Singh Hundal contributed significantly by scoring two penalty corner goals. Recognizing the team's outstanding performance, Hockey India announced cash rewards for the players and support staff. This achievement reinforces India's dominance in junior hockey on the Asian stage.

World Soil Day is celebrated annually on December 5 to promote sustainable soil management and food security. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization, it was endorsed in 2013 and first observed in 2014. The 2024 theme, "Caring for soils: measure, monitor, manage," emphasizes the importance of accurate soil data for informed decision-making. This global event raises awareness about the critical role of soil health in maintaining ecological balance and supporting agriculture.