Current Affairs - December 13, 2024 Current Affairs

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a loan of $789 million for the development of Amaravati, aiming to transform it into a smart, green capital city with world-class infrastructure. This loan is intended to boost job creation, private investment, and inclusive economic growth while positioning Amaravati as a model for sustainable urban development. The program highlights the collaborative efforts of ADB and other Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to bring global expertise to the city's development.

The Ministry of Culture will set up a 10.24-acre cultural village called 'Kalagram' in Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh. This initiative aims to showcase India's rich heritage and cultural diversity. The site will feature performances, with a Ganga Pandal capable of holding 10,000 people, along with 20 stages across the city for cultural programs. Kalagram will focus on promoting emerging artists and performances from prestigious institutions such as the National School of Drama and Zonal Cultural Centres, making it an important cultural highlight of the event.

The International Day of Neutrality is observed annually on December 12. This day emphasizes the critical role neutrality plays in promoting global peace and security. Neutral countries maintain impartiality during conflicts and advocate for peaceful resolutions through dialogue, contributing to international stability. The observance encourages awareness about the importance of neutrality in fostering harmonious intergovernmental relations, and it highlights countries, such as Switzerland, that have maintained neutrality throughout history, even during major global conflicts like the World Wars.

Two Indian heritage conservation projects won the prestigious UNESCO Asia-Pacific Cultural Heritage Conservation 2024 Awards. The first project, the Abathsahayeswarar Temple Conservation in Thukkatchi, Tamil Nadu, won the Award of Distinction, while the BJPCI Conservation Project in Mumbai received the Award of Merit. These awards aim to recognize and promote efforts to restore, conserve, and transform cultural heritage sites, showcasing India's commitment to preserving its rich cultural legacy.

The 10th World Ayurveda Congress (WAC 2024) was launched in Dehradun, marking an important milestone in the promotion of Ayurveda globally. The event, which centred around the theme "Digital Health: An Ayurveda Perspective," focuses on exploring how Ayurveda can be integrated with modern technology to improve global healthcare. The inauguration was attended by key dignitaries, including the Union Minister of State for Ayush and the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, further highlighting its significance. Dehradun was chosen as the venue for this landmark event due to its connection with traditional Indian healing practices.

Universal Health Coverage Day is observed annually on December 12. It serves as a rallying point for the global movement advocating for health for all. This day is significant as it reflects on the progress made toward ensuring access to quality healthcare services for everyone without causing financial hardship. December 12 marks the anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of a landmark resolution in 2012, urging nations to accelerate their progress toward achieving universal health coverage.

India's Green Steel Taxonomy was launched to promote low-carbon steel production, aligning with the country's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. The initiative is part of the National Mission on Green Steel and aims to drive innovation in the steel sector, establish green steel standards, and create demand for low-emission products. This long-term goal reflects India's commitment to sustainable industrial practices and decarbonisation efforts, specifically targeting a net-zero future by 2070.

The Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana, which increases financial aid for eligible women, was announced by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in New Delhi. This initiative is aimed at supporting women with no formal income and is seen as a key strategy for the Delhi Assembly elections. The announcement was made at an event in New Delhi, highlighting its importance in the electoral campaign to mobilize women voters.

Dommaraju Gukesh became the youngest chess world champion in 2024 at the age of 18. He defeated the defending champion, Ding Liren, in a tough three-week-long match in Singapore. Gukesh’s victory shattered the previous record held by Garry Kasparov, making him the youngest to ever win the World Chess Championship. His journey to the title was marked by hard work, resilience, and remarkable focus, showcasing his determination to reach the pinnacle of the chess world.

Bhavesh Jain has been appointed as the new Managing Director and CEO of TransUnion CIBIL, succeeding Rajesh Kumar, who stepped down after a five-year tenure. Jain has a rich background in financial services, having worked at Citi, Kone, and Thomson Reuters. His experience as CIBIL's Chief Revenue Officer for five years played a key role in his promotion. Jain's leadership focuses on enhancing financial inclusion and digital transformation in India, with a vision to promote sustainable credit access and strengthen consumer trust.