Current Affairs - December 30, 2024 Current Affairs

The SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) Mission, launched by ISRO using PSLV-C60, aims to test crucial technologies like docking, undocking, and rendezvous between two spacecraft, SDX01 and SDX02, in low-Earth orbit. These capabilities are essential for advanced space missions, including lunar missions like Chandrayaan-4. The mission incorporates innovative GNSS-based systems and RODP processors for accurate positioning and velocity measurements, showcasing ISRO's technological advancements in orbital mechanics and spacecraft operations.

Pakistan is preparing to construct its largest nuclear power plant, the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit 5 (C-5), with a capacity of 1200 MWe. Approved by the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA), this facility is aimed at bolstering the country's electricity generation capacity. The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission initiated the process in April by submitting a comprehensive Preliminary Safety Assessment Report and other operational documentation. This project reflects Pakistan's commitment to expanding its nuclear energy infrastructure while adhering to safety protocols.

Russia declared an emergency after the oil tanker Volgoneft 212 split during a severe winter storm on December 15, 2024, causing a significant oil spill in the Black Sea. The tanker, carrying over 4,000 tons of fuel, partially sank, tragically resulting in the death of one crew member. While two other ships, Volgoneft 239 and Volgoneft 109, encountered similar incidents, their crews were successfully rescued. This environmental disaster highlights the vulnerabilities of maritime transport during extreme weather conditions and underscores the importance of robust safety measures.

Nepal organized the 18th Elephant and Tourism Festival in Sauraha, Chitwan, attracting numerous local and international visitors during the New Year and Christmas season. The event featured unique activities such as elephant parades, beauty contests, and football matches, with over 80 elephants participating. Notably, elephant polo was excluded from the festival to address animal rights concerns, emphasizing Nepal’s commitment to wildlife well-being while celebrating its rich cultural heritage and promoting tourism.

Sachin Tendulkar, a legendary Indian cricketer, was awarded Honorary Membership of the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC), a prestigious recognition given by one of Australia's oldest sports clubs and the manager of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). His exceptional contributions to cricket include a remarkable performance at the MCG, where he has scored 449 runs in five Tests, with an average of 44.90, a century, and three fifties. Tendulkar's recognition by MCC adds to his earlier accolade of receiving the Order of Australia in 2012, showcasing his global influence in cricket.

Koneru Humpy clinched her second Women’s World Rapid and Blitz Chess title, reaffirming her position as one of the top players in the chess world. She first won the championship in 2019 in Georgia and now joins China’s Ju Wenjun as the only woman to secure this prestigious title multiple times. Her victory against Indonesia's Irene Sukander highlights her remarkable skill and determination in the competitive field of chess. This achievement further cements her legacy in the history of the sport.

The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) launched its revamped intranet portal to improve internal communication and operational efficiency. Inaugurated by CMD Pradip Kumar Das, the portal features user-friendly functionalities, including access to organizational policies, announcements, and MIS reports. This initiative aligns with the agency's focus on modernizing its workplace and fostering better collaboration among employees, thereby contributing to its overall growth and operational success.

NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd (NTPC REL) started the commercial supply of electricity from a 37.50 MW segment of its 200 MW Solar PV Project in Sadla, Gujarat. This milestone aligns with NTPC Group's commitment to expanding renewable energy, contributing to their overall installed capacity of 76,598.18 MW. The initiative reflects NTPC's strategic focus on sustainability, aiming for 50% non-fossil fuel generation and achieving a 60 GW renewable energy capacity by 2032, thereby enhancing India's clean energy footprint.

Kaamya Karthikeyan, a 17-year-old from Mumbai, achieved the extraordinary feat of becoming the youngest female to complete the Seven Summits Challenge, conquering the highest peaks on all seven continents. These include iconic mountains like Mt Everest (Asia), Mt Kilimanjaro (Africa), and Mt Vinson (Antarctica). This accomplishment highlights her remarkable endurance and determination in mountaineering. Additionally, she was honoured with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Shakti Puraskar in 2021, further recognizing her inspiring achievements and contributions to sports and adventure.

A grand statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was recently unveiled by the Indian Army at Pangong Tso in Ladakh, located near the India-China border. Installed by the Fire and Fury Corps on December 26, the statue is part of India's broader infrastructure push to strengthen the strategic position of Ladakh. The installation of the statue at such a significant location symbolizes India's commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity while honouring historical figures like Shivaji Maharaj.

Kerala clinched their maiden Senior National Men's Handball Championship title with a thrilling 34-31 victory over Chandigarh in Changanassery. This historic win marked a significant milestone for the team, following their semi-final triumph against Services with a score of 23-21. Notable contributions included Devendar being named the 'Best Player of the Championship' and Rahul earning the 'Best Goalkeeper' award. The event showcased Kerala's growing prominence in Indian handball and its ability to deliver under high-pressure situations.