Current Affairs - International

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.

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 focuses on localizing 50% of its defence spending to reduce reliance on imports and bolster its indigenous defence industry. This aligns with India's Make in India initiative, promoting joint ventures and technological collaborations in areas such as shipbuilding, AI, and cybersecurity. The growing defence cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia highlights the mutual goal of self-reliance and technology sharing, strengthening their bilateral ties.

The carcass of Yana, a 50,000-year-old baby mammoth, was discovered in Russia's Batagaika crater in Siberia. This area, known as the "gateway to the underworld," has been exposed due to melting permafrost caused by global warming. Such discoveries are rare, with only seven mammoth carcasses recovered worldwide, making Yana's find an exceptional contribution to understanding Pleistocene-era fauna and climate conditions. The permafrost also preserves other ancient animal remains, highlighting its significance in studying Earth's prehistoric life and climate change.

Rwanda declared the end of its first-ever Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak after no new cases were reported during a 42-day observation period. The outbreak, which began on September 27, 2024, resulted in 66 confirmed cases and 15 fatalities. Marburg virus, previously known as Marburg hemorrhagic fever, is a severe and often fatal illness, and Rwanda's successful containment marks a significant achievement in public health management.