Current Affairs - International

The XEC variant, a recombinant of KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, was initially identified in Germany. This variant exhibits mutations facilitating faster transmission, but current data does not indicate increased severity. Following its discovery, XEC has spread to 27 countries, with Germany accounting for 13% of reported cases, followed by the UK and the US. The global spread of XEC underscores the ongoing importance of genomic surveillance, public health monitoring, and international collaboration in combating COVID-19. Continuous research is crucial to understanding the variant's implications and potential future mutations.

India and Bhutan have strengthened their partnership on food safety by signing an agreement in March 2024. The focus of this collaboration is to align regulatory standards, simplify food import procedures, and foster technical cooperation between the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA). This agreement aims to streamline trade and enhance food safety practices, ensuring the mutual recognition of Bhutanese food business operators by the FSSAI. This partnership represents a significant step forward in promoting food safety between the two nations.

India has committed to supplying 40 million cancer vaccine doses to Indo-Pacific nations under the GAVI and QUAD initiatives. The announcement was made by the Prime Minister during the Cancer Moonshot Event, emphasizing India's role in global healthcare collaboration. The QUAD grouping, which includes the United States, Australia, Japan, and India, aims to foster cooperation in areas such as cancer prevention, detection, and treatment, with a focus on improving healthcare access in the Indo-Pacific region.

Asteroid 2024 PT5, detected by NASA, is anticipated to become a temporary mini-moon of Earth in late September 2024. This capture presents a unique opportunity for scientists to study near-Earth asteroids and enhance our understanding of their behaviour. By observing 2024 PT5's temporary capture and orbit, researchers can refine models of asteroid dynamics, improve detection methods for future mini-moons, and contribute valuable insights to planetary defence strategies. The study of this asteroid will significantly advance our knowledge of near-Earth objects and their interactions with our planet.

India and the United States have announced a strategic partnership to establish India's first national security semiconductor fabrication plant. This collaboration focuses on the advanced manufacturing of critical semiconductors, such as infrared, gallium nitride, and silicon carbide, to strengthen both countries' defence and telecommunications capabilities. The project represents a significant step in the growing technological and defence relationship between India and the US, involving key partners like Bharat Semi, 3rdiTech, and the US Space Force.