Current Affairs - National

The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will take place in Goa from November 20th to 28th, 2024. This prestigious event will introduce a new section called the 'Best Debut Indian Film Section' aimed at promoting young filmmakers. Up to five debut feature films will be selected and showcased in this category, offering a unique platform for emerging talent in Indian cinema. Goa has been the traditional host of IFFI, drawing filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world.

The National Symposium 'Exercise AIKYA', organized by the National Disaster Management Authority and the Army Southern Command, focuses on improving disaster preparedness. It seeks to build effective collaboration between key organizations, including Railways, civil aviation, health, and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The exercise covers disaster scenarios such as tsunamis, floods, and forest fires, ensuring that participants are better equipped to respond to natural calamities and emergencies. This collaborative approach enhances the nation's overall disaster response capabilities.

The committee, headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind, was set up by the Union government to examine the feasibility of holding simultaneous elections. The report suggests eighteen constitutional amendments to achieve synchronized elections for Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies. Kovind's committee submitted its proposal, which was later cleared by the Union Cabinet. This move aims to streamline the electoral process, reduce election frequency, and save time and resources. The proposed bill is expected to be introduced in the upcoming winter session of Parliament.

A suspected case of monkeypox was reported from the Malappuram district in Kerala after a man, who had returned from abroad, showed symptoms such as fever and rash. The man was initially admitted to a private hospital, and his samples were sent to Kozhikode Medical College for testing to confirm the suspected monkeypox infection. This case is notable as it occurs amidst other health concerns in the region, including containment zones established following a Nipah virus-related death. The situation highlights Kerala's vigilance in managing emerging health threats.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail, also known as the Vande Metro, on September 16, 2024. This new rail service connects Ahmedabad and Bhuj, covering a distance of 360 kilometres in 5 hours and 45 minutes. The train operates at a speed of up to 110 km/h and stops at nine stations along the route. This initiative is part of India's efforts to enhance its rail infrastructure, alongside the launch of other Vande Bharat Express trains on different routes.