Current Affairs - Places

The symposium on "Aquatic Animal Diseases - Addressing Emerging Challenges and Preparedness" was inaugurated in New Delhi by Union Minister Shri George Kurian. The event is part of the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) being held from 12-15 February 2025. The theme of the forum is “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific,” which focuses on sustainable practices in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The symposium aims to address emerging challenges in aquatic animal diseases and discuss preparedness strategies.

Guneri village in the Kutch district has been designated as Gujarat’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site to protect its rare inland mangrove ecosystem. Unlike traditional coastal mangroves, Guneri’s mangroves grow in a non-tidal, flat terrain, covering an area of 32.78 hectares. The Gujarat government has initiated conservation efforts, community training programs, and ecological protection measures to safeguard this unique habitat. This recognition highlights the importance of preserving diverse ecosystems and promoting sustainable environmental practices in the region.

The Army Hospital (Research & Referral), located in New Delhi, performed India’s first Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) implantation using the HeartMate 3. This groundbreaking procedure was conducted on a 49-year-old woman with end-stage heart failure who had been awaiting a heart transplant for over two years. The HeartMate 3, often referred to as a "mechanical heart," is a critical innovation for supporting cardiac function in patients with severe heart conditions.

The World Economic Forum 2025 is being held in Davos, Switzerland. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will represent India at the event, showcasing the nation’s inclusive development model. His participation emphasizes India's commitment to ensuring progress for all sections of society, particularly those historically excluded. The forum serves as a platform for global leaders to discuss pressing economic and social challenges and explore collaborative solutions.

The Thiruvalluvar Cultural Center is located in Jaffna, a city in northern Sri Lanka. This cultural center was built with Indian assistance and serves as a symbol of the strong cultural, linguistic, historical, and civilisational ties between India and Sri Lanka. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his support for the naming of the center, highlighting the significance of this cultural hub.