Current Affairs - Places

The 60th meeting of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB60) is scheduled to take place in Bonn, Germany, from June 3-13, 2024. This mid-year climate conference serves as an important platform for countries that are parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to discuss and advance global climate negotiations.

The Cyber Security Conclave took place in New Delhi, focusing on strategies to address the rising cyber threats. The event, organized collaboratively by CSC and United Service Institution, aimed to strengthen cybersecurity resilience through discussions on cost-effective solutions and initiatives like the Cyber Rakshak program, which empowers women with cybersecurity skills. Additionally, the conclave facilitated the signing of an MoU between CSC and USI to further enhance cybersecurity efforts.

India's first urban ropeway project is underway in Varanasi and is set to be operational by August 2024. This ropeway will connect Varanasi Cantonment Railway Station to RathYatra, enhancing connectivity in congested areas of the city. The project, known as the 'Parvatmala Pariyojana', is being constructed by Vishwa Samudra Engineering in collaboration with Switzerland's Bartholet Maschinenbau AG.

The University of Tokyo inaugurated the Atacama Observatory (TAO) in Chile's Antofagasta Region, situated at an elevation of 5,640 meters above sea level. This observatory has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the highest observatory globally. Led by Professor Yuzuru Yoshii, TAO aims to delve into cosmic mysteries such as dark energy and primordial stars, benefitting from its high-altitude location and advanced technological infrastructure.

The 10th World Water Forum, held under the theme "Water for Shared Prosperity," officially opened in Indonesia's Bali. The forum aims to address crucial topics such as water conservation, clean water and sanitation, food and energy security, and mitigation of natural disasters. Indonesian President Joko Widodo presided over the event, which is expected to host 100,000 participants and feature 350 sessions, highlighting Indonesia's commitment to addressing global water-related challenges.