Current Affairs Quiz - April, 2024

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IIT Kanpur recently signed an MoU with Conlis Global, a Canadian biotech company, for licensing a groundbreaking technology promoting bone healing and regeneration. Nano Hydroxyapatite-based Porous Composite Scaffolds, developed indigenously, possess biodegradable, osteoinductive, and osteopromotive properties crucial for bone regeneration. Highly biocompatible, these scaffolds demonstrate robust mechanical strength and foster excellent interaction between polymer networks and solvents, facilitating cell-material interactions with osteoblast cells.

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Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has acquired a controlling 95% stake in Gopalpur Port, Odisha, solidifying its position in the ports and logistics sector. Valued at Rs 3,350 crore, the deal includes an equity value of Rs 1,349 crore and an enterprise value of Rs 3,080 crore. Previous majority stakeholders, Shapoorji Pallonji Group (SP Group) and Orissa Stevedores Ltd (OSL), held 56% and 44% stakes respectively. Gopalpur Port boasts a capacity of 20 MTPA and strategic location in Ganjam district.

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Traditional products from Tripura, Matabari Pera Prasad and Rignai Pachara textiles, have recently earned Geographical Indication (GI) tags, bringing the state’s total to 4 GI protected products. Matabari Pera Prasad, a sweet from Tripureswari temple, is made from milk and sugar. Rignai Pachara textiles, traditional hand-woven attire, symbolize Tripura’s cultural heritage. These products’ GI recognition highlights their significance and authenticity, attracting global attention and marketing opportunities.

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Indian and Nepalese Sanskrit scholars unite to enhance Sanskrit research and education. The three-day Nepal-India International Sanskrit Conclave in Kathmandu, organized by Niti Anusandhan Pratisthan, Nepal, along with Delhi’s Central Sanskrit University and India Foundation, saw over 120 experts participating. A five-point resolution includes annual conferences, a study center for unpublished Sanskrit manuscripts, support for gurukuls’ development, joint research, and training programs. The initiative aims to strengthen cultural ties and preserve Sanskrit heritage.

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Mr. Sita Ram Meena, a 2008 batch IFS officer, has been appointed as India’s Ambassador to the Republic of Niger. Previously serving as Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, this appointment marks a significant career advancement. Mr. Meena’s diplomatic experience and expertise position him well for this new role, which underscores India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Niger on the international stage.

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Judith Suminwa Tuluka became the Democratic Republic of Congo’s first female Prime Minister, succeeding Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde. This historic appointment by President Felix Tshisekedi fulfilled a campaign promise. Tuluka, former Planning Minister, and assumed office just a month after Lukonde resigned from the position, which he held for three years. Her appointment marks a significant step towards gender equality and representation in Congolese politics.

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REC Limited, a Ministry of Power entity, clinched the SKOCH ESG Award 2024 in ‘Renewable Energy Financing’. This accolade acknowledges REC’s dedication to sustainable financing, driving the shift towards renewable energy. As a pivotal player in India’s clean energy transition, REC spearheads numerous sustainable projects and engages in discussions with developers across various green sectors. The SKOCH ESG Awards highlight organizations’ commitment to environmental, social, and governance factors, crucial for India’s sustainable future.

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Spring has sprung in Goa, igniting the vibrant Shigmo Festival, celebrating Konkan tradition. Lasting from March 26 to April 8, 2024, it bids farewell to winter, welcoming spring’s warmth. A fusion of Holi’s energy and carnival’s flamboyance, Shigmo showcases grand parades with folk performances and mythological floats. Held annually in Panaji, it embodies the essence of springtime bliss for Goans, echoing through the streets with two weeks of arts and culture.

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plans to establish the Digital India Trust Agency (DIGITA) to counter cybercrime, focusing on legal app approval and curbing illegal loan apps. DIGITA aims to centralize verification of digital lending apps, ensuring compliance with RBI regulations. Unverified apps may face penalties and law enforcement action. Maintaining a public list of approved apps, DIGITA enhances consumer protection and aids in combating financial crimes in the digital lending sector.

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Mirabai Chanu, Tokyo Olympics medallist, secures her spot at the Paris Olympics, making history as the sole Indian weightlifter to qualify. At the IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand, the 29-year-old Olympic silver medalist finished third in Group B of women’s 49kg, earning 11th place overall. After a six-month injury lay-off, Chanu lifted a total of 184kg at the event, solidifying her berth for the 2024 Paris Games.