Current Affairs Quiz - March, 2024

Notes:
Brian Mulroney, the ex-Canadian Prime Minister, passed away at 84. He led the Progressive Conservatives to a historic 1984 win, defeating Pierre Trudeau. Mulroney’s nine-year term saw impactful policies, notably the Canada-US Free Trade Agreement negotiation, shaping his transformative legacy.

Notes:
The DRDO successfully tested the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) missile, a fourth-gen MANPAD developed indigenously in collaboration with Indian industry partners. Designed for short-range air defense, it boasts a 6-km range and features innovative technologies like a Dual-band IIR Seeker, miniaturized Reaction Control System, and integrated avionics. The portable missile, propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor, aims to safeguard ground forces and critical assets against low-altitude aerial threats, showcasing DRDO’s prowess in defense development.

Notes:
The Exercise Samudra Laksamana, a joint naval drill between the Indian Navy and Royal Malaysian Navy, commenced on February 28 and concluded on March 2 off the coast of Visakhapatnam. In its 3rd edition, the exercise involves Indian Naval Ship Kiltan and Royal Malaysian Ship KD Lekir. Professional interactions, knowledge exchange, and collaborative sea operations aim to strengthen bilateral bonds, foster cooperation, and enhance interoperability between the two navies.

Notes:
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched the Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme in New Delhi on March 04, 2024, allocating Rs 750 crore for 2023-24 to 2025-26. Operating under the iDEX framework, the scheme supports start-ups with grants up to Rs 25 crore for defence technology research. ADITI aims to develop 30 deep-tech critical technologies, fostering youth innovation and addressing Armed Forces’ needs, with 17 challenges in its inaugural edition.

Notes:
World Hearing Day, celebrated annually on March 3, 2024, addresses the global issue of hearing loss. This year’s theme, set by the World Health Organization, emphasizes “Changing mindsets: Let’s make ear and hearing care a reality for all.” Serving as a global call to action, the day advocates for preventative measures, treatment, and overall ear health awareness. It encourages individuals to protect their hearing and seek help for hearing-related concerns.

Notes:
Article 371A of the Indian Constitution is a major obstacle to regulating coal mining in Nagaland. This provision protects Naga tribes’ customs, traditions, and religious practices from external interference. It also allows the continuation of indigenous legal systems and traditional methods of justice. Article 371A has made it difficult for the government to oversee small-scale mining, especially after recent fatalities in a rat-hole mine explosion. Rat-hole mining is a hazardous way of extracting coal by creating small tunnels just large enough for a person to crawl through.

Notes:
Union Minister Sh. Jyotiraditya M. Scindia inaugurated India’s 1st Green Hydrogen Plant at Jindal Stainless Limited, Hisar, Haryana. A global first in the stainless steel sector, the off-grid facility incorporates rooftop and floating solar tech, aiming to cut carbon emissions by 2,700 MT annually and 54,000 tons over two decades. The project marks a milestone in sustainable industry practices, showcasing India’s commitment to green energy and environmental stewardship.

Notes:
Tripura’s traditional tribal attire, ‘risa,’ has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This handwoven cloth serves as a female upper garment, headgear, stole, and a gesture of respect. Adorning vibrant designs, it holds social and religious significance, notably in Garia Puja and weddings. Young girls receive their first risa at the Risa Sormani ceremony. Used creatively, it doubles as a makeshift hanger and an honorific gift. This cultural symbol is integral to the attire of Tripura’s 19 indigenous tribal communities.

Notes:
Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur inaugurated Sansad Khel Mahakumbh 3.0 at Luhnu Cricket Ground, Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh on March 5, 2024. Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid attended as chief guests. Inspired by PM Modi’s ‘Kheloge To Khiloge,’ Thakur highlighted the event’s significance. MP Khel Mahakumbh serves as a major platform for Hamirpur constituency players, aiming for 75,000 participants. Luhnu Cricket Ground in Himachal Pradesh hosts the event.

Notes:
Tiger Woods was selected for the Bob Jones Award, the highest honor given by the United States Golf Association (USGA). The award recognizes Woods’ commitment to sportsmanship and respect for golf’s traditions. Woods is a 15-time major champion who has won 82 PGA Tour events. He is known for his perseverance and mental power.