Current Affairs Quiz - March, 2024

Notes:
US envoy Amos Hochstein underscores the need for diplomatic resolution to quell rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah along the Blue Line, UN-demarcated boundary separating Lebanon and Israel. Established in 2000 after Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon, the Blue Line aims to prevent conflicts and facilitate security arrangements in the region.

Notes:
Chhattisgarh’s Chief Minister Vishnu Deo announces significant funds transfer under the Krishak Unnati Yojana in Balod to support farmers. The scheme, fulfilling PM Modi’s promise, offers Rs 3100 per quintal for paddy procurement. Over 145 lakh metric tonnes of paddy were procured from 24 lakh farmers during the Kharif season, benefiting from the MSP and additional Rs 917 per quintal under the scheme.

Notes:
On March 13, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved an agreement between India and Bhutan in food security. The pact involves cooperation between Bhutan’s BFDA, Bhutan’s Ministry of Health, and India’s FSSAI. BFDA will issue health certificates for Indian exports, simplifying trade and lowering compliance costs. This agreement enhances bilateral trade facilitation and underscores the commitment to mutual prosperity between the two neighboring nations.

Notes:
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers has initiated a Credit Assistance Program for Jan Aushadhi Kendras, aiming to bolster the network nationwide. From 80 Kendras in 2014, there are now over 11,000 operational units. An estimated 10 to 12 lakh people visit these Kendras daily, accessing affordable medicines. The MoU between SIDBI and PMBI promises project loans up to Rs. 2 lakhs at competitive rates, benefiting small entrepreneurs and modernizing Kendra networks.

Notes:
The naval forces of China, Iran, and Russia recently launched a joint exercise called the “Maritime Security Belt-2024” near the Gulf of Oman. The exercise, which began on March 11 and lasted until 15, is the fifth common military exercise between the three countries in recent years. The exercise aims to safeguard regional maritime security and strengthen maritime cooperation. The exercise is organized in three phases: harbor, sea, and summarize. The exercise focuses on anti-piracy and search and rescue training courses, and includes the participation of Russian warships and aviation.

Notes:
Maharashtra is the first Indian state to buy land in Kashmir to build a bhawan for tourists. The land transfer agreement, costing ₹8.16 crore, symbolizes cooperation between states, promoting tourism and cultural exchange. This historic step reflects a proactive approach towards strengthening bonds and signifies a commitment to mutual growth and understanding.

Notes:
In March 2024, the Tamil Nadu government agreed to implement the PM SHRI (Prime Minister Schools for Rising India) scheme by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Education. The scheme aims to improve the quality of education in Tamil Nadu and upgrade existing government schools to become model schools for the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Notes:
Srinagar hosted its inaugural Formula-4 car racing event along Dal Lake’s Boulevard Road, covering a 1.7 km track from Lalit Ghat to Nehru Park. Organized by the Federation of Motor Clubs of India, it aimed to boost youth interest in sports. Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri highlighted its potential to promote sports careers. Unlike Formula 1, Formula-4 races reach speeds up to 210 km/h, with participants as young as 15.

Notes:
The National Commission for Women (NCW) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) in New Delhi in March 2024 to combat human trafficking in India. The MoU’s key objectives include working together to prevent human trafficking and rescue trafficked women.

Notes:
Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR), Bihar’s sole tiger reserve, utilizes green energy for watering wild animals, including tigers, and their prey in scorching summers. Established in 1990 and declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1978, VTR encompasses Valmiki National Park and Valmiki Wildlife Sanctuary. Situated on the Gandak riverbanks, it shares borders with Royal Chitwan National Park and Parsa Wildlife Sanctuary of Nepal. The Bihar government awaits NTCA approval to declare Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary as the state’s second tiger reserve after VTR.