Current Affairs Quiz - November, 2024

Notes:
The Union Home Minister launched the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile app to integrate technology with governance.
The app, developed by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGCCI), enables registration of births and deaths nationwide. It simplifies the process, allowing citizens to register these events anytime, from anywhere, in their state’s official language. The RGCCI, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, oversees the Census, compiles population data, and manages the CRS. Established in 1961, RGCCI provides data essential for social, economic, and policy decisions across government levels.

Notes:
Four sandstone replicas of the Konark wheel were installed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan.
This installation promotes India’s rich cultural heritage to visitors. The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents Odisha’s temple architecture and is designed as a giant chariot for the Sun god. The Konark wheel symbolizes India’s cultural legacy and architectural excellence.

Notes:
PM Modi launched India’s first helicopter ambulance service at Rishikesh AIIMS to improve emergency healthcare access.
The service aims to transport critical patients quickly within the ‘golden hour’ for better trauma care. It is part of a larger healthcare upgrade project worth over Rs 12,850 crore. A toll-free number will link all district disaster management centers to facilitate this service. Drones will aid in delivering blood samples and medicines to remote regions. The initiative extends to Uttarakhand and some border areas of Uttar Pradesh, transforming healthcare access in tough terrains.

Notes:
China opposes Taiwan’s establishment of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC) in Mumbai. This is Taiwan’s third office in India, following openings in New Delhi in 1995 and Chennai in 2012. India and Taiwan set up representative offices in 1993: the India-Taipei Association in Taipei and TECC in New Delhi. Other countries like the US, Australia, and Russia have similar centers for visa services and cultural exchanges. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and considers the PRC the sole legitimate government. India officially recognizes the PRC but does not recognize Taiwan.

Notes:
North Korea announced a successful test of its newest intercontinental ballistic missile, the Hwasong-19. Hwasong-19 uses solid-fuel propulsion, enabling faster deployment and making it harder to detect and intercept. This missile measures around 28 meters, significantly longer than advanced U.S. and Russian ICBMs, which are under 20 meters. Analysts estimate Hwasong-19’s range exceeds 13,000 kilometers, capable of reaching the U.S. mainland.

Notes:
The ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme allocates ₹1261 Crores to empower 14,500 Women Self Help Groups from 2024 to 2026. It provides drones for agricultural services, specifically for applying fertilizers and pesticides. The initiative, under the Ministry of Agriculture, aims to enhance efficiency in farming and create sustainable livelihoods for women, while also promoting the use of advanced technology in agriculture. The operational guidelines emphasize training and support for effective implementation.

Notes:
Union Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the “One District One Product” (ODOP) Wall at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The ODOP initiative showcases unique products from different Indian districts on international platforms, promoting “Made in India” items. It aims to turn districts into hubs of local products, increasing market reach and visibility globally. The program focuses on sustainable livelihoods for Indian artisans and entrepreneurs by partnering with global retail chains.

Notes:
The Seventh Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly starts today at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. It focuses on enhancing energy access, security, and promoting solar energy among member countries. The session is led by India with France as co-president, featuring delegates from 120 countries. Key discussions will revolve around accelerating solar deployment, especially in areas with limited energy access. Updates on flagship initiatives for entrepreneurs, skill development, and mobilizing finance for solar energy will also be shared during the three-day assembly.

Notes:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to a higher risk of dementia, especially in women, as shown by a study of over 18,500 adults. OSA is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to an airway blockage. This disruption in breathing lowers oxygen levels, causing frequent awakenings and poor sleep quality. Symptoms include snoring and fatigue, with risks increasing in middle-aged and older adults. OSA affects cardiovascular health, mental well-being, and safety. Treatments include positive airway pressure devices, mouthpieces, and surgery in some cases.

Notes:
World Cities Day is celebrated on October 31 to highlight sustainable urban development. The United Nations General Assembly officially recognized it in 2013, with the first celebration in 2014. This observance addresses challenges posed by rapid urbanization, particularly in developing countries like India. World Cities Day is part of Urban October, which begins with World Habitat Day. More than half of the world’s population now lives in urban areas, making this conversation essential. The day encourages global discussions on making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable for everyone. This year’s theme is ‘Youth Leading Climate and Local Action for Cities’.