Current Affairs Quiz - November, 2024

Notes:
Three Australian satellites from Curtin University’s Binar Space Program recently burned up in Earth’s atmosphere due to increased solar activity. The program, based in Australia, focuses on Solar System research and reducing barriers to space operations. Binar-1, the first satellite launched in September 2021, lasted 364 days in orbit during low solar activity. The follow-up mission included three CubeSats (Binar-2, 3, and 4) designed with deployable solar arrays but expected to last about six months. Intense solar activity caused the satellites to deorbit much earlier than anticipated.

Notes:
Russia’s Defence Ministry reported that Ukraine fired six US-made Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) at Russia’s Bryansk region. ATACMS is a surface-to-surface artillery weapon system. It is manufactured by Lockheed Martin, US defence company. It is capable of striking targets beyond the range of standard artillery and was first used in the 1991 Gulf War. Other operators include Bahrain, Greece, South Korea, Taiwan, and the UAE. The missile has a range of 190 miles (305 km) and uses single-stage solid propellant. It is launched from HIMARS and MLRS platforms and can carry cluster munitions to target larger areas.

Notes:
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) published the State of the World’s Children 2024 (SOWC-2024) report. The report highlights that nearly 1 billion children face high risks from climate and environmental hazards. SOWC is UNICEF’s annual flagship report analyzing global issues affecting children, including conflict, child labour, and disabilities. The 2024 report, launched on World Children’s Day (November 20), focuses on “Listen to the Future,” amplifying children’s voices on their aspirations. By 2050, India, China, Nigeria, and Pakistan will account for over one-third of the global child population. India is projected to have 350 million children, the largest share globally, despite a 106 million decline.

Notes:
Karnataka is the first state in India to launch a dedicated GCC (Global Capability Centers) policy. The policy aims to establish 500 new GCCs by 2029, creating 3.5 lakh jobs and 50 billion in economic output. The ‘Beyond Bengaluru’ initiative promotes GCC growth in tier-2 and tier-3 cities like Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Hubballi-Dharwad. India’s GCC market is valued at 64.6 billion, with Bengaluru hosting over 875 GCCs contributing $22.2 billion.

Notes:
A recent fish kill in Ashtamudi Lake highlights issues like sewage contamination, plastic pollution, encroachments, and uncontrolled weed growth. Ashtamudi Lake, a Ramsar wetland in Kerala’s Kollam district, is the state’s second-largest lake. Its name means “Eight Braids” in Malayalam, reflecting its palm-shaped topography with eight channels. The lake connects to the sea via the Neendakara estuary and is primarily fed by the Kallada River. Historically significant, it was a major port in the 14th century, as noted by explorer Ibn Battuta. The region hosts diverse mangroves, including endangered species Syzygium travancoricum and Calamus rotang.

Notes:
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned Rs.1750 crore for the Tato-I Hydro Electric Project in Arunachal Pradesh’s Shi Yomi District. With an installed capacity of 186 MW, the project aims to generate 802 Million Units of energy over 50 months. It will enhance power supply, improve local infrastructure, and foster socio-economic development through job creation and community support initiatives, benefiting the local populace significantly.

Notes:
Pune will host the Army Day Parade for the first time on 15 January 2025. The parade honors Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, India’s first Army Commander-in-Chief in 1949. Traditionally held in Delhi, the event began rotating cities in 2023, with Bengaluru and Lucknow hosting in 2023 and 2024. Pune’s selection highlights its military heritage and role as Southern Command HQ. Events include marching contingents, mechanized columns, defense tech exhibits, combat demos, and martial arts. A “Know Your Army” exhibition in January will showcase advanced weaponry and soldier interactions. This initiative fosters unity and connects citizens with the Armed Forces.

Notes:
The TeacherApp, launched by Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan, aims to revolutionize education in India by equipping teachers with essential skills for modern classrooms. Developed by Bharti Airtel Foundation, it offers over 260 hours of resources including courses, videos, and interactive sessions. The platform aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, emphasizing the importance of continuous teacher development to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. By fostering a community of educators, the app supports innovative teaching practices and aims to transform schools into effective learning environments.

Notes:
The 2025 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 30) will take place in Belém, Brazil, in November 2025. It will include the 30th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 30), the 20th meeting of the COP for the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 20), and the seventh meeting for the Paris Agreement (CMA 7). Additionally, the 63rd sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 63) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 63) will also be held.

Notes:
The Annual Navy Education Society (NES) Conference 2024 was held in Goa from 20 to 22 November. Key discussions focused on implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in Naval Schools. Meetings included the Executive Committee, Management Advisory Committee (MAC), and Academic Advisory Committee (AAC). Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty chaired the Executive Committee meeting, while Commodore SM Urooj Athar led the MAC and AAC. Schools excelling academically were awarded Rolling Trophies. Vice Admiral McCarty emphasized the importance of NEP implementation and fostering a well-rounded learning environment.