Current Affairs Quiz - October, 2024

Notes:
The Ministry of Heavy Industries launched the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme. The scheme aims to boost the adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and create essential charging infrastructure nationwide for cleaner transportation. Key components include subsidies for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, ambulances, trucks, and other emerging EVs. It offers e-vouchers for EV buyers and promotes e-ambulances, e-buses, and e-trucks. Public charging stations will be established in cities with high EV use, supported by a financial outlay of ₹10,900 crore over two years.

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A recent herpetofauna survey in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, now called the MTR Masinagudi Division, found rich biodiversity, including species likely new to science. The survey covered habitats at altitudes of 300 to 2,000 meters above sea level. It identified 33 reptile species and 36 amphibian species, many endemic to the Western Ghats. The survey discovered four potential new species: two geckos, a skink, and a frog, which need further taxonomic and molecular studies before formal identification.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan (SPRP). The aim is to combat dengue and other Aedes-borne arboviruses like Zika and chikungunya through a coordinated global response. The SPRP will run for over a year, until September 2025. It focuses on five key components: emergency coordination, collaborative surveillance, community protection, safe and scalable care, and access to countermeasures. The SPRP aligns with other global initiatives, including the Global Vector Control Response 2017–2030 and the Global Arbovirus Initiative.

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Claudia Sheinbaum was sworn in as Mexico’s first woman president. She pledged to strengthen women’s rights and maintain Mexico as a secure destination for international investment. Sheinbaum, aged 62, is a scientist and former mayor of Mexico City. The oath-taking ceremony took place in Mexico’s Congress, marking the beginning of her six-year term.

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The Oakhurst rock shelter, located near George, South Africa, has yielded ancient genomes dating back to approximately 10,000 years ago. This archaeological site is significant for its record of human occupation spanning 12,000 years and the discovery of multiple ancient genomes, which show remarkable genetic continuity among the region’s inhabitants. The findings highlight the importance of understanding Africa’s rich genetic diversity and its implications for human history.

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The MIDORI Prize for Biodiversity 2024 has been awarded to Vera Voronova from Kazakhstan and Ysabel Agustina Calderón Carlos from Peru. The prize was established by the AEON Environmental Foundation in collaboration with the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). It recognizes individuals for their significant contributions to biodiversity conservation and sustainability. The award is given biennially, every two years.

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Two wild buffalo calves born in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary in Chhattisgarh raise hopes for the conservation of this endangered species. The sanctuary is located in Raipur district, bordered by the Balmedhi and Jonk rivers, with the Mahanadi also nearby. The Indian Wild Buffalo is the state animal of Chhattisgarh and is a large bovine species native to the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. They primarily inhabit alluvial grasslands, marshes, swamps, and river valleys.

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The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways launched the Humsafar Policy on 7 October 2024 in New Delhi. The policy was introduced by Nitin Gadkari in the presence of key officials. Humsafar Policy aims to improve travel convenience on National Highways and Expressways. It focuses on developing world-class facilities like eateries, fuel stations, and trauma centres along highways. Commuters will have access to well-maintained, hygienic services. Service provider details can be easily found on the NHAI’s ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ app.

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The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) will host the World Pickleball Championship (WPC) Series in India for the first time. The event is scheduled for November 12th to 17th, 2024, in Mumbai. It will feature top pickleball talent from around the world, following successful tournaments in Vietnam and Bali. Approximately 650 players from 6 to 7 countries, including Australia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Poland, and Singapore, will participate. The tournament is expected to elevate Indian sports and attract global attention from pickleball enthusiasts.

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Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to fully digitalize document registration with its new e-registry system, Sampada 2.0. This advanced version of the software and mobile app allows document registration to be completed online, eliminating the need for physical visits to Sub-Registrar offices. The process is now completely digital, secure, and paperless, making it more convenient and hassle-free for users.