Current Affairs Quiz - October, 2024

Notes:
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.

Notes:
India is aligning its state business readiness rankings with the new World Bank B-READY index. The B-READY (Business-Ready Index) replaces the discontinued Ease of Doing Business rankings. It assesses the business environment of global economies based on regulatory framework, public services, and efficiency. Key areas include digitalization, environmental sustainability, and gender equality. The index evaluates ten parameters across a business’s lifecycle, from starting to closing. It will expand from 54 economies initially to 180 countries by 2026. Global institutions and companies will use it to assess a country’s regulatory and policy environment.

Notes:
Shigeru Ishiba was appointed as the 102nd Prime Minister of Japan by Emperor Naruhito after approval by the lower house of the Japanese Parliament. Ishiba, aged 67, replaces Fumio Kishida, who resigned due to political scandals. The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has ruled Japan almost continuously since 1955, elected Ishiba as its leader on 27 October 2024.

Notes:
India hosts the joint naval exercise of Quad nations from October 8 to 18 in Visakhapatnam. The exercise, named Malabar 2024, includes sea and harbor phases focusing on cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. It features various Indian naval platforms, such as guided missile destroyers, submarines, and fighter aircraft. The Malabar exercise started in 1992 as a US-India drill and evolved into a multilateral event to enhance interoperability and address maritime challenges. Recent Quad meetings emphasized maritime security cooperation and announced joint coast guard operations and a new regional Maritime Initiative for Training (MAITRI).

Notes:
Pilgrims recently had the first-ever view of the sacred Kailash peak from the Old Lipulekh pass in Indian territory.
Lipulekh Pass is a high-altitude pass in Uttarakhand, near the trijunction of India, Nepal, and China, at 5,334 meters.
It links Uttarakhand with Tibet and serves as a gateway to the Himalayas. It is situated in Vyas Valley, Pithoragarh. It opened for trade with China in 1992. It has ancient trade significance and is part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage to Mount Kailash, believed to be Lord Shiva’s abode.

Notes:
The Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine 2024 has been awarded to scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun. They were recognized for their discovery of microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. MicroRNA is crucial for regulating gene activity. The Nobel Assembly stated that their discovery is vital for understanding how organisms develop and function. The winners receive a prize of 11 million Swedish crowns, equivalent to about $1.1 million.

Notes:
Kazakhstan, the world’s leading uranium producer, is considering its first nuclear power station to enhance energy capacity. The location, near Lake Balkhash, is significant due to past Soviet-era nuclear tests that exposed millions to radiation. The recent referendum reflects Kazakhstan’s cautious approach to nuclear energy amidst historical sensitivities around radiation and safety.

Notes:
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.

Notes:
The Ustad Allauddin Khan Festival was recently organized in Madhya Pradesh. The festival is held in Maihar, Madhya Pradesh, and is dedicated to the renowned musician Ustad Allauddin Khan. The three-day event features performances by many renowned personalities from across the country. It is organized by the Madhya Pradesh Culture Department, Ustad Allauddin Khan Music and Art Academy, and the Maihar District Administration, running until October 10. Ustad Allauddin Khan was a prominent figure in music, known for his efforts to promote Madhya Pradesh’s musical tradition and engage the younger generation.

Notes:
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.