Current Affairs Quiz - October, 2024

Notes:
IIT-Madras Pravartak has launched a cyber commandos training program for police. This six-month residential program is an initiative of the Union Home Ministry. It aims to provide specialized cyber training for law enforcement agencies across India. Unlike existing cybercrime cells that focus on reactive measures, this program will develop a proactive force to tackle cyber threats. The training will enhance the capabilities of police in effectively combating and preventing cybercrimes.

Notes:
The Uttar Pradesh government launched the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan to empower youth and promote entrepreneurship in Uttar Pradesh. The scheme aims to set up 10 lakh micro units over the next 10 years. Each year, 1 lakh educated and trained youth will receive financial assistance. Applicants must have at least passed class eight, with preference for those who completed class 12. The scheme supports projects up to ₹5 lakh in micro enterprises and service sectors. Special provisions exist for Bundelkhand, Purvanchal, and aspirational districts. Digital transactions are incentivized with ₹1 per transaction, up to ₹2,000 annually.

Notes:
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is developing a National Agriculture Code (NAC) similar to the National Building and Electrical Codes. The NAC will cover the entire agriculture cycle, from crop selection to post-harvest operations. It will have two parts: general principles for all crops and crop-specific standards for paddy, wheat, oilseeds, and pulses. It aims to guide farmers, universities, and officials in agriculture. NAC will address input management, sustainability, natural farming, organic farming, and IoT in agriculture. It will support quality standards, decision-making, and capacity building in Indian agriculture.

Notes:
The Third 25T Bollard Pull Tug, named Ashva, was launched on October 3, 2024, in Kolkata. Ashva is part of the Government of India’s “Make in India” initiative. It was built following the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) classification rules.
The tug will boost the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities, aiding in critical tasks and enhancing maritime support infrastructure.

Notes:
The Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai has granted GI tags to eight products from Assam, including Bodo Napham and Bodo Ondla. Bodo Napham is a fermented fish dish prepared anaerobically over two to three months. Bodo Ondla is a rice powder curry seasoned with garlic and ginger.The other six products are Bodo Jou Gwran, Maibra Jou Bidwi, Bodo Jou Gishi, Bodo Gwkha, Bodo Narzi and Bodo Aronai.

Notes:
Union Health Minister JP Nadda was elected Chairperson of the 77th session of WHO’s Regional Committee for Southeast Asia. The committee shapes WHO’s health policies in the region. The three-day session began in New Delhi and includes health ministers from Southeast Asian nations like Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and others. The focus is on improving public health systems and addressing key epidemiological and demographic challenges.

Notes:
The canal network connected to Hirakud Dam, a major project in eastern India, is set for renovation. Hirakud Dam is the longest dam in India and the longest earthen dam in the world, with a length of 25.79 km. It is built across the Mahanadi River, 15 km upstream of Sambalpur, Odisha. The dam creates the Hirakud Reservoir, the largest artificial lake in Asia, covering 746 sq. km. Inaugurated in 1957, it was India’s first major post-independence multipurpose river valley project. It provides irrigation for 1,55,635 hectares in Kharif and 1,08,385 hectares in Rabi seasons, with a power generation capacity of 359.8 MW.

Notes:
The Halari donkey, native to Gujarat’s Saurashtra region, is an endangered breed according to the IUCN. Known for its intelligence, it works closely with humans in agricultural tasks. Halari donkeys are small to medium-sized, typically white or light gray, and well-adapted to arid climates with high endurance. They can survive on minimal food and water. Their milk, valued for its medicinal properties, can sell for up to Rs 1000. The population is declining due to mechanization and a lack of awareness. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect their genetic diversity and cultural heritage.

Notes:
The third edition of the Mindfulness India Summit is scheduled to take place on October 17 and 18 in Mumbai. It aims to provide leaders and professionals with strategies for healthier, more empathetic workplaces. It is organised by the Mindful Science Centre. The summit will focus on mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and neuroscience. The theme, “Thrive in the Age of Disruption,” highlights mindfulness as essential for navigating today’s business challenges.

Notes:
Taiwan’s navy claims China’s military is using an “anaconda strategy” against the island. The strategy is inspired by Union General Winfield Scott’s Civil War plan to suffocate the enemy like an anaconda. China aims to economically and militarily isolate Taiwan, using military movements, psychological tactics, and cyber warfare. The goal is to pressure Taiwan into surrendering without a direct invasion.