Current Affairs [Prelims] Lexicon – March, 2024

Aceh Province

Aceh is a province on the northern tip of Sumatra, Indonesia, known for its rich culture and history. It gained international attention after the 2004 tsunami, which devastated the region. Recently, Aceh has been in the news due to its role in rescuing Rohingya refugees. In March 2024, Indonesian authorities saved 69 Rohingya from a capsized boat off its coast.

Adélie Penguin

The Adélie penguin is a small, robust species native to Antarctica, known for its distinctive tuxedo-like appearance. They are highly social and often form large colonies. Adélie penguins are indicators of climate change, as their populations are affected by sea ice conditions. Recently, they were in the news due to construction activities at Rothera Research Station, where trained personnel are required to safely relocate them to prevent harm during runway upgrades.

Africa Carbon Markets Initiative (ACMI)

The Africa Carbon Markets Initiative (ACMI) was launched in November 2022 to enhance carbon credit production across Africa. It aims to tap into the continent’s potential for generating carbon credits, which can be sold in global markets to offset emissions. The initiative seeks to create jobs and stimulate economic growth while addressing climate change. It was highlighted in the news as African countries collaborate with ACMI to boost their presence in carbon markets during the COM2024 conference.

Agaléga Islands

Agaléga is a small group of two islands belonging to Mauritius, located about 650 nautical miles north of the main island. With a population of around 300, these islands have been underdeveloped for years, posing challenges for residents in accessing basic needs. Recently, they have been in the news due to a partnership with India for infrastructure development, including a jetty and airstrip, aimed at enhancing local well-being and improving national security.

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a religious group founded in the late 19th century, known for its belief in the messiahship of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. Ahmadis face persecution in several Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan, where they are considered non-Muslims. In the UK, they are often targeted by anti-blasphemy activists who view their beliefs as heretical. The recent counter-terrorism report noted that anti-blasphemy activism in the UK is partly driven by hostility towards the Ahmadiyya community, raising concerns about sectarian violence.

AluY Snippets

AluY snippets, also known as jumping genes, are a type of mobile DNA element that can insert themselves into various locations within the genome. They are prevalent in primates and play a role in genetic diversity. The recent research revealed that AluY’s insertion affected the TBXT gene, leading to the loss of tails in humans and apes. This finding was newsworthy as it provides insight into evolutionary processes and genetic mutations that shape species over millions of years.

Anthropocene Epoch

The Anthropocene Epoch is a proposed geological epoch that highlights the impact humans have had on the Earth, particularly since the Industrial Revolution. Coined by Dutch chemist Paul Crutzen in the early 2000s, it suggests that human activities have altered the planet’s geology and ecosystems. The term has sparked debates among scientists regarding its formal recognition, with discussions centring on its start date and implications for understanding human influence on climate change and biodiversity loss.

Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA)

The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) is a militant group formed in 2012, advocating for the rights of the Rohingya people. It gained notoriety in August 2017 when it launched attacks on Myanmar’s security forces, prompting a brutal military response. The group’s actions have been labelled as terrorism by Myanmar, complicating the humanitarian crisis. ARSA has been in the news for its role in escalating violence, which has led to widespread condemnation and calls for accountability from the international community.

Arambai Tenggol

The Arambai Tenggol is a lesser-known Meitei militant group in Manipur. It has gained notoriety for its violent actions, including the abduction and assault of police officers. The group emerged amid ethnic tensions in Manipur, particularly between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. Recently, it was in the news for its alleged involvement in attacks on state officials and its role in the ethnic conflict, raising concerns about law enforcement and state authority in the region.

Article 105(2)

Article 105(2) of the Indian ...

Originally written on March 25, 2024 and last modified on September 28, 2025.

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