Current Affairs Quiz - April, 2024

Notes:
Indian and Nepalese Sanskrit scholars unite to enhance Sanskrit research and education. The three-day Nepal-India International Sanskrit Conclave in Kathmandu, organized by Niti Anusandhan Pratisthan, Nepal, along with Delhi’s Central Sanskrit University and India Foundation, saw over 120 experts participating. A five-point resolution includes annual conferences, a study center for unpublished Sanskrit manuscripts, support for gurukuls’ development, joint research, and training programs. The initiative aims to strengthen cultural ties and preserve Sanskrit heritage.

Notes:
India’s Government e-Market (GeM) portal ranks as the world’s third-largest e-commerce platform for public procurement. GeM’s CEO PK Singh reported a gross merchandise value (GMV) exceeding Rs 4 lakh crore, doubling from the previous fiscal year. Launched in 2016, GeM facilitates transactions between government institutions and vendors, driving digital inclusion. The platform recorded Rs 2.01 lakh crore in orders for the last fiscal year, showcasing its significant growth trajectory.

Notes:
Deanna Syme Tewari, former Asian Games athlete and torchbearer at the 1982 Delhi edition, died in Dubai at 85. Representing Mysore State, she secured the long jump gold at the 1957 National Athletics Championship and 1958 National Games. She represented India at the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta. Deanna also served as the torchbearer for the 1982 Asian Games. Despite her athletic achievements, she eventually retired from the sport.

Notes:
The caracal, a medium-sized wild cat native to Africa, Middle East, and parts of Asia, including India, faces extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and illegal trade. In India, it’s called Siya gosh, meaning ‘black ear’. Known for its distinctive long ears and hunting prowess, the caracal primarily preys on small mammals and birds. Despite being listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, conservation efforts are crucial to safeguard its population.

Notes:
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched the ‘One Vehicle One FASTag’ initiative to boost the adoption of FASTags for toll collection on national highways. It aims to link each vehicle with a single FASTag, curbing misuse of multiple tags per vehicle. This move enhances toll collection efficiency and streamlines the process, contributing to smoother traffic flow.

Notes:
Mirabai Chanu, Tokyo Olympics medallist, secures her spot at the Paris Olympics, making history as the sole Indian weightlifter to qualify. At the IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand, the 29-year-old Olympic silver medalist finished third in Group B of women’s 49kg, earning 11th place overall. After a six-month injury lay-off, Chanu lifted a total of 184kg at the event, solidifying her berth for the 2024 Paris Games.

Notes:
India aims to boost marine product exports to 12 billion in two years through increased processing capacity and higher-value products. In 2022-23, exports totaled 8.09 billion. However, from April to February 2023-24, exports dipped 7.5% to 6.8 billion, largely due to decreased exports to the US and Europe. The government targets 9.1 billion in exports for 2023-24. India ranks third in fish production globally and second in aquaculture.

Notes:
The United States and the United Kingdom have signed an agreement to collaborate on developing tests for advanced artificial intelligence (AI) models, following commitments made at the Bletchley Park AI Safety Summit. Bletchley Park, known as the birthplace of modern computing, will host the world’s first global AI summit in 2023. Both countries aim to share information on AI capabilities and risks, conduct joint testing exercises, and align approaches to deploying AI systems safely.

Notes:
Juan Vicente Perez Mora, recognized by Guinness as the world’s oldest man, passed away shortly before his 115th birthday. His longevity secrets included hard work, early bedtimes, and a daily glass of aguardiente. Governor Freddy Bernal hailed him as a symbol of Tachirense values: humble, hardworking, and devoted to family.

Notes:
In Punjab, the District Election Officer and Deputy Commissioner of Malerkotla, Dr. Pallavi, launched ‘Booth Raabta’, a special website for election-related information. Boothraabta.com assists voters and polling personnel. Deputy Election Commissioner of India Hirdesh Kumar and Punjab CEO Sibin C lauded the initiative. Booth Raabta, meaning ‘Booth Contact’, offers guidance on election issues. It facilitates certificate downloads for young voters, enables polling station ratings, and provides ambulance and hospital information, especially during heat waves.