Current Affairs Quiz - April, 2024

Notes:
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has acquired a controlling 95% stake in Gopalpur Port, Odisha, solidifying its position in the ports and logistics sector. Valued at Rs 3,350 crore, the deal includes an equity value of Rs 1,349 crore and an enterprise value of Rs 3,080 crore. Previous majority stakeholders, Shapoorji Pallonji Group (SP Group) and Orissa Stevedores Ltd (OSL), held 56% and 44% stakes respectively. Gopalpur Port boasts a capacity of 20 MTPA and strategic location in Ganjam district.

Notes:
Tamil Nadu is India’s largest exporter of electronic goods, contributing 30% to the country’s total electronic goods exports in FY24. From April 2023 to January 2024, Tamil Nadu’s electronics exports were valued at $7.37 billion, which is 32.52% of India’s total export of electronic system design and manufacturing (ESDM) goods of $22.65 billion for the same period. Historically, Tamil Nadu lagged behind Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka in this sector until FY22. However, in recent years, Tamil Nadu has experienced consistent growth.

Notes:
Researchers have found evidence of ozone on Jupiter’s moon Callisto, revealing insights into chemical processes on icy celestial bodies. The study focuses on the chemical evolution of “SO2 astrochemical ice,” composed of sulfur dioxide under ultraviolet irradiation. Analysis of UV absorption spectra of irradiated ice samples unveiled a distinct ozone formation signature. Callisto’s stable surface suggests it may harbor subsurface oceans or potential habitats, making it a potential candidate for extraterrestrial life.

Notes:
Germany, now the largest EU nation to legalize recreational cannabis, faces mixed reactions. Despite opposition, the law allows adults over 18 to possess 25 grams of cannabis and grow three plants at home. This marks a significant shift in drug policy, aligning Germany with progressive cannabis laws in Europe, like Malta and Luxembourg. The Netherlands, once lenient, has tightened regulations to curb cannabis tourism.

Notes:
Bindyarani Devi, Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022 silver medalist, secured a bronze at the IWF World Cup 2024 in Phuket, Thailand, lifting 196 kg in the women’s 55 kg category. Conversely, Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Mirabai Chanu placed 12th. Despite not medaling, Chanu qualified for the Paris Olympics 2024, becoming India’s sole weightlifter to do so. Kang Hyon Gyong of North Korea clinched gold, while Romania’s Mihaela Cambei took silver.

Notes:
The Manohar International Airport, Mopa, joins 13 others in India adopting the Digi Yatra system, enhancing travel convenience. Launched by Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, it utilizes facial recognition to streamline passenger verification, reducing wait times and simplifying procedures. Passengers download the DigiYatra app, link it to their Aadhaar number, and create a Digi Yatra ID for ticket purchase. At the airport, scanning the boarding pass initiates facial recognition for seamless entry.

Notes:
Indian NSA Ajit Doval led the delegation at the SCO Secretaries of Security Councils meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan. He met Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev, advocating for a Cooperation Programme against terrorism, separatism, and extremism for 2025-2027. President Tokayev emphasized the need for a unified approach to counter “three evil forces” and transnational crimes like drug trafficking and cyber threats. The meeting aimed to enhance security cooperation among SCO member states.

Notes:
India’s DRDO and Strategic Forces Command successfully tested the ‘Agni-Prime’ ballistic missile at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha. Range sensors, including two ships, captured data. Witnessed by top officials, Agni-P is a medium-range ballistic missile with nuclear capabilities, designed as successor to Agni-I and II. It boasts a 1,000-2,000 km strike range, advanced technology from Agni-IV/V, and features composite materials for lightweight and strength. It’s a two-stage, solid-fueled, road-mobile missile with dual navigation.

Notes:
The Philippines, alongside the United States, Japan, and Australia, conducted joint naval drills in April, 2024, in the South China Sea, aimed at strengthening military cooperation amidst China’s regional influence. This exercise precedes a trilateral summit involving the Philippines, Japan, and the US, highlighting efforts to bolster security ties in the face of growing tensions in the Asia-Pacific.

Notes:
The recent viral video featuring US Vice President Kamala Harris making irrational remarks underscores the threat of shallow fakes. Unlike deepfakes created with AI, shallow fakes are produced using basic editing tools, posing a significant risk to society. Deepfakes, on the other hand, employ AI-generated content to deceive. The World Economic Forum’s Global Risk Report 2024 identifies AI-powered misinformation as a major concern for the next two years, emphasizing the need for vigilance against digital deception.