Current Affairs Quiz - April, 2024

Notes:
An International Humanitarian Conference convened in Paris on April 15, 2024, aimed to aid Sudan amidst conflict between its army and rebel paramilitary groups. Organized by France, Germany, and the EU, in response to a UN appeal, it drew representatives from 58 states, regional organizations like the African Union, and NGOs. The event sought funds to assist Sudan and neighboring nations. Notable attendees included UN agencies, the World Bank, IMF, and Arab Development Bank.

Notes:
Derek Underwood, England’s leading wicket-taker and esteemed left-arm spinner, has died. He claimed 297 wickets in 86 Test matches and 2465 wickets in 676 first-class cricket games. Underwood held the presidency of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in 2008 and was honored with induction into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2009. His legacy extends beyond his remarkable achievements on the field, leaving an indelible mark on cricket history.

Notes:
Discovered in Gujarat, a fossil vertebrae confirms ‘Vasuki Indicus’ as the largest snake ever, estimated at 11-15 meters and 1 tonne. Likely an ambush predator in marshy swamps, it lived during a period of high global temperatures. Comparable to Titanoboa, a Colombian snake measuring 43 feet long and weighing over a tonne, Vasuki Indicus sheds light on prehistoric serpents’ immense size and ecological roles.

Notes:
According to a 2024 report from the New Lancet Commission, breast cancer is projected to cause one million deaths a year by 2040, an increase of more than 50% from 2020. The report states that, from 2020 to 2020, 7.8 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer, and 685,000 of those women died from the disease that same year. The report also predicts that global breast cancer diagnoses will exceed three million annually by 2040.

Notes:
National Civil Services Day is celebrated on April 21 annually in India to honor civil servants, the nation’s administrative backbone. It commemorates Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 1947 address to probationary officers, calling them ‘the steel frame of India.’ The day involves recognizing and motivating civil servants, evaluating departmental performance, and presenting awards for excellence in public administration, reaffirming their commitment to serving citizens.

Notes:
As Lok Sabha elections approach, the iconic symbol of Indian polls, a purple-black indelible ink mark on the left index finger, becomes ubiquitous. The ink, containing silver nitrate, remains visible under UV light and resists soap and liquids for up to 72 hours. Manufactured by CSIR and licensed to Mysore Paints & Varnish Ltd. since 1962, it’s exported to over 25 countries. Mandated by the Representation of the People Act (RoPA) of 1951, it ensures electoral integrity.

Notes:
The 34th Seng Khihlang festival concluded in Wahiajer, Meghalaya. Hosted by the Seng Khasi Sein Raij, it unifies followers of the Khasi Indigenous Faith. A highlight is the exchange of the Monolith, symbolizing unity. This year, Wahiajer received it from Seng Khasi Shaid Shaid. Khasi people, indigenous to Meghalaya and parts of Assam and Bangladesh, celebrate their culture and faith during Seng Khihlang, showcasing their vibrant community.

Notes:
Thrissur Pooram, a grand temple festival celebrated globally, embodies Kerala’s rich culture and diversity. Rooted in tradition, it unites people of all backgrounds with music, processions, fairs, and fireworks. Lasting seven days, the highlight is the sixth day in the Malayalam month of Medam, coinciding with the Pooram star. Established in 1796 by Shakthan Thampuran, it ensures the continuity of temple festivals. This year, Thrissur Pooram falls on April 20, showcasing Kerala’s vibrant heritage.

Notes:
Professor Naima Khatoon is appointed as the Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), the first woman to hold the position in its history. The appointment was made by the Ministry of Education and approved by President Droupadi Murmu. Khatoon, currently the Principal of AMU’s Women’s College, will serve for five years or until she turns 70. She becomes the third VC of a Central University and the second woman VC in India after Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit.

Notes:
Prachi Yadav, Madhya Pradesh’s leading para canoer from Gwalior, secured two gold medals at the ACC Paracanoe Asian Championship 2024 in Tokyo, Japan. She triumphed in the Women’s KL2 and Women’s VL2 categories. Notably, Prachi was honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2023 for her outstanding achievements in the sport.