Current Affairs Quiz - August, 2024

Notes:
Singapore and the United States have signed a 30-year civil nuclear cooperation agreement, called the 123 Agreement. This deal will allow Singapore to access detailed information and expertise on U.S. nuclear energy technologies, which are typically under export control. The agreement aims to enhance Singapore’s capabilities in nuclear energy and strengthen ties between the two countries in this field.

Notes:
Heavy rainfall in the Cauvery basin has increased water release from the Krishna Raj Sagar (KRS) dam. Built across the River Cauvery at Kannambadi by the Wodeyar dynasty, it was named Krishnaraja Sagara in 1917 after King Krishnaraja Odeya IV. The dam supplies water to Shivasamudra’s hydro-electric power station, Mysore City’s drinking water, and irrigation purposes.

Notes:
The Indian Air Force faces delays in receiving Tejas light combat aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, affecting its readiness and capabilities. Tejas, a 4.5-generation single-seat supersonic multirole fighter, was developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency and HAL. Intended to replace older MiG-21 and Su-7 jets, it joined the IAF in 2016. It has three models and is known for being the smallest and lightest in its class, with versatile combat roles.

Notes:
During Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s visit to India from July 30 to August 1, 2024, the Indian government announced $300 million in loans to strengthen Vietnam’s maritime security. Nine agreements were signed, including Vietnam joining the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and a plan to develop the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, Gujarat. The visit marked a significant step in deepening India-Vietnam ties.

Notes:
India and Russia conducted a maritime partnership exercise (MPX) in St. Petersburg on the 328th Russian Navy Day. The exercise featured India’s INS Tabar and Russia’s Soobrazitelny, showcasing naval maneuvers like communication drills, search and rescue tactics, and replenishment at sea. This MPX reinforced strong bilateral naval ties, highlighting both nations’ commitment to regional peace, stability, and security, and demonstrated professionalism and interoperability between their navies.

Notes:
National Handloom Day, celebrated on August 7th, honors India’s handloom heritage and supports artisans. Launched in 2015 to mark the Swadeshi Movement’s centenary, it promotes indigenous crafts and empowers weavers. The 2024 theme focuses on integrating technology and innovation to expand market access and enhance skill development for artisans.

Notes:
Recently, Union Minister Mr. Bhupender Yadav announced the establishment of two new Peacock Sanctuaries in India: Adichunchanagiri in Karnataka and Choolannuar in Kerala. This initiative aims to protect peacocks and their habitats, ensuring they can thrive without human interference. The government is also enhancing conservation efforts, including breeding centers, to boost peafowl populations. Protecting these birds is vital for biodiversity and cultural heritage, as they play important roles in ecosystems.

Notes:
Sucralose, a no-calorie artificial sweetener made from table sugar (sucrose), has been found to have no adverse impact on glucose or HbA1c levels and may even improve body mass index (BMI). It’s approximately 600 times sweeter than sugar and exceptionally stable. Most consumed sucralose (85%) passes through the body unchanged while the remaining 15% absorbed sucralose gets excreted quickly in urine without providing any calories.

Notes:
The Maharashtra government has approved Logistics Policy 2024. It aims to establish more than 200 logistics parks, complexes, and terminals, which is expected to generate approximately 5,00,000 new job opportunities. The policy targets developing 10,000+ acres of logistics infrastructure, including 25 district nodes, five regional hubs, and state, national, and international logistics hubs. It incentivizes hi-tech logistics, promoting AI, Blockchain, robotics, automation, IoT, and drones, generating tech-savvy jobs for local youth.

Notes:
Astronomers are watching Eta Carinae, a hypergiant star 7,500 light-years away, as it might soon explode as a supernova. About 170 years ago, it had a major outburst, creating the Homunculus Nebula. Eta Carinae is unique for emitting natural laser light and recently showed intriguing details in the nebula. When it eventually goes supernova, it could provide a spectacular light show and valuable insights into massive stars.