Current Affairs Quiz - December, 2024

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Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has directed officials to study Handigodu disease scientifically. Handigodu disease is a rare osteoarthritic disorder (bone and joint disease) found in Shimoga and Chikmaglur districts. It is an inherited degenerative bone and joint disease, first noticed in Handigodu village. Symptoms include severe joint and hip pain, deformation, dwarfism, and difficulty walking. The disease begins in preadolescence and can severely affect mobility. Over 1,000 people have died from the disease since its discovery in 1975. It is similar to Mseleni Joint Disease in South Africa.

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Scientists at the High Energy Stereoscopic System (HESS) observatory in Namibia detected cosmic rays with record energy levels of 40 teraelectronvolts. HESS is an array of Cherenkov Telescopes in Namibia’s Khomas Highlands, operational since 2003. It observes gamma rays, the most energetic light, produced by violent cosmic events. Located in the southern hemisphere, it focuses on sources in the Milky Way and distant galaxies. HESS indirectly detects gamma rays via air molecule interactions as they cannot penetrate Earth’s atmosphere. Its research includes dark matter and fundamental physics, involving 260 scientists from 40 institutions across 13 countries.

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The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) held a global India Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme with the World Bank on November 28-29, 2024, in New Delhi. AEO is part of the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) SAFE Framework to secure global trade and enhance supply chain security. It grants AEO status to businesses that comply with supply chain security standards, offering benefits like simplified procedures and faster customs clearance. It was introduced in India in 2011.

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The Phlegraean Fields, near Naples, Italy, are a massive supervolcano starting to show signs of activity, raising concerns among scientists. Unlike Mount Vesuvius, it’s a volcanic system with multiple centers within a caldera, a large depression formed by a past eruption 39,000 years ago. The caldera spans 12-15 km and extends under the Tyrrhenian Sea. Phlegraean Fields is Europe’s largest active caldera and more active than Vesuvius. It has been restless since 1950 due to bradyseism and last erupted in 1538, forming Monte Nuovo. It is among the top carbon dioxide emitters worldwide.

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Gujarat’s iconic handicraft ‘Gharchola’ has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, bringing the state’s GI count to 27, with 23 focused on handicrafts. The GI tag was awarded at the ‘GI and Beyond – Virasat Se Vikas Tak’ event in New Delhi. This recognition enhances Gharchola’s prestige and market presence globally.

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UNESCO has recognized West Bengal as a top destination for heritage tourism. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee highlighted the state’s progress in religious, heritage, and tea tourism. This recognition has boosted tourism and created thousands of jobs for youth. West Bengal is focusing on enhancing iconic religious sites and heritage spots. The state’s efforts are elevating its tourism sector, making it a key player in India’s tourism industry.

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The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) launched an Air Quality Dashboard offering real-time and forecasted air pollution data. It combines ground sensor data with satellite imagery for insights on local, sub-regional, and regional pollution levels. The dashboard uses the WRF-Chem model to track PM2.5 spread in hotspots like Lahore, New Delhi, and Kolkata and its links with weather patterns. It provides two-day air quality forecasts and cross-border pollution data for policymakers, communities, and researchers. ICIMOD, established in 1983, serves Hindu Kush Himalaya countries with knowledge-sharing and sustainable development solutions.

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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has classified packaged drinking water and mineral water as “high-risk foods,” enhancing safety measures. This follows the removal of mandatory BIS certification, with a focus on regular inspections and audits by FSSAI. High-risk foods require strict safety protocols to prevent public health issues. The classification aims to ensure consumer safety through rigorous testing and monitoring. The regulation falls under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, simplifying the certification process.

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The number of women in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) has nearly tripled from 2014 to 2024. CAPFs include seven paramilitary forces under the Union Home Ministry. Women now make up 4.4% of the 9.48 lakh-strong CAPFs, including the Assam Rifles. The CISF has the highest female representation at 7.02%, followed by other forces with lower percentages (SSB 4.43%, BSF 4.41%, ITBP 4.05%, Assam Rifles 4.01%, CRPF 3.38%).

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The Inland Waterways Authority of India’s Kalughat Intermodal Terminal in Bihar received a five-star SVAGRIHA rating. SVAGRIHA stands for Simple Versatile Affordable GRIHA. SVAGRIHA promotes green buildings and sustainability through the Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) system for small buildings. The rating applies to projects under 2500 sq.m. with 14 criteria across five categories: architecture & energy, water & waste, materials, landscape, and lifestyle. The terminal achieved this rating by using recyclable materials like fibre, recyclable glass, and eco-friendly fixtures. This project is part of the IWAI’s efforts to enhance National Waterway 1 on the River Ganga.