Current Affairs Quiz - February, 2024

Notes:
The Rajasthan Mines Department has discovered over 840 million tonnes of iron ore in Khoda, Dadaroli, Todupura, and Liloti near Hindon, Karauli. A composite license for iron ore blocks spanning 1,888 hectares is set for auction. Preliminary exploration revealed magnetite and hematite deposits across 462.3 hectares in Khoda, 754.38 hectares in Dadaroli, 260.71 hectares in Todupura, and 410.94 hectares in Liloti. The findings are expected to boost industrial investment, particularly benefiting steel, cement, coal, and related industries in the state, fostering economic growth and job opportunities.

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The Nohar irrigation project in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is set to receive increased water supply as the Ferozepur feeder in Punjab undergoes repairs, enhancing its capacity and flow. Following Central Water Commission intervention, a technical committee recommended Nohar feeder remodelling due to inadequate water availability. Rajasthan and Punjab governments agreed to collaborate, and Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat convened a meeting to review the progress, focusing on renovating Baruwali distributary and Fatehabad branch. The estimated expenditure for the project is ₹139.51 crore.

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The UNESCAP’s ‘Asia and the Pacific SDG Progress Report 2024’ reveals that the region is 32 years behind the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals target. Established in 1947 as ECAFE, it became ESCAP in 1974, one of the UN’s five regional commissions. With 53 member states (including India) and 9 associate members, UNESCAP is headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand. Its objective is to foster cooperation among members to address sustainable development challenges.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of Shri Kalki Dham Temple in Sambhal district, Uttar Pradesh. Constructed by Shri Kalki Dham Nirman Trust, chaired by Acharya Pramod Krishnam, the temple’s unique feature is its ten garbh grihas, representing all ten avatars of the Lord, including the human form. The Prime Minister highlighted the intricate architecture, emphasizing the embodiment of various divine forms in the scriptures.

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Kathmandu recently hosted the multinational military exercise ‘Shanti Prayas IV,’ becoming a hub for global peacekeeping efforts. The event involved army representatives from 19 nations engaged in UN Peacekeeping missions, emphasizing collaborative dedication to global peace and security. Co-hosted by the Nepali Army and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, the exercise highlighted the robust military cooperation between Nepal and the United States.

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Renowned Indian Radio Presenter Ameen Sayani, born on December 21, 1932, in Mumbai, passed away at 91 on February 21, 2024, succumbing to heart failure. Known as a Radio Celebrity, his iconic presentation ‘Geetmala’ earned immense popularity, showcasing his charming voice and unique style. A key figure in popularizing radio in India, Sayani’s witty and captivating communication style left a lasting impact. Introduced to All India Radio by his brother, he transitioned from English to Hindi programming during his illustrious career.

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The High Commission of India in Bangladesh hosted a Seminar on Indian Defence Equipment – SIDE 2024 in Dhaka, featuring High Commissioner Pranay Verma and Lt. Gen. M.R. Shameem. Verma highlighted Indian defense industry advancements under Prime Minister Modi’s “Make in India” initiative, resulting in increased investments and exports. SIDE 2024 signifies India’s interest in advancing defense cooperation with Bangladesh, utilizing the US$500 million Defence Line of Credit extended by the Indian government.

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The Maritime Technical Exposition MTEX-24 is a key feature of MILAN 2024 in Visakhapatnam, showcasing India’s strides in naval technology. Inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MTEX-24 spans three days and emphasizes self-reliance in defence. It highlights advancements in shipbuilding, communication, cybersecurity, and sustainable energy solutions. Key participants include major players, defence start-ups, PSUs, and Naval organizations, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. MTEX-24 aims to propel India’s maritime industry towards a secure and prosperous future.

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Social groups nationwide recently organized the Naanoo Rani Chennamma campaign, marking 200 years since Rani Chennamma’s rebellion against the British East India Company. Born in Kakati, Karnataka, she became Kitturu’s queen after marrying Raja Mallasarja. Post his death, the British refused to recognize Shivalingappa as the successor, leading to the Kittur Rebellion. British forces initially suffered losses, but eventually captured Kittur Fort in 1824. Rani Chennamma and family were imprisoned; she passed away in 1829 at the Bailhongal fort.

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The Ministry of AYUSH and Ministry of Tribal Affairs collaborate to enhance public health for over 20,000 tribal students. The joint effort emphasizes Ayurvedic interventions to tackle health issues, including malnutrition, iron deficiency anemia, and sickle cell diseases. The initiative aims to study tribal health needs and provide targeted public healthcare services for improved well-being.