Current Affairs Quiz - February, 2024

Notes:
Russia recently conducted a Direct-Ascent Anti-Satellite (DA-ASAT) test, destroying the Tselina-D SIGINT satellite (Kosmos-1408). The U.S. criticized the test due to the significant debris it generated in low Earth orbit, posing a threat to the International Space Station. Russia has possessed ASAT capabilities since 1968. Anti-satellite weapons are designed to disable operational satellites, and China, India, Russia, and the United States have demonstrated successful ASAT capabilities.

Notes:
External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar is attending the 60th Munich Security Conference in Germany, engaging in discussions with global leaders to address bilateral cooperation and global concerns. The three-day conference serves as a platform for high-level debates on pressing security challenges, fostering international dialogue and cooperation.

Notes:
Annually on February 20th, the World Day of Social Justice unites the global community to address worldwide inequality and injustice. Emphasizing decent work and fair globalization, the 2024 theme, “Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances,” underscores the significance of collaboration in confronting global challenges. This day serves as a crucial reminder to combat social exclusion and advocate for a more just and equitable world.

Notes:
The Odisha government has launched the ‘Odisha Inclusive Urban Sanitation Policy 2024′ to enhance sanitation services, emphasizing a circular economy, community partnership, and disaster resilience. Issued by the Housing and Urban Development Department, it aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6.2, reflecting the state’s commitment to improving citizens’ access to sanitation infrastructure. The policy is part of Odisha’s broader Swachh Odisha, Sustha Odisha movement, focusing on urban sanitation initiatives to enhance infrastructure and service delivery.

Notes:
Arunachal Pradesh has achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first state in North-East India and the 10th in the country to attain 100% saturation of Har Ghar Jal under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Chief Minister Pema Khandu credited Team Arunachal’s dedication, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for guidance and support. The mission, launched on August 15, 2019, aims to provide assured tap water supply to every rural household in India by 2024, promoting an improved quality of life.

Notes:
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, in partnership with DRDO, launches a Rs 60,000 crore project to upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet. The initiative focuses on enhancing capabilities by integrating advanced technologies and indigenous systems. With over 50% indigenous content, India demonstrates a commitment to self-sufficiency in defense production, emphasizing a significant stride towards technological independence.

Notes:
The Tamil Nadu Government has launched the “TN Endangered Species Conservation Fund” to protect lesser-known species like the Nilgiri Marten. This rare carnivore, scientifically named Martes gwatkinsii, is exclusive to the Western Ghats in India, spanning Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Found in Shola ecosystems, it boasts chocolate-colored fur and a canary yellow throat, resembling a civet or mongoose. The conservation effort focuses on its habitat in high altitudes (300 to 1200 m) across specific Western Ghats clusters.

Notes:
The Arunachal Pradesh government has partnered with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to create its inaugural Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF). Home to three tiger reserves – Namdapha, Kamlang, and Pakke – the state lacked a dedicated protection force. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlines the deployment of a specialized force comprising 336 personnel to enhance tiger conservation efforts in these reserves, addressing the previous gap in protection measures.

Notes:
Babar Azam, former Pakistan captain, set a historic record as the fastest batter to score 10,000 runs in T20 cricket during a Karachi Kings vs. Peshawar Zalmi match in PSL 2024. This remarkable feat makes him the 13th player to achieve this milestone, adding another accolade to his illustrious career.

Notes:
Skyroot Aerospace, an Indian aerospace manufacturer, introduces the Kalpana Fellowship, India’s inaugural program empowering women in space tech. Named after astronaut Kalpana Chawla, the initiative targets final-year students and recent graduates in relevant engineering disciplines, marking a significant step in promoting gender diversity in the space industry.