Current Affairs Quiz - February, 2024

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:
Japan has pledged JPY 232 billion for nine projects in India, as confirmed by the exchange of notes on February 20, 2024, between Vikas Sheel of the Indian Ministry of Finance and Suzuki Hiroshi, the Japanese Ambassador. The committed ODA loan assistance covers various initiatives, including the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge, NH 127B (Phulbari-Goeragre section), start-up promotion in Telangana, Chennai Peripheral Ring Road (Phase 2), sustainable horticulture in Haryana, climate change response in Rajasthan, medical facilities in Nagaland, urban water supply in Uttarakhand, and the Dedicated Freight Corridor Project.

Notes:
The Supreme Court of India recently directed governments to adopt a ‘broad’ definition of forests, emphasizing the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. Enacted to safeguard forests and resources, the Act’s Section 2 defines ‘forest land’ broadly, encompassing reserved, protected, or government-recorded areas. The landmark TN Godavarman Thirumalpad vs Union of India (1996) case reinforced this, interpreting ‘forest’ in line with its dictionary meaning. The Act applies to all areas resembling a forest, prioritizing conservation efforts across statutorily recognized forests in India.

Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 9th Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis as the Chief Guest. Mitsotakis praised India as a global power and essential ally in peace and security. He highlighted India’s role in the G20 and climate change. Mitsotakis urged deeper ties, emphasizing shared values and the strength of the partnership. He commended India’s economic prowess and mentioned mutual investment goals, noting India’s significant contributions to Greece’s infrastructure and the rising bilateral trade volume.

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Vietnam targets annual hydrogen production of 100,000-500,000 metric tonnes by 2030, a key element in its energy transition. The nation plans to scale up output to 10-20 million tonnes by 2050, incorporating green hydrogen, showcasing a strong commitment to sustainable energy initiatives and contributing to global decarbonization efforts.

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The Union Minister of Jal Shakti inaugurated the Upper Yamuna River Board (UYRB) building in Noida. Established through a 1994 MoU among Chief Ministers of Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi, UYRB oversees the Yamuna stretch from its origin to the Okhla Barrage in Delhi. As a subordinate office under the Ministry of Jal Shakti’s Department of Water Resources, UYRB plays a crucial role in water management and collaboration among the mentioned states.

Notes:
A recent study focused on the Stratospheric Aerosol Intervention (SAI) to combat global warming in West Asia and North Africa. SAI involves injecting reflective aerosols into the stratosphere to mimic the cooling effects of volcanic eruptions. Inspired by the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption, this method aims to scatter radiation in the stratosphere, reducing tropospheric absorption. The artificial aerosol layer can be created by deploying sulfur particles via cannons, balloons, or aircraft. The study evaluates SAI’s potential impact on mitigating global warming in the MENA region.

Notes:
The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs recently announced the inaugural Pey Jal Survekshan Awards, comprising 130 awards in various categories. Awards include Pey Jal Gold, Silver, and Bronze City Awards based on population categories. Other categories encompass Best Water Body, Sustainability Champion, Water Quality, and more. Parameters for evaluation cover access, coverage, water quality, sustainability, and infrastructure. Cities will receive star ratings based on performance, ensuring clean water through independent lab testing and transparent data collection via GIS-enabled web portal.

Notes:
India concluded its successful run at the 43rd Asian Track Cycling Championships 2024 in New Delhi on February 26, winning a total of 18 medals. Held at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, the competition featured 500 riders from 18 countries, encompassing junior and para track cycling events. Notably, this championship served as the ultimate qualifying event for the Paris 2024 Olympics, shaping the national team’s path to the prestigious global sports event.

Notes:
The inaugural herpetofaunal survey in the Core Area of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve uncovered 82 reptile and amphibian species, aiding the forest department in tailoring conservation strategies. Notable findings include the near-threatened Indian rock python and the vulnerable mugger crocodile. The survey informs targeted efforts for safeguarding diverse species within the reserve.