Current Affairs Quiz - January, 2024

Notes:
The primary objectives of the recently launched XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite) by ISRO are to investigate the polarization of intense X-Ray sources and study the enigmatic world of black holes. This satellite is India’s first dedicated scientific satellite for conducting research in space-based polarization measurements of X-ray emission from celestial sources. It carries two scientific payloads: POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays) for measuring polarimetry parameters in the medium X-ray energy range of 8-30 keV photons and XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing) for providing spectroscopic information in the energy range of 0.8-15 keV. These instruments will help in gaining a deeper understanding of X-ray sources in space, including neutron stars and black holes.

Notes:
India and Pakistan recently continued their long-standing practice of exchanging lists of their nuclear installations and facilities, a procedure they have followed since January 1, 1992. This exchange, which is the 33rd consecutive one, is mandated by the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack Against Nuclear Installations and Facilities. The agreement, signed in 1988 and effective from 1991, requires both countries to annually inform each other about their nuclear installations and facilities every January 1st. This exchange is significant as it happens despite ongoing tensions between the two countries over issues like Kashmir and cross-border terrorism.

Notes:
The first Girls’ Military School in India was inaugurated in Vrindavan, Mathura. This inaugural event was jointly conducted by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The Samvid Gurukulam Girls Military School, located within the Vatsalya Gram campus and established by Sadhvi Ritambhara, aims to provide education and training to 870 female students. This initiative marks a significant step in extending military education traditionally reserved for male students in India to female students as well.

Notes:
India’s electoral bond scheme sees authorized SBI branches issue these interest-free bearer bonds to protect donor anonymity. As per provisions, only political parties securing over 1% votes can encash them. Recently, the Finance Ministry granted SBI permission for the 30th phase sale of electoral bonds from Jan 2-11, 2023 across 29 branches. But some criticize electoral bonds for non-transparency, alleging misuse.

Notes:
As India pursues food self-sufficiency, an analysis shows reliance on importing vegetable oils, pulses and dried fruits persist due to domestic supply limitations. For 2023, these three categories dominate agriculture imports, contributing 72.1% of the total import bill as per commerce ministry data. Palm oils alone account for 51.9 percent due to poor oilseed yields constraining India’s progress in edible oil security.

Notes:
Jakson Green, engaged in renewable energy solutions, recently signed an MoU with the government of Rajasthan to set up a green hydrogen & green ammonia project. This assumes significance as India targets becoming a global hub for green hydrogen production and export by 2030. Jakson Green is exploring sites in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu too for potential scale up. Its partnership with Rajasthan advances national decarbonization goals.

Notes:
Jammu & Kashmir has become the first Union Territory to roll out the PM Vishwakarma Yojana skill training program for craftsmen and artisans. 30 trainees have enrolled in the first batch focused on tailoring and dress design at the ITI center in Shopian. Implementation aims to foster local businesses and self-employment.

Notes:
The Himachal Pradesh government made two major decisions on January 1st, 2024 – all government offices have been prohibited from purchasing petrol or diesel vehicles since January 1st. This decision has been taken to make Himachal Pradesh a clean and green energy state by March 31, 2026. The government will now only purchase electric vehicles. This shows the state government’s commitment to environmental protection.

Notes:
In 2024, the Government of India is actively running Performance Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes across 14 different sectors. These schemes, part of India’s larger strategy for self-reliance and industrial growth, aim to boost manufacturing and exports in key areas. The sectors covered under these PLI schemes are diverse, including Mobile Manufacturing and Specified Electronic Components, Critical Key Starting Materials, Drug Intermediaries and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Speciality Steel, Automobiles, and Auto Components, among others. The focus of these schemes is not just to enhance domestic production capabilities but also to position India as a key player in the global supply chain.

Notes:
The defence ministry signed a contract with Jupiter Wagons Ltd for the procurement of 697 ‘bogie open military (BOM)’ railway wagons for the Indian Army. The deal, worth Rs 473 crore, is aimed at enhancing the Army’s logistical capabilities, particularly for the transportation of infantry combat vehicles. These wagons are essential for the speedy and simultaneous induction of Army units and equipment into operational areas during conflict situations, as well as facilitating their peacetime movement for military exercises and inter-station transfers. Jupiter Wagons Ltd’s involvement in providing this critical rolling stock underscores the company’s role in supporting the Indian defence sector’s logistical needs.