Current Affairs Quiz - July, 2024

Notes:
ISRO successfully conducted the second experimental flight for Air Breathing Propulsion Technology, which uses atmospheric oxygen as an oxidizer instead of carrying one onboard. This makes rockets lighter and more efficient. However, the technology is applicable only within the denser layers of Earth’s atmosphere (up to 70 kilometers altitude). Beyond this, rockets must switch to a stage with both fuel and an onboard oxidizer.

Notes:
In Telangana, the Project Swasthya Nagaram was launched in Hyderabad to create TB-Free Municipalities. This initiative involves the State Tuberculosis Cell, Municipal Corporations of Peerzadiguda, Boduppal, and Pocharam, and various partners including WHO and USAID. The project aims to reduce TB incidence and mortality by implementing a comprehensive TB care model in urban areas over three years. It includes free medical care and family counseling for TB patients.

Notes:
The Finance Minister announced a revision to the model Skill Loan Scheme, now facilitating loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh, backed by a government-promoted fund guarantee. Introduced in July 2015, the scheme offers institutional credit for skill development courses aligned with National Occupations Standards and Qualification Packs, conducted by NSQF-compliant training institutes. It applies to all Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) member banks and RBI-advised financial institutions. Any Indian National admitted to ITIs, Polytechnics, recognized schools, affiliated colleges, or NSDC training partners is eligible, with no age restrictions. The courses lead to certifications, diplomas, or degrees.

Notes:
India and the United Kingdom have launched the Technology Security Initiative (TSI) to boost collaboration in critical and emerging technologies (CET) and align with the India-UK Roadmap 2030. Coordinated by the National Security Advisors (NSAs) of both countries, the TSI will foster partnerships across telecoms, critical minerals, semiconductors, and quantum technology. The UK is a strategic partner for India, concerned about China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, with shared interests in defense technology and maritime security. Joint military exercises and a commitment to doubling bilateral trade by 2030 highlight their cooperation, alongside civil nuclear collaboration and support for India’s infrastructure projects.

Notes:
Researchers discovered that tinzaparin, a drug used to treat blood clots, significantly reduces cell damage caused by spitting cobra venom. Tinzaparin is a low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) with antithrombotic properties, typically used for deep venous thrombosis. The research showed that tinzaparin blocks the interaction between the venom and cell receptors by binding to venom molecules. This action interferes with the venom’s toxic effects by disrupting the biological pathway that produces heparan sulfate. When tinzaparin was applied immediately after venom exposure, it enhanced cell survival, offering a potential new approach to mitigate snake venom toxicity.

Notes:
The Ministry of Labour & Employment launched the SAMADHAN Portal to address industrial disputes for workmen, employers, and trade unions under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. It promotes efficiency and transparency through online filing, faster disposal, and internal monitoring. The portal also covers cases under the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, Minimum Wages Act, 1948, Payment of Wages Act, 1936, Equal Remuneration Act, 1976, and Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.

Notes:
India has set a target to gasify 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030. Coal gasification is a thermo-chemical process that converts coal into carbon monoxide and hydrogen, producing syngas, dimethyl ether, ammonium nitrate, and methanol. Syngas can substitute for LPG and electricity generation, while dimethyl ether is an alternative for diesel engines, and ammonium nitrate can be used for explosives. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on imports, conserve foreign exchange, and support India’s oil, gas, fertilizer, and petrochemical sectors. Currently, India imports about 83% of its oil, over 90% of its methanol, and 13-15% of its ammonia.

Notes:
The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare recently announced that the agriculture sector is now part of the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023. This scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Power, involves issuing carbon credit certificates by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) to entities that exceed their emission reduction targets. Entities failing to meet targets must buy these certificates. The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change sets emission intensity targets, while a National Steering Committee chaired by the Power Secretary oversees the scheme. This inclusion aims to enhance carbon management in agriculture.

Notes:
Scientists have developed an advanced genome-editing tool called enhanced FnCas9, which provides more precise and efficient DNA modifications than current CRISPR technologies. It cuts DNA more effectively with fewer off-target effects and can correct single-nucleotide changes better. In tests, enhanced FnCas9 successfully corrected a mutation causing inherited blindness in stem cells, showing high efficiency and potential for improving genetic diagnostics and therapies.

Notes:
India, a founding member of the International Labour Organization (ILO), plans to challenge the ILO’s India Employment Report 2024. The ILO, established in 1919 to promote social justice and improve labor conditions, became a UN agency in 1946. Headquartered in Geneva, it has 187 member states and is part of the UN Development Group. The complaint reflects concerns over the accuracy of the ILO’s employment model for India.