Current Affairs Quiz - June, 2024

Notes:
The WHO and STOP released the “Hooking the Next Generation: How the Tobacco Industry Captures Young Customers” report on World No Tobacco Day, May 31. Key findings include that 37 million children aged 13-15 use tobacco globally, and 85% of 15-30-year-olds were exposed to e-cigarette ads. E-cigarettes produce nicotine-laden aerosol, an addictive substance.

Notes:
Researchers discovered a new dinosaur species, Musankwa Sanyatiensis, on Lake Kariba’s shoreline in Zimbabwe. This is the fourth dinosaur species found in Zimbabwe and the first named from the Mid-Zambezi Basin in 50 years. Dating back to the Late Triassic period, 210 million years ago, this 390 kg sauropodomorph was a long-necked, bipedal dinosaur related to those in South Africa and Argentina.

Notes:
The Centre for Citizen Science and Biodiversity Informatics under Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) is organizing Monsoon Croaks Bioblitz 2024 to engage the public in frog conservation. Open to all ages, participants document frog species via the iNaturalist app, contributing to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. Notable species recorded include the Resplendent Shrub Frog, Malabar Torrent Toad, Small Tree Frog, Anaimalai Flying Frog, and Purple Frog.

Notes:
Pakistan launched the Multi-Mission Communication Satellite (PAKSAT MM1) from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center, part of Pakistan’s National Space Programme 2047. The satellite aims to enhance internet connectivity, TV broadcasts, cellular phones, broadband, e-commerce, and e-governance in Pakistan. Recently, Pakistan also launched the mini satellite ‘iCube-Qamar’ with China’s Chang’e-6 lunar mission. Previous space assets include BADR-A, BADR-B, PAKSAT 1-R, PRSS-1, PakTes 1-A, and iCube-Qamar.

Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduced the framework for recognizing self-regulatory organizations in the financial technology sector (SRO-FT). SROs act as intermediaries between industry players and regulators, setting standards for conduct and promoting ethical practices. India boasts the world’s third-largest fintech ecosystem, with significant global funding. The Indian fintech industry was valued at $50 billion in 2021, expected to reach around $150 billion by 2025. India also accounted for 46% of global real-time transactions in 2022.

Notes:
In a significant move, Allamaye Halina has been appointed as Chad’s new Prime Minister, replacing Succes Masra, who resigned recently. Halina’s appointment strengthens the new administration’s authority. However, opposition voices express concerns about a perceived Deby dynasty, alleging control over key institutions by the clan and its allies. The transition triggers debate and allegations amidst Chad’s political landscape.

Notes:
The Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) and IIT Hyderabad have signed an MoU to collaborate on research and training. This partnership aims to innovate medical devices and address health issues for soldiers in diverse terrains. The agreement was signed by Lt Gen Daljit Singh and Prof. BS Murty, with IIT Hyderabad providing technical expertise through its Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, and Bioinformatics departments.

Notes:
Cambodia plans to commence construction on the Funan Techo canal, a 180-kilometer project funded by China. This canal will link Kep, a coastal province, to the capital Phnom Penh via the Bassac River, diminishing reliance on Vietnamese ports for international shipping. It aims to boost Cambodia’s connectivity and trade autonomy.

Notes:
The Centre for Science and Environment urges developed nations to meet climate finance commitments ahead of the 29th UNFCCC Conference of Parties (COP). The 60th meeting of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB60) in Bonn, Germany, from June 3-13, 2024, will gather UNFCCC signatories, including national delegates and civil society. With around 6,000 participants, SB60 marks a pivotal moment between CoP28 and CoP29, setting the stage for future climate negotiations.

Notes:
The US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework is convening a ministerial meeting in Singapore. The gathering includes major firms participating in a “Clean Economy” investor forum aimed at enhancing infrastructure and climate investments across the region.