Current Affairs Quiz - June, 2024

Notes:
Amid public outrage over the Gaza conflict, Maldives has banned Israeli passport holders’ entry into the country. The decision contrasts with diplomatic relations restored in 2010 after lifting a ban in the early 1990s. This move reflects Maldives’ stance on the conflict and underscores tensions in the region.

Notes:
World Food Safety Day, celebrated on June 7th, raises awareness about food safety and promotes actions to prevent foodborne risks. Initiated by the UN in 2016 and supported by FAO and WHO, it underscores the importance of safe, nutritious food for all. Officially recognized on August 3, 2020, this day emphasizes food safety’s critical role in global health. This year’s theme has been revealed as: Food safety: Prepare for the unexpected.

Notes:
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) launched ‘Saarthi 2.0’, a mobile app aiding investors in managing finances. The app simplifies complex financial concepts, offers financial calculators for informed decisions, and includes educational modules on KYC, mutual funds, ETFs, and stock trading. It also provides investor support through grievance redressal and Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platforms, along with video content on personal finance planning.

Notes:
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and Peru’s central bank (BCRP) have partnered to create a UPI-like payment system in Peru. This makes Peru the first South American country to adopt NPCI’s technology, enabling instant payments between individuals and businesses. The initiative aims to expand digital payments among Peru’s large unbanked population.

Notes:
The Capgemini Research Institute’s World Wealth Report 2024 reveals a 12.2% rise in India’s high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in 2023, totaling 3.589 million. Globally, HNWI wealth grew 4.7% to $86.8 trillion, with a 5.1% increase in the HNWI population to 22.8 million. India’s HNWI financial wealth rose by 12.4% to $1,445.7 billion. Key drivers include a resilient economy, robust equity markets, a lower unemployment rate, and increased market capitalization and national savings.

Notes:
UNICEF’s “Child Nutrition Report, 2024” highlights severe child food poverty (CFP) affecting 27% of children globally. In India, 40% suffer from severe CFP, the second highest in South Asia. Key issues include the prevalence of unhealthy foods, indicating that income alone isn’t the cause. Contributing factors are inequities, conflict, climate crises, and food marketing. Recommendations include improving data systems, transforming food systems, and enhancing health services for child nutrition.

Notes:
Panama plans to relocate Gardi Sugdub Island’s entire community due to climate change impacts, including rising sea levels, freshwater contamination, and coastal erosion. The Indigenous Guna people, facing generational disruptions, will move to Carti Sugtupu on the mainland. Approximately 63 coastal communities in Panama face similar challenges.

Notes:
A new tiger reserve will be established in Uttar Pradesh due to evidence of tiger presence in Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary (SWS). Located in Shravasti, Balrampur, and Gonda districts, SWS spans 452 sq km along the Indo-Nepal border. Established in 1988, it features a mix of deciduous and semi-evergreen woodlands. SWS hosts diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and various bird species, and is part of the Bhabar-Tarai ecosystem.

Notes:
Urbanization threatens the survival of greater adjutant storks in Assam’s wetlands. Found in South and Southeast Asia, they nest in tall trees near wetlands, feeding mainly on fish, frogs, and carrion. Threats include habitat loss, overfishing, and pollution. Classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, they play a vital role in sanitation and disease control. Two Indian breeding populations exist, primarily in Assam, highlighting the urgency for conservation efforts.

Notes:
Sub Lieutenant Anamika B. Rajeev made history at INS Rajali, Arakkonam, by becoming the first woman in the Indian Navy to fly a helicopter. This milestone was achieved during the 102nd Helicopter Conversion Course’s passing out parade. Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar awarded “Golden Wings” to 21 officers at the event, which marked the end of Stage I training for the 4th Basic Helicopter Conversion Course on June 7.