Current Affairs Quiz - June, 2024

Notes:
Enterprises globally are adopting Large Action Models (LAMs), advanced AI models that understand complex goals via natural language and autonomously execute tasks. Unlike Large Language Models (LLMs), LAMs integrate language comprehension with logic and reasoning for task execution. They utilize deep learning and reinforcement learning from vast datasets for strategic planning and real-time decision-making. Applications include personal assistants, autonomous vehicles, robotics, healthcare, and financial modeling.

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The Rajaji Raghati Biosphere (RRB) within Uttarakhand’s Rajaji National Park spans 35 acres, focusing on rare and endangered native trees. Founded by environmentalists Jai Dhar Gupta and Vijay Dhasmana, it’s India’s first biosphere within a tiger reserve. It restores barren land by removing non-native eucalyptus trees and employs water retention techniques. The initiative fights threats such as poaching and mining, aiming to protect and revive native ecosystems.

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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:
Prem Singh Tamang of Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) was sworn in as Chief Minister of Sikkim for a second term on June 10. The 56-year-old took the oath in Nepali, administered by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, attended by thousands of supporters. Despite a firecracker ban, celebrations erupted. Eleven other ministers, including Sonam Lama and Arun Kumar Upreti, were also sworn in.

Notes:
The 8th Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX-24) has commenced in Yokosuka, Japan. Hosted by the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF), it features the Indian Navy’s INS Shivalik and JMSDF’s JS Yugiri. The exercise includes harbour and sea phases, focusing on naval interaction and warfighting skills, aiming to enhance interoperability and strengthen defense ties between Japan and India.

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World Day Against Child Labour is observed annually on 12 June to focus on ending child labour. Initiated by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in 2002, the day highlights global efforts to protect children. The 2024 theme, “Let’s act on our commitments: End Child Labour,” marks the 25th anniversary of the ILO’s Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention. The ILO headquarters is in Geneva, Switzerland.

Notes:
The Iberian Lynx, once near extinction, is the world’s most endangered feline species. Native to the Iberian Peninsula, it inhabits Mediterranean forests with dense scrub and open pastures. This tawny, heavily spotted wildcat with a “beard” and black ear tufts primarily feeds on European rabbits. Conservation status: Endangered (IUCN) and listed in CITES Appendix II. Major threats include illegal hunting, habitat loss, and food scarcity.

Notes:
Chief Minister Pema Khandu was sworn in for a third consecutive term on June 13, 2024, at the DK State Convention Centre in Itanagar. He announced that the Bharatiya Janata Party’s election manifesto will guide Arunachal Pradesh’s new government for the next five years. Additionally, his Council of Ministers will meet to outline a development roadmap within the first 100 days of their tenure.

Notes:
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has chosen India to host the inaugural FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup, featuring 24 teams, in December 2025. This decision aligns with FIH’s strategy to expand opportunities and promote diversity in hockey. FIH President Tayyab Ikram and Hockey India’s President Dr. Dilip Tirkey emphasized the event’s significance and India’s commitment to fostering global hockey talent. India has previously hosted the tournament thrice, winning twice.

Notes:
The National Commission for Indian Medical Systems held a two-day National Conference, ‘PRANA’ (Protecting Rights and Novelties in ASUS), in collaboration with the All India Council for Technical Education and the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell to mark its fourth foundation. The conference highlighted patentable innovations suitable for commercialization and startups in the Indian System of Medicines. Padmashree Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha emphasized the vast scope for ISM innovations.