Current Affairs Quiz - June, 2024

Notes:
India hosted the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Kochi and announced a successor to its Maitri research base, Maitri II. Saudi Arabia joined the Antarctic Treaty Parties. India emphasized inclusive governance, stating that geopolitics should not influence Antarctica’s governance and that the treaty should not remain an exclusive club of select nations.

Notes:
New Zealand’s left-arm fast bowler Trent Boult announced his retirement from international cricket after New Zealand’s final Group C match against Papua New Guinea at the 2024 T20 ICC Cricket World Cup. Boult took two wickets for 14 runs. Fellow pacer Lockie Ferguson achieved a rare feat, taking three wickets without conceding a run in his four overs, making him the second player to do so in T20 internationals.

Notes:
BJP leader and seven-time MP Bhartruhari Mahtab was appointed pro-tem Speaker of the Lok Sabha. His duties include administering the oath to newly elected members of the 18th Lok Sabha and presiding over the House until the Speaker is elected. The pro-tem Speaker is a temporary position, essential for the initial functioning of a newly formed Lok Sabha.

Notes:
The theme for Yoga Day 2024 is ‘Yoga for Self and Society’, emphasizing its holistic benefits for health and well-being. Established by the United Nations in 2014, at the suggestion of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on June 21, coinciding with the summer solstice. This day highlights yoga’s transformative power and its role in promoting balance and harmony in individuals and communities worldwide.

Notes:
The Union Cabinet approved a Rs 2869.65 crore development plan for Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi. Managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the project aims to expand passenger capacity significantly. Key features include a new terminal spanning 75,000 square meters, lengthened runways, and an enlarged apron. The airport will handle 6 million passengers annually, with eco-friendly measures like energy efficiency, waste recycling, and solar power adoption promoting sustainability and enhancing traveler experience.

Notes:
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath pushed for the swift implementation of ‘Family IDs’, aiming to streamline government benefits and job opportunities. Under the “One Family, One Identity” scheme, each family receives a unique ID to enhance scheme management and ensure transparent operations. Around 15.07 crore people benefit from this initiative, leveraging Family IDs for access to the National Food Security Act. Over 1 lakh families without ration cards have already received their IDs.

Notes:
The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) was awarded the 2024 Blue Planet Prize for its role as the global authority on biodiversity, ecosystem services, and nature’s contributions to people. Established in 1992, this prestigious award by Japan’s Asahi Glass Foundation recognizes scientific contributions towards solving global environmental challenges. IPBES shares the honor with Robert Costanza from University College London for his work in ecological economics, each receiving USD 500,000 for their achievements.

Notes:
A PLA study claims China’s Fire Dragon 480 missile can sink a US Ticonderoga-class cruiser in the Red Sea. The 750-mm tactical ballistic missile, made by Norinco Group, features precision-guidance sensors and a high-speed launch platform. With a warhead over 400 kg and impact velocity over 500 meters per second, it can destroy a 10,000-ton cruiser with two hits. Adopted in 2019, it has a range exceeding 500 km.

Notes:
The Union Home Minister inaugurated the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) at Indira Gandhi International Airport. This initiative by the Central Government aims to expedite immigration clearance for pre-verified travellers, reducing airport congestion. Collaborating with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Bureau of Immigration, it mirrors the US Global Entry Program. Implemented in multiple Indian cities, it includes e-gates for seamless clearance in two phases, starting with Indian citizens and OCI cardholders.

Notes:
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) signed an agreement to upgrade the Biocontainment Facility at Chaudhary Charan Singh National Institute of Animal Health (CCSNAIH), Baghpat. The project, costing ₹160 crores, will take 20 months. CCSNAIH, an apex lab since 2010, conducts quality control testing for veterinary vaccines, including HS and RD. The agreement was signed in the presence of Secretary Alka Upadhyaya.