Current Affairs Quiz - March, 2024

Notes:
The National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) in Jaipur, India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, Thailand in February 2024. The MoU is for academic collaboration in Ayurveda and Thai traditional medicine. The NIA also has collaborations with other universities, institutes, and organizations in countries like Malaysia and Korea.

Notes:
The Odisha government is establishing the State Water Information Centre (SWIC) to coordinate, store, and disseminate water resource data. Operating under the Water Resources Department, it aims to maintain a comprehensive repository of hydro-meteorological data for Odisha. The center will be staffed with experts in water resources management and data handling. Additionally, the approval for contractual supervisors will enhance service delivery in Internal Child Development Services in Odisha.

Notes:
The Exercise Samudra Laksamana, a joint naval drill between the Indian Navy and Royal Malaysian Navy, commenced on February 28 and concluded on March 2 off the coast of Visakhapatnam. In its 3rd edition, the exercise involves Indian Naval Ship Kiltan and Royal Malaysian Ship KD Lekir. Professional interactions, knowledge exchange, and collaborative sea operations aim to strengthen bilateral bonds, foster cooperation, and enhance interoperability between the two navies.

Notes:
The Nagaland government introduced a fully-funded universal life insurance scheme, aiming to alleviate financial hardships resulting from untimely deaths. This initiative guarantees financial security by offering coverage for both breadwinners and their family members. The scheme works in conjunction with the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme, providing comprehensive protection and support.

Notes:
The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana on February 29, 2024, with a total outlay of Rs 75,021 crore. The scheme aims to install rooftop solar panels in one crore households and provide free electricity of up to 300 units per month. The scheme also includes: A one-time budgetary support of Rs 150 crore for five years until 2027-28, a central financial assistance of 60% of the system cost for 2 kW systems and 40% of the additional system cost for systems between 2 to 3 kW capacity and a subsidy of Rs 30,000 to Rs 60,000 for an average monthly electricity consumption of 0-150 units, Rs 60,000 to Rs 78,000 for 150-300 units, and Rs 78,000 for more than 300 unit.

Notes:
World Hearing Day, celebrated annually on March 3, 2024, addresses the global issue of hearing loss. This year’s theme, set by the World Health Organization, emphasizes “Changing mindsets: Let’s make ear and hearing care a reality for all.” Serving as a global call to action, the day advocates for preventative measures, treatment, and overall ear health awareness. It encourages individuals to protect their hearing and seek help for hearing-related concerns.

Notes:
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the Asian River Rafting Championship near Basantpur on Sutlej River near the Ridge Shimla. The event hosts 20 teams from nations including Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Iran, Iraq, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Indonesia. Emphasizing the government’s commitment to promoting adventure tourism, the Chief Minister highlighted a recent river rafting marathon in Nadaun, Hamirpur district, as part of this initiative.

Notes:
Yatin Bhaskar Duggal of Haryana clinched victory at the National Youth Parliament Festival, 2024. Vaishna Pitchai from Tamil Nadu secured second place, and Kanishka Sharma of Rajasthan claimed the third prize, showcasing the abundant talent and dedication across the nation.

Notes:
The Karnataka state government has partnered with the World Economic Forum to establish a state-of-the-art AI center, formalized through a Letter of Intent signed on February 29. This strategic alliance aims to position Karnataka as a global hub for artificial intelligence, marking a crucial move towards integrating the state into the global digital and technological landscape.

Notes:
The Indian government, in consultation with the Election Commission of India, has increased the minimum age for senior citizens to use postal ballots from 80 to 85 years, effective immediately. With India’s electorate at 96.88 crore, 1.85 crore citizens are aged above 80. The amended Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, now defines “senior citizens” eligible for postal ballot voting as those above 85 years, replacing the previous threshold of 80 years, aiming to enhance electoral convenience for the elderly.