Current Affairs Quiz - May, 2024

Notes:
The Assam government launched the Disaster Reporting and Information Management System (DRIMS), in collaboration with UNICEF. The platform is an initiative of the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) to help accurately report and assess damage caused by disasters, and to distribute aid to those affected. DRIMS captures critical impact data, such as damage to crops and livestock losses, to help expedite relief delivery and post-disaster restoration efforts. The platform also helps to quickly deliver rehabilitation grants to affected beneficiaries.

Notes:
India stands out as the only top-five crude steel-producing country to exhibit growth in April 2024, recording a 3.9% increase compared to April 2023, reaching 12.1 million tonnes. This growth contrasts with the global decline of 5.0%, totaling 155.7 million tonnes. China, the largest producer, experienced a 7.2% decrease, while Japan, the USA, and Russia also faced declines. India’s growth is notable amidst concerns about potential steel dumping following US import duties on Chinese steel.

Notes:
The GSAP SKILLS Platform, launched at the Fourth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Implementation, Convention on Biological Diversity. It aims to bolster global species conservation efforts. Managed by IUCN, it connects decision-makers, practitioners, and experts, providing real-time updates and technical resources. Supported by the Ministry of Environment, Republic of Korea, and resources from the Tech4Nature Initiative by IUCN and Huawei, it facilitates collaboration and implements biodiversity targets with actionable interventions and tools.

Notes:
A recent study exposes extensive microplastic pollution in Ashtamudi Lake, emphasizing ongoing monitoring and addressing potential public health risks. Located in Kerala’s Kollam district, the lake boasts scenic beauty and eight connecting channels, earning its name Ashtamudi. Second-largest in Kerala, it drains into the sea via Neendakara estuary, fed primarily by the Kallada River. Historically significant, it served as a crucial port in the 14th century, and hosts diverse marshy mangroves, including endangered species.

Notes:
The Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources, and Associated Traditional Knowledge was adopted at a WIPO Diplomatic Conference in Geneva. WIPO, a UN agency established in 1967, promotes a balanced global intellectual property system for innovation. With 193 member states, WIPO serves as a policy forum for governments, organizations, and civil society to address IP issues. Regular meetings negotiate changes to ensure the IP system encourages creativity and innovation in a changing world.

Notes:
A massive landslide in Papua New Guinea buried over 2,000 people in a remote Enga province village, causing major destruction to homes, buildings, and food gardens. Papua New Guinea informed the UN that over 2,000 people were buried in a massive landslide caused by Mount Mungalo’s collapse, devastating a remote Enga province village. The disaster caused significant destruction to buildings and food gardens. The national disaster center stressed the urgent need for collaborative efforts from the army, national, and regional responders to address the crisis.

Notes:
A new plant species, Stellaria mcclintockiae, was discovered on the muddy slopes of Kerala’s Nelliyampathy hills, at elevations of 1,250-1,400 meters. This annual herb, growing up to 15 cm tall, belongs to the genus Stellaria (family Caryophyllaceae). It features distinct petals, pollen morphology, bracts, sepals, and seed architecture. As the first Stellaria species found in South India, researchers recommend it be classified as critically endangered.

Notes:
Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East announced the Green Airports Recognition (GAR) 2024 results, honoring 12 airports for sustainability achievements. The 2024 theme, Biodiversity and Nature-Based Solutions, encouraged airports to implement best practices. Efforts included planting trees for carbon reduction, marine life conservation, wetland and ecological restoration, in-house horticulture, and wildlife management strategies to ensure safe operations while preserving biodiversity.

Notes:
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) released the 2024 Asia-Pacific Employment and Social Outlook report. Key highlights include an improved Employment to Population Ratio (EPR) in the region at 58.2% (2023), with Indian women contributing significantly. India faces an aging population, with the old age dependency ratio projected to increase from 0.10 to 0.22 by 2050. Accelerated productivity growth is crucial for India to achieve high-income status by 2050, with 76% of manufacturers reporting skilled labor shortages.

Notes:
Spain pledged 1 billion euros military support to Ukraine, agreed by Zelenskiy and Sanchez in Madrid. Spain lies in South-Western Europe, bordered by Portugal, Andorra, France, Gibraltar, and Morocco. Maritime boundaries include the Mediterranean and Atlantic. Teide Peak is the highest point. Major rivers include Tagus and Ebro. The climate varies from temperate to hot summers inland and moderate along the coast.