Current Affairs Quiz - November, 2024

Notes:
The Assam cabinet has renamed Karimganj as Sribhumi District to reflect its cultural heritage, inspired by Rabindranath Tagore’s description of the area over a century ago. This change aims to restore the historical identity of the region and fulfill the aspirations of its residents. Additionally, the cabinet approved various initiatives to boost investment and infrastructure development in Assam, including the upcoming Assam Investment and Infrastructure Summit in 2025.

Notes:
Recent research has identified Candidatus Phytoplasma as the causative agent of a peculiar disease in sesame fields in Midnapore, West Bengal. Sesame, known as the “Queen of Oil,” is an ancient oilseed crop with medicinal properties. The disease causes disfigurement and virescence in the plants, impacting their yield. Researchers, led by Prof. Gaurab Gangopadhyay, have been studying this issue and aim to improve sesame varieties through molecular marker-assisted breeding to combat this threat and enhance the crop’s benefits.

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World Heritage Week is celebrated globally to raise awareness about traditions and cultures. UNESCO recognizes the heritage sites highlighted during this observance. In 2024, India celebrates World Heritage Week from November 19 to November 25 under the theme “Discover and Experience Diversity.” The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has announced free entry to heritage sites, including the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, on November 19. ASI protects over 3,650 ancient monuments and sites across India. Events like exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours will educate visitors on the importance of these sites.

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The RS-26 Rubezh is a mobile intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launched by Russia, marking its first use in the Ukraine conflict. With a range of 5,000–6,000 kilometers, it can deliver nuclear warheads, posing a significant threat to Europe and the U.S. This strike follows Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles, escalating tensions further. The missile is derived from the RS-24 Yars and represents a modernized capability in Russia’s arsenal, reinforcing its deterrent posture against NATO and Western involvement in the ongoing war.

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The Australian government has introduced a bill that aims to ban social media access for children under 16 years of age. This legislation requires platforms like TikTok and Facebook to implement age verification measures. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized the need for social media companies to take responsibility for user safety, citing concerns about the mental health impacts on children. This reform is seen as one of the strictest globally regarding social media access for minors.

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The Union Minister of Power recently visited Nimoo Bazgo Power Station in Ladakh. It is located in Leh district, Ladakh. This hydropower project operates at high altitudes and challenging terrain. It is developed and operated by NHPC Limited with an installed capacity of 45 MW. The station uses the Indus River’s flow, ensuring eco-friendly and renewable energy generation. It supports Ladakh’s rapid development by providing stable green energy for residential and commercial use. Through CSR initiatives, the station promotes community development, infrastructure improvements, skill development, and environmental conservation.

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The UN Alliance of Civilizations’ 10th Global Forum, held in Cascais, Portugal under the theme “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future” . It focuses on uniting diverse cultures for peace. It features discussions on pressing global issues, including artificial intelligence and sports, emphasizing the importance of cultural diversity, youth engagement, and innovative solutions for sustainable development. The event aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among nations to address contemporary challenges and promote a more inclusive future.

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India’s is set to launch Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) the world’s first parallel satellite to study the Sun’s corona under Proba-3 mission. Proba-3 is an European Space Agency (ESA) mission to observe the Sun’s outer atmosphere using two satellites in parallel formation, creating an artificial eclipse in space. The mission could lead to future multi-satellite missions and enhance space weather understanding. It highlights international collaboration, with contributions from ESA member states and ISRO. Data from the mission will aid solar research and improve space weather forecasting, benefiting satellite operations.

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The 5th Anniversary of the National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS) web portal was celebrated. It was launched by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs on November 26, 2019. It aims to expand Youth Parliament participation nationwide, including untouched areas, promoting democratic values. The portal provides guidelines, training modules, video tutorials, and sample scripts for self-learning. Participants receive e-certificates after conducting physical or virtual Youth Parliament sittings. NYPS 2.0, launched in 2024, allows participation through Institutions, Groups, or Individuals. More than 1,00,000 students have participated since its inception. The initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of strengthening democracy by engaging youth.

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The Earth Observation (EO) from Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary showed an increase in settlements near the main temple area from 2000 to 2020. During the same period, dense forest in the sanctuary was significantly converted to open forest. Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Junagadh district, Gujarat, and spans the rugged Girnar hills in the Saurashtra region. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2008. The sanctuary is home to several endangered species, including the Asiatic lion.