Current Affairs Quiz - October, 2024

Notes:
Recent studies indicate that the Rocahepevirus ratti strain, commonly known as “rat HEV,” primarily resides in rats and has been found to infect humans. Since its first human case in 2018, at least 20 cases have been reported, often linked to the consumption of raw pork. Researchers discovered that rat HEV could infect pigs and spread among them, highlighting concerns for the pork industry as a potential pathway for human infection. Hepatitis E remains a significant global health issue, particularly in developing regions.

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The Dasra Philanthropy Forum-2024 highlighted the adoption of climate-aligned agricultural practices by tribal communities in southern Rajasthan. Indigenous knowledge and community governance were emphasized, showcasing how these practices prioritize local food production over market-driven economies. The forum featured discussions on strategies for climate-resilient farming systems, which help communities adapt to regional climate changes. Jayesh Joshi from Vaagdhara underscored the importance of tribal initiatives in enhancing sustainability and resilience, while a collection of stories titled “Echoes of Swaraj” was released to showcase transformative practices of these communities.

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UNESCO has accredited the Keremane Idagunji Mahaganapati Yakshagana Mandali, founded in 1934 by Late Keremane Shivarama Hegde. The objective is to educate future generations and safeguard Yakshagana from decline, ensuring its relevance and vitality. Yakshagana is a traditional theatre form that originated between the 11th and 16th centuries in coastal Karnataka and parts of Kerala. It combines dance, music, dialogues, colorful costumes, and heavy make-up, inspired by the Vaishnava Bhakti movement. The themes include stories of Lord Krishna, Vishnu, and Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Traditionally, men played all roles, but women are now included in troupes.

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NATO will set up a new land command in Finland near the Russian border in 2025 to oversee land operations in northern Europe during conflicts. This move follows Finland’s recent NATO membership after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The new command will work alongside Finland’s existing land force command in Mikkeli.

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The Meghalaya government signed an MoU with The/Nudge Institute to support 50,000 vulnerable households, focusing on single mothers. The partnership aims at social inclusion, financial inclusion, livelihood promotion, and social protection. They will provide livelihood coaching and support through a dedicated community cadre for the poorest households. The initiative will use technology-based tools for efficient implementation and create social protection frameworks. The partnership was announced during the North-East Conclave in Shillong, which highlighted collaborative efforts to address the needs of vulnerable communities, with presentations from other states.

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The Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched the People’s Plan Campaign, also known as Jan Yojana Abhiyan. The campaign is themed ‘Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas’ and focuses on preparing Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs) for 2025–26. Special Gram Sabhas are being organized in over 2.55 lakh Gram Panchayats. The aim is to strengthen grassroots democracy and promote inclusive development in rural India. This initiative empowers rural citizens to actively participate in shaping the future of their villages.

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The World Green Economy Forum launched in Dubai, bringing together global leaders to address environmental challenges.
Under Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s patronage, the theme was “Empowering Global Action: Unlocking Opportunities and Advancing Progress.” Sessions focused on international cooperation for climate mitigation and integrated approaches to meet sustainable development goals. Strategies for decarbonizing energy-intensive industries were discussed, emphasizing public-private partnerships and philanthropists’ roles in climate solutions. The forum highlighted AI’s importance in sustainability and the future of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), along with youth’s critical role in environmental progress.

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The 26th Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) 2024 started at the Dubai World Trade Centre with 29 leading Indian companies participating. Organized by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the event runs until October 3, showcasing innovations in renewable energy, water treatment, and environmental technologies. Sunjay Sudhir, the Indian Ambassador to the UAE, emphasized the importance of Indian participation in supporting the green economy and Sustainable Development Goals. The UAE-India economic relationship has strengthened since the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in May 2022, with trade volume reaching 84.5 billion and projections of 100 billion by 2027.

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India has recently become an affiliate member of the International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF). The IMDRF was established in 2011 to promote international medical device regulatory harmonization. Its members include regulatory authorities from countries like the U.S., Australia, Canada, the EU, Japan, and WHO. Membership reduces complexity for manufacturers and promotes public health through collaboration. It supports innovation and timely access to new medical devices. India will participate in IMDRF Open Sessions to share experiences and discuss regulatory strategies. This will strengthen India’s medical device regulatory system and ensure public health protection.

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IIT-Madras Pravartak has launched a cyber commandos training program for police. This six-month residential program is an initiative of the Union Home Ministry. It aims to provide specialized cyber training for law enforcement agencies across India. Unlike existing cybercrime cells that focus on reactive measures, this program will develop a proactive force to tackle cyber threats. The training will enhance the capabilities of police in effectively combating and preventing cybercrimes.