Current Affairs Quiz - October, 2024

Notes:
Russian and Chinese navy warships are conducting anti-submarine missions in the northwestern Pacific during a joint patrol after the Beibu/Interaction 2024 exercises. The operations involve complex training sessions and combat exercises, including anti-submarine defense and sea rescues. Key Russian vessels involved in the missions include Admiral Panteleyev and Admiral Tributs. China has deployed destroyers such as Xining and Wuxi, along with other ships for these exercises.

Notes:
The 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to David Baker, Demis Hassabis, and John M. Jumper for contributions to protein science. David Baker received the prize for computational protein design, creating entirely new proteins since 2003. Demis Hassabis and John Jumper were recognized for developing AlphaFold2, an AI model that predicts 3D protein structures. AlphaFold2 can predict the structure of nearly all 200 million identified proteins. These innovations are used in fields like pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and solving challenges like antibiotic resistance and plastic degradation.

Notes:
Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to fully digitalize document registration with its new e-registry system, Sampada 2.0. This advanced version of the software and mobile app allows document registration to be completed online, eliminating the need for physical visits to Sub-Registrar offices. The process is now completely digital, secure, and paperless, making it more convenient and hassle-free for users.

Notes:
RBI proposed the Reserve Bank Climate Risk Information System (RB-CRIS) to bridge gaps in climate-related data. Current climate data is fragmented, from varied sources, formats, and frequencies. RB-CRIS will have two parts: a public web directory of data sources and a data portal with standardized datasets. RBI will launch RB-CRIS in phases, starting with the directory, followed by the portal for regulated entities. Regulated entities must assess climate risks to ensure financial stability. RBI’s draft guidelines require disclosures on governance, strategy, risk management, and metrics related to climate risks.

Notes:
Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh is set to become the state’s 8th tiger reserve. It covers about 3,500 sq km across Raisen, Sehore, and Bhopal districts. 1,500 sq km will be the core tiger area, with 2,000 sq km as a buffer zone. The sanctuary is home to 40 tigers, with 12 more tigers frequently moving nearby. It will boost tourism and the local economy, with increased government funding. The sanctuary hosts diverse wildlife, including over 150 bird species.

Notes:
The Ministry of Defence is seeking more funds to expand the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) scheme. iDEX stands for Innovations for Defence Excellence and is a key initiative by the Ministry of Defence. iDEX was launched in April 2018 to promote self-reliance and innovation in defence and aerospace. It engages various sectors, including MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes, and academia.

Notes:
The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) launched the MAHA-EV Mission to advance electric vehicle (EV) technology. It aims to reduce import dependency, boost domestic innovation, and make India a global leader in the EV sector. The mission is part of ANRF’s program to tackle critical scientific challenges through collaboration. Focus areas include Tropical EV Batteries, Power Electronics, Machines and Drives (PEMD), and EV Charging Infrastructure. It will enhance India’s capability in EV component design and development. The mission supports global competitiveness, innovation, and promotes a greener, sustainable future with electric mobility.

Notes:
NASA launched the Europa Clipper spacecraft to explore Jupiter’s moon, Europa, and its potential to sustain life. The spacecraft will travel 3 billion kilometers in a nearly 10-year mission. Europa is believed to have a deep ocean, possibly 120 km beneath its icy surface. In 2013, Hubble detected geysers on Europa, suggesting thermal vents that could support life. The mission aims to study these vents for signs of life. Europa Clipper is NASA’s largest spacecraft, powered by solar panels, with a budget of $5.2 billion.

Notes:
Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud discussed nemaline myopathy, a genetic condition affecting his foster daughters. Nemaline myopathy, or rod myopathy, is a rare congenital disorder that weakens skeletal muscles. The condition is named after “nemaline,” referring to thread-like structures found in the muscle cells of affected individuals. It is a rare disorder, occurring in approximately 1 in 50,000 births. Symptoms include muscle weakness in the face, neck, and trunk, and difficulties in feeding and breathing. Diagnosis often involves painful procedures like muscle biopsies. While there is no cure, treatments such as physical therapy and respiratory support can help manage symptoms, underscoring the need for better awareness and medical resources in India.

Notes:
The Samarth Scheme is a government initiative aimed at enhancing skill development in the textile sector, with a budget of Rs. 495 Crore for FY 2024-25 and 2025-26. It aims to train 3 lakh individuals, focusing on job creation in organized textile industries while excluding spinning and weaving. The program also emphasizes upskilling existing workers and supports traditional textile sectors such as handloom and handicraft, with a significant focus on women’s employment, training 2.89 lakh women to date.