Current Affairs Quiz - October, 2024

Notes:
The World Bank released the South Asian Development Update report, indicating that output growth in South Asia will exceed that of other emerging market regions. Climate change is exposing South Asia to extreme heat, floods, and other weather-related shocks, with smaller firms in India being particularly vulnerable. Female labor force participation in the region is low at 32%, highlighting the potential for income growth through gender equity. The report mentions a marriage penalty, noting that marriage decreases women’s labor force participation. Bhutan’s economy is projected to grow by 7.2% in FY25, with India close behind at 7%, driven by private consumption, tourism, and hydropower exports.

Notes:
The India Digital Agri Conference 2024, co-organized by ICFA and IIT Ropar, was held in New Delhi. The mission aims to empower farmers with real-time information for better decision-making and boost rural livelihoods. The event emphasized using technology and collaboration to innovate traditional farming, promote sustainability, and build climate-resilient systems.

Notes:
The Chagos Islands, located in the Indian Ocean, have a rich history of cultural connections and colonial struggles. The archipelago consists of seven atolls and is geographically close to the Maldives, sharing deep historical ties. There are historical claims by the Maldives over the Chagos Islands, supported by cultural and navigational connections. Marine conservation in the region is a significant contemporary issue.

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The recently released ‘EnviStats India-2024’ report ranked the Nagarjuna Sagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) first among India’s 55 tiger reserves for its leopard population, estimating around 360 leopards. The report states that 270 leopards inhabit the reserve, while another 90 move through the area. India’s overall leopard population is estimated at 13,874, with 569 leopards in Andhra Pradesh. NSTR also hosts more than 80 tigers across 1,401 square kilometers. Conservation efforts, including ensuring food and water sources and fire prevention measures, have boosted the leopard population.

Notes:
THAAD (Terminal High-Altitude Area Defence), a missile defense system developed by United States, is designed to intercept and destroy short to intermediate-range ballistic missiles. The U.S. has deployed THAAD to Israel as part of its commitment to Israel’s defense amid rising tensions with Iran. This deployment enhances Israel’s existing air defense capabilities, providing a deterrent against missile threats. The system employs “hit-to-kill” technology and can cover a broader area than older systems, reflecting strategic military adjustments in the region.

Notes:
The 2024 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences was awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A Robinson for their research on how institutions affect economic prosperity. They distinguished between inclusive and extractive institutions, emphasizing that societies with poor rule of law and concentrated power do not foster growth. Their findings link the historical choices made by colonizers regarding institutions to present-day economic disparities, highlighting the importance of inclusive systems for long-term prosperity.

Notes:
World Standards Day is celebrated on October 14 to honor experts who create voluntary standards for safety and consumer satisfaction. It originated in 1946, leading to the creation of the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) in 1947. The first official World Standards Day was held in 1970. National standards bodies and organisations like ISO, ITU, ASME, and IESBA mark the day with events like seminars and exhibitions. The day highlights the role of standardisation in healthcare, policymaking, privacy, and security. This year’s theme is “Shared Vision for a Better World: Standards for the Changing Climate.”

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:
World Students’ Day is celebrated annually on October 15th. The day honors students worldwide and raises awareness about their challenges. It marks the birth anniversary of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, a former President of India and educator. The day highlights the importance of education and its role in shaping society’s future. It encourages students to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles. The celebration acknowledges students’ contributions and promotes education as a tool for personal and social development.

Notes:
SpaceX achieved a milestone by landing its Starship rocket using the “Mechazilla” structure. Mechazilla is a 400-ft rocket-catching structure at SpaceX’s Starbase. It has two large mechanical arms, called “chopsticks,” to catch the returning Super Heavy booster midair. After launch, the booster separates, descends with controlled thrusters, and is caught by Mechazilla’s arms. This method enables reusable and efficient rocket recovery. It reduces launch costs and boosts sustainability by allowing quick refurbishment and reuse of the booster.