In Current Affairs for Monthly November 2024, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial for your upcoming NDA, CDS, CDS OTA, AFCAT, TA, Agniveer Army, Agniveer Navy, Agniveer Air Force, Women Military Police, INET, MNS, ACC exams, SCO, PCSL, CAPF, and SSB interviews, and direct entries for Army, Navy, and Air Force like SSC Tech, TGC, JAG, NCC, TES, 10+2 Cadet. Download a PDF file about current events at the end of this article. Let us now see the Current Affairs.
Monthly Current Affairs November 2024
Waste To Energy Plant In Ahmedabad
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated Gujarat’s largest waste-to-energy plant at Piplaj in Ahmedabad City.
- The plant has been established on a PPP model at a cost of 375 crore rupees. Akashvani correspondent reports that this will be Ahmedabad’s first waste-to-energy plant, which will prove to be a big step towards a green future.
- The largest West-to-Energy Plant, which has been set up at Pirana Piplaj Road in Ahmedabad, is a joint partnership between the Government of Gujarat and the Jindal Urban Waste Management Company.
- The plant, which was set up on an experimental basis, was inaugurated officially today. It has the capacity to generate 15 megawatts of energy from 1 thousand metric tonnes of solid waste per day. The plant will not only ensure a green and clean future for Ahmedabad but will also prove to be a model initiative for effective waste management
Secular Civil Code
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India is moving towards One Nation Civil Code that is a Secular Civil Code. Addressing ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas’ celebrations at Kevadia in Gujarat, Mr Modi said that the pursuit of a secular civil code is key to ending discrimination.
- Prime Minister said, today we are all seeing the success of One Nation Identity – Aadhar and the world is also discussing it. He said, earlier, there were different tax systems in India, but we created the One Nation One Tax System – GST.
- Prime Minister said, his government strengthened the country’s power sector with One Nation One Power Grid and integrated the facilities available to the poor through One Nation One Ration Card.
- Mr Modi said, we have provided the facility of One Nation One Health Insurance to the people of the country in the form of Aayushman Bharat.
- He said, under these efforts of ours for unity, we are now working towards One Nation One Election, which will strengthen India’s democracy, which will give optimum outcome of India’s resources and the country will gain new momentum in achieving the dream of a developed India.
Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak
- Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak has been awarded to 463 personnel of various States and Union Territories, Central Armed Police Forces and Central Police Organisations for the year 2024.
- The medal is given to recognize excellent work, promote high professional standards and boost the morale of the officers in the fields of Special Operation, Investigation, Intelligence and Forensic Science.
- The Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak was instituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 1st February this year.
- The Ministry said, the medal will be announced every year on the occasion of the Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on 31st of October. The award will be conferred on members of the Police Forces, Security Organization, Intelligence Wing, National Security Guard in consideration for excellence in Operations, exceptional performance, indomitable and daring intelligence service.
Aandhi Village’s Journey To Zero-Waste Transformation
- Aandhi, a small village in Jaipur district, is adopting a zero-waste model. This initiative is driven by green technology. The village aims to convert various types of waste into valuable resources.
- This includes food waste, agricultural waste, wastewater, and hospital waste. Innovative technology interventions have been installed to support this transformation.
- The project features a comprehensive package of technologies. Key components include:
- Organic Waste Bio-Methanation Plant
- Vermifiltration Technology
- Constructed Wetlands
- Resource Recovery Centre (RRC)
- These technologies work together to create a sustainable waste management system.
- Organic Waste Bio-Methanation Plant : Located at the government school, this plant has a capacity of 100 kg. It processes organic waste, such as food scraps and agricultural residues. The method used is anaerobic digestion. This process generates biogas, which is used for cooking and electricity. A 5 KW solar energy system powers the plant. This reduces reliance on traditional fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
- Vermifiltration Technology : Installed at the community health centre, this system has a capacity of 10 KLD. It uses earthworms to filter and treat wastewater. The treated water is suitable for agricultural irrigation and landscape watering. This technology is energy-efficient and eco-friendly, thanks to solar energy integration. It promotes sustainable water reuse and environmental conservation.
- Constructed Wetlands : The constructed wetlands are located at the main pond in Aandhi. With a capacity of 20 KLD, they mimic natural wetland processes. This system treats wastewater and helps restore local ecosystems. It enhances biodiversity and supports local flora and fauna. The wetlands improve the overall health of the pond ecosystem.
- Community Involvement : The project actively involves the local community. Demonstration plants were inaugurated at key locations. This included a government school and a community health centre. Dr. Anita Gupta and Dr. G.V Raghunath Reddy attended the inauguration. Their presence marks the project’s significance.
- Environmental Impact : These initiatives showcase the power of green technology in rural areas. They align with India’s goals for environmental sustainability. The project aims to mitigate climate change and promote waste-to-wealth models. This approach uplifts local communities and creates a self-sustaining zero-waste model.
India’s First Analog Space Mission
- Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has started the country’s first analog space mission at Leh in Ladakh, where space agency will simulate life in an interplanetary habitat.
- The move assumes significance as India is planning to send a human to the Moon in the near future.
- Analog space missions are field tests in locations on Earth that have physical similarities to the extreme space environments and play a significant role in problem solving for spaceflight research.
- Ladakh has been chosen for such a mission as the geographical features of the area – dry and cold climate, barren land, high-altitude terrain and extreme isolation – are considered to closely resemble Martian and lunar landscapes.
- The month-long mission comes in the wake of India’s plans to set up lunar habitats, which could provide a base to launch interplanetary missions. The mission includes a compact, inflatable habitat named Hab-1, which is equipped with essentials like a hydroponics farm, kitchen, and sanitation facilities.
- It provides a self-sustaining environment, offering valuable data as India is planning long-duration space missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
- ISRO said, analog space mission at Leh is a collaborative effort by Human Spaceflight Centre, ISRO, AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay, and supported by Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.
- Lying at an elevation over 3,000 metres above sea level, Ladakh has oxygen levels only 40 percent of those at sea level. The low-pressure and low-oxygen setting allows researchers to evaluate life support systems under conditions similar to those on Mars.
Indian Startup Ecosystem
- Indian startup ecosystem has reached 12.2 billion dollars in funding in the first 10 months this year. It has already surpassed the total amount raised throughout 2023, with two months to go.
- Homegrown startups crossed 1 billion dollars in funding again across 119 deals in the month of October.
- September saw the second-highest funding with 1.63 billion dollars, behind the peak of 1.92 billion registered in June.
- In October, the growth and late-stage funding segment comprised 28 deals, contributing 846.2 million dollars to the total funding amount.
- Last month, Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the setting up of a 1,000 crore rupees venture capital (VC) fund dedicated to the growing space sector.
- The deployment period of the proposed venture capital fund, under the aegis of IN-SPACe, is planned to be up to five years from the actual date of the start of the fund operations. The average deployment amount could be 150 to 250 crore rupees per year, depending on the investment opportunities and fund requirements.
PM Vishwakarma Scheme
- Government said that over 25 million applications have been submitted under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme since its launch. Out of these, more than 2 million applicants have successfully registered, following a thorough three-step verification process.
- The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises said that the scheme, which was launched last year in September with the aim of empowering artisans and craftspeople across India, has garnered remarkable interest.
- Nearly 1 million registered artisans have benefited from toolkit incentives of up to 15,000 rupees through these e-vouchers, enabling them to acquire modern tools that enhance their craftsmanship.
- Ministry said that the PM Vishwakarma Scheme stands as a testament to the government’s dedication to revitalizing traditional crafts and supporting the artisans who embody the nation’s cultural diversity and heritage.
India To Launch ESA Mission PROBA-3
- Science and Technology Minister, Dr. Jitendra Singh has said that India will launch the European Space Agency mission named PROBA-3 next month from the Sriharikota Space Station.
- The mission will study the Sun’s faint corona closer to the solar rim. Addressing the Indian Space Conclave 3.0 in New Delhi, the Minister highlighted that almost every sector in the country is using pace technology.
- He also added that space technology also fosters the creation of smart cities by providing navigation, satellite imaging, terrain mapping among others. The Minister also underscored India’s vision to increase their contribution in the global space economy from 2 percent to 10 percent in the coming years.
- Proba-3 mission is a European Space Agency (ESA) mission that demonstrates the use of precise satellite formation flying technologies: The mission involves launching two small satellites that will fly together in a precise formation to mimic a single, large structure in space. This will test the ability of satellites to work together in a coordinated manner.
- The two satellites will work together to form a 144-meter-long solar coronagraph, which will create an artificial eclipse to study the Sun’s corona. The coronagraph will block out the Sun’s bright surface light, allowing scientists to study the Sun’s corona with unprecedented detail and proximity.
UP Board of Madarsa Education Act 2004
- Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra gave the verdict against the Allahabad High Court’s March 22 judgement that declared the Act as “unconstitutional” and violative of the principles of secularism.
- The Apex Court said that the statute can be struck down if a state lacks legislative competence. The ruling means that madarsas would continue to function in Uttar Pradesh with the state regulating the education standards.
- Earlier in April, staying the impugned decision, the Bench, also comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, had observed that the Allahabad High Court misconstrued the provisions of the Madarsa Act and the view taken by it was prima facie not correct.
- The Supreme Court, however, held the Madarsa Education Act “unconstitutional” to the extent it regulates higher education in relation to ‘fazil’ and ‘kamil’ degrees granting by Madarsas beyond class XII for being in conflict with the UGC Act. The Supreme Court said that the Allahabad High Court erred in holding that the madarsa law had to be struck down for violating basic structure, which is the principle of secularism.
Not All Private Properties Part Of ‘Material Resources Of Community’
- Supreme Court in a majority ruling, held that not all private properties are part of the “material resources of the community” that the State must redistribute under Article 39(b) of the Constitution.
- However, it noted that some private properties could fall under this category if they are significant and serve the community.
- The nine-judge bench, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, included Justices Hrishikesh Roy, B.V. Nagarathna, Sudhanshu Dhulia, and others. The 8:1 majority verdict authored by the CJI, with Justice Nagarathna partially agreeing and Justice Dhulia dissenting.
- The judgment also rejected earlier interpretations that broadly included private resources as community assets, emphasizing that prior statements on the matter were not binding.
World’s First Wooden Satellite, LignoSat
- In Japan, the world’s first wooden satellite was launched into space today aims to prove that wood is a space-grade material.
- The satellite LignoSat is scheduled to orbit the Earth for six months.
- According to media reports, designed by researchers at Kyoto University in Japan, LignoSat is made of honoki, a kind of magnolia tree that was traditionally used to make sword sheaths.
- The Japanese researchers conducted a 10-month experiment aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and found that honoki was the timber most suited for space applications.
- After the experiment, the team constructed LignoSat using a traditional Japanese crafts technique without screws or glue to hold the satellite together.
- The satellite will measure how wood endures the extreme environment of space, where temperatures fluctuate from -100 to 100 degrees Celsius every 45 minutes as objects orbit through darkness and sunlight. It will also gauge timber’s ability to reduce the impact of space radiation on semiconductors.
PM- Vidyalaxmi scheme
- Government has approved the PM- Vidyalaxmi scheme to provide financial support to meritorious students.
- On the decisions taken in the Cabinet meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, students will be eligible to get collateral-free and guarantor-free loans to pursue higher education.
- He said the scheme has been introduced so that financial constraints do not prevent any youth of India from pursuing quality higher education. As per the scheme, loan amount up to 7.5 lakhs rupees will be provided 75 percent credit guarantee by the government to support banks to expand coverage.
- Three percent interest subvention for loans up to 10 lakh rupees will also be provided during the moratorium period for students with an annual family income of upto eight lakh rupees.
- This scheme is expected to benefit seven lakh students. To avail the benefit of the scheme, the students can apply on the unified portal PM Vidyalaxmi for an education loan.
Rapid Apophis Mission For Space Safety
- European Space Agency (ESA) has started initial planning for a mission to explore a large asteroid called Apophis, officially known as asteroid (99942). This mission, named the Rapid Apophis Mission for Space Safety (RAMSES), is designed to reach Apophis in February 2029.
- NASA is also preparing its mission, Osiris-Apex, to examine Apophis during the same close approach.
- Apophis was discovered in 2004 and is roughly 340 meters (1,115 feet) in diameter.
- Due to its size, it could cause severe destruction if it hit Earth. Thankfully, it’s expected to pass safely by on April 13, 2029, coming within about 19,794 miles (31,860 kilometers) of our planet, which is close enough for detailed study but not a danger to Earth.
- Asteroids are ancient pieces left over from when the Solar System formed. Many are located in the asteroid belt, but some are closer to Earth. Earth is at constant risk from these objects, especially from the 35,000 or so near-Earth objects (NEOs). Of these, about 2,300 are large enough and close enough to be considered “potentially hazardous.”
- Large asteroids have impacted Earth in the past, leading to major extinction events. For instance, scientists believe an asteroid impact 66 million years ago was a major factor in the extinction of the dinosaurs. A collision with a large asteroid would release massive energy, potentially as much as several nuclear explosions.
- Astronomers use various surveys and telescopes to find and track hazardous asteroids. However, detecting these objects alone isn’t enough. It’s also important to develop ways to deflect or redirect them if one is on a collision course with Earth.
- The RAMSES mission will observe changes in Apophis’s orbit, rotation, and shape as it comes near Earth. NASA’s Osiris-Apex mission will investigate its surface by disturbing dust to reveal the asteroid’s layers underneath. Together, these missions may help scientists develop methods to deflect future asteroids that could pose a threat to Earth.
World Solar Report
- International Solar Alliance (ISA) released the 3rd edition of the World Solar Report series during its 7th Assembly. This event brought to light global solar energy growth, investment trends, and technological advancements.
- The series includes four new reports: the World Solar Market Report, World Investment Report, World Technology Report, and Green Hydrogen Readiness Assessment for African Countries. These reports underscore the importance of solar energy in the transition to sustainable energy.
- World Solar Market Report Highlights
- World Solar Market Report reveals growth in the solar sector.
- Rise in Capacity: Global solar capacity increased from 1.22 GW in 2000 to 1,418.97 GW in 2023, marking a 40% annual growth rate.
- Manufacturing Growth: By 2024, solar manufacturing is expected to exceed 1,100 GW, surpassing demand.
- Employment: The solar industry now supports 7.1 million jobs, a 44% increase from 2022.
- Future Projections: Capacity could reach between 5,457 and 7,203 GW by 2030.
- World Investment Report Insights
- The World Investment Report indicates a shift in energy investments.
- Investment Growth: Global energy investments are projected to rise from $2.4 trillion in 2018 to $3.1 trillion by 2024.
- Solar Investments: Solar accounts for 59% of renewable energy investments, totaling $393 billion. –
- Regional Leaders: Asia-Pacific (APAC) leads with $223 billion in solar investments in 2023.
- World Technology Report Innovations
- Efficiency Milestones: Solar PV Panels Have Achieved A Record Efficiency Of 24.9%.
- Material Use Reduction: Silicon Usage In Manufacturing Has Decreased By 88% Since 2004.
- Green Hydrogen Readiness Assessment
- Decarbonisation Potential: Green Hydrogen Can Replace Fossil Fuels In Industries Like Steel And Fertilizer Production.
- Production Method: It Is Produced Via Renewable-powered Electrolysis.
- Target Countries: The Assessment Includes Egypt, Morocco, And Namibia, Evaluating Their Readiness For A Green Hydrogen Economy.
- Mr Ashish Khanna from India was selected as the new Director General. He succeeds Dr Ajay Mathur, who has led the Alliance since 2021.
- The ISA focuses on promoting solar energy globally, addressing common challenges faced by member countries.
- The Director General of ISA plays a vital role in advancing the organisation’s mandate. This includes supporting member countries in the deployment of solar energy. The role involves engaging in coordinated actions and addressing challenges collectively.
Minority Status To AMU
- A seven-judge bench of the Supreme Court, by a 4-3 majority today overruled the 1967 judgment in S. Azeez Basha vs. Union Of India case that became the basis for denying the minority status to the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
- The 1967 judgment in the case had held that an institution incorporated by a statute cannot claim to be a minority institution.
- The Apex court today said that an institution will not lose its minority status merely because it was created by a statute.
- The majority held that the Court must examine who established the University and who was the “brain” behind it.
- If that enquiry is pointing towards minority community, then the institution can claim minority status as per Article 30 of the Constitution.
- For this factual determination, the Constitution Bench relegated the matter to a regular bench.
- Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, who headed the bench, said there were four separate opinions, including three dissenting verdicts.
- The CJI said he has written the majority verdict for himself and Justices Sanjiv Khanna, JB Pardiwala, Manoj Misra. Justices Surya Kant, Dipankar Datta and Satish Chandra Sharma had penned their separate dissenting verdicts.
Ancient Fortified Town Discovered In Saudi Arabia
- Archaeologists have uncovered a 4,000-year-old fortified town in northwest Saudi Arabia. This site, called al-Natah, reveals vital information about early urbanisation.
- The discovery was led by French archaeologist Guillaume Charloux. The findings were published in PLOS One earlier this year. Al-Natah is situated in Khaybar’s walled oasis.
- This lush area is surrounded by a dry desert. The town was hidden for centuries, now revealing its historical importance. The site includes a remarkable 14.5-kilometre wall.
- This ancient barrier encircled a residential area, indicating organised occupancy. The wall suggests that the town was fortified for protection.
- The town dates back to around 2400 BC, during the early Bronze Age. It is believed to have housed a population of up to 500 residents. This marks the town’s significance in the region’s history.
- The discovery marks a pivotal shift from nomadic to urban lifestyles. The authors of the study describe the town as a fortified area measuring 2.6 hectares. It functioned from 2400 to at least 1500 BC, with possible interruptions until 1300 BC. The town featured nucleated dwellings built on a standard plan.
- Small streets connected these homes. The layout indicates a degree of planning and organisation typical of urban centres. The findings enhance our understanding of social dynamics during this period.
- The site includes a probable decision-making zone and a necropolis. This suggests a structured society with defined roles.
Karnataka Waqf Board Claims 17 Monuments Bidar Fort
- Karnataka Board of Waqfs declared 17 monuments within the historic Bidar Fort as its property. This announcement has raised concerns and confusion among local authorities and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which manages the fort.
- Bidar Fort is an important historical site located in Karnataka. It houses numerous monuments, including mosques and tombs.
- The fort is a major landmark and a point of interest for both tourists and historians. The Karnataka Board of Waqfs identified 17 monuments as its own.
- This includes the famous 16-Khamba mosque and tombs of Bahmani rulers. The Waqf Board claims these properties belong to them, out of a total of 60 properties within the fort.
- The ASI, which has been responsible for the preservation of Bidar Fort for decades, was not informed about the Waqf Board’s claim. This lack of communication has led to confusion regarding the ownership and management of these historical sites.
- A senior official from the Waqf Board expressed concerns over misinformation related to their actions. They stated that no notices had been issued to the ASI, questioning how the Waqf Board could serve notices to an established custodian of historical monuments.
- The situation has prompted concerns among local farmers. Allegations have surfaced that the Waqf Board marked some farmers’ lands as Waqf properties without due process.
- Farmers from Vijayapura district have reported receiving notices and changes to their land records.
- Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah assured farmers that they would not be evicted. He confirmed that any notices issued would be rescinded, aiming to alleviate fears among the agricultural community.
QS World University Rankings
- Seven Indian institutions have secured a place in the Top 100 of the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025. India is home to two universities in the top 50 and seven in the top 100, with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi leading at 44th place.
- In a statement, the Education Ministry said that this edition highlights India’s impressive upward trajectory in higher education across the continent.
- IIT Bombay is ranked 48th, while IIT Madras, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Kanpur, and the University of Delhi are the other Indian institutes in the Top 100, showcasing India’s robust academic standing.
- Institutions such as IIT Guwahati, IIT Roorkee, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Chandigarh University, UPES, and Vellore Institute of Technology are in the Top 150.
- This ranking assesses 984 institutions across 25 countries in Eastern, Southern, South-Eastern, and Central Asia.
67th Grammy Awards
- Prominent Indian musicians Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar have earned Grammy nominations for the 67th Grammy Awards.
- Ricky Kej, a three-time Grammy winner, received his fourth Grammy nomination for his album Break of Dawn in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category.
- Anoushka Shankar, the renowned sitarist and composer, was also nominated in the same category for her album Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn, a reflection of her distinctive fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds.
- Other nominees in this category are “Warriors of Light” by Radhika Vekaria and “Triveni” by entrepreneur and musician Chandrika Tandon, created in collaboration with flautist Wouter Kellerman and cellist Eru Matsumoto.
- The 2025 Grammy Awards are scheduled to take place on February 2, next year, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
India Achieves WOAH Reference Laboratory Status
- India’s Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying has made important strides in animal health. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Research Centre on Equines (ICAR-NRC Equine) has been designated as a World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Reference Laboratory for Equine Piroplasmosis. This recognition marks India’s commitment to improving its scientific and diagnostic capabilities in animal health.
- The designation as a WOAH Reference Laboratory is a prestigious accolade. It demonstrates India’s adherence to international standards in research and diagnostics. This status enhances India’s reputation in global animal health. It also solidifies the country’s leadership in combating critical animal health challenges.
- India is home to approximately 0.55 million equines. This includes around 0.34 million horses and ponies, 0.12 million donkeys, and 0.08 million mules.
- Major states with high equine populations include Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana. Equines play a vital role in various livelihoods and industries across the country.
- As a WOAH Reference Laboratory, ICAR-NRC Equine will take on several key responsibilities. The laboratory will provide advanced diagnostic services. It will also share technical expertise and lead research initiatives on equine piroplasmosis. This role enhances India’s capacity for international collaboration in animal health.
- ICAR-NRC Equine is the fourth laboratory in India’s animal husbandry sector to receive this status. Other recognised laboratories include – – ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Disease, Bhopal (Avian Influenza) – Veterinary College, Karnataka Veterinary Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bangalore (Rabies) – ICAR-National Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics, Bangalore (PPR and Leptospirosis).
- Equine piroplasmosis is caused by protozoan parasites such as Babesia caballi and Theileria equi. It affects horses, donkeys, mules, and zebras. The disease poses a serious threat to animal health and has important economic implications. In India, the seroprevalence rate ranges from 15-25%, with some high-risk areas reporting up to 40%.
- To combat equine piroplasmosis, DAHD has prioritised the development of advanced diagnostic tools. These include ELISA based on recombinant antigens, Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Tests, and PCR for antigen detection. Such innovations are crucial for early detection and control of the disease.
- The disease can lead to severe economic losses. It affects equine productivity, health, and mobility.
- Restrictions on the movement and export of equines can further exacerbate these losses. Hence, establishing rigorous control measures is essential for protecting the equine industry.
India & BIMSTEC
- Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced the signing of an agreement to establish the BIMSTEC Energy Centre in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- Host Country Agreement Signed : On November 11, 2024, MEA Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumder and BIMSTEC Secretary General Indramani Pandey signed a Host Country Agreement in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
- The agreement establishes the BIMSTEC Energy Centre, aiming to strengthen energy cooperation among member states.
- MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Energy Centre will foster inter-grid connectivity across the Bay of Bengal region, promoting energy security and sustainable development.
- Recent BIMSTEC Engagements
- Raisina Down Under Participation : On November 5, 2024, Secretary General Indramani Pandey attended the second edition of Raisina Down Under in Canberra, Australia.
- BIMSTEC highlighted the organization’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive development and proposed a dialogue platform for the Indo-Pacific region.
- Foreign Ministers’ Meeting : External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to BIMSTEC during a recent meeting of foreign ministers. Jaishankar highlighted India’s Neighborhood First Policy, Vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), and Act East Policy as central to India’s collaboration with BIMSTEC.
PM Modi To Visit Nigeria, Brazil And Guyana
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a three nation visit to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana from 16th of this month. He will visit Nigeria at the invitation of Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, from 16th to 17th November.
- This will be the first visit by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold talks to review the strategic partnership between the two countries and discuss further avenues to enhance the bilateral relationship. He will also address a gathering of the Indian community in the west african nation.
- India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic, energy and defence collaboration. More than 200 Indian companies have invested over 27 billion dollars in important sectors in Nigeria.
- India and Nigeria also share a strong development cooperation partnership.
- Prime Minister will travel to Rio De Janeiro in Brazil to attend the G20 Summit during 18th and 19th November. India is part of the G20 Troika along with Brazil and South Africa and has been actively contributing to the ongoing G20 Summit discussions.
- During the Summit, Prime Minister will put forward India’s positions on various issues of global importance and build on the outcomes from the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration and Voice of the Global South Summits which were hosted by India in the past two years.
- Mr Modi is expected to meet several leaders on the sidelines of the G20 Summit.
- Prime Minister Modi will undertake a state visit to Guyana from 19th to 21st November. The visit to Guyana will be the first by an Indian Prime Minister since 1968.
- Last year, President of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali visited India as the Chief Guest at the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Indore and was also awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman.
- During the visit, Prime Minister will hold discussions with President Ali, meet other senior leaders of Guyana, address the Parliament of Guyana and address a gathering of the Indian diaspora.
- In Guyana’s Georgetown, Prime Minister will also participate in the Second CARICOM-India Summit and hold meetings with leaders of CARICOM member countries to further enhance India’s long-standing friendship with the region.
India In Global Top 10 For Patents
- India has secured a spot in the global top 10 countries in Patents, Trademarks, and Industrial Designs in the World Intellectual Property Indicators 2024 report.
- The report reveals significant growth in patent, trademark, and industrial design applications across top economies.
- India continues to solidify its place as a global leader in the intellectual property, and IP landscape by showing substantial progress and marking new milestones in IP activity.
- Commerce and Industry Ministry said in a statement that India ranks sixth globally for patents with 64 thousand 480 applications, with resident filings accounting for over half of all submissions.
- The patent office also granted 149.4 per cent more patents in 2023 compared to the previous year, underlining the country’s fast-evolving IP ecosystem. The report indicates a steady rise of 36.4 per cent in India’s industrial design applications, which aligns with increasing emphasis on product design, manufacturing, and creative industries within India.
- The top three sectors-Textiles and Accessories, Tools and Machines, and Health and Cosmetics-made up almost half of all design filings.
Monthly Current Affairs November 2024 Question
- Which Village Is Home To India’s First Writers’ Village
A. Kalsi
B. Raipur
C. Doiwala
D. Thano
ANSWER: D - Which Country Opted Out Of China’s Belt And Road Initiative (BRI)
A. Brazil
B. Russia
C. South Africa
D. Argentina
ANSWER: A - Which Fintech Firm Completed Its Merger With North East Small Finance Bank
A. Paytm
B. PolicyBazaar
C. Slice
D. PhonePe
ANSWER: C - Atanu Das Has Bagged _ Medal In Swiss Open Indoor Archery In Lausanne
A. Gold
B. Silver
C. Bronze
D. None Of The Above
ANSWER: C - Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary, Is Located In Which State
A. Karnataka
B. Maharashtra
C. Telangana
D. Kerala
ANSWER: C - India’s First Analog Space Mission Started In
A. Ladakh
B. Kerala
C. Gujrat
D. Delhi
ANSWER: A - Where Was The Climate And Health Africa Conference Held
A. Kenya
B. Zimbabwe
C. Cameroon
D. Angola
ANSWER: B - LignoSat Seen In News Is Associated With
A. France
B. Japan
C. Spain
D. Russia
ANSWER: B - PROBA 3 Mission Is Made By
A. NASA
B. ESA
C. ISRO
D. JAXA
ANSWER: A - Where Was 7th Session Of The International Solar Alliance Held
A. New Delhi
B. Chennai
C. Bhopal
D. Hyderabad
ANSWER: A - Which Country Elected As President Of International Solar Alliance Until 2026
A. India
B. France
C. Australia
D. Brazil
ANSWER: A - Which Institution Has Launched The 15-day ‘Jal Utsav’
A. NITI Aayog
B. Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture
C. Bureau of Energy Efficiency
D. Ministry of Jal Shakti
ANSWER: A - Main Objective Of The PM- Vidyalaxmi Scheme
A. To provide grants for students in primary education
B. To provide financial aid to meritorious students for quality higher education
C. To build new universities across India
D. To support technical research in agriculture
ANSWER: B - Food Corporation of India Formed Inn
A. 1945
B. 1955
C. 1965
D. 1975
ANSWER: C - Mount Lewotobi Is Located In
A. Japan
B. Indonesia
C. Philippines
D. Italy
ANSWER: B - Which Ministry Launched Digital Life Certificate Campaign 3.0 In New Delhi
A. Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
B. Ministry of Home Affairs
C. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
D. Ministry of Rural Development
ANSWER: A - Which City Is The Host Of World Travel Market (WTM) 2024 Event
A. Paris
B. New Delhi
C. Dubai
D. London
ANSWER: D - Bidar Fort, Is Located In Which State
A. Karnataka
B. Maharashtra
C. Rajasthan
D. Madhya Pradesh
ANSWER: A - Which State Has Recently Approved A 35% Reservation For Women In All
State Government Recruitments
A. Odisha
B. Jharkhand
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Rajasthan
ANSWER: C - Where Was The 4th LG Horse Polo Cup 2024 Inaugurated
A. Ladakh
B. Jaipur
C. Mussoorie
D. Shimla
ANSWER: A - Okinawicius Tekdi, Belongs To Which Species
A. Butterfly
B. Fish
C. Spider
D. Frog
ANSWER: C - UN Climate Change Conference, COP29 Begins At
A. Baku
B. Paris
C. London
D. New Delhi
ANSWER: A - BIMSTEC Energy Centre has been established in
A. Chennai
B. New Delhi
C. Bengaluru
D. Kolkata
ANSWER: C - When is World Science Day for Peace and Development celebrated annually
A. November 5
B. November 10
C. November 15
D. November 25
ANSWER: B - Which City Is The Host Of Women’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy 2024
A. Jaipur, Rajasthan
B. Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
C. Rajgir, Bihar
D. Indore, Madhya Pradesh
ANSWER: C - Pandit Ram Narayan, Recently Passed Away, Was Associated With Which
Field
A. Music
B. Journalism
C. Politics
D. Sports
ANSWER: A - Where G-20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group Ministerial Meeting Held
A. Tokyo, Japan
B. Belem, Brazil
C. Mumbai, India
D. Paris, France
ANSWER: B - From Which City Is Anish Sarkar, The Youngest-rated Chess Prodigy In History
A. Mumbai
B. Kolkata
C. Chennai
D. Delhi
ANSWER: B - Who Has Been Appointed As The New Coach Of India’s Double Olympic
Medallist Neeraj Chopra
A. Jan Zelezny
B. Uwe Hohn
C. Steve Backley
D. Andreas Thorkildsen
ANSWER: A - NITI Aayog’s WEP Partners With _ For Women MSME’s
A. Nyka
B. Amazon
C. Urban Company
D. Flipkart
ANSWER: C
