Monthly Defence Current Affairs October 2024

In Defence Current Affairs for Monthly DCA October 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 Daily Defence Current Affairs.

Monthly Defence Current Affairs October 2024

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh Takes Charge As New Chief of Air Staff

• Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, an accomplished fighter pilot with more than 5,000 hours of flying experience, on Monday assumed charge as new chief of the IAF, succeeding incumbent Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari.
• Air Chief Marshal Singh was serving as Vice Chief of the Air Force in his previous assignment.
• The officer commanded a MiG-27 squadron and a frontline air base and as a test pilot, he led the MiG-29 Upgrade Project Management Team at Moscow, among a variety of command, staff, instructional and foreign appointments that he held in his career of nearly four decades.
• He was also the Project Director (Flight Test) at National Flight Test Centre and was tasked with flight testing of the LCA, Tejas.

Exercise KAZIND -2024

• The 8^th edition of India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise KAZIND-2024 held, at Surya Foreign Training Node, Auli, Uttarakhand. The exercise conducted from 30th September to 13^th October 2024.
• Joint Exercise KAZIND-2024 has been held annually since 2016. Last edition of the Joint Exercise was held at Otar, Kazakhstan from 30th October to 11th November 2023.
• The Indian Armed Forces, comprising 120 personnel, are being represented by a battalion of the KUMAON Regiment of Indian Army, along with other arms and services, as well as personnel from IAF. The Kazakhstan contingent represented mainly by personnel from Land Forces and Air Borne Assault Troopers.
• The aim of the Joint Exercise is to enhance joint military capability of both sides to undertake counter terrorism operations in a sub conventional scenario under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The Joint Exercise focused on operations in the semi-urban and mountainous terrain.

Defence Accounts Department celebrated 277^th Annual Day

• Defence Accounts Department (DAD) celebrated its 277th Annual Day on October 01, 2024. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh graced the main celebrations at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
• Tracing its roots to the appointment of the Military Pay Master in 1747, DAD has continuously re-invented itself to provide exemplary services to the Armed Forces, and in turn to the Nation, in the fields of Internal Audit, Accounting, Financial Advice & Defence Pensions Management.

Arti Sarin Becomes First Woman To Take Over As DG, AFMS

• Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, on October 01, 2024, became the first woman officer to take over as the Director General, Armed Forces Medical Services. The DGAFMS is directly responsible to the MoD for overall medical policy matters which relate to the Armed Forces.
• Prior to assuming the appointment of 46^th  DGAFMS, the Flag Officer held the coveted appointments of DG Medical Services (Navy), DG Medical Services (Air) and Director & Commandant of Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune.
• She is an alumna of AFMC, Pune and was commissioned into the Armed Forces Medical Services in December 1985.

IDS Celebrates Its 24^th Raising Day

• Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) celebrated its 24th Raising Day on October 01, 2024. Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Lt Gen JP Mathew laid a wreath at the National War Memorial New Delhi in remembrance of the fallen heroes, on behalf of All Ranks of the ‘Purple Fraternity’.
• HQ IDS plays a pivotal role in coordination, integration and providing policy inputs for force structures, modernisation, and development of equipment of the three services, based on the anticipated threat perception.
• The HQ IDS was raised on October 01, 2001 to provide an institutional framework for managing defence at a higher level and integrate the three Services and other relevant elements in the quest of credible and comprehensive national power. Motto ‘Victory Through Jointness‘.

MNS Celebrates Its 99^th Raising Day

• The Military Nursing Service (MNS) marked its 99^th Raising Day on Oct 1, 2024, with solemnity and pride. Maj Gen Ignatius Delos Flora, Addl Director General of MNS laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, in the presence of senior MNS officers and veterans.
• The MNS, established in 1926, has grown into a robust and indispensable part of the Indian Armed Forces. Over the past 99 years, it has evolved into a highly skilled and specialized cadre, committed to providing the best possible medical care to Indian soldiers and their families.
• The Military Nursing Service continues to uphold its mission of “Service before Self,” and the motto ‘Service with Smile’ that resonates deeply with every MNS officer in the service.

Launch Of 25t Bollard Pull Tug, Ashva

• Third 25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, Ashva (Yard 337) was launched by Cmde Ajay Yadav, NOIC (WB) on 03 Oct 24 at M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited Kolkata. This Tug is a proud flag bearer of “Make in India” initiative of Govt of India.
• Contract for construction and delivery of six 25T BP Tug was concluded with M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL) in consonance with “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative of the Government of India.

UK Hands Over Sovereignty Of Chagos Islands To Mauritius

• Britain’s government said it agreed to hand sovereignty of the long-contested Chagos Islands, an archipelago of more than 60 islands in the Indian Ocean, to Mauritius, in a deal that secures the future of a strategically important UK-US military base there.
• British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the agreement secures the vital military base at Diego Garcia, the largest in the chain of islands, for the future.
• The UK government said without the deal the secure operation of the military base would be under threat, with contested sovereignty and legal challenges, including through various international courts and tribunals. As part of the deal, the UK will retain sovereignty of Diego Garcia for an initial period of 99 years.

Lokesh Machines Delivers First Indigenous Submachine Guns

• In a landmark achievement for India’s private defence manufacturing sector, Lokesh Machines Limited has delivered its first major order of the indigenously developed Asmi submachine gun (SMG) to the Indian Army’s Northern Command.
• This order, consisting of 550 SMGs, represents a significant milestone in India’s push toward domestic production of advanced military hardware.
• The Asmi SMG, which stands for “pride” in Sanskrit, marks Lokesh Machines‘ entry into the defence sector, specifically small arms production. The gun was developed by Lokesh Machines based on the design provided by the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) Pune.

DRDO Successfully Flight-Tests 4^th Gen VSHORADS

• DRDO successfully conducted three flight-tests of the 4^th Generation, technically-advanced miniaturised Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.
• The tests were carried out against high speed target, demonstrating very critical parameters of maximum range and maximum altitude interception.
• VSHORADS is a Man Portable Air Defence System designed and developed indigenously by Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and DcPPs. The three Services have been associated with the project right from the beginning and participated during the developmental trials.

Indian Air Force Day 2024

• Every year on October 8, India recognizes IAF Day to honor the servicemen and pilots who have sacrificed their lives for the nation and to commemorate the establishment of the IAF.
• This year marks the 92^nd celebration, which held at Marina Beach in Chennai, featuring an airshow on Sunday.
• The theme for IAF Day 2024 is “Bhartiya Vayu Sena: Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar” (Potent, Powerful, and Self-Reliant). This theme reflects the IAF’s commitment to self-reliance and modernization, aligning with India’s vision for a robust defense capability.
• The Indian Air Force was established on October 8, 1932, as an auxiliary force under British rule. Initially, it consisted of a limited number of aircraft and personnel.
• The first official flight took place on April 1, 1933, marking the beginning of its operational journey. Over the decades, the IAF has transformed into one of the world’s most formidable air forces, playing crucial roles in military operations and humanitarian missions.
• In January 1950, India became a Republic within the British Commonwealth, leading the Indian Air Force (IAF) to drop its “Royal” prefix.

India and Maldives Signs Security Agreement

• PM Narendra Modi and President of Maldives H. E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu met on 7 October 2024 and comprehensively reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral ties.
• PM of India underscored the importance attached by India to its relationship with Maldives under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy and Vision SAGAR, and reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to assist Maldives on its developmental journey and priorities.

Indian Army Strengthens Armoured Capability With Tank T-90

• As part of the ongoing ‘Decade of Transformation‘ in the Indian Army, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff on Monday witnessed the rollout ceremony of the overhauled T-90 Bhishma tank, according to a press release from the Indian Army.
• The successful overhaul of the T-90 Bhishma was conducted by the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) at the 505 Army Base Workshop in Delhi Cantonment.The comprehensive overhaul of the T-90 at the 505 Army Base Workshop represents a significant step in ensuring the operational readiness of the Indian Army’s armoured formations.
• The T-90 tank, is a main battle tank of India’s mechanised forces since 2003, is renowned for its firepower, mobility, and protection. The overhaul process involves stripping the tank down to the last nut and bolt and rebuilding it from scratch.

Delivery of Yard 3026 (Nirdeshak)

• Nirdeshak (Yard 3026), 2^nd of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships, steered by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and being built at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata was delivered to the Indian Navy.
• The first ship of the class, INS Sandhayak, was commissioned on 03 Feb 24.  The contract for four Survey Vessels (SVL) was signed on 30 Oct 18.
• The ship will also collect oceanographic and geophysical data for defence and civil applications. With a displacement of about 3400 tons and overall length of 110 meters.
• Nirdeshak has an indigenous content of over 80% by cost. The delivery of Nirdeshak is a reassurance on impetus of the Government of India and the Indian Navy towards ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.

Armenia To Purchase 90 Indian 155mm ATGS

• Armenia has recently confirmed its decision to procure 84 of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) from India, an investment of $155 million. This deal marks a notable development in the defence sector, showcasing India’s emerging stature as a major arms supplier on the global stage.
• The ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System), a joint project developed by the DRDO in collaboration with private sector entities, represents a leap forward in artillery technology.
• ATAGS is a 155mm/52-caliber towed artillery, with a horizontal angle from minus 20 to 25 degrees and a vertical one from minus 3 to 70 degrees, ATAGS can reach targets at a maximum firing range of 48 km, 3 times in 15 seconds. With his specificities of high altitude use, it’s perfectly adapted to the Armenian environment.

ISRO To Build 3^rd Launch Pad

• India’s space agency, ISRO, is advancing its capabilities with plans for a third launch pad at Sriharikota and the development of a Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), internally known as the “SOORYA” project. This initiative aims to enhance India’s space exploration and commercial launch capabilities.
• The third launch pad is essential due to the distinct configuration of the NGLV, which differs from existing rockets like the PSLV and GSLV. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath confirmed that this expansion is necessary to accommodate the new rocket’s requirements.
• The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Modi has approved the development of Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), that will be a significant step towards the Government’s vision of establishing & operating the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and towards developing capability for Indian Crewed Landing on the Moon by 2040.
• NGLV will have 3 times the present payload capability with 1.5 times the cost compared to LVM-3, and will also have reusability resulting in low-cost access to space and modular green propulsion systems.

Exercise IBSAMAR VIII

• Indian Navy’s frontline stealth frigate, INS Talwar, arrived at Simon’s Town, South Africa, on 06 Oct 24 participated in the eighth edition of IBSAMAR, a joint multinational maritime exercise among Indian, Brazilian, and South African Navy scheduled from 06 to 18 October 2024.
• The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen cohesion between the three navies. The broad concept is based on Blue Water Naval Warfare, encompassing the dimensions of Surface and Anti-Air Warfare.
• Operational Sea Training and Submarine Rescue Support commenced between both navies since the 12^th edition of Navy-to-Navy talks held on 26-28 August 2024 at New Delhi.
• INS Talwar was commissioned on 18 June 2003 and is a part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet, based in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command. The ship is commanded by Captain Jithu George.

CCS Clears Proposal To Make Nuclear-powered Attack Submarines Locally

• The government has cleared a landmark ₹35,000 crore project to construct nuclear-powered attack submarines for the Indian Navy and has given the go ahead to sign a ₹34,500 crore deal to acquire long-range drones from the US.
• Sources said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Cabinet Committee on Security has given the go ahead for the construction of two nuclear-powered attack submarines that will be designed and constructed indigenously.
• These are in addition to the Arihant class of nuclear-powered and nuclear-armed submarines that are already in service.

France Launches Development Of New Stealth Combat Drone To Complement Rafale F5

• The French Ministry of the Armed Forces has announced the launch of a new unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) project, which is set to complement the Rafale F5 fighter jet after 2030.
• The new stealth combat drone is expected to significantly boost the technological and operational capabilities of the French Air Force by 2033.
• Designed to work alongside the Rafale F5 fighter jet, the UCAV will feature advanced stealth technology, autonomous control systems (with human oversight), and versatile payload options.
• It aims to enhance collaborative combat operations and adapt to evolving threats in the future.

India Clears Mega Deals Worth Rs 80,000 Crore

• In a mega boost for the Indian Navy and surveillance capabilities of the defence forces, the Cabinet Committee on Security has cleared the major deals for building two nuclear submarines indigenously and buying 31 Predator drones from the US.
• As per the plans, the Indian Navy will get two nuclear-powered attack submarines which will help boost its capabilities manifold in the Indian Ocean Region.
• The deal for building the two submarines at the Ship Building Centre in Vishakhapatnam will be around Rs 45,000 crore and will see a major involvement of private sector firms like Larsen and Toubro.
• India has plans of having six such boats in the long run as part of its submarine induction plans.
• These boats which are going to be built under the ambitious Project Advanced Technology Vessel project, are separate from the five nuclear submarines being built under the Arihant class at the same location.
• The other mega deal cleared today by the Cabinet Committee on Security is for the acquisition of 31 Predator drones from American General Atomics under a Foreign Military Sales contract between the two governments.
• The Indian Navy will get 15 of the 31 drones while the Army and the IAF will get eight each and also deploy them together at two bases in Uttar Pradesh.

Army Chief Launches ‘Agniastra’

• The Army Chief, General Upendra Dwivedi on Friday, officially launched “Agniastra,” a portable multi-target detonation device, during the Army Commanders Conference in Gangtok.
• This device was developed by Major Rajprasad RS from the Indian Army’s Corps of Engineers and is seen as a major advancement in both conventional and counter-terrorism operations.The device holds “tremendous potential” for use in room interventions, remote bunker or hideout destruction, and reserve demolitions. Speaking about its capabilities, they added, “It has tremendous potential in both conventional and counter-terrorist operations like room intervention, remote bunker/hideout bursting, and reserve demolition.”
• The new system is a microprocessor-based electronic device that can operate in both wired and wireless modes with a much-improved range of 2.5 kilometres.

Bharat To Develop New Missile Testing Range On East Coast

• At a time when the Indian defence researchers are developing a large number of tactical missile systems, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has given approval for setting up a new missiles testing range in Andhra Pradesh.
• The proposal was cleared by the CCS headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week as per which the new missile range will come up in the Nagayalanka area of Andhra Pradesh, government sources told ANI.
• The new missile testing range will be used for test firing of tactical missile systems like the surface to air missile systems, anti tank missiles and various other projects being developed by the R&D Organisation, they said.
• The CCS in its meeting last week gave clearance to major proposals of the armed forces including that of buying 31 Predator drones from the US and two nuclear submarines to be built by the Project ATV for developing strategic submarines for the Indian Navy, they said.

Centre Appoints S Paramesh As New ICG Chief

• The centre on Monday appointed the Indian Coast Guard’s Additional Director General S Paramesh as the new chief of the maritime force.
• He will assume his new appointment on October 15 (Tuesday).
• He is presently officiating as the Director General after the demise of his predecessor DG Rakesh Pal last month. He has served the organisation in various capacities in ashore and afloat appointments with distinction over the past three decades.
• The Flag Officer is an alumnus of the National Defence College, New Delhi and Defence Services Staff College, Wellington. He has a professional history, studded with achievements and a proven track record of outstanding and meritorious performance in all assignments he has held.
• The Flag Officer is a recipient of the President’s Tatrakshak Medal for Distinguished Service, Tatrakshak Medal and was also awarded the Director General Coast Guard Commendation in 2012 and the FOCINC (East) Commendation in 2009.

Launch of ‘Samarthak’

• The first ship of the two Multi Purpose Vessel project, being built by L&T, Shipyard for the Indian Navy, was launched on 14 Oct 24 at L&T, Kattupalli.  In keeping with the maritime traditions, the ship was launched by Mrs Shashi Tripathi President NWWA.
• The ship has been named ‘ Samarthak ’ which means ‘ Supporter’ and is synonymous to the muti-dimensional role envisaged from the platform.
• The contract for building two Multi Purpose Vessel was signed between the Ministry of Defence and L&T Shipyard on 25 Mar 22.
• These Multi Purpose Vessels will be capable of towing ships, launch and recover various targets, operate uncrewed autonomous vehicles and act as a trial platform for various indigenous weapons and sensors under development.
• The Multi Purpose Vessels can achieve a maximum speed of 15 knots and are 106 m long and 16.8 wide.

Foundation Stone of Very Low Frequency Station

• Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone of a new Very Low Frequency (VLF) Station of the Indian Navy at the Damagundam Reserve Forest site, Pudur Mandal in Vikarabad, Telangana on October 15, 2024.
• The facility, built at a cost of Rs 3,200 crore, will be spread across 2,900 acres. It will bolster the Indian Navy’s operational readiness, ensuring effective command and control capabilities in challenging maritime environments.
• “This VLF station would play an important role in enabling the seamless secure worldwide communication, including most importantly, with our dived submarines, thus ensuring their stealth and enhanced effectiveness. May it stand tall, as a testament to the strength and standing of our nation today, and the unwavering commitment of our Navy to protect and promote our National Maritime Interests – Anytime, Anywhere, Anyhow,” the Chief of the Naval Staff said.

NSG 40^th Anniversary

• The National Security Guard, commonly known as Black Cats, is a counter-terrorism unit of India under the Ministry of Home Affairs. It was founded on 16 October 1984, following Operation Blue Star against Sikh militants, to combat terrorist activities and protect states against internal disturbances.
• Founded: 22 September 1986
• Motto: सर्वत्र सर्वोत्तम सुरक्षा (Sanskrit); Best Security Everywhere
• Agency executive: B.Srinivasan,IPS, Director General of NSG
• Annual budget: ₹1,273.19 crore (US$152.6 million) (2024–25)
• Employees: 10,000 active personnel
• Formed: 16 October 1984; 39 years ago

‘If Trust Is Lacking…’: In Pakistan, Jaishankar’s Powerful SCO Speech

• Delivering a strong message to Pakistan during the SCO meeting in Islamabad, EAM S Jaishankar on Wednesday slammed the country over the issue of cross-border terrorism, suggesting that it should introspect over reasons why the ties between the two neighbours have frayed.
• His address, delivered in front of a gathering that included Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, underscored the complex dynamics influencing India’s relations with both China and Pakistan.
• Jaishankar stated, “If friendship has fallen short and good neighbourliness is missing somewhere, there are surely reasons to introspect and causes to address,” indicating the need for a candid dialogue about the existing tensions.
• He urged the SCO to take a proactive role in advocating for essential changes in global governance, stating, “The SCO must be in the lead of advocating such change, not hold back on a matter of such importance.” Through this address, Jaishankar aimed to foster a cooperative atmosphere that prioritizes stability, mutual respect, and comprehensive reform in both regional and global contexts.

Police Commemoration Day 2024

• Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah will pay homage to the martyrs on Police Commemoration Day at National Police Memorial in New Delhi on Monday, 21st October 2024.
• On October 21, 1959, ten valiant Policemen laid down their lives in an ambush laid by heavily armed Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh. October 21 is observed in commemoration of these martyrs and of all other martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.
• Police Commemoration Day i.e., October 21 is observed across the country and homage is paid to police martyrs with the main function organised at National Police Memorial which is customarily presided over by the Union Home Minister. A joint parade of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) along with Delhi Police is held. Union Home Minister, MoS, MPs, Heads of CAPFs/CPOs etc pay homage to the martyrs by laying wreaths.
• Thereafter, Union Home Minister addresses the assembly remembering the martyrs and outlines the challenges of Policing. Retired DGs, officers from Police fraternity and other dignitaries also attend. The programme concludes with Union Home Minister laying wreath at the altar dedicated to the martyrs of Hot Springs. The event is telecast live on Doordarshan, webcast on Police websites besides coverage by AIR and other media.

Swavlamban Shakti Exercise

• With the aim of enhancing combat capabilities through the integration of niche and emerging technologies, the Army’s Sudarshan Chakra Corps of Southern Command is conducting ‘Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI‘ at Babina Field Firing Ranges near Jhansi.
• The exercise began on Thursday and will continue till October 22, a defence release said here. The XXI Corps or Sudarshan Chakra Corps, a strike corps of the army, is headquartered in Bhopal.
• The exercise that aims to integrate New Technology Equipment (NTEs) into the Army’s offensive strategies, ensuring readiness for future warfare scenarios.

Malabar 2024

• The Sea Phase of MALABAR 2024 concluded on 18 Oct 24 at Visakhapatnam. This edition of MALABAR witnessed participation of warships with their integral helicopters, long range maritime patrol aircraft and submarine.
• MALABAR 2024 Sea Phase serves as a testament to the commitment of participating nations towards enhancing understanding, collaboration and engagement in the maritime domain as the world grapples with increasingly complex maritime security challenges.
• The Opening Ceremony of MALABAR 2024 under the aegis of Eastern Naval Command was held onboard Indian Naval Ship Satpura at Visakhapatnam on 09 Oct 24. The 28th edition of the multi-national maritime exercise that commenced on 08 Oct 24, extended till 18 Oct 24.

Exercise (Naseem Al Bahr) 2024

• INS Trikand and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft, participated in the Indo-Oman bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr with the Royal Navy of Oman Vessel Al Seeb off Goa from 13 to 18 October 24.
• The exercise was conducted in two phases: with harbour phase from 13 to 15 October 24, followed by the sea phase.
• During the sea phase of the exercise conducted from 16 to 18 Oct 24, both ships carried out various evolutions, including gun firings at surface inflatable targets, close-range anti-aircraft firings, manoeuvres, and Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS).

National Crisis Management Committee Meeting

• The Cabinet Secretary, Dr. T. V. Somanathan chaired a meeting of National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) to review preparedness for the impending cyclone in Bay of Bengal.
• It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a depression by 22nd October morning and into a cyclonic storm by 23rd October 2024 over east central Bay of Bengal.
• The National Disaster Response Force is an Indian specialised force constituted under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The responsibility of managing disasters in India is that of the state governments.
• Founded: 2006
• Founder: Government of India
• Agency executive: Shri Piyush Anand, IPS, Director General
• Formed: 19 January 2006; 18 years ago
• Headquarters: New Delhi

India Launches 4^th Nuclear-missile Submarine

• In the midst of a diplomatic spat with Canada, India quietly launched its fourth nuclear powered ballistic missile (SSBN) submarine at Ship Building Center (SBC) in Visakhapatnam this week to strength its nuclear deterrence against its adversaries.
• While India’s second SSBN INS Arighaat was commissioned by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 29, 2024, the third SSBN INS Aridhaman will be commissioned next year.
• On October 9, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) cleared the Indian Navy’s plans for construction of two nuclear powered attack submarines to deter any adversaries in the Indo-Pacific.
• S4 defence: It aims to counter China’s long-range missiles such as Dongfeng-21 and Dongfeng-26 and enhance defence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Cyclone Dana

• As Cyclone Dana is forecast to make landfall on October 24-25, 2024, along the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha, ICG Region (North-East) has implemented a series of preventive measures to safeguard lives and property at sea.
• The ICG has been closely monitoring the situation and has taken proactive steps to ensure preparedness for dealing with any emergency arising from the cyclone’s impact.
• The ICG has mobilised its vessels and aircraft, positioning them strategically to respond swiftly to any emergency at sea.
• Cyclone Dana, expected to generate wind speeds of 100-110 kmph and gusts at 120 kmph, is a tropical cyclone. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) classifies cyclones broadly into two categories: extratropical cyclones and tropical cyclones.
• What is a cyclone?
• A cyclone is a large-scale system of air that rotates around the centre of a low-pressure area. It is usually accompanied by violent storms and bad weather. A cyclone is characterized by inward spiraling winds that rotate anticlockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere, according to the NDMA.
• What are extratropical cyclones?
• Also known as mid-latitude cyclones, extratropical cyclones occur outside of the tropics. They have “cold air at their core and derive their energy from the release of potential energy when cold and warm air masses interact”, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It added that such cyclones always have one or more fronts — a weather system that is the boundary between two different types of air masses. One is represented by warm air and the other by cold air — connected to them, and can occur over land or ocean.
• What are tropical cyclones?
• Tropical cyclones are those which develop in the regions between the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer. They are the most devastating storms on Earth. Such cyclones develop when “thunderstorm activity starts building close to the centre of circulation, and the strongest winds and rain are no longer in a band far from the centre,” NOAA noted. The core of the storm turns warm, and the cyclone gets most of its energy from the “latent heat” released when water vapour that has evaporated from warm ocean waters condenses into liquid water, the agency added. Moreover, warm fronts or cold fronts aren’t associated with tropical cyclones.
• Tropical cyclones have different names depending on their location and strength. They are known as hurricanes in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, the North Atlantic Ocean, and the eastern and central North Pacific Ocean. In the western North Pacific, they are called typhoons.
• Origin: The naming of cyclones in the Indian Ocean region was initiated by WMO/ESCAP in 2000, comprising countries like Bangladesh, India, and others, with 169 names released in 2020.
• Member countries: Bangladesh, India, the Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
• In 2018, Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Yemen were added.
• Purpose: Naming cyclones simplifies communication, making it easier for the public, media, and authorities to track storms and prepare for them.

150^th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Patel

• Amit Shah has announced that the Government of India, under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, will commemorate 150^th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel with a two-year-long nationwide celebration from 2024 to 2026.
• Patel was born on 31 October 1875, at Nadiad in Gujarat. The union government has been observing October 31 as ‘Rashtriya Ekta Diwas‘ or National Unity Day since 2014 to foster and reinforce its dedication to preserving and strengthening the unity, integrity and security of the nation.

Kazan Declaration  

• Global leaders during the 16^th BRICS summit held in Kazan, Russia, held deliberations on various issues and came to positive conclusions. The theme of the Summit was, ‘Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security”.
• The partner states affirmed their commitment to the BRICS spirit of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, collaboration and consensus.
• The countries reaffirmed the need for a rules-based, open, transparent, fair, and consensus-based multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and affirmed their commitment to maintaining a strong and effective Global Financial Safety.
• The declaration stated that the member states were concerned about coercive measure like sanctions and its effect on the World Economy.

MoD Inks Rs 387.44 Crore Contract

• Ministry of Defence, on October 24, 2024, signed a contract with Chowgule & Company Pvt. Ltd., Goa for procurement of six Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) for the Indian Coast Guard at a total cost of Rs 387.44 crore.
• These amphibious vessels, also called ‘Hovercrafts’, will be procured under the Buy {Indian) category.
• These ACVs will be indigenously manufactured in India for the first time in line with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision of the Government, representing a pivotal step in the nation’s shipping landscape. The project will also significantly enhance the technical expertise and growth of indigenous ancillary, especially the MSME sector.
• The procurement of these platforms is aimed to boost the Indian Coast Guard’s capability and reinforces the increased focus towards maritime security.

Exercise (MPX) With German Navy

• Indian Navy’s Destroyer INS Delhi, German Navy’s Frigate Baden-Württemberg and Tanker Frankfurt Am Main undertook a Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) in the Indian Ocean.
• The exercises conducted include cross deck flying operations, underway replenishment, weapon firing and tactical manoeuvres.
• The maiden IN – GN Maritime Partnership Exercise in the Bay of Bengal is aimed at further strengthening the maritime connect between the two nations and interoperability between the navies.

Exercise (SIMBEX) 2024

• The 31^st edition of the Singapore India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) held from 23 to 29 Oct 2024, in the Eastern Naval Command at Visakhapatnam.
• Republic of Singapore Navy Ship RSS Tenacious with embarked helicopter, arrived at Visakhapatnam on 23 October 24 for participating in SIMBEX2024.
• SIMBEX, which began as ‘Exercise Lion King’ in 1994, has since evolved into one of the most significant bilateral maritime collaborations between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).
• The exercise was conducted in two phases – the Harbour Phase from 23 to 25 October at Visakhapatnam and the Sea Phase from 28 to 29 October in the Bay of Bengal.
• The opening ceremony to mark the beginning of SIMBEX24 conducted on 24 Oct 24, onboard INS Shivalik and attended by participating units of the Eastern Fleet and the Singapore Navy.

Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024

• The second edition of the Indian Army’s flagship international seminar, the Chanakya Defence Dialogue, culminated on 25^th October at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi.
• This two-day event brought together policymakers, strategic thinkers, academia, defence personnel, veterans, scientists, and subject matter experts from India and abroad to examine India’s strategic directions and developmental priorities.
• The Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024, themed “Drivers in Nation Building: Fueling Growth Through Comprehensive Security,” sparked essential discussions on the integration of security dynamics within the broader context of national and international policymaking.

Launch of ‘Abhay’

• ‘Abhay ’, the seventh Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercraft (ASW SWC) being built by M/s GRSE for Indian Navy, was launched on 25 Oct 24 at M/s L&T, Kattupalli.
• The contract for building eight ASW SWC ships was signed between MoD and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata in Apr 19.
• Arnala class of ships will replace the in-service Abhay class ASW Corvettes of Indian Navy and are designed to undertake anti-submarine operations in coastal waters, Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO) and Mine Laying Operations.
• The ASW SWC ships are approx 77 m long, with a maximum speed of 25 knots & endurance of 1800 NM.

78^th Infantry Day

• Infantry Day is celebrated every year to commemorate the landing of the 1st Battalion of the SIKH Regiment at Srinagar airfield on 27 Oct 1947 to protect the people of Jammu and Kashmir from the nefarious designs of Pakistani Kabaili Raiders aided by the Pakistan Army.
• This gallant action resulted in the foiling of Pakistan’s plans to occupy Jammu and Kashmir. The infantry is also known as the “Queen of the Battle” and its history is as old as the first human war.
• Somnath Sharma, PVC, was an Indian military officer and the first recipient of India’s highest military decoration, Param Vir Chakra, which he was awarded posthumously. Sharma was commissioned into the 8th Battalion, 19th Hyderabad Regiment, in 1942.

C-295 Aircraft in Vadodara

• PM Narendra Modi and his Spanish counterpart Mr. Pedro Sanchez jointly inaugurated the TATA Aircraft Complex for manufacturing of C-295 aircraft at TATA advanced systems limited (TASL) Campus in Vadodara, Gujarat on October 28, 2024.
• In September 2021, Ministry of Defence had signed a Rs 21,935-crore contract with Airbus Defence and Space SA, Spain for supply of 56 aircraft – 16 to be brought in fly away condition from Spain and 40 to be built in India by TASL.
• The C-295 is a new generation transport aircraft used for airlift operations. It has modern technology & avionics and is perhaps the best current type in its class, with a payload of 9.5T. This aircraft is being inducted into IAF to replace the HS 748 Avro.

ICG Launches Two Fast Patrol Vessels

• Indian Coast Guard (ICG) simultaneously launched two Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) ‘Adamya’ and ‘Akshar’, with over 60% indigenous content, built by Goa Shipyard Ltd. (GSL) on October 28, 2024.
• The vessels are part of the contract signed with GSL for eight such FPVs to be built at a cost of Rs 473 crore. With the primary role of protection, monitoring, control and surveillance, these advanced FPVs will help ICG protect offshore assets and island territories.
• Each FPV has a length of 52m, breadth of 8m, max speed of 27 knots, Controllable Pitch Propeller-based propulsion system and displacement of 320 tons.

Inauguration of Swavlamban Exhibition

• The exhibition open to innovators, startups and MSMEs organised as part of the third edition of the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation’s annual event, Swavlamban, was inaugurated by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, at Exhibition Hall 14, Bharat Mandapam, on 28 Oct 24.
• The theme of Swavlamban 2024 is “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation”.
• Events of 28 Oct 24 included an interactive outreach session aimed at discussing problem statements and challenges posed as part of the Defence Innovation Organisation’s ADITI 2.0 launch under the iDEX scheme, as also the bringing together of ‘Fund Seekers’ (i.e. startups/ MSMEs) and ‘Fund Providers’ (i.e. venture capitalists/ incubators).
• The exhibition remained open to visitors on 29 Oct 24 from 1000 hrs to 2000 hrs.

Multiple Choice Questions of DCA

1. When does the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) celebrate its Annual Day
   in 2024?
   A. October 01
   B. September 30
   C. November 01
   D. December 15
   ANSWER: A
2. Where is the 8th edition of the India-Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise
   KAZIND-2024 being held?
   A. Jodhpur, Rajasthan
   B. Auli, Uttarakhand
   C. Leh, Ladakh
   D. Pune, Maharashtra
   ANSWER: B
3. Who succeeded Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari as the new Chief of the Indian
   Air Force?
   A. Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria
   B. Air Chief Marshal Anil Khosla
   C. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh
   D. Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha
   ANSWER: C
4. What mission does the MNS uphold, as celebrated on its 99th Raising Day on
   October 1, 2024?
   A. “Strength in Unity“
   B. “Service before Self“
   C. “Courage and Commitment“
   D. “Victory through Compassion”
   ANSWER: B
5. When was the IDS raised, which celebrated its 24th Raising Day in 2024?
   A. 1999
   B. 2001
   C. 2005
   D. 2010
   ANSWER: B
6. What is the motto of the Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff (IDS)?
   A. “Unity is Strength“
   B. “Service with Honor“
   C. “Victory Through Jointness“
   D. “Courage Under Fire”
   ANSWER: C
7. The Third 25T Bollard Pull (BP) Tug, Ashva, launched on 03 Oct 24, is a part of
   which initiative?
   A. Global Power
   B. Make in India
   C. Digital India
   D. Startup India
   ANSWER: B
8. Which company is collaborating with AM General and Mandus Group to
   develop advanced artillery gun platforms?
   A. Bharat Electronics Limited
   B. Tata Advanced Systems
   C. Kalyani Strategic Systems
   D. Larsen & Toubro
   ANSWER: C
9. Which archipelago, consisting of over 60 islands in the Indian Ocean, will
   Britain hand over sovereignty to Mauritius?
   A. Lakshadweep Islands
   B. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
   C. Chagos Islands
   D. Seychelles
   ANSWER: C
10. In which year did India become a permanent member of the SCO?
    A. 2005
    B. 2010
    C. 2017
    D. 2023
    ANSWER: C
11. When did India host the SCO summit as chair of the organisation?
    A. 2020
    B. 2021
    C. 2022
    D. 2023
    ANSWER: D
12. Which organisation successfully conducted flight-tests of the VSHORADS in
    Rajasthan?
    A. Indian Air Force
    B. Bharat Electronics Limited
    C. DRDO
    D. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
    ANSWER: C
13. Which Indian tank has been the main battle tank of India’s mechanised forces
    since 2003?
    A. Arjun Mk1
    B. T-72
    C. T-90
    D. None
    ANSWER: C
14. Which country is mentioned as a “natural partner” of India in advancing
    maritime and security cooperation, according to the vision document?
    A. Sri Lanka
    B. Bangladesh
    C. Maldives
    D. Nepal
    ANSWER: C
15. Where was the 92nd Indian Air Force Day celebrations held in 2024?
    A. New Delhi
    B. Chandigarh
    C. Marina Beach, Chennai
    D. Bengaluru
    ANSWER: C
16. Where is the top brass of the Indian Army, led by Gen Upendra Dwivedi,
    holding a meeting to send a strong message to China?
    A. Arunachal Pradesh
    B. Ladakh
    C. Sikkim
    D. Himachal Pradesh
    ANSWER: C
17. What is the maximum firing range of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun
    System (ATAGS)?
    A. 35 km
    B. 40 km
    C. 48 km
    D. 50 km
    ANSWER: C
18. What is the new UCAV project launched by the French Ministry intended to
    complement after 2030?
    A. Mirage 2000
    B. Rafale F5 fighter jet
    C. Eurofighter Typhoon
    D. Dassault Falcon
    ANSWER: B
19. Where was the Opening Ceremony of MALABAR 2024 held?
    A. Goa
    B. Visakhapatnam
    C. Kochi
    D. Chennai
    ANSWER: B
20. Which Indian Navy vessel arrived at Simon’s Town, South Africa, to participate
    in the IBSAMAR exercise?
    A. INS Vikrant
    B. INS Talwar
    C. INS Satpura
    D. INS Kolkata
    ANSWER: B
21. What is the total cost of building two nuclear submarines indigenously at the
    Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam?
    A. Rs 45,000 crore
    B. Rs 50,000 crore
    C. Rs 40,000 crore
    D. Rs 60,000 crore
    ANSWER: A
22. Which group was recently banned by the MHA under the Unlawful Activities
    (Prevention) Act of 1967?
    A. Jaish-e-Mohammed
    B. Hizb-ut-Tahrir
    C. Lashkar-e-Taiba
    D. Islamic State
    ANSWER: B
23. What is the name of the portable multi-target detonation device recently
    launched by the Indian Army?
    A. Agniastra
    B. Brahmastra
    C. Pinaka
    D. Pralay
    ANSWER: A
24. Who developed the “Agniastra” device for the Indian Army?
    A. Major Rajprasad RS
    B. General Upendra Dwivedi
    C. Colonel Abhay Sharma
    D. Lieutenant General Anil Chauhan
    ANSWER: A
25. Who recently assumed charge as the Director General Medical Services (Navy)
    on 14th October 2024?
    A. Surgeon Vice Admiral Anil Chopra
    B. Surgeon Vice Admiral Kavita Sahai
    C. Surgeon Vice Admiral Sunita Sharma
    D. Surgeon Vice Admiral Vikram Singh
    ANSWER: B
26. Where is the Indian Navy Sailing Championship (INSC) 2024 set to take place?
    A. Visakhapatnam
    B. Mumbai
    C. Kochi
    D. Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala
    ANSWER: D
27. What is the name of the first ship of the Multi Purpose Vessel project
    launched by L&T Shipyard for the Indian Navy?
    A. Samarthak
    B. Veer
    C. Shaurya
    D. Vikrant
    ANSWER: A
28. Which city hosted the 23rd meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of
    Government?
    A. New Delhi
    B. Islamabad
    C. Shanghai
    D. Moscow
    ANSWER: B
29. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was established on 15th June
    2001 in which city?
    A. Moscow
    B. Tashkent
    C. Shanghai
    D. Beijing
    ANSWER: C
30. Which countries hold Observer Status in the SCO?
    A. Iran and Belarus
    B. Afghanistan and Mongolia
    C. India and Pakistan
    D. China and Russia
    ANSWER: B

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