Current Affairs One - Liner : 22nd August 2024

NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission and Australia’s CSIRO have launched the Climate Smart Agritech RISE Accelerator Program. This initiative supports startups and MSMEs from India and Australia working on innovative agritech solutions. The program offers online learning, in-person sessions, and mentorship to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience. Applications are open until September 15, 2024.

On August 15, 2024, the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC) achieved the Oeko-Tex certification for its Eri Silk. This certification ensures that the silk meets high safety and environmental standards, enhancing its appeal in global markets.
India’s second 700 MW nuclear power reactor at Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS-4) in Gujarat has started operating at full capacity as of August 21, 2024. This marks a significant achievement for India’s indigenous nuclear technology, with plans to add 14 more reactors of the same design by 2031-32.
Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar inaugurated the 17th Divya Kala Mela in Raipur on August 17, 2024. This event highlights the talents and entrepreneurship of Divyang (disabled) individuals from 16 states and Union Territories. The fair features a variety of products, including handicrafts, textiles, and food items, along with cultural programs and workshops.

The World Bank issued a USD 225 million carbon removal bond to fund Amazon reforestation. This bond is designed to support reforestation projects that remove carbon from the atmosphere, enhance biodiversity, and benefit local communities. Investors’ returns are linked to the success of these environmental efforts.
The ranking in which RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das was named the top central banker globally is the “Central Banker Report Cards” published by Global Finance magazine. This ranking evaluates central bankers based on their performance in areas such as inflation control, economic growth goals, currency stability, and interest rate management.
On August 21, 2024, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Ltd and HSBC India announced a bancassurance partnership. This collaboration aims to offer a wide range of insurance products to HSBC India’s customers, enhancing their access to comprehensive insurance solutions.

Scientists have discovered reservoirs of liquid water deep within Mars’ rocky crust using data from NASA’s Mars Insight Lander. This finding is significant for understanding Mars’ water cycle and its potential habitability.
The Pragyan rover from ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 mission has found evidence suggesting that the Moon once had a magma ocean. This discovery supports the theory that the Moon’s surface was initially molten over 4 billion years ago.

Amul has been ranked as the world’s strongest food and dairy brand in the Brand Finance Food & Drink 2024 report. With a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 91.0 out of 100, Amul earned the prestigious AAA+ rating. This recognition highlights Amul’s exceptional performance in areas like familiarity, consideration, and recommendation.

Ilkay Gundogan announced his retirement from international football on August 19, 2024. This marks the end of a significant chapter in his career, having been a key player for Germany. His decision comes after a successful stint, including captaining the national team.

The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is observed on August 21 to honor and support victims and survivors of terrorism. In 2024, the theme is “Voices for Peace: Victims of Terrorism as Peace Advocates and Educators”.

Rajesh Nambiar was named the President-Designate of NASSCOM on August 21, 2024. He will take over from Debjani Ghosh, whose term ends in November 2024. This leadership change marks a significant transition for NASSCOM as it continues to drive the tech industry’s growth in India.
The announcement that Sanjiv Ranjan will serve as the Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Secretariat for three years starting January 1, 2025, was made on August 17, 2024. This role will involve overseeing the IORA’s initiatives to promote regional cooperation and sustainable development among its member states.

On 21st August 2024, Union Minister Giriraj Singh presented the 24th Handicrafts Export Awards in New Delhi, recognizing the contributions of artisans and exporters. A total of 123 awards and certificates were distributed. Singh emphasized the sector’s significant economic role, noting its growth rate of nearly nine to ten percent.
Rohit Sharma was honored with the ‘Men’s International Cricketer of the Year’ award at the Ceat Cricket Rating Awards on August 21, 2024. This recognition celebrates his outstanding performances and contributions to international cricket over the past year.

Former CSIR Director-General Girish Sahni passed away on August 19, 2024, at the age of 68. He was known for his significant contributions to biotechnology and innovation in India.
Former Meghalaya Chief Minister Salseng C. Marak passed away on August 16, 2024, at the age of 82. He died due to age-related ailments at Tura Civil Hospital in West Garo Hills district.

Questions:

1 Which company has been ranked as the world’s strongest food and dairy brand in the Brand Finance Food & Drink 2024 report?

2 Who was appointed as the President-Designate of NASSCOM (National Association of Software and Services Companies) on August 21, 2024?