Current Affairs One - Liner : 28th August 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lakhpati Didi Sammelan in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, where he felicitated 11 lakh new “Lakhpati Didis” and released a revolving fund of Rs 2,500 crore. This initiative benefits around 48 lakh members of 4.3 lakh Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and aims to empower women economically.

The Voluntary Vehicle Modernization Program, also known as the Vehicle Scrapping Policy, aims to phase out unfit, polluting vehicles in India. It involves Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs) and Automated Testing Stations (ATSs). Commercial Vehicle and Passenger Vehicle manufacturers offer discounts to incentivize scrapping of end-of-life vehicles.
Bharat Biotech International Ltd recently launched Hillchol (BBV131) on August 27, 2024. Hillchol is a new cholera vaccine aimed at providing effective protection against cholera, a serious bacterial infection that can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration.
Teghbir Singh, at the age of 10, became the youngest Asian to conquer Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters. His journey involved rigorous physical and mental preparation to overcome challenges like altitude sickness and extreme weather. This achievement serves as an inspiration to young adventurers worldwide.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) banned the promoters of Rana Sugars and other related entities from the securities market for two years on August 27, 2024. This action was taken due to alleged violations of securities laws.

The SBI Research report, released on August 26, 2024, projects India’s GDP growth at 7.1% for Q1 FY25. This aligns with the Reserve Bank of India’s forecast. The report highlights strong domestic demand and robust industrial activity as key drivers of this growth.

On August 25, 2024, REC Limited signed an MoU with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) at JNPA headquarters in Navi Mumbai. REC Limited will finance ₹45,000 crore for various infrastructure projects at the port. This funding aims to enhance port facilities, improve logistics, and support economic growth in the region.

Indian scientists at IASST have developed a smart sensor to manage Parkinson’s disease. This portable, smartphone-based sensor accurately detects L-dopa levels, ensuring the correct dosage is administered. Proper L-dopa dosage is crucial as both excess and deficiency can cause serious side effects or symptom recurrence.

The SPICED scheme, launched by the Spices Board of India on August 22, 2024, aims to enhance spice exports, improve cardamom productivity, and upgrade post-harvest quality. With an approved outlay of ₹422.30 crore, it supports farmers, promotes market expansion, and focuses on technological interventions.

On August 28, 2024, India and Chile held the 2nd Joint Commission meeting in New Delhi, co-chaired by India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Chile’s Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren. The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation in trade, critical minerals, defence, railways, space, and people-to-people ties, while also discussing global and regional issues.

B Srinivasan was appointed as the new Director General of the National Security Guard (NSG) on August 27, 2024. This appointment is part of the Centre’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the leadership of India’s elite counter-terrorism force.
Satish Kumar was appointed as the Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board on August 27, 2024. His tenure will commence on September 1, 2024. This appointment marks a significant leadership change in the Indian Railways.
On 27th August 2024, Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), was elected as the independent chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). His appointment marks a significant moment for Indian cricket, as it continues to play a prominent role in global cricket governance.

Former Lebanese Prime Minister Salim Ahmad al-Huss passed away on August 25, 2024, at the age of 94. He served as Prime Minister five times, guiding Lebanon through critical periods, including the civil war. He was highly respected for his integrity and dedication to the nation.
Nari Hira, the renowned film producer and owner of Magna Publishing, passed away on August 23, 2024. He was a significant figure in the Indian media industry, known for his contributions to both film production and publishing.

Questions:

1 Who became the youngest Asian to conquer Mt. Kilimanjaro?

2 Who was appointed as the new Director General of the National Security Guard (NSG) on August 27, 2024?