Current Affairs One - Liner : 28th September 2024

Indian Railways launched the ‘Rail Rakshak Dal’ in the North Western Railway zone on September 24, 2024. This initiative is designed to ensure rapid response and rescue operations at accident sites, enhancing passenger safety and emergency preparedness.

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the first Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav at Rashtrapati Nilayam in Secunderabad, Telangana. This eight-day festival, from September 29 to October 6, 2024. The event features traditional dances, music performances, and a variety of handlooms and handicrafts. It aims to promote cultural exchange between the northeastern and southern regions of India.
The government has declared 1.84 lakh hectares around the Gir Protected Area as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ). This includes areas across 196 villages in Junagadh, Amreli, and Gir Somnath districts. The ESZ aims to protect the Asiatic lion’s habitat while allowing sustainable development.

India and Uzbekistan signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty on September 27, 2024. This treaty aims to boost investor confidence and enhance economic cooperation between the two nations. It is expected to create a more favorable environment for investments, fostering stronger economic ties and mutual growth.
India has officially joined the Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN), a US-led initiative aimed at securing supply chains for critical minerals. This network, announced during the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2024, includes 14 countries and the European Union.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of Vastu Housing Finance Corporation by Naspers Ventures on September 17, 2024. This approval marks a significant step in the expansion of Naspers Ventures’ investment portfolio in the Indian financial sector.

The OECD has raised India’s GDP growth forecast to 6.7% for FY25 and 6.8% for FY26. This upward revision highlights India’s robust domestic demand and impactful economic reforms, positioning it as a growth leader among G20 nations.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has forecasted India’s economic growth at 7% for FY24 and 7.2% for FY25. This positive outlook is driven by strong agricultural growth, improved rural spending, and new employment-linked incentives.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia launched the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav website in New Delhi. This festival, from December 6th to 8th, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, celebrates the cultural and economic heritage of Northeast India.
On September 25, 2024, NICDC Logistics Data Services Limited (NLDSL) launched the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) Logistics Hackathon 2.0 and the Track Your Transport (TYT) app. The hackathon aims to drive innovation in the logistics sector by inviting developers to create digital solutions.

Lay’s has been named the Official Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027. The 2026 tournament will be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, featuring 48 teams. The 2027 Women’s World Cup will be held in South America for the first time.

The International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI), celebrated on September 28, emphasizes the importance of access to information for transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. This year’s theme is “Mainstreaming Access to Information and Participation in the Public Sector”.
The Indian Army celebrated its 198th Gunners Day on September 28, 2024, with the theme “Honoring the Legacy, Embracing the Future”. This day marks the raising of the first Indian Artillery Unit in 1827. Celebrations included ceremonies and events to honor the contributions of the Regiment of Artillery and to highlight future advancements and modernization efforts.

On September 15, 2023, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu released two books authored by Ajay Prashar: “Jalandhar Peeth Ka Rahsya” and “Mushtarka Khata”. These books delve into intriguing themes and narratives, reflecting Prashar’s unique storytelling style.

Keki N. Daruwalla, a renowned poet and former IPS officer, passed away on September 26, 2024, at the age of 87. He had been battling pneumonia for some time. Daruwalla was celebrated for his profound contributions to Indian English literature.

Questions:

1 What is the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) forecast for India’s economic growth in FY24?

2 How many hectares have been declared as the Eco-Sensitive Zone around the Gir Protected Area?