Current Affairs One - Liner : 30th & 31st October 2024

National:

On October 29, 2024, Union Minister Piyush Goyal participated in the 8th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event, themed "Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow," brought together global leaders, investors, and innovators to discuss international partnerships, economic diplomacy, and investment opportunities.

Current Affairs One - Liner : 30th & 31st October 2024

On October 14, 2024, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari unveiled a ₹100 commemorative coin to mark the birth centenary of HH Mataji Nirmala Devi Ji. The event took place at the National Museum Auditorium in New Delhi.
On October 29, 2024, four sandstone replicas of the Konark wheel were installed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and the Amrit Udyan. This initiative aims to showcase India's rich heritage to visitors. The Konark Sun Temple is known for its magnificent chariot-shaped structure carrying the Sun god.
On October 30, 2024, NTPC Ltd, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), developed an indigenous catalyst for methanol production from flue gas CO2. This innovation converts CO2 emissions from fossil-fired power plants into high-purity methanol (over 99%), addressing the critical challenge of CO2 mitigation.
On October 29, 2024, the Karnataka government launched two flagship startup programs: ELEVATE 2024 and the Karnataka Acceleration Network (KAN). ELEVATE 2024 provides grants up to Rs 50 lakh per startup, along with support services. KAN focuses on expanding mentorship and market access statewide.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, was celebrated on October 31, 2024. This festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes were illuminated with diyas and fireworks, and families gathered for festive meals and gift exchanges.
The Grand Deepotsav was held on the banks of the Saryu River in Ayodhya on October 30, 2024. Over 25 lakh diyas were lit, setting a new Guinness World Record. The event featured cultural performances, a grand procession, and a spectacular drone show, celebrating the first Diwali since the consecration of the Ram Temple.
On October 30, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated infrastructure projects worth over Rs 280 crore at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat. These include a 50-bed sub-district hospital, 10 smart bus stops, a 4 MW solar project, and walkways with sprinklers. These initiatives aim to boost tourism, improve accessibility, and promote sustainability in the region.

International:

On October 29, 2024, Brazil became the second BRICS country, after India, to opt out of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Brazil's decision aims to seek independent collaborations with China, focusing on projects that align with its national priorities.

Banking:

On October 30, 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) increased its gold reserves to 855 metric tonnes. Of this, 510.46 metric tonnes are stored domestically, while 324.01 metric tonnes are held internationally with the Bank of England and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).
On October 19, 2024, the Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) launched the IOB-Mahila Shaksham Scheme. This scheme provides financial assistance to women SHG members under the DAY-NRLM program, aiming to ensure an annual income of at least Rs 1 lakh per household through entrepreneurial activities.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved a USD 241.3 million loan on October 22, 2024 to enhance power distribution in West Bengal. This aims to improve electricity distribution for 8.96 million consumers across seven districts, ensuring reliable and sustainable power supply.
HDFC Securities launched HDFC Tru on October 17, 2024, entering the wealth advisory business. This service targets High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs), Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNIs), Family Offices, and Corporate Treasuries, offering personalized financial solutions.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) Global approved a 300 million euro loan for the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project on October 25, 2024. The project includes the construction of a new suburban railway network covering 149 km with 58 stations and two depots.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its 43rd half-yearly report on the Management of Foreign Exchange Reserves (MFER) on October 29, 2024. The report covers April to September 2024, highlighting India's foreign exchange reserves, which were USD 688.27 billion as of October 18, 2024.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) issued its first Biodiversity and Nature Bond worth USD 100 million on October 29, 2024. The bond aims to fund projects addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution across Asia and the Pacific. It was purchased by Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company of Japan and arranged by Credit Agricole CIB.
The Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) agreed to lend Rs 11,000 crore to the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA) on October 22, 2024, for the construction of the Amaravati greenfield capital city. This funding, along with loans from the World Bank and Asian Development Bank (ADB), secures the required Rs 26,000 crore for Phase-1 of the project.
On October 14, 2024, the Bank of Baroda launched the bob Utsav Deposit Scheme. This special fixed deposit scheme offers attractive interest rates and flexible tenures to encourage savings during the festive season. It's available for fixed deposits below Rs 3 crore.
Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (KMBL) announced on October 18, 2024, it will acquire Standard Chartered Bank India's personal loan book worth Rs 4,100 crore. This acquisition aims to enhance KMBL's retail lending market presence, focusing on high-quality loans.
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved Fortis Healthcare Limited's acquisition of an additional 31.52% stake in Agilus Diagnostics Limited on October 29, 2024. This acquisition raises Fortis Healthcare's total shareholding in Agilus to 89.2%.
On October 28, 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) set a Rs 300 crore net worth criteria for entities applying for Central Counterparty (CCP) authorisation. This revision updates the 2019 norms and applies to both domestic and foreign CCPs in India.

Economy:

In H1FY25, India's steel trade deficit widened to ₹19,404 crore. Steel imports surged by 42% year-on-year, reaching 4.73 million tonnes (MT) valued at ₹39,060 crore. Conversely, steel exports fell by 36% to 2.3 MT, valued at ₹19,656 crore. This significant imbalance contributed to the widening trade deficit.
In September 2024, India's core sectors' output grew by 2% compared to the same month last year. This growth was driven by positive performance in sectors like cement, refinery products, coal, fertilizers, and steel, despite a decline in crude oil production.
In FY 2023-2024, the United States, France, and Armenia emerged as India's top three defence export destinations. India achieved a record high in defence exports, totaling ₹21,083 crore ($2.63 billion).
On October 25, 2024, the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP) revised India's GDP growth forecast for FY25 to 6.9-7.1%. This adjustment follows a growth moderation in the June quarter due to a sharp contraction in net exports and reduced government consumption.

Science & Technology:

On October 22, 2024, China launched the Yaogan-43 03 satellite group from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province. These satellites will test new technologies for low-orbit constellations, boosting China's space capabilities.
On October 22, 2024, NASA unveiled a full-scale prototype telescope for the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission. This milestone is crucial for detecting gravitational waves from cosmic events such as merging black holes. The LISA mission, a collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), aims for a mid-2030s launch.

Reports:

The 2024 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) report was released on October 17, 2024 by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI). It reveals that 1.1 billion people live in acute poverty, with 40% in conflict areas.

Sports:

Mansi Ahlawat won a bronze medal in the women's 59kg category at the 2024 Senior World Wrestling Championships on October 31, 2024, held in Tirana, Albania.
On October 17, 2024, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) revealed the logo and tagline for the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup. The event will take place in New Delhi from January 13-19, 2025, with the tagline "#TheWorldGoesKho".

Summits & Conferences:

The 2024 Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) was hosted by the Philippines in partnership with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) from October 14-18, 2024, at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila. The theme was "Surge to 2030: Enhancing ambition in Asia-Pacific to accelerate disaster risk reduction".
On October 24, 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the 2nd edition of the Chanakya Defence Dialogue at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. The event was organized by the Indian Army in collaboration with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS). The theme of the dialogue was "Drivers in Nation Building: Fuelling Growth Through Comprehensive Security."
India and the WHO hosted the 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) in New Delhi from October 14 to October 18, 2024. The theme was "Smart Regulation: Delivering Quality Assured Medical Products for All". Regulatory authorities from over 194 WHO member states attended.

Index & Ranking:

The latest Henley Passport Index, released in October 2024 by Henley & Partners, ranks Singapore as the world's most powerful passport. Singaporean passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 195 out of 227 destinations worldwide. India ranks 82nd on the index, with visa-free access to 58 destinations.

Apps & Portals:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile application on October 30, 2024. This app aims to simplify the process of registering births and deaths, making it more accessible and efficient for citizens across India.

Govt.Schemes:

On October 26, 2024, the Rajasthan government launched the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS) 2024 to attract private investment. This scheme offers increased financial incentives for sunrise sectors, manufacturing, and services. The initiative aims to boost economic growth and create jobs.
On October 29, 2024, the Haryana government implemented the Rajya Vishisht Yojana to curb stubble burning. The scheme provides financial assistance to farmers for managing crop residue and sets zero-burning targets for panchayats, offering incentives of up to Rs 1 lakh. This initiative aims to reduce air pollution and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Important Days:

World Thrift Day is celebrated annually on October 30 to promote the importance of savings and financial security. The theme for 2024 is "Financial Literacy Among Children", focusing on educating kids about saving money and making wise financial decisions.
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) celebrated its 63rd Raising Day on October 24, 2024, with the theme "Valour and Dedication: Safeguarding the Nation's Borders." This day honors the bravery and commitment of ITBP personnel in protecting India's frontiers.
National Solidarity Day is observed annually on October 20 in India to honor the collective spirit and unity of the nation. The theme for 2024 is "Unity in Diversity: Strengthening Social Bonds." It emphasizes coming together, celebrating diversity, and fostering unity to build a stronger society.
The 116th birthday of freedom fighter Pasumpon Muthuramalingar was celebrated as Guru Pooja on October 30, 2024. Muthuramalingar, a prominent freedom fighter and social reformer, played a significant role in India's independence movement.
World Osteoporosis Day is observed annually on October 20 to raise awareness about osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones. The theme for 2024 is "Say No to Fragile Bones," emphasizing the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment.
International Stuttering Awareness Day (ISAD) was observed on October 22, 2024. This day aims to raise awareness about stuttering and support those who stutter. The 2024 theme, "The Power of Listening," highlights active listening and empathy in communication.
Disarmament Week 2024 was observed from October 24 to 30 with the theme "Promoting Global Peace and Security." This theme highlights the importance of disarmament in achieving global peace and security through various events and educational activities.
The World Day for Audiovisual Heritage is celebrated on October 27 every year. The theme for 2024 is "Your Window to the World". This day focuses on preserving and appreciating audiovisual heritage like films and recordings.
Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2024 runs from October 24 to October 31. This UNESCO-coordinated event emphasizes media literacy in the digital age under the theme "The New Digital Frontiers of Information: Media and Information Literacy for Public-Interest Information".
The International Day of Care and Support 2024 was observed on October 29 with the theme "Transforming Care Systems: Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in the context of Beijing+30." This day focuses on recognizing unpaid care work and promoting gender equality in care systems.
World Stroke Day 2024 was observed on October 29 with the theme "#GreaterThanStroke Active Challenge". This year's theme highlights the importance of staying active to prevent strokes and promotes stroke awareness and rehabilitation through sports.
World Cities Day 2024 was observed on October 31 with the theme "Youth leading climate and local action for cities". This theme highlights the vital role of youth in driving sustainable urban development and climate action.
World Savings Day 2024 was observed on October 31 with the theme "100 Years Forward Together: Shaping the Future of Responsible Banking". This theme emphasizes the importance of financial stability, growth, and responsible banking for a secure future.

Defence:

On October 28, 2024, Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched two indigenous fast patrol vessels, Adamya and Akshar, for the Indian Coast Guard. The vessels were ceremonially launched by Priya Paramesh, wife of Indian Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani.
On October 24, 2024, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with Chowgule & Company Pvt. Ltd., Goa to procure six Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) for the Indian Coast Guard for ₹387.44 crore. These indigenously manufactured ACVs will enhance maritime security with high-speed coastal patrolling, reconnaissance, and search & rescue operations.
On October 29, 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched the ADITI 3.0 challenge and DISC 13 during Swavlamban 3.0 in New Delhi. ADITI 3.0 focuses on developing a High-Power Microwave Weapon System, while DISC 13 addresses challenges in AI, communication, and autonomous bots.

Appointments:

On October 28, 2024, the Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) recommended Ashok Chandra for the position of MD and CEO of Punjab National Bank. Chandra, currently Executive Director at Canara Bank, will replace Atul Kumar Goel, set to retire in December 2024.
Dr. Himanshu Pathak has been appointed as the Director-General Designate of ICRISAT. This announcement was made on October 21, 2024. Dr. Pathak is currently the Secretary of DARE and Director General of ICAR.
On October 21, 2024, General Luong Cuong was elected as the new President of Vietnam by the National Assembly. He succeeded To Lam, who became the General Secretary of the Communist Party.
Praveena Rai took charge as the CEO and Managing Director of the Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX) on October 31, 2024. She succeeded P S Reddy and brings over three decades of experience in the financial services sector, including roles at NPCI, HSBC, and Kotak Mahindra Bank.
On October 15, 2024, Rashmika Mandanna was named the National Ambassador to promote cyber safety by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C). She'll lead campaigns to raise awareness about digital threats such as deepfake technology, cyberbullying, and online scams.
On October 30, 2024, the International Cricket Council (ICC) appointed Sumathi Dharmawardena as the new Independent Chair of the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). Dharmawardena, who starts on November 1, 2024, succeeds Sir Ronnie Flanagan after his 14-year tenure.
On October 29, 2024, Hezbollah announced Naim Qassem as its new chief, succeeding Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut on September 27. Qassem, who has been the deputy leader since 1991, was elected by Hezbollah's Shura Council.
The government has appointed S. Gopalakrishnan as the new Chairman of the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). He took over the position from Rakesh Ranjan, who opted for voluntary retirement effective October 31, 2024. Gopalakrishnan is a 1991-batch IAS officer from Tamil Nadu.

Awards & Honours:

Francis Ford Coppola will be honored with the 50th AFI Life Achievement Award at a gala tribute on April 26, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The announcement was made on October 29, 2024, recognizing his contributions to cinema with films like The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, and Megalopolis.
At the AFC Annual Awards 2023 in Seoul on October 29, 2024, Son Heung-min was named Asia’s Best International Player (Men) for the fourth time. Ellie Carpenter from Australia, playing for Lyon, won the inaugural Asia’s Best International Player (Women) award.

Books:

On October 14, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the biography "Bharatvakya" of classical musician Bharat Balvalli in New Delhi. The biography, authored by Dr. S. L. Bhyrappa, highlights Balvalli's dedication to culture and spirituality and their importance in nation-building.
Financial expert Ajay Thakur launched his book "Vision to Victory: Unleashing India’s SME Platform" on October 23, 2024, at the Sahara Star, Vile Parle, Mumbai. The book focuses on the critical role of SMEs in India's economic growth and provides strategies for their development.

Obituaries:

On October 28, 2024, Justice KS Puttaswamy, a former judge of the Karnataka High Court and key petitioner in the landmark Right to Privacy case, passed away at the age of 98.
Padma Shri awardee and Gussadi dance master Kanaka Raju passed away on October 25, 2024, at his native place Marlavai in Jainoor mandal, Telangana, due to age-related issues. He was 84 years old and was honored for his significant contributions to the Gussadi dance form.

Questions:

1 Who authored the biography "Bharatvakya" of Bharat Balvalli?

A) Chetan Bhagat
B) Dr. S. L. Bhyrappa
C) Arundhati Roy
D) Amartya Sen

2 What is the primary goal of the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS) 2024?

A) To increase agricultural productivity
B) To enhance tourism in Rajasthan
C) To attract private investment in Rajasthan
D) To promote traditional handicrafts

Current Affairs One - Liner : 30th & 31st October 2024

Questions:

About Me

Ramandeep Singh - Educator