- National:
- The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) amended the Bicycle Retro-Reflective Devices (Quality Control) Order, 2020 on October 17, 2024. Effective from July 1, 2023, the amendment introduces relaxations, allowing up to 200 bicycle reflectors to be imported for research and development purposes and exempting imports meant for export under certain conditions.
- The Environment Ministry notified new rules under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act on November 12, 2024. These rules, called the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) (Manner of Holding Inquiry and Imposition of Penalty) Rules, 2024, streamline the process for handling water pollution violations and replace criminal penalties with monetary fines for minor violations.
- The Indian government issued new guidelines on November 13, 2024, to regulate misleading advertisements by coaching institutes. These rules, by the Central Consumer Protection Authority, ban false claims and demand accurate service representation, consent for student photos, and transparent information disclosure.
- Banking:
- RBI Deputy Governor Michael Patra announced that digital transfers of cash for public services increased by 56% in 2024. This was revealed during the conference on Digital Technology, Productivity and Economic Growth in India on November 13, 2024.
- Science & Technology:
- On October 14, 2024, Northwestern University scientists unveiled the discovery of a massive underground ocean hidden 700 kilometers below Earth's surface. Trapped within the mineral ringwoodite, this ocean is three times larger than all surface oceans combined.
- Summits & Conferences:
- The first U.S.-India Ocean Dialogue was held on November 14, 2024, in New Delhi. Hosted by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, it is co-chaired by U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell. The theme is "Strengthening Security and Prosperity in the Indo-Pacific Region," focusing on maritime security, economic cooperation, and technological innovation.
- The 35th Triservices Commanders' Conference (TSTCC) 2024 took place on November 13, 2024, at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi. It was hosted by the Southern Naval Command and chaired by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan. The theme focused on "Enhancing Joint Training and Operational Effectiveness" to address evolving security challenges. The conference aimed to foster jointmanship and synergy among the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Important Days:
- Children's Day in India is celebrated on November 14, marking the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The 2024 theme is "For every child, every right," emphasizing access to essential rights like education, food, housing, sanitation, and protection from exploitation.
- World Usability Day is celebrated annually on November 14. The 2024 theme is "Designing for Trust," emphasizing secure and reliable product design. Events include conferences, workshops, and discussions on improving user experience and design.
- Appointments:
- Amandeep Johl has been appointed as the CEO of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI). This announcement was made on November 13, 2024. Johl will assume the role on January 1, 2025, replacing Uttam Singh Mundy.
- Australia announced Chris Evans as its first Anti-Slavery Commissioner on November 11, 2024. He will assume the role on December 2, 2024, for a five-year term, focusing on combating modern slavery, including human trafficking and forced labor.
- Navin Ramgoolam was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Mauritius on November 13, 2024. This marks his return to power after a decade, following a landslide victory in the recent general election.
- Maia Sandu was re-elected as President of Moldova for her second term on November 3, 2024. She won with 55.35% of the vote against Alexandr Stoianoglo. This victory reinforces her pro-European stance and Moldova's path towards EU integration
- President-elect Donald Trump appointed Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This initiative aims to reduce government bureaucracy, cut wasteful spending, and reorganize federal agencies. The mission is to complete these reforms by July 4, 2026.
- Awards & Honours:
- Collins Dictionary named "brat" the Word of the Year 2024 on November 1, 2024. The term gained popularity from Charli XCX's album "Brat," embodying a confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude. This cultural phenomenon was known as "brat summer."
- Thiruvananthapuram Corporation became the first Indian city to win the Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities on November 1, 2024. The award was led by UN Habitat and the Shanghai Municipality. The city was recognized for its outstanding progress in sustainable urban development.
- GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL) won top honors at the Saudi Airport Exhibition 2024 for its digital innovations. The Digital Twin technology received awards for Innovation and Technology and Facility Management, while the Smart Shopping Trolley was a runner-up in the Airport Revenue Management category. The awards ceremony took place on November 12, 2024.
Questions:
1 When is World Usability Day celebrated annually?
- A) November 10
- B) November 12
- C) November 14
- D) November 16
2 Which airport won top honors at the Saudi Airport Exhibition 2024 for its digital innovations?
- A) Delhi International Airport
- B) GMR Hyderabad International Airport
- C) Mumbai International Airport
- D) Bengaluru International Airport