Current Affairs one - Liner : 22nd November 2024

On November 13, 2024, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) launched Operation Dronagiri at IIT Delhi. This project, part of the National Geospatial Policy 2022, includes the Geospatial Data Interface (GDI) and aims to enhance urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster management through geospatial technologies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Bodoland Mohotsav on November 15, 2024, in New Delhi. The two-day event celebrates the Bodo community's language, literature, and culture, aiming to foster peace and build a vibrant Bodo society. The theme was "Peace and Harmony for a Prosperous Bharat".
On November 5, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu released three key Supreme Court publications: Justice for Nation: Reflections on 75 years of the Supreme Court of India, Prisons in India: Mapping Prison Manuals and Measures for Reformation and Decongestion, and Legal Aid Through Law Schools: A Report on Working of Legal Aid Cells in India. These publications aim to highlight the Supreme Court's journey, address prison reforms, and enhance legal aid through law schools.
India's Ministry of Science and Technology launched the country's first AI data bank on November 20, 2024, to boost national security. This initiative provides researchers, startups, and developers access to high-quality datasets for creating scalable AI solutions.
The Haryana Government notified the Haryana Good Governance Award Scheme 2024 on November 13, 2024. This scheme aims to recognize and reward employees for innovative practices and exceptional efforts in governance.

Armenia became the 104th full member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) on November 15, 2024, with the announcement made on November 21, 2024. This membership supports Armenia's green energy policies and international climate commitments.

On November 5, 2024, Larsen & Toubro (L&T) announced it will acquire a 21% stake in E2E Networks for Rs 1,406 crore through a two-part deal. L&T will invest Rs 1,079.27 crore for a 15% stake via preferential allotment and Rs 327.75 crore for an additional 6% stake through secondary acquisition.

Moody's projects the Indian economy to grow by 7.2% in 2024. This growth is driven by a rebound in household consumption and moderating inflation. The report highlights India's current economic "sweet spot" with strong growth and easing inflation.

The report titled "India’s Economic Growth Projections for Q3 FY2025" by ICRA predicts faster GDP growth in the third quarter of the current financial year. Key factors include increased electricity demand, higher vehicle registrations, and robust non-oil exports.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched the VISION Portal on November 21, 2024, under the Viksit Bharat Initiative for Student Innovation and Outreach Network (VISION). This portal aims to promote education, skill development, and innovation among underprivileged children.

The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) will rename Block B of Eden Gardens after legendary fast bowler Jhulan Goswami. The stand will be inaugurated on January 22, 2025, during the T20 match between India and England. Known as the Chakdah Express, Goswami is the first Indian woman cricketer to receive this honour at Eden Gardens.
India won the 4th T20 International against South Africa on November 15, 2024, at The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. India defeated South Africa by 135 runs, winning the series 3-1.
Indian professional boxer Mandeep Jangra won the WBF Super Featherweight World Title on November 5, 2024, in the Cayman Islands. He defeated British boxer Conor McIntosh with a unanimous decision. The event was a professional boxing match.
On November 21, 2024, Alistair Brownlee announced his retirement from professional triathlon. The two-time Olympic gold medalist, who won gold in London 2012 and Rio 2016, shared his decision on social media.
Italy clinched its fifth Billie Jean King Cup title on November 20, 2024, in Malaga, Spain. They defeated Slovakia 2-0 in the final, with Jasmine Paolini leading the victory by winning her match 6-2, 6-1 against Rebecca Sramkova. The sport is tennis.
Bihar will host the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025 in April, followed by the Khelo India Para Games (KIPG) with a 10 to 15-day gap. This marks Bihar's first time hosting both events. These games aim to promote sports and inclusivity in the state.

The 4th edition of 'Sea-VIGIL-24' took place from November 21-22, 2024, along India's entire coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone. It involved over 21 agencies, including the Indian Navy, Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, and various security and maritime authorities.

The World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence is observed on November 18, 2024, with the theme "Emerging Technologies: Threats and Opportunities for the Protection of Children". This day emphasizes raising awareness, preventing abuse, and supporting survivors.

On November 14, 2024, during the valedictory ceremony held by the Capacity Building Commission (CBC) at Vigyan Bhawan, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Awards Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL), and Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC) for their exceptional performance during the National Learning Week (NLW).
On November 21, 2024, Nepal President Ram Chandra Paudel conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army on Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi. This tradition, dating back to 1950, symbolizes strong military ties between India and Nepal.

John Prescott, the former Deputy Prime Minister of the UK, passed away on November 20, 2024, at the age of 86. He had been living with Alzheimer's disease and died peacefully at his care home.
Justice Harjit Singh Bedi, a former Supreme Court Judge, passed away on November 21, 2024, at the age of 78. He had been ailing for some time and his cremation took place in Chandigarh.

Questions:

1 What is Moody's projected growth rate for the Indian economy in 2024?

2 What does the acronym VISION stand for?