Current Affairs One - Liner : 12th December 2024

According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21), India has achieved a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.0. This aligns with the targets set by the National Population Policy 2000 and the National Health Policy 2017.

On December 10, 2024, IIT Ropar's iHub AWaDH launched a cost-effective Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Gateway and Node System. This innovation enables seamless real-time data transmission for applications in agriculture, logistics, and smart cities.
The Lok Sabha passed the Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024 on December 11, 2024. The bill aims to enhance the functioning and independence of the Railway Board by amending the Railways Act of 1989. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured that the bill will not lead to the privatization of the national carrier.

Finland unveiled the world's first national soundscape, "Ääniä", composed by Lauri Porra. This collection of 15 compositions reflects Finland's landscapes, seasons, and cultural essence, aiming to provide listeners with a serene and evocative auditory experience.

On December 9, 2024, Deutsche Bank AG, India provided a 91 million Euros sustainability-linked loan to SMFG India Credit. This loan supports small businesses and women entrepreneurs in semi-urban areas, promoting financial inclusion and sustainable development.

On December 10, 2024, the State Bank of India (SBI) projected India's GDP growth at 6.3% for FY25. This forecast follows the first two quarters' average growth of 6.05%, indicating cautious optimism for the remainder of the fiscal year.
On December 11, 2024, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) reduced India's GDP growth forecast for FY25 from 7% to 6.5%. This was due to lower private investment, weaker industrial output, and elevated food prices. The forecast for FY26 was also revised from 7.2% to 7%.

On December 11, 2024, India and Nicaragua signed an MoU in Managua to implement Quick Impact Projects (QIPs). The aim is to enhance local development through improvements in physical infrastructure (roads, community centers) and social infrastructure (education, healthcare, sanitation).

On December 4, 2024, ISRO and ESA signed a Technical Implementing Plan (TIP) to provide ground support for ISRO's Gaganyaan missions. This partnership ensures continuous data flow and communication with the Orbital Module during its operations.
On December 11, 2024, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Centre for Stem Cell Research (CSCR) at Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, launched India's first human gene therapy for Haemophilia A. This groundbreaking therapy introduces a normal copy of the Factor VIII gene into haematopoietic stem cells.

The Khelo India Winter Games 2025 will be held in Ladakh from January 23 to 27, 2025. Events will feature ice sports like ice hockey and ice skating in Leh, while snow sports will be held in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, in February.
Haris Rauf and Danni Wyatt-Hodge have been named ICC Players of the Month for November 2024. Rauf was recognized for his exceptional bowling during Pakistan's tour of Australia, taking 18 wickets across ODIs and T20Is.
Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, with centenary celebration matches in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Shaheen Afridi became the youngest bowler to achieve 100 wickets in all three formats (Tests, ODIs, and T20Is) on December 10, 2024. He reached this milestone during the first T20I against South Africa, taking three wickets for 22 runs.
Gukesh Shatters became the youngest-ever World Chess Champion on December 12, 2024, in Singapore. He won the title by defeating China's Ding Liren in the final game of their 14-match World Chess Championship.

On December 4, 2024, GRSE signed a contract for additional Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPVs) in Hamburg, Germany. On December 5, 2024, GRSE delivered the Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) 'Jaldoot' to DRDO's Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam.

SAARC Charter Day is observed on December 8 each year to commemorate the signing of the SAARC Charter in 1985. The 2024 theme, "Strengthening Regional Cooperation for Sustainable Development", emphasizes enhancing cooperation among member states to achieve sustainable development goals.
The Indian Navy celebrated its 57th Submarine Day on December 8, 2024. The theme was "Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation," emphasizing self-reliance and technological advancements in submarine operations.

John Dramani Mahama was elected as the President of Ghana on December 7, 2024. His main rival, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat on December 8, 2024.

Renowned poet and civil rights activist Nikki Giovanni passed away on December 9, 2024, at the age of 81. Known for her powerful voice in the Black Arts Movement, she authored over 30 books exploring themes of race, politics, and love.
Purushottam Upadhyay, a legendary Gujarati singer, passed away at the age of 90 on December 11, 2024. Known for his timeless compositions and melodious voice, he left behind a cherished legacy.

Questions:

1 Which countries will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup?

2 Who became the youngest-ever World Chess Champion on December 12, 2024?