Home > Practice > Current Affairs > August - 2024 > August 14, 2024
1. In which country were plastic-eating fungi capable of breaking down polyurethane discovered?
Germany scientists have discovered fungi capable of breaking down plastics, particularly polyurethane. These fungi, primarily from the genera Aspergillus and Pestalotiopsis, can degrade plastics, offering a potential solution to plastic waste. However, the process has challenges, such as CO2 release and specific environmental conditions that need to be addressed for broader application. This discovery could contribute significantly to reducing plastic pollution.
2. Which bank launched the exclusive Primus credit card targeting high-net-worth individuals?
Axis Bank has launched the Primus credit card, designed as an ultra-premium offering for high-net-worth individuals. This exclusive card comes with a Rs 5 lakh joining fee and a Rs 3 lakh annual fee, providing benefits such as luxury hotel stays, private jet access, and a personal concierge service. Cardholders also earn EDGE miles, enjoy zero forex markup, and gain access to premium travel and lifestyle perks. The introduction of this card underscores Axis Bank's focus on catering to affluent customers with high-end financial products.
3. Who has been appointed as the new head coach of India's junior men's hockey team in 2024?
PR Sreejesh, who recently led India to a bronze medal at the 2024 Olympics, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indian junior men's hockey team. His transition from being a key player to a coach is significant, especially after his crucial saves helped India secure victory against Spain. Hockey India celebrated this move, acknowledging Sreejesh's inspiring journey from playing to coaching, which is expected to have a positive impact on the young athletes under his guidance.
4. Which state became the first in India to introduce Digital Health education for all medical students through a partnership between NHA and MUHS?
Maharashtra became the first state in India to introduce Digital Health education for all medical students through a significant partnership between the National Health Authority (NHA) and Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS). This collaboration aims to build awareness and enhance the skills of future healthcare professionals in the evolving field of Digital Health, ensuring better access to quality care and more efficient healthcare delivery across the country.
5. What is the name of the long-range glide bomb successfully tested by DRDO from a Su-30 MK-I fighter jet?
GAURAV is the name of the long-range glide bomb successfully tested by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on August 13, 2024, from a Su-30 MK-I fighter jet of the Indian Air Force. This air-launched 1,000 kg class bomb is designed to hit targets at long distances with high accuracy using a hybrid navigation scheme. The successful test marks a significant achievement in India's efforts to develop indigenous defence technologies, further enhancing the capabilities of the armed forces.
6. Which team won the Hockey India Junior Academy Women's title?
Odisha Naval Tata Hockey HPC emerged victorious in the Hockey India Junior Academy Women's title, winning the final against Roundglass Punjab in a penalty shootout with a score of 5-3 after a 2-2 draw. The match was intense, with key goals from Prabhjot Kaur and Surekha Bahala securing the title for Odisha. The team's victory highlights their skill and determination in the tournament, making them the champions of this prestigious event.
7. Which company developed India's first indigenous dengue vaccine, "DengiAll," currently in Phase 3 trials?
Panacea Biotec developed DengiAll, India's first indigenous dengue vaccine, which is currently in Phase 3 trials. The vaccine targets all four dengue virus serotypes and is being tested across 19 sites with over 10,000 participants. This development is crucial as dengue remains a significant public health challenge in India, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. The successful trial of DengiAll could provide a vital tool in combating this widespread disease.
8. Which company has been awarded a 1,600 MW coal-based thermal power project in Koderma, Jharkhand?
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has been awarded a significant 1,600 MW coal-based thermal power project by Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) for construction in Koderma, Jharkhand. This project, awarded on an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) basis, highlights BHEL’s role as a major player in India's power sector. As a central public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Heavy Industries, BHEL’s involvement underscores its capability and expertise in handling large-scale energy projects. This development aligns with India’s broader efforts to enhance its power generation capacity.
9. Who has been appointed as the CEO of the new standalone subsidiary for the BHIM app?
Lalitha Nataraj has been appointed as the CEO of the newly formed standalone subsidiary of the BHIM app. This strategic move by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) aims to strengthen the presence of BHIM in the highly competitive UPI market. Nataraj, with her extensive experience at IDFC FIRST Bank and ICICI Bank, is expected to lead the subsidiary in expanding its market share, which is currently overshadowed by dominant players like PhonePe and Google Pay.
10. In which country was the world's oldest solar calendar discovered at Gobekli Tepe?
The world's oldest solar calendar was discovered at Göbekli Tepe, a renowned archaeological site in southern Turkey. This discovery highlights the advanced astronomical knowledge of the people who lived nearly 13,000 years ago. The calendar, featuring 365 V-shaped symbols, is believed to represent days, forming a comprehensive annual system. Additionally, the calendar combines lunar and solar elements, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of timekeeping by the ancient inhabitants of Gobekli Tepe.
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