Home > Practice > Current Affairs > August - 2024 > August 26, 2024
1. Who is the primary focus of the Supreme Court's National Task Force's efforts to enhance safety?
The Supreme Court's National Task Force was established to enhance the safety and security of healthcare workers, including doctors and other medical professionals, particularly following an incident at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The task force, consisting of government officials and medical professionals, will focus on developing protocols to improve infrastructure and prevent violence, including gender-based and sexual violence, in healthcare settings. This initiative underscores the importance of safeguarding those who work in critical and often vulnerable positions within the healthcare system.
2. Which state cabinet approved the implementation of a revised National Pension Scheme (NPS) for government employees on the lines of the Centre’s Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)?
The Maharashtra Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, approved the implementation of a revised National Pension Scheme (NPS) for state government employees, modelled after the Centre's Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). This revised NPS, set to be implemented on March 1, 2024, will cover 13.45 lakh state government employees. It includes provisions for a pension equal to 50% of the last salary plus dearness allowance and 60% of the family pension, as recommended by a high-level committee headed by retired IAS officer Suresh Kumar.
3. In which country is Hilsa fish recognized as the national fish?
Hilsa fish, also known as ilish, is revered as the national fish of Bangladesh and is highly valued for its nutritional benefits. Rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals, Hilsa fish contributes to overall health by improving bone strength, blood circulation, and eye health. Despite its benefits, individuals with specific health conditions, such as allergies, asthma, or high cholesterol, may need to consume it in moderation.
4. In which city of Uttar Pradesh was the state's first semiconductor park inaugurated?
The first semiconductor park in Uttar Pradesh was inaugurated at Noida International Airport. This significant development includes the approval of three companies to establish semiconductor units on 275 acres of land. The project is expected to create approximately 13,780 jobs and will contribute significantly to India's self-reliance in the technology sector, especially in chip manufacturing, which has faced global shortages recently.
5. What was launched on India's inaugural National Space Day as a significant educational milestone?
On India's first National Space Day, the country celebrated an important educational achievement with the release of 'Sapno ki Udaan', an innovative e-magazine. This launch, led by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, aims to inspire the next generation of Indian students by merging science, creativity, and education. The e-magazine was unveiled in a virtual event, highlighting the modern, digital-first approach to education and ensuring widespread accessibility.
6. Who was recently appointed as the Additional Director General (ADG) of the ITBP?
Sanjeev Raina, a 1987-batch officer of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), has been appointed as the Additional Director General (ADG) of the force, which is responsible for guarding the India-China Line of Actual Control (LAC). This appointment is significant as it marks only the second time in ITBP history that a cadre officer has been elevated to the ADG rank, the second highest in the force. Raina, originally from Kashmir, has had a distinguished career serving in challenging regions like Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, and he is also credited with establishing the counter-insurgency and jungle warfare school in Uttarakhand.
7. Which financial institution recently cut India's GDP growth forecast for 2024-25?
Goldman Sachs revised India's GDP growth forecast down to 6.7% for 2024 and 6.4% for 2025. The downgrade was driven by a significant 35% reduction in central government expenditure and slower real consumption growth. Despite these challenges, the potential easing of monetary policy by the Reserve Bank of India in late 2024 could provide some relief to the growth outlook. This adjustment by Goldman Sachs highlights the impact of fiscal policy on economic projections.
8. Which company secured a contract for Supercritical Power Projects from Adani Power?
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) secured a significant contract worth over ₹11,000 crore from Adani Power Limited and its subsidiary Mahan Energen Limited. The contract involves the development of three Supercritical Thermal Power projects, each with a capacity of 2x800 MW, located in Kawai Phase-II and III in Rajasthan, and Mahan Phase-III in Madhya Pradesh. This project underlines BHEL's role in supporting India's energy infrastructure.
9. In which country was Telegram founder Pavel Durov arrested over accusations related to illegal content on the platform?
Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was arrested in France, specifically in Paris, on accusations of failing to manage illegal content on the platform. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that the arrest was part of an ongoing legal investigation and was not politically motivated. This incident has prompted discussions on the responsibilities of online platforms in regulating content and the broader implications for freedom of expression.
10. Who won gold at the Asia Pacific Yoga championship in Sri Lanka in the artistic solo category?
Susmita Debnath, a talented yoga practitioner from Howrah, won gold in the artistic solo category at the Asia Pacific Yoga championship held in Sri Lanka. Despite facing financial challenges, her determination and the support from her family and community led to this significant achievement, underscoring the increasing recognition of yoga as a competitive sport on the international stage.
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