Home > Practice > Current Affairs > November - 2024 > November 07, 2024
1. Where was the 4th LG Cup Horse Polo-2024 Tournament inaugurated?
The 4th LG Cup Horse Polo-2024 Tournament was inaugurated in Ladakh by Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd), the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, at the newly constructed Polo Stadium at Goshan, Drass. This event marked a significant milestone for the region, showcasing the traditional sport of horse polo and emphasizing youth development and sports infrastructure in Ladakh. The tournament highlighted the cultural importance of horse polo in Ladakh, promoting coordination, teamwork, and the bond between the player and the horse. The region's administration also undertook initiatives to empower women and promote sports with deep cultural roots.
2. Which international financial institution has approved a $200 million loan to upgrade urban services in Uttarakhand?
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned a $200 million loan to improve urban infrastructure in Uttarakhand. The project aims to enhance water supply, sanitation, urban mobility, drainage, and flood management in Haldwani, as well as upgrade water supply delivery in four other cities. This loan demonstrates ADB's commitment to supporting India's urban development goals, focusing on sustainable and inclusive growth. The project will benefit residents and businesses in Uttarakhand by promoting better living standards and economic opportunities. ADB's funding will play a crucial role in transforming the state's urban landscape.
3. Which country has introduced a Fast-Track Visa Scheme specifically for Indian tourists?
South Africa launched the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) to streamline visa processing for Indian tourists, addressing previous challenges such as lengthy application times and limited embassy resources. The primary objective is to increase Indian visitor numbers from 16,000 to 100,000 by year-end, thereby enhancing South Africa's tourism sector. This initiative aims to contribute to economic growth and job creation, positioning South Africa as a desirable destination for Indian travellers. The fast-track visa scheme is expected to boost tourism revenue and foster cultural exchange.
4. What is the name of the world's first wooden satellite, launched as a pioneering experiment in sustainable space technology?
LignoSat, the world's first wooden satellite, represents a groundbreaking collaboration between Japan's Kyoto University and Sumitomo Forestry. Launched via a SpaceX mission to the International Space Station, LignoSat aims to test the resilience of honoki wood, a Japanese magnolia species, in extreme space conditions. This innovative project explores the potential of timber for future space habitation and structures, aligning with Japan's focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly space exploration goals. By using traditional Japanese craftsmanship and durable materials, LignoSat paves the way for renewable resources in long-term human space settlements.
5. Which state, along with Madhya Pradesh, has formed a joint corridor management committee for the conservation of cheetahs?
Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have collaborated to establish a joint corridor management committee, focusing on cheetah conservation. This initiative is crucial due to recent instances of cheetahs from Kuno National Park (KNP) venturing into Rajasthan. The cheetah reintroduction project, involving animals from Namibia and South Africa, has shown promising results with the birth of 17 cubs in Kuno. The joint committee aims to ensure the safe movement and habitat protection of these majestic animals, promoting a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. Effective conservation efforts require inter-state cooperation.
6. Who topped the EdelGive-Hurun Philanthropy List 2024 as India's most generous philanthropist?
Shiv Nadar, founder of HCL Technologies, retained his position as India's top philanthropist for the third time in five years. In FY 2024, he donated Rs 2,153 crore, significantly contributing to various causes. The EdelGive-Hurun India Philanthropy List 2024 reported a substantial increase in total donations, reaching Rs 8,783 crore from 203 philanthropists. Nadar's philanthropic efforts have made a lasting impact on Indian society, cementing his status as a leading philanthropist. His contributions have inspired others to follow in his footsteps.
7. Which Indian state's cabinet has approved the establishment of semiconductor units near Jewar Airport, Noida?
Uttar Pradesh's cabinet has greenlit the semiconductor project, attracting significant investments from HCL Group (₹3,706 crore) and Hiranandani Group (₹28,440 crore). The project, spanning 50 acres, will receive a ₹7,037 crore subsidy and additional incentives from the state, subject to central government approval. This development is expected to boost Uttar Pradesh's economy, create jobs, and establish the state as a key player in India's electronics manufacturing sector. The project's location near Jewar Airport will also facilitate logistics and connectivity.
8. From which country was Zimbabwe's second satellite, ZIMSAT-2, launched to strengthen its space programme?
Zimbabwe launched its second satellite, ZIMSAT-2, from Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome, marking a significant milestone in the country's growing space programme. This launch was a joint effort between Zimbabwe's National Geo-Spatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA) and Southwest State University in Russia. The satellite is equipped with a high-resolution multispectral camera to aid in agriculture, resource exploration, environmental monitoring, and disaster management. Zimbabwean engineers, including PhD students from Russia, played a crucial role in the satellite's design and construction, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the two nations.
9. Which Indian state has introduced new rules for the appointment of its Director General of Police (DGP), ensuring independence and a minimum tenure?
Uttar Pradesh has implemented new guidelines for the appointment of its Director General of Police (DGP), prioritizing independence and stability. A selection committee, led by a retired High Court judge, will oversee the process. The committee comprises state officials, UPSC, and UP Public Service Commission nominees. The rules also mandate a two-year minimum tenure for the DGP, aligning with the 2006 Supreme Court directive. This reform aims to strengthen the police system's integrity, ensure citizen rights, and promote effective governance. The new rules demonstrate UP's commitment to transparent and accountable policing.
10. Which country has approved a ban on public facial coverings, set to take effect from January 1, 2025?
Switzerland's "burqa ban" was approved in a 2021 referendum with a narrow margin of 51.21% to 48.79%. The ban prohibits covering one's face in public places, with exceptions for health reasons, security, climatic conditions, and local customs. Violators may face fines of up to 1,000 Swiss francs. This measure was promoted by the same group that organized the 2009 ban on new minarets. The ban aims to promote public safety and integration while respecting individual freedoms. Its implementation will be monitored closely, given its potential impact on religious and cultural minorities.
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