May - 2024 Current Affairs

Correct Answer :   Norway, Ireland and Spain

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Norway, Ireland and Spain recently granted statehood status to Palestine in a historic move.

In protest against this decision, Israel has ordered the recall of its ambassadors from Norway and Ireland.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said in his decision that it will be officially announced from May 28, 2024. 

Correct Answer :   Etah

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Uttar Pradesh, known for its rich culture and diversity, is home to cities steeped in history and heritage. Etah district in the state has its unique identity, drawing numerous domestic and international tourists every year. Among these districts, one stands out for a unique reason – it is known as the “Ghungroo City.” Let’s delve into the story behind this intriguing title.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh :

Uttar Pradesh is a state of vibrant culture and unique traditions. Its rich history sets it apart from other states. The state’s cultural heritage, historical sites, religious and social edifices, local cuisine, and a sense of belonging contribute to its special status. These elements attract countless tourists each year, who come to experience the state’s offerings firsthand.

Districts of Uttar Pradesh :

Uttar Pradesh covers a total area of 240,928 square kilometers, making up 7.33% of India’s total area. It is the state with the highest number of districts, totaling 75, divided into 18 divisions. As of the 2011 census, Uttar Pradesh had a population of 199,812,341, accounting for approximately 16.5% of India’s population. The largest district is Lakhimpur Kheri, spanning 7,680 square kilometers, while Hapur is the smallest district.

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is Known as “Ghungroo City”?

Jalesar, located in the Etah district of Uttar Pradesh, is famously known as the “Ghungroo City.” This title is attributed to Jalesar due to its renowned production of traditional bells, locally known as ghungroos. The craftsmanship involved in making these bells has earned Jalesar widespread recognition, and its ghungroos are sought after not only in Uttar Pradesh but also across various states in India.

Why is Jalesar Known as the “Ghungroo City”?

The reason behind Jalesar’s designation as the “Ghungroo City” lies in its primary industry: the production of ghungroos. These bells are crafted from a mixture of clay, powder, and brass. The craftsmanship involved in making these bells has earned Jalesar a special place in various states across India.

One District, One Product Initiative :

The Uttar Pradesh government has recognized the unique products of each district under the “One District, One Product” (ODOP) initiative. Jalesar’s ghungroos have been included in this program, providing the district with a distinctive identity. This initiative has not only boosted local craftsmanship but also increased the demand for Jalesar’s ghungroos in different parts of the country.

Correct Answer :   May 22

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The International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated every year on May 22. This year, it falls on a Wednesday. The theme for 2024 is “Be Part of the Plan.”

This theme encourages governments, indigenous peoples and local communities, non-governmental organizations, lawmakers, businesses, and individuals to showcase their efforts in supporting the implementation of the Biodiversity Plan.

History of International Day for Biodiversity :

The International Day for Biological Diversity was established by the Second Committee of the UN General Assembly in 1993. Originally, it was celebrated on December 29 to mark the day the Convention on Biological Diversity came into effect. However, on December 20, 2000, the date was changed to May 22. This change was made to commemorate the adoption of the Convention at the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit in 1992 and to avoid the many holidays in late December.

Significance of International Day for Biodiversity :

The International Day for Biological Diversity is closely aligned with the UN Post-2015 Development Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals address a wide range of global issues, emphasizing the critical role that biodiversity plays in sustaining life on Earth. Biodiversity significantly impacts:

* Oceans and Seas
* Forests
* Food Security
* Health
* Sustainable Development
* Science, Technology, and Innovation
* Knowledge-Sharing and Capacity-Building
* Urban Resilience
* Sustainable Transportation
* Desertification, Land Degradation, and Drought
* Water and Sanitation

The importance of biodiversity in sustainable development was highlighted in the Rio+20 outcome document, “The World We Want: A Future for All.” This year’s celebration aims to build momentum leading up to the sixteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP 16), scheduled to be held in Colombia from October 21 to November 1, 2024.

Correct Answer :   Georgia

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Georgia, famously known as the “Peach State,” is celebrated for its exceptional quality of peaches. This reputation is deeply ingrained in the state’s identity and history, making Georgia synonymous with this delicious fruit.

The Origin of the “Peach State” Nickname :

Georgia’s nickname, the “Peach State,” stems from its growers’ longstanding reputation for producing high-quality peaches. The warm climate and fertile soil of Georgia provide ideal conditions for cultivating this fruit, which has become a symbol of the state’s agricultural success and cultural heritage.

Official Abbreviations: GA and Ga :

In addition to its famous nickname, Georgia is identified by the abbreviations GA and Ga. The two-letter or postal abbreviation, GA, is commonly used in mailing addresses and official documents, while the traditional or standard abbreviation, Ga., is often seen in more formal contexts. Both abbreviations are widely recognized and used to represent the state.

The Peach Becomes Official :

The peach was designated as the official state fruit of Georgia in 1995, a testament to its significance in the state’s agricultural and cultural heritage. This official recognition underscores the importance of peaches to Georgia’s economy and identity, celebrating the fruit that has brought the state national acclaim.

Georgia’s Peach Legacy :

The legacy of Georgia’s peaches extends beyond the fruit itself. It represents the dedication and skill of the state’s growers who have perfected the art of peach farming over generations. Festivals, markets, and roadside stands throughout Georgia showcase the state’s peach bounty, attracting visitors and reinforcing the state’s nickname.

Correct Answer :   Rs 10,300 Crore

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The Cabinet has greenlit an ambitious financial allocation of over Rs 10,300 crore for the IndiaAI Mission, aimed at fortifying India’s AI innovation ecosystem. Spearheaded by a public-private partnership model, this significant investment over the next five years is poised to catalyze various strategic initiatives, including compute infrastructure expansion, startup empowerment, and ethical AI deployment.

Bolstering Compute Infrastructure: IndiaAI Compute Capacity :

A pivotal component of the IndiaAI Mission, the IndiaAI Compute Capacity project aims to erect a cutting-edge, scalable AI computing infrastructure. With over 10,000 GPUs slated for deployment through strategic collaborations, this initiative sets the stage for advanced AI research and development.

Empowering AI Startups: IndiaAI Startup Financing :

The financial outlay includes provisions to bolster the IndiaAI Startup Financing mechanism, facilitating streamlined access to funding for burgeoning AI startups. By supporting product development and commercialization endeavors, this initiative seeks to catalyze innovation and entrepreneurship in the AI sector.

Fostering Innovation: IndiaAI Innovation Centre (IAIC) :

The IndiaAI Innovation Centre (IAIC), envisioned as a leading academic institution, will spearhead research talent retention and development. With a focus on indigenous model creation and leveraging edge computing, IAIC aims to drive innovation and foster technological self-reliance.

Enhancing Data Accessibility: IndiaAI Datasets Platform :

The IndiaAI Datasets Platform, to be developed by the Independent Business Division (IBD) of IndiaAI, receives a boost to enhance accessibility, quality, and utility of public sector datasets. This initiative is crucial for driving data-driven governance and fueling AI-based innovation and research.

Expanding AI Education: IndiaAI FutureSkills :

The IndiaAI FutureSkills program aims to expand AI education by increasing accessibility to graduate and post-graduate AI programs. By establishing Data and AI Labs across major cities and smaller towns, this initiative seeks to impart foundational-level courses in Data and AI, democratizing AI education.

Aligned with the broader vision of the IndiaAI Mission, these initiatives are poised to propel India’s global leadership in AI, ensure ethical AI deployment, and democratize the benefits of AI across all segments of society.

Correct Answer :   Indonesia

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Elon Musk and Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin launched SpaceX’s satellite internet service for the nation’s health sector on Sunday (19th May 2024), aiming to improve access in remote parts of the sprawling archipelago.

* Musk, the billionaire head of SpaceX and Tesla (TSLA), arrived on the Indonesian resort island of Bali by private jet before attending the launch ceremony at a community health center in the provincial capital, Denpasar.

* Musk, wearing a green batik shirt, said the availability of the Starlink service in Indonesia would help millions in far-flung parts of the country to access the internet. The country is home to more than 270 million people and three different time zones.

* “I’m very excited to bring connectivity to places that have low connectivity,” Musk said, “If you have access to the internet you can learn anything.”

* Starlink was launched at three Indonesian health centers on Sunday, including two in Bali and one on the remote island of Aru in Maluku.

* A video presentation screened at the launch showed how high internet speeds enabled the real-time input of data to better tackle health challenges such as stunting and malnutrition.

* Asked about whether he planned to also invest in Indonesia’s electric vehicle industry, Musk said he was focused on Starlink first.

* “We are focusing this event on Starlink and the benefits that connectivity brings to remote islands,” he said, “I think it’s really to emphasize the importance of internet connectivity, how much of that can be a lifesaver.”

* Indonesia’s government has been trying for years to lure Musk’s auto firm Tesla to build manufacturing plants related to electric vehicles as the government wants to develop its EV sector using the country’s rich nickel resources.

* The tech tycoon is scheduled to meet Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Monday, where he will also address the World Water Forum taking place on the island.

* Communications Minister Budi Arie Setiadi, who also attended the Bali launch, said Starlink was now available commercially, but the government would focus its services first for outer and underdeveloped regions.

* Prior to Sunday’s launch, Starlink obtained a permit to operate as an internet service provider for retail consumers and had been given the go-ahead to provide networks, having received a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) permit, Budi Setiadi told Reuters.

* SpaceX’s Starlink, which owns around 60% of the roughly 7,500 satellites orbiting earth, is dominant in the satellite internet sphere.

* Indonesia is the third country in Southeast Asia where Starlink will operate. Malaysia issued the firm a license to provide internet services last year, and a Philippine-based firm signed a deal with SpaceX in 2022.

* Starlink is also used extensively in Ukraine, where it is employed by the military, hospitals, businesses and aid organizations..

Source : Edition

Correct Answer :   John Slaven

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Vedanta Aluminium has announced the appointment of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), John Slaven, as the Vice-Chairman of the International Aluminium Institute (IAI). In this prominent role, Slaven will spearhead global initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable transformation within the aluminium industry and highlighting aluminium’s crucial role in advancing the energy transition towards a Zero Carbon future.

The International Aluminium Institute: A Pioneering Organization :

Established in 1972, the International Aluminium Institute (IAI) is the sole organization representing the global primary aluminium industry. Its mission is to increase awareness of the industry’s operations, advocate for responsible production, and emphasize the significant environmental benefits of aluminium.

The IAI’s membership comprises the world’s leading bauxite, alumina, and aluminium companies, and it maintains extensive global data on the industry, with over 40 years of analysis on production, consumption, energy use, and environmental impact.

A Leader’s Vision for Sustainable Transformation :

Commenting on his new role, John Slaven expressed his honour in taking on the responsibility of Vice-Chairman of the International Aluminium Institute. He highlighted aluminium’s critical role in the global shift towards a Net Zero future and emphasized the duty of industry leaders to enhance awareness of aluminium’s vast potential and promote its use in creating a greener planet.

Slaven acknowledged the significant strides the IAI had made in this direction and looked forward to collaborating with his fellow board members to further establish aluminium as the metal of the future.

An Accomplished Industry Veteran :

John Slaven is a respected global leader with over 30 years of experience in the metals, mining, and modern manufacturing industries. He has held diverse positions in top companies within these sectors, contributing to transformative advancements.

As the CEO of Vedanta Aluminium, Slaven oversees the company’s growth strategy while prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts and promoting sustainable practices. Under his leadership, Vedanta Aluminium has been recognized as the most sustainable aluminium company in the world.

Aluminium’s Pivotal Role in Sustainable Development :

Aluminium, a lightweight and infinitely recyclable metal, plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable development and combating climate change. Its unique properties make it an indispensable material in various industries, including transportation, construction, and renewable energy.

By promoting the use of aluminium in these sectors, the industry can significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the global effort to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Collaborating for a Greener Future :

As Vice-Chairman of the IAI, Slaven will work closely with industry leaders and stakeholders to drive initiatives that foster sustainable practices and highlight aluminium’s potential in creating a greener planet.

This collaborative effort aims to enhance awareness among policymakers, investors, and consumers about the environmental benefits of aluminium and its role in achieving a zero-carbon future.

Correct Answer :   $1.5 Billion

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AstraZeneca is building a pioneering $1.5 billion manufacturing plant in Singapore to produce advanced cancer-fighting drugs known as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).

AstraZeneca, a leading pharmaceutical company, announced plans to construct a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Singapore with a focus on producing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), a promising class of cancer-fighting medications.

Strategic Investment in Singapore :

The new facility marks AstraZeneca’s significant investment in Singapore’s pharmaceutical landscape, supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board. This move aligns with AstraZeneca’s strategy of expanding its global supply chain and tapping into Singapore’s reputation for excellence in complex manufacturing.

Advancing Cancer Therapy with ADCs :

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are engineered antibodies designed to target and destroy tumor cells by delivering cell-killing chemicals directly to the site. AstraZeneca’s investment underscores its commitment to developing innovative cancer treatments and addressing unmet medical needs.

Building a Cutting-Edge Manufacturing Hub :

The facility will be AstraZeneca’s first end-to-end ADC production site, handling all stages of ADC production, from antibody generation to final product filling. With construction set to begin by the end of 2024 and operations expected to commence in 2029, the facility will play a crucial role in AstraZeneca’s global manufacturing network.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation :

AstraZeneca aims to ensure environmental sustainability by committing to zero carbon emissions from the facility’s first day of operations. This initiative reflects the company’s dedication to responsible manufacturing practices and its contribution to a greener future.

Driving Economic Growth and Job Creation :

The Economic Development Board of Singapore welcomed AstraZeneca’s investment as it aligns with the country’s goal of becoming a hub for precision medicine manufacturing. The project is expected to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in Singapore’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.

Correct Answer :   Dubai

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The Artara’24 Fine Arts Exhibition and Competition has made its mark in Dubai as a prestigious platform for discovering and nurturing emerging artistic talents from India. The event aimed to uncover hidden artistic gems, with a particular focus on the Indian talent residing in Dubai.

Providing a Stage for Lesser-Known Artists :

Artara’24 provided a prestigious stage for lesser-known artists, students, and art enthusiasts to showcase their extraordinary abilities and connect with fellow creative minds. Held at the Al Jalila Cultural Center, a venue under the Dubai Cultural Center, the exhibition featured an impressive collection of over 250 pieces of art, each telling its own unique story and reflecting the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the talented participants.

Celebrating Diversity through Art :

The exhibition proudly showcased artworks from multi-national artists, with many exhibiting their work for the first time, making this event a significant milestone in their artistic journey. In addition to the main exhibition, a fine arts competition for children called Expressions’24 provided a supportive and inspiring environment for young artists to express their creativity and compete with their peers.

Nurturing Budding Artists :

“Our primary motive is to nurture budding artists in the country and introduce them to the world,” said Mr. Rejimon, Spokesperson for Jazzrockers, the organizer behind the event. “Events like Artara’24 are crucial for developing and recognizing artistic talents across all ages, while also celebrating the rich cultural diversity of India through the lens of art.”

Fostering Unity and Cultural Pride :

Artara’24 has not only spotlighted the incredible talent within the Indian community but has also fostered a sense of unity and cultural pride among participants and visitors alike. The exhibition served as a platform for artists to express their unique perspectives and experiences, while also celebrating the rich tapestry of Indian culture through various artistic mediums.

Correct Answer :   39th

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India has ascended to the 39th spot in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, marking a significant improvement from its 54th position in 2021. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, India showcases resilience and competitiveness in various aspects of its travel and tourism industry.

India’s Strengths and Performance

Resource Pillars : India boasts high price competitiveness (18th) and possesses competitive air transport (26th) as well as ground and port (25th) infrastructure. Its robust natural (6th), cultural (9th), and non-leisure (9th) resources contribute significantly to its travel appeal, making it one of the top performers globally.

Sustainability and Recovery : Despite a decline compared to 2019, India maintains strong sustainability in travel and tourism demand, especially with the rise of sustainable long stays among inbound visitors. However, challenges such as global inflationary trends impact price competitiveness, and the recovery of air transport and tourist services infrastructure remains below pre-pandemic levels.

Overall TTDI Score : India’s overall Travel and Tourism Development Index score is 2.1% lower than its 2019 level, reflecting the mixed nature of the sector’s recovery globally. High-income economies in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region lead the index, but India stands out as a top performer among lower-middle-income nations and in South Asia.

Global Travel Trends and Recovery Rates : The report highlights varying recovery rates in international tourist arrivals across regions, with West Asia leading with a 20% surpassing of 2019 levels. However, overall recovery rates hover around 90% in Europe, Africa, and North and South America by 2023.

Enabling Conditions in Developing Economies : While conditions for travel and tourism are improving in developing nations, efforts are needed to narrow the gap with high-income economies. Several developing countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Côte d’Ivoire, Albania, Tanzania, and Indonesia, have notably improved their TTDI scores, showcasing potential for growth and development in the sector.