Current Affairs april-4th-2024


National News

Governor R.N. Ravi Inaugurates Param Vir Chakra Garden

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  • Governor R.N. Ravi recently inaugurated the Param Vir Chakra garden and Aikyam exhibition at the Kanchi Mahaswami Vidya Mandir in Tambaram, Tamil Nadu.
  • Alongside Ravi were Lt. Gen. Karanbir Singh Brar, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), General Officer Commanding (Dakshin Bharat area), and V. Shankar, chairman of the Sri Kanchi Mahaswami Trust.
  • This initiative marks a significant step towards honoring the valor and sacrifice of India's bravehearts.

International News

Korean Fusion Reactor ‘Artificial Sun’ Sets New Record

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  • In South Korea, scientists have achieved a groundbreaking milestone with the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research (KSTAR) device, also known as the "artificial sun" nuclear fusion reactor.
  • During recent tests, they achieved plasma temperatures of 100 million degrees Celsius for an impressive duration of 48 seconds.
  • This remarkable feat underscores the progress in harnessing nuclear fusion as a sustainable energy source.

Germany Legalizes Recreational Cannabis

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  • Germany made headlines by becoming the largest European Union (EU) nation to legalize recreational cannabis.
  • Despite facing opposition from various quarters, the country passed a new law permitting adults over 18 to possess up to 25 grams of dried cannabis and cultivate three marijuana plants at home.
  • This move reflects evolving attitudes towards cannabis regulation and could have significant implications for drug policy across Europe.

Appointments News

Sanjay Nayar Appointed as New ASSOCHAM President

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  • Sanjay Nayar has assumed the prestigious position of President at the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), succeeding Ajay Singh, the Co-Founder of SpiceJet airline.
  • With his wealth of experience and leadership acumen, Nayar is poised to steer ASSOCHAM towards greater heights in advocating for India's business community.

Santosh Kumar Jha Appointed as New CMD of Konkan Railway Corporation

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  • Meanwhile, Santosh Kumar Jha, an esteemed Indian Railway Traffic Services (IRTS) officer, is set to take on the role of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd.
  • (KRCL). His appointment signifies a new chapter in the development of railway infrastructure, promising innovative solutions and strategic vision for the Konkan region.

Defence News

Record Growth in Indian Defence Exports: A Milestone Achievement

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  • India's defence sector achieved a significant milestone as the Ministry of Defence (MoD) reported a record growth in defence exports, soaring to Rs 21,083 crore in the fiscal year 2023-24.
  • This remarkable surge of 32.5% from the previous year highlights the collaborative efforts between the private sector and Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs).
  • Policy reforms and initiatives geared towards enhancing ease of doing business have played a pivotal role in fostering this growth trajectory.

Agreements News

IOCL and Panasonic Partner for Lithium-ion Cell Manufacturing in India

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  • Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOCL) has entered into a strategic partnership with Panasonic Energy to establish a joint venture focusing on lithium-ion cell manufacturing in India.
  • This initiative aligns with the anticipated rise in demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage solutions nationwide.
  • The collaboration underscores a shared commitment towards promoting sustainable energy solutions and bolstering India's position in the global renewable energy market.

Schemes News

‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ Norm Implemented

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  • The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has implemented the 'One Vehicle, One FASTag' norm, aimed at curbing the misuse of FASTags.
  • This initiative seeks to deter the practice of using a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or associating multiple FASTags with a single vehicle.
  • By ensuring compliance with this norm, NHAI aims to streamline toll collection processes and enhance the efficiency of India's transportation infrastructure.

Science and Technology News

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory: Celebrating 125 Years of Unraveling the Mysteries of the Sun

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  • The iconic Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO) recently celebrated its 125th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the field of solar research.
  • Nestled amidst the serene Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu, this observatory has been at the forefront of unraveling the mysteries of the Sun, the celestial body crucial for sustaining life on Earth.
  • Organized by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), the anniversary celebration paid tribute to the pioneering work conducted at KSO and honored the dedication of scientists committed to advancing solar science.

Sports News

Maharashtra Men’s and Women National Kho Kho Champion

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  • The Maharashtra team showcased their prowess in the sport of Kho Kho by clinching both the men's and women's titles at the 56th National Kho Kho Championship 2023-24.
  • Held at Delhi's Karnail Singh Stadium and the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, this victory underscores Maharashtra's dominance in the sport and highlights the talent nurtured within the state's sporting community.