Current Affairs december-5th-2023
International News
US Reports ‘White Lung Syndrome’ Outbreak
- In a recent development, Ohio has become the epicenter of a concerning health issue, being the first U.S. state grappling with a surge in cases of a pneumonia-like illness termed 'White Lung Syndrome.'
- This outbreak, primarily affecting children, has raised alarms within the healthcare community due to the substantial number of hospitalizations reported.
- Characterized by distinct white patches visible on chest X-rays, White Lung Syndrome encompasses various respiratory disorders, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and conditions related to silica exposure.
India Resumes Venezuelan Crude Oil Imports, Explores Direct Deals
- Shifting our focus to the global energy landscape, Indian refiners, including major conglomerate Reliance Industries, have resumed the import of Venezuelan crude oil through intermediaries.
- This move follows the temporary lifting of U.S. sanctions on Venezuela, creating opportunities for direct deals between Indian companies and Venezuela's state-owned oil firm, PDVSA. Reliance is set to engage in discussions with PDVSA executives to explore the potential of direct crude oil sales.
- Noteworthy transactions include trading house Vitol selling substantial quantities to Indian Oil Corp and HPCL-Mittal Energy.
World Bank’s Innovative Approach To Scaling Climate Finance Through Securitization
- The World Bank, under the leadership of President Ajay Banga, has unveiled an innovative strategy to scale up climate financing through securitization.
- The Private Sector Investment Lab (PSIL), operating under the World Bank's umbrella, is spearheading this approach.
- The model, known as "originate-to-distribute," aims to attract significant investments from deep-pocketed investors for climate-related projects.
- PSIL's collaboration with finance leaders such as Larry Fink of BlackRock and Thomas Buberl of AXA SA seeks to mitigate investment risks in climate projects and encourage private capital to contribute to emission reduction initiatives.
National News
Gajraj System's Role in Elephant Protection on Indian Railways
- Turning our attention to wildlife conservation, the Indian Railways has introduced the revolutionary "Gajraj system," an AI-based solution designed to prevent elephant fatalities on railway tracks.
- Deployed along a 700-kilometer stretch in forest areas, this surveillance system proactively alerts locomotive pilots of elephant presence, minimizing the risk of collisions.
- The system's effectiveness, demonstrated in its initial deployment, underscores its vital role in mitigating human-wildlife conflict.
- As improvements continue based on field experience, the Gajraj system exemplifies the fusion of technology and conservation for a safer coexistence.
India’s Concerns Lead To Non-Signing Of COP28 Health & Climate Declaration
- India's absence from the list of signatories at the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) has raised eyebrows.
- The country refrained from endorsing the COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health, citing concerns about the practicality of reducing greenhouse gas emissions for cooling within its healthcare infrastructure.
- India, facing significant healthcare challenges, expressed reservations about committing to such reductions, emphasizing the need for flexibility given its unique circumstances.
- The COP28 Declaration emphasizes a commitment to combating inequalities and accelerating the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG3.
State News
MP CM Paid Tribute To Bhopal Gas Leak Victims On 39th Anniversary
- On the 39th anniversary of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan paid tribute to the victims.
- The tragedy, which occurred on December 2 and 3, 1984, resulted from a methyl isocyanate leak from the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) factory, causing immense loss of life.
- In remembrance, the people of Bhopal organized a candle march, emphasizing the ongoing struggles faced by survivors and seeking justice, compensation, and improved healthcare.
Shri Amit Shah At Mati Kala Mahotsav, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
- Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, addressed the Khadi Mati Kala Mahotsav in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
- Highlighting the historical significance of Khadi, he traced its origins to Mahatma Gandhi, who linked it with the freedom movement.
- The event witnessed the distribution of essential tools and equipment, promoting various industries, including electric potter wheels, agro-based food processing industry tool kits, incense stick making machines, plumbing kits, and traditional charkhas.
- The emphasis was on the multidimensional and multi-purpose aspects of the Khadi movement, connecting it with the empowerment of impoverished individuals and local employment.
Business News
LIC Introduces Framework For Shareholder’s Director: Enhancing Board Structure
- LIC, a stalwart in the Indian insurance and investment landscape, has implemented a notable transformation in its governance structure.
- The recent introduction of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (Shareholders’ Director) Regulations, 2023, signifies a strategic shift towards bolstering the board structure.
- According to these regulations, a new framework has been established for the inclusion of a shareholder's director, allowing for an extended tenure of up to four years. Crucially, this appointee is restricted from simultaneously holding a similar position in more than two companies. This regulatory update reflects LIC's commitment to fortifying its governance framework and fostering a more direct involvement of shareholders in key decision-making processes.
Infosys Inks Pact With Shell For Sustainable Data Centres
- In a pioneering move towards sustainable practices, Infosys, a leading Indian IT services giant, has entered into a strategic partnership with Shell.
- This collaboration aims to propel the adoption of immersion cooling services in data centers, combining the strengths of both entities in the digital and energy domains.
- Through the utilization of AI-based digital solutions, the partnership endeavors to establish environmentally responsible data centers capable of efficiently managing high computing loads with optimized hardware.
- This alliance not only reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship but also showcases the potential for innovation and synergy between IT and energy sectors.
Important Days News
Indian Navy Day 2023
- Indian Navy Day, an annual celebration on December 4, holds profound significance in honoring the bravery and achievements of the Indian Naval forces.
- Commemorating the strategic Operation Trident during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, this day emphasizes themes of "Operational Efficiency, Readiness, and Mission Accomplishment in the Maritime Domain" for Indian Navy Day 2023.
- As we acknowledge and salute the valor of our naval forces, these themes underscore the continual dedication to operational excellence and readiness in safeguarding our maritime interests.
Appointments News
Madagascar Court Confirms Andry Rajoelina’s Election To The Presidency
- Madagascar's Constitutional Court has officially confirmed the re-election of President Andry Rajoelina, marking his third term in office.
- Despite facing challenges, including the withdrawal of ten presidential contenders and criticism from opposition parties, Rajoelina emerged victorious with 59% of the votes cast.
- This electoral success reaffirms his position as the leader of Madagascar and sets the course for his continued governance.
- The historic nature of this confirmation underscores the resilience and political acumen of President Rajoelina.
Kanchan Devi's Historic Appointment at ICFRE
- Kanchan Devi, a seasoned Indian Forest Service Officer, has etched her name in history by becoming the first woman Director General of the Indian Council of Forestry Research Education (ICFRE).
- With over 30 years of diverse experience in forest management, administration, education, human resource development, research, and extension, Kanchan Devi brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role.
- The appointment signifies a positive step towards gender diversity and recognizes the invaluable contributions of women in leadership roles within the forestry sector.
Awards News
National Awards 2023 for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
- On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, President Droupadi Murmu presided over a grand ceremony in New Delhi, presenting the National Awards for the Empowerment of Divyangjan 2023.
- Acknowledging the efforts of 21 individuals and 9 institutions, these awards celebrate outstanding achievements in various fields contributing to the holistic development of the disabled community.
- The diversity of talent and dedication showcased by the awardees underscores the importance of inclusivity and empowerment for persons with disabilities.
Sports News
Vaishali Rameshbabu's Grandmaster Triumph
- In a historic achievement, Vaishali Rameshbabu, a 22-year-old chess player from India, has attained the coveted title of Grandmaster at the IV El Llobregat Open in Spain.
- Becoming only the third woman from India to achieve this distinction, Vaishali's victory over Turkish FM Tamer Tarik Selbes marked a significant milestone.
- Her accomplishment, following in the footsteps of Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli, showcases the rising prowess of Indian women in the world of chess.
Miscellaneous News
Cyclone Michaung's Impending Impact on Andhra Pradesh
- The looming threat of Cyclone Michaung intensifying over the Bay of Bengal has prompted heightened vigilance, especially for Andhra Pradesh.
- The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts its landfall near Bapatla on December 5, bringing severe cyclonic conditions with wind speeds ranging from 90-100 kmph.
- With eight districts on high alert, including Tirupati, Nellore, and Prakasam, the impending cyclone poses potential risks and necessitates preparedness measures across Tamil Nadu, southern Andhra Pradesh, and southern Odisha. Stay tuned for further updates and advisories as the situation unfolds.