Explore political developments, global health updates, and milestones shaping the Current Affairs January 2024.
China has launched an innovative ocean drilling vessel dubbed the ‘Mengxiang’, aiming to delve into Earth’s crust and reach the mantle, marking a historic milestone in human exploration. The planned mission seeks to breach the Mohorovicic discontinuity (Moho), located over 7,000 meters beneath the ocean floor, potentially unlocking unprecedented scientific discoveries. Developed through a collaboration involving China’s Geological Survey and more than 150 institutes, the Mengxiang is an immense, specially-equipped ship engineered to endure extreme conditions.
In India’s pursuit of food self-sufficiency, an examination reveals a continued reliance on imported vegetable oils, pulses, and dried fruits due to domestic supply constraints. Data from the commerce ministry for 2023 underscores the dominance of these three categories in agricultural imports, comprising 72.1% of the total import bill. Palm oils alone constitute 51.9% of imports, largely attributed to poor oilseed yields hampering India’s progress in edible oil security.
Microsoft is introducing a notable feature on select new personal computers running its Windows operating system – the “Copilot key”. This unique key is designed to activate Microsoft’s AI chatbot, representing a strategic move to integrate and leverage its partnership with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT. The incorporation of the Copilot key into PC keyboards marks a significant advancement in Microsoft’s role in the application of generative AI technology. This initiative represents Microsoft’s most substantial alteration to PC keyboards since the introduction of the Windows key in the 1990s.
Raghuram Iyer has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) following a rigorous selection process conducted by the IOA’s nomination committee. Iyer’s extensive background in sports management and administration, notably his previous positions as CEO of Indian Premier League teams Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiants, positioned him as an ideal candidate for the role. The appointment, albeit delayed despite repeated reminders from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), signifies Iyer’s pivotal role in advancing Olympic sports in India. As CEO, Iyer will be instrumental in promoting and developing Olympic sports in India, serving as an ex-officio member of the IOA’s Executive Council, albeit without voting rights.
Microsoft has unveiled a program named AI Odyssey, aiming to upskill 100,000 developers in India in artificial intelligence technologies and tools. This initiative seeks to empower developers to tackle complex real-world challenges and drive value by creating AI solutions aligned with business objectives. Through a month-long comprehensive AI training program, the initiative aims to foster AI proficiency and adoption across the country.
The Delhi High Court has ruled that foreigners cannot assert the right to residency in India under Article 19(1)(e) of the Constitution. This decision, made during a habeas corpus petition for Azal Chakma, a suspected Bangladeshi national, underscores the inability of foreign nationals to claim residency rights. Citing the Supreme Court’s stance, the court emphasized the government’s authority to expel foreigners, highlighting Article 19(1)(e)’s provision granting Indians the right to reside anywhere, subject to reasonable restrictions for public interest or Scheduled Tribe protection.
Chandrakant Sompura, the chief architect of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, hails from a prestigious lineage of temple architects in Ahmedabad. With a heritage spanning generations, the Sompuras have crafted over 200 temples, including renowned structures like the Somnath Temple, Swaminarayan Temple, Akshardham complex, and Birla Temple. The Ayodhya Ram Mandir embodies Nagara architecture, showcasing intricate carvings, majestic spires, and sacred sanctums, celebrating India’s cultural richness. It serves as a harmonious fusion of spirituality and architectural excellence, paying homage to Lord Ram’s revered abode.
A groundbreaking plant-inspired robot, FiloBot, has emerged, mimicking vine-like movements without predefined actions. Utilizing 3D printing filament, it extends akin to creeper growth, dynamically adjusting its path based on variations in light intensity using plant behaviors like phototropism. Successful trials demonstrate its adaptability, envisioning a future where robots navigate dynamic environments and construct infrastructure autonomously.
UAE’s $2 Billion Investment in Indian Food Parks. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has initiated a process to invest $2 billion in food parks in India. This investment aims to enhance the food processing sector in India and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
India’s First Submarine Tourism in Dwarka, Gujarat. The state of Gujarat is poised to unveil India’s inaugural submarine tourism project in Dwarka. This endeavor is anticipated to draw tourists and provide a distinctive underwater experience in the historic city of Dwarka.
Guinness World Record for Mass Surya Namaskar in Gujarat. Gujarat has secured a Guinness World Record for executing the largest mass Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) on New Year’s Day. This event underscores the promotion of yoga and wellness on a grand scale.
Binny Bansal’s Launch of E-commerce Start-up ‘OppDoor’. Binny Bansal, co-founder of Flipkart, has introduced a new e-commerce venture named ‘OppDoor.’ However, specific details regarding the focus or services of the start-up have not been disclosed.
KABIL’s Investment in Lithium Supplies in Argentina. Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL) is prepared to invest over ₹200 crore to secure lithium supplies in Argentina. This investment is pivotal for India’s endeavors to secure essential resources for its burgeoning electric vehicle industry.
CCI Approval for Punjab Government’s Thermal Plant Purchase. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has granted approval for the Punjab government’s acquisition of a private thermal plant. This development holds significance in the realm of power generation and distribution in the state.
Hyderabad and Bengaluru Airports’ Global On-Time Ranking. Airports in Hyderabad and Bengaluru have achieved commendable scores in a global on-time ranking. This accomplishment reflects the efficiency and punctuality of these airports in managing flight schedules.
Maharashtra’s Ambition to Become Global Drone Hub. Maharashtra aims to establish itself as a global hub for drone technology. This initiative underscores the growing significance of drones across various industries and applications.
PM Inaugurates Kochi-Lakshadweep Submarine Optical Fibre Connection. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection, enhancing digital connectivity to the remote Lakshadweep Islands.
ArcelorMittal’s Partnership with IIT Madras for Hyperloop Facility. ArcelorMittal has entered into a partnership with IIT Madras to establish a Hyperloop facility. This collaboration is aimed at advancing research and development in high-speed transportation technology.
Ashok Vaswani as Kotak Mahindra Bank’s MD and CEO. Ashok Vaswani has assumed the role of Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Kotak Mahindra Bank. This leadership transition marks a significant development in the banking sector.
Gwanggu Lee as MD & CEO of Kia India. Kia India has appointed Gwanggu Lee as its new Managing Director and CEO. This change in leadership reflects strategic decisions within the automotive industry in India.
Randhir Jaiswal as Spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs. Randhir Jaiswal has been appointed as the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs in India. In his role, he will play a crucial part in communicating the country’s foreign policy and diplomatic matters.
David Warner’s Retirement from ODI Cricket. Australian cricketer David Warner has announced his retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket, signaling the conclusion of his career in the 50-over format.
Global Unemployment Projection by ILO. The International Labour Organization (ILO) forecasts a global unemployment rate of 5.2% in 2024, indicating the anticipated challenges in the global job market.
Gabriel Attal as France’s Youngest Prime Minister. Gabriel Attal has become France’s youngest Prime Minister, marking a generational shift in French politics.
Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023 – Indore and Surat Cleanest Cities. Indore and Surat have been honored as the ‘cleanest cities’ in India at the Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023. These accolades recognize their achievements in cleanliness and sanitation efforts.
LG’s World’s 1st Wireless Transparent OLED TV. LG has unveiled the world’s first Wireless Transparent OLED TV, introducing a new dimension to television displays.
PM Modi’s Inauguration of Ayodhya Ram Mandir. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, marking a historic moment in the construction of the temple dedicated to Lord Ram in Ayodhya.
World’s Tallest Ambedkar Statue in Andhra Pradesh. The world’s tallest statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar has been unveiled in Andhra Pradesh, paying tribute to the iconic social reformer and architect of the Indian Constitution.
Indian Stock Market Surpasses Hong Kong. The Indian stock market has surpassed Hong Kong to become the fourth-largest equity market globally, reflecting the strength and growth of the Indian financial market.
Switzerland to Host Ukraine Peace Summit. Switzerland is set to host a peace summit for Ukraine, providing a diplomatic platform for discussions and negotiations.
TCS Ranked Second Most Valuable IT Brand Globally. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been ranked as the second most valuable IT brand globally, underscoring its position in the global information technology industry.
Jagrut Kotecha as CEO of PepsiCo India. Jagrut Kotecha has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PepsiCo India, assuming a leadership role in the beverage and snacks industry.
Saudi Arabia’s First Alcohol Store for Diplomats. Saudi Arabia has announced the opening of its first alcohol store exclusively for diplomats, representing a significant development in the country’s policies regarding alcohol consumption.
That’s it for Current Affairs January 2024. More at this page
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