Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29

Dear Champions, as you all know that a lot of competitive exams have been notified consequently. Candidates have to prepare themselves according to the level of competition and expectation of the Recruitment board. Regarding that one of the most important topic is Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29. Current Affairs in the form of contemporary events of national & international play a crucial role in almost every competitive exams like Banking, Insurance, SSC, UPSC, TNPSC, Railway etc.

Current affairs are the most dynamic yet scoring among all sections and need to be prepared from the right source. Here, we cafunsta team, providing Daily GK Updates, Current Affairs Questions, and Monthly current affairs pdf.

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December 28 & 29 | Daily Current Affairs 2024

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29

1. On which date was the Indian National Congress (INC) founded?
A) January 1, 1885
B) December 28, 1885
C) August 15, 1885
D) November 14, 1885
E) December 31, 1885
Answer: B) December 28, 1885

Event and Location:

• Event: Indian National Congress (INC) Foundation Day
• Date: December 28, 1885

Historical Background:

• Formation:
  • The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded on December 28, 1885 during British colonial rule.
  • Its aim was to provide Indian representation under British rule and promote social reforms.
• Role in Freedom Movement:
  • INC played a crucial role in India’s anti-imperialist struggle, uniting people from diverse ideological backgrounds.
  • Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi ensured the party remained inclusive and accommodative.

Key Eras of Leadership:

• Jawaharlal Nehru Era (1947–1964):
  • Significant strides in space research and education.
• Lal Bahadur Shastri Era (1964–1966):
  • Known for his slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan”, embodying the spirit of service and welfare.
• Indira Gandhi Era (1966–1984):
  • India’s first woman Prime Minister, serving nearly 16 years.
  • Known for her leadership during significant events like the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.
• Rajiv Gandhi Era (1984–1991):
  • Introduced modern technology and welfare schemes.
  • Enacted key reforms, emphasizing India’s transition into the technology era.

Congress at Present:

• Healthcare:
  • The first party to introduce healthcare schemes and supports the Right to Health.
• Education:
  • Enacted the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, ensuring free education for children aged 6–14.
• Environment:
  • Advocates for sustainable development while protecting ecosystems and biodiversity.

Important Terms Explained:

• Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009:
  • Mandates free and compulsory education for children aged 6–14 in India.
• Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan:
  • A slogan coined by Lal Bahadur Shastri, symbolizing the importance of soldiers and farmers in India’s development.

Static GK Information:

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2. What is the theme of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025?
A) Building Resilient Economies
B) Collaboration for the Intelligent Age
C) Navigating Geopolitical Challenges
D) Reimagining Sustainable Growth
E) Ethical AI and Global Economy
Answer: B) Collaboration for the Intelligent Age

Event and Location:

• Event: World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025
• Date: January 20-25, 2025
• Location: Davos, Switzerland

Theme:

• Collaboration for the Intelligent Age:
  • Focuses on leveraging emerging technologies (AI, quantum computing, biotech, etc.) to drive productivity, address global challenges, and build resilient economies.

Key Highlights of the Meeting:

• Indian Delegation:
  • Union Ministers: Ashwini Vaishnaw, C.R. Patil, Chirag Paswan, K. Ram Mohan Naidu, Jayant Chaudhary.
• Chief Ministers:
  • Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra), Chandrababu Naidu (Andhra Pradesh), Revant Reddy (Telangana).
  • Andhra CM Naidu’s delegation includes his son Nara Lokesh, a senior minister.
  • Other state ministers: D.K. Shivakumar (Karnataka), T.R.B. Rajaa (Tamil Nadu), and Suresh Khanna (Uttar Pradesh).
• Global Leaders and Organizations:
  • Over 50 heads of states and leaders from organizations like United Nations, IMF, World Bank, Interpol, and WTO.

Focus on India:

• Session titled ‘India’s Economic Blueprint’ to explore India’s role as one of the fastest-growing major economies.
• Discussions on promoting local innovation, technology startups, and manufacturing.

Key Discussion Topics:

• Geopolitical and Geo-economic Issues:
  • Fragmentation and polarization due to events like the Ukraine War and West Asia crisis.
• Technological Advancements:
  • Exponential innovation in AI, quantum tech, energy tech, and biotech to address economic and societal challenges.
• Global Economic Growth:
  • Strategies to shift from low-growth, high-debt economies towards a collaborative, innovation-driven future.
• Ethical Use of AI:
  • Debates on balancing productivity with ethics in AI and emerging technologies.

Important Terms Explained:

• World Economic Forum (WEF):
  • An international organization for public-private cooperation, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
  • Organizes the Davos summit annually to discuss global challenges.
• India’s Economic Blueprint:
  • A vision focusing on local innovation, technology-driven growth, and resilient manufacturing sectors to support global economic growth.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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Sports – Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29

3. Which prestigious institution has offered Sachin Tendulkar an Honorary Cricket Membership?
A) Lord’s Cricket Ground
B) Melbourne Cricket Club
C) Marylebone Cricket Club
D) Sydney Cricket Ground Association
E) Cricket Australia
Answer: B) Melbourne Cricket Club

Event and Location:

• Event: Sachin Tendulkar Accepts MCC’s Prestigious Membership
• Date: December 28, 2024

About MCC and the Honorary Membership:

• Institution:
  • The Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) is a globally renowned institution managing the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world.
• Membership Significance:
  • Honorary Cricket Membership is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the sport.
  • Tendulkar’s acceptance of this membership highlights his unparalleled impact on the game.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Cricketing Achievements:

• Test Career:
  • Debut: Against Pakistan in Karachi (November 1989) at the age of 16.
  • Stats:
    • Matches: 200
    • Runs: 15,921
    • Average: 53.78
    • Centuries: 51
    • Half-centuries: 68
    • Wickets: 46 (earning the nickname “golden arm”).
• ODI Career:
  • Debut: Against Pakistan in Gujranwala (December 1989).
  • Stats:
    • Matches: 463
    • Runs: 18,426
    • Average: 44.83
    • Centuries: 49
    • Half-centuries: 96.
  • Last ODI: Against Pakistan (March 2012).
• T20 Career:
  • Played one T20I against South Africa in Johannesburg (December 2006).

Retirement:

• Final Test: Against West Indies at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai (November 2013).

Post-Retirement Contributions:

• Plays charity matches with other retired players.
• Serves as a global ambassador for cricket, inspiring the next generation of cricketers.

Important Terms Explained:

• Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC):
  • A prestigious sports club known for managing the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
• Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG):
  • Located in Melbourne, Australia, it is one of the most iconic cricket venues globally, hosting numerous historic matches, including World Cup finals.
• Honorary Cricket Membership:
  • A recognition awarded by MCC for exceptional contributions to cricket, celebrating the sport’s legends.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29

4. Which of the following has been recently allowed by the RBI for full-KYC PPI holders?
A) Opening bank accounts using third-party apps
B) Making and receiving UPI payments via third-party apps
C) Availing loans through UPI-linked PPIs
D) Using PPIs for cryptocurrency transactions
E) None of the above
Answer: B) Making and receiving UPI payments via third-party apps

Event and Location:

• Event: RBI Allows UPI Payments via Third-Party Apps for PPI Holders
• Date: December 28, 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Policy Change:
  • The RBI has permitted full-KYC prepaid payment instrument (PPI) holders to make and receive UPI payments through third-party apps like Google Pay and PhonePe.
• Purpose of the Move:
  • Enhance payment interoperability.
  • Promote the adoption of digital payments.
  • Aligns with RBI’s Payments Vision 2025.

Key Features of the Regulation:

• PPI Integration with UPI:
  • PPIs such as digital wallets, gift cards, and metro rail cards can now be linked to UPI handles.
  • Authentication of transactions will rely on the existing PPI credentials.
• Ease of Access:
  • Users no longer depend on issuer-specific platforms for UPI transactions.
  • The process integrates PPIs into mainstream UPI apps for greater flexibility.

Impacts of the Decision:

• Improved User Experience:
  • Simplifies transactions for online shopping, bill payments, and fund transfers.
  • Ensures a smoother and more convenient digital payment experience.
• Addressing Limitations:
  • Resolves compatibility issues between PPIs and mainstream UPI platforms.
  • Makes PPIs more versatile for everyday transactions.
• Encouraging Digital Payment Growth:
  • Expands the accessibility of UPI to a broader audience.
  • Contributes to building a unified digital payment ecosystem in India.

Past Context and Future Outlook:

• Previous Restriction:
  • UPI payments involving PPIs were limited to issuer-specific mobile applications.
• Future Implications:
  • This change will drive the wider adoption of digital payments.
  • Benefits customers by offering more options and businesses by increasing transaction volume.

Important Terms Explained:

• Prepaid Payment Instruments (PPIs):
  • Financial tools allowing the purchase of goods/services, bill payments, and fund transfers. Examples include digital wallets, gift cards, and metro rail cards.
• Unified Payments Interface (UPI):
  • A real-time payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), enabling instant fund transfers.
• Payments Vision 2025:
  • A roadmap by the RBI to promote digital payments, interoperability, and financial inclusion.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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5. What is the name of the DBS Bank program designed to support students studying abroad?
A) DBS Global Education Assist
B) DBS Study Abroad Total Assist
C) DBS International Education Program
D) DBS Treasures Education Support
E) DBS Overseas Education Solution
Answer: B) DBS Study Abroad Total Assist

Event and Location:

• Event: DBS Bank Launches Overseas Education Solutions
• Date: December 20, 2024

Program Overview:

• Program Name: DBS Study Abroad Total Assist.
• Target Audience:
  • Indian students pursuing higher education abroad.
  • Tailored for DBS Treasures customers, including NRIs and HNWIs (High Net-Worth Individuals).

Key Features:

• Zero-Fee International Transfers:
  • Parents can transfer funds overseas without any bank fees.
• Comprehensive Coverage:
  • Offers financial protection up to $1 million for illness, accidents, or lost baggage.
• Education Loans:
  • Loans provided at competitive rates starting at 10.25% per annum in collaboration with Credila Financial Services Limited.
• Forex Benefits:
  • The DBS Treasures VISA Infinite Debit Card enables transactions abroad without forex markup fees.
• Pre-Arrival Banking for Singapore:
  • Students traveling to Singapore can open accounts remotely and receive debit cards before departure.

Technology Integration:

• Fully Digital Process:
  • The program leverages DBS’s digibank app for a seamless, paperless experience.

Enhanced Benefits for DBS Treasures Customers:

• Global Banking Privileges:
  • Access to exclusive lifestyle benefits in six key DBS markets: Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia, India, and China.

• Key Banking Benefits:
  • Preferential FX Rates: Competitive exchange rates for fund transfers.
  • Waived Service Fees: No fees on select banking services.
  • Zero ATM Withdrawal Fees: Free withdrawals across DBS’s markets.

Program Vision:

• Simplify the journey of students navigating overseas education.
• Enhance the banking experience for families supporting international students.

Important Terms Explained:

• DBS Bank:
  • A leading Singapore-based multinational bank, known for its innovative digital banking solutions.
• High Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs):
  • Clients with significant financial assets, often eligible for premium banking services.
• Forex Markup Fees:
  • Additional charges applied for currency conversion during international transactions.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29

6. What was India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) as a percentage of GDP in Q2 FY2024-25?
A) 1.1%
B) 1.2%
C) 1.3%
D) 2.5%
E) 2.7%
Answer: B) 1.2%

Event and Location:

• Event: Current Account Deficit Eases in Q2 FY2024-25
• Date: Q2 FY2024-25

Key Insights:

• Current Account Deficit (CAD):
  • Remained steady at $11.2 billion, equivalent to 1.2% of GDP, down from 1.3% of GDP in Q2 FY2023-24.
  • Despite the higher merchandise trade deficit, robust services exports and improved net services receipts moderated the CAD.

Merchandise Trade Deficit:

• Grew to $75.3 billion in Q2 FY2024-25 from $64.5 billion in Q2 FY2023-24.
• Driven by increased import activity.

Net Services Receipts:

• Increased to $44.5 billion, compared to $39.9 billion a year ago.
• Growth in computer services, business services, travel, and transportation contributed significantly.

Financial Account Trends:

• Net FDI Outflow: $2.2 billion, compared to $0.8 billion outflow a year ago.
• Net FPI Inflow: $19.9 billion, a sharp increase from $4.9 billion.
• External Commercial Borrowings (ECB): Inflows of $5 billion, reversing outflows of $1.9 billion last year.
• NRI Deposits: Doubled to $6.2 billion from $3.2 billion.

Outlook for Q3 and FY2024-25:

• Economists predict CAD will rise to 2.5-2.7% of GDP in Q3 due to a record-high trade deficit in November.
• For FY2024-25, CAD is expected to stabilize at 1.1-1.2% of GDP.

Important Terms Explained:

• Current Account Deficit (CAD):
  • A measure of a country’s trade where the value of goods and services it imports exceeds the value of those it exports.
  • Expressed as a percentage of GDP, it reflects a nation’s external financial health.
•  Merchandise Trade Deficit:
  • The negative balance of trade where a country’s imports of goods exceed its exports.
• Net Services Receipts:
  • The income generated from exporting services (e.g., IT services, travel, business services) minus the cost of importing services.
• Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI):
  • Investments by foreign investors in a country’s securities, including stocks and bonds.
• External Commercial Borrowings (ECB):
  • Loans raised by Indian entities from non-resident lenders in foreign currency.

Static GK Information:

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7. What GST rate has been decided for the sale of used electric vehicles (EVs) as per the 55th GST Council Meeting?
A) 12%
B) 18%
C) 5%
D) 28%
E) 0%
Answer: B) 18%

Event and Location:

• Event: 55th GST Council Meeting
• Date: December 21, 2024
• Chaired By: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

Key Decisions:

• Items Becoming Costlier:
  • Used Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Other Old Vehicles:
    • GST rate increased from 12% to 18%.
  • Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (ACC) Blocks:
    • If containing over 50% fly ash, attract a 12% GST.
  • Pre-packed and Labeled Popcorn:
    • 12% GST on plain, pre-packed popcorn.
    • 18% GST on caramelized popcorn.
  • Sponsorship Services by Corporates:
    • Now under the Forward Charge Mechanism, increasing sponsor costs.
• Items Becoming Cheaper:
  • Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK):
    • 5% GST reduction when supplied via the Public Distribution System (PDS).
  • Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) Assembly Systems:
    • Exemption from IGST for sub-systems and tools used in manufacturing.
  • Gene Therapy:
    • Full GST waiver to make treatment affordable.
  • Food Preparations for Free Distribution:
    • 5% concessional GST rate for food inputs under welfare policies.
  • Pepper and Raisins Supplied by Agriculturists:
    • Exempt from GST when sold directly by agriculturists.
  • Inspection Equipment for IAEA:
    • IGST exemption on imported inspection equipment for the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Additional Changes:

• Penalties for Loan Non-Compliance:
  • No GST applicable on penalties collected by banks and NBFCs.
• Voucher Transactions:
  • Declared neither a supply of goods nor services, exempt from GST.
• Definition Update:
  • Revised the definition of pre-packaged and labeled goods under the Legal Metrology Act.

Important Terms Explained:

• Forward Charge Mechanism:
  • A system where the service provider pays the GST instead of the recipient, increasing the cost for sponsors.
• Public Distribution System (PDS):
  • Government mechanism providing subsidized food grains to the economically weaker sections.
• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):
  • An international organization ensuring safe and peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Static GK Information:

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Appointments – Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29

8. Who has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)?
A) Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan
B) Dr. Sandip Shah
C) Dr. Shivam Gupta
D) Dr. Sanjay Desai
E) Dr. Ramesh Patel
Answer: B) Dr. Sandip Shah

Event and Location:

• Event: Appointment of Dr. Sandip Shah as Chairperson of NABL
• Date: December 28, 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Role of NABL:
  • Ensures quality in testing and calibration services for consumer safety and global competitiveness.
  • Promotes trust among consumers, businesses, and regulators.
• Focus Under Dr. Sandip Shah:
  • Advance healthcare innovation and enhance quality assurance in testing.
  • Foster reliability in NABL-certified testing services.

Professional Background of Dr. Sandip Shah:

• Education:
  • Gold Medalist in MD Pathology and Bacteriology from B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
• Career Highlights:
  • Over 35 years of experience in healthcare, pathology, molecular biology, and transplant immunology.
  • Founder of Neuberg Supratech Reference Laboratories and Joint Managing Director at Neuberg Diagnostics.
  • Honorary Director at the Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Center.
• Key Achievements:
  • Launched India’s first drive-through Covid testing facility, conducting over 3,500 tests at one site.
  • Chaired the Medical Labs Accreditation Improvement Committee (MLAIC) at NABL.

NABL and QCI Overview:

• NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories):
  • Focuses on improving quality and reliability in testing and calibration.
  • Supports India’s global competitiveness by ensuring standards in testing.
• QCI (Quality Council of India):
  • NABL’s parent organization.
  • Promotes a quality-centric approach to products and services in India.

Leadership Transition:

• Predecessor: Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan.
• Expectations: Dr. Shah is anticipated to bring innovation and a consumer-centric approach to the sector.

Important Terms Explained:

• NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories):
  • A board under QCI focusing on quality in testing and calibration services.
  • Vital for ensuring reliability and safety in consumer products and services.
• QCI (Quality Council of India):
  • An autonomous body promoting quality standards across industries and services in India.
• Drive-Through Covid Testing Facility:
  • An innovative concept to safely test individuals for Covid-19 without leaving their vehicles.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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9. Who has been appointed as a board member of the Asian Boxing Body by World Boxing?
A) Lovlina Borgohain
B) Hemanta Kumar Kalita
C) Ajay Singh
D) Narender Kumar Nirwan
E) Digvijay Singh
Answer: C) Ajay Singh

Event and Location:

• Event: BFI Chief Ajay Singh Joins Asian Body Board
• Date: December 28, 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Formation of Asian Boxing Body:
  • Asia has been welcomed as the newest member of World Boxing, aiming to secure the sport’s Olympic future, including at LA 2028.
  • An interim body has been created to drive strategic initiatives for Asian boxing.
• India’s Strategic Involvement:
  • India has secured seven influential positions in the new body, showcasing the country’s leadership in the sport.
  • Active role in policy-making and talent development across Asia.

India’s Representation:

• Ajay Singh (BFI President): Appointed as a board member.
• Hemanta Kumar Kalita (BFI Secretary General): Member of the Olympic Commission.
• Digvijay Singh (BFI Treasurer): Member of the Finance and Audit Committee.
• Narender Kumar Nirwan (BFI Vice President): Member of the Constitution Commission.
• D.P. Bhatt (BFI Disciplinary Chairman): Member of the Sports and Competition Commission.
• Karanjeet Singh: Member of the Medical Commission.
• Lovlina Borgohain: Appointed to the Athletes’ Commission, ensuring athlete representation.

Recent Achievements:

• India will host the World Boxing Cup Final and the World Boxing Congress in 2025.
• Highlights India’s growing leadership in advancing boxing globally.

Important Terms Explained:

• World Boxing:
  • The global governing body for amateur boxing, overseeing the sport’s growth and ensuring its inclusion in the Olympics.
• Asian Boxing Body:
  • The newest member of World Boxing, established to strengthen the region’s influence and contribution to the sport.
• Athletes’ Commission:
  • A committee representing athletes’ voices, advocating for fair opportunities, and improving training and infrastructure.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29

10. Which organizations have launched India’s first Undergraduate Minor Programme in Quantum Technologies?
A) IIT and AICTE
B) NIT and NQM
C) AICTE and NQM
D) IIT and NQM
E) NIT and IIT
Answer: C) AICTE and NQM

Event and Location:

• Event: India Launches UG Minor in Quantum Technologies
• Date: Academic session starting 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

• Purpose:
  • Introduced by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the National Quantum Mission (NQM), this program aims to create a skilled workforce in quantum technologies, aligning with India’s National Quantum Mission goals.
• Significance:
  • Establishes India as a leader in quantum computing, cryptography, and other high-tech fields like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI).

Programme Overview:

• Target Audience:
  • Engineering students in their third or fourth semester.
• Curriculum Focus:
  • Covers core subjects like quantum mechanics, quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum algorithms.
  • Students select 18 credits from over 30 courses, ensuring flexibility and alignment with institutional resources.
• Collaborating Institutions:
  • Curriculum developed in partnership with IITs, IIITs, and NITs, ensuring global standards.

Hands-on Learning and Training:

• Practical Learning:
  • Includes project-based learning, exposure to quantum simulators, and access to advanced quantum laboratories for research.
• Faculty Development:
  • AICTE’s Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) train educators to deliver quality education in quantum technologies.

Infrastructure and National Vision:

• Infrastructure Development:
  • Establishment of advanced quantum labs to enhance research and innovation capabilities.
• National Vision:
  • Aligns with National Quantum Mission (NQM) objectives to advance quantum technologies, foster employability, and boost India’s global competitiveness.

Important Terms Explained:

• National Quantum Mission (NQM):
  • A Government of India initiative focusing on advancing quantum computing, cybersecurity, AI, and high-performance computing.
• Quantum Computing:
  • A type of computing that uses the principles of quantum mechanics, enabling faster problem-solving for certain complex computations.
• Quantum Cryptography:
  • A secure communication method using the principles of quantum mechanics to encrypt and decrypt data.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29

11. What caused the recent oil spill along Russia’s Black Sea coast?
A) Industrial pipeline leakage
B) Damage to two Russian-flagged oil tankers
C) Explosion at an offshore oil rig
D) Oil storage facility fire
E) Natural seepage of oil
Answer: B) Damage to two Russian-flagged oil tankers

Event and Location:

• Event: Russia Declares Federal Emergency Over Black Sea Oil Spill
• Date: December 15, 2024

Incident Details:

• Cause:
  • On December 15, 2024, two Russian-flagged oil tankers were severely damaged during a storm near the Kerch Strait, releasing thousands of tons of heavy fuel oil (mazut) into the Black Sea.
• Extent of Pollution:
  • Approx. 55 km (34 miles) of coastline polluted.
  • 200,000 tons of soil contaminated with mazut.
• Impact:
  • Severe damage to marine and coastal ecosystems.
  • Devastating effects on local communities reliant on tourism.

Government Response:

• Initial Cleanup:
  • Local efforts were insufficient due to lack of equipment and personnel.
  • The southern Krasnodar region declared a regional emergency.
• Federal Emergency Declaration:
  • On December 21, 2024, Russia’s Emergency Situations Minister Alexander Kurenkov declared a federal-level emergency.
  • Mobilized federal resources and funds for cleanup and restoration.
  • Coordination between local, regional, and federal agencies intensified.

Environmental Impact:

• Ecosystem Damage:
  • Marine life and biodiversity severely affected.
  • Long-term contamination of soil and water threatens habitability.
• Economic Consequences:
  • Coastal communities risk losing tourism revenue for spring and summer seasons.

Key Challenges Ahead:

• Cleanup Complexity:
  • Removing mazut requires advanced technology and skilled personnel.
  • Health risks for volunteers and workers due to exposure to toxic substances.
• Restoration Plans:
  • Long-term efforts needed to rehabilitate ecosystems and monitor recovery.

Important Terms Explained:

• Mazut:
  • A heavy fuel oil used in shipping and industrial applications, difficult to clean and highly toxic.
• Kerch Strait:
  • A strategic waterway connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, critical for shipping and trade.
• Federal Emergency:
  • A declaration that allows the national government to allocate additional funds, resources, and expertise to address a crisis.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs December 28 & 29

12. Who chaired the review meeting of Bhartiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) to strengthen cooperative agriculture?
A) Shri Narendra Modi
B) Shri Amit Shah
C) Shri Rajnath Singh
D) Shri Nitin Gadkari
E) Shri Piyush Goyal
Answer: B) Shri Amit Shah

Event and Location:

• Event: Review meeting of Bhartiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited (BBSSL)
• Date and Location: December 28, 2024, in New Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

• Expansion Goals:
  • BBSSL to connect with 20,000 additional cooperatives by 2025-26.
  • Expand its cooperative network and seed distribution.
• Focus on Sustainable Seeds:
  • Promoting traditional seeds requiring less water and pesticides while improving yields.
• Nutritional Assessment:
  • Organizations like IFFCO and KRIBHCO tasked to evaluate the nutritional value of indigenous and hybrid seeds.

Production Highlights:

• Rabi 2024 Seed Production:
  • Certified seeds on 5,596 hectares across 6 states, targeting 1,64,804 quintals of 49 varieties from 8 crops.
• Sales Achievement:
  • BBSSL sold 41,773 quintals of seeds worth ₹41.50 crore.
  • Focused crops include wheat, groundnut, oats, and berseem.

Future Roadmap:

• Revenue Target: ₹18,000 crore by 2032-33.
• Research and Development:
  • Prepare a 10-year roadmap to advance seed research and innovation.
  • Collaborate with government university scientists and laboratories.

Important Terms Explained:

• BBSSL (Bhartiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited):
  • A cooperative entity promoting sustainable, traditional seeds and certified seed production to empower farmers.
• Sehkar Se Samriddhi:
  • A vision of PM Narendra Modi to achieve agricultural prosperity through cooperative empowerment.
• IFFCO (Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited) and KRIBHCO (Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited):
  • Organizations involved in evaluating the nutritional quality of seeds and improving laboratory standards.

Static GK Information:

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13. What is the purpose of the newly inaugurated Climate Smart Agro-Textile Demonstration Center in Navsari, Gujarat?
A) To provide financial subsidies for farmers
B) To demonstrate and educate about Agro-Textile technologies
C) To train farmers in organic farming techniques
D) To promote the export of Agro-Textile products
E) To test water conservation technologies
Answer: B) To demonstrate and educate about Agro-Textile technologies

Event and Location:

• Event: Inauguration of Climate Smart Agro-Textile Demonstration Center
• Date: December 21, 2024
• Location: Navsari, Gujarat

Purpose of the Demonstration Center:

• Primary Objective:
  • Promote the adoption of Agro-Textile technologies for sustainable and innovative agricultural solutions.
  • Educate and empower farmers through live demonstrations, practical training modules, and real-time IoT monitoring systems.
• Facilities and Features:
  • Spread over 15,000 sq. meters, showcasing applications like:
    • Shade nets: Par-perfect, photo-selective, and vertical farming applications.
    • Medicinal nurseries and vermicomposting under shade nets.
    • Ground covers: Natural and HDPE-based.
    • Pond liners and crop covers.
  • IoT-based monitoring systems to track crop yield and growth conditions.

Significance of Agro-Textiles:

• Enhance crop productivity.
• Conserve resources like water and soil nutrients.
• Support sustainable farming practices.

Alignment with National Vision:

• Part of the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM), promoting technical textiles in agriculture.
• Contributes to India’s goal of sustainable and innovative agricultural development.

Important Terms Explained:

• Agro-Textiles:
  • Specialized textiles designed for agricultural applications, including shade nets, crop covers, and pond liners.
  • Help enhance productivity, conserve resources, and support sustainable farming.
• National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM):
  • A government initiative promoting the adoption of technical textiles in various sectors, including agriculture.
• IoT-Based Monitoring Systems:
  • Technology that uses sensors to collect real-time data on crop growth, soil conditions, and environmental parameters.

Static GK Information:

Tabular Summary:

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Over All Review

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