Daily Current Affairs December 31

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December 31 | Daily Current Affairs 2024

Sports – Daily Current Affairs December 31

1. Which team did Kerala defeat to win their first Senior National Men’s Handball Championship title?
A) Services
B) Chandigarh
C) Indian Railways
D) Tamil Nadu
E) Haryana
Answer: B) Chandigarh

Event and Location:

• Event: Kerala wins Senior National Men’s Handball Championship
• Date: December 31, 2024
• Location: Changanassery, Kerala

Mandates and Objectives:

• Kerala clinched their first-ever Senior National Men’s Handball Championship title with a hard-fought victory.
• The tournament highlighted Kerala’s rise in national handball with standout individual and team performances.

Key Developments:

1. Final Match Details:
   • Kerala defeated Chandigarh with a score of 34-31 in a closely contested final.
   • Kerala led marginally in the first half and maintained their advantage in the second half despite a late charge from Chandigarh.
2. Road to the Final:
   • Kerala defeated Services 23-21 in the semi-finals.
   • Chandigarh beat Indian Railways 32-30 to secure their place in the final.
3. Awards:
   • Best Player of the Championship: Devendar (Kerala).
   • Best Goalkeeper: Rahul (Kerala).
4. Significance:
   • This was Kerala’s first appearance in the final and their maiden title win, marking a historic achievement for the state.

Important Terms Explained:

• Senior National Men’s Handball Championship:
• A prestigious annual national tournament that brings together the top handball teams from across India.

Best Player of the Championship:

• Awarded to the player demonstrating exceptional skill, leadership, and contribution to their team’s success.

Best Goalkeeper:

• Recognizes the most effective goalkeeper for their pivotal role in defending against opposing teams’ attacks.

Static GK Information:

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Ranking – Daily Current Affairs December 31

2. How many days in 2024 recorded “Good to Moderate” Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi?
A) 197 days
B) 206 days
C) 209 days
D) 227 days
E) 185 days
Answer: C) 209 days

Event and Location:

• Event: Delhi records highest number of “Good to Moderate” air quality days in 2024
• Date: December 31, 2024
• Location: Delhi, India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Achieving a sustained reduction in air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR through targeted policy measures by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), established in 2021.
• Improving AQI (Air Quality Index) categories and reducing pollution through collaborative efforts and technological interventions.

Key Developments:

• 209 days in 2024 recorded “Good to Moderate” AQI (AQI <200), the highest since 2018 (excluding the COVID year, 2020).
• Average AQI for February, August, and December 2024 was the best recorded since 2018.
• The year witnessed a record low number of farm fires during the paddy harvest season, with 12,750 incidents across Punjab, Haryana, and NCR regions.
• Despite adverse meteorological conditions, 2024 saw the least number of “Poor to Severe” AQI days, further emphasizing improvement in air quality.

Challenges Faced:

• January 2024: Recorded the highest average AQI (355) for January due to stagnant wind conditions.
• May 2024: Worst average AQI for May (223) since 2018, caused by dry spells and high-speed winds transporting dust from adjoining regions.

Comparative Data:

• Annual Average AQI (2018–2024):
  • 2018: 225
  • 2019: 215
  • 2020: 185 (COVID year)
  • 2021: 209
  • 2022: 209
  • 2023: 204
  • 2024: 209

Days in AQI Categories:

Important Terms Explained:

• Air Quality Index (AQI):
  • A measure of air pollution on a scale where lower values (<200) represent better air quality and higher values (>200) indicate poor air quality.
• CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management):
  • Established in 2021 to implement comprehensive policies and measures to reduce air pollution in Delhi-NCR.
• Farm Fires:
  • Open burning of crop residues, particularly during the paddy harvest season, significantly contributes to air pollution levels in the Delhi-NCR region.

Static GK Information:

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Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs December 31

3. What was the year-on-year growth rate of the Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) in November 2024?
A) 3.8%
B) 4.2%
C) 4.3%
D) 5.3%
E) 6.4%
Answer: C) 4.3%

Event and Location:

• Event: Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) growth in November 2024
• Date: December 31, 2024
• Location: India

Mandates and Objectives:

• The Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) tracks the combined and individual performance of eight industries, including Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement, and Electricity.
• These eight industries account for 40.27% weight of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

Key Developments:

• ICI growth for November 2024 was 4.3%, up from November 2023.
• Cement recorded the highest growth at 13%, followed by Coal at 7.5% and Steel at 4.8%.
• Crude Oil and Natural Gas witnessed declines of 2.1% and 1.9%, respectively.

Challenges and Trends:

• Despite robust growth in certain industries, Crude Oil and Natural Gas continue to face production challenges.
• Enhanced emphasis is needed on renewable energy integration and infrastructure development for stable long-term growth.

Important Terms Explained:

• Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI):
  • Measures the performance of eight crucial industries, reflecting industrial growth trends.
  • Serves as a leading indicator for the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).
• Index of Industrial Production (IIP):
  • Tracks the overall industrial activity in the economy, including manufacturing, mining, and electricity sectors.
• Base Year:
  • The current base year for ICI is 2011-12, ensuring consistent measurement over time.

Static GK Information:

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Appointments – Daily Current Affairs December 31

4. Who has been appointed as the new CEO of India Cements Ltd following UltraTech’s acquisition?
A) N Srinivasan
B) Krishnagopal Ladsaria
C) Rupa Gurunath
D) Suresh Vasant Patil
E) Aditya Birla
Answer: D) Suresh Vasant Patil

Event and Location:

• Event: UltraTech’s India Cements announces new CEO and CFO appointments
• Date: December 31, 2024
• Location: Chennai

Mandates and Objectives:

• The appointments were approved based on the recommendations of the nomination and remuneration committee.
• The changes align with UltraTech’s acquisition of India Cements Ltd, marking a shift in leadership.

Key Developments:

• Suresh Vasant Patil has been appointed as the new CEO.
• Krishnagopal Ladsaria has been appointed as the new CFO.
• These appointments will take effect from January 1, 2025.

Background:

• UltraTech Cement completed the acquisition of an additional 32.72% equity stake in India Cements, bringing its total stake to 55.49%.
• As a result, the previous promoters, including N Srinivasan (former Vice Chairman and Managing Director) and Rupa Gurunath, stepped down.

Important Terms Explained:

• UltraTech Cement Ltd:
  • Part of the Aditya Birla Group, it is one of India’s largest cement producers.
  • Known for acquisitions that consolidate its position as a market leader in the cement industry.
• India Cements Ltd:
  • A Chennai-based cement company, now a subsidiary of UltraTech Cement Ltd after the acquisition.
  • Previously controlled by N Srinivasan and family.

Static GK Information:

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5. Which position has Vitul Kumar recently been appointed to in the CRPF?
A) Additional Director General
B) Special Director General
C) Officiating Director General
D) Inspector General
E) Permanent Director General
Answer: C) Officiating Director General

Event and Location:

• Event: Vitul Kumar appointed as the officiating Director General of CRPF
• Date: December 31, 2024
• Location: New Delhi, India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Vitul Kumar, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, will assume the role of officiating DG of CRPF following the retirement of Anish Dayal Singh.
• His leadership will ensure continuity in operations until a permanent DG is appointed.

Key Developments:

1. Career Progression:
   • Joined CRPF in the 1993-batch of IPS.
   • Promoted to Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in 2009, Inspector General (IG) in 2012, and Additional DG in 2018.
   • Appointed Special DG of CRPF in September 2024.
2. Awards and Achievements:
   • President’s Police Medal in 2021.
   • Police Medal in 2009.
   • Director General’s Commendation Disc in Silver and Gold.
3. Challenges for CRPF Under Kumar’s Leadership:
   • Left-Wing Extremism (LWE): CRPF plays a pivotal role in eliminating LWE in Chhattisgarh, with a government target to end extremism by 2026.
   • Manipur Tensions: CRPF faces resistance in addressing the law and order situation in Manipur, demanding strategic management and decisive actions.

Significance:

• Kumar’s appointment comes at a crucial time, reinforcing stability and operational focus for the CRPF amidst ongoing security challenges.

Important Terms Explained:

• CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force):
  • India’s largest paramilitary force under the Ministry of Home Affairs, tasked with internal security, counter-insurgency, and law enforcement.
• Left-Wing Extremism (LWE):
  • Refers to insurgent groups in India, particularly Maoists, who aim to overthrow the state through violence. CRPF is actively engaged in counter-LWE operations in affected regions like Chhattisgarh.

Static GK Information:

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6. Who was appointed as the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in December 2024?
A) Justice Arun Kumar Mishra
B) Justice V. Ramasubramanian
C) Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi
D) Priyank Kanoongo
E) Smt. Vijaya Bharathi Sayani
Answer: B) Justice V. Ramasubramanian

Event and Location:

• Event: Justice V. Ramasubramanian appointed as Chairperson of NHRC
• Date: December 23, 2024
• Location: New Delhi, India

Mandates and Objectives:

• Justice V. Ramasubramanian, a former Supreme Court judge, was appointed Chairperson of NHRC by President Droupadi Murmu.
• The position had been vacant since June 1, 2024, after the tenure of Justice Arun Kumar Mishra ended.

Key Developments:

1. Justice V. Ramasubramanian’s Career:
   • Born: June 30, 1958, in Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu.
   • Practiced law for 23 years in Madras High Court.
   • Appointed as an Additional Judge in 2006 and became Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court in 2019.
   • Elevated to the Supreme Court in 2019, authoring 102 judgments, including landmark cases like 2016 Demonetization Policy.
2. New NHRC Members:
   • Priyank Kanoongo, former Chairperson of NCPCR, joined as a member.
   • Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi, former Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court, also joined as a member.
3. Leadership Vision:
   • Justice Ramasubramanian emphasized India’s ancient tradition of human rights, citing Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar.
   • Stressed collaboration among stakeholders to promote and protect human rights.

Important Terms Explained:

• NHRC (National Human Rights Commission):
  • Established: 1993 under the Protection of Human Rights Act.
  • Purpose: Promote and protect human rights in India, focusing on civil liberties and social justice.
• Priyank Kanoongo:
  • Served as Chairperson of NCPCR (National Commission for Protection of Child Rights) from 2018 to 2024.
• Advocated for “Indian solutions to Indian problems” in child welfare systems.
  • Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi:
  • Former Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court and an active contributor to legal reforms.

Static GK Information:

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Defence – Daily Current Affairs December 31

7. Which milestone has the Indian Army recently achieved in ammunition production?
A) 75% self-reliance
B) 88% self-reliance
C) 50% self-reliance
D) 100% self-reliance
E) 65% self-reliance
Answer: B) 88% self-reliance

Event and Location:

• Event: Indian Army achieves 88% self-reliance in ammunition
• Date: December 31, 2024
• Location: New Delhi

Mandates and Objectives:

• Part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
• Focused on reducing dependence on Russian and Swedish ammunition by producing indigenous alternatives.

Key Developments:

• Indigenous development of 7.62 mm ammunition for machine guns.
• Enhances India’s strategic preparedness and strengthens the defense manufacturing sector.

Important Terms Explained:

• Aatmanirbhar Bharat Initiative:
  • Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2020 to promote self-reliance across sectors.
  • Aims to enhance local production and reduce dependency on imports.
• 7.62 mm Ammunition:
  • A key caliber used in machine guns worldwide.
  • Its domestic production demonstrates advancements in indigenous defense capabilities.

Static GK Information:

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International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs December 31

8. What is the maximum commercial operating speed of China’s CR450 high-speed train?
A) 320 km/h
B) 350 km/h
C) 400 km/h
D) 430 km/h
E) 450 km/h
Answer: C) 400 km/h

Event and Location:

• Event: China unveils the CR450, the world’s fastest high-speed train prototype
• Date: December 31, 2024
• Location: China

Mandates and Objectives:

• The CR450 train represents China’s technological advancement in rail systems, featuring unprecedented speed, energy efficiency, and passenger comfort.
• This project aligns with China’s vision of expanding its high-speed rail network to 70,000 km by 2035.

Key Developments:

1. Speed and Performance:
   • Test speed: 450 km/h; Commercial operating speed: 400 km/h.
   • Rigorous testing: 200,000 km in test distance, 3,000 simulations, and 2,000 platform tests.
2. Technological Features:
   • Water-cooled permanent magnet traction systems for energy efficiency.
   • High-stability bogie systems ensuring operational stability.
   • Carbon-fiber materials reduce weight and enhance durability.
3. Passenger Enhancements:
   • Noise reduction technologies for quieter travel.
   • Expanded cabin space with storage for bicycles and wheelchairs.
4. Global Ambitions:
   • Current high-speed rail network spans 47,000 km, the largest globally.
   • Future plans include the Pan-Asia rail network connecting Kunming to Singapore via Laos, Thailand, and Malaysia.

Important Terms Explained:

• CR450 Train:
  • A next-generation high-speed train prototype with a commercial speed of 400 km/h.
  • Represents China’s leadership in rail innovation with emphasis on speed, efficiency, and sustainability.
• Shanghai Maglev:
  • A magnetic levitation train in Shanghai, currently the fastest train globally at 430 km/h.
• High-Speed Rail Network Expansion:
  • China aims to expand its network to 70,000 km by 2035, solidifying its global rail dominance.

Static GK Information:

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs December 31

9. How many solar installations were achieved under the Surya Ghar scheme in 2024?
A) 3.5 lakh
B) 5.8 lakh
C) 6.3 lakh
D) 7.1 lakh
E) 8.0 lakh
Answer: C) 6.3 lakh

Event and Location:

• Event: Surya Ghar scheme achieves 6.3 lakh solar installations in 9 months
• Date: December 30, 2024
• Location: India

Mandates and Objectives:

• The Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is designed to provide free electricity to households via solar energy installations.
• It is part of India’s broader energy transition goals, aiming for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based power by 2030.

Key Developments:

• In 9 months, the scheme has facilitated 6.3 lakh rooftop solar installations, marking a remarkable achievement.
• Added 30 GW of new power generation capacity in 2024.
• Enhanced focus on grid stability and addressing transmission bottlenecks to integrate intermittent renewable energy sources effectively.

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Concerns about the financial health of power distribution companies (DISCOMs) and the underutilization of gas-based plants.
• The importance of ramping up domestic manufacturing under the PLI (Production Linked Incentive) scheme for solar infrastructure.
• Calls for private sector participation in power distribution to boost efficiency and financial viability.

Important Terms Explained:

• Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana:
  • A government scheme aimed at providing free electricity to households through solar energy.
  • Focused on rooftop solar installations to promote renewable energy adoption.
• PLI (Production Linked Incentive) Initiative:
  • A scheme designed to encourage domestic manufacturing of solar components and other renewable energy products.
  • Helps reduce dependency on imports while boosting India’s renewable energy sector.
• Renewable Energy Target:
  • India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030 as part of its commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Static GK Information:

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10. What innovative feature will be used for underwater surveillance at Maha Kumbh 2025?
A) Remote-controlled life buoys
B) AI-powered cameras
C) Tethered drones
D) Underwater drones
E) GIS-based maps
Answer: D) Underwater drones

Event and Location:

• Event: Maha Kumbh 2025 integrates technology with spirituality
• Date: December 31, 2024
• Location: Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh

Mandates and Objectives:

• Maha Kumbh 2025 aims to combine Sanatan Dharma’s sacred traditions with modern technological innovations.
• Expected to attract 45 crore devotees, preparations include high-tech security measures, immersive digital experiences, and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

Key Developments:

• Cybersecurity:
  • Deployment of 56 cyber warriors, a cyber police station, and Variable Messaging Displays (VMDs).
  • Dedicated helpline number (1920) and action against 50 suspicious websites.
• Immersive Experiences:
  • 360-degree VR stalls showcasing Ganga Aarti, Peshwai, and other rituals.
  • 2,000 drones narrating legendary tales like “Samudra Manthan.”
• Infrastructure:
  • Digital land allotments for over 10,000 institutions through GIS-based maps and drones for topographic mapping.
  • Enhanced navigation through Google Maps for emergency services and utilities.
• Security Enhancements:
  • Underwater drones for round-the-clock surveillance up to 100 meters.
  • AI-powered cameras for enhanced monitoring.
  • Remote-controlled life buoys for quick rescue operations.
• Lost and Found Services:
  • Digital registration of missing individuals with assistance from police and announcements on social media platforms.

Online Services:

• Stay Booking: Online booking for accommodations through IRCTC and partners like Make My Trip and GoIbibo, available from January 10 to February 28, 2025.

Important Terms Explained:

• Maha Kumbh Mela:
  • A major Hindu festival held every 12 years, with Prayagraj as one of the host cities.
  • Attracts millions of devotees for spiritual cleansing and religious rituals.
• Underwater Drones:
  • Advanced surveillance devices capable of monitoring underwater activities.
  • Equipped with real-time tracking and low-light functionality.
• 360-Degree VR Stalls:
  • Virtual Reality (VR) setups offering immersive experiences of rituals and events, enhancing cultural and spiritual connectivity.

Static GK Information:

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11. What is the estimated cost of the ambitious river conservation project approved for Buxar, Bihar?
A) ₹257 crores
B) ₹272 crores
C) ₹263 crores
D) ₹9 crores
E) ₹8 crores
Answer: A) ₹257 crores

Event and Location:

• Event: Pivotal Sewerage Projects Approved in NMCG’s 59th Executive Committee Meeting
• Date: December 31, 2024
• Location: Chandauli, Manikpur (UP), Buxar (Bihar), and Uttarpara-Kotrung Municipality (West Bengal)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Strengthening efforts for the cleanliness and rejuvenation of the Ganga River under the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG).
• Focus on sustainable development, sanitation management, and pollution-free Ganga.

Key Developments:

1. Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh:
   • Project worth ₹263 crores approved under the hybrid annuity model.
   • Construction of a 45 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant and supporting structures.
   • Operation and Maintenance (O&M) assured for 15 years.
2. Manikpur, Uttar Pradesh:
   • ₹9 crore project for Faecal Sludge Management.
   • Development of a 15 KLD Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant and a 35 KW solar power plant for eco-friendly waste management.
3. Buxar, Bihar:
   • ₹257 crore project under the DBOT model (Design, Build, Operate, Transfer).
   • Construction of a 50 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant, additional 1 MLD STP using nature-based solutions, 3 interception pumping stations, and an 8.68 km sewer network.
4. Uttarpara-Kotrung Municipality, West Bengal:
   • ₹8 crore project for a 22 KLD Faecal Sludge Treatment Plant under the DBOT model.
   • Includes O&M for five years to ensure sustainability.

Impacts:

• Significant strides toward pollution-free Ganga and river rejuvenation.
• Enhanced sanitation management infrastructure in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
• Long-term commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development goals.

Important Terms Explained:

• National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG):
  • An initiative under the Ministry of Jal Shakti to rejuvenate and conserve the Ganga River and its tributaries.
  • Focuses on pollution abatement, ecological restoration, and sustainable development.
• Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM):
  • A public-private partnership model where the government and private entities share financial risks for infrastructure projects.
• DBOT Model (Design, Build, Operate, Transfer):
  • A contract model where the contractor is responsible for designing, building, and operating a project before transferring ownership to the government.

Static GK Information:

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12. Where will the first World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) be held?
A) Mumbai
B) Bengaluru
C) New Delhi
D) Hyderabad
E) Chennai
Answer: C) New Delhi

Event and Location:

• Event: India to host the inaugural World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES)
• Date: February 5–9, 2025
• Location: New Delhi, India

Mandates and Objectives:

• The WAVES Summit is intended to position India as a global hub for content creation and creative collaboration.
• Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his ‘Mann ki Baat’ address.

Key Developments:

1. Event Overview:
   • WAVES is modeled after international events like the World Economic Forum in Davos.
   • It will bring together leaders from media, entertainment, and creative industries worldwide.
2. Focus Areas:
   • Animation and Gaming: Highlighting India’s advancements in these fields.
   • Entertainment Technology: Showcasing cutting-edge developments.
   • Regional and Mainstream Cinema: Promoting diverse forms of Indian cinema.
3. Tributes:
   • Raj Kapoor: Celebrated for enhancing India’s soft power through cinema.
   • Mohammed Rafi: Honored for his timeless voice in Indian music.
   • Akkineni Nageswara Rao: Recognized for elevating Telugu cinema.
   • Tapan Sinha: Known for his socially conscious films.
4. Economic Significance:
   • Supports India’s vision of becoming a $5 trillion economy.
   • Highlights the growing role of the creator economy in driving growth.
5. PM Modi’s Message:
   • Encouraged the participation of creators from Bollywood, regional cinema, TV, animation, gaming, and other creative industries.
   • Emphasized the contributions of India’s youth in shaping the future of the creative economy.

Important Terms Explained:

• World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES):
  • A global summit focused on creative collaboration in entertainment, gaming, and audiovisual content.

Creator Economy:

• A segment of the economy driven by independent creators, artists, and content developers leveraging digital platforms to generate income and employment opportunities.

Tribute Personalities:

• Raj Kapoor: Icon of Indian cinema with international acclaim.
• Mohammed Rafi: Revered playback singer in Indian music history.
• Akkineni Nageswara Rao: Pioneer of Telugu cinema.
• Tapan Sinha: Filmmaker known for addressing social issues.

Static GK Information:

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