Current Affairs December 2024 Part 2: Top News and Updates
26. India’s First Quantum Computer Developed by IISc
Technological Contribution
- The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has developed India’s first quantum computer, a milestone in the nation’s technological capabilities.
Growth Potential
- This positions India as a competitive player in the global race for quantum computing, with potential applications in cryptography, AI, and material science.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- The computer’s development is supported by the Quantum Technologies mission, with further advancements planned in quantum algorithms and machine learning.
27. PM Kisan Yojana Completes 5 Years
Economic and Social Contribution
- The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM Kisan) Yojana has completed five years, providing direct income support to over 12 crore farmers.
Growth Potential
- The scheme continues to alleviate rural poverty and improve agricultural productivity by providing financial support to small farmers.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- ₹6,000 annually provided to eligible farmers, with plans to expand the scheme’s coverage in future.
28. G20 Countries Agree on Framework for Global Digital Tax
Economic Contribution
- G20 nations have agreed to a global digital tax framework, addressing the challenges posed by cross-border e-commerce and digital services.
Growth Potential
- The framework is expected to level the playing field for digital taxation and bring in greater revenue for governments, especially in developing economies.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- The agreement establishes a global minimum tax rate for multinational digital companies, effective from 2025.
29. India’s Plastic Waste Management Rule Strengthened
Environmental Contribution
- India has strengthened its plastic waste management rules, focusing on extended producer responsibility (EPR) and reduction in single-use plastic.
Growth Potential
- This move will significantly contribute to reducing plastic pollution and foster a circular economy model in the country.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Plastic producers now must ensure that 60% of plastic waste is recycled or reused, with financial penalties for non-compliance.
30. India’s First National AI and Robotics Hub Inaugurated
Technological Contribution
- India has launched its first National AI and Robotics Hub, focusing on research, innovation, and the development of AI-based solutions.
Growth Potential
- This hub is expected to catalyze the development of next-gen AI tools, enhancing India’s tech prowess and boosting its economy.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Collaboration with academic institutions and industries to create AI-driven solutions in healthcare, education, and agriculture.
31. National Water Policy 2024 Draft Released
Environmental Contribution
- The Indian government has released the draft of the National Water Policy 2024, emphasizing sustainable water management and conservation.
Growth Potential
- This policy aims to tackle the growing water scarcity issue, ensuring equitable distribution and optimal usage for agriculture, industry, and drinking water.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Promotes rainwater harvesting, water recycling, and efficient irrigation technologies to improve water availability across the country.
32. Indian Parliament Passes National Data Privacy Law
Technological and Legal Contribution
- The Indian Parliament has passed a landmark data privacy law, providing a framework for the protection of personal data in an increasingly digital world.
Growth Potential
- The law enhances India’s digital ecosystem’s credibility, promoting investment in tech and fostering a safer environment for data processing.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Establishes data protection authorities and mandates transparency for data handling by both government and private entities.
33. Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase-II Launched
Infrastructure Contribution
- The government has launched Phase-II of the Bharatmala Pariyojana, an ambitious highway development project aimed at improving road connectivity across India.
Growth Potential
- This initiative is expected to reduce logistics costs, enhance trade, and boost rural connectivity.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Over 12,000 kilometers of roads and expressways will be constructed, with an emphasis on strategic sectors such as defense and commerce.
34. India Approves ‘Make in India’ Space Technology Fund
Technological Contribution
- A new fund has been approved to support the development of indigenous space technologies and satellite components under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Growth Potential
- The fund will stimulate innovation in India’s growing space sector, fostering self-reliance and reducing dependence on foreign technology.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Focus on research and development in satellite communications, navigation, and space exploration technologies.
35. India’s COVID-19 Vaccination Drive Crosses 1 Billion Doses
Health Contribution
- India has crossed a significant milestone, administering over 1 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines as part of the national vaccination drive.
Growth Potential
- The vaccination drive continues to play a crucial role in achieving herd immunity and facilitating economic recovery.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Mobile vaccination units and community outreach programs were implemented to ensure equitable vaccine access in remote areas.
36. PM Modi’s Visit to Japan Strengthens Bilateral Ties
Diplomatic Contribution
- Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Japan has resulted in strengthened diplomatic, trade, and defense relations between the two nations.
Growth Potential
- Enhanced collaboration on technology, climate change, and infrastructure projects will promote mutual economic growth and stability.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Signing of agreements related to investment in infrastructure and renewable energy projects, as well as defense collaboration.
37. Digital Rupee Pilot Launched by RBI
Economic Contribution
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a pilot for the digital rupee, signaling the country’s move toward a digital currency.
Growth Potential
- The digital currency is expected to make transactions faster, safer, and more transparent, while also reducing the dependency on cash.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- The pilot will initially focus on wholesale transactions, with future expansion to retail transactions.
38. India’s First National AI Education Policy Released
Educational Contribution
- India has released its first National AI Education Policy, focusing on equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.
Growth Potential
- The policy is expected to create a tech-savvy workforce, boosting India’s innovation capacity and global competitiveness.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- AI-focused curricula for schools and universities, along with training programs for teachers to enhance their digital skills.
39. India’s Foreign Exchange Reserves Reach Record High
Economic Contribution
- India’s foreign exchange reserves have reached an all-time high of $700 billion, signaling a strong and resilient economy.
Growth Potential
- A robust forex reserve provides stability against external shocks and strengthens India’s position in global trade.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- The reserves are bolstered by strong exports, remittances, and foreign direct investment (FDI).
40. New Labour Codes Enacted
Social Contribution
- The government has enacted new labor codes aimed at simplifying and modernizing the country’s labor laws, improving worker welfare.
Growth Potential
- The codes are expected to promote formalization of the workforce, improve job security, and enhance labor market flexibility.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Includes provisions for fixed-term contracts, social security benefits for gig workers, and clearer dispute resolution processes.
41. UNDP Launches Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024
Environmental and Social Contribution
- The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has released its annual SDG report, showcasing global progress on sustainable development goals.
Growth Potential
- The report provides crucial insights into areas where India has made significant progress, as well as where further efforts are needed.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Focus on green energy adoption, poverty alleviation, and gender equality across India.
42. India’s First National Museum of Indian Cinema Inaugurated
Cultural Contribution
- The National Museum of Indian Cinema has been inaugurated, dedicated to preserving and promoting India’s rich cinematic heritage.
Growth Potential
- Expected to boost tourism, while also enhancing India’s global cultural influence.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Exhibits showcasing the evolution of Indian cinema, with special focus on regional cinema contributions.
43. Government Announces Digital Payment Incentives for MSMEs
Economic Contribution
- The government has introduced incentives for MSMEs to adopt digital payments, helping them access formal credit and grow their businesses.
Growth Potential
- These incentives are expected to enhance MSME productivity, financial inclusion, and ease of doing business.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Subsidies for MSMEs to upgrade payment systems and facilitate digital transactions.
44. India Announces Major Wind Power Auction
Energy Contribution
- India has announced the launch of a large-scale wind power auction, aiming to add 10,000 MW of renewable energy capacity by 2025.
Growth Potential
- This auction is expected to attract investments in renewable energy and help India meet its climate targets.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- The auction process will encourage private sector participation, with incentives for offshore wind projects.
45. India’s National Security Strategy Released
Security Contribution
- The government has released the National Security Strategy 2024, outlining India’s approach to internal and external security challenges.
Growth Potential
- Strengthening national security will enhance economic growth and geopolitical stability.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Focus on counterterrorism, cyber security, and military modernization, with increased defense collaboration with global powers.
46. Govt. Launches Mission for Digital Education in Rural India
Educational Contribution
- The government has launched a mission to promote digital education in rural India, bridging the digital divide.
Growth Potential
- This initiative will empower rural students with 21st-century skills and enable access to global learning resources.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Distribution of digital devices and the establishment of community learning centers in remote areas.
47. India Hosts International Climate Summit 2024
Environmental and Diplomatic Contribution
- India has hosted the International Climate Summit, bringing together global leaders to discuss climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Growth Potential
- India’s leadership in climate action will boost its diplomatic influence and attract green investments.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- The summit focused on sustainable development, renewable energy, and financing climate solutions.
48. Indian Government Approves ₹20,000 Crore for Infrastructure Projects
Economic Contribution
- The Indian government has approved ₹20,000 crore for infrastructure projects, focusing on highways, ports, and urban development.
Growth Potential
- This funding is expected to boost job creation, improve logistics, and attract investment in key sectors.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- Emphasis on public-private partnerships and green infrastructure initiatives.
49. India’s First Indigenous Aircraft Carrier Commissioned
Defence Contribution
- India has commissioned its first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, enhancing its maritime security and defense capabilities.
Growth Potential
- Strengthening India’s naval power will allow it to safeguard its maritime interests and assert its influence in the Indian Ocean region.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- The carrier will enable India to project power, support humanitarian missions, and enhance regional stability.
50. AI-Driven Healthcare Innovations Launched in India
Healthcare Contribution
- India has launched AI-driven healthcare innovations aimed at improving diagnostics, treatment efficiency, and patient outcomes.
Growth Potential
- These innovations will help bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Key Initiatives and Provisions
- AI-based platforms for telemedicine, early disease detection, and personalized treatment options.
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