29th-30th November, 2024

1. Kaziranga Hosts 12th International Tourism Mart, Highlighting Northeast India’s Treasures
2. India Successfully Tests K-4 Missile from INS Arighaat
3. Surge in Cybercrime in Leading States: Government’s Comprehensive 13-Pronged Strategy
4. Centre Receives 28 Proposals from 23 States for New Urban Development Projects
5. PM Modi to Inaugurate Rising Rajasthan Global Summit in Jaipur on December 9
6. IIT Guwahati to Host the Country’s Largest Science Festival
7. Indian Army Launches ‘Eklavya’ Digital Training Platform
8. 40 Tourism Projects to Revitalize Hidden Gems Across India
9. India and Bosnia & Herzegovina Strengthen Relations During 4th Foreign Office Consultations
10. 13th National Seed Congress Opens in Varanasi
11. Cyclone Fengal to Hit TN-Puducherry Coast: IMD and ISRO Issue Alerts
12. 55th International Film Festival of India 2024
13. Amitava Kumar Releases New Book Titled ‘My Beloved Life’
14. Understanding VoIP: Full Form
15. President Murmu Inaugurates 125th Birth Anniversary Celebration of Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab
16. 19th G20 Summit Held in Brazil from November 18-19, 2024
17. UNICEF’s SOWC 2024 Report: Global Children Population Projected to Stabilize at 2.3 Billion by 2050
18. J&K Bank Introduces Virtual ATM Facility in Partnership with Paymart India
19. RBI Raises Limits for UPI Lite and UPI 123Pay
20. Goldman Sachs Predicts India’s GDP Growth to Slow to 6.3% in 2025
21. S&P Global Ratings Foresees 6.5-7% Growth for India’s GDP Till FY 2026-2027
22. Marijke Fleuren Receives FIH Honorary Member Award
23. Gintautas Paluckas Appointed as Prime Minister of Lithuania
24. Pankaj Tripathi Becomes Brand Ambassador for MP Tourism
25. Blue Origin Completes 28th Space Mission; Emily Calandrelli Becomes 100th Woman in Space
26. China’s J-35 Becomes the Second 5th-Generation Fighter
27. Formula 1: George Russell Triumphs at Las Vegas Grand Prix 2024
28. Kushal Pal Singh & Aparna Jain Launch New Book ‘Why the Heck Not?’
29. World Heritage Week 2024 – November 19 to 25
30. First-Ever World’s Conjoined Twins Day 2024 – November 24

National News

1. India to Host 10th India International Science Festival
   • What:
     • The 10th India International Science Festival (IISF) will take place at IIT Guwahati, Assam, from November 30 to December 4, 2024.
   • Why:
     • The festival aims to engage society with science and promote scientific collaboration, inspiring young minds and driving economic growth.
   • Tell me more:
     • This year’s theme is “Transforming India into an S&T-driven Global Manufacturing Hub.”
     • IISF is coordinated by CSIR and CSIR-NIIST and is being held in Northeast India for the first time.
     • The festival will feature various events, including:
       • Chandrayaan – The Museum of the Moon, showcasing India’s lunar mission.
       • A Mega Science and Technology Exhibition.
       • Programs like Make in India and Make for the World.
       • Student Science Village and Nari Shakti focusing on women in STEM.
       • Cultural events such as North East Symphony and Taste of the Hills.

2. India Launches Eklavya Online Learning Platform for Army
   • What:
     • General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, launched an online learning platform called “Eklavya” for the Indian Army.
   • Why:
     • This initiative aims to support the Indian Army’s transformation into a technology-driven force and enhance training through modern educational tools.
   • Tell me more:
     • The Eklavya platform was developed by the Headquarters Army Training Command with zero cost through Bhaskaracharya National Institute of Space Applications and Geoinformatics (BISAG-N).
     • It is hosted on the Army Data Network and allows officers to register for multiple courses simultaneously.
     • There are three categories of courses available:
       • Pre-Course Preparatory Capsules: Study materials for offline courses to help modernize content.
       • Appointment or Specific Assignment-Related Courses: Online training for officers transitioning to specialist roles.
       • Professional Development Suite: Courses on topics like Strategy, Leadership, and Emerging Technology.
     • The platform also features a “Knowledge Highway” for accessing journals and research papers.

3. Centre Approves 40 Projects Worth Over Rs 3,295 Crore
   • What:
     • The Central government has approved 40 projects costing over Rs 3,295 crore across 23 states.
   • Why:
     • These projects aim to transform lesser-known destinations into iconic tourist attractions and promote balanced tourism distribution in India.
   • Tell me more:
     • The Ministry of Tourism released operational guidelines for the Special Assistance to States/Union Territories for Capital Investment (SASCI).
     • A total of 87 project proposals were received, amounting to over Rs 8,000 crore, with 40 projects shortlisted for funding.
     • Selected destinations include Rang Ghar in Sivasagar (Assam), Matsyagandha Lake in Saharsa (Bihar), and proposed Town Square in Porvorim (Goa).
     • The scheme provides long-term interest-free loans for developing iconic tourist centers and aims to enhance local economies through sustainable tourism.
     • The funds for these projects will be released before March 2026.
       Source: IN

4. India and Bosnia and Herzegovina Hold Fourth Foreign Consultations
   • What:
     • India and Bosnia and Herzegovina held their fourth Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Sarajevo.
   • Tell me more:
     • The Indian delegation was led by Arun Kumar Sahu, Additional Secretary (Central Europe), while the Bosnian delegation was headed by Tarik Bukvic, Head of the Department for Asia and Africa.
     • Additional Secretary Sahu met with advisors from the Chairwoman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and paid a courtesy call to Christian Schmidt, the High Representative of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

5. 13th National Seed Congress Begins in Varanasi
   • What:
     • The 13th National Seed Congress (NSC) 2024 was held at the International Rice Research Institute South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Varanasi.
   • Why:
     • The event aims to discuss advancements and challenges in the seed sector and enhance India’s leadership in global agriculture.
   • Tell me more:
     • The congress was inaugurated virtually by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
     • Key discussions include:
       • India’s role in the global seed sector and food security challenges.
       • Uttar Pradesh’s agricultural initiatives, such as plans for 200 seed parks.
       • Importance of innovation and traceability through the SATHI portal.
       • Launch of initiatives like the Abstract Compendium and Rice Fallow Webpage & Atlas for several states.
     • The congress will run from November 28-30, 2024, focusing on sustainable agricultural practices.
     • Dr. Yvonne Pinto, Director General of IRRI, emphasized collaboration to tackle global agricultural challenges.
       Source: PIB
6. Centre Receives 28 Proposals for New Cities
   • What:
     • The Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry has received 28 proposals from 23 states for the incubation of new cities.
   • Why:
     • This initiative aims to develop new urban areas to meet the growing demand for urban expansion in India.
   • Tell me more:
     • The proposals are currently under examination by the competent authority.
     • In February 2021, the ministry announced plans to develop eight new cities to enhance urban infrastructure.
     • The 15th Finance Commission recommended an outlay of ₹8,000 crore for these new cities, with each state eligible for funding for one city.
     • Each proposed new city can receive ₹1,000 crore from this fund.
       Source: HT
7. President Murmu Inaugurates 125th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Mahtab
   • What:
     • The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the 125th birth anniversary celebration of Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab on November 21, 2024, in New Delhi.
   • Why:
     • The event honors Dr. Mahtab’s contributions as a visionary leader in Odisha and highlights his impact on the state’s development.
   • Tell me more:
     • Dr. Mahtab was an eminent writer and played a significant role in promoting art, literature, and music in Odisha.
     • He contributed to important development projects during his tenure as Prime Minister and Chief Minister of Odisha, including the construction of multi-purpose dam projects on the Mahanadi River.
     • His efforts led to Odisha becoming a leading state in power generation due to projects like Hirakud Dam.
     • He also helped establish key institutions such as the Odisha Legislative Assembly, State Secretariat, State Museum, and Nandankanan Zoo.
       Source: PIB

State News

1. Kaziranga Hosts International Tourism Mart 2024
   • What:
     • Kaziranga in Assam is hosting the 12th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM).
   • Tell me more:
     • The theme for this year’s ITM aligns with the “Travel for Life” initiative, focusing on sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
     • The ITM is organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and takes place at Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its one-horned rhinoceros.
     • Participants will also have opportunities to visit nearby attractions like Charaideo Moidam and Hathikuli Tea Estate.
       Source: TOI

2. Rising Rajasthan Global Summit to Be Inaugurated by PM
   • What:
     • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Rising Rajasthan Global Summit in Jaipur on December 9, 2024 to attract investments and promote industrial growth in Rajasthan.
   • Tell me more:
     • The event will take place at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Center (JECC) in Sitapura over three days.
     • Rajasthan aims to become self-reliant in energy production by 2027.
     • The state ranks first in renewable energy production in India due to favorable investment policies.
     • The government plans to announce a new resolution every day for ten days leading up to the summit to ensure its success.
       Source: ET

International News

1. Key Outcomes from the 2024 G20 Summit
   • What:
     • The 2024 G20 Summit addressed significant global issues, including geopolitical tensions, hunger, poverty, climate change, and the need for reform in global governance.
   • Why:
     • The summit aimed to bring together world leaders to discuss and coordinate responses to pressing global challenges and promote international cooperation.
   • Tell me more:
     • Major topics included:
       • Geopolitical Tensions: Focused on Russia’s war against Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon.
       • Global Hunger and Poverty: Launched the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty to help 500 million people by 2030.
       • Climate Change: Coincided with COP29, but did not achieve significant commitments on fossil fuel transitions or climate finance.
       • Reform of Global Governance: Discussed enhancing the effectiveness of institutions like the World Trade Organization (WTO).
       • Taxation of Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals: Leaders agreed to cooperate on taxing ultra-high-net-worth individuals to address wealth inequality.
     • The theme of the summit was “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.”
       Source: G20

2. Emily Calandrelli Becomes 100th Woman in Space
   • What:
     • Emily Calandrelli, known as “Space Gal,” became the 100th woman to travel to space during Blue Origin’s NS-28 mission.
     • The mission was Blue Origin’s ninth human spaceflight, allowing passengers to experience weightlessness and view Earth from space.
   • Tell me more:
     • Alongside Calandrelli, the crew included Sharon Hagle, Marc Hagle, Austin Litteral, James (J.D.) Russell, and Henry (Hank) Wolfond.
     • Calandrelli is an MIT engineer and a popular science communicator known for her work on Netflix’s “Emily’s Wonder Lab.”
     • The first woman in space was Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova in June 1963.
     • Sally K. Ride became the first American woman in space in June 1983.
       Source: CNN

   
   
3. China’s J-35A Stealth Fighter Debuts at Zhuhai Air Show
   • What:
     • The J-35A stealth fighter made its debut at the 2024 Zhuhai Air Show in China.
     • This aircraft is set to become a key component of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF).
   • Why:
     • The introduction of the J-35A highlights China’s advancements in military aviation and its goal to enhance its air combat capabilities.
     • The aircraft aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to the more expensive J-20 stealth fighter.
   • Tell me more:
     • The J-35A is designed for air superiority missions and has a secondary strike role, resembling the US F-35 in design.
     • It is expected to support both the PLAAF and the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), especially with China’s growing aircraft carrier fleet.
     • Analysts predict that the J-35A’s introduction may accelerate China’s procurement of fifth-generation fighters and could lead to an export version known as the J-35AE.

Source: TOI

Banking and Economy

1. J&K Bank Launches Virtual ATM Facility for Customers
   • What:
     • J&K Bank has launched a Virtual ATM Facility (vATM) to enhance digital banking convenience for its customers.
   • Why:
     • The initiative aims to provide easy access to banking services, especially in rural areas where traditional ATMs are not available.
   • Tell me more:
     • The facility was inaugurated by MD & CEO Baldev Prakash in the presence of various dignitaries, including Amit Narang from Paymart India Pvt. Ltd.
     • The vATM allows customers to withdraw cash through enrolled merchants by generating digital tokens using the bank’s mobile app, mPay Delight+.
     • This service is designed to increase foot traffic at merchant locations, benefiting both customers and merchants.
     • Baldev Prakash emphasized the importance of integrating technology with customer service and maintaining close communication with customers.
     • The vATM is a cardless and hardware-free solution, aligning with the trend of mobile banking.
       Source: J&K

   
   
2. UPI 123Pay: Enhancing Digital Payments for Feature Phone Users
   • What:
     • UPI 123Pay is a suite of solutions developed for feature phone users to enable UPI transactions without internet connectivity.
     • There are no charges for transactions made using UPI 123Pay.
   • Tell me more:
     • UPI 123Pay supports four transaction methods:
       • Voice payment via IVR (Interactive Voice Response) number.
       • Proximity sound-based payments.
       • Missed call-based payment strategy.
       • App-based scan and pay on feature phones.
     • According to a circular from NPCI dated October 25, 2024, the RBI has increased the per transaction limit from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 for UPI 123Pay.
     • Members of UPI 123Pay must comply with the new guidelines by January 1, 2025.
       Source: ET

Report and Indices

1. UNICEF’s State of the World’s Children 2024 Report
   • What:
     • “The State of the World’s Children 2024” report was released, focusing on the future of childhood in a changing world.
   • Why:
     • The report identifies significant trends that will impact children’s lives by 2050, including demographic transitions, climate challenges, and emerging technologies.
   • Tell me more:
     • Three key megatrends identified are:
       • Demographic Transition: The global child population is expected to stabilize at around 2.3 billion, with significant numbers in South Asia and parts of Africa facing challenges such as climate change.
       • Climate and Environmental Crises: Children are increasingly exposed to extreme weather events, which will worsen their vulnerability, especially in low-income countries.
       • Frontier Technologies: New technologies will influence how future generations learn and communicate but may also pose risks if not managed properly.
     • The report suggests strategies for securing children’s rights, including investing in education, expanding social protection systems, ensuring healthcare access, and creating child-responsive cities.

Source: UN

GDP Forecasts

1. Goldman Sachs Projects India’s GDP Growth to Slow in 2025
   • What:
     • Goldman Sachs forecasts India’s GDP growth to decelerate to 6.3% in 2025.
     • The slowdown is attributed to continued fiscal consolidation and slower credit growth.
   • Tell me more:
     • Goldman Sachs projects India’s headline inflation at 4.2% and food inflation at 4.6% in 2025.
     • The RBI’s current repo rate is 6.5%, which is maintained to control inflation.
     • Retail inflation was recorded at 6.21% in October, exceeding the RBI’s upper tolerance level of 6%.
     • The Indian Rupee is currently valued at approximately 84.40 per US dollar, with expectations of modest depreciation to 85.5 – 86 in the near term.
       Source: ET
2. S&P Global Lowers India’s GDP Growth Forecast
   • What:
     • S&P Global Ratings revised down its GDP growth forecast for India to 6.8% for the fiscal year 2024-25.
     • The agency also projected 6.7% growth for 2025-26 and 6.8% for 2026-27, down from previous estimates.
   • Why:
     • The report highlights that while purchasing manager indices (PMIs) indicate expansion, other indicators show a temporary slowdown in growth momentum.
   • Tell me more:
     • S&P Global expects India’s GDP to grow at 7% in FY28.
     • Persistent food inflation is delaying potential rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which is currently maintaining the repo rate at 6.5%.
     • Consumer inflation reached 6.21% in October, exceeding the RBI’s upper tolerance level of 6%.
     • The report titled ‘Economic Outlook Asia-Pacific Q1 2025: US Trade Shift Blurs The Horizon’ discusses broader economic challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
       Source: BS

Defence News

1. India Successfully Tests K-4 Ballistic Missile
   • What:
     • The Indian Navy conducted a successful test firing of the K-4 ballistic missile from its new nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighaat.
   • Tell me more:
     • The K-4 missile has a range of 3,500 kilometers and is designed to be launched from underwater platforms.
     • The test was conducted in the Bay of Bengal and is crucial for strengthening India’s nuclear triad.
     • INS Arighaat was commissioned into the Indian Navy in August 2024 and is equipped with advanced technology compared to its predecessor, INS Arihant.

Source: HT

Awards

1. 55th International Film Festival of India
   • What:
     • The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) started at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Panaji, Goa.
     • It featured a session titled “Passion for Perfection: Ramesh Sippy’s Philosophy.”
   • Why:
     • The session aimed to explore the life and artistry of renowned Indian director Ramesh Sippy.
   • Tell me more:
     • The session was moderated by Mohit Soni, CEO of the Media and Entertainment Skills Council.
     • Ramesh Sippy discussed his early experiences in filmmaking, starting with his debut in the film ‘Shahenshah’ at the age of nine.
     • Ramesh Sippy is known for directing classic films that have shaped Indian cinema.
     • He emphasized the importance of continuous learning in filmmaking, sharing insights from his iconic films like ‘Sholay’ and ‘Andaaz.’
     • Sippy highlighted how technological advancements, especially AI, can enhance creativity in filmmaking but should not replace the human touch.
       Source: PIB
2. Marijke Fleuren Honored with FIH Honorary Member Award
   • What:
     • Marijke Fleuren received the prestigious FIH Honorary Member Award during the 49th FIH Statutory Congress held in Muscat, Oman.
     • The award was presented by FIH President Tayyab Ikram, accompanied by a standing ovation from Congress delegates.
   • Tell me more:
     • The FIH Women in Hockey Empowerment Project was also launched at the event, aimed at uplifting female players, coaches, and officials.
     • The project includes a grant from the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation to support initiatives that enhance body confidence among young girls in sports.

Source: FIH

Important Days

1. World Heritage Week 2024 – November 19 to 25
   • India’s Theme: Discover and Experience Diversity
     Source: IE

   
   
2. First-Ever World’s Conjoined Twins Day 2024 – November 24
   • Conjoined twins are two babies born physically connected to each other.
     Source: UN

Sports

1. Formula 1: George Russell Triumphs at Las Vegas Grand Prix 2024
   • Mercedes driver George Russell (British) won the Las Vegas Grand Prix 2024.
     Source: F1

Appointments

1. New Prime Minister of Lithuania
   • Gintautas Paluckas has been appointed as Prime Minister of Lithuania.
     Source: LRS

2. Pankaj Tripathi Becomes Brand Ambassador for MP Tourism
   • Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi has been appointed as the brand ambassador for Madhya Pradesh Tourism.
     Source: TOI

Miscellaneous

1. Cyclone Fengal Makes Landfall in Tamil Nadu
   • Cyclone Fengal made landfall on November 28, 2024, around 2 AM, crossing the Tamil Nadu coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram.
     Source: HT

   
   
2. Amitava Kumar Releases New Book Titled ‘My Beloved Life’
   • Amitava Kumar has released a new book titled “My Beloved Life.”
     Source: TH
3. VoIP Systems Revolutionize Communication for Businesses
   • What:
     • Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is the technology that allows businesses to place phone calls through the internet.
   • Why:
     • This technology allows businesses to cut costs and gain flexibility in their communication methods.
   • Tell me more:
     • VoIP systems enable seamless calls between multiple devices anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for traditional telephone wires.
     • Businesses can integrate VoIP with existing applications, such as CRM systems, to streamline processes.
     • For example, when a client calls, their profile can pop up on the screen, displaying key information and recent interactions.
       Source: TC

4. KP Singh and Aparna Jain Launch Inspirational Book
   • What:
     • The book ‘Why the Heck Not??’ by KP Singh and Aparna Jain was launched on November 14 at the Lodhi Hotel in New Delhi.
     • The book provides a blueprint for success based on KP Singh’s life lessons and experiences as a prominent real estate developer.
   • Tell me more:
     • KP Singh is the Chairman Emeritus of DLF, which has become India’s largest real estate company under his leadership.
     • Singh received the Padma Bhushan award in 2010 for his contributions to the industry.
       Source: TOI

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