Important Current Affairs of October 2024October 2024

1) The National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, India, organized a function and a national
conference on the rights of older persons to celebrate its 31st Foundation Day at Vigyan Bhawan,
New Delhi on 12th October 2024.

 The Commission was set up on 12th October in 1993.

2) The National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) and the United Service Institution of India (USI)
organized the Quad Cyber Challenge as part of the “Cyber Swachhta Abhiyaan” – India’s Cyber
Hygiene Campaign.

 The Quad Cyber Challenge event was announced by the Quad Leaders’ to strengthen
responsible cyber ecosystems, promote public resources, and raise cyber security
awareness. The theme of this year’s Challenge is promoting cyber security education and
building a strong workforce.

3) Competition Commission of India has approved the acquisition of Bharat Serums and Vaccines
Limited by Mankind Pharma Ltd. The proposed transaction involves the acquisition of 100%
shareholding of Bharat Serums and Vaccines Limited (BSV) by Mankind Pharma Ltd. (Mankind)
(Proposed Combination).

4) The International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated annually on October 11, serves as a powerful
reminder of the need to empower and protect girls worldwide.

 The theme of this year’s International Day of the Girl Child is “Girls’ Vision for the Future."

5) Smt. Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar appointed as Chairperson of the National Commission for Women

 Dr. Archana Majumdar appointed as Member NCW

6) Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan
(DAJGUA), on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand

 The scheme has a total outlay of Rs.79,156 crores (Central Share: Rs.56,333 crore and State
Share: Rs. 22,823 crore).
 The Abhiyan will cover around 63,843 villages benefitting more than 5 crore tribal people in
549 districts and 2,911 blocks spread across all tribal majority villages and aspirational blocks
in 30 States/UTs.
 Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan envisions saturation of critical gaps in social
infrastructure, health, education, livelihood, through 25 interventions implemented by 17-
line ministries of Govt of India by convergence and outreach; and ensures holistic and
sustainable development of tribal areas and communities.
 The scheme received Cabinet approval on 18th September 2024.It has been planned based
on the learning and success of PM-JANMAN, which was launched by the Prime Minister on
Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on 15th November, 2023. With a budget outlay of Rs. 24,104
crores, the scheme focuses on the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG)
population.

7) National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) today launched the Third Phase of the
‘Amazon Future Engineer Program’ in 50 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) spread across
Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana and Tripura. The third
phase would include an orientation on blockchain, artificial intelligence, coding, block programming
and AI sessions.

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8) According to the latest Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 (TTDI), international tourist
arrivals (ITAs) have been projected to increase globally after COVID-19.

India has been ranked 39th among 119 countries in the latest TTDI 2024 report published by the
World Economic Forum.

India's score has improved in three areas: ➢ Prioritisation of Travel & Tourism ➢ Safety & Security
➢ Health & Hygiene

9) Results of Comprehensive Annual Modular Survey, July 2022- June 2023

As a part of the 79th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) the Comprehensive Annual Modular
Survey (CAMS) was conducted from July, 2022 to June, 2023. The primary objective of CAMS was to
collect data to generate indicators related to education, out-of-pocket medical expenditure, use of
mobile and internet, financial inclusion, ICT skills, possession of assets, etc. In addition, information
related to drinking water, sanitation, energy use, birth registration, access to transport facilities, etc.,
was also collected.

Key Findings

 Approximately 96.9 percent of persons aged 15-24 years are able to read and write simple
statements with understanding and also able to perform simple arithmetic calculations. In
the same age group, the figure stands around 97.8 percent for males and 95.9 percent for
females.
 The mean years of schooling in formal education, for persons age 15 years and above is 8.4
at the all-India level and the same is 7.5 for persons age 25 years and above.
 The average out-of-pocket medical expenditure per household on hospitalization during
last 365 days in rural and urban areas are Rs 4,129/- and Rs 5,290/-respectively.
Additionally, the average out-of-pocket medical expenditure per household on non-
hospitalization during last 30 days in rural and urban areas are Rs 539/- and Rs 606/-
respectively.
 Approximately 93.7 percent urban population has convenient access to low-capacity public
transport (bus, car, taxi, auto etc) within 500 meters from the place of living.

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 78.4% of youth aged 15-24 years can send messages with attached files, while 71.2% can use
copy-and-paste tools. Additionally, 26.8% can perform more advanced tasks like searching
for information, sending emails, and conducting online banking.
 95.7% of persons aged 15-24 years in rural areas can use mobile phones, with the figure
being 97% in urban areas.
 82.1% of rural youth aged 15-24 years can use the internet, compared to 91.8% in urban
areas.
 Around 94.6% persons aged 18 years and above, having an account individually are jointly in
any bank / other financial institution at all India level.

10) On 14th December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated October 1st as the
International Day of Older Persons.

 The International Day of Older Persons was observed for the first time on October 1, 1991.
 According to United Nations, with the life expectancy at birth now exceeding 75 years in half
of the world's countries, 25 years longer than in 1950, by 2030, older persons are projected
to outnumber youth globally, with this increase most rapid in developing countries.

11) The World Cerebral Palsy Day, on October 6, 2024, will serve as a platform to amplify the voices
of individuals living with cerebral palsy (CP).

 This year's theme, ‘#UniquelyCP’, celebrates the uniqueness of the cerebral palsy
community - their interests, passions, and identities - showing that they are not solely
defined by their disability.

12) Secretary, D/o Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Shri Rajesh Aggarwal,
inaugurated a new 'Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra (PMDK)' of the Artificial Limbs Manufacturing
Corporation of India (ALIMCO), at the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual
Disabilities (NIEPVD), Dehradun.

13) The 21st Divya Kala Mela, a monumental fair dedicated to the economic empowerment of
persons with disabilities (PwDs), is being held at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, from 17th to 27th
October 2024.

14) With a vision of "Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas", the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has
implemented the PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM-YASASVI).

 This comprehensive umbrella scheme is aimed at uplifting students from Other Backward
Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and Denotified Tribes (DNT) by
providing them with access to quality education during their formative years.

15) In a landmark initiative organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), National Skill
Development Corporation (NSDC) has partnered with Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
to inaugurate a cutting-edge Skill centre in Kandivali, Mumbai.

16) World Thrift Day, celebrated on October 31 globally and October 30 in India, serves as a vital
reminder of the essential role saving plays in financial well-being. Established in 1924 in Milan, Italy,
this day emphasizes the importance of thrift and encourages individuals to develop the habit of
saving for future needs. In India, the observance was moved to October 30 in 1984 following the
death of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

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17) Cabinet approves development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), Lothal,
Gujarat.

 The masterplan of the NMHC has been prepared by renowned architecture firm M/s
Architect Hafeez Contractor and the construction of phase 1A has been entrusted to Tata
Projects Ltd.
 To oversee the implementation of the NMHC, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways
(MoPSW) has appointed the Indian Ports Association as the nodal agency, with the Indian
Port Rail Corporation Ltd (IPRCL) serving as the executing agency
 The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is a multifaceted project that will
encompass several key components, including a museum featuring 14 galleries, a Lothal
Town and Open Aquatic Gallery, a Lighthouse Museum, a Bagicha Complex, Coastal State
Pavilions, and the Recreation of Lothal City

18) Shri Sarbananda Sonowal Dedicates Key Maritime Projects at 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival
held at Puri, Odisha

 The Union Minister announced two new lighthouses on Odisha’s coastline - one at
Chaumuck at Narayanpur in Balasore district and another at Dhamra in Bhadrak district of
the state.
 The new Kalwan reef Lighthouse at Jamnagar in Gujarat as well as two projects in Padadip
Port, Odisha; i.e., Stacker-cum-Reclaimant & a Flyover bridge, were inaugurated.
 Odisha, a principal maritime state situated on the eastern coast of India, has a coastline of
about 480 km. Paradip Port (290 MTPA Capacity, Cargo handled in 2023-24 – 145.38 MTPA)
is the only Major Port in the State under the control of the Government of India.
 The Government of Odisha has already identified 14 potential sites for the development of
Non - Major Ports, out of which, Dhamra (Adani – 100 MTPA Capacity) and Gopalpur
(Shapoorji Pallonji & Odisha Stevedore Ltd. – 25 MTPA capacity) are already functioning.

19) Mormugao Port Authority has gained global recognition by being listed as an incentive
provider on the Environment Ship Index (ESI) portal, acknowledged by the International Association
of Ports and Harbours (IAPH). This achievement highlights the port’s commitment to promoting
environmentally friendly practices for seagoing vessels.

 Mormugao Port is India’s first port to introduce Green Ship Incentives through the ESI,
aligning with global efforts to reduce air emissions in shipping. The port's incentive program,
‘Harit Shrey,’ launched in October 2023, offers discounts on port charges based on ESI
scores, rewarding ships with higher environmental performance.

20) Candy Leaf (Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Bertoni) a plant recognized for its natural non-caloric
sweetening characteristics, also has therapeutic properties for diseases like endocrine, metabolic,
immune, and cardiovascular diseases, because of its effect on cellular signalling systems according to
a new study.

 Assam exports Stevia worldwide. The North Eastern Council (Government of India) also
highlighted stevia cultivation's potential to help the northeast Indian economy due to high
demand and use.

21) The Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, an autonomous
institution of Department of Science and Technology (DST) signed a crucial R&D collaboration and
product development agreement with Bharat Biotech International (BBIL), Hyderabad to bring

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innovative health products developed from probiotics isolated from traditional fermented foods of
Northeast India to market.

22) Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates new complex of India's first Biomanufacturing
Institute "BRIC-National Agri-Food Bio-Manufacturing Institute" at Mohali

23) The Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), previously known as the
National Land Record Modernization Programme, was restructured as a Central Sector Scheme in
April 2016, with full funding from the central government. Its main goal is to establish a modern and
transparent land records management system by developing an Integrated Land Information
Management System.

Key Initiatives under DILRMP

a) Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN):

o The ULPIN or "Bhu-Aadhar" provides a 14-digit alphanumeric code for each land
parcel, based on its geo-coordinates. Implemented in 29 States/UTs, it helps
streamline real estate transactions, resolve property disputes, and improve disaster
management efforts.
b) National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS)
c) e-Court Integration
d) Transliteration of Land Records
e) Bhoomi Samman

24) 12th CII Bioenergy Summit 2024, themed “Fuelling the Future - Securing India’s Green Growth
Goals” took place in New Delhi.

25) India will join the International Energy Efficiency Hub (Hub), a global platform dedicated to
fostering collaboration and promoting energy efficiency worldwide.

 Established in 2020 as the successor to the International Partnership for Energy Efficiency
Cooperation (IPEEC), in which India was a member, the Hub brings together governments,
international organizations, and private sector entities to share knowledge, best practices,
and innovative solutions.
 As of July, 2024, sixteen countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark,
European Commission, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Russia, Saudi Arabia,
United States and United Kingdom) have joined the Hub.
 Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), the statutory agency, has been designated as the
implementing agency for the Hub on behalf of India.

26) NTPC Ltd develops Indigenous Catalyst for Methanol production from Flue Gas CO2 in
collaboration with Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun

 NETRA, the R&D wing of NTPC, has developed Indigenous Catalyst for Hydrogenation of CO2
to Methanol in collaboration with Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun.

27) India’s Renewable Energy:

 Hydropower was the largest employer in the renewable sector in India, providing around
453,000 jobs, and accounting for 20% of the global total, second only to China.

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 The solar PV sector in India employed about 318,600 people in both on-grid and off-grid
systems. India added 9.7 GW of solar PV capacity in 2023 and ranked fifth globally for new
installations and cumulative capacity, which reached 72.7 GW by the end of the year.
 India's operational module manufacturing capacity stood at 46 GW in 2023, expected to
grow to 58 GW in 2024. Similarly, cell manufacturing capacity was 26 GW in 2023 and is
projected to reach 32 GW in 2024, making India the second-largest PV manufacturer
globally after China.

28) PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana

 The Government of India has approved the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana on 29th
February, 2024 to increase the share of solar rooftop capacity and empower residential
households to generate their own electricity.
 The scheme has an outlay of Rs 75,021 crore and is to be implemented till FY 2026-27

29) India has reached a significant milestone in its renewable energy journey, with the country's
total renewable energy capacity crossing the 200 GW (gigawatt) mark as of October 10, 2024.

30) The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved to confer the
status of Classical Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali languages.

The criteria:

 High antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500-2000 years.
 A body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a valuable heritage by generations of
speakers.
 The literary tradition be original and not borrowed from another speech community.

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 Important Current Affairs of October 2024October 2024

 The classical language and literature being distinct from modern, there may also be a
discontinuity between the classical language and its later forms or its offshoots.

31) Further Strengthening Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a cleaner and greener India,
Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, inaugurated the Rooftop Solar Power
Plant at the Geological Survey of India Training Institute (GSITI) in Hyderabad

 The 150-kilowatt rooftop solar plant at GSITI will meet 75% of the institute’s energy needs,
saving Rs 30 lakh annually, and set a new standard for renewable energy use in public
institutions.

32) Hon’ble Union minister of Jal Shakti announces 5th National Water Awards

the 1st National Water Awards were launched in 2018 by the DoWR, RD & GR. The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th
National Water Awards were given for the years 2019, 2020 and 2022. The awards were not given in
the year 2021 due to CoVID pandemic.

33) The International Day of Non-Violence, celebrated annually on October 2, marks the birth
anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, a global beacon of peace and non-violence. This day, proclaimed by
the United Nations in 2007, serves as a reminder of the power of non-violence in shaping societies.

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34) The 70th National Film Awards 2022 were conferred on 8 October 2024 by Hon. President
Draupadi Murmu.

 The Award for Best Book on Cinema has been given to "Kishore Kumar: The Ultimate
Biography," written by Anirudha Bhattacharjee and Parthiv Dhar in English. The book was
published by HarperCollins Publishers India Pvt. Ltd. Both authors received the Swarna
Kamal and a cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000 each.
 The Award for Best Film Critic has been conferred upon Deepak Dua for his work in Hindi
language. He received the prestigious Swarna Kamal and a cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000.
 The Award for Best Non-Feature Film has been conferred on Ayena (Mirror) in Hindi/Urdu,
produced by The Films and directed by Siddhant Sarin. The winner received the Swarna
Kamal and a cash prize of Rs. 3,00,000 each.
 The Award for Best Documentary has been given to Murmurs of the Jungle in Marathi,
produced and directed by Sohil Vaidya. The award includes the Rajat Kamal and a cash prize
of Rs. 2,00,000 .
 The Award for Best Feature Film has been conferred upon Aattam (The Play) in Malayalam,
produced by Joy Movie Productions LLP and directed by Anand Ekarshi. The award includes
the Swarna Kamal and a cash prize of Rs. 3,00,000 .
 The Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment has been awarded to
Kantara in Kannada, produced by Hombale Films LLP and directed by Rishab Shetty. The
award includes the Swarna Kamal and a cash prize of Rs. 3,00,000.

Legendary actor Mr. Mithun Chakraborty was honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime
Achievement Award for the year 2022.

35) Celebrating 10 Years of Swachh Bharat Mission

Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata (4S)

36) World Habitat Day 2024 -9th October, 2024

 Theme of World Habitat Day, ‘Engaging Youth to Create a Better Urban Future’, highlighted
that India’s population of youth is significantly high compared to other nations with an
average age below 35.

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37) Every year, on October 31, India observes National Unity Day, also known as Rashtriya Ekta
Diwas. This significant day commemorates the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a
pivotal figure in India's struggle for independence and the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home
Minister of India.

38) The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, approved the PM Electric
Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme on 11th September
2024 to promote electric mobility in the country. The scheme has a financial outlay of ₹10,900
crore over a period of two years.

 Ministry of Heavy Industries Launches PM E-DRIVE Scheme at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
 ‘PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE)’ Scheme,
approved by Cabinet recently with a financial outlay of Rs.10,900 crore, has come into
effect from October 1, 2024, and will remain in force until March 31, 2026. Its primary aim
is to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), establish charging infrastructure, and
build a robust EV manufacturing ecosystem in the country.

39) National Health Account (NHA) Estimates 2020-21 and 2021-22

Key Findings:

 Rising Government Health Expenditure (GHE): Government spending on healthcare has

seen a significant rise over the years. The share of Government Health Expenditure (GHE) in
the GDP increased from 1.13% in 2014-15 to 1.84% in 2021-22. In terms of share in
the General Government Expenditure (GGE), it has increased from 3.94% in 2014-15 to
6.12% in 2021-22.
 Decline in Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE): Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) has
traditionally been a significant burden on Indian households. However, between 2014-15
and 2021-22, the share of OOPE in the Total Health Expenditure (THE) declined from 62.6%
to 39.4%.
 The government’s share in the Total Health Expenditure (THE) increased from 29% in 2014-
15 to 48% in 2021-22.
 India's Total Health Expenditure (THE) was estimated at Rs. 7,39,327 crores, representing
3.73% of the GDP, with per capita spending of Rs. 5,436 in 2020-21.
 India's Total Health Expenditure rose to Rs. 9,04,461 crores, constituting 3.83% of GDP,
with a per capita expenditure of Rs. 6,602 in 2021-22.

40) WHO declares that India has eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem in 2024

 India becomes the third country in the South-East Asia Region to achieve this milestone
 Trachoma is a bacterial infection that affects the eyes. It is caused by the bacterium
Chlamydia Trachomatis. Trachoma is contagious, spreading through contact with the eyes,
eyelids, nose or throat secretions of infected people, if left untreated it causes irreversible
blindness.
 WHO has termed Trachoma as a neglected tropical disease.

41) UNFPA Honors India’s Leadership in Maternal Health and Family Planning

 Commends India’s monumental efforts in reducing the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) by
an impressive 70% between 2000 and 2020

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42) World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, was first initiated in 1992 by the
World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH). This global observance aims to raise awareness about
mental health issues and mobilize efforts in support of mental health care worldwide.

 The theme for 2024, Mental Health at Work, highlights the critical connection between
mental health and the workplace.
 For the first time ever, the Economic Survey 2023-24 tabled by the Union Minister of
Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament on July 22, 2024,
talked about mental health, its significance and implications on policy recommendations.

43) World Iodine Deficiency Day, also known as Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day,
is observed annually on 21st October. The day aims to raise awareness about the essential role of
iodine in maintaining good health and to emphasize the consequences of iodine deficiency.

 Iodine is an essential component of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and

triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism and are crucial for fetal and infant
development. Found in foods and iodized salt, iodine exists in several forms, including
sodium and potassium salts, inorganic iodine (I2), iodate, and iodide. Iodide, the most
common form, is quickly absorbed in the stomach and used by the thyroid for hormone
production. Most excess iodide is excreted through urine.


44) World Food Day, observed annually on October 16, has its roots in the establishment of the
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) by the United Nations in 1945. Officially founded in 1979
during the FAO's 20th General Conference, the day highlights global food security issues.

 The first celebration occurred in 1981 with the theme "Food Comes First," and the United
Nations General Assembly endorsed it in 1984.
 World Food Day 2024 theme is "Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future."

45) Government notifies reconstitution of Monetary Policy Committee under the Reserve Bank of
India Act, 1934

As per the provisions of the RBI Act, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) consists of six members:
three Members from RBI and three are appointed by the Central Government. In exercise of the
powers conferred by section 45ZB of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, the Central Government
has accordingly reconstituted the Monetary Policy Committee of RBI, as below:-

(a) Governor of the Reserve Bank of India — Chairperson, ex officio;

(b) Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, in charge of Monetary Policy —Member,
ex officio;

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(c) One officer of the Reserve Bank of India to be nominated by the Central Board —
Member, ex officio;

(d) Prof. Ram Singh, Director, Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi —Member;

(e) Shri Saugata Bhattacharya, Economist — Member; and

(f) Dr. Nagesh Kumar, Director and Chief Executive, Institute for Studies in Industrial
Development, New Delhi — Member.

46) NABARD has published the findings from its second All India Rural Financial Inclusion Survey
(NAFIS) for 2021-22, which offers primary data based on a survey of 1 lakh rural households,
covering various economic and financial indicators in the post-COVID period.

 The average monthly income of households saw a substantial rise of 57.6% over a five-year
period, increasing from Rs. 8,059 in 2016-17 to Rs. 12,698 in 2021-22.
 For agricultural households, cultivation was the main income source, making up about
one-third of their monthly earnings, followed by government or private services
contributing one-fourth share, wage labor (16%), and other enterprises (15%).
 Among the non-agricultural ones, it was the Government/ private service which contributed
57% of the total household income, followed by wage labour which made up for roughly
26% of the total income.

47) Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian
inaugurated the newly established Animal Quarantine & Certification Service (AQCS) at Cochin
International Airport (CIAL) in Kochi, Kerala

48) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notifies Ecomark Rules under Lifestyle for
Environment initiative

 Ecomark Scheme to Promote Sustainable Consumption and Eco-Friendly Production with

Strict Environmental Standards
 The scheme will be implemented by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in
partnership with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

49) Darjeeling’s Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo's Red Panda Program Selected as Finalist for 2024
WAZA Conservation Award

 Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo Strengthens Conservation with Biobanking Facility to

Preserve Red Panda Genetic Resources for Future
 PNHZP, in collaboration with the Wildlife Wing of the Government of West Bengal, has
undertaken several habitat restoration initiatives in Singalila National Park and Darjeeling
division.

50) The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) today celebrated the grand inauguration of its
new office at the World Trade Centre, Nauroji Nagar, New Delhi.

 Set up on 19th June 2003, the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) is a not-for-profit
(Section 8) company under the aegis of the Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology, Government of India.
 The four services under NIXI include: Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) for building Internet
Exchange Points, .IN Registry for building the .in domain digital identity, IRINN for IPv4 and
IPv6 addresses adoption, and Data Centre services under NIXI-CSC for data storage services.
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51) Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin becomes first woman to take over as DG, Armed Forces
Medical Services

52) The Indian Army, in collaboration with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), is set to
conduct the Second Edition of its flagship event, Chanakya Defence Dialogue-2024 on the theme
"Drivers in Nation Building: Fuelling Growth through Comprehensive Security". The much-awaited
event, will be conducted on 24th and 25th October 2024 at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.

53) The Opening Ceremony of MALABAR 2024 under the aegis of Eastern Naval Command was
held onboard Indian Naval Ship Satpura at Visakhapatnam on 09 Oct 24. The 28th edition of the
multi-national maritime exercise that commenced on 08 Oct 24, would extend till 18 Oct 24.
MALABAR, which was initiated in 1992 as a bilateral exercise between India and the US, gained
further traction as a significant maritime engagement, with Japan and Australia joining in
subsequently.

54) The 31st edition of the Singapore India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) is scheduled from
23 to 29 Oct 2024, in the Eastern Naval Command at Visakhapatnam. Republic of Singapore Navy
Ship RSS Tenacious with embarked helicopter, arrived at Visakhapatnam on 23 October 24 for
participating in SIMBEX2024.

 SIMBEX, which began as 'Exercise Lion King' in 1994, has since evolved into one of the most
significant bilateral maritime collaborations between the Indian Navy and the Republic of
Singapore Navy (RSN). The exercise will be conducted in two phases - the Harbour Phase
from 23 to 25 October at Visakhapatnam and the Sea Phase from 28 to 29 October in the
Bay of Bengal.

55) Prime Minister & his Spanish counterpart jointly inaugurate TATA Aircraft Complex for
manufacturing of C-295 aircraft in Vadodara

56) Indian Institute of Foreign Trade to open its first overseas campus in Dubai

57) The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory has been inaugurated by
Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary DAE & Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, at Hanle,
Ladakh, on 4th October 2024.

 MACE is the largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia. Located at an altitude of ~4,300 m,
it is also the highest of its kind in the world. The telescope is indigenously built by BARC with
support from ECIL and other Indian industry partners.

58) The 21st ASEAN-India Summit was held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on 10 October 2024. Marking a
decade of India’s Act East Policy, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi joined ASEAN leaders to review
the progress of ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and chart the future direction of
cooperation. This was Prime Minister’s 11th participation in the Summit.

59) Union Cabinet approves establishment of Rs.1,000 crore Venture Capital Fund for Space Sector
under aegis of IN-SPACe

60) Cabinet approves the PM Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) to promote sustainable
agriculture and Krishonnati Yojana (KY) to achieve food security for self sufficiency

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