Daily Current Affairs 24 February 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

Read the most important current affairs of 24 February 2024. Today Current Affairs covers the headlines on 6G Research and Development, India’s Largest Drone Pilot Training Organisation, World Peace and Understanding Day 2024.

Top 19 Current Affairs and News Headlines of 24 February 2024

National News

1.Govt Speeds Up Electricity And Rooftop Installation

• The Indian government has recently approved crucial amendments to the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, aimed at streamlining processes, ensuring faster new electricity connections, promoting transparency, and facilitating the installation of rooftop solar systems.
• These amendments mark a significant step towards consumer empowerment and the nation’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions. The revised norms reduce the time frame for obtaining new electricity connections, bringing it down to three days in metropolitan areas, seven days in municipal areas, and 15 days in rural areas.

2.Govt Unveils 4 Transformative Portals For Modernizing Media

• Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur launched four portals aimed at fostering a more conducive business environment, enhancing transparency in government communication, and providing easy access to authentic government videos.
• The four portals launched are:  Press Sewa Portal, Transparent Empanelment Media Planning and eBilling System, NaViGate Bharat Portal and National Register for LCOs.

3.12,000-13,000 kilometers of highway construction targeted for FY24: Road Secy

• Anurag Jain, Secretary of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), provided insights into the highway construction progress for the financial year 2023-24 (FY24)
• Despite challenges such as extended monsoons and a stricter review process, significant strides have been made in capacity augmentation and widening existing highways.
• An estimated 12,000-13,000 kilometers of highway construction is targeted for FY24. Expectation of substantial construction activity in the last quarter, aiming for 4,500-5,000 km between February and March 2024.

4.India’s First Gati Shakti Research Chair Established at IIM Shillong

• The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) has collaborated with the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Shillong to establish the first ‘Gati Shakti Research Chair’ in India.
• This initiative aims to enhance academic research in multimodal logistics, particularly focusing on the North-East region.
• It will provide students with avenues to excel in logistics-related fields through skill development and career opportunities.

5.NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd. (NTPC-REL) Inaugurates First Solar Project in Rajasthan

• NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd. inaugurates its inaugural solar project in Chhattargarh, Rajasthan, with a capacity of 70 MW, marking a significant milestone in India’s renewable energy sector.
• This project contributes to NTPC Group’s total installed capacity, which now stands at 73,958 MW, further solidifying its position as a key player in the country’s energy landscape.

International News

6.Philippines becomes first Asian Country to Ratify ILO Convention to End Workplace Violence and Harassment

• The Philippines has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Asian country to ratify the Violence and Harassment Convention 2019 (No. 190) as announced by the International Labor Organization (ILO).
• The convention addresses workplace violence and harassment comprehensively, marking a crucial step towards ensuring safe and respectful work environments globally.
• By ratifying Convention No. 190, the Philippines joins 37 other nations in the world that have taken a stance against workplace violence and harassment.

7.Mobile World Congress 2024 Begins On February 26

• Every year, the Mobile World Congress (MWC) brings people from the mobile industry together and gives them a chance to connect as well as collaborate.
• The Mobile World Congress 2024 will be hosted by GSMA, the global association representing the interests of mobile network operators worldwide.
• The event will take place in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, known for its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit.

State News

8.SJVN Inaugurates 50 MW Gujrai Solar Power Plant In Uttar Pradesh

• On February 23, 2024, SJVN announced the commencement of successful commercial operations of its 50 MW Gujrai Solar Power Station in Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh.
• Executed by SJVN through its renewable arm, SJVN Green Energy Limited (SGEL), the Gujrai Solar Power Station was completed at a cost of Rs. 281 crores. The project is expected to generate an annual revenue of approximately Rs. 32 crores.

Economy News

9.Bank of Baroda Projects India’s GDP Growth at 6.75-6.8% in FY25

• The Bank of Baroda has forecasted India’s gross domestic product growth for fiscal years 2024-25, approximately 6.75-6.8%, with a growth rate of 6.8% estimated for the FY24, alongside insights into sectoral performance and economic indicators.
• The World Bank expects growth rates of 6.3% and 6.4% for FY24 and FY25, respectively, driven by robust domestic demand and infrastructure spending. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set a growth target of 7% for FY24.

Important Days News

10.Central Excise Day 2024

• Every year on February 24th, India observes Central Excise Day, a tribute to the enactment of the Central Excise and Salt Act in 1944.
• This significant day marks the foundation of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), a pivotal institution in the administration of indirect taxes in India.
• Central Excise Day 2024 not only commemorates the historic legislation but also celebrates the relentless efforts of the CBIC officers in maintaining the quality and safety of goods within the country.

11.World Peace and Understanding Day 2024

• World Peace and Understanding Day, observed globally on February 23, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of harmony, compassion, and cooperation among diverse cultures, religions, and regions.
• Also known as Special Day, this occasion traces its roots to the foundational meeting of Rotary International, a beacon of humanitarian service, peace, and goodwill.
• As we approach World Peace and Understanding Day 2024, which falls on a Friday, it’s a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to foster a more inclusive and peaceful world.

Agreements News

12.Nokia and IISc Partner for 6G Research and Development in Bengaluru

• In a groundbreaking partnership, Nokia and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have united to pioneer 6G technology research and its real-world applications, with a particular focus on India.
• This collaboration, headquartered at Nokia’s newly inaugurated 6G Lab in Bengaluru, will delve into various facets of 6G technology, from radio technologies to architecture, while integrating machine learning into the 6G air interface.

Appointments News

13.Government Appoints A S Rajeev, former MD and CEO of Bank of Maharashtra, as Vigilance Commissioner

• The government has appointed A S Rajeev, former Managing Director and CEO of Bank of Maharashtra, as the Vigilance Commissioner of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC).
• The appointment was made through a notification (no. 13/8/2016-BO.I) dated February 22, 2024. As per the Central Vigilance Commission Act, the Commission is comprised of three members: the Central Vigilance Commissioner and two Vigilance Commissioners.

Sports News

14.South Africa’s Tristan Stubbs Hits First-Class Triple Century

• Tristan Stubbs has etched his name in the annals of South African cricket history, becoming the 11th batter to achieve a first-class triple-century in the nation, and notably the eighth since readmission.
• Stubbs’ outstanding performance places him at the forefront of Division 11’s leading run-scorers in the domestic four-day competition.
• With two centuries from five matches, he has showcased consistency and prowess with the bat, solidifying his position as a formidable force in the cricketing arena.

15.Jacintha Kalyan Makes History as India’s First Female Pitch Curator

• In a groundbreaking move for Indian cricket, Jacintha Kalyan has etched her name in the annals of sports history as the country’s first female pitch curator.
• Jacintha Kalyan’s journey to becoming India’s first female curator is nothing short of inspiring. Previously serving in the administrative sector, Kalyan made a bold transition to curatorship driven by her unwavering passion for the game.
• With the highly anticipated 2nd edition of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) just around the corner, the excitement among fans, players, and tournament organizers is palpable.

Science & Technology News

16.IIT Guwahati Launches India’s Largest Drone Pilot Training Organisation

• The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, in collaboration with EduRade, has inaugurated India’s largest Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO).
• Spanning across 18 acres, this initiative boasts the capability to simultaneously fly 9 medium-class drones, positioning itself as a frontrunner in drone technology training.
• With a focus on equipping individuals with essential expertise, the RPTO will kickstart with a DGCA-Certified Medium Class Drone Pilot Training Course.

Obituaries News

17.Karnataka Cricketer K Hoysala, 34, Passes Away From Cardiac Arrest

• The Aegis South Zone tournament, a platform for cricket battles, turned into a scene of sorrow as Karnataka cricketer Hoysala K, aged 34, passed away due to a cardiac arrest.
• Hoysala K, known for his skills as a fast bowler, had previously showcased his skills while playing for teams like Bellary Tuskers and Shivamogga Lion in the Karnataka Premier League. His untimely departure has left a void in the hearts of the cricketing fraternity.

Miscellaneous News

18.Norovirus: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention & Treatment

• Norovirus, a highly contagious virus belonging to the Caliciviridae family, presents a significant public health concern worldwide.
• Characterized by its rapid transmission through various mediums, including close personal contact, contaminated surfaces, and consumption of infected food or water, this pathogen poses challenges for both healthcare systems and individuals alike.

19.Giant Anaconda Discovered in Amazon Rainforest

• In a groundbreaking expedition led by National Geographic, the scientific community and the world at large have been introduced to a previously unknown giant lurking in the depths of the Amazon rainforest.
• The newly discovered Northern Green Anaconda, scientifically named Eunectes akayima, challenges our perceptions of the natural world.
• It measures an astonishing 26 feet in length and weighs 200 kg. Its head, comparable in size to that of a human, and a body as wide as a car tyre underscore the snake’s immense size and strength.

24 FEBRUARY CURRENT AFFAIRS 2024 | ALL EXAMS IMP. CURRENT AFFAIRS | ASHISH GAUTAM SIR

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