Daily Current Affairs 29 November 2023, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

Read the most important current affairs of 29 November 2023. Today Current Affairs covers the headlines on India’s Largest Circular Railway, Hot Cooked Meal Scheme, Golden Peacock Award.

Top 27 Current Affairs and News Headlines of 29 November 2023

National News

1.All 41 Workers Evacuated In Uttarakhand Tunnel After 17 days

• On November 23, 2023, after 17 harrowing days trapped underground, all 41 workers were successfully rescued from the collapsed Silkyara-Barkot tunnel in Uttarakhand, India.
• The rescue operation, which involved a combined effort of the Indian Army, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local authorities, became a symbol of human resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
• The 4.5 km-tunnel is part of the Centre’s ambitious Char Dham project aimed at providing all-weather connectivity between four prominent Hindu shrines in Uttarakhand – Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.

2.Govt To Launch First-Ever Auction Of Critical Mineral Blocks Today

• The Ministry of Mines has announced the initiation of the first tranche auction of critical and strategic minerals scheduled for today. The highly anticipated event will be inaugurated by Union Minister of Coal, Mines, Pralhad Joshi.
• This initiative will play a pivotal role in boosting the country’s economy, enhancing national security, and supporting the transition to a clean energy future. The auction involves twenty blocks of critical and strategic minerals strategically located across the nation.
• India has committed to achieving 50% of cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030. This ambitious plan for energy transition is expected to drive demand for electric cars, wind and solar energy projects, and battery storage systems, consequently increasing the demand for critical minerals.

3.Bengaluru To Get India’s Largest Circular Railway, Spanning 287 kilometers

• Bengaluru, the bustling IT hub of India, is poised to witness a groundbreaking development in its transportation infrastructure with the announcement of a 287-km circular railway.
• The circular railway seeks to link key towns around Bengaluru, forming India’s most extensive network. If implemented, the circular railway, exceeding Chennai’s 235.5-km network, could emerge as India’s largest suburban railway.
• While the minister did not specify a timeline, reliable sources within the South Western Railway (SWR) suggest that the circular railway might become a reality within the next five years if everything proceeds smoothly.

International News

4.4th Edition of ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum (AIGIF) Launched

• The 4^th edition of the annual ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum (AIGIF) took place in Langkawi, Malaysia, on November 28, 2023, showcasing the collaborative efforts of India and the 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS) in the fields of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI).
• The AIGIF is an annual program designed to foster cooperation in STI between India and AMS. It not only provides a platform for showcasing social innovations but also contributes to strengthening governance in grassroots innovation ecosystems.
• The AIGIF 2023 saw the participation of 17 student innovators and grassroots innovators from India, along with representatives from 11 countries, totaling approximately 200 participants.

5.Indonesia’s Anak Krakatau Volcano Erupts

• Indonesia’s Anak Krakatau volcano, situated in the Sundra Strait, unleashed a powerful eruption on Tuesday morning, casting a volcanic ash cloud approximately 1 km high into the sky.
• The event, monitored by the volcano’s Observation Post, marks a continuation of heightened volcanic activity since April last year, underscoring the growing concern over the volcano’s potential danger.
• At 06:29 am local time, Anak Krakatau erupted for 130 seconds, releasing a column of ash that reached a significant height. Observation Post Officer Anggi Nuryo Saputro reported that the ash was observed to be gray to black in color and intensity was notably thick towards the north. The eruption was accompanied by prevailing winds carrying the ash in a northerly direction.

State News

6.Uttar Pradesh Greenlights India’s First Telecom Center of Excellence in Saharanpur

• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has given approval for the establishment of the country’s inaugural Telecom Center of Excellence in Saharanpur.
• The foundation stone for this groundbreaking initiative is set to be laid on December 5, 2023, marking a significant leap in telecom and technology innovation.
• The primary objective is to develop and promote cutting-edge technology in the telecom sector. Functioning as a hub for research and development, the center aims to assist experts from diverse fields and provide solutions through advanced technology.
• This state-of-the-art center will be constructed at a cost of Rs 30 crore, fostering innovation and growth in the telecommunications sector. The choice of the IIT Roorkee campus in Saharanpur is strategic, promising opportunities for employment for the youth of the state.

Defence News

7.Amritsar to Host Military Literature Festival Next Year

• The Military Literature Festival, an event aimed at spreading awareness about the crucial role of the armed forces and inspiring the youth, is set to return for its second district-level edition in Amritsar.
• The festival is scheduled for early 2024, taking into account the examination schedule of students and other logistical factors. The upcoming edition, set to be inaugurated in Chandigarh on December 2 by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, boasts an impressive lineup of speakers
• A distinctive feature of this edition is the emphasis on Punjab and Punjabiyat, exploring the military history of the region. Discussions will delve into the strategic vision of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, examining his significant contributions through conquest, which added territories like Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Ballistan and Ladakh to the Indian nation.

8.Garuda Aerospace Secures DGCA’s Second Type Certificate

• Chennai-based drone manufacturer, Garuda Aerospace, has achieved a significant milestone by securing the second type certificate for medium category drones from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
• The certification process involves a rigorous evaluation of the drone’s design, performance, and safety features. Garuda Aerospace’s success in obtaining a second Type Certificate reinforces its adherence to the regulatory framework established by the DGCA.
• With this second Type Certificate in hand, Garuda Aerospace is well-positioned to expand its market presence and contribute to the continued evolution of drone technology. The certification not only opens up new opportunities for the company but also instills confidence in its stakeholders, including customers, investors, and regulatory bodies.

9.India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise Culminates at Southern Command in Pune

• The Mitrashakti 2023 joint military exercise, a collaborative effort between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army, concluded at Pune’s southern command foreign training node. The 12-day exercise aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s operational strategies and tactics.
• During the joint exercise, participants engaged in a mutual exchange of operational drills, tactics, and best practices. The exercise facilitated a dynamic learning environment, promoting a deeper understanding of each other’s military capabilities.
• The knowledge exchange during Mitrashakti 2023 is expected to contribute to enhanced cooperation during potential future deployments in challenging international scenarios.

10.Rajnath Singh Unveils Crest Of India Guided Missile Destroyer ‘INS Imphal’

• The crest of Yard 12706 (Imphal), Indian Navy’s third stealth guided missile destroyer, was unveiled by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in a momentous ceremony held in New Delhi on Tuesday.
• Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, INS Imphal stands as a testament to indigenous shipbuilding prowess.
• The crest design of INS Imphal features the iconic Kangla Palace on the left and ‘Kangla-Sa’ on the right. The Kangla Palace, an archaeological treasure, served as the traditional seat of Manipur’s past kingdom. ‘Kangla-Sa,’ with its dragon’s head and lion’s body, is a mythical creature symbolizing the guardian and protector of the Manipuri people. The inclusion of these elements pays homage to Manipur’s rich military history and identity.

Economy News

11.18 Largest States to Spend 18-20% More on Capex: Crisil

• India’s 18 largest states are poised to witness a significant surge in capital expenditure for the fiscal year 2023-24, as per a recent report by Crisil.
• The report projects an 18-20% increase in spending compared to the previous year, attributing this growth to factors such as robust goods and services tax collections, stable central government devolution, and the allocation of interest-free loans totaling `1.3 lakh crore to states.
• States have budgeted for a remarkable ~43% increase in their capital outlays compared to fiscal 2023 levels. The report suggests that if actual spending aligns with past averages of 82-85% of the budgeted outlay, it could translate to the projected growth.

12.PLI and FTAs to Give Fillip to Manmade Fibre Textile Exports

• Buoyed by the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and favorable free trade agreements with the UAE and Australia, India’s manmade fibre (MMF) textile industry is poised for substantial growth.
• Forecasts indicate a staggering 75% increase in exports, reaching $11.4 billion by 2030, up from around $6.5 billion in 2021-22.
• The MMF sector dominates global textile fibre consumption, commanding a significant 72% share, while natural fibres account for the remaining 28%. India currently holds the position of the second-largest producer of MMF textiles globally, following China.
• This shift towards MMF is attributed to the inherent limitations in the growth of cotton and other natural fibres. Products such as curtains, drapes, interior blinds, curtain or bed valances made from synthetic fibres, along with tents and tarpaulins, are identified as key drivers for the industry’s growth.

13.China slows, India grows: S&P Global Ratings Forecasts India’s Robust Growth, Predicts Shift in Asia-Pacific Dynamics

• In a recent report titled ‘China Slows India Grows,’ S&P Global Ratings anticipates a significant shift in the economic landscape of the Asia-Pacific region. The report projects India’s GDP growth to outpace China’s, highlighting a forecasted 7% growth for India by 2026, in contrast to China’s estimated 4.6%.
• S&P predicts India’s GDP to expand at 6.4% in the current fiscal year and the next, with a notable surge to 6.9% in 2025 and a robust 7% in 2026. This optimistic outlook positions India as a key driver of growth in the region.
• S&P envisions a transition in the Asia-Pacific’s growth engine, shifting from China to South and Southeast Asia. Vietnam is expected to achieve a growth rate of 6.8%, the Philippines at 6.4%, and Indonesia maintaining a steady 5%.

Banking News

14.RBI Added 19 More To Its Unauthorized Forex Trading Platforms

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has taken a significant step in safeguarding the interests of investors by updating its ‘Alert List’ of unauthorised forex trading platforms.
• The latest update includes 19 additional entities, bringing the total number to 75. This move aims to curb illegal forex trading activities and protect consumers from potential financial risks.
• The Alert List, maintained by the RBI, serves as a comprehensive record of entities that are neither authorized to engage in forex transactions under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA), nor permitted to operate electronic trading platforms (ETP) for forex transactions under the Electronic Trading Platforms (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2018.

Business News

15.TEC Plans to Expand in India & Middle East

• Hong Kong-based flexible workspace provider, The Executive Centre (TEC), is strategically focusing on its fastest-growing markets, India and the Middle East, with plans to add approximately 500,000 sq ft.
• TEC has already invested nearly 200 crore in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, underlining its commitment to the Middle East. An additional 50 crore is earmarked for a new centre in the region, showcasing the company’s confidence in the market’s potential.
• TEC aims to reach close to 1.7 to 1.8 million sq ft in India and approximately 1.5 million sq ft in the UAE. In 2024, the company plans to add 300,000–400,000 sq ft in India and at least 100,000 sq ft in the Middle East, underscoring its commitment to further growth in these dynamic markets.

16.India Inc Looking to Recruit Talent with ‘Green’ Skills

• According to a survey conducted by IBM and Morning Consult, a staggering 82% of Indian business leaders express a strong intent to hire professionals with expertise in green and sustainability technologies.
• In a survey encompassing over 250 business leaders, the report reveals that 4 out of 5 Indian companies are actively seeking individuals with a background in sustainability.
• The demand for skills in sustainability technology is underscored, indicating a shift towards eco-friendly practices in corporate India.

17.Virgin Atlantic Flies World’s 1st 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel Flight From London To US

• A Virgin Atlantic passenger jet, fueled entirely by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), completed a London-to-New York journey, showcasing the aviation industry’s commitment to low-carbon options.
• Despite challenges, the flight signifies a crucial step towards reducing emissions in an industry responsible for 2-3% of global carbon emissions.
• Virgin Atlantic’s Boeing 787, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines, completed the long-haul flight using 100% SAF. Notably, it is the first commercial airliner to achieve such a feat, underlining the industry’s push for cleaner alternatives.

18.Bharat Biotech, University of Sydney Sign MoU for Vaccine Research

• Bharat Biotech International, a leading vaccine manufacturer and the University of Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (SydneyID) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
• This collaboration aims to foster academic-industry partnerships, design novel methodologies for tackling future epidemics and leverage the strengths of both entities to advance the science of vaccines and biotherapeutics.
• By pooling their resources and expertise, the two entities seek to develop innovative approaches to address infectious diseases and epidemics. The collaboration also aims to create a framework for sustained cooperation in the field of vaccine research.

19.Tata Auto Comp Sells Pune Land Parcel for ₹134 cr

• Tata AutoComp Systems, a prominent player in the automotive industry, has successfully sold a substantial land parcel spanning over 13.26 acres in Pune’s Maan area. The transaction, valued at ₹134 crore, involved the sale of both land and a 1,00,000 sq ft structure on the premises.
• The real estate developer, Titania Industrial Development, completed the acquisition, making an initial payment of ₹24 crore in two tranches on October 4 and October 6, amounting to ₹15 crore and ₹9 crore, respectively. The remaining ₹109 crore was settled at the time of registration on October 27.
• The sold property currently falls under the industrial zone, and Tata AutoComp Systems has applied to Pune Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (PMRDA) for a change in zoning to residential.

Important Days News

20.International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People 2023

• Since 1978, November 29th has held a significant place on the global calendar as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. Originating from a call by the United Nations General Assembly, this day symbolizes a collective commitment to champion the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people.
• Turkey’s unwavering commitment to the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is evident in its diplomatic efforts, financial support, and humanitarian aid. By advocating for a just resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict and actively addressing the pressing needs in Gaza, Turkey remains a key player in the pursuit of a peaceful and sovereign Palestine.

Schemes News

21.Odisha CM Launches ‘AMA Bank’ for Gram Panchayat Banking

• Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched the “AMA Bank” scheme, a historic initiative aimed at providing banking services through CSP Plus banking outlets in all unbanked Gram Panchayats (GPs) of Odisha.
• This visionary project, unveiled in the first phase, marks Odisha as the pioneer state in India to conceptualize and implement such a comprehensive scheme for financial inclusion.
• This model aims to bridge the gap in financial services accessibility, particularly in rural areas where the geographical penetration of traditional banks has been a longstanding challenge.
• Doorstep banking services for senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and pregnant women will be a hallmark of this inclusive scheme, ensuring hassle-free access to Direct Benefit Transfers.

22.UP CM Launches Hot Cooked Meal Scheme in Anganwadi Centers

• Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has unveiled the ‘Hot Cooked Meal Scheme’ in Uttar Pradesh, a landmark initiative aimed to providing nutritious meals to children aged 3 to 6 years at Anganwadis.
• The scheme, modeled after the successful Midday Meals program, is designed to offer 70 grams of food grains per beneficiary per day in the form of hot-cooked meals.
• Additionally, Adityanath laid the foundation stone for 3,401 Anganwadi centers in 35 districts, with an estimated investment of Rs.403 crore. This significant step aims to strengthen the foundation of early childhood education and nutrition in the state.

Awards News

23.Vijayawada Railway Station Bags IGBC’s ‘Platinum’ Rating

• The Vijayawada Railway Station has been awarded the prestigious platinum rating by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for its commitment to environmental sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
• This is the highest recognition that can be bestowed by the IGBC, a leading certification body in India that promotes environmentally responsible construction.
• The platinum rating is a testament to the station’s dedication to environmental stewardship and its efforts to create a greener and more sustainable transportation hub. This recognition is also a source of pride for the South Central Railway (SCR) zone, as Vijayawada station is only the second station within the zone to achieve this prestigious rating.

24.IFFI 2023: ‘Endless Borders’ Wins Golden Peacock

• The 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa ended on November 28 with an award ceremony. The nine-day festival concluded at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Panaji, Goa.
• For the prestigious Golden Peacock, a total of 15 films comprising 12 international and 3 Indian films competed. ‘Endless Borders’ took home the award. Iranian actor Pouria Rahimi Sam bagged the Best Actor award for his role in ‘Endless Borders’.
• ‘Kantara’ scripted history as it became the first Kannada film to win an award at IFFI. Kannada actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty was honoured with the Special Jury Award for his pan-Indian blockbuster film.
• Legendary Hollywood actor and producer Michael Douglas was conferred with the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award while ‘Panchayat Season 2’ got the Best Web Series Award.

Books & Authors News

25.India’s Moment: Changing Power Equations Around the World Launched in London

• The High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, Vikram K. Doraiswami launched the book titled India’s Moment: Changing Power Equations around the World, by Professor (Dr.) Mohan Kumar, Dean, Strategic & International Initiatives, O.P. Jindal Global University last week.
• At one level, India is not very different from other countries insomuch as it seeks to protect where necessary, and advance where possible, its national interest.
• There are several unique aspects about India and the way it approaches international negotiations. This book dwells on some of those fundamental factors and traces how India’s positions in international negotiations have evolved over time.

Sports News

26.Rahul Dravid to Continue as India’s Head Coach

• Rahul Dravid has accepted the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) offer to extend his term as India’s head coach, ensuring his continued leadership of the national team until at least the 2024 T20 World Cup in June.
• Dravid’s initial two-year tenure concluded at the end of the 2023 ODI World Cup, but his impressive achievements and the team’s growth under his guidance prompted the BCCI to seek his extension.  His first assignment after the contract renewal will be the tour of South Africa.
• Dravid’s extended tenure will commence with India’s upcoming tour of South Africa, which begins with a series of three T20Is and three ODIs starting on December 10. This will be followed by two Test matches, to be held in Centurion from December 26 and Cape Town from January 3.

Science & Technology News

27.Space-Tech Startup Agnikul to Flight Test 3D-printed Engine By Year-End

• Chennai-based startup Agnikul is gearing up to launch its groundbreaking rocket, Agnibaan, featuring the world’s first 3D-printed engine.
• Agnibaan boasts the pioneering Agnilet engine, a single-piece 3D-printed marvel, designed and manufactured entirely in India. This engine, successfully test-fired in early 2021, marks a significant milestone in 3D printing technology for the country.
• Unlike traditional sounding rockets, Agnibaan is a highly customizable, single-stage launch vehicle capable of carrying up to 300 kg payloads to orbits around 700 km high (low Earth orbits).

29 NOVEMBER 2023 CURRENT AFFAIRS | ALL EXAMS IMP. CURRENT AFFAIRS | ASHISH GAUTAM SIR

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