Daily Current Affairs 2 February 2024, Important News Headlines (Daily GK Update)

Read the most important current affairs of 2 February 2024. Today Current Affairs covers the headlines on Bharat Mobility Global Expo, ‘Kalaignar Sports Kit’ Initiative, World Wetlands Day 2024.

Top 20 Current Affairs and News Headlines of 2 February 2024

National News

1.Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) Portal Surpasses 1.45 Crore Youth Registrations in Three Months

• The Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) portal has garnered over 1.45 crore youth registrations within a remarkable three-month period, attesting to its widespread popularity.
• Launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on October 31, 2023, the platform has swiftly become a crucial driver of youth development and engagement.
• The portal’s success can be attributed to its highly accessible and user-friendly interface, enabling seamless registrations within minutes.
• MY Bharat innovatively blends physical activities with digital connectivity, reflecting the modern, dynamic nature of the platform. This unique ‘Phygital’ approach distinguishes it as a pioneering initiative.

2.FM Sitharaman Declares Free Cervical Cancer Vaccine For Girls Aged 9-14

• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her interim budget speech for 2024-25, indicated that the government would actively “promote” vaccination to combat cervical cancer.
• Sitharaman stated, “Our government will encourage vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14 years as a preventive measure against cervical cancer” during her budget speech.
• Despite this commitment, the finance minister did not provide specific details regarding the government’s plan, leaving uncertainties about its inclusion in the national immunization program.
• In India, cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among women, posing a significant health challenge.

3.PM Narendra Modi to Inaugurate Bharat Mobility Global Expo, Showcasing India’s Rise in Global Mobility

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to inaugurate the Bharat Mobility Global Expo, a groundbreaking event in India’s automotive landscape.
• Taking place from February 1-3 in the national capital, this expo aims to highlight India’s emergence as a global hub for mobility. With over 800 exhibitors and 50 overseas participants, the event covers the entire mobility value chain.
• The expo will feature not only an auto show but also a large-scale tyre exhibition, the latest electric vehicles, and cutting-edge technologies.
• The event aims to facilitate strategic networking through buyer-seller meets, providing a platform for businesses to establish valuable connections and partnerships.

State News

4.Surat Airport Attains International Airport Status

• Surat Airport, situated in Gujarat, has officially received recognition as an International Airport from the Indian government, a significant development overseen by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Union Cabinet.
• This strategic decision underscores Surat’s increasing economic potential and aims to enhance global connectivity, aligning with the city’s status as a thriving hub for the diamond and textile industries.
• By elevating Surat Airport to international status, the government aims to boost economic growth, attract foreign investment, and strengthen diplomatic ties with other nations.
• The designation as an International Airport is expected to significantly increase both passenger traffic and cargo operations, driving regional development and globalization efforts.

5.Tamil Nadu Launches ‘Kalaignar Sports Kit’ Initiative

• Tamil Nadu Youth Welfare and Sports Development Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin recently announced a pioneering scheme aimed at nurturing sports talent at the grassroots level.
• Named after the late Kalaignar Karunanidhi, the ‘Kalaignar Sports Kit’ initiative is set to provide sporting kits to 12,000 village panchayats across the state.
• The inaugural distribution of the sports kits under the Kalaignar Sports Kit scheme is scheduled to take place on February 7 in Trichy. This event marks the beginning of a concerted effort to equip village-level athletes with the necessary resources to pursue their sporting aspirations.

6.Karnataka’s Digital Detox Initiative for a Responsible Gaming Environment

• Recognizing the need to mitigate the adverse effects of excessive online gaming, the Government of Karnataka has announced a groundbreaking digital detox initiative to create a responsible gaming environment.
• The core objective of Karnataka’s digital detox initiative is to promote moderation and responsible behaviour within the digital and gaming spheres.
• By advocating for scheduled breaks and encouraging offline activities, the government aims to: Reduce the risk of digital addiction, Enhance physical health and mental wellbeing and Foster meaningful social interactions and real-world connections.

Defence News

7.Indian Navy Declares 2024 As ‘Year of Naval Civilians’

• In a strategic move to bolster efficiency and bolster the well-being of its civilian workforce, the Indian Navy has declared 2024 as the ‘Year of Naval Civilians.’
• This initiative targets comprehensive Civilian HR Management, with a focus on enhancing administrative efficiency, embracing digital transformation, implementing targeted training programs, and fostering employee welfare activities
• The declaration of 2024 as the ‘Year of Naval Civilians’ underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to recognizing and empowering its civilian workforce.
• Through targeted interventions and strategic initiatives, the Navy seeks to create an environment where every member, military and civilian alike, can thrive and contribute to the nation’s maritime security objectives.

 Economy News

8.Budget 2024: Bhutan Leads As Top Indian Aid Recipient

• The Interim Budget 2024, unveiled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, sheds light on India’s foreign aid allocation, with Bhutan emerging as a significant recipient.
• In the Financial Year 2024-25, India allocated a substantial portion of its budget to foreign aid, with a notable emphasis on Bhutan.
• The Indian government provided ₹6,541.79 crore to foreign governments with ₹4,927.43 crore as a grant and ₹1,614.36 crore as a loan, as per the revised estimates for 2023-24. It crossed the budget estimates of ₹5,848.58 crore for 2023-24.

9.Three New Economic Railway Corridors Announced in Budget 2024

• In the Interim Budget for 2024-25, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled a transformative plan to strengthen the Indian Railways.
• Under the PM Gati Shakti framework, the government aims to establish three distinct economic corridors:
  • Energy, Mineral, and Cement Corridors: Focused on efficient transportation of critical resources.
  • Port Connectivity Corridors: Aimed at enhancing connectivity to major ports for streamlined logistics.
  • High Traffic Density Corridors: Geared towards reducing congestion and improving operational efficiency.
• Additionally, a significant upgrade is proposed for 40,000 coaches to meet Vande Bharat standards, ensuring enhanced safety, convenience, and comfort for passengers.

10.Budget 2024 Unveils INR 1 Lakh Crore Corpus for Private Sector R&D Incentives

• In a groundbreaking move to foster research and development (R&D) within the private sector, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during the Interim Budget 2024 announcement, disclosed the establishment of a substantial financial corpus amounting to INR 1 lakh crore.
• This corpus aims to provide low-cost or interest-free loans, extending up to 50 years, specifically dedicated to fueling research and innovation endeavors within the private industry.
• Private companies can now access interest-free loans for 50 years through a INR 1 lakh crore fund, promoting long-term financing and encouraging research and innovation in emerging fields.

Banking News

11.RBI’s Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI) Surges to 418.77 in September 2023

• The Reserve Bank of India’s Digital Payments Index (RBI-DPI) surged to 418.77 in September 2023, showcasing a robust growth trajectory from 395.57 in March 2023 and 377.46 in September 2022.
• This remarkable uptick aligns with a 10.94% annual rise in digital payments by the end of March 2023, underscoring the increasing adoption of online transactions.
• The index’s ascent is attributed to significant advancements in payment enablers, highlighting the pivotal role played by facilitating mechanisms in the digital payment ecosystem.

Business News

12.FICCI and DPIIT Host PM GatiShakti Summit For Efficient Logistics, Integrated Planning

• The PM GatiShakti Summit, a collaboration between the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), unfolded in New Delhi.
• The summit hosted insightful panel discussions on topics such as “PM GatiShakti and Comprehensive Area Development Approach,” exploring opportunities for cross-sectoral investments.
• Additionally, sessions focused on digital infrastructure and green logistics highlighted innovative approaches towards building resilient and sustainable supply chains.

Important Days News

13.World Wetlands Day 2024

• On February 2, 2024, the world comes together to celebrate World Wetlands Day, emphasizing the undeniable importance of wetlands to both the environment and human wellbeing.
• The theme for World Wetlands Day 2024, “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing,” highlights the intricate connection between wetland ecosystems and the health, safety, and prosperity of human communities.
• World Wetlands Day is observed annually on February 2, marking the anniversary of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, signed in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.
• This international treaty aimed at the conservation and wise use of wetlands was a significant milestone, leading to the global recognition of the value of wetlands.

14.World Interfaith Harmony Week 2024, 1-7 February

• Every year, from February 1st to 7th, the world commemorates World Interfaith Harmony Week (WIHW), a time dedicated to fostering mutual understanding, peace, and harmony among people of different faiths.
• Instituted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2010, this week-long observance highlights the crucial role of interfaith dialogue in building a culture of peace and nonviolence.
• WIHW serves as a powerful reminder of the value of dialogue and understanding across different religious and faith traditions. In a world often divided by religious misunderstandings and conflicts, this observance provides a platform for people to come together, celebrate their differences, and work towards a shared goal of peace.

15.Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day 2024

• Every year on February 2nd, the world marks Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day, dedicated to shedding light on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune disease that significantly impacts the lives of millions globally.
• This observance aims to raise awareness, encourage early diagnosis and treatment, and provide support to those affected by RA. With women being disproportionately affected, understanding this disease’s nuances is crucial for all.
• The term “rheumatoid arthritis” was first introduced by Alfred B. Garrod in 1858, distinguishing it from osteoarthritis. The history of RA treatment has evolved from traditional methods like bloodletting to the introduction of methotrexate treatments in 1988.

Appointments News

16.Jay Shah Secures Historic Third Term as President of the Asian Cricket Council

• The cricketing world witnessed a historic moment on January 31, as Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), was unanimously appointed for a third consecutive term as the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
• This extension, granted during the ACC Annual General Meeting in Bali, reflects not only Shah’s accomplishments but also the success and progress achieved under his dynamic leadership.
• The proposal for his extension, put forth by Shammi Silva, President of Sri Lanka Cricket, received unanimous support from all ACC members, underscoring the unity and shared vision within the council.

17.Anil Kumar Lahoti Appointed Chairman Of TRAI

• Former Railway Board Chief Anil Kumar Lahoti has been appointed as the chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) following the vacancy left by PD Vaghela.
• The appointment, approved by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), marks a significant transition in India’s telecommunications sector.
• Lahoti, an Indian Railway Service of Engineer (IRSE) with a background in Civil Engineering and a Master of Engineering degree, brings extensive leadership experience and expertise in Strategic Management to his new role.
• PD Vaghela vacated the position in November 2023, leading to Lahoti’s appointment. Lahoti’s tenure, initially for three years or until he turns 65, replaces Meenakshi Gupta, who held the position temporarily.

18.AU Small Finance Bank Appoints HR Khan as Non-Executive Chairman

• AU Small Finance Bank announced the appointment of Harun Rashid Khan, former deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as its Non-Executive Chairman.
• The appointment, effective January 30, 2024, received approval from the Board of Directors, RBI, and shareholders. Harun Rashid Khan’s tenure begins on January 30, 2024.
• Approval was obtained from the Nomination & Remuneration Committee and the Board of Directors. Harun Rashid Khan succeeds Raj Verma, concluding Verma’s term as Part-time Chairman on January 29, 2024.

Agreements News

19.India, Oman Sign Pact For Defense Sector Collaboration

• India and Oman have taken significant strides in bolstering their strategic partnership through enhanced defence cooperation.
• This agreement lays down clear guidelines for procurement of military equipment and signifies a tangible step towards solidifying their strategic partnership.
• The MoU paves the way for an expansive range of collaborative initiatives, including joint exercises, training programs, and information sharing mechanisms. Such endeavors are instrumental in promoting mutual trust and interoperability between the armed forces of India and Oman.

Miscellaneous News

20.Tamil actor Vijay announced the formation of his political party, ‘Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’

• Popular Tamil actor Vijay announced the formation of his political party, ‘Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam,’ on February 2. This announcement comes as a pivotal moment ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, marking Vijay’s official entry into the political arena.
• Vijay announced during a press conference, unveiling ‘Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’ as the name of his newly formed party. While he disclosed that his party would not contest in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he expressed his intention to run in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls.

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

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