15th October, 2024 Current Affairs

NATIONAL
India’s First Biopolymer Facility Inaugurated in Pune

• In a significant step towards positioning India as a global leader in biotechnology and sustainable solutions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, inaugurated India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers at Jejuri in Pune in October 2024.
• This pioneering facility has been developed by Praj Industries and represents a critical milestone in India’s effort to transition from fossil-based plastics to eco-friendly alternatives, focusing on Polylactic Acid (PLA) bioplastics.
• The initiative highlights the country’s commitment to sustainability and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Net Zero’ carbon economy by 2070.
• India now ranks 12th globally in biotech and 3rd in Asia-Pacific, with the largest vaccine manufacturing capacity and the 3rd largest startup ecosystem, Singh said ina speech.
• The BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment), approved by the Union, is an essential step towards sustainable growth in the context of climate change, depletion of non-renewable resources, and waste management challenges.

INTERNATIONAL
India Climbs to No. 2 in Supplying Russia with Restricted Tech

• India has surged to become the second-biggest supplier of restricted critical technologies to Russia, US and European officials said, highlighting the challenge in efforts to choke off exports fueling President Vladimir Putin’s war machine.
• India has become the second-largest supplier of restricted technologies, such as microchips, circuits, and machine tools, to Russia, following China.
• Indian exports of restricted items to Russia have surged significantly, with exports in April and May surpassing $60 million and reaching $95 million in July, which is double the amount earlier in the year.
• Almost 20% of sensitive technologies used in Russia’s military-industrial complex are believed to be coming through India, according to officials.
• This highlights India’s growing role in supplying dual-use items that have been banned for direct export to Russia.

Nicaragua Cuts Diplomatic Ties with Israel Amid Ongoing Conflict

• Nicaragua has officially severed diplomatic relations with Israel, a move announced by Vice President Rosario Murillo following a congressional resolution.
• This decision aligns with Nicaragua’s leftist government, led by President Daniel Ortega, which has condemned Israel’s actions in the ongoing Gaza conflict and labeled its government as “fascist and genocidal.”
• While the announcement is largely symbolic, as there are minimal existing relations between the two nations, it underscores a broader trend in Latin America where countries with leftist ideologies are increasingly showing solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
ShakthiSAT Mission

• ShakthiSAT, driven by the burning desire to empower little girls globally through the awe-inspiring realm of space exploration, plans the participation of 12000 courageous girls from every corner of the globe, representing 108 diverse nations. With unwavering determination, the mission sets out to extend a golden opportunity to 108 talented students from each country, igniting their passion
• In a world scarred by division and discord, ShakthiSAT stands as a beacon of hope, fervently dedicated to fostering unparalleled international cooperation and unity. With hearts ablaze with the spirit of unity, our mission dares to transcend the confines of geography and culture, envisaging a momentous occasion that unites humanity under the vast expanse of the cosmos.

SPORTS
India Awarded Hosting Rights for ISSF Junior World Cup 2025

• International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) announced that India will host the ISSF Junior World Cup in 2025.
• ISSF President Luciano Rossi made this declaration during a press conference in New Delhi, where he praised India’s contributions to the sport and its increasing global prominence.
• The announcement comes as India prepares to compete in the ISSF World Cup Final, showcasing its talented athletes and commitment to enhancing shooting infrastructure.