1st March, 2024 Current Affairs

Sakshi Education

NATIONAL
Cabinet Approval, Establishment of International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with its headquarters based in India. This landmark decision comes with a one-time budgetary support of Rs. 150 crore for a period of five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.
The International Big Cat Alliance focuses on conserving big cats, including Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma, Jaguar, and Cheetah. Five out of these seven big cats are found in India, emphasizing the country’s pivotal role in big cat conservation.
IBCA is envisioned as a multi-country, multi-agency coalition comprising big cat range countries, non-range countries interested in conservation, conservation partners, scientific organizations, and business groups. It aims to establish networks, develop synergies, and create a centralized repository of successful conservation practices and personnel. This collaborative platform facilitates knowledge sharing, capacity building, advocacy, and financial support for conservation efforts.

INTERNATIONAL
Ghana Parliament Passes Anti-LGBTQ Bill

Ghana’s parliament has approved a controversial anti-LGBTQ bill, the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which awaits presidential assent.
This legislation has sparked debate and condemnation due to its stringent measures against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (or queer) LGBTQ individuals.
The bill aims to uphold traditional Ghanaian family values and regulate human sexual rights. It criminalizes identification with LGBTQ identities, imposing penalties of up to three years in prison.
Individuals found promoting or supporting LGBTQ activities could face up to five years in prison under the proposed law.
Ghana already prohibits gay sexual acts, carrying a maximum prison sentence of three years.
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has criticized the bill, urging against its enactment into law.
The passage of the bill aligns with a broader trend across Africa, where many countries criminalize homosexuality.

Peru declares dengue health emergency

Peru has declared a health emergency in response to the escalating cases of dengue fever across the nation. Health Minister Cesar Vasquez announced on Monday that over 31,000 cases of dengue have been reported within the first eight weeks of 2024, resulting in 32 fatalities. The emergency declaration will encompass 20 out of Peru’s 25 regions.
Peru has been facing elevated temperatures and heavy rainfall since 2023, attributed to the El Niño weather phenomenon.
The government’s response includes the declaration of a health emergency to coordinate efforts across affected regions.

Also Read: International: Weekly Current Affairs Bitbank (February 5 to 11, 2024): With which country does Sri Lanka aim to establish a Free Trade Agreement by the end of 2024?

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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
PM Modi Launches India’s First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Ferry

Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated India’s inaugural hydrogen fuel cell ferry, a product of indigenous development and construction built by Cochin Shipyard. Participating from Thoothukudi, he launched the inland waterway vessel, which is part of the Harit Nauka initiative—a pilot project aimed at showcasing the technology for the maritime sector.
Cochin Shipyard pioneers India’s first hydrogen fuel cell ferry, showcasing green technology for maritime use.
Zero-emission, noise-free, and energy-efficient, it combats global warming.
Inauguration ignites the use of hydrogen in marine sectors, aligning with India’s green mission.
Embracing green hydrogen furthers India’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2070.
Early adoption offers India a global edge in green energy leadership.

CULTURE
Lord Buddha Sacred Relics Enshrined In Thailand

The Holy Relics of Lord Buddha and His Two Disciples were enshrined for public reverence. The atmosphere at the Mandapam at Sanam Luang Pavilion in Bangkok was filled with respect and echoed with chants, marking this occasion.
The Governor of Bihar, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, presented the Holy Relics of Buddha to Thai Prime Minister (Chairman), Mr. Srettha Thavisin.
Earlier, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar visited the Wat Pho temple in Bangkok, presenting a set of sacred texts and paying homage to the Reclining Buddha statue.

Published date : 01 Mar 2024 05:16PM