6th May, 2024 Current Affairs

NATIONAL
Indian Army and Punit Balan Group Collaborate to Develop India’s First Constitution Park

• The Indian Army and the Punit Balan Group joined hands to inaugurate the nation’s first Constitution Park in Pune. The ceremony, led by Lt. Gen. Ajai Kumar Singh, emphasized the importance of citizens honouring their duties outlined in the Constitution to drive India towards development by 2047.
• Punit Balan, President of Punit Balan Group, expressed his delight in being part of the initiative and pledged to uphold the Fundamental Rights and Duties outlined in the Constitution. He affirmed the commitment of the Punit Balan Group to always support initiatives that honor the foundation of the nation.

Uttarakhand Tourism Announced India’s First Astro Tourism Campaign Named ‘Nakshatra Sabha’

• The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board has teamed up with Starscapes, an astro-tourism company, to introduce Nakshatra Sabha, a pioneering initiative aimed at offering a comprehensive astro-tourism experience.
• This initiative goes beyond mere stargazing, intending to immerse participants in various activities such as special solar observations, astrophotography contests, and camping under the stars. The collaboration seeks to create an engaging platform that brings together astronomy enthusiasts, adventurers, and travellers to marvel at the wonders of the cosmos while enjoying the natural beauty of Uttarakhand.
• Scheduled to commence in early June at George Everest in Mussoorie, Nakshatra Sabha will span until mid-2025, featuring immersive events across Uttarakhand. These events will explore potential night sky sites in districts like Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, Nainital, and Chamoli, supplemented by educational seminars and webinars led by field experts.

American Express Announces Inauguration of 1 Million Sq Ft Campus in Gurugram

• American Express is set to inaugurate its expansive new campus in Gurugram, spanning nearly one million square feet, showcasing the company’s commitment to fostering a vibrant work environment. The move signifies a strategic step in leveraging global expertise and local talent to drive innovation and value for customers worldwide.
• The campus prioritizes sustainability, with features such as LED lighting, electric vehicle charging stations, and renewable energy sources like solar power. Additionally, waste management and water recycling systems are implemented to minimize environmental impact. The facility has been awarded LEED Gold certification for Building Design and Construction, underscoring its commitment to environmental stewardship.

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INTERNATIONAL
Solomon Islands Elects Pro-China Leader Jeremiah Manele as New Prime Minister

• In a significant political development, the Solomon Islands has elected former Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele as its new prime minister, indicating that the South Pacific island nation is likely to maintain close ties with China.
• As the new prime minister, Manele faces the daunting task of navigating the complex geopolitical dynamics in the South Pacific while addressing domestic issues such as economic development, social stability, and governance.

World Press Freedom Index 2024 Announced

• In the latest edition of the World Press Freedom Index published annually by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), India finds itself at a concerning position, ranking 159th out of 180 countries. This marks a slight improvement from its previous rank of 161, yet it still underscores significant challenges faced by journalists in the country.
• India trails behind its neighboring nation Pakistan, which holds the 152nd position, while Sri Lanka stands at 150th place.
• The World Press Freedom Index evaluates 180 countries based on the freedom and independence journalists have to work and report. The rankings shed light on the varying degrees of press freedom across the globe.
• The recently released 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has once again shed light on the state of press freedom across the globe. In South Asia, India finds itself ranked at 159th, while its neighbor Pakistan stands marginally higher at 152. Sri Lanka, another regional player, is positioned at 150.

ECONOMY
OECD Raises Indian Economy Growth Forecast to 6.6% for 2024-25

• The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has revised India’s GDP growth projection upward to 6.6% for the fiscal year 2024-25. This adjustment reflects the anticipation of robust growth driven primarily by increased public investment and improved business sentiment.
• Globally, GDP growth is forecasted to reach 3.1% in 2024, with a slight uptick to 3.2% in 2025. Variances across countries are noted, with stronger growth in the US and major emerging markets juxtaposed against softer outcomes in Europe and several low-income nations.
• The report anticipates the possibility of the Reserve Bank of India implementing its first rate cut by late 2024, with cumulative cuts of up to 125 basis points by March 2026, contingent upon a normal monsoon season and stable inflation expectations.

AWARDS
Purnima Devi Barman Gets the ‘Green Oscar’ Whitley Gold Award 2024

• Dr. Purnima Devi Barman, a wildlife biologist from Assam, has been recognized with the prestigious Whitley Gold Award for her exemplary conservation efforts aimed at protecting the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork and its wetland habitat.
• This accolade, often referred to as the ‘Green Oscar’, highlights her remarkable contributions to wildlife conservation and underscores the importance of grassroots efforts in safeguarding biodiversity.
• The Whitley Awards, won competitively through a rigorous selection process, provide winners with GBP 50,000 in project funding over one year, along with enhanced visibility, networking opportunities, and training.

UNESCO Guillermo Cano Prize 2024 Awarded to Palestine Journalists in Gaza

• Palestinian journalists covering the crisis in Gaza have been named laureates of the 2024 UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize.
• The announcement comes from the recommendation of an International Jury of media professionals, emphasizing the courage and commitment of these journalists amidst challenging circumstances.
• Established in 1997, the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the defense and promotion of press freedom, especially in the face of danger. Named after Colombian journalist Guillermo Cano Isaza, the prize honors his legacy and is funded by various foundations and organizations committed to press freedom.

Published date : 06 May 2024 04:03PM