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We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 4th December current affairs 2024, curated from trusted and official sources. These updates are designed to keep you ahead in your exam preparation journey.
Our comprehensive Current Affairs December 2024 coverage aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your scores in Banking, Insurance, SSC, Railways, UPSC, and all State Government Exams. Explore our Current Affairs tailored to simplify your exam preparation.
National news
Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan: Celebrating 9 years of advancing accessibility for Persons with Disabilities
Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, also known as the Accessible India Campaign, is celebrating its 9th anniversary . It is a transformative initiative aimed at creating an accessible and inclusive India for persons with disabilities.
Key Achievements Over 9 Years:
Infrastructure and Accessibility Enhancements:
- Government Buildings: Thousands of government buildings have been retrofitted to meet accessibility standards for persons with disabilities.
- Transport Facilities: Significant improvements have been made in public transport systems to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities.
Transport Accessibility:
Airports: All 35 international airports and 55 out of 69 domestic airports are now equipped with:
- Ramps, accessible toilets, and helpdesks
- Lifts with Braille and auditory systems
- Aerobridges at international and customs airports
Railways: Nearly 709 railway stations are fully accessible, and over 4,000 stations are partially accessible.
Buses: About 6% of buses are fully accessible, and 30% are partially accessible.
Sign Language and Awareness Programs:
- Over 1,000 individuals have been trained in Indian Sign Language as part of awareness and inclusivity efforts.
- The campaign has also ensured accessible TV content and has fostered sign language training programs.
Impact:
The campaign has enabled millions of Divyangjan to live lives of dignity and respect, ensuring their integration into society through accessible spaces, transport, and education.
Inclusive Education: The initiative also focuses on making educational spaces more accessible to children and adults with disabilities.
Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign)
Overview:
- Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign) is an initiative by the Government of India aimed at creating an accessible and inclusive environment for persons with disabilities (Divyangjan). The campaign focuses on enhancing physical, social, and digital accessibility to ensure the full participation of persons with disabilities in society.
- Launched on December 3, 2015, the initiative is a part of India’s commitment to implementing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which calls for the removal of barriers faced by persons with disabilities.
RS gives nod to Oilfield Amendment Bill 2024
The Rajya Sabha today gave its nod to the Oilfield (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill 2024. The Bill amends the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948. It expands the definition of Mineral oils, which include naturally occurring hydrocarbon, coal bed methane, and shale gas. It clarifies that mineral oils will not include coal, lignite or helium.
Key Amendments:
Expansion of Mineral Oils Definition:
The Bill expands the definition of mineral oils to include:
- Naturally occurring hydrocarbons
- Coal bed methane
- Shale gas
- The Bill also excludes coal, lignite, and helium from the definition of mineral oils.
Minister’s Response (Hardeep Singh Puri):
- Policy Stability: The Bill ensures stability in policies related to the oil and gas sector, which is crucial for the industry’s growth.
- Infrastructure Sharing: It promotes sharing of infrastructure between various stakeholders, enhancing efficiency.
- Carbon Capture: The Bill supports initiatives related to carbon capture to mitigate environmental impacts.
Decriminalisation: The Bill decriminalizes certain actions in the sector, aiming to simplify processes.
- Ease of Dispute Resolution: The Bill provides for easy resolution of disputes, reducing legal complexities in the sector.
- Implications: Impact on States’ Rights: The Bill clarifies that it does not infringe upon the rights of States. The changes mainly involve updating terminology.
Oil Import and Growth:
- India currently imports 5 million barrels of oil per day, with this number expected to rise as the country’s growth rate reaches 6.5% annually.
- In the last three years, India has seen a reduction in oil prices.
Chennai to Host World Maritime Conference 2024
The World Maritime Technology Conference (WMTC) is a premier global event held every three years under the auspices of the World Maritime Technology Congress. This prestigious gathering brings together industry leaders, professionals, and experts in maritime technology and allied sectors from across the globe. The 2024 edition of WMTC will be hosted in Chennai, India, from December 4-6, by the Institute of Marine Engineers (India) Chennai Branch.
Significance of Chennai as the Host City
Maritime Hub:
- One of India’s oldest and most significant seaports.
- Hosts both major and minor ports, shipyards, and numerous maritime logistics companies.
- Plays a critical role in India’s GDP by facilitating maritime trade.
Strategic Trade Gateway:
- A central location for expanding maritime trade and attracting ship owners and logistics firms.
- Serves as a hub for shipbuilding and allied industries.
Cultural and Historical Richness:
- Offers a mix of tradition, culture, and hospitality unique to Southern India.
- Reflects India’s historical and economic narrative as a maritime success story.
Key Highlights of WMTC 2024
- Participation from top maritime professionals, organizations, and technology providers worldwide.
- Discussions on cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and digital transformation in maritime trade.
- Networking opportunities with global leaders in the maritime sector.
- Showcasing India’s growing maritime capabilities and its pivotal role in global trade.
India’s First Vertical Lift Rail Bridge: The New Pamban Bridge
The New Pamban Bridge, India’s first vertical lift railway sea bridge, is replacing the 105-year-old Pamban Bridge to enhance connectivity between the Indian mainland and Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu. This state-of-the-art bridge is a leap in railway infrastructure, designed for speed, safety, and modern train compatibility.
Key Features
Design and Technology:
- Vertical Lift Mechanism: Fully automated span that lifts to provide 22 meters of air clearance for ships to pass beneath.
- Length: 2.05 km.
- Cost: Built at an estimated cost of ₹535 crore.
- Tracks: Supports double tracks, enabling enhanced railway capacity and speed.
- Speed Compatibility: Designed for high-speed train operations.
Historical Context:
Original Bridge:
- Constructed in 1914 as India’s first sea bridge.
- Functioned as the sole rail link to Rameswaram until the road bridge was constructed in 1988.
- Decommissioned in December 2022 due to corrosion and structural challenges.
Ayush Ministry’s Decadal Milestones Unveiled by Shri Shripad Naik
The Ministry of Ayush has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, emerging as a global leader in traditional medicine. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi since its inception in 2014, the Ministry has achieved significant milestones in public health, education, research, and economic growth. Aligning its initiatives with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the Ministry has effectively integrated traditional Indian medicine into mainstream healthcare, enhanced global outreach, and promoted economic sustainability.
Expanding Ayush Infrastructure Practitioners: Over 755,780 registered practitioners trained in Ayush systems.
Education:
- Colleges: 886 undergraduate and 251 postgraduate institutions.
- Seats: 59,643 undergraduate and 7,450 postgraduate seats annually.
Healthcare Network: Facilities: 3,844 hospitals and 36,848 dispensaries, including both government and private.
National Institutes: Satellite centers of All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), National Institute of Unani Medicine (NIUM), and National Institute of Homoeopathy (NIH) inaugurated in 2022.
Capacity: Added 400 educational seats and 550 hospital beds.
Research and Innovation
- Research Repository: Ayush Research Portal: Hosts over 43,000 research papers.
- COVID-19 Contributions: Development of AYUSH-64 and Kabasur Kudineer for pandemic management.
- Collaborations: Partnered with CSIR, ICMR, and AIIMS to establish Centers of Excellence for cutting-edge research in traditional medicine.
MoUs:
- Signed 24 country-level and 48 institutional Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).
- Established 15 academic chairs globally to promote Ayush education and research.
Global Recognition:
- WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre established in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
- Ayush recognized in ICD-11 (International Classification of Diseases) in 2024.
Medical Tourism: Introduced Ayush Visa and Heal in India portal to attract global patients seeking traditional healthcare solutions in India.
Economic Impact
- Market Growth: Expanded from USD 2.85 billion (2014) to USD 43.4 billion (2023), reflecting a significant rise in domestic and global demand.
- Exports: Export value doubled from USD 1.09 billion (2014) to USD 2.16 billion (2023).
- MSME Support: Strengthened the growth of Ayush-related startups and small enterprises, contributing to the broader economy.
Ministry of ayush: Minister responsible: Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav, Minister of State (Independent Charge)
State news
UNESCO Declares West Bengal a Top Heritage Tourism Destination
West Bengal’s tourism sector has received international recognition with UNESCO declaring it a top destination for heritage tourism. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee emphasized the state’s significant progress in religious, heritage, and tea tourism. This development has not only boosted tourism but also generated employment for thousands of youth. West Bengal’s focus on enhancing iconic religious sites and heritage spots is driving its tourism to new heights, fostering job creation, and making it a key player in India’s tourism landscape.
Heritage and Religious Tourism
- Development of Religious Sites: Key sites like Dakshineshwar and Kalighat temples have enhanced the state’s appeal as a pilgrimage hub.
- Jagannath Temple at Digha: Under construction, expected to attract more devotees upon completion.
Tourism Infrastructure and Employment
- Homestays and Hotels: Over 2,400 homestays, especially in North Bengal, along with new hotels and amenities in areas like Sunderbans, forests, and mountains have expanded the tourism infrastructure.
- Job Creation: These developments have provided significant employment opportunities for local youth.
Gangasagar Mela
- Religious Significance: The Gangasagar Mela has become one of India’s largest religious gatherings, second only to the Kumbh Mela.
- Infrastructure Enhancements: Improved infrastructure, including a new bridge over the Muriganga river, to enhance the pilgrimage experience.
UNESCO:
- Founded: 16 November 1945, London, United Kingdom
- Headquarters: Paris, France
- Head: Audrey Azoulay
West Bengal:
- Capital: Kolkata
- Chief minister: Mamata Banerjee
- Governor: C. V. Ananda Bose
Telangana’s Rythu Bharosa: Boosting Farmer Welfare
The Telangana government, led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, is set to roll out the Rythu Bharosa Scheme after Sankranti, aiming to provide annual subsidies of ₹15,000 per farmer as part of Congress’ six guarantees. Agriculture Minister T. Nageshwara Rao emphasized that implementation will follow the Cabinet Sub-Committee’s report. The scheme replaces the previous Rythu Bandhu and seeks to bolster farmers’ welfare amid criticism over its discontinuation. The government has cleared ₹7,625 crore in crop loan arrears for Kharif 2023, affirming its commitment to farmers’ welfare
Rythu Bharosa Scheme:
- To be launched post-Sankranti, offering an annual subsidy of ₹15,000 per farmer, an increase from the previous ₹10,000 under Rythu Bandhu.
- Aimed at enhancing farmers’ welfare and addressing criticisms over the discontinuation of Rythu Bandhu.
Crop Loan Waiver:
- ₹7,625 crore cleared in crop loan arrears for Kharif 2023.
- ₹20,616 crore loan waiver for 25.35 lakh farmers up to ₹2 lakh each, a historic first in India.
Subsidies and Incentives: Continued support for palm oil, drip irrigation, and fodder seeds, with ₹8,000 crore allocated.
Legacy and Continuity: The Congress government seeks to continue and enhance programs initiated by the BRS government, including the paddy bonus and promoting Telangana Sona varieties.
Political Dynamics
- Opposition Criticism: Congress faces criticism for halting Rythu Bandhu and reallocating resources.
- Chief Minister’s Defense: A. Revanth Reddy emphasized the commitment to fulfilling “Soniamma’s guarantees” and will address farmers’ concerns in the winter assembly session.
Telangana:
- Chief minister: Revanth Reddy
- Capital: Hyderabad
- Governor: Jishnu Dev Varma
India Launches First ‘Uber Shikara’ Service in Srinagar
In a landmark move, Uber has launched Asia’s first water transport service, Uber Shikara, in the scenic Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. This innovative initiative aims to offer a seamless and modern way for tourists to experience the traditional shikara ride, a popular attraction in the region, combining technology with Kashmir’s cultural heritage. With this new service, Uber seeks to uplift tourism and provide greater accessibility, making the shikara experience more convenient and hassle-free for visitors.
Launch Overview
Inauguration: Uber Shikara was launched by Uber India and South Asia President, Prabhjeet Singh, who personally inaugurated the service by booking a ride via the Uber app.
Location: The service operates in the scenic Dal Lake, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.
Objective
- Blending Technology and Tradition: The aim is to modernize the traditional shikara ride, enhancing the tourism experience in the Kashmir Valley by integrating technology.
- Improved Accessibility: The service makes booking shikara rides more convenient for tourists, aiming to uplift tourism and create a seamless travel experience.
Features of Uber Shikara
- Easy Booking: Tourists can now book shikara rides directly through the Uber app, streamlining the process.
- Local Collaboration: Uber has partnered with seven local shikara owners to offer the service, with plans to expand based on demand.
Fair Pricing: Rides will be charged at government-regulated rates, ensuring tourists are billed fairly.
No Additional Fees: Uber will not charge its shikara partners any fees, ensuring the full fare goes directly to the boat operators.
PM Modi dedicate three new Criminal Laws to the Nation in Chandigarh
Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation the successful implementation of the three new criminal laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023 at a function held in Chandigarh on 3 December 2024.
- The function was organised in Chandigarh as Chandigarh is India’s first state/Union Territory to have fully implemented the three new criminal laws.
- Union Minister Amit Shah said the three new criminal laws will be implemented in the country within three years.
- The three new criminal laws, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023, were implemented on 1st July 2024.
Who attended the Function?
- The function’s theme was “Secure Society, Developed India—From Punishment to Justice.” The Union Home Minister and Minister for Cooperation Amit Shah, the Administrator of Chandigarh, the Governor of Punjab Gulab Chand Kataria, and Chandigarh Director General of Police Surendra Singh Yadav attended.
- During the function, Prime Minister Modi observed a live crime scene investigation demo by the Chandigarh Police at Punjab Engineering College, showcasing evidence collection under the new laws.
- According to Amit Shah, the new criminal laws aim to secure a conviction within three years of filing an FIR.
End of Colonial mindset
- Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that countries need to come out of the colonial mindset. He said that the Indian Penal Code (IPC) was enacted by the British in 1860 after the first freedom struggle of 1857. The criminal code enacted by the British was to punish Indians and enslave them.
- India, which has set a target to become a developed country or Viksikt Bharat by 2047, needed a new law made by Indians for Indians.
About the Three Criminal Laws
The three new criminal laws replace the British-era criminal laws and seek to make the country’s legal justice system more transparent, efficient, and modern.
The three new laws replace the following laws:
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which replaced the Indian Penal Code 1860,
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, which replaced the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, and
- Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, will replace the Indian Evidence Act of 1872.
Four apps to ensure the implementation of three criminal laws
The Union Home Ministry has also launched four apps—e-Sakshya, Nyaya Setu, Nyaya Shruti, and e-Summon—to ensure the country’s smooth implementation of the three new criminal laws.
The functions of these apps are:
- e-Sakshya, all testimonies, videography and photography will be saved on the e-evidence server. It will be available to all the courts on a real-time basis.
- e-Summon app, the courts will electronically send summons to police stations and the concerned person to whom the summons is to be sent.
- Nyaay Setu Dashboard will link the Police, Medical, Forensic, Prosecution, and Prison authorities. It will provide the police with all the information related to the investigation on a real-time basis.
- Nyaay Shruti app will enable the court to hear witnesses via videoconferencing.
Banking news
RBI Lifts Supervisory Restrictions on Navi Finserv
- On December 2, 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lifted the supervisory restrictions imposed on Navi Finserv, a non-banking financial company (NBFC) led by Sachin Bansal.
- The restrictions were initially imposed on October 17, 2024, due to serious regulatory concerns regarding:
- Loan pricing practices: Specifically, excessive weighted average lending rates (WALR) and interest spreads charged over the company’s cost of funds.
Non-compliance with the Fair Practices Code.
- Inadequate borrower assessment processes.
- Along with Navi Finserv, three other NBFCs — DMI Finance, Asirvad Micro Finance, and Arohan Financial Services — were also subject to similar supervisory measures.
Corrective Measures Taken by Navi Finserv:
After the restrictions were imposed, Navi Finserv took corrective actions to align with RBI guidelines:
- Revamped loan pricing policies: The company ensured that its loan pricing practices were fair, transparent, and in compliance with RBI regulations.
- Enhanced borrower assessment systems: Updates were made to ensure thorough evaluations and compliance with the Fair Practices Code.
- These steps were undertaken in close collaboration with the RBI, and the company worked on reforming its internal processes to meet the required standards.
Outcome:
- Due to these corrective measures, the RBI lifted the restrictions and allowed Navi Finserv to resume its lending activities.
- This move marks a significant recovery for the company, which had previously been forced to cancel a Rs 100 crore fundraising plan and had its ratings placed on a “rating watch” by CRISIL.
Future Outlook:
- With the restrictions lifted, Navi Finserv plans to refocus on its core mission of financial inclusion.
- The company is committed to offering compliant, customer-first financial solutions, with a focus on operational excellence and good governance.
- Navi Finserv aims to rebuild stakeholder confidence and strengthen its position in the market.
RBI:
- Governor: Shaktikanta Das
- Headquarters: Mumbai
Sports news
Pavan Kampelli Wins Bronze in eFootball at Asian Esports Games
India’s Pavan Kampelli has made history by securing a bronze medal in eFootball at the 2024 Asian Esports Games held in Bangkok. This marks India’s first-ever podium finish in the eFootball category, a monumental achievement in the country’s esports journey. Known as ‘Mr Tomboy’, Pavan showcased his exceptional skill and determination throughout the competition, battling some of the best eFootball players in Asia.
Historic Achievement
- India’s First Medal in eFootball: Pavan’s bronze medal is the first-ever eFootball medal for India at the Asian Esports Games, a major step forward for the country in the global esports arena.
- Significance: This achievement highlights the growing prominence of esports in India and represents a turning point in the country’s esports development.
Impressive Victories
- Defeating Asgard Azizi: Pavan defeated Asgard Azizi of Indonesia, the 2022 eFootball World Finals Winner (Mobile), with a 2-1 scoreline. This victory was a standout moment in the tournament.
- Other Victories: He triumphed over opponents from Indonesia, Syria, and Laos, all with a 2-1 victory margin, further establishing his skill on the international stage.
Tough Start
- Initial Challenge: Pavan began the tournament with a tough match against TXRO from Thailand, who ultimately went on to win the competition.
- Resilience: Despite the challenging start, Pavan displayed remarkable resilience, bouncing back strongly to progress through the rounds.
Lower Bracket Final
- Climbing Back: After facing setbacks, Pavan fought his way through intense rounds, reaching the Lower Bracket Final.
- Narrow Defeat: In this round, he faced TXRO again, fighting for a spot in the Grand Finals but narrowly losing, demonstrating his competitive spirit and skill.
Remarkable Performance and Recognition
- Reward: Pavan received a USD 500 reward for his impressive achievements in the tournament.
- Pride and Gratitude: Pavan expressed immense pride and gratitude for representing India on such a prestigious platform, further fueling his motivation for future success.
Future Aspirations Ongoing Improvement: Motivated by his success, Pavan is determined to keep improving his skills and aims for even greater accomplishments in future esports tournaments.
Science and tech news
ISRO to launch European space agency’s Proba 3 satellite
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch the PSLV-C59/Proba 3 mission at 4.08 pm today from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. PSLV C59 will launch Proba 3 satellites of the European Space Agency into the highly elliptical orbit. The commercial arm of ISRO namely New Space India Limited has got this order from the European Space Agency. Proba 3 satellites will split into two after reaching the orbit. The satellites will study the Sun’s Corona, its surrounding atmosphere, space weather and solar wind.
Mission Details and Objective
Proba 3 Mission: The PSLV-C59 will carry the Proba 3 satellites, a mission by the European Space Agency (ESA). These satellites are part of ESA’s Sun Observation Program and will be launched into a highly elliptical orbit.
Primary Purpose:
- Study the Sun’s Corona: The Proba 3 satellites will provide detailed data on the Sun’s corona (the Sun’s outer atmosphere), which is difficult to study from Earth’s surface due to its faint emission compared to the Sun’s surface.
- Investigate Space Weather: The mission aims to study the dynamics of solar wind and space weather, both of which influence the Earth’s atmosphere and satellites in space.
- Solar Wind and Atmosphere: The Proba 3 satellites will also help in understanding the solar wind—a continuous stream of charged particles from the Sun—and how it affects the Earth’s magnetic field and satellite operations.
ISRO:
- Founded: 15 August 1969
- Headquarters: Bengaluru
- Head: Dr. Sreedhara Panicker Somanath
Important days
December 3 International Day of Persons with Disabilities
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is a global observance promoted by the United Nations since 1992, it is observed annually on December 3rd. This day aims to enhance understanding of disability issues, advocate for the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities, and mobilize support for their well-being. It highlights the need to integrate persons with disabilities into every aspect of political, social, economic, and cultural life to achieve inclusive development.
Historical Background
International Year of Disabled Persons (1981):
- Declared by UN General Assembly in 1976.
- Theme in 1976: “Full Participation and Equality”.
- Focus: Promoted equal opportunities, rehabilitation, and disability prevention.
- Advocated for full participation in societal life and equal socio-economic conditions for PWD.
United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons (1983–1992):
- Objective: Implement recommendations from the World Programme of Action.
- Focus: Ensured equal opportunities and worked toward the integration of PWD into mainstream society.
2024 Theme: Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future
Navy Day 2024: Remembering Indian Navy’s Operation Trident
Navy Day is being celebrated today. The day is celebrated on the 4th of December every year to recognize the achievements and role of the Indian Navy. It was on this day in 1971, during Operation Trident, the Indian Navy sank four Pakistani vessels including PNS Khaibar, killing hundreds of Pakistani Navy personnel.
Historical Context – Operation Trident (1971):
- Operation Trident took place on December 4, 1971, during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
- The Indian Navy launched a successful strike against the Pakistani Navy, sinking four Pakistani vessels, including PNS Khaibar.
- The operation was a major success for the Indian Navy, resulting in the death of hundreds of Pakistani Navy personnel.
Celebration and Reflection:
- Navy Day serves as an opportunity to celebrate the bravery, professionalism, and strategic importance of the Indian Navy.
- It is a reminder of the Navy’s historical contributions to India’s defense and its ongoing role in ensuring maritime security.
