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We at Edusprint Academy are committed to bringing you the most relevant and updated 6th 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
PMGDISHA Achieves 6.39 Crore Digital Literacy Milestone
The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) is a flagship scheme launched under the Digital India Programme to bridge the digital literacy gap in rural India. It aims to empower rural citizens with essential digital skills, enabling them to utilize IT tools for improving their livelihoods and accessing online services.
Key Features of PMGDISHA
Objective:
- To make one member from each rural household digitally literate.
- Targeted underserved groups, including SC/ST, women, and differently-abled individuals.
- Addressed the digital divide highlighted by the 71st NSSO Survey (2014), which revealed that only 6% of rural households owned computers.
Target and Achievement:
Initial target: 6 crore rural households.
- Achievement (as of March 31, 2024):
- 7.35 crore individuals enrolled.
- 6.39 crore trained.
- 4.78 crore certified.
Implementation:
Nationwide implementation through training centers supervised by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with State Implementing Agencies.
Training duration: 20 hours spread over 10–30 days.
Training included:
- Device functionality.
- Internet browsing.
- Cashless payments.
- Accessing online government services.
Focus Groups:
- Non-smartphone users.
- Below Poverty Line (BPL) households.
- School dropouts.
State-Wise Performance
Top Performing States:
- Uttar Pradesh: 1.45 crore trained individuals (highest in the country).
- Bihar: 74.12 lakh trained individuals.
- Maharashtra: 53.23 lakh trained individuals.
Challenges in Smaller Regions: Lakshadweep and Manipur reported limited participation due to demographic constraints.
About the scheme:
The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan
- Objective: PMGDISHA is a government initiative aimed at promoting digital literacy among rural populations in India, especially targeting the marginalized and underprivileged sections, to empower them with the necessary skills to use digital tools and services.
- Key Features: Target Audience: The scheme focuses on individuals in rural areas, particularly those aged 14 to 60 years, with an emphasis on women, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and differently-abled people.
Launched: The initiative was launched in 2017 under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) as part of the government’s efforts to make India a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
PMSGMBY: 10 Lakh Solar Installations by 2025, 1 Crore by 2027
The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY), the world’s largest domestic rooftop solar scheme, is rapidly transforming India’s solar energy landscape. Launched in February 2024, the scheme has already achieved impressive milestones, with 6.3 lakh installations in just 9 months—averaging 70,000 per month, a sharp increase from the 7,000 per month prior to its launch. By March 2025, installations are projected to exceed 10 lakh, and the scheme aims for one crore installations by March 2027.
Overview
- Launch: February 2024.
- Goal: Install 1 crore domestic rooftop solar systems by March 2027.
Key Achievements
Record Growth:
- 6.3 lakh installations in 9 months (70,000/month).
- Projected to surpass 10 lakh by March 2025 and 40 lakh by March 2026.
- State Leaders: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh.
Subsidy Disbursement
- ₹3,100 crore disbursed to 4 lakh consumers.
- 67,000 households receiving subsidies monthly.
NSIC Pays Record Dividend of Rs. 37.97 Crore for FY 2023-24
The National Small Industries Corporation Limited (NSIC), a Mini Ratna enterprise under the Ministry of MSME, achieved a milestone by paying its highest-ever dividend of Rs. 37.97 crore to the Government of India for the financial year 2023-24. Chairman-cum-Managing Director, Dr. Subhransu Sekhar Acharya, presented the dividend cheque to Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi, Hon’ble Union Minister, and Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Hon’ble MoS, Ministry of MSME, in the presence of senior ministry officials, marking a significant achievement in the corporation’s history.
Key Achievements (FY 2023-24)
Highest Dividend: Paid a record ₹37.97 crore dividend to the Government of India.
Financial Growth:
- Revenue: ₹3,273 crore (18.16% growth YoY).
- Profit After Tax (PAT): ₹126.56 crore (14.55% growth YoY).
Leadership Remarks
- Shri Jitan Ram Manjhi, Union Minister: Applauded NSIC’s role in empowering MSMEs and urged expansion in skill development and enterprise creation.
- Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, MoS: Highlighted NSIC’s contribution to MSME growth and innovation.
National Small Industries Corporation Limited (NSIC)
Overview: The National Small Industries Corporation Limited (NSIC) is a government-owned organization that plays a significant role in promoting, supporting, and developing small-scale industries in India. It was established in 1955 by the Government of India under the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) with the aim of fostering the growth of small industries.
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) of the National Small Industries Corporation Limited (NSIC) is Satyendra Kumar Singh.
India Intensifies Efforts to Reduce Snakebite Deaths by 2030
India, which accounts for nearly 50% of global snakebite deaths, has declared snakebite a notifiable disease at the national level. This initiative aims to reduce the high mortality and morbidity rates associated with snakebites, particularly in rural and tribal areas, and aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of halving global snakebite deaths and injuries by 2030. By mandating reporting of all snakebite cases and deaths, the move enables better surveillance, treatment, and prevention strategies, offering hope to marginalized communities disproportionately affected by this neglected public health issue.
Declaration and Implementation:
- The Union Health Ministry announced on November 27, 2024, that snakebites will now be a notifiable disease at the national level.
- The notification was signed by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava.
Mandatory Reporting: All government and private healthcare facilities, including medical colleges, are required to report suspected or confirmed snakebite cases and deaths under relevant state health laws.
Alignment with WHO Goals: This move aligns with the World Health Organization (WHO) target of halving global snakebite deaths and injuries by 2030.
Objective
- The initiative aims to reduce mortality and morbidity due to snakebites, especially in rural and tribal areas, by improving surveillance, treatment, and prevention strategies.
- It addresses a critical public health issue disproportionately affecting marginalized communities.
Launch of “Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat” Campaign to Combat Child Marriage and Empower Girls
On November 27 2024, Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi, launched the “Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat” campaign in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi(Delhi) to eradicate child marriage and empower young girls across the nation. This national initiative is a strategic effort to combat child marriage, ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to be educated, protected, and free to pursue her dreams.
- Objective: The “Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat” campaign was launched by Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on November 27, 2024. The initiative aims to eradicate child marriage and empower young girls across India.
- Campaign Details: The initiative seeks to ensure that every girl has access to education, protection, and the freedom to pursue her aspirations without being subject to child marriage.
- Significance of the Launch: The launch coincides with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, running from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day). This provides a platform to highlight the importance of ending child marriage as part of broader gender-based violence efforts.
Key Features:
- Child Marriage Free Bharat Portal: A crucial online platform was introduced to empower citizens to:Report child marriage incidents.File complaints.
- Access information about Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOS) across the country.
Additional Statistical Insight:
Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) in India has improved from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24, reflecting a positive trend in gender balance.
Inauguration of First Underground Shooting Range for NCC Cadets in Delhi
In November 2024, Atishi Marlena Sing, Chief Minister (CM) of Delhi, inaugurated the first underground shooting range for National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets at the NCC Bhawan in Rohini, New Delhi(Delhi).
The inauguration of this facility marks a significant milestone in the development of NCC cadets, providing them with world-class resources to enhance their training and skills.
Key Highlights: First Underground Shooting Range: The inauguration marks the establishment of the first underground shooting range for National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets in India, a significant development aimed at enhancing training facilities for young cadets.
Facility Features:
- 25-meter Firing Range: Equipped with six firing lanes and bulletproof ceilings to ensure safety for the cadets.
- Electronic Target Control System: Allows uninterrupted training with 24/7 access.
- Night Firing Capability: Supports training in varying conditions with focused lighting.
- Automatic Steel Bullet Trap System: Ensures safety and efficiency during practice.
- Advanced Software: Facilitates precise target control for training with various small arms.
- Complementary Facility: The shooting range complements the upcoming range at a government school in Kalkaji, enhancing accessibility for NCC cadets.
About National Cadet Corps (NCC):
- Established: 1948
- Objective: To nurture young citizens with leadership, discipline, and a sense of national service, aiming to develop a pool of trained youth ready to serve the nation in various capacities.
International news
India-UK Collaboration on Electric Propulsion Systems for Indian Navy
India and the United Kingdom (UK) signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) to collaborate on Design & Development of Electric Propulsion Systems for the Indian Navy(IN).
The signing was part of the third Joint Working Group on Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership (JWG EPCP) meeting, symbolising the commitment to promote indigenous development of niche technologies.
Key Highlights:
- Statement of Intent (SOI): India and the UK signed an SOI to collaborate on the design and development of Electric Propulsion Systems for the Indian Navy (IN).
- Objective: The agreement aims to promote the indigenous development of electric propulsion systems for future naval ships.
Major Provisions of the SOI:
- Co-Design, Co-Creation, and Co-Production: The agreement sets a framework for collaborative work in electric propulsion technology.
- Rolls-Royce MT-30 Gas Turbines: The deal includes the use of Rolls-Royce MT-30 turbines in Indian warships, similar to those used in the UK’s HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales.
- Future Projects: The first project involves building Landing Platform Docks (LPDs) at an Indian shipyard, designed with a Full Electric Propulsion System.
- Context: The SOI follows the visit of Catherine West, the British Minister for Indo-Pacific, to India in November 2024, further strengthening defense relations between the two nations.
About the Indian Navy’s Current Propulsion Systems:
The IN currently uses gas turbine, diesel, and some steam engines in its assets, with systems sourced from the USA, Russia, and Ukraine.
About the United Kingdom (UK):
- Prime Minister: Keir Starmer
- Capital: London
- Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP)
BRICS Sherpa and Sous-Sherpa Meeting in Ekaterinburg, Russia – November 2024
- The final Sherpa and Sous-Sherpa meeting of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) took place from 27th to 28th November 2024 in Ekaterinburg, Russia.
- Chairmanship Handover: The meeting marked the ceremonial handover of the BRICS chairmanship from Russia to Brazil, concluding Russia’s leadership in 2024.
Key Highlights:
- Progress in Various Sectors: Sergey Ryabkov, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister and BRICS Sherpa, highlighted BRICS’ advancements in politics, security, economics, and humanitarian efforts.
- Over 250 Events: Russia organized more than 250 events aimed at enhancing cooperation within BRICS during its presidency.
Key Accomplishments Under Russia’s Leadership:
Agreements Signed:
- Establishment of a BRICS grain exchange.
- Formation of a contact group on climate and sustainable development.
- Launch of a geological, technological, and investment platform.
- Creation of a working group on nuclear medicine.
XVI BRICS Summit in Kazan (22-24 October 2024):
Adoption of the Kazan Declaration.
- BRICS Expansion: Egypt, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia became full members in 2024.
- New BRICS Partners: Belarus, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand joined as BRICS partners.
- The meeting in Ekaterinburg symbolized the transition of leadership, reflecting the continued strengthening of BRICS as a global bloc.
Brics:
- Founders: Russia, China, India, Brazil
- Founded: 16 June 2009
- Official languages: English, Arabic, Amharic, Chinese, Russian, Hindi, Persian, Portuguese
Economy news
Morgan Stanley Cuts India’s FY25 GDP Growth to 6.3%
Morgan Stanley has revised India’s GDP growth projection for FY25 down to 6.3%, from its previous estimate of 6.7%. This downward revision comes after India’s GDP growth slowed to 5.4% in the July-September 2024 quarter, marking its lowest level since March 2023. This reflects a broader economic slowdown, driven by weaker private consumption and capital expenditure (capex), though the services sector showed resilience. Despite this dip, Morgan Stanley maintains optimism for a recovery in the latter half of FY25, expecting growth to average 6.6%, fueled by government spending, improved rural demand, and easing financial conditions.
Key Points from the Latest Revision
Slowdown in Q2 FY25: India’s GDP growth slowed to 5.4% YoY in Q2, the lowest since March 2023, primarily due to weaker private consumption and subdued capital expenditure (capex).
Sector Performance:
- Private Consumption: Grew by 6%.
- Capex: Lower growth at 5.4%.
- Services Sector: Expanded by 7.1%, showing resilience.
Industry: Lagged with only a 3.9% increase, driven by declines in manufacturing and electricity generation.
Monetary Policy and Liquidity Measures
- RBI’s Role: Interest Rates: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to keep interest rates unchanged in its December 6 review, with inflation projected to ease to 5-5.5% in the next two months.
- Liquidity Measures: The RBI may implement liquidity-enhancing measures like open market operations (OMO) to address tight banking system liquidity.
Banking news
RBI Increases UPI Lite Wallet and Transaction Limits
In a bid to enhance digital payments, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has raised the UPI Lite wallet limit to Rs 5,000, with an increase in the per-transaction limit to Rs 1,000. This adjustment, announced after the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on October 9, 2024, aims to promote wider adoption of UPI Lite and ease offline transactions, providing a more seamless experience for users.
Key Changes
- Per-Transaction Limit: Increased from ₹500 to ₹1,000, enabling higher-value offline payments.
- Total Wallet Limit: Raised from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000, allowing users to store more funds for small-value transactions.
- Replenishment: Can only be done online, secured with Additional Factor Authentication (AFA) for enhanced security.
Impact on UPI Lite and Offline Transactions
- Facilitates offline small-value payments without a UPI PIN or internet connection.
- Expected to drive adoption in areas with limited connectivity, offering seamless digital payment options.
UPI Growth and Global Expansion
International Reach: Active in Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and Singapore, with talks underway for adoption in over 20 countries across Africa and South America.
Transaction Growth:
- October 2024: 516 million daily transactions worth ₹71,840 crore.
- Continued robust growth despite slight fluctuations in volume and value.
- This initiative underscores RBI’s commitment to advancing digital payments and enhancing user convenience through UPI Lite.
RBI:
- Founded: 1 April 1935, Kolkata
- Governor: Shaktikanta Das
Science and tech news
Successful Nationwide Launch of e-Daakhil Portal for Consumer Grievance Redressal
The e-Daakhil portal, launched by the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD), has been successfully implemented across all States and Union Territories (UTs) of India. The final launch was carried out in Ladakh on 22nd November 2024 by Lieutenant Governor Brig. (Dr.) B.D. Mishra (Retd.), making it a pan-India initiative.
Key Features of e-Daakhil:
- Launched initially on 7th September 2020 by the National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (NCDRC) to simplify the consumer grievance process.
- Provides a cost-effective, quick, and paperless method for filing complaints, eliminating the need for physical appearances.
- Offers an easy-to-use interface for users to file complaints, track their status, and make payments.
- Promotes transparency and a hassle-free, online mechanism for filing cases.
Current Statistics:
- Over 2.81 lakh users registered on the portal.
- 1,98,725 cases filed, with 38,453 cases disposed of.
The government is also planning to introduce a new initiative, “e-Jagriti”, to further enhance the consumer grievance redressal process.
National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (NCDRC)
- Established: 1988 under the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.
- Nature: A quasi-judicial commission tasked with resolving consumer disputes.
- President: Justice Amreshwar Pratap Sahi.
- Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi.
Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution (MoCAF&PD)
- Union Minister: Pralhad Joshi (Constituency: Dharwad, Karnataka).
Ministers of State (MOS):
- Banwari Lal Verma (Rajya Sabha – Uttar Pradesh).
- Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya (Constituency: Bhavnagar, Gujarat).
Ranks and report news
Anna University Tops Among Indian Universities in THE’s Inaugural Interdisciplinary Science Rankings (ISR) 2025
Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has secured the 42nd position globally with an overall score of 66.1, making it the only Indian university to feature in the top 50 of the list.
Top Global Universities:
- 1st: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA, with a score of 92.4.
- 2nd: Stanford University, USA.
- 3rd: National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore.
India’s Representation:
India has 65 universities featured in the rankings, making it the most represented country. However, no Indian university made it to the top 10 or top 20.
Regional Representation in Top 100:
- Asia leads with 47 institutions from 15 countries.
- Followed by Europe (24), North America (17), Africa (5), Oceania (4), and South America (3).
About Times Higher Education (THE):
- Formerly: The Times Higher Education Supplement (The THES).
- Focus: News and issues related to higher education.
- CEO: Paul Howarth.
- Headquarters: London, United Kingdom.
Defence news
Adani Defence Delivers 2nd Drishti-10 Drone to Indian Navy for Maritime Security
Adani Defence has delivered the second Drishti-10 Starliner surveillance drone to the Indian Navy, enhancing the nation’s maritime capabilities. This marks a significant leap in India’s indigenous defence technology, underscoring the country’s focus on self-reliance. The Drishti-10 drone is a highly advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platform designed to monitor vast maritime territories, mitigate piracy, and provide over-the-horizon surveillance with unmatched endurance.
Key Features of Drishti-10 Starliner Drone
Endurance & Payload: 36-hour endurance and a 450 kg payload capacity for extended surveillance.
All-Weather Capability: Certified with NATO STANAG 4671, allowing operation in both segregated and unsegregated airspace.
Advanced Surveillance: Supports multi-payload, fully autonomous operations with satellite communication, crucial for maritime security and surveillance.
Strategic Significance
- Indigenous Capability: The Drishti-10 highlights India’s advancing indigenous UAV technologies, showcasing resilience in harsh terrains like the Himalayas.
- Rapid Progress: Adani Defence delivered the MALE UAV in under three years, a milestone typically achieved in five to six years in the industry.
- Strategic Interests: This delivery strengthens India’s maritime surveillance capabilities, marking a significant step toward self-reliance in defence technology and enhancing national security.
Important days
World Soil Day 2024: Understanding Its Importance and Combating Soil Degradation
World Soil Day, observed annually on 5th December, highlights the importance of healthy soil and advocates for the sustainable management of soil resources. This global event aims to raise awareness about soil conservation and its role in sustaining life on Earth.
Background
- Inception: Proposed by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) in 2002.
- Endorsement: In 2013, the FAO Conference endorsed it, and the UN General Assembly officially recognized December 5 as World Soil Day in 2014.
- Significance of Date: December 5 honors the birth anniversary of H.M King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, a strong supporter of soil conservation. After his passing in 2016, the day became a tribute to his leadership.
- Theme for 2024: “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage”
Focus: The theme emphasizes the importance of measuring, monitoring, and managing soil health for sustainable agriculture and food security.
Importance of Soil
- Supports Plant Life: Provides essential nutrients, water, and minerals.
- Biodiversity: Home to millions of microorganisms and insects.
- Food Production: Critical for producing 95% of the world’s food.
- Climate Mitigation: Soils help store carbon and combat climate change.
- Water Filtration: Soils filter water and recycle nutrients.
Significance: World Soil Day advocates for sustainable soil management, ensuring the long-term health of ecosystems and the planet.
International Volunteer Day 2024: Date, History and Theme
International Volunteer Day is celebrated annually on December 5 by the United Nations (UN) to recognize the vital contributions of volunteers to economic and social development.
Goal: This day highlights the transformative power of volunteerism in addressing global challenges and advancing progress at local, national, and international levels.
Theme for 2024: “Diverse Volunteers, Stronger Communities”
- Focus: Emphasizes the essential role of diverse volunteers in creating inclusive and resilient communities.
- SDG Contribution: Volunteerism is critical in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by fostering participation, bridging gaps, and encouraging collaboration across generations.
History of International Volunteer Day
- 1985: UN General Assembly established International Volunteer Day through Resolution 40/212, urging governments to observe it on December 5 annually.
- 1997: International Year of Volunteers (IYV) was proclaimed in 2001, recognizing the work of volunteers and aiming to enhance their support.
- 2001: Set recommendations for governments and the UN system to encourage volunteer support and recognition.
- 2002: Strengthened the UN Volunteers (UNV) programme to maximize the potential of IVD.
- 2008: Marked the 10th Anniversary of IYV with special UN sessions.
UN Volunteers Programme in 2024
- 13,000+ on-site volunteers served with 70+ UN entities.
- A record 10,000 online volunteers contributed from 180 countries, showcasing the importance of volunteer diversity in achieving global development objectives.
