Current Affairs Dec 1, 2023

National news:

1.”Govt Focuses on Inclusive Development, Empowerment: Union Minister Bharti Praveen Pawar”

• Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Bharti Praveen Pawar, emphasizes the government’s commitment to delivering project benefits for inclusive development.
• Speaking at the Viksit Bharat Sankalpa Yatra program in Chengal, Thiruvananthapuram, she underscores the goal of bringing development to all sectors of society.
• Minister Pawar suggests empowering women in agriculture through the distribution of drones, highlighting a focus on gender-inclusive development.
• Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, expresses confidence in achieving the goal of ‘Vikasit Bharat’ (Developed India) under PM Modi’s leadership.
• Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Steel, Faggan Singh Kulaste, in Thrissur, notes the direct transfer of welfare scheme benefits to the people and the Yatra’s role in expediting central government schemes.
• The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra is described as a people’s movement, aiming to empower the country for the swift implementation of various central government schemes.
• Ministers interact with beneficiaries of central schemes during the events, reinforcing the government’s commitment to grassroots development.

2.”India’s Global Potential Acknowledged, PM Modi Distributes Appointment Letters to 51,000 New Employees”

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributes appointment letters to over 51,000 newly appointed employees through a video conferencing Rojgar Mela program.
• Employment fairs (Rozgar Mela) were conducted in Lucknow, Kanpur, and Ghaziabad districts in Uttar Pradesh.
• Union Minister of Heavy Industries, Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey, in Kanpur, Union Minister of State for Home, Ajay Kumar Mishra, in Lucknow, and Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, General (Retd) Dr. V.K. Singh, in Ghaziabad, distribute appointment letters.
• Ajay Kumar Mishra, addressing the 11th Employment Fair in Lucknow, highlights India’s global potential, becoming a center of attraction worldwide.
• The Minister notes the creation of an environment for foreign investments due to India’s internal security and pragmatic foreign policies, leading to increased job opportunities in both government and private sectors.
• The event emphasizes the government’s commitment to providing employment opportunities and fostering economic growth in various regions of the country.

3. “India and China Review LAC Situation, Discuss Disengagement in Western Sector”

• India and China hold the 28th Meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs.
• Both sides engage in open, constructive, and in-depth discussions to resolve remaining issues and achieve complete disengagement in Eastern Ladakh along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
• The Indian delegation, led by Joint Secretary (East Asia) from the Ministry of External Affairs, and the Chinese delegation, led by the Director-General, Boundary and Oceanic Affairs of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, participate in the meeting.
• Agreement reached on the importance of maintaining peace and tranquility along the border areas, ensuring a stable situation on the ground, and avoiding any untoward incidents.
• Both nations commit to continuing dialogue through military and diplomatic channels, with plans for the next round of the Senior Commanders’ Meeting to achieve the objectives outlined above.
• The meeting signifies ongoing efforts to address border-related issues and maintain stability in the region.

The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is a demarcation line that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory in the region of the Himalayas. It is not an internationally recognized boundary, but rather a de facto border that emerged after the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The term “Line of Actual Control” was first used in the 1993 Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China Border Areas.

“4. PM Modi Commences Two-Day Visit to UAE for World Climate Action Summit at COP-28”

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on a two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates to attend the World Climate Action Summit, a part of the 28th Conference of Parties (COP-28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
• COP-28 is taking place from November 28 to December 12, with the UAE holding the Presidency.
• PM Modi is scheduled to address the World Climate Action Summit and participate in three high-level side events in Dubai.
• The first side event is the launch of the Green Credits Initiative, co-hosted by India and the UAE.
• The second side event, co-hosted by India and Sweden, is the launch of LeadIT 2.0, a leadership group for energy transition initiated in 2019.
• Another high-level event named “Transforming Climate Finance” is also on the agenda for PM Modi.
• Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra highlights the expectation for a clear roadmap on climate finance to be agreed upon at COP28.
• Bilateral meetings with world leaders are scheduled during the visit.

COP 28 would be the 28th session of this conference. It is important to note that developments and events may have occurred since my last update, and I don’t have real-time information. For the latest and most accurate information about COP 28, including dates, agenda, and outcomes, I recommend checking official UNFCCC sources or reputable news outlets.

5. “Raksha Mantri Inaugurates 40th Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference, Emphasizes Maritime Security”

• Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurates the 40th Coast Guard Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi.
• Singh calls upon the Indian Coast Guard to work with dedication and professionalism in strengthening coastal defenses and maritime capabilities.
• Compliments the Coast Guard for its leadership in search and rescue operations and pollution response, ensuring maritime security.
• Acknowledges the Coast Guard’s significant service to seafarers since its inception, ensuring safety and security in all circumstances.
• Stresses the importance of continuing efforts against contraband and drug trafficking in coastal areas.
• Director General Rakesh Pal provides an overview of ongoing development projects, operational readiness, and future expansion plans during the conference.
• The three-day conference aims to address contemporary maritime challenges and enhance the country’s coastal surveillance mechanisms.

6. “SBM-GOBARdhan Biogas Conference in Delhi to Focus on Accelerating Waste to Wealth and Circular Economy”

• The SBM-GOBARdhan Biogas Conference in New Delhi aims to accelerate the Compressed Biogas sector, focusing on waste to wealth and circular economy initiatives.
• The conference is organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.
• GOBARdhan initiative seeks to convert organic waste into compressed biogas, contributing to sustainable economic growth and promoting a circular economy.
• Discussions at the conference will cover transformational policies for ‘waste to compressed biogas’ projects, existing national policies, and initiatives promoting biogas development in India.
• The initiative aligns with India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, with waste to biogas playing a crucial role in the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).
• “SBM-GOBARdhan” refers to the Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen – Gobar Dhan. This initiative is part of the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), a nationwide campaign in India to promote cleanliness, hygiene, and eliminate open defecation.

7. “World Bank-Funded Agricultural Projects Launch Modern Science Technology Center in Maharashtra”

• The World Bank-funded National Agricultural Higher Education Project and Indian Agricultural Research Project launch a Modern Agricultural Science Technology Center in Rahuri, Maharashtra.
• The center, situated at Mahatma Phule Agricultural University, focuses on Climate-Adapted Agriculture and Water Management.
• Faculty at Mahatma Phule Agricultural University will receive training in the use of advanced technologies like drones, robots, IoT, artificial intelligence, geographic systems, remote sensing, and earth engines.
• A foreign tour to Thailand is organized under the guidance of Vice Chancellor Dr. P.G. Patil to provide training in modern agricultural technology for the university faculty.
• The initiative aims to enhance agricultural research and education capabilities, leveraging modern technologies for climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture.

World Bank : The World Bank is an international financial institution that provides financial and technical assistance to developing countries for development projects (such as infrastructure, health, education, and environmental sustainability) and policy advice. The main goal of the World Bank is to reduce poverty and support economic development in its member countries.

8. “India Launches First-Ever Auction of Critical Mineral Blocks to Boost Economy and Clean Energy Transition”

• Union Minister for Mines, Pralhad Joshi, launches the first-ever tranche auction of critical mineral blocks in New Delhi.
• Twenty blocks containing critical and strategic minerals like Graphite, Lithium, Molybdenum, Nickel, Copper, and Potash are included in the auction.
• The blocks are located in states such as Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat.
• Minister Joshi highlights the initiative as a landmark that will enhance India’s economy, bolster national security, and support the transition to clean energy.
• The estimated value of the 100 identified blocks of critical and strategic minerals is reported to be 45,000 crore rupees.
• The auction, concluding by February 28, will be conducted online through a transparent two-stage ascending forward auction process.
• The initiative aims to boost domestic mineral production, reduce dependence on imports, and contribute to India’s sustainable development goals.

9. “India’s G20 Presidency Concludes, Brazil Takes Over Leadership”

• Today marks the last day of India’s G20 presidency, with Brazil set to lead the G20 presidency for the next year starting tomorrow.
• Under India’s G20 presidency, the 18th G20 Summit successfully concluded in New Delhi in September, addressing global important issues.
• Key initiatives and decisions were taken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including the inclusion of the African Union in the G20.
• The Global Biofuel Alliance was launched to promote the use of biofuels globally, and initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment were introduced.
• These initiatives aim at economic integration between India, West Asia, and Europe, providing a sustainable direction for global connectivity and development.
• The G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, adopted unanimously, reflects India’s growing stature on the world stage.
• During the Summit, PM Modi emphasized a human-centric approach and the importance of technology in development, showcasing India’s commitment to global cooperation on key issues.
• Brazil

Capital – Brasilia

Currency – Real 

Language – Portuguese 

Prime Minister – Jair Bolsonaro

10. “India Forms High-Level Enquiry Committee Following US Inputs on Nexus Between Organized Crime and Terrorism”

• India establishes a high-level Enquiry Committee after the US shares inputs on the nexus between organized crime, gun running, and terrorists at the international level.
• Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi emphasizes the seriousness of the issue for law enforcement agencies and the need for international cooperation in addressing it.
• The US provided inputs during discussions on bilateral security cooperation.
• The Enquiry Committee will investigate all relevant aspects of the matter, and necessary follow-up actions will be taken based on its findings.
• Concerns are raised about a case filed in a US court linking an individual to an Indian official, contrary to the government’s policy.
• In response to Canada, India expresses concerns about providing space to anti-India extremists and violence, calling for compliance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
• India highlights interference in its internal affairs by Canada, deeming it unacceptable.

International news:

11. “COP28 Launches with Historic Fund Capitalization and Unprecedented Climate Pledges”

• COP28 in Dubai commences with a historic achievement – the capitalization of a dedicated fund for climate change initiatives, exceeding $420 million within the first hour.
• World leaders celebrate the momentous decision made in Sharm El Sheikh last year, showcasing a commitment to ambitious climate action.
• Executive Secretary Simon Stiell urges a departure from traditional stances, emphasizing practical solutions and forward pathways, leveraging the momentum generated.
• COP28 President Dr Sultan Al Jaber expresses excitement over unprecedented milestones and commitment to keeping global warming below the critical 1.5-degree threshold.
• COP28 Director General Amb Majid Al Suwaid applauds strong leadership, inclusivity, and an unconventional approach, emphasizing tangible results.
• Chief Negotiator Hana Alhashimi outlines monumental achievements, inclusivity with a diverse negotiating team, and the commitment to actionable outcomes.
• COP28’s program details critical sessions on climate finance, adaptation, and mitigation, emphasizing the importance of global stocktake and timely adoption of the agenda.
• The emphasis on practical actions, inclusivity, and turning momentum into tangible outcomes underscores the commitment to addressing the global challenge of climate change.

12. “Baluchistan Province in Pakistan Sets Daily Deportation Targets for Afghan Residents”

• Baluchistan province in Pakistan is enforcing a crackdown on illegal Afghan residents, setting daily deportation targets for police.
• The government spokesperson, Jan Achakzai, reveals that authorities have instructed the deportation of 10,000 Afghans daily.
• The targeted Afghans, living in Pakistan illegally, were given a deadline to leave the country by October 31, prompting the current crackdown.
• Some individuals have sought refuge in remote areas to evade arrest as the authorities intensify efforts to meet deportation targets.
• An estimated 1.7 million Afghans were in Pakistan in October, and over 400,000 have returned to Afghanistan since the initiation of the crackdown.
• The deportation initiative underscores Pakistan’s strict stance on illegal immigration, with a focus on returning Afghans to their home country.
• Pakistan

Capital – Islamabad

Currency – Rupee

Language – Urdu, English

Prime minister – Imran Khan

13. “Chinese Warplanes Cross Sensitive Median Line as Taiwan Reports Heightened Military Activities”

• Taiwan reports Chinese warplanes and warships, including aircraft crossing the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait, amid increased military activities.
• Chinese military activities around Taiwan escalate ahead of the island’s January election, raising tensions in the region.
• Taiwan, a democratic entity, has consistently voiced concerns about China’s military patrols and drills near the island.
• The Taiwan Strait’s median line, once an unofficial boundary, has seen regular Chinese aircraft crossings, marking a departure from previous norms.
• Taiwan’s military responds by sending forces to monitor and track the Chinese military activities in the region.
• China justifies its military presence near Taiwan, citing concerns about collusion between Taiwan separatists and the United States, and emphasizing territorial integrity.
• The heightened military activities contribute to the ongoing geopolitical tensions between China and Taiwan.
• Taiwan :

Capital -Taipei

Currency – Dollar

Language – Chinese.

Prime minister -Su Tseng chang

14. “Brazil Boosts Defensive Measures on Northern Border Amid Guyana-Venezuela Territorial Dispute”

• Brazil intensifies defensive actions along its northern border in response to the territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela.
• The Ministry of Defense in Brazil monitors the situation and increases military presence in the northern border region.
• Tensions rise between Venezuela and Guyana over the Esequiba region, known for its oil-rich resources.
• The Esequiba constitutes over two-thirds of Guyana’s total land mass and has been a source of a long-standing territorial dispute.
• Venezuela’s claims on the Esequiba are reignited after Guyana discovers oil and gas near the maritime border.
• A referendum on “the rights” of the Esequiba is scheduled in Venezuela on December 3, further escalating the dispute.
• The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is expected to rule on Guyana’s request to call off the referendum on Friday.
• Brazil’s defensive measures aim to monitor and address potential spillover effects of the territorial dispute in the region.

Venezuela:

Capital – Caracas

Currency – Boliver

Language – Spanish

Prime Minister – Juan Guaido

Obituary:

15. “Former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger Passes Away at 100”

• Henry Kissinger, former United States Secretary of State and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, passed away at the age of 100.
• Kissinger served as Secretary of State under two U.S. presidents, leaving a lasting impact on American foreign policy.
• His death occurred at his home in Connecticut.
• Kissinger remained active even past his centenary in May, participating in White House meetings, publishing a book on leadership, and testifying before a Senate committee on the nuclear threat posed by North Korea.
• His extensive career included diplomatic efforts and negotiations, contributing significantly to shaping U.S. foreign relations during the Cold War era.
• Kissinger was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1973 for his role in negotiating a ceasefire during the Vietnam War, along with Le Duc Tho of North Vietnam.

Sports:

16. “BCCI Announces Squad for India’s Tour of South Africa; Rohit Sharma to Lead Test Team, KL Rahul ODI Captain, Suryakumar Yadav T20I Captain”

• The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revealed the squad for the Indian cricket team’s tour of South Africa starting from December 10.
• Rohit Sharma will serve as the captain for the Test series, while KL Rahul will lead the team in the ODI leg of the tour. Suryakumar Yadav will captain the T20I side.
• The squad for the Test series includes key players like Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Ravichandran Ashwin.
• For the T20Is, players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Washington Sundar are part of the squad.
• The ODI squad features Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, and spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav.
• The tour encompasses three T20Is, three ODIs, and a two-match Test series, providing a challenging series for Team India.
• The Men’s Selection Committee convened in New Delhi to finalize the squad for the South Africa tour.

17. “Taiwan’s Chia Hao Lee Prevails Over India’s Kiran George in Men’s Singles at Syed Modi India International 2023”

• In the men’s singles event of the Syed Modi India International badminton tournament, Taiwan’s Chia Hao Lee secured victory against India’s Kiran George.
• The match concluded with a closely contested scoreline of 21-16, 18-21, and 22-20 in favor of Chia Hao Lee.
• Kiran George had advanced to the second round in the previous stage of the tournament.
• The Syed Modi International Tournament 2023, taking place at Babu Banarasi Das Indoor Stadium in Lucknow, spans from November 28 to December 3.