Current Affairs Feb 26, 2024
National News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Inaugurates India’s Longest Cable-Stayed Bridge, Sudarshan Setu in Gujarat
- The inauguration of Sudarshan Setu marks a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development, showcasing the nation’s dedication to progress and connectivity.
- Formerly known as the Signature Bridge, Sudarshan Setu spans 2.32 km, making it the longest cable-stayed bridge in India.
- The bridge connects Okha mainland with Beyt Dwarka island, enhancing transportation and accessibility in the region.
- Constructed at a cost of ₹979 crore, Sudarshan Setu is a vital link facilitating economic and social development in Gujarat.
The Department of Empowerment of Persons to Host Inclusivity Celebration “Purple Fest” at Rashtrapati Bhawan
- The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment will organize a day-long celebration of inclusivity at Amrit Udyaan in the Rashtrapati Bhawan on 26th February 2024.
- The event, named “Purple Fest,” aims to highlight the nation’s dedication to inclusivity and empowerment, with a focus on the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
- Smt. Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, will inaugurate the event, underscoring the importance of promoting inclusivity and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens.
Prime Minister Inaugurates Ayush Institutes Promoting Healthcare Nationwide
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two institutes of the Union Ministry of Ayush virtually.
- The inauguration included the ‘Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy’ (CRIYN) in Jhajjar, Haryana, and the National Institute of Naturopathy (NIN) titled ‘NISARG GRAM’ in Pune, Maharashtra.
- These institutes are aimed at promoting healthcare and well-being across the nation through comprehensive infrastructure and educational programs.
New CBFC Office in Chandigarh to Benefit Regional Filmmakers
- Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, announces plans for a new office of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in Chandigarh.
- The move aims to provide regional filmmakers easier access to film screenings and submission of edits or changes, eliminating the need to travel to Delhi or Mumbai.
- The decision is expected to significantly benefit the Punjabi film industry and enhance the efficiency of the certification process.
- CBFC operates as a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.
Central Board of Film certification:
- Chairman: Prasoon Joshi
- Chief Executive Officer: Smita Vats Sharma
- Formation: 15 January 1951
International News
Dubai Introduces Five-Year Multiple-Entry Visa for Indian Travelers
- Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) introduces a five-year multiple-entry visa to boost travel between India and the UAE.
- The initiative is a response to the substantial rise in Indian visitors to Dubai, with India being the top source market for tourists in the region.
UAE Swiftly Removed from FATF “Gray List”
- Less than two years after being demoted to the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) “gray list,” the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been swiftly removed.
- The Paris-based watchdog acknowledged the UAE’s strengthened anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing measures, leading to the country’s exit from increased monitoring.
- Namibia and Kenya have been placed on the gray list following the latest FATF review, highlighting the ongoing efforts globally to combat illicit financial activities.
What is FATF (The Financial Action Task Force, also known by its French name, Groupe d’action financière, is an intergovernmental organization)
- Headquarters: Paris, France
- Founded: July 1989
- Founder: Group of Seven
- President: T Raja Kumar
- Abbreviation: FATF
- Official language: English, French
Defence News
5th Edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ Commences
- The 5th edition of the Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ begins at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan, India.
- Scheduled from February 25th to March 9th, 2024, the exercise involves the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).
- The training program focuses on enhancing interoperability and fostering closer military cooperation between the two nations.
Banking News
HDFC Bank Receives RBI Approval for Divestment of Stake in HDFC Credila
- HDFC Bank obtains approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for the divestment of a 90% stake in HDFC Credila, its education loan subsidiary.
- The decision follows RBI’s directive to HDFC to reduce its stake in Credila to below 10% within two years post the HDFC Bank merger in April 2023.
HDFC Bank:
- CEO: Sashidhar Jagdishan
- Founded: August 1994, Mumbai
- Headquarters: Mumbai
Economy News
NSSO Releases Findings on Household Consumption Expenditure Survey
- The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) presents findings from the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) conducted from August 2022 to July 2023.
- The survey assesses Household Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) across various demographics, including rural and urban sectors, states, union territories, and socio-economic groups.
- Per capita monthly household consumption expenditure more than doubled from 2011-12 to 2022-23, with average rural spending increasing to ₹3,773 from ₹1,430, and urban spending rising to ₹6,459 from ₹2,630, reflecting significant economic changes over the period.
National Sample Survey Office (NSSO): Providing Crucial Socio-Economic Data for Policy Formulation
- Established in 1950, NSSO conducts large-scale sample surveys to gather socio-economic data vital for policy formulation and planning in India.
- Operating under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, NSSO conducts surveys on various topics including employment, consumer expenditure, health, and education.
- Surveys cover both rural and urban areas, providing valuable insights into the socio-economic conditions of the country.
- NSSO data plays a crucial role in formulating effective development strategies and policies for different sectors of the Indian economy and society.
Appointment News
Geeta Batra Appointed Director of World Bank’s GEF Independent Evaluation Office
- Geeta Batra, a distinguished Indian economist, is appointed as the Director of the Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) of the World Bank’s Global Environment Facility (GEF).
- Batra’s appointment is notable as she became the first woman from a developing country to assume this prestigious role, marking a significant milestone for gender diversity and representation in global leadership positions.
Important Days
World NGO Day Celebrates the Role of Non-Governmental Organizations
- February 27th marks World NGO Day, dedicated to recognizing and honoring the invaluable contributions of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) worldwide.
- NGOs, driven by a passion for positive change, play a crucial role in addressing humanity’s most pressing challenges.
- The theme for World NGO Day 2024 is “Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of NGOs in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” highlighting their significant role in achieving global sustainability.
