Current Affairs March 3, 2024
National News
New Marine Species Named after President Draupadi Murmu: Melanochlamys Draupadi
- Discovered along the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha.
- Named after President Draupadi Murmu.
- Characterized by a distinct ruby red spot on the head-shield.
- Classified under the genus Melanochlamys.
- Discovered by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI).
Minister Anurag Singh Thakur Launches Four Portals to Revolutionize Media Landscape
- Minister Anurag Singh Thakur launched four new portals.
- The Press Sewa Portal is developed under the PRP Act, 2023.
- It aims to automate Newspaper registration and related processes.
- The portal will facilitate seamless registration for Newspapers.
Sikkim’s First Railway Station: PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for Rangpo Station
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for Sikkim’s first Indian Railways station in Rangpo.
- Part of several railway infrastructure projects unveiled worth approximately Rs 41,000 crore.
- The projects aim to boost connectivity and enhance transportation in the region.
- The Rangpo station is anticipated to improve trade and tourism in Sikkim.
PM Modi Inaugurates Vedic Clock in Ujjain, Emphasizes India’s Development
- PM Modi inaugurated the Vedic Clock in Ujjain as part of the ‘Vikramotsav’ celebration.
- He also launched the Cyber Tehsil project and emphasized the development of women, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and Make in India.
- The Vedic Clock is a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage and scientific advancements.
- It reflects the integration of traditional knowledge with modern technology for national development.
- The Cyber Tehsil project is aimed at providing e-governance services to rural areas, facilitating digital inclusion.
Polity News
Assam Government Repeals Assam Muslim Marriage and Divorce Registration Act, 1935
- The Assam cabinet meeting in Guwahati decided to repeal the 1935 Act.
- The Act was being used by 94 Muslim registrars for marriage and divorce registrations.
- The government aims to introduce a new law to regulate Muslim marriages and divorces.
- The decision has sparked debate, with some questioning the move’s impact on personal laws and religious freedom.
Summit News
BioAsia 2023: Asia’s Premier Biotechnology Convention Kicks Off in Hyderabad
- The 21st edition of BioAsia began the convention is known for discussions on biotechnology and life sciences.
- It attracts global scientists, researchers, politicians, and industry leaders.
- BioAsia provides a platform for discussing the latest developments and future opportunities in biotechnology.
- The event is a significant contributor to advancements in the biotech and life sciences sectors.
Sports News
Khelo India University Games 2024 Concludes in North-East India with Chandigarh University as Winners
- Chandigarh University clinched their first KIUG title.
- The Games were held across the seven northeastern states of India.
- Chandigarh University secured a total of 71 medals – 32 gold, 18 silver, and 21 bronze.
- The event saw participation from 100 universities with over 5000 athletes.
- KIUG is a national-level multidisciplinary sports event for university students, held annually.
Khelo India University Games (KIUG)
- Objective: To provide a platform for university athletes to showcase their talents and compete at a national level.
- Initiative: Part of the Khelo India program, aimed at promoting sports at the grassroots level.
- Organizers: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in collaboration with the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
- Inaugural Edition: Held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in February 2020.
- Subsequent Editions: Held annually since the inaugural event.
- Sports Disciplines: Wide range including athletics, badminton, basketball, boxing, football, hockey, judo, kabaddi, kho-kho, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, and wrestling.
Ashwin Surpasses Kumble, Becomes India’s Leading Home Test Wicket-Taker
- Ashwin achieved this feat during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali.
- He took his 444th wicket at home, surpassing Anil Kumble’s record of 443.
- He is the fastest Indian to take 400 Test wickets, achieving the milestone in 77 matches.
- Ashwin’s contribution with the bat has also been crucial, making him a valuable all-rounder.
Apps News
Minister Smriti Irani Launches Haj Guide 2024 and Haj Suvidha Mobile App
- Minister Smriti Irani launched Haj Guide 2024 and Haj Suvidha Mobile App in New Delhi.
- She highlighted the NDA government’s coordinated efforts for a smooth Haj pilgrimage.
- In 2023, more than 4,000 women successfully participated in the Haj without Mehram (LWM) category.
- This year, over 5,000 women have applied under the LWM category for Haj.
- The Haj Suvidha Mobile App aims to provide a hassle-free experience to pilgrims.
- The app will assist pilgrims with information, registration, and other necessary details.