Current Affairs Today – September 17 2024: Top Headlines and Updates

Current Affairs Today – September 17 2024: Top Headlines and Updates

National News

1. PM Modi Welcomes Newborn Calf ‘Deepjyoti’

In an extraordinary event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced a newborn calf named ‘Deepjyoti’ at his residence. What caught everyone’s attention was the unique mark resembling light on its forehead, symbolizing purity and new beginnings. The calf’s name, ‘Deepjyoti,’ meaning “light of a lamp,” has gained public interest, reflecting cultural significance and reverence for animals in India.

This event also serves as a subtle reflection of India’s emphasis on promoting sustainable rural practices and animal husbandry, which remain key pillars of its agrarian economy. Furthermore, PM Modi’s personal connection with nature and animals often resonates with his policies, including those aimed at rural development and the welfare of animals.

2. Government Removes Floor Price on Basmati Rice

In a landmark decision, the Indian government removed the $950 per tonne minimum export price for Basmati rice. This move is expected to boost exports significantly, benefitting both exporters and farmers. By removing the price floor, the government aims to enhance the competitiveness of Indian Basmati rice in global markets, providing relief to farmers who have faced declining revenues due to pricing restrictions.

This step aligns with India’s broader trade and export policies, positioning the country as a leading global player in the agricultural market. It also reflects the government’s commitment to farmer welfare, ensuring that they receive better prices and increased export opportunities for their produce. The decision was welcomed by the agricultural community, especially in states like Punjab and Haryana, where Basmati rice farming plays a crucial role in the economy.

International News

1. Iran Launches Second Satellite

Iran achieved another milestone in its aerospace program with the successful launch of its second satellite in 2024, Chamran-1. The launch marks a significant step forward in Iran’s space exploration ambitions, as it continues to invest heavily in satellite technology. Chamran-1, a research satellite, is expected to gather crucial data that will aid Iran’s scientific and technological development.

While Iran’s satellite launches are often viewed with international scrutiny, the country’s advancements demonstrate its growing expertise in space technology. The successful launch of Chamran-1 strengthens its position in global aerospace initiatives, contributing to the broader understanding of space and technological innovations.

2. Typhoon Bebinca Strikes Multiple Countries

Typhoon Bebinca wreaked havoc across multiple countries, including the Philippines and Japan, before heading toward Shanghai, China. The storm brought heavy rains, flooding, and significant disruptions in transportation. Local authorities in these regions have mobilized rescue and relief operations to mitigate the impact of the storm.

Typhoons like Bebinca are a recurring threat in Southeast Asia, leading to millions of dollars in economic damage and loss of life each year. Countries in the region, particularly the Philippines, which lies in the typhoon belt, continue to invest in disaster management infrastructure to minimize the damage caused by such natural disasters.

State News

1. Jagdeep Dhankhar Inaugurates ‘Samvidhan Mandir’ in Maharashtra

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurated the ‘Samvidhan Mandir’ (Constitutional Temple) at 433 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across Maharashtra. The temple is a symbolic structure that promotes awareness and reverence for the Indian Constitution. This initiative aims to educate students about constitutional values, democracy, and their roles as citizens of India.

The inauguration of Samvidhan Mandir underscores the importance of imparting knowledge about India’s rich democratic traditions to the youth. It promotes patriotism and instills in students the principles that govern the nation. Through such initiatives, the government seeks to ensure that constitutional awareness is not just limited to legal experts but becomes a part of the daily consciousness of ordinary citizens.

2. Inauguration of CREATE at Leh

The Centre for Rural Enterprise Acceleration through Technology (CREATE) was inaugurated by MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi in Leh, a move aimed at fostering entrepreneurship in rural areas of Ladakh. The center is expected to provide much-needed support to rural entrepreneurs, helping them leverage technology to scale their businesses.

CREATE is an ambitious initiative that promises to boost rural development in one of India’s most remote regions. The center is designed to serve as a hub for technological advancements and business support, providing entrepreneurs with access to resources that can help them overcome the challenges of rural business environments.

Banking News

1. HDFC Bank’s ‘Parivartan’ to Boost Farmers’ Income

HDFC Bank’s ‘Parivartan’ initiative is set to boost the income of 5 lakh marginal farmers by 2025. This Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative focuses on providing farmers with financial education, better market access, and improved agricultural practices.

Parivartan has been instrumental in helping farmers adopt sustainable farming practices, improve crop yields, and gain access to fair prices for their produce. The program not only aims to uplift farmers economically but also ensures they contribute to India’s broader goals of achieving sustainable agriculture and food security.

2. DPIIT to Launch BHASKAR Platform

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) will launch the Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR), a platform designed to support India’s thriving startup ecosystem. BHASKAR will serve as a repository of knowledge, helping startups access critical information about policies, funding, and market opportunities.

India’s startup ecosystem has seen exponential growth in recent years, and platforms like BHASKAR are essential in providing the resources necessary to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The launch of this platform will further strengthen India’s position as a global hub for startups, promoting economic growth and job creation.

Defence News

1. Navika Sagar Parikrama II Set to Begin

The Indian Navy’s Navika Sagar Parikrama II is set to begin, with Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K leading an all-women team to circumnavigate the globe aboard the INSV Tarini. This expedition is a follow-up to the first Navika Sagar Parikrama and aims to promote women’s empowerment in the Indian Navy.

Navika Sagar Parikrama II is a testament to the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender equality and women’s participation in high-end maritime missions. The all-women crew’s voyage not only demonstrates their exceptional skill but also serves as an inspiration to women across India to pursue careers in defense and other male-dominated sectors.

2. VINETRA Commissioned at INS Satavahana

The Kalvari Submarine Escape Training Facility (VINETRA) was commissioned at INS Satavahana in Visakhapatnam. VINETRA is expected to enhance the Indian Navy’s capability to conduct submarine rescue operations, improving the overall safety and preparedness of its underwater fleet.

VINETRA is a state-of-the-art facility that trains submariners in emergency evacuation and rescue operations. This facility adds a significant edge to India’s naval capabilities, especially given the growing importance of submarine warfare in modern naval strategy.

Summits and Conferences News

1. India at G20 Agriculture Ministerial Meeting

India, led by Ram Nath Thakur, participated in the G20 Agriculture Ministerial Meeting held in Brazil. The meeting focused on enhancing global agricultural cooperation and sharing best practices in sustainable farming. India highlighted its initiatives, such as digital platforms for farmers, soil health cards, and efforts to combat climate change through sustainable agriculture.

India’s participation in this meeting underscores its leadership in the global agricultural landscape. With a large rural population dependent on agriculture, India’s innovative farming solutions and contributions to global food security were widely acknowledged at the summit.

Sports News

1. Neeraj Chopra Finishes 2nd in Diamond League Final

Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra secured second place in the Diamond League final with a throw of 87.86 meters, just 0.01 meters behind Andersen Peters. Chopra’s performance, despite missing the top spot, cemented his status as one of the world’s top athletes in javelin throw.

Neeraj Chopra’s consistency at global events like the Diamond League showcases his exceptional talent and dedication. His performances inspire millions of Indians, particularly the youth, to pursue excellence in sports.

2. Oscar Piastri Wins Maiden F1 Victory

Oscar Piastri, the young Australian driver for McLaren, clinched his first Formula 1 victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Piastri’s maiden win marks the arrival of a new star in the world of motorsport.

Piastri’s victory adds to McLaren’s legacy of producing world-class drivers and also brings fresh excitement to Formula 1 as the sport continues to attract a new generation of fans.

Awards News

Emmy Awards 2024

The 76th Primetime Emmy Awards took place on September 16, 2024, in Los Angeles, celebrating excellence in television. This year’s winners included a diverse range of shows, reflecting the growing inclusivity in the television industry.

The Emmys remain one of the most prestigious awards in the entertainment industry, and the 2024 edition highlighted the continuing dominance of streaming platforms, which have revolutionized the way content is consumed globally.

Question and Answers –

1. Who launched the newborn calf ‘Deepjyoti’, and what does its name symbolize?

• Answer: Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the newborn calf named ‘Deepjyoti’. The name symbolizes the “light of a lamp”, signifying purity and new beginnings.

2. What significant change did the Indian government make regarding the export of Basmati rice in September 2024?

• Answer: The Indian government removed the $950 per tonne minimum export price for Basmati rice, aiming to boost exports and benefit farmers by enhancing their competitiveness in global markets.

3. Which country successfully launched the ‘Chamran-1’ satellite in 2024?

• Answer: Iran successfully launched the Chamran-1 satellite, marking another step forward in its space exploration and satellite technology efforts.

4. What is the name of the typhoon that struck the Philippines, Japan, and is heading toward Shanghai in September 2024?

• Answer: The typhoon is named Bebinca, which caused heavy rains and flooding across multiple countries, including the Philippines and Japan.

5. What initiative did Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurate in Maharashtra to promote awareness about the Indian Constitution?

• Answer: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurated the ‘Samvidhan Mandir’ (Constitutional Temple) at 433 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across Maharashtra, aimed at educating students about constitutional values and democracy.

6. What is the name of the initiative by HDFC Bank aimed at boosting the income of 5 lakh marginal farmers by 2025?

• Answer: The initiative is called ‘Parivartan’, which focuses on providing farmers with financial education, better market access, and improved agricultural practices.

7. What is the name of the platform launched by DPIIT to support startups in India?

• Answer: The platform is called BHASKAR (Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry), designed to provide startups with access to critical information about policies, funding, and market opportunities.

8. What event is set to begin under the Indian Navy in 2024 with an all-women crew?

• Answer: The Navika Sagar Parikrama II, led by Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, is set to begin, with an all-women crew circumnavigating the globe aboard the INSV Tarini.

9. Which Indian javelin thrower secured second place in the 2024 Diamond League final?

• Answer: Neeraj Chopra secured second place in the Diamond League final with a throw of 87.86 meters, narrowly missing the top spot by 0.01 meters.

10. Who won their maiden Formula 1 race at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in September 2024?

• Answer: Oscar Piastri, the Australian driver for McLaren, won his first Formula 1 race at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in September 2024.