Current Affairs Today October 28 2024: Top Headlines and Updates

1. India Ranks 173rd in Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI) 2024

India has been ranked 173rd in the 2024 Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI) out of 180 countries, reflecting its challenges in protecting biodiversity and natural resources. The NCI assesses each country’s commitment to conservation based on various metrics such as protected land areas, sustainable resource management, and biodiversity efforts.

2. Maharashtra Government Proposes Reducing Passing Marks for Class 10 Students

The Maharashtra state government has proposed a policy change to lower the passing marks for Class 10 students, aiming to help more students successfully complete their secondary education. This proposal reflects the state’s focus on improving education accessibility and minimizing dropouts.

3. Sports Ministry Discontinues Dhyanchand Lifetime Achievement Award

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced that it will discontinue the Dhyanchand Lifetime Achievement Award and will introduce new recognitions for sporting excellence. This decision aims to streamline awards and enhance the focus on current achievements in Indian sports.

4. Generative AI Introduces Sarvam-1, a New Language Model for Indian Languages

A major development in AI, Sarvam-1, has been launched specifically to cater to Indian languages, addressing the need for language models that can accurately process and translate Indian dialects. This language model was developed as part of the ongoing expansion of AI applications in local contexts.

5. Japan Signs Agreements with IMF for Poverty Alleviation

Japan has signed two major agreements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to promote initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation globally. These agreements underline Japan’s commitment to sustainable development goals (SDGs) focused on economic equality and global stability.

6. Uttar Pradesh Launches Infrastructure Projects Worth Rs. 7,160 Crore

The Uttar Pradesh state government has inaugurated a range of projects worth ₹7,160 crore, targeting improvements in infrastructure, connectivity, and public services across various regions. This initiative is expected to generate employment and drive economic growth in the state.

7. Asia Clean Energy Summit (ACES) Held in Singapore

The annual Asia Clean Energy Summit (ACES) was recently hosted in Singapore, gathering global leaders, environmentalists, and investors to discuss solutions for transitioning to clean energy. This event highlighted advancements in solar, wind, and alternative energy technologies.

8. G-20 Pandemic Fund Supports $25 Million Pandemic Project

The G-20 Pandemic Fund has launched a $25 million project to bolster preparedness and response to future pandemics, focusing on infrastructure, vaccine distribution, and research initiatives. This investment is crucial for building resilient health systems worldwide.

9. India Mobile Congress 2024 Held in New Delhi

The India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024 took place in New Delhi, showcasing advancements in telecommunications, 5G technology, and digital innovation. This annual event attracts major industry players and serves as a platform for discussions on digital transformation.

10. World Audiovisual Heritage Day Celebrated on October 27

World Audiovisual Heritage Day is observed annually on October 27 to raise awareness about the importance of audiovisual documents. This year, UNESCO emphasized the role of audiovisual materials in preserving cultural history and fostering global understanding.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. In the Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI) 2024, India ranks __ out of 180 countries.

   • A. 170th
   • B. 173rd
   • C. 175th
   • D. 176th
     Answer: B. 173rd

2. Which of the following state governments has proposed to reduce the passing marks for Class 10?

   • A. Delhi
   • B. Uttar Pradesh
   • C. Maharashtra
   • D. Kerala
     Answer: C. Maharashtra

3. Recently the Sports Ministry has decided to discontinue the ‘Dhyanchand Lifetime Award’ and start which award?

   • A. Arjuna Award
   • B. Dronacharya Award
   • C. Nobel Prize
   • D. None of these
     Answer: D. None of these

4. For which of the following has the Generative AI sector introduced a new language model named Sarvam-1?

   • A. Chinese language
   • B. American language
   • C. Japanese language
   • D. Indian language
     Answer: D. Indian language

5. Recently, which country has signed two agreements with IMF for global poverty alleviation?

   • A. China
   • B. Thailand
   • C. Japan
   • D. UAE
     Answer: C. Japan

6. Which state government has recently inaugurated projects worth Rs 7,160 crore?

   • A. Haryana
   • B. Uttar Pradesh
   • C. Chhattisgarh
   • D. Bihar
     Answer: B. Uttar Pradesh

7. Where was the Asia Clean Energy Summit (ACES) held recently?

   • A. Singapore
   • B. Japan
   • C. America
   • D. Russia
     Answer: A. Singapore

8. The recent Pandemic Fund Project is how many million dollar initiative funded by the G-20 Pandemic Fund?

   • A. 20 million dollars
   • B. 25 million dollars
   • C. 30 million dollars
   • D. 35 million dollars
     Answer: B. 25 million dollars

9. Recently the Union Sports Ministry has announced the closure of ‘Dhyanchand Lifetime Achievement Award’, when was it established?

   • A. Year 1997
   • B. Year 2000
   • C. Year 2002
   • D. Year 2020
     Answer: B. Year 2000

10. On which of the following dates is ‘World Audiovisual Heritage Day’ celebrated every year?

    • A. 25 October
    • B. 26 October
    • C. 27 October
    • D. 28 October
      Answer: C. 27 October

11. Where has ‘India Mobile Congress 2024’ been organized recently?

    • A. Assam
    • B. Maharashtra
    • C. Gujarat
    • D. New Delhi
      Answer: D. New Delhi

12. How many times has India been a temporary member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) so far?

    • A. Five
    • B. Eight
    • C. Ten
    • D. Eleven
      Answer: B. Eight

13. According to an IMF report, what percent is the global growth rate estimated to be in 2024 and 2025?

    • A. 2.2%
    • B. 3.2%
    • C. 4.2%
    • D. 5.2%
      Answer: B. 3.2%

14. Where has the 21st livestock census campaign been launched recently?

    • A. New Delhi
    • B. Punjab
    • C. Haryana
    • D. Rajasthan
      Answer: C. Haryana

15. Who has recently appointed Justice Sanjiv Khanna as the 51st Chief Justice of India?

    • A. Prime Minister Narendra Modi
    • B. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachur
    • C. President Draupadi Murmu
    • D. All of the above
      Answer: C. President Draupadi Murmu