Weekly Current Affairs Sept 9 to Sept 16 2024

Weekly Current Affairs Sept 9 to Sept 16 2024

The week of September 9th to 16th, 2024, was packed with significant events and developments across India and the world, spanning national, international, economic, defense, and sports news. This post captures the highlights of the week in various sectors.

National News

1. Amit Shah Honors Mumbai Samachar with ‘200 Not Out’ Documentary
   Union Home Minister Amit Shah celebrated the legacy of Mumbai Samachar, Asia’s oldest newspaper, by releasing the documentary 200 Not Out. The documentary highlights the journey of the iconic newspaper, which has been in print for over 200 years, chronicling India’s history and progress. Shah praised the paper’s role in shaping journalistic standards in India and maintaining its relevance in the digital age.
2. India Becomes Second-Largest 5G Smartphone Market Globally
   India has overtaken the United States to become the second-largest 5G smartphone market in the world, as per Counterpoint Research. The rapid adoption of 5G technology in India has been driven by affordable smartphones and the government’s push towards a digital economy. The market is set to expand even further, making India a key player in the global 5G landscape.
3. Amit Shah Re-Elected as Chairperson of Parliamentary Committee on Official Language
   Union Home Minister Amit Shah was re-elected unanimously as the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Official Language. This re-election strengthens Shah’s role in promoting and implementing policies related to the official languages of India, ensuring the continuation of initiatives to improve linguistic diversity and maintain Hindi’s prominence in governance.
4. India to Host 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation
   India will host the 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation on September 11-12, 2024, in New Delhi. This international event aims to bring together aviation leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss key issues such as aviation safety, air traffic management, and sustainable development. The conference underscores India’s growing importance in the global aviation sector.
5. QCI Approves National Test House for Drone Certification
   The Quality Council of India (QCI) has approved the National Test House (NTH) in Ghaziabad for drone certification under the Drone Rules 2021. This certification will ensure that drones meet stringent safety and quality standards before being deployed for civilian or commercial use, marking a significant step towards the safe integration of drones into India’s airspace.
6. PM Modi Marks 132nd Anniversary of Vivekananda’s Chicago Speech
   Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the 132nd anniversary of Swami Vivekananda’s historic speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. Modi emphasized Vivekananda’s message of unity, tolerance, and peace, which continues to resonate globally. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of promoting India’s spiritual heritage and unity in diversity.
7. Cabinet Approves ₹70,125 Crore PMGSY-IV to Build Rural Roads
   The Union Cabinet has approved the fourth phase of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV), with an allocation of ₹70,125 crore. The project aims to construct 62,500 kilometers of rural roads from FY 2024-25 to 2028-29, improving connectivity in remote areas and boosting rural development across the country.
8. Launch of ‘Rangeen Machhli’ App to Support Ornamental Fisheries
   Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the Rangeen Machhli app at ICAR-CIFA in Bhubaneswar to support India’s ornamental fisheries sector. The app will provide real-time market information, guidance on fish breeding and farming, and assist fish farmers in increasing productivity and income, thus giving a much-needed boost to the industry.
9. India to Partner in European Hydrogen Week 2024
   India will be the exclusive partner at the European Hydrogen Week 2024, scheduled for November, reflecting India’s commitment to green energy. The announcement was made at the International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH) in New Delhi. India’s growing focus on hydrogen energy aims to position the country as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions.
10. PM Modi Inaugurates 2nd International Conference on Green Hydrogen
    Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the 2nd International Conference on Green Hydrogen on September 11, 2024, in New Delhi. The conference brings together global leaders and industry experts to discuss advancements in hydrogen technology, its role in achieving net-zero emissions, and ways to develop a robust hydrogen economy.

International News

1. Michel Barnier Appointed as France’s New Prime Minister
   On September 5, 2024, Michel Barnier was appointed as the new Prime Minister of France by President Emmanuel Macron. Barnier’s appointment follows his extensive career as a politician and diplomat, with significant roles in European affairs, particularly as a key negotiator during the Brexit talks.
2. Algerian President Tebboune Re-Elected with 95% of the Vote
   Abdelmadjid Tebboune was re-elected as the President of Algeria, securing 95% of the vote. His re-election signals continued stability in Algeria, with his government focusing on economic reforms and strengthening ties with both African and Middle Eastern nations.
3. Israel’s Tower Semiconductor and Adani Group to Invest $10 Billion in India
   Israel’s Tower Semiconductor and India’s Adani Group have announced a $10 billion investment in a semiconductor project in Maharashtra. This major initiative aligns with India’s ambition to become a global semiconductor hub and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers for chip manufacturing.
4. Ashok Raj Sigdel Appointed Chief of Army Staff in Nepal
   Ashok Raj Sigdel has been sworn in as the 45th Chief of Army Staff of Nepal. Sigdel, a decorated officer, will lead Nepal’s army during a critical period of modernization and strengthening of regional defense ties, particularly with India and China.
5. Nepal Joins the International Solar Alliance
   Nepal has become the 101st member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), an India-led initiative to promote solar energy worldwide. As a member, Nepal aims to expand its renewable energy capacity, reduce its carbon footprint, and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.

State News

1. Telangana to Develop AI City Near Hyderabad
   Telangana has signed an MoU with the World Trade Centers’ Association to establish a World Trade Centre in the AI City, near Hyderabad. This project will focus on creating a global hub for artificial intelligence research and development, positioning Telangana as a leader in AI innovation.
2. Asian King Vulture Conservation Center Inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh
   Uttar Pradesh has inaugurated the world’s first Asian King Vulture Conservation Center, which aims to protect and breed the endangered species. The conservation center is expected to play a crucial role in stabilizing the vulture population, which has been declining due to habitat loss and poisoning from pesticides.
3. New Species of Ginger Discovered in Nagaland
   A new species belonging to the ginger family, Curcuma Nagalandensis, has been discovered in Nagaland. The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of the region and the importance of ongoing research to identify and preserve indigenous flora.
4. Maharashtra to Establish Tribal University in Nashik
   Maharashtra has announced the establishment of a Tribal University in Nashik, which will cater specifically to the education and development of tribal students. The university will focus on courses relevant to tribal communities, including forestry, sustainable development, and healthcare.

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