Current Affairs

India Launches First Indigenous Antibiotic, Nafithromycin, to Combat Drug-Resistant Infections

On 20 November 2024, Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, launched Nafithromycin, India’s first indigenous antibiotic, to combat drug-resistant infections. Speaking at the launch event in New Delhi, he highlighted that the three-day treatment regimen of Nafithromycin is a breakthrough in addressing drug-resistant pneumonia, a condition causing over two million deaths annually.

Developed with support from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), under the Department of Biotechnology, the drug is marketed under the trade name Miqnaf. This Made-in-India antibiotic is a significant step in tackling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), marking a milestone in India’s pharmaceutical innovation.

Prasar Bharati launches its OTT platform- WAVES

On 20 November 2024, Prasar Bharati launched its OTT platform, WAVES, during the opening ceremony of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. WAVES combines nostalgia with modern digital trends, featuring iconic shows like Ramayan, Mahabharat, Shaktimaan, and Hum Log.

It offers clean, family-oriented entertainment alongside news, documentaries, and diverse content in over 12 languages and 10+ genres, including regional, women-centric, and animation content. WAVES also streams live events like Prabhu Shriram Lalla Aarti from Ayodhya, Mann ki Baat, and sports events like the US Premier League Cricket Tournament. With 65 live channels, video-on-demand, gaming, radio streaming, and e-commerce integration, WAVES aims to connect audiences with India’s cultural heritage while embracing inclusivity and innovation.

PM Modi conferred with the Dominica Award of Honour, the highest national award of the Commonwealth of Dominica

On 20 November 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the Dominica Award of Honour, the highest national award of the Commonwealth of Dominica. President Sylvanie Burton presented the award in recognition of PM Modi’s contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and his efforts to strengthen ties between India and Dominica.

PM Modi dedicated the award to the 140 crore people of India, highlighting their values and traditions. He emphasized the strong partnership between the two democracies and their role as models of women’s empowerment.

India won the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2024 in hockey

India won the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in hockey on 20 November 2024 at Rajgir Hockey Stadium, Bihar, defeating China 1-0 in the final. This marked India’s second consecutive and third overall title, equalling South Korea’s record.

Deepika scored the decisive goal in the 31st minute from a penalty corner and emerged as the tournament’s leading scorer with 11 goals, earning the Player of the Tournament award.

India had earlier defeated China 3-0 in the league phase. Japan secured the bronze medal by defeating Malaysia 4-1.

India’s domestic air traffic crosses 5 lakh passengers in a single day, marking aviation milestone

India’s aviation sector achieved a historic milestone on 17 November 2024 (Sunday), with over 505,412 domestic passengers flying in a single day, surpassing the 5 lakh mark for the first time. The Ministry of Civil Aviation celebrated the achievement, describing it as a reflection of India’s growing aviation potential.

Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu credited this success to key policies such as the Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN), which was launched in 2017 to improve connectivity to underserved regions, advancements in airport infrastructure, and the adoption of digital technologies. The number of operational airports in India has doubled over the past decade, supporting rapid growth in the sector.

19th G20 Summit Concludes; Next Summit in 2025 in South Africa

The 19th G20 Summit concluded on 19 November 2024, with Brazil’s President Lula Da Silva handing over the presidency to South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa. President Lula highlighted key initiatives during Brazil’s presidency, including:

  1. Launching the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty.
  2. Introducing a debate on taxing and integrating climate change into the agendas of Finance Ministries and Central Banks.
  3. Approving the first multilateral document on the bioeconomy.
  4. Establishing a Women’s Empowerment Working Group and proposing a new Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) to promote racial equality.
  5. Committing to triple global renewable energy capacity by 2030 and forming a coalition for local production of vaccines and medicines.
  6. Advocating reforms to make global governance more representative and engaging society through the G20 Social platform.

The summit also focused on addressing health challenges through WHO investment rounds, fostering cooperation in open innovation, and creating a task force for the governance of artificial intelligence.

President Lula noted that South Africa’s presidency would mark the completion of a leadership cycle in which all G20 member countries will have led the group at least once. The event represented the penultimate stage of a four-year sequence of G20 leadership by developing countries: Indonesia, India, Brazil, and South Africa.

India Reaches the Final of the Women’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy 2024

India advanced to the final of the Women’s Asian Hockey Champions Trophy 2024 by defeating Japan 2-0 in the semi-final held on 19 November 2024 at Rajgir Hockey Stadium, Bihar. India entered the semi-finals as favorites, having won all their group-stage matches, including a 3-0 victory over Japan.

China also secured a spot in the final by beating Malaysia 3-1 in the other semi-final, marking their fifth win in six games. Malaysia, with 2 wins and 4 losses, will now compete against Japan for the bronze medal.

The final match between India and China will take place on 20 November 2024, at 4:45 PM, while the bronze medal match between Malaysia and Japan is scheduled for 2:15 PM on the same day at Rajgir Hockey Stadium.

K Sanjay Murthy appointed as Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India

President Droupadi Murmu has appointed K Sanjay Murthy, an IAS officer of the 1989 batch (Andhra Pradesh cadre), as the new Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. Murthy, currently the Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, will assume the role once he takes charge, replacing Girish Chandra Murmu, who held office since August 8, 2020.

The CAG of India:

  • Audits all Union and State government departments, including railways, defense, India Post, and telecommunications.
  • Oversees over 1500 public enterprises, 400 non-commercial bodies, and other entities funded by the government.
  • Is empowered by Article 148 of the Constitution and governed by the CAG’s Duties, Powers and Conditions Act, 1971.

The office is supported by the Indian Audit and Accounts Department (IA&AD), comprising around 600 managerial officers and a subordinate cadre of approximately 47,000 personnel. The CAG’s mandate extends to inspecting records, transactions, and financial documents to ensure accountability and transparency in public spending.

ISRO Launches GSAT-20 via SpaceX’s Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral, USA

ISRO successfully launched its advanced communications satellite GSAT-20 aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, USA, on 18 November 2024. The satellite, weighing 4,700 kg, is one of India’s heaviest and will provide broadband services in remote areas and in-flight Internet on passenger aircraft.

  1. First-time collaboration with SpaceX: ISRO launched GSAT-20 through its commercial arm, New Space India Limited (NSIL).
  2. Reason for choosing SpaceX: India’s LVM-3 rocket, or “Bahubali,” cannot carry such a heavy payload, and French provider Arianespace lacks operational rockets currently. SpaceX’s Falcon-9, capable of launching up to 8.3 tonnes to geostationary transfer orbit, was chosen.
  3. Operational Lifespan: GSAT-20 will operate for 14 years.
  4. Satellite status: It is healthy, and its solar panels have been deployed.

This marks a significant milestone in ISRO’s efforts to enhance satellite-based broadband connectivity.

19th G20 Summit, leaders adopt Rio de Janeiro Declaration

At the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, leaders adopted the Rio de Janeiro Declaration on November 18, 2024. The declaration emphasized addressing global challenges such as climate change, conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, and promoting sustainable and inclusive growth. Key highlights include:

  1. UN Security Council Reforms: A call to expand its composition to improve representation of underrepresented regions and groups.
  2. Condemnation of Terrorism: Firm opposition to all forms of terrorism.
  3. Humanitarian Concerns: Urged increased humanitarian aid and civilian protection in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon.
  4. Conflict Resolution: Advocated for peaceful resolutions and diplomatic solutions to crises.
  5. Climate Commitments: Reaffirmed dedication to multilateralism, progress under the UNFCCC, and the Paris Agreement.

The declaration highlights the G20’s role in fostering global cooperation and addressing pressing crises.

DRDO successfully conducted a flight trial of India’s first long-range hypersonic missile

On November 16, 2024, DRDO successfully conducted a flight trial of India’s first long-range hypersonic missile from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha. The missile, capable of carrying various payloads over distances greater than 1,500 km, represents a significant technological advancement for the Armed Forces.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement as historic, positioning India among a select group of nations with advanced hypersonic military technology. The missile’s performance was tracked using multiple range systems, and data from down-range ship stations confirmed accurate terminal maneuvers and impact. The Defence Minister congratulated DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the industry on this milestone.

Nigeria honours PM Modi with Grand Commander of The Order of the Niger award

On November 17, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honored with Nigeria’s ‘Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger’ award. In his speech, he humbly dedicated the award to the people of India.

He announced India’s support for Nigeria with 20 tonnes of humanitarian aid for flood relief and congratulated Nigeria on becoming a BRICS partner country. Modi expressed confidence in India and Nigeria collaborating to address issues of the Global South.

Several MoUs were signed in the presence of Modi and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. Earlier, PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

GRAP Stage-4 implemented in Delhi-NCR from Nov 18 as Air Quality turns ‘Severe’

Due to severe air quality in Delhi-NCR, GRAP Stage-4 restrictions were implemented from 8 AM on November 18, 2024. The entry of heavy vehicles from other states is banned, except for trucks carrying essential commodities or services, and CNG, electric, and BS-VI diesel trucks.

The decision was made during a meeting of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi reached 452 by 6 PM, with most areas recording AQI levels above 450, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Magnus Carlsen wins Tata Steel Chess India Blitz event

At the Tata Steel Chess India tournament in Kolkata, Magnus Carlsen, World No. 1, secured the blitz title on November 17, 2024. Carlsen staged a crucial comeback against India’s Arjun Erigaisi in the penultimate round, ensuring an unassailable lead with 12 points. He concluded the tournament by defeating Vidit Gujrathi, achieving 13 points and clinching the blitz crown. This marks Carlsen’s second double victory in Kolkata, having achieved the same in 2019.

Indian players also performed well: Arjun Erigaisi finished third with 10.5 points, R Praggnanandhaa placed fourth with 9.5, and Vidit Gujrathi secured fifth with 9 points.

Sri Lanka’s ruling National People’s Power (NPP) party, secured a landslide victory in Parliamentary Elections

Sri Lanka’s ruling National People’s Power (NPP) party, led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, secured a landslide victory in the parliamentary elections, winning 159 out of 225 seats (approximately 63% of the votes). This marks a dramatic shift in Sri Lankan politics, as the NPP previously held only three seats.

The main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya, led by Sajith Premadasa, won 40 seats, while Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kadchi secured 8 seats. The New Democratic Front, aligned with former President Ranil Wickremasinghe, faced a major setback with only 5 seats.

This victory, following the 2022 economic crisis and the ousting of Gotabaya Rajapaksa, is seen as a strong mandate for President Dissanayake’s promises to combat corruption, recover stolen assets, and implement reforms to address poverty and economic challenges. The NPP’s leftist coalition has gained significant support, including from minority communities.

PM Modi is on a six-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana from November 16 to 21, 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a six-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana from November 16 to 21, 2024, strengthening India’s bilateral and multilateral relations.

  • Nigeria (Nov 16–17):
    PM Modi’s visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years. He will hold talks with Nigerian leadership to review the strategic partnership, focusing on economic, energy, and defense collaboration. India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007, with over 200 Indian companies investing $27 billion in Nigeria. He will also engage with the Indian diaspora in Nigeria.
  • Brazil (Nov 18):
    PM Modi will attend the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. As part of the G20 Troika with Brazil and South Africa, he will discuss global issues, build on India’s leadership in the G20, and hold bilateral meetings with world leaders.
  • Guyana (Nov 19–21):
    PM Modi’s visit is the first by an Indian Prime Minister since 1968. He will meet Guyana’s President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, address the Guyanese Parliament, and interact with the Indian diaspora. He will also participate in the Second CARICOM-India Summit in Georgetown to deepen ties with the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM), focusing on economic integration and cooperation.

Inauguration of first trilateral power transaction between Nepal, India, and Bangladesh

The first trilateral power transaction between Nepal, India, and Bangladesh was inaugurated on November 15, 2024, via the Indian power grid. The event was virtually inaugurated by India’s Power Minister Manohar Lal, Bangladesh’s Power Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, and Nepal’s Energy Minister Dipak Khadka. This historic power flow of up to 40 MW from Nepal to Bangladesh marks a significant milestone in sub-regional energy cooperation.

The initiative, initially announced during Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s visit to India last year, highlights a commitment to enhancing sub-regional connectivity and mutual economic benefits. The foundation was laid with a tripartite agreement between NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam, Nepal Electricity Authority, and Bangladesh Power Development Board, signed on October 3, 2024. This collaboration is expected to strengthen power sector interlinkages in the region.

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, Birth Anniversary of Birsa Munda

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, also known as Tribal Pride Day, is celebrated annually on November 15th in India. This day was officially designated in 2021 to honor the contributions and sacrifices of India’s tribal communities, especially their role in the country’s freedom struggle.

The day marks the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, a revered tribal leader and freedom fighter who led a significant uprising against British colonial rule in the late 19th century. His efforts and those of other tribal leaders like the Santhals, Tamars, Kols, Bhils, Khasis, and Mizos, are commemorated on this day.

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage, history, and contributions of tribal communities to India’s development. Various events and activities are organized across the country to foster unity, pride, and recognition of their significant contributions.

In recent years, the day has also been used to launch development projects and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of tribal communities, such as the PM Janman Yojana, which focuses on the development of settlements for the most backward tribes.

DRDO completes Flight Tests of Guided Pinaka Weapon System

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the flight tests of the Guided Pinaka Weapon System as part of the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials. According to a statement from the Defence Ministry, these flight tests were conducted across three phases at various field firing ranges.

During the trials, PSQR parameters such as range, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire in salvo mode for multiple target engagements were thoroughly assessed through extensive testing of rockets. A total of twelve rockets from each production agency were tested using two in-service Pinaka launchers, which had been upgraded by the launcher production agencies.

Dominica to confer highest national award, the ‘Dominica Award of Honour’, to PM Modi

Dominica has announced it will confer its highest national honor, the Dominica Award of Honour, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This award recognizes his support for Dominica during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the donation of 70,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine in February 2021, and his contributions to strengthening ties between India and Dominica in healthcare, education, information technology, and sustainable development. The award will be presented by Dominica’s President Sylvanie Burton at the India-CARICOM Summit in Georgetown, Guyana, from November 19-21, 2024.

Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit expressed gratitude for Modi’s solidarity, particularly during the global health crisis, and acknowledged Modi’s role in promoting a shared vision of resilience and progress. Prime Minister Modi accepted the award offer, emphasizing India’s commitment to collaborating on global challenges like climate change and regional conflicts alongside Dominica and the Caribbean.

Guru Nanak Jayanti or Gurpurab on 15 November 2024

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism. It commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Observed on the full moon day in the month of Kartik (October-November), it holds immense religious and cultural significance for Sikhs and is celebrated with great devotion around the world. This year Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrated on 15 November 2024.

Significance

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in Pakistan. He is revered as a spiritual leader who taught principles of equality, compassion, and devotion to God. His teachings emphasized love, selflessness, and unity. Guru Nanak’s message, captured in the sacred text Guru Granth Sahib, promotes “Naam Japna” (meditation on God’s name), “Kirat Karni” (honest work), and “Vand Chakna” (sharing with others).

43rd Edition of the India International Trade Fair (IITF) at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from 14 to 27 November

The 43rd Edition of the India International Trade Fair (IITF) is set to take place at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi from November 14 to November 27, 2024. This annual event is one of the most prominent trade fairs in India, attracting businesses, exhibitors, and visitors from across the country and around the world.

The theme of this year’s fair is Viksit Bharat in 2047. The focus state this year is Jharkhand while Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are the partner states.

The fair is divided into two parts:

  • Business Days: November 14-18, exclusively for business visitors.
  • Public Days: November 19-27, when the fair opens to the general public.

The fair will be open daily from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
Entry points are through Gates 3 and 4 (Bhairon Marg) and Gates 6 and 10 (Mathura Road).

Children’s Day in India is celebrated on November 14th each year

Children’s Day in India is celebrated on November 14th each year. This special day is dedicated to celebrating children and recognizing their importance in society. The date was chosen to honor the birthday of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, who was born on November 14, 1889. Nehru was known for his deep affection for children and his belief that they are the future of the nation. He was often referred to as “Chacha Nehru” by children, which means “Uncle Nehru.”

The significance of Children’s Day lies in promoting the rights, care, and education of children. It serves as a reminder of the importance of providing children with a nurturing environment in which they can grow, learn, and thrive. On this day, various programs and activities are organized across the country in schools, colleges, and communities to celebrate the joy and innocence of childhood. These activities often include cultural performances, competitions, and recreational events.

World Diabetes Day is observed every year on November 14th

World Diabetes Day is observed every year on November 14th. It was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to the growing concerns about the escalating health threat posed by diabetes. The day aims to raise awareness of diabetes, its prevention, and the care needed to manage it.

The date was chosen to mark the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922. Insulin is a crucial treatment for diabetes, transforming the lives of millions of people around the world.

India in Global top 10 for Patents, Trademarks, and Industrial Designs

India has entered the top 10 countries globally in Patents, Trademarks, and Industrial Designs, as per the World Intellectual Property Indicators 2024 report. The report highlights India’s significant growth in intellectual property (IP) activity, showing progress in patent, trademark, and industrial design applications. India ranks sixth globally for patents, with 64,480 applications, more than half from residents.

  • 4th in Trademarks (+6.1%) with 90% resident fillings.
  • 6th in Patents (+15.7%), driven by 55.2% resident fillings.
  • 10th in Industrial Designs (+36.4%), Moving up 1 spot.

The patent office granted 149.4% more patents in 2023 than the previous year, demonstrating a rapidly evolving IP ecosystem. Industrial design applications rose by 36.4%, driven by sectors like Textiles and Accessories, Tools and Machines, and Health and Cosmetics, which contributed to nearly half of all design filings.

Pankaj Advani won the 2024 World Billiards Championship

Veteran Indian billiards player Pankaj Advani won the 2024 World Billiards Championship, achieving his 28th world title and his seventh consecutive win. The championship, held by the International Billiards and Snooker Federation (IBSF) in Doha, Qatar, saw Advani, 39, defeat England’s Robert Hall in a thrilling 4-2 final match on November 9, 2024. Advani’s career also includes two Asian Games gold medals, won in 2006 and 2010.

DRDO successfully conducts maiden flight test of Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)

On 12 November 2024, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the first flight test of its Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, using a mobile launcher. The test met all primary mission objectives, with sub-systems performing as expected.

The missile’s performance was monitored by multiple range sensors, including radar, optical tracking, and telemetry systems. Equipped with advanced avionics and software, the LRLACM was developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru, with support from other labs and Indian industries.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI)

Justice Sanjiv Khanna was sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI) on November 11, 2024, in a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath. Key dignitaries, including Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other Union Cabinet members, attended the event. Justice Khanna, who joined the Supreme Court in 2019, has contributed to significant rulings, such as upholding the abrogation of Article 370 and overturning the electoral bonds scheme.

Beginning his career in 1983 under the Delhi Bar Council, Justice Khanna has expertise in constitutional law, taxation, arbitration, and environmental law. His judicial experience includes appointments at the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court, where he handled influential cases.

The ceremony highlighted respect for judicial continuity, with retired Chief Justices and legal figures in attendance. Justice Khanna succeeds former CJI DY Chandrachud, who reflected on his tenure in a heartfelt farewell. Justice Khanna will serve a six-month term, focusing on key national issues, as outlined by the government’s recent appointment notification under Article 124 of the Indian Constitution.

GM Aravindh Chithambaram wins Chennai Grand Masters Chess Tournament 2024

In the Chennai Grand Masters Chess Tournament on November 11, 2024, GM Aravindh Chithambaram won the Masters title after a challenging final against American GM Levon Aronian. Aravindh secured victory by winning the first blitz play-off and drawing the second match with the black pieces.

Meanwhile, GM V Pranav remained unbeaten to win the Challengers title. The tournament, organized by MGD1 and sponsored by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu, included two categories: Masters and Challengers.

Dr. Navin Ramgoolam return as Prime Minister in Mauritius

On November 11, 2024, Dr. Navin Ramgoolam secured a historic electoral victory in Mauritius, marking his return as the Prime Minister for the third time. This victory came after the incumbent Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth conceded defeat in the parliamentary elections held on November 10, 2024.

Dr. Ramgoolam, who previously served as Prime Minister from 1995 to 2000 and from 2005 to 2014, is the son of Mauritius’ first Prime Minister, Seewoosagur Ramgoolam. His win is seen as a significant shift in the political landscape of Mauritius, with his party, the Alliance of Change, gaining a majority in the parliament.

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