December 2024

Payal Kapadia: First Indian Nominee for Best Director at Golden Globes Awards

Filmmaker Payal Kapadia has made history as the first Indian director nominated for Best Director (Motion Picture) at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards for her film All We Imagine As Light. The film has also been nominated for Best Motion Picture – (Non-English Language).

An Indo-French co-production, the film stars Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, and Hridhu Haroon, portraying the struggles of two women during a transformative trip to a beach town. It previously won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival, becoming the first Indian film in the competition section in 30 years.

The film has also earned accolades like Best International Film at the New York Film Critics Circle and Best International Feature at the Gotham Awards 2024.

The Golden Globe nominees for Best Director include renowned filmmakers like Jacques Audiard (Emilia Perez) and Sean Baker (Anora). The 82nd Golden Globe Awards will be held on January 6, 2025.

INS Tushil, a multi role stealth guided missile frigate commissioned into Indian Navy in Russia

On December 9, 2024, INS Tushil, a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, was commissioned into the Indian Navy in Russia in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The commissioning was hailed as a symbol of India’s growing maritime strength and the deep friendship between India and Russia.

The ship, incorporating increasing Made-in-India content, represents a collaborative effort between Indian and Russian industries.

The event was also attended by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Russian Deputy Minister of Defence Alexander Vasilyevich Fomin, Governor of Kaliningrad Alexey Sergeyevich Besprozvannykh and other senior officials from the Indian and Russian Governments, Navies, and industries.

Sanjay Malhotra appointed new Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

Sanjay Malhotra, the current Revenue Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, has been appointed as the new Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). His tenure will begin on December 11, 2024, and last for three years.

A 1990-batch IAS officer from the Rajasthan cadre, Malhotra is an Engineering graduate from IIT Kanpur and holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Princeton University. He has held various key positions across sectors such as finance, taxation, power, information technology, and mines. As Revenue Secretary, he has been pivotal in formulating tax policies.

Malhotra succeeds Shaktikanta Das, who has completed a successful six-year term as the RBI Governor. Das, recognized for his leadership during critical times, will conclude his term on December 10, 2024.

Current Affairs MCQs : 9 December 2024

Q.: Who was the President of Syria for the past 24 years, who fled the country after the rebel forces took control in December 2024?

a) Bashar al-Assad
b) Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali
c) Hadi al-Bahra
d) Geir Pedersen

Answer
Ans : a) Bashar al-Assad

Q.: Which team won the Men’s Asia Cup Under-19 Cricket in 2024?

a) India
b) Pakistan
c) Bangladesh
d) Sri Lanka

Answer
Answer: c) Bangladesh
In the Men’s Asia Cup Under-19 Cricket final on December 8, 2024, Bangladesh defeated India by 59 runs at the Dubai International Stadium to win the title.

Q.: Who is D Gukesh competing against in the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship?

a) Magnus Carlsen
b) Fabiano Caruana
c) Ian Nepomniachtchi
d) Ding Liren

Answer
Answer: d) Ding Liren
In the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship, India’s 18-year-old D Gukesh leads defending champion Ding Liren 6-5 after their 11th game on December 8, 2024, at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore.

FIDE World Chess Championship: India’s D Gukesh has taken 6-5 lead after 11th game

In the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship, India’s 18-year-old D Gukesh leads defending champion Ding Liren 6-5 after their 11th game on December 8, 2024, at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore. Gukesh secured a decisive victory in just 29 moves after Ding blundered under time pressure on his 28th move.

The championship, a best-of-14 games format, requires 7.5 points to win. If tied after 14 games, a tie-break will occur on December 13, 2024. Gukesh, on the verge of becoming the youngest classical chess champion, is poised to break Garry Kasparov’s record. The chess world is closely following this historic moment.

Bangladesh Men’s Asia Cup Under-19 Cricket final

In the Men’s Asia Cup Under-19 Cricket final on December 8, 2024, Bangladesh defeated India by 59 runs at the Dubai International Stadium to win the title. Bangladesh, batting first, were bowled out for 198 in 49.1 overs, with Mohammad Rizan Hossan top-scoring with 47 runs. Indian bowlers Yudhjit Guha, Chetan Sharma, and Hardik Raj each took two wickets.

In response, India were all out for 139 in 35.2 overs while chasing a target of 199 runs. Indian captain Mohammad Amaan scored the highest with 26 runs, followed by Hardik Raj’s quick 24 off 21 balls. Bangladesh emerged victorious to lift the cup.

Syrian Rebel Forces Claim Control of Damascus, President Assad Flees

On December 8, 2024, Syrian rebel forces claimed control of Damascus after a week-long offensive that faced no resistance from government troops, signaling a dramatic shift in Syria’s political landscape. President Bashar al-Assad, who ruled for 24 years, reportedly fled the country to an undisclosed location. Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali expressed willingness to ensure a peaceful transition of power to the rebels.

The opposition, led by Hadi al-Bahra, announced plans to collaborate with international partners, including Arab and European countries and the UN, to shape Syria’s future. Key developments included the rebels’ capture of Homs, the withdrawal of Syrian forces from Damascus International Airport, and the release of prisoners from Saydnaya military prison. Clashes between rebel and regime forces had escalated since November 27, 2024.

Current Affairs MCQs : 7 December 2024

Q.: Who will India face in the final of the Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup ODI Cricket on December 8, 2024?

a) Pakistan
b) Afghanistan
c) Bangladesh
d) Sri Lanka

Answer
Ans: c) Bangladesh
India will face Bangladesh in the final, scheduled to be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on December 8, 2024.

Q.: What is the revised Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) after the RBI’s December 2024 decision?

a) 3.5%
b) 4.0%
c) 4.5%
d) 5.0%

Answer
Answer: b) 4.0%
The RBI reduced the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) by 50 basis points to 4%, releasing ₹1.16 lakh crore to ease liquidity stress.

Q.: What is the current policy repo rate as announced by the RBI in December 2024?

a) 6.25%
b) 6.50%
c) 6.75%
d) 7.00%

Answer
Answer: b) 6.50%
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its December monetary policy meeting, decided to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 6.50% for the 11th consecutive time since February 2023.

Q.: Who has assumed the chairmanship of the 68th Session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) on behalf of India in December 2024?

a) S. Jaishankar
b) Shambhu Kumaran
c) T. S. Tirumurti
d) Syed Akbaruddin

Answer
Answer: b) Shambhu Kumaran
India has been appointed to chair the 68th Session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), with Shambhu Kumaran, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Vienna, assuming the chairmanship on December 6, 2024.

India to Chair 68th Session of UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs for the first time

India has been appointed to chair the 68th Session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), with Shambhu Kumaran, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Vienna, assuming the chairmanship on December 6, 2024. This marks the first time India has chaired this UN body, which is responsible for monitoring global drug trends, supporting balanced policies, and overseeing international drug conventions.

India’s leadership reflects its growing global influence and commitment to addressing international challenges through multilateral platforms. As Chair, India will prioritize representing the Global South’s interests and fostering dialogue on drug policy issues while continuing the CND’s ongoing work.

RBI keeps repo rate unchanged; Cuts Cash Reserve Ratio by 50 basis points to 4%;

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its December monetary policy meeting, decided by a 4:2 majority to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 6.50% for the 11th consecutive time since February 2023. The SDF rate remains at 6.25%, and the MSF rate and Bank Rate at 6.75%. The RBI also reduced the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) by 50 basis points to 4%, releasing ₹1.16 lakh crore to ease liquidity stress.

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das emphasized the commitment to price stability amid inflationary pressures and revised the FY25 inflation forecast to 4.8% from 4.5%. The MPC retained its neutral stance, focusing on aligning inflation with the target while supporting growth. The policy meeting was held on December 4-6, 2024.

U-19 Asia Cup ODI Cricket: India and Bangladesh in the Final

In the Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup ODI Cricket, India advanced to the final by defeating Sri Lanka by seven wickets in the semi-final on December 6, 2024. Chasing a target of 174, India achieved it in just 21.4 overs, with Vaibhav Suryavanshi top-scoring 67 runs off 36 balls. Sri Lanka had elected to bat first after winning the toss.

In the other semi-final, Bangladesh beat Pakistan by seven wickets at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Bangladesh chose to field first after winning the toss.

India will now face Bangladesh in the final, scheduled to be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on December 8, 2024.

Current Affairs MCQs : 6 December 2024

Q.: What is the primary mission of the PROBA-3 satellites launched by ISRO on 5 Dec 2024?

a) Study Earth’s magnetic field
b) Explore Mars’ surface
c) Study the Sun’s corona
d) Monitor global warming

Answer
Answer: c) Study the Sun’s corona
On 5 December 2024, ISRO successfully launched the PSLV C-59 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, at 16:04 IST, carrying the PROBA-3 spacecraft into a highly elliptical orbit. The PROBA-3 mission, is to study the Sun’s corona (outer atmosphere).

Q.: Which region of India is celebrated in the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav held from 6-8 Dec 2024?

a) Northern India
b) Southern India
c) Northeastern India
d) Western India

Answer
Answer: c) Northeastern India
Eight North Eastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—collectively known as Ashtalakshmi.

Q.: What is the main purpose of the Hornbill Festival?

a) Promote Tourism in India
b) Showcase the Cultural Heritage of Naga Tribes
c) Celebrate National Independence
d) Foster International Trade Relations

Answer
Ans: b) Showcase the Cultural Heritage of Naga Tribes
The Hornbill Festival, also known as the Festival of Festivals, is an annual celebration held in the northeastern Indian state of Nagaland from December 1 to December 10.

Q.: What is the new UPI Lite wallet limit set by the RBI in December 2024?

a) ₹2,000
b) ₹3,000
c) ₹4,000
d) ₹5,000

Answer
Answer: d) ₹5,000
On 4 December 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) increased the UPI Lite wallet limit from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 and raised the offline transaction limit from ₹500 to ₹1,000 per transaction.

Q.: Which organization launched the UPI platform in India?

a) Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
b) National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
c) State Bank of India (SBI)
d) Ministry of Finance

Answer
Answer: b) National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
UPI is India’s payment ecosystem launched in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

RBI Raises UPI Lite Wallet Limit to ₹5,000 and Offline Transaction Limit to ₹1,000

On 4 December 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) increased the UPI Lite wallet limit from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 and raised the offline transaction limit from ₹500 to ₹1,000 per transaction. These changes are effective immediately, aiming to enhance convenience and security for digital payments.

Under the new guidelines, UPI Lite allows transactions of up to ₹1,000 per payment, with a total wallet cap of ₹5,000. Previously, the offline framework permitted a maximum of ₹500 per transaction and a wallet limit of ₹2,000. This update aligns with the RBI’s efforts to promote digital transactions and provide a more inclusive payment experience.

The changes are implemented under Sections 18 and 10(2) of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. The announcement builds on an earlier update by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das in October 2024, highlighting the growing significance of UPI in India’s economy.

In October 2024, UPI achieved a record-breaking 16.58 billion financial transactions in a single month, reflecting its pivotal role in revolutionizing India’s payment ecosystem since its launch in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

Hornbill Festival in Kisama Heritage Village, Nagaland from December 1 to December 10.

The Hornbill Festival, also known as the Festival of Festivals, is an annual celebration held in the northeastern Indian state of Nagaland from December 1 to December 10. Organized by the Government of Nagaland, the festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Naga tribes and aims to promote inter-ethnic interaction and unity.

The festival takes place at the Kisama Heritage Village, located about 12 km from Kohima. It features a vibrant array of cultural displays, including traditional Naga dances, music, crafts, sports, food fairs, and religious ceremonies. Visitors can experience the unique customs, folklore, and traditions of the Naga people, making it a truly immersive cultural experience.

Key highlights of the Hornbill Festival include:

  • Traditional Naga Morungs: Exhibitions showcasing the traditional houses and cultural artifacts of the Naga tribes.
  • Cultural Performances: Colorful dances, songs, and music performances by various Naga tribes.
  • Crafts and Art: Display and sale of traditional Naga crafts, wood carvings, paintings, and sculptures.
  • Food Fairs: A variety of Naga cuisine, including traditional dishes and delicacies.
  • Sports and Games: Traditional Naga sports such as archery, wrestling, and indigenous games.
  • Music Festival: The Hornbill Music Festival, featuring performances by renowned artists from across India and abroad.

The Hornbill Festival is a celebration of Naga culture and heritage, providing a platform for the diverse ethnic groups of Nagaland to come together and share their traditions with visitors from around the world.

Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from 6 to 8 December 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 6 December 2024. The three-day festival celebrates the culture, crafts, and tourism of the eight North Eastern states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—collectively known as Ashtalakshmi.

The event will feature:

  • 250+ artisans showcasing handicrafts, handlooms, and agri-horti products, including 34 GI-tagged items.
  • A Fashion Show, Design Conclave, and Buyer-Seller Meet to promote collaborations and economic growth.
  • A Rural Haat Bazaar with products from 320 farmers and artisans.

The Mahotsav aims to boost economic development in the North East, creating opportunities for artisans, weavers, and entrepreneurs.

ISRO launches PSLV C-59 carrying ESA’s PROBA-3 from Sriharikota

On 5 December 2024, ISRO successfully launched the PSLV C-59 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, at 16:04 IST, carrying the PROBA-3 spacecraft into a highly elliptical orbit. The mission, a collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), is managed by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm.

The PROBA-3 mission, an in-orbit demonstration, involves two satellites launched in a stacked configuration to showcase advanced technologies such as precise satellite positioning, formation flying, and proximity operations. These satellites, weighing a combined 545 kg, were placed in orbit 18 minutes after launch and will fly in close formation to study the Sun’s corona (outer atmosphere).

This launch underscores ISRO’s expertise in commercial satellite missions, with PSLV C-59 marking the second ESA satellite launch using an Indian rocket.

Current Affairs MCQs : 5 December 2024

Q.: Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah becomes the first female president of which country in December 2024?

a) South Africa
b) Botswana
c) Namibia
d) Zimbabwe

Answer
Answer: c) Namibia
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of the ruling SWAPO party has won Namibia’s eighth presidential election, becoming the country’s first female president with over 57% of the votes.

Q. Who becomes the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for the third time in December 2024?

a) Uddhav Thackeray
b) Ajit Pawar
c) Devendra Fadnavis
d) Eknath Shinde

Answer
Ans: c) Devendra Fadnavis
Devendra Fadnavis becomes the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for the third time on 5 December 2024.

Devendra Fadnavis becomes Maharashtra Chief Minister for the Third Time

Devendra Fadnavis becomes the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for the third time on 5 December 2024. He leads the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance to a landslide victory in the recent assembly elections.

There are two deputy chief ministers: Ajit Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Eknath Shinde of the Shiv Sena. The swearing-in ceremony to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other prominent leaders.

Fadnavis, who has previously served as Chief Minister from 2014 to 2019 and briefly in 2019, was unanimously chosen as the Leader of the BJP Legislative Party.

In the recent Assembly Election Mahayuti alliance secured 235 seats in the 288-member House. The BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 132 seats, followed by Shiv Sena with 57 and NCP with 41 seats.

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah becomes Namibia’s first female President

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of the ruling SWAPO party has won Namibia’s eighth presidential election, becoming the country’s first female president with over 57% of the votes. Her closest rival, Panduleni Itula, received 26%.

At 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah, currently vice president, is a seasoned leader in Namibian politics since independence in 1990, with significant domestic and international recognition. SWAPO also secured a majority in the National Assembly, winning 51 out of 96 seats.

Current Affairs MCQs : 4 December 2024

Q.: Which significant naval operation is commemorated on Navy Day on December 4?

a) Operation Vijay
b) Operation Trident
c) Operation Blue Star
d) Operation Pawan

Answer
Ans: b) Operation Trident
The Navy day commemorates the success of Operation Trident, a significant naval mission during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

Q.: Which city will host the Maha Kumbh 2025?

a) Haridwar
b) Ujjain
c) Nashik
d) Prayagraj

Answer
Ans: d) Prayagraj
The Maha Kumbh 2025 is set to be a grand and spiritually significant event, taking place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from January 13 to February 26, 2025.

Q. When is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) observed every year?

a) December 1
b) December 3
c) December 5
d) November 30

Answer
Ans: b) December 3
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually on December 3rd to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development.

Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025

The Maha Kumbh 2025 is set to be a grand and spiritually significant event, taking place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from January 13 to February 26, 2025. This festival, held once every 12 years, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, attracting millions of devotees and tourists from across the globe.

The Maha Kumbh is rooted in Hindu mythology and is celebrated at four sacred locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. The event commemorates the mythological churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) and the subsequent quest for the nectar of immortality. Pilgrims believe that taking a dip in the holy waters during the Kumbh Mela cleanses them of their sins and brings them closer to salvation.

Key highlights of the Maha Kumbh 2025 include:

  • Royal Baths (Shahi Snan): These are special bathing dates when religious leaders and devotees take a dip in the holy waters. Important dates include Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavasya (January 29), Basant Panchami (February 3), Maghi Purnima (February 12), and Mahashivratri (February 26).
  • Cultural Events: The festival features vibrant cultural activities such as traditional processions (Peshwai), spiritual discourses, yoga sessions, and devotional music performances.
  • Infrastructure and Facilities: The Uttar Pradesh government has made extensive preparations, including the creation of a new district for the duration of the Maha Kumbh, improved infrastructure, and world-class accommodation facilities.

Navy Day 2024: December 4th

Navy Day 2024 is celebrated on December 4th to honor the bravery and commitment of naval forces. This year, the event will be held in Puri, Odisha, with President Droupadi Murmu as the chief guest.

The theme for Navy Day 2024 is “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation”, highlighting the Indian Navy’s focus on self-reliance and cutting-edge technology.

The day commemorates the success of Operation Trident, a significant naval mission during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. On December 4, 1971, the Indian Navy launched a surprise attack on Karachi, crippling Pakistan’s key port and asserting India’s naval prowess.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD): December 3rd

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually on December 3rd to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development. This day aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and to advocate for their full and equal participation in social, economic, political, and cultural life.

Established by the United Nations in 1992, IDPD focuses on various themes each year, addressing different aspects of disability inclusion. The themes often highlight issues such as accessibility, inclusion, employment, education, and empowerment of people with disabilities.

Key objectives of IDPD include:

  • Raising Awareness: Highlighting the barriers that people with disabilities face and promoting solutions to overcome them.
  • Promoting Rights: Advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities as enshrined in international law, such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
  • Encouraging Inclusion: Promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all areas of life, including education, employment, and community activities.
  • Celebrating Achievements: Recognizing the contributions and achievements of people with disabilities in various fields.

Current Affairs MCQs : 3 December 2024

Q.: Where is the 4th edition of the India-Malaysia Joint Military Exercise Harimau Shakti being held in December 2024?

a) Kuala Lumpur
b) Bentong Camp
c) Langkawi
d) Johor Bahru

Answer
Answer: b) Bentong Camp
The 4th edition of the India-Malaysia Joint Military Exercise Harimau Shakti began on 2 December 2024 at Bentong Camp, Malaysia.

Q.: Where is World Maritime Technology Conference (WMTC) 2024 from December 4 to 6, 2024 being held?

a) Mumbai
b) Chennai
c) New Delhi
d) Kolkata

Answer
Answer: b) Chennai
The World Maritime Technology Conference (WMTC) 2024 will be held from December 4 to 6, 2024, at The Leela Palace, Chennai, India. Organized by the Institute of Marine Engineers (India)

Q.: Which organization launched the PRAGATI platform in India?

a) The Gates Foundation
b) Oxford’s Saïd Business School
c) Government of India
d) The United Nations

Answer
Ans: c) Government of India
A recent study by Oxford’s Saïd Business School and the Gates Foundation has recognized the effectiveness of India’s PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) platform. Launched in 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PRAGATI has significantly transformed the delivery of infrastructure projects in India.

Q.: What is the title of the study conducted by Oxford’s Saïd Business School and the Gates Foundation on PRAGATI?

a) “Innovating Governance: India’s PRAGATI”
b) “Efficiency in Infrastructure: The PRAGATI Model”
c) “From Gridlock to Growth: How Leadership Enables India’s PRAGATI Ecosystem to Power Progress”
d) “Digital Transformation and Accountability”

Answer
Answer: c) “From Gridlock to Growth: How Leadership Enables India’s PRAGATI Ecosystem to Power Progress”

Oxford’s Saïd Business School and the Gates Foundation have recognized India’s PRAGATI platform

A recent study by Oxford’s Saïd Business School and the Gates Foundation has recognized the effectiveness of India’s PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) platform. Launched in 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PRAGATI has significantly transformed the delivery of infrastructure projects in India.

The study, titled “From Gridlock to Growth: How Leadership Enables India’s PRAGATI Ecosystem to Power Progress,” highlights how PRAGATI has driven accountability, facilitated federal and regional collaboration, and accelerated the completion of long-delayed projects worth $205 billion. The platform features a digital dashboard for real-time project monitoring and supports video-conference review meetings chaired by PM Modi.

One of the key findings is that PRAGATI has reduced project delays from decades to mere months, thanks to the direct involvement of top leadership and the use of technology for cross-collaboration and regular accountability reviews. The study also emphasizes that PRAGATI’s success can serve as a model for other developing countries looking to revolutionize their infrastructure development approaches.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his happiness over the recognition, stating that PRAGATI represents a wonderful amalgamation of technology and governance, ensuring projects are completed on time.

World Maritime Technology Conference (WMTC) 2024 from December 4 to 6, 2024, in Chennai

The World Maritime Technology Conference (WMTC) 2024 will be held from December 4 to 6, 2024, at The Leela Palace, Chennai, India. Organized by the Institute of Marine Engineers (India), Chennai Branch, this prestigious event occurs every three years and is returning to India after 15 years. It will bring together over 300 delegates from 21 member organizations across 17 countries, including participants from the US, UK, Germany, Spain, and Asia-Pacific countries.

The conference will focus on futuristic developments and current challenges in the maritime industry, featuring renowned speakers and panelists discussing the future of the global maritime sector. Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping, will be the Guest of Honour. The event underscores Chennai’s prominence as a major maritime hub and promises to foster international collaboration and innovation.

India-Malaysia Joint Military Exercise Harimau Shakti from 2-15 December at Bentong Camp, Malaysia

The 4th edition of the India-Malaysia Joint Military Exercise Harimau Shakti began on 2 December 2024 at Bentong Camp, Malaysia. The exercise features 78 personnel from the Indian Army’s Mahar Regiment and 123 personnel from Malaysia’s Royal Malaysian Regiment. Running until 15 December, the exercise focuses on enhancing joint military capabilities, particularly in counter-insurgency operations in jungle terrain. It aims to facilitate the exchange of best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting joint operations.

Border Security Force (BSF) Raising Day: December 1

The Border Security Force (BSF) celebrated its 60th Raising Day on December 1, 2024. This day marks the anniversary of the force’s formation in 1965.

History and Facts about the BSF

  • Formation: The BSF was established on December 1, 1965, in the wake of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. The need for a specialized force to guard India’s borders became evident after Pakistan attacked Sardar Post, Char Bet, and Beria Bet in Kutch.
  • First Director General: K F Rustamji, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, was the first Director General and founding father of the BSF.
  • Motto: The BSF’s motto is “Jeevan Paryant Kartavya”, which translates to “Duty Unto Death”.
  • Role: The BSF is responsible for guarding India’s land borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh. It is the world’s largest border security force, with a sanctioned strength of 270,000 personnel.
  • Capabilities: The BSF has grown from 25 battalions in 1965 to 193 battalions today, including an air wing, water wing, artillery regiment, and specialized units.
  • Operations: Apart from border guarding, the BSF also engages in counter-insurgency operations, anti-Naxal operations, and internal security duties. They have been involved in various operations, including the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and the Kargil War.

Q,: When was the Border Security Force (BSF) established?

a) March 1, 1962
b) April 1. 1963
c) December 1, 1965
d) January 1, 1969

Ans : c) December 1, 1965
The Border Security Force (BSF) celebrated its 60th Raising Day on December 1, 2024. This day marks the anniversary of the force’s formation in 1965.

Kash Patel Nominated as next Director of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

US President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Kash Patel as the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Patel, a seasoned lawyer and investigator, played key roles during Trump’s first term, serving as Chief of Staff at the Department of Defense and in other senior positions. If confirmed by the Senate, Patel will become the first Indian-American and South Asian to lead the FBI.

Trump praised Patel’s dedication to justice, his efforts to combat crime and trafficking, and his pivotal role in exposing the “Russia Hoax.” Patel’s nomination highlights the growing influence of the Indian-American community in US politics, following figures like Nikki Haley, who served as Trump’s UN Ambassador, and Kamala Harris, the current Vice President.

Q.: Who has been nominated as the next Director of the FBI by US President-elect Donald Trump?

(A) Pam Bondi
(B) Nikki Haley
(C) Kash Patel
(D) Kamala Harris

Answer: (C) Kash Patel
US President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Kash Patel as the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Current Affairs MCQs : 2 December 2024

Q.: Who won the Women’s Singles title at the Syed Modi International Tournament 2024?

(A) Wu Luo Yu
(B) Treesa Jolly
(C) PV Sindhu
(D) Gayatri Gopichand

Answer
Answer: (C) PV Sindhu
Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medallist, won the Women’s Singles title by defeating China’s Wu Luo Yu 21-14, 21-16.

Q.: Who won the Men’s Singles title at the Syed Modi International Tournament 2024?

(A) Lakshya Sen
(B) Jia Heng Jason Teh
(C) Huang Di
(D) Dhruv Kapila

Answer
Answer: (A) Lakshya Sen
Lakshya Sen claimed the Men’s Singles title with a commanding victory over Singapore’s Jia Heng Jason Teh 21-6, 21-7.

Q.: Who became the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) on December 1, 2024?

(A) Greg Barclay
(B) Sourav Ganguly
(C) Jay Shah
(D) N Srinivasan

Answer
Answer: (C) Jay Shah
Jay Shah became the Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) on December 1, 2024

Q,: When was the Border Security Force (BSF) established?

a) March 1, 1962
b) April 1. 1963
c) December 1, 1965
d) January 1, 1969

Answer
Ans : c) December 1, 1965
The Border Security Force (BSF) celebrated its 60th Raising Day on December 1, 2024. This day marks the anniversary of the force’s formation in 1965.
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