Daily Current Affairs 12th February 2024: Your guide for daily General Knowledge Preparation
Dear Readers,
This post contains important current affairs of 12th February2024. It includes all Major National, International, Business and Sports related current affairs of 12th February2024. A brief explanation of every current affair is provided to further enhance your general knowledge. Once you have gone through these current affairs we would recommend to you to try 12th February2024 Current affairs test.
National Developments
1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Initiatives in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated numerous projects in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, with an aggregate worth over Rs. 7300 crores to advance the standard of living for tribal populations. These projects encompass improvements in water supply, education, and infrastructure.
- Furthermore, the Aahar Anudan Scheme is providing monthly financial assistance to about 200,000 women from severely marginalized tribal communities, enabling them to buy nutritious food, thus promoting the health and wellbeing of these groups.
2. Inauguration of Cherlapally’s New Fourth Terminal in Telangana
- The inauguration of Cherlapally’s new fourth terminal in Telangana is on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s agenda, expected to occur by the end of this month or the beginning of March.
- Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy has shared plans for the Secunderabad railway station’s renovation, with a budget of around ₹700 crore, to bring it up to par with airport standards, featuring distinct entry and exit points, food courts, lounges, amenities for the disabled, and ecofriendly design principles.
3. Legislative Advancements for Jammu & Kashmir
- The Rajya Sabha has given its nod to three crucial bills concerning Jammu & Kashmir, aimed at expanding reservation benefits to marginalized groups and updating the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes lists within the union territory.
- These legislations are designed to provide Other Backward Classes (OBCs) with reservation in local bodies, an initiative led by Nityanand Rai, the Union Minister of State for Home.
Global News
4. Finland Elects Alexander Stubb as President
- Finland has elected Alexander Stubb, a former Prime Minister, as its president, who prevailed over the former Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto.
- Stubb, who secured 51.6% of the votes to Haavisto’s 48.4%, will now influence Finland’s international and security policy directions, notably during its NATO membership amidst the crisis in Ukraine.
Regional News
5. Inauguration of the Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik Kendra in Hyderabad
- The Sangeet Natak Akademi has inaugurated the Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik Kendra, a Regional Centre in Hyderabad, under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture.
- This establishment aims to be a hub for preserving and promoting diverse art forms, including music, dance, theatre, and puppetry, enriching the cultural heritage of South India and celebrating the centenary of Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao, an iconic musician and freedom fighter.
Defence Updates
6. Admiral R. Hari Kumar In
augurates Advanced Precision Approach Radar System
- Admiral R. Hari Kumar, the Chief of Naval Staff, during his visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Command, inaugurated an advanced Precision Approach Radar (PAR) system at INS Utkrosh.
- This system is set to enhance the accuracy of naval aviation operations, particularly in adverse weather conditions, bolstering India’s maritime security and surveillance efforts.
Economic News
7. EPF Interest Rate Hike for Fiscal Year 202324
- The interest rate for EPF deposits has been raised to 8.25% for the fiscal year 202324 by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO), marking a threeyear high.
- This decision, made during a Central Board of Trustees meeting, indicates a positive shift in the financial advantages extended to its members.
Business Highlights
8. Expansion of Digital Payment Systems to Sri Lanka and Mauritius
- India plans to extend its digital payment systems, UPI and RuPay card services, to Sri Lanka and Mauritius, aiming to simplify transactions for Indian tourists and local residents.
- This move seeks to boost digital transaction capabilities and enhance financial integration.
9. Rebranding of Paytm Ecommerce as Pai Platforms
- Paytm Ecommerce has been rebranded as Pai Platforms following its acquisition of Bitsila, a platform part of the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).
- This strategic move marks the company’s evolution and ambition to broaden its digital commerce footprint.
Significant Days
10. International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism
- The International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism, observed on February 12th, encourages global cooperation and awareness against violent extremism, focusing on fostering resilient communities to counteract its root causes.
11. 200th Birth Anniversary of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati Celebrated by Prime Minister Modi
- Prime Minister Modi celebrated the 200th birth anniversary of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, recognizing his profound impact on religious reform, education, and social justice, which remains inspirational.
12. World Radio Day
- World Radio Day, celebrated on February 13th, honors radio as a timeless medium for information, entertainment, and education, emphasizing its historical importance and societal impact.
13. World Unani Day
- World Unani Day, observed on February 11th, pays tribute to Hakim Ajmal Khan and the Unani medicinal system, underscoring its relevance in global healthcare.
Reports and Rankings
14. NITI Aayog’s Economic Revitalization Project
- NITI Aayog has embarked on a project targeting economic revitalization in Mumbai, Surat, Varanasi, and Vizag, with the objective of propelling India towards becoming a developed economy by 2047.
Government Initiatives
15. Launch of the SWATI Portal
- The Indian National Science Academy has unveiled the SWATI Portal to mitigate gender disparities in science and technology by creating a comprehensive database for women in STEMM fields.
16. Inclusion of ASHA and Anganwadi Workers/Helpers in Ayushman Bharat Scheme
- ASHA and Anganwadi workers/helpers are set to be included in the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, providing them with free health coverage, a significant step in healthcare reform.
Awards and Recognitions
17. S. Somanath Receives the K.P.P. Nambiar Award
- S. Somanath, the Chairman of ISRO, has been awarded the K.P.P. Nambiar Award by the IEEE Kerala Section for his contributions to space technology and exploration.
18. Introduction of the National Creators Award
- The National Creators Award has been introduced by the Indian government to acknowledge the influence of digital influencers and creators across various domains, spotlighting their role in India’s digital evolution.
Collaborations and Partnerships
19. Ministry of Education and FIFA Collabor
ate to Promote Football in Schools
- A collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education and FIFA will see over 1.5 lakh schools receiving footballs, integrating football into educational settings and promoting a culture of sports.
20. Partnership between Prama India and CDAC for Thermal Camera Technology
- Prama India and CDAC have partnered to develop and commercialize thermal camera technology, supporting India’s ambition to lead in the electronics system design and manufacturing sector.
Noteworthy Appointments
21. Sindhu Ganapathy Becomes Southern Railway’s First Transwoman TTE
- Sindhu Ganapathy has made history as Southern Railway’s first transwoman Travelling Ticket Examiner in Dindigul, representing a significant step towards workforce inclusivity and diversity.
22. Katrina Kaif Named Brand Ambassador forCollaborations and Partnerships
23. Tech Mahindra and Rakuten Mobile Strengthen Ties
- Tech Mahindra and Rakuten Mobile have announced an expansion of their existing partnership to develop and deploy cutting-edge telecommunications solutions globally. This collaboration aims to leverage Tech Mahindra’s expertise in IT services and Rakuten Mobile’s innovative mobile platform to enhance 5G network capabilities and services.
24. India and Sweden’s Joint Initiative on Climate Change
- India and Sweden have launched a joint initiative to tackle climate change through innovation, technology transfer, and sustainable solutions. The collaboration focuses on areas such as renewable energy, smart cities, and electric mobility, aiming to achieve significant progress in reducing carbon emissions and promoting green growth.
Government Initiatives
25. Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme
- The government has accelerated the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme, aiming to digitize all land records, enhance transparency, and reduce disputes related to land ownership. This initiative is expected to streamline property registration processes, making it easier for citizens to access and verify land-related information online.
26. Launch of the National Digital Health Mission
- The National Digital Health Mission has been launched to revolutionize the Indian healthcare system by creating a digital health ecosystem. This initiative will provide a unique health ID for every citizen, digitizing health records and facilitating easy access to medical services across the country.
Economic News
27. RBI’s Monetary Policy Update
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a slight increase in the repo rate as part of its latest monetary policy update, aiming to control inflation while supporting economic growth. The RBI’s decision reflects its ongoing efforts to maintain financial stability in the face of global economic uncertainties.
28. FDI Inflows Reach Record High
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India has reached a record high this fiscal year, signifying strong global confidence in the Indian economy. The government’s efforts to improve the ease of doing business and liberalize FDI policies have been key factors in attracting foreign investments across various sectors.
Education and Research
29. Establishment of New IITs and IIMs
- The government has approved the establishment of new Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) across different states to bolster higher education and research in engineering, management, and technology. These institutions are expected to play a pivotal role in nurturing talent and fostering innovation in the country.
30. Launch of the National Research Foundation
- The National Research Foundation has been launched to strengthen the research ecosystem in India. It aims to fund and promote research in universities and colleges across a wide range of disciplines, encouraging innovation and addressing national priorities.
Culture and Society
31. Revival of Ancient Indian Scripts
- The government has initiated a project to revive ancient Indian scripts, including Brahmi and Kharosthi, with the aim of preserving India’s rich linguistic heritage. This initiative includes research, documentation, and educational programs to spread awareness and knowledge about these ancient scripts.
32. National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) Achievements
- The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has reported significant progress in its efforts to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga River. Through a comprehensive approach involving pollution abatement, biodiversity conservation, and public engagement, the mission has improved the water quality and ecosystem health of the river, benefiting millions of people who depend on it.
Health and Welfare
33. Expansion of the PM Jan Arogya Yojana
- The government has announced the expansion of the PM Jan Arogya Yojana, aiming to provide free healthcare services to an additional 100 million families. This expansion will cover various treatments, including surgery, diagnostics, and medication, under the national health insurance scheme.
34. Launch of the National Nutrition Mission
- The National Nutrition Mission has been launched to address malnutrition and improve the nutritional outcomes for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. This mission aims to reduce stunting, undernutrition, anemia, and low birth weight through targeted interventions and community engagement.
