Important Current Affairs (05 August 2024)

01. Kerala Landslide

Kerala government seeks 'national disaster' tag for landslide in Wayanad.

The landslides have devastated villages, with significant loss and destruction. The State Government has appealed to the Centre for national disaster status.

02. Supreme Court Sub-categorisation Ruling

NDA allies are divided over the Supreme Court's judgment on sub-categorisation of Scheduled Castes.

Different responses from key allies like Lok Janshakti Party and Telugu Desam Party.

03. IRCTC Data Vulnerability

Critical vulnerability in IRCTC's insurance portal fixed. A bug allowed unauthorized access to passenger travel details and changes to nominee information without proper security checks.

04. Assam Domicile Policy 

Assam CM announces new domicile policy.

Only those born in Assam will be eligible for government jobs. Transfer of land between Hindus and Muslims requires CM's approval.

04. Civil Services Aspirants' Protest in Delhi

Event

Protests by UPSC aspirants following drowning deaths at a coaching institute.

Demands include prohibition on basement libraries/classrooms, fee cap for coaching institutes, and improved safety measures.

05. Formation of Task Force to Clear Encroachments in Western Ghats

Karnataka Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre announced the creation of a forest encroachment task force to clear illegally developed resorts, homestays, and other encroachments in the Western Ghats, covering 10 districts of the state. 

The task force, headed by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, will begin clearance drives from Monday. This move follows a series of landslides in the region.

06. Independence of Portuguese African Territories

Portugal officially agreed to grant independence to its African territories, including Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Angola, Cape Verde Islands, and Sao Tome and Principe. 

This was announced by the UN Secretary-General Dr. Kurt Waldhelm after discussions with Portuguese leaders. Agreements for the immediate transfer of power will be signed with these states.

07. Launch of New Criminal Laws in India

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched new criminal laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA). 

These laws aim to modernize India's criminal justice system using technology and ensure swift and fair justice. Chandigarh will be the first to implement these laws fully.

08. Government's Initiative for Water Conservation

The government has launched a new scheme aimed at enhancing water conservation efforts across the country. This initiative focuses on promoting sustainable water management practices.

This scheme is crucial in addressing the pressing issue of water scarcity in India. It aims to involve local communities in conservation efforts, promote rainwater harvesting, and improve irrigation efficiency. Such measures are essential to ensure long-term water security, which is a critical component for agricultural productivity and overall economic stability.

09. India's Foreign Policy Moves

India is set to strengthen its ties with African nations through a series of bilateral agreements and economic partnerships. Strengthening ties with African nations is a strategic move for India, enhancing its geopolitical influence and economic interests. 

Africa, with its vast resources and growing markets, presents numerous opportunities for trade and investment. 

This alignment also helps counter the growing influence of other major powers in the region, promoting a multipolar world order that can benefit India's global standing.

10.New Educational Reforms

The Ministry of Education has announced significant reforms aimed at revamping the higher education sector, focusing on research and innovation.

These reforms are aimed at making Indian universities more competitive globally by fostering a research-oriented environment. The emphasis on innovation will help in creating a skilled workforce that can drive the country's growth in technology and other advanced sectors. 

Improving the quality of higher education is crucial for India to harness its demographic dividend and achieve sustainable economic growth.

11. Economic Policies and Measures 

The Finance Ministry is considering new measures to boost the manufacturing sector, including incentives for domestic and foreign companies.

Boosting the manufacturing sector is vital for job creation and economic development. By providing incentives, the government aims to attract more investments, enhance production capabilities, and reduce dependence on imports. 

This aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative, aimed at transforming India into a global manufacturing hub.

12. Health Sector Developments

A new health policy has been introduced to tackle the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country.

The rising incidence of NCDs such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer is a major public health challenge. The new policy focuses on preventive healthcare, early diagnosis, and improving treatment facilities. 

Addressing NCDs effectively is essential for improving the quality of life and reducing the economic burden of healthcare on the country.

13. Army Deployment in Pune Due to Heavy Rain

Amid heavy rains and water discharge from Khadakwasla dam, army personnel were deployed in Pune. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde directed authorities to be alert and relocate residents from hazardous areas with the assistance of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the army if needed

14. Himachal Pradesh Cloudbursts 

The death toll due to flash floods triggered by cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh's districts has increased to 11, with over 40 people still missing. 

The cloudbursts occurred in Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts, leading to widespread damage and a large-scale rescue operation involving the Army, NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, CISF, and local police. 

The state government has announced immediate relief and support for the victims.

15. Bangladesh Protests 

In Bangladesh, violent clashes between protesters demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and ruling party supporters resulted in at least 97 deaths and hundreds of injuries. 

The clashes led to a nationwide curfew and shutdown of mobile internet services. 

The protests were primarily against a job quota system that reserved government jobs for veterans' relatives.

16. Paris 2024 Olympics

India's Medal Hopes: India's contingent for the Paris Olympics 2024 is brimming with potential. Athletes like Manu Bhaker, Lakshya Sen, and the men's hockey team are seen as strong medal contenders.

Manu Bhaker's Historic Feat: Manu Bhaker created history by becoming the first Indian to win two medals in a single Olympics. She clinched bronze in both the women's and mixed 10m air pistol events.

Shooting Dominance: India's shooting team has shown promise with Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh winning a bronze medal in mixed 10m air pistol.

Rohan Bopanna's Retirement: Veteran tennis player Rohan Bopanna announced his retirement after the Paris Olympics 2024.