29 September 2023 Current Affairs – The Day’s Top News | GKSERIES
Current Affairs is the most important area in all competitive exams. But the difficulty level is very high. That’s why; many aspirants get confused, how to select Current Affairs for Preparation of Competitive Examination? In this Post, Daily Current Affairs 29 September 2023, we have tried to cover each and every point and also included all important facts from National/ International news that are useful for upcoming competitive examinations such as UPSC, SSC, Railway, State Govt. etc.
Bengaluru Leads in Green Office Space as India Witnesses a 36% Increase Since 2019
In a significant development for India’s real estate sector, Bengaluru has emerged as the city with the highest green-certified office space. This achievement is part of a broader trend showcased in the ‘Indian Real Estate: Taking Giant Strides – 2023 Mid-Year Outlook’ report jointly released by real estate consultant CBRE and industry body CII during the CII Realty conference.
Green-Certified Office Space Growth:
The report highlights a remarkable 36% growth in green-certified office space across six major Indian cities over the past three and a half years. In 2019, the total green-certified office stock stood at 251 million square feet, but it has now surged to an impressive 342 million square feet.
Key Findings:
Bengaluru’s Leading Role: Bengaluru has taken the lead in this green revolution, showcasing the most significant growth in green office space. This trend underscores the city’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly workplaces.
Report Launch: The CBRE-CII report, titled ‘Indian Real Estate: Taking Giant Strides – 2023 Mid-Year Outlook,’ was unveiled during the CII Realty conference. It serves as a comprehensive overview of the real estate sector’s progress and prospects in the current year.
Green-Certified Office Stock: The report emphasizes the substantial expansion of green-certified office space from 2019 to 2023, reflecting a strong industry response to environmental concerns and evolving global and domestic Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) regulations.
Sustainable Business Practices: The report underscores the growing importance of ESG considerations among businesses, driving a “flight-to-quality” wave among occupiers. This shift reflects a preference for modern, premium, and sustainable office spaces in the medium to long term.
Sri Lanka’s IMF Bailout Faces Delay Amidst Ongoing Debt Restructuring
Sri Lanka is facing delays in receiving the second tranche of its $2.9 billion IMF bailout package due to unresolved issues with its external debt restructuring. This crisis comes as the nation grapples with its worst economic downturn in history, characterized by dwindling foreign exchange reserves and public protests over shortages of vital commodities.
In March of this year, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) granted Sri Lanka a 48-month extended arrangement worth $2.9 billion under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF). The aim was to bolster Sri Lanka’s economic policies and promote essential reforms.
The IMF Executive Board demands that financing assurances reviews be completed to ensure that adequate progress is being made in debt restructuring. This is crucial for gaining confidence that debt targets will be met in a timely manner as part of the program.
Uttarakhand Govt Signs MoU With Ropeway Construction Firm Poma Group In London
In London, The Uttarakhand government made a significant stride in boosting its tourism and infrastructure sector by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Poma Group, a renowned French ropeway construction company. The MoU, valued at a substantial Rs 2,000 crore, was officially inked by Vinay Shankar Pandey, the Secretary of Industries on behalf of the Uttarakhand government.
Poma Group, a global leader in ropeway construction, has made significant contributions to the development of Uttarakhand’s transportation infrastructure. Notably, the group has previously worked on the Auli ropeway project in Chamoli district, enhancing connectivity and accessibility to one of Uttarakhand’s premier tourist destinations. Currently, Poma Group is providing crucial technical support for ongoing ropeway projects in Dehradun-Mussoorie and Yamunotri.
Father of India’s ‘Green Revolution,’ MS Swaminathan Passes Away At 98
Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, fondly known as M.S. Swaminathan, was a legendary figure in the field of agriculture and a true humanitarian, passed away at the age of 98. Born on August 7, 1925, in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district, he dedicated his life to improving the lives of India’s low-income farmers and revolutionizing the nation’s agricultural landscape.
A Remarkable Career in Agriculture
Early Beginnings
Swaminathan’s journey in agriculture began in 1949 when he embarked on research into the genetics of important crops like potato, wheat, rice, and jute. Little did he know that his work would later become a lifeline for India.
The Green Revolution
During a critical juncture in India’s history, when the country was on the brink of a mass famine and faced severe food shortages, Swaminathan collaborated with fellow scientist Norman Borlaug and others to develop high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice. This marked the inception of the ‘Green Revolution,’ a transformative initiative that would significantly increase crop productivity through the adoption of chemical-biological technology.
Honors and Awards
Recognition for Outstanding Contributions
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to agriculture, Swaminathan received numerous prestigious awards. In 1987, he was honored with the first-ever World Food Prize for his role in introducing high-yielding wheat and rice varieties to India. His dedication also led him to establish the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation in Chennai. Additionally, he was the recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1971 and the Albert Einstein World Science Award in 1986.
National Recognition
Swaminathan’s impact was not limited to the international stage. He was honored with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, India’s highest civilian awards. He also received the H K Firodia Award, the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award, and the Indira Gandhi Prize.
A Distinguished Career in Administration
Leading Agricultural Research
Beyond his groundbreaking research, Swaminathan held important administrative positions in various agricultural research laboratories. He served as the Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and later as the head of the International Rice Research Institute. In 1979, he took on the role of the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture.
Global Environmental Leadership
In 1988, Swaminathan was appointed as the President of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, highlighting his commitment to environmental conservation. His influence extended globally, contributing to various international agricultural and environmental initiatives. In recognition of his impact, Time magazine named him one of the 20 most influential Asians of the 20th century.
International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste 2023
On September 29th, the world comes together to observe the International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the issue of food loss and waste, and to promote actions to reduce it. Food loss and waste is a major global problem. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), about one-third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted each year. This amounts to about 1.3 billion tonnes of food, worth approximately US$1 trillion.
Food loss and waste occurs at all stages of the food supply chain, from production to processing, transportation, distribution, and consumption. It is caused by a variety of factors, including inadequate infrastructure, poor handling practices, and consumer behavior.
This article explores the importance of reducing food loss and waste and delves into the history and significance of this observance.
The 2023 Theme: Transforming Food Systems
The theme for the International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste in 2023 is “Reducing food loss and waste: Taking Action to Transform Food Systems.” This theme highlights the shared responsibility of governments, businesses, and individuals in addressing food loss and waste. It calls for innovative approaches and actions to reduce food loss and waste, ultimately contributing to the creation of more resilient and sustainable food systems.
Why Reducing Food Loss and Waste Matters?
Preserving Resources
Reducing food loss and waste is essential because it conserves valuable resources. When food is lost or wasted, it represents not only the loss of the food itself but also the resources used in its production—resources such as water, land, energy, labor, and capital. By minimizing food loss and waste, we can make more efficient use of these resources, helping to ensure their sustainability for future generations.
Addressing Climate Change
Food loss and waste also have a significant environmental impact. When discarded food ends up in landfills, it decomposes and produces greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change. Reducing food waste is, therefore, an important step in mitigating the environmental effects of food production and disposal.
Enhancing Food Security
Food loss and waste can negatively affect food security by reducing the overall availability of food. In a world where millions still suffer from hunger and malnutrition, preserving every bit of food is crucial to ensure that everyone has access to an adequate food supply.
Reducing the Cost of Food
Food loss and waste also drive up the cost of food production and distribution. This increased cost can lead to higher prices for consumers, making food less affordable for many. By addressing food loss and waste, we can contribute to more affordable and accessible food for all.
Historical Significance
UN General Assembly Recognition
The International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction was designated by the 74th United Nations General Assembly in 2019. This recognition underscores the fundamental role of sustainable food production in promoting food security and nutrition. It serves as a reminder of the global community’s commitment to addressing this critical issue.
Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO):
Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) is an international body which deals with food security, hunger and nutrition at global level.
- Director General of United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is Qu-Dongyu.
- FAO is specialised agency of United Nations.
- Establishment: FAO is established 16 October, 1945.
- Headquarter: Headquarter of FAO is situated at Rome, Italy.
- Parent Organization: United Nation Economic and Social Council.
- FAO comprises of 195 members including 194 countries and European Union.
NASA’s Perseverance Rover Sets Speed Record On Autopilot
NASA’s Perseverance Mars rover has accomplished an impressive feat by traversing a massive boulder field at a record speed, taking only a third of the time it would have taken its predecessor, Curiosity. The rover’s journey through the challenging terrain of Snowdrift Peak in the Jezero Crater is a testament to its advanced autonomous navigation capabilities and highlights its commitment to maximizing scientific exploration time.
Navigating the Rocky Terrain
Perseverance entered the Jezero Crater on June 26, 2023, and embarked on its challenging mission to explore Snowdrift Peak, a rocky region within the crater. The terrain proved to be more rugged and densely populated with large rocks than any the rover had previously encountered. Rather than circumventing this obstacle, which would have consumed precious weeks, Perseverance opted to take on the challenge directly.
The Power of AutoNav
Perseverance’s ability to navigate through this challenging terrain is largely attributed to its advanced AutoNav system, which equips the rover with self-driving capabilities. Unlike its predecessors, which had more limited auto-navigation capabilities, Perseverance possesses a unique advantage.
The earliest Martian rover, Sojourner, had to pause every 5.1 inches to reassess its plans. Spirit and Opportunity, which landed on Mars in 2004, needed to stop every 1.6 feet for similar evaluations. Curiosity, the rover currently exploring Mount Sharp, received an interplanetary patch last year to expedite image processing and auto-navigation timing but still requires periodic planning breaks. Perseverance, on the other hand, boasts two computer brains working together, enabling it to make real-time decisions.
Speed and Precision
Perseverance’s remarkable autonomous navigation capabilities allowed it to traverse Snowdrift Peak in a little over a month, with only a small portion of that time spent in actual movement.
By the time Perseverance completed its journey through the Peak, it had covered 2,490 feet (759 meters) of travel, significantly exceeding NASA’s original planned route of 1,706 feet (520 meters). This extra distance was primarily due to AutoNav’s real-time decision-making, as it maneuvered around rocks that were not visible in orbital images used for route planning.
Setting New Records
Perseverance’s impressive navigation capabilities have allowed it to achieve several speed records on Mars.
- Thanks to AutoNav, it holds the single-day drive distance record of an astounding 1,140.7 feet (347.7 meters), which is slightly less than a quarter mile.
- Moreover, it claims the record for the longest Martian navigation without human assistance, covering 2,296.2 feet (699.9 meters).
However, it’s worth noting that these records were set on the relatively flat bottom of Jezero Crater, and Perseverance faces more challenging terrain in the days and months ahead.
The Ongoing Quest for Scientific Discovery
As Perseverance continues its mission to search for signs of biological life on Mars, it recently began crossing the Mandu Wall, a ridgeline along the inner edge of Jezero’s western rim. This new terrain presents additional challenges for the rover and its AutoNav system, but it’s also where the most promising scientific discoveries may await.
Key takeaways for competitive examination
- Perseverance’s deputy team chief for robotic operations: Mark Maimone
IAF Receives First Dornier Do-228 Aircraft From HAL
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has recently celebrated the arrival of the first of six state-of-the-art Dornier Do-228 aircraft, exclusively manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This upgraded version of the aircraft is set to bolster the IAF’s operational capabilities with its advanced features, marking a significant milestone in the modernization efforts of the Indian defense forces.
A Strategic Deal for Modernization
The foundation for this crucial development was laid in March when the Ministry of Defence inked a deal with HAL for the procurement of six Dornier-228 aircraft, allocating a budget of Rs 667 crore. This deal represents a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to modernize and upgrade the Indian Air Force’s fleet.
Legacy and Advancements of the Dornier-228 Aircraft in the IAF
The Dornier-228 aircraft has a rich history within the IAF, having been employed for Route Transport Role and communication tasks. These versatile aircraft have also played a pivotal role in training transport pilots, contributing to the overall proficiency of the Air Force. However, the introduction of this new batch of six aircraft heralds a new era of capabilities and efficiency.
These upgraded Dornier-228 aircraft come equipped with a range of advanced features that set them apart. The inclusion of new engines, composite propellers, advanced avionics, and a modern glass cockpit significantly enhances their performance and usability.
Versatility at its Best
One of the standout characteristics of the Dornier-228 aircraft is its versatility. Designed to fulfill various needs, from utility and commuter transport to maritime surveillance, these aircraft are true multipurpose assets. Their ability to operate from semi-prepared or short runways makes them particularly valuable, especially in the challenging terrains of the northeastern and island regions of India.
Strengthening Operational Capability
The addition of these six Dornier-228 aircraft to the IAF’s fleet is poised to make a substantial impact on the Air Force’s operational capability, particularly in remote and challenging areas. With enhanced fuel-efficient engines and five-bladed composite propellers, they are well-suited for short-haul operations, providing crucial support where it is needed the most.
A Symbol of Regional Unity: India’s Gift to Sri Lanka
In a demonstration of strong regional partnership and camaraderie, the Indian Navy has taken a significant step by presenting its Dornier Do-228 maritime patrol aircraft to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF). This gesture underscores the enduring cooperation between India and Sri Lanka and highlights the importance of unity among neighboring nations in the pursuit of shared security and prosperity.
The transfer of this maritime patrol aircraft to the SLAF not only enhances Sri Lanka’s maritime surveillance capabilities but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and collaboration between the two nations. It serves as a shining example of how regional cooperation can play a pivotal role in maintaining stability and security in the Indian Ocean region.
Google Introduces Earthquake Alerts System For Android Users In India
Search giant Google has unveiled its Earthquake Alerts System for Android smartphone users in India. Developed in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Seismology Center (NSC), this system offers early warnings of seismic activities and is available in multiple Indian languages.
The Earthquake Alerts System harnesses the power of the tiny accelerometers present in Android smartphones. These accelerometers are typically used to detect the orientation and movement of the device, but Google has repurposed them to detect seismic activity.
Google has announced that the Earthquake Alerts System will be fully operational in India within the next week. This means that Android users across the country will soon have access to this potentially life-saving technology.
Swapnil Kusale, Aishwarya Pratap and Akhil Sheoran wins 7th gold for India
In a stunning display of skill and precision, the Indian men’s shooting trio comprising Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar, Swapnil Suresh Kusale, and Akhil Sheoran secured a gold medal in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions Team event. Their remarkable achievement didn’t stop there; they broke the world record with an extraordinary score of 1769 points.
India’s Standings in Asian Games 2023
As a result of this exceptional performance, India has climbed to the fourth position in the points table at the Asian Games 2023. This achievement not only showcases India’s prowess in shooting sports but also adds to the nation’s overall medal tally.
Women’s Team Shines with Silver
In another notable event, the Indian women’s shooting team, comprised of Palak, Esha Singh, and Divya Subbaraju, clinched a silver medal in the 10m air pistol team event. Their impressive performance highlights the depth of talent in Indian shooting sports.
Overall Medal Haul for Team India
With these recent victories, the Indian contingent at the Asian Games 2023 has amassed a total of 27 medals. The breakdown includes 7 gold, 9 silver, and 11 bronze medals. This remarkable achievement underscores India’s commitment to excellence in various sporting disciplines.
India’s Glorious Past Performance
Recalling the 2018 Asian Games held in Jakarta and Palembang, Indonesia, it’s evident that India has consistently performed well on the international stage. In that edition, the Indian contingent secured a total of 70 medals, including 16 gold, 23 silver, and 31 bronze medals. It remains one of India’s most impressive showings in the history of the Asian Games.
Current Medal Standings
In the ongoing Asian Games, China continues to dominate the medal standings with an astounding total of 167 medals, consisting of 90 gold, 51 silver, and 26 bronze. South Korea holds the second position with 24 gold, 23 silver, and 39 bronze medals, bringing their total to 86. Meanwhile, Japan stands in third place with 18 gold, 30 silver, and 30 bronze medals.
As the Asian Games 2023 continue, India’s athletes aim to add more medals to their impressive tally, further solidifying the nation’s position as a force to be reckoned with in the world of sports.
PM To Launch ‘Sankalp Saptaah’ On 30th September
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch a week-long programme called ‘Sankalp Saptaah‘ on September 30, 2023. This visionary initiative is closely tied to the effective execution of the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP), a nationwide endeavor launched by the Prime Minister earlier in the year. The overarching goal of this initiative is to enhance governance at the block level, ultimately improving the quality of life for citizens.
The Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)
The Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 7, 2023. It represents a holistic approach to drive positive change and development at the grassroots level. The ABP is focused on 500 Aspirational Blocks spanning across 329 districts in India. Its primary objective is to uplift the living standards of citizens by enhancing governance and public services delivery in these areas.
Chintan Shivirs: The Foundation
To execute the Aspirational Blocks Programme effectively, chintan shivirs were organized at both village and block levels across the country. These shivirs were essential in formulating comprehensive block development strategies and gathering valuable insights from local stakeholders. The ‘Sankalp Saptaah’ initiative is a culmination of the ideas and strategies generated during these brainstorming sessions.
Themes for ‘Sankalp Saptaah’
‘Sankalp Saptaah’ is poised to be a pivotal moment in the journey of the Aspirational Blocks Programme. It will be observed across all 500 Aspirational Blocks from October 3 to October 9, 2023. Each day during this week-long event will be dedicated to a specific development theme, fostering focused efforts on key areas of improvement. The themes for the first six days are as follows:
Sampoorna Swasthya (Total Health): A day dedicated to improving healthcare services and promoting holistic well-being in these blocks.
Suposhit Pariwaar (Nutritious Families): Focusing on ensuring that families have access to nutritious food, thereby enhancing the overall health of the community.
Swachhta (Cleanliness): A concerted effort to promote cleanliness and hygiene practices in these blocks, creating a healthier environment.
Krishi (Agriculture): Emphasizing agricultural development to boost the livelihoods of rural communities.
Shiksha (Education): Working towards improving educational opportunities and access to quality schooling.
Samridhi Diwas (Prosperity Day): A day dedicated to economic development and prosperity in the Aspirational Blocks.
Celebrating Achievements
The grand finale of ‘Sankalp Saptaah’ will be ‘Sankalp Saptaah – Samavesh Samaroh,’ held on October 9, 2023. This celebration will recognize and honor the hard work, dedication, and progress achieved during the entire week. It will serve as a platform to showcase the positive impact of the Aspirational Blocks Programme and ‘Sankalp Saptaah’ on the lives of citizens.
Inclusivity and Participation
The inaugural event at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on September 30, 2023, will be a momentous occasion. It will see the active participation of approximately 3,000 panchayat and block level people’s representatives and functionaries from all corners of the country. Additionally, to ensure widespread engagement, around two lakh individuals, including block and panchayat level functionaries, farmers, and members of various walks of life, will join the programme virtually.