Current Affairs & GK Weekly One Liners 8th to 14th April 2024

Hurun Global Unicorn Index 2024 :

The Hurun Global Unicorn Index 2024 provides a comprehensive view of unicorn creation worldwide. With 1,453 unicorns cataloged across 53 countries and 291 cities, the index highlights the widespread proliferation of startups with valuations exceeding USD one billion. In this year’s ranking, the United States led the way with 703 unicorns, accounting for 48% of the global total. China followed closely with 340 unicorns, while India secured the third position with 67 unicorns. Despite robust stock market performance, India experienced a decline in unicorn creation for the first time since 2017. The report also reveals that fintech, AI, blockchain, and new energy were the fastest-growing sectors, with fintech leading the pack globally. China’s unicorns were mainly focused on AI, semiconductors, and new energy, while the United States saw significant representation in SAAS, fintech, and AI. Overall, the global unicorn landscape continues to evolve, with new entrants and shifts in valuation contributing to its dynamic nature.

The Amritsar Massacre of April 13, 1919, where General Dyer’s troops killed hundreds of unarmed civilians in Jallianwala Bagh, marks a pivotal moment in India’s fight for independence. Observing its 105th anniversary in 2024, it remains a profound symbol of the sacrifices made for freedom and its lasting impact on history.

The World Cybercrime Index, a groundbreaking study, ranks countries based on their cybercrime threat levels. According to the index, Russia claims the top spot as the most significant source of cybercrime, followed closely by Ukraine. Other notable countries include China, the USA, and Nigeria. The United Kingdom also features in the top eight.

India has lifted export restrictions on essential commodities for the Maldives for the fiscal year 2024-25, including items like eggs, potatoes, onions, rice, wheat flour, sugar, dal, stone aggregate, and river sand. This decision reflects India’s importance as a trade partner for the Maldives, despite the strained relations between the two countries. The permitted quantities for export include 21,513.08 tonnes of potatoes, 35,749.13 tonnes of onions, 1,24,218.36 tonnes of rice, 1,09,162.96 tonnes of wheat flour, 64,494.33 tonnes of sugar, 224.48 tonnes of dal, one million tonnes of stone aggregate, and one million tonnes of river sand. These exports are part of a unique bilateral mechanism, with quotas for each item being increased to the highest levels since 1981 . The move aims to benefit the Maldives’ construction sector, which relies on imports due to limited local resources.

India has gained operational control over the Sittwe Port in Myanmar, enhancing regional connectivity. The port, situated on the Kaladan River, is part of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project. This achievement marks India’s second overseas port acquisition after Chabahar in Iran. The project aims to create a multimodal transport route connecting Kolkata in eastern India to Sittwe on Myanmar’s western coast, further linking to northeastern India. India’s control over the port will boost trade and connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region.

Smt Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated a two-day Homoeopathy Symposium organized by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy in New Delhi. The theme of the symposium, “Empowering Research, Enhancing Proficiency,” aligns with the importance of research in the 21st century. In her address, the President emphasized the need for greater emphasis on research and proficiency to enhance the acceptance and popularity of Homoeopathy. She highlighted that research and proficiency play crucial roles in increasing people’s confidence in this medical system. The event brought together experts and practitioners to discuss advancements and promote Homoeopathy in India.

India invoked the WTO peace clause for the 2022-23 marketing year, exceeding the 10% subsidy ceiling for rice farmers with $6.39 billion in subsidies against $52.8 billion in production value. This clause, first used by India in 2020, protects its food procurement programs when subsidy limits are breached. The breach is covered by the Bali Ministerial Decision, ensuring domestic food security without harming other WTO members. India also provided $48.13 billion in input subsidies to low-income farmers, who constitute nearly 99.43% of its farm holdings. The peace clause helps India balance essential food security initiatives with adherence to international trade regulations.

French automaker Citroën has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first multinational car manufacturer in India to export locally manufactured electric vehicles (EVs) to international markets. The company’s Made-In-India Citroën ë-C3 electric vehicle has been sent to international destinations, with an initial shipment of 500 units to Indonesia from the Kamarajar Port near Chennai. This move underscores Citroën’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions in alignment with India’s “Make in India” initiative. The ë-C3 offers a class-leading 320 km range certified by ARAI MIDC, along with fast charging options for added convenience. It’s a proud validation of India’s engineering and development capabilities, showcasing our manufacturing prowess on a global stage.

The state government of Uttarakhand has taken proactive steps to address the risks posed by Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). They’ve set up two expert panels to assess and monitor five glacial lakes in the region that are at high risk. These measures aim to prevent potential disasters caused by these vulnerable lakes. GLOFs, which can be catastrophic, are a pressing concern in the Himalayas, and Uttarakhand is actively working to mitigate their impact.

In a groundbreaking move to enhance voter engagement and accessibility to election-related information, Punjab’s Malerkotla district has introduced the ‘Booth Raabta’ website. Spearheaded by District Election Officer and Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Pallavi, this platform serves as a comprehensive resource hub for voters and polling personnel. Key features include empowering voters with information, allowing young voters to download certificates, and enabling voters to rate polling stations. The website also emphasizes accessibility and safety, provides government hospital information, and ensures transparent governance. Overall, the initiative aims to promote fair elections and enrich the voting experience in Malerkotla district .

Lindy Cameron, a distinguished alumna of Oxford University and former CEO of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, has been appointed as the first woman British High Commissioner to India. Her appointment is a significant milestone in UK-India relations, occurring 70 years after India appointed its first high commissioner to London.

In Slovakia’s recent presidential election, Peter Pellegrini won, reinforcing Prime Minister Robert Fico’s pro-Russian stance. Pellegrini’s victory signals continuity in Fico’s policies, which include a tilt towards Russia, controversial reforms, and strained relations with the West, impacting Slovakia’s geopolitical dynamics and internal affairs.

Russell Cook, a British endurance athlete, achieved an incredible feat by running the full length of the African continent. His journey spanned more than 10,000 miles (16,094 kilometers) and took 352 days to complete. Starting from the southernmost tip of Africa, he ran through 16 countries, including challenging terrains like rainforests, mountains, and even the Sahara Desert. Russell’s daily routine involved running a marathon distance (26.2 miles or 42.2 kilometers) or more each day, pushing his body to the limit. Despite facing injuries and other obstacles, he persevered and raised nearly £800,000 for charity.

China has surpassed India as the top importer of Russian crude oil via sea routes, importing 1.82 million barrels per day (bpd) in March, compared to India’s 1.36 million bpd. This shift is due to India’s slowdown in imports, influenced by sanctions and rising oil prices.

Simon Harris, born on October 17, 1986, is Ireland’s youngest-ever prime minister. He assumed office on April 9, 2024, succeeding Leo Varadkar. Prior to this role, Harris held ministerial positions in health, education, and justice. His ascent exemplifies dedication and vision in Irish politics .

Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), introduced by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) in April 2024, is a structured currency pegged to a specific exchange rate or currency basket. ZiG is fully backed by a composite basket of foreign currency and precious metals, primarily gold. It replaces the Zimbabwe dollar (ZWL) as legal tender and circulates alongside other currencies. Banknotes and coins denominated in ZiG are now in circulation, with an initial exchange rate of US$1: 13.5616 ZiG.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Syedal Khan Nasir have been elected as Pakistan’s Senate chairman and deputy chairman, respectively. This significant political development occurred in Pakistan’s upper house. The election confirmation came from Senate Secretary Qasim Samad Khan, who confirmed their election to the top roles in the upper house of the Pakistan parliament. A total of 41 newly elected Senators were sworn in as members of the House during a session of Pakistan’s Senate. The Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N)-led coalition secured 19 seats, sweeping the Senate elections, and now controls 59 of the 85 seats in the center. The ruling coalition’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar presided over the first session of the Senate. This development reflects the ongoing dynamics in Pakistan’s political landscape.

Israel recently deployed its ship-mounted defense system, known as the C-Dome, against a “suspicious” aerial target near the southern city of Eilat. This incident followed an alert in the area, which had previously experienced missile fire from Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The C-Dome, a naval version of the Iron Dome, successfully intercepted the target, marking its maiden operational use. The C-Dome, unveiled in 2014 and declared operational in November 2022, functions similarly to the Iron Dome but is mounted on ships. It uses the same interceptor as the land-based Iron Dome and is mounted on Sa’ar 6-class corvettes, German-made warships. No injuries or damage were reported during this interception. The C-Dome’s successful deployment demonstrates Israel’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities against aerial threats.

Russia successfully tested its Angara-A5 space rocket on April 11, 2024, from the Vostochny Cosmodrome. Test launches on April 9 and 10 were canceled due to issues with the pressurization system and the engine launch-control system, but the April 11 launch proceeded without problems.

The United States and Britain have partnered to enhance AI safety measures through a memorandum of understanding. This collaboration aims to develop advanced AI model testing procedures, fulfilling commitments from the AI Safety Summit at Bletchley Park, addressing concerns over upcoming advanced AI iterations.

The European Union (EU) and India are collaborating to support startups in Electric Vehicle (EV) battery recycling. This initiative stems from the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) announced in April 2022, focusing on enhancing cooperation in clean and green technologies, fostering innovation in sustainable energy solutions.

Following a recent terrorist attack in Moscow, attributed to extremists from Central Asia with possible links to Pakistani seminaries, India and Kazakhstan met in Astana to strengthen their anti-terrorism collaboration. This meeting underscores the commitment of both nations to enhancing regional security and counter-terrorism efforts.

In a significant move to enhance India’s mineral security, Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR-IMMT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for technical and knowledge cooperation, leveraging CSIR-IMMT’s expertise in mineral processing and metal extraction.

Sam Pitroda, an internationally recognized telecom inventor, entrepreneur, and development thinker, has authored a thought-provoking book titled “The Idea of Democracy”. Released on March 29, 2024, this book delves into the paradox of democratic success juxtaposed with its liberal decline. It provides a detailed analysis of the essence of democracy, its workings, the values it should encapsulate, and the forces and safeguards that favor liberal democracy. The book aims to stimulate conversation, especially among the youth, about the idea of democracy and their role in ensuring its survival and prosperity in the coming era.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has revised India’s GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year (FY25) to 7%, up from the previous estimate of 6.7%. This growth is expected to be driven by robust investment in both public and private sectors, along with an improvement in consumer demand. However, it’s worth noting that the projected growth for FY25 is slightly lower than the 7.6% GDP expansion achieved in the 2022-23 fiscal year, where strong investment played a key role. ADB also anticipates India’s growth to reach 7.2% in the subsequent fiscal year, FY26. Despite some moderation, the outlook remains positive, positioning India as a major growth engine in the Asia-Pacific region.

Ashneer Grover, co-founder of BharatPe, launched ZeroPe, a new fintech app, following his departure from BharatPe in 2022. ZeroPe aims to revolutionize the fintech sector with innovative features. Grover’s re-entry into fintech showcases his ongoing commitment to innovation and disruption in the industry.

Wipro CEO Resignation:

Thierry Delaporte, the CEO of Wipro, has resigned. Srinivas Pallia, a 32-year veteran of the company, will take over as the new CEO and Managing Director from April 7, 2024. Delaporte’s departure comes after a turbulent period for Wipro, marked by changes in the operating model, top-level departures, and acquisitions that didn’t lead to growth1.

Valerie Adams as International Event Ambassador:

Valerie Adams, the iconic shot putter and two-time Olympic medalist, has been named the International Event Ambassador for the 16th edition of the Tata Consultancy Services World 10K Bengaluru, scheduled for April 28, 2024.

Manoj Panda’s Appointment to the Sixteenth Finance Commission:

Manoj Panda, an esteemed economist and former director of the Institute of Economic Growth, has been appointed as a full-time member of the Sixteenth Finance Commission, filling a vacancy and allowing the commission to commence its duties.

Jayaraj Shanmugam’s Appointment at Air India:

Jayaraj Shanmugam, an industry veteran with 25 years of experience across airlines, airports, and telecom industries, has been appointed as the Head of Global Airport Operations at Air India. This decision is part of Air India’s efforts to enhance operations and customer experience during the Vihaan.AI transformation journey.

Harendra Singh as Coach of India’s Senior Women’s Hockey Team:

Former Indian hockey player and Dronacharya awardee Harendra Singh will replace Janneke Schopman as the coach of India’s senior national women’s hockey team. Schopman resigned after the Indian team failed to qualify for the Paris Olympics 2024.

Tarun Bajaj’s Appointment by US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF):

Tarun Bajaj, former Revenue Secretary and ex-Secretary of Economic Affairs, has been appointed as the head of the US-India Tax Forum by the US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum (USISPF).

PhonePe’s Collaboration for UPI Promotion in Nepal:

PhonePe, in collaboration with eSewa and the Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN) Pokhara, is set to promote UPI during the Fewa New Year Festival in Nepal. The festival, spanning from April 11-14, 2024, attracts both locals and Indian tourists, offering cultural experiences and culinary delights.

Sushil Sharma’s Recommendation for SJVN Limited’s CMD Position:

The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) panel has recommended Sushil Sharma for the position of Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of SJVN Limited. Sharma, currently serving as Director (Projects) within the organization, emerged as the frontrunner from a pool of nine candidates interviewed by the PESB selection panel.

Sachidananda Mohanty’s Appointment to the University Grants Commission (UGC):

Sachidananda Mohanty has been appointed as a Member of the University Grants Commission (UGC) for a three-year term with immediate effect. The appointment was made by the Ministry of Higher Education, Government of India.

India’s Victory at the United Nations:

India has been elected to several key bodies at the United Nations. Notably, Jagjit Pavadia was re-elected for a third term to the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB).

Indian Coast Guard Aquatic Centre at Mandapam, Tamil Nadu:

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) inaugurated an aquatic center at Mandapam, Tamil Nadu. This center aims to enhance the training infrastructure for coast guard personnel.

Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the center will serve as a crucial training hub for honing skills in various aquatic activities. Boosting training infrastructure is essential for ensuring the preparedness of coast guard personnel to handle diverse maritime challenges effectively.

Sagar Kavach 01/24 Coastal Security Exercise:

Conducted off the Lakshadweep Islands from April 1-2, 2024. Involved participation from all maritime security agencies, including the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, Fisheries, Customs, and other security agencies.

Indian Army’s VSHORAD Capabilities Enhancement:

The Indian Army acquired Igla-S Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) from Russia. This procurement, part of a larger deal, signifies a significant upgrade over outdated systems.

Tri-Service Planning Conference (‘Parivartan Chintan’):

Convened in New Delhi on April 8, 2024, orchestrated by the Ministry of Defence. Aims to foster jointness and integration among the Indian Armed Forces, especially in light of ongoing efforts to establish unified theatre commands.

Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Bravery Day:

Celebrated on April 9th annually to pay tribute to brave soldiers who selflessly serve the nation. This year, 2024, marks the 59th anniversary of this significant day.

Indian Army’s Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) Exercise in Sikkim:

Executed by the Trishakti Corps at an altitude of 17,000 feet. Involved Missile Firing Detachments from Mechanized and Infantry Units of the Eastern Command, emphasizing live firing scenarios against both moving and static targets.

India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK:

Set to commence on April 15, 2024, in Termez District, Uzbekistan.Marks another milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations, fostering mutual cooperation and enhancing military capabilities.

Sitars and Tanpuras from Miraj, Maharashtra

The small town of Miraj in Maharashtra’s Sangli district is renowned for its craftsmanship in making musical instruments, particularly sitars and tanpuras. These instruments have recently been awarded the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) tags, recognizing their unique origin and quality. The tradition of making sitars and tanpuras in Miraj dates back over 300 years, with more than seven generations of craftsmen contributing to their production. These string instruments are highly sought after by prominent classical musicians and even artists from the film industry. The GI tag signifies that these instruments come from a specific geographical area and enhances their commercial value. The Miraj Musical Instruments Cluster, representing both sitar and tanpura makers in the town, received the GI tag for these exceptional instruments.

GAIL’s Achievement in Natural Gas Pipeline Construction

GAIL (India) Limited has achieved a significant milestone by winning the 15th CIDC Vishwakarma Award in the ‘Achievement Award for Best Construction Projects’ category. The award recognizes their remarkable accomplishment in the Barauni – Guwahati Natural Gas Pipeline project (BGPL). The BGPL project, an integral part of the Jagdishpur – Haldia & Bokaro – Dhamra Pipeline project, connects North-East India to the National Gas Grid for the first time. The 718 km long pipeline serves as the gateway for environmentally friendly natural gas across the region. Despite challenges such as crossing the mighty Brahmaputra River and dealing with tough terrain, GAIL’s team successfully completed the project. Notably, they achieved a 3.6 km horizontal directional drilling (HDD) crossing of the Brahmaputra River, the longest at the time, and used micro-tunneling techniques for four major river crossings.

Freedom Prize for Aleksei Navalny and Yulia Navalnaya:

The late Russian dissident Aleksei Navalny and his wife, Yulia Navalnaya, will receive the Freedom Prize of the Media from the Ludwig Erhard Summit, a leading German forum. This award recognizes their significant contributions to freedom of expression, dialogue, and democracy.

Best Scientific Poster Award for Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital

Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital’s research team received the prestigious ‘Best Scientific Poster Award’ at the 2024 Annual Meeting of the American Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS). Their award-winning study focused on the efficacy of RevitalVision vision-training software in improving best-corrected vision in stable keratoconus patients post Crosslinking surgery.

Gopi Thotakura: First Indian Space Tourist

Gopi Thotakura is making history as the first Indian pilot to venture into space as a tourist. He will join Blue Origin’s NS-25 mission, marking a significant milestone in India’s space exploration journey and ushering in a new era for space tourism.

Dr. Gagandeep Kang’s Global Health Award

Dr. Gagandeep Kang, an Indian researcher, has been honored with the 2024 John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award for her outstanding achievements in global health research.

American President’s Volunteer Service Award:

Established in 2003 during George Bush’s presidency, the American President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals who have provided at least 500 hours of voluntary service in the United States. Their work positively impacts communities and inspires those around them.

India has indeed faced a concerning trend in doping offenses, as highlighted by the 2022 World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) report. Among the 4,064 samples collected from Indian athletes (including urine, blood, and athlete biological passports), 127 individuals tested positive for banned substances, constituting 3.26% of the sample size. This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address doping in Indian sports.

A recent report by the think tank InfluenceMap reveals that 57 companies are responsible for 80% of the world’s carbon emissions from fossil fuels and cement over the past seven years. These companies play a significant role in oil, gas, coal, and cement production globally. Unfortunately, the net zero target set under the Paris Climate Change Agreement in 2015 has not been achieved, and fossil fuels continue to impact production.

The World Health Organisation (WHO)’s 2024 Global Hepatitis Report highlights that India ranks second only to China in the number of Hepatitis B and C infections, with 3.5 crore cases. Hepatitis, characterized by liver inflammation, poses significant health risks and can be fatal. Globally, 254 million people are affected by Hepatitis B, and 50 million by Hepatitis C.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has achieved a momentous feat by securing the top position in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. This reaffirms JNU’s status as India’s premier academic institution and reflects the country’s growing prominence in the global education landscape.

In 2023, India emerged as a frontrunner in digital services exports, surpassing China. According to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) report, India’s exports in digitally delivered services reached $257 billion, marking a 17% increase from the previous year. This growth outpaced that of Germany and China, which registered only 4% each.

Max Verstappen, the triple world champion from Red Bull Racing, delivered a dominant performance at the Japanese Grand Prix in 2024. Starting from pole position, Verstappen led the race from start to finish, securing his third win out of the first four races of the season. His teammate, Sergio Perez, completed the one-two finish for Red Bull.

In cricket news, Sri Lankan cricketer Kamindu Mendis was named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for March 2024. His outstanding batting performances during the first Test against Bangladesh in Sylhet contributed to Sri Lanka’s comfortable victory. On the women’s side, England’s Maia Bouchier received the ICC Women’s Player of the Month award for the same month.

Turning to tennis, Sumit Nagal achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian player to win an ATP Masters 1000 match on clay courts. His victory at the Rolex Monte Carlo Masters solidified his position as India’s top tennis player.

In hockey, India is set to witness an exciting event with the inaugural season of the National Women’s Hockey League 2024–2025. Scheduled to take place in Ranchi from April 30 to May 9, this league will showcase the country’s top women’s hockey talent.

Finally, at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2024 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, India’s Udit secured a silver medal in the men’s 57kg category. Abhimanyou (men’s 70kg) and Vicky (men’s 97kg) also contributed to India’s medal tally by winning bronze medals in their respective weight divisions5. It’s an exciting time for Indian sports.

In FY24, small business loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) witnessed a remarkable surge, surpassing the ₹5 lakh crore mark, according to recent government data. Disbursements totaled ₹5.20 lakh crore, a substantial increase from ₹4.40 lakh crore in the previous fiscal year. Notably, nearly 70% of the beneficiaries of these loans are women.

NTPC Limited is set to launch the latest edition of its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, the Girl Empowerment Mission (GEM). Aligned with the Government of India’s Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative, GEM aims to empower girls through a 1-month workshop during summer holidays, focusing on health, hygiene, safety, fitness, sports, and yoga. The April 2024 edition will benefit 3,000 underprivileged girls across 42 locations, totaling over 10,000 beneficiaries.

TSAT-1A Satellite Launch:
- Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Satellogic Inc. successfully deployed the TSAT-1A satellite into space. TASL, a leading private sector player in India’s aerospace and defense solutions, collaborated with Satellogic, a leader in sub-meter resolution Earth Observation (EO) data collection.
- TSAT-1A, assembled at TASL’s facility in Karnataka, is India’s first private sector-built sub-meter resolution optical satellite. It was launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket as part of the Bandwagon-1 mission from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA, on April 7, 2024.
- The satellite will provide high-resolution optical images with enhanced collection capacity, dynamic range, and low-latency delivery through its multispectral and hyperspectral capabilities.
ISRO’s START Programme:
- GUJCOST (Gujarat Council on Science and Technology) has been designated as the Nodal Centre for ISRO’s START (Space Technology Awareness and Readiness) program.
- The program aims to nurture aspiring scientists and engineers in the field of space science and technology. It provides an introductory online platform covering various areas of space research.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission Team Award:

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s Chandrayaan-3 mission team received the 2024 John L. “Jack” Swigert, Jr. Award for Space Exploration from the US-based Space Foundation.
This prestigious award recognizes remarkable achievements in space exploration and discovery by space agencies, companies, or consortia.

Nano-Sensor for Disease Detection:
- Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur (IIT Jodhpur) unveiled a groundbreaking nano-sensor.
- The sensor is designed to swiftly detect Cytokines, vital proteins that regulate various cellular functions. Its purpose is to combat high mortality rates resulting from delayed diagnoses and the absence of early warnings in disease progression.
Japanese Astronauts in NASA’s Lunar Missions:
- President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida jointly announced that Japanese astronauts will participate in future NASA lunar missions under the Artemis program.
- This move aims to strengthen economic and defense ties between the United States and Japan.
Chandrayaan-4 and India’s Lunar Aspiration:
- ISRO Chief S. Somanath revealed that the upcoming phase of the Chandrayaan project, Chandrayaan-4, is in progress.
- Chandrayaan-4 represents India’s initial stride toward the aspiration of landing an astronaut on the moon by 2040, advancing India’s lunar exploration efforts.

IMPORTANT DAYS

World Health Day (April 7, 2024):

Theme: “My Health, My Right”

This theme emphasizes the fundamental human right to access quality healthcare, education, and information. It advocates for safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, decent working conditions, and freedom from discrimination. The goal is to ensure everyone, everywhere has access to essential health services and well-being.

World Homeopathy Day (April 10, 2024):
- Theme: “Homeoparivar: One Health, One Family”
- World Homeopathy Day celebrates the alternative medicine practice of homeopathy. It focuses on the power of tiny homeopathic substances to alleviate symptoms of various conditions.
National Safe Motherhood Day (April 11, 2024):
- This day highlights maternal health and well-being. It serves as a reminder to prioritize care and support for mothers during pregnancy and childbirth, ensuring a safe and healthy journey for both mother and child.
International Day of Human Space Flight (April 12):
- This day commemorates the first human space flight by Yuri Gagarin in 1961. It marks the beginning of the space era for mankind and celebrates achievements in space exploration.

World Parkinson’s Day (April 11):

This day raises awareness about Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions worldwide. It highlights the challenges faced by individuals living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers.

World Chagas Disease Day (April 14):
- Theme: “Tackling Chagas disease: detect early and care for life”
- World Chagas Disease Day aims to raise awareness about this neglected tropical disease, especially prevalent in Latin America. Early detection and proper care are crucial for affected individuals.

Gangu Ramsay, one of the renowned cinematographers and filmmakers, passed away in Mumbai at the age of 83. As the second-eldest son of F.U. Ramsay, he played a pivotal role in the iconic Ramsay Brothers banner, contributing his creative vision to over 50 iconic films. Some of his notable works include Veerana, Purana Mandir, Bandh Darwaza, Do Gaz Zameen Ke Neeche, and Khoj starring Rishi Kapoor. His legacy lives on through these cult horror films that left a deep mark on the Indian cinema world. May his soul rest in peace.

R.M. Veerappan, a trusted lieutenant of the late Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), passed away in Tamil Nadu. Veerappan was a powerful minister during the 1980s and remained closely associated with the matinee-icon-turned-politician.
British physicist Peter Higgs, famous for discovering the ‘Higgs-Boson Particle’ (also known as the ‘God Particle’), died at the age of 94. His groundbreaking work helped explain the universe’s creation after the Big Bang, emphasizing the role of bosons in holding the universe together.
O.J. Simpson, the former NFL star who was acquitted in a televised murder trial, has also passed away due to cancer at the age of 76.

Jack Alabaster, a former legspinner in New Zealand Cricket, died at the age of 93. He played 21 Tests for New Zealand from 1955 to 1972, taking 49 wickets at an average of 38.02. NZC expressed deep sorrow over his loss, describing him as a “champion of Southland and @OtagoCricket”.

John Alfred Tinniswood, the world’s oldest man at 111 years old, attributes his exceptional longevity to a combination of luck, moderation, and a weekly tradition: fish and chips every Friday. He emphasizes that while moderation in lifestyle choices is essential, ultimately, longevity is a matter of luck.
The Yoga Mahotsav held in Pune, Maharashtra, marked the 75-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga. Thousands of participants actively engaged in the practice of the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP), highlighting the growing popularity of Yoga. It’s heartening to see such enthusiasm for this ancient practice that fosters personal and societal well-being.
Gangaur, celebrated throughout Rajasthan, commemorates the union of Lord Shiva (Gan) and Goddess Parvati (Gauri). This festival symbolizes the happiness and auspiciousness of marriage, making it significant for the people of Rajasthan. The vibrant celebrations honor the divine bond between Shiva and Parvati.

Additionally, the Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) is organizing the ‘Shakti – Festival of Music and Dance’ across seven different Shaktipeeths in India. This festival, part of the Kala Pravah series, aims to revive temple traditions during the auspicious Navratri period. The event commenced at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati and will conclude at the Shaktipeeth Maa Harsidhi Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the power of the divine feminine through music and dance.

Daily Current Affairs for UPSC, APSC, Bank, SSC, Government Jobs, and Sarkari Exams

Boost your Daily Current Affairs and Daily GK knowledge with important one-liners from 8th to 14th April 2024. Perfect for Indian students preparing for UPSC, APSC, Bank Exams, SSC, Government Jobs, and other Sarkari Exams. Stay updated and enhance your competitive exam preparation with the latest and most relevant information.

Prepare for Sarkari Naukri, Government Job Exams, or Competitive Exams like UPSC, APSC, Bank PO, SSC CGL, and more with our latest Current Affairs and General Knowledge (GK) one-liners from 8th to 14th April 2024. These updates are essential for all aspirants aiming to crack their dream job in government sectors.

Daily Current Affairs & GK Overview

Stay updated with the most important Daily Current Affairs and General Knowledge (GK) for Sarkari Exams like UPSC, APSC, Bank PO, SSC CGL, and more.

April 2024 Current Affairs in Hindi

अप्रैल 2024 की सबसे जरूरी करंट अफेयर्स और सामान्य ज्ञान। ये अपडेट्स सरकारी नौकरी और प्रतियोगी परीक्षाओं की तैयारी के लिए महत्वपूर्ण हैं।

Important GK for Sarkari Naukri

Revise these key General Knowledge (GK) points for your Sarkari Naukri preparation. Our Weekly GK is specially designed to help with UPSC, Bank exams, and other Government Jobs.

For UPSC preparation, revising Daily Current Affairs and Monthly GK is essential. Bank exam aspirants should focus on both daily GK updates and monthly compilations to cover all aspects of the syllabus. SSC CGL candidates can also benefit from our current affairs 2024 for key national and international events.

FAQs Section

Q1: What are the most important current affairs topics for UPSC 2024?
Q2: How can I improve my GK for Bank exams?
Q3: Where can I find Hindi current affairs for Sarkari exams?

Make sure to follow our daily and weekly updates to stay on top of GK and current affairs. This will help you succeed in UPSC, APSC, Bank exams, and other Sarkari Naukri opportunities.