In today's news roundup, we bring you the most important developments that are crucial for competitive exam preparation. From government initiatives to economic indicators, here are the key highlights you need to know.
Government Schemes and Policy Updates
The central government has launched a new scheme aimed at boosting digital literacy among rural women. Under the 'Digital Sakhi' program, women in villages will be trained in using smartphones, internet banking, and government service portals. This initiative is part of the broader Digital India campaign and is expected to empower over 50,000 women in the first phase.
In another development, the Ministry of Finance has announced an extension of the deadline for filing income tax returns for the assessment year 2024-25. The new deadline is now December 31, 2024, providing relief to taxpayers who were unable to file by the original date.
Economic Indicators
The Reserve Bank of India has released its monthly bulletin, revealing that the country's foreign exchange reserves have crossed the $600 billion mark for the first time. This milestone reflects strong capital inflows and a stable macroeconomic environment. The RBI also noted that retail inflation remained within the target range, providing room for potential policy easing in the coming months.
Meanwhile, the stock market witnessed a volatile session today, with the BSE Sensex closing 150 points higher, driven by gains in banking and IT stocks. The Nifty 50 also ended in positive territory, up by 45 points.
International Relations
India and the United States have signed a new defense cooperation agreement, focusing on joint military exercises and technology sharing. The pact is expected to enhance interoperability between the two nations' armed forces and strengthen strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific region.
In a separate development, the Indian government has extended humanitarian aid to Myanmar, which has been hit by severe flooding. The aid package includes food, medicine, and temporary shelter materials, and is being delivered through the Indian Embassy in Yangon.
Science and Technology
ISRO has successfully conducted a test of its new cryogenic engine, which will be used in future lunar and interplanetary missions. The engine, developed at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, demonstrated a burn time of 800 seconds, meeting all performance parameters.
In the field of healthcare, researchers at the Indian Institute of Science have developed a low-cost portable device that can detect dengue fever within 30 minutes. The device uses a blood sample and is expected to be particularly useful in rural areas where access to diagnostic labs is limited.
Environment and Climate
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified new emission norms for thermal power plants, requiring them to reduce sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions by 30% by 2026. The move is aimed at improving air quality in urban areas and meeting India's commitments under the Paris Agreement.
In a positive environmental story, the population of the Great Indian Bustard has increased slightly, with the latest census recording 150 individuals in the wild. Conservation efforts, including captive breeding and habitat protection, have contributed to this modest rise.
Sports and Culture
In sports, the Indian cricket team has announced its squad for the upcoming T20 series against Australia. Young batsman Shubman Gill has been included, while veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin makes a comeback. The series is scheduled to begin on November 23.
On the cultural front, the annual Surajkund Mela will be held from February 1 to 15, 2025, with Uttar Pradesh as the theme state. The fair will showcase traditional crafts, folk dances, and cuisine from across India.
Stay tuned for more updates and make sure to incorporate these current affairs into your exam preparation. Good luck!
