Today’s Current Affairs MCQs/ GK Quiz 3rd & 4th December 2023

These current affairs today are a part of our daily current affairs. We cover a wide range of topics from state, national, and international news that are relevant and important for competitive exams. Our team prepares today’s current affairs after going through many newspapers, such as The Hindu, Indian Express, PIB, PRS, etc.

Scroll down for current affairs for 3rd December 2023 and 4th December 2023.

U.S. Witnessing Emergence of ‘White Lung Syndrome’

• Ohio has taken the forefront as the initial U.S. state grappling with a surge in cases of an ailment resembling pneumonia, denoted as ‘white lung syndrome.’ 
• This outbreak, predominantly impacting the younger demographic, has resulted in a notable increase in hospitalizations, eliciting concern among healthcare authorities.
• ‘White Lung Syndrome’ manifests with distinctive white patches discernible on chest X-rays of affected children. 
• The term encompasses various respiratory disorders, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis, and conditions associated with silica exposure.

India Resumes Venezuelan Crude Oil Imports, Ventures into Direct Negotiations

• According to the significant news headlines on December 4, 2023, Indian refineries, including the prominent Reliance Industries, have reinstated the import of Venezuelan crude oil through intermediaries. 
• This decision follows the temporary suspension of U.S. sanctions on Venezuela, creating opportunities for direct transactions between Indian corporations and Venezuela’s state-owned oil enterprise, PDVSA.
• Reliance (RELI.NS), a major Indian conglomerate, is poised to engage in discussions with PDVSA executives in the upcoming week regarding direct sales of crude oil.
• The relaxation of U.S. sanctions in October sparked a resurgence in Venezuelan oil exports, predominantly facilitated by intermediaries and traders, particularly to China.

World Bank’s Innovative Strategy for Expanding Climate Finance Through Securitization

• The President of the World Bank, Ajay Banga, has delineated a strategic initiative aimed at amplifying climate financing through securitization. 
• This inventive approach, spearheaded by the Private Sector Investment Lab (PSIL), concentrates on establishing an “originate-to-distribute” model to attract substantial investments from affluent investors for projects related to climate initiatives.
• PSIL, initiated under the World Bank’s umbrella, collaborates with a consortium of 15 financial leaders, including Larry Fink of BlackRock, Thomas Buberl of AXA SA, and Noel Quinn of HSBC Plc. 
• The collective effort seeks to mitigate investment risks in climate projects in emerging economies and encourage private capital to contribute to endeavors focused on reducing emissions.

India Re-Elected To International Maritime Organization With Highest Vote Tally

• India has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the biennium 2024-25, securing the highest number of votes.
• The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, expressed gratitude for the widespread international support.
• India’s re-election positions it among the ten states with the “largest interest in international seaborne trade,” alongside influential nations such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 
• The IMO Council, serving as the executive organ of the International Maritime Organization, holds a pivotal role in overseeing the organization’s work, regulating the maritime industry, and supporting global trade, transportation, and all marine operations.

MoT Launches National Best Tourism Village And National Best Rural Homestays Competition 2024

• In a concerted effort to promote Rural Tourism and foster sustainable development, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has announced the initiation of the National Best Tourism Village Competition 2024 and the National Best Rural Homestay Competition 2024.
• Building on the success of the preceding edition in 2023, where 25 villages were acknowledged for their excellence, these competitions aspire to fortify rural economies and encourage community participation. 
• This initiative aligns with the comprehensive National Strategy and Roadmap for the Development of Rural Tourism in India.
• The Ministry, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, has undertaken strategic initiatives outlined in the National Strategy and Roadmap. 
• The objective is to create a conducive environment for the growth of Rural Tourism by actively engaging governments, industry stakeholders, NGOs, and local communities.

India’s Decision on COP28 Health & Climate Declaration Raises Concerns

• India was conspicuously absent from the list of nations signing the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) Declaration on Climate and Health. 
• India abstained from endorsing the declaration due to reservations about the feasibility of reducing greenhouse gas emissions for cooling within its healthcare infrastructure. These concerns stem from India’s significant healthcare challenges.
• The declaration emphasizes a commitment to addressing inequalities within and among countries, with a focus on policies that accelerate the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG3, which centers on promoting good health and well-being.

India Surpasses Environmental Goals: Emission Intensity Drops 33% Ahead of Schedule

• A commendable achievement by India is surpassing its target by reducing GDP emission intensity by 33% between 2005 and 2019, a milestone reached 11 years ahead of schedule. 
• The government’s report, ‘The Third National Communication to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change,’ highlights India’s significant progress in decoupling economic growth from greenhouse gas emissions.
• Despite a cumulative annual GDP growth rate of 7%, India managed to limit emissions to a 4% increase per year during 2005-2019, showcasing the nation’s ability to achieve sustainable economic growth while mitigating emissions.

Gajraj System: AI-Driven Elephant Protection on Indian Railways

• In a pioneering move for wildlife conservation, the Indian Railways has introduced the “Gajraj system,” an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based solution aimed at preventing elephant fatalities on railway tracks. 
• Deployed along a 700-kilometer stretch in forested areas, this surveillance system alerts locomotive pilots to the presence of elephants on tracks, minimizing the risk of collisions.
• The system sends alerts to various stakeholders, including train controllers, station masters, and train drivers when elephants are detected on the tracks. 
• Initial deployment proved notably effective, with ongoing improvements based on field experience.

MP CM Pays Tribute to Bhopal Gas Leak Victims on 39th Anniversary

• Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan commemorated the 39th anniversary of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy on December 2 and 3, 1984. 
• The tragedy occurred when methyl isocyanate (MIC) leaked from the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) factory, resulting in numerous casualties and long-lasting effects on survivors.
• In remembrance, the people of Bhopal organized a candle march, advocating for compensation, healthcare, and justice. The march, from Sidhi Colony to the memorial near the factory, served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by survivors.

Shri Amit Shah Addresses Mati Kala Mahotsav in Ahmedabad, Gujarat

• Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, recently spoke at the Khadi Mati Kala Mahotsav in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, highlighting the diverse aspects of the Khadi movement. 
• Shri Amit Shah emphasized the historical significance of Khadi, tracing its roots back to Mahatma Gandhi, who linked it to the freedom movement, using it as a tool to provide employment to the underprivileged.
• The event witnessed the distribution of essential tools and equipment, promoting various industries, including electric potter wheels, agro-based food processing tools, incense stick making machines, plumbing kits, and traditional charkhas.

FITEXPO INDIA 2023 Unveiled in Kolkata

• The inauguration of FITEXPO INDIA 2023, a premier sports, fitness, and wellness trade expo took place in Kolkata. 
• The event, spanning over 3 lac sq feet of indoor and outdoor space at the Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan, is anticipated to attract over 5000 enthusiasts. 
• Described as a ‘Kumbh Mela’ for sports and wellness, FITEXPO INDIA 2023 aims to engage the growing community of fitness enthusiasts and practitioners, emphasizing the sector’s significant growth under initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India.

Karnataka’s Ambitious Economic Growth Plan: Targeting Rs 1.4 Trillion Annual Investments

• The Karnataka government is charting a strategic course for economic growth, aiming for an annual investment of Rs 1.4 trillion, marking a substantial 75% increase. 
• The overarching objective is to position Karnataka as a premier investment destination, focusing on future technology and advanced manufacturing. 
• Key sectors include aerospace and defense, electronic components, core manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and emerging sectors like electric vehicles, textiles, semiconductors, space tech, and med tech.

LIC Enhances Board Structure with Shareholder’s Director Framework

• In a significant governance update, the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has introduced the Life Insurance Corporation of India (Shareholders’ Director) Regulations, 2023. 
• This framework outlines the addition of a shareholder’s director to the board, allowing them an extended tenure of four years. 
• However, the appointed shareholder’s director is restricted from holding a similar position in more than two companies simultaneously. 
• This move reflects LIC’s strategic commitment to fortify its governance structure and actively involve shareholders in decision-making.

Infosys Collaborates with Shell for Sustainable Data Centers

• Indian IT services giant Infosys has entered a strategic partnership with energy company Shell to promote the adoption of immersion cooling services in data centers.
• This collaboration aims to synergize digital and energy strengths, leveraging AI-based digital solutions to establish environmentally responsible data centers. 
• The objective is to efficiently manage high computing loads through optimized hardware, contributing to the creation of sustainable and eco-friendly data centers.

Indian Navy Day 2023

• December 4 marks Indian Navy Day, commemorating the valor and achievements of the Indian Naval forces. 
• This day holds historical significance, particularly honoring the strategic Operation Trident during the Indo-Pakistan War in 1971. 
• The theme for Indian Navy Day 2023 is “Operational Efficiency, Readiness, and Mission Accomplishment in the Maritime Domain.”

Forbes Asia Heroes of Philanthropy List Features Nandan Nilekani, KP Singh, Nikhil Kamath

• Nandan Nilekani, KP Singh, and Nikhil Kamath, three prominent Indian business leaders, secured positions on the 17th edition of Forbes Asia’s Heroes of Philanthropy list. 
• Nilekani’s acknowledgment stems from his significant contribution of Rs.3.2 billion to his alma mater, IIT Bombay. 
• KP Singh’s divestment of his remaining stake in DLF generated a substantial Rs.7.3 billion. Nikhil Kamath’s inclusion highlights the increasing trend of business leaders engaging in philanthropy across diverse sectors.

World Malaria Report 2023: Global Malaria Cases Surpass 249 Million in 2022

• Despite efforts to expand prevention measures, a new WHO report reveals a concerning trend: global malaria cases rose to 249 million in 2022, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 16 million. 
• Challenges include COVID-19 disruptions, drug resistance, humanitarian crises, resource constraints, and climate change impacts. 
• The report underscores setbacks in achieving WHO global malaria strategy milestones for 2025.

Madagascar Court Confirms Andry Rajoelina’s Third Term as President

• Madagascar’s Constitutional Court has confirmed the re-election of President Andry Rajoelina, marking his third term in office. 
• The election faced challenges, including the withdrawal of ten presidential contenders and opposition parties urging supporters to abstain. 
• Despite a historically low voter turnout of 46%, Rajoelina secured victory with 59% of the votes cast.

Kanchan Devi Appointed First Woman Director General of ICFRE

• Kanchan Devi, a 1991-batch Indian Forest Service Officer, has become the first woman Director General of the Indian Council of Forestry Research Education (ICFRE). 
• With over 30 years of expertise in forestry, her extensive track record spans forest management, administration, education, human resource development, research, and extension. ICFRE, established in 1986, is the largest organization responsible for forestry research in India.

National Awards 2023 Presented for the Empowerment of Persons With Disabilities

• President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Awards for the Empowerment of Divyangjan 2023 on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. 
• Twenty-one individuals and nine institutions were honored for their outstanding contributions to the empowerment of Divyangjan. 
• The awards recognized achievements across various fields, reflecting diverse talents and efforts dedicated to the holistic development of the disabled community.

Decline in FDI Inflows from Cayman Islands and Cyprus to India

• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India witnessed a significant contraction from the Cayman Islands and Cyprus, leading to an overall decline of 24% in FDI inflows from April to September in the current fiscal year. 
• FDI from the Cayman Islands declined by 75%, reaching USD 145 million, while inflows from Cyprus dropped over 95% to USD 35 million during the same period.

FDI Landscape: ₹1 Lakh Crore Proposals from India’s Border Neighbors; 50% Cleared

• Since April 2020, India has received FDI proposals amounting to ₹1 lakh crore from neighboring countries, with 50% already cleared. 
• The government implemented measures in April 2020, requiring prior approval for such investments to safeguard domestic firms. 
• An inter-ministerial committee scrutinizes proposals, with a focus on sectors like manufacturing, computer software and hardware, trading, e-commerce, and light engineering/electrical manufacturing.

India’s Manufacturing Sector Displays Resilience in November with a PMI of 56

• In November, India’s manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) rose to 56, indicating positive momentum compared to October’s 55.5. 
• While slightly below September’s figure of 57.5, this uptick suggests a rebound from the slowest rate of expansion in October since February. 
• The robust performance of the manufacturing sector contributes significantly to India’s overall economic growth, highlighted by a 7.6% expansion in the second quarter.

Vaishali Rameshbabu Makes History as Grandmaster Alongside Brother Praggnanandhaa

• In a historic moment for Indian chess, 22-year-old Vaishali Rameshbabu achieved the title of Grandmaster at the IV El Llobregat Open in Spain. 
• She becomes the third woman from India to attain this prestigious title, following Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli. 
• Vaishali’s victory over Turkish FM Tamer Tarik Selbes played a crucial role in surpassing the 2500 FIDE rating threshold required for the Grandmaster title.

Cyclone Michaung Anticipated to Reach Andhra Pradesh

• The deep depression forming over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm named ‘Michaung,’ according to the latest report from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). 
• Predicted to make landfall near Bapatla on the morning of December 5, the cyclone has put eight districts—Tirupati, Nellore, Prakasam, Bapatla, Krishna, West Godavari, Konaseema, and Kakinada—on high alert. 
• The IMD foresees the wind speed reaching severe cyclonic levels, with a maximum sustained speed of 90-100 kmph, gusting up to 110 kmph. 
• Heavy rainfall is expected across significant parts of Tamil Nadu, southern Andhra Pradesh, and southern Odisha.

1. What historic achievement did Vaishali Ramesh Babu recently attain in the world of chess?

1. National Chess Championship Winner
2. Youngest Woman Chess Grandmaster
3. First Indian Woman to Cross 2600 FIDE Rating
4. Title of Grandmaster at IV El Llobregat Open

2. Who are the two other Indian women chess players who previously achieved the title of Grandmaster, as mentioned in the news?

1. Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli
2. Vishwanathan Anand and Praggnanandhaa
3. Vaishali Ramesh Babu and Tamer Tarik Selbes
4. Nellore and Bapatla

3. What is the name of the severe cyclonic storm that is likely to make landfall near Bapatla, as per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)?

1. Cyclone Nellore
2. Cyclone Prakasam
3. Cyclone Michaung
4. Cyclone Tirupati

4. Which districts in Andhra Pradesh have been put on high alert due to the anticipated landfall of Cyclone Michaung?

1. Tirupati, Nellore, and Prakasam
2. Bapatla, Krishna, and West Godavari
3. Konaseema and Kakinada
4. All of the above

5. What is the maximum sustained wind speed predicted for Cyclone Michaung, according to the IMD?

1. 70-80 kmph
2. 80-90 kmph
3. 0-100 kmph
4. 100-110 kmph

6. What is the primary focus of FITEXPO INDIA 2023, recently inaugurated in Kolkata?

1. Information Technology
2. Agricultural Trade
3. Sports, Fitness, and Wellness
4. Fashion and Design

7. What is the Karnataka government’s ambitious goal for annual investments to boost economic growth?

1. Rs 1 Trillion
2. Rs 1.2 Trillion
3. Rs 1.4 Trillion
4. Rs 1.6 Trillion

8. Which countries witnessed a significant decline in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows to India, contributing to an overall 24% drop?

1. Singapore and Malaysia
2. Cayman Islands and Cyprus
3. Japan and South Korea
4. USA and UK

9. What initiative was implemented by the Indian government in April 2020 regarding Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from neighboring countries?

1. No Restrictions
2. Fast-Track Approvals
3. Mandatory Approval
4. Tax Incentives

10. What does the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) of 56 in November signify for India’s manufacturing sector?

1. Decline in Performance
2. Same as October
3. Record Expansion
4. Marginal Improvement