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 10h December 2023 and 11th December 2023.
Supreme Court Upholds Abrogation of Article 370: Key Judgment Highlights
- The Supreme Court’s landmark decision on December 11, 2023, upheld the Union Government’s 2019 move to abrogate the special status of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) under Article 370.
- Led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, the Constitution bench addressed key constitutional questions, confirming the government’s decision to revoke J&K’s special status.
- The court emphasized that the state had no internal sovereignty, clarifying that the concurrence of the State Government was unnecessary, and Article 370 was considered a temporary provision.
Vishnu Deo Sai Appointed New Chhattisgarh Chief Minister
- In a strategic move ahead of the 2024 general elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) nominated Vishnu Deo Sai as its candidate for the Chief Minister position in Chhattisgarh.
- Vishnu Deo Sai, a tribal leader and former Union Minister, secured this position at 59, bringing his organizational skills to the forefront.
- A four-term Member of Parliament, Sai served as the president of the Chhattisgarh BJP unit from 2020 to 2022.
- Recognized for his non-controversial image, he has a longstanding association with the party and is poised to lead in the upcoming elections.
PM Modi Inaugurates Indian Art, Architecture & Design Biennale 2023
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first-ever Indian Art, Architecture & Design Biennale (IAADB) 2023 at Delhi’s iconic Red Fort.
- The event also witnessed the launch of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design’ and the student Biennale, Samunnati.
- During the ceremony, PM Modi unveiled the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design,’ highlighting the Red Fort’s historical importance.
- This initiative includes the establishment of cultural spaces in major cities, enriching Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Varanasi.
- PM Modi emphasized IAADB as a crucial step towards global cultural institutionalization, mentioning upcoming events like the International Museum Expo and the Festival of Libraries in 2023.
Uttar Pradesh Delegation Heads to Davos for World Economic Forum
- A prominent delegation from the Uttar Pradesh government is gearing up to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos, Switzerland, scheduled from January 15 to 19.
- The delegation’s objective is to spotlight the state’s advancements toward becoming a trillion-dollar economy and transforming metropolitan towns into focal points across various sectors.
- Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision, the state aims to join the league of trillion-dollar economies within the next five years.
- The delegation will illuminate the strategic development of metropolitan towns, underscoring their role as hubs across diverse sectors.
Indian Army Organizes Table-Top Exercise Empowering ASEAN Women Officers
- In a significant move towards fostering gender inclusivity and strengthening the capabilities of women military personnel in peacekeeping operations, the Indian Army recently conducted a table-top exercise (TTX) for women officers from the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
- Held at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi from December 4 to 8, this exercise is part of the ongoing joint military training initiatives between India and ASEAN member states, led by the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK).
- The table-top exercise serves as a follow-up to collaborative efforts between India and ASEAN to enhance the preparedness and proficiency of women officers in peacekeeping missions, representing a landmark initiative explicitly designed to promote gender inclusivity and elevate the capabilities of women military personnel operating in peacekeeping environments.
Nikhil Dey Named ‘2023 International Anti-Corruption Champion’ by the US Government
- Indian social activist Nikhil Dey has been recognized as the ‘2023 International Anti-Corruption Champion’ by the US government.
- Dey, co-founder of the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS), has been a stalwart advocate for policy reforms empowering workers in India.
- The US State Department acknowledged his efforts in exposing official corruption, particularly addressing issues like underpayment of workers on official projects.
Indian Naval Ship Sumedha Makes Inaugural Arrival at Port Lamu, Kenya
- As part of its ongoing long-range deployment to Africa, the Indian Naval Ship Sumedha achieved a historic arrival at Port Lamu, Kenya on December 9, 2023.
- This visit holds significance as it marks the first port call by any Indian Naval Ship at the recently developed port in Kenya, showcasing the growing maritime collaboration between India and Kenya.
- During the port call, personnel from both the Indian Navy and the Kenyan Navy will engage in a wide range of professional interactions, including deck visits where naval officers and sailors can share insights and experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of maritime operations.
- Sporting exchanges are also planned to strengthen camaraderie and build lasting friendships between the two navies.
- The visit aims to enhance cooperation and exchange best practices between the Indian and Kenyan navies.
Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Inaugurates ‘Krishnaveni Sangeetha Neerajanam’ in Vijayawada
- Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, inaugurated Krishnaveni Sangeetha Neerajanam at Tummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada.
- The festival promises a three-day classical music extravaganza, featuring performances by renowned musicians, an exhibition, and the sale of regional cuisine, local handicrafts, and handlooms.
- During the inauguration, Minister Sitharaman highlighted the rich legacy of Telugu culture and the significant contributions of the Telugu language to classical traditions.
- She commended the efforts to organize the grand music festival in Andhra Pradesh, emphasizing the need to revive the glorious traditions and introduce them to the younger generation.
Indian Navy Conducts Bi-Annual ‘Prasthan’ Exercise Off Mumbai Coast
- The Indian Navy, in collaboration with various defense, state, and civil agencies, recently concluded a comprehensive two-phased exercise named ‘Prasthan‘ in the Offshore Development Area off the Mumbai coast.
- Conducted every six months, this exercise is pivotal in validating and refining measures and procedures aimed at addressing various contingencies that may arise in oil production platforms.
- The first phase of the exercise focused on simulating security emergencies, including potential terrorist attacks and bomb threats involving Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
- The second phase centered on responding to contingencies such as fires on the oil platform and assisting a disabled vessel in the offshore development area.
International Mountain Day 2023
- Every year on December 11, we celebrate International Mountain Day to remind ourselves of the incredible importance of mountains in our lives.
- This year’s theme is “Restoring Mountain Ecosystems.” Designated by the United Nations, this special day encourages us to think about how we can protect these natural wonders and ensure a better future for our planet.
- Covering about 27% of the Earth’s land, mountains are like nature’s treasure chests, home to 15% of the world’s population and hosting around half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, making them a haven for various plants and animals.
India Slips to 4th Spot in Global Startup Funding Ranking After Dismal 2023
- India, a former powerhouse in the global startup ecosystem, has witnessed a significant decline in its funding performance, slipping to the fourth position in the global ranking for the highest-funded geographies in 2023.
- This drop comes after securing the third spot in both 2021 and 2022. India, trailing behind the US, the UK, and China, received a modest $7 billion in total funding by December 5, as reported by Tracxn.
- In the third quarter of 2023, India further slid to the fifth position among the highest-funded countries, experiencing a substantial 30% drop from Q2 2023 and a staggering 54% drop compared to Q3 2022.
Indian Army Organizes ‘Honour Run’ in Delhi to Commemorate Kargil War Victory
- In a tribute to the historic military triumph during the Kargil War, the Indian Army orchestrated the ‘Honour Run – Indian Army Veteran’s Half Marathon’ in Delhi on December 10, 2023. Conducted under the theme ‘Honour Run,’ the event aimed to foster a stronger connection between the Indian Army, veterans, and the public, especially the youth.
- Participants from diverse backgrounds paid homage to the bravehearts, showcasing the nation’s caliber, potential, and energy.
- Over 14,000 individuals, including serving personnel, veterans, NCC cadets, families of army personnel, and citizens of varying age groups, actively took part in the event.
Tiriyani Block Secures Top Spot in NITI Aayog’s Inaugural Delta Rankings
- In a significant achievement for the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP), the Tiriyani Block in Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district, Telangana, has clinched the top position in the first delta rankings announced by NITI Aayog.
- The rankings are based on the performance of blocks and progress achieved in the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) during the month.
- The event also revealed the Achievers of Development Programme (ADP) rankings for October 2023, with Rayagada in Odisha and Jamui in Bihar securing the first and second ranks, respectively.
India’s Remarkable Climb to 7th Place in Global Climate Performance Index
- In a major stride towards sustainable practices, India has secured the 7th position in the latest edition of the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI).
- This announcement, made during COP-28 in Dubai, solidifies India’s status as a top performer for the fifth consecutive year.
- India’s outstanding performance in renewable energy, low greenhouse gas emissions, and a focus on the food sector contribute significantly to its remarkable standing.
PM Modi Retains Title of World’s Most Popular Leader with 76% Approval: Morning Consult Survey
- In a recent survey by US-based consultancy firm ‘Morning Consult,’ Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi retains the top position as the world’s most popular leader, boasting an impressive approval rating of 76%.
- This notable achievement places him more than 10 percentage points ahead of the next leader in the rankings.
- Modi has consistently held the top position, maintaining a 76% approval rating in the September survey, aligning with his previous rankings in April (76%) and February (78%).
Survey Results:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi: 76%
- President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (Mexico): 66%
- President Alain Berset (Switzerland): 58%
- President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Brazil): 49%
- President Joe Biden (United States): 40.
ITC Becomes World’s 3rd Most Valuable Tobacco Company after London-based BAT Sinks
- In a noteworthy market shift, ITC Ltd has become the third most valuable tobacco company globally, surpassing British American Tobacco (BAT).
- This change follows a sell-off in BAT shares, highlighting ITC’s dynamic business diversification. With a market capitalization of $68.6 billion, ITC outperforms BAT, standing at $64.9 billion.
- ITC’s diversified portfolio, including FMCG, hotels, papers, and agri-products, has fueled investor confidence.
- Although tobacco constitutes only 37% of ITC’s gross revenue, it remains a significant contributor, constituting 78% of the company’s profit before tax.
Ram Nath Kovind Launches Book ‘Naye Bharat Ka Samveda’ on PM Modi
- Former President Shri Ramnath Kovind launched the book ‘Naye Bharat ka Samaveda,’ a significant collection highlighting Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s impactful speeches.
- The book delves deep into the core essence and values embedded in India’s Constitution, providing insights into the visionary leadership of PM Modi.
REC Signs 200M Euro Loan with German Bank KfW for Distribution Sector Reforms
- REC Limited, a prominent Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power, achieved a significant milestone by signing a 200 million Euro loan agreement with the German bank KfW.
- This agreement, the sixth line of credit under the Indo-German Development Cooperation, underscores REC’s commitment to strengthening the distribution infrastructure of DISCOMs in alignment with the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) of the Government of India.
Invest India to Host 27th World Investment Conference in New Delhi
- Invest India, the National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of the Government of India, is gearing up to host the 27th World Investment Conference (WIC) from December 11-14, 2023.
- Organized under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), the conference will serve as a pivotal platform for global investment promotion and innovation stakeholders.
- With the theme “Empowering Investors: IPAs Pioneering Future Growth,” the event will facilitate discussions on investment policies, trends, collaboration opportunities, trade, investments, and knowledge sharing.
1. What was the objective of the ‘Honour Run – Indian Army Veteran’s Half Marathon’ organized by the Indian Army in Delhi on December 10, 2023?
- To promote youth employment
- To celebrate a historic military triumph
- To raise funds for veterans’ welfare
- To address climate change issues
Show Answer
Correct Answer: To raise funds for veterans’ welfare
The event aimed to foster a stronger connection between the Indian Army, veterans, and the public, especially the youth, in tribute to the Kargil War victory.
2. Which block secured the top position in NITI Aayog’s Inaugural Delta Rankings?
- Jamui Block
- Rayagada Block
- Tiriyani Block
- Asifabad Block
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Tiriyani Block
Tiriyani Block in Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district, Telangana, secured the top position in the first delta rankings announced by NITI Aayog.
3. What is the rank achieved by India in the latest edition of the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI)?
- 5th
- 7th
- 10th
- 12th
Show Answer
Correct Answer: 7th
India secured the 7th position in the Climate Change Performance Index, emphasizing its sustainable practices.
4. Who retains the title of the world’s most popular leader with a 76% approval rating, according to the Morning Consult Survey?
- Joe Biden
- Narendra Modi
- Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
- Andrés Manuel López Obrador
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Narendra Modi
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi maintains the top position with a 76% approval rating.
5. What significant change occurred in the tobacco industry, making ITC the world’s 3rd most valuable tobacco company?
- ITC’s acquisition of BAT
- BAT’s diversification into FMCG
- ITC’s dynamic business diversification
- BAT’s merger with a global conglomerate
Show Answer
Correct Answer: ITC’s dynamic business diversification’
ITC became the third most valuable tobacco company globally due to its dynamic business diversification, surpassing British American Tobacco (BAT).
6. What decision did the Supreme Court uphold on December 11, 2023?
- Rejection of the Union Government’s 2019 move
- Special status of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K)
- Revocation of Article 370
- Internal sovereignty of the state
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Revocation of Article 370
The Supreme Court upheld the Union Government’s 2019 move to abrogate the special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370.
7. Who led the Constitution bench during the Supreme Court’s decision on Article 370?
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Chief Justice DY Chandrachud
- Vishnu Deo Sai
- Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Chief Justice DY Chandrachud
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud led the Constitution bench that addressed key constitutional questions and confirmed the revocation of J&K’s special status.
8. Why was Vishnu Deo Sai in the news recently?
- Nominated for the Chief Minister position in Chhattisgarh
- Elected as the President of Chhattisgarh BJP unit
- Leading the Uttar Pradesh delegation to Davos
- Inaugurating the Indian Art, Architecture & Design Biennale 2023
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Nominated for the Chief Minister position in Chhattisgarh
Vishnu Deo Sai was nominated as the Bharatiya Janata Party’s candidate for the Chief Minister position in Chhattisgarh.
9. What initiative was launched during PM Modi’s inauguration of IAADB 2023?
- Festival of Libraries
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design
- International Museum Expo
- Davos Summit
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design
The ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design’ was launched during the inauguration of the Indian Art, Architecture & Design Biennale 2023.
10. What is the objective of the Uttar Pradesh delegation heading to Davos for the World Economic Forum?
- Promoting cultural initiatives
- Achieving internal sovereignty
- Transforming towns into cultural hubs
- Showcasing economic advancements
Show Answer
Correct Answer: Showcasing economic advancements
The delegation aims to spotlight Uttar Pradesh’s advancements towards becoming a trillion-dollar economy at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
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