This is the current affairs of 28 to 31 October 2024. Here are questions and answers of daily current affairs for better preparation of competitive exams for government jobs.
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1. Bibek Debroy passed away on 1 November 2024, he was the chairman of which advisory council?
a. National Advisory Council
b. National Security Council
c. Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council
d. None of these
Answer: c. Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council
– Bibek Debroy was a renowned writer and economist.
– From 2017 until his passing in 2024, he served as the chairman of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council.
– He was also a member of the NITI Aayog in 2019.
Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (EAC-PM)
– The EAC-PM is a non-constitutional, non-statutory, independent body established to provide economic and other relevant advice to the Government of India, specifically to the Prime Minister.
– It advises the Prime Minister on economic issues such as inflation, microfinance, and industrial production.
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2. Which country deported more than 1,000 Indians to India on charges of illegal migration in 2023-24 (Oct 2023 – Sep 2024)?
a. Japan
b. Russia
c. France
d. USA
Answer: d. USA
– USA Deported Indian Citizens During Fiscal Year 2023-24
1. The USA deported Indian citizens during its fiscal year 2023-24. (Note: In the US, the fiscal year runs from October 1 to September 30 of the following year.)
2. These Indian nationals were accused of residing in the USA illegally.
3. Special charter flights and commercial airlines were used to return them to India.
Agency Involved in Deporting Unauthorized Indian Nationals
– The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) oversees immigration enforcement, including deportations.
– In fiscal year 2024, DHS deported over 160,000 individuals from more than 145 countries on 495 international flights.
– This included 1,100 Indians, all of whom were adult men and women; no minors were included.
Reasons for Deportation
– Some individuals attempted to enter the USA illegally, often by crossing borders irregularly.
– Others overstayed their legal visas.
– Certain deported individuals committed crimes affecting their legal status.
– Some had no legal basis to remain in the country.
Numbers of Indian Nationals Detained in Recent Years
– 2023-24: 90,415 Indians
– 2022-23: 96,917 Indians
– 2021-22: 63,927 Indians
– 2020-21: 30,662 Indians
– 2019-20: 19,883 Indians
Attempts by Illegal Entrants to Seek Refugee Status
– According to US Customs and Border Protection (US-CBP) data, between October 2023 and September 2024, 2.9 million illegal migrants attempted to enter the USA, including 90,415 Indians.
– These individuals often claim they fear persecution in India, using international law provisions to seek refugee status.
Over 700,000 Unauthorized Indian Immigrants
– According to a report from the US-based think tank Pew Research Center, there are about 725,000 unauthorized Indian immigrants in the USA, the third-largest group after Mexico and El Salvador.
– Between February 2019 and March 2023, approximately 150,000 Indians were detained at the US border attempting illegal entry, mostly from Gujarat and Punjab.
Illegal Immigration Using the “Donkey Route”
– The “Donkey Route” is a term for an illegal immigration technique used by Indians to enter the USA and other countries.
– A December 2023 movie titled Donkey depicted the harsh realities faced by illegal immigrants attempting to enter the USA and how their lives often deteriorate.
India-USA Coordination on Unauthorized Migration
– This deportation reflects a bilateral agreement to discourage illegal immigration through cooperation between the two countries.
– Previous bilateral discussions also emphasized stricter immigration enforcement to reduce illegal migration.
– According to DHS, India assisted in the deportation process and has supported streamlined migration and mobility through legal channels.
Encouragement for Legal Pathways
– Illegal immigration is a major concern in the USA, which emphasizes strict penalties for unauthorized entry and promotes the use of legal immigration channels.
– US officials have warned unauthorized immigrants of “severe consequences,” including deportation and a ban on re-entry to the USA.
– Enhanced US-India cooperation on migration policies aims to curb illegal practices and promote legal immigration.
– Awareness initiatives are in place to inform potential immigrants about legal immigration routes and processes.
Role of the Indian Government
– The USA considers India a “key partner” in efforts to combat smuggling networks and control illegal immigration.
– India has facilitated the return of deported individuals on special flights, reflecting cooperation with the US government.
– The issue of illegal entry into the USA remains critical, and DHS’s strict policy is a step toward strengthened India-US cooperation.
– Promoting legal immigration and taking action against human trafficking networks are essential for both countries.
Impact on the Indian Community
– For many, the deportation process disrupts their lives, requiring adjustment upon return to India, especially for those who had lived in the USA for a long time.
US Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
– DHS aims to protect the United States from terrorist attacks, mitigate risks, and manage the response and recovery efforts.
– Homeland Security’s mission is to ensure safety from terrorism, disasters, and other threats.
– Established in 2002, DHS was created to reinforce the USA’s security structure following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
– The mission of DHS evolves continuously, adapting to changing threats, public opinion, political, and financial factors.
India-US Bilateral Relations
Early Years (Post-Independence to Cold War)
– India and the United States formally established diplomatic relations immediately after India’s independence in 1947.
– Relations were often strained during the Cold War, as India pursued a non-aligned approach and maintained close ties with the Soviet Union, especially after signing the 1971 Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation.
Post-Cold War Relations
– After the end of the Cold War and the Soviet Union’s dissolution, India-US relations began to improve.
– India’s economic reforms in the 1990s opened opportunities for stronger trade ties.
– Although India’s 1998 nuclear tests initially strained relations, they improved after the Kargil War and US President Bill Clinton’s visit in 2000.
Strategic Partnership (Post-2000)
– A significant development in India-US relations was the 2008 Civil Nuclear Agreement, allowing India access to nuclear technology despite not signing the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Since then, strategic partnerships have deepened in areas such as defense, counter-terrorism, and energy.
US-India Defense Industrial Cooperation Roadmap
– Announced in 2023, the roadmap for US-India Defense Industrial Cooperation is a comprehensive plan to boost defense cooperation.
– It focuses on the joint production and co-development of advanced defense systems and technologies to reduce India’s defense import dependency and promote self-reliance in defense (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
Key Areas of India-US Defense Cooperation
– Jet Engines: Joint production and technology transfer for advanced fighter jet engines.
– Unmanned Platforms: Co-development of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Ammunition and Ground Mobility Systems: Enhancing India’s capabilities in the production of – ammunition and ground defense systems.
This roadmap strengthens India’s defense capabilities while enhancing the strategic partnership between India and the USA. It also opens avenues for collaboration between defense companies from both nations to develop cutting-edge technology for military applications.
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Question: Consider the following statements:
1. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) oversees immigration enforcement, including deportation.
2. Nearly 1,100 Indian nationals were deported from the U.S. during fiscal year 2023-24, using charter and commercial flights.
3. DHS deported more than 1,60,000 individuals from more than 145 countries in fiscal year 2023-24, with special coordination with India to prevent illegal migration.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
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3. Israel has banned which UN ‘relief and works agency’ in October 2024, putting aid to millions of Palestinian refugees at risk?
a. UNRWA
b. UNRRA
c. WFP
d. UNHCR
Answer: a. UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees)
– Israel has passed bills that restrict the United Nations agency UNRWA from operating within its territory and Palestinian territories, citing security concerns.
– This decision poses a threat to essential aid for millions of Palestinian refugees.
What is UNRWA?
– Full Name: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees
– Established: 1949
– Purpose: To aid Palestinian refugees displaced by the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, providing essential services like education, healthcare, social services, and emergency assistance.
Where is UNRWA Active?
– UNRWA is active among Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan.
– It currently serves approximately 5.9 million Palestinian refugees, mainly descendants of those originally displaced.
– Funding Sources: UNRWA is primarily funded through voluntary contributions from countries like the United States, Germany, and the European Union, with limited United Nations subsidies for administrative costs.
– UNRWA employs around 30,000 Palestinians, and over 200 of its staff have been killed in recent conflicts with Israel.
Key Services and Operations of UNRWA
1. Education: UNRWA operates around 700 schools, providing free primary and secondary education to over 540,000 students.
2. Healthcare: It runs 143 health centers, offering more than 8.5 million medical consultations annually.
3. Social Services and Relief: UNRWA provides targeted social support, such as food and cash assistance, reaching 1.6 million vulnerable refugees facing poverty and high unemployment.
4. Emergency Relief and Infrastructure Support: In times of crisis, UNRWA mobilizes resources to provide emergency assistance, including food, shelter, and healthcare, benefitting millions in conflict-affected areas.
Israel’s Bills Against UNRWA
– Bill 1: Prohibits UNRWA from any operations, offices, or activities within Israel’s sovereign territory.
– Bill 2: Terminates all official relations between Israeli government employees and UNRWA, revoking legal immunity for the agency’s staff.
Reasons Behind Israel’s Restrictions on UNRWA
– Israel argues that UNRWA’s role is outdated and that its support for Palestinian refugees hinders peace by perpetuating the refugee issue.
1. Security Concerns: After Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, Israel accused some UNRWA staff of involvement in these attacks.
2. Educational Curriculum Controversies: Israel and other countries have accused UNRWA of including anti-Israel content in its educational curriculum, claiming it promotes violence and anti-Semitic sentiments. The European Union has also expressed concerns about the curriculum and urged reforms.
3. Political Disagreements: Israel believes that UNRWA’s structure impedes a long-term solution between Israel and Palestine.
UNRWA’s Response
– UNRWA has denied deliberately supporting any armed groups. However, it acknowledged links with terrorist groups in the past, leading to the dismissal of nine employees after an investigation.
International Reaction and Pressure on Israel
– UNRWA’s chief, Philippe Lazzarini, expressed concern that the restrictions set a “dangerous precedent” and will exacerbate the suffering of Palestinian refugees.
– The United Nations and multiple countries have urged Israel to ensure humanitarian access in Gaza, even with new restrictions on UNRWA.
– The U.S. State Department stated that Israel should facilitate access to international aid or risk consequences affecting military assistance.
Potential Impact of Israel’s Restrictions on UNRWA
Gaza:
– UNRWA is the main provider of basic necessities in Gaza, such as food, water, and sanitation, on which nearly 2 million people rely.
– It oversees almost all UN aid distribution in the region in collaboration with the Palestinian Red Crescent.
– UNRWA organized an emergency polio vaccination campaign in Gaza, crucial for preventing an outbreak.
– Thousands of students enrolled in UNRWA-operated schools may be affected, impacting access to education and its quality in these areas.
Other Relief Agencies Active in Gaza
– In conflict-affected areas like Gaza, several international organizations work with local entities to meet the humanitarian needs of vulnerable populations.
1. UNICEF: Dedicated to maternal and child health, nutrition, education, and child rights protection in conflict zones.
2. WHO: Provides essential health services, public health support, and emergency healthcare, especially in vulnerable areas like Gaza.
3. UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA): Coordinates humanitarian efforts in conflict and disaster-affected areas to ensure timely, organized aid reaches those in need.
4. World Food Program (WFP): Provides food and nutritional assistance to populations facing hunger and malnutrition, focusing on vulnerable groups like pregnant women, children, and refugees.
Potential Effects of Israel’s Move
– Israel’s recent decision to restrict UNRWA could severely impact humanitarian aid access, especially in Gaza.
– The move has sparked international criticism, leading to discussions on balancing security concerns with humanitarian needs.
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Question: Consider the following statements:
1. UNRWA was formed in 1949 to provide aid to Palestinian refugees.
2. UNRWA operates primarily in five regions – the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan.
3. UNRWA is funded by mandatory contributions from UN member states.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only
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4. TPG Nambiar, the founder of which industrial group, passed away on 31 October 2024?
a. Videocon
b. BPL
c. Reliance
d. ITC
Answer: b. BPL
– Popularly known as TPG, Nambiar was the father-in-law of BJP leader and former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar.
– He was 94 years old.
– A pioneer in the consumer electronics sector during the 1980s and 90s, Nambiar established BPL in 1963 during the “License Raj” period.
– After India’s economic liberalization in 1991, BPL faced growing competition from South Korean companies like LG and Samsung. BPL’s troubles worsened as internal disputes within the controlling family diverted attention from external threats, leading to a decline in the company’s fortunes.
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5. When and how long is Disarmament Week celebrated?
a. 20 to 27 October
b. 21 to 28 October
c. 22 to 29 October
d. 24 to 30 October
Answer: d. 24 to 30 October
– United Nations Day is observed from October 24, marking the start of the week, through October 30.
– One of the primary goals of the United Nations is to achieve world peace.
– It is celebrated annually to promote awareness and understanding of disarmament issues.
– The purpose of the week is to reduce the use of weapons, especially nuclear weapons, to bring peace to society.
United Nations
– Secretary-General: António Guterres
– Headquarters: New York
– Founded: 1945
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6. The exercise ‘Vajra Prahar’ was conducted between the armies of India and which country in November 2024?
a. USA
b. France
c. Russia
d. Egypt
Answer: a. USA
– Exercise Duration: November 2 to November 22, 2024
– Location: Idaho, USA
– Participants: 45 soldiers from each country took part in this exercise.
Indian Army Chief: General Upendra Dwivedi
CDS: General Anil Chauhan
India-US Joint Military Exercises
– Tiger Triumph: Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Exercise
– Vajra Prahar: Special Forces Exercise
– Cope India: Air Force Exercise between both countries
– Malabar: Naval exercise involving India, the US, Japan, and Australia
– RIMPAC: Multinational naval exercise led by the US
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7. ‘Garuda Shakti’ exercise was conducted between India and whose army?
a. USA
b. Indonesia
c. Russia
d. Egypt
Answer: b. Indonesia
– Exercise Duration: November 1 to November 12, 2024
– Location: Cijantung, Jakarta, Indonesia
– Participants: 25 soldiers from India’s Special Forces and 40 soldiers from Indonesia’s “Kopassus” unit took part.
– So far, there have been 8 editions of the Garuda Shakti exercise. The 8th edition was held in November 2022 in Karawang, Indonesia.
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8. When is International Animation Day celebrated?
a. 26 October
b. 27 October
c. 28 October
d. 29 October
Answer: c. 28 October
– This day was declared by the International Animated Film Association (ASIFA) in 2002.
– This organization is a member of UNESCO.
– The purpose of International Animation Day is to recognize and honor the work of animators, scientists, and technicians in the field of animation.
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9. How much amount did the central government sanction for the Namo Drone Didi scheme during the year 2024-25 to 2025-2026?
a. Rs 1261 crore
b. Rs 2261 crore
c. Rs 3261 crore
d. Rs 4261 crore
Answer: a. Rs 1261 crore
Note: On November 28, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the “Drone Didi Yojana.”
– The goal of this scheme is to provide drones to 14,500 selected self-help groups (SHGs) during 2024-25 to 2025-26.
– Under this scheme, women’s self-help groups (SHGs) will be provided with drones.
– SHGs will receive up to 8 lakh rupees for purchasing drones and related equipment.
– Through these SHGs, farmers will be able to rent drones.
– The drones will be used in the agricultural sector for spraying fertilizers.
– The Department of Farmer Welfare has issued guidelines for this scheme.
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10. When is Infantry Day of Indian Army celebrated?
a. 26 October
b. 27 October
c. 28 October
d. 29 October
Answer: b. 27 October
– This day is observed to commemorate the first military action of independent India.
– After independence in 1947, Pakistani forces and Lashkar invaders attacked the Kashmir Valley.
– At that time, the first battalion of the Indian Army’s Sikh Regiment fought to achieve victory over the initial attack on Indian soil.
What is Infantry?
– Infantry, or foot soldiers, is a standard branch of the army involved in military combat on foot. Soldiers in this branch engage closely with the enemy in battle.
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11. When is World Thrift Day celebrated?
a. 20 October
b. 24 October
c. 29 October
d. 30 October
Answer: d. 30 October
– This day is celebrated to promote the importance of saving.
– In today’s world, saving money is very important.
– Saving is essential for every depositor who contributes to economic development.
– This day was established in 1925 by the World Society of Savings Banks.
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12. The central government launched a mobile app for registration of birth and death, tell its name?
a. CRS App
b. PRS App
c. CDS App
d. CRA App
Answer: a. CRS App
– On October 29, 2024, Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched this mobile app for birth and death registration.
– This app was developed by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.
– According to the Birth and Death Registration (Amendment) Act, 2023, all births and deaths officially recorded from October 1, 2023, onwards must be registered on the central portal dc.crsorgi.gov.in.
– The app will make the entire process of birth and death registration and certificate issuance smooth, fast, and simple.
– The digital birth certificate issued through this app will be the only document used to verify date of birth for admission to educational institutions, government jobs, marriage registration, etc.
– Information about a birth or death must be submitted online within 21 days via this app.
– The entered information will reach the registrar’s office, and after verification, the certificate will be available online.
– The centralized database collected through the app will also help update the National Population Register (NPR), ration cards, property registration, and electoral rolls.
– Data for NPR was first collected in 2010 and updated in 2015 through door-to-door data collection.
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13. When is World Cities Day celebrated?
a. 20 October
b. 24 October
c. 29 October
d. 31 October
Answer: d. 31 October
2024 Theme:
Youth leading climate and local action for cities
This day has been declared by the United Nations General Assembly.
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14. How many medals did India win in ‘Under 23 World Wrestling Championship 2024’?
a. 4
b. 5
c. 6
d. 9
Answer: d. 9 (1 gold, 1 silver and 7 bronze)
– Location: Held in Tirana, the capital of Albania, from October 21 to October 27, 2024
– The championship featured both male and female wrestlers under the age of 23.
– Chirag Chikkara won the only gold medal for India, achieving it in the men’s freestyle 57 kg competition.
List of Winners:
– Chirag Chikkara, Men’s Freestyle 57 kg, Gold
– Anjali, Women’s Freestyle 59 kg, Silver
– Vishwajit More, Men’s Greco-Roman 55 kg, Bronze
– Monica, Women’s Freestyle 68 kg, Bronze
– Neha Sharma, Women’s Freestyle 57 kg, Bronze
– Shiksha, Women’s Freestyle 65 kg, Bronze
– Abhishek Dhaka, Men’s Freestyle 61 kg, Bronze
– Sujit Kalkal, Men’s Freestyle 70 kg, Bronze
– Vicky, Men’s Freestyle 97 kg, Bronze
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15. National Unity Day is celebrated on 31st October on the birth anniversary of which great man?
a. Bhagat Singh
b. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
c. Jawaharlal Nehru
d. Chandrashekhar Azad
Answer: b. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
– To commemorate the birth anniversary of India’s Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, National Unity Day has been declared on October 31 every year since 2014.
– He also served as India’s first Deputy Prime Minister.
– In 2023, it marks the 147th birth anniversary of the freedom fighter Vallabhbhai Patel.
– Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a significant role in the merger of 565 princely states into India.
– This is the reason why National Unity Day is celebrated on his birth anniversary.
– In his memory, the Government of India has constructed a massive statue near the Narmada River in Gujarat.
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